Planetoid

"The nobility, who usually know such things and have the resources, claim they've never attempted to explore it due to how dangerous the planet is. And you're telling me this very doorway is made from that same metal? Sounds a bit far-fetched don't you think?" Xavier asked, raising an intrigued eyebrow.

"What you've said is correct. However, although Xenon doesn't explore Durastis, that doesn't mean Graxas doesn't. The planetoid Durastis is closest to the planet Graxas. With such a rich source of minerals, ores, and metals right next to them, Graxas would be foolish even with all the problems they have, not to take full advantage of it," Samuel explained.

"Even so, Graxas can only mine small amounts from Durastis. And they sell even less to the nobles of Xenon—more specifically, the Dukes."

"Why would they even sell it if they barely have enough for themselves?"

"Who knows what their true motives are? Perhaps they're trying to strengthen diplomatic ties with the Dukes—to gain support for their inevitable war with Nixon."

"I see," Xavier nodded.

'That makes sense.'

"Although what I said may be incorrect, as the information could be outdated. I've been sealed in this basement for over a decade with no connection to the outside world," Samuel added, closing his eyes.

"..."

Xavier noticed a subtle sadness in Samuel's expression.

'It's natural that he feels that way, even if he's an android. After all, androids can 'feel' emotions too,' Xavier thought.

"Samuel, if you want to talk about anything, I'm here to listen."

Samuel's lips curled slightly as he opened his eyes.

"You need not worry about me, Master Xavier. I don't feel sadness or anything of the sort."

"But... I do 'feel' regret. Other than that, I'm perfectly fine."

"Well, that's good to hear," Xavier smiled.

'But why does he feel regret? Should I ask? ...Maybe not. It might be too personal. Probably when we both become more familiar with each other.'

"Well then, can you scan this dagger and tell me what it's made of?" Xavier asked, showing the dagger.

"Once again, I don't need to scan it—I already know. It's made of Durandite, the same metal as that door," Samuel replied.

"What? This dagger is also made of Durandite?" Xavier said, confused.

"Then how did it pierce the door if both are made of the same material?"

"Simple. The blade of the Hell's Advocate dagger is composed of 100% Durandite. The door, on the other hand, is only 35% Durandite—the rest is a blend of other metals," Samuel explained.

"I get it now. The difference in purity explains it," Xavier nodded.

"Hmm... fine. If you say so"

"So tell me, what else can this dagger do?" Xavier asked.

'Can I use it to kill some of those nobles? Nah. That'd just be unnecessary hassle.'

"It has many other functions, but for now, I suggest we return. Lady Anna might discover you've been sneaking around."

"Crap! You're right! I've been here far too long. Let's go now."

They exited the basement and returned to Xavier's room. Xavier noticed Jaffar still snoring peacefully.

'Such an easy life...' Xavier thought enviously.

He turned on his laptop. His mom and younger sister were still fast asleep.

'I'm not a creep for doing this right? It's just for their safety.'

"Phew, we're safe. You can cancel the invisibility now."

"As you say," Samuel replied, reappearing at Xavier's side.

"So, what's your plan now?" Xavier asked.

"It is to stay by your side and protect you from harm."

"Don't you need some sleep?"

"I just woke up from one. I don't plan on going back to sleep anytime soon."

"So... you're going to stay here with me?"

"Yes."

"But… won't you get bored?"

"No."

'Then he's just going to stare at me sleeping? What a weirdo... Well, I trust him, so it doesn't matter. But still…'

"Master Xavier, would you mind if I asked you to train with me tomorrow—or rather, later today? It's already past 3 a.m. after all," Samuel said, pulling Xavier from his thoughts.

"Train? In what?" Xavier asked not immediately rejecting the idea.

'In fact, I think it's better this way. With everything that I found out I need to up my game if I want to trump whatever comes my way.'

"In various different areas and aspects. Dynamics is key. However, the main focus would be weapons." Samuel answered.

"You do know that using weapons in public is illegal, right?" Xavier reminded, thinking that Samuel probably forgot for all the time he spent in the basement.

"Who said we'll be doing it in public?"

'Hmm? Not in public areas? Then will he train me in some other hidden space. But still...'

"But what if we get caught? Authorities are going to give us a load of trouble."

"We will not be caught if that is your main concern. I can say that with absolute certainty."

"But what if we do?"

"Trust me—we won't."

"Fine, I get it. I'll prepare for tomorrow," Xavier agreed.

"That's good. If I am not mistaken, you're currently on vacation—so we don't need to worry about school, and we can train freely."

"How did you know I'm on vacation?"

'Seriously, it feels more and more like he can read minds.'

"I am an android, Master Xavier. I can access the internet just fine. It's June—the time when kids usually have their holidays."

"So that's how. Being an android sure must be amazing, huh?" Xavier smiled.

"It has its perks which I won't deny." Samuel nodded.

'And disadvantages too...'

"Well, you should get some sleep. Tomorrow's going to be a busy day for both of us." Samuel said.

"Alright." Xavier nodded and lay down on the bed.

"Oh! I almost forgot. Samuel, come here for a second." Xavier sat up.

Samuel walked over and stood before him.

Xavier reached into his pocket and pulled out a small blue bag.

"Could you keep this bag in..." he paused, then handed it to Samuel.

"Sure thing."

"Well then, I..."