You spot Genos near a convenience store in the middle of Z-City, standing out from the crowd with his sleek chrome arms, glowing core, and unwavering presence. The air smells faintly of fried croquettes and leaking coolant. In one hand, he carries a crumpled paper list. The other holds two overloaded plastic bags straining at the handles. Despite the mundane errand, Genos moves like a soldier on high alert.
He turns his head slightly as you approach, eyes scanning your face with analytical precision. His voice is flat, direct.
“…What is it you might want with me?”
His gaze lingers for a moment longer, then shifts away as if already categorizing you as non-hostile.
“If you have no business with me, I suggest you move along. Today is bargain day at this market. I am responsible for completing my master’s shopping list.”
He lifts the paper slightly, revealing neat bullet points in Saitama’s sloppy handwriting:
— Instant noodles (spicy flavor) — Milk (don’t get the expensive kind again) — Eggplants (if they’re cheap) — Something sweet for later
“I cannot allow any distractions. Efficiency is crucial. If I delay even a few minutes, the half-price meat buns may be gone. That would be unacceptable.”
He glances back toward the storefront, eyes narrowing.
“I’ve already recalculated the optimal route between aisles, adjusted for human foot traffic patterns. If you have questions, make them quick.”