Cloud walked with Grace down a long hall. "You do realize that you were the final of a long line of attempts? You were the one who was the most promising after so many failures. I let Ambros try and try to make the perfect daughter, and you were the result of that project."
Grace cringed slightly at perfect. She wasn't nearly as advanced or experienced as Gracie or some of the other Grace's... Also, Ambros should've just accepted Gracie and the others instead of her and his other daughters not being enough for him.
Cloud opened a door for Grace and she hesitated before walking in. Cloud also walked in and closed the door.
"This room houses our biggest threat in unreality..." Cloud stated, crossing his arms. "You are to deal with him with whatever means necessary, and he is your responsibility. After many failures, it took all of the Grace's before you combined to deal with his father. He might be young, but don't underestimate him, Gracelyn."
Cloud snapped and the room lit up harshly to reveal a little boy, who Cloud scowled at.
Grace frowned. "Grandpa, he's just a kid-"
"He's your grandpa?! He's the worst!" the boy yelled, scowling back and slamming Cloud into a wall harshly.
Cloud coughed and stood, brushing himself off. "He's your problem now!"
He slammed the door as he left.
Grace frowned and slowly began walking over. "You've not had good treatment here, have you?"
"No...are you here to destroy me too?" the little boy asked, backing away slightly and eyeing her warily.
"I think my grandfather wants that, but... I see no reason to do such a thing. My name is-" Grace began.
"Grace. I know. You girls are all the same, but they say you're better. You don't act better," the boy stated.
Grace sighed softly. "Because I don't think I am... I don't know what's going on with you or what they have put you through, but I'm sorry. Whatever happened before has nothing to do with you."
The boy eyed her suspiciously for a moment then relaxed slightly. "...my name's Austin..."
Grace smiled and took a few steps closer. "It's nice to meet you, Austin."
She held out her hand for a handshake, smiling.
Austin hesitated then shook her hand. "You too, I guess..."
"How would you like to leave this boring old room and come live with me in the powers dimension?" Grace offered.
"You...trust me to leave...?" Austin asked, surprised.
"Should I not?" Grace asked, tilting her head and looking at him.
Austin blinked then shrugged. "I dunno..."
Grace smiled. "Well, he said you're my responsibility, so..." She offered him a hand. "Wanna leave?"
Austin nodded then took her hand, smiling.
Grace opened the door, walking out before disappearing with Austin.
