12 Journey Part 3

Note: Remembering that they are in another country. Switzerland speaks German, French, Italian, and Romansh, but I will not write any translation, so imagine each character described with an accent.

The aircraft finally touches Swiss soil, marking the beginning of a new adventure for the group. As it glides down the runway, Sheldon, already standing, mentally reviews post-landing safety procedures. Leonard tries to calm him down, promising coffee and chocolate as soon as they exit.

Sheldon: "I hope everyone remembers the meeting point in case we get separated. And Leonard, don't forget to keep a safe distance from other passengers. We don't want to start our trip with a cold."

Leonard, smiling: "Relax, Sheldon. It's going to be an amazing adventure. And yes, I promise to keep a safe distance."

Penny, eager, already plans the photos she will post on social media.

Penny: "I can't wait to see the Alps! Do you think they are visible from here at the airport? Just imagine the number of likes a selfie with the Alps in the background will get!"

While waiting for their luggage on the conveyor belt, Howard jokes about choosing stickers to identify his luggage.

Howard: "Mom always said, 'If you want something to come back to you, mark it with something shiny.' I didn't know she was serious!"

Raj, laughing, looks at his own luggage covered in cosmos prints: "At least no one will confuse your luggage with theirs, Howard."

Finally outside the airport, the group marvels at the Swiss beauty. Sheldon, always the scientist, takes a small device out of his pocket.

Sheldon: "I need to check the radiation here. Just because it's Switzerland doesn't mean we're safe from invisible dangers."

Leonard: "Sheldon, can we at least get out of the airport before you start your measurements?"

Penny, capturing the moment with her phone, laughs.

Penny: "This has to go on my Insta. 'First five minutes in Switzerland and we're already hunting radiation!'"

Howard, looking around: "Has anyone seen a coffee shop around here? I need a coffee before I turn into a zombie."

Raj, pointing to a nearby café: "There! They probably sell chocolate too. Two birds with one stone."

Regrouped around a table in the airport café, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee hangs in the air. Meanwhile, Sheldon meticulously observes the surroundings, ensuring the table is sufficiently away from any potentially dangerous drafts that might carry germs.

Howard, flipping through a menu with a curious air, exclaims: "Hey, it says here they serve an 'Einstein Coffee.' Anyone want to bet it's just regular coffee with a famous name?"

Penny, smiling at Sheldon: "I bet Sheldon will order one, just for the name."

Sheldon, correcting Penny with a slight tone of reproach: "Actually, Penny, I do not consume caffeine after 3 p.m. It disturbs my circadian rhythm. However, I am intrigued by the idea of associating such a common beverage with such an exceptional mind."

The orders arrive, accompanied by a variety of finely presented Swiss chocolates. Sheldon, who would normally approach such a tasting with a dose of skepticism, can't help but express a reluctant fascination for the precision with which the chocolates were crafted.

Sheldon: "It's interesting to note that chocolate, when properly prepared, crystallizes into a beta prime structure, the most stable form among the six crystal forms of cocoa. This maximizes both texture and shine."

Penny, offering a piece of chocolate to Sheldon: "So, professor? Will you do the honors of testing the theory in practice?"

Sheldon, after a brief pause to consider the sanitary implications, finally gives in, driven by scientific curiosity.

Sheldon: "Well, for the purposes of research and scientific analysis, I suppose a small test is acceptable."

As they enjoy their coffees and chocolates, Leonard pulls out a tourist guide from his pocket, already marked with several annotations and colored post-its.

Leonard: "So, what do you think about starting with the Natural History Museum tomorrow? They have a mineral exhibit that Sheldon will undoubtedly find fascinating."

Raj, excited, adds: "And we can't forget Lake Zurich. I read that the view is spectacular at sunset. Perfect for some photos."

Finishing their drinks and preparing to leave, the group begins to gather their belongings, excited about the adventures that await them. Howard, ensuring they haven't forgotten anything, does a final check.

Howard: "Alright, folks, do we have everything? Sheldon, did you do your germ inspection in the bathroom?"

Sheldon, meticulously closing his backpack: "Yes, Howard. And I left constructive feedback on the arrangement of the hand dryers for the café manager."

After the meal at the airport café, the group is ready to head to their hotel in Zurich. Sheldon, already apprehensive about using public transportation, expresses his reservations firmly.

Sheldon: "Folks, I insist that we reconsider the use of public transportation. The likelihood of cross-contamination is unacceptably high. Moreover, I'm not willing to sacrifice my personal health for a supposed 'adventure.'"

Leonard, trying to find a middle ground: "Sheldon, I understand your concerns, but we're trying to immerse ourselves in the Swiss experience here. And that includes their impeccable public transportation system."

Penny, looking for solutions: "What if we rent a car? That way, we have our own space and still can explore the city as planned."

Howard, supporting the idea: "I'm in for that. Plus, I've always wanted to drive on European roads. I think it would be fun."

Raj, thoughtful: "And we have the flexibility to stop wherever we want. It might be a great way to really see the country."

Sheldon ponders for a moment, analyzing the options. The idea of a controlled and sanitary space of a rented car seems to satisfy him.

Sheldon: "Penny's proposal is acceptable. As long as I can have some control over the radio station and the use of air conditioning, I am willing to agree to the rented car plan."

The group, relieved to have found a solution that meets everyone's needs, heads to the airport car rental counter. After a few minutes of dealing with paperwork and insurance options, they are ready to set off in their rented vehicle, a car spacious enough to accommodate everyone comfortably, along with their luggage.

Leonard, taking the driver's seat: "Alright, folks, off to Zurich we go! Sheldon, you can be our official navigator."

Sheldon, adjusting the seat and checking the seatbelts: "I accept the responsibility, Leonard. And just for the record, I prefer an environment temperature of 22 degrees Celsius. It's ideal for cognitive thinking."

With Leonard at the wheel and Sheldon as co-pilot/navigator, the rented car leaves the airport parking lot, entering the Swiss roads towards Zurich. The landscape around begins to change, showing the beautiful views Switzerland has to offer, with distant mountains framing the sky.

Sheldon, meticulously adjusting the GPS and monitoring every route change: "Leonard, ensure you keep the speed within the established limits. And remember, the traffic rules here may be different from ours."

Leonard, focused on the road: "Sheldon, I know how to drive, thank you. And honestly, these roads are amazing. Look at that view!"

Penny, amazed by the landscape: "Wow, this is so beautiful! It's like a movie scene. Sheldon, can you take a photo of us? I want to post it on Instagram."

Sheldon, reluctant but giving in: "Very well, but make it quick. I don't want to distract Leonard for too long. Safety is paramount."

Howard, looking out: "Hey, look, there's a sign for a chocolate factory over there. What do you guys think about making a quick stop? It would be a crime to come to Switzerland and not visit a chocolate factory."

Raj, excited about the idea: "That sounds fantastic! Sheldon, can you add that to our itinerary?"

Sheldon, hesitating before giving in to the group pressure: "Alright, but that will alter our planned schedule. We'll have to make up the time later."

The brief stop at the chocolate factory proves to be a delight for all, with tastings of various chocolate delights exceeding all expectations. Sheldon, seems genuinely interested in the scientific processes behind chocolate making.

After the visit, the group returns to the car, now with a considerable supply of Swiss chocolates for the journey. The conversations revolve around expectations for the conference, places they want to visit, and, of course, where to find the best fondue.

Leonard, entering the city of Zurich: "Okay, guys, we're almost at the hotel. Sheldon, did you do the online check-in for us?"

Sheldon, confirming: "Yes, and I've sent a list of room requirements, including the arrangement of furniture and the cleaning of the air conditioning."

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At the hotel in Zurich, the group is about to settle in for a game night planned by Sheldon when Howard raises a point about the possibility of exploring the city.

Howard: "Seriously, Sheldon? A game night? We're in Switzerland! There are beautiful Swiss ladies out there, waiting to be charmed by physicists as charming as us."

Sheldon, with his typical response: "Howard, my loyalty is to science, not to futile attempts at social interactions based on superficial aesthetic criteria. Moreover, the probability of cross-contamination in a public bar exceeds my comfort threshold."

Leonard, trying to appease Sheldon and keep the group together: "How about we compromise? We can start with a science bar I found. It's a place where people go to discuss science and technology. Sheldon, you might even find someone to debate string theory with."

Penny, initially reluctant, gives in to the idea of going out: "I really don't understand anything about physics, and this definitely doesn't sound like my kind of place. But, you know what? If they serve Swiss drinks, I'll find a way to have fun."

[Hours later]

In the warmth of the Swiss night, the science bar becomes an intellectual battleground for the group of friends. While Penny finds herself surrounded by local science enthusiasts, each more eager than the last to impress her with their knowledge, Leonard watches the scene with growing unease. Raj and Howard, on the other hand, dive into the unique atmosphere of the place, each in their own way.

Raj, thrilled by the environment: "This is amazing! It's like all of Zurich is here to celebrate science. And look, they have a replica of the particle accelerator as decoration!"

Howard, always looking for an opportunity: "That's cool, Raj, but I'm more interested in accelerating my social life here. Did you see those scientists on the other side of the bar?"

As Howard and Raj venture off, Leonard decides to act. Armed with his physics knowledge and a healthy dose of courage, he approaches the group surrounding Penny, launching into a detailed explanation of Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, trying to deflect the suitors' attention with pure science.

Leonard: "You really want to impress? Let's talk about how fundamentally we can't know both the position and the velocity of a particle at the same time. Isn't that fascinating?"

The suitors, caught off guard by this interruption, try to counter-argue, but Leonard, motivated by the desire to protect Penny, dominates the conversation. His genuine enthusiasm for physics eventually wins over the audience, who begin to disperse, either impressed or simply confused.

With the area around Penny finally free, Leonard looks at her with a mix of pride and expectation, hoping for a reaction. Penny, however, only smiles in gratitude before her attention is diverted by the arrival of the bartender.

Bartender, approaching with a charming smile: "I see you attracted quite the attention tonight. Everything alright here?"

Penny, relieved by the change of focus: "Oh, yes, everything's great now. Your bar is… unique."

Bartender: "Glad you're enjoying it. You seem to need a special drink after… all this. Can I offer you our specialty?"

After accepting the drink, Penny and the bartender begin to chat. She discovers that he also has an interest in theater and the arts, creating an immediate connection between them. Leonard, watching this interaction, feels a twinge of jealousy but hesitates to intervene, aware that Penny can take care of herself.

After a few minutes of pleasant conversation, the bartender makes his offer.

Bartender: "I'm finishing my shift soon. There's a small café nearby with live jazz. Would you like to join me?"

Penny, pondering for a moment before responding with a smile: "You know, that sounds really nice. Why not?"

Leonard, witnessing the invitation and Penny's acceptance, internally debates. He wants Penny's happiness, but he can't deny his own heart.

As Penny prepares for an unexpected night, Raj and Howard return, curious about the group's next move. Leonard shares the situation.

After Penny leaves with the bartender, Leonard, unable to contain his concern and jealousy, makes an impulsive decision to follow her to ensure she's safe. He shares his plan with Raj and Howard.

Leonard: "I can't just sit here knowing Penny is out there with someone she barely knows. Let's follow her discreetly, just to make sure everything's okay."

Raj and Howard, though hesitant, agree to support Leonard, but it's Sheldon who expresses the greatest resistance.

Sheldon: "This seems to be a flagrant violation of privacy and, frankly, a poor use of our time in Switzerland."

To persuade Sheldon, Leonard resorts to a tactic inspired by Sheldon's love for movies and series of science fiction and fantasy.

Leonard: "Think of it as a secret mission, Sheldon. Like in 'Spies of the Multiverse' — we're on a surveillance operation to protect one of our own."

The reference to the fictional movie "Spies of the Multiverse," a cult classic among fans of science fiction and fantasy, sparks a glint in Sheldon's eyes. He readily accepts the task, but insists on taking the role seriously.

Sheldon: "If we are to undertake such a mission, we must be properly prepared. Wait here."

He runs off to somewhere and returns moments later, dressed like a detective cliché from noir films — long coat, fedora hat, and sunglasses, despite it being night. He even holds a toy magnifying glass as if it were an essential accessory.

Howard whispers to Raj: "Where did he get that outfit?"

Raj: "Don't ask…"

Sheldon, declaring himself ready: "Now we may proceed with our nocturnal surveillance. And please, call me 'Agent Cooper'."

The friends, trying to contain their laughter at Sheldon's enthusiasm and his eccentric attire, agree and follow Penny and the bartender at a distance. Sheldon's attempts to blend in and act like a discreet detective, however, are so exaggerated that they end up attracting more attention than anything else.

Howard, whispering: "Sheldon, you look less like a spy and more like someone who escaped from the set of a period film."

Raj, agreeing: "Yeah, and I don't think 'Agents of the Multiverse' would use a magnifying glass on their missions."

As they follow Penny and the bartender to the jazz café, the group struggles to maintain discretion — especially with Sheldon occasionally stopping to "investigate" irrelevant clues, like a piece of gum on the ground, using his magnifying glass.

Meanwhile, Penny, completely unaware of her friends' presence, continues to enjoy the bartender's company. Between laughter and engaging conversations, she tries new cocktails and learns more about the local culture.

However, the real comedy begins when, accidentally, Penny and the bartender, who had already arrived at the bar, decide to move to a table closer to the stage to better enjoy the music. In doing so, they end up choosing the table right next to where Sheldon and the rest of the group are hiding.

Sheldon (Agent Cooper), whispering in panic: "Red alert, red alert! The target is approaching our secret base. How do we proceed, Commander Leonard?"

Leonard, realizing there's no longer a way to hide, whispers back: "Just act naturally. Maybe she won't see us."

As expected, it doesn't take long for Penny to notice the group, especially Sheldon in his detective outfit, which stands out completely from the rest of the audience. Her initial reaction is one of surprise, quickly replaced by amusement upon realizing the extent of the "surveillance operation" her friends set up.

Penny, approaching the table with a mix of disbelief and amusement: "What are you guys doing here? Sheldon, what's with the outfit?"

Sheldon (Agent Cooper), trying to maintain composure: "We are here on an observation mission… which has now been compromised. But, please, continue with your social activities. We are not here."

Penny: "I can't believe you guys followed me. This is so immature for adults like you."

Raj, not missing a chance to point out the hypocrisy, quickly responds: "Hey, but you also followed me when I went on a date with Lalita Gupta. I guess we're even on following people, aren't we?"

Penny, caught off guard by the memory and Raj's undeniable logic, is momentarily speechless, searching for a justification.

Penny, trying to defend herself: "But that was… that was different. I mean, we were… Ah, crap, you're right. But still, that doesn't make it right now."

At that moment, the bartender, sensing the tense situation but not fully grasping the group dynamics, makes his snide comment.

Bartender: "Why don't you ditch these nerds, huh? Come have some fun without them."

Penny, whose initial irritation with her friends quickly turns into defense at the bartender's comment, feels a strong sense of loyalty surge.

Penny, looking seriously at the bartender: "Hey Steve, don't talk about my friends like that. They might be a bit… intense sometimes, but they're amazing people."

Leonard in a quest to defend his dignity: "Hey, we can also have fun, and we can do it much better than anyone." Turning to the group and seeking confirmation, to which, everyone nodded.

Steve, with a confident smile: "Alright, if you really want to prove you can have fun like normal people, how about a shooting contest? We have a small archery stand at the back of the bar. It's simple: whoever hits closest to the center of the target wins. Me against the best of you."

Penny, surprised by the suggestion but relieved it's a non-contact competition, jokes about the situation.

Penny: "Seriously? Archery? Wait, you guys aren't going to shoot each other, right?"

Leonard, somewhat unsure about the group's archery skills, looks to his friends for a volunteer.

Leonard: "Well, has anyone here ever practiced archery before?"

Sheldon, always confident in his ability to learn and apply new skills quickly, intervenes.

Sheldon: "Although I do not have direct experience with archery, the physics involved is quite elementary. I will calculate the optimal trajectory. As a theoretical physicist, I am the logical choice to represent our group."

Howard, unable to resist the opportunity to make a joke, adds his commentary.

Howard: "This is going to be like 'The Lord of the Rings', but with Sheldon as Legolas. Who knows, maybe we'll discover he's a disguised elf."

Raj, in a low voice: "Leonard, you should be our representative. It's the perfect chance to show your skills to Penny. Plus, imagine the look on the bartender's face when you win."

Leonard, though nervous and aware of his lack of experience with bow and arrow, is persuaded by the idea of impressing Penny and, with a mix of bravery and anxiety, accepts the challenge.

Leonard: "Alright, let's do this. How hard can it be, right?"

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As the challenge begins, it's clear Leonard is at a disadvantage. His first shots are clumsy, with the arrows barely hitting the target. Steve comfortably leads, showcasing a natural skill that seems insurmountable.

Steve, with a confident smile: "Are you sure you want to continue? There's still time to bow out with some dignity."

Penny and the rest of the group watch, alternating between encouragement and concern. At a crucial moment, when Leonard tries to focus for his next shot, Sheldon, unable to hold back, makes a critical comment.

Sheldon: "Leonard, are you aware that your posture is completely wrong? According to the laws of physics, your chances of hitting the target are less than those of…"

Frustrated and distracted by the comment, Leonard turns to respond to Sheldon, and, unintentionally, releases the bowstring. To everyone's surprise, the arrow flies perfectly toward the target, hitting the center accurately.

The group is shocked for a moment, before bursting into celebrations. Leonard, overwhelmed by emotion, starts jumping and celebrating in slow motion, immersed in his unexpected victory.

Leonard, ecstatic: "I did it! Did you see that? I did it!"

However, the celebration is interrupted by Steve, who, although impressed, reminds Leonard of the reality of the challenge.

Steve: "That was an impressive shot, I'll admit. But the competition doesn't end with just one hit. You need to hit five more times to actually win."

Steve, taunting: "I guess that hit was just luck, huh? Better stick to science, because sports clearly aren't your forte."

Leonard's humiliation is palpable, and the group feels the sting of the bartender's disdain. It's at this moment that Raj intervenes, unwilling to let the night end on a down note.

Raj, with a firm determination: "Hold on. We deserve a rematch. And this time, I'll be the challenger."

Steve, confident in victory after Leonard's display, readily accepts, throwing more taunting remarks.

Steve: "Oh, sure, the rematch! Let's see if you can do better than your friend. I'm looking forward to seeing this."

The contest restarts with Raj positioning himself at the shooting stand. Before picking up the bow, he looks at his friends and smiles.

Raj, picking up the bow with the confidence of someone who has done this many times before, begins to speak, keeping all eyes on him. "When I was younger, living in India, my family used to visit an ancient temple in Rajasthan. There, an annual festival took place where archers from all over the country gathered to showcase their skills. My uncle, who was a respected archer, took me under his wing. He believed that archery was more than just aiming and shooting; it was about connecting with the target on a spiritual level."

With the room in silence, hanging on his words, Raj positions the first arrow. His movements are methodical and calm, a silent dance between him and the bow. He takes a deep breath, aims, and releases the arrow. With a perfect trajectory, it hits the center of the target.

Raj, not losing the rhythm, continues: "My uncle used to say that each arrow has a story. And that story ends at the exact moment it finds its home, the target. He taught me to read the wind, to feel the tension of the bow, and to understand that every shot is a conversation between the archer and the universe."

As Raj speaks, he fires a second, then a third arrow, each with the same impressive precision as the first. Each shot is followed by a moment of collective anticipation and then admiration, as the arrows find their home in the center of the target, one after another.

Penny, watching, can't contain her excitement: "Raj, this is amazing! I had no idea you had these skills."

Howard with a smile and a certain disbelief, asks: "Dude, what else are you hiding from us? Dance, Piano, and now Archery, Maybe you are super rich and we still don't know…"

Sheldon, analytical but clearly impressed, adds: "Interesting. It appears that your uncle's teachings transcended physical practice and entered the realm of philosophy."

Steve, now visibly impressed and a bit humbled, watches as Raj completes his impressive series of shots, hitting the target accurately every time he shoots.

As Raj finishes his impressive series of shots, a murmur of admiration runs through the bar. The audience, which had initially gathered out of curiosity or to watch what they thought would be a one-sided competition, now looks at Raj with a mix of respect and surprise.

Spectator 1, speaking to the friend beside them: "Did you see that? He hit the center every time. I can barely hit the target!"

Spectator 2, equally impressed: "Yeah, it's incredible. I didn't expect that. I thought the other guy was going to win easily."

Steve, facing his defeat with dignity, approaches Raj and extends his hand, a gesture of recognition and respect for the challenger's talent.

Steve: "You really know your way around a bow. Congratulations, that was an exceptional performance. The next round of drinks is on the house, as promised."

The group of friends gathers around Raj, patting him on the back and congratulating him on his unexpected victory.

Penny, hugging Raj: "Raj, that was so cool!"

Sheldon, still analytical: "I must admit, the practical application of your archery skills defies my initial expectations regarding physical competitions involving members of our social circle."

Howard, with a mischievous smile: "Hey, Raj, I think you just became the most sought-after archer among nerds. Prepare for sponsorship offers."

As the night progresses and the atmosphere in the bar becomes increasingly friendly, the friends take the opportunity to relax and enjoy each other's company, something that had been temporarily forgotten in the tension of the challenge. Raj's victory becomes the highlight of the night, but it's the camaraderie and mutual support that truly shine.

As some bar patrons, encouraged by Raj's performance, decide to try their luck at the archery stand, the group settles at a nearby table, now treated as celebrities. The bartender, brings the first round of free drinks.

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-*-*-*-*-*-*-*

Sheldon: "Switzerland has four official languages, which theoretically quadruples the chances of being misunderstood. Fascinating, isn't it?"

Leonard: "I used to think that physics was the most complex field that existed, until I tried to understand the safety instructions in four different languages on a flight to Switzerland."

Penny: "I knew that traveling with a group of scientists would be an educational experience. So far, I've learned that 'radiation' in any language sounds concerning."

Howard: "Seriously, bringing a ruler to measure safe distance between people? Only Sheldon would turn health guidelines into a geometry lesson."

Raj: "If someone had told me I would use my archery skills in Switzerland, I would have assumed it was to save the world, not to win a round of drinks."

Steve, the Bartender: "I thought I understood physics… until I tried to explain how a cocktail is made to this group. Now, I think we need a bartender with a PhD."