Though both sides had four people each, there was a striking difference in their scale of preparation.
Let's start with Shi Xiaolei side.
Summoned only an hour before departure, Bayonetta arrival didn't add any luggage to the journey.
At least, at the time of departure, this family luggage remained the same as what had been prepared earlier.
They also had just one vehicle.
Now let's look at Stark side.
When preparing for the trip earlier, he had arranged for two cars—a hardtop convertible that he would drive himself with Pepper in the passenger seat.
Additionally, there was a 6-meter-long mid-sized cargo van, which Happy was responsible for driving.
This cargo van not only served to store camping equipment, but the front half of its cargo area also had a mini hangar installed, capable of storing two Iron Man suits and providing maintenance and repairs to a certain degree.
Both the top and sides could be opened, and in case of emergencies, with just one command from Stark, the Iron Man suits could be deployed.
As a billionaire, Stark never neglected his security.
Since it wasn't convenient to bring a large number of bodyguards on this trip, naturally, he brought Iron Man suits that could provide the same security protection as an alternative.
And after Rhodes joined at the last minute, Stark side added a third vehicle.
"What do you think? My car pretty good, right? I specially pulled some strings to borrow it."
Rhodes patted the vehicle proudly as he showed off to Shi Xiaolei.
"It was in service in the Middle East until it was decommissioned this year. A colleague of mine thought it had sentimental value and specifically spent money to buy it and make some modifications."
Rhodes had arrived in an armored personnel carrier with its mounted weapons removed.
It was even bulkier than the cargo van that Happy was driving, with thick armor painted in yellow-green camouflage, coupled with sturdy-looking tires and relatively small windows.
To be honest, this vehicle looked indeed very rugged and wild.
"It's definitely impressive."
Shi Xiaolei nodded with admiration.
As a man, and one with a large build often referred to as a tough guy by neighbors, Shi Xiaolei truly had a preference for muscle cars.
Why did he like the car modified by Stark? Not just because its functionality had been upgraded, but more importantly because the vehicle was larger than before the modifications, making him feel more masculine when sitting in the driver seat holding the steering wheel.
"Hehe, let me enjoy driving it for a few days first. Since this trip will last more than ten days, if you want to try it, there'll be plenty of opportunities later."
Rhodes was increasingly pleased with Shi Xiaolei reaction.
"By the way, I also asked some friends from the logistics department to get some military camping equipment... You know, given Stark personality, he's definitely brought stuff that looks good rather than practical. For tough guys like us, military equipment is more fitting."
"Hey."
Stark couldn't help interrupting, rolling his eyes in protest.
"Don't forget, Stark Industries has always been the military designated supplier. Many of those equipment items you mentioned are provided by me."
"This car doesn't have Jericho missiles installed."
Rhodes retorted without hesitation.
"Have you forgotten? You said yourself that you're not interested in 'gadgets without technological sophistication.'"
"I can confirm, boss, you did say that."
Happy chimed in playfully.
"...Shut up, your bonus for this month is gone."
"Say whatever you want."
Happy smiled indifferently.
"Anyway, the CEO now is Miss Pepper, and she's the one who pays my salary."
Speak of the devil.
Just as the four men were chatting animatedly, Pepper walked over arm in arm with Bayo.
"Hey, boys, had enough chat? Isn't it about time we set off?"
Smiling as she interrupted the men idle conversation and giving Shi Xiaolei a reproachful look that said 'you're so careless' Pepper explained her reason for hurrying them.
"Bayonetta came empty-handed, without any luggage. I think we should leave early to reach today campsite sooner... understand what I mean? I mean, if we can arrive earlier, while you guys are setting up camp, we ladies plan to take a trip into town."
"Uh, I was going to call the VIP service agent at the bank while on the road to have her prepare something."
Shi Xiaolei scratched his head.
"Having someone else pick things out can never be as satisfying as choosing for yourself."
Though not particularly short, it all depends on who you're standing next to.
Next to Bayonetta, who stood at 1.8 meters tall and was wearing 10-centimeter heels, Pepper appeared less like the strong career woman she usually was and showed a rarely noticeable cuteness.
Combined with her more casual, everyday tone of voice.
Stark immediately expressed his agreement.
"Pepper's right, we should get going."
"Alright."
"Then what are we waiting for? Let's get in the cars."
Rhodes directly opened the door and got in his car, while Happy dashed toward the cargo van parked at the end.
"Do you want to lead or should I?"
As he walked toward his hardtop convertible, Stark casually asked Shi Xiaolei.
"You go ahead."
It wasn't because Shi Xiaolei was less familiar with the road conditions or because his navigation system was less precise than JARVIS. Shi Xiaolei smiled and said.
"Your car is too low. If I went in front, you wouldn't be able to see the road. Wouldn't that make you feel constrained?"
"Fine, I'll take the lead. Pepper, get in the car."
"Bayonetta."
"See you in a bit."
Pepper released Bayo right arm and waved with a smile.
"Alright, see you soon."
"If you get bored on the road, try these. Witch-brand special lollipops, very refreshing."
Bayo responded while taking out two lollipops and giving them to Pepper.
Thinking "Witch" was the brand name of the lollipops, Pepper didn't think much of it.
Stark, however, had a flash of realization in his eyes.
'So she's a witch?'
"Tony? Tony~."
"Uh, sorry, I was distracted."
Called twice by Pepper, Stark finally started the engine.
Following behind Stark hardtop convertible, Shi Xiaolei also gently pressed the accelerator.
The difference was that the atmosphere in this car was clearly much livelier than in Stark car.
Tall with long legs, feeling a bit cramped sitting in the back, Bayonetta claimed the front passenger seat.
She leaned back nonchalantly, crossed her legs, and waved her lollipop.
"Let's go~!"
"Oh oh~!"
Little Kanna, who always sat in the back, also cheered excitedly.
Full of anticipation, she couldn't help but lean forward, straining against the restraint of the seatbelt, gripping the back of the driver seat with her small hands.
"Xiaolei, Xiaolei, hurry up hurry up~! Stark is leaving, let's catch up~!"
"Kanna, Kanna!"
"Be careful, don't fall. Quick, sit properly."
To control the agitated little girl, 2B had to raise her voice.
"Haha. Be good, Kanna."
Glancing in the rearview mirror, Shi Xiaolei turned the steering wheel, closely following Stark car.
"If you don't behave, next time we go out, I might not bring you."
"Uh, oh, alright then."
"Here, little one, this is a reward for good children."
Cooperating with Shi Xiaolei, Bayonetta promptly handed Kanna a lollipop.
The next second, the previously disappointed little girl smiled again.
"Kanna is the best~!"
(T/N: Like the story fellow daoist?you can read 20 chapters ahead on my P@treon [[email protected]/DaoistRongyi] Thanks for your support! 😊)