The alley was silent except for the faint whimper of the injured street dog in Aarav's arms. His steps were unsteady, each movement sending jolts of pain through his battered body. The metallic scent of blood clung to the air. Aarav clenched his teeth, ignoring the pain as he focused on the dog.
"Hang in there, buddy," Aarav whispered hoarsely, cradling the trembling animal. "We're almost home."
The hideout's dim interior offered little comfort, but it was a sanctuary from the brutal streets. Aarav gently placed the dog on an old mattress and stumbled toward a dusty cabinet. His fingers fumbled as he pulled out a first-aid kit.
"Anahata," he muttered, "give me a status check."
"Your ribs are bruised, possibly fractured. Multiple lacerations and contusions detected. Internal bleeding minimal but present. Immediate treatment recommended."
Aarav ignored the assessment. "What about the dog?"
"Minor fractures and a deep wound on the hind leg. Treat it before infection sets in."
Aarav knelt beside the dog, his hands trembling as he cleaned its wounds. The dog whimpered but didn't resist. Aarav's voice softened. "You're a tough little guy, huh?"
Despite the pain, Aarav smiled faintly when the dog licked his hand. "We're gonna be okay," he promised, though he wasn't sure if the words were for the dog or himself.
Once the dog's injuries were treated, Aarav turned his attention to his own wounds. He hissed as he dabbed disinfectant on a gash across his ribs. Blood smeared across his fingers, but he kept going.
Finally, with shaky hands, Aarav removed his father's mask. His breath caught in his throat.
The mask was cracked and dented, barely holding its shape. It had been his shield, a symbol of his father's strength and love. Seeing it in such a state made Aarav's chest ache.
"It protected me," he whispered, his voice breaking. "Just like you always did, Dad."
Anahata's voice cut through his thoughts. "If this is what two opponents can do, forget about finding your father—you won't survive the next fight."
Aarav's sadness ignited into anger. "So what do you want me to do? Give up?"
"No. I want you to get stronger," Anahata replied firmly.
Aarav clenched his fists. "How? Do you have any brilliant suggestions?"
Anahata's silence was deafening until Aarav's eyes widened with realization.
"Wait... you're a machine, aren't you? Is there any way to make me stronger?"
Anahata's voice took on a playful yet ominous tone. "There are many ways, Aarav."
Aarav's breath hitched. "What do you mean?"
"Let's just say... you're about to unlock something unexpected."