Disclaimer: I just own the story nothing else

"Explain..." Texas demanded, her tone cold and authoritative. "Just running some tests. She's impressive—qualified enough to be a Laterano guard for sure. She was a soldier or a hitman, much like your Columbian Lupo," Spuria added.

"Just go. Don't make a scene here, Spuria. Don't make a dumb decision," Texas said firmly.

Spuria gave a final nod and left. The tension in the air lingered, but I couldn't bring myself to say anything. It wasn't that I was afraid of the situation, but I realized I had come to a place even more messed up than Earth.

The next day, Texas and I had a delivery to make. As she showed me the route and the area I would cover, we came across a person afflicted by Oripathy on the sidewalk.

"That's acute Oripathy. The officials will take care of that," Texas said, her tone matter-of-fact.

Sure enough, Lungmen authorities quickly arrived to handle the situation, creating a bit of a traffic jam in the process. The scene was both sobering and a stark reminder of the harsh realities of Terra.

As we continued our delivery route, Texas filled me in on more of the city's dynamics. "Lungmen is a place of contrasts. On one hand, you have advanced technology and a bustling economy. On the other, there's the constant threat of Oripathy and the inequalities it creates. but still better than Siracusa"

"Siracusa place you once live?" I said

"Yes, Siracusa the home the past that keep linger on my mind" wow that kinda hard so I thought a new topic would do avoid awkward air afterwards.

"Sounds like there's a lot to navigate," I said, glancing around at the diverse and chaotic streets.

"That's one way to put it," Texas replied with a hint of a smile. "But it also means there's always work for people like us. Penguin Logistics thrives because we can adapt to any situation, no matter how unpredictable."

"I'll keep that in mind," I said. "Thanks for showing me the ropes."

"Anytime," Texas said. "Just stay alert and don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. We're all in this together."

"that's nice."

XXX

Lots of cargo that Texas and I were carrying on the truck belonged to Rhodes Island. Obviously, they were loaded with medical supplies for Oripathy patients.

"What's wrong?" Texas asked, noticing my uneasy attitude.

It wasn't that the people of Rhodes Island had done anything to me, nor did I have any ill feelings towards them. But seeing a pharmaceutical company brought back unsettling memories of my experiences with NeuraPrime. I was essentially a product of science, a homunculus if I must say they Just glow with something like 'Trascendants'. In the end I was different from them the rest of humanity.

"Eris, what's going on?" Texas's voice cut through my thoughts again.

"Nothing... it's just, wow, lots of guys here, huh?" I gestured to the Oripathy patients waiting at the clinic.

Texas glanced at me. "Rhodes Island is dedicated to treating and researching Oripathy. They do a lot of good work, despite how overwhelming it can look."

"I get that," I replied, trying to shake off my discomfort. "It's just... I have a complicated history with pharmaceutical companies and scientific experiments."

Texas gave me a knowing look. "You're not alone in that. Many of us here have pasts that are hard to reconcile with our present. But Rhodes Island isn't like the corporations you're used to. They genuinely want to help."

"They said that to to my ancestors, to me also not Rhodes Island, the the white robes on my planet. they said they were do for the sake of humanity. When we their products exceed them they destroy us. When we're not meet the data they also wiped us out. label us with 'Bad Products' where is the justice? I'm sorry I probably shouldn't tell you this Texas "

As we unloaded the supplies, I couldn't help but watch the patients and the staff working tirelessly. The scene was a stark contrast to the cold, clinical environments I was familiar with. Here, there was a sense of compassion and urgency that I hadn't seen before.

"Hey, Eris," Texas said softly, "if you ever need to talk about it, you can trust me. We're a team, and that means having each other's backs."

"Thanks, Texas," I said, managing a small smile. "I appreciate it."

We finished unloading the truck, and as we prepared to head back, a few of the Rhodes Island staff thanked us for the delivery. Despite my initial apprehension, seeing the relief and gratitude in their faces made me feel a bit more at ease.

As we drove away, Texas glanced at me again. "You did good today. Just remember, you're not defined by your past. Here, you can be whoever you want to be." Texas's words meant a lot to me glad I've something to rely on I don't even care if Texas just lying to me or not.

Another delivery until sunset. Texas parked the truck at the parking lot, and I headed inside the Penguin Logistics office.

"Heya champ, how's the first day?" Croissant called from the sofa, probably having handled some gigs on her own. Nearby, Sora, who had just finished her idol activities, sat relaxing. It was surprising to think of Sora as an idol, but she had the looks and a great voice to match. It would have been odd if she wasn't one.

"Oh, everyone is here! Great! How about getting some drinks? You know, we've got new blood here. Eris," Exusiai said, joining in and suddenly wrapping her arm around my shoulder.

"Yes, yes, great idea, Exu," Croissant agreed enthusiastically. "Texas, you must come too, okay? For the sake of this new kid, Eris."

"Fine, I'll drink tonight," Texas said with a hint of reluctance but a small smile. "Sora, you go get the liquor."

Meanwhile, I just stood there, slightly taken aback but smiling at the spontaneous welcome party being organized for me.

We all headed to a cozy corner of the office where they set up a small bar area. Sora quickly gathered the liquor, while Croissant and Exusiai started arranging snacks and glasses.

"So, Eris," Exusiai said, pouring a drink for me, "how are you finding Terra so far?"

"It's... different," I replied, accepting the drink. "A lot to take in, but everyone here has been really welcoming. I'm grateful for that."

"Well, you're part of the family now," Croissant said, raising her glass. "To new beginnings!"

"To new beginnings!" everyone echoed, clinking their glasses together.

The night went on with laughter, stories, and the clinking of glasses. I learned more about each of them—Croissant's adventures, Exusiai's antics, Sora's idol experiences, and even a few rare stories from Texas. They listened intently as I shared bits of my past and my journey to Terra.

but everything need an ending.

As we wrapped up the night, Texas gave me a reassuring pat on the shoulder. "Welcome to Penguin Logistics, Eris. We're glad to have you with us."

"Thanks, everyone," I said, feeling genuinely happy and accepted. "I'm looking forward to our adventures together."

With that, we all headed to our respective rooms, ready for next day. "Wow, you wake up early, Eris?" Exu said, clearly feeling the effects of last night's drinking as she saw me behind the desk, taking care of some paperwork Emperor had assigned. "You're sure not a lightweight."

"Soda might help, Exu," I said, glancing up from my work.

"Sure, sure, thanks for the advice." Exu then headed to the vending machine to get some soda for her hangover. As for me, my metabolism is different, so I sober up sooner.

"So, good at paperwork?" she asked.

"It's alright," I replied.

"Hey, you good at designing something?" Exusiai asked next.

"Not a pro, but I can make something presentable. What for?" I asked, curious.

"Emperor told me to get some ideas for a new company sign and some brochures, you know, some marketing stuff," Exu said.

"Well, do you have something on your mind that's uniquely yours?" I asked.

"Well, that's the problem. I don't have much of an artistic sense. The only thing I can think of in terms of art is clouds," Exu admitted with a sheepish grin.

"That's not a problem. Everything starts with a rough idea. Let's say you are the main objective here in the design, but we still can't forget the existence of Penguin Logistics. Therefore..." I paused, thinking.

"Therefore, we combine elements that represent both," I continued. "For instance, we could use dynamic shapes and lines to represent speed and efficiency, which symbolize you and the team see since you're a Sankta I drew a feely of guns since that's your Sankta good at right? The logo could feature a penguin, of course at the bottom, but stylized in a way that conveys modernity and agility. Maybe the penguin could be holding a package or something that ties it back to logistics." *Note: The design Eris draw is Exusiai E2 art with penguin logistics logo at the bottom*

Exu's eyes lit up. "That sounds awesome! And for the brochures?"

"For the brochures, we can use similar elements: clean lines, bold colors, and images that show the team in action. There can be multiple themes, of course: futuristic, retro, or seasonal events. Don't forget to highlight our strengths, like reliability, speed, and our unique approach to handling deliveries. Maybe even include some testimonials from satisfied clients, and some catchphrases or slogans."

Exu nodded enthusiastically. "I like it! Let's do it!"

"That makes this Eris's job, not yours, Exu," Emperor said, showing up suddenly. "I believe I assigned this task to you, Exusiai?" he added.

"Well, I was just trying to get some insight. You know this isn't my strong suit," Exu replied defensively.

"What I see is Eris doing the job. Exactly why I handed it to you, Exusiai, since you didn't have expertise in this field," Emperor said sternly.

"Fine, whatever," Exusiai muttered, leaving and grabbing the drafts I had drawn with her.

"I think you're too hard on her, Boss," I said to Emperor.

"You're too soft on her. Everyone is. She's great at deliveries, but I want her to try something new. And if she makes new employees like you worry for her, Eris, that's a failure too," Emperor responded firmly.

""The paperwork I asked for is done already? Well done, Eris. You can rest for a moment. I also liked your design earlier; it was great. But I just got information about an emergency delivery after lunch, so you and Exusiai can get ready for that," Emperor said.

"Got it," I responded.

Meanwhile, Croissant found Exusiai. "Heya, got smoked by Emperor, didn'tcha?"

"You heard? Yeah, what a way to start the day, right?" Exusiai replied, rubbing her temple. "My head's still buzzing from last night and then Emperor blah blah blah right on top of it."

"Hey, this is dope. You got this?" Croissant's eyes lit up as she saw the designs Eris had drawn.

"No, that was Eris. She showed me some of her ideas. You know what Emperor tasked me with two weeks ago?" Exusiai said, trying to deflect.

"Ah, right! The design for the brochure and stuff. I remember now. That's why Emperor smoked you. You made Eris do your job. Scary, Exusiai-senpai, please don't bully me!" Croissant teased, clearly enjoying herself.

"Bullying your ass! I would never do something so low! I just needed some insight from her," Exusiai protested, clearly exasperated.

"Yeah, I know. No way in hell you've got the spine to do that. And there's no way you can draw as good as this," Croissant added, grinning.

"Whyyy youuu!!" Exusiai exclaimed in mock anger.

"Cheers, mate. Relax, I'm just playing. Let's go to lunch somewhere nice later, yes?" Croissant said, trying to smooth things over.

"If you say so..." Exusiai muttered, the tension easing out of her as she sighed.

"Cool off yet?" I asked as I saw Exusiai with Croissant beside her.

"Yoo Eris, me and Exu got a nice lunch around here. You should come along," Croissant said.

"I'd love to, but after lunch, Exusiai and I have an emergency delivery. Emperor said so," I replied.

"What? He said that?" Exusiai confirmed.

"Yes," I said.

"Bloody hell... well, we still have dinner at least," Exusiai said with a sigh. The routines continued until lunch. Exusiai and I grabbed some simple meals, knowing we had a mission ahead.

As we loaded the truck with the cargo, Exusiai explained, "The cargo is intel about the Reunion."

"What's Reunion?" I asked, curious about this new term.

Exusiai took a deep breath and began, "Reunion is a paramilitary organization comprised of Infected individuals—those suffering from Oripathy. They're primarily made up of people who have been marginalized and persecuted because of their condition. They're fighting back against the governments and corporations they believe are oppressing them."

"They sound like a good reason to have one, get persecuted and face racism everyone sure face the bite" I commented.

"Yeah, you could say that. But they're more than just that. Reunion's methods are extreme and often violent. They attack cities, infrastructure, and civilians, causing chaos and destruction wherever they go. Their goal is to overthrow the existing power structures and create a world where the Infected aren't discriminated against," Exusiai continued.

"I see..." I started, reflecting on the situation. So here and there is also the same. The difference is, here I am considered healthy, not infected with Oripathy. There, I was just seen as a tool. But that's wrong; they're just sick. The system is always like this—I can't just decide what is white and what is black. If what Exusiai said about their radical ways is true, they are also wrong. Their actions will shake the innocent. That's a lesson I learned during the war on Earth.

"Complicated stuff, yes?" I said to Exusiai.

"Yeah, we just have to do our job. Also, the Reunion is doing a massive attack on Chernobog," Exusiai replied.

"For real?" I said, my eyes widening at the news.

"I just read it in the newspaper," Exusiai said, her voice tinged with concern. "Reunion has always been aggressive, but this is on another level. Chernobog is in serious trouble."

"What's the plan for that?" I asked, worried about the people caught in the crossfire.

"Rhodes Island is already mobilizing to assist. They have operators on the ground trying to help evacuate civilians and counter Reunion's forces. We're delivering this intel to help coordinate their efforts and provide them with the latest information on Reunion's movements," Exusiai explained.

"No times to waste then..."

TBC

Yahooo here we go the next chapter. I decided to make Eris to get some times with penguin logistics folks. let me know who's female operator deserve for Eris to make out with.

like always if you like the story leave the like and review

see you next time ~

FantasiaWillow