A convoy of spacious luxury vans was parked by the roadside, each vehicle bearing an exquisite City of Stars Emblem.
The lead vehicle was pulled close to the curb, its sliding door open to reveal fine leather furnishings inside.
A lean, composed-looking man stood outside the door. Instead of getting in, he turned to look at the figure being escorted over from the other side and said, "Mr. Christos."
The escorted figure spotted him as well. Smiling, he strode over, extended a hand, and shook the man's. "Mayor Lant, long time no see."
"It has been quite a while," Lant said with a smile. "I'd already arranged a visit to Dawn City."
"Then I'll have to bring out the fine wine I've been saving for years." Christos laughed heartily.
Then he turned to look at the vehicle before them. "Is this what you've arranged for us?"
"Yes, Mr. Christos," a woman wearing a work badge immediately replied from beside them. "This vehicle is reserved exclusively for you and Mr. Lant. It was manufactured by our group itself and is fully autonomous. There is a driver accompanying you, but the driver's area is completely separated from the rear cabin. The rear cabin is fully soundproofed. We hope you'll honor us by trying it."
"That's far too formal. It's my honor to test-ride your new vehicle," Christos said, shaking his head with a smile. "Thank you for the trouble."
As he spoke, he glanced at Lant. "Shall we get in?"
"All right." Lant nodded and boarded with him.
The van's sliding door closed, and the roof lights naturally came on, casting a gentle glow like a starry sky.
Then, with a faint shudder, the vehicle began to move.
Christos leaned against the window, watching the vehicles outside slowly slide backward through the