About a week has gone by since Aizen and Penelope joined the military. Thankfully, both of them passed the tests and now they were officially members of Ren's armed forces. Naturally, Ren and Penelope shared a feeling of happiness, although driven by different reasons. Aizen was full of excitement because he had always aimed for this moment as a long-held dream, while Penelope was equally thrilled, but for a different reason – now she wouldn't have to be separated from Aizen.

Both in the female and male dormitories, they both made friendships that quickly became close. Aizen wasn't surprised to find out that Penelope was friends with nearly everyone in both dorms. Since he had known Penelope since childhood, he knew she had always been someone very dear, regardless of the place. Her captivating personality and natural beauty contributed to her popularity.

It's true that Aizen occasionally felt a bit uncomfortable when he noticed Penelope getting too close to some guy. However, what could he really say or do to intervene? It's worth mentioning that Aizen had already confessed his feelings to Penelope at an earlier time. However, upon hearing his words, Penelope had laughed and told him it was impossible for Aizen to feel anything beyond friendship for her.

While all these thoughts occupied Aizen's mind, he waited in line, waiting for his turn to get lunch. Right behind him, Penelope was engaged in an animated conversation with a delicate and friendly-looking young woman named Cassy. Before Aizen knew it, the three of them were practically spending the entire day together. Of course, there was another member of the group who hadn't arrived yet.

"Hey, did you guys save my spot in line? Sorry for being late, today was one of those days when everything went wrong"

A voice echoed through the environment, drawing the attention of Penelope, Aizen, and Cassy. They turned to see a young man approaching, waving his hand. He was a friend of Aizen's, specifically his roommate, just as Cassy was Penelope's roommate. Upon hearing the friend's words, Aizen responded.

"Ryan, if you woke up at six in the morning like the rest of us, you wouldn't be called so many times"

Aizen teased with a playful smile on his face. Hearing these words, Ryan made a gesture as if he had been hit before slowly approaching Aizen.

"Friend, could you be a bit more understanding of my situation? You know my waking time is after noon, right?"

Ryan said, looking at Aizen as if begging for indulgence. Upon hearing his friend's words, Aizen couldn't contain a discreet laugh.

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"Now that we're on the subject, good morning to you too. However, you girls really have a love for waking up early, huh? I really wish I had that talent you two possess"

Ryan said, looking genuinely downcast. As Ryan mentioned, both Penelope and Cassy had the habit of waking up around five-thirty, just before the alarm went off. There wasn't a specific reason for it, they simply enjoyed the quiet of the morning, and watching the sunrise was a great joy for both of them.

While waiting in line, the four continued to chat lively until it was their turn to get lunch. As soon as the time came, they all started choosing their preferences. Cassy's plate, as usual, was full of vegetables, since she was a vegetarian. On the other hand, Aizen, Ryan, and Penelope filled their plates with a variety of options that were available.

Especially Ryan, whose plate could easily feed three. However, this was a familiar sight for Aizen, Penelope, and Cassy, who saw no issue with it. As long as Ryan was satisfied, it was all good. After getting their plates, the four headed to an empty table. As they sat down, they began to eat. While savoring their meals, Ryan suddenly spoke.

"By the way, have you guys heard?"

With Ryan's sudden question, Aizen looked confused at him and asked.

"Heard what? As far as I remember, the instructors didn't mention anything specific"

While Aizen tried to recall the conversations he had with the instructors throughout the day, Ryan continued to speak.

"It's not about the instructors, I mean, it's related, but I heard it from other recruits. Apparently, the lord will be coming here soon, bringing along his bride, Princess Emi. It seems they are testing the new weapon that the lord was developing"

Upon hearing these words, Aizen wondered if what Ryan was saying could be true. It was undeniable that Ren was a well-known and beloved public figure, but that didn't mean he was always available. After all, Ren was constantly engrossed in his responsibilities, and many tasks required his direct supervision. However, he trusted his subordinates to take care of what didn't need his personal attention.

While Aizen contemplated these considerations, Cassy, who had been eating quietly until then, spoke in a shy but clear enough manner for everyone to hear.

"I've heard about it from some other girls too"

With Cassy's words, both Aizen and Penelope exchanged meaningful looks. After all, if Cassy was aware of it too, the chances were really high. Unfortunately, Ryan didn't let the fact go unnoticed. He said, looking sadly at Aizen and Penelope.

"Don't you two think you were a bit cold with me? Why did you instantly believe Cassy but not me? Is it the power of innocence?"

Hearing these words, Penelope let out a slight laugh before commenting.

"Ryan, you really have a sharp mind. It's not that we didn't trust you, but as they say, two opinions are better than one. It just happened that you gave us the news first"

Hearing Penelope's words, Ryan made a playful gesture as if about to cry and commented.

"Penelope, you truly are an angel, you know?"

Penelope, in turn, lifted her face as she replied with a touch of humor.

"Of course, keep praising me"

Lunch continued pleasantly for the group.