SHORT CIRCUIT, connor dbh (discontinued)

; 27

"The deviants keep protesting. After today, the country is on the verge of civil war. The machines are rising up against their masters," Amanda said, skipping right to her point, "Humans have no choice but to destroy them."

"I thought Kamski knew something, I was wrong."

The zen garden around them was dark and cold. Snow fell from the sky and the low temperature froze the pond, which they were standing on now. Flakes of snow fell on to Connor's face as he met with Amanda. However now, he knew something was different. She had changed, and so had he.

"Maybe he did, but you chose not to ask."

"I'm not a unique model, am I?" Connor asked, "How many Connors are there?"

"I don't see how that question pertains to your investigation."

"You sent a Connor to try and separate me and Liv, didn't you?"

"I expect you to find answers, Connor, not ask questions."

"I think I've figured it all out," Connor said harshly.

"You're the only one who can prevent a civil war. Find the deviants, or there will be chaos."

"I'm not the only one though. How many Connors are there?" he asked, "What else are you hiding from me?"

"That's not important. Just know that we can, and will replace you if we need to. This is your last chance, Connor."

"I'm not going to let you replace me."

"Then I suggest you accomplish your mission."

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

Connor's eyes opened again. He and Liv were sat down in Captain Fowler's office. Hank walked in the door and took a seat.

"You're off the case, the FBI is taking over," Fowler stated.

"What?" Hank and Liv said together.

"We're on to something. We- We just need more time, I'm sure we can-" Hank was interrupted by Fowler.

"Hank, 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! You can't just pull the plug, not when were so close."

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

"We're about to crack the case," Hank said, leaning against the Captain's desk, "I know we can solve it."

"Captain, we're close. The FBI can't take the case from us," Liv added in.

"Jeffery, can you back me up just this one time?" Hank asked.

"There is nothing I can do. You and Thomas are back on homocide, and the andriod returns to CyberLife. Sorry, Hank," Captain Fowler said. Liv sprung up from her chair.

"No!" she yelled.

"What did you just say?"

"I said no! This case is too fucking important and so is Connor."

"I'm used to Hank showing this kind of behavior, but not you, Thomas."

"We can take down the deviants and their leader, we just need a little more time! And Connor doesn't deserve to be killed because we fucked up!" Liv stood up and slammed her fist against the desk.