The Scientist

After the Park

Zedaph pov

The experience at the park with Keralis left both Doc and me even more determined to find proper housing solutions for the subjects. We realized how important it was to create spaces where they could feel safe and comfortable. It wasn't just about finding any home-it was about finding the right home for each of them, given their unique needs and abilities.

Doc and I ended up talking with Mumbo about it, and he seemed genuinely interested in helping. He mentioned he had a detailed idea for a large-scale building that could cater to the different hybrids, but it was a massive project. According to him, it would take at least a year or two to complete, given the various considerations for each hybrid's needs-whether it was space for flight, aquatic areas, or specific climates.

In the meantime, we decided to take matters into our own hands. After discussing the situation further with Doc and the rest of the team, we all agreed that we couldn't wait the full year or two for Mumbo's ambitious project. The subjects needed a place now, somewhere safe where they could settle while we worked on the larger plan.

That's when we made the decision to buy out an old, empty apartment building on the outskirts of town. The place had been abandoned for a while, but the structure was solid. It just needed a lot of repairs and upgrades to make it livable, especially considering the unique needs of hybrids.

It wasn't going to be easy. The building needed to be fixed up-new plumbing, electrical systems, and plenty of modifications to make it adaptable for different species. But with all of us on board, it felt like the right move. We could give the subjects a temporary home while still working toward the bigger, more permanent solution.

Mumbo, despite his main focus being on the long-term project, jumped right in to help with the renovations. Between his redstone expertise and the rest of us pitching in however we could, it felt like we were finally making real progress. The apartment building would serve as a stepping stone, a safe haven while we built something even better for them in the future.

Of course, it wasn't just us working on the building-many of the subjects were eager to help as well. Grian, ever the energetic one, flew around effortlessly, carrying materials from one place to another with the help of Cub, Scar, and anyone else who had wings. Keralis, surprisingly, had given himself wings as well, but there was a catch-he would only work if Xisuma was nearby and in his line of sight.

It was almost like Xisuma was his anchor, a source of comfort and stability. Whenever Xisuma wandered out of sight, Keralis would immediately pause, his focus wavering until Xisuma reappeared. It was heartwarming and strange all at once, but it worked. Everyone had found their own roles, and somehow, the building that once stood in shambles was slowly being transformed into something livable-a temporary home for those who had nowhere else to go.

Now, you might be wondering how we could afford any of this-renovating an entire apartment building, buying materials, and planning a massive hybrid-friendly housing project. The answer? Mumbo K. Moneybags himself.

Mumbo had resources, and when he believed in something, he was willing to put his wealth to good use. He wasn't one to flaunt it, but when we came to him with the idea, he didn't even hesitate. Between his contributions and the support of others pitching in, we were able to make this vision a reality.

"Don't worry about the budget," Mumbo had said, with that calm, reassuring confidence of his. "I've got it covered."

And, true to his word, we weren't left wanting for anything. It was surreal, but knowing Mumbo had our backs financially meant we could focus on what truly mattered-giving the subjects a place they could call home, even if it was just temporary for now.

It took about two or three months of hard work, but we were finally on the last stretch-putting the final touches on the place. The apartment building had transformed completely from the run-down structure we had first seen. The repairs were done, walls were painted, and the space felt warm and inviting.

One of the best parts, though, was the lake and the large yard surrounding the building. It was stunning-almost peaceful in a way that made it feel like a retreat rather than just a temporary home. The lake shimmered in the sunlight, and the open yard provided plenty of room for the subjects to relax, explore, and just be themselves.

It felt amazing to see everything coming together. When we finally opened the doors to the subjects, there was a sense of accomplishment and relief. Each of them had their own space now-keys to their own houses, a place they could call home, even if only for a while. The excitement was contagious as they explored the building and the surrounding yard, finding their own corners of comfort.

Tango decided to stay with me and Impulse, his energy and enthusiasm always infectious. The three of us had formed a strong bond over the course of the project, and it only felt natural to share a space together, supporting each other while helping the others settle in. It was a new chapter, not just for the subjects but for all of us.

Of course, we weren't just going to leave the subjects on their own. Myself, Impulse, and Skizz all moved into the apartments too, so they had someone close by in case they needed help or support. It felt right, ensuring we were there as part of the community, not just distant overseers. Doc even relocated to the area, and surprisingly, Mumbo also moved in, despite his usual preference for a quieter, more secluded space.

It was comforting to know that the subjects wouldn't feel isolated. Having us around made it easier for them to adjust, and for us to make sure everything ran smoothly while we waited for the long-term project to take shape. We had built more than just an apartment complex; it was a safe, welcoming space where everyone, hybrids and humans alike, could find their footing together.