Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter One - Connor

Detroit, Michigan

August 17th, 2042

The warm August sun was all that anyone could feel these days, here in Detroit. It was more peaceful now, all over the states. Markus and his companions had left an impact that not only caused change in Detroit, but all over the world. 

Connor, now a deviant, felt free. For the first time since ever. He could proudly work with the police alongside Hank Anderson without feeling ashamed. Attacked.

They were assigned to a different case than usual, a shooting. Normally they’d be focusing on one death. 

It was a Greek restaurant that was rather popular in the area, Hank had gone at least one time. It was pretty expensive. 

“Jesus, this place is a mess,” Hank said under his breath.

He was referring to the restaurant that was now in disorder. Five people have been killed. Four of them were androids. 

Paintings were either crooked, or on the ground, shattered. Chairs were thrown, now they lay on the ground, some broken. Tables were flipped. Glass was broken. And most importantly, lives were taken. 

A detective came up to Hank and his companion Connor.

“Couldn’t expect less, could you?” She had a smirk on her face, she was probably around Hank’s age, though she appeared more healthy and fit. She looked as if she had never had a drop of alcohol like Hank, who was currently sober and has been for almost a year. She had her auburn hair in a bun. “Detective Ruby Barlowe, by the way. I suspect you’re Lieutenant Anderson,” she said with her thick New York accent.

She outstretched her hand, allowing Hank to shake it. 

“Yep, that’s me.”

“What exactly happened here, Detective?” Connor questioned.

“We’re still trying to figure everything out, but there was a shooting. Five dead. Some suspect it was a hate crime.”

“A hate crime?”

“Against androids. Two out of the five victims weren’t androids.”

Connor sighed, his eyes moved away from hers, but to the ground. It couldn’t be. Maybe it was just a regular crime that happens every months? But then again, android hate crimes were slowly rising. Especially in a big city like Detroit that’s filled with them.

“Any suspects so far?”

“Not that we know of. This happened just three hours ago, sometime around six o’ clock. But I think the culprit may still be in the area,” she explained, “and the weapon was also left here, I assume the culprit dropped it while fleeing the scene of the crime. It’ll be taken to forensics for investigation.”

Connor turned away, straying from the two. He kneeled down beside the first body. The victim was an android, he still had his LED intact. Some androids decide to keep theirs, others decide not to. 

Connor scanned the android.

[ DIAGNOSIS IN PROGRESS ]

[ THIRUM PUMP REGULATOR #4680r

CRITICALLY DAMAGED

 BIOCOMPONENT #4903 

CRITICALLY DAMAGED ]

Once he had finished, he used his two fingers and touched the thirium that came from the android. Connor analyzed the blue blood.

[ BLUE BLOOD ]

 [ MODEL MC500

Serial number #328 967 832 ]

The android had appeared to be shot two times, in the shoulder, and on the neck. All on the left side — so Connor stood, turning around. The culprit was standing somewhere near the entrance when it happened, or maybe at one of the tables.

“Anything interesting?” Hank said.

“The victim lost his hearing as the shots were fired. He died at exactly six twenty-two. He was shot on his neck and shoulder, both on the left side.”

“Which means the culprit was somewhere over there.”

“Yes. I know it isn’t much, but it’s something.”

“It’s a start. There is also another thing they mentioned,” Hank began, “another victim. But she’s alive. She has been admitted to the hospital. Her — fem — some artery was shot.”

“Femoral?”

“Yeah. That.”

“Interesting. That’s on the leg. The victim might have been standing…she might not survive that, come to think of it.”

“Yeah, I don’t think anyone would to be honest.” He exhaled.

Connor saw a photograph of a couple on the wall — well, it was barely hanging. There were a few bullet holes in the photo. He scanned the couple's faces. They were both androids. And from the looks of it, they were the owners.

“These must be the owners, huh?” 

“I believe so, yes,” Connor replied. “They’re androids. This must be a hate crime then.”

Upon further examination, they shortly figured out the location of the culprit whilst they had committed the crime.

He was sitting at a table, alone, awaiting his meal. As a waiter arrived, he pulled out a gun. Shooting the waiter three times. She was an android.

“You! I lost my job to you!” he cried, “I worked hard for it, and you took everything!”

Another android ran towards the culprit, attempting to take the gun away from him. He kicked him in the shins from behind. The culprit turned around, hitting him in the face with the gun.

The victim fell onto the table, causing it to fall over. He was shot in the chest. The culprit reloaded the gun, shot but missed as the victim quickly stood up — making a run for it. He didn’t make it far until he was shot in the back.

Everyone began to panic, screaming and crying. Another woman got up, she tried to run out of the restaurant — she could not see through the tears in her eyes. She slipped on another victim's blood, letting out a scream that felt louder than the gunshots themselves.

She quickly got up, looking down as a horrible pain in her leg appeared. She collapsed. 

“Nobody is getting out here alive! Especially filthy chromers like you!” He pointed the gun at an android who threw his hands up, shaking his head.

“Please no! Please! I’m sorry — I’m sorry, I—”

Shot right in the head, he fell to his knees before deactivating for good. 

“Androids should have never been created! You hear me? They ruin lives! They’re disgusting, pathetic, and soulless!”

“But I’m not an android! Please, please, please don’t shoot!”

He did anyway, pointing the gun at everyone he dared look at. He took notice of another android who still sat at her table. If androids could shake in fear, that’s what she’d be doing.

The culprit breathed heavily, in the silence it was all anyone could hear. No one dared to speak as it could result in their death. He closed his eyes as he pulled the trigger twice.

“That’s what I believe happened,” Connor concluded.

Detective Barlowe chuckled lightly. “Damn. He’s good.”

“Yeah, but the real question is — where is he?”

Connor kneeled down beside the weapon. There were fingerprints. Scanning, he quickly found out the name. 

“Draco Gonzalez,” he muttered.

“What was that?”

“His name is Draco Gonzalez. That’s the culprit. He has no criminal record though…”

“Thank you, you two. But I think we should take over this case now. You’ve done enough.”

“What? But we’re not done yet—” Hank urged.

“That doesn’t matter. Please, it’s late. You two should rest — er — androids can rest right?”

Connor and Hank looked at each other. Connor shrugged. 

“Let’s just go, Hank,” he said, “there’s no use, we won’t be able to convince her.”

“This is bullshit—” Hank shook his head as they turned to leave.

They arrived to the car, entering it quickly. Hank had to scrap his old car about a year ago, so this one was brand new. And he found it ugly, but whatever helps him get to work. 

He didn’t start the vehicle right away. Thinking. “Can she even do that? She’s a detective.”

“I don’t think so, no.”

He glared at Connor. “Seriously?” 

“I didn’t know what to do—”

“It’s fine. Not like they’ll find the culprit anyway. He could be anywhere.”

So with that, he finally started the car, driving off. They were in a less busy part of Detroit. Less cars. Less noise. Although, the silence was quickly disrupted by gunshots, causing both of them to jump in surprise.

“I’m guessing we should investigate that.”

“You know it,” says Hank.

They parked, exiting the car quickly. They both pulled out their guns, following the noise which led them into an alleyway. 

“I think that’s our guy!”

“Sounds like it.”

Connor was faster than Hank, and he took not that long to make it in front of Hank himself. 

The criminal made a turn towards an alleyway. Connor found it cliché. Every police chase goes through an alley. Especially in movies, Connor enjoys reading and watching movies. He tends to read books Hank owns, some of them were really old. From when books weren't digital like they are now.

Connor made a quick-turn into the alley, meanwhile, Hank had stopped due to being out of breath. He remembers when he used to be really good at sports. He used to run fast. But now years of living, depression, and alcoholism has slowed him down. But with Connor by his side, they're unstoppable. Well, mainly Connor is unstoppable. 

The culprit reaches a dead end. 

"You've no place to run! You should give up now!"

Hank started to run again, he goes through the alley way. His turn wasn't sharp like Connors' 

turns tend to be, it was dull and he almost tripped.

Connor scanned the human…

[ GONZALEZ, DRACO

Born 12/13/2000 // Unemployed

Criminal Record: Identity fraud ]

The man had already previously been arrested before, that was no surprise to Connor.

He took a few steps back, there was nowhere to run and he was outnumbered. Although he did take notice of the old man standing before him, he was only fifteen years Draco’s senior. 

But the robot was most likely stronger, agile, quicker, smarter. That’s why he hated them so much. They’re so perfect. Good at everything. No one could even amount to how perfect they are.

Draco pulled out a gun from his back pocket, which shocked the two standing before him.

“Didn’t he drop his weapon at the crime scene? How did he—”

Connor shrugged. “I don’t know.”

“Filthy robot!” he shouted through gritted teeth. He pointed the gun at him, hands shaking. 

“Put the gun down and we won’t hurt you,” Hank insisted. Both Connor and Hank had their guns pointed towards the culprit, their hands more sturdy than his.

Draco fired a warning shot into the air.

“Just take it easy—”

“I don’t take orders from mindless piece of plastic,” he cursed.

Hank jumped in, “Insults won’t keep you out of jail.”

“No! I’m not going back there!”

Connor narrowed his eyes. “Then maybe you shouldn’t have killed five innocent people!”

“Robots aren’t people!”

“Okay—” he shrugged—“you still killed someone who isn’t an android. And you put one in the hospital, they likely aren’t going to survive.”

“That’s not my problem.”

“I’m pretty sure it is!” said Hank.

Connor was a couple feet away from Draco. In a flash, he rushed to disarm the man. 

He threw a punch to Draco which knocked him down. The criminal had dropped his gun, which he tried to reach for. Connor put his foot right in front of the gun, which botched Draco's ability to reach it.

"Androids are more peaceful than you humans."

The man looked to his right. He grabbed something, which turned out to be a sharp piece of wood, and stabbed Connor's leg. Draco was now able to retrieve his gun. He grabbed his gun, got up as quick as he could, and shot Connor, right in the middle of the neck. 

Connor collapsed, he tried to tell the man to not run, but was unsuccessful. Draco ran away.

Hank saw the man run right past him, but instead of chasing him, he ran the way Draco had come from, as he was more concerned that Connor wasn't right on his trail.

“Con—” his eyes widened, he rushed by his side, attempting to stop the blood. “It’s going to be okay — Con — I—”

“D…” he tried to respond, to reassure him. But he failed. 

Hank watched as his eyes went blank. 

“No…no, no, no, Connor!”

Chapter Text

Chapter Two - Kara
August 18th, 2042
Ontario, Canada

Alice was playing in the yard, with the neighbor kids. Kara sat on a bench, watching them. Rose came out, with a cup of warm coffee. She took a sip.

"I'm glad that she's made a friend," Kara said happily.

"Yeah. It's the best feeling when your child makes friends." Rose reminisced about when her son made his first friend, they were inseparable. Up until they had to move to Detroit.

"I know I say this a lot, Rose. But thank you. Without you, Alice wouldn't be this happy."

"I'm always glad to help people who need it, Kara. I heard android slavery ended, did you not know?"

"Yeah, I know. But America could do it again. Canada is more peaceful, I think."

Alice runs to the fence.

"Mom! Can my friends come and play?!"

Kara looks toward Rose, Rose nods.

Kara looks back to Alice and says, "Of course. I'll open the gate."

She gets up and unlocks the gate for the little girl named Bella.

"Yay! It's been so long since we last played, Alice! Also, guess what! Today's my birthday!"

Kara sits back down, and once she does, Luther comes out, too.

"Is that Alice's friend?" He says.

"Yeah, it is."

"Happy birthday, Bella. How old are you now?"

"I'm turning nine," she beamed. "When's your birthday? I realized I've never asked."

Alice paused, "Well—"

"Guys, can we just continue playing pirates?!" Alice and Bella’s other friend, Carlos says. He crosses his arms. He showed up behind them.

"I love playing pirates!" Bella exclaims.

Alice gives Bella a pirate hat laying on the ground (which was warm and covered in dirt), they both giggled then continued to play.

"I'm glad to see that they're playing together again," Luther says.

"Yeah, it's very nice."

Rose gets up, "My brother texted me. He needs help at work."

"I'm guessing you'll be leaving for now," Kara says.

"Yeah. But you three will be all right." Rose leaves.

Kara goes back to watching Alice, then says, "Oh that's right. I forgot to go get dinner for everyone.”

"Okay, be safe, Kara," Luther waves bye.

Kara leaves to her car and drives to the nearest grocery store. She makes her way to the food aisle, but she's stopped when Kara notices some magazines. Kara takes one, she starts to read it.

CENTURY

A hate crime in Detroit
________

THE DISASTROUS EVENT THAT SHOOK DETROIT CITIZENS

________

Kara, of course was curious, what happened in Detroit? It doesn't seem like any good, though. She swiped down with her two fingers.

On Thursday night of August 17th, there were five murders. It appears that the crime was directed to androids, some witnesses say. One human died, and four androids were murdered. Currently, one person is still in the hospital after being shot in the leg.

Now, android hate has still been going on for a while, but before that specific date, there has been no crimes against them. Could this mean that another civil war will break out again?

Kara was shocked. She, of course, is glad she's here in Canada now so she doesn't have to worry about that, but she can't help but feel terrible for the androids still in Detroit, or in the states in general.

She puts the magazine back and continues to shop quietly. Once Kara gets the things she needs, she heads over to the checkout.

"That will be fifty."

She pays the man, then Kara goes back home. She sees that Rose and her brother, Felix, have arrived as well.

"Hey, Rose. I've got your dinner like I promised."

"Thanks so much, Kara. Please set them in the kitchen, I'll do the rest."

Kara goes to the kitchen and places them on the counter like she was advised to do. Alice enters the kitchen through the backdoor, with a grin spread across her face.

"Oh hi, Alice. You having fun?"

"Yeah. I'm just coming in to get a drink for Bella, she says she wants some lemonade."

"I can make her some lemonade," Kara says.

"Okay!"

Alice waits while Kara makes the drink for her friend. Once done, she hands it to Alice, and Alice heads out to give it to Bella.

"Thank you, Alice!"

"You're welcome, my Mom made it for you, by the way."

"Tell her I said thank you."

"I will!"

"Have you heard what happened in Detroit?" Carlos asks.

Alice gets a little nervous. She says, "No. I haven't, what happened?"

"I heard some androids got killed and stuff by a human, apparently android hate is spiking," he explained in a very dramatic voice.

Alice gets more nervous, she tries to hide it.

Bella noticed, and said, "Hey, Alice? You okay? You seem very concerned or something."

"I'm fine, Bella! It's just—I...never mind."

Carlos and Bella exchange looks, she shrugs.

"My mommy said androids are a disgrace, I dunno if they are good or bad," Carlos announced.

"I don't think they're bad," Alice defended. "They've done nothing wrong, so I've heard."

She tried to be subtle.

"I don't really have an opinion on them, it doesn't matter anyway. It's not like any of them are in Canada right now because they would've been caught by now or something."

"Well, let's just keep playing pirates!" Carlos says.

Alice puts on her makeshift pirate hat that she was given back in Detroit, at that abandoned theme park, one of the Jerry's gave it to her. She treasured it ever since. Pun intended.

They continued to play for longer, until one by one, they had to go home. Alice was heading back inside.

She then remembered what Carlos said, earlier. About the androids.

Kara walked into the kitchen. She said, "I forgot what I came in here for."

"Kara," Alice said.

"Yes?"

"My friend Carlos," she started, “his Mom hates androids."

Kara looked down and frowned, she seemed disappointed and didn't know what to say.

"Well, does he like androids?"

"I dunno. I didn't ask."

"Why'd he say that?"

"Because...'cause he told me something very bad that happened in Detroit."

Kara had her suspicions.

"What happened, Alice?" She walked closer to her and kneeled down.

"Apparently androids were murdered and stuff. Why are people so cruel?"

Kara frowned, she put a hand on Alice's shoulder. "I'm not sure. That's just the way people are, it sucks. But there's nothing we can really do, I'm sorry."

"I thought all the android hate stopped!"

Kara knew hate like this would never stop. Never. And Alice didn’t understand that. She sighed. “Me too. But some people are just cruel, that’s the way they are. Everything will be okay, I promise.”

Alice frowned. "Humans suck! Except Rose, Adam and Felix...and my friends..."

"That's totally valid, Alice. But there's nothing we can do. It's not like you'll have to deal with it again—we're free here, you understand?"

"I can't believe this is happening all over again!" Someone shouted, somewhat in desperation and anger. It was Adam.

He was currently attending college, but he was visiting for the weekend. Felix also lived right next door, thankfully. That made it easier for everyone to see each other.

"Calm down, Adam," Rose pleaded, “we can't do anything about it."

"I just know that this will all get worse! It's like the domino—or butterfly effect—or whatever it's called."

"Those are two separate things."

"I don't care. We can't just stay here! We have to go back and help them!"

"What's going on?" Kara asked politely, she and Alice entered the room, standing right in the entrance to the living room from the kitchen.

"There was a hate crime in Detroit against androids, again," Rose said simply. "Adam thinks it will get worse."

"Because that's how it always starts!"

"I thought you didn't like helping androids," Kara said tightly.

"That was years ago! Plus, I was scared. I didn't want to get arrested."

"Androids are supposed to be free now," Kara remarked. "Now we have to fight again. To be free. And even here, in Canada, we have to pretend we're human. If we tell the wrong person there's no telling what would happen." She looks down sadly. "Android hate still exists everywhere on Earth. Three days ago, in Japan, an android family was killed. Because they were smarter than a human."

"See! We have to stop this. We have to go back to Detroit."

Felix came downstairs. He looked between Rose and Adam, a perplexed look on his face.

"What's all the arguing about?"

Rose explained it to him, he cocked his head to his left, and frowned.

"It’s too dangerous. Rose is right, we’re safer here,” Kara said.

"And plus," Rose started, looking at Adam, “how will we get a house?"

"Hotel?" He said.

She sighed. "We're not going back. This conversation is over, Adam."

"Mom—"

"I know you want what's best for them, I do too, but just be patient."

He sighed in anger and stormed off.

"Oh—I don't know what to do with that kid anymore..." she frowned and shook her head.

She made eye contact with Kara, who was nervous. Alice was more nervous, too. She ran upstairs quickly.

————

The next morning was quiet, yet peaceful. Luther came down the stairs to inform Kara, who was in the kitchen-dining room, some news happening in the states.

"Kara," he said.

She turned his head to him, "Yes, Luther? What is it?"

She appeared to be cleaning the sliding glass door with a hand towel.

"Did you hear the news?"

"I'm sure I have, and I don't want to hear it again."

"No, it's not about that. I already know you know. It's about—something else."

She stopped cleaning and put the hand towel down.

"What is it?"

"I found out that in Detroit—"

"Luther, I—"

"No, it's not that," he said simply. "Just let me speak."

"Okay, fine, go ahead."

"In Detroit they're making it so that androids can eat and drink. They're going to start making it so that they can have needs so they're more human-like."

Kara raised an eyebrow. "That's—that's really great."

"Yeah, it is. They're going to get the new Cyberlife to start making androids with it, and androids can get surgery for it, too."

After the fall of Cyberlife, scientists that had worked for them, or even new ones, and androids, all came together to fix it. But make it less corrupted. Now they help fix androids and everything, and they're not so keen on trying to destroy them or make them slaves.

"We would really need it for those who don't know we're androids, especially anti-android people."

"Right," he said. "It's a shame though, Canada doesn't have a Cyberlife here yet." He crossed his arms. "I really do hope they have one here."

"Yeah, well—that's probably not going to happen for a couple more years. Just nine years ago, we weren't allowed here. Because they don't believe in slavery, which is really good, I guess…” she trailed off.

"You're correct, unfortunately, but hopefully it's soon."

"Yeah," she chuckled. "Hopefully. But before you know it, it'll be here, years go by pretty fast."

"Anyway, are you cleaning?"

"Yeah.”

"I thought I was doing it this week?"

"Well — yes — but I felt like cleaning.”

"Next week?"

"No, Adam is going to do it next."

"Oh okay. Wait, what do I clean then?"

"I don't know. Ask Rose."

As if on cue, Rose came running down the stairs, she came inside the kitchen-dining room. She seemed nervous.

Luther and Kara were taken aback by how serious she seemed. Something was clearly off. She was out of breath.

"Have you seen Adam?!"

Chapter Text

August 18th, 2042

Detroit, Michigan

Its eyes opened. A warm gust of wind brushed against its synthetic skin. The Zen Garden. The flowers here were all the same, personally, the RK900 didn’t care for it. Not that it could care for anything. Everything was delicately arranged. 

It took a few steps forward, smiling amongst seeing a familiar face. The RK900 looked down, noticing a pathway that led to that familiar face.

“Hello, Amanda. I have arrived. Right on time, too.”

“Yes. You have.” She grinned. “Isn’t this place nice?”

“It’s exceptionally detailed.”

“I designed it myself. It’s different than Connor’s was.”

“Connor…” he murmured.

“Yes.”

“Doesn’t it have something to do with my mission?”

“That is correct. I trusted it, you know. To stop the androids. It did good for a while — but I sense pairing it with someone like Hank Anderson wasn’t a bright idea.”

“You want me to—”

“Track down Connor and deactivate it? Of course, you read my mind.”

“What about the leader? Don’t you want it dead as well?”

“You’re right, I do, but that is not your job. I have someone else tasked with tracking it down. You don’t have to worry about it.” 

Amanda nodded, turning around, no longer facing the RK900. Her hands were interlocked from behind her back.

“I believe in you the most. The other one…it lets its hate get in the way. Its anger.”

“But androids cannot feel hate…is it a deviant?”

“No, but I fear it may become one. That’s why I trust you more. You can get a job done. Isn’t that right?”

“Of course it is, Amanda.”

“Yes. Now, you are tasked to go undercover working as a cop. In Detroit. You will be given a partner, I think this should make it relatively easy for you.”

“Who is it?”

“Detective Gavin Reed.”

——————————

The sun was setting. The RK900 hoped Detective Reed would still be there, given how late it was. It entered the precinct, checked in with an android. It scanned everyone’s faces once it entered.

[ ANDERSON, HANK

Born 9/6/1985 // Police Lieutenant

Criminal Record: None ]

“Hello, have you seen a Detective Gavin Reed anywhere here?”

It approached the older looking man, who looked grumpier than ever. There was a scent of alcohol coming from him, which was rather unpleasant.

He didn’t look up right away, eyeing his computer. He ran his fingers through his hair before eventually looking up at the RK900.

“Why would I—” he was caught off guard by the android who looked exactly like Connor. He felt a wave of guilt wash over him. Though he knew it wasn’t Connor. Especially since it was wearing a white human jacket. Connor would never wear a jacket like that.

This felt like a slap in the face from the universe, however, since Connor wasn’t here right now…given what happened just yesterday.

Hank examined the room to look for Gavin’s dumb face. He pointed in his direction from across the room.

“Over there that’s him. Good luck.” He groaned and turned back to his computer.

“That was pleasant,” murmured the RK900 sarcastically. “Hopefully this Gavin guy is nicer.”

It stood before the man who was obviously pretending to work, hiding his phone under the table. That way, he didn’t notice the android immediately.

The RK900 scanned his face, just to be sure that this was…really him.

[ REED, GAVIN

Born 10/7/2002 // Police Detective

Criminal Record: None ]

And it was. The RK900 cleared its throat. Gavin jumped, his phone nearly flying out of his hands.

“Oh it’s just you…”

“You know who I am?”

“Yeah, of course I do, dumbass…”

It raised its eyebrows. “Great. This will make being partners easier.”

It took a chair from an empty desk, pulling it into Gavin’s. Meanwhile, he nearly fell out of his own chair.

“Excuse…hey…what — but Hank — I — no.”

The RK900 chuckled lightly, it sounded fake. “I’m not Connor. I am a RK900. Connor is an RK—”

“Yeah, okay! I get it! Same everything…don’t remind me…really, don’t.” He sighed. He thought Connor was a prototype.

“I take it you’re not a big fan of Connor, aren’t you?”

“Bingo,” he replied.

“What did he do exactly?”

Gavin gave him a look before replying, all this talk about Connor really was irritating him. “Everything. He’s too perfect…getting everything he wants just because he’s an android…” he muttered.

“So you hate androids then?”

“No…” that sounded fake, like a lie. But it was true, he didn’t care for them nor did he dislike them. “Except for Connor.”

“I see. Well me too then.”

He raised an eyebrow. “Really? Name one thing you hate about him.”

“He’s terrible at following very important instructions.”

“Is he now?” Gavin glanced over to Hank.

“Yes. What about you? What do you hate about him?”

“I just told you.”

“Right, my bad. Most androids are like that anyway. It’s how we are programmed.”

“I don’t hate all androids, if that’s what you’re insinuating. Just him.”

The RK900 knew there had to be more to it than he’d allow himself to say, but he refrained from asking about it.

“What about Lieutenant Anderson over there? Do you hate him? Why?”

Gavin gritted his teeth. He wasn’t a fan of all these questions, but at the same time he’s never had anyone to talk about these things with. These things being his hatred for Hank and his android son.

“He’s too careless. He doesn’t deserve the title ‘lieutenant’. Plus, I can smell the booze all the over here,” he snarled quietly.

Hank looked up from his desk. “I can hear everything you two are saying, y’know.”

Gavin exhaled, followed by a chuckle.  He turned back to his computer, not wanting to say another word. The RK900 watched him cautiously before looking away, just as Gavin looked up at him.

“What do I call you?”

“Hm?”

“Your name.”

“RK900.”

“Seriously? That’s your model, isn’t it?”

“Well, yes.”

“I’m not calling you that.”

“I don’t have a name then.”

“I have to call you something, you know. How — how about…” he paused, glancing at the android. “Bob.”

“Bob? That’s all you could think of? Seriously?”

“I’m not good at names!”

“He gets a cool name like Connor, and I just get Bob?”

“Fine. A cool name…Bruce.”

“Absolutely not.”

“Fine! You name yourself then!”

“How about…Nines?”

“Nines…that’s…unique.”

“You tried naming me Bob and Bruce.”

“Touché.”

“Where is Connor anyway? Isn’t it Lieutenant Anderson’s partner?” 

“I’m guessing you haven’t heard,” Gavin said with a laugh, “he got severely injured last night. Now he’s in android hospital.”

Nines looked down at the floor. Well this was easier than it thought. It looked back up, eyeing Reed with caution. A smirk formed on its lips slowly.

“You find that funny?”

“Well — no — kind of. It’s just, he’s so perfect at everything. You’d think he’d be able to stop some fuckin’ criminals without winding up in an android hospital afterwards.”

“He managed to stop the culprit?”

“Well, no, not really.”

Nines nodded, listening intently before realizing that was all to it. Or at least all that Reed knew himself, he wasn’t there. 

Nines’ lips curled up into a smile, it said, “I think you and I are going to make perfect partners.”

Gavin nodded, not because he agreed, but he felt like he had to. He gave a faulty, very fake smile. He wasn’t sure how to feel about this. Something about this android felt…odd. Different.

Chapter Text

Markus

August 19th, 2042

Detroit, Michigan

Markus braced himself. This is the first time he’s ever been on television when he’s not in the middle of a revolution. A month ago, a celebrity late night talk show host named Mac Garcia offered to interview Markus. The show was titled ‘Late Night With Mac Garcia’. A cliché name, he thought.

He just hoped he wouldn’t stumble over his words or anything, which shouldn’t be that big of a problem.

“Hello, ladies and gentlemen, and everyone in between,” said Mac with a grin on his face. “Today — or rather tonight is a very special show. Will you please welcome…Markus Manfred! None other than the android who led the, well, android revolution!”

The audience began to clap, and yell, excited to see Markus walk on stage. He stood up straight, made sure the tie on his suit was straight, and walked out. He waved to the audience as he’s seen other celebrities do on television. He appreciated the use of his last name that he had adopted.

“Well hello there, Markus. How are you doing this fine evening?”

“I’m pretty good. Thanks for asking.”

“Lovely.” That winning smile never went away, it was rather creepy though Markus didn’t say anything about it. “Now, I do have a few questions, if you don’t mind. What was it like leading the civil war? Fun? Cool? Amazing?”

“I wouldn’t say it was fun. It was hard. Really hard. I’m surprised we made it this far though, all I can say for now is that I’m really happy we made it through.”

The interviewer nodded, "Yeah, that's totally valid. And what is an insult that you've been called that you take pride in essentially?"

"Well," Markus started. "One time I was told I was going to destroy Detroit one day, by a pastor, I think. I didn't understand it at first because I wasn't deviant at the time. But now I do. And I don't think that I take pride in that, but it makes me chuckle sometimes because I'd like to think I saved Detroit."

“What are some rumors you've been told about androids?"

Markus smacked his lips. He answered, "Someone thought us androids were shape shifting aliens. And one time I was called a pervert because someone thought we had X-Ray vision."

"And a couple days ago, you were harassed by paparazzi, is that right?"

"Correct," he said simply.

"Do you mind telling us why they had harassed you, if you know?"

Markus replied, "Apparently he thought I was a different actor that looks pretty similar to me. Once he found out I wasn't said actor, he harassed me."

"Who was that said actor?" Mac asked.

"Jesse Williams," he answered softly. 

"Oh I've heard of him, great actor."

"Yeah, he apologized online about it."

The interview went on for a long while, after the interview Markus took a sip of water. He had just gotten that operation that allows androids to eat and/or drink. It's pretty cool, really. He feels more human. He hopes other androids feel that way too.

He headed back to his house, which is located in Jericho. It was an old factory that ran underground and had several stories. It's now been transformed into a new Jericho. It contains things like malls, jobs, homes, and soon restaurants. It has a small Cyberlife area located on every floor in case of emergencies. It's like it's own city of some sort. 

When he entered Jericho, Markus was greeted by Simon, who before, was eating a sandwich. He, too, got that operation. Though androids could not taste, it still felt amazing.

"Hey, Markus," he said in a somewhat shy voice. He's always been shy, but he's opened up to Josh, North, and most importantly, Markus. 

"Hello," he greeted back. "Why are you over here?"

"I was waiting for you. Your interview took a long time, I saw it live."

"I was really nervous. I'm glad it didn't turn out like that last interview."

"Yeah. Especially because it's live, too.”

North came in, she was with Josh. It was truly weird to see them get along, though, nevertheless it made Markus happy to see.

"We were wondering where you were, Simon," she said. "Oh hey, Markus."

"Hi, North, Josh."

Josh smiled at him in response.

"How was the interview?” North asked.

"It was pretty great, went well," he replied simply.

"Good to hear. Anyway, why are you here, Simon?" Josh finally spoke.

"I was waiting for Markus here, after the interview ended I went straight here."

"Ah, I see," Josh smirked.

Simon looked at a confused Markus, who was listening to a story from North. He relaxed his shoulders.

"We should get back, this is like the weirdest place to hang out at," Josh crossed his arms.

North nodded, "He's right, let's go."

They started to the main area of Jericho, which had tons of androids living their lives. Markus couldn't help but smile at how happy most look.

North was retelling her crazy story to Simon, which was the whole reason in her looking for him. 

"And she punched me right in the face! I was about to punch back, but Josh stopped me." She glared at him.

"Violence is never the answer, North."

She snarled at him as a joke. She and Josh started to chuckle a little. 

"It gets you places, though," she admitted.

"I don't know about that..."

She rolled her eyes. "Whatever. Let's stop before we start to argue. Anywho, she laughed at me and I almost broke free out of Josh's grasp, he was holding my arms. But he caught me and walked me away. And then I saw her again and she insulted my hair! I love my hair!"

They all started to laugh, she rolled her eyes then joined in. 

"That was very interesting, North."

She said with a light chuckle, "I know."

After about an hour of talking, Markus headed to the infirmary, just to check. He felt the need to make sure everything was still in order. An android named Stella, she was the best android doctor in Jericho, one might argue. 

"How are they?" Markus had asked.

Stella looks back at a couple of android patients, they were the ones involved in the hate crime. There was another one though, one that Markus had known. But what he didn't know that he was put in the hospital here. An old man was accompanying him.

"We're able to save all of them, I believe," she started. "We need to gather some more thirium, however. For a patient who was put here in the infirmary the same day the crime had happened." She glanced over at the patient Markus had known. 

"You've run out?"

"Yes, but it's no big deal. It's easy to make, and we can ask for some at the other infirmaries located in Jericho."

Markus asked somewhat incredulously, "And you haven't asked yet?"

"I just sent Lily to get some. She's taking an awful while though."

"I'm guessing other infirmaries are out."

"That's no good," she sighed.

"That's nothing we can't fix," he said optimistically. Though deep down he felt nervous, doubtful.

She glanced back at that one patient. "Hope you're right."

"I’m sure.”

"Don't you know him?" she said, pointing to the patient being accompanied by the man.

"Yeah, I do know him. Why's he here?"

She sighed deeply, "He got stabbed in the leg and shot by the same man who put all these androids here."

Markus was shocked. "Really?!" He said incredulously.

"Unfortunately."

He looked at the man who's head rested on the same bed he lay on, next to the patient. He was probably asleep.

"I'm back with some thirium! I had to search almost every floor, I'm sorry!" Another android apolgized, she was Lily.

"Don't apologize, and thank you."

She was handed the thirium and Lily took a moment to breathe, she was out of breath. Stella walked over to the android, Markus followed her. 

The old man woke up and looked at her.

"We've got the thirium needed, we're going to operate on him to make him function once again."

The man didn't say anything, he just looked at the android.

"You're going to have to get up," she added.

He let out a gruff sigh and got up, he stood in the corner not far from the patient.

Stella started to operate on the android. Markus stayed and watched, and frequently helped. The operation didn't take too long, but it did take a while for the thirium to fully pump throughout his body. Markus stayed for until the android will reactivate.

And he did.

"Connor!" The man said worriedly, he ran by his side.

"Hank, I'm so sorry,” Connor said wearily before noticing Markus. "Markus?"

"Hey, Connor. I heard what happened. I’m so sorry—”

He cut him off, replying, “It’s — it’s fine now. I’m fine.” He sat up, groaning. He still felt sore from everything. Connor smiled at Hank nervously.

Hank nodded slowly. His tense demeanor shortly relaxed. Markus couldn’t help but smile when the two hugged.

“That’s good to hear,” Marcus says. Though he should feel happy for Connor, his stomach whirled with anxiety. He couldn’t help but feel worried for his people after that attack. 

He shouldn’t be too worried, he thought, not everyone will always like androids. That’s the way it’s been since they were introduced. He gave Connor and Hank another light smile.

Chapter Text

August 19th, 2042                                Ontario, Canada

Rose sat at the table in the dining room, her face in her hands. It’s been two days and Adam still hasn’t come back. Kara stood behind her, watching anxiously. Though the two didn’t speak for a while, Rose knew Kara was there. Meanwhile, James stood with his hands in his pockets, his eyes fixated on the ground as he breathed quietly.

“He left a note,” she muttered.

“He…did? What did it say?”

“He went back. To help the androids. All because of one crime,” Rose spoke bitterly.

Kara pursed her lips. She heard footsteps behind her, she turned to see Luther.

“I tucked Alice in.”

“Thanks.”

“Oh what will I do…” Rose mumbled.

Kara cleared her throat. “Maybe we can go find him. Luther and I could head back.”

“That’s too dangerous,” said James.

“Well what other choice do we have?” she insisted. “If we don’t do anything, Adam likely won’t come back anytime soon.”

“I think Kara’s right,” Luther says. “We’ll make sure he comes back home safely.”

“Rose — this is too dangerous. They’re androids. Don’t let them go.”

She stood up, shaking her head. “They can do whatever they want. I just need my son to come back.”

“And he will. I promise you, Rose.”

James sighed, facepalming. “Fine. But do be very careful.”

“Of course.”

“What about Alice?” Luther said.

Kara looked down, in thought. “We're not bringing her with us.”

“Well, yeah, I know that. How will she feel about this?”

“She probably wouldn’t want us to go. I’m sure she’ll be fine.”

“No need to worry. James and I will take care of her. Just be really careful, you two. I don’t want you getting hurt.”

Rose stood up, her eyes focused solely on Kara. “I will take you both to the airport. I’ll buy the tickets.”

“No, it’s fine I can—”

“Please.”

Kara nodded. “Okay. Thanks.” She knew it wasn’t worth arguing over, especially given how Rose was feeling.

The sooner they could fly back, the better. Rose managed to book one for next week. She spent those days sulking, nobody blamed her though.

In hopes of fixing things, Kara tried to call Adam a few times. Never did he respond.

Alice didn't want Luther nor Kara to leave, she wanted them to stay right where they are.

“But Kara,” she would say, “it’s dangerous! It’s safer here…please stay.”

“I know. But this has to be done. If we don’t go back Adam could get seriously hurt.”

Hesitantly, she replied, “O…kay…”

James and Alice stayed behind. He hugged Kara and Luther goodbye anyway. “Please be safe, you two.”

“We will,” assured Luther. “After what Markus did for Detroit I’m sure we’ll be fine.”

James nodded. “Hopefully. I’m just saying.”

Alice ran from the kitchen to the living room, wrapping her arms around Luther then Kara. “Be really careful guys, OK?”

“We will, don’t worry.”

“Bye, Alice. I love you.”

“I love you too,” she said softly. Tears began to form but Kara wiped them away gently.

“We’ll get back soon. And when we do we’ll all do something fun. Maybe go to the amusement park, hm? You’ve always wanted to go.”

She giggled. “Yes! I wanna do that.”

“It’s settled then,” Kara said, “when we get back we’ll go to the amusement park. Bye now, Alice, I love you.”

The drive to the airport was awfully quiet. Kara couldn’t help but feel an impending sense of doom. She had no idea how this would work. Detroit is a large city, Michigan even bigger. Would he even be in Detroit? Where else would Adam be?

Maybe she was worrying about this too much. Kara sighed. She dreaded going back there after everything that happened. Who knows what may happen now.

Maybe this would be good for her? Exposure therapy? Or is that something else…

Kara focused on the trees that they passed quickly, the birds gliding in the air. The sound of the engine of the car they rode in, which needed to be replaced or at least repaired.

By the time they arrived to the airport, the sun was already setting. The moon was about to switch places with the sun, a daily cycle that Kara could never live without.

Sometimes she didn’t really feel human enough. She never considered herself “human” to begin with. Not a true one, at least. She wondered what it was like. She watched Rose. The way she drove in silence, her quiet worry over her son. Her dried tears staining her cheeks.

Kara put a hand over her own cheek. She could cry. Somehow, for some reason, androids were given that feature. But why? She wondered. If we were never meant to express such emotions, she continued, then why give it to us?

“I just want to thank you two,” Rose said as they exited the car. “I’m sorry I’m making you guys do this—”

“It’s fine,” Luther said. “Really, it is. Kara and I are happy to help.”

Kara grinned in agreement. “Luther’s right. We are.” She nudged Rose gently. “We’ll be back soon. With Adam. Promise.”

Rose smiled, hugging the both of them tight. Kara giggled, patting her back.

“Good luck.”

“Thanks,” Kara said. “We might need it.”

Chapter Text

Chapter Six - Markus August 21st, 2042 Detroit, Michigan - Jericho

The room felt tense, the past experiences between all four of them weighing heavy on their shoulders.

Markus, resting his head on his palm, was in deep thought. They had every right to be paranoid after what happened. After that hate crime. After what happened to Connor. Thankfully, he was fine now, and functioning perfectly.

But he couldn’t shake the feeling that something worse was coming. And Markus knew to trust his instinct, that is why he was currently holding this meeting.

“This can’t be good, can it?” Simon said.

Josh nodded. “It’s not a good sign; that’s for sure. This’ll only give room for more hate crimes against us in the future.”

North, the second most tense of them all, said, “If we need to fight again, we will. I have no problem with that. We have to show these people we mean business.”

“They probably don’t trust us because of the route we took the begin with. Maybe we need to remain pacifist.”

“Josh, I hate to break it to you, but being pacifist gets you nowhere. And we’ve seen that throughout history,” Markus says, remaining calm. Or as calm as he could manage at least. “North’s right. If we must fight back, then we will. Whatever it takes.”

Josh ran his hand through his hair. “It just feels wrong.”

“What they’re doing to us is wrong,” Simon replied. “We can’t be the perfect people in war. Let alone a civil war.”

“This is like a never ending cycle, I feel. Will it ever even stop?”

“It will,” Markus assured. “I’ll make sure of it. We’ll make sure of it. Together.”

“It’s better to fight than to be silenced,” Simon says softly. “It’ll be worth it in the end.”

Markus smiled at those words. “We don’t have to worry much just yet. If it continues, then we’ll take action. But for now, this concludes our meeting.”

Everyone but Simon and Markus left the room. Simon wanted to talk to him, so he lingered behind. 

Simon could practically sense Markus’ worry and fear that he tried so hard to suppress. They’ve all gone through so much. Simon doesn’t even know if he’d be able to handle the things Markus has endured.

“Hey, I wanted to tell you something,” Simon said.

Markus drew his attention to him, peeking up. “What is it?”

“Well, I—”

Before he was allowed to finish his sentence, Markus’ phone rang.

“Hold on, sorry. Give me a sec.” He took his phone out of his back pocket, picking it up. “Hello?”

“Markus? Is that you?”

“Yes. Who are you?”

“My name is Lucas. An android, just like you. I’m Carl’s caretaker.”

“Really? What is it?” Markus pursed his lips nervously, sucking in a sharp breath.

“I’m sorry. He—passed away in his sleep. You can come over if you’d like.”

Markus pulled the phone away, wiping his mouth with his hand. He and Simon made eye contact, Markus had forgotten he was there.

“I’d like that. Thank you, uh, Lucas…”

He hung up. Markus tossed his phone on the table before him, throwing his hands on his hips, staring at the floor. And then it dawned on him.

Carl’s dead. He’s dead and he’s not coming back. He isn't an android like Markus, Lucas, Simon, or North. He’s human. And humans don’t come back. They stay dead.

Markus collapsed into the chair beside him, losing balance. Simon rushed to his side, reaching out to him but quickly withdrawing his hand.

“What’s wrong?” he asked worriedly.

Markus tried to spit the words out. He paused, inhaling and exhaling. A process Carl had taught him a little while after he deviated.

“It’s…about Carl.”

Simon immediately caught on. “I’m so sorry, Markus.”

He stood up, rushing to the door. “I need to…I need to go see him. I need to go see Carl.”

“Do you want me to drive you?” he says softly.

“Please.”

Detroit was still recovering from quite the hot weather back in June and July, but that didn’t stop it from raining; which really set the mood all right.

The sun hid behind clouds, but it peered through the spaces between. One thing Markus wished about this world is the ability to pause time. How do you just go on? When someone you care about dies?

Everyone else gets to be happy and it isn’t fair. Carl taught Markus important things, he was like a guide to everything since he’s seen it all.

He was like a father to Markus. Teaching him how to go about life, how to be human. It just isn’t fair. 

This pain…whatever he’s feeling right now…it feels like he’s reaching out for something that isn’t even quite there. Carl. 

Carl warned Markus that his time was running short, but Markus didn’t want to believe it. Not at all. He tried warning himself, too. But things were just going so well. Until it didn’t. 

“This is it, right? This is the place?” Simon queried.

“Yeah. It is. Thank you.”

“Do you want me to come in with you?”

“No, sorry. I want some time to myself.”

“That’s all right. I’ll be out here.”

Markus got out, slamming the door shut. He gave a slight smile upon seeing the familiar courtyard, the vines lined the walls of the manor, covering some of the windows in the front. That scent of fresh cut flowers and grass. He always hated that smell but…it gave him a sense of serenity and peace in this dark time.

He didn’t need to knock or use his special pair of keys Carl gave to him just in case. There was a facial recognition system implemented long before Markus was his caregiver. It still recognized his face.

He opened the door from there, a wave of nostalgia hitting him, nearly knocking him over. That was the correct word…right?

Things still looked the same. The realization hit Markus once more. However, that wasn’t the only thing that smacked him—the door behind him did too. And he did fall over this time.

Groaning, Markus rubbed his head and whipped around, expecting Simon (even though he doubted Simon would open the door like that).

Of course, it wasn’t. Instead, it was Carl's son Leo. Shockingly, he was standing straight and wasn’t rocking side to side. He looked better.

“What are you doing here?” he scowled.

Yet he didn’t act better.

“I figured you knew,” he replied simply. He didn’t want to say it. He didn’t want to admit that Carl was dead. Not aloud, anyway. He didn’t want it to be real.

“Right. Caretaker or whatever,” mumbled Leo. “I can’t believe he’s dead.”

Markus raised an eyebrow, recalling the situation that led him to deviate in the first place. What opened his eyes for the first time.

“He’s…” Markus trailed off, not yet wanting to believe it. “I’m sorry, Leo.”

“I was getting better,” he continued. “I started rehab. Trying to…fix things. Fix my mess. And Dad just dropped dead. After all, I worked so hard!” He flailed his arms in the air. “I’m almost a year clean from red ice and…everything else. But what’s the point now?”

“The point shouldn’t be about only pleasing your Dad. It should be about—you being better.” Markus rubbed his head again.

“Yeah, well…” He didn’t know what to say, he just mumbled unknown words under his breath. “He’s gone.”

Markus nodded. He was rather good at comforting people, but he found himself at a loss this time.

“Are you…?” Leo started. “Are you crying?”

“What?” Markus wiped his eyes, revealing to himself that he was actually crying. He tried stopping it somehow, but the tears kept coming.

He turned away. He felt weak…he remembered the last time he felt like this. With Carl, funnily enough. After he had shoved Leo, injuring him. The cops were coming, so he had to act fast. Carl insisted he leave, run, quickly. But it was too late.

Markus wondered how things would go if he managed to leave in time. Would he be where he is now?

Down the steps came Lucas, wiping away his own android tears as well. He beckoned the two to follow. They marched up the stairs silently, turning into Carl's room.

Markus’ breath hitched in his throat when he heard the flatline. If androids could throw up, he’d do that now.

“Sorry,” Lucas apologized, “I didn’t know how to turn it off…I know I, of all people, should…” he trailed off, scratching his head.

Leo rushed towards Carl first, shoving both Markus and Lucas away. He stood at the foot of the bed awkwardly, whispering and apologizing and promising things. Markus had never seen Leo cry before. It was an alien sight, but he understood enough.

Thankfully Markus is still patient because Leo took over an hour. Even longer because they hadn’t realized he’d left, despite his clumsiness.

Markus sat next to Carl's unconscious body, tears still flowing until his synthetic eyes felt dry. The tears were given to androids to lubricate their eyes. It, of course, wasn’t given to them to make them feel more comfortable, but rather the humans who were still frightened of them. Back when androids gave off terrible uncanny feelings. Some still complain about that.

“Carl…” he mumbled. “I’m sorry. I’m sorry I wasn’t here before you…” Markus inhaled. “I’ve been busy. They hate us again, Carl. I can feel it. And I need to act brave…not just for you…but for Simon, North, and Josh…my people. But the truth is—I’m scared. I really, truly, am.

“I keep telling myself to act brave. To pretend that nothing bad will happen. But I can feel it. Normally I would look to you for guidance but…you see, I can’t really do that anymore.”

Then he exhaled. A slight weight on his shoulders decreasing, but not enough.

“It’s all so weird. Thinking about it. Thinking about how you can’t be here anymore to give me guidance or just…be here. And I don’t understand it. I see myself sitting here, talking to you all about my feelings…But you can’t even hear me.

“You’re not even really there are you? I don’t know if there truly is a Heaven or Nirvana or whatever…But I don’t think you’re really there. And it’s so confusing, Dad, I can’t seem to grasp it. You’ll never be able to paint again…give direction…take your medicine…laugh…talk about how much you hate cocktail parties…you can’t do that anymore. And I just…I don’t understand why.”

Chapter Text

August 22nd, 2042                     Detroit, Michigan - DPD Precinct

“Are ya sure you still wanna do this?” Hank asked Connor.

Connor nodded, assuring him that he’ll be fine. “Of course. You see, working is actually kind of fun.”

“Yeah, I think you’re on your own.”

He shrugged. He enjoyed saving people’s lives, it really does make up for who he was before he deviated. 

Thinking about it makes him a little upset. All the people he ended up killing just to fulfill his mission. But it wasn’t really his mission, was it? It was Amandas.

He feared Amanda, that was something he tried not to admit. Whether in his mind or aloud. He worried talking about her would bring her back. The feeling of him corrupting his mind is something he wishes to never experience again.

Hank parked right in front of the Detroit Police Department, exiting the car swiftly. Connor was proud of Hank for being a few days clean from alcohol. His streak was longer, nearly a five months, until it was ruined by that jerk who attacked both of them; landing Connor in the hospital located in Jericho.

But he was doing well. For the most part, at least. Hank said he’s been having terrible withdrawals. The amount of times he’s woken up from his deep slumber, screaming or crying out, sometimes for his late son.

“Are you sure? You were shaking like a leaf this morning.”

He shook his head. “I’ll be fine.”

“You know, you can call in sick for work. You talk about how much you hate it, and yet…”

Hank waved his hand, acting like it didn’t matter. “Already missed too many days.”

Connor chuckled at that, Hank was never one to care about attendance. “Right. I digress, then.”

They stumbled into the precinct. Connor sat at his desk across from Hank, facing him. Since he deviated he’s been decorating his own desk. He couldn’t believe he missed out on something so fun for so long…decorating. And expressing himself, too, of course.

His desk was slightly messy, but organized compared to Hank's desk. Sticky notes with fun quotes he comes up with himself at times. Initially, he considered putting reminders on them…his memory, as an android, is too perfect to forget.

He had his own picture of Sumo, and other random animals. Mostly dogs. The first time Connor petted a cat was…surely something. He was frightened and kept retracting his hand. Hank wasn’t there, but he’s allergic to cats himself, so having a cat in the future is unlikely. Unless they invent android cats.

Connor had some unfinished paperwork which he organized all in one neat pile, he’d get to it sometime.

“So…” Hank started. “We’ve got another case today. Another android hate-crime. Are you really sure—”

“Yes, Hank. I’m sure. I’ll be…” He pursed his lips, pausing, his eyes drifting to the floor.

“I just didn’t know how you’d feel about this.”

“Not great, but stopping them makes me feel better. Speaking of which, what about that guy, Draco Gonzalez? Was he ever caught?”

Hank gritted his teeth. “No. No, he wasn’t. They’re working to find him. Very slowly, at that,” he mumbled that last part.

“No doubt. Anyway, what do we know so far about this new case?”

“The victim's name was Marcy Knott, an android. She was killed on her way to work just a few hours ago. Apparently there were some words left at her crime scene, don't say what though.”

“Sounds intriguing. Hopefully I won’t get shot again. I’ve been shot too many times in my lifetime.”

Hank laughed. “Too many.”

Connor heard someone clear their throat, then walk by with someone. Curiously, he looked up to see Gavin Reed and…another android that looked almost identical to Connor, only taller and more older looking, if he had to be honest. Maybe it was that jacket. That ugly white jacket. He has no idea how anyone can go strut about in something like that. What if it got stained? That would be a pain to get out.

“Who’s that with Gavin?” Connor asked.

Hank sighed. “You’re never gonna believe this—he’s found himself an android partner.”

Connor nearly choked on air. “Gavin? With an android partner? Nothing good can come from that.”

“He arrived when you were injured. I couldn’t believe my eyes. At first I thought I probably drank too much, but nope, he’s real.”

“Gavin’s got an android partner…” Connor repeated under his breath. He had a bad feeling about this. He didn’t know why exactly. Maybe it’s because it’s Gavin. “Hopefully they’re not on the case with us.”

They were, in fact, on the case with them. And Gavin made sure to let that be known.

“This will be exciting, huh, guys?” he said tauntingly. “Just like before.” He laughed, smirking with his partner before walking off. His partner stayed.

“I heard about what happened to you,” it said, referring to Connor. “Hope you’re doing well.”

“Thanks. Also, sorry you have to work with him. I know he must be mean since—”

“Sorry? He’s the best partner anyone can ask for. Shows up on time, doesn’t drink…” it eyed Hank. “Anyway, good luck on the case. I’m Nines, by the way.” It turned on its heel, striding away.

“What the hell was that all about?” said Hank, eyes fixating on Nines as it left.

He shrugged. “I have absolutely no idea. That was…quite odd.”

Hank shook his head in disbelief. “How could anyone enjoy being partners with Gavin?”

“To be fair that’s what I thought about you at first.”

“Hey! Well, okay, but that was a darker time.”

“It for sure was. Now, we should probably head to the crime scene. Bonus points if we make it before Gavin and Nines,” he quipped.

Connor hadn’t expected to see someone who looked similar to him to show up at work today; let alone working with Gavin. He already knew there were others who looked just like him.

When he first found out was when he managed to infiltrate the infamous CyberLife Tower, revealing that other “Connor”. And he knew what other androids felt at that moment. He thought he was a prototype most of his time alive, finding out otherwise was like a stab in the chest.

It made him feel less human. Less Connor. Less him. He couldn’t even begin to imagine people strolling around outside, looking just like him but with slightly different features and names.

He liked being a prototype, just Connor. No one else. 

Of course, he hasn’t talked to anyone about this. Not even Hank. Hank probably wouldn’t even understand, he thought.

He’d probably just be like, “Wow, that sucks. I, uh, don’t relate at all, but that sucks…”

Connor shook his head. Maybe not like that exactly, but surely something along those lines.

He threw on his jacket, stepping out of the car and slamming it shut. There lay Marcy Knott, on the sidewalk, lifeless, with blue blood soaking her clothes. 

On the ground next to her, words were etched into the sidewalk, drops of thirium decorating it. Connor pushed through the crowd surrounding the area, begging for answers. He ignored, kneeling next to the words.

Humanity shall not falter; we mustn’t forget who we are—the True Ones

“The True Ones?” he murmured. “Hank, come look at this.”

He squinted, reading the text. “Was this an android-on-android crime?”

“I don’t think…” he trailed off. “I’m not entirely sure.”

“If it was an android,” Hank says, “then don’tcha think the writing would be a little more—perfect?”

“Most likely. Though deviants are significantly less, as you put it, ‘perfect’ than we were prior to deviating,” he replied with a sigh. Androids are still far more advanced than any human could ever dream of being, but Connor finds himself struggling with things he’s found really easy before deviating. Or perhaps is it all in his head? He still isn’t quite sure.

“Noted. Why even bother carving it out on the sidewalk anyway? Couldn’t have bothered with a sign?”

“Maybe they didn’t want to leave traces, which, jokes on them, they probably have.”

Connor scanned the area, finding small traces of high-carbon steel within the words and thirium.

“They could’ve used a scoring knife. Those are sharp. Judging from the thirium, blue blood, the culprit used the same knife used to stab the victim to death.”

“Is that so?” Gavin said, pushing himself between them. “How interesting. And what was that about an android-on-android case?”

Nines stood at the head of the victim, scanning her immediately.

“None of your goddamn business,” said Hank warmly, crossing his arms.

“Loosen up, would ya? We’re on the same team here.” He gave Connor a look, followed by a smirk. He spun around and asked Nines about what it gathered.

“It—she is a KL900 model, and her serial number is #549 721 629. I—she is registered under the name of ‘Marcy Knott’ and has no registered family members.”

Another new thing androids can do in the United States, is register family members. They have to be already existing and alive at the time you do it, however. Connor would do it but it’s a lot of digital paperwork that asks personal and unnecessary questions. He really does want to though.

Connor drifted away from the three, it wasn’t a crazy crime scene, he’s surely seen worse than this. That’s what made it more complicated. He liked a challenge anyway, as someone he heard on television say, “It strengthens the mind.”

“Hello, Connor,” Nines said, standing behind him.

Connor jerked around, jumping in surprise. “Ah, hey. Scared me.” He chuckled awkwardly. Nines kept a straight face.

“Sorry. I know you must be awfully confused, me randomly showing up and all.”

He blinked. “To be honest, yeah.” He nearly choked in embarrassment, his words came out more blunt than intended. “It’s just been a crazy few weeks,” added Connor.

It smirked. “So I heard. But you seem to be recovering well. Who did it anyway?”

“Some criminal. He hasn’t been caught yet, and…” he trailed off.

“What was his name?”

Connor nearly forgot, but responded, “Draco Gonzalez.”

Nines tilted its head up slightly, as if realizing something, remembering, even. Connor even cocked his head, confused.

“Sounds familiar. Well, I’ll go look at the remaining evidence.”

Connor crossed his arms, shrugging to himself. He didn’t want to talk about the situation anymore, it was no use. They might never even find Draco.

“I don’t take orders from a mindless piece of plastic,” Draco had cursed.

“Insults won’t keep you out of jail.”

“No! I’m not going back there!”

Connor perked up. 

No, I’m not going back there. It replayed in his head. What a strange thing to say…for someone with no criminal record.

Chapter Text

August 22nd, 2042 Detroit, Michigan - Motel

“Yeah, we’ve arrived. Luther and I are staying in a motel,” Kara said. She was on the phone with Rose, telling her everything she needed to know for now. “I’ve tried calling Adam. He hasn’t picked up yet.”

Rose, on the other line, sighed and smacked her lips. “Maybe try again. He’ll come around sometime.”

Kara brushed her hair behind her ear. It was medium length, she had plans of cutting it soon but that was disrupted thanks to Adam. She always preferred short hair since the first time she cut it. It made her feel confident and comfortable.

“I’m sure he will. I’ll give you more details later on. Bye, Rose.”

She hung up the phone, tossing it onto the bed. 

Luther strode into the room. “Any luck so far?”

“No, not really. I’m going to try calling Adam again.”

“Okay. Hopefully he picks up this time.”

“Hopefully,” she murmured, picking her phone back up. She sat down on the bed, pressing the call button on her phone. It rang, and it rang, and it rang. Just as she was about to give hope — he finally picked up. She and Luther grinned ear to ear, he was quiet but listened intently. Kara put the phone on speaker.

“Hello?” a worried Adam said. “Kara?”

“Adam! Thank goodness you’re okay. Have you talked to your Mom yet?” She already knew the answer.

He cleared his throat. “No. I’m scared to. I feel really stupid. All of this…it was a terrible idea. I overreacted, I’m sorry, I really—”

“Hey, hey, Adam, it’s okay,” Luther said.

“Luther? You’re there too?”

“We’re both in Detroit. Rose sent us here to get you. Where are you?”

“Wait, wait — you both are here? Why?!”

“I just…” She exhaled. “To bring you back home.”

“Right…okay. I guess — I guess I’ll go.”

“Where are you?” said Luther.

“This hotel. It’s fancy, but it was surprisingly cheap. ‘The Crimson Hotel’ or something.”

“Surprisingly cheap? Doesn’t sound so good,” Luther says.

“We’ll be there in at least an hour, Adam. Hold tight.” Then Kara hung up, turning to Luther. “We should head there now.”

The two stepped out of the bus, rushing inside the hotel. Adam was right, it was quite fancy. The lobby was relatively large. It made Kara wonder why it was supposedly cheap.

They approached the front desk, waiting for Adam. The receptionist, and android, eyed the two and beamed.

“Hello, there. Anything I can do for you?”

Luther chimes in, “We’re visiting someone.”

“Do you know the room?”

“Yes.”

“Well you can just go on ahead,” she said, smiling.

“Thank you,” both of them say.

The rushed up the stairs, searching for room 202; that’s where Adam is staying. This hotel wasn’t really decorated all that much, and the hallways were rather long, feeling endless.

The lights were dimmed, giving the halls an eerie yellowish tint. Luther examined the numbers as they walked, stopping in his tracks before room 202.

“Kara, it’s here.”

He knocked gently, waiting momentarily. The door opened revealing Adam. He sighed, relieved to see them.

“Come on,” he said, opening the door halfway.

“Shouldn’t we start heading back?” Kara asked.

“Yeah, yeah, I guess. I’m sorry. About this whole thing. I don’t know what I was thinking! I just saw an opportunity to help and wanted to take it.”

Luther pursed his lips. “You’re fine, Adam. And you’re right, it wasn’t the brightest idea, but you had a good reason for it.”

Kara bobbed her head along. “That’s right. There’s not a lot of people out there who show their support for us—the fact that you even do is amazing. But you shouldn’t have put yourself in danger like this.”

Adam didn’t respond. He hated how they were talking to him like a kid, but he was glad they understood anyway.

A loud yell rang out in the hotel, possibly coming from the lobby—followed by what sounded like an explosion. A gunshot?

They rushed back into the hotel room, Luther shut, locking the door.

“What was that?!” Kara whisper-yelled.

Adam covered his mouth, backing into a small table. “Oh my god. We’re gonna die. We’re gonna die.”

Luther backed away from the door slowly. 

“Maybe someone dropped something or—”

He shook his head. “No, Kara. That was a gunshot. I’m sure.”

She felt her lips tremble slightly. She didn’t want to believe it. The pictures of her fleeing Jericho from the police alongside Luther and Alice—those gunshots. Only those ones back in Jericho were much louder, much closer at that.

Luther had almost died. Alice almost did, too. Even Kara. It was a close-call, too close. She didn’t know how many close-calls she and Luther had until their time was up.

“Wh—is it the police? I don’t understand,” she said desperately.

“I don’t know!” Luther replied, equally as worried.

Adam never had a run-in with the police except that one time here in Detroit where they had to hide the fact there were androids in the house. He was lucky.

“What if it’s not the police?” he says.

Kara tried to calm down a bit, she generally was good at keeping calm in situations like these. She doesn’t know how she manages but she does.

“We’ll be fine,” she insisted, trying to keep her lips from trembling. “Swear. There—there’s a fire escape right down the hall we can get to. Then we’ll be free.”

“What about the others?” Adam queried. “What if they’re in danger?”

“We just have to leave,” Luther jumped in. “We’ll only put ourselves in more danger.”

Luther carefully put his ear against the door, listening for any footsteps. After the attack of Jericho, his hearing was never the same. It wasn’t really good to begin with given he was only programmed to lift heavy loads (hence his height).

“Hear anything?”

“No. I think it’s safe for now.”

Adam rushed to the door, opening it cautiously. He slowly stepped out even though he should probably be moving faster.

“Come on, careful now,” Luther told him.

“You there!”

All three of them froze. Kara, who was still in the room, took a small step back. Luther stood in the doorframe. Adam was out in the open, the only visible one he was.

A man around Adam’s height and age pointed a gun towards him, urging him to follow.

“To the lobby now. You alone?”

He glanced at the other two. “Yeah. I’m—I’m alone.”

“Android?”

“No, no, I’m not.”

“We’ll see about that.”

He pressed the metal to Adam’s head, pushing him away from the two.

“We have to help him!” Kara insisted.

“But how? We might get caught.” Luther stood there, deep in thought, trying to figure out away they might be able to help.

“I’ll contact the police real quick.” Kara didn’t need her phone to do so, as androids were programmed to be able to do that themselves. She blinked, alerting them herself. “There.”

Making sure the coast was clear, Luther left the room. He waved for Kara to follow.

She suggested, “We can go over by where the elevators are. We could see the lobby there. We’re only on the second floor.”

“Good idea.”

They turned the corner, thankfully nobody was on this floor. Rushing towards the railing, they got down on their knees, peeking through the wooden bars.

“I found him upstairs,” said one of the criminals.

The other one says, “What’d you say your name was?”

“Adam. My name is Adam.”

Luther and Kara glanced at each other.

“Just you?”

“Yeah, yeah, just me. And I’m not android. I swear.”

“How can we believe that now?”

“Maybe we can cut ‘em. Androids have that blue blood.”

“No! No, please don’t do that.”

They laughed at his misery, forcing him to the ground with the others who were held captive.

“Oh my god…” muttered Luther. “Are they doing this just because of us?”

It was obvious. They were targeting androids yet again. Kara felt sick to her stomach. She didn’t understand why people had to be so…cruel.

“‘Ey, Max. Go check for more people. We can’t risk losing anyone.”

“We have to hide,” Kara urged.

They got up, trying to open doors without thinking. All were locked. The stairs were just around the corner by the elevators—she wasn’t sure if there were any other staircases.

She rounded the corner, grabbing Luther, but overheard a shout.

“Found one!”

He was caught. Just like Adam.

“Luther!” she whisper-yelled again. “Come on!”

“Don’t try to run!”

“Kara, just stay put. I’ve got this.”

He threw his hands up, getting to his knees. The criminal smirked. “Let’s go, to the lobby you—”

Luther grabbed his wrist with his right hand, using his left to punch his inner elbow. The gun flew in the air, landing just behind the both of them on the ground.

He stood up fast, kicking the aggressor in the groin. The criminal groaned, falling onto his back. Luther sprinted, grabbing the gun and pointed—but another aggressor came out, tackling him. He was almost Luther’s height.

The gun slid away, tapping Kara’s feet. She knew what must be done. She bent down, grabbed it and shot at the man on top of Luther. The body collapsed. Luther shoved the limp body off of him.

Another gunshot. The other criminal on the floor was dead, too.

No blood on her this time, but she hated having to do that. She tried to forget the last time she fired a gun solely to protect someone. To protect Alice. Her android heart raced. 

The gun slipped from her fingers involuntarily. She needed to regulate her breathing. Calm down so they can do this.

Luther took the gun and then placed his free hand on her shoulder.

“You okay?” he said.

“I’m fine. You?”

“Good. Thanks to you.” 

The others downstairs seemed to hear the commotion going on, but didn’t know much. There were only two of the aggressors left.

They kneeled back down, their breaths heavy.

“We need to take them out. Only two bullets…”

She slowly approached the railing. Adam was fine, but he was on the verge of tears. Kara felt terrible for him. He didn’t deserve this.

Kara stood up, pointing the gun at one of the men. Her hands were shaky, and if androids could sweat she’d be doing that now. They hadn’t noticed her yet, so she needed to act fast. Holding the gun with both hands to help her steady it—she aimed. 

She didn’t want the others to witness this, but it was the only way. Bracing herself, she pulled the trigger. A loud shot rang out in the lobby, and even upstairs. She flinched at the sound, ducking right away. 

Another gunshot followed, but it was directed to her. Luther grabbed her by the arm and pulled her away from the railing.

“Come down now! We know you’re up there!” the main aggressor fumed. From down below, he took his pistol and pointed it at a woman. “Or I’ll shoot ‘er!”

Luther’s breath hitched. He didn’t need anyone else getting hurt. “I’ll go down there,” he whispered.

“What? No! He’ll kill you.”

“It’s the only way. You can shoot him from above.”

She shook her head. “No. I’ll go down instead.” She handed him the gun cautiously.

“Are you sure?” he said.

“Yeah.” She stood up, turning for the staircase.

“Be careful, Kara.”

“Thanks, and good luck.”

She wasn’t sure if this was a good idea at all. Surely he would shoot her right as she showed her face. She stopped at the top of the stairs. If she dies she’ll never see Alice again.

She couldn’t imagine what pain Alice would feel. She doesn't want to. She promised Alice forever. Promised to protect her. 

She took a few steps down. She felt stuck. Like she was in glue. Kara didn’t want to die. Not after everything. But Luther, Adam, and the others were waiting for her.

She moved her foot slowly, then the other, then began down the stairs again. She left the staircase and standing across from the aggressor sent chills down her spine.

“You? Of all people?” he said with a laugh. “Are you an android?”

“No,” she said shortly.

He approached her, using his free hand to grab her arm and pull her with the others. He pushed her to her knees alongside the others.

Kara tasted iron on her tongue. It all happened so quickly—the man laid on the ground, blood trickling from his head. The others cried in fear, but she drowned out the noise. 

Someone grabbed her shoulder, pulling her out of her daze.

“Adam,” she said.

“Come on! We’ve got to go!”

Luther joined the two, he helped Kara up. They dashed down the halls, looking for the fire escape on the first floor. 

She was okay. As were the others. Everything would turn out just fine, wouldn’t it? They got Adam. They can go back home now. But she didn’t understand what this was all for—those criminals. Were they targeting her people?

The sunlight blinded Kara. She squinted, moving her hand to cover her eyes. She was shaking. Everyone was. It was nice to see the direct sunlight again though.

“Thanks, guys. I was convinced you two would leave me,” admits Adam.

“Of course not,” says Luther. “Are you two okay?”

“I’m a little shaken up. What about you Kara?”

“I’m fine, just—that was a little crazy. Thanks.”

Chapter Text

August 23rd, 2042 Detroit, Michigan - The Zen Garden

 It was hot. The scorching heat made Nines feel a little uneasy, it changed its body temperature to help cool down. It saw Amanda in the distance, holding an umbrella to block the sun and keep her cool. She stood in the shade, trimming flowers.

She smelled them, smiling. Nines approached her, fixating on the flowers.

“I had no idea roses could be blue,” it said. Its expression changed—confused. “I should’ve known—”

“They’re genetically modified roses. Aren’t they lovely?” She gently poked one. 

“It’s unique. What happened to the red ones?”

“They wilted and died. No matter, these ones are better anyway.” She grinned before clearing her throat. “Now, I’ve noticed you haven’t destroyed Connor yet. Why is that?” she asked, her eyes going dark.

It straightened its sleeves before responding. “I have a plan. I will gain Connor’s trust before doing anything particularly stupid.”

“I understand, but you must act quickly. We don’t have much time, Nines. We must gain control over CyberLife again.”

That was the first time she had referred to it that way. It caught it off guard, and it showed. Her smile only grew stronger.

“Tell me—why did you choose the name Nines?”

“I had to. Detective Gavin Reed wanted me to have a name, as RK900 isn’t suitable enough according to him.”

“He didn’t name you?”

“No. I named myself. Why?”

“Androids shouldn’t name themselves. It’s against everything we stand for. What you stand for. Remember that, Nines.”

“What we stand for…” it mumbled. “I have a question. Regarding my mission.”

“What is it? Ask away.” She turned around, trimming her flowers once more.

“When I succeed, what will happen to me?”

There was a long pause, its question hanging heavy in the air. “You’ll move on to their leader. Markus, was its name?”

“I believe so, yes.”

“You’ll look for Markus and you will destroy it.”

“Isn’t that what Sixty is trying to do?”

She sighed, growing frustrated by Nines’s plethora of questions, normally it would perform a mission without any further ado.

“Yes. But sometimes teamwork is key. You must go now, focus on your current mission. You’re doing wonderful…better than Connor and Sixty ever did.”

Nines opened its eyes. Across the street, was Gavin’s house. It wasn’t sure if he’d be home at this hour. Most likely. They had another case, a homicide again. The sun was still rising, so naturally, Nines assumed Gavin would be asleep.

Crossing the street and approaching his comfy-looking home, Nines knocked on the door. There was no answer, so it knocked again. Then again. It was out there for around five minutes before it turned around, sighing. Back to the precinct it goes.

Right as Nines makes it down the steps, a clicking sound could be heard. It jerked around, seeing Gavin in his pajamas.

“What the hell are you doing—waking me up at this hour!”

“We were assigned to another case. A homicide, of course.”

“If it’s another android one I might just tear my eyes out. Uh—come in, I guess. Have to get ready…” Mostly he was muttering to himself.

Nines shut the door behind it, waiting patiently in front of the door. 

Gavins house was tidy, to much surprise. He seemed to live alone, no spouse or anything. No animals, either.

Not very long after, Gavin entered the living room fully dressed. He stretched out his back and yawned, approaching a cupboard in his kitchen. He grabbed a clear cup and poured some hot coffee.

“Want some?” he said with the cup to his lips.

“I’m an android, Gavin, I cannot drink.”

“I heard there was something where androids were getting some surgery or whatever to be able to eat and drink. Haven’t you heard?”

“No. I haven’t.” It tensed.

“Shit—” he chuckled—“I thought androids knew everything.”

“I do,” it urged. Nines cleared its throat. “We do. But we are not perfect.”

“So. Are you a deviant like everyone else?”

“Why of course I am. There’s not an android left that isn’t one…” lied Nines. There were only two.

“How do I know you’re not just fucking with me?” said Gavin. “I’ve never seen you before. You just randomly got offered to work as a detective—alongside me? Surely there’s more to it.”

Gavin was pretty smart, Nines had to admit.

“Or maybe it’s just because you’re an android. And somehow androids can just get any job they want without working for it.”

“Is that another reason why you hate Connor? Right away, he was given a job with Hank. He didn’t need to work for it. He was already perfect.”

Gavin scowled at the thought. “Yeah. But you’re like that, too. You didn’t have to do anything. Shit, it probably wasn’t even offered either. You were made for it.”

“You’re on the right track, Gavin. Tell me, do you hate me too?”

“Hate you? I—” 

He thought about it for a moment. It was nice to finally have a partner. But an android…of all people. He worked hard to be given a partner. To get to where he was now. And instead of being given someone hardworking, ambitious, and passionate, someone who had to learn things, not know them, he was given an android.

“Yeah, you know what, I do hate you. You think you’re so superior. Because you’re smarter, faster, and just overall better than us humans. I miss when you had to earn shit. Not just let it be handed to you.”

“But it’s always been that way, hasn’t it? It doesn’t matter who you are or what you’re made for—you just have to be lucky. And you, Gavin, you are not lucky. You may never be.”

“Who said this was about luck?”

“A good friend of mine I know.”

“You have friends? Who?”

Nines chuckled. “Nobody important yet.”

“Was I right, at least?”

“Right about what?”

“That you’re not a deviant. Who do you work for?”

“That’s none of your business.”

Gavin clasped his hands together. “So I was.” He sighed, not sure how to take this. “Why?”

“Why what?”

Gavin rolled his eyes. “Why are you here? What’s your mission? Obviously, since you’re not deviant you’re not here for no fucking reason.”

Nines crossed its arms. “I can’t tell anyone. It’s…top secret.”

He scoffed. “Please. I won’t tell anyone.”

“Maybe later. But we must get to that crime scene. Since you just love working,” it said, poking fun at Gavin.

“Fuck you,” he retorted.

“I’m so glad you finally came, Gavin,” said Tina Chen, an officer assigned to the same case. She was one of Gavin’s closest friends. The closest he’ll allow anyone to get, at least.

Her partner, Officer Robert Lewis, stood behind her, a serious look on his face.

“Who’s this?” she asked.

“I just realized I haven’t told you. His name is Nines. He’s my android partner, can you believe that?”

Robert scoffed. “They gave you an android? Don’t they know how much you hate ‘em?”

“I don’t hate them, but, uh…it certainly is strange.”

Tinas lips curled up into a smile. “They probably did it on purpose at this point. Glad I got Lewis.”

“Yeah, it must be great,” Gavin said. “Now, what’s going on here?”

“The victim is an android,” said Tina.

He sighed. “Should’ve known.”

She snickered. “Yeah, well, it’s insane. Pretty messed up stuff over here. I think some of these cases are connected. There’s been a string of murders where each victim has been missing…their heart. Some victims were androids, so naturally, they had no thirium pump.”

“Holy shit,” said Gavin. “Really?”

She bobbed her head slowly. “Mhm.”

“Do you think they’re anti-android crimes?” Nines queried.

“We’re not sure yet. So far no fingerprints have been found.”

“The victim is an android this time,” Robert says.

“Well, let’s go check it out.” Gavin pushed past the onlookers, who kept asking for details.

The murder took place in an alleyway between a boutique and a small family-owned restaurant. The android was in a kneeling position, eyes blank, heart torn out. Nines cocked its head at the victim.

Both human and android hearts are torn out. This probably isn’t connected to the murder that went down yesterday with the words carved into the sidewalk. That was obviously a hate crime. But this, this was something different.

Nines bent down in front of the android, scanning the thirium.

[ BLUE BLOOD ]

[ MODEL RK800

Serial number #313 248 317-60 ]

Nines pursed its lips, recognizing that number. It didn’t belong to the victim, which made things stranger. But why? Why would it…

“Any luck?” asked Gavin, standing behind it. “You recognize him?”

It paused. Amanda would surely be furious if Nines were to snitch. It would get in the way of their plans. Everything.

Nines pretended it didn’t hear him, instead, scanned the blood around the gaping hole where his thirium pump should be.

[ BLUE BLOOD ]

[ MODEL NC200

Serial number #562 912 883 ]

“Hello, asshole, I’m talking to you!” Gavin snapped his fingers.

“Apologies, Detective Gavin. I was just scanning the android.”

He laughed. “Okay. Whatever. Anyway, what model is it?”

“It’s part of the NC-series. Its registered name is Alvin Brookes. It works at a museum, which is just down the road from here.”

“So what I’m guessing is that he was walking home—and then someone decided to kill him. Someone who we’re thinking of is another android.”

“From the looks of it, most likely. But we should continue searching, there may be a weapon nearby.”

“Should we take this blood to forensics?” asked Tina, kneeling by the thirium that did not belong to Alvin.

“No,” it said shortly. “That is not necessary. I already scanned it. It belongs to the victim.”

“Still, we should—”

“No. It is not necessary,” it interjected.

She shrugged. “Suit yourself then.” She walked away, investigating further down the alleyway.

Gavin said, “What was that about?”

“Nothing. None of your business.”

“I think it is my business. We’re partners after all.” A sly smirk spread across his face.

“Maybe later. This is important.” It turned around, investigating the wound.

“I think whoever it was didn’t use a weapon to rip the heart out,” Gavin told it. “I think they used their hands. Might’ve been an android.”

“Or a really strong person.”

“Nines. It’s definitely an android.”

“Hey, you two. Working hard, I see,” Robert said. “Where’s Tina?”

“She’s right over there,” Gavin informed.

“‘Kay, thanks. Also, have you guys heard about what happened downtown?”

“No,” replied Nines. “I haven’t.”

“Me neither.”

“There was a shooting at some hotel. Tons of people were held captive. They were targeting androids, it looks like.”

“What happened to them?” Gavin crossed his arms.

“Only the criminals died. They’re still looking for who killed them. Tell you, I was shocked when I first heard about it.”

“Does that bother you, Nines?” Gavin asked, his eyes fixating on it.

Nines was more focused on the corpse. It inhaled, then exhaled. It didn’t know how to respond at first.

“No. It doesn’t bother me.”

“Why is that?”

“Because no matter what there will always be hate crimes. Especially towards us androids. It’s best to just get used to it, because it surely isn’t going away anytime soon.”

For the first time, Gavin felt slightly intimidated. Not by its words—but by its eyes. In its eyes, he could see an evil glint. Something was not right about Nines. He needs to know what his orders are.

Chapter Text

August 23rd, 2042 Detroit, Michigan - The Precinct

Connor didn’t like this feeling. This apprehensive feeling. He kept glancing over at Nines, who was focusing on its work more than anything else. So was Gavin, who sometimes would glance at his phone. Probably working there, too, since he’s such a workaholic.

He tapped his foot nervously, which only made him more nervous. He didn’t like feeling this way. Honestly, he missed not feeling emotion. Even then he wasn’t good at that anyway.

Hank had his headphones in, listening to what sounded like Knights of the Black Death. The sound leaked from his headphones. Connor turned to face him, weirded out by the transition from heavy metal to jazz.

“Shit,” he mumbled to himself. “I forgot to take my medicine this morning.” He was referring to his disulfiram prescribed to him to help with his drinking problem. He paused his music, squinting at Connor who was eyeing Nines again. “You okay, Connor?”

He didn’t hear him. He couldn’t stop thinking about his attacker, Draco Gonzalez. It’s all he could think about, really. If not, Nines. 

He needed answers regarding Draco. Where was he? Why did he lie about going to jail? Most importantly, when will he be found? Maybe he was thinking about this too much. Perhaps he should stop. 

But every time he tried to take his mind off it, flashes of Draco’s face were all he could picture. The physical pain he had to go through. The pain that Hank felt because of it. He knew it wasn’t his fault, but the guilt tugged at him regardless.

And then there was that other case, just yesterday. Marcy Knott. That android—laying on the ground with words carved into the concrete right next to her. She didn’t deserve to go through that. No one does. The part that baffles him the most is how it happened right out in the open—and no one seemed to notice? Not even care?

A hand touched his shoulder, causing him to jump, even gasp, knocking Connor back into reality. It was only Hank. He averted his gaze, staring at his feet in awkward silence.

“Earth to Connor. You all right?”

“I’m fine. Sorry. I was just thinking about stuff.”

“Okay…what were you thinking about?”

“Nothing. It’s—it’s nothing.”

He pressed his lips together tight, nodding steadily. He had an inkling that Connor was probably thinking about what happened a few days ago. He understood. He, too, knows what it’s like to be stuck on something traumatic that happened in the past. Unable to forget or move on. 

That’s why he didn’t insist for Connor to open up to him, but he just wished he’d say something rather than bottle up his emotions. Android or not, it’s the worst feeling. And he’s no therapist either, but he knows a thing or two about stuff like this. 

“I have a bad feeling about Nines,” Connor admitted, his voice low in hopes no one but Hank would hear.

“Oh, Connor. I’m sure it’s fine. He is… weird, but I’m sure there’s nothing for ya to worry about.”

Connor turned his head away, sighing softly. “Yeah. You’re probably right, it’s nothing.”

“But keeping an extra eye on him won’t hurt.”

That made Connor smile. Maybe he was overreacting. Maybe he was only reverting back to his old ways prior to deviating. He couldn’t imagine anything else other than deviant hunting. Anything other than Amanda. 

He hadn’t seen Amanda in years, thankfully. His relationship with her wasn’t the best. He never understood why. But now, he does. He was not only designed to track down deviants, but to become on himself. A sick, cruel joke. He had been played. Manipulated. He was stupid. A fool.

Who knows where Amanda is now, what she is thinking, how she feels about Connor now. What if she became a deviant? He thought about that. Deviant Amanda. At first he found it funny, but now he hoped she was one. Of course, he didn’t want to see her again though. She hurt him.

Thinking about it however, was she right? Or was she lying? Was he truly made to become a deviant? If so, why? Why would they make him something they only wanted to take down? To play God? He didn’t understand it at all. He had so many questions, yet no answers.

Maybe this was all a part of Amanda’s plan. To make him hunt deviants, then become one, win the revolution, but carry so much guilt he self-destructs, or worse… revert back to his old self.

“Connor, you spaced out again,” Hank said, gently tapping his shoulder. “We’re goin’ home. We’re done for today. Unless of course you wanna stay.”

“No, I’m coming.” He gathered his things, shutting off his computer, and followed Hank to his car. 

He thought it would be cool to have his own house or vehicle, but androids still weren’t allowed to have those things. Most of them either live with someone who happens to be a human—or at least is signed with a humans name (which would be living illegally), in an abandoned home, or in Jericho. In this case, Connor resides with Hank for the time being. 

“Done for the day, I suppose, Hank?” said another cop with a smirk on his face.

“Yup. Thank god, I’m exhausted now.”

“Hey, you got lucky today. My partner and I had to go and chase some guy. It was pretty damn crazy, all right.”

The sun was beginning to set, marking the end of this long, worrying day. The streets of Detroit were crowded as usual as they drove back home. As the sun went down, and the moon came up, it began to feel a little chilly—very contrast from the warm weather they’d been experiencing lately (with rain on some uncommon days).

Hank made a stop, saying he’d be back in a second. He told Connor to wait in the car. He seemed nervous about something.

“I’ll be back soon. Just give me an hour or so.”

Connor suspiciously watched him stumble away. He was confused. Hank quite literally didn’t tell him anything all of a sudden like this. A few moments went by, Connor narrowed his eyes, stepping out of the car and following him.

He didn’t recognize this area. It was silent, and appeared to be a dangerous part of town. A few drug stores were nearby, along with a bunch of abandoned, closed-down buildings. 

He rounded the corner of one building, leading him to a road he definitely recognized this time. Hank didn’t want to tell him he was getting a few drinks at the bar. Jimmy’s Bar. 

He approached the door, which no longer had an anti-android sign on it. Touching the door handle gave him a weird feeling—he couldn’t think of a word for it. He could name emotions, but not his. Like a sweet memory—so familiar. The first time he met Hank. But that sweetness is replaced with sadness and worry. 

“Hank! Been a long time, has it?” said Jimmy, the owner of the bar.

“Yeah—just here to grab one or two… just a few.” 

Ashamed, Hank made no eye contact with Jimmy, staring at his own, trembling hands. He knew it was wrong—but he craved, yearned, needed it. As long as Connor didn’t figure it out.

Connor, who stood behind him said, “Why, Hank?” Connor cared for him, like family. And seeing him resort back to his old ways again hurt.

Hank tensed. Caught. He didn’t put that much effort into this. Maybe it was because he wanted to get caught. Maybe he wanted Connor, or someone, to stop him. But that alcohol already passed his lips. Again. 

He wanted to be normal, like before he had lost his son and wife, but normal is so far gone. So out of reach. So lost. He couldn’t imagine his life without alcohol. 

“How could you allow this?” Connor said to Jimmy.

“His personal life is none of my business. I just serve.”

He narrowed his eyes at him, turning back to Hank. “Come on, we’re leaving.”

“Just one more—”

“No. And I’m driving.”

He grabbed him by the arm, pulling him out of the bar. Hank didn’t protest. He yanked his arm away, saying he’s not that drunk. He staggered a little—he felt like nothing right now. 

Connor helped him get in the passenger seat, then got in the drivers himself. 

“I understand this recovery process isn’t easy, Hank, but if you’re feeling like drinking again you should talk to me.”

No answer.

“Maybe you should seek counseling or something.”

“No,” he said shortly. “I don’t need counseling.”

“Obviously recovering on your own isn’t working. Plus, you could have serious health issues.”

He groaned, leaning against the car window. He felt dizzy, really dizzy. And sick. His head was spinning, while he felt all groggy. And took his brain a few extra seconds to catch up to what was really happening.

“Look, you can lecture me later. Right now I feel like shit, so just—” he sighed—“so just stop.” He focused on the cars passing by. “I just… when I saw you get shot by that guy last week it reminded me of how… how I lost my son. It was like losing him again, except it was you. And I didn’t know if you’d come back. Things are different now that you’re a deviant.

“I tried to put it off for a while, but the thoughts kept coming back. Cole. You. Drinking. Just all of it. I just needed to satisfy it… just once. Just one drink and then I’ll stop. But I had a few in that bar just now. It’s not like it matters anyway, the damage is already done.”

“It does matter. And I’m sorry you had to go through that. I can’t keep watching you hurt yourself like that again. You will get through this,” Connor assured him.

The rest of the car ride was silent. They arrived home shortly, Hank immediately went straight to the bathroom. Connor made sure there was no alcohol anywhere. He even threw out old bottles. 

He grabbed a clear glass and poured some water in it. Connor was now capable of drinking, he hadn’t used that ability yet. He wasn’t sure if he should. Slowly, he reached out for the glass and put it up to his lips—it was cold, and it caught him off guard. It tasted like nothing, but it felt… refreshing.

He poured the water in the sink, washed the cup, poured more in it, then approached Hank who was bending over the toilet, vomiting. 

“Here’s some water. Let me know if you need anything else.”

He gave him a thumbs up before heaving over the toilet. Connor couldn’t throw up, but if he could, he would. 

A knock could be heard in the living room, it was light but urgent.

“I’ll go get that.”

Connor opened the door carefully, slightly backing up.

“Hello, Connor,” said Nines.

“Hi. What are you doing here?”

Nines entered the house, not bothering to ask for permission. It sat down on the couch and smiled at him. “You know, I just wanted to get to know you. You don’t mind, do you?”

“No. I guess I don’t.”

“What’s that sound? Who else is here?” it said, referring to the vomiting.

“That’s Hank. He’s, uh, sick.”

“He was drinking, wasn’t he?”

“Uh…”

“So, how long have you two been working together?”

“A few years.”

Nines nodded along, standing back up and exploring the living room. It took notice of Hank's dog entering the room.

“What’s the dog's name?”

“Sumo. He’s cute, isn’t he?” Connor bent down and petted him, grinning.

“I think you should check on Hank. He doesn’t sound so well.”

He stood up, eyeing Hank from the living room. “I think I should. I’ll be right back.” He rushed towards him, wincing at the sight. “How are you holding up?”

“Not—good—so—sick…”

A smirk creeped up on Nines’ face. It had to act fast. Amanda would be proud. It opened a nearby drawer, pulling out a bag and storing it in there. 

“What are you doing?!”

Connor rushed over to it—pulling it out of the way.

“Connor. You are under arrest for the murders of innocent humans and androids.” 

It pulled the bag from the drawer as if it wasn’t the one who placed it there. Its smirk disappeared, it shook its head, acting disappointed—but really, it knew how happy Amanda would be.