Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

You

The dark threatened to swallow you whole as you ran, but you kept going. You had to keep running and get out. Fire and screams surrounded you but you didn’t stop lest you join them in their fate. Gunshots rang as you got closer and closer to your escape, the shootout between the cops and your, Your parents’, mob still ongoing from when it started in early morning because of you. A turncoat, a traitor to your family.

You don’t regret it, or at least you hoped you wouldn’t. You sprinted down the halls grateful for the noise that covered your heavy footfalls and ragged breathing, passing mobsters as you went that paid no mind to your fleeing, too busy with their own. You burst through the doors to the gardens that were still untouched by the raging gunfighting and spreading fire as you kept running, sliding around a hedge corner to dig out your bag of belongings you had stored days ago for this exact scenario, slinging it over your shoulder and paying no mind to the dirt as you kept going. You were so close to being free, to do what you wanted. That’s when you heard it. 

Tap Tap Tap Tap

 Footfalls hitting the ground in rapid succession, far faster and heavier than a human. You made to dive but you were too late as a force slammed into you, winding you as you hit the ground. Staring above you was a crescent face you’d come to know well, your legs pinned under the weight of a hunter you had trusted, but blazing red eyes that made the moon leering down at you looked more like a stranger than a friend. 

“ Traitor .” Was hissed between metal teeth, sharp claws digging into your wrists as her weight pinned you further into the ground.

”Artemis,” You wince as the claws dig in hard enough to draw blood, “Artemis please-“

” No. No you are not running free after this stunt. I was ordered to bring you back, I am not letting you go.” You hiss a breath as the grip gets tighter, sure to leave bruises for days as you grasp for what to say.

”You know what they’re doing is wrong, I couldn’t sit back and let it happen. I don’t want to be like them, and I know you don’t either. You can come with me, Artie.” The grip on you loosens slightly as the moon above you pauses, staring through you as if she was judging whether you spoke truth or in desperation. It was a little of both.

“My mission–”

“Fuck your mission, choose for yourself.” You snap, making her startle. The gunfire is drawing closer, you’re running out of time. Her weight is gone then, the Moon bot standing over you with a ferocious snarl.

“Go, before I change my mind. Pray we don’t cross paths again.” She hisses your name like poison and you scramble to stand, not needing to be told twice and definitely not taking any chances. Her mind won’t be changed, you’ve known her long enough to know it’ll just waste your time, so you sprint away, feeling her eyes on your back until you’re out of her sight. Suddenly you’re weightless, the ground gone from beneath your feet as you suddenly find yourself plummeting to the ground-

You jolt awake with a shriek dying on your lips as you hit the floor, having fallen off your bed in the hotel room. You lay winded on the hardwood staring up at the ceiling, breathing heavily from the memory vividly playing behind your eyes. It’s been almost a year now since then, yet it still haunts you and stung as if it was only days prior. Funny how guilt worked in the human mind. You groan as you pull yourself to your feet and stretch out the pins and needles in your body, feeling like utter shit inside and out from your disturbed nights, not having gotten proper rest in months. You at least hoped that would change today with the job you were starting, it promised not only money but a place to live and hopefully be out of your parents eyes for a while. After all, who was going to look for you in the den of the rival mob? You grimace as you go to freshen up, reminding yourself why you’re here to begin with. You wanted to leave the mob you were born into behind, so you betrayed them and now they were on the hunt for you. Pretty simple on paper, and it made you sigh wearily as you stared at yourself in the mirror, taking in how pale, tired and exhausted you looked knowing you were going right into another one. 

Not the mob itself, you were going to be very careful about that, but it’s cover, the casino. It made you wonder if it really was worth it to leave, you’d had the life of anyone’s dreams after all, safe and secure. You scowl at your reflection and shake your head, of course you made the right decision, you didn’t want the life that came with that. 

Deciding glaring at yourself wasn’t going to help you get into the shower and clean off, knowing you had to look your best for the first day and hope no one recognizes you. Another point to your choice of hiding spot, you just hoped enough time had passed that your older features couldn’t be correlated to the young child you’d been the first and only time you’d been there. You realized you got lost in your thoughts just standing under the water and hurriedly finished up, nearly speeding through the rest of your routine and packing your two bags of things. You couldn’t risk being late, so you sped through the lobby and left a gracious and hurried tip as you left in apology for the rush, grabbing your modded Harley from the car park and speeding off. You had a 2 hour drive ahead of you, and you relaxed when you saw you would be a little early as long as traffic had mercy on you. It was time to start anew, and hopefully stay out of the mob side while you did it. 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Standing outside the casino you have the passing thought that maybe you made a mistake in this decision. The casino was huge, so much bigger than you remembered it being, with vibrant neons and the building glowing in the setting sun. Slinging your bags over your shoulder you take a deep breath and hop off your bike, leaving it in guest parking as you head to the doors, unable to stop staring at the grand building. The casino building itself was massive, looking like it was made of white marble with neon pinks and purples illuminating it with the name “Casino Royale” in swooping neon signage right at the front. Standing tall connected behind the casino building was a tall apartment complex it seemed, with deep red brick and the same “Casino Royale” neon sign at the very top. It was huge and intimidating, and you gulped a little as the doubts of this decision started creeping up your spine once more. 

HONK

You were jolted out of your thoughts by a car horn as you scrambled out of the way, spewing apologies to the passerby that glared at you as you stood on the sidewalk before the doors.

”No turning back.” You whisper as you make the final steps to the grand metal doors, a bouncer up front eyeing you as you draw closer.

“I.D please.” He was gruff and kind of intimidating as you scramble to pull your wallet from your bag and hand him your license. 

“I’m a new hire,” you rush to explain as the anxiety takes hold at his silence, “I’m also going to live on the grounds in the apartments as I’m currently between homes-“ You shut your jaw with a click as he holds his hand up, you get the message quickly.

”The name lines up, you’re on the staff and housing list. Follow me.” He hands you back your license and you quickly fall in step behind the man as he abruptly turns and starts leading you through the grand casino. 

You couldn’t help but fall behind as you took everything in, the grandeur of the building looking so much bigger than you imagined from just seeing the outside. The area you walked into, the main casino lobby was elegant, with a sign-in desk sitting snuggling in front of a double staircase over a lovely gray and white marble floor. The bouncer walked straight up the right set of stairs and you timidly waved the the young man that was counting chips, who waved back at you with a grin as you hurriedly tried to keep up. Your “guide” pushed open large, heavy doors that were beautifully decorated with gold art deco details and you were slammed with the noise of cheering and slot machines, dully registering the doors shut behind you as you took in the casino proper. The high ceilings had diamond-crossing beams all across it with huges central pillars that were entirely lit with warm gold light holding it up, neon pinks and purples coming from hanging chandelier fixtures melding with the bright whites and neons of the slot machines. You hurriedly followed the bouncer as you swerved around people and working staff bots -holy shit you haven't seen one of those in ages- just trying to take in everything while not getting lost from your guide. You got a break from the neons for a moment as you passed the card tables, lower warm lighting creating a barricade from the neon nightmare beyond. It was almost like the area itself blocked some of the outside influence as the sound seemed muted aside from what was happening at the tables. Dealers lead games of Poker, Black-Jack and roulette, other games you didn’t remember the names of under way as well. The bouncer snapped at you and you flushed when you realized you had stopped to gawk.

”Sorry, it’s just so much to take in.” 

“You’ll have time later, keep up.” Snappy he was, you thought to yourself as you took better care to stay close. You left the card table area and were hit with the noise and lights once more, solidifying that it was magic at work. You didn’t get to see that much these days, you'd have to look into it later if you planned to stay long term. You made the mental note to do so as you finally left the bustle of the casino passing through grand golden doors into what looked like a beautiful and high class hotel or apartment lobby. Your jaw dropped as you took in the stunning marble and gold decor with red accented carpets and furnishings made you feel so out of place in your torn up jeans and oil stained sweater, but you followed the bouncer nonetheless to the front desk.

”This is where you can sign in, you sign in and out whenever you leave or return to the rooms. Understood?”

”Yes of course.” You nod agreeably despite the alarms going off in your head at that system and he gives a grunt before walking away You turn then to the woman behind the counter and give her your name and ID, checking in to your new home and signing off on your new life. 

“Alright Hun, here’s your apartment key. Craig there told you about the sign in, and don’t worry, it’s just to keep track of those living under the roof and make sure residents are safe.” If anything that makes your alarms blare louder, however, you still nodded with a grin.

”Of course, I get that.” 

“Wonderful. We follow the same rule sets here as other apartments of course, and your rent is automatically pulled from your paycheck, so all the money you recieve on pay is yours to do as you please.” You nod again and she sets the key in your palm with a bright smile.

”I hope you settle in well, a staff member will come to your apartment in the morning to guide you through your first day. Please have a good night.”

”Thank you, you too.” You say pleasantly as you walk away, shifting your bags and looking at the key and tag.

Floor 16, Apartment 245. Nice.

You head to the elevator, taking your time to truly take in the space now that you don't have to follow a pissy bouncer constantly urging you along. You couldn’t get over how grand everything was here, you half expected the people to be walking around wearing diamonds and jewels, but it seemed like most of the people were casino and apartment staff. The elevator ride up was quiet and peaceful and you could feel yourself slowly easing from your stress of the last several weeks now with a proper and stable roof over your head and the promise of a proper job. You quietly left the elevator and walked down the hall, giving small waves to the few people you passed on your way to your apartment. After wandering aimlessly for a moment you finally found apartment 245 and slipped in, taking a deep breath and looking around your new home for the foreseeable future. A decent size fully open floor plan of a room greated you, smelling of cleaner and fresh linen, with sunlight streaming through a large living room window with the drapes neatly pulled to the side.

It was bare bones with exposed brick walls that gave a modern industrial feeling and deep brown vinyl wood flooring, with simple white furniture filling the space in a clean minimalist way. You weren’t sure if you would fill the space or not, it would probably be best to not personalize too much in case you have to make a quick exit, but maybe you could add some pictures or your own touches just so it didn’t feel generic. So it would feel like a home, however temporary it may be. You sigh and feel yourself completely relax in the space and trudge over to the freshly made bed and flop down, feeling all tension leave you as you sink into the soft mattress. You decide then and there that you will unpack later, you need to sleep in a proper bed for once. So after you set your alarm for two hours before your shift and close your eyes, you feel yourself sink into the calm black that washes over you.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Darkness all around you, surrounding you like a dark cocoon. You turn every which way you can to try and get some bearing on where you are. There’s nothing to see in the inky black, only able to see yourself in the void, and you look up -you think- and squint at the barely noticeable white speck in the black. You frantically try to move towards it but nothing that you attempt to do gets you any closer to it, and you notice you seem to be getting further away.

”You can’t hide forever.” A voice echoes in the dark that has your heart dropping. It sounds like it should be familiar to you, something in your brain lighting up in recognition at hearing it, but you can’t place it for the life of you.

“Run run run little bug, soon enough you’ll be stomped down like the critter you are.”

”Who are you?” You snap into the dark and a deep, reverberating laugh shakes the space around you that sends shudders down your spine.

”You know me well little one, perhaps I need to jog your memory.” Crimson eyes in the dark is all you see before everything fades out to white.

Your alarm blaring has you jolting awake in a cold sweat and frantically looking around your space, slowly relaxing as you realize you're in your new  apartment, sunlight slowly streaming in from the early morning. Your heart takes a while to settle as you focus on the space around you, the soft sheets under you and the warm blanket laying over you, grounding you. When you finally feel stable enough you pick up your phone to check the time.

6:30 in the morning just as you set. With a groan you force yourself to roll out of bed and start getting ready and settle yourself in more fully, grabbing your duffle bags you had just abandoned on the floor the night before and digging through them. You start putting the clothes away in the small dresser and keep out the clothes you intend to wear in place of a uniform until you get yours and go to freshen up. A quick shower makes you feel more like a living person, and you take the time to make sure your hair actually looks decent before you dress and put a little bit of makeup on to hide the still present dark circles under your eyes before you wander the apartment properly now that you’ve had proper rest. The apartment resembles a nice bachelor pad, connected bedroom-living room-kitchen set up that flowed really nicely together with a large decorative window lighting most of the space, and the small kitchen has a couple decorative pieces on the small island that segments the kitchen from the living room. It’s cozy, and you are a little glad for the setup that you don't have to remember to pay the rent every month, a pretty swear deal in your opinion. A knock on your door halts your exploration and you go to answer it, opening the door to see the same you g man that was at the casino front desk when you arrived yesturday waiting patiently outside it. As soon as you open the door he lights up and gives a mini salute.

”Good morning!” He says your name with cheer as he looks you over briefly before making eye contact, like you seemingly just passed a test. “I’m Benji, and I will be your official guide for today.”

”Oh! Well thank you, it’s nice to meet you Benji.” You step out and lock the door behind you and follow behind the chattering bell boy. Apparently your first day was an official tour, getting your uniform and shadowing another  worker in basic tasks for your position of general staff. A decently easy first day.

You hop in the elevator and take a calming breath. You can do this, you just have to not stray too far into the lion’s den. As long as you keep your head down and do your job you should coast along just fine.

Shouldn’t be too hard.

Chapter Text

Following Benji was much easier than following that bouncer, Craig you think the desk lady called him, as Benji actually slowed down to let you take it in and even explained a bit about where you were. It was a great change of pace from the rush of yesterday, and you were glad for the breather. You still wondered why it had been so rushed, but you supposed you could push that back and ask at a later time. Benji walked you through the sign in and sign out system, which was simply swiping your room tag which was nice and easy even if the system still raised alarm bells for you. Once you clocked out of the hotel the true tour began.

”So the hall we’re walking down right now just connects the apartment building to the casino. That door on our left here,” You both pause as Benji motions to it, “is usually were employees come in and out, there’s a private employee parking lot back there that’s accessible with your room card. So if you have a vehicle I’d recommend bringing it around when you can.”

”Oh! Thank you, I had no idea. Not sure why it wasn’t mentioned to me when they asked me to move in for my start day.”

“Craig never does, I think he likes seeing the panic, a few new employees have had their cars towed..” Benji laughs it off while you just felt a little confused and made a mental note to yourself to move your bike as soon as you where done with your training shift. 

Benji then pulls you along to a large red door with neon lettering of “Staff”, opening it as he continues talking to you.

”So this is one of several break rooms around the casino, this is just the main one as it’s between the casino, bar and hotel.” You nodded as you looked around the rather lavish room, looking like a mini bar itself. It had various plush couches and fancy black tables, a small and well kept kitchen with a pool table in the middle. 

“It’s really well kept.” Is all you can think to say.

”I was surprised too, but it’s lovely for work morale.” Benji opens up a locker on the wall and tosses you a package which upon looking closer at you see is a uniform.

”Get changed in that and then I can bring you to meet who you're shadowing for the first day!” Before you can even thank him Benji is out the door, leaving you standing there surprised. You just shrugged it off and pulled out the uniform to look at it properly with interest. 

It was red and black themed, a simple long sleeve black dress shirt with a darker red vest to be worn over top. The vest had lovely, subtle stitching of the card suits in a deep gold along the seams. Paired with black slacks and deep red, slightly heeled penny loafers with a gold buckle on the center. It was subtle elegance and you were surprised at how the fabric felt on your skin, familiar in a way you couldn’t quite place. You’re glad that they asked you for your size beforehand so you didn’t have to go through the awkward sizing process, and doubly glad that it was in your colors. You wore black and a decent amount, and you felt cosmic luck was on your side that it was something you were used to wearing. You tuck the clothes you were wearing into the same locker the uniform had come from and decided you’d grab it on your way back to your apartment after the shift. Stepping out of the room Benji clapped as you awkwardly tugged at your sleeves.

“You already look part of the crew!” 

“Thanks, that is the point right?” You ask a little awkwardly, hand rubbing the back of your neck awkwardly as Benji laughs at your not-really-a-joke joke as you relax a little at his reaction.

”Alright, now that you’re all suited up, let's get you out on the floor and get your first day going.”

”Sounds good to me.” You add false cheer that Benji seems to not catch as you follow him into the casino proper. The noise catches you off guard, already bustling with activity despite the early hour.

“So you know the schedule I’m assuming?” You follow close to Benji as he asks, watching people as you answer.

“I know that the casino is 10am-5am, but my schedule is 8-5.” You supply as Benji nods along.

“Right, it’s good you know that already. Technically it’s open 24/7, but that time between 5 am and 10 am is for cleaning and prep crew for opening.”

“I see, so I help with the cleaning and prep for the first part of my shift.”

“Exactly! Then I believe you’re part of the server staff, serving drinks and food to the tables where customers are playing, and cleaning up after them. Kind of an all around floor role if I remember correctly.”

”That sounds about right.” You recalled the schedule from when you applied, and you’re pretty sure it was called ‘common floor worker’, so what Benji was saying made sense to you. 

“So you're not training training me Benji? You said you were taking me to who I'll shadow today.” You think to ask and he laughs lightly at you with a shake of his head.

”Naw I was just to give you the basic tour and outline, I’m just the guy to give the grand tour.” You simply nod as he motions you to follow him between card tables. 

“So this is sort of the main floor area, all the card game tables with the machine on the outer perimeter. There’s magic in the table lights that keep noise contained to their area so things don’t get muddled.” Well there’s your answer to that you supposed, and you didn’t even have to snoop. 

Awesome. 

Benji gets you familiar with the floor and you realize it’s not too hard to navigate, as the tables are organized and each light, as Benji pointed out to you, has the table number stamped to them. That definitely made things easier for you as you already felt a little overwhelmed just from the sheer size of the place. The next place you go is the kitchens and the casino bar, waving to other employees as you pass. 

“This is where you pick up the orders and drop off dishes and such. You won’t really need to go in the back so don’t worry about that.”

”Sounds simple enough.” You say while not really feeling it. You seem to hide it well as Benji doesn’t pick up on it as he calls your name and has you follow him once more between the slots machines.

”Now I’m taking you to Rose, bossman asked her to train you.”

”Can you tell me anything about her? Anything I should know beforehand?’ You say to keep up interest, genuinely curious and to not seem suspicious by either staying quiet or straight up asking about the boss. 

“Rose? She’s a lovely lady, she usually works the club downstairs, but she’s on the floor a lot too. Really lovely lady and the head of the working girls here.”

“Oh that’s interesting.” You were genuinely intrigued as you quickly followed behind. “I wasn’t aware there were working girls here.”

“They mostly stay at the club, but the Boss man likes having them on the floor to distract players. We keep that hush hush.” Benji winks at you and you smile a little awkwardly and nod, just now noticing you had circled back around to the separating hallway of the casino and hotel. “She’ll be out soon to start her shift, but I have to go to my shift. Nice meeting you!” He waves as he says your name in parting, to which you wave back a little awkwardly as you stand hy the door waiting and looking around.

It’s only around nine in the morning, Benji having toured you for about an hour before leaving you, and the place is already bustling with staff. The overnight clean up crews go about their jobs with such efficiency it has you hooked on watching their movements, however you’re quick to turn away with an embarrassed blush when you’re caught staring for too long. You find entertainment in watching the few S.T.A.F.F bots that roll around the floor, not cleaning but seem to be security of some kind. It made sense to you for robot security, even if these models looked pretty old from what you could remember. Fazco in your country had gone under not that long ago, so it struck you as odd that such old bots patrolled such a place as this. You were still taking in the casino and lost in your musing when the door opening behind you startled you from your thoughts as you turned to see who entered. A stunning woman locked eyes with you and gave a kind smile as you quickly took her in.

She was a bit taller than you from the heels she was wearing and in a very pretty red dress that kind of reminded you of Flamenco dresses, with card suits embroidery throughout the layers similar to your own vest. Warm brown eyes crinkled at the corners as she seemed to also take you in, offering her hand in greeting which you shake hesitantly.

”You must be the new hire. I’m Rose, I believe I’m training you?”

”Ah yes.” Her mild Spanish accent takes you by surprise as you awkwardly fumble through telling her your own name and are a bit too hasty  to withdraw your hand from her warm grip. “I tend to go by Scrappy though, if you don’t mind.” The nickname you’d had since you were a child feels good on your tongue, light with memories over your own name even if some are bittersweet now. You make another note on your growing mental list to bring it up to Benji at some point so he stops calling by your name.

“Well it’s lovely to meet you Scrappy.” Dark skin glows in the light of the slot machines as Rose steps past you and pushes some of her curly black hair behind her ear. “Let’s get to it then.”

The next hour finds you shadowing Rose and learning a little more in depth of the casino floor job, the serving and the cleaning. A lot was already done from the night staff, but you learned quickly that your man job was more so setting up. Wiping down card tables and setting out chips and cards, dice for the tables that needed them and checking the game and roulette wheels. You were thankful for that hour before the doors officially opened to the public, as Rose guided you through everything with the patience of a saint with no customers around, even laughing as you tried to shuffle cards and ended up with them all over the floor to your dismay. She was nice, but definitely a no nonsense woman, and you respected it. Even as patrons started slowly coming in and the cleaning staff left, Rose let you meekly follow behind her without complaint as you did your best to pick up what she was teaching you. You ended up for half your shift together being an errand boy grabbing small things for her and just giving your best customer service smile to patrons, and by the time your lunch came around you were already tired. 

“Oh Sweetheart,” Rose laughed at you as you both swiped your cards for break and you dropped yourself on the break room sofa with a groan, “It isn’t even that busy yet. Just wait until that three o’clock group comes in.” You groan loudly and a little dramatically, earning a genuine laugh from the woman. A thought occurred to you as you sat up and looked at her as she started getting her own lunch ready.

”These breaks are an hour right? Am I allowed to leave the grounds, like if I wanted to eat out or something?”

”An excellent question. Yes, usually staff are allowed to do whatever they wish on their breaks as long as they clock in on time. Many that live in the apartments just go back to their place for it.” She pauses then as her food heats, whatever it is smelling amazing as she takes you in. “Though there are a few days where we have to stay in the building.” There was a weight to Rose’s voice you couldn’t quite place that had you regarding her more seriously as she continued, simultaneously looking through you and at you. “I won’t lie to you Scrappy, you’re a good kid.”

”That doesn’t tend to bode well, those words together.” You try to add some levity to your voice, having a feeling you know what she’s about to warn you about. Your humor seems to make the older woman relax as she gives you a light, if strained, smile. 

“There’s some shady shit going around here Sweetheart. I’m warning you now so you don’t go poking in places you shouldn’t. You look like the type to get in trouble.”

Ouch, but regrettably she’s right.

”Alright, thanks for the warning Rose, I appreciate it. I’ll be careful.” You make to stand up but her hand on your shoulder gives you pause as you look up at her face, pinched in worry. She says your name with gravity before sighing.

”If I were you kid, I’d leave this job. You’re too young to be stuck here Scrappy.”

”I..” You don’t know how to respond to that, considering you know why you chose here and she doesn’t. So you pull your face into the best look of concern and consideration you can. “I’ll think about it, thank you Rose. Really.” The woman relaxes and gives you a more genuine smile as she steps back out of your personal space.

”That’s all I ask. Now, go get your food, I assume you wanted to leave, yes? Just make sure you’re back for one, we have more training to do.”

”Oh! Right, thank you Rose!” You wave to her as you head out, quickly running up to your apartment to grab your helmet and running back down, going out the employee parking lot door Benji showed you and making the jog over to the lot to where your bike still sat in the customer parking lot. You had about forty minutes of your break left and since you knew you could easily make it until the end of your shift to eat, you decided to explore the area more instead to map out the city, just in case. 

As you got back on your bike and rode down the streets you felt the tension from Rose’s earlier warning bleed away and simmer as you thought it over, keeping your eyes peeled for landmarks and places of interest. Of course Rose had know idea you knew of the mob, but the fact that she felt the need to warn you planted a little seed of doubt in your mind. Maybe you had made the wrong decision and should have kept going instead of settling in the lion’s den. You sighed under your helmet as you went through a round-about, eyeing the coffee shops and restaurants. The roads weren’t too busy, as expected being midday on a Monday, but the shops were decently busy. Seems a lot of people commute over walking or bus, that’s a good mental note for you as you slowly make your way back to the Casino. A building catches your eye as you drive by that has you pulling into the parking lot for a better look. It’s an older building that’s about five minutes down the road from the casino, a fifteen minute walk at most, that looks like a punk bar. It isn’t open yet, but the neon letters for “The Violet Hare” are glowing bright even in the overhead sunlight. You see the hours being 3pm-6am and add another point to your mental list to visit as you slowly ride around the exterior.

Despite being older you can see it’s well kept with what you guessed were apartments above the bar itself, and well kept gardens with black fauna around the outside and growing up the brick. It was pretty cool, and you figured it’d be good for you to go somewhere other than your work. With that added to your list of mental checks you head off back to your current work and home. The drive in total only took you thirty minutes, but you figured you wouldn’t get back up to your room and back in the last ten and regrettably realized you’d have to leave your helmet and keys in the break room until your shift was done. You pull into the employee only car park and find a spot with your apartment number on it, eagerly parking under the cover it provides, glad to know your bike is safe from the elements. You pause as you get off and eye the bat you have strapped to the side debating if you should take it with you. You had a couple small knives in your apartment for defense that had been in your bag, but you just had a feeling that you should have something else. The problem was there wasn’t a chance in hell you were getting it into your apartment without being spotted. 

After some back and forth debate you reluctantly leave your trusty bat and just make sure the locks keeping it to the body of your bike are tight before heading in. The card scanner makes a positive beep as you swipe it and enter the staff all, breathing in the cool air conditioning as you tug off your helmet and head back into the breakroom to see Rose still there now relaxing on the lounge couch.

”Welcome back Sweetheart.” You gave her a wave as you shoved your helmet and keys in with your clothes. “Ready to start work again?”

”As ready as I’ll ever be I suppose.” You say with a laugh as Rose gets up and situates herself, looking amused at you trying to make yourself presentable again from your windblown appearance. 

“Good, because you’ll start getting the fun patrons now.”

”Fun in a good way or a bad way?”

”It’s a matter of opinion I suppose.” That isn’t all that comforting, and you say as such which just makes Rose laugh and plant a hand on your shoulder.

”Don’t worry Sweetheart, I’m with you out there. I won’t let them get too rowdy with you.” She gives you a wink as you deadpan, a beat of silence passing between you before you both break into a fit of giggles.

”Seriously though Scrappy,” she says as you both sign in, “come get me if someone gets too much. The patrons can be…alot.” You nod with a hum of acknowledgement as you walk onto the floor, Rose immediately plastering her bright customer smile on as you see that in the hour you were gone business had picked up. You follow her lead and get to work. 

You’re adjusting pretty fast, and you mostly owe that to all the practice you’ve had of dealing with people that think they’re better than you, and you’ll gladly take those lessons. Even serving patrons is coming to you, as you find it’s more repetitive than anything. Ask what they want, make a note and go to the kitchen, circle a couple tables and go back for the drinks. Even with customers simply being customers you’re thankful there’s been no problems. That would suck to happen on your first day. All throughout your shift however you can’t shake the feeling of being watched, and even when you look around you can’t tell the source of who’s watching, which frankly unnerves you more. Call you paranoid, but your instincts are screaming at you. As you follow Rose’s instruction and occasionally break off from her you become hyper aware of your surroundings.

It definitely isn’t the S.T.A.F.F bots watching you, they’re in their own little world rolling along between the rows and customers, and while you’re getting glances from your colleagues and patrons alike, none are setting off those alarm bells. It’s when Rose has you follow her to the poker tables that you find the source, by accident. As the both of you round a table, her with drinks and you with an assortment of finger foods that you look eyes with a synth very different from the others patrolling the floor. Familiar to you in a bitter way but different as you stare for perhaps a moment too long into glowing green eye lights in a sea of black. You quickly tear your eyes away to set out the snack and converse lightly with the patrons, but your attention isn’t on them, but the synth that’s clearly watching your movements. 

You take them in from the corner of your eye, from gold tipped hands dealing cards at a speed that makes you feel dizzy to the chocolate and caramel coloring of their casing. A Sun model maybe? You weren’t sure but even sitting you could tell the synth was tall, taller than what you were used to. You were quick to follow Rose from that table, feeling the eyes follow you until you were both around the corner and the feeling let up. It’s when you’re bringing the dishes to the kitchen that you work up the courage to ask.

”Who was that synth? They’re different from the other bots here.” You expected a lot of different reactions, but seeing Rose light up and look fond was not what you expected.

”The card dealer, Ac-“ She coughs and shakes her head slightly before looking at you with a slight grimace, though you can tell its not directed at you, “Apogee. He’s quite the synth.” You decide not to question her on the slip up, it sounding like she was going to say a different name and push forward instead.

”Apogee?”

”Yes. The owner felt it was a fitting name as our dealer is a supposed Eclipse model, at least that’s what I heard.”

”Huh.” Well better now than never. “He kind of looks like those older models from Fazco.” You say neutrally, and see Rose nod out the corner of your eye as you set the dirt dishes on the counter.

”That’s what we’ve been told, yes, repurposed. Do you know of the company?” She seems more curious than anything as you both take a breather to talk, and you take that as a good sign, staying as casual as possible.

”I know a little. I was into robotics a bit as a kid and my parents had a couple old Fazco bots they were trying to repurpose and take parts from. I learned by proxy.” Not the total truth, but true enough. Either way it appeased Rose as she started collecting the next orders.

”Fascinating, I wouldn’t have taken you for a tech kind of person.” You shrug a little sheepishly.

”I just think it’s fascinating, and he just stood out and caught my eye.”

”Apogee tends to do that.” Rose gives a little laugh as she hands off some dishes to you. “I’m more than willing to talk about the guy, but work first I’m afraid.” There was the barest of a reprimand that had you quickly apologizing as you followed the woman back out to the floor. 

Unfortunately for you, you never got the chance to talk to Rose again, as she was still on shift when your day ended. You didn’t want to bother her more so you simply waved to her and said you’d see her tomorrow before heading to the break room, however you paused when you heard loud chatter on the other side of the door. It was five at night, so you figured it made sense if a couple other staff were on break at this time. Once a S.T.A.F.F bot rolled by you, giving the slightest glance before continuing, you swiped your card for day end and slipped inside. There were five women spread all throughout the breakroom, in varying levels of undress from fully clothed to this-passes-as-a-swimsuit talking together. The door, unfortunately betrayed you as it shut with a loud Click that had the room fall silent and all eyes fall on you. It was very uncomfortable, and one of the women with vibrant red hair must’ve noticed your face that probably looked like you at a full lemon and loudly cleared her throat.

”Heya, you’re the new hire right? Rose mentioned ya, Scrappy was it?”

Bless that woman for telling others so you didn't have to again.

”U-Uh yeah, that’s me.” It felt so awkward but the women didn’t seem to mind, the one to talk to you approaching with a saunter and a bright grin.

”Call me Cinder love, we’re Rose’s girls. Nice to meetchya.” You shook her offered hand, gold bangles and red trinkets jingling as you do so, and then jingling more as she motions around the room to introduce the rest.

”That lovely lady playing pool in the jade is Holly, she’s a bit quiet but she’s great with snappy comebacks. Her opponent is Pixie, she’s a sassy one so watch what ya say.” It’s said with humor as a lady in all green with short cut brown hair paused her game to wave at to you who you took as Holly, and her companion, a short tan woman with the longest blonde hair you’ve ever seen in all pink waves as well, Pixie you assume if the names fit the look. You wave back, feeling a little more comfortable with the seeming casualness as Cinder brings your attention to a woman with black-to-blue ombre hair that’s stretched across the lounge in sweats.

”This firecracker is Rayne, if ya ever need a breather just find her and she’ll grab all the attention to give ya a minute.” 

“I’ll be sure to remember that.” You say as you return the two finger salute Rayne offers you with a grin, feeling yourself relaxing more as the pool game fills the space and the girls go back to their break.

“This last bombshell of ours is Sugar.” Cinder brings you over to the last girl in the kitchenette and leaves you to throw her arm around the tall dark skinned woman in a jingly orange outfit. “She’s also the most asked for-“

“Oh hush you.” It’s said fondly as Sugar shakes her head, massive head of curls following the movement. Her hair coloring reminds you of a calico cat, coils in white, black and copper falling around her face as she leans in to offer her hand, you shaking it as well with a relaxed smile. “Sorry about Cinder hon, she’s a lot. Nice to meet you, I hope you like working here.”

“I hope so too, though it seems like it’ll be a blast with you guys here.” You try for honesty which seems to land as you hopped judging by Cinder’s and Sugar’s grins. 

“Damn right!” Cinder hoots, followed by four others of varying enthusiasm. It makes you laugh a little as Cinder follows you over to your locker, watching you pull out your clothes from this morning, keys and helmet. You notice her eyes land on the ears sticking off the top, parting her lips to say something when the door clicks and opens. The synth, Apogee, dicks under the doorframe and steps in.

You feel yourself freeze as his gaze rakes over the room and falls on you. You aren’t sure what to say as every instinct down to your bones is telling you to run, but Cinder, bless her, saves your awkward ass again. 

“Boss man!” You think you hear someone say “Ace” underneath the declaration as Cinder sprints -in heels holy shit girl- to the synth and wraps him in a hug, which is returned with what you think is affectionate annoyance. 

“How many times have I said not to call me that?” The rumbly voice doesn’t surprise you, but you do catch a slight Spanish accent, similar to Rose’s once you think about it, rolling off his words. 

Interesting.

He’s talking lowly to the rest of the girls that have gathered around him, thankfully not blocking the door as you slip around the group. You quickly have the door shut behind you before any goodbyes can be said and just breathe for a moment, still trying to process why this synth makes you feel the need to flee. The watching may have something to do with it. You power walk into the apartment building, having to backtrack when you forget to swipe your card and sheepishly waving to the woman behind the desk as you make the second pass. You don’t truly breath until you’re in the elevator, but it seems luck isn’t on your side as a metal hand catches the door and the dealer steps in. You try to stand casually in the corner knowing you’re most likely failing spectacularly as you try to get a better look at the synth next to you. You were right in your original assessment that he was tall, hunched slightly with rays retracted to fit in the elevator. You guess about eight feet tall, which, why does a bot need to be that tall? You note his clothes next now that there’s nothing obscuring your view, and aren’t surprised at the neat way he’s dressed. A deep maroon dress shirt slightly unbuttoned at the top paired with deep and faded green pants and jacket. You notice the card suit motif throughout and find it a little endearing. A low reverberating chuckle fills the small space and startles you, making you look at Apogee properly and not through the corner of your eye.

“Had your fill Scrappy?” The way he says your nickname sends shudders down your spine as you wince at the same time from being caught.

“I’ve just never seen a synth like you, sorry for staring.” You answer meekly, and he hums in thought. 

“A lie. A partial one.” You feel ice in your veins as he comes to tower over you, a clawed hand resting on the wall by your head with his other casually in his pants pocket. Suddenly the small space feels even smaller as you stare up at neon green, breath catching as he seems to be looking straight through you. What was only a moment or two felt like hours before he seemed satisfied and stepped back out of your space, amusement lining the moving metal and silicone of his face.

“Careful what you say little one, not everyone is so forgiving of a slip, little as it is, like that. Liars aren’t tolerated.” All you can do is nod rapidly, near sprinting out of the elevator when the doors finally open on your floor. You feel the green gaze on your back until the doors quietly shut, and are shaking so badly by the time you get to your door it takes four tries for you to swipe the card and stumble in. You run around the apartment with your heart hammering in your chest, only starting to come down from the panic when everything seems to be exactly as you left it this morning. 

Your knives are still in the bottom of your bag under neatly folded clothing you hadn’t put away yet, and you calm yourself by doing the menial task of finishing up your settling in as your thoughts race. It had only been a partial lie, said without thought meant to just brush off the staring, but he could tell when you had thought nothing of it. It unsettled you, even more so when you realized he had given a clear warning. Apogee must be in with the mob then, and judged by the habit of watching, you would wager he was meant to be the watchdog. You’d have to be careful.

That made you cringe as you tucked your knives away, one in the toilet tank, one behind books in the bookshelf and your last in the umbrella stand by the door. You were starting to think Rose was right and you should leave, but you shook your head to clear the thoughts. Despite how it seemed you knew this was the safest if you didn’t want to constantly be running, you just had to make peace with the fact that you’d be walking on eggshells. Sitting on your bed after eating a lazy dinner of cheese on toast with your head in your hands, you at least thank whatever force is out there that you don’t directly work with the synth, and can only hope it stays that way. 

You can do this, you tell yourself. You have to do this. 

Barely remembering to change, you climb into bed and attempt to sleep with all the thoughts in your head. 

“Tomorrow will be better, please let tomorrow be better.” You say to yourself as you lay awake, having the feeling that it’ll be the opposite. 

Chapter Text

      Whatever god that exists clearly hates you, and you don’t even know what you did to deserve such hate from said questionable deity. Your alarm rang in the early morning to get you out of bed and get you to start looking presentable for the second day of work, ready to absolutely avoid the synth that seemed likely to cause problems and pretend you just didn’t exist. That came crashing down on you when you walked into the break room with your helmet in tow for your break later, when Rose met you there sitting on the couch. She at least waited for you to put your keys and helmet in the locker to crush all your plans beneath her heeled feet. 

“I’m told you will be working with Apogee today.”

Shattered mercilessly.

”I’m going to what now?” Is the eloquence that left your mouth as you shut the locker a little too hard by accident. Rose simply looked at you curiously as she stood from the lounge chair and approached you, resting a firm hand on your shoulder.

”Are you alright sweetheart? You don’t seem eager for this news.”

”Ahhhh, I was just taken by surprise.” You fumble, forcing a wobbly smile. “I didn’t expect to be working on a busy floor so fast, that’s all Rose.”

”That’s the best way to learn, in the heat of it sweetheart.” You can’t help but groan, but you’re at least making Rose amused. Plus she can’t seem to tell that you were actually upset with working with the synth so soon after your previous encounter. You decide that the only thing you can really do is keep moving forward, so with a sigh and fixing up your vest you begrudgingly get to it. You are here to work after all, you tell yourself you  shouldn’t really complain about getting what you asked for.

”Alright, well what’s on the agenda then?”

”That’s the spirit sweetheart.” Rose’s hand rests on your shoulder as she gives it a little squeeze. “You’ll do well, Scrappy. I’m sure.” You can’t help but smile a little at her confidence in you despite the situation as she leads you out of the break room, talking as you both go.

”The reason you’re working with him is to help cater a large party planned at the poker tables later on. It’s my understanding from the bossman himself that all general staff are to be preparing this morning, and then I believe the party is starting at 1:30.”

”Oh, I won’t have to be there the whole time.” You perked up and Rose laughed at your eagerness as you both stopped by the bar, her highly amused by your relief as she patted your shoulder in what you read as a fond action.

“I am also scheduled to work the floor today as well for the first half of the cater, so I will be nearby if you need me. This is a good opportunity dear, and I know you’ll do well.” She reiterated her previous statement before heading off to start the shift, and after you stretched out your arms and shook off the jitters you started as well. It was unavoidable, so you might as well just keep pushing forward. Who knows, maybe you could get some information on the mob hiding out here and how to best stay out of their way, and you suppose getting to watch Apogee at work and get a read on him from a distance would do you well. You figured you might as well make the most of it.

As 8 rolled around you got started on what you had done yesterday, cleaning the playing tables, chips, dice and everything that went with the games. You waved to any staff and S.T.A.F.F bots that went by, being pleasantly surprised by getting a few waves back. You ducked around the night staff to the best of your ability, though you did get pulled into a surprisingly pleasant conversation with a younger staff member pointing out the one floor tile that was placed wrong and making little jokes on it. The majority of the morning you could feel eyes watching you, and you grimaced a little having a feeling at who your watcher was. You did your best to  walk with a little pep in your step all the same, passing by Rose every once in a while as you finished setting up all the games for the soon approaching 10 am opening. As people started coming in you noticed that it was pretty slow, not nearly as many people as there were yesterday. You knew it was only a Wednesday but you expected a little more than what you were currently getting. It seemed everyone you passed was a bit at a loss for the lack of customers.

You slowly passed the card tables and dropped off orders in your best customer service persona, eyeing the bot that sat further away at an empty table. Apogee sat shuffling cards at a speed your eyes couldn’t even begin to keep up with and after a moment of thought you give a little sigh and head over to him.

Might as well get the awkwardness out of the way now rather than when customers were present. 

You approach with your empty tray under your arm, stopping a few inches from the card table to curiously look at what Apogee has going on. He’s messed up your previous preparation, but you chalk that up to the synth having a preferred way of doing things and dealing his games.

”You should be working, no?” Vibrant green optics turn their attention to you, making  you fight to not show discomfort at the sharp attention.

”I am, I’ve been told part of my job today is to help you this afternoon.”

”So I heard. Odd to give that to an el desconocido . Early and unnecessary.” You can’t help scowling, not having a clue what he called you but having a feeling it was disrespectful.

”Look, it’s not like I asked for this today.” You decide just being blunt and honest is the way to go with this guy, if yesterday's interaction taught you anything. “I said so myself I didn’t think I was ready to, but here I am in spite of that.” Apogee looks at you in an appraising way, something relaxing just slightly in his mechanical posture. Seems your gut check on how to approach him was correct.

”Orders from above, foolish as it is.”

”Hey I’m not doing too badly here for my second day.” Now you’re a little offended, but the synth that still towers over you while sitting seems even more comfortable. Or amused. Honestly you couldn’t really tell what the guy was thinking, but you decided to shelve that and move on to the actual reason you came over here so early when you didn’t really need to. 

”I just wanted to ask you how these things usually go.” You cautiously take a seat on the stool and set your tray on the one adjacent to you before focusing all your attention on Apogee, hoping you come across as sincere as you feel. “You clearly know what you’re doing, and since I was told specifically to serve around here I figured I might as well ask you for pointers.” The card shuffling stops in what must be the bot’s surprise as you continue talking, in fear of losing the train of thought. “I also figured it would be a good idea to see how you do things so I don’t get in the way, because I’ll be honest, I’m still figuring this whole thing out. I can adapt, but I’m not stupid enough to think I can do it this fast” The synth before you actually guffaws at you with a little grin, this time you’re able to clearly see the amusement dancing in his eyes, and it has you smiling a bit in response. 

“I appreciate you asking, it’s refreshing.”

“Refreshing?” You lean a little closer, curious now as the cards start shuffling between golden-brown fingers once more, you feeling a bit of warmth at the barely there compliment.

”Yes. Many try to assume they know what is best, or just try and power through. It’s a nice change to the usual people that come and go. However I still don’t like a novice like you working something like this so soon.”

Moment of warmth over.

“Since you asked,” you perk up as the cards snap to a sudden stop in Apogee’s left palm. “The customers coming to these tables tonight are very important and very impatient. You have to essentially become the epitome of ‘be seen not heard’ in these situations. So don’t run your mouth.”

”That felt very targeted.” You narrow your eyes at the sly smirk that etches across the silicone faceplate.

“Just watch your tongue Scrappy, and be careful with your words.”

“If this is about last night-” You start with a scoff, cutting yourself off as Apogee leans close. Despite him sitting and leaning to your eye level it still feels like he towers over you.

“As curious as I am about that little half lie of yours, I am genuinely warning you. You’d be wise to heed it.”

You spend a moment just staring at each other, it feeling like you had an important choice to make here. A moment more passes before you back down with a sigh, leaning away from the card bot. 

“I appreciate you taking the time to warn me, thank you Apogee.” The Eclipse seems appeased by your expression of thanks, but you continue, albeit hesitantly this time. “As for last night, I was uneasy and gave the first response that came to mind. I’ve seen Synths, similar to you yeah. I’ve never seen someone else like you though, that much is true.” You offer a shy smile as you stumble through your explanation, watching as green eyes in black seem to widen slightly before returning back to normal as he too leans back, a look of consideration coming over his face.

“Thank you for the explanation, Scrappy.” Your name isn’t said with vitriol this time, so you’ll take that win as you quickly stand.

“Well I have to get back to work and hopefully not die later.” You half joke as you grab your serving platter and dart off before allowing a response to be sent your way, feeling a burning gaze of intrigue and curiosity on your back as you retreat. 

The rest of your shift until your noon hour break goes pretty well all things considered. You’re pretty sure you’re being watched the entire time, and luckily only dropped one plate that a S.T.A.F.F bot thankfully helped you clean up quickly. Customers seemed to be pretty amicable today, which you just felt was leading to the dread of this supposed party group. You practically run to the breakroom, blessedly clear of the working girls today. As much as you liked them upon your first meeting you didn’t think you could handle the whole group of women with the stress you were feeling at the moment. You grabbed your bike helmet and high-tailed it out of the building, barely remembering to sign out as you went. You eagerly slide onto your bike and slam your helmet on before driving off into the town to try and relax a bit before this supposed hell party. You drive down the moderately busy road, running your interaction with the Card Shark through your head as you pass the punk bar to stop at the little sandwich shop you saw on your outing yesterday. You got a simple sandwich paired with a coffee and sat at a far corner table, pulling out your phone and the notes app. 

Okay, time to make note of everything suspicious to keep your eyes on. 

You put Apogee at the top of the list, his existence was just off to you, being the only synth of his type in the casino, and the watching thing he had. Rose was the next one you added on there, from the way she warned you about things that set you on edge, how quickly she deemed it important to warn you had also set off cautionary yellow flags. Throwing on the check-in and out system also seemed important to you, as did making note of throwing a new hire on a big party also raised some flags. You scowled down at you notes as you ate the, admittedly dry, sandwich and sipped the coffee. For your second day this was already kind of sketchy, and you felt those thoughts of second guessing your decision creeping back into your mind. 

You sigh through your nose as you pocket your phone, getting up to throw out your trash and make a quiet exit from the shop only to shiver at the cool wind that hits you upon leaving. It was coming to fall after all, and you chastise yourself for not grabbing a jacket. You sling your leg back over your bike with a grunt, feeling worse about what’s to come at the end of your brake. Helmet secured you take off down the street, lost in your own head before slowing as something catches your attention.

You come to idle at the curb as three figures enter the back of the punk bar you had made note of on your first drive by. You only catch the last figure because of their bright orange and red top, and while it was only a moment you swore you saw what may have been yellow metal and sun rays before the door was shut and the figure was out of your sight. You frown as you continue back to the casino. Could that have been another synth of a similar model to Apogee? You know it’s possible, but from what you heard that line of the Daycare Attendant didn’t exist anymore. The only attendants left had all been sold as Fazbear went under, your parents had one themselves, but you shake that off quickly. Her memory still stung a little. 

You pull into the parking lot with your mind still swimming. Your parents had known a couple Fazcorp upper level managers, it’s how they managed to get so many synths for their ranks, but it still blew you away to potentially see their brand elsewhere. You were either very lucky or very cursed and you hadn’t decoded which it was yet, or which was the better option for you. For now you shake it all off and push it to the back of your mind for later. You had already planned to check out the bar on the weekend, now you just had more incentive to do so. You head in with a little ‘beep’ of your card to open the door and slip into the break room that was thankfully still empty as you stash your helmet and try to warm up and for the rest of your break time. As one o’clock approaches you can feel your nerves spiking, you shaking so bad you nearly miss swiping your card to come off your break. You clock off a few minutes early to hopefully get going on work before the party comes in. 

You feel eyes on you almost as soon as you pass the threshold into the casino proper

But shrug it off to dive back into your work. Rose passes you at some point with a gentle hand placed on your shoulder as you go, making you relax a little to know she supported you. Still a little suspicious to you, but you’re not one to turn down that support. As one thirty rolled around you found yourself near Apogee’s game table again. He gave you a simple nod at your approach which you returned, nerves minorly settling at having his support, small as it was. 

“Here they come. Don’t die.” Is the rumbled warning you get as you plaster on your best smile for the group that rounds the corner heading right to the table. You take a breath and greet the group, welcoming them to the casino and showing them to their seats. You got snubbed pretty hard but tried not to take it personally as you sat the three tables of people, Apogee’s in the center as well as the tables on either side. 

“May I take your orders?” You start with the table on the left, ignoring the snide comments that accompany the orders you write, it falling into the background as you move on to the next table and the next. You felt good so far with how it was going, so of course it had to go sideways. 

You had started walking from the last table when a grip on your wrist made you stumble back and almost hit the poker table. 

“You look familiar. Do I know you?” You look at the man and school your expression into confusion rather than the shock you felt.

“I’m sorry sir, I think you have the wrong person. I’m a new hire here.” You keep your tone cordial and subtly try to pull your wrist from his grip, but the man that you do in fact recognize, keeps his grip tight. You feel all eyes on you and try again.

“I’m not sure who you’re mistaking me for sir, but I’m just trying to do my job and serve you.” 

“Mr. Wentworth,” you subconsciously relax at the deep tone of the synth at the center table. “Please unhand the staff, you’ve been warned before.” Your wrist is dropped like it’s on fire and you give Apogee a quick nod in thanks before power walking to the bar with your heart in your throat. You hand the order to the bartender and duck around the corner to finally breath out a shaky breath once you no longer feel eyes on you. It had been a long time since you’ve seen Wentworth, you were still a young child, and you hopped he didn’t put the pieces together or you were fucked. At least now you knew this meet up was for a mafia group.

Once you get your heart under control you take a breath and round the corner back into the main casino to stand by the bar to wait on the full order. 

“You look a little pale, love.” You startle as Rose comes up beside you, looking at her with wide eyes and not quite comprehending her words before they finally process and you awkwardly rub the back of your neck with a laugh.

”Just startled. One of the patrons at Apogee’s table mistook me for someone they knew I guess. Startled me with a wrist grab.”

”It was Wentworth wasn’t it?” At your nod of confirmation Rose sighs and puts an arm over your shoulder. “Don’t take it personally, he’s done that to so many of the staff here.”

Well that makes you feel better and worse.

”Does that happen a lot in general? Being grabbed I mean?” You ask as you start staking the finished drinks on your trays, double checking to make sure they’re right as she answers.

”Unfortunately. Apogee is good at keeping it to a minimum, he is security.” You file that bit of info in the back of your mind as you balance the trays rather precariously. Rose seems absent minded as she shifts the weight and continues speaking. “This is also why I think working with him early will be good for you hon, he looks out for us.” You squint at yet another nickname the woman gives you but thank her nonetheless for the help and info, Rose giving you a little push of encouragement towards your tables. 

You plaster that smile back on as you approach, carefully distributing the drinks without issue. You could still feel Wentworth staring at you, you simply giving a polite smile whenever you caught him staring at you as you went about your jobs. That was pretty much how the next couple hours went, you intermittently getting drinks for the game tables and sweeping up any peanut shells or garbage that found its way to the floor. The majority of the group simply ignored your presence which was perfectly fine with you, and one of the ladies at Apogee’s table did politely ask you for top ups so that was a plus. You did your best to keep busy while listening in and watching the poker games. 

“Lenny got a big promotion recently-“

”Oh that’s wonderful, are he and Gordon still working together-“

”Carol is now running the finances-“

”That bourbon was lovely-“

Nothing that really gave you much, though you weren’t too surprised. They would be stupid to openly talk about other work publicly. 

“The Harman family-“ That caught your attention. You move a little closer to Apogee’s table as you sweep. “-heir recently left. I’m calling bull, we hadn’t seen them in over a decade. Ricky and Karla are definitely hiding something.” You move on before you overstay your time. It wasn’t Wentworth with that information so you felt a little less concerned, but the fact the group was talking about your family at all was concerning to you, especially when it was you specifically that was the topic of conversation. 

‘Maybe that’s why they’re here.’ Is the thought that passed the back of your mind as you cleared empty glasses and bowls, heading off to return with refills. It made sense that they could be here to make appearances and meet with the casino’s boss later, to discuss the recent fall of the Harman Mafia. The thought unsettled you, and you were so distracted you walked right into a customer, scattering glasses over the floor. You didn’t even register the shattering as the man you, thankfully, didn’t recognize grabbed your collar to yell in your face.

”What are you an idiot?!”

”I apologize-“

”Look where you’re going! Does this casino just hire morons?” You could hear low chatter around you both as your feet left the ground, toes barely brushing the glass covered carpet. You tried to look around for Rose but couldn't see her anywhere, just your luck.

”Sir-“

”Do not speak over me-“

”That’s enough Remieras.” All chatter stopped as an older man with a clean salt and pepper beard approached. The man that had been holding you dropped you instantly, making you stumble and nearly fall back on you ass before the gentleman that was acting as your savior caught your arm in a firm hold.

”Ah Mister Moranno. I didn’t- I didn’t mean-“ You think you went as ghostly white as your assailant at hearing the name.

”I certainly hope you don’t treat all my staff this way. They are new here you see, and I would hate for you to scare away someone who in such a short time has shown to be a dedicated addition.”

Of all the people you could’ve had the attention of, you managed to get the attention of the one man you didn’t want to see you.  Quirinn Moranno. Of course it had to be the casino’s owner and mafia don. This Remieras guy must be feeling the same way as you, genuinely shaking where he stood.

“We’ll speak later.” The tone held a promise you didn't like as you were guided away from the mess, startling into action.

“A-ah sir, shouldn’t I clean the mess I made?”

“Don’t you worry about that my dear.” He stops after a couple feet and turns to face you, adjusting your lapels as you stand in bafflement. “A S.T.A.F.F bot can clean that. I’m more worried about your wellbeing, that shouldn’t have happened.”

“I wasn’t paying attention-”

“None of that now.” You fall silent as Moranno continues to fuss over your uniform. “You are new here, mistakes are bound to happen. Hell knows everyone here has broken something. Just try not to let it happen again, yes?” 

“Of course sir. Thank you.” You could hear the threat underlying the tone, and you're suddenly very glad that your mess up was as public as it was. Moranno nods and gives you a heavy-handed pat on the shoulder before turning away from you, motioning for things to continue on. Shakily you collect yourself and walk to grab your fallen trays and the glasses that didn’t break, whispering an apology to the S.T.A.F.F bot cleaning the glass. It pauses only a moment before jerkily continuing its task and you hurry away. Your face is burning in embarrassment as you approach the bar and give the order. It feels like everyone is looking at you as you wait, hunching your shoulders to your ears as you collect the order and trudge back over. It’s quiet as you serve the mafia group which you are a little thankful for, however awkward it is. 

When five rolls around and your shift finishes you all but bolt from the casino running by the break room initially before backtracking, feeling even more embarrassed and flustered.

What a way to screw up your second day.

You walk into the break room in a bit of a funk, half throwing open your locker.

”Rough day love?”

”Fucking-!” You spin around and slam your back into the locker door, wincing as you take in the startled face of Sugar. She recovers faster than you do, opening the locker a few doors down, talking in a soft voice.

”I didn’t mean to startle you love, you just look a little rough.”

“Sorry.” You manage, slowly pulling your stuff from your locker. “Yeah you could say it was rough. Got a large group earlier, and accidentally dropped glasses.” You give the short version, and get a sympathetic noise in return and a little hip bump from the woman. 

“We all have rough days Scrappy, don’t beat yourself up too hard.”

”I’ll try not to.”

”Hmm. You know, you should come down to the club one day.”

”The one in the basement?” You whack your brain trying to remember the name as sugar laughs good naturedly.

”Yes the one in the basement. Nebula Royale, it’s where the rest of us girls mostly work.”

”I’ll have to check it out then.” Talking with Sugar brings a genuine smile to your face.

”It’s open from one pm to one am. I recommend coming on Friday nights, we get live music.”

”Now I have to come.” You laugh a little, already feeling better. “Thank you for that Sugar, really.”

”No problem, love. Take it easy tonight.” You wave to Sugar as leave, feeling lighter after that conversation. You swipe your card without issue going into the apartments and wave to the desk lady. You make another note in your mind to ask her name as you head to the elevators and up to your door feeling more exhausted than you should.

”-meeting about the disrupted Harman family.” You pause as you’re about to swipe the card for your room, listening to the soft voices from around the corner. You swipe your card and open the door to grab a pin from your key dish and pause, trying to decide if you’re actually going to do this. You hear the steps start to come towards you and with the decision rapidly made in your mind you dipped into your room and shoved the pin into the latch of the door and closed it, satisfied in not hearing the click of the lock. The steps pass your door and you give them a few moments before slipping back out, grabbing the pen from your suit pocket and triggering the lock in the wall. You don’t know whether you should be disappointed in yourself or proud that you still know how to trick door lock systems. Satisfied that you are ‘in your room for the night’ you follow behind the two men you can still see several paces ahead. They aren’t talking anymore, most likely from being in a main hallway now so you take care to make sure you’re silent.

Once they reach the elevators the men turn to the left and you follow, peaking around the corner to just catch them slipping into a gap in the wall, it shutting behind them without a sound.

”Am I really going to do this?” You mutter to yourself. You could turn away, pretend you never saw them, never heard anything. Moranno has already seen you which doesn’t spell good news for your future, and Wentworth may very well put together who you are with time. Your cover may already be half way down the drain. Looking around with no one in sight, you take another moment before going up to the wall. You knew your decision was already made the moment you paused out front your door. You had to know why they were talking about your family, and to know if you should move on or not, you reasoned in your mind that following them would determine your future steps, one way or another.  This might be stupid, but it could pay off. 

You run your fingers over the wall, carefully feeling along the smooth wall paper. You probably look like a fool, and feel a little like one too, but your feeling rewards you as what feels like a switch is found near the light on the wall. You push it and hear a click, and pushing the wall results in it sliding inward.

Yay. Secret passage for the win.

You slip in, and push the wall shut behind you finding yourself in a dark hall lit with warm white lamps on the wall that ends with a stairway going up. It feels like one of those old Victorian homes with wooden detailing in the wall, and you get strong horror movie vibes from it if you’re honest with yourself. Clicking your tongue you begin the climb the spiraling steps, hearing the two voices echo down to you. 

“-suspected power struggle.”

”It makes sense. A power fell so there’s obviously going to be a rush to take the spot before they recover.”

”Do we know how it even happened?”

”A supposed police raid and shoot out. I heard there was a rat that sold them out.”

”The unseen heir?”

”Most likely. Revenge maybe. They haven’t been seen or retrieved as far as I’ve heard.”

You grimace at the conversation, having not realized that apparently everyone had heard about this, or that you apparently were known as ‘The unseen heir.’. Not your proudest moment apparently. Their steps echo and slow which you also do, hearing a door open and shut. As you come up to the stair landing and see an elegant wood carved door you hear steps from the wall entrance, casual and heavy. 

Synth steps.

Well there’s definitely no going back now.

Pressing your ear to the door you listen for anything on the other side, and when you’re confident there’s nothing on the other side, you hear nothing but the steps behind slowly coming closer. You open the door silently and slip through, slowly closing it behind you.

Chapter Text

 The other side of the door was like walking into another world. It was the epitome of ‘rich person hub’. It reminded you of the gentlemans club your father used to take you to so many years ago, rite down to the cigar smell that hung in the air. You then remembered there was in fact someone following behind you and quickly looked around and dove to the first thing you saw, a coat wardrobe across the hall. You shut the doors just before the stairwell door opened where you had been standing just a moment before. Ignoring the must jackets to the best of your ability you cracked open one of the doors enough to see through a small slivered gap, muffling your surprised gasp at what you saw.

 You were correct it was a synth behind you, but not one you recognized. They looked similar to Apogee, maybe not as tall and more feminine in clothing choice. Green and white were their colors with deep maroon casing, rays that looked almost static-like around their head. You didn’t get to look any closer as they were walking away from you, steady steps echoing off the wood floor in the empty corridor. Strange that this was now the second synth you’d seen that looked similar to the classic Daycare attendant you remembered from childhood, the total now going to four. Just how many were there?

You waited several minutes in the silence, it was unnerving and unnatural how quiet the grand halls were. Quietly you slipped out of the wardrobe and took a little more time to observe the space you were in. You weren’t too far off with your original comparison to a Gentlemen's club as you quietly walked the halls keeping the sound of your steps to a minimum. Running your fingers over the ornate wood detailings on the walls had you in awe, it was completely different to the casino and apartments, older and more hand done over the modernity. 

 You follow the glass chandeliers on the ceiling, not really having a direction to go. You were hoping to just hear voices or arguments and follow that. You continue following the intricate carvings which lead you to another ornate door that’s partially open, which you cautiously peek around before slipping in upon it being empty like the halls.

 It was darker than the well lit halls, cozier of a space. Chairs and couches of deep reds and browns take up the center with a candle chandelier in the center, a bar with checkered flooring to the left and secluded plush seating with pull curtains to the right. 

One of the main meeting rooms, you figured.

The quiet still unsettled you as you made your way through the room, noticing papers, folders and drinks left on various tables. Judging by the half melted ice in varying glasses, they hadn’t been left here long. 

 Curiosity gets the best of you and you reach for the papers before pausing, realizing it probably wasn’t the best idea to put your finger prints on things. Looking around quickly you spot a pile of thick napkins and after a moment of debate you grab a napkin from the table, careful to position it over your fingers as you flip through the papers. They’re in a language you don’t understand, Spanish maybe. 

 You gather that they’re budgets from how they’re set up and the varying numbers, very large numbers that you could barely visualize. You very carefully re-stack the papers and tuck the napkin into your pocket so it isn’t left anywhere to be found as you move on, you still had a supposed meeting to find. 

 You make your way through the room and on reaching the other side you can faintly hear voices drifting down the hall and grin despite yourself. As much as you didn’t want this life for yourself, you had the self awareness to admit you had at least gotten some sweet skills before you left. You had always liked the more recon side of the business anyway. 

You slide through the non-distinct door you heard the voices from very carefully, peaking around the door as the voices get clearer without the door muffling them.

“-big meeting?” A young woman, maybe around your age from the little you saw of her.

”Yeah, Boss wants us to cater it, get all the fancy snacks and drinks in the room and skedaddle before he and his guests arrive.” With a young man by the sound of the voice, unfortunately he was obscured by the door you were still hiding behind. The woman groans, a clunking sound heard to accompany it. Loading a snack cart if you had to guess.

“At least he wants us out of the room, we get to keep that blissful ignorance.”

”More money for staying quiet too.”

”That does wonders.”

 The two servers share a laugh and fall into silence as they work, only a few minutes of them going back and forth before they and the cart start moving farther away. You bite your lip and slowly creep from behind the door, taking care to close it softly and lower yourself closer to the ground. This is probably the safest you’ll ever be. If whatever’s happening here is important enough to keep staff out of it, no one will be around here until the meeting. You’re quick to follow behind the two servers, matching your steps to theirs as you follow at a mid distance and remember the path the three of you take so you can, with hope and luck, find your way back out before shit goes down. 

Hopefully.

The walk isn’t too far, which you’re extremely thankful for, when your tour guides turn down a hall that looks like it came from a museum. The decor is the same, but the walls have wooden panels that are covered in carvings that resemble mythos of cultures from all over the world, with massive support columns jutting out from the walls every twenty feet or so. You can recognize a few of the Greek gods in the carvings on your left, shifting into what may be the Roman versions of those gods. Glancing to your right you can make out the familiar shape of pyramids, Egyptian gods carved and hieroglyphs spiralling up the column.

As you progress further the scenes and beings change on both sides, with a familiar tingle of magic in the air, similar to the noise canceling magic down in the casino over the card tables. At the very end of the hall there’s two massive oak doors rimmed in delicate metal patterning and huge bronze handles.

You’re a little in awe of the place, simply staring at everything and trying to take it in. You’re so caught up in the stunning artistry of the hall that you don’t even notice the servers go through the doors until they slam shut in the quiet hall. You're counting yourself very lucky they didn’t look around before entering. That’s on them. You approach the doors and reach for one of the handles, stopping short just before you grab it, a cold wave of doubt washing over you and what exactly you’re doing.

Maybe you should just turn back, you hadn’t really thought this through after all. You knew where the door was so maybe you could just return later now that you knew the basic path, maybe you should follow the server’s example, ignorance is bliss. Taking a step back you were completely prepared to head back to the secret passage when the door cracked open. In a flash you tucked yourself behind a wall pillar a few feet from the door, heart in your throat as you leaned as far into that little corner as you could and waited with bated breath as the man and woman walked out. You didn’t hear the wheels of the cart, just their leisurely steps. 

“Twenty minutes or so,” the man started, “-should give us plenty of time to grab the last of it, set up and be gone by the time they’re here.”

“Perfect, I think the, the speech stand thing-”

“Do you mean podium?”

“How dare you cut me off?” She doesn’t sound angry, if anything it’s a light teasing tone as they both fall to giggles only a moment later. “The podium, thank you, it’s still in the east wing I believe.”

“Meet back here in five-ish?”

“See ya then.”

With that the two walked faster and soon sped down the hall, not even sparing a glance back. You didn’t let out a breath until they had turned the corner, thanking whatever god carved on these walls that was responsible for your cosmic luck. With your heart settling you leave your corner spot from the pillar and approach the massive doors, pressing your ear to the tiny crack between them. 

With no sound coming through you cautiously cracked open the door and peaked in, see this room empty as well, and you slipped in and let the door shut without a sound behind you. Five minutes to snoop and then get out, you could do this.

You don’t take too much time looking around the room, just a brief glance was enough to tell you it was as grand as the hallway you came from, and the glasses around indicated that people were here recently too, just like the first lounge you came through. You made a beeline for the various tables around the lounge, scanning for anything that may be of use to you, the darker lighting of the room not helping you as much as you would like it to. There were a few files scattered around, but not what you were looking for.

You weren’t even too sure yourself what exactly you were looking for until you found it; a thick manilla folder with Moranno’s mafia sign on the front in rich gold, tucked between the glasses under the bar on the far side of the lounge. A break then, is what was happening. The big bosses taking a break from their meeting and having everything restocked in that time, made sense. You grab cocktail napkins from the bar and do the same napkin trick you pulled out earlier, very carefully laying the folder down and flipping through it and skimming as quickly as you could, stopping and backtracking as your family name whizzed by. 

You know you’re running out of time so you whip out your cell phone -nearly fumbling it but making an epic catch if you do say so yourself - and start taking pictures of the papers, doing your best to make them as steady as you possibly could. With your mental clock ticking down you carefully arrange everything back to its original order and slide the folder back in place, pocketing more napkins for your growing collection to throw out in your apartment. The speed walk to the doors is all over the place as you avoid tables and chairs in your rush to get out, stopping cold at hearing two sets of footsteps and a heavy sounding rolling cart. 

Fuck.

You don’t have long to make a decision, and you hurriedly retreat back across the room and duck down behind the bar just as the door is opened with a struggling grunt echoing around the room. 

“Man, why is this thing so heavy?”

”Rich people Declan, they always have fancy and heavy shit.” 

“How could I forget?” The sarcasm was palpable from the man as you heard them both grunt with effort as they lifted it from the cart and basically dropped it on the tile.

”This is good right?” The man- Declan- grunt, and the woman laughs.

”Yeah this is good, let’s get out of here man. We only have a few minutes, I would like to be gone by the time those guys get here.”

”Agreed.” 

Their steps recede and soon leave the room, soft chatter following them and petering out. You give it a few moments before leaving from behind the counter and dart to the doors, catching the heavy door before it shuts. After a quick glance and making sure the coast is clear you duck out, the door clicking shut behind you.

You make your way quickly down the hall, it feels like the eyes of the carved gods were following you, watching younas you went. Peeking around the corner and seeing it clear you dared to go faster, navigating your way back to the entry way you came from. The wardrobe you hid in before came into sight at the same time you heard heavy footfalls coming from the opposite hall. In a split second decision you dove back into the cabinet and steadied your breathing, trying to steady your shaking hands as well. The steps come closer and you catch a glimpse of a large shadow coming across the floor in the small crack of the cabinet doors almost directly in front of you. 

The shadow, it looked…like a sun. Round with rays, six of them. Plus the figure was very tall.

Apogee.

His deep green coat comes into view and your breath catches as he stops in front of the wardrobe, head plate not even seen as his shoulder hits the top of your hiding spot. Your heart is in your throat as you lean as far into the coats as possible, praying he keeps moving. 

The gods must be out to spite you , as against all your praying the eight foot synth stays where he stopped and glanced around. The crack didn’t let you see much but you swear he looked right at you, the chill that trickled down your spine as neon green optics passed over your hiding spot, pausing for a heart stopping moment before facing forward again. A new set of steps echoes down the hall and you curse your luck that you just can’t seem to get out of here and back to your apartment. 

“Sir.” The synth bows and someone stops out of your field of view, but the voice that comes after doesn’t leave you in the dark.

”Apogee, I take it our guests are all heading back to the meeting room?” Moranno, of course. It wasn’t enough that you ran into him earlier, of course he was in charge here. 

“Yes they are. It seems the others have cooled off with the recess and are ready to go back to the conversation.”

”Good good. You are to continue your post of making sure everyone stays in line, you are off the club shift for tonight in case we…go over time.”

“Of course Sir.”

You can just make out Apogee’s form bowing before both continue down the hall towards the room you came from, their steps echoing both down the hall and in your stressed mind. You wait far longer than you probably should have, but you couldn’t risk being caught now. You heard footsteps echoing in distant halls from you, probably from these other mystery members but waited until there was no sound at all to peek out of the cabinet. 

Empty.

Silent.

You slide out as quietly as possible, shutting the cabinet doors without a sound and all but slinking down the rest of the hall to the door you originally came and slid through with the same caution back into the stairwell. You won’t give yourself time to breathe yet, you still have to get back to your apartment, and now to your regret go back to work.

Plus look at those files you went to the effort to take photos of. 

You were really hoping you weren’t making a mistake.

You descended the stairs quickly, making sure to hit the edge of each step for less echo. Once at the bottom and through the hall you noticed something you hadn’t before, the hidden passage wall you came through had a transparency to it.

Huh.

That, kind of made sense actually since this seemed to be mob related, and that it  should be kept secret, so being able to see if anyone’s near is a good idea. More subtle magic in this place. You made a note to yourself to be much more careful going forward of what you do, and maybe it’s paranoid of you but that’s what has kept you alive so far.

With no one around you flip the wall switch and slide out from behind the moving wall, making sure it shuts behind you and looks like a normal wall (which it does) and speed walk to your apartment, counting yourself lucky it’s late enough for none of the general staff to be around, but not so late that the night shift is starting to come back. Based on that alone you wager it’s nearing eleven at night, plenty of time to unwind from your self induced stressful night.

You’re very grateful to finally reach your door, even more so once you notice your little pin set up to bypass the lock mechanism is still in place. Opening your door and walking into your apartment brings relief as you shut the door, sliding your pin from the latch socket. No click was heard, but pulling your door showed it was locked.

Perfect. 

The first genuine breath of relaxation left you in what felt like hours as you leaned back on the door, tension and anxiety dropping off you, leaving you feeling nothing but exhaustion. In truth your expedition wasn’t all that long, but it felt like ages to you as you dragged your feet across the floor to your room. With a groan your strip out of your work uniform, dropping it to the floor as you tossed your phone on the bed and went to shower, taking stock of what you learned tonight. 

-Apogee was part of Moranno’s mafia, and a trusted member to some degree.

-There were multiple mafia families visiting and in meetings, so you had to be alert to others that were around the casino now.

-There was a whole secret area in the apartment building for mob activity, which means there were most likely areas similar in the casino.

-There was more subtle magic used here than you realized, caution was needed.

-Your family name was on Moranno’s documents, you could be in danger.

With all that summed up you sighed, stepping out of the shower and kot for the first time questioning your decision to hide out under a rival mob. It had only been a few days and you were already falling deeper than you wanted to. Begrudgingly you got dressed in comfortable sweats and grabbed your phone off the bed, deciding to make yourself a quick late night dinner to eat while going through your photos. 

With a sad sandwich you start analyzing your findings.

Thankfully unlike the other papers you had found in the first lounge these were in english for easy reading, though your hurried camera work could use some work as some pictures were a little blurry. 

From what you could make out at a glance it was files detailing your family’s funds and the land that the Harman mob had ownership of, and some of the later papers were the detailed police reports of the raid on your- their- estate. A squeamish feeling coiled in your gut as the realization hit that multiple mons had been watching your family for quite some time.

Hurried scanning revealed there wasn’t anything about you, the heir, in the notes. That wasn’t all that surprising considering you distanced yourself from them and hadn’t even been introduced to anyone as such yet, a small blessing to you still being relatively anonymous. People knew your parents had a kid of course, but you’d been kept from public connection, the intent from what you remembered to keep targets off your back until you were ready for the heir position. 

It made your head hurt to think about, a small ache of guilt accompanying it. 

Pictures accompanied the paperwork but again none of them featured you, so you at least could confirm that Moranno didn’t know who you were. Shutting your phone off and rubbing your fave you considered next steps, everything seeming to end badly. You were still on the run, and even with all this information now rattling around your brain hiding out here still seemed best, at least until you could save up more money and find a clean getaway. Which would take time. 

“Why do I do this to myself?” You state aloud, grunting and pushing yourself to your feet, chucking your plate in the sink to clean later and head to bed. As much as you wanted to keep digging, sleep was calling you, and you still had to be ready for work at eight in the morning. So putting the phone on charge and dropping into bed you slowly form a plan. 

You won’t be able to keep your distance from Apogee, that much was clear, and he seemed to be keeping eyes on everyone. So, getting closer might be the best course of action. Keep your friends close and enemies closer as they say.

You drift off with that plan toiling in your mind.

~~~~~~

Small feet padded along the tile floor making barely any sound. The halls seemed so much larger at this time of night, safety lights barely illuminating said halls. The pitter patter of feet stopped in front of an unassuming door, a small hand reaching up and knocking softly. A few moments of silence pass before a clicking lock echoes and the door cracks open, a soft red glow coming from the dark much higher than your head.

“Little one it is late, why are you here?” A woman’s low croon, metallic and soft. Familiar.

“I couldn’t sleep, I wanted to see you.” Your voice was high and reddy, young with childlike innocence.

The woman laughed before the door opened more, the face of the moon coming from the dark as the tall synth lowers to your height, amused.

“Did you consider Little one, that I was resting?” Guiltily you look away, rocking on little feet with a mumbled apology. A sigh and delicate metal fingers gently lifted your chin, metal shifting to a light smile.

“Oh do not look at me like that Little Astéri, I am not angry.”

“Promise?”

“I promise. Would you like to come in?” You nod sheepishly, taking the synth’s hand in your own as she rises to a slight hunch to guide you into her room. You stop at the pitch black, seeing nothing familiar around you. The pile of blankets that was always in the far right corner was missing, as was the table of tools to the left and the bow hanging on the wall were also missing.

Something was wrong.

“Artemis?” You question softly, feeling her hand leave yours only to return harshly on your shoulder and spinning you to face her. Face to her chest - when had you gotten that tall?- as you were jerked to look up and meet harsh red eyes. 

She said nothing, the Moon synth’s grip now on both your forearms harshly, grip so tight it was bound to leave bruises.

”Artemis-“

”I. Will. Find. You.” You stare in horror as the metal jaw unhinges to sharp, grinding teeth coming right at your head.

~~~~~~

You jolt awake with sweat beading across your brow, sitting up and shaking with your blankets pooled around your waist. Your eyes rake across your room, adrenaline rocking through your veins as you instinctively search for the threat from your dreams. 

The second dream of your old caretaker since leaving was certainly odd, and now of all times left you feeling off kilter. Once you were grounded enough to recognize your own room you turned and grabbed your phone, grimacing at the brightness and narrowing your eyes at the time. Six am.

Well, you had to get up anyway.

Rolling out of bed and walking across cold flooring jolts you to better awareness as you hop across the floorboards cursing at the chill, moving quickly to get dressed and get your bare skin covered. A rapid morning routine later and you’re taking the time to upload the photos from your phone onto your small carry tablet so you can clear them from the device you always carry. It doesn’t take long and soon enough you leave your apartment with the plan from the night before in the forefront of your mind, a little glad it’s a Friday so you can test the waters of said plan.

Treading carefully and being smart was most important, so that was the focus. Blend in and make allies, don’t draw attention but don’t be a shadow. Just an average person. Simple enough.

8 am. You check in as is the new normal and wave to those you see. Chat with the bartenders and kitchen staff preparing for opening while getting your place settings. Walk by the tables and take care to make everything perfect. Then backtrack to Apogee’s table and rearrange the setting to how you saw him do so the previous day, double checking everything was there before letting yourself continue.

10 am. The doors open for the day, and the feeling of eyes are on you. Fine, that’s workable, you know who’s neon gaze it is now. You just continue to work and serve, being extra diligent to not make mistakes and keep yourself as just a faceless worker.

11 am. Almost fall into the decorative fountain but save it like the epic pro you are, then have a wet floor bot come to the area so a customer doesn’t follow your example. Have a conversation with Rose and let her know you’ll think about her invitation to the club that night. You do want to get to know the girls you met the first day, they seem nice. Plus they’re close to Apogee.

12 am. Stop at Apogee’s table for a short conversation and to drop off more snacks and drinks. Stare in amazement as metal fingers shuffle cards faster than you can track, and stick your tongue out as you fail to figure out a simple sleight-of-hand magic trick. Feel his eyes on you as you walk away, the glare not feeling as hard as before. Sneak a couple peanuts and nearly choke, swearing you hear metallic tinted laughter.

1 am. Lunch, which you’re very eager to take. Walking into the breakroom you wave to Cinder who is sprawled over the couch.

”You’re the only one here today?” You go for casual conversation and take a seat at the table, flipping the chair to see the woman on the couch better.

”The other girls are downstairs, I came up to meet with Rose.” She sounds tired, how you’re sure you actually look. Her stellar makeup makes her wear the look significantly better in your opinion. The redhead laughs as you admit that to her, flipping her hair over the arm of the couch.

”I owe it to Rayne, girl is killer with makeup.”

“No shit really?”

”Hell yeah, she may make herself look more lowkey, but ma girl has real talent. Maybe you could ask her to help with those bags hun.”

”Excuse you, but these bags are Gucci Cinder, I worked very hard for them.” You have no hesitation in the words you say, even mirror her hair flip with a grin. Cinder bursts out laughing and you soon follow, snickering turning to belly laughs when Cinder almost falls off the couch from her laughter. 

You both manage to collect yourselves after the laughing break, Cinder waving her hands in her face to dry tears before they fall and mess up her makeup. You’re quick to grab some napkins and hand them over, getting an energetic ‘THANKS’ as she carefully dabs away the tears of laughter. 

You both lapse into content silence and you brace your elbow on the table, thinking on what to say. There’s still a bit of time before your break is done. You suppose there was time for light interrogation.

“So Rose invited me to the club, and I was kind of curious about it since clubs aren’t my normal scene.” 

“Oh she did?” Cinder sits up, suddenly really intent with a wide grin. “She doesn’t jus’ offer invites at random Hun.”

”Really? I’m flattered in that case.” You rub the back of your neck, looking away as you think it over before looking back to Cinder. “Can I ask you a bit about it? So I’m not blindsided and can kind of know what to expect?”

”Oh of course Hun!” Cinder walks over, heels clicking to sit adjacent to you and fixing her hair to lay flat. “You’re right it’s not for everyone, but experiences are good for people. Plus,” she sends you a wink “ya get to see ma girls and I at work.” 

“Yeah? What do you all do?”

”Oh hun we do all the stunts and tricks, but if ya mean what we specialize in, I specialize the pole. Rose, Holly and myself  are on the pole most often. Rayne, Sugar and Pixie do the aerial stunts.”

”It’s big enough for aerial stunts?”

”The club is huge hun, massive. Bein’ underground gives ya a lot of room.”

”That’s really cool.” You answer honestly, trying to imagine the kind of shows that happen with the loud music and dim lights you imagine that accompany the shows. “It sounds incredible actually.” 

“You know it is hun, we’re good at what we do.” Cinder winked, and you had to laugh at her comfort and openness with the work. You hum in thought as you try to decide what else to ask, knowing your break was coming to an end soon. 

“I am curious about how popular it is, or busy since it’s part of such a large casino.”

”Oh you don’t know? The club has outside access, it functions as its own establishment!”

”Wait really?” Cinder snorts at your genuine surprise, nodding as she keeps speaking.

”Of course, it has an outer entrance to the underground. The club makes its own money separate from the Casino. Think of it like two different businesses owned by the same company. That sort of thing. We have customers practically right from open until we close.”

“I didn’t realize it was so big.”

”Did you not get the rundown?”

“I knew it existed.” You answer honestly as Cinder scoffs at the admission but gives you a grin all the same. 

“I still highly recommend you come by Hun, it’s a fun time. Let loose a little.”

”I’ll definitely think about it, I do want to see more of what the area offers.” You smile a little, being genuine as you continue. “The club would probably be the best place to start because I know a couple of you.”

”That’s the spirit!” Cinder laughs, taking your hands and giving a wink. “I’ll even make sure you get half-off drinks for your first visit.”

”I can’t believe you’re trying to swindle me right now.” You’re laughing as you say it and she joins in, letting go of your hands and leaning back in the chair. You get up and fix your uniform, deciding to go for a walk before your break is over and feel genuinely light from the conversation. “I’ll stop by if I have the energy.”

“See you there Hun!” You both wave as you leave, walking through the halls and fixing your suit as you walk. You did end up taking your break later today, and genuinely look forward to only having three hours of work left than the usual four. Maybe you’ll keep taking your lunch at one, it was nice to have company. You mulled over the thought of the club as you made the rounds and took your time getting back to the swipe in station. 

Apogee was a worker in the club as well, you learned that last night. There was a very high chance you’d have to interact with him in a setting outside of the card tables. A little nerve racking admittedly, but maybe it would be the best for your plan, a different setting could help with the process of getting to know him. 

Depending on what his role actually is of course.

Rolling your shoulders and swiping your card for break end you head back onto the casino floor with your customer service smile plastered on your face. Three more hours, then you’ll relax and maybe see what this club was all about.

The next three hours pass quickly and without incident, which you’re very thankful for as you wave goodbye to those you pass on your way back to your room. Time for a power nap before you get ready for the club. You don’t really have expectations for it, unsure what exactly you were going to see. Hopefully it will just be a fun night. Who knows, if you like it enough you’ll check out that little punk bar in town, get out of Moranno’s sights for a bit.

Yeah, that sounded perfect.

~~~~~

You had your doubts as the Club Royale doors loomed before you, much more intimidating than you originally thought. Freshly showered (with barely enough shampoo) and dressed in nice black slacks and a dress shirt under your riding jacket. Bringing your keys and swipe card felt like a good idea if you needed to step out for air, so they came along with the worn warm jacket. You even brushed your hair for this. Look nice but not stand out. The doubt came in with you realizing you really had no experience with the club environment, and this owned establishment might be a little bit of a risky place if you take the wrong cue. 

No pressure or anything.

There’s not much more time for you to second guess yourself as heels are heard clicking down the back hallway, and turning your see Rose in a vibrant red dress making her way towards you. Guess there’s no backing down now. You wave and offer a shy smile as the older woman approaches, and she looks quite happy to see you there. 

“You made it! I’m happy to see you here love,it’s been a while.”

”It has been, I’ve just still been getting used to this. Sorry Rose.” The woman tsks you as she swipes her card, opening the door for the both of you. “No need to apologize, I understand completely.” 

As you follow Rose through the door the faint sound of music and the thrumbing of bass is heard, it surprising you how much sound the door blocked. Your surprise must have shown on your face as Rose pats your shoulder with a laugh, guiding you further down the hall with the music growing louder.

“Sound proof doors are used a lot around here Love, to keep sound contained and controlled.”

“That does make sense, the Club music would interfere with the Casino atmosphere.”

Rose laughs as she gestures to you to keep following, the sound of her heels soon drowned out by the heavy synth bass that seemed to shake your bones as you both approached another grand door at the end of the soft lit hall, opening to show an elevator. It’s a very grand space for something so small, the walls a deep midnight blue with neon starlights lighting the space. As you both descend the music gets louder, shaking the elevator before the doors open and you’re blasted with a thumping beat and music overpowers you. 

Stepping out of the elevator you’re awestruck at what you see in front of you.

Once you overcome the loud thumping bass and music, you can take in the entire expanse of the Nebula Royal Club. Vibrant purple and blue lights flash over the stage and illuminate the large classy area, balanced with warmly lit sitting areas. Stone walls give the club a unique look, with loveseats going up a middle walkway (probably for lap dances) with a circular bar at the start and the stage at the end. 

The both of you had come out on a landing that had tables and red velvet seats, and you see another on the other side as well. Glancing up you notice aerial rings shaped like stars and moons pulled up to the ceiling, not currently in use but ready to be lowered for the next show. You catch a glimpse of Holly and Cinder on the poles, just pausing to watch them throw their bodies around the poles. It’s honestly impressive.

”Surprised?” You startle at Rose’s voice right in your ear, genuinely having forgotten for a moment she was there, flushing in embarrassment as she laughs good naturedly.

”Y-Yeah, yeah I am. I didn’t really have expectations, yet somehow this has exceeded all of them.”

Rose laughs a little harder and starts guiding you down the metal steps of the landing, easily weaving around patrons with a firm grip on your wrist. You sort of gracefully tumble after her, Rose raising her voice for you to hear her over the music.

”I’m glad you appreciate our place of work, hopefully we’ll see more of you around!”

You give a thumbs up, continuing to look around as you’re led through the crowd. There are a lot of people, and while you know Cinder had given warning you’re still surprised by how bustling it is. Of course most people are around the stage watching the dancers, but there’s plenty of people on the floor too. Mostly men unsurprisingly, but you see a decent amount of women too.

Rose pulled you closer to her side as the older woman pointed out the catwalks above, voice raised in your ear.

“Up there is for maintenance. It’s access to all the lights and sound controls, and security walks that path. Patrons aren’t allowed up there, though a couple or two have been caught making out up there.” 

“Really? It feels like such an open place, easy to be caught.”

Rose has a knowing grin on her lips, tapping your nose with amusement twinkling in her eyes as your face scrunches at the touch.

“People rarely look up my dear, it’s much more secluded than you believe.”

“I have a feeling you’re telling me this for a reason.” You can’t keep the apprehension out of your voice as the woman throws her hair behind her ear and guides you once more, much closer than before.

“You seem like the type to explore, and as per my warning on your first day, I’m simply warning you of the hazards. Wouldn’t want our favourite newbie getting into trouble.”

You have the distinct feeling the answer is far more loaded than she’s letting on, and with the feeling of eyes on you tracking your movement across the floor, you realize why the warning there. A look out the corner of your eyes confirms it, Apogee's gaze fixed on you from his spot behind the bar, exactly where it seems Rose is taking you. Brushing off the feeling you give the lady in red a grin and instead focus on the other, less foreboding part of her statement.

“I’m your favourite?”

She simply gives you a beaming grin, tugging you along until you both finally approach the bar where you immediately take a seat on the velvet stool. Apogee has his back to you talking to another customer, and you let yourself relax into the seat as Rose heads to his side of the bar. 

You take the moment to properly look around the club, not at the setup but the people themselves. No one particularly jumps out at you, though you do briefly recognise the female staff member you saw earlier in the mob back rooms at the far corner nursing a tall drink. Interesting, maybe she also lives in the apartments.

On one of the walkway couches you spy the Wentworth grunt from the other day getting a dance from a girl you haven’t seen, and spy who you think is Wentworth himself a few couches down with a girl on either arm, neither of which you’ve met either.

So it seems this club is a hotspot for mob members too, though that could just be because there was the meeting earlier and they came here to wind down after it. Either are plausible, and it’s impossible to know how many members are actually here since you really only know the figure heads, not who works for them. 

A sense of peace also washed over you seeing that the girls you met seemed to be strictly performers, meaning they don’t directly interact with the mob directly. Safer that way, for you to interact with and for them in general.

Your gaze came back to the bar as Rose was approaching again, her patting your shoulder as she passed. 

“Enjoy yourself Dear, the club closes at three in the morning. Maybe I’ll get to see you around more.” You wave her off, feeling more comfortable than you expected yourself to. Perhaps it’s the atmosphere of the ‘no snitches’ vibe of this particular club, and being able to just be, blend in.

A ‘THUNK’ jars you from your thoughts and observation, a glass of what looked like coke. Your gaze follows up the gold and brown metal hand to the arm in a burgundy sleeve connected to Apogee. 

“It’s rum and coke, requested by Rose.” He tells you before you can even open your mouth to ask, withdrawing and moving on to another customer before you can even thank him.

Okay then.

As much as you want to just ignore him after that, Apogee makes it admittedly very difficult. His movements are quick and efficient, clawed fingers handling glass with care and moving alcohol bottles between metal fingers with practiced ease. You have a feeling that it’s practiced anyway, as you’re pretty sure downloaded instructions don’t give the flair and showmanship the Synth is giving, plus the fact that the tiniest smile stretches over that faceplate of his shows genuine enjoyment.

The fact that it seems authentic and enjoyable may be bringing you in more to just watch if you’re honest. It’s completely captivating watching the mixology of drinks actually happening, and when Apogee catches you unabashedly staring you swear he starts throwing in other little flairs. An unnecessary flip here, a twirl there, a toss for style, it makes you laugh in bafflement as a vodka bottle is tossed over his shoulder and he catches it to pour in a glass without passing it a glance.

You couldn’t help but laugh a little at the showmanship, finding yourself relaxing further to the backdrop of the now droning bass. Only once all the patrons have left the bar counter does the showboat of a synth come back to your corner. 

“You’re really good with the bartender's flair.” You compliment before he can say anything, Apogee stalling for a moment before continuing forward to lean on the bar. He still towered over you, unfortunately.

“It is my job, I’m supposed to be good. I hope you’re not complimenting me for free drinks, that’s a tactic I won't fall for.”

“Ah so there’s some you will then?” You jab back with a grin, silling the rum and coke that is, genuinely, very nice on the nerves starting to tingle to the surface. Apogee guffaws at you, moving to keep busy by washing glasses, but you see the uptick of a smile. 

Well, you had planned to get closer, and he seemed much more relaxed here than in the Casino. Might as well go for it.

Just don’t drink more than this glass.

“I mean it man.” It’s a start, and considering your past interactions, honesty is the best way to approach schmoozing the guy. “I’ve seen you with the card but never really thought it translated to bartending. It’s really cool, kinda jealous of your dexterity to be honest.”

The rays on his head do a little movement, like a slight retract and shudder but don’t move more than that, neon lime eyes flicking to you for a moment before returning to the task in hand.

“Laying it on heavy, eh Adulador?” 

“I’m being serious man!” You grin as you shift on the stool, sipping your drink before continuing. “It’s mesmerizing to see the skill you put into it.”

Apogee appears to raise his single brow in your direction, scoffing and analyzing a glass before setting it down, grabbing a new one.

”There is no skill, it is simply part of what’s expected.” It’s your turn to scoff, and the bot had the gaul to look affronted at the sound of disagreement. “If you hadn’t noticed I am a Synth-“

“So?” You cut him off, very nearly snorting at the utter deadpan look sent your way, so you continue after another swig before he can jump back in. “Look, I admittedly haven’t been around that many synths and don’t know much about you in general. I do know there’s for sure one thing in common.”

“What would that be? From what I’ve seen you don’t know much of anything and have no room to give an opinion.” You bite down the offence welling up behind your teeth, breathing out the angry breath and giving a grin that was definitely all teeth.

”Ignoring that,” and ignoring the smug look on the dumb flat face, “what I mean, is that knowing how to do something doesn’t automatically mean being able to do said thing. It takes practice no matter what. That’s all I’m saying.” 

“Is that so?”

”Yeah.”

”Is that in any way, related to the supposed synth you once knew?” You grimace, hoping he had wiped that specific detail from his memory files. Apparently not.

”Yes, and that’s all you’re knowing about it, Apogee.” The two of you hold stares from a moment, like you're challenging each other to disagree or argue. 

“You are an interesting one, Scrappy.” The use of your nickname surprises you, even more so at seeing the genuine contemplation come to his eyes. 

“I feel like I’m pretty average, maybe you don't meet enough people.” Ah, there’s the deadpan look you’re used to. He turns away from you to serve a patron that came up to the bar, and you grin as you finish your drink. Maybe you’re enjoying this too much, but despite the annoyance you can see the easy set to the Card Shark’s shoulders. He’s not as tense as he is at the card tables.

The lights suddenly go dark around the club, gasps and murmuring whispers heard around the space.

”WELCOME ALL!” You and several people around you startle at the booming voice over the speakers, Cinder’s voice ringing loud and clear. “LET’S GET TO THE REAL SHOW ON THE ROAD! GIVE A WARM WELCOME TO OUR STUNNING PERFORMER OF THE NIGHT, SUGAR!”

Cheers ring out as slower but no less bass heavy music floods the room as spotlights of violet and blue swing around the club swing and come to a stop facing the ceiling. Gasping you stare in awe, watching Sugar descend on a sun shaped aerial ring glad in a bedazzled, fiery orange bodysuit with matching stiletto heels. Orange ribbon was woven into her coily multi-coloured afro with orange and yellow makeup catching the cool lights that shoan on her making her practically glow. 

Once the sun she sat on was about halfway between the ceiling and floor the show actually started properly, and you were captivated every moment of it. Sugar flew in the air like a natural, twirling around with the ring smooth and elegant as the wind itself. You’re so absorbed in the spectacle you barely notice Apogee taking your empty glass and replacing it with water. 

How kind, and a good sign for you. You made a good impression it seemed. 

Not being too keen on dancing to the music or interacting with anyone else you keep watching the feat of physicality above your head, only exchanging a word or two with the Synth as the bar gets buisier. 

Some time later as it slows down again shows it’s passed two in the morning. Well that’s why, the place closes in under an hour. You enjoyed yourself so much that the time flew by like nothing, damn.

”If you don’t leave soon, I will kick you out.” Turning you look at Apogee as you lean further against the bar.

”You sounded too happy with that statement. Isn’t there like, service rules or something for politeness?”

”No.”

”I still have time-“

”It’s courtesy to not stay right up until close, is it not?” You open your mouth to retort but pause, taking a closer look at the bot before you. He put his jacket on at some point in the night, deep green to match the dress pants he wore with what looked like a stylized spade pattern on the lining, but most noticeable was his posture. Apogee was tense again, looking like he’s on edge. 

Oh.

It may be mob related, why he wants you out.

Well, now’s as good a time as any to offer out that olive branch.

“I’ll leave now, on one condition.”

”What is it?” For a person that doesn’t get tired, he certainly looked it in that moment. You grin, sitting straighter to try and match his height a little better. The ass doesn’t really lean down for you either but whatever.

“Teach me card tricks.”

”…What?” The genuine, deadpan confusion brought you a feeling of pride.

”You heard me. I said what you do is really cool, and I want to learn. Who better to learn from?”

”Careful, you are edging into flattery again.”

”Only you see it that way.” You offer your hand to Apogee, a physical olive branch. “Well? What do you say?”

There’s genuine thought from him before -with great hesitance- metal meets skin as the synth shakes your hand. The mechanical appendage completely dwarfs your own fleshy hand.

God this bot is big, how did you forget that? Why is he so big?

“Deal. Now that I have signed my life away-“ A touch dramatic in your opinion, “-get out.”

”Yes sir.” You mock salute and get a dramaticized eye roll for your efforts, and his form relaxes a smidge. The right choice.

Standing with a grunt and a stretch you take a cursory look around and see very little people left, many just finishing drinks or passing out on couches. You aren’t really all that tired, and while you could take a proper read through those files, but you really aren’t feeling that. Running your hands through your hair you brush your bangs away and feel a slight greasyness when pulling your hand away.

Right.

You ran out of shampoo.

You spy the main door that leads out to the street rather than the casino and after barely any thought you decide a night ride is in order, you do have your keys and card. 

You head to the door and adjust your jacket as you go, slipping out to the cool and crisp refreshing air eagerly, just taking a moment to breathe it in. The club parking lot you notice isn’t actually that far from the employee lot, maybe a ten minute walk to the other side of the building, which you’re eager to do after sitting so long.

Hopefully that small corner stare you saw on your initial drive in had some cheap shampoo to tie you over until you find the time to go to a proper store.

~~~~~~~~

Squinting at the bright lights of the convenience store instantly dampers your lighter mood as you walk in the door, though it thankfully doesn’t take you too long to adjust to the offensive light brightness. The walk past the aisle is very empty minded as you look for the personal care section, finding it on your second aisle try. Your half minded state goes to full alertness with what you see down the aisle you need down, after a tired and unbelieving double take.

A synth was standing in the aisle holding a jar of cream and scowling, muttering to themself. Similar to Apogee but not nearly as tall, that you could tell as they were hunched over, and more warm sunny coloured. Based on your previous companion being a ‘Moon” model and Apogee being a supposed ‘Eclipse’ model, this one by your guess is a ‘Sun’. You grab the first two random shampoo bottles you find and pretend to compare them, really looking at this synth from the corner of your eye.

Now that you’re a little closer you’re almost certain this was the same person you saw entering that Violet Hare club on one of your rides around here, the colours and rays certainly match your memory, as brief as that glance was. Little red diamonds adorn the slowly moving rays of this particular synth, the slow clockwise and counterclockwise back and forth making little piercings jingle slightly with the consistent motion. 

Actually he seemed to have a lot of those piercing-like pieces, even with the profile view you currently have you can see studs coming off the slightly rounded out faceplate.

You’ve never seen that before aside from the mock brow pieces Apogee has over his single brow. This one appears to have them around his mouth too. Realizing you probably starred for far too long you actually look at the hair products you picked up, very quickly deciding on a 3-in-1 style to tie you over until you find time to go to a bigger store with a better product. 

You debate starting a conversation as you set the other shampoo down but ultimately decide against it. Not many would just start a conversation with a stranger at three in the morning, much less a synth. You have to try and appear at least a little like the normal populace. 

You turn to leave the aisle, content to just leave the sun bot muttering and just get home to bed, but the universe had other ideas. 

The audacity of the universe lately, honestly.

“Do you know anything about plants?” The question startles you, as does the smooth, higher pitched voice that called to you. Turning back around you look the synth in the eyes properly and find your previous observation was correct, there were stud piercings in the corner of his mouth. What really surprised you was the perfectly winged eyeliner and black lipstick you felt mildly jealous at from how even and smooth it was. 

The sun bot made a mock cough after the silence stretched, single brow raising and rays spinning a little slower.

Oh they asked you a question, right.

“I, I’m not too familiar, sorry.” You cough into your fist, looking away for a moment before looking back to the bot in bright and warm colours in front of you. “I can try to help though if you’d like.” 

“Really?!” The energy startles you as the bot leans into your space, rays spinning like a fan as you take a startled step back. It seems though that now that the door’s open the synth has no problem getting into your space, thrusting the two bottles they were mumbling at earlier in your direction. You take them both and notice that they’re plant food bottles. 

“What, are you looking for, specifically?” You're working a little slower as you read, trying to process this scenario you’ve found yourself in. The synth rocks on his feet like there’s energy pent up and trying to escape, and the voice feels forced, like they’re trying to not sound so energetic maybe.

”I’m looking for someone else, but I wasn’t really told exactly what he needed. I think it’s for a type of lily.” You take the hesitance and stitled words as embarrassment for having to ask, and with a sigh through your nose you offer the best smile you can, trying to match theirs. 

“That’s sweet that you’re doing this.” The sun perks further, rays slowing just a bit as you read over the bottles. “It’s been a while but I think lilies need something balanced.” 

“What does that mean?” The synth comes close so you turn enough so the sun is looking over your shoulder as you talk.

”See these three numbers here? I can’t remember exactly what they each stand for, but it’s the mix of what’s in the food. This one,” you slightly shake the purple bottle, “has 10-10-10, the other is 10-5-10. Lilies like I said need a balanced mix of stuff, so based on that I figure this purple stuff is what you need.” You offer said bottle and they take it happily, a beaming grin sent your way.

”Thanks for your help friend! He’ll be very happy with this, I feel it!” You grin in return, finding the energy a little infectious.

”No problem man, glad I could help even with limited knowledge.”

You intend to continue on to the register, getting passed the synth before a warm hand lightly taps your shoulder for your attention again.

”You have some loose threads on your jacket, I noticed when I was standing behind you.” 

“Wait really?” Mild panic flared in your chest at the thought, this was your favorite jacket. Craning your neck you try to see but a finger touching just over your left shoulder blade stops you, it’s impossible for you to see there unless you take off the jacket.

”It’s nothing big! Just a loose thread loop! Here-“ the warmth follows the stitching across and then down to your middle back, “-and here. Just two little spots, easy fixes.” Relief, that it isn’t bad and you now know where to look.

”I appreciate you telling me, thanks a bunch.” You push as much tired gratefulness as you can into it which seems to be enough for the synth, who stands straight with his hand wide, grinning with rays spinning.

”You helped me so I helped you, that’s how this works right?” You nod.

”Usually yeah.” 

“Anytime! Oh, I’m late! If you’ll excuse me.” The synth brushes past you, waving as they go. You’re left standing there, a half assed wave sent his way. It takes you a minute to process before hurriedly tugging off your jacket to see the loose threads for yourself, thinking of the drive home without knowing the scope of what needs fixing stresses you out, so might as well check in case you need sewing material before you leave the convenience store. 

As you scrutinize the spots the sun pointed out, but you can’t find anything for the life of you. The stitching while old still looks pristine to you, and even running your thumb over it doesn’t show any irregularities.

What the hell?

maybe they were just embarrassed and made something up To help you so they felt less so? That’s what you figured as you slowly slid your jacket back on. Weird is what it was. You shake off the weirdness of it and head for the register counter, reaching for the bills you kept in the interior pocket. That’s when it all makes sense.

Your money’s gone, only change is left rattling at the bottom of the pocket. You were just robbed blind by the oldest misdirection in the book, touch distraction.

God fucking damnit.

You’re quick to the front of the store but aren’t surprised to find it empty, and looking to the parking lot shows the same thing, the synth is long gone. 

You thunk your purchase far more aggressively than you need to on the counter, startling the half asleep teenager behind it and pull out your change, thankfully having enough. Storming out of the convenience store you’re more than willing to go on a warpath to confront the guy, but pause once you’re sat over your bike.

It’s late, you’re tired, and you don’t have a plan. Casting a look down the street the Violet Hare club is just seen around the corner, and while you have a good feeling that’s where they went since you saw them once before there, it’s not certain if they’re still there. It’s been a few days. Plus, the thought of just going into another club drains any and all energy you previously had.

You need sleep and a game plan, and while you aren’t that upset about the money (it was pretty impressive) it’s the principle of the matter that you were robbed. Witha sigh to clear your head, the decision is made. You’ll go back to the apartment and sleep it off, and make a game plan when you wake up.

Sounds solid enough of an idea to you as you ride back towards the casino, mulling over different ideas for confronting your late night sunny robber.

Chapter Text

You’re slow to wake when the clutches of sleep finally decides to release its grip on you, midday sunlight streaking between your blinds straight across your face. You groan in displeasure and pull your blankets over your head to stop the assault on your poor eyes, rolling over to put your back to the window for good measure. 

While the week felt like it passed quickly and went relatively well, you still felt exhausted. Probably from stress you reasoned to yourself, or chronic exhaustion. Both probably.

The sun, the consistent ball of hate in the sky that it was, continued to shine unrelenting over your prone form, and you groan loudly before angrily throwing off the covers and rolling back over to grab your phone from the bedside table. 

You squint at the assaulting bright light,  cursing as you blink away bright spots for what feels like minutes to adjust your eyes and focus enough to see the time.

11:46 AM.

Dropping the phone in the blankets you roll on your back and stare at the ceiling, willing yourself to get up and not being very successful. You had a thief to confront today, and it would also probably be a good idea to go through the pictures you took from your little espionage adventure and actually read the paperwork you risked your cover to get. Groaning again, it takes far more energy than it should to move your body enough to roll out of the sweet siren call of the bed and put your feet on the floor.

The cold hardwood sends waking chills through your body, and you push yourself to actually move forward instead of giving into the urge to just crawl back under the covers. 

The trudge to the kitchen is a true testament of your patience when you realize you left your phone on the bed and have to turn back to the very thing you fought so hard to leave, you legitimately have to consider if it’s worth staying up. Common sense annoyingly succeeds as you grab your phone and speed walk back to the little kitchen to cobble together some sustenance. You haven’t really done shopping yet so there’s very little, just prestocked non-perishables and the bread loaf from the bottom of your duffle that was definitely stale.

Make that another thing you should probably do this weekend. 

Your mental list of things is getting quite large, you should write those down eventually, you think, knowing full well you’re going to do no such thing.

You settle on another sad breakfast of toast and miserably sit at the kitchen table, booting up your tablet to go through everything you saved properly. 

The first couple pages don’t hold much of anything that matters to you, mostly containing things you already know about the home you left. The estate’s estimated value, the square footage, land size, budgeting, etc. It’s page five that catches your attention, the one that had your family name. It takes a little bit of photo altering and zooming to make the words legible, and once you can read them a part of you wishes you couldn’t.

“The Harman family estate and land has recently been bought by an anonymous source, labeled only in letters and documents as ‘Q’. It was done under the table mere hours after the police raid, no one seen coming or going. Our informants and agents were unsuccessful in tracking down the originator, and trying to leave a message for connection left three agents deceased. The courts however….” 

You lean back in the uncomfortable kitchen chair, mind reeling. Only hours later? 

“Someone was watching us before I blew it out of the water.” You say the realization aloud, which makes it feel worse, like you spoke a secret into open air for all to hear. Did you save lives or make lives worse by proxy of acting? You’re not sure how to feel about that if you’re being fully honest with yourself.

You get up for a glass of water to settle your mind and try to wash down the feeling of unease crawling its way up your throat. Picking up your tablet again once you're more or less settled, you sit back down and flip to the next page with more than a little trepidation.

“Records show nothing of this ‘Q’ figure, not in other mobs over the world, nor names in the dark markets. It was clear there were people that knew information, but no amount of persuasion would reveal anything of value. This mystery buyer seems to be an immediate threat, with long reaching grips of fear from the shadows. Many small mobs have been taken down in silence, and several Moranno drop offs have had to change routes due to shipments disappearing. The best guess we have of this mystery figure is Quinn, whoever he has been bedridden for years and has not made action outside of his own territory for even longer.” 

It wasn’t Moranno, which is a minor relief in all this bad and new information. It means you aren’t in imminent danger, however you do find yourself now cursed with the knowledge that someone was watching your family, and by extension you. Now you have even more reasons to watch the shadows. The sigh that leaves your lips is weary and heaving as your sag in the seat, really reconsidering your life choices for what felt like the hundredth time this week. 

Skimming the rest of the documents and pictures shows that the report moved on to other smaller groups that have seemingly dissipated off the map. Part of you is glad to have left when you did, cosmic luck maybe since it seems there’s more going on here. Moranno is a very large figure in the criminal underworld, it would be idiotic for anyone no matter how deep their reach to attack him as he is, so even if his organization is a target of this mystery figure like your family’s was, you have some time. Maybe you could learn a little more about other organizations with his influence, give yourself an in or safety net in a worst-case scenario. 

Plus you're earning money. As long as you tread carefully, you should be fine.

Should be, famous last words.

You close your tablet of despair, making the executive decision that you’ve had enough for now. There’s definitely a lot you have to go through mentally and process. Besides you have a list to get through today, mainly getting groceries for the first time since moving in here, and confronting the bright and sunny synth that robbed you last night. You also have those card shuffle lessons from Apogee you should cash in sometime soon. 

Tomorrow maybe you’d ask him, today you start with the easier tasks that take you away from the casino for a while. Starting with a shower.

~~ APOGEE ~~

Knock knock

>Processors booting…Power 40%<

Knock Knock

>Reserve power store 23%…Optics power, 46%<

KNOCK KNOCK

A stir of a large metal body, fingers and limbs moving slowly with barely audible creaks. The power is lower than he’d like it to be, last night was not very considerate of his body. Vibrant green lights flicker to life in a sea of black, the bot’s optics flickering around as they recalibrate after a rushed shut down. 

KNOCK KNOCK

“GIVE ME A MINUTE!” Apogee shouts at the incessant knocking, stretching his metal limbs and sitting up on the stiff bed that groans under his weight. Heavy steps cross the loft rest area with the floorboards creaking under every few steps, practiced metal fingers smoothing out the wrinkles in the maroon dress shirt. With a practiced scowl of distaste  Apogee rips the door open, not even bothering to crouch the few feet needed to meet the eyes of the one pulling him from rest so much earlier than necessary. Even with the doorway blocking his view of the disruptor’s head, Apogee knows who it is immediately by the vibrant pinks and oranges of her knee length cardigan.

“Ms. Cornam, what are you doing pounding on my door at seven fifteen in the morning?”

”Good morning to you too you grump. No one’s in the hall by the way, so you can drop the formality. Now move over and let me in.” Despite not having the air to do so Apogee sighs and moves out of the way, the woman strolling in with her calico coloured afro swaying slightly with her strides. It was mildly shaped like a star today, he absurves as he shuts the door behind her and relaxes a fraction.

”Denise-“

”Oh hush you. I know you like my company, much as you pretend not to. Besides,” Apogee sees the look of mischief as she takes out a small photo envelope from a hidden pocket on the inside of her cardigan, “This is a work visit Dear.”

The synth relaxes fully, grimace turning to a sharp and genuine smile. “You could have led with that.”

“Where’s the fun in that? I have to keep some of my alluring mystique.” Denise does a little ‘mysterious’ pose before she settles on his couch.  Apogee moves in to the kitchen before she’s fully sat, turning on the coffee maker that was smuggled into his space for just these occasions, making the usual order.

”You’re earlier than usual, bringing good news with you I would hope.”

“I wouldn't come so early with bad news Aces, that’s Mel’s job. She handles your bad moods much better.”

”Is that all you see me as? You hurt me with your stinging words Azúcar.”

“It’s all you put yourself forward as around here. We know the true though, you’re just a big softie, usually.”

Apogge walks to the living space with an exaggerated roll of green lights in the black of his optics accompanied by the ‘thunk’ of a ceramic mug on the polished coffee table, the tall synth joining his human companion on the couch who returns the eye roll with a smile and little laugh. Denise picks up the mug as she hands off the envelope to him, sighing contently at the warmth of the coffee and melting into the worn leather of his couch.

With careful and practiced fingers Apogee opens the envelope and pulls out several photographs and a few neatly folded notes.

”What is all this?” He asks as he flips through the images, many slightly blurry in quality but with figures still distinguishable to the eye as other Mafia leaders and their members.

“Information for you Bossman, courtesy of your girls.” Denise gives a coy little salute as she leans forward, a serious look quickly pulling tight at her features as she shuffles closer to look at the photos with him to explain the findings. Apogee accommodates her without a second thought, adjusting his position to make it more comfortable for the woman as she speaks. “There’s a mole somewhere in the building, maybe several. The informants of these Bosses have been caught skulking around by us on many occasions. It’s not hard to learn what’s got them so on edge. Plus,” she winks. “Men tend to loosen up with alcohol and pretty girls that are there for their wallets.”

“Men.” He scoffs, Denise laughing in a way that makes her whole body shake, having to calm down before she could drink more of her made-to-perfection coffee.

”We taught you well Ace.” The grin he sent her was genuine, both parties enjoying the moment before refocusing on the photos in hand, Denise pointing as he shuffles through the laminated sheets.

”So this one here was snapped by Mel for me. Micheal Hernesto, who is the right hand for Dosco, was spotted as pictured here loitering around Boss’s office.”

”An off limits place with special entry. You think he was let in?”

”Or stole the key. Either way he’s where he’s not supposed to be. Mel said he got in, but she wasn’t going to risk being caught trying to follow or be caught in the office.”

”Good, I’m glad she didn’t try. Unnecessary risk.” Denise sent Apogee a soft look, fondness in her honey eyes.

”She knows better, and knows when to be quiet.”

”Usually.”

”Oh leave her be, it’s her best quality that mouth of hers.” There’s lightness in the statement before she pulls the next few photos for him. “Moving on, Lara is to thank for these.”

The photos were dark, clearly in the club with the glow neon lights creeping in the corners of the photo. The faces of these people weren't distinguishable by just looking, so Apogee simply scanned the photo into his hard drive and edited it, going through his database. The mid toned skin became more prominent in his mind’s eye, as did the shape of wild black hair.

“Benji. With the Lorantes.”

”Yeah. She could only catch snippets of conversation, but it wasn’t incriminating, they’re too smart for that. The red flag here is that our chip banker and door lookout is notably nowhere near the front desk and speaking in the shadows with opposing forces.”

”I’ll keep an eye on him.” The Synth bites out, filing all that information away. “Until I have cause to alert Moranno.”

”Funds have also been disappearing. Rose said the chip counts were off, barely noticeable really, but they’ve never been incorrect until a few weeks ago.“

”Trying to be under the radar with coincidence and slow movements.”

”That’s what she thinks, yeah. She’s keeping an eye on him too, he mentioned once the idea of recruiting the new hire.” 

“The one you refer to as ‘Scrappy?’ His attention sharpens at the mention of the newcomer, eyeing Denise out the corner of his optic. Denise either didn’t notice or chose not to mention it.

”She was really against it for some reason. She may just not want an innocent person getting caught up in everything, especially when they seemed down on their luck enough to live here and come with just a duffle and a bike.”

”There’s more to them than that, the full name they gave isn’t in any database.”

”You think that of everyone hon, sometimes people want to start fresh. Or simply don’t like their given name. Scepticism ages you faster.”

”I’m skeptical for good reason, and I do not have the worry of aging, unlike you.” The offended gasp was put on for dramatics, and Apogee made sure to move his body with her predictable (he made note to spar with her again sometime) punch so it wouldn’t hurt the delicate skin of her knuckles. She moves right along with him to half fall in his lap, mug of caffeine somehow not losing a single drop.

”Aside from your skepticism and rubbing in of agelessness, the rest are just photos of other mafiosos snooping around where they shouldn’t. The notes are our written accounts.”

A metallic brow raises. “If they are written, why have you made yourself a home on my couch?”

”The couch I got you? Well-“ She grins up at Apogee, sipping the now no doubt cold coffee, “-you”ve been busy. I missed you, and spoken accounts are more informative than simple written ones.’

The bot hums in a skeptical manner, but the humor in it isn’t missed by the woman who sits herself up and all but chugs the rest of her coffee, setting the mug down and carefully fixing the shape of her coils. Apogee figures there’s no need for fixing with the no doubt bottle of hairspray and gel used to keep the star in shape, and that will no doubt keep it in shape for days, but chooses to not voice that particular thought for his own safety. He instead flips through the photos and notes once more.

”I will go through these more in depth tomorrow during charge. I’ll store them with the others if you or the girls have anything to add and I’’m not present here. Thank you, Denise.”

”Anything for you Darlin. Make sure you thank the others too though you hear? This work for you ain’t easy.”

”I’m aware. I greatly appreciate you, all of you. I’ll be sure to make that known. Perhaps, a visit tomorrow?” The glint of something undefineable in honey eyes makes Apogee almost rescind the offer. Almost. Denise grins and strides forward, fixing his collared shirt that she had wrinkled with her earlier dramatics with care.

More care than Apogee figured was warranted.

”Sounds lovely. Another night of teaching our beloved Ace of Hearts the media he’s missing.”

”Oh Joy.” The mechanical voice drips with as much sarcasm as he can physically manage, a skill taught by and implemented well from their dear Mel.

”You can pretend all you want for the Boss that you only see us as colleagues, but we know the truth hun. That you’re a giant sweetheart that loves to learn. Who’s also abysmally behind in pop culture.”

”For the better I believe, especially with all this blasphemy spoken of my name.” He forces the scowl, but it only succeeds in making Denise grin bright as the sun before she backs away, waving as she heads to his door with all the confidence and light she came with. 

“Whatever you have to tell yourself to rest at night.”

”At the end of the day Denise, I am a synth. An old model that never served its purpose until I was brought here. I don’t need anything else than the knowledge for the job I do.” He’s not sure why he feels compelled to say that to her, maybe as a reminder to her. 

She stops with her hand on the door knob, not opening it yet and standing still in surprise. “What I mean to say-“ Apogee is quick to add, regretting speaking before processing his words, “-Is that while I appreciate it, you do not have to take your own time off for me. You already out yourself at risk for me. That is all.” 

Denise looks at him then, a sad look she’s worn more and more around him recently that he can’t understand. It frustrates him that he can’t seem to understand that look, and why it’s been for him more often than not as of late. Apogee hates seeing her, or any of them look at him like that. Sad, regretful, pity. It makes no sense.

”I’ll let the girls know Aces, see you Sunday.” Then she’s gone, out the door as quiet as a whisper in the wind. The room feels colder to him, even when he knows logically that it’s physically impossible to be so. The silence leaves a gaping hole of which the synth can’t even begin to understand, turning sharply from the door and striding through the apartment as if unbothered.

He might as well get started with the day even if it was earlier than Apogee would have liked. The clock hands were just edging towards eight on the clock-face, still a good two hours before the casino shift was to begin. 

Ignoring the nagging feeling in his wires Apogee gets himself presentable for the day, a normal routine even if it’s a little off. The old and wrinkled shirt comes off, the bot grimacing as he realizes last night’s blood stains are on the hem, grimacing further upon realizing Denise never mentioned it.

”Guess I wasn’t as careful as I first thought.” He grumbles to himself, throwing the shirt in the garbage. There’s no chance it’ll come clean after it sat all night, a shame really. He liked this shirt.

Not that it mattered as he could easily get it replaced, Sir Moranno wants him to always look his best after all. With the stained shirt tossed aside Apogee sifts through the wardrobe a moment before settling on a silken black button down, settling it over his chassis and doing it up in a few mere seconds, smoothing the already creaseless fabric and carefully settling his sage jacket over top. It will do for the day he decides, striding down from the loft rest area and out his door, it clicking locked behind him. 

Apogee strode down the hall standing tall with shoulders back and coat billowing behind him, the comfortable weight of his card packs in either side's pocket keeping it to just the tail of the coat. Too much billowing is a ridiculous look after all. People parted for the eight foot tall synth who he barely acknowledged, only giving slight nods to any bar staff or servers he passed. The goal was Moranno’s study in the secret wing, Apogee sure the man would want a full report of last night's…ordeal. May as well get it over with early, it means he can return to his room after the bar and charger earlier than expected.

Maybe Denise’s visit was a blessing in disguise. He supposes he owes her twice now, perhaps he’ll pick something up on tonight’s weekly outing. With a note made in his mind Apogee focuses back to the task at hand as he strides up the spiralling stairs. Livina is at the top of the stairs waiting for him, her chocolate skin pulled tight in stress. Seeing her there brings a slight falter to his step as he sharply analyzes her coyly hair that sported more grey than the last time he’d seen her, red dress impeccable as always but with simpler accessories then normal. 

”Miss Durenno.” He greets as warmly as he can once they stand side by side, opening the door for the young at heart woman that gives him a genuine, if strained, smile. She loops her arm up through his once they’re both through the door and Apogee matches his stride to hers.

”You look more tired than I have seen you in a long time. Are you resting well?”

”Not as well as I should be Amor, but I will be fine. It is you I am worried about, as Sugar texted me to meet you here.”

”Of course she did. She did visit me this morning.” The two acknowledged some guards that passed, getting head tilts in response. Apogee thought his words carefully before speaking again now that they were in more guarded parts. Ears were everywhere up here. “She invited herself in to gossip about the staff romances Miss Rose, she’s quite insistent on involving me.”

”Is that so?” He could see the slight shift in the woman’s posture from the corner of his optic, her warm eyes sharpening as she walked a little closer to his large form. 

“Yes. I am supposedly the best to gossip with as I am impartial. However I would prefer not to be interrupted from charging for it, the morning is set for that purpose. I’m not to be disturbed. She even brought pictures to prove the ‘romantic potential’.”

”I will have a talk with her Apogee, but there is nothing wrong with her wanting to liven up her job a little.” Rose’s tone was light and playful, but her eyes were focused and processing. Good, she understood his meaning. Not that he had any reason to doubt her, she was the best at what she did for a reason.

”Thank you Miss Rose.” They both reached the large doors to Moranno’s office, nodding to the guards.

”I appreciate you taking the time to let me know of my worker’s habits, and I will make sure to speak with her. I must go to my own meeting, but I presume you would like to go over tonight’s show line up later tonight?”

Apogee grinned, giving her a bow. Quick on her feet and sharp of the mind as always.

”If you can spare the time.” She gave a nod and promptly turned on her heel, steps clicking back down the hall and taking a left into a room they had passed. He makes another note to inquire about that, it wasn’t her normal meeting room. Straightening his coat for no reason other than himself, Apogee then knocks, only stepping in when invited to do so. For now he has a job, the rest is to be tackled at a later point in the night.

One task at a time. 

~~ YOU ~~

The grocery trip you decided to do before being gone for who-knows-how-long tonight was uneventful but took more time than you originally planned. Turns out a bike as your only mode of transportation makes it tricky to do a large grocery shop. It had been a while since you needed more than just the basics for a few days on the road. There was a nice old lady that seemed to want to know about every new person in town, i.e you, but otherwise it was completely unneventful.

The most eventful part was honestly trying to get everything back to the apartment without losing anything from your food haul. It was a balancing act and a feat of real life jenga, but you managed. You got lucky running into Benji at the doors and were infinitely grateful for his offered help, even if the wide smile he gave you the whole time made you a little uneasy. 

You were quick to thank Benji for the help and sighted your need for a nap to get him out, which wasn’t exactly a lie, you were still tired from your bar night. You also figured that considering you were going to another club tonight you may as well get the extra sleep. You had learned that Violet Hare club didn’t even open until three in the afternoon when you got there, so you were honestly proud of yourself for choosing something productive like groceries instead of coming back right away to sleep.

Brownie points to you for taking care of necessities you supposed. 

The problem however came when you laid down in bed and couldn’t actually fall asleep, as you ended up just staring up at your ceiling for what must’ve been fifteen minutes or more, unable to drift into the dark of sleep you so desperately wanted to fall into. Just your luck honestly. 

With almost as much reluctance as in the morning you rolled out of bed and decided you might as well walk around the casino before heading out, you hadn’t really given yourself the time or chance to properly explore the place and learn the lay of the land. Hell a busy Saturday may actually be the perfect gateway for you, you could blend right into the crowd. 

Shrugging off the basic sweats you’d thrown on for basic groceries you riffled through your limited closet debating what to wear, honestly having half a mind to just throw on the clothes from last night. That thought was quickly thrown out considering you were going to be walking around the casino and apartments, not a good look for an employee to walk around in the same clothes they were seen in at two am.

There’s quite a bit more grumbling and internal debate before you settle on something casual and comfortable, but still nice looking. A fitted black long sleeve that has a cropped neck with a black and white pinstripe button down thrown over top, the first couple buttons undone tastefully. You throw on a pair of black slacks that the striped shirt is tucked into and grab a thick double holed belt to pull it all together.

Nice. Definitely a good call, even if your current wardrobe limited the outfits that could be thrown together. Add clothes shopping to your list of things to do.

Your mid-calf bike boots finish the look with the pant ends dropping over top, and with that you head out. You don’t intend to get to the club right at opening, so you take your time going through the locations of the apartments and casino, and mapping them in your head.

The apartment building halls were identical to each other with the apartment numbers distinguishing the floors. You were 16-245 of course, with the numbers before the dash being the floor number. It was convenient, and at least all you had to do was look at a door number to get your bearings. You’d stayed in a hotel once that used symbols for the floor number, that had sucked, terrible design choice.

The halls were all the same neutral colourings of beige walls, oak trims and deep velvet carpet, with the carpet being more worn and aged in the lower floors. You noted the fire escapes with the employee apartment card scanner, grimacing at how horribly that could go in an actual emergency. Actually now that you thought about it you didn’t remember seeing card scanners on the fire escapes. Were they new? You shake away the uneasy feeling that started to creep up your spine, you must’ve just overlooked the design from how stupid it was. Either way it seems the tight security is sacrificing aspects of safety, you’ll have to remember that and make sure you always have your card on you wherever you go here. 

You pause to pat down your pockets and breathe a sigh of relief at feeling the card tucked in the smaller front pant pocket. You should probably invest in a lanyard or something to keep it attached to you, have it tucked into your shirt or something.

Your mental list of things to do just keeps getting longer and longer.

You take the few moments the elevator give to go through that list as it stands now;

• Get more clothes (and something convenient for your key card)
• Befriend the synth that seems as skeptical of you as you are of him
• Make friends with staff to blend in, the girls you’ve met so far? Benji too?
• Get your stolen money back
• Stay under the radar
• Learn more about this mob and what’s happening that seems to now involve your family
• Establish patterns of security and exit points
• Have an exit plan ready, just in case

Not necessarily to be tackled in that order, but it’s a more strenuous list than you would have liked. 

You walk out the elevator and wave to those you pass, mapping your exits as you go. When you walk into the casino it’s bustling with people, not all that surprising being as it is a Saturday. It is good for you to know just how busy the weekends are for future reference, so you’ll keep an eye on the traffic coming through over the next few weeks.  

It takes longer than usual for you to feel eyes on you, oddly enough the gaze feels tired. That’s odd. You brush that off as your own gaze falls to the synth across the busy floor, as he does look exhausted. Can synths even feel exhaustion? Maybe it’s a feature to emote more to make patrons more at ease you reason, leisurely making your way to his card table. 

It’s blessedly empty for the moment with the tall synth cleaning the table meticulously, picking each individual peanut shell up between claws and tossing them aside. You’ve seen Apogee work faster than this, so he’s either stalling to have a short break or truly is experiencing exhaustion. You feel him either way.

It takes effort to make your approach as casually as you can, settling on the chair just right of the center and wait patiently for the dealer to acknowledge you. He makes you wait for a few minutes before sitting back on his stool and finally looking at you properly, lime green optics looking you over.

”Taking a day trip?” Apogee’s speech is a little slower, almost stilted and it makes you frown, the creases in your forehead getting deeper as you notice that his hand motions with the cards are even slower than usual. Your tragically human eyes can actually track the deck as it moves between golden fingers.

“That’s the plan, gonna go around town. Maybe do some shopping, visit the club at the edge of down.” You shrug. “I’ll see what happens.” 

The appraising eye he’s giving you feels like it changes to judgment as he appraises your outfit. You can’t help but bristle under it and wave your hand as if the movement would chase away the judgment, changing the subject.

”You look exhausted.” A scoff is your answer as the cards fall still in the palm of his right hand, the grip firm enough to make the delicate playing cards buckle and crease slightly under the pressure.

”Synths do not feel exhaustion, I am simply running low on battery. I will be fine until I charge tonight.” You can tell just from the tone of voice that Apogee would kindly like you to shut your mouth, but hey you were always one to test the limits. So you lean forward with your elbows on the wood ledge with your chin resting on your hands, a soft grin stretching over your lips.

The look he gives you like your a predator trying to back prey into a corner is a little over kill you think, but you drop the grin nonetheless to take a more serious tone.

”Look man I’m not a professional-“

”That is obvious.”

”-that being said.” You emphasise over his interruption “That sounds like exhaustion just for metal and electricity, in my opinion.” 

“Your opinion is jodidamente estúpido.” 

You scowl at him not entirely sure what insult you just took to the face, only for sure knowing it involved calling you stupid. 

“Maybe.” You admit with a shrug, moving your hands from under your chin to run over the wooden edge of the card table. “I like to believe that being stupid means someone’s also being genuine.”

It’s Apogee’s turn to squint at you, his vibrant eyes dimming a moment as if unfocusing before brightening once more, gaze falling to the cards in his hand and loosening the unyielding metal grip. 

“You are a strange one.” Your name, the fake one you’d given on your application anyway, rolls from his mouth in curious thought. Even though you have no connection to it the syllables roll down your spine in an uncomfortable way, Apogee saying them like he knows it’s bullshit. “It is odd when you arrived here, you seem to bring activity with you.”

“I think you’re mixing up causation and coincidence Apogee.” Are the words your brain manages to cobble together, though you mentally applaud yourself for how steady your voice managed to sound. 

The synth doesn’t say anything more as he sets the cards down in a careful stack, you not daring to say anything when it feels like your entire story is unraveling under that neon gaze. You tell yourself that there’s no way he figured out the truth, but the seed of doubt has already logged its roots deep in you, slowly sprouting as the silence ticks on. 

“Anyway, I actually came here to see if I could catch you to ask about those card lessons.” Ten points to you for the shitty save. Apogee regards you with eyes far too keen for your liking, but you keep your cool. At least on the outside.

When the synth finally speaks again it startles you as the silence gets broken, making you jolt and nearly tip off the stool you perched on. 

“Don’t you have somewhere to be Zorrito Astuto?” 

“Oh right! Thank-thanks for the reminder!” Sputtering you scramble down and make your way from the table, taking his not answering you as the dismissal ii was, giving the most awkward wave of your life and feeling an amused and critical gaze follow your retreating back until you disappear from the synth’s line of sight behind the rows of slot machines.

You take the barest moment of a breather, slipping into the crowd to loopback around to the employee entrance, slipping out the door with an easy swipe of a key card.

You note the emergency exit by the breakroom, adjacent to the door for the employee parking lot. Considering the placement it makes sense to be an exit from the club below, and mark that on your growing map of the place. You’ll draft it out later to have a proper visual.  

You head out to the parking lot with that last thought, only realizing you left your helmet in your apartment once you have a leg over the bike. Ultimitely you say ‘fuck it’ and leave helmetless, you don’t really want to risk running into anyone else.

When you pull up to the club and park your bike it’s relatively unchanged from when you did your first drive around, but you notice the gothic themed gardens are more well kept than a few days ago. You must have come by before the grounds keeper came by.

Even from out here you can hear the thumping bass of music as you dismount and approach the doors, a bouncer outfront. The club has only been open a few hours but there’s a decent line out front, a good tell for the quality of the place. 

It only took a few minutes of waiting, and soon enough with a stamp of a mohawked skull on your hand and I.D checked you were in. You had to sidestep from the door once you were inside just so you could gawk without blocking the entrance, the complete dissonance from the pristine and shiny club from the night before taking you off guard.

The neon coating everything was the only similarity between the two, with The Violet Hare having it not just in the lights that moved to the thumping base beat, but in the vibrant scrawling graffiti all over the walls and ceiling. The black walls made the perfect canvas for the overlapping preserved memory of people, coming alight even more vibrantly under pot light black lights. 

It was truly breathtaking. You’re distantly applauding yourself for coming before the large crowds to actually get the chance to go slow and take it all in.

You pass a two-lane bowling alley covered floor-to-cieling in graffiti, the lanes themselves the only pristine thing in the total black light room. There’s even a mini arcade wall you pass with machines untouched and standing out against the vibrantly tagged walls, noting some of the tags are actual high scores left behind to be immortalized outside of 8-bit code. 

It’s wild and chaotic, the grungy track coming on over the speakers giving you a feeling of… belonging. Something you haven’t felt in a long time.

By the time you start picking your way over to the bar the place has filled up some and gotten much louder, and you find the buzz and energy infectious as you slide into a rickety old metal bar seat at the cracked and aging wooden L-shaped bar.

The shelf wall behind the two bustling servers is stocked full of alcohol and bright neon pink, christmas lights filling the space with rainbow colour. The entire thing feels cobbled together, rustic, punky and full of personality.

A dime a dozen places like this. 

One of the servers approaches you with a big customer service smile, and you feel for her. So you give the most genuine smile you can muster, adding on a friendly little wave. 

“Welcome to the Violet Hare! What can I getchya?” You can’t quite place her accent, but the peppy tone was infectious, a grin pulling across your lips as you glanced at the vast menu.

”Well this is my first time here, any recommendations?”

”Ah a first time visitor huh? Been a while since someone new’s been ‘round here.” She leans on the bar appraising you. “What kinda drinks ya like Broody?”

”Broody?” You quirk a brow but aren’t all that offended, your outfit does kind of give a ‘broody’ feel you suppose. 

“Yer dressed in 2012 emo wear minus the hair Sweets.”

”Fair enough.” You hold your hands up with a grin, perusing the drink menu. “To answer your question I don’t drink all that much. Something fruity maybe? I probably shouldn’t have anything too heavy when I gotta drive home.” 

“A first timer and yer smart? Definitely not from around here.” She leans back with a grin, a hand on her hip. “I’ll fix ya up somethin’ real nice.” 

You say your thanks as the bartender turns to make you this mystery drink, resting your elbow on the bar and casually looking around the club that is steadily getting busier and more lively. 

Out the corner of your eye you catch bright yellows and oranges, standing out in the dark club and lighting up with the neon lights.

Him.

The bastard sun that stole your money. He’s standing on a second floor walk space, and though he’s a bit far from you to see his face properly he seems to have a relaxed smile across his faceplate.

He’s leaning against the rail guard, looking to a companion in a long winding hat as the gesture wildly. The look reminds you of the moon you knew from the past, just more punky, and paint splattered. 

Interesting. So you weren’t imagining it when you first arrived, there really are multiple builds of the daycare attendant you knew. Seemingly for different purposes too.

The sun’s eyes take a casual look around and the two of you lock eyes across the several feet between you. You see the recognition even from this far away, and in your brilliant half formed thought you give him the stink eye and flip the bird to him. The thunk of a glass startles you away from the sunny synth, tearing your eyes away from the thief to look at the vibrant pink cocktail in front of you.

“I know it looks intimidatin’,” the bartender says with a grin at your skeptical look, “but I promise it’ll be up yer alley. ‘Sweet Seduction’ she’s called. Lime, pineapple and cranberry juice, with some good ‘ol simple syrup and raspberry vodka. Give ‘er a try.”

“It definitely sounds good.” You muse, running your finger over the raised diamond pattern of the glass and watching the pinks of the drink swirl as they naturally start to separate. Picking up the glass you give it a little stir before taking a sip of the rich magenta liquid, pleasantly surprised at the fruity flavour coating your tongue with very little alcohol taste. 

“Wow this is- really good.” 

“I toldya.” The bartender grins and you slide her a 20 from your wallet, telling her to keep the change. She throws you a wink and heads to the next customer that comes up, you sliding away from the bar with your glass clutched carefully as you look around trying to decide your next course of action. 

Your choice is cemented when you see sunlight colours drifting to the back of the club, you follow a few feet behind sipping your drink. You turn a corner and see a set of stairs going down, the stairwell full of graffiti and lacking the neon lights of the rest of the club. Someone slips by you and descends the old steps, so after the passing thought of ‘Well this is a great place to be murdered’ you also descend not far behind.

You turn another corner at the bottom of the stairs and walk into a room full of warm and low orange lights, cigar smoke drifting across the room. There’s a Billiards table right in the center, old but pristine in the graffiti covered space. Carpets of varying patterns cover old tile flooring with a sitting lounge to the left, where there are multiple people smoking and talking, and another sitting spot to the right with a few couples watching something on a projector screen. 

The Sunbot is leaning a hip against the billiards table, que in hand as he chalks the end with the table ready to go. You pass glances to the groups accompanying and relax at seeing the people not paying any attention to the synth, so you take a breath and down a large portion of your drink before walking over and slamming (carefully to not spill what’s left) the glass on the wood edge. 

“Fancy seeing you here thief."

The bot pauses, shoulders hunching slightly as the chalk is lightly set aside. You hear gears turn and something clicks into place as the bot stands tall, smile stretched and wide on silicone lips. The glowing optics however are narrowed, giving you a feeling of irritation that contrasts the wide smile locked in place.

“My, do you always make a habit of accusing random synths of such crimes. That’s quite rude Friend.” The tone of ‘friend’ is anything but friendly, though you scoff all the same.

“I see you make a habit of acting ignorant.” You meet his vitriol, blue eyelights flashing at you for a moment as the grip on the wooden que tightens enough for the wood to groan slightly under the pressure.

“You are rather forward.” The false cheer was sickeningly sweet, and you found yourself grinning and rising to meet his little facade. 

“Likewise.” You put your own false cheer into your tone, mildly pleased at the twitch in his eye.

You both stare at each other, locked in the stubbornness of neither party wanting to move from the impasse you’ve found yourselves. Eyeing the que in the sun’s hand you stride over to the other side of the table to grab another that’s leaning against the wall, throwing it over your shoulder.

”How about a game then? I win and you give me back the $40 you stole, and if you win I’ll leave and never harass you again.“

”The way you say that Friend, it implies that if I don’t agree to your terms you would harass me either way.” The skepticism is palpable as he eyes you, glowing blue drifting to the pool table before settling back to you. There’s annoyance in his gaze, but you can clearly see the intrigue there too as he calculates his options.

The too-wide fake grin falls to something just a little more genuine as those rays around his head spin, a hand coming to rest on his hip.

”Alright, I’ll take your challenge then.”

Honestly you were expecting the synth to just walk away, finding yourself pleasantly surprised that he rose to meet your little challange. 

The balls are already set in their triangular placement, que ball sitting innocently on the opposite end. You motion to the sun for the first shot as you chalk your que, him side eyeing you as he takes up position. He’s cautious, good. 

He takes the first shot, the billiard balls clanking in a pleasing rhythm across the table- nothing going in and scattering all over the table, leaving ample opportunity for shots. You take a minute to walk around the table, getting the lay of the land before you, trying to decide if you want to go for stripes or solids. 

Lining up the shot to give you the best follow through is tricky, but you manage to sink the stripped 11 and follow up with the 15. That Shot unfortunately doesn’t line anything up clearly so instead you shoot the white ball into an awkward spot wedged behind the 8-ball, shooting the sun your most innocent grin as he scowls at you. 

“I suppose I have to actually try in this game, I wasn’t expecting you to take it so seriously.” There’s something you can’t quite identify in the falsely jolly tone, something genuine maybe?

”I’m offended you weren’t going to give me your best game, it hurts man. This may be over stolen money, but I do like a good game of pool.” You hum, crossing your arms and cocking your hip. “I guess that’s what I get for wanting to play a fun game with a synth.” You even add a little wobble to your voice for effect, never dropping your innocent grin.

That’s definitely a genuine smile starting to pull at the edges of a plastic grin and scowling eyes..

When his scowl slides into a more genuine and shit-eating grin it’s your turn to be on guard, the sun making pointed eye contact with you as he sinks the 3 and 7-balls with barely a look at the table, even striking a pose -with one foot remaining on the floor of course- as the balls fall into the pockets like sad little chimes.

So he wants to play that way huh? Okay then, game on.

You can’t help the giddy feeling that surges through your veins at the prospect of a fun challenge, watching as the sun lines up a shot on the 5-ball, you sneezing loudly as he thrusts the que forward and startling him. The poor que brushes over the ball and only moves it a mere inch, not touching any other ball.

”Skratch. My bad.” You make sure not to sound apologetic as you pick up the white ball, giving your most dazzling customer service grin to the synth who’s eye is now twitching.

“So I’m playing with a rule breaker?” There was a scratchy glitched tone to the sun’s voice at the last words, even him looking mildly surprised by it. You decide to ignore it for now but file that tidbit away for later, shrugging instead as you place the white ball by the 13.

”I just sneezed man, you’re the one that got distracted.” You easily sink the 13, taking a moment to assess your next move. “Plus, we never actually established what rules we were playing by.”

”It doesn't seem like the kind of game where the rules need to be stated.”

”People play differently.”

You answer simply, lining up for the 14-ball and watching the sun from the corner of your eye. As you take the shot the table shifts -just an inch- making you hit off course and sinking his 4-ball instead. You curse as the synth waltzes over, him casting you a wink.

”Sorry Friend, I tripped.”

“Big ass trip.” You raise your brow, and he shrugs in a mirror of what you did earlier.

He takes his time analyzing the table this round, so you take the moment to really look at this synth. He’s dressed differently than when you first saw him, still just as bright and standing out in the din of the club basement. His face plate was still as you remembered with a gentle yellow and orange, and rigid rays that reminded you of a windmill in shape and creamsicle in colour. All the piercing pieces were as you remembered and you’re 90% sure he’s actually wearing black lipstick and eyeliner.

A warm burnt-orange long sleeve hangs loose around the arms with a brighter orange corset piece accompanied by the same coloured -what is that- a crop wraparound vest? Something like that. The pants remind you of scatter pants, baggy as they are with tears and a split die job in darker reds, topped off with mid-calf boots that match his top half and a vibrant belt with a sun style buckle. 

You begrudgingly admit to yourself that he has style, wishing you had something negative to say about it as the 1-ball and 6-ball go down the pockets like your hopes and dreams of winning. 

The game continues for far longer than it should as the two of you continuously mess up the other’s shots, the synth at one point smacking your leg with the que and you retaliate by pushing your own into the back of his head.

You’re both grinning as you finally sink the 14 And get to take the shot at the 8-ball for the win. You wind back and-

“Hey we’re on in ten Aura.”

”fUCK!” You nearly jump out of your skin at the raspy voice that just appears to your right, completely skewing your shot and making the sun yelp as he dramatically dodges to the side. 

“Ah, apologies. I thought you heard me.” You turn and can’t help the rigid stiffness in your muscles at seeing a face that is far too close to one you knew for comfort. You were right on your first assessment of the sun’s -Aura you think you heard the new synth say- companion from earlier being a Moon bot. Their colours were lighter and more vibrant than Artemis’, and definitely punky.

You didn’t get much of a closer look before the sun was between you two, smiling away with an arm over the moon’s shoulder.

”Twi! Thanks for coming to get me, I got a little swept up in the game with my new Friend here.” His voice was warmer than you’d heard it all night, genuine joy and mirth laced in his voice, the smile more relaxed and, happier.

”You do have a tendency to get distracted.” Their voice was higher than you expected, but with a rasp the sun lacked. It still sounded smooth somehow.

”How dare you! I do everything with intention.”

”Sure sure.” They’re playful with each other, it makes something sting in your chest at seeing the two, synth status or not, clearly so close and comfortable with each other.

Jealousy, your mind helpfully adds.

You realize lilac eye lights are looking at you curiously, sharp teeth tucked behind a carefree smile. You shrug off everything else and give your own genuine smile.

”Hey man, clearly you gotta go, but i want a rematch. To properly finish this game.”

The sun raises a silicone eyebrow, curious and cautious.

”I thought this was about the money.” You note down the moon’s skeptical side eye but shrug holding your hand out to the sun.

”At first yeah, but I did really have fun. You can owe me back with another game and buy me a drink some time. I go by Scrappy, by the way.” 

“Aura,” the sun takes your hand, silicon warmth and dwarfing your own. “That doesn’t sound like too bad an idea. I’ll hold you to that finished game.” You shake hands, grinning at each other before the moon -Twi if you remember correctly- starts tugging him away.

”Five.”

”Right! See ya ‘round Scrappers.” The synths turn and head up the stairs, you watch them go before hanging the que’s back up and pushing the 8-ball into the bottom left pocket as you make your own way to the stairs. Following not too far behind the celestial duo and back into the club that is significantly more packed than when you went down.

Weaving your way through you feel satisfied, a little glad you didn’t go with your first instinct to pick a fight with your money thief. Maybe you have a potential friend now outside your job, which honestly could potentially be beneficial for you. 

You’re half way to the door when the neon lights dim and spotlights focus on the dark stage, lighting up Aura and Twi holding guitars with a third bot you haven’t yet seen on drums.

They’re a band? Huh, that’s interesting. 

Heavy guitar riffs drowned out any other sounds, the heavy percussion hitting two lines later in a song you don’t recognize. Clubgoers are cheering as the music picks up and Aura starts singing high and energetic, mouth moving with every word. Was he doing that all night? You don’t recall ever seeing his smile open when speaking.

Add that as another thing to your mental list of these bots you’ve just met.

You find yourself staying for the whole first half of the show, genuinely enjoying the original rock music you’re hearing and finally make your way out at the intermission. It isn’t too late, a respectable eleven at night as the cool autumn breeze blows over your face and through your hair.

”You’re new.”

”JESUS-! Again!” You jump once again with a hand over your heart, spinning to see the drummer leaning against the wall. 

“Sorry, I did not mean to startle.” Their low voice was genuinely startling, rumbling in your ears. You compose yourself, brushing superficial dirt off your shirt and looking at the -much taller- synth better. Dusky purples, pinks and gold seem to be their colour scheme, with two floating rows of rays around their head. Their fashion is just as clean and unique as the other two with deep blue pants and a tshirt, a wide purple waist belt to match tall boots with massive stars, and a black vest and belt half-skirt with a matching dark blue rose pattern.

it’s calming to look at, and really cool compared to what you've seen other synths wear. 

“You’re staring.”

”Ah- sorry.” You rub the back of your neck sheepishly, feeling the flush of embarrassment climb over your cheeks. “I didn’t mean to be rude, I just think you look really cool.” They seem surprised, larger rays -one of which is broken you note- moving in a slow circle clockwise, the smaller and narrower set moving counter-clockwise a little faster. 

“Thank you, I’m fond of it.” You both fall into silence, though you feel a little awkward

”I liked your guys’ set by the way, I didn’t know there would be a live band tonight.”

”We perform every other night, a deal we have with the owner. I’m glad you enjoy our music.” They’re very concise aren’t they? Not in a bad way though, you find it refreshing. 

“I’ll have to catch more shows. “ Mismatched eyes tilt up just slightly as they nod, tilting their head for a moment before nodding as if in answer to a question you can’t hear before giving you a little wave and walking back into the club.

Well, that was a pleasant and productive night all things considered. Not too late either. 

The drive back to the apartments is uneventful as it usually is, most lights dimmed as you walk through the halls and give passive waves to the S.T.A.F.F bots that are cleaning the empty halls. 

Sliding your key card in your door and walking into your apartment brings all the tension from your body as you lean back on the solid wood to shut and lock it with a click. A step further into your apartment and something crinkles under foot, a letter you realize as you lean down and pick it up.

’I never answered your question from earlier in the day, how rude. Yes I am aware I owe you a card game and shuffle lesson, however I have prior engagements for tomorrow. However next Sunday Sept 4th I am open. For your consideration.’  - Ac Apogee

”Huh.” You muse aloud as you carefully set the crumpled letter down on your counter. How sweet of him to slide a not under your door.

After getting changed and finally returning to your bed for proper rest you can’t help but grin. And feel pride at the progress you're making both in and out of the casino confines.

One more week before you can finally start getting closer to someone higher in this hierarchy. 

Sleep claims you before you can even finish your thought of going back to that punk club, the dark grip of sleep dragging you easily into empty rest.