With the help of Eagle, a massive Rube Goldberg machine begins to take shape.
The intricate machinery expands into the depths of the plant, with a dizzying amount of complexity.
X: Hmm, you know, it's not exactly what I had planned originally, but it shouldn't adversely affect the results.
Eagle: Uh, speaking of, mister—I wanted to ask ...
Eagle: Why does a smoke purification device need so many ... um ... explosives?
X: You're impeccably perceptive for an intern.
He blinks at her, and turns back to appreciate his masterpiece.
X: Don't worry about it, we're just recycling the base components from the explosives.
Eagle: So, are we done? Maybe we can go back as soon as—
X: —just need to adjust the circuit here. Hmm? Sorry, what did you say?
Eagle: Are we going back?
X: Sure, sure. Where else could we go if not back?
X: And of course, I won't forget about your recommendation letter when I get back.
Eagle: ...! Yes, sir! Thank you, sir!
X: You're welcome, but before that ...
X: Would you mind providing me with that unit we extracted from the "Purification Master 2.0."
Eagle: Got it!
Eagle hands him the unit. X kneels down, comparing it to the blank space on the machine.
X: —that won't do. It's the size isn't compatible.
X: This would be the optimal use-case for Laplace's "All-in-One Tool Kit 5.0."
X: You didn't happen to bring one along, did you?
Eagle: Laplace?
X: Hmm, what?
Eagle: Oh, nothing!
Eagle: I was just thinking ... your parents are probably really worried about you. Maybe we should head back.
X: Ah—
As soon as she finishes her sentence, there is a sharp turn in the mood between them.
X stands, turning to her with the device still in his palm.
His mouth curves into a smile, but it doesn't seem so friendly anymore.
X: It'd be better for you to not concern yourself too much with that.
Eagle: Why?
X: Now, shouldn't you go check on your other compatriots?
X: They've been lost in that maze a bit too long.
Eagle: Hmm ...
Eagle paces back and forth near the entrance to the seam, there's no sign of the puppy.
Eagle: The seam is bigger ... I guess the Maze Net thing is fading.
Eagle: Good thing no one's noticed it yet.
Eagle: I need to hurry up before they come.
The boy scouts are still stuck in their merry-go-round, circling one another over and over.
She nearly laughs at the sight, but is soon overwhelmed by a wave of guilt and awkwardness.
Eagle: ...
Eagle: Maybe Xavier doesn't get along with his parents.
Eagle: Or maybe it's something else.
She rubs her pocket watch; its metal shell is lined with scratches over a smooth surface.
Eagle: But no matter what, I shouldn't have spoken up like that.
Eagle: I should apologize. That is what a good scout has got to do.
Eagle: Right.
Eagle looks back at the top of the plant, determined.
Eagle: I have to go back to Xavier.
X: Hey, welcome back!
X: Perfect timing. We're all set, all we need now is the right vantage from which to enjoy it.
X: This chimney should work.
Eagle: Mr. Xavier—
Half of his body is sunk into the chimney pipe.
X: Again, call me "X."
Eagle: Mr. X, be careful—
X: Shh. Save your words for the way back. Come on, the spectacle is about to begin.
Eagle: But—
X: Can you get up here on your own?
Eagle: Y-yes! Just need a second or two!
Completely unaware of what's to come, she climbs up the cement chimney and stands next to X.
Scout Manual, Essential Virtues, Article VIII: "Ask less, act more."
X: Hold on to something.
Eagle: Yes, sir!
X: Alright. Then—
X: Let's get this show on the road.
