Chapter 3: Biohive 81
Granny Leah's sharp eyes flicked toward him before her expression softened into a smile. "Come here, boy. Don't just linger like a shadow."
Nioh approached her while removing his cap respectfully. He stood before her as she studied him. Her gaze interchanges between affectionate and piercing.
"You have got to stop telling them these fables," Nioh said breaking the stalemate while bending over to clean up.
Granny Leah chuckled softly as she leaned on her cane. "You of all people, should know that holding on to hope helps ease the pain. These kids are pitiful enough that we don't need to crush their dreams completely. And with the way things are going, I probably won't live long enough to see them grow. I might as well leave them with some good memories."
She pushed herself upright with her cane, studying him closely again. "You've grown taller. Looks like you're not eating well at the Academy. And your hair—it's too long. Next week, I'll give you a proper cut." She paused as her expression darkened. "But with the subvention fees being reduced again, we might have to sell the grooming equipment to feed the kids next month."
Her voice softened as she caressed his face. "Your condition is getting worse by the day. You might pass away before I do. This world is so cruel..." Her voice trailed off as she turned away.
"Aren't you going to ask?" Nioh interrupted, his tone steady.
Granny Leah sighed, tapping her cane against the ground. "Would it change anything? When I begged you not to join a military school, you disobeyed me anyway. I suppose it's your destiny."
She turned to face him again "I've taken care of you for a decade, Nioh. I know your character. You've always looked like you carried the weight of the world on your shoulders. I never questioned you about your origins because I was afraid you'd feel disappointed—that your body couldn't keep up with your ambitions."
"You always acted like you were on a timer. But now It seems like you've found a way. I've taught you everything I know, and you're my only successor in this world. Even though you loved biomechanics, your eyes never lit up as much as they did when you studied biocores. It was only a matter of time before you chose this path."
"I'm sorry..." Nioh said while bowing deeply to show his respect.