As the evening approached, Elena returned to her father's side, eager to share the news of her conversation with Arlo. The anticipation of a family dinner in the grand mansion added an air of excitement to the already extraordinary day.
Elena found her father resting comfortably in the lavish surroundings of their new home. The thought of a family dinner together filled her heart with warmth and a sense of belonging that she hadn't felt in a long time. She took a moment to collect her thoughts before speaking.
"Father, Arlo has invited us for a family dinner tonight," Elena said, her voice filled with enthusiasm. "He wants us to join him in his mansion. It will be an opportunity for us to spend time together and get to know him better."
Her father smiled, his eyes filled with gratitude. "That sounds wonderful, my dear," he replied. "I'm glad we have found ourselves in the care of someone who values family and togetherness."
As the appointed hour approached, Aisha appeared to escort Elena and her father to Arlo's mansion. With a gentle nod, Aisha led them through the corridors of the space realm, guiding them to their destination.
The doors to Arlo's mansion swung open, revealing a beautifully set dining table adorned with exquisite dishes and delicate decorations. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, creating an ambiance of familial comfort.
Arlo stood at the head of the table, a genuine smile gracing his face. "Welcome, Elena, and Mr. Reynolds," he greeted them warmly. "Please, have a seat. I hope you enjoy the dinner I've prepared."
Elena and her father took their places at the table, and the evening unfolded in a mix of laughter, heartfelt conversations, and delicious food. Arlo shared stories of his own upbringing, recounting moments of triumph and hardship that had shaped him into the person he had become.
Elena's father listened intently, captivated by Arlo's words. The more he learned about the man who had saved their lives, the more respect and admiration he felt. It was clear to him that Arlo was not just a protector of humanity but also a person driven by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility.
Throughout the dinner, Arlo made a conscious effort to include Elena's father in their conversations, ensuring he felt welcomed and valued. It was a gesture that touched Mr. Reynolds deeply, reinforcing his belief that his daughter had made the right choice in aligning herself with Arlo.
As the midnight drew to a close, Arlo rose from his seat, his eyes locking with Elena's. "Elena, we have a few things to do, can you accompany me?" he said, his voice filled with anticipation.
Elena's curiosity was piqued, and she nodded, standing up from the table. "Of course, Arlo. Let's go."
He then turned his gaze to Elena's father and said, "Father-in-law, I am afraid Elena will return to you in the morning.
Elena blushed and gave him a cold look. While her father coughed two times after hearing him.
"Arlo, don't you think you are rushing things too early?"
"Ohh... you misunderstood me. I am going to take her to the lab. Where she needs to consume some drugs and medicine."
When they hear his explanation, both get embarrassed.
"This is my laboratory," Arlo explained, his voice tinged with excitement.
As the doors opened, Elena's eyes widened at the sight before her. The laboratory was a marvel of scientific innovation, filled with advanced equipment, futuristic gadgets, and rows of shelves displaying vials and samples.
Arlo walked toward a specific section of the laboratory and picked up a small vial containing a shimmering liquid. "This vial contains the same drugs and medicines that I have taken once before, now you have to go through the same process."
He then looked at her and asked her in a concerned tone, "Are you ready for it?"
With a determined look on her face, Elena spoke up, "Please, let's begin the process."
Arlo smiled and responded, "That's why I admire you the most. You make decisions swiftly."
Elena's smile widened as she replied, "Didn't you mention that the dangers in our world are increasing? If I don't enhance my current strength, I won't stand a chance against more powerful zombies. I want to become stronger so that I can protect the ones I love."
Blushing slightly, she continued, "And I also want to be by your side, supporting you."
Arlo's expression softened as he said, "Thank you, Elena."
As Elena took a step toward the hibernation pod, Arlo embraced her from behind, his arms securely around her waist.
She felt her body freeze momentarily from the sudden gesture but didn't resist. Her face turned red as she reveled in his warmth.
Arlo cautioned her, "The initial moments of this process can be quite hard. If you find it too much to bear, don't hesitate to signal me. Remember, you're my wife and a very special person to me. I don't want to lose you."
Turning to face Arlo, she returned the tight hug. "Don't worry, I'm not going anywhere. We're a family now."
Hearing her words, Arlo held Elena even tighter. After a few moments, they reluctantly released each other, and Elena entered the hibernation pod.
"Begin the consumption process," Arlo instructed Aisha.
Aisha nodded and initiated the procedure. Elena's body twisted slightly at first, but soon her condition stabilized.
"Aisha, notify me when she's ready to come out," Arlo stated.
"Yes, master. However, the payment for this process is still pending," Aisha reminded him.
Arlo apologized, "Oh, I almost forgot about that."
"Status Open."
Name: Arlo
Region: India
Body Strength: 11
Authority Level: E+
Credit Points: 67265
Zombies Killed: 276
Equipment:
Wrist Device
Space Cube
Dimensional Ring
Flame sword
[Cost of Basic Pack for wife: 58250]
[Includes drugs, medicine, a wrist device, and a T1 weapon]
[Do you wish to proceed with payment?]
"Yes."
[Transaction successful. Your available points: 9015]
"I'll be leaving the Space Realm, so please keep a close eye on her condition," Arlo instructed before he left the laboratory. He headed to the mansion on the right side, where Elena and her father were staying, to assure her father that she was safe and inform him of his departure for the night.
Arlo made his way to the mansion where Elena and her father were staying, his mind filled with a mix of anticipation and concern. He knew that Elena's father had reservations about their relationship, and it was important to him to address those concerns and seek his blessing.
As Arlo approached the grand entrance of the mansion, he took a deep breath to steady himself. He knocked on the door and waited patiently for it to open. A few moments later, the door swung open, and Elena's father stood before him, a curious expression on his face.
"Arlo, what brings you here at this hour?" Mr. Reynolds inquired, his voice laced with a hint of skepticism.
Arlo offered a warm smile and replied, "Good evening, Mr. Reynolds. I apologize for the late visit. I wanted to assure you that Elena is safe and well. She is currently undergoing a process in my laboratory that will enhance her strength against the growing threats we face."
Elena's father arched an eyebrow, clearly intrigued by Arlo's words. "Enhancing her strength? What exactly does that mean?"
Arlo proceeded to explain the details of the process Elena was undergoing, the drugs and medicine involved, and the potential benefits it would provide in their fight against the zombies. He spoke earnestly, emphasizing his commitment to Elena's safety and his belief in her abilities.
As Arlo finished explaining, he looked directly into Mr. Reynolds' eyes, his gaze unwavering. "I care deeply for Elena, Mr. Reynolds. She means the world to me, and I want nothing more than to protect her and support her in this dangerous world. I seek your blessing and approval for our relationship."
Mr. Reynolds studied Arlo for a moment, his face contemplative. The room was filled with silence as he considered his response. Finally, he sighed softly and spoke.
"Arlo, I have seen the dedication and care you have shown towards Elena and the sacrifices you have made to ensure our safety," Mr. Reynolds began. "While I had my reservations initially, witnessing your actions and hearing your words, I can see that you are a man of integrity and genuine concern for my daughter."
He paused, a mix of emotions crossing his face before he continued. "I cannot deny the bond that has formed between Elena and you. It is evident that you both share a deep connection and a mutual understanding. As her father, all I have ever wanted is for Elena to find happiness and be with someone who truly cares for her. I can see that you are that person."
Arlo's eyes glistened with gratitude as he listened to Mr. Reynolds' words. He had hoped for this moment, but hearing it directly from Elena's father carried a weight that words alone couldn't express.
"I am honored to receive your blessing, Mr. Reynolds," Arlo said sincerely. "I promise you that I will cherish and protect Elena with all my heart. I will do everything in my power to ensure her happiness and safety."
Mr. Reynolds nodded, a small smile playing at the corners of his lips. "I believe you, Arlo. I see the love and devotion you have for my daughter. May your journey together be filled with joy and strength."
The two men shook hands, sealing their agreement and forging a bond that would strengthen their family. The weight of doubt and uncertainty lifted, replaced by a shared understanding and trust.
Arlo bid Mr. Reynolds goodnight and Teleported himself back to Oustskirt House in the Original world.