[FFML] [FIC][BGC] Frozen Butterfly arc 3 chapter 4 Final Draft

[skychan]

Here's the final draft of arc 3 chapter 4.  I took what was going to become
chapter 5 and mushed it into 4 as was recomended and finished out the
conversation at the end.  I hope you approve or if not at least tell me how
to improve it.

Also I'm now posting the drafts up on space battles.
http://forums.spacebattles.com/threads/frozen-butterfly-bubblegum-crisis-bgc-fanfiction.278175/

Frozen Butterfly Arc 3 Chapter 4 a story of Bubblegum Crisis

"STOP!" I froze. My heart caught in my throat as I heard the first
definitive command from my *master* since I had arrived. It was a jarring
realization, and yet somehow a relief as well. Now I knew.

>From her silence I think it was as much a surprise to Nene as me, *master
not anticipating unit's response to command 72% probable.* Why so low, or
did she already suspect? I wanted to turn and see her face, to put my
suspicions to rest but I simultaneously was afraid of what I might find.

"Is there a problem here?" The voice was sharp, authoritative, and came
from the duty officer. I could see his reflection beyond Nene's in the
glass as he rose. One hand held out of view, likely on a panic button. Was
this how it all ended?

Nene's taut voice was one of the most relieving things I had ever heard.
"No, everything's fine." *Master concealing nervousness 87% probable.*

"You sure?" the officer asked, and I could see both the slight doubt but
willingness to accept another officer's word in the look on his face.

"I'm sure," she answered; her voice stronger, carrying conviction and I saw
his shoulders relax. "Come with me Kari. We should find a better place to
talk privately." And just like that the fear holding me in place was gone.
But before I could really do much more than glance guiltily at her she went
on. "and don't run off again until I say we're done."

I swallowed. My shoulders slumping as I felt the... inertia of her words hit
me. Was she really doing this to me now? What punishments were waiting?
Thoughts in turmoil, still I followed her meekly, automatically as she lead
the way outside. It made me feel like a ten year old on the way to the
principal's office.

I wasn't sure if I should be grateful or not to escape AD Police
headquarters on foot. It was miles to the Silky Doll and the other Knight
Sabers, but it also wasn't like I could do anything even if Nene planned to
walk the whole way.

As we headed down the block towards a gaming hall I pondered my options.
Just what was she going to do? I could attack her, maybe, but then what? I
didn't even really want to contemplate the option and that was without my
subconscious mind trying to shy away from the possibility as well.

Crossing the street I blinked as our destination became clearer. We really
were heading for the gaming center. Then my eyes began to trace the marque
up from the first floor and I almost tripped. 2nd floor MacDonald's, 3rd
floor Boomer Repairs, 4th and above... love hotel.

Getting the rest of the way across the street I couldn't help but blush.
Was *master* really taking me to a love hotel? D-did she want, it would be
private, but she wouldn't want, but if I could coax her another way.

Idle fantasies and hopes alike crashed hard as instead of the narrow stairs
Nene turned into the game center. Taking my hand she led me past countless
arcade games and into a small padded room. Swiftly shutting the door behind
us she pointed imperiously to the spot on the couch furthest from the door.
"Sit." So I did.

Twisting the little panel to show the room was occupied she quickly fed a
credit card to the machine and in moments there was a cheery technopop beat
bouncing wall to wall in the private Karaoke room.

On reflection it really was perfect for holding a private conversation. A
soundproof room, filled with techno music, surrounded by all the white
noise a gaming center could provide. I wonder why spy movies don't use them
more often.

The couches were comfortable, and even if the fake leather was a little
worn on the edges the staff had done a good job keeping them clean. The
walls an unrelieved blue/grey apart from the rectangular patch used as a
screen by the projection system in the ceiling, the flashing video and
lyrics on screen providing most of the light.

Tapping my toes I nervously watched my sneakers rise and fall, their
pattern subconsciously/ no consciously shifting to match the techno beat.
Just another thing to consider before a familiar pair of black flats and
dark stockings moved into view signaling the end of my prevaricating.

It's just, Nene is my *master*. How could I not have realized this before?
Isn't it something a 33-S should just instinctively know? Did this mean I
didn't actually lo-like her, or were my feelings separate from the
institution? If I was supposed to be loyal to her when I woke up how did I
run away the first time, and if I wasn't then why was I loyal to her now?
My confusion over the situation just continued to grow.

I was happy to be in a small private room with her. Shouldn't I be more
upset about the fact that I couldn't leave if I wanted to?

Feet shuffling slightly Nene took a breath, just barely perceptible beneath
the beat. "Kari, I'm not going to hurt you." Her hand moved to rest on my
shoulder and I twitched at the touch, eyes drawn willingly up to meet hers.

"I know." I gave a slight shrug. "You're a good person." My confidence in
that simple hope shone through in voice. It was the only chance left, and I
only prayed I was right.

Nene blinked to prevent a surprised tear from escaping, my simple words and
faith having an effect. "Oh Kari, why did you have to run away? It was
getting better, I almost had Priss convinced, and Sylia... she would have
come around." *Probability master believes this 56%.* Nervously she sat,
not quite close enough to touch by accident but well within reach.

I felt myself leaning toward her slightly, I would say subconsciously but
was very cognizant of the decision to do so. Almost too aware of the gaps,
small and wide that still separated us. "I couldn't take it anymore. Maybe
it was me, or maybe the 33-S, but I can't live confined like that. I didn't
really have a choice; I had to do whatever it took to be free."

Something in my words must have alarmed her because I could see her slowly
swallow back a sudden rush of apprehension. I could feel the weight of her
next question. "Kari, have you hurt anyone since you escaped?"

*Escaped over Left, master's concern related to action centered on need for
freedom 84% probable.* "No. Nene, you know me. I'm not the kind of person
to do anything like that. Why do you think I've been trying so hard to
avoid notice?" I looked down and after a short breath went on. "I do need a
steady supply of blood, synthetic or otherwise but, I'm not going to hurt
people to get it."

Again sincerity was easy to get across. She didn't even try to hide her
relief, leaning back against the couch and letting out the breath she had
been holding. Why she believed me so easily I don't know, I could have lied
to her, I was almost sure of it.

"Ne-chan, that's why I need you to let me just, get away with it. Without
that blood I'll suffer, and die." *Master likely withholding final judgment
until case fully presented 92% probable. *Not letting up I ruthlessly
pressed home my emotional advantage reading her responses like an open
book. "But more than that, the others I met, without me they will have to
go out and kill again. They don't have morals. They aren't bad, they just...
don't know any better."

Watching her expression closely I realized I had lost her a bit with that
and scrambled to try to explain it better. "They're like children, and the
only example they've had for how to act is their limited experience with
their masters. They were shown that people take what they want without
thinking of the feelings or thoughts of those they're abusing. I know what
they've done is wrong. I just, need some time to get them to understand
that as well."

"I appreciate that you feel related to them Kari, but." Nene sighed. "You
can't hold yourself responsible for their actions. They've gone rogue.
They're unstable and a danger to everyone around them. We have to stop
them."

"You mean kill them." My voice was flat as I shifted emphasis to force Nene
to meet my eyes, my posture slightly threatening, just enough to catch her
attention fully. "I want to stop them. If they never hurt someone again, if
they learn how to live in the real world they won't be a danger to anyone.
Rogue boomers are dangerous because they don't know anything. No one tells
them the rules."

Softening my posture as I moved closer I pressed my point home. "But we
have a chance to change that. Maybe not for all of them, but for these two
it's not too late. Please, will you give me a chance to change them first,
before getting the Knig- ah your friends involved?" Even here incongruously
listening to "sugar rush" it struck me as a bad idea to voice her
allegiance aloud.

I could feel her wavering, *master* just needed a tiny little bit more to
push her over the edge. "Please," I repeated. "It would mean so much to me.
I, I'll even show you where I'm living now, and if it doesn't work you can
take me back to the basement." The manipulation wasn't even remotely fair
to Nene.

Being able to read her emotions, to pull on her feelings of guilt over my
confinement, and gratitude at the trust I was ostensibly offering. I felt
guilty over using my abilities like that. I wasn't even really offering her
anything she couldn't do already, just changing the context.

But when I felt her lean into my side, and let out a simultaneously
defeated and relieved breath it no longer mattered. The sensation was
electric. I could feel the nerves along my arm firing, sending the
impression of warmth and pressure back to my brain. That was nice by
itself, but knowing just who it was made it feel even better.

I snuggled into her side, and her arm slipped around behind me. Nene
cradled my waist and it was enough for now to know she really did care
about me. "Alright Kari-chan, we can do this your way." I imagined I could
hear fondness in her voice. *Tone and inflection of master's voice
indicative of affection 92% probable. *"But don't think I missed what you
did there." I stiffened minutely, she didn't mean...

"After all," her voice still gentle, "You didn't give up anything I didn't
already have. Even so, I think *We're* *Done*." And I felt the restrictions
against escape melt away like morning dew as she very clearly used the
trigger command she had given back at the ADP to release me.

When would I stop underestimating her!

It was a strange mood that held sway between us as we rode the subway back
towards Tokyo University. Embarrassed and a little confused on my part, and
teasing but thoughtful on Nene's. It felt good, relieving to know that she
trusted me, despite my attempted emotional blackmail, but at the same time
it left me feeling a bit unsteady. I wasn't sure where I really sat with my
*Master*.

I wanted to think we were still friends, but were we? Both of us were hyper
aware of our *enhanced* relationship status. The turmoil was almost enough
to overcome my usual reaction to everyone else's pheromones. But with Nene
I found a rock I could cling to amid the sea of desires.

Sticking close to her side I found myself needing the reassurance of her
physical presence several times, reaching out to brush fingers or rub
shoulders just to ensure everything was real. I knew a careless word from
Nene could twist me all around inside. I was terrified of it. Could she
really believe anything I said wasn't controlled by my programing, could I?

It was the second concern I think that had Nene falling quiet more often
than the first. The atmosphere was very much like a first date. Both of us
trying to be on our very best behavior. Cautious of what we said, while
searching for the smallest meaning in every gesture.

When I led her off the subway and towards the dorms of Tokyo University
Nene paused and then glared at me making my heart almost stop. "How, I
checked all the incoming students closely!"

Though the upset in her eyes made me want to squirm the satisfaction of
having pulled at least this much over on her had me break out in a smile
instead. "Ne-chan, did you remember to check the second year students as
well?" I asked, for the first time since seeing her again daring to use a
teasing tone with her.

I could hear her grumbling a little to herself as we rode the elevator
unmolested up to my floor and gave her had a sympathetic squeeze, the smile
never leaving my lips. I wondered how differently my classmates would find
the situation if Nene was still in uniform. Then again, I wondered if any
of them would really believe it wasn't just cosplay given how well she fit
in with the rest of the college crowd.

Settling in to my room, we sat across from each other on the rolled out
futon. The silence between stretching and took on a weight of its own.
Finally Nene broke the silence.

"So you really are just living here and going to school?" Looking around
Nene appeared a bit incredulous at all the evidence backing up my story.
Not that she hadn't believed me before, but the reality of it only now
sinking in. *Master internalizing situation, acceptance of continued
independence 78% probable.*

"Yup, I sure am. I could even introduce you to my friends if you wanted.
Classes haven't started yet, but living in a dorm is like being part of a
giant extended and annoying family. I think you would get along pretty well
with them." Tugging at my collar I wondered why things felt so awkward
sitting here with her. It was like I needed to fill the silence but my
social program wasn't offering up any suggestions.

Finally falling back on traditional rules for hospitality I offered, "Can I
get you anything to drink?"

"No that's alright." As she continued to look around at the scarcity of
belongings Nene met my gaze. "I don't want to make things any harder on you
than they are. If you can wait until tomorrow it will be safe to start
withdrawing funds from your bank account." *Signs master is guilty over
situation 86% probable, acceptance of continued independence 99% probable.*

Following her gaze I realized my closet was both in plain view and almost
entirely bare. No wonder, she probably realized I didn't have much more
than water to offer even if she had wanted something. "Thank you, I'm
trying not to," I paused unsure how best to phrase it. "Be criminal I
guess, but it's hard."

Knowing she would realize it soon if she hadn't already I went on. "I can't
really afford the blood service, or um, tuition. I, I hope you won't hold
it against me that I cheated a little to get myself a scholarship or the
other thing..."

And while she didn't look entirely comfortable she nodded, her soft hair
dancing in the light pouring through the windows. "I'm not entirely
innocent myself you know. Just don't make a habit of..." Catching herself she
stopped before it became a command. "Sorry, *try* not to make a habit of
breaking the law like that." I felt a sudden outpouring of extra affection
at the consideration. She really did care and was going to let me stay free
if she was being that careful with her words.

There was a pause, *Master silent over guilt from almost giving a direct
order 73% probable. *"Nene, why trust me?" It had been burning in my mind
since we left the game center. No matter how many times I went over it I
couldn't determine a motive behind her actions with any kind of reasonable
probability.

I watched her pink lips purse in thought, but finally she did come up with
an answer, "Loyalty." When I remained silent she took the cue for what it
was. "Kari, Priss may not think it, Sylia might doubt it, and you might not
even realize it but you are a very loyal person. And I am not talking about
any kind of programing." Shifting her weight from side to side she broke
seiza to sit more comfortably as she went on.

"The reason I trust you is because you deserve it, and you've earned it.
What you did for Irene wasn't because you were programed to help her. In
all the time you have been free I bet it never even crossed your mind to
reveal what you know, or that you could blackmail us. Seeing your loyalty
to friends and desire to help others made me realize just how much you
would be willing to do for me."

I really didn't have a response for that. And while I could probably remain
in seiza indefinitely her praise, *master's *praise made me want to fidget
and move.

There was a brief silence before she changed the subject and though I was
grateful for that, the new topic wasn't much more comfortable. Her already
serious expression grew grim. "Do you really think you are doing the right
thing with the others? They've killed Kari. They've killed three people all
of them innocent."

I felt like wilting before her. The trust she had in me now an anchor
weighing on my concience. "I think so. They aren't bad or crazy. Just,
amoral. I know I can convince them, teach them, how to be productive
members of society." I felt a bit like a sham even parroting that line,
like I was a corrections officer or something, especially as Nene was the
cop. "I'm sure they can do it, they just need a chance and some time." I
took a breath. What I had to tell her next also might not go over very well.

"There's something else that you need to know though." I could feel it, the
need to tell her, but I couldn't pinpoint the origin. It wasn't like Nene
had given me an order. "Priss actually knows one of them, or one of them
knows Priss." I stumbled to a stop there, not sure what else to say in the
face of a sudden change in Nene's behavior.

Wondering just what caused it I took in every detail, the widening of her
bright emerald green eyes. The way her lips pursed followed by the
hardening of her jaw as she clenched her teeth. The slight flush coloring
her cheeks as her eye movement indicated the process of recall. I must have
gotten a bit distracted in minutiae as Nene was speaking before I could
realize just why she'd had such a reaction.

"Sylvie..." The name almost a whisper. "Of course. No wonder I," She shifted
her weight from side to side. "That is so unfair." Eyes glaring at me for
just a moment with suspicion before another realization interrupted her
train of thought. "Priss is going to kill her..."

"I know. At first I thought maybe you set up a trap for me, but after
talking with Sylvie. I don't know what to do. Is there any way you could
break it to Priss gently?" I asked, knowing full well it would be all but
impossible. "Or maybe wait a day so I can try to get Sylvie and Anri to lay
low..."

"I'm not sure. Something like this, I can't just keep it from her, and she
might not, okay won't take it well at all. This complicates things. She's
going to want to know how I know. Sylia will want to know, and even if I
don't say it she's going to connect the dots. If I don't explain things
she's going to think you're behind the murders."

"And you can't admit that you know I'm getting blood through different
channels without explaining how you know about it and that you're letting
me get away with it. Damn." Every time it seemed like I was making a little
progress another problem came up.

Trying to hide it I was watching her every movement closely. I wasn't sure
how good a job I was doing, as when Nene shifted to lean back I had to
physically stop myself from leaning forward in response. Damn, had I been
this affected by Mr. Flint's presence as well?

Perfect hindsight does have its uses. No, I wasn't. As aware of him yes,
but I hadn't let that awareness impinge so directly on my own autonomic
behavior. But with Nene, trying to think it through could drive me mad. *Four
seconds since last exchange. Longer delay will result in master feeling
uncomfortable 86% probable.*

Right, "I have one idea. I could maybe try to get Sylvie to tell her on her
own? I know it's not a perfect solution but, it might work." Really it had
holes large enough to sail a battleship through, but every other option I
could think of was worse. "It might disarm some of the anger over being
lied to if she does." I offered as added incentive to get *masters*approval.

"I suppose I could let you do that. But, if Priss doesn't know by tomorrow
night I'm going to tell her." Nene looked for a moment like she might add
something else before letting out a sigh as she looked me over.

When she leaned in I wasn't sure what to do. Too many conflicting options
and ideas presented themselves to decide on any given course of action.

Warm arms wrapped around slim shoulders and pulled me close. "What am I
going to do with you Kari?" Nene whispered into my short blond hair.
Although the question was rhetorical I still almost answered, 'anything
master.' Thankfully I managed to squelch that impulse before it could get
me any deeper in trouble but still my cheeks nearly burned with the blush.

When she let go the air felt almost chilly on my skin, even after so brief
a contact. "I'll see you soon, and cover for you too, but it can't be
forever. Be good." And just like that with a pat on the back and injunction
Nene stood up. I watched her bouncing stride and swish of hair as she
pulled the door shut behind her, the smile she spared me bringing an
answering one to my lips. But all too quickly *master* was gone and I was
left to my own thoughts.

Even though I was now on the clock for talking with Sylvie I didn't want to
move. Going out sooner wouldn't guarantee a better result, and I wanted to
put it off in case things went bad for as long as possible.

So I took a shower.

It was nice, and with the hot water reserves of an entire building at my
disposal although my skin was realistically pruned I had not run out of hot
water despite the length. Damp and still dripping a little I made my way
back through the halls toward my room only pausing as I saw the blurry dark
haired form of Nanami watching TV in the lounge.

Before I could make up my mind on whether to talk with her or not she
caught me looking and with an impish grin bid the others present goodbye.
While quick I wasn't quite fast enough to reach my room before she caught
up with me. And something about the twinkle in her eye let me know I was in
for it.

"So... two showers in one day hmm? Anything you're not telling me about
A-ri-su-chan?" she asked as she clung to my back and half guided half
propelled me into the privacy of my room. *Subjects tone and body language
indicate concealed jealousy 87% probable.* And if that weren't certainty
enough her next line clinched it. "I thought that you needed a little bit
more time to make up your mind?" This time not even trying to hide the hint
of hurt in her voice.

I was starting to wonder if she was going to ambush me every time I had a
shower at this rate. The water dripping from my hair sent a cool shiver
down my spine as it made its way downward. This was far more... aggressive
than I ever expected her to be, and honestly I wasn't sure what to make of
it. At least until I noticed her peering over my shoulder and scanning the
room, her eyes lingering on my futon and the slightly bunched points of two
people kneeling upon it.

I felt her relax fractionally and that's when it clicked. She had obviously
noticed Nene's visit and my shower had her wondering. That the futon was
out didn't help but the fact that it was not nearly as... mussed as her fears
helped prove my innocence. "I did, do." Letting out a groan I squirmed out
from beneath her grasp.

With a further little huff I slipped past her into my room and thumped down
onto the bed. "Come on Nanami-chan, cut me some slack." Brushing damp blond
bangs out of my eyes I fumbled around until I found my glasses.

"But Alice-chan, didn't you say you wanted to wait?" Her teasing tone
registered as she came into full focus. It took a moment to guess what she
meant but the cool air helped. Twitching my bathrobe tight I tugged hard on
the sash to make sure it wouldn't slip again.

"You, are incorrigible, you know that?" I asked, receiving only a peal of
laughter from my tormentor and friend even as she settled down into Nene's
former spot across from me.

"I'm also not the one who's had two showers today, and if it wasn't for the
obvious reason then spill!" Her tone once more eager, the hurt from moments
ago gone. Of course before I could start to answer she went on. "So who was
she? What classes is she taking, is she a freshman, how did you meet? I
have to know everything."

Thankfully being what I was parsing her questions was really quite easy,
though I hoped as a petty bit of revenge her working through them would
take at least a moment. "Nene, None, No, Online, 42" Sitting back on my
heals I grinned as she worked it out.

"You forgot to tell me the question, what good is the answer if I don't
know the question?"

The smirk she returned had my mouth gaping. "Wha, how did you even catch
that reference?"

"You aren't the only one to have taken Tachibana Sensei's 20th Century
British literature course, or are you secretly otaku?"

"No comment."

That drew another slight laugh but wasn't enough to distract her for long.
"So come on, who is she, really?" She even gave me puppy dog eyes, and
while of course they didn't actually affect me, *Subject exhibiting
sympathetic need,* I wasn't that adverse to talking about it anyway.

"Alright, fine. Her name is Romanova Nene, and she actually works for the
AD Police." I decided not to try hiding that much. It would only take a
small slip, or Nene visiting in uniform for a cover story to fall apart
after all. "She's some kind of dispatcher. I don't actually know the
details."

As expected that drew a bit of an ooh and widened eyes from Nanami but I
cut off her following questions. "No she doesn't fight boomers, or carry a
gun, or run around arresting people for the police. At least to the best of
my knowledge." The last two comments added as a twinge of conscience
reminded me to be honest with my friend. "But like I said, we met online.
She helped me out a bit and so we met up IRL. We hit it off well and have
stayed in touch off and on since..." Damn honesty.

I could see her pursing her lips as she listened attentively. It was really
kind of cute, sort of like Nene when she played video games. I realized I
wanted to talk, to let her in on my troubles or maybe just to vent.

Of course if I was going to go that route I could always go all in. I gave
it a moments consideration, *Subject will maintain confidences 86%
probable.* The odds were good enough for my peace of mind. "I know it's not
really fair to you but um... I saw her first."

Immediately I wanted to kick myself. That did not come out quite right.
"What I mean is, that, well ah, if I do she has first dibs?"

Thankfully I must have looked pitiful and humorous enough that instead of
getting angry Nanami just let out a sigh. "I was kind of afraid of that."
Her entire body slumped slightly. "I'll forgive you, this time, but only if
you pay a penalty." I looked up a bit confused but nodded slowly anyway.
"You have to come out dancing with me again, aaand you owe me dinner, and
ice cream. Deal?"

I could only nod. "Deal. Thanks for not being too angry." My instincts
warning me to stop there before I prodded too much at the recent
disappointment. "But only if you give me some advice." She shrugged and
nodded.

"I met some friends, and they're in a bad spot, low income bad homes that
sort of thing. They never learned that you shouldn't do those kinds of
things. So they've been breaking the law. I don't think they're really bad
but because of their background they just don't see what they're doing is
all wrong. How do I get them to stop without being preachy about it? I'm
just not sure how to approach them."

"Have you tried simply asking them to stop?"

"Of course I did. But, I mean, really, would you stop doing something just
because someone asked, if it was important? I mean, to me I might stop
around them, but I would probably keep doing it where the fuddy-duddy
wouldn't notice. How do I get them to change fundamentally?"

That set Nanami back on her heels in thought. She closed her eyes and
rolled her head back and forth a little while she seriously considered the
question. "Well, I think that you need to use shame. I mean, yes you're off
to a good start saying that it's not acceptable, but then you have to keep
on them, make them understand it's not only not acceptable for you to do,
or them to do while your around, but for anyone to do period. You need to
get them to feel ashamed of doing whatever it is, even if they aren't
getting caught."

"Shame right..." I felt like groaning. *Model 33-S boomers are programed not
to be inhibited by shame, embarrassment or humiliation.* I did roll my eyes
at that. Thank you internal monologue, but I already knew that. Still it
was a harsh reminder of the very real differences between myself and Sylvie
and Anri. "Somehow I just don't think that is going to work."

"Well, then I think your stuck. The only other way to get them to change is
wait for them to get caught." Nanami hesitated briefly, "I guess at last
resort you could turn them in or threaten to do so, but that might be the
end of your friendship if you go that far."

I blinked at the suggestion and smiled. "Maybe that would be for the best,
thanks Nanami, you're great." I couldn't exactly turn them over to the
police without risking myself, but what I could do was use the Knight
Sabers as a stalking-horse to get them in line. Maybe, probably...

Shaking myself mentally to refocus on the here and now, I raised an eyebrow
at Nanami. "Now then, while I'm flattered by the attention you should
probably go before my robe slips any further." her blush was proof enough
of her thoughts without any internal analysis needed. A new yukata really
needed to go on my shopping list. Comfortable or not, if Nanami did turn
these visits into a normal event one that seemed to slip open on its own
really wasn't the best choice. Tugging it closed again, I gave her a smile.
"I really should get dressed, and you really should be outside while I do.
I'll catch up with you later, okay Na-chan?"

Still blushing at being caught trying to peek she rose. "Okay A-chan, but
you can't blame a girl for trying, and I am not going to forget that you
owe me another night out." With that parting shot she bowed her way out the
door, low enough to offer a glance down the low necked blouse giving me a
flash of emerald bra, *probability action intentional 88%. *I couldn't help
but laugh at her teasing me right back and she had a self-satisfied smile
on her face as the door closed.

Having put it off long enough I quickly dressed and gathered up my dialysis
machine. This time mindful of witnesses, Nanami, I was cautious as I
slipped out of the building. It was time to meet up with Sylvie and Anri.
Although I had good news I wasn't sure just how they would take everything
I had to say.

Taking the subway in the evening on a weekend was almost relaxing as such
things go for me now. Only a few people in the carriage with me and none of
the frantic post work energy or anxieties to work off. Juggling an extra
package after my first stop made the walk from the end of the line to
Sylvie's apartment building a little more exhausting. It certainly drove
home the fact that I needed this as much as they did. Seeing Master wasn't
in the nick of time but nor had I had a lot of time left either.

The sun was already down when I found myself in front of a familiar
apartment door, heart gradually dropping back down from the hummingbird
beat from the exertion. It had taken the last of the light to pick up the
first delivery from Kamiya Biomedical. The temptation to keep it for myself
had been strong, but selfish. I knew Anri needed it desperately, and it was
also a pretty good way to buy myself legitimacy as a leader. It was a
little cynical to think that way, but I couldn't see any way around it.

I was grateful when my knock was quickly answered. Getting inside and
behind a locked door did wonders for my sense of security. This
neighborhood really was pretty awful. Fortunately both Sylvie and Anri were
here, and from the lack of news hadn't done anything desperate in the
interim.

Reading my micro expressions and posture perfectly Sylvie let out a
relieved smile and rested a hand on my shoulder, giving a light squeeze.
Again I was struck by just how well we could understand one another without
even needing to resort to words.

"The neighborhood is bad, but you really don't need to worry. No one in the
building will hurt you, we keep our heads down, and as long as we pay rent
the local gang keeps most other criminals away." Running perfect fingers
through her long silvery hair Sylvie's smile was almost blinding with her
joy at seeing me. "You know, even though you said you could, I was having
trouble believing it." A slight twitch of her eyes toward my baggage filled
in the rest of the conversation without need to express it verbally.

Anri sat up in bed suddenly, her long unbound green hair the only thing
that maintained her modesty, unnecessary though that was between us with
our near identical bodies. "Kari! What were you thinking?" A pause as she
worked it out from micro reactions then. "Oh, well it's very good of you to
let me have first access but it's really like I've been telling Sylvie. If
you two don't stay in good health then what hope do I have for getting
better. Please, I can see how hard your systems are working just to operate
normally. Whatever it is you want to talk about can wait until we're done."

"Ah..." I could immediately see that any objection I might raise wasn't going
to be accepted, either by my twin or her taller companion. Gratefully
settling down at the edge of the bed I started to unpack both blood and
machine while Sylvie helped Anri get more comfortably positioned beside me.

I was surprised her nudity didn't really bother me, or even cause much
distraction. It wasn't due to the instinctual Japanese mores or even the
fact that from below the neck we were so similar. I really did feel a
sibling relationship with Anri. With both of them actually, despite how
physically dissimilar Sylvie was, even her statuesque figure didn't draw my
attention that way. The hesitation I felt when they withdrew their own
tubing to create a circuit wasn't due to reluctance, but surprise that I
hadn't considered the possibility.

So it took only a few minutes before we lounged amid the soft hum of the
dialysis machine, our heartbeats synchronized as blood circulated freely
between us all. On their insistence the order went me, Sylvie, Anri then
finally the dialysis machine before restarting the cycle fresh as the
filters worked overtime removing the brackish spent blood from our
integrated system.

I didn't even try to hold myself separate from them. The first time we met
I had felt it necessary to override my body's reactions and lie or at least
conceal my thoughts. Today I felt keenly my kinship with them. I couldn't
make myself continue to lie and although they both knew I had news they
wouldn't like neither one pressed me on it, just enjoying the moment.

Alas all good things must come to an end. So it was with our moment of
perfect understanding as the cycle came to a stop. Sylvie, as was her
model's tendency took the initiative to break the silence first. "Kari,
it's alright. Go ahead and let us know what it is."

Anri chimed in with her own encouragement. "You've been free the longest;
we trust you and your judgment."

Letting the ritual of cleaning and packing away the dialysis machine help
calm my thoughts I nodded, "Alright. I can keep providing for our upkeep,
at least for the near future. This isn't just a one time deal." Their
acceptance and relief, even faith in me and my judgment seemed to swell
even as the slight frown on Sylvie's face and crinkle of Anri's brow
indicated they knew that there was more.

"But," and I nodded to acknowledge their concerns. "There's more and it
does come with a price." Hardening my tone I made sure every tell gave the
same message; that this wasn't negotiable. "No more crime, especially no
more killing. I won't help if you do, and, well I'm not entirely free to
act myself." I let the dismay, confusion and even satisfaction I felt at
that show in my expression and gestures. Somehow being with others like me
made me more aware of my own feelings through the act of reading theirs.

The concern for me I saw as I went on was touching but I forced myself to
continue. "It really isn't that bad. But we, all of us, have to show we can
live with humanity, not just among them. That means adapting to their
morality and following it. The good parts. We're on trial." I paused, that
wasn't quite right, how to explain it... "No, more like probation. Already
they have cause to execute us, well you, and imprison me. It may not be
fair, and circumstances might conspire to keep it that way but that's how
it is."

"Kari, don't worry. I won't let that happen, WE won't let that happen." I
looked into Sylvie's eyes and wondered how she could feel so sure, so
secure in that statement. "If anything happens we'll fight. We have the DD,
and the AD Police, even Doberman's are no match for it!"

They read my reaction even as I connected the dots. I knew that name, it
had been in Mr. Flint's files! And while it was probably true what they
said about the DD Battlemover's combat strength that isn't what had my
systems emulating the blood draining from my face. By their confusion I
knew they didn't know, couldn't know the full truth. Why I was frightened
not just of what they were proposing to do, but for the countless numbers
it put at risk.

"Sisters... the DD, it, has a bomb in it." Still their reactions weren't
showing comprehension of just how bad this was. "A fusion bomb." Now they
understood. At least on an intellectual level how bad it could be. "If you
use it, and are at risk of losing that bomb will go off, and while it might
not be large enough to level MegaTokyo it is big enough to ensure that
everyone nearby, whoever you're fighting to protect will die along with
your. Promise me you won't use it. Please."

"Kari, you know I can't do that. If I have to, to protect Anri, or you, I
will. If you two were to die, then, what good is living going to be?"

"What about the rest of the people who will die?" But even as I asked I
knew, I could read it in her expression, aside from a tiny twitch she
didn't care about any of that, she didn't know anyone else or care. On a
hunch though I pressed. "What about Priss?"

That brought the thoughtful frown that allowed me to relax. It might be
tiny, fledgling and mostly untried, but that slight flinch was proof
enough. Even without humans memories boomers could have a conscience, and
maybe even a soul.

"I know you haven't met her yet Anri, but she is a good person. She's also
not unique. There are countless people out there for you to meet, and any
one of them might become a friend. Someone to watch your back who doesn't
know it now but is just waiting to meet you." I let out a slightly relieved
sigh as they began to understand where I was coming from.

"I know not everyone is that way, and you have to be careful in who you
talk to, how you relate. I mean, nice as the crooks running this building
are I don't think they would make the best of friends." My laugh had them
joining me in a moment of understanding. "But really it's worth going out
there to find the special ones."

Fidgeting a bit I decided it was time to fess up. "Actually I know Priss as
well, and, while I can't honestly call her a friend, she IS a friend of
someone important to me. I want to be able to meet her again someday
without it becoming a fight." Watching Sylvie I paused to try and decide
how to explain.

"I don't want you to face the same hurdles with her that I have. She
doesn't like or trust boomers. I don't know what but something happened to
her, something that's left her angry at the world, and us. Finding out
about me didn't help. I kept it a secret and that only hurt the
relationship we might have had."

Meeting Sylvie's copper eyes with my green ones I made sure she understood
the sincerity behind my words. "You have to tell her. Telling her instead
of having her find out on her own is really important. She doesn't trust
easily. So the longer that you lie to her the worse it will be. I don't
know how it will go. Especially after the mess with myself and... what you've
done. If she can even accept you or not but she needs to have the truth if
there's going to be a chance."

Anri and I watched as our sister struggled with the dilemma. To tell a
friend something that might end the friendship, or to hide something that
if discovered would certainly do so. Turning to me she stated, having
already realized the truth but wanting to ensure our sister heard it.
"You're going to let her know if Sylvie doesn't aren't you." Not stopping
there she drew a breath. "About everything, even the harvesting. You know
we will become dangerous killers in her eyes if you do." Her tone was calm,
her eyes accusatory, and her body showed her confusion at my prospective
'betrayal' as she drew the sheets up over herself in a protective gesture.

"Yes." I let out a sigh. "Yes to all of it." Reaching out I caught one of
Sylvie's hands before she could pull away from me, before the cracks those
words caused in our newfound relationship could widen any further. "But I'm
going to do it for you. To help not hurt. Priss will find out. Even if I do
nothing, but it's how she finds out that is important."

Pondering a moment I could feel the weighty gaze of the others even as they
gave me the time to compose the rest of what I wanted to say. "It isn't
always right, to use our abilities to manipulate someone. In fact it's
probably wrong most of the time. But, humans understand context. They
understand the mentality of US or THEM. You need to let her know what you
are, and all of the trials you've faced. How important it was to escape,
and how much value freedom has. You need to make her feel like your
problems and hers are the same. Only after she can sympathize with you can
you admit to the rest. Admit that it was a mistake, that it was done from
desperation, and that you know better, feel bad, and won't ever do it
again. It's important that you really feel that way. Because without
remorse, then, her first reaction probably would be the right one."

Then she surprised me with another question. "What if she asks about you?"
That got me to squirm. I didn't want Priss to come after me. To drag me
kicking and screaming back to the basement of the Silky Doll or do worse
with that harsuit. But the answer had to be the same for me as for Sylvie.

"Tell her. I would appreciate it if you don't tell her where I am, or
anything like that, but, if she asks you should probably tell her. If you
can make sure she knows I haven't had anything to do with the killing. I
don't want, no, I won't abandon you, but I also don't want her thinking
that I'm a killer either." Looking from one to the other with my heart on
my sleeve I once again lamented that normal people couldn't convey their
emotions this clearly to each other. Our programing that could read emotion
so well equally capable of reproducing the social cues and ticks to
broadcast it.

Feeling the warmth of two pairs of arms around me made everything
worthwhile. I had a family, a weird, messed up, morally questionable
family, but a family all the same. Letting them get killed, or even
threatening them with the Knight Sabers was no longer an option. I couldn't
take the place of all the sisters who had died helping them escape from
Genaro's but I could do my very best to try.

Releasing the hug I sat back. They were like sisters, or cousin's yes
cousins. One's I hadn't seen in a long time but was close with as a kid and
was now getting to meet again as an adult. Complete with the strange gulfs
of understanding and underlying sense of familiarity.

"Look we're going to need to develop lives for ourselves. That's going to
take more than just a little blood to keep us going."

Anri nodded. "I'm getting better but I still need some repairs."

"And money, we don't have much left from our um... targets." Sylvie added
looking at least repentant of the act now.

Nodding I listened for a bit before speaking up. "Well, I think there may
be a solution to our problems, but I don't know if it will work out yet."
Used to keeping things close to my chest it was rather disconcerting to see
their eyes latch on, and even knowing it was manufactured I couldn't resist
Anri's look of hope and began to spill the beans.

"I know someone who has had experience repairing a 33-S. I, um, I even know
that they have a lot of money, and might be willing to help. It's just it
will probably cost us. Luckily I have an idea there as well. You don't
really need to keep the DD do you? It's worth a lot of money, and while
normally I would be very worried about anyone we might sell it to I trust
these people enough that we just might be able to trade it to them in
exchange for repairing Anri and enough money to make a real start. To get
out of Mega Tokyo if you want, to go to school and learn how to be more
than glorified maids, or just to buy state of the art programing and start
a trade on our own. They should even be able to help set up legal
identities if they're feeling really nice."

"Who?" Asked Anri, eyes wide as she leaned closer as if that would make the
answer appear sooner.

I answered with three simple words.

"The Knight Sabers."
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