She laughed. A genuine sound that warmed something in my chest.
The integration had changed things. Not just physically. Not just in terms of power. Something deeper had shifted. Some fundamental aspect of who I was and what I wanted.
I still planned to build an empire. Still intended to gather power and influence and beautiful women who'd fight and die for me.
But maybe I could do it without destroying everyone who got in my way.
Maybe.
The door opened again.
This time, it was a VHC technician in a white coat.
"Satori Nakano? The testing facility is ready for you."
I stood.
Natalia stood with me.
"She can't accompany you during the evaluation," the technician said. "Protocol requires all assessments be conducted individually."
"I'll wait here," Natalia said. Her tone carried that particular note of steel that made it clear this wasn't a suggestion or a request—it was a declaration of fact. She would remain exactly where she stood, sentinel-like, until I returned to her.
