Nier Automata: [Alt]ternative Novel (NOW UNDERGOING REVISIONS!)

Chapter III: [D]iligent Deceit

Aster had taken a seat in front of the Resistance camp's leader, Anemone. Androids crowded towards him, some delighted, others surprised and disbelieving of his presence, and some excited and ecstatic.

Other androids were looking after the man and the blindfolded man he had assisted, but all eyes were on him. He was the day's main attraction.

He had no idea what was going on. 

He couldn't figure out why everyone was so delighted to see him. All he wanted to do was collect his luggage and flee the camp, returning to his little pal outside, who he thought was still waiting for him.

"Is he the real deal?" One of the androids inquired. Her hands were over her lips, her eyes were wide open.

"I can't find anything artificial on him. He's completely biological!" Another tall android said, his gaze fixed on him.

"In the flesh, a real human being. Literally!" A strong-built one said.Though it was a wonderful insight, Aster discovered that he disliked being the center of attention.

"......" The resistance leader stayed silent for a long time, so long that the other androids around her noticed and remained silent, expecting her to say something serious.

In reality, it was the opposite. 

In actuality, it was the inverse.Anemone smiled brightly as she welcomed Aster into the tent, trying hard to contain her delight at finally meeting one of their inventors.

"Welcome! It's an honour to have finally met one of you and be in such a terrific state to boot! How are you doing?"

Everyone burst out in joy, shouting their fists into the air and hugged one other as if they had won some type of battle after such a long period.

"I-uh, no problem, thank you..." Finally, Aster managed to speak allbut this time he remained mute. Everyone in the camp gasped and chattered in delight.

Aster rose up with a resolute look, noticing the dark nimbus clouds approaching even closer and darkening the sky slightly, while uneasiness still clung to him like a wet glove.

"I apologize for the unexpected arrival-"

"Not a problem! This is a fantastic day." Anemone interrupted him mid-sentence. She collected herself after noticing his irritation at the interruption.

"Please accept my apologies. What were you saying?"

"Thank you .....uhm... As I previously said, I apologize for unexpectedly arriving at your camp. I have a question for you if you don't mind answering."

"Go ahead. I'd be delighted to respond."Aster felt his expectations build and soar. 

Maybe these androids know if there's an area where people live, but the reaction around him seemed to suggest otherwise. It's as though they haven't seen a living human in a long time. Still, he had to give it a shot.