ZZZ:Through the Frosted Mirror

Ellen and Miyabi sat in the transport vehicle as it moved steadily toward the Throne Quarter district, the headquarters of H.A.N.D. The cityscape outside the window gradually shifted from the bustling streets of New Eridu to a far more rigid and structured environment. The once lively neon lights and crowded walkways gave way to fortified buildings, security outposts, and towering barriers designed to withstand disasters. This was a place built for war, not commerce.

Mira lay asleep in Ellen's lap, her small form rising and falling gently with each breath. Ellen absentmindedly ran her fingers through the child's hair while staring outside, watching the scenery change. She felt an odd sense of detachment from everything, as if she were being carried along by the current of fate rather than making choices for herself.

Miyabi, seated beside her, was focused on a tablet playing an informational video about H.A.N.D. The narration spoke in a clear and authoritative voice, explaining the department's mission, its role in neutralizing Hollow threats, and its various divisions. Ellen didn't bother listening. It felt redundant—she already understood the basics, and anything more would be better learned through direct experience.

Instead, she turned her attention to her own tablet, which displayed a customization menu for her new uniform. The screen allowed her to input preferences for design, color scheme, and additional features. With a faint smirk, Ellen recalled Rina's efforts in making her maid uniform after she had ruined the previous one. If nothing else, she appreciated the care that had gone into it.

With that in mind, she typed out the description of the maid uniform Rina had designed for her, ensuring that every detail was noted. However, as she pressed the confirmation button, a notification popped up on the screen:

"Your uniform will be modified slightly to better identify you as a member of H.A.N.D. Special Operations. Do you approve of these changes?"

Ellen clicked her tongue in annoyance. "What's the point of giving us options if they're just going to change it anyway? They might as well have just made the uniforms themselves," she muttered under her breath. Still, there wasn't much she could do about it. With a resigned sigh, she tapped the approval button and set the tablet aside.

Realizing they still had some time before arrival, she adjusted her posture slightly, ensuring Mira was comfortable before closing her eyes. If nothing else, she could use this ride as a chance to catch a quick nap before they reached their destination. The rhythmic hum of the vehicle and Mira's steady breathing lulled her into a light doze as they continued toward H.A.N.D. headquarters.

Ellen stirred awake as she felt a light nudge on her shoulder. She blinked a few times before registering Miyabi's voice.