Chapter 200: Transfer

"Now, let begin with your orders," Kevin shouted, and as soon as he said that everybody stiffened. This time Kevin did no try to ease their anxiety. They had to know what was good for them and they had to stay in their limits as there were people who were giving up their lives just to ensure their safety.

"First and foremost, do not do anything that you are not supposed to do. Don't wander alone in the places you are not familiar with. Don't try to act recklessly and if you need anything, come to us. We will help you. Please do not touch any weapons or ammunition, they are not toys. These are the orders that I have for now. You will get a lot more when you reach the border. And please do not fight among yourselves. This is a request. We are already at war and we do not want another war to start. Any questions?"

"No." This time the group shouted in unison and Kevin smiled in satisfaction. "Your chopper will be here in a few minutes, until then you can come inside and have breakfast with us. I know some of you might not have eaten yet. Leave your luggage here. We will take care of it." Kevin said with a bright smile and led the group inside. 

"What about the medical kits and the equipment?" Ian asked and Kevin stopped walking hearing him. He had completely forgotten about it. 

"Don't worry about it. When the chopper arrives, we will transfer them inside. Until, then they can stay inside the ambulance."

"Fair enough," Ian replied.

"Any more questions?"

"No." Everybody said in unison again. 

"Then, what are we waiting for. Let's go and eat. I guarantee you our canteen food is good and I am damn sure you will miss it immensely once you reach the battlefield. This is the last time you will get some good food until you come back. So hog as much as you can." Everybody laughed again, though they knew whatever he was saying was the truth.

Seeing that they were given some relaxation, Aria did not waste any more time and went to speak to Stuart. He had no idea that she was here. So, when she tapped on his shoulders, he was surprised on seeing her.

"Aria," He hugged her immediately. He was so happy on seeing her that he could not express it in words.

"What are you doing here?"She asked after releasing him from the hug.

"I am going to help our soldiers," Stuart replied raising his eyebrows a little.

Aria rolled her eyes and punched him lightly. "You know that was not what I meant. "When did you come here from London?"

"Oh that. I think three weeks ago, if I remember correctly." Stuart answered as he walked beside Aria. He had been scared thinking that he would be the only one among these strangers from another hospital. But seeing Aria here had eased his nerves. At least he had a friend.

"Why did you leave London?"

"I wanted to return to my country. I was only studying there."

"Weren't you originally from London?" Aria asked in confusion. She had assumed him to be British by birth. 

"No. I did my medical studies over there. My roots are here, in this country. When you came to London, I was a third-year resident. After I finished my exams, I transferred here."

"Oh, that's nice. What's your area of specialization?"

"Neurology."

"Wow." Aria stopped walking suddenly and stared at him in admiration. Neurosurgery was considered to be the toughest medical specialty as the cases were mostly complicated and even a small blunder would lead a person to coma or even death. So, not many people preferred to take up this area as the success rate was very low. 

"Stop it, okay." Stuart noticed her eyes glistening in respect and he felt shy all of a sudden. "I am still a novice in this area, I am yet to learn a lot of things."

"But still. It's neurology." Aria exclaimed.

By then, they were inside the canteen and Stuart stood in the queue to get something to eat. Seeing Aria go get herself a cup of coffee, Stuart stared at her blankly. "Aren't you eating?"

"Nah, I had my fill. I ate breakfast before coming here."

"Are you sure? You might feel hungry again later."

"Hundred percent. My sister made sure to stuff my stomach until I couldn't take it anymore."

"Lucky you. I came here in a hurry. So, I didn't have time to eat anything."

"Hmm, then eat something. I'll save you a seat." 

"Thanks."

Aria went and sat at an unoccupied table. She looked around and saw that many people were in the canteen. It was the only canteen in the grounds. So, even the public was allowed here along with the military officials. Some of them were trainees who had come to have breakfast after their morning workout. Aria could see that many of the men were taking glances at her. So, she couldn't help but feel awkward.

The military was a male-dominated area of work. Not many women preferred to join this field of physical work. So, there were a lot of men in the canteen compared to the women and it was obvious they were finding her attractive. They couldn't help but take notice of her. Since she was not in a uniform, it was easy to gain their attention.

When she was unable to withstand it anymore and got up to leave the area, Ian came to her rescue, much to her happiness. "Where are you running off to?" He asked as he sat down on the chair beside her.

"I am feeling weird sitting here. Everybody is looking at me as though I am Jennifer Lawrence or Emma Watson." Aria said exaggeratedly and Ian chuckled listening to her references.

"Relax Aria. It's just that it is unusual for them to see people who do not belong here. So, they are just taking a look. Don't worry they won't come here. They will just admire you from where they are. By the way, aren't you eating?"

"No. Ivy made sure I ate before I came here."

"Good for you. Joshua did not allow me to eat all. He just kept giving a me headache as soon he came to my house. Anyway, who were you talking to before?" Ian had noticed her to speak to the only man who did not work for his hospital and this had piqued his interest. He wondered how Aria knew him. He wanted to ask her long back, but did not want to interrupt them in their conversation. Now that he had found her sitting alone, he had brought up the matter.