I'm a Husk! in Honkai Impact!

chapter 21 what's Cooking?

(here are the fonts used to differentiate and to help readers understand)

Thought or think

[digital or robot or digital communication voice]

{telepathy}

Big or loud echoing voice

In the heart of MOTH, I strode through the vast hallways, my golden frame gleaming under the artificial lights. Each step I took sent subtle vibrations through the floor, a reminder of my presence in this mechanized fortress. My red mechanical eyes cut through the space, scanning, processing, always watching.

As I moved, the staff made way. "Morning, Sir Aeon," they greeted, their voices carrying awe. I acknowledged them with a nod—stoic, reserved, as always. They knew my silence wasn't indifference but simply my way.

One scientist paused, a flicker of gratitude in their eyes. "Thanks for helping with the project deadline yesterday, Sir Aeon."

"It's a matter of importance," I replied, my voice echoing through the corridor, metallic and resolute.

Further down, a squad of soldiers passed by. Their leader stopped, saluting with respect. "If it weren't for you, last week's mission would've been our end."

I gave a slight nod, my gaze meeting his. "It's a matter of safety."

Through the hum of machinery and the steady rhythm of footsteps, I continued. Guardian, protector—those words were spoken often. But in this hub where technology and humanity collided, I was something more—a bridge, a force that ensured stability in the whirlwind of progress. Words were few, but my actions spoke volumes.

However, there is something I notice...

I slowly approach as I see Elysia. Of course, my mechanical red gaze pierces through her. "Elysia, it's good to see you this morning."

Elysia turns around, happily grinning. "Ah! Uncle! It's nice to see you too!"

I notice how happy and smug she looks, as if she has seen something interesting or funny. I inquire, "Is there something wrong?"

"Nothing, Uncle," she smirks. "There has been an interesting development."

I nod as my gears shift slightly. "And that is?"

"Well, that's obvious~" She side-glances at a couple not far from us, Dr. MEI and Kevin, who seem to be enjoying each other's company. I look closer—they're more open and happy with each other than usual.

I let out a deep mechanical hum. "Hm, they look like a couple... Well, more obvious then before"

"Right?" Elysia's smile widens in an elegant, playful way. "They don't even know most of us already figured it out."

"How cruel," I reply with a straight, robotic tone. "They're oblivious."

"Exactly! They don't know the changes," Elysia said, becoming playfully cheeky as she enjoyed watching the dense couple. "They really don't know, huh?"

I glance at her again, noticing how her body has become plumper and thicker than usual, chubby even, in a good way. The change is subtle but obvious—was it because of my cooking? I have been the head chef almost daily here in MOTH, but I'll keep that thought to myself.

"Anyway, Uncle, what's for lunch?" Elysia turns to my towering mechanical frame, her eyes gleaming with the highest expectations of a delicious delicacy.

I keep a mechanical poker face, unsure if I should keep spoiling her. "You'll know soon enough."

"Yay! I can't wait!" she exclaims before waddling away, excited for the next treat.