SSS-Class Profession: The Path to Mastery

"Are you ready?"

The words still lingered in my mind, but the moment had already passed. The speech had ended, and we were dismissed for the night.

A hotel had been booked for us. A luxurious one.

That alone was enough to make my instincts itch.

NASA prided itself on efficiency, on allocating resources where they were needed most. Yet here we were, escorted to one of the most expensive hotels in the city, a place where politicians and billionaires sealed deals over overpriced champagne.

And they had reserved it for months.

I followed the others, keeping my thoughts to myself. The logic made sense at first glance—accommodate the best of the best, keep them well-rested, well-fed, entertained. We had all traveled across the world to be here, after all. It was only natural to provide comfort.

But excessive comfort was something else entirely.

Entering the magnificent lobby, I couldn't help, but be captivated by the size of the venue with its marble floors shining like a mirror.

It had large chandeliers dangling from the ceiling, projecting golden illumination throughout the area. The walls featured massive glass windows, allowing for a breathtaking view of the city skyline. What's more is that bellhops in custom uniforms navigated gracefully, welcoming us with impeccable service.

And at the heart of everything—Elliot, his eyes filled with sheer, unrestrained wonder.