Getting back home Adam was met with a partially completed stairway down the tunnel that led to the Vault Door. It was clearly not yet done as both materials and partially smoothed surfaces existed beyond the top of the stairs but it was already quite a large amount of progress. As he descended into the cave the construction protectron was cutting the stone steps into the path that are then overlaid with materials better suited for walking on than chiseled stone like shaped concrete, which seemed to be what the people from the vault focused on. As is there was still a lot more stone to cut but in lieu of stone cutter artisans and proper stone cutting tools they had to simply be satisfied at the speed the construction protectron cut through the stone with meticulous efficiency.

  Once inside the Vault Adam headed right for the cafeteria and dumped all the MREs onto the kitchen counter to be sorted later, he then spotted a stew that was on the counter with chunks of meat floating in it with a note attached.

  You were not back yet so we went ahead and ate without you. This is a portion for the three of you when you get back. I hope you enjoy! -Cass

  Well that about sums up that.

  Adam took the pot and portioned out some food into a bowl for himself and then an extra one for Deccanus bringing the food to him as soon as he was done. By the time he got to Deccanus’ room he seemed to be settling in for the night.

  “Thank you, but you did not need to bring me food.” Deccanus said as he accepted the food and put it on the kitchen table of his room.

  “Don’t worry about it, I was already grabbing myself a plate.” Adam chuckled softly. “There was a third portion set aside for Salvatore but since he's not here I just put the leftovers in the fridge.” Deccanus remained silent for a moment in quiet contemplation spurring Adam to ask.

  “What’s on your mind?”

  “There are many… technological wonders that the Legion denied.” He paused and then looked at Adam. “I still feel, even now, that much of man’s folly came from vice. Reliance on technology created the bombs that created a rebirth in nuclear fire. But…” He hesitated and then looked into his kitchen and, specifically, his own fridge. “There are so many other things that aid life in ways that can not be simply justified as vice unsuited for use. I am not so blind as to not know what a fridge was, we even used them in the Legion, in some places, but the old world had many marvels, some much more impressive than the capabilities of the fridge. I just wonder… was anything the legion taught me right?” He asked, sounding vulnerable. Adam sighed and then placed his own food on the table so he did have to keep holding it as he considered his response.

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  “I am a man from that old world as you know.” Adam began. “I cannot say to you honestly that I don’t think humanity is better off for all the technology we used to possess. Even with the bombs falling I still think humanity’s advance forward was ultimately the right path for them, even if there was never a choice to be made and it was, perhaps, inevitable.” Adam paused again and then looked into his eyes. “But what I can tell you is that there is something to learn from everyone. There is wisdom in all teachings. This Vault we call home is a product of old world wisdom but your skills are a product of legion wisdom. Perhaps the Legion was not right to deny technology, or perhaps they were. I can not give you the answer, that is something you have to seek for yourself. What I can tell you is that I feel that we are better off for technology. But… perhaps, it's best used in moderation.” Adam shrugged. Deccanus nodded slowly and then looked down.

  “I find myself asking so many questions recently. Questions I would have never asked before. I am now more uncertain of my path than ever. What am I to become?”

  “A better man than you were yesterday.” Adam said with a soft smile. “Grow, Deccanus. It's a never ending journey. I cannot say what kind of person you will end up becoming, but I am confident you will become a better man than today.” Adam patted him on the shoulder and then grabbed his food again.

  “Goodnight Deccanus.” He said as he headed towards the door only to be stopped for a moment by Deccanus speaking up.

  “Adam.” Deccanus said with a serious tone. Adam turned a bit to look at him over his shoulder. “Thank you, for your continued wisdom and insight. I… do not know where I would be without your guidance.” He said with a soft bow. Adam chuckled and shook his head.

  “You have nothing to thank me for, Deccanus. You are my coworker, my partner, and my friend. We live in the same home together too. You are clearly navigating a difficult part of your life and while I do not have all the answers I am happy to offer my opinion if it helps you.”

  “It does… immensely.” Deccanus said back quickly at first only to peter off after he had begun. Adam nodded at him.

  “I’m glad.” He smiled and then turned back around and started to head out the door again. “Goodnight, Deccanus.” Adam said as he left through the still open door.

  “Goodnight, Adam.” Deccanus responded softly as Adam left the room.

  “Oh! Adam! You are back!” Jefferson, the farmer, said as he saw Adam walking through the halls.

  “Mr. Maylord.” Adam said as he turned to look at him. Jefferson laughed a bit and waved him off.

  “Just call me Jeff. don’t need none of that fancy Mr. nonsense.” He smiled and then seemed to remember that he needed to talk to Adam. “I called out to you because I have good news I think you will like to hear.” He grinned widely. “I got food growing.”