The Tycoon's Odyssey

After sending Elina off, Maria approached Evan, yawning as she joined the conversation. "Do we really have to do this touring thing? Sounds like a lot of work. I'd rather stay here and relax."

Evan raised an eyebrow. "Maria, it's crucial for everyone to understand the terrain and local conditions. Your input will be valuable."

Maria sighed and stretched her body lazily. "Fine, I'll do it. But don't expect me to be thrilled about watching those naked tribals doing their weird dances.

Though her words meant otherwise, her eyes gleamed with curiosity.

Nearby, Sam nodded in agreement. "I'll coordinate the tour arrangements."

Evan nodded. "Thank you, Sam. I appreciate it."

With everyone informed and tasked to do the preparations, Evan turned to Suri and Mac, "I've shared the plans with Elina, Maria, and Sam. We need to ensure that tomorrow's tour goes smoothly. I'll be in the lab if you need me."

Suri gave a brief nod. "Understood. We'll be ready."

After exchanging brief greetings with Elina, Celina welcomed them with a warm smile, despite the serious circumstances.

Evan then made his way back to the lab, ready to dive into the data and finalize their next course of action. The weight of the upcoming challenges hung over him, but he remained focused and determined as he was prepared for what lay ahead.

Evan then made his way to the basement lab, where Aurora was already at work, preparing for the next stage.

The lab was a high-tech marvel, filled with advanced equipment and glowing screens.

Aurora turned her attention from the ongoing work upon seeing Evan enter.

[Good Evening, sir,] Aurora greeted.

[I've been reviewing the data from our initial surveillance. To get a better understanding of their defenses, I have devised a plan.]

Evan nodded. "I'm ready for your plan. What do you suggest?"

Aurora's image flickered, bringing up detailed schematics of the Sentinel territory.

[We'll deploy the latest generation of drones. They're equipped with night vision, advanced targeting systems, and even self-destruct capabilities for strategic bombing. These drones are designed to handle high-security environments and can gather detailed intel without being detected.]

"Hmm!" Evan rubbed his chin and spoke, "Deploy them at night. Also, can you control them manually as well?"

[Yes Sir! Despite the automatic mode, I can take over their control if required."

"Then do it."

Moments later, several sleek drones, their surfaces shimmering with a futuristic sheen, were deployed into the night sky. They buzzed silently as they spread over the dense forest, their advanced sensors scanning the area.

Evan watched the live feed on a large screen as the drones began their surveillance. The monitors showed detailed images of the Sentinel village, highlighting patrol routes, guard positions, and the overall layout. The drones moved methodically, avoiding detection as they mapped out the entire area.

Aurora's voice rang the speakers. [The Sentinels are extremely cautious. Their patrol routes are tight, and they have set up numerous guard posts. They've even trained animals like panthers, snakes, and wild boars to help them defend their territory. This level of vigilance is why they've been able to remain so isolated and formidable.]

Evan commented, "They're clearly prepared for any intrusion. Their security measures are impressive."

Aurora replied, [Given their location deep within the forest, it's expected. They likely face threats from both outsiders and wildlife. The drones should provide us with the detailed information we need to plan our next move.]

[Also, the big cats pose a problem. We might not be able to hide our presence from them.]

The drones continued their silent sweep, providing crucial information that would guide Evan's next strategy. As the intricate details of the Sentinel village and its defenses were being analyzed, setting the stage for a more informed approach in their ongoing negotiations with the tribe.

"Do we use anesthetic bullets?" Evan asked, trying to recall if he had given any orders pertaining to this.

[Yes, I have instructed the guards to load a few,] Aurora replied.

"Good! We will use them to take out these beasts steadily during the attack."

Evan called Suri and Mac to the lab, showing them the live feed from the drones. The detailed images of the Sentinel village filled the screens, highlighting patrol routes, guard positions, and key points of interest.

Mac stood quietly, absorbing the information, knowing well that his role was to only receive the briefing. Suri, on the other hand, looked at Evan with a smile, sensing the underlying strategy in play.

"Are you thinking what I'm thinking?" Suri asked, her eyes gleaming with anticipation.

With a knowing grin, Evan replied, "Night raid."

Both of them uttered the plan in unison, their confidence clear. However, Suri inquired about the next steps following the raid. "And after the raid?"

Evan's expression grew serious as he outlined his strategy.

"After the night raid, I plan to deal directly with the tribal chief. Once we've secured his compliance and managed to sneak in a few key allies, we'll finalize the takeover."

The next few days were marked by a mix of routine and strategy. While other tribes underwent VR treatment, the team—including Suri and Mac—explored the surroundings.

Meanwhile, Evan focused intensely on memorizing the routes of the villages, studying the detailed drone feed to pinpoint key locations and potential tribal leaders. The drones, equipped with a stealth mode feature, remained invisible to the naked eye but continuously monitored the village.

Over the next few days, the environment remained calm and peaceful. The VR treatment sessions went smoothly, and the tours around the tribes provided valuable insights. Yet, the sense of anticipation grew as Evan prepared for the crucial operation.

On the third night, with everything in place and the plan set, Evan geared up for the highly anticipated night raid.

"It's time to infiltrate and finish the mission."

"May the odds be with us!" Evan screamed, raising his voice.

"…"

"What?" Evan asked, seeing that everyone was staring at him silently.

Suri shook her head and sighed, "It seems like behind that serious, gloomy face, lies a cringy teenager."

"Of course not!" Evan retorted, quickly averting his gaze.