Chapter 11: A new day

Vesper watched as his little brother walked down the narrow street toward school. His small figure seemed to grow smaller with each step, but Vesper's heart swelled with a mix of pride and worry. The burden of their financial troubles weighed heavily on him, but today, he had a plan. He had found a way to make quick money—something he had previously avoided due to its risks.

With determination in his eyes, Vesper slung a small bag over his shoulder, filled with the few belongings he needed. The job he was contemplating was one he had turned down before because of how dangerous it was. It involved delivering packages at the port and also protecting them from potential threats. Back then, the danger had seemed too great, but now, as an awakened individual, Vesper felt he had the strength to handle it.

He made his way to the old, weathered building where he used to work. As he entered, the manager's eyes widened in surprise and then narrowed in irritation.

"HEY KID! WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?! You can't just disappear for days and then come back like nothing happened!" the manager barked.

"I'm really sorry about that," Vesper said, trying to keep his tone calm and steady. "But I'm not here to go back to the old job."

The manager looked at him, puzzled. "Then why are you here?"

"Let's talk somewhere private," Vesper suggested, glancing around the bustling office.

The manager hesitated for a moment before nodding and leading Vesper to a small, tidy room at the back. The office was surprisingly cozy, with neatly arranged papers and personal touches that suggested a sense of care and order.

"Vesper, are you sure about this?" the manager asked, his tone softening. "I offered you that job before because you looked strong and in need of money. But it's still a dangerous job. What about your brother?"

Vesper nodded firmly. "Don't worry, Mister. I've got that covered. Plus, I really need the money."

The manager's concern was evident. "Are you 100% sure, Vesper?"

"I am more than sure, Mister," Vesper said, offering a faint but reassuring smile.

The manager sighed. "Alright, but you'll have to start tomorrow. The list for today's job is already set."

Vesper's face fell slightly. "But I need the money right now. Is there any way I can get an advance or borrow some money from you?"

He gave the manager a friendly smile, trying to look as earnest and appealing as possible. He even added a wink for good measure.

The manager chuckled despite himself. "Hey, hey, don't use that face on me again! Alright, I'll lend you some money, but you don't have to pay it back immediately. Just make sure you show up tomorrow, okay?"

He handed Vesper a pouch containing 500 coins. Vesper's eyes lit up with gratitude.

"Thank you so much, Mister!" Vesper said earnestly. "I'll make sure to be here on time tomorrow. Is there anything I can help with here today?"

The manager shook his head. "Not really. Just go and handle your business. I'll see you tomorrow."

Vesper nodded and left the office with a renewed sense of hope. Money, aside from his brother, was what made him happy. He'd worked tirelessly for six years since their parents died, and he hoped that with enough money, he might not have to remain a Low Grade citizen forever.

With the coins in his pocket, Vesper made his way to the nearby grocery store. As he entered, he was greeted by the kind old woman who ran the shop. She had always been a friendly face in their neighborhood.

"Good morning, Vesper!" she said with a warm smile. "What can I do for you today?"

"Morning!" Vesper replied, returning her smile. "Just picking up some essentials."

He walked through the aisles, picking out cans of tuna and sardines. He also grabbed some instant noodles, fresh vegetables, and a few spices to add flavor to their meals. With his purchases in hand, he approached the counter.

The old woman carefully rang up his items. "You're getting quite a bit today. Everything okay?"

Vesper nodded. "Yeah, just stocking up a bit. Thank you."

As he paid for his groceries, the woman looked at him with a knowing glance. "You're doing a good job, Vesper. Keep it up."

"Thanks," he said, feeling a sense of pride swell within him.

With his bags of groceries in hand, Vesper made his way back home. As he walked, he thought about the job he would start tomorrow. It was a new beginning for him, and he was determined to make it work.

When he arrived home, he quickly put the groceries away. He set aside some of the items for immediate use and stored the rest carefully. With the kitchen organized, he felt a small wave of relief.

He spent the rest of the day preparing for the next day's job. He reviewed his plan, checked his supplies, and made sure everything was in order. His mind was focused on the task ahead, but he also made time to ensure his brother would have a good evening when he came home from school.

As the sun began to set, Vesper took a moment to relax. He sat by the small window, watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink. Despite the challenges ahead, he felt a glimmer of hope. This job could be the turning point they needed, and he was ready to face it head-on.

He was about to settle in for the night when he heard a soft knock on the door. It was his little brother, back from school. Vesper opened the door with a smile, eager to hear about his day.

"Hey there! How was school?" Vesper asked, crouching down to his brother's level.

"It was great!" his brother replied, holding up a drawing he had made. "I made this for you."

Vesper took the drawing and admired it. "It's wonderful! Thank you."

They spent the evening together, sharing stories and enjoying a simple meal. As he tucked his brother into bed, Vesper felt a deep sense of contentment. He knew the coming days would be challenging, but for now, he was grateful for these moments of peace and family.

As he prepared for bed himself, Vesper thought about the future. He was hopeful that with hard work and determination, things would start to improve. 

The next morning, Vesper woke up early, the soft light of dawn gently illuminating his small room. He stretched and glanced at the empty bed where his little brother had slept. The house was quiet now, save for the distant sounds of the city coming to life. With a sigh, Vesper got out of bed and began preparing for his day.

He pulled on the comfortable pair of pants he had received from his manager last year, which had become his favorite for their practicality. He paired them with a stylish shirt he had bought for special occasions. The outfit was both comfortable and presentable, suitable for the task ahead.

After dressing, Vesper quickly checked his small bag, making sure he had everything he needed for the day. He had packed a few essentials and a copy of the instructions his manager had given him. Everything seemed to be in order.

He went to the kitchen to prepare a simple breakfast. Although the cupboard was not overflowing with food, he managed to put together a quick meal of noodles. As he ate, he mentally reviewed the plan for the day. The job at the port was new and risky, but it was an opportunity he couldn't afford to miss.

Once finished with breakfast, Vesper left the apartment, heading towards the office building where he would meet his manager. The streets were still quiet, with only a few early risers about. The city was slowly waking up, and Vesper could feel the day starting to pick up pace.

The office building was an old structure, its exterior worn by time but still functional. Vesper climbed the stairs to the manager's office, his heart beating with a mix of anticipation and nervousness. He reached the familiar door and knocked firmly.

"Come in" came the manager's voice from inside.

Vesper opened the door and stepped into the office. The manager looked up from his desk, his expression a mix of surprise and approval.

"Morning, Vesper. Ready for your first day?" the manager asked, gesturing for him to sit.

"Morning," Vesper replied, taking the seat offered. "I'm ready. I've reviewed the instructions and I'm ready to go."

The manager handed him a folder with details about the packages and security measures. Vesper took it and glanced through the pages. The job involved delivering packages and ensuring their safety from potential threats. It was a straightforward task, but it required vigilance.

"Here's the list of packages and the routes you'll need to follow," the manager said. "Keep an eye out for anything unusual. There might be people watching, so stay alert."

Vesper nodded, absorbing the information. "I understand. I'll make sure everything is handled properly."

The manager studied him for a moment, then nodded in approval. "Good. Remember, if you need anything or if something comes up, don't hesitate to reach out. Your safety is important."

"Thank you," Vesper said, standing up. "I'll do my best."

With a firm handshake and a reassuring smile from the manager, Vesper left the office. He felt a sense of determination as he walked out of the building. The day ahead was filled with potential, and he was ready to face it head-on.

As he made his way to the port, Vesper's thoughts were focused on the tasks at hand. He was aware of the challenges but was determined to see the job through. This opportunity was more than just a chance to make money; it was a step towards improving his and his brother's lives.