《Hardwired》 A night at The Drunk Robot Veronica walked one of the many dimly lit under-streets of Rathon. All around her the street was bustling with activity. Certain shops, clubs, and any variety of illegal services began to eagerly open themselves to those wandering the night. A large variety of people emerged to partake in that invitation, with many who accepted usually being of an inglorious sort. She could spot that many of the under-street denizens had casters in plain sight or augments that would normally see you arrested within the mid-tiers or upper-streets. But who was she to judge? She was a part of the trash constantly being swept into the gaping metallic scars of Rathon, but she didn¡¯t care. Not anymore. Her current journey was one to help her forget amidst a haze of virtual booze and fake realities she could escape into. Veronica wanted to simply forget and continue running until she couldn¡¯t. But it did not stop her shame whenever a pair of glazed eyes walked past her, reflections of neon lights playing across an emptiness. Minds wandering in places far from the grime and filth surrounding them. She strode past a club with loud music that reverberated throughout the nighttime air. At its entrance transparent figures danced in an endless cycle, beckoning any passing individual into it. The sounds coming from its depths mixed with the noise of human activity, and it sounded like nothing more than discordant noise to Veronica. A feeling of irritation washed over her, and she quickened her pace. Veronica felt the cool nighttime air against her body as she moved down the street. A light numbing sensation came from the metallic parts fused into her body. A shiver ran through her from noticing the feel of where cold metal touched the skin. Flashing across her heads-up-display, a warning once more informed her that maintenance was needed and nutrient intake was required. She grunted and with a thought moved the message off the display. Veronica would eat when she got hungry enough. For now, she just wanted to stop the thoughts running through her mind, silence her inner critic. Tilting her head slightly she glanced upward. Past the haze and smoke, the sky she saw was dominated by steel, glass, and bright lights. Veronica could see the consistent flash of hover lights going through high-lanes. To her the scene was somewhat comforting, anchoring Veronica to the present moment. Though she was a broken cog, the cityscape above reminded her that the machine as a whole still ran. A sigh laced with a robotic edge escaped into the night are, she continued down the road to The Drunk Robot. ¡ª Sean sat within the confines of The Drunk Robot. Staring at the rust colored liquid within a cup before him. Slowly picking up the cup, he swirled around a sphere of ice present within it. Watching, he was mesmerized by the ice¡¯s swirling motions and its rhythmic clink against the glass. The soft lighting of the bar seemed to mix light and shadow amidst the liquid. His thoughts began to draw him into the prison that was his mind. One month, one month had passed since the incident and his failure. It plagued him like a constant error message that seemed to be on repeat within his mind, flashing over and over or a spell that backfired with persisting burns. A feeling akin to cringing rose through him. Sean thought he was a savant at using formulation. He couldn¡¯t feel any more humbled.This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report. All of it wore Sean down, it slammed him into the concrete depths of Rathon. He felt as though the descent was not stopping. If only he could see the ground. The glass cup did nothing but remind him of all that he could not have. All Sean had was his continued existence and understanding that he survived. Beneath the glass surface he looked out from, he felt his form flare up from irritation. A blue glow reflecting off the counter. Sean pushed the cup away from him, slowly shaking his head. Even with the vices available to him, nothing worked to silence his own degrading voice. How could it? So much of what he knew lost meaning. Behind Sean, an older model of jukebox played the energetic sound of a synthesizer created tune. The music energized the air, but for him, it sounded dull and droning. A hand pulled the glass away from Sean, ¡°You do this to yourself,¡± said a soft voice. It was Glen, The Drunk Robot¡¯s bartender. Behind a smooth metallic counter, Glen looked at him, eyes reflecting empathy. He sighed, ¡°Lately it seems as though my bar does nothing but draw in a glum crowd.¡± Sean looked up at Glen, ¡°At least you have your body Glen, I can¡¯t say the same.¡± He clenched his hands, feeling nothing, ¡°If only I had some of my own leftover. I would at least feel human.¡± The low tune of the door to the bar opening dinged. At the corner of his vision, Sean saw a figure shuffle to a stool, sitting two seats away from him. It was a woman who was dressed casually. He looked her over, she wore a shirt with the pixelated face of a cat on the back. Dirty blond hair hung over her shoulders. From what Sean could see he noted that her slender body had few a few parts that were replaced with extends. A black faceplate covered the woman¡¯s face, and as Glen approached a word flashed over the faceplate, hi. Glen nodded his head and whispered to Sean, ¡°See? Gloom.¡± He walked over to the newcomer and asked for what she wanted. Receiving a muttered response Glen tapped in the order onto a slim monitor and then began measuring out various powders within plastic bins laid out near a box-like machine. He poured the mixture of powdered substances and some water into a shaker. With some deft movement the bartender tossed shook the shaker for a few moments, it looked like some ancient ceremonial dance. Pouring a frothy light colored liquid into a glass he slid it down to the woman. Slumping his shoulders Sean stared at his hands still clenched on the bar counter. If only he could see the ground. ¡ª What was his name? He didn¡¯t know. Nothing seemed to make sense. Was he a man or more of a machine, both? Stumbling down a dark alley, images of the events that occurred in the past several hours flashed through his data-banks. Rendering into a surreal chain of memories replaying themselves like a video being played on fast-forward. It almost looked cartoonish. Looking down at his body once more he felt out of place and confused. He held out a hand and examined it, high-grade metallic plate and mesh glinted back at him. Slowly articulating his fingers he could feel the thrum of motors working to move every part of him. The metallic shell he now inhabited was one out of very few choices he could make. A disembodied voice echoed throughout his digital mind, ¡°I¡¯ll be here if you need help. Functions of the unit are fully in your control; however, as you possess no combat data I shall assist if you find yourself in such a scenario.¡± Before he could respond a low ping signaled that it was finished speaking and left. The presence no longer sharing his data-space. Leaving the alley he walked out onto a street that bustled with activity. He fastened his coat tighter around his large frame. Then made sure that his hood obscured his optics case. A series of flashing lights caught his attention. At a street corner near him, a building flashed a neon sign that read The Drunk Robot. He did not wish to move among crowds and as such decided that taking refuge would be the smartest action. Screams rang through the air as he neared the bouncer. My night seems to be far from over. Great. He thought to himself dryly. At least he had kept some human emotion. 1. The man with a paper bag She sat within a booth in the Steel Bowl, a noodle shop in the mid-tier city levels, perusing the latest book to catch her attention. Veronica was told by Sean to meet their latest client here, so she waited. He had informed her that the client was offering to pay good money for a job, and as a result, was excited to hear out this request. From the table ran a special clear tube that entered into the extends around her mouth. Through it was pushing a gray liquid with a slight blue glow. The somewhat thick liquid ran across her tongue and it tastes of fried noodles mixed with meat, vegetables, and various spices. Every few moments she paused from reading and glance around the restaurant. Since her arrival in early hours of the evening, the Steel Bowl remained mostly empty. A few customers did pass through some of which had the proper parts to enjoy solid food. The owner, a small and thin looking man, would eagerly welcome and fawn over any customers who entered his establishment. He reminded her of a mouse desperately scurrying around trying to find scraps. With a nod of her head text continued to scroll across her heads-up-display, and she continued to read her story about the epic journey of fictional characters in a far-off land. She continued to read until she noticed, from behind the digital words covering her display, the form of someone sliding into the booth. Pushing the text aside she stared at the individual now sitting across from her. Trying to process the appearance of the person before her one thought shot through her head. Why a paper bag? This work involved her in some strange circumstances and that included unique individuals, but someone willingly wearing a paper bag? Sitting across from her was an eccentric man dressed in a gray suit, a bright red suit beneath the coat. An exception to the overall crisp and professional appearance of the man was the paper bag over his head. From the smooth brown surface, the bag appeared new. It totally covered his facial features other than the two holes poked into it for eyes. A black interior from the two holes stared back at her. ¡°Miss Darvos of Hardwired?¡± Said a smooth voice emanating from behind the paper. The moment he spoke she scanned him, checking for any energy signatures or extend readings. Within seconds text flashed across her H.U.D to inform her of no results, and the system''s inability to gather readings for whatever was beneath the bag. She internally sighed then spoke, ¡°You can just call me Veronica. You are the client Sean spoke of?¡± She was careful to watch for any suspicious movement. He nodded causing the paper bag to shift slightly. ¡°Correct. I can assume the hulking figure I saw standing nearby around the corner is an associate?¡± paper bag asked then with a gloved hand he gestured to the entrance to the Steel Bowl. Reaching a hand up she pulled the tube from the tech fused with her jaw. It quickly snaked back to a mechanism beneath the table. She crossed her hand and slowly shook her head, ¡°I thought I told him to be discreet. Neither of them seems to understand the meaning of the word.¡± Crossing her arms she tilted her head to the side, a digital question mark flashing across her faceplate, ¡°Okay, Mr. Client what is the job you have for us?¡± The man lay his arms on the table and laced his gloved fingers together, ¡°You can simply refer to me as Paper Bag. I represent a group that is interested in a situation occurring within both the mid-tier and under streets of Rathon.¡± Reaching into his coat he pulled out a sleek black rectangular tablet then slid it over to her. He then tapped the table with a finger and gestured to her with a nod. Pulling the tablet towards her, its black screen quickly alighted with information and different pictures. Out of the few organic pieces, she had left, the stomach was one that felt inconvenient at the moment as it lurched in response to the images being presented. They were especially unpleasant as she just ate. The images were of various mutilated bodies. Around each of them, their blood was splayed everywhere and organs scattered about. Their limbs, those that were present within the pictures, were contorted into unnatural angles. A shiver passed through her, each of the bodies appeared to be almost on display as if some macabre art piece. Many occurred in what looked to be alleys, a few in the parks within the mid-tier, and one in an elevator going down to the under-streets. Each of the pictures drew her deeper into her own head, memories quickly flashed through her mind. Screams, blood, and pain filled her thoughts like a wound reopening. Realizing what was happening she tore herself out of the reverie attempting to overtake her, once more she shivered. Composing herself she looked away from the tablet and stared at the man. ¡°An explanation would be helpful regarding¡­¡± She nodded to the tablet still displaying the horrific images, ¡°this situation.¡± She said speaking slowly but with a firm voice. While living in the under-streets she was not unaccustomed to seeing blood and a few corpses, but mostly those dying from an art fired by a caster or overdosing on stimulants. This was entirely different and far messier. Shaking his head in agreement to the statement the paper bag on his head softly crackled. ¡°As you can see several murders have been occurring.¡± He pointed to the tablet, ¡°They are not at random. Each of those individuals was disfigured but all of them had two common elements.¡± Raising his hand he pointed to her head, ¡°They were members of a street gang known as Iron Will and all of their extends were ripped out. Gone.¡± Looking back at the picture, she examined each of the bodies in great detail. Each of the pieces came together as she examined places where the extends were either torn off or gouged out, spying pieces of metal among the viscera. It was difficult at first only because it was camouflaged by the carnage. Peeling her gaze from it she looked back to Paper Bag, ¡°You want us to find out who did this? Wouldn¡¯t this be handled by the Knights?¡± The horrific images were still present on the tablet screen, Veronica could feel their presence as if the mutilated faces were watching her. ¡°And why has this not been made public? This is the first I am hearing of these murders.¡± She said looking intently at the man. A sigh escaped from him, ¡°Yes, this is a case within the jurisdiction of the Knights. They are diligently investigating it.¡± He shook his head slowly, ¡°This has been ongoing for about a month, and higher powers apparently have hushed this from the public, for some reason. The investigation is mired in bureaucracy and a lack of cooperation from the residents¡­¡± Holding up a hand she stopped him, ¡°And who are you? Why do you know all of this information?¡± She pointed at him incredulously, ¡°Are you a Knight?¡± She had a hard time believing that such information was readily available, especially for murders that were secretly ongoing and seemingly hidden from the public. How did this not hit the data-way? Who was this guy? She knew he was far from being some strange man who simply wore a paper bag, but for her, this individual was becoming more and more enigmatic. Each of the black holes stared back at her, impassive. ¡°I have contacts within the knight orders. They are informing me of the situation and believe that this case is purposefully being stalled.¡± He held both hands up, ¡°As a result, I took it upon myself to assist in finding the resolution to this. I am simply a concerned citizen of Rathon.¡± He gave a slight bow. ¡°A concerned citizen, is that so?¡± she mused, ¡°And so where should we start?¡± Reaching over paper bag tapped a few times on the tablet¡¯s screen. A holo-map projected outward from it showing a three-dimensional layout of both the mid-tier and under streets. Points of interest were highlighted with white neon bubbles. He sat back and gestured toward the holographic with a hand, ¡°These are individuals who have been tagged as affiliated to Iron Will, directly or indirectly.¡± Reaching into his coat again he brought out an object shaped like a prism, then held it before Veronica, ¡°This is half of the payment for the job, the coded coin is in this data stick. Your agencies reputation is one worth the money, or so Sean says and his reputation is worth note.¡± With a flick of his wrist, he sent the object sliding across the table.This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon. It bumped into an arm she had on the table. Picking up the data stick she pointed with it at Paper Bag, ¡°I¡¯ve got the money now. You can be assured we¡¯ll find the son of a bitch.¡± She moved herself out of the booth and stood, turning back to Paper Bag she said, ¡°I will personally escort them to the Knights myself if needed.¡± Paper Bag stood up from the booth and looked at her in a moment of silence. Then spoke softly, ¡°Be careful. We¡¯ll be in touch.¡± ¡ª How long did they wait? They had been standing there for some time since Veronica entered the meeting place. Seeing only a few individuals coming and going into the Steel Bowl. It was only a few minutes ago when an interesting person went in, someone dressed nicely and wearing a paper bag. Odd. A brief message pinged within their internal interface stating that the client had arrived. The person wearing the paper bag was the client? And so they both continued waiting. Professor had felt nervous standing within the confines of the alleyway for so long. He knew that their hulking figure stood out even when obscured by the shadows of the alleyway and those cast by city above them. If anything he understood it made them appear more intimidating and worked well for most of the tasks they were assigned. People walking who caught sight of him quickly looked away and kept walking, or they would hurriedly move away. Though he was usually now accustomed to these sorts of reactions they still bothered him. Why did this body have to be so big? Wanting to breach the silence he spoke into the confines of his digitized mind. ¡°How do you think the negotiations are going?¡± Professor asked in a quiet voice. A deep and monotone voice suddenly responded from within the digital aether that was his mind, ¡°Firstly, our appearance is one that deters any from being too curious. Being a big imposing helps with our work.¡± With their hand, he then gestured to the Steel Bowl, ¡°Second, status unknown. Seems to be going well. No arts have been fired nor can I hear consecutive hateful words.¡± ¡°You are right Soldier, nothing is amiss. I am slightly nervous at how Sean framed the job as being ¡®big¡¯.¡± Professor said then pulled up an image of the client on their internal display, sighed, ¡°The man has no concept of danger. Remember the time we had to go save someone who was kidnapped by those extend cultists?¡± Soldier crossed their arms and nodded, ¡°That was an exciting mission. We executed it flawlessly despite being shot at in a vehicle used to deliver icy treats.¡± Within their head, Professor paused after hearing that response, ¡°Flawlessly? Which part?¡± Just before Soldier¡¯s deep voice could echo throughout their digital head space once more a familiar voice interrupted the internal dialog. ¡°I told you both to at least try and be discreet. Everyone can see you.¡± Said Veronica standing before them and looking up Professor looked down to his the fiery extended, she had her arms crossed. Her faceplate was relaying a full white pixelated figure wagging a finger at them. As usual, she was dressed in her black jacket with a casual shirt beneath it and denim pants. Both sleeves of the jacket were rolled up revealing the metallic sheen of her extends, and her golden blond hair was tied up in a bun. Professor shrugged the broad shoulders of his large frame, ¡°I tried hiding us more. Soldier said that being too hidden would prevent us from taking immediate action.¡± Tapping the black glass of their metallic head Soldier spoke, ¡°Veronica we cannot be of too much use if we are far away from the mission zone.¡± Across her faceplate, an outline of a face appeared with an eyebrow raised, ¡°Be honest. You wanted something to happen or you both thought I would cause some sort of scene.¡± ¡°I would never think such things, Veronica, I fully¡­¡± Professor blurted out while holding out their hands helplessly. ¡°But I would. You have a habit of improvisation Miss Darvos or as some say ¡®sticking your foot in your mouth¡¯.¡± Soldier said interrupting his other half. A smiling mouth appeared across the outlined face on Veronica¡¯s extend face display, ¡°I believe you Professor.¡± An animated broken heart now flashed on the face display and she shook her head, ¡°Soldier you wound me. Everything I do is planned.¡± She said then laughed playfully. Soldier stooped low and focused their optical sensors on Veronica. The lens within their head zooming on her, ¡°You are not being serious. Humor is still something I lack a full understanding of.¡± Practice would be necessary later, humor could be something utilized for any future jobs. Waving at hand at them she said, ¡°Come on you two. Let¡¯s go back to the agency and inform Sean we accepted the contract.¡± Pulling a hood over their head they followed Victoria out of the alleyway into the partially shaded mid-tier street. ¡ª Sean sat within the dimly lit office of the Hardwired agency. His crossed legs propped up onto the desk as he leaned back into an old wooden chair, his eyes closed and arms crossed. It creaked with every nod of his foot to the music playing from the speakers surrounding a small gray box. Projecting from the top of it was a holo screen and on it was the fluctuating wavelength of the current song. The melody surging through the air was vibrant and passionate. From within his glass dome, the ethereal flames that composed his head seemed to flicker with the tune. As the song ended he reopened his and looked at the holo-screen. According to the time being shown Veronica and the duo were gone for some time. He looked around the office room, ¡°We keep procrastinating on cleaning this mess.¡± He muttered to himself. The desk towards the back of the room was his and it was piled with scattered papers of various documents and bills. Amidst the chaos were a line of ink pens neatly lined up. Sean had to maintain some semblance of order. A window was also behind him giving him a seventh-story view of some parts of a mid-tier city sector. It was also the largest source of lighting within the office. The other sources were a few lamps that emitted a soft light. All around the desk were varying orders of disorder. Three other desks were present within the room, and they all were an illustration of who sat at them. Veronica¡¯s desk was a mess of books, caster parts, and a few empty food-paste canisters. Sean could not help but appreciate that she still appreciated reading from a physical book, they were getting rare. Across the room from her was Sylvia¡¯s desk. Anyone who didn¡¯t know her would have thought it belonged to a chemist. Vials and bottles within plastic racks filled with colorful liquids. Tubes snaked from them across the desk into canisters that looked like drink shakers. Those were Sylvia¡¯s ¡°concoctions¡±. She was out grabbing some food for herself. Sylvia was the only person in the group whose body was still fully organic and could experience the full joy of eating. Beside the door was the final desk, and it was surrounded by a few tables that had a menagerie of items on them. It was the office¡¯s giant multi-personality robot¡¯s desk. Within the office space, it was the cleanest area. Maps, papers, and various data sticks were cleanly arranged. The nearby tables also had assorted gear and weaponry. Putting his feet down he stood and sighed, his blue flames swayed as he did so. Breaking him from his thoughts the office door opened and the lithe form of Sylvia entered. Her long black hair swayed as she moved into the room. It was a usual practice for Sylvia that Sean noticed, but he saw her piercing light gray eyes scan the room. Upon finishing her check she gave him a slight wave, in her other hand, was a paper bag. ¡°Hi, Boss. I see the others are not back yet.¡± She said softly walking to her desk. Sylvia reminded Sean of a cat both in appearance and how she moved with deadly grace. Sean grunted, ¡°I would have gone but I had to get the payment from our last job.¡± He motioned to the bag, ¡°What did you get?¡± Taking a seat at her desk she reached into the bag and produced a sandwich wrapped in foil. She took a big bite from the sandwich. After getting a taste of her food she immediately broke the mystique she constantly radiated, to show her satisfaction Sylvia began swishing her legs up and down through the air. Whenever she acted like this Sean was reminded of a celebrating child, he chuckled internally. ¡°It is that good? Where did you get it?¡± He missed the taste and act of eating food. By watching others he was able to live through them. ¡°From one of the food stalls, I usually visit near the 2nd Sector ring.¡± She said while licking her fingers of some of the sauce oozing from her food. ¡°I mostly go to the vendors near us, but I was informed of tastier prospects. A lot of good food out there.¡± She smiled then continued eating, humming as she did so. With a few more bites she finished her meal. ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind when giving others suggestions on where to eat.¡± He mumbled feeling envious. Heavy footsteps thudded outside the door. It opened and Veronica walked in, bending down to walk through the door was the duo. ¡°Welcome back you three.¡± He gestured to them with a hand, ¡°Do we have a job, Veronica?¡± Walking to him he faceplate flashing the image of a hand with a thumbs up. ¡°Oh, we have a job, Sean.¡± 2. Good Doctor The lift softly whirred as it descended into the lower levels of Rathon city. It seems as though our work takes us down here a lot. Sean mused as watched the oncoming landscape of the under-streets. Beneath the glass dome his flames were lowered while lazily fluctuating. They matched his pensive mood. Their ethereal light bathed the interior of the elevator a soft blue, mixing with the glow from the light fixture on the ceiling of the lift. Through the glass view-ports, he could see the darkened streets. Even when it was during the day it seemed as though this sector of the city remained cloaked in a perpetual night. Within the gloom overhanging the streets, bright neon signs and holo-images shimmered, this sector was constantly alive with their light. They appeared to illuminate the scenery like stars flickering across an expanse of the night sky. I always find this to be a beautiful view. Never gets old despite being connected to drugs, crime, and filth. He turned to face his two companions in the lift with him. Both Standing by one of the ports Veronica looked out over the under-streets, her lean form outlined by blue light. Outside lights reflected off of the smooth black surface of her extend faceplate, across it played an image of a ticking clock. He could never quite figure her out. How could he? She expressed herself in only a few ways. Behind him stood the hulking figure of the robotic duo. He could hear their large foot rhythmically tapping against the metallic floor to a beat he could not hear. He looked up at them, ¡°Listening to something good?¡± From within the large hooded jacket, Sean could see the angular head turn down to look him. From within the tinted casing, the red outline of their optical sensors focused on him. ¡°Actually, we are, the smooth instrumental music you recommended the other day.¡± The timid and gentle voice of Professor paused as the melody of a stringed instrument emanated from their body. ¡°It is most relaxing.¡± ¡°Agreed. I find it soothing, but a faster pace with some louder instruments would be better.¡± Said Soldier as he nodded their head. From her view, she spoke, ¡°I agree with you, Soldier. Though I think a more digital sound would be better than just instruments.¡± She nodded her head as a heart replaced the previous image, ¡°And beautiful vocals, those too.¡± Inside his glass dome, the flames rose as he chuckled, ¡°Welcome back, you¡¯ve been silent since we left the office. Usually means something is on your mind V.¡± Slightly leaning towards her, he gestured with a hand, ¡°Are you okay?¡± ¡°Or she is planning something that she¡­¡± The duo¡¯s hand suddenly shot up as if to cover their mouth. ¡°Is keeping discreet because plans are important!¡± Tilting her head and looking at the two Veronica slowly shook her head. She then turned her attention back to Sean, ¡°I am fine Sean.¡± Pausing to sigh she continued, ¡°Seeing those torn up bodies reminded me of a certain day.¡± Veronica turned back to the view. ¡°I want to prevent more people dying from needless murder.¡± Nodding his dome Sean said, ¡°That is what our goal is V. I am our friends at The Drunken Robot can provide some insight into this circumstance.¡± A robotic female voice abruptly spoke over an intercom within the lift. You are arriving at the under-street Southern Hub. The doors silently slid open revealing the dim streets below Rathon. Walking directly to the bar they took a few alleyways as a shortcut. The group arrived at The Drunken Robot, a secluded bar down an alley off one of the main streets within a smaller sector, mostly filled with various unrecognized eateries and clubs. Above the metallic red door into it was a neon sign. It depicted a cartoonish robot wobbling as it walked, holding a red glass tipping back and forth. Though he couldn¡¯t smile, Sean imagined a grin crossing his face. This place never fails to feel mysterious while looking like a dump. As one of its few regulars, I oddly feel privileged. Walking through the doors a familiar sound of jingling bells signaled their entrance. The Drunken Robot had a unique ambiance, for Sean it was comfortable. A soft reddish-purple light cloaked the building¡¯s interior, the dim lighting made the place seem cozy. Throughout the bar, a relaxing melody, emanating from the clunky old-fashioned music machine in the corner, floating through the air. It mixed with the quiet sounds of an advertisement being played from a holo-screen hanging on the wall. Though a tiny space with very few tables, it did have a bar counter that was fully stocked with both tools and ingredients to make various drinks. The few regulars or customers Sean did see appeared pleased by the drinks made here. ¡°Welcome to The Drunken Robot!¡± Said an individual focused on cleaning out parts to the bar-tending mixer. It was a man who wore a fine white shirt beneath a red vest, his long blond hair tied into a tail that draped over one shoulder. Glancing up from his work, an amused smile formed on the man¡¯s face as his light green eyes shined. Pushing past the gate at the counter Glen opened his arms in a welcoming gesture. ¡°Well if it isn¡¯t my favorite customers?¡± Glen said looking at each of them. Bright yellow words, forming a hello, flashed across Veronica¡¯s face. She moved to embrace Glen who gave her a tight hug. He tapped her faceplate with a finger playfully, ¡°Hello to you too my metallic beauty. I assume we are here for a job then?¡± Sean waved then nodded, ¡°You know us well Glen.¡± He reached into his long coat and produced a tablet and gestured to him with it. ¡°We have a new job that requires your insight.¡± Glen raised an eyebrow then nodded. He turned back to the counter and leaned across it, calling out to the back of the bar, ¡°Alexis! Get up here. I am going to need you to watch the bar, taking an early break!¡± ¡°Coming up Boss! Just finished sorting through ingredients in the back!¡± Said a muffled voice in response. Turning back to the group Glen smiled warmly, ¡°A new hire of mine. One of my two employees.¡± The sound of a sliding door opened followed by eager footsteps. A small thin figure emerged into view, a young woman wearing similar attire to Glen. Her amber hair was tied into a bun with some stray hairs poking out. Slender glasses were perched upon a young face. They covered round dark brown eyes that widened at seeing them, especially when she noticed Sean. ¡°Friends of yours Boss?¡± She asked then with a quick practiced motion pushed up her glasses. The gave each of them a sweep of her eyes, her curious gaze lingered on Sean. And he could feel those eyes on him. The staring still makes me uncomfortable. He thought as his flames waved a bit more frantically. Adverting his eyes from her Sean said, ¡°I would prefer if you didn¡¯t stare so hard at me.¡± Clearing his throat Glen pointed to the counter with his only extend. The metallic arm gleamed off of the dim soft purple lights present within the bar. It had a much more sleek design compared to Veronica¡¯s which appeared more angular. Then motioned to one of the few tables present. Sean took a seat across from Glen while Veronica sat beside him. The imposing figure of the two remained standing. After sitting himself down Glen produced a pack of aether sticks. Sticking one into his mouth he then snapped his fingers using his extend arm, producing a flame. Holding up the finger emitting the flame he lit the stick, the orange flames changed into a dark crimson. Taking a deep drag he exhaled red tinted smoke.Support the creativity of authors by visiting the original site for this novel and more. ¡°Mr. Lockson, the intake of airithum directly into your body is dangerous for you.¡± Professor said as he motioned to the stick alight with red fire. ¡°You always feel the need to insert yourself into other¡¯s business. The vice is one he chooses.¡± Waving the stick at them Glen snorted, ¡°I always smoke in moderation Professor, especially after your last talk with me. Your words continue to act as a beacon to this lost soul.¡± Turning back to Sean he asked, ¡°What is the job then and what information can I provide?¡± Looking at him Glen raised his eyebrows expectedly. ¡°We were employed by an interesting employer. What do you know about the gang known as the Steel Dregs?¡± ¡ª The group left The Drunken Robot with new information regarding the street gang. Veronica walked ahead of her two colleagues, moving briskly through the dimness of the street. Her extends slightly glowing red within the shadows being cast from above. Glen did have some information to share on the Dregs and the contacts provided by Paper Bag. Overall, the street gang mainly consisted of people who saw extends as a new step in human evolution. Some of the members bordered on fanaticism regarding the technology and viewed those clinging to their organic form as weak. Surprisingly the tiny new hire to the bar, Alexis, also had information to share. She was cute. She briefly thought, feeling somewhat envious at the young woman¡¯s girlish appearance. Alexis heard that several of her peers at the Institute of Rathon was affiliated with the gang, or so she heard from the whispering of other students. They were students who advocated for increased extend research and apparently saw an opportunity to apply their learning. According to them both, the gang was considered to have a small presence in comparison to some of the other streets gangs; however, they did have a large reputation to compensate for their numbers. The Dregs were divided into three factions, identified as Mechanist¡¯s, Beyonders, and the Iron Hand. Each of the groups acted mostly in cohesion, they were all united by interest or fascination for extend technology. Great, people who are likely going to get aroused by my extends. Nothing but metal-heads. When Glen asked about what the job was about, Sean replied saying that he would tell him more upon paying for the info. Glen huffed his aether stick in response appearing content with the response. Glen informed them of one other thing as they left. Saying that he heard of some recent unrest within the ranks of the Dregs. Iron Hand members were becoming unsatisfied with the gang¡¯s operations and they were beginning to be more vocal about it. Reports from eyes on the streets stated that a few clashes between members had occurred, they were violent but contained skirmishes. The bartender then gave them another source, stating that it would likely be more beneficial to visit before any other leads. He stated that it was an individual who could not only provide more information but also could possibly give them a direct contact within the gang. It was someone she was familiar with, a slicer. An illegal extend doctor who installed the technology and sold it. She often had visited the clinic when she lived down here. Often browsing the upgrades to her current set of extends and contemplating new additions. And now she was leading them to that clinic. Time to visit the good doctor, he will be surprised to see me again. The clinic was located within a district filled with different businesses. Each of them peddling a wide-variety of wares, some legal while others are either questionable or outright illegal. All around the thrum of sound from advertisements playing across information kiosks and holo-boards could be heard, some for local business while a majority belonged to the larger corporations in higher levels of the city. Passing a commercial playing for Red and Blue Tinctures, a popular vitality drink, she could not help but internally cringe at the sight of people happily drinking the highly chemically infused liquid. As usual many of the residents of the sector spared a few interested looks at them, they were interesting characters that stood out. Some eying her extends whiles others gawked at the blue-flamed oddity while others shied away from the towering individual in a hooded coat. Any who seemed too curious were discouraged after seeing her giant companion. Turning past a kiosk advertising a nearby caster store, they strolled down one of the alley¡¯s within the district they reached a dirt courtyard surrounded by several buildings. In a corner a holo-sign twirled an image of an open palm, one half was smooth skin and the other metallic extend. The sign was above a stairway leading down to a dark metallic door. To the left of the door frame was a visual sensor that focused on them as they stood before it. Moving to knock on the rough metallic surface of the door, it suddenly swung open, it was followed by the hiss of pneumatic pumps. A dull robotic voice called out from within, ¡°Veronica. I have not seen you in a while. Come in.¡± Sean looked at her, his dome slightly tilting to one side. She shrugged and then motioned for them to follow, ¡°Don¡¯t worry, the doctor is mostly harmless.¡± Mostly. Walking through the threshold she stepped into a room brightly lit by various screens and holo-images. Behind her, Sean walked in slowly while the larger robotic figure lowered themselves a bit to fit through the door. Glass cases with extend technology lined the walls. At the center was a doctor¡¯s table with mechanical arms hanging above it, each carrying a wicked looking tool. Sitting on a stool before the table was a slim figure wearing a disheveled white shirt with its long sleeves rolled up, revealing a dull sheen of metallic arms. They were lined with various ridges and screens alight with information scrolling across them. No acknowledgment came from the individual as it lacked a head, an empty neck protruded from the torso. ¡°I see the good doctor seems to be of the non-human variety, a kindred soul.¡± Said Professor as their head swiveled around the room curiously. ¡°And you brought friends. Intriguing.¡± Spoke the voice again, as an arm from above the table, amidst the tangle of others, lowered to the headless body. It held onto a round sphere. Through a slice of clear glass were several robotic eyes focusing their lenses and affixing them with a cold stare. The arm positioned itself above the neck and slowly dropped down. An audible hissing and clicking noise followed as the sphere connected to the previously vacant neck. Now connected, a portion of the sphere rapidly swiveled around. It suddenly stopped, its mechanical eyes concentrating onto the gathered group. The body stood in one fluid motion. With quick hands, the figure dusted itself off and then gave an extravagant bow. It bent far forward as the spherical head rotated to track them. ¡°Does it always act so grandiose?¡± Grumbled the Soldier through their shared crafted auditory link. ¡°How about we not say that? Call him eccentric instead? These types are all over the underbelly of Rathon.¡± Sean responded, echoing stoically throughout the channel. Crossing her arms, she sighed and shook her head, ¡°Dr. T, this visit is related to work.¡± Tilting her head at both Sean and the giant she said, ¡°We have questions.¡± Straightening back up the doctor gave a slight wave of the hand to her two companions. The multiple orange lenses of its eyes pivoting within their sockets as they examined them both. The appearance of those visual sensors reminded her of a spider. An image that always seems fitting to me, he just seems so manipulative. Looking closely at Sean Dr. T raised a hand and pointed to him, ¡°I hardly get to see your kind around, a ghost. Most fascinating.¡± Sean simply shrugged his shoulders. Those eyes then aimed their attention to the duo, ¡°Your companions are interesting.¡± Suddenly Dr. T looked back to her, ¡°Work? Questions?¡± The doctor wagged a finger, ¡°Veronica you have not visited me in, how long? And we exchange no pleasantries?¡± It said coolly looking at her while taking a step forward with arms spread open, a welcoming gesture veiled in mockery. Across her faceplate flashed the large red letters of the word no. ¡°I am not in the mood for your theatrics T-MA02.¡± She said emphasizing each part of the name with irritation. A brief moment of silence fell across the room as the doctor remained still. Lowering its hands Dr. T spoke, ¡°To business, it is then. How may I assist you all?¡± ¡°We are on a job that requires we gather information on a street gang, the Steel Dregs. What can you tell us?¡± Sean said as he motioned to the doctor with one hand while the other was casually pocketed. For a moment the doctor tapped its head and hummed. Then refocused on the group, ¡°Steel Dregs are clients so I do know a few things, but to divulge information would be a breach in trust.¡± Dr.T shook its head, ¡°I have a reputation to uphold. Though it should be asked, why do you seek information on them?¡± Of course, this lump of metal is going to play the businessman. She groaned then spoke with a lowered voice but impassioned voice, ¡°This is important T. We are looking into a situation where people are getting hurt.¡± The sphere rotated to simulate a shake of a head and spoke with deliberation, ¡°And how does this relate to me?¡± Dr. T said as he paced in front of the table. ¡°My services mostly supply those the means to harm others, that and these streets are already slick with blood.¡± Across her H.U.D she saw readings displaying an increase in heart rate. She felt herself tensing up. Before she could let out an angry outburst she felt something tap the back of her head. ¡°Veronica be calm. I can see your tension. Getting angry is going to get us nowhere.¡± Sean glanced at over at her and nodded his dome, ¡°As I am sure you know V, this guy is probably got connections. Let me talk to him.¡± His gaze returned to the doctor, ¡°I will not disagree, but¡­¡± He motioned to the surrounding room, ¡°you peddle extends. And the Dregs are a gang filled with those modified by them.¡± Walking a few paces toward Dr. T, Sean spoke again in a flat voice, ¡°The situation involves both and you could be implicated, doctor.¡± Dr. T leaned in closely to Sean, blue light glowing onto the matte coloring of metal, ¡°This seems to an interesting situation.¡± The sphere rotated a few times, eyes scanning the group once more, ¡°Does this perhaps involve the murders? That may change things.¡± No one in the room reacted at the question. ¡°I am not surprised that it knows.¡± She said through the link, ¡°But it still caught me off guard.¡± Sean nodded and then tilted his disembodied head, ¡°Yes, this makes things easier. From what I know they have been mostly covered up. How do you know?¡± ¡°This is true. Very few know of the murders taking place down here. They have been covered up well. Too well.¡± The doctor leaned against the table, appearing to be in thought while looking around the room. ¡°You should have just outright stated the exact nature of your inquiry. Now that I know, this is a situation that conflicts with my own business.¡± He tapped a finger twice onto the metal surface of the table and imitated a nod, ¡°As such, I have no qualms in providing you with information if the Steel Dregs are connected.¡± How quick of him to change his mind, how calculating. Some machines just piss me off. She thought irritably, now Dr. T had a reason to help. Business. Pushing itself from the table Dr. T held a hand out to Sean, ¡°Well then, I believe that we have a means of working together?¡± Within the dome, she saw Sean¡¯s white opaque eyes move from the featureless face to the hand hovering before him. Sean moved to shake the hand when Dr. T interrupted him. With the other hand, it raised a finger, ¡°I ask that you keep me informed, this situation is curious one.¡± ¡°I¡¯ll see about keeping you informed as best as I can,¡± Sean said as he grasped the outstretched hand. She relaxed, at least some progress was being made.