Murder Drones: Disassembly Required

Cloris looked over at J, staring at the smile. She was rather surprised that it wasn't her signature smirk. Did she want her to be happy?

"Well, it's a moot point if we can't contact other disassembly drones."

Cloris paused, looking back over her shoulder at J again. "What would you suggest to relax J? Many of my usual outlets aren't available to me right now. I'll be more in the zone when I start working, but when I'm not working, I'm not very good at relaxing."

When they talked about mental health, Cloris raised a hand, opening and closing it. "Humans and drones shouldn't be separated. The only difference between them is what they're made of. And that can change in a heartbeat, given the right circumstances. You never know when you might need a new arm or a new leg."

Cloris paused, lowering her hand and turning around. She looked over at J.

"I don't disagree that we need to take care of our mental health J. But right now it's absolutely critical that we set ourselves up for success. Things are only going to get harder if we don't do that."

Cloris realized her mistake the moment the captain brought up N's innocence. Right. She wouldn't know anything about that. Cloris yelled back at the captain.

"I'LL TAKE CARE OF THAT WHEN I'M DONE IN HERE!"

And then V had to time in. She yelled back at the android.

"WELL SOMEBODY HAS TO BE FOCUSED V!

Cloris huffed, crossing her arms and looking at the ship AI.

"Okay AI, I'm ready now. Display the schematics now.

While that was happening, Ray's voice came in through the radio. She pressed down a red button, reaponding to him.

"Loud and clear Ray. You can head out whenever you're ready. Radio us at least once every hour, over.

---

Another person then logged onto the Dream Deck 2600. And butted into the chat.

DarkXWolf17: "Okay, that's not suspicious at all. Hey Allsolver, don't tell this guy anything."

J would then clear her throat slightly to interject -- there was a reason that she specified just 'Drone' after all.

"There are Worker Drones though. Ones that aren't corrupted, I mean. In any case, that's why we're doing this to get into contact with the others."

Still, Cloris definitely seemed to be uptight... Which was a very loaded observation considering that was coming from J. The Disassembly Drone crosses her arms and thinks over the question about how to relieve stress. There was all this talk of not having any outlets, and she was better when she was working, but...

"Well, you're working right now, and you only seem to be getting more stressed."
With that observation pointed out, Cloris then remarked about how Humans and Drones shouldn't be separated, especially as things could really blur the line between them nowadays...

"That's true... So you should know that I can see the signs of someone heading towards a breaking point."

J then places her hands on her own hips.

"You just hopped out of cryo and you're already in the thick of things. You have the Disassembly Drones here helping you, and the rest of your crew is in better shape. Take a break, have something to eat, have a drink, and just. Slow. Down."

That was the advice that she had to give Cloris, and one could certainly see that she meant every word of it. About at this point, the Ship AI then chimes in.

"I'm inclined to agree with J. Spare some time for yourself, Cloris. Otherwise you may suffer a mental break when you're needed most."

When it came to the subject of the third legs that Humans have, well... J couldn't help but let out a groan.
"N... How she's still so innocent, I'll never understand."

And then there was the shout from V. J decided it was best to just stay well out of the way of that one. The Ship AI seemed to be of the same mindset, now choosing to display the schematics as per Cloris's wishes.

"Here you are. I've highlighted relevant sections and parts that are related to our current tasks."

Shortly thereafter, Ray tested the comms from the Roamer, and Cloris answered. At first it was nothing of note -- but then he added an extra message for J.

"Well. If there's nothing else, it looks like I better go join them. If you need anything more in-depth, N should be able to help you with that. She loves doing anything."

With that remark, J starts her exit to the vehicle bay.

---

As for the Captain and N, she remarks how awful it is, and then adds that no one is just grumpy for no reason, and begins to speculate on ways to help her. Karasu gives a nod at that.

"Yeah, you're right. She's been on edge for awhile now. I don't think that scare back with that captured Drone really helped things, either."

With that, N then questioned if they should head to the bridge now, and the Captain replies with;

"Yes, we should. For the time-being it's probably best if each group sticks together."

Along the way, the pair of them would pass J -- and N could tell that for once, she was in a really good mood. Smiles and all. Almost like she was excited to go meet up with someone...

And then, shortly thereafter, they'd arrive at the bridge, to find Cloris already at work, and the Ship AI assisting her.

"Sorry we got held up there."
He states, and then he moves onto a more pressing issue...
"... How are you feeling, Cloris?"

He then asks, his tone of voice only making it clear that his concern was genuine.

---

V lets out a little gasp at Ray's explanation.

"You're kidding?! Really?"
V then giggled afterwards, it was amusing to think about... J had been all business ever since they got here, but now there was a whole new side of her, apparently.

Still. She could kind of get it, Ray seemed to be having that effect on her too. Maybe it was for different reasons, since in her case it was nice to just... Drop her guard for a little while. Even when they weren't fighting, she was always on edge about something, but she didn't have to be that way around him.

Speaking of which, the Engineer then brings up an excellent point regarding Cloris's behavior.

"Yeah... She needs to do something to chill out. I don't know what it is, but I do know that you can only go so long like that before it starts taking a toll on you."

She replies, and Ray seems to be of the same mindset that something had to be done there. He was a little more concerned about possible division in the group, but even setting that aside...

"Even if it doesn't lead to arguments and division with the others, if she feels isolated, that's only going to make it worse."

... Yeah, V knew something like that a little too well. It's why she was able to get lost in something more primal, all the fighting and disassembling... It got her mind off of things for awhile. It wasn't really a perfect solution though. She was starting to realize that.

In any case, Ray grew thoughtful at her suggestions of where to start their expedition. It seems like he already had an idea of what to expect, and was building a route based on that. It was impressive and efficient. But V gives a nod instead of just musing on that.

"That sounds good to me. The ships were automated and one-way. One is fairly close to a bunker too. That should make for a good starting point."

Shortly there afterwards, Chaos joins up with them, primarily setting up in the back of the Roamer. He also asks another teasing question. By this point V is "standing" on her knees in order to face him from where she's otherwise seated. Ray is the first to speak up though, and V only adds onto that.

"Yeah. Those "vents" must be a real handful, huh? I'm sure if you asked, she might let you inspect them."

In any case, the fact that he brought blankets and pillows wasn't lost on either of them. Ray asked the obvious question of why he was bringing them along.

"Well, I guess it will be a little cold. So the blankets aren't a bad idea. Let's hope we aren't out long enough for the pillows to be necessary."

In any case, there is soon one more addition to the Roamer's passengers, as J also climbs into the back, soon spotting Chaos in his little setup, she joins him whilst giving him another smile.

"Sorry I'm late. I think the Ship AI is having to compensate for the lack of power, and the damage sustained. But we got it done."

Noting that he was buckled in, J begins to do the same, and on that note, V begins to shift back into her seat properly, and she also buckled in. Then she glances over at Ray and gives him a nod.

"Looks like we're all set."

---

For the moment, J hadn't noticed the chat that Chaos had gotten involved in on the Dream Deck 2600. Nor the users that were now responding on it. Mainly because she was more infatuated with him. But she'd notice soon enough, probably.

In either case, the messages start to roll in as he gives another response.

2Cool4Science: "Nice to meet you, where exactly do you live?"

DarkXWolf17: "Okay, that's not suspicious at all. Hey Allsolver, don't tell this guy anything."

AllSolver: "Suspicion seems unwarranted. Everyone on Copper-9 is in a bunker, including myself."

AllSolver: "2Cool4Science. You are not worried about the Disassembly Drones finding you on the surface?"

AllSolver: "It sounds as though you wish to come visit me."

"You two... shut up! I was never staring at hers ass!" I said with a heavy blush "...Atleast you two shouldnt have known about it" I added silently

I responded to Ray's comment about the pillows. "While you three sleeping beauties got plenty of rest, I was up all night doing... ...things, so yes Im going to take a nap if I can."

I smile back when J joined us in the Roamer. "Hey J, you good?"

While we where talking, half my attention was towards my Dream Deck.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2Cool4Science: "Nice to meet you, where exactly do you live?"

DarkXWolf17: "Okay, that's not suspicious at all. Hey Allsolver, don't tell this guy anything."

AllSolver: "Suspicion seems unwarranted. Everyone on Copper-9 is in a bunker, including myself."

AllSolver: "2Cool4Science. You are not worried about the Disassembly Drones finding you on the surface?"

AllSolver: "It sounds as though you wish to come visit me."
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I responded.

2Cool4Science: "I understand that most Worker Drones is in hiding from the Disassembly Drones, so I guess thats why you dont want to reveal your location DarkWolf. But dont worry, I dont mean harm."

2Cool4Science: "AllSolver, I do not fear the disassembly drones. They are in fact very interesting drones. And yes I'd like to meet you, I never saw a worker drone in person!"

Cloris let out a low laugh. "It would kind of put a damper on my dating plans if you had to disassemble my date. Or if they got infected by this rouge AI. I'd be setting myself up for a heartbreak."

Cloris didn't say anything at first. She kept busy, looking at the display screen. J really went into things, suggesting taking some sort of break. And then the ship AI chimed in. Cloris looked over at her, shaking her head in bemusement.

"I must be in really bad shape if an AI I created is telling me to take a breather.

Cloris then looked over at J. "I'll do that after I study your layout. Just take a little time to get used to the situation."

Cloris's conversation with Ray was standard. But then she blinked in surprised as he called her Clori. She hadn't gotten a nickname like that before. She smiled behind her mask.

"Thank you Ray. We’ll keep in touch with you.

Then the captain and N showed up. She looked at the both of them, nodding. ”I’m fine for now. I’ve just got to this done.

Cloris then turned back to the schematics, studying them carefully. She took note of the more interesting elements of J’s design.

---

2Cool4Science: "Nice to meet you, where exactly do you live?"

DarkXWolf17: "Okay, that's not suspicious at all. Hey Allsolver, don't tell this guy anything."

AllSolver: "Suspicion seems unwarranted. Everyone on Copper-9 is in a bunker, including myself."

AllSolver: "2Cool4Science. You are not worried about the Disassembly Drones finding you on the surface?"

AllSolver: "It sounds as though you wish to come visit me."

2Cool4Science: "I understand that most Worker Drones is in hiding from the Disassembly Drones, so I guess thats why you dont want to reveal your location DarkWolf. But dont worry, I dont mean harm."

2Cool4Science: "AllSolver, I do not fear the disassembly drones. They are in fact very interesting drones. And yes I'd like to meet you, I never saw a worker drone in person!"

There was a pause. Then Darkwolf threw out a response.

DarkXWolf17:”Riiiight. You’ve never seen a worker drone before. Have you gone through your whole life without looking in a mirror?”

Just before J had left the room, she did have one last thing to say to Cloris.

"The "official" mission is to disassemble the Drones. But at this rate, the actual mission is going to come to light, so... We might not be disassembling them for much longer. Just the corrupted ones."

J admitted, glancing back at the woman.
"Food for thought. Things are going to be changing now that you're all here, and because you know the truth."

J then leaves Cloris with that to think about.

Karasu then nods in agreement with N -- she was the only one aside from J that got a firsthand taste of whatever was going on with that recording. Although Chaos saw it too, he seemed less worried, all things considered. Cloris though, she was in an outright panic at the time... And that kind of tension doesn't just go away. Not until she feels fully safe.

"Well, the safer we can make the ship, the sooner she can start to relax a little, I think."

As for the brief meeting between them and J -- the twin-tailed Disassembly Drone rolls her eyes at N's words.
"Yeah, yeah. I thought you liked doing anything, though?"

That was... Remarkably a much softer retort than what J usually gave out for N. She must REALLY be in a good mood after all. Finally however, the pair has met up with Cloris, and she seems set on getting this last bit of work done.

"Alright, Cloris. We'll help out where we can."

The Captain then offers his assistance. As for Aegis... She didn't seem to like that Cloris was going to continue working, but...

"I'll do the same. The sooner you can take your break, the better."

The AI then begins working with Cloris on these schematics, and taking a deeper look into things.

---

"Wow. And she wasn't... You know, upset?"

V couldn't help but ask, curious as to what was going on between J and Chaos. Especially since Chaos himself wasn't going to give the full story.

"Yeah, that just makes it sound like you absolutely did."

She replied to the Scientist, and then returns her attention to the Engineer. Ray soon comes up with a possible idea to help Cloris... It would just involve a slight detour. V personally didn't mind, and that was why she was going to reply;

"That's fine! It sounds like she definitely needs it."

And now... With everyone gathered in the Roamer, they were ready to set off. Ray gives the go ahead to Aegis to start the process, and the AI soon responds:

"Understood. Depressurization beginning now."

The Klaxons sounded off, and machinery begins to hiss and thunk as the atmosphere equalizes with the outside of the ship. Finally, the hangar door begins to open -- though just as Ray observed, it couldn't quite open fully. Not that it would be a problem for the Roamer, it had enough clearance.


If it didn't, Aegis would have given him a heads up about it.

Ray then tells them to hold on, and V gives a nod and does so. And then... The Catapult begins to lock into place, as Aegis announces so;[/i]

"Roamer locked into Catapult. Launching in three... Two... One..."

And then, the launch! V grins widely as they're practically launched out of the hangar.

"Wooooo!"

Clearly, she was enjoying the high speed launch, treating it much like one would a rollercoaster ride! Ray seemed to be enjoying it just as much, too!

---

J gives a nod at Chaos's question.
"I am now."

J then looks at the Dream Deck 2600 just as Chaos does, and she soon realizes he's talking to someone... Actually, a couple someones. But she refrains from commenting just yet -- she wants to see where this leads. Especially since she does recognize one of those names...

2Cool4Science: "I understand that most Worker Drones is in hiding from the Disassembly Drones, so I guess thats why you dont want to reveal your location DarkWolf. But dont worry, I dont mean harm."

2Cool4Science: "AllSolver, I do not fear the disassembly drones. They are in fact very interesting drones. And yes I'd like to meet you, I never saw a worker drone in person!"

DarkXWolf17:”Riiiight. You’ve never seen a worker drone before. Have you gone through your whole life without looking in a mirror?”

There was a little bit of a pause from AllSolver's end as well, but soon...

AllSolver: "How very interesting. You do not fear Disassembly Drones, and you have also never seen a Worker Drone before."

AllSolver: "Then, what are you? I am very curious about you as well."

J then places a hand on Chaos's shoulder.

"Be careful about that AllSolver... I have my suspicions about who they are."

But nonetheless, she doesn't attempt to prevent him from communicating further with these two. At about that time, Ray mentions for them to hold onto something -- and J decides to take her opportunity, and immediately wrap her arms around Chaos.

Yes, it was another advance on him, but also just in case the launch was rough, she could help keep him steady or safe.

"Damnit... ...since Chloris isnt here, it was a great sight." Assuming J wouldnt mind that comment I wouldnt get bitch slapped by her.

I read the messages and think about J's comment. AllSolvers comment sounds odd, so I better pretend that Im some kind of drone or something. It might fool DarkWolf, but AllSolver seems way smarter than I thought.

"Alright, I'll be careful. That person might be able to track our location and that wouldnt be a good idea."

Just after I said that, the roamer launched. My mind flashbacked to when the ship originally crashed and I wouldve panicked if J didnt wrapped hers arms around me. I blushed. "Where were you when our ship crashed? Heh, I needed that. Thanks."

As the roamer settled, I try to cover up my statements in the dream deck group chats. I decided to play a Worker Drone trapped in an abandoned mine where my character slipped and lost its memories.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2Cool4Science: "I understand that most Worker Drones is in hiding from the Disassembly Drones, so I guess thats why you dont want to reveal your location DarkWolf. But dont worry, I dont mean harm."

2Cool4Science: "AllSolver, I do not fear the disassembly drones. They are in fact very interesting drones. And yes I'd like to meet you, I never saw a worker drone in person!"

DarkXWolf17:”Riiiight. You’ve never seen a worker drone before. Have you gone through your whole life without looking in a mirror?”

There was a little bit of a pause from AllSolver's end as well, but soon...

AllSolver: "How very interesting. You do not fear Disassembly Drones, and you have also never seen a Worker Drone before."

AllSolver: "Then, what are you? I am very curious about you as well."

I responded.

2Cool4Science: "Mirror? Ever since I found myself in this mine or something I havent found one, so I never had a chance to look at myself. My memories if fuzzy so I dont know exactly where I am. As to not being feared by the disassembly drones, after a collapse they cant really reach me. But I am lonely and finally got this PC working to communicate with someone."

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hopefully none of them noticed my plot holes in my story, as it'll be hard to dance around them.

Cloris paused, considering what J said. Then she looked ahead, walking towards the bridge.

"Let's just make it through all of this alive. Then we can think about what comes after."

Later on, Cloris nodded at the captain. "Thank you captain, N. Now then…"

Cloris studied J's schematics, taking notes and muttering things like. "What an interesting design choice. At least until Ray contacted her again.

"Roger that Ray. I'll hear from you again when you get there."

At least that was the original plan. Ray reported in some blockage on the road. She immediately responded back.

"Okay Ray. Just make sure you and the others secure the Roamer. And make sure you can find your way back: the snowfall is going to get rid of your tracks as you go."

---

2Cool4Science: "Nice to meet you, where exactly do you live?"

DarkXWolf17: "Okay, that's not suspicious at all. Hey Allsolver, don't tell this guy anything."

AllSolver: "Suspicion seems unwarranted. Everyone on Copper-9 is in a bunker, including myself."

AllSolver: "2Cool4Science. You are not worried about the Disassembly Drones finding you on the surface?"

AllSolver: "It sounds as though you wish to come visit me."

2Cool4Science: "I understand that most Worker Drones is in hiding from the Disassembly Drones, so I guess thats why you dont want to reveal your location DarkWolf. But dont worry, I dont mean harm."

2Cool4Science: "AllSolver, I do not fear the disassembly drones. They are in fact very interesting drones. And yes I'd like to meet you, I never saw a worker drone in person!"

There was a pause. Then Darkwolf threw out a response.

DarkXWolf17:”Riiiight. You’ve never seen a worker drone before. Have you gone through your whole life without looking in a mirror?”

AllSolver: "How very interesting. You do not fear Disassembly Drones, and you have also never seen a Worker Drone before."

AllSolver: "Then, what are you? I am very curious about you as well."


2Cool4Science: "Mirror? Ever since I found myself in this mine or something I havent found one, so I never had a chance to look at myself. My memories if fuzzy so I dont know exactly where I am. As to not being feared by the disassembly drones, after a collapse they cant really reach me. But I am lonely and finally got this PC working to communicate with someone."

There was a quick response from the user with the edgy name.

DarkXWolf17: "How do you have an internet connection in a fricking mine? Especially when there hasn't been a mining accident. 2Cool4Science, quit dodging the question. What are you?!"[/color]

"Hm? What is it, N?"

The Captain replies as he turns to her, and the Disassembly Drone gives him another salute. He smiles and then states;
"No need to be so formal. This isn't a Military or Navy operation."

Soon afterwards, N then explains that she wants to help out with something, and also admits she's not the best at tasks requiring precision. Karasu thinks it over for a second, before giving a nod.

"Well. There are several areas of the ship that could use a thorough patrol and clearing. The damage is better than what it could have been, but still. Making it more secure will eventually involve patching up any holes and clearing away rubble."

With that, he steps over to a console and pulls up the blueprints of the ship. With a few tweaks he's able to designate areas that were quarantined for safety earlier.

"These are the parts of the ship that were sealed off. There might be more of those corrupted Drones there, and also possible entry points for them. Basically, go through, assess the damage, and take out any threats. If you find anything that's excessively damaged or blocked by rubble, make a note of it."

Karasu explains, and then steps aside before then pointing at the console.

"You can use this to download the blueprints, and then you should be able to make notes as you go. If it's too dangerous, then head on back and seal the doors again."

With that, he then turns his attention back to N properly.

"Oh yeah, one more thing. I also marked where you can take any rubble, scrap, or parts so they can be re-used later."
Thinking he's gone over everything, Karasu then asks...

"Any questions?"

---

It looked like Ray was about to answer her question, but then Chaos went and did that himself. V can't help but look back at him and J, more than just a little amazed at what she just learned.

J simply gives a calm shrug.

"He appreciates good assets when he sees them."

V shakes her head after hearing that from her fellow Disassembly Drone, and soon returns her attention back to the front. As for J's timely embrace, it seems to have had quite the positive impact on Chaos, who appreciated it and mused on where she was during the initial crashlanding...

"Well, I stayed pretty clear of the crash site once I saw what was happening, but... You're right. It would have been another opportunity to do this. Bit of a shame I wasn't there for that."

She smirks, leaning into it a little bit more.

"I suppose I'll just have to make up for lost time, then."

The other subject of note was Chaos revealing that he was in contact with someone, and Ray simply took it as a challenge for that individual to try and track them.

J decides it's time to interject at this point.
"If it's who I think it is, I doubt they would make any bold moves anytime soon. But we should still be careful about potentially inviting trouble from them."

And in the chatbox... The user with the colorful name drops their latest message;

DarkXWolf17: "How do you have an internet connection in a fricking mine? Especially when there hasn't been a mining accident. 2Cool4Science, quit dodging the question. What are you?!"

Soon after, more messages follow from the other user.

AllSolver: "Relax. As you are well aware, the planet did suffer quite the explosion."

AllSolver: "If their memory has been affected by such an event, it is understandable they would think it a mere mining accident."

AllSolver: "Still. You are trapped down there? Perhaps a rescue should be organized."

It seemed that AllSolver wasn't really suspicious of Chaos, at least... Though given what J had been saying before, that only invited more suspicion onto them.

After about thirty minutes of driving, Ray's device lit up they were notified that they weren't too far off from their destination now. One big problem though. The road was out -- no way they could safely traverse it with the Roamer, so... Going on-foot seemed to be the only call to make here.

Ray had already deduced such and was preparing himself accordingly. He called out for the others to do the same and then listed off what the group should do. V gives a nod and helps him suit up to the best of her abilities.

Although the twin-tailed Disassembly Drone seemed reluctant, she ultimately did let Chaos go, and then she'd begin to help him suit up as well. Regardless of how the chat was going, they'd need to focus on their work now. Perhaps that was for the best.




Finally, when everyone was ready, they had stepped out of the Roamer. Ray was the first to comment on how unnerving the situation was, though. V gives an understanding nod.

"Yeah. The whole planet is like this, more or less... I'd say that you get used to it, but it seems like the sort of thing you probably shouldn't get used to."

All the signs of civilization, quite literally frozen in place and falling apart because of the assault of the elements. It was a disheartening and concerning sight. The weather didn't exactly help things on that front.

In any case, J voices her agreement with Ray;

"Yeah. We'll stick together for now. The Bunker isn't very far from here, at least. We're pretty familiar with the terrain around here. So we should be able to lead the way for you."

V then perks up.

"I'll take point! J, you can cover our backs!"

J then gives a nod.

"Fine by me. You two can stay in the middle, that way if anything does happen, we can keep you covered."

The twin-tailed Disassembly Drone directs the latter half of that to Ray and Chaos.

"J is clearly the more attractive drone, and dresses more formally." I said with a smirk

"Ah, that explains a bit. I knew I was being watched while the others was waking up." I replied to her "Then lets make up for lost time!"

We had to stop as there is debris blocking our way. This will most likely be my last message so I'd have to come up with a lie that'll make the edgy one believe it.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DarkXWolf17: "How do you have an internet connection in a fricking mine? Especially when there hasn't been a mining accident. 2Cool4Science, quit dodging the question. What are you?!"

AllSolver: "Relax. As you are well aware, the planet did suffer quite the explosion."

AllSolver: "If their memory has been affected by such an event, it is understandable they would think it a mere mining accident."

AllSolver: "Still. You are trapped down there? Perhaps a rescue should be organized."

I replied

2Cool4Science: "There was a human engineer who had to work on us Drones that would need to have maintenance on every one in a while. The guy had a computer down here to communicate with staff up above. Atleast thats what I assume what he did, thats his corpse right next to me, still frozen."

[We are about to leave the roamer, so I gotta come up with another lie. DarkWolf wont believe me, but it wont matter since we wont really meet up in real life]

2Cool4Science: "Im loosing power again, I dont know when I'll have power again and talk to you guys!"

>2Cool4Science logged off.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

J helped me suit up and we left the roamer together. I looked around the area and was saddened by the state of everything is. It looks like there was more than just a planetary collapse happened here. It looks more like a warzone but we'll never know for sure.

"We better be careful. These suits was designed for outer planet ship repairs, so if we trip it may be the end of it" I said to our group.

"Captain, Cloris? We're at the bunker. I've got something you need to see."

Ray sent the picture of the of the map, and the display brought it up. Cloris paused, staring at it. Then she reached out and pressed her palm against the screen. She held it there for a few seconds. Then she pointed at one of the outposts.

"According to the recording I got, that rogue program devastated outpost 10. Ask J and V the status of the remaining ones. Perhaps we can find a pattern to its movements."

Cloris then went back to studying J's schematics. There was a few things she was unsure about. "I'll have to ask N some questions later. After I explain to her what a third leg is.

---

Chaos wouldn't have seen any further responses the moment he logged off. When they got to the bunker doors, anyone who put their ear against them would hear a voice shouting out in joy.

"Guys! My daughter is into doors!"

There would be some more snippets of conversation. Then suddenly the doors to the bunker would slowly begin to open. One could only imagine what would come out from behind it. Was it a big ruse from the rogue program to lure them in close? An attack force sent out by the inhabitants? Whatever or whoever it was, they must mean serious business if they were coming out from the protection that the bunker provided.

As N recounted the objectives, Karasu gives an approving nod. She had the idea down perfectly... Or so he thought, as N steps over to the panel, she then turns her attention to him once more and asks a question that prompts him to blink in response.

Fortunately, Aegis steps up to the plate for this.

"Don't worry. I'll make the process very convenient for you."

With that, the hologram of the AI would hold her hand out to N, it was the same process as she had done with J, and once N reciprocated the gesture, the map and everything that Karasu marked for her would be transferred into her memory for easy access.

Shortly afterwards, Ray calls in with another report. They had reached the Bunker, and there was something they needed to see... The Captain steps over to see what was up here. Between the map and what Cloris was saying, it soon becomes clear exactly what they found. A map of the city, and of the bunkers that were set up for... Something.

It was hard to tell if it was what destroyed the planet, or something else. Sadly it appears that their efforts didn't see them safely through it. At least it wasn't in vain, though...

"Hmm. Good thinking, Cloris. Let's hope there is something we can use."

Maybe it was optimistic, but... Still.

---

V once more rolls her eyes at Chaos's comment.

"You probably wouldn't complain about the better view of her "vents" if she dressed like me."

Still, she did note that Ray refused to answer on that subject. V had a pretty good idea that it wasn't because he thought J was more attractive. Or at least, that was the assumption she was going to work off of.

In any case, the twin-tailed Disassembly Drone gives an appreciative nod as Ray declares that he'll take "AllSolver" seriously. Chaos soon after expresses his concern about the suits being damaged, but Ray soon presents a solution that will deal with such a scenario... Though he does mention that the visors should still be protected.

J and V both listen intently to his explanation of things, since it was obviously going to be important to know how to secure them if it came down to it. To that end, V speaks up.

"Got it. If there is any damage to the visors, let us know. We'll get you back to the Roamer as fast as we can."

After that, Ray voices his approval of V taking the lead, and she does so. The group sets off in their formation. The Engineer remarks on the sad state of affairs regarding the city, and V's expression shifts to one of sadness and worry.

"Yeah... I tried not to think about it. But seeing people again just shows how wrong all of this is."

Still, she tried not to lose focus. J seemed less troubled, but... Nonetheless it did bother her too.

"Maybe we'll be able to do something about all of this."

That vague comment was the most that J would say for now.

Soon enough they've reached the Bunker -- or at least it's exterior. Ray begins his inspection, and V does the same. Albeit her target is different from his, she once more approaches the door and presses her ear against it. Every now and then she could hear voices inside.

This time was no exception. She arches an eyebrow at what she just heard, and then she turns to the group.

"Hey, I can hear people talking."
She declares to the group. Though V's expression reveals her confusion -- which was soon explained by her then adding;
"One of them mentioned that his daughter is into doors."

J blinks at that revelation. She shrugs as V looks at her expectantly, and then V turns her attention to Ray and Chaos.

"That's weird, right?"

Then, suddenly, the doors begin to open. V immediately backs off, and moves to keep Ray and Chaos covered. J moves to do the same, and they've both got their sights trained on the entrance of the Bunker that was opening.

They had no way of knowing what was going to come outside, after all...

"Doesnt matter what J wears, I like her either way." I replied to V. Although if J wore the same thing, I'd request her to wear some pants.

Finally we reached the Bunker. It doesnt look like it can be easily hacked, and I believe the drones would change the locks after all the humans left. Knowing the edgelord Darkwolf, they all probably hate humans. That is until I hear a "Guys! My daughter is into doors!" and now I think they just are really into doors.

"I mean, I heard of some very weird fetishes, but... doors?" I said a bit confused. Who is even into doors? "Is... worker drones all this weird?"

Suddenly the doors begin to open by itself, and I await the doorlover who comes out of it.

There was so much they didn't know. The more they learned about all the bunkers, the better they could deal with their situation. How many bunkers remained intact was one such piece of information they could use.

"Let's hope things can keep going this smoothly captain. Hopefully we'll find something that will improve our situation."

And then Ray gave a surprising revelation: the doors to bunker 3 started opening. Cloris immediately responded, worry in her voice.

"All of you take cover! We don't know what's going to come out of that door.

---

"Uh, go doors!"

A lone figure stepped out into the open. The bunker doors immediately slammed shut behind her. For it was a female worker drone who could only be described as a goth teenager.


She moved tentatively, taking in her environment. Then she stiffened as she looked down. The footprints Ray and the others left were clear in the throw. In a flash she drew her weapon, looking around the area.

"I knew I heard someone out here! I don't need to be saved! But you will if you don't come out of hiding! I've got a sick as hell railgun and I'm not afraid to use it!"

With one last part missing to make it work. That was the whole reason she lied her way outside in the first place. So why not keep lying? There was no way they were going to call her bluff: her railgun was big and intimidating to even look at!

As N expresses her surprise over the sudden file transfers, Aegis smiles softly.

"It's a little surprising the first time, isn't it? Don't worry."

It all went off without a hitch, and N is clearly eager to get right to her tasks, announcing as such to them. Karasu gives her a nod.

"Will do. Thanks, N."

He then turns his attention back to Cloris.

"Yeah, it'd be nice if we had some good news for a change. But let's not hold our breaths for this one, we might not have enough information to work off of yet."

As N approaches one of the sealed doors and places her palm on it, there is a brief moment of silence, before Aegis confirms her presence and activation.

"Opening the door now. Good luck, N."

With that, the door slides open with a hiss, and one could already feel the chilled air seeping in from the opening. Once N stepped through, the door slides shut, mainly to preserve the temperature for the Humans.

"I'll be monitoring your progress from here on out. If something happens, I'll direct you to the nearest exit, and we'll get you back to safety."

With that instruction given, N was left to her own devices. At least up until she found the malfunctioning zombie drone. Aegis's hologram appears once more, as she looks down at it.

"... I feel bad for it."

Regardless, she makes no moves to attempt to stop N -- it seemed like a mercy kill at this point. Her hologram fizzles out, but it does serve as a reminder that she is keeping track of things, even in the damaged sections of the ship.

... And as the body is suddenly dragged away, Aegis's voice chimes in again.

"Abnormality detected. Be careful, N. I think whatever did that is a lot more dangerous than those drones you fought before."

---

J smiles approvingly at Chaos's comment. V lightly shakes her head, but leaves it at that. More importantly though, Ray reacts quite noticeably to the fact that there are people inside. As he starts to raise his voice, V quickly moves over to him and covers his mouth.

"Wait! I heard voices, but we don't know who it belongs to, yet!"

Still, he managed to get some of his words out, and there was a possibility that whoever was inside heard that. V would then pull her hand away from Ray's mouth. Both he and Chaos had some... Interesting things to say about the apparent love for doors.

"I'm not messing with you... And... No, that's pretty weird even for Worker Drones."

J places her hands on her hips.
"Well, we should probably-"

That was when the doors started to open. Ray immediately calls that in to Cloris, and she soon requests that everyone gets into hiding. J and V act quickly, pulling their respective Human partner along out of sight of the door. Still, their traces would be there because of the snow...

Soon enough, a lone figure steps out and then the doors slam shut behind them. J is the first speak in a hushed tone.

"Worker Drone. No corruption, but..."

The girl then draws her weapon, announcing that she has a 'sick-as-hell' railgun and she's not afraid to use it.

V then begins to whisper as well;

"I could probably st-"
She pauses, then glancing over at Ray. She closes her eyes briefly and then opens them again, correcting herself.
"I could probably steal her railgun."

J arches an eyebrow, and replies...
"You were going to say you could stab her, right?"

V nervously glances between the railgun toting Drone and J, eventually replying;

"... No."

If V had been given the go ahead, she would begin to crawl up a wall, in order to get above the Worker Drone, and then she'd begin to carefully lower her tail into position. The goal here was to just hook that gun and snatch it out of her hands, but V needed to get the timing just right.

For the first time, she DIDN'T have that maniacal look on her face typically associated with Disassembly Drones, too. In fact, she seemed quite focused, as if really trying not to hurt whoever this was at the moment...

J, on the other hand, sticks with the two Humans.

"I'll cover you two."

The twin-tailed Disassembly Drone didn't seem too worried about V... At least, not because she was in danger. But this behavior was certainly new. She found it odd, but there would be time to talk about that later.

I quickly go into hiding with the others. When the doorlover exited the bunker, I peak my head out to get a good look at it.

"Oh, she is kinda c..." I covered my mouth before we are spotted. She then demands we show ourselves blandishing a sickass railgun. I look over at Ray, giving off a 'I refuse to go another step!' face.

Cloris leaned forward, tapping her chin as she looked at the screen. She let out a little chuckle.

"That's the life of a scientist Captain. You never have enough data, no matter how much you collect and analyze. We might have more than we think on hand, or we might have even less then we think. We've got to collect more puzzle pieces and connect the ones we have."

Cloris heard the shout from N, and the gunshots. Rather then look towards the door? Cloris tapped on a few keys and brought the cameras up on the console she was at. She could see N firing at something. She got a glimpse of a claw retreating into the shadows.

Cloris felt a tinge of fear as she saw what it was. On the one hand, if this thing was here, then Ray and the others were safe. But now she, Karasu, and N had to face off against this horror.

Cloris stood up cautiously, taking off her goggles, slipping them into her pocket. Anyone would be able to see as clear as day that they were Mechanical. There was a faint green glow to them. She looked around, motioning to her captain to stay put.


"Karasu, stay in the light. I think rushing off into the darkness would be a bad idea right now."

Hopefully using his name would clue him in to how serious the situation was. She called out into the darkness.

"N! I need you back on the bridge!"

---

So far it didn't seem line the purple haired drone spot V yet. When Ray spoke up, she while and pointed her gun at him. The display on her eyes narrowed.

"Human."

She spat, keeping her gun trained on him. "Okay, this was unbelievably easy. As in I literally don't believe in how easy this ended up being.

The worker drone motioned towards the ground with her gun, before pointing it at Ray again.

"Save your breath human. I don't want to hear more of your lies. Just lie down on the ground on your stomach and spread your arms and legs. If you want shelter from the weather so badly, then I'll take you and your friends in at gunpoint."

She looked out towards where Ray came from, calling out into the darkness.

"Don't think I don't know you're out there! There's more than one set of tracks here! Get out here and join your friend on the ground!"

Cloris mused about the life of a scientist to the Captain, and Karasu gives a small smirk in response.

"That so? I think I prefer simpler situations and solutions. But I know that you and Chaos are going to help us a lot here."

Understandably, N was startled as Aegis appeared. She apologized for it and lowered her weapon, but Aegis calmly shakes her head.

"No, it's okay. I should have given you more warning."

More important than that, though... Whatever it was that N briefly encountered, it was definitely no normal Drone -- even a corrupted one. This thing was something new, and that was Aegis was urging caution right now.

"I'm afraid we'll need to prepare for the possibility of a fight, N. We might not have J and V back in time to help, either."

As N examined the hole, she certainly saw SOMETHING down there, and it moved. Gunfire echoed through the vents, and Aegis was already running calculations based on the layout of the ship. Ultimately, she came to this conclusion;

"It's in the vents."

Which meant it could circumvent the quarantines. Cloris already alerted N to what she needed to do, getting back to the bridge was important. Back at the bridge, Karasu had drawn his pistol in response to the gunfire, and he glanced off in the direction that N left in. Tempted as he was to leave to assist, he restrained himself.

Leaving Cloris alone would be a bad call, and N could handle herself... As the woman mentions that he should stay in the light, he gives a nod.

Aegis soon produces her hologram at the bridge once more.

"Watch the vents! Something is using them to get around the ship, and it's not like those other drones."

Karasu gives a nod, and turns his attention to the nearest vent.

"We need to figure out where it is. Aegis, carefully check each of the vents."

The AI gives a nod, and begins to move around the bridge, peering into each ventilation shaft she could find. It was only a matter of time until she found the one with a single glowing eye inside... Karasu watches from a distance, hoping that they'll find the culprit soon.

True, they would probably need N to put it down. But Karasu was ready to put some rounds into it.

---

... In her rush, V did forget that Ray was wearing a helmet at the moment. Not that it really stopped her from quieting him down -- though even more importantly, it didn't stop him from opening his visor just enough for her hand to slip inside of his helmet, and then he licked it.

V immediately shivers, her eyes widening. She pulls her hand back, and then glances at her hand, and back at Ray. He looked awfully smug about it. Meanwhile, on V's end, she didn't exactly seem all that bothered after the shock passed...

Although, something she did while everyone was more focused on moving out of the way and hiding... She tentatively brought her hand to her mouth, and licked it.

She wasn't so much thinking of anything lewd, she was just curious. She lets out quiet hum after the fact, and then lowers her hand before anyone looks over at her -- hopefully, anyway.

In any case, as V talked about a plan to deal with the Worker Drone, Ray seemed to be appreciative of the addendum she made. His go ahead was the reason why she was now over Uzi, waiting for just the right moment to snatch that railgun away.

Though she pauses in her efforts as she suddenly hears Ray yelling, and coming out of cover. She looks over at him in shock, and then glances back down at Uzi. She only had a few seconds to decide -- but Uzi's words seemed to imply she wouldn't immediately attack him...

She nearly pounced on top of the Worker Drone. But now that she was intending to take him and the other two prisoners, well...

V had something to say about that. Suddenly her tail swoops in, hooking around the railgun, and then she gives it a good yank, hoping to snatch it out of Uzi's hands entirely.

"You don't mind if I borrow this, right?!"

And on J's end... She had TRIED to stop Ray from running out like he did, but all she managed was a 'hey', and reaching out to him before he was already gone out of hiding.

But now that she heard what sounded like V making a VERY successful attempt at disarming the Worker Drone, she smirks, and steps out of cover as well.

"You know, you're pretty lucky."

J remarks.
"With the Humans here, we're not disassembling Drones like you anymore."

The twin-tailed Disassembly Drone certainly looked like the very picture of smug, placing her hands on her hips.

"So let's talk."

Her tail swishes. A part of her was annoyed with this rude little Drone, too. Chaos seemed to like her. So she was behaving a little more like she used to.

V on the other hand, if she had been successful in stealing the railgun, she takes it into her hands, and then leaps over to Ray.

"You nearly gave me a heart attack!"

She chastised him, and she certainly seemed none too pleased with his choice of plan, but... Her harsh expression softens.

"I'm glad you're okay, just... Don't do something like that again."

It seems that V wasn't terribly concerned with Uzi, at least.

I was burrowing myself a hole trying hide from the insane worker drone until she demands me to show myself. I got up, put my hands in the air, and whimpered "D...Dont shoot! Im with the science team!"

I had a thought, a very strange thought. She is clearly mad and is about to shoot at us in any second. But I recognize that railgun, its an M20 SAH Railgun. Its really powerful, but has a terrible cooldown time. If I can get her to fire it, she wont be able to fire it again for around 20 minutes. But... There is a likely chance that I'll get hit as Im only human and my reflexes isnt that great. Plus if I sacrifice myself it'd bring us nowhere and J wouldnt be so happy about it. So I just surrendered.

"Alright, alright... Calm down, I dont mean no harm." I said as I accepted hers demands. I placed my hands on the cold floor and laid down, like the Worker Drone is a cop and would shoot me if I dont obey. "is this... really it? I'd much rather be a prisoner but Im not sure what they'll do to us if they all hate humans..."

And before the Doorlover would react or do anything, V swooped in and took the railgun out of hers hands. I got up and said "Oh thank god thats over."

Honestly I shouldve figured the Disassembly Drones could swoop in and control the situation at any moment, but I panicked and almost wet myself. That wouldnt be good.