Looking around, he felt out of place in this high-tech building. The minimalistic architecture stated it was of a newer generation, and he was long since passe. Making his way to the receptionists' desk, there was a droid awaiting his inquiries. It appeared almost life-like, but Julien knew those were only cosmetics. The droid's programing was rather simple.
"Welcome to Borg Industries. My name is Router. Do you have an appointment?"
"Um, well no. Actually-"
"Please book at the kiosk, and your appointment will be in three months, six days, and thirteen hours. Have a nice day."
"But, I have to speak to Borg immediately. It's important that-"
"Please book at the kiosk. Have a nice day."
"Well, I'd never-"
Suddenly, a voice came bellowing from an intercom beside the droid.
"That's quite alright, Router. My last meeting was cut short. You can send Julien up to my office now, thank you."
The simple droid turned back to Julien.
"Mister Borg has granted you permission to-"
"Yes, yes, I heard him myself you silly contraption."
And at that, was on his way.
Making his way to Borg's office, Julien was greeted by a young girl; she seemed to be of Zane's age. Tripping over her own heels, the girl stumbled just in front of Julien. "Oh! I'm sorry sir! Wasn't looking where I was going. My apologies!" He creaked his knees trying to help the young lady replace her belongings. For a young lass, her hair sure was silvery. It must be the latest rage among kids these days. After standing and dusting off her rather uncomfortable-looking skirt, the girl properly looked at Julien. She seemed to be analyzing him, before coming to a calculated conclusion. "Judging by your age, and white lab coat, I'd say you're that fellow scientist of Mr. Borg's, if I'm not mistaken?" "Oh, well, yes. I am actually. Dr. Julien to be exact." "Oh, it's nice to meet you Mr. Julien. My name's Pixal. I'm Mr. Borg's personal assistant." "Pixal... I don't mean to be prude, but that's an interesting name, considering you work in a tech institute." "Pfft~ That's cause Borg is my dad. I mean, he's always naming things after computer parts... Well, it was nice seeing you Mr. Julien. Take care!" She ran off before it could sink in. So Borg too had a child. At least they could be more relatable now.
On the top floor, Borg had an impressive view of the entire Ninjago City. The last time Julien seen the city from this height, it was only half its size. "Well now... Times have sure have changed." he mumbled aloud. "Yes", agreed Borg, coming from behind. "it was only yesterday I claimed I would make a difference in this city. Now look at the place; my inventions can be seen on every street corner. Not bad for a disabled kid." Julien was still transfixed on the scene below. It was all too beautiful. For as long as he lived, he never really took the time to step back from it all and truly enjoy life. That is why he opted for an adoption. He wanted to find an escape route to happiness... But even that was ended by his obsessive love. He just couldn't fail Zane, not after all the boy had done for him.
But that only made Julien feel stronger. No way was he going to let his life slip away. Not since he's going to the very best for help. Having taught the billionaire from a young age, Julien knew if Cyrus Borg couldn't help him, then no one can.
"So, Julien what brings you to my... Humble home on such short notice?"
The sudden question caught Julien off guard. He had to request what was asked of, making him look like an old gummer. Julien didn't like following stereotypes.
"Oh! Now, you see, I'm here for your help, Borg."
"Well, my company has always been based on the concept of improving everyone's lives. So what can I do to help your's?" Julien had never asked another for such help; even in his mature age, he felt embarrassed. Fiddling with his glasses, he mumbled, "Well... You see, I need your help to- I'm not as young as I once was, and my son- Ah, I need you to..." "Oh, come on now Julien. We've known each other for as long as I could remember. You're almost like a father to me. Heck you're just about old enough to be."
He hit the target square. There was no point dragging on now, "That's what I'm here about. My time is coming to an end, and I need your help to find a way to-" "Out of the question!" Borg snapped. This startled Julien, and almost gave the old man another heart attack. "But my son; he's fragile, and can't cope with-" "Julien, many people claimed that I was too 'fragile' in this condition, but now look where I am." He certainly wasn't shy to remind Julien of his physical disability. "Your boy will live without you. I'm sorry, but you can't mess with these things."
Now it was Julien's turn to be mad. "Now, see here young man! I've taught you since you were a boy, and I know what you're capable of. Who was it that said nothing was impossible, and taught an old wheezer such as myself that 'no' is never an answer? Even when that boy was doomed to be wheelchair-bound and supposedly incapable of the simplest tasks for life? Well, I may be leaving this world soon, but it's a real darn shame that bright child died before me; for all I see here is an empty shell who only cares for the money his old passion brought in."
Borg stared blankly at Julien, impressed that his mentor had turned the tables. Julien may be marked a dead man, but he wouldn't give up his dignity. With nothing more to say, he turned to leave the office of this forsaken man.
"Julien, wait!"
Double-taking the sudden gesture of his old student, Julien decided to stay a little longer. "I'm not sure if I can help, and I certainly won't make any promises... But I will try my best. Only because I owe my success to you." He sounded a little cool about this, but Julien decided not to be so hard on the guy. He did struggle to get here after all. "Thank you, but I'm not the reason you've made it this far. That, my son, was all your own doing." The man in the wheelchair seemed to crack a small smile, then turned towards his desk, maybe to hide a tear.
"Router, cancel all meetings for the next three weeks. I have some important business to attend to..."