Life of Maverick: In the Land of Giant Man Eaters

-Chapter 32: The Industrial Heart-

It had been days since his encounter with the Ripper. Despite the fact he had caught the interest of an old, yet infamous assassin, Maverick couldn't find it in himself to truly be bothered, for he had much other important matters to deal with than some old loon. Which is why we find our hero on this early Autumn day ready to finally embark on his long-awaited journey to one of the many secluded and mysterious Factory Cities scattered across the walled lands. He had packed the basic essentials and necessities needed for an old-fashioned road trip, but the most important items were the multitude of drawings and designs safely packed and secured inside many scroll holders.

Taking a few moments to checkmark all of his gear, he exited from the barracks, quickly being met with the amused faces from his squad mates at the sight of nearly two dozen tubes strapped to his body, which clanked every time he took a step. All in good humor though, for they all knew the contents inside were invaluable assets to their cause.

"You sure you got everything?" Moblit joked.

"Yep. Everything but the kitchen sink." Maverick replied, chuckling at his own joke. The squad walked from the residential area to the plaza, all the while Maverick received many wishes of good fortune from his fellow comrades in arms.

Making it to the bronze horsemen statue in the plaza's center he turned to his companions and gave them a lazy American salute. "Welp, I'll see you all in a few days, or a week, give or take."

"See you then Mav." Said the vice-captain, followed by the others and their farewells. Walking towards the main entrance he stopped as his squad leader's voice suddenly shouted out.

"Bring us something back!" He chuckled as he gave nod to her. Only she would ask such a question, made her all the more endearing to the large man.

"I'll see what I can do." With that he continued onwards towards the main entrance. Opening the large doors, he was meet with the sight of a large transport wagon, with two MP's and driver waiting.

"Watch yourself." Turning his head to the left he was met with Levi, who was leaning against the entrance wall, eyeing the two officers with his usual deadpanned expression. But to those with well-trained eyes, one could see the hidden animosity inside the halfling's dark pupils.

Giving him an acknowledged nod and half smile he approached the gathered men while Levi returned back inside, though not before giving one final glance at the unicorns.

"Good morning." Maverick greeted. His calm tone brought some of their tension down as the youngest looking officer responded in kind, while the elder officer remained silent, trying not to look directly into his eyes.

"M-Morning." The MP spoke. Unknown to either of the men Maverick was examining them under the guise of his glowing eyes. The officer was quite young, late teens to early adulthood, no doubt a member of last year's graduating corps. Clean shaven and a fake smile hiding his clear nervousness more than told this boy was still going through the ropes.

"Ready for the trip?" The other officer spoke, his tone flat with a clear hint of boredom. The man was much older than his fellow, possibly in his late forties. His face was weathered, his dark hair and sideburns showing bits of grey, a sign of both his time in the force, and the toll the position had taken him. All mixed with a set of baggy and glazed eyes that clearly said, "I wish I was doing something else right now."

With a nod from the goliath the three turned to their transport, but before Maverick could step one foot inside...

"Oh, I almost forgot" The MP lazily said, as he took out a folded piece of dark cloth from his jacket pocket, presenting it to Maverick. "As per the agreement."