Two Wrongs Make a Right Ch.31

Ruby Rose, the supposed protagonist of this world.

Nines briefly glances at me, her posture shifting slightly as she waits for guidance. When I offer none, she takes the initiative, stepping forward with a natural smile.

"Ruby!" She waves back and takes another step forward. "And well, I felt like I needed a small break from all those Dust theory equations that Weiss gave me." She explains cheerfully before gesturing towards me. "Oh by the way, this is Blaze. He's a new… friend I met at the coffee shop. And would you believe he is from Mistral? And since that's where I grew up, we really hit it off!"

I wave casually at Ruby, offering a friendly smile calibrated to appear genuine but not overly familiar. "Nice to meet you. Nines has mentioned her team leader—said you're quite the weapons enthusiast."

To my surprise, Ruby seems to freeze mid-greeting, a faint blush creeping across her face as her silver eyes fixate on me. I cannot be that captivating, am I? Or is it my eyes?

But she quickly shakes her head as if clearing an unwelcome thought, then launches into a disjointed ramble. "Oh! Hi! It's super nice to meet you too! Weapons enthusiast? That's me! Well, I mean, I'm not like a certified expert or anything, I just really really love weapons! They're like—" she makes an explosive gesture with her hands, "—so cool! Better than meeting new people! Not that meeting you isn't cool! You seem really cool! And normal! I'm normal too. I have normal knees. You... also have good knees. I mean—" She stops abruptly, her blush deepening as she slaps her hands over her face. "Why do I always do this?"

This is definitely interesting. Nines' reports talked about Ruby being quite decisive in combat situations, but now she has been reduced to nervous stammering by a simple greeting. Although, it is more than clear to me that this sudden shift in her attitude is thanks to me.

But as I listen to her rambling, I quickly take notice of something Nines failed to mention in her reports or maybe I omitted that part and wrongly assumed but that doesn’t change the fact that Ruby Rose is older. At around seventeen, she's the right age for a new huntress-in-training, but carries herself with a mix of childlike enthusiasm and a unique maturity in her eyes. Yet she retains that blend of awkward enthusiasm and earnest energy that makes her 'adorkable.'

It's somewhat amusing, watching Ruby Rose becoming all flustered over something so simple as a greeting.

"Knees aside," I say with deliberate lightness, and pick my next words. "It's good to meet a friend of Nines'. From what she told me, you lead quite the capable team at Beacon."

Ruby perks up at this, seemingly more comfortable discussing combat than engaging in small talk. "Oh! Team RYNW is amazing! Nines has this incredible semblance with those glowing rune things—they're so cool when they materialize! And she controls her weapons with those too! Plus, she's super smart!"

I notice Nines blushing a little, not so accustomed to that sort of praise it seems.

I can also see Ruby's eyes sparkling with excitement as she speaks about her team. "Yang—that's my big sister—she's our powerhouse! And Weiss is almost like a wizard, even if she's still a little..." Ruby makes a stiff gesture with her hand, then laughs. "But we're working on it! We're going to be the best team Beacon's ever seen!"

And she stops talking, meaning that she has made no mention of their bearer. I don't know if that's a good thing or a bad thing. But it is better that it doesn’t reach that point.

"Hey, Ruby. Now I remember that you mentioned some weapon shops that sell good weapon parts, since you are here I would love it if you could show it to us," Nines interjects smoothly, sensing an opportunity to redirect our outing in a potentially useful direction. "Apparently they have some rare components, right?"

"You are right!" She gasps then looks at me. "You should definitely come with us!" Ruby blurts out, her earlier awkwardness momentarily forgotten in another surge of enthusiasm. "They have these specialized parts that are practically impossible to find since an Atlesian corporation bought out most of the independent suppliers." Her expression darkens slightly. "Everything's gotten so expensive lately. Decent barrels and receivers cost two times more than what it did last year, and don't even get me started on precision Dust injectors!"

She sighs dramatically. "I've spent a lot just to upgrade Crescent Rose's targeting system, and after joining Beacon I got a new budget but some new parts I need to upgrade my weapon are locked behind their subscription model now. It's so frustrating! Things were better before all these greedy corporations started buying up everything."

So it isn't like corporations already have a deep-seated monopoly and chokehold over everything, but they are slowly spreading their roots. That means that probably in the next decade they will practically own everything for the average person of Remnant and make them even more miserable than they already are.

And that would translate into more Grimm, more fighting and potentially a war.

Well, I and the rest of my country should be more than ready by that point. So for now I will focus on dealing with this silver-eyed warrior. Additionally, Nines did shift the conversation to a favorable outcome since we wanted to go to the Industrial District from the beginning.

"I dabble in bladed weapons myself," I reply with a modest shrug. "I'm always looking for quality components that don't come with corporate strings attached."

"Exactly!" Ruby exclaims, eyes sparkling with a unique passion. "You get it! This old guy who runs the shop—he used to be a huntsman before he lost his leg to a pack of Terrorfangs—but he still has connections to pre-merger manufacturers. Gets parts that aren't chipped or tracked by the corps." She lowers her voice and changes to a conspiratorial tone. "Some people say his stuff falls off transport ships, if you know what I mean, but who cares as long as it works, right?"

Huh, so Ruby is not that innocent and naïve anymore. I guess this shouldn't come as a surprise considering that she is older and the world she is living in. It's telling about the state of this cyberpunk-infused Remnant.

"Sounds ideal," I say, genuinely interested now. "Lead the way."

Ruby beams and practically bounces on her feet. "Awesome! It's not that far from here—just at the edge of the Industrial District. We can take the metro." She points to a rail system suspended between buildings. "It’s better than the bus since those are always packed and cabs are ridiculously expensive."

We merely nod and follow her lead.

As we follow Ruby toward the metro station, I consider what I've learned in just this brief talk. The corporations are tightening their grip on Remnant, but haven't yet achieved total control. There's still a thriving black market for unregulated goods—which means another potential supply chain for the White Fang, one that we haven’t discovered for some reason. Probably a racial barrier? 

I guess that should explain it since they wouldn’t want an oppressed group get easy access to weapons since once it blows up it would be tracked back to them and get fucked over.

And Ruby Rose herself seems more complex than Nines' reports suggested, not like I blame her since she is still new to the whole emotions thing so she has little to no knowledge about it. And perhaps she has a rebellious streak against corporate authority. Useful information indeed.

Most interesting, though, is her reaction to me. I've made many people nervous before, but usually born from fear or respect—not this kind of reaction, unless we count Sienna but she was simply inexperienced. Maybe it is because I’ve always been wearing a mask and very few have seen my full face. But I could use this to my advantage for other things.

As we board the metro, I catch Nines giving me a subtle nod of approval. Our impromptu detour might prove more productive than our original plan.

Sometimes the most valuable intelligence comes from the most unexpected sources.

Also, the metro isn’t that packed, we even get seats for each of us, although I take a seat a little away from them and let Nines and Ruby sit together where they start chatting, mostly about their studies though. 

Glad that she is having fun.

Although, she shouldn’t derail too much from her original mission.

---------------------------------------------------------

The metro left us at the edge of Vale's Industrial District, just like the team leader said, where sleek corporate towers give way to more utilitarian structures. The air carries a different scent here—machine oil, heated metal, and the distinctive tang of Dust processing. Fewer flying cars traverse the airspace, replaced by cargo drones shuttling between buildings. And more traditional methods as well as the cargo trucks and people manually moving it. Although the workers are a little different, as there are ‘normal’ workers moving around and a few wearing a bulky exoskeleton suit carrying large and heavy things, the same suit I’ve seen months ago in the docks.

Ruby leads us down a narrow street where holographic advertisements flicker less frequently, and the few storefronts have physical signs rather than digital displays. The contrast between the commercial heart we left behind and this working-class district is stark—less polished, more… authentic.

"It's just around this corner!" Ruby announces, practically skipping ahead. Her cheerful attitude hasn't dimmed since we boarded the metro, and she's spent the entire journey chattering about with Nines who easily kept up with her. However, throughout it all, I've noticed the young woman stealing glances my way when she thought I wasn’t looking.

So it is a first time crush?

We arrive at an unassuming building wedged between a refinery and what appears to be an automated drone repair facility. The shop's sign—an actual metal placard rather than a hologram—reads "Rusty's Arsenal" with a smaller line underneath: "Quality Parts, No Questions."

That’s rather ballsy but I guess people don’t bother to check. Or that it has an implicit protection of sorts as everyone benefits from this, that includes the underworld elements.

Before we enter, I clear my throat, getting Nines’ and Ruby’s attention. "You two go ahead. I don't want to intrude on your time together." I maintain my casual, friendly tone. "Besides, I'd like to explore a bit. Get a feel for this part of the city."

Ruby's face falls slightly. "Oh! But you should see the—"

"It's okay, Ruby," Nines interjects smoothly. "Blaze is a very curious individual and likes to wander to new places, that’s how we met. We can meet up after we're done though."

I nod in agreement. "I'll just be looking around nearby. Take your time."

Ruby seems to accept this, though not without obvious disappointment. "Well... okay. But don't go too far! Some parts of the Industrial District aren't great after dark, and there are corporate security drones that will attack you if you get too close to their facilities. And obviously be careful of the gangsters!"

Ha! 

"I'll be careful," I promise, giving her what I hope is a reassuring smile. It seems to work, as her cheeks color slightly again. “But you forget that I know how to throw a punch.” I flash my weapon to reinforce that point and that seems to reassure the young woman as she gives me a nod and takes Nines by the hand.

As the two disappear into the shop, I change to a secure channel. "I'll be conducting a short reconnaissance. Contact me when you're done."

"Understood, Commander." 

With that confirmation I close the channel and turn down an adjacent street, and start walking at a relatively fast pace. To any observer, I'm just another pedestrian exploring the city. In reality, I'm mentally mapping this district, and trying to find one that could possess equipment or resources that I could take back with me.

As I continue my exploration, I spot a familiar building—an old warehouse that once was secretly used by the White Fang before my supposed death. It's been converted now, bearing the logo that implied something about machinery repairs. So that makes another piece of our history erased.

I pause across the street, memories surfacing of planning sessions held in the upper level, recruitment drives disguised as community gatherings, weapons stockpiled in false walls. How many Faunus had found purpose within those walls? How many had led to their deaths?

Now it's just another corporate outpost, its history unknown to the humans who occupy it after the police crackdown.

I move on, methodically exploring the district. My enhanced vision allows me to assess security systems, identify loading schedules, and quick evaluations on which facilities might contain equipment valuable for city development. Of course I don’t forget to mark promising locations in my mini-map.

A robotics assembly plant with minimal security on its eastern entrance. Another refinery although I don't know exactly what they are refining in there and the smell doesn’t give me any clues since I lack knowledge but it will be marked. Then I spot an advanced materials fabrication center producing what looks like lightweight alloys. And on the other side there is a medical supply warehouse, or that’s what I assume that building is judging by the red ‘LL’ symbols and the number of drones flying overhead.

Now I have no doubt that we can obtain things we need from this place. I could establish portal points in discrete locations near each facility. Quick, surgical operations—in and out before security could respond or even notice. Materials and technology transferred directly to Menagerie without the risks of traditional shipping. 

The thought is appealing. No more relying on unreliable supply chains or questionable allies. Direct acquisition on our terms. Although the quantity of acquisition would be too small and I would have to make it like a full-time job or the contribution wouldn’t have significance in the scale of work, I have envisioned.

As I round a corner, I notice two Faunus workers—a woman with visible fox ears and a man with scaled patches on his neck—attempting to repair a malfunctioning loading drone. Their uniforms are stained with grease and their exhaustion is evident in the droop of their shoulders and faces. The afternoon sun beats down mercilessly, and I can see the sheen of sweat on their brows.

They've likely been at it for hours without a break. I don’t recognize the corporate logo on their uniforms but I can tell they are the absolute bottom of the ladder by the mere fact that they are Faunus.

I start to walk past, then stop with a quiet groan. Before I can reconsider, I reach into my pocket space and extract a fresh bottle of water.

"Hey," I call out, keeping my voice casual. "You look like you could use this."

I toss the bottle toward them. The fox woman catches it reflexively, surprise evident in her black eyes.

"Th-thank you," she stammers, clearly not accustomed to kindness from strangers. And surprisingly she offers the bottle to her companion first.

"Don't mention it," I reply with a dismissive wave of my hand and keep walking.

A pointless action, this small kindness. It won't change their situation or topple the system that oppresses them or even solve their current issue, it would be a very brief respite at best. Yet I wouldn't have felt at ease if I'd simply ignored them acting like every human who also shares the sentiment but prefer to not look at the issue because it’s easier and keep them believing that they are good people. And I cannot go around excusing myself with words about the greater picture, acting or refusing action for the greater good.

A strange sentiment, I cannot help them… Yet. And neither can go and tell them directly what they should do, otherwise it could trace back to us and be discovered way earlier than intended.

Perhaps Menagerie has changed me more than I realized. Or perhaps it's simply that seeing their struggle so directly reminds me of why I fight in the first place, just another reminder.

I continue on without further comment, leaving them to their work. A block further, I discover what appears to be a steel fabrication facility. Massive trucks are being loaded with structural components—precisely the materials we need for expanding Kuo Kuana's infrastructure and the new factory I have planned with the Pods.

Although I obviously cannot transport them by myself, I’m strong but not THAT strong.

All I can do is to mark that location, noting the limited security presence and the regular loading schedule displayed on a digital board visible through the main entrance. Maybe with another cargo ship we could load one or two containers and ship it.

But overall I’m satisfied with these discoveries so I turn back toward the not so secretive weapons shop. Nines should be finishing up soon, and I've gathered enough intelligence for one short walk. Besides these factories and warehouses will still be here in the future, I should send Trifa to investigate this district more.

No, I will send her.

Yet I cannot stop thinking about those two from moments ago. In the past, I would have tried to recruit disgruntled faunus—shown them how to channel their frustration into action, and given them that forbidden taste so they can go further and further, crossing lines. I resent myself for allowing myself to reach that low point, especially when I was taught differently. Now, I have a different approach in mind and one that it’s working and far more effective. It is already decided that Menagerie is going to rise as a technological power, one that won’t envy Atlas, and where everyone can reach for opportunities, REAL opportunities not this farce for a better life. 

Not just freedom through revolution, but prosperity through innovation.

A more subtle approach, perhaps, but more lasting.

Not a pipe dream either, because with the fortunate discoveries I can already envision my home’s future.

But my thoughts are interrupted as a message arrives.

"Ruby has bought what she wanted. We will be leaving soon."

Just as predicted.

While there's much more I could explore, prudence suggests limiting this first excursion. There might be some sort of lookout, and even with my defenses in place I shouldn’t press my luck.

Besides, I've accomplished what I came for. The information I've gathered will be valuable for my planning.

I make my way back to "Rusty's Arsenal," timing my arrival just as Nines and Ruby emerge from the shop’s entrance. Ruby carries a sleek metal case, with a bright expression. When she spots me approaching, her face lights up even further, and she waves enthusiastically.

"Blaze! You're back!" she calls out, quickening her pace toward me. "You won't believe what we found! They had these limited-edition precision targeting modules from before the Merlot Industries buyout! The ones without the mandatory connection to the CCTS network!"

Merlot industries? Oh right, it was taken over by Arthur Watts; I read about it months ago. What is that man up to now? What are his goals? Who is he working for?

She thrusts the case forward, practically vibrating with joy. "You really should come inside and take a look! The owner has these custom Dust cartridges that don't have tracking microchips—they're amazing! And there's this metal technique that uses a micro-layering process that—"

Huh, she is practically inches away from me.

Nines gently pulls her back by the sleeve of her red hood, a subtle reminder about personal space. Something that Ruby suddenly seems to realize is how close she actually is, and her cheeks flush a deep crimson that nearly matches her outfit, causing her to look away, fidgeting with the edge of the case.

"Sorry," she mumbles. "I… I get carried away sometimes."

I can't help but be amused by her reaction. There's something disarmingly genuine about her eagerness, I guess I was missing that.

"No need to apologize," I say, keeping my tone light and friendly. "This place is quite different from Mistral. Even if industrial districts aren't the typical sightseeing choice, I've enjoyed exploring. Vale has an... interesting energy to it."

And profitable.

Ruby perks up at this, seemingly relieved that I'm not put off by her excitement. "Really? What parts did you check out? Did you see the old CCT relay station? They've converted part of it into this cool museum about communications technology, but also it is a factory for some cool gadgets!"

I didn’t see it.

We begin walking toward the metro station, and Ruby is quick to position herself between Nines and me. The way she occasionally glances up at me, then quickly looks away when I notice, confirms my earlier observation—she's developed a crush. It's both amusing and potentially useful as I can get better chances to stamp her.

"I mostly walked the main throughways," I reply, deliberately vague. "Observed the architecture, the flow of people. You can learn a lot about a kingdom by watching how its industrial heart beats."

"That's... weirdly deep," Ruby says, sounding genuinely impressed. "I usually just look for weapon shops and cheap food places." She laughs, then immediately seems embarrassed by the sound. "Not that I don't appreciate, you know, deeper stuff too! I read philosophy sometimes! Well, comics about philosophers, but that still counts, right? Right?"

Nines fails to suppress a giggle, which earns a glare from the huntress-in-training.

"I guess comic adaptations can be quite informative," I come up with an appropriate response. "After all, the kingdoms have different approaches to knowledge distribution."

That sounds like a very forced thing to say.

"Exactly!" Ruby exclaims, seemingly delighted that I understand. However, she stumbles slightly over an uneven section of pavement, and I reflexively reach out with my left hand to catch her by the elbow. 

The contact causes her to freeze momentarily, her silver eyes widening as she looks at me.

"Careful," I say, releasing her.

"T-Thanks," she squeaks, her voice taking a pitch higher. So she clears her throat taking her normal tone once more. "So, um, how long are you staying in Vale? Maybe I could show you some other places? There's this really cool viewpoint on the eastern cliffs that not many tourists know about. You can see all of Vale and even parts of Forever Fall from there."

Now she pretty much asked me out, quite bold for Ruby for a first time meeting.

"I'm not sure how long I'll be around," I answer truthfully. "My plans are... flexible."

"Well, if you're free tomorrow..." Ruby begins, then seems to lose her nerve. "I mean, only if you want to, no pressure, totally casual, just, you know, as friends. With Nines too, of course!" She adds the last part quickly, glancing at Nines.

Nines maintains a neutral expression, though I can tell she's struggling not to smile. "I have promised to compare notes with Weiss tomorrow afternoon, Ruby." 

"Right! I knew that!" Ruby's blush deepens. "Maybe another time then?"

And I simply cannot hold it in anymore and let out a soft chuckle. The sound seems to both mortify and fascinate Ruby, whose face is still flushed.

"What?" she asks, eyes wide. "Did I say something funny?"

"Not at all," I reply, my voice gentler than I intended. "Your enthusiasm is... refreshing."

We reach the station, joining the crowd of workers waiting for the next transport. The industrial shift change means the platform is crowded with tired laborers, human laborers much to my discontent.

Ruby just fidgets with the hem of her combat skirt. "Is that a good thing or a bad thing?"

"Good," I assure her. "Most people are quite reserved, if not rather rude about their interests. I think they're afraid of seeming too passionate."

That’s when RYWN team leader’s expression brightens. "That's what Yang always says! Something about wearing my heart on my sleeve, but I don't see the point in pretending to be all cool and aloof when you're excited about something." She gestures to the case she's carrying. "Like these parts—they're going to make Crescent Rose at least 3% more efficient in Dust consumption! How could I NOT be excited about that?"

Well, even if it is a small percentage it does pay off in the long run.

Our next transport arrives on time, its doors sliding open silently. As we board the crowded car, Ruby continues her enthusiastic explanation, occasionally bumping into other passengers as she gestures broadly to illustrate her points about weapon mechanisms. Most smile indulgently or simply step aside, her obvious good nature making it difficult to be irritated by her exuberance.

"You know," I say as the metro moves above Vale's streets, "I'll be in Vale for about three weeks. I might take you up on that offer to see the eastern cliffs."

Ruby nearly drops her case. "Really? I mean—cool! That would be... cool." She attempts to adopt a casual pose, leaning against the support pole, but misjudges and has to quickly correct herself. "When would work for you? I mean, no pressure, but just asking for planning purposes. Very casual planning purposes."

Nines coughs lightly into her hand, clearly hiding amusement.

"Perhaps next week?" I suggest, finding her awkwardness strangely endearing. "In the evening, to enjoy the city lights, they are quite nice to look at."

"Perfect!" Ruby exclaims, then catches herself and modulates her tone. "I mean, yeah, that works for me. Casual. Suuuuper casual."

And almost on cue the metro reaches the commercial district station, and we disembark into the evening bustle. Corporate logos and holographic advertisements illuminate the streets, casting multicolored lights across the faces of shoppers and businesspeople hurrying home and those who came to enjoy what this district has to offer.

"I should probably head back to Beacon with Nines," Ruby says reluctantly. "I promised my sister I'd help her with something, and Nines and I can catch the academy shuttle from the central terminal. Maybe even save a little on the fee."

"Of course," I nod. ‘I wouldn't’ want to intrude.”

"You wouldn’t!” Ruby chimes but then clears her throat. “But next weekend. Saturday maybe? Around seven?" Ruby asks, hope evident in her silver eyes.

"Saturday at seven works," I confirm, offering a small smile that sends another blush across her features.

"Great! It's a da—" she cuts herself off. "A plan. It's a plan. Between friends. New friends. Who are just hanging out. Casually."

"We should get going if we want to catch the six-fifteen shuttle," Nines interjects gently, saving her team leader from further self-inflicted embarrassment.

"Right! Absolutely!" Ruby gives an awkward wave. "Well, it was really nice meeting you, Blaze! See you next Thursday!"

"Until then," I reply, watching as Nines gently guides Ruby away, the younger woman glancing back a few times until they're swallowed by the evening crowd.

This was certainly something different.

I wanted to spend some time with Nines but I got Ruby’s time instead, who stole the show, not like I’m complaining and I’m sure Nines also enjoyed this outing. Otherwise she would have told me through messages or find an opportunity to leave us.

Once they're gone, I walk toward a less populated area. And lift my gaze as I stare at the tall colorful buildings. Vale certainly holds the cyberpunk aesthetics, I wonder how different Atlas will be. 

But that’s something for the future.

I keep walking and enter an empty alley which I scan for anything hidden like cameras before I can safely open a portal back to my Sweet Home and end this day. Of course not before, doing some more paperwork that might have accumulated in my short absence.

After that thought I step through the portal into the dimensional manor, the sounds and sensations of Vale instantly replaced by the familiar quiet of my sanctuary. In the entrance yard, Brutus lies sprawled on his back, tongue lolling from the side of his mouth as he snores loudly.

 Yeah, this is oddly adorable. A murderous machine acting so… cuddly.

I shake my head, smiling at the sight. Crossing the stone path quietly, I reach down to give his exposed belly a gentle rub. Brutus makes a contented sound somewhere between a purr and a rumble but doesn't wake up, his legs twitching slightly in response to whatever he's dreaming about—probably chasing something or eating another monster.

I wonder if he will keep growing. Would he become a bigger Squig or would he grow to become a Squigoth?

"Sleep well," I murmur before turning toward another portal—this one connecting directly to Kuo Kuana.

I step through and emerge in the yard behind Kali's manor. The evening air of Menagerie is heavy with humidity and the touch of saltiness, a stark contrast to Vale's and my dimensional home. 

Making my way around the gardens, I enter through the back door and immediately hear voices from the sitting room. As I get closer, I find Kawakaze and Asanagi seated at the low table, cups of steaming tea before them. 

It is Kawakaze who notices my arrival, her ears perk up and immediately straightens her posture and offers a crisp salute. "Welcome back, Commander."

I nod at her.

However, Asanagi's reaction is vastly different. The moment she sees me, her long fox ears flatten against her silver hair, and she averts her gaze, a deep blush spreading across her cheeks. Given our last... interaction, her embarrassment is understandable so I won’t pressure her for now. But I do prefer that subdued attitude compared to the bratty one.

"At ease," I say, removing the beanie and running a hand through my hair, horns finally free from their confinement. "I take it that you completed your assigned route for today?"

"Yes, Commander," Kawakaze reports formally after giving a slight bow. "We completed a full circuit of the southern coastline. No unauthorized vessels detected, and no sightings of Grimms or encounters with behemoths."

"Good to hear. Don’t forget that you have a mission tomorrow with Atago to escort valuable cargo."

Both shipgirl nod.

"Lady Sienna is also present," Kawakaze adds. "She arrived approximately forty-five minutes ago and is currently in conference with Lady Kali in the study."

I wonder if Sienna will decide to move in.

"I see. I won't disturb their meeting," I respond, moving toward the stairs. "Carry on you two."

Asanagi continues to avoid eye contact, her blush deepening as I pass. Kawakaze gives her a questioning look but receives only a furious head shake in response and both of them return to enjoy their tea.

I make my way up to the second floor, to what was once my childhood bedroom. This room remains largely unchanged—a preserved fragment of a simpler time. The familiar wooden bed frame, the desk beneath the window overlooking the garden, the bookshelves still holding volumes on history and combat theory that Ghira once insisted I study.

I drop onto the bed, the mattress firmer than the one in my Sweet Home. It's not as comfortable, objectively speaking, but there's something grounding about it—a tangible connection to my past that the luxuries of the manor can't replicate.

After a few moments of quiet reflection, I sit up and remove my shirt and jacket, revealing my prosthetic. Ruby didn't notice that my robotic arm it seems, so I did a good job. I summon a small toolkit from my pocket space, the items materializing in the air before dropping gently onto the bed beside me. 

Yes, I plan to do some work here in silence. My workshop might be the best possible palace to do that but it isn’t necessary to be there for what I want to do.

Activating my enhanced vision, I begin to work on the mechanical limb. The components come into sharp focus as I carefully open a panel near the wrist joint and expose several cables and small processors. Although this is preliminary work—just a few more adjustments and preparation to finally modify it, I've been planning a specific upgrade since I’m close to finishing the book I bought from the Trade Hub.

I have the component too so by next week I intend to install specialized Dust injectors directly into the arms systems. With this modification, I'll be able to activate my semblance independently, without relying on external energy sources.

As I work, I check the brief reports that have accumulated in my inbox. Most are routine—updates on constructions, security patrol logs, and what arrived on the docks.

But my attention sharpens when I reach a report flagged with medium priority. 

Grimm activity.

Grimm harassed the construction crew in road construction leading to Sandrift. That was enough to make me pause my mechanical work, focusing fully on the details.

A pack of six Beowolves were spotted and tried to attack my people. But the assigned security team dispatched the monsters swiftly suffering zero casualties, the worst that occurred was the workers getting scared but they were given time to recover and even the rest of the day off. The report also notes this is the first time they were attacked by Grimm.

It is rather strange that just now after so much time they decided to attack, maybe just an off shot. But they were handled swiftly so I can trust the system.

Also no more attacks. 

Yet, the report confirms my suspicion that we'll need armed convoys when the road is inaugurated. I never expected the route to be completely safe—Menagerie's wilderness harbors many dangers—but a properly defended transportation network should dramatically reduce the risks compared to the current paths.

I return to my work on the arm, making a mental note to possibly increase the security detail for the road construction crews. Prevention is always preferable to reaction.

I do a small welding in some circuits which should free up space and close it, putting everything back in place. Then I send the toolkit back to my pocket space with a gesture. I extend my arm in front of me then clench my robotic hand into a fist. I don’t feel any difference though.

Either way, I allow myself a satisfied smirk. It should be enough for now, I still need to do more work on my arm.

But then a soft knock at the door interrupts my thoughts.

"Come in," I call, lowering my arm and reaching for my shirt.

The door opens to reveal Kali, her warm amber eyes lighting up at the sight of me her ears perk up.

"There you are!" she exclaims, entering the room with a gentle smile. "The girls mentioned you were back from work. I was hoping to catch you before dinner."

I nod, pulling my shirt back on. "Just making some adjustments," I explain, gesturing to my cybernetic arm.

Kali moves to sit on the edge of the bed, the mattress dipping slightly under her weight. 

"Always busy with something," she observes with a fond shake of her head. "You remind me so much of Ghira sometimes."

The comparison to Ghira catches me off guard. Even after all these years, her ability to see him in me— despite everything that's happened—touches something I usually keep carefully guarded.

"How was teaching today?" I ask, deliberately changing the subject.

Kali grins, her ears twitching with amusement. "Oh, we had quite the session! I'm teaching the advanced class about historical poetry, and you should have seen their faces when we reached the more... passionate verses." She laughs, a sound I missed from my younger days. "I think they expected something more revolutionary and less romantic."

"You enjoy shocking them," I observe, unable to suppress a small smile.

"Of course I do! What's the point of being a professor if you can't occasionally scandalize your students?" She giggles before shaking her head. "Besides, our history isn't all struggle and suffering. They should know we've always loved and created beauty too."

That’s true. I know it is true.

She shifts closer, her expression softening. "And how are you, Adam? Really?"

The question is straightforward but loaded with genuine concern. This is Kali—direct and compassionate all at once.

"I'm fine," I reply automatically. I have my defenses to deal with all of that after all.

However, Kali gives me a look, one that expresses that she doesn’t believe my words. "You're running an island kingdom, leading a coalition of revolutionaries, managing diplomatic relations, dealing with man-eating monsters and now dealing with the complex ramifications of fatherhood at your age. 'Fine' seems unlikely, Adam."

I can't help but chuckle at her blunt assessment. "When you put it that way..."

"I do put it that way," she insists, reaching out to place a hand on my shoulder—the cybernetic one. "You're doing remarkable things, but you're still my son. I'm allowed to worry."

My son. The words still affect me, even after all this time. After she forgave my worst mistakes, after our painful reunion and reconciliation where I apologized for the path I'd taken after Ghira's death. After I'd believed for so long that I'd lost both my adoptive parents—one by humans and one to depression.

"I'm managing," I tell her, more honestly this time. "There's a lot to balance, but it's... purposeful work."

"And purpose has always driven you," she observes. "But you need rest too." Her expression turns playful. "And maybe something more than just purpose? When was the last time you had fun? Or played a game?"

"Kali..." 

She laughs, raising her hands in mock surrender. "Fine, fine! A mother can hope, that's all." Her expression sobers slightly. "I just want to see you happy, Adam. Not just successful or powerful—happy."

Before I can formulate a response to this, she pats the bed beside her. "Come here. You look exhausted."

"I'm not a child anymore," I frown.

"Of course not," she agrees easily. "You're the mighty High Leader of Menagerie and the White Fang Coalition. You're also my son who looks like he hasn't properly rested in days."

I cannot feel tired anymore, all the perks and talents made sure of that.

But my thoughts are taken as hesitation by my mother so she adds more gently, "Humor your mother, Adam. After believing you were dead for so long... these small moments mean everything to me."

Damn…

How can I refuse when she puts it that way? With a resigned sigh that contains more affection than annoyance, I move to sit beside her.

To my surprise, she pulls me into a warm hug. "I'm so proud of you," she whispers into my ears. "Despite everything—or perhaps because of it—you've become a leader Ghira would have admired. Everything that he wanted in you."

The unexpected praise catches me off guard, and I find myself returning the embrace before I've consciously decided to do so. When she releases me, she pats her lap in a gesture I remember from childhood.

"Really?" I ask skeptically.

"Really," she insists, her amber eyes warm but brooking no argument. "Just for a few minutes. You need the rest, and I..." she hesitates, a flicker of old grief crossing her features, "I need to know you're really here sometimes. That I didn't lose you too."

That admission—honest and vulnerable—disarms my remaining resistance. With a sigh that's half exasperation and half gratitude, I lie down, my head resting in her lap as it did so many times in my past.

Her fingers begin gently combing through my hair, careful to avoid my horns in the way I enjoyed. "Dinner won't be for another hour," she says softly. "Close your eyes for a bit."

I should protest. There is always work to be done and piling up, plans to finalize, a thousand details demanding my attention. But Kali's presence is soothing in a way I rarely allow myself to acknowledge, and the simple human contact—maternal affection without agenda or expectation—is a rare comfort in my complicated life.

Against my better judgment, I feel my eyes growing heavy. The last thing I register before drifting into my sleep is Kali humming an old lullaby—one she used to sing when thunderstorms would wake me as a child.

Some things, it seems, never change—no matter how much else does.

“Sweet dreams my child.”

---------------------------------------------------------

AN: I hope I didn't take too long. Anyways, a mother's love is a powerful thing.