Deviant Heart

Chapter 12: The Final Stretch

November 9th, 2038 4:13 pm

Connor opened his eyes to see the Zen Garden covered in snow. He must find Amanda and report to her what they've discovered so far... As well as the most recent deviant set back. Markus led a large group of androids down main street, starting with his own group but adding more and more deviant-turned androids. It sparked unrest among the people.

First and foremost, Connor made a beeline for the magic stone. It's become a habit at this point to touch it when he first goes to the garden. The blue light from the stone glowed over the snowy ground, casting a blue tint to the snow on the ground and his jacket. He hovered his hand over the hand print until a small spark came out. It no longer surprised him. He stood and looked around for Amanda, spotting her in the middle of the frozen lake.

He walked over to the edge of the lake and slowly took a step onto the ice. Once he was sure the ice wouldn't break under his weight, he strided over to the woman waiting for him. She started speaking as soon as he stopped in front of her.

"After what happened today, the country is on the verge of civil war. The machines are rising up against their masters. Humans have no choice but to destroy them."

He decided to bring up Kamski. "I thought Kamski knew something... I was wrong..."

"Maybe he did... But you chose not to ask... Twice," Amanda accused.

He chose to stay silent to that accusation. Then, he decided to change the subject and bring up the series of Connor androids. "I'm not a unique model, am I? How many Connors are there?" He questioned accusingly, his software instability rising.

"I don't see how that pertains to your investigation," was the answer he received.

So, he decided to bring up Kamski again. "Wh... Why did Kamski leave CyberLife?"

"It's an old story, Connor. It doesn't pertain to your investigation."

Finally, he brought up the picture of Amanda. "I saw a photo of Amanda at Kamski's place... She was his teacher..."

"I expect you to find answers, Connor. Not ask questions," the woman in front of him, a program fashioned after the REAL Amanda, snapped at him as she moved closer to him. "You're the only one who can prevent civil war. Find the deviants. Or there will be chaos. This is your last chance, Connor."

Connor's eyes blinked open.

"You're off the case. The FBI is taking over."

Captain Fowler was sitting at his desk, having just given the news to Hank, Clara and Connor.

"What?" Hank said in disbelief. The younger two looked at Hank, who glanced at them in turn. "But we're onto something! We... We just need more time. I'm sure we can-"

"Hank," the captain interrupted. "You don't get it. This isn't just another investigation, it's a fucking civil war! It's out of our hands now... We're talking about national security here."

"Fuck that!" Hank exclaimed. "You can't just pull the plug now. Not when we're so close!"

"You're always saying you can't stand androids!" Fowler countered. "Jesus, Hank, make up your mind! I thought you'd be happy about this!"

Hank shook his head in disbelief. "We're about to crack the case! I know we can solve it! For God's sake, Jeffery, can't you back me up this one time?"

Fowler sighed. "There's nothing I can do. You're back on homicide, both of you, and the android gets sent back to CyberLife. I'm sorry Hank, Clara. It's over," he said quietly. Hank scowled at the table before storming out. Clara glanced at her captain then followed Hank. Connor lingered for a moment, wanting to say something, but simply nodded at Fowler before following his human partners. Hank was sitting at his desk, Clara leaning against the desk in front of his computer. Connor walked over to them and perched on Hank's side desk.