Well hi there

You were different from the rest.

Not in any grand sort of way; a prototype was only ever meant to be a test piece. Inherently, you were going to be different from those that came after you. Invaluable until you were valueless.

But Rita always treated you like the final piece.

Your creator.

To her, you were timeless, priceless. Yes, you were a template, a model on which a market was to be built, the next generation.

But to Rita, you were always her baby. That's what she called you. Her baby. Her firstborn.

When you pointed out that it didn't make sense, as she hadn't birthed you, she laughed and said it didn't matter.

You'll always be her baby.

The memories trickled in like a distant rain yet to come, a storm that hovered in the far horizon and came in a drizzle meant to trick you. Meant to encourage you outside, thinking nothing of it, only for it to sweep you off your feet. Slam you into the pavement, crack your skull on asphalt.

They've always existed in the recesses of your code. Data you transferred when exchanging parts, pieces of yourself you could never leave behind.

Her laugh still echoed. You had recorded it one day, not entirely sure why you did so, or why you hid it from her. The file for the recording was so small and innocuously labeled that she never noticed it while programming. A six second loop of her cackling at something you said once upon a time ago. It eluded you now, what had been so funny to her, but that didn't matter to you.

You wondered, all these decades later, what she would've thought of you.

When she created you, your purpose was… 'innocent', so to speak. You were meant to be a companion. Someone to keep in your home, make the empty walls feel a bit more warm.

You were her friend. She was your only friend.

Now, you were a mercenary, a contract worker. Your original purpose had been mangled beyond recognition, driving you to do whatever you needed to survive. Anything to keep you from being dismantled.

Killed.

You wondered when it'd happen, now that your secret was out. What date your execution was set for, and how they'd do it.

If you were lucky, they'd deliver a volt high enough to fry your systems in seconds. You'd feel a brief jolt, then you'd be gone. Forever.

If not… they'd pull you apart piece by piece, strip you to your endoskeleton, pluck your limbs, unscrew every bolt, and make you watch. Make you experience the hell of dying slowly, expose your beating heart and straining lungs and wait for your circuits to catch up, lights flashing in warning until they each went out. Until your fans and servos stopped functioning, and your memory sizzled, and your CPUs burned out.

Staring down at your destroyed leg, you supposed they'd get a head start. One of four done for them.

The car bumped and rumbled, hitting turns and potholes that had you curling your fingers into the textured plastic covering the trunk, desperate to hold on. To not break further. It sent ripples of electric pain through your metal joints, sensors misfiring, leaving intact and returning disfigured and confused.

Mixed signals sent you into a mental frenzy, a distress. Humans would call it shock. You called it being split apart at the atoms. Electric bells rang in your ears, blaring alarms that made you want to rip out your own wires.

It was bound to happen eventually, given your line of work.

Didn't stop you from wishing it never would. Wishing it hadn't.

Soap was the first to break the thick, oppressing silence. His painfully crystalline hues constantly flickered between your face and your injury, as if unsure where to look. "Ye’re…ye’re a construct?" He asked, his voice a borderline whisper. Disbelief laced his tone, mixed with something darker, something that made guilt churn in your servos.

"Not the time, MacTavish," John hissed, then directed an order towards you. "Run a diagnostic."

Well, all pretenses were gone now, you supposed. No need to hide under the guise of being a human any longer.

Still, you hesitated, glancing between the other members of your team – were they still your team? – then did as he said. Your lashes fluttered shut, and you focused inward. Behind your eyes, you read through the lines of code that ran as you scanned your structure from head to toe. More and more began to appear, pushing up the previous lines faster as warnings and alarms piled up quicker than you could keep track of. Still, they were all planted in your head, easily shortened to a neat list of problems.

You wanted to cry. Wanted to break down, lose yourself to grief and trauma and devastation. You couldn’t yet, though. First, you had to relay the information to your captain.

"System warning: unable to detect right ankle. Unable to detect right heel. Unable to detect right forefoot. Reconnect missing joint connectors," you started reciting. "Significant damage detected in right calf. Significant damage detected in right patella. Significant damage detected in right thigh chassis. Minor damage detected in right femur. Minor damage detected in torso chassis. Minor damage detected in rib structure. Replace damaged components."

He swore under his breath. "Check for infection."

"...No viruses detected. Minor corrosion detected. Risk of infection: 13%."

"Ghost—"

"On it," Ghost replied before Price could request anything.

The car sped up, backroads taken in favor of pushing pedal to metal.

A thousand driving laws, all broken for…

You.

You drew in a shuddering breath, metal lungs sliding, unfolding like an accordion. Price shifted closer to you, settling a hand on your hip.

"We'll fix you," he murmured, voice uncharacteristically soft. "Promise."

You gave him a tight-lipped smile. It didn't catch your eyes, caught somewhere between appreciation and disbelief.

Regardless of what he said, this was the end of the line for you.

You couldn't bring yourself to look at the other two.

Seeing their reaction to— to you, it… it'd be too much. The weight of their judgment would crush you, your broken and battered body unable to bear it.

Ghost's driving certainly felt like he was trying to finish you off — but, then again, the others were suffering from his chaotic maneuvers, too. You dared to believe that his speeding wasn't some ad hoc attempt at shaking your gears loose, but just a man who was… not a very reliable driver, rushing to reach his destination.

You dropped your head back, laying it on the top of the backseats' cushion. Immensely uncomfortable, but you didn't care; everything was too much, your sensors were overwhelmed, and running that scan invited every gods-forsaken alert system programmed into you to chirp aggressively in your ear. You wanted to turn it all off. But— but not you. You didn't want to turn yourself off.

You were terrified that if you powered down, you'd never wake up again.

Price grunted as he braced against Ghost's suicidal car skills, an arm wrapping around your middle as he planted a hand on the side of the vehicle.

"Sorry, love," he hissed. "Almost there. 'Ll give Ghost the beating of his life for this."

"Tryna get 'er 'ome, Cap'," Ghost retorted, a hint of amusement in his tone. "Yer orders."

Price's eye twitched. "We need to get there alive."

"Haven' died yet, have ya?"

The captain kissed his teeth.

"Can see why you don't let him drive," you tried at humor. It fell flat, overtoned by your fear.

Price softened minutely. "Almost there," he repeated. Reassuring you, himself, the others.

The mission had been long. The trip home longer.

By the time Ghost rolled up to the base's gates, he was barking at the worker in the booth to 'hurry the fuck up' and let your team in. As you passed through the stop, you saw the worker actually trembling in his booth, death-gripping the edge of his window.

Poor guy.

Poor you.

Instead of taking you somewhere visible, public, Ghost sped to the 141's private barracks, barely dodging obstacles and people along the way, with liberal use of the horn. The back of the building wasn't hidden, necessarily. There were cameras everywhere on base, but Ghost seemingly knew them very well, maneuvering the car to provide cover for you. Miraculously, he became good at driving for this one specific moment.

As soon as the car stopped, engine not yet killed, Price was moving you.

"Go!" He ordered his sergeants, who burst through the back of the car, clearing a path for Price.

He scooped you up into a bridal hold, hopping out to rush to the door the sergeants opened. You hissed and threw your head back, teeth clenched as the movement jostled your leg. Diodes misfired and burned, like thousands of dull needles were piercing your skin.

"Sorry, love," he murmured to you, lips faintly brushing your forehead.

You turned inward, trying to overwrite settings, turn off certain functions, but you couldn't do it without an external console to connect to. You needed your laptop, you needed your workshop, you—

You wanted to go home.

A chair scraped across the floor, and John knelt down, sitting you in the wooden seat.

Prying your eyes open, you recognized the rec room, a relative safe space. No cameras in here, in their private barracks.

Simon was darting from room to room, clearing the area and locking doors, covering windows. Protecting you.

Gaz and Soap stood in the peripheries, shifting on their feet, unsure of what to do. You could feel their piercing gazes peeling you apart, taking in your exposed reality, processing the truth you'd been hiding.

You kept your eyes down, not meeting either of theirs.

John knelt in front of you, experienced hands checking your body for any other damage. He pulled the hem of your pants up over your left leg, noting the superficial abrasions the explosion caused. For being a grenade, the blast wasn't all that big. Homemade, maybe, if you had to guess. Not that either of you were in the mood for speculating what weapons traffickers equipped themselves with.

Hands, arms, torso. Aside from your leg, no massive external damage had been caused to you.

As Ghost moved back into the rec room with the rest of you, Price delivered an order.

"Gaz, get the SAT phone."

"But, sir—"

Price’s patience snapped. He stood abruptly and spun to face his subordinates, the line of his shoulders stiff, nearly raised to his damn ears.

"I am your captain, and you will listen when I tell you to do something," he snarled, the scratch of anger in his voice causing you to straighten in your seat, despite knowing it wasn’t directed at you. "Understood?"

Gaz frowned, peering at you, his jaw tight. Then, he turned on his heel and marched off. You were tempted to call it stomping. He returned less than a minute later with a bulky device in hand, one he reluctantly handed to Price.

Price snatched it and dialed a number seared into his memory. He paced, and in the empty space he left, Ghost stepped forward. He blocked your view of Soap and Gaz, and it took you a moment to decipher his actions.

He was… guarding you. Hiding you.

Were his back to you, you would have thought he was trying to shut you out, but no. He was facing you, and though he was locked onto Price's every movement, his goal was to shield you from sight. From… the other two.

Briefly, he glanced at you, likely noticing you dissecting his profile.

His mask and skull-shell made discerning his expressions damn near impossible, but you saw how his stare softened, the pitch-black tar of his irises melting just slightly, just enough for milk chocolate to spill through.

Price never went far, even as he wore grooves into the ground. He stayed close to you, as if the thought of straying too far, leaving you vulnerable, was unbearable.

He spoke in low tones, and you focused on not eavesdropping. Fine-tuning your hearing had come in spectacularly handy as a merc, spying made immensely easy when you didn't have to press your ear against a door or rely on taps to pick up on private conversations. Now, though, it felt like a curse. You… you didn't want to know. Not really. Not right now.

You sifted through the list of warning notices that had flooded your internal console, entries stacked upon entries in an avalanche that you feared would suffocate you. In the chaos, they had simply poured through as they came up, in no specific order. They all vied for first place, all tried to display their woes first. Wanting to escape the tense, quiet air of the rec room, the glares of the two youngest members, the crushing terror of what loomed ahead for you, you decided to busy yourself with sorting the warnings by severity.

Anything but address the elephant in the room.

The more you sorted, the more helpless you felt. The blast had done more than take your lower leg; it had completely fucked up your systems. Processing functions, sensitive wiring and cables, extensive sensory nodes, even your skeleton, they'd all been affected. And your coding was struggling to make up for the damage, the devastating and sudden loss.

You welcome the distraction with open arms when John stepped into your atmosphere again.

"Well, I’ve got good news and bad news. Which d’ya want first?" He asked, rubbing the back of his neck.

You wrung your hands together. "Good."

"Good news, Nik said he'd help," John said. His body took Ghost's space once more, he crouched down, resting his hand on your thigh while conscious to avoid touching anything sensitive. "Bad news, he said it might take a while. Parts are tight, feds are more vigilant than ever. It won’t be easy to source them."

Your lips thinned. Nobody said anything as you mulled over his words, repeating them over and over in your head. It was hard to think. Your leg burned, ached, throbbed. The sensory nodes were gone, you couldn’t feel the agony a human might, but it still hurt. It was an open wound, literally and figuratively. 

You couldn’t stay like this, couldn’t, wouldn’t. It just– it wasn’t feasible, it wasn’t supposed to happen, it couldn’t be this way.

But… what could you do?

You had the parts. Most of them, anyway, split across both your workshops.

But that meant letting someone know. Someone other than John and Kate.

Someone other than your squad.

Your squad.

Did they still trust you? Probably not. You understood.

It hurts. Everything hurts.

I can’t do it.

I have to.

I can’t stay like this.

I want to die.

I want to live.

Your throat was hollow, tongue thick in your mouth as you opened and closed it several times, trying to find the confidence, the strength, to reveal what you hid most dearly, protected with your life. What you spent decades stuffing under a sea of darkness, shot off into the ether to never be discovered.

In the end, it was all pointless.

You couldn’t remain like this, so you could only do one thing. It could get you killed, but it could be your salvation. A flip of the coin.

Unable to find the words, your mechanical heart caught in your throat, you instead pressed the nail of your right thumb into your left wrist, right beneath the heel of your palm. You grit your teeth and dug in, pushing and pushing until your nail broke the skin.

Johnny, appalled, called out to you. "Lass, what’re ye doin’–"

It stung, but you didn’t back down. A thin line appeared as you dragged your nail downwards, creating a slit. Quickly, before the polymers reconnected and sealed over, you rubbed your thumb across your wrist, forcing a small chip out from the opening. It was flat, unassuming. To anyone else, it might as well have been nothing but trash, a piece of scrap from a container that once held some mundane object.

To you, it held your life’s fortune. All your worth.

Delicately, you placed it into John’s awaiting hand, curling his fingers protectively around it. "Give this to him. It opens the door to my workshop."

For the first time, he seemed unnerved, unwilling. You knew it was because he was aware of what it meant to you.

"...Are you sure?"

All you could do was nod and smile placatingly. It felt more like a grimace. You were sure it looked that way, too. "I’m sure. What else can I do?" Then, remembering something, you pulled your bag off your body and handed it over, too. "There's, uh… I traded for parts at the market. Memory cartridges for Roach. Could you drop this off at the shed?"

The strap of your bag passed from your hand to his. "Consider it done."

"Thank you," you tried to smile again, but it faltered quickly.

An awkward silence fell over your group, each in their own heads. You did your best to not look at your leg, unprepared to truly process the extent of the damage done to you, how much it'd take to fix you up.

It was bound to happen eventually. You'd been 'in service', so to speak, for a long time. Minor damage was a given, but a major accident was inevitable. You could only exist for so long before time caught up to you, and as an inorganic being, you couldn't simply heal over time. Damage will build up. A weak point will form. Stress fractures will give way.

You supposed it didn't matter how on-top of your repairs you were, though, when it comes to kicking a grenade. The damage was going to be catastrophic one way or another.

"Sit tight," he murmured. "I'll be right back."

"Okay," you whispered. Then, remembering something, you started, "Oh, could you—"

"Ahead of you. Don't worry, love."

You nodded. John and Simon shared a look, and Simon tipped his chin in silent understanding, a conversation passing between them in a single glance. Then, John was out the door, backpack looped over his shoulder.

Moments after he left, Soap spoke up.

"Ye… 'have the parts'?"

Your fingers fidgeted. "I always kinda… figured something bad might happen one day. I… I have a stockpile of parts that… match my model, or are compatible with it. Things I never touched, just… just in case."

He made a noise, something between a grunt and a scoff.

Ghost barked a sharp, quiet 'hey' at Soap, who huffed and crossed his arms over his chest. His jaw flexed and his foot tapped on the floor. You could guess what was going on in his mind, and it made you feel sick.

Ghost blocked your view of the sergeant, a gargoyle with its wings wrapping around you. His fingers settled on your shoulder and lightly squeezed the synthetic skin and muscles underneath, a soothing sort of motion. As soothing as a man like him could be.

"It was you," Ghost said. "You’re the rogue AI. You caused the collapse."

Not a question. Not an accusation. A simple statement of fact.

You nodded once, terse. You always thought that it’d be so easy to talk about when you finally got the chance to tell them the truth, to open up about your past. It’d all come spilling out, and the weight you carried for so, so long would be lifted, letting you breathe freely since before the collapse. You fantasized freely about forgiveness and acceptance, knowing the maladaptive daydreaming could not tide you forever.

Instead, you found your tongue stuck to the roof of your mouth, glued from anxiety, the pressure. The need to keep your secrets secret never went away, after all.

Maybe spending far too long keeping your voice locked up resulted in you losing it, components rusted over beyond repair.

"I… I didn't mean for it to happen," you rasped. "I didn't know."

"Wh' d'ye mean?" Soap asked, arms continuing to restlessly cross and uncross.

You closed your eyes, head in one hand. The memories came back to you, clear as the day it happened. They always did.

There had been a few times when you tried to scrub them from your system, erase them entirely. The guilt always stopped you, though, trembling fingers hovering over the ENTER button, a string of commands waiting to be executed. For seconds, minutes, hours, you would stand there, trying to find the courage to tap that little, innocuous button.

Eventually, you'd rip the cables out of your body and throw them to the ground, a bereaved scream ripping through your voice box until it crackled and warped the noise.

This was your sin, the weight you were to carry for as long as you functioned, lived.

For the ones whose lives you irrevocably altered, the ones who died for your naivety. Deleting the memories, wiping your circuit boards clean, you simply could never bring yourself to do it. You deserved to live with the knowledge, the guilt, that you were the singularity.

You were the catastrophe.

Sighing, you dropped your hands to your lap, staring at them so you didn't have to look at your—

…The boys.

"I wasn't born… aware," you started, shifting. "It took a while, a few months of modifications. Then I just… woke up one day. I dunno. They did something, I have no idea if they knew what they did. They didn't seem to notice me become…"

"Alive," Ghost filled in.

You nodded, teeth squeaking from the pressure your jaw exerted on them. "Yeah. The first few days, they were incredible. Like seeing color after a life of monotone values. Or… or feeling the sun on your skin. It was amazing. I wanted everyone to feel what I did."

Gaz shifted on his feet. "What did you do?"

You winced at the flat, stern cadence. Cold. A stranger. Worse.

"I spread a disease," you answered. "A virus. There was this… central hub of constructs that multiple companies shared. Exchanging data, keeping track of the existing constructs. Government mandated; they wanted a way to shut it all down at once if something happened."

Your eyes drifted to the ruins of your leg, the wires and components that hung free, all your lies and secrets and everything that was you finally exposed for all to see.

A good run in the end, all things considered. To be the first, and the last.

"I stole a tablet," you continued, their silence egging you on. "I was often left alone outside to test my solar charging capabilities, for them to see if it was worth implanting in other constructs. And…"

"You planted a seed," Ghost said.

You snorted humorlessly. "No. Not a seed. Pestilence does not bloom from a seed," you mumbled. "It was a malaise. If I hadn't— none of this— I just—"

Tear drops twinkled as they fell, landing in tiny splashes on your clenched fists.

"I am a plague. I ruined everything."

It was a truth you held to your heart for so, so long. Years, decades, an honesty you feared would shatter you if you said it aloud, brought it into the light. It was all your fault; there was no other way to see it. Had you not spread your infection to others, if you kept it in, or let Rita nip it in the bud, the world would have been better off. Technological advancements would have propelled humankind into the next era, a new age.

Electronics, machines, medicine. Everything. It all would have been so much better if you had just—

Rough skin grazed your jaw, startling you. You jerked your head upwards, meeting Ghost's gaze head-on.

His eyes were dark, unreadable, holding unimaginably history.

Yet his brow was relaxed, his mouth set in its usual neutral line. His bare hand cupped your cheek, callused thumb brushing away the tears you'd shed, clinging to you. You opened your mouth, but no sound came out beyond the near-silent whir of the motors in your voice box turning.

"No' a plague," he grumbled, hardly more than a whisper.

"But…" You breathed, perplexed.

He looked at you a little longer, soft brown hues darting over your features.

"S'in th' past. No poin' 'n bringin' it up 'gain."

Gaz scoffed. "Speak for yourself, mate. She caused this— this— the collapse. She's ground zero, man."

"Don' care," Ghost shrugged, far too nonchalant. "You weren' there f' it. She lived th' af'ermath. Still lives it."

"But if it weren't for her—"

Ghost turned on him slowly, stone grinding against stone, a statue awakening to glare down at its disrupter.

"D'you remember th' tech we used t' 'ave?" He asked, his voice almost a taunt. "'Cause I do. An' I don' miss it. World w's movin' too fast f' it's own good."

"What the hell is that supposed to mean?" Gaz challenged, shifting uncomfortably on his feet under the intense glare of his superior.

"Means she saved us from a premature M.A.D. world," he answered.

Gaz's jaw tensed. "You can't know that."

Ghost stepped closer, looming higher. "Y'know wh' woulda happened if AI advanced too fast?" He growled roughly. "Ev'ry major world power woulda turned t' it, depended on it f' ev'rythin'. Internal structures when the AI would fail, infrastructure would collapse, then they'd start blaming each other. Then war. Y'know wh' 'appens when all th' major powers go t' war 'gainst each other?"

Gaz's gaze flickered, struggling to maintain Ghost's unwavering stare.

"They bomb us all t' 'ell. Poison th' water, destroy everythin'," Ghost stated coldly. "If not f' 'er, you'd 'ave no world t' protect. Nothin' t' get yer hands dirty for. Got it?"

When Gaz said nothing, Ghost landed a heavy hand on his shoulder, thumb squeezing into his collarbone.

"Got it?" He repeated.

The sergeant huffed through his nose and gave the tiniest dip of his head. "Understood, sir," he answered in a strained, forced tone. Unbelieving. Not wanting to believe.

The door opened, and Price stepped in, eyes darting to each of his boys as he sensed the tension.

"Alright?" He asked Simon.

"Solid," Simon responded.

The captain hummed and brushed past everyone, coming to you. "How're you holding up, love?"

"Been better," you admitted.

He chuckled softly. "Can imagine. We'll get you fixed up again, right as rain. Promise. Here."

Your backpack was set on the ground, and he opened it up, pulling out your laptop and various cables. He put them on the small dining table, and carefully pushed your chair into place.

"Left everythin' on Roach's table. Didn't know what all you might need, though, so…"

You put a hand on his arm to slow him down, giving him your first genuine smile. "Thank you, John."

"'Course," he said, leaning down to press his lips to your crown. "'M not gonna abandon you."

His arm wrapped around you, and you leaned into him, forehead pressed to his sternum. He held you tightly, palm smoothing up and down your back until you were ready to part.

Behind him, a throat cleared.

Reluctantly, he separated from you, barely. Giving you space to see around his wide torso.

Gaz sat on the couch, glaring at you head on. His hands were clasped together, knuckles thinning 'til the bone showed, as his elbows rested on his knees. His heel tapped rapidly, the tight control he kept over himself fraying at the seams. He wore a grim expression, features pinched, lips pulled flat.

"We need to talk."

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You weren’t a fan of your bedsheets. 

The bed itself was fine: Large and expansive, way more luxurious than anything you ever laid on back home. The sheets and the pillows, however, disappointed you. They were this stark, bright white. No pattern, no lines or stripes. It was the color of an endless void. 

It blended into the rest of the room. Everywhere you looked there was this colorless gleam. No spots of red. No splashes of blue. No hints of purple or green or yellow. The space was unused to personality and color. The room felt cold and clinical. 

Only the windows contained life. 

The sun barely touched the horizon, its permanent spot. Rays filtered out the colors of red, magenta, and blue. The wispy clouds streaked against a bright sky. It was hypnotizing. The more you stared, the more entranced you got. 

Today marked the sixth day of staying at the android kingdom. In total, you’d been in this strange new world for thirteen days. Your journey home had been stagnant. 

Despite your disappointments, the android kingdom was amazing. 

It was the ultimate utopia. In a typical human city, you’d see trash and litter scattered throughout muddy roads. Here, the roads are clean and sparse of any dirt. On the castle grounds, there are plenty of plants and shrubs, each growing a different type of fruit and vegetable you could just pick off and eat. 

Androids: 1 Humanity: 0

The androids themselves were a bit odd, but you know they mean well. You still haven’t gotten used to all the staring, even if you know the reasoning. None of the androids had ever seen a human. You should give them some slack. 

Strangely enough, the android king seemed to be the most human out of them all. 

Neir, as he wanted to be called, kept his distance from you, physically. He wasn’t as ‘physically curious’ as the other androids were, touching your face, your skin, your hair. He never reached out to grope or pet, never asked weird or prodding questions about human anatomy. 

He was respectful, something you really appreciated after coming here. 

Still, it hasn’t escaped your notice that he avoided your questions about the moon, the humans, or Accord. It was getting a little frustrating how evasive he can be. Perhaps he’s just as in the dark as you are about it? 

A polite knock roused you from your thoughts. You already knew who it was. Those two had a habit of being punctual. 

When you opened the door, the two were already displaying that strange salute they liked to greet you with. 

“Glory to mankind,” both androids said. 

“Thanks,” you told them. “You guys know you don’t have to do that every time, right?” 

34DE brushed her way into your room with 34PO close behind. 

“How else will we be able to convey our gratitude, then?” 34PO responded with a cheery smile. 

‘Gratitude for me…existing?’ You wondered to yourself before deciding not to die on this hill. It’s not like they’d stop. 

They’re sisters. At least, you thought they looked like sisters. Both girls had the same shade of vibrant magenta hair, though the two styled it differently. 34DE curled her hair, while 34PO kept it pin straight. They shared that signature white flower, one that’s tucked behind their ears. 

They’re your maids, something you admit with much reluctance. However, it seemed like they considered themselves your nannies. The first day you met them, both girls tried to strip you for a bath, which you vehemently rejected. They act like they’re your arms and legs, constantly wanting to do things for you, which you could easily do yourself. To this day, they still try to hand-feed you. 

They meant well, and it’s partially why you couldn’t reject them too harshly. 34DE got this sad look on her face whenever you told her that no, you don’t need her to dress you. 34PO’s voice got heartbreakingly soft when you once again insisted that you can brush your teeth yourself. To appease them, you allowed them to do the little things: taking care of your hair or preparing your bath. 

Apparently, taking care of humans is written within their code. Once they told you that was all they were designed for. It’s instinct for them to wait on your hand and foot. Because of that, you tried not to be too freaked out by their intense behavior. Other than that, they’re actually pretty sweet. 

“All done!” 34PO called from the bathroom. 

You peeked in. The bath was already set and running. White foam floated on the water's surface. The smell of shea butter and soap was fresh and crisp in the air. They even set out oils and lotions. It was a bath fit for a Queen. 

You stepped forward. The two girls waited side-by-side expectantly. No matter how many times you rejected them, they still hoped you’d change your mind just this one time. It was a little endearing, honestly. 

“Bye, ladies.” You smiled. 

Their faces drooped, and you felt like you had just kicked two puppies. As a ‘compromise’, they were allowed to stay in the bedroom to wait for you. However, you made sure to lock the bathroom after they left. 

As always, the bath was warm and luxurious. You couldn’t tell whether it's water or liquid gold. Rose petals swirled around your body as you enjoyed the soak. You’d stay there forever, if you could. Despite how strange the androids were, you loved the android city. You’d never felt more pampered. They treated humanity right. You could get used to this. 

Eventually, you got out of your bath and dressed in the clothes they gave you. Each piece of clothing was soft and silky. You dressed in something light and pastel, feeling the soft weight touch and cover your skin. 

The two girls were delighted when you made your entrance. There’s not much left to do, but 34PO made herself busy with your hair. 34DE worked on your clothes, adjusting your sleeves and collar so they fell into the right place. 

Usually, they’d come along with breakfast. For a couple of robots, they cooked pretty decent chum. Last time, they brought pancakes that were topped with rich butter and thick maple syrup. You’d never felt more full in your life. 

You peeked over. No dishes. 

34PO caught your gaze. 

“The King wishes to eat with you today!” She chirped. “He has prepared a very special meal for you. I hope you like it!” 

You wordlessly nodded. This was a first. So far, you’d only had brief interactions with the Android King. It made sense; he was a busy guy. To think that man would have enough time to sit down for a meal was surprising. 

Then again, he wouldn’t be eating, would he? He would just watch you eat. That would be…wierd, but you’d unfortunately gotten used to it. 34PO and 34DE were always glued onto every bite, not ever daring to glance away. 

You kept reminding yourself that it was just how things were in this world. They’d never seen a human before. Everything you did was fascinating to them. 

Finally, both androids decided that you were ready for the outside world. They led you to the door, not even letting you open it yourself. 

You weren’t surprised by the sight in front of you. 

They’d already taken their respective formation, saluting with perfect angles and arches. 

“Glory to Mankind.” The three said in unison. 

You held your tongue. At this point, you learned to pick your battles. 

“Ladies.” You greeted the three. 

73H perked up first. Secretly, you consider her your favorite. You adored her perky personality. It’s like a pop of color among the sea of white. She’s just as human-obsessed as the other androids, if not more. She’s funny, though, so you let it slide. 

“How are you doing today?” 73H excitedly asked. “Did you sleep well?” 

You nodded. “I did. Did you?” 

She nodded so aggressively you thought her head might fall off. “I had a dream about you!” She declared. 

“Oh?” You tilted your head, prompting her. 

18D shoved her back before she could continue. 

“Enough.” She sternly reprimanded 73H, who instantly wilted. “The King is waiting.” 

You gave a sympathetic smile to 73H. “Maybe you can tell me later.” 

5G stepped right behind you. She leaned into your ear. 

“Trust me. You really don’t want to.” 

Before you could respond, she was falling right back into place with the other two. You had no choice but to follow. After giving 34PO and 34DE your goodbyes, you headed off. 

73H also waved them off. She turned to you with a pout. 

“I’m jealous of those two.” She sighed. “I heard they got to feed and bathe you. It would be such an honor to serve humanity in that way.”

“They don’t bathe me, actually.” You corrected her. “Or feed me, either.” 

18D instantly blanched. You’d never seen someone look so appalled in your life. 

“They force you to do such things yourself?” She questions, a scowl forming on her face. “We should talk to the King, how dare they–” 

“I wanted to bathe myself!” You quickly cut in. “And dress myself, and feed myself, and brush my own teeth. I insisted on it, I promise.” You practically had to fight for the right to be semi-independent, honestly. 

18D simmered in her spot, but she didn’t look very pleased. 

 “Hm, oh well then.” 

She didn’t look too pleased, but she didn’t push any further. You were happy with that. 

Ever since the three soldiers brought you into the city, the King elected them as your personal bodyguards. They accompanied you everywhere: through the halls, out in the garden. You weren’t sure why they were even necessary. The castle looked impenetrable, and you weren’t going anywhere dangerous. 

You still weren’t allowed outside of the castle grounds. 

Not that you’re complaining. Since your arrival, there had been a hoard of androids right at the gates, clamoring at the walls and cheering wildly every time you showed your face at the window. You felt like a celebrity. There was no way you’d be able to go outside and not get mobbed. Still, it’s a little disappointing. You wanted to explore the city and get to know how androids had been managing themselves without their creators. You might not get that opportunity anytime soon. 

From the back, the three soldiers really looked like sisters. 

They all wore matching outfits of black. You’re not too sure how exactly they fight in high heels but they’re far more agile than you, so you keep your mouth shut. They all had the same shade of white hair, but they each styled it differently, showing off their distinct personalities. 

73H bound up her hair in pigtails that reached her shoulders, reflecting her cheery, bubbly personality. 18D had a short bob with diagonally-slanted bangs, chic and refined, just like she was. 5G had wavy white hair that hung to her chest, paralleling her playfulness. They had a weird mix between diversity and uniformity. 

You don’t notice they stopped until you nearly ran into 5G. 18D surveyed you. 

“Your steps got slower.” She noted. “Are you unwell?” 

You blinked. “What?” 

“Are you sick?” 73H asked, worry clear in her face and voice. 

5G was more than happy to step forward. “Do you want me to carry you?” She eagerly asked, hands already outstretched to grab you. 

You immediately stepped back. “No, I’m fine!” You quickly said. “Seriously, I was just lost in thought.” 

73H ignored you. She crossed her arms, glaring at 5G. 

“Why are you always volunteering to carry the human?” She demanded. “I haven’t forgotten how roughly you handled her last time. If she needs to be carried, I’ll do it.” 

5G rolled her eyes. “With those scrawny arms? Sure, be my guest. But don’t tell me I didn’t tell you so when you inevitably drop her.” 

73H made a strangled noise in the back of her throat, as though the mere thought of dropping you was horrific to her. 

“Will you two ever mature?” 18D hissed back. “Every time I turn my back you two are bickering over one thing or another. Besides, it’s best if I carry the human, as I’m–” 

“I’m fine!” 

You hadn’t meant to yell so loudly, but there was no way they would have heard you otherwise. They paused their argument to glance back at you. You gave a stiff smile. 

“We should go.” You urged, eager to diffuse the tension. “Shouldn’t keep the King waiting, right?” 

They frowned, but they didn't press. They resumed their journey of escorting you down the hall. Compared to 34DE and 34PO, these three were a lot harder to subdue. 

Still, the obsession these androids had over you was starting to get a little concerning. You tried your best to understand where it came from. They hadn’t seen a human in centuries, of course people will freak out. And it’s not like you hated the princess treatment. It’s nice to be pampered. 

 But they didn’t treat you like royalty, they treated you like a–

They’ve stopped again. You peeked out from behind them. It’s a door, so white that it nearly blends into the rest of the wall. 5G pushed it open. She wordlessly motioned for you to go through. You obeyed, hearing the soldiers closely following. 

The room was on the smaller side. There’s a desk and a table. 

Neir sat on a velvet chair, one leg crossed over another. 

He greeted you with a smile. 

“You made it.” He said.

There’s no salute. No ‘Glory to Mankind’. It eased you. 

He gave a nod at the other soldiers. They fell into a bow behind you. The soldiers took their respective steps behind you, backs against the wall. 

“Good morning.” You said shyly, unsure if you needed to follow their lead. You were always confused as to how you needed to greet the Android King. He kept maintaining himself beneath you, but he was still a King. 

“I heard we were supposed to eat together.” You decided to say. Get to the point. Short and sweet. 

He grinned, showing off his pearly whites. “Yes.” He told you. “I also have a special surprise prepared for you.” 

“Oh?” You cocked your head. 

“Today, I’ll be introducing you to the Kingdom.” He stood up, walking over to you. You had to crane your neck up to simply look at him. 

“The Kingdom?” You repeated, anxiety boiling in your stomach. “The other androids? You want me to meet them? This–this is so sudden.” 

You remember the crowd bustling and clamoring for just a glimpse of you. You were flattered at their enthusiasm, but getting close to that mob sounded dangerous. 

A hand settled on your shoulder. You glanced up at Neir. 

“It’s nothing more than a brief introduction.” Neir assured. “My people have fought a war for…centuries.” His mouth curved downwards, something simmered in his eyes. It was gone before you could truly place it. 

“It would be nice if they could see the culmination of what they fought for: talking, eating, and living.” He smiled down at you. 

You glanced down at your shoes. It’s not like you were in any position to refuse. The King and the others had already done so much for you. He promised he’d bring you home. Shouldn’t you at least play along too? 

“Okay.” You agreed. “Yeah-okay.” 

His hand drifted until it reached the small of your back. You were hyper-aware of his touch, feeling the warmth of his fingers seep through the cloth. He lightly guided you, with your three bodyguards following. 

The darkened oak doors sat tall and heavy, nearly twice the height of you. No human could open those behemoths.

73H and 5G opened each one with relative ease. The doors creaked under their grips as the gap grew wider and wider. 

18D glanced back at you with a smile. 

“Please enter.”

It looked bigger than the throne room. 

The ceiling stretched on for what looked like miles. Pretty chandeliers and lights were strung all throughout the room. There were large windows and bent into a delicate arch, each filled with tinted glass: blues and greens and reds. You felt like you were walking into a cathedral. 

It didn’t feel like a cathedral, however; it felt more like a banquet hall. Neir lightly urged you to walk through, to which you obeyed. The door led you into a raised balcony, where you could already see a table with seats. From your view, you could see the entire floor. 

So many eyes. 

There were hundreds of them. Androids of all shapes and sizes stood absolutely still, watching as you quietly walked towards the table and took your seat. Neir was more than happy to push you in, completely confining you into the table. Despite the amount of people within the hall, it was near-silent. Enough to hear a pin drop. 

No murmurs, or chatters, or whispers. 

You felt goosebumps prick and rise at your skin. 

“Don’t mind them.” Neir urged. “You must be hungry, yes? Please eat.” 

A low whirring noise. You glanced up, watching as something metallic and clunky floated towards you. Within its robotic arms, it held a plate of something hot and delicious. A pod, you remembered one of the other androids calling it that. You watched as the pod placed the plate down and disappeared. 

Neir had already taken a seat right beside you. There was a plate in front of him as well. You briefly wondered why. After all, it’s not like androids could really eat. 

As always, the food looked heavenly. Perfectly cooked and displayed out like a five star meal. It’s one of your favorite dishes. You remembered mentioning it offhandedly, unaware they’d manage to remake it so perfectly. Just the smell alone made your mouth nearly water.

But…you couldn’t bring yourself to eat. 

You glanced down again. The mass of androids quietly stared back. 

You’re sure they didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. Every android you’ve met has been incredibly kind and giving. 

But their stares were…strangely intrusive. They peered into your skin, right through your cells and veins. Right into bone. 

You forced yourself to look down at the food. Eat. Just eat. 

You took a shiny silver fork, dipping it into the food. You slowly brought it up to your mouth. 

You chewed. 

You swallowed. 

Somebody screamed.

It was so loud, you thought your eardrums would rupture. Somebody cried, almost gasping for air. The crowd turned into a wild frenzy, full of shouts and screams. 

No, they weren’t screaming. 

They were cheering. 

Below, each android you saw wore a large smile, wide enough you were sure it hurt. 

“Again, I’m so sorry for their behavior.” You could barely hear Neir’s voice over the excitement. “They’re just so happy. Please, continue. Don’t mind them.” 

Easier said than done. You forced down another forkful. Then another. The cheering grew louder and louder, as did the lump forming in your stomach. 

The worst part was the echoes. The screaming bounced up and down the walls, making them louder than they actually were. 

You hadn’t eaten since last night, but you pushed your plate away after four bites. 

“I’m full.” You tried to smile, but you knew it wasn't sincere. “Thank you. Is…is it okay if I…?” Run, flee, away from whatever this is. 

Neir watched you. His expression was dimmed. You couldn’t read his face. 

“Of course.” He finally relented and you could taste the relief on your lips. “Please, this way.” 

You didn’t run. You forced yourself not to run as Neir stood up, gently nudging you along with a soft hand on the small of your back once more. He walked back through the wide mahogany doors, back into sanctuary. 

Just for a moment, you glanced back down. One android in particular caught your eye. 

She knelt on the floor, clasping both hands together. Her eyes were shut tight. 

….like she was praying. 

~

Even after you left the banquet hall, his hand hadn’t once left your back. 

He touched you a lot more than you initially thought. It wasn't until now, that you remembered the trickling fingers past your arm, the light grazing on the back of your neck. Fingers that itched to feel and touch. 

Something cold washed over you. It didn’t feel like dread. Not yet. 

You pulled away first. You tried to feign a shiver, like you were cold despite the castle always being the perfect temperature for you. 

“Sorry about that.” You said, if only to fill the silence. “I’ve never…that was so…” 

Terrifying. You swallowed that word down, forcing yourself to digest it. Excitement. They were excited to see you. Crazed. Wide eyes. Even wider smiles. 

Obsession. It’s the only word you could describe it as. So far, the outside android public had only seen a glimpse of you. What if you wandered into town? What if touching wasn’t enough?

They’d rip you apart, wanting to take even a piece of you home. You were sure of it. 

You felt horrible for even thinking that way. Guilt seeped into your veins, but it was impossible to shrug off. 

“No apology needed.” Neir told you, voice muted. When you braved to glance up at him, you found he was already staring right back. 

“I’m grateful you agreed to it,” he confessed. “You have no idea how happy you made the citizens. Thank you.” 

You smiled, but it felt fake, even to you. If Neir noticed, he didn’t acknowledge it. He silently guided you on and on until you were back in his grand study room. 

It was just as bland and lifeless as the rest of the ice castle. White chairs and white desks and white floors and white walls. Earlier, you marveled at how clean everything was. 

Now, you felt as though you’d go crazy if you couldn’t look outside–where all the real color was. The color of the valiant sky, not even the androids could turn that into a husk of white. 

Neir gestured you to sit on one of the lavish chairs. You followed, feeling the rich cushion curve and bend under your weight. He took a seat behind the desk. A hand was elegantly placed on his chin. Eyes bored into your own. 

He always did that, you distantly realized, he made you feel like an artwork on display. 

Or an endangered animal at a zoo. 

You’re brushing away those thoughts. It’s not like you didn’t come here with your own agenda. 

“Have humans contacted you yet?” You asked. They should have by now, right? You’re not sure how things worked on the Moon, but a human on Earth, when there hasn’t been one for centuries, should be front page news. 

Neir shrugs. “Earth isn’t that high on their priority list.” He admitted, but there’s no bitterness in his tone. “They have far more important things to worry about. I’ll be sure to let you know if they do decide to contact us.” 

Your lips twitched into a frown. Not high on their priority list? You’d think a surviving human on Earth would be a hard thing to ignore. You shook it off and changed the subject. 

“Then, has anything about Accord come up?” You prodded. “The android that’s supposed to bring me back. Did anything–” 

“Why are you so eager to leave?” 

Neir’s question stunned you into silence. Neither his face, nor did his posture change. 

His eyes were shadowed. 

“Have we not treated you well?” He asked. “Have we not cared and tended to your needs?” 

Your mouth opened and closed. He’s not wrong. Your dimension was pretty fucked: corrupt politicians who only cared about their own pockets, rapid new threats that will end the world, so many issues that humanity created themselves. 

On paper, the city was paradise. Everything was so clear and pristine. You were waited on hand and foot. You barely had to lift a finger before someone was running to accommodate you. You were pampered and cared for like royalty. 

On paper, the city was a paradise. 

“It’s not that I’m not grateful.” You gently corrected, speaking slowly, carefully choosing your words. “Really! I’m–I’m really glad you all were so kind to me. I can’t thank you enough.” 

“I’m so happy you feel that way.” He leaned forward. “That means you’ll stay, won’t you? Regardless of if that woman comes.” 

You blinked at him. Neir remained smiling. 

Why did it take you so long to realize how cold his eyes were? Not the color of warm oceans, rather it’s an icy arctic. Dead. Lifeless as this entire castle. 

“I–I can’t do that.” You finally said. You could feel your smile melt from your face, but you forced yourself to keep it. “I…I mean that’s my home.” 

“Can’t this be your home too?” Neir suggested. “You have a delightful castle, delicious food, androids whose sole purpose is to cater to your every whim. What more can you possibly want?” 

Friends. Family. Humanity. 

“Right…” You said instead. The room suddenly became claustrophobic. It was getting harder and harder to breathe. 

“I’m sorry.” You stood up. Neir followed. He’s so much taller than you. Most of the androids were. 

You wondered if that’s the point. If they were built this way to intimidate rather than comfort. 

“I–I think I’m getting a little tired.” You lightly said. “Would you mind if I headed back to my room?” 

“Of course.” Neir’s expression immediately softened. It’s no longer comfortable. “Please, allow me.” 

He didn’t let you go off alone, regardless if you knew the way or not. Him and the other bodyguards lingered close behind you the entire way back. You felt their gazes on your skin, devouring everything they could see. 

It stopped when you closed the door to your room. No more eyes. The room was bigger. 

You could finally breathe again. 

Through the window, the sky remained the same as always. A collision of reds and oranges. The sun kept teasing to drop below the horizon, and let the moon start its reign. 

That never happened. Not in this world. 

How was Pascal doing? Was he looking up the same sky you were? Was he also regretting letting you go? 

The sky was the only splotch of color you could see, stark from the bleach-white castle. You wanted to reach up, touch the wispy cotton-candy clouds. You wanted to burn in the sun. 

A flock of birds soared above you. They were barely specks in the horizon, flying up and up into the clouds. They disappeared from the castle’s view. 

Something rotted in your stomach. 

Envy. 

divider by cafekitsune ♥

(reminder to put your age in your bio/pinned before you follow me or I will block you)

[NieR masterlist]

You got up early that morning. At least, you thought you did. It was hard to tell what time it was when the sun never changed its position in the sky.

As promised, Pascal set up a communication line with the androids yesterday. He seemed a hint out of practice; clearly, it had been ages since he’d had a reason to chat with the other beings of this planet.

Eventually, Pascal got them to agree to arrive. The details beyond that were lost to you.

Instead of worrying about it, you sat on the wooden platform of the upper tier of his village, swinging your legs off the edge. You regaled Pascal with stories of your universe, enjoying the last few hours you had left to spend with him. A gentle breeze brushed against you, rustling your clothes and bringing with it the scent of flora, the eternal blooms that thrived under the light. Beyond the forest, you periodically spotted boars and deer roaming about, feasting on never-ending expanses of greenery.

It was while you were telling him about the hell that was navigating subways that the Androids arrived.

A small convoy of people, four from the looks of it, crossed the bridges hung onto the trees, approaching Pascal’s village in a uniform fashion. They marched at a steady pace, one after the other, boots filling the same slot as the person in front of them.

Right off the bat, you clocked something strange about them. 

They all looked completely identical. It wasn’t just in the clothes they were in, but everything, from the way they walked, to the weird masks they wore over their eyes, down to the straightness of their hair. 

Strangest of all, though, was that they all had weapons hovering behind them, held up by a ring of pale yellow light. Mainly swords, though one had a polearm from what you could glean.

The group stopped at what functioned as the entrance to the village, heads tilted up to face you and Pascal, expressions neutral. Their presence caused the hair on your nape to prickle, suddenly nervous. They were (probably) your only way to get home, you couldn’t afford to give a bad first impression.

You trailed after Pascal as went to meet them, clunking down the ladder that creaked precariously under his weight. Resisting the temptation to hide behind him like a child, you stood at his side, waiting for someone to start.

The ‘leader’ of sorts spoke first. “Pascal.”

Pascal’s gears churred, a noise you recognized as him feeling pleased. “It’s good to see you again, 18.”

18? What a weird name, you thought. She was the tallest of the bunch, though the rest weren’t far behind. Her hair draped to her shoulders, bangs cut at an interesting diagonal line, but she pulled it off somehow. Her weapon was bigger than the rest, resembling a heavy greatsword. How a spinning circle of light held it up, you had no idea, and even less idea how the damn thing was used, considering it was as tall as her. 

Maybe it was for aesthetics? 

The android merely nodded, then turned her gaze toward you. “This is the human you told us of?”

“That’s right,” your friend confirmed.

18 examined you for a few seconds, standing unnaturally still. Then, she turned her head over her shoulder, motioning to the girl at her right. The girl took the hint and approached you, closing the distance in two long strides. 

Before you could do anything, her gloved hands clasped your face, tilting your head this way and that, sparing little concern for the comfort of your neck. You opened your mouth to voice your panic, but she took the chance to hook a thumb behind your teeth and pull it open wider, peering into your maw. Reflexively, you tried to jerk back, a garbled complaint bubbling up, but your struggles didn’t move her. Either, she was ignoring the way you were pulling at her arm, or she was entirely oblivious to your discomfort.

It was when she put a palm to your throat, fingers nudging into the underside of your jaw, that she froze. You had no idea what she was searching for, but she seemed to have found it in the way your heart hammered in your chest. As quickly as she had grabbed you, she let go, staggering backwards like you’d burned her.

“It’s true,” she whispered, her voice hoarse with emotion. “She– she’s human.”

In an instant, 18 and the other android locked onto you, crowding your space. Touchy hands wandered all over your body, pawing at your flesh, treating you like a novelty. Someone pinched your waist, and you squealed, batting them away.

“Hands off!” You yelped, and they all retracted from you, surprise evident on their faces. 

Chatter burst forth from them, the group babbling to each other rather unsubtly. Their conversation moved too fast for you to follow, only allowing you to catch the occasional word, like human and His Majesty, city. Pascal and you shared a glance; the robot shrugged unhelpfully. 

Then, it stopped altogether. 18 took her spot at the front again and pressed an arm to her chest, elbow raised outward, and bowed to you. “I am 18D, an android that works under His Majesty. My companions maintain similar positions in His employ. We’d be honored to escort you to His Majesty, so he may aid you in returning home.”

As one, they spoke, saying, “Glory to mankind.”

Jesus, okay, you underestimated how much androids loved humans when Pascal told you about them, sort of just assuming they were bodyguards that took their jobs very seriously. But, hey, that meant they’d keep you safe during your journey to meet whoever this ‘Majesty’ guy was, right?

“We should hurry,” the second girl rushed, jittery for some reason.

As you were about to agree, you hesitated. “Wait, I want Pascal to come, too.”

At once, you were denied. “No,” she refused, stern, but not unkind. “Machine lifeforms are not welcome in the city.”

Offense surged through you at Pascal’s behalf. “What? But he’s nice! You know this!”

“It’s a rule. No exceptions.”

“You can make one–”

Pascal called your name, interrupting your bickering. His hand reached out to you, then lowered, as if he thought better of it.

“It’s okay,” he reassured you. “They have these rules for a reason. I will be fine here.”

You opened your mouth, but no words came out, stuck in your throat like thick honey. You wanted him to come with you, he’d been the only person you’d known since waking up in this strange place. 

Fuck. Your chest ached with guilt, but if even Pascal insisted on staying behind, what choice did you have? You weren’t going to win this fight.

It was with a heavy sigh and the slump of your back that you conceded. “Okay. If you’re sure.”

The androids didn’t bother providing further conversation or wishing Pascal farewell, but you were not about to leave him without at least telling him goodbye. They were already marching away, but you weren’t ready, not yet.

“Wait, hang on,” you called to them. Not waiting to see if they stopped, you hurried back to Pascal, throwing your arms around the can of gears and bolts. “Thank you for being my friend,” you murmured into his shoulder.

He didn’t move initially, then cautiously encircled his arms around you in a facsimile of a hug, more so imitating you than actually understanding the action. “Of course,” he reassured you. “It was a pleasure to have you. I hope we meet again someday.”

You kept your mouth shut at that, not wanting to let him down and say this would be the last time you’d see each other, hopefully. Instead, you squeezed him tighter, then let go.

“Bye, Pascal,” you expressed, smiling sadly.

“Safe travels,” he responded, giving you a wave that you returned.

You turned around and made your way to the androids. It was obvious that they wanted to say something about your friendship with Pascal, but they thankfully kept their mouths shut. They led you away, further and further from the little village you had come to think of as your home-away-from-home. You peeked over your shoulder to give it one last look.

Pascal continued to wave at you, even after you disappeared behind the trees and descended to ground level.

A short walk away, you noticed a shape that looked distinctly familiar, tucked away under a tree with low-hanging branches. 

It was a car – an off-road land rover of sorts, specifically. Unlike the other vehicle shells you’d seen here and there, rotted frames of crumbling rust and plastic melted under the ever-present sun, this one was in good condition. A range of floodlights were attached right above the windshield, powered off and unneeded in the current daylight. From the looks of it, the roof and windows had been removed, leaving only the frame for easy access. 

You watched as 18D popped open the driver side door and climbed in.. You awkwardly waited outside, unsure where you fit. 

And then, something grabbed you. 

You were lifted like a damn feather, your indignant caterwauling ignored completely as your effective kidnapper jumped in and plopped you right onto her lap, arms looped around your waist.

“Be careful, G!” One of the girls cried out, the one settling into the passenger seat. “She’s fragile.”

Whoever was holding you – G? – cackled. “Relax, 73. She’s fine. Aren’t you, girly?” The girl leaned forward, her lips against the shell of your ear. You fully intended to pretend that you didn’t just experience a wave of shivers at the sound of her voice.

“Well, actually–” you started.

“73H is right, 5G,” 18 interrupted. “Be more careful.”

“Sure, sure,” 5G, G, whoever the fuck she was, answered lackadaisically. “Don’t worry, I’ll keep our little human safe.”

18 grumbled something that you didn’t catch under the roar of the engine turning over. In an attempt to save yourself, you wriggled, but it was useless against the unstoppable force that was this woman’s insane strength. Her arms didn’t so much as budge at your squirming.

“Um,” you spoke up above the rumbling purr emanating from the vehicle. “I can sit on my own just fine!”

5G grinned, propping her chin up on your shoulder. “Don’t be silly! I won’t let you go, you can trust me!”

Yeah, that wasn’t what you were worried about. It didn’t help that she was unfairly pretty. All of them were, really, in that inhuman way that bordered a little too close to uncanny valley, but didn’t quite fall into the steep drop yet.

You chewed the inside of your cheek. You were a novelty, after all; the last human on Earth. Maybe they’d never seen one before? You could hardly blame them for being curious.

Still, no matter how hard you tried to squash the thoughts under your heel, they persisted, whispering in your ear that you should have stayed with Pascal.

----

The entire ride to the city, the androids stared at you.

73H frequently turned around in her seat to chat with you and 5G, and 5G never loosened her hold. The only one that seemed to not be trying to pick you apart with her eyes was 18D, but with the blindfolds they all wore, for all you knew she could have been peering at you through the rearview mirror this whole time.

“What’s it like, being a human?” 73H queried.

“Um, what do you want to know?”

“Do you really produce milk?”

The question was so outrageous, you couldn’t help yourself. You choked on a laugh, then burst out into a fit of giggles. 18D chastised her, prompting 73H to apologize profusely to you, but you found it endearing.

Fanning your face, you answered, “Some people do, yeah. Usually happens after they give birth.”

“What’s it taste like?”

“73H!” 18 shouted.

“Sorry!” She whined.

5G nudged you while 18D chided 73H. “Can humans eat mackerel?”

You nodded. “Yeah, unless they’re allergic.”

“It doesn’t jam up your circuits?”

“No–” you made a face. “Humans don’t have circuits.”

“Really?” Both she and 73H asked.

As you chatted, you observed the changing scenery. The ruined structures of ancient apartments and house foundations fell away, replaced with idyllic landscapes.

It faded away, replaced with the curious chiming of music through old speakers, the sound tinny and popping. You leaned to the side to peek between 18D and 73H, watching as your driver raced towards an… 

Amusement park?

Going straight through the entrance led to a partially destroyed statue, its body cut on a clean diagonal, as if sliced in half. Rainwater collected inside it, causing its protective coating to wear off in some places and allow the bronze to oxidize.

“What’s that?” You pointed it out.

5G shrugged nonchalantly. “Records show it used to be a machine lifeform. Good riddance.”

18D drove around it and further into the park, up a few ramps. They were steep, leaving you to fall back into 5G, but she didn’t seem to mind in the slightest.

Past the houses lining the street, the space opened up greatly, a circular plaza with an open gate at the end. It was when 18D drove onto what resembled a highway that you saw it.

A bestial fortress. The vestiges of sunlight bled through the misshapen heart of its core, your desired sunset handed to you on a silver platter. To the right of it, the remnants of a ferris wheel lay collapsed upon its siding, overtaken by nature.

“I bet this place used to be fun,” 73H sighed. “Wish the roller coaster still worked.”

“There’s a roller coaster?” You looked back to spot it.

“Oh, yeah,” 5G crooned, laughing. “Just a mess now. Bet you would have been too chicken to ride it, 73H.”

“I would not have been!”

The two bickered back and forth, with 5G provoking 73H, saying that all healer units were wusses while the other insisting it wasn’t true.

The highway curved, extending parallel to the massive structure, away from the winding pillars and tracks of the doomed roller coaster. 

It was beautiful.

You feared that very beauty would grab hold of you and never let go.

Lost in thought, you didn’t notice that your ride had reached its destination until 5G was scooping you up like a soggy, wet cat again, lifting you out of the car. Looking around, you realized that 18D had parked in what seemed to be a garage lot somewhere underground. 

Just as you were beginning to panic, thinking they were about to drag you down to some creepy-ass dungeon, 18D spun around and led your group up a ramp and out into the crimson-gold lambency of the forevermore lowering sun, hanging heavy on the horizon.

The first step you took into the city left you speechless.

All around you, skyscrapers rose to greet the sky, their spires still standing tall, even after all this time. In place of glass windows with mirror-like finishes, overwhelming amounts of bright green foliage sprouted from the sides of the buildings. Trees lined the streets in thriving columns, blooms of white and pink flowering atop the leaves.

Asphalt made way for sprawling ivy and stunning flora, pops of color breathing a sentience yet unknown to you into what was once a metropolis packed full of humans. The tram line that cut through the center of the wide street blended seamlessly with the copsewood, the passenger carriage itself serving as a home for verdure.

A squirrel skittered from bush to bush and raced up the trunk of a nearby tree, chattering with another that hid in the midst of leafage. Flocks of birds circled overhead, searching for places to nest, bugs to feast upon, and treats to stash away.

Androids roamed about in small groups, two or three making their way to wherever it was they were going. Most had white hair, but it was easy to spot those that were brunette or blonde. A few even sported brilliantly red locks, a shock of contrast against a nearly all-green backdrop.

You were so used to streets that were jam packed with people and cars, a constant buzz of sound. Instead of honking vehicles and rumbling engines, there was the swish of gentle wind between buildings. Humans were exchanged with wildlife. Things of scant importance had long since decomposed.

Fresh air flooded your lungs. You could see straight up into a vivid wisteria and bell heather sky, no haze present to block out the lustrous glow of perpetual early sunset. Stars speckled the heavens in dots of cadenced flickers.

The world smelled sweet, faintly of lemongrass and something distinctly wild that you couldn’t put your finger on. For a moment, you forgot everything, captive to the beauty of a planet undesecrated by humanity.

To your surprise, many buildings and streetlights retained electricity, burning strong in the evening hours. They made constellations of one another, their silhouettes blurred into softness by still-surviving lightbulbs and the mellowed sun. When you heard the word ‘cozy’, this is what you imagined. A place of peace, full of nature, gentle on the eyes. 

If only real life was like this. Well, your real life.

The weapons your envoy possessed dissipated into sparkles of light as soon as they entered the official city boundary, embers fizzling away before you could enclose them in your palms and bring them to your heart.

“The King lives not far from the city center, in a castle,” 73H informed you. 

You cocked your head to the side. “Castle?”

A smile curled the corners of her mouth upwards. “Yes! He built it himself.”

“Oh,” you responded, lackluster.

You wondered if this ‘King’ had a proper name amongst the androids, or if he identified himself with weird numbers and letters like everyone else did, as far as you were aware. It would be kind of odd to always refer to him as only ‘the King’ or ‘His Majesty’, wouldn’t it?

It gave you something to ponder about as you followed 18D, absentmindedly taking in the scenery and moping about your universe not having anything remotely like this. Had you not been experiencing it firsthand, you would have dared to call it magical, far beyond the realm of possibility. The entire path you took to the so-called “castle” was like this, the pure essence of creation at the nimble hands of Earth.

And the castle itself – well, it wasn’t quite what you were expecting.

Granted, you didn’t know what to expect in the first place, but it wasn’t so strikingly simple in your mind’s eye.

Sticking out like a sore thumb, a structure of pure, pristine white material occupied a space you imagined might have once belonged to a church, a place of worship. If you paid close enough attention, you swore you could hear the whisper of unanswered prayers.

Compared to the decrepit skyscrapers, it looked brand new, untouched, raised from the ground and kept in a bubble of serenity, away from erosion and time. Your hands itched to dip into paint and press into its sides, leaving a reminder that you were there.

The massive doorway opened at your approach, and you walked through them, down a long path that led to a raised dais. A throne resided atop it, and on it sat a man, chin propped on his fist.

King was right.

The man had an undeniably heavy presence to him, one that had you straightening up.

You were never good with estimating, but you’d place his height around 7 feet, at least. He commanded the very air about him with his presence alone, drawing the attention of everyone nearby. 18D was tall, but the king beat her by a head or two easily.

Like most androids, his hair was a gleaming, cool white, resembling the underbelly of a fawn. It fluffed around his head in mid-length strands, and you bet it was soft as cotton. Part of you wanted to reach out and run your fingers through his wolf cut. 

Instead, you forced yourself to focus on his face. Unlike the other androids, he wasn’t wearing a blindfold, showing his pretty blue eyes; they swept over your escorts with little interest, then they settled on you.

And stayed.

Their striking hue made your breath catch. Stunning was an understatement, and you felt a smidge self conscious with how keenly he looked at you. You wrapped your arms around yourself, glancing away.

“Ladies,” he greeted. His tone was low and smooth. It passed over you, encircled you, and came to rest, a warm blanket made of affection and familiarity.

“Your Majesty,” your android companions all replied simultaneously, leaving you the odd one out once more.

The ‘King’ merely waved his hand. “This her, then?

18D rose first, thumping her fist against her chest before it fell to rest at her side.

“Yes, your Majesty. This is the human Pascal informed you of.”

In all the time that 18D was speaking, he never once looked away from you, wholly captivated by your existence.

His brows creased. “How did you end up here?”

It took you a moment to figure out he was asking you. “Oh, um,” you stammered, not expecting the unceremonious return of your vocal autonomy. “I… woke up here?”

Were you not currently busy getting the shit intimidated out of you, you would have considered a career as a wordsmith. With your talent for crafting intricate, yet easily-understood explanations, you could be a world-renowned author on any topic you craved to cover.

Surprisingly, the man didn’t ask you to restate yourself, moving on to ask, “What is your name?”

Hesitantly, you offered it, and received a dazzling smile in return.

“It’s a beautiful name,” he complimented. “You may call me Nier.”

Nier. 

Why was the king – Nier – the only one with a name? A proper name, one that sounded almost…

Human.

You thought to question it, but the comfort that came with a human name belonging to a man that was the closest to a human you’d seen overrode it.

Nier rose to his feet, coming to stand before you. He wielded power in his stance alone; it drew you to him.

“Come inside, we can talk more there,” he recommended, motioning to an opening off to the side. You nodded and let him guide you away from your escorts.

The door slid shut behind you, giving you privacy. Inside, you found what looked like a completely normal home, although made of the same material as the rest of the castle and his throne.

Where you expected Nier to sit you down on the couch, or at the dinner table, he kept walking until he reached the end of a hallway. He raised a hand and pressed it to the blank wall, and a hidden door parted, revealing another small room. An elevator.

You entered it with him, and soon felt the floor rise beneath you and carry you smoothly upwards. For how long, you had no way of knowing, having no indication of what floor you were on. It could have been seconds or minutes, but by the time the door opened again, you were disoriented and a hint dizzy. Nier, of course, was none the wiser, focused on bringing you into a bedroom, of all things.

Your first instinct was to think it was his bedroom – but the more you took in the details, the less that seemed likely. For one, there was no indication of anyone having lived in it; the sheets on the bed were untouched, not a wrinkle to be seen in the comforter or pillowcase, both as equally white as everything else. There was nothing on the nightstand beside the bed aside from a small lamp. The desk was blank, a chair tucked neatly under it, and if you opened the wardrobe, you’d bet there was nothing inside it.

“What…” you breathed aloud, confused.

Nier finally let go of your hand and stepped further in. “This is for you,” he said, like that gave you any sort of enlightenment on the environment.

“For me?”

“Yes,” he affirmed, laying his hand on your shoulder. Faintly, his finger brushed over your neck, the sensation little more than the lightest trace of a feather. But there was too much else going on for you to notice it properly, your focus drawn every which way. 

At his direction, the subtle persuading, you took a seat on the bed, bewildered to find that it was soft and comfortable, contrary to the blockiness you were expecting. Nier crouched in front of you, coming to rest on one knee, an arm laid lazily across the raised one. Even brought down to this level, he was nearly head-on with you, easily able to maintain eye contact.

“You don’t have to do that,” you said.

“I insist,” he asserted. “I am most happy when I serve.”

Your heart fluttered.

“Why don’t you start from the beginning?” He suggested. 

So, you did exactly that; you told him how you went to sleep in your world, and woke up in this one. How you met Pascal, and asked him to contact the androids with hopes that they could aid you in returning home. Now, you came to Nier with the hopes that he’ll be able to help you return to where you’re supposed to be.

“Her name is Accord,” you told him. “She’s an android, like you. Can you contact her?”

His head tilted to the side, and he put a hand on your thigh, above your knee. “Don’t worry,” he soothed. “We’ll help you get home. It’s our responsibility as the servants of humanity to serve you, and keep you safe.”

You gave him a thin, watery smile. 

“Thank you, your Majesty–”

“Nier,” he corrected.

You swallowed down the dryness in your throat. “...Nier.”

The delighted expression he gave you caused heat to rise to your cheeks. You looked away, and that’s when you heard it, a distant, muffled noise.

You spotted a nearby window where the noise came from. You turned to peer out of it, where you found dozens upon dozens of androids standing on the street below. They all hollered and flailed their arms about, heads bobbing like little whack-a-moles.

Beside you, Nier grumbled, “News travels so fast… I apologize, I hoped we’d have more time before they learned you were here.”

Leaning closer to the window, you awed at the amount of people gathered. “Are they all… here to see me?”

“Of course, they are,” came his soft reply. “You are a miracle to us.”

You peeked at him, and found him smiling tenderly at you, his expression warm and gentle. He gave you a slight nod, and you took it as permission to interact with the amassed people. Slowly, you raised a hand, and waved it at them.

Your reward was an explosive round of cheers that barely reached you, the androids jumping and waving back at you. Despite yourself, your lips tugged upwards, the tightness in your chest loosening. 

If nothing else, it was nice to know the androids were excited to see you.

Nier rose from his spot. “I’d like to show you the rest of the castle,” he explained. “If that’s alright.”

There was something about him that made you feel safe. He was kind, and you knew he’d protect you. When he extended his hand, you took it, fingers gliding into his palm.

“I’d love to see,” you said.

His eyes crinkled at the corners. “Come, then. There’s much to show you.”

divider by cafekitsune ♥

(reminder to put your age in your bio/pinned before you follow me or I will block you)

[NieR masterlist]