Fireblizard1996: Thanks for the review and for reading! It's so rewarding to receive reviews! I love that story. It comes from The Brothers Karamazov which is a book I adore. It's one of many cultural references I make in the story. I reference various pieces of culture, especially from countries where I have many readers from, especially the United States which is a wonderful country. In this chapter, there are several references to U.S. and Ukrainian culture. For example, the word "harna" used in this chapter means beautiful in Ukrainian.

I wish you the warmth of love and joyous memories. Merry Christmas, and a Happy New Year!

Chapter 12: On This Christmas Day.

"Operator 60 reporting for duty!"

The slender girl, her mouth covered by a mysterious veil saluted casually. Hunter sat up while 60 came to join him on the sofa. He was in his home, and until this moment had been reading a book.

"Welcome, 60! How are you feeling?"

"I'm doing great! How 'bout yourself?"

"Excited to make plans for Christmas, it's my favorite holiday!"

"Oh really, why is that?"

"I suppose because it's magical."

"What about it is magical?"

"Well, the lights, the music, the Christmas trees, the food, the presents. I like everything about Christmas."

60 thought for a moment, "if you could, would you think about it and write succinctly what makes Christmas magical? I want to make sure we get the mood right."

"You got it."

"Good, now let's start with decorations. What exactly is a Christmas tree?"

Hunter explained what Christmas trees are and how they're decorated.

"Wow, that's oddly specific. Why are evergreen trees used and not any tree?"

"I think it's because evergreen trees are symbolic that even in the coldest and darkest time of the year, there is still life and hope for the future. It's a Winter reminder that the greenery of Spring will return."

"That makes me feel so warm inside."

Hunter smiled, "that warmth is the magic of Christmas."

"Oh, I get it, so it's more than just a celebration."

"It is; there were bitter wars which men fought, where people who were trying to kill each other laid down their weapons on Christmas. Soldiers would come out and meet each other, embrace, sing songs, play games, and even give gifts to their enemies. You asked me earlier why Christmas is magical? Because it represents that within this often cold, dark, miserable world, there is still warmth, light, and joy."

The pair continued talking about how to celebrate Christmas, and came up with many plans for the party together. When they had finished their business, 60 stepped outside and saw one of the androids she used to work with.

"Hi 2B, how have you been? I've missed you so much!"

"I've been well. I wish there was more to do."

"You can spend some of your time finding presents for people you care about, it's a Christmas tradition. I bet you're already planning something for 9S."

"Actually I haven't."

"But 2B, this is a chance to get closer to him! You've been in love with him for years, and now you're free to pursue a relationship."

"I never said I was…" 2B was flustered, "in love with 9S."

"Come on, everyone already knows, and I think it's great, I support you 100%!"

"Thank you."

"Oh, and get something for Hunter, too!"

"Like what?"

"I don't know, I'm still trying to figure that out myself."

2B was curious enough to ask, "what did you think of him?

"2B, he's wonderful! I've never met someone with such a kind heart. It's like he feels things so deeply, and every thought of his is filled with emotion. Actually, I wanted to know if there's anyone he's in love with."

"I doubt it. Wait, you'd better not make a move on him, he has enough on his plate."

"Don't worry, it'll be fiiiine," 60 droned on.

2B spoke in a quiet but threatening voice, "Operator 60, don't you dare."

"Well, I'm off now, bye!"

2B groaned, 'why does she have to fall in love all the time? I'd better go warn Hunter.' 2B stepped inside his home.

Hunter looked up at her as she entered. "Welcome, is something on your mind?" He started drinking a glass of water on the coffee table after setting down some notes.

"Did you know that 60 has fallen for you?"

Hunter almost spit out the water in his mouth, but managed to gulp it down instead. "What, you mean romantically?"

2B nodded.

"How is that possible, first White, now 60? How can anyone in YoRHa fall for me? YoRHa is filled with immaculate looking super soldiers; compared to them, I'm not exactly a knight in shining armor who rescues princesses."

"I don't think women usually fall for knights in shining armor because of being rescued by them."

"Oh, then why would a girl love a knight in shining armor?"

2B smiled and joked, "because he's a knight, and he wears shiny armor. Look at yourself, you're human, which is what all androids aspire to be like, and you wear cool old world clothes, like… what is it you're wearing called?"

"A polo shirt and jeans."

"Which might as well be knight's armor; to us it's just as chic."

"I can see your point. Many people love whatever's exotic. Speaking of which, is there something you find extraordinary about 9S?"

"His curiosity and kindness. I've never met an android quite like him in those regards."

"You know, Christmas is coming. Do you think you'll give him a gift to show him how he's special to you?"

"60 suggested I should. What do you recommend?"

"I don't know. A gift can be used as a chance to say something to someone. Is there something you want to say to 9S that words can't express?"

"I don't think so."

"Is there something you want him to say to you?"

"That he…" she blushed and stopped talking.

"That he loves you? That he wants you two to be a couple?"

2B nodded in embarrassment.

"Then perhaps you could get something for you both to wear, like matching bracelets. Human couples would sometimes do that to show that they're close, and to remind themselves of each other when apart."

"Thank you for the suggestion. I'll think about it."

"What about a gift that represents your heart?"

"Androids don't have hearts."

"I guess not then."

"I hope your party planning goes well."

2B turned around to leave when Hunter called to her, "2B?"

"Yes?"

"Christmas is a time when people are in a wonderful mood. This is the perfect chance for you two to become a couple."

"I'll do my best."

A few minutes after 2B left, 9S walked in.

Hunter had a sneaking suspicion that 9S had waited until 2B was gone so he could talk about her alone with him.

"Hunter, do you have a minute?"

"Of course, 9S. Is it about 2B?"

"How did you know?"

"When are you not thinking about her?"

9S sounded slightly panicked, "is it really that obvious?"

"It is," said Hunter laughing, "so what is it about?"

"Uh, well she's expecting a Christmas present from me, and I don't know what she wants."

"Hold on, she's expecting one from you?"

"Yes, I asked her if there's something she wants from me, and she said there is, but that I have to figure it out. I asked if it was a gift, and she said that to her it was."

Hunter had to cover his mouth to keep from laughing, and his eyes were wide with surprise. Who knew 2B could be such a flirt?

9S continued, "what's going on? Do you know what she wants? It doesn't seem like a traditional physical gift you can put in wrapping."

"No, I don't think you can gift wrap what she's thinking of."

"Then what is it?"

"9S, I think you should figure this out on your own. But it reminds me of a joke about wanting someone to wrap the man you love in gift paper and put him under your tree."

9S practically had a heart attack, "that's what she wants!?"

"Well, no. You'll figure it out."

"I hope you're right, I don't want to disappoint her."

"Good luck!"

After 9S left, Hunter picked up a book an android from the resistance town had given him. It was written in whatever strange language the androids had been speaking before they switched to English for his sake. The white symbols on the black leather cover intrigued him.

'I'll be limited in life if I don't learn this language,' the human thought. 'I'd better learn to speak and read it. Perhaps Popola could teach me? I'll go ask her right now.'


The next day, Hunter had his first language lesson with Popola. He was relieved that she had agreed to teach him, he thought he might be too much of a bother to her. He didn't realize that she had been yearning to spend time with him.

They sat comfortably on a sofa in his living room, facing the fireplace, which cast a warm glow in the dimly lit room. A slick black coffee table stood in front of them, on which sat a few books and a notepad which Popola had brought.

"Let's start with the name of the language. It's called "hhouse linguay, and the h in hhouse is a hard H sound."

"Hhouse linguay," Hunter repeated.

"It means chaos language."

"Why is it called that?"

"I'm not sure, but I think it's because when the human population started dwindling, the languages started mingling together."

"Oh, so it's the opposite of how most languages start."

"Yes, I suppose so. Now remember, hhouse linguay."

"Hhouse linguay," Hunter repeated for the second time.

"Now let's start with the alphabet." Popola placed her notepad on her lap and held a pen in her hand. "This is the letter 'Ah,'" she said while drawing the strange letter, "it's similar to its sister letter, "Ei. They are both similar to the English letter A."

Devola continued with a few more letters, and then handed the pen and paper to Hunter. "Try spelling the word, 'ahwei.'"

Hunter carefully thought of the sounds of the word, and arranged what he thought were the right letters. "Is this it?"

"Yes," Popola said, "it means dog."

"Ahwei," Hunter repeated to cement it in his brain.

The lesson continued like this, until Hunter had encountered all 40 letters of the chaos language and practiced simple words with all of them.

"Let's try one more phrase," Popola suggested. "Tu mene drusna, which means you are my friend."

"How do you say beautiful?"

"Simpatna or harna."

"Tu mene simpatna." Hunter said it while looking directly at her.

Popola blushed beet red; he didn't know such a deep blush was possible for an android.

Popola barely managed to speak through her fluster, "it's just 'tu simpatna' then, the word mene is the dative case form of the word 'me.'" There was a very long pause between them. Then came her voice, quietly. She sounded vulnerable, almost hurt, "why did you want to say that? Are you practicing to say it to someone?"

"I meant those words for you."

Popola looked in front of her, composing herself. "You should only say that to a girl you have romantic feelings for, otherwise she'll get the wrong idea."

"I know."

Popola stared at him in shock.

"I'm sorry if I'm overstepping my bounds and being creepy, I'm not very good at talking to girls, but I think you're pretty and kind."

Something seemed to have caught in Popola's throat, and tears welled up in her eyes. She got up and ran out of the room crying. She left her books and notepad behind.


"Hunter, what happened?" Akhmatova was concerned when she saw Hunter approach her on the training grounds. He looked guilty and sad.

"I told Popola how I feel. I think I hurt her. When I told her she started crying and ran out of the room. Maybe I came off too strong, or she felt betrayed by me destroying our friendship?"

"Androids aren't completely like the humans you knew from thousands of years ago. Don't assume anything until we know for sure, and don't worry. There could be a thousand reasons for her reaction including ones you could never dream of. And there's no use blaming yourself."

"You're right, I just don't like it when she's unhappy."

"That's because you have a kind heart. Let's go train with the others, it will take your mind off of things."

They walked over to A2 and 2B who were sparring with swords. The two android sisters stopped when Hunter came close.

"Mind if we run an exercise with you?" Akhmatova asked.

2B was curious, "what do you suggest?"

"A competition, with Hunter and I being gunners. One of us will be assigned to you, and the other to A2. The first person to get hit with either a training sword or laser from a gun loses the match for their team."

"In that case, I'll team up with Hunter, since I still have a slight advantage over A2, and you'll probably have an advantage over Hunter."

A2 objected, "oh come on, I'm better than you already."

"We'll see about that," smiled 2B. "Pods, do you understand our game?"

"Affirmative, we will referee your match. Proposal, A2 should tap Hunter very lightly with her sword if she gets the opportunity, otherwise he will be injured even with a training sword."

"Shut up, pod! I was going to do that anyway!"

After Akhmatova and Hunter had chosen their rifles and affixed training laser systems to their guns, the two teams started walking to the far ends of the large training field. This grass and dirt field was littered with large debris from vehicles, machines, appliances, and other rusted metal junk.

"What's the plan?" asked the human to 2B.

"A2 won't be able to help coming after me. Make your way around the right side of the field. Use cover, stay out of sight, and get into a position to shoot Akhmatova. I'm good at dodging and positioning myself in a battlefield, so I'll distract those two and set you up for a nice shot."

"Sounds good," Hunter agreed.

On the other side of the field, A2 and Akhmatova were laying plans of their own.

"I bet 2B figures I'll focus on her in an attempt to prove something," A2 observed. "She'll probably try to bring me within reach of Hunter early on for him to shoot me."

"In that case, we'll need to stay close together. I'm no match for 2B on my own, but if I can stay in a good position, and you can get her close to me, it's only a matter of time before one of us lands a hit."

"We can try that at first, but if she doesn't cooperate, we'll have to move out. Let's move upfield to hunt for Hunter if our initial plan fails."

When both teams were ready, both 2B and A2's pods in unison said, "begin."

The android sisters barreled for the center of the field. Akhmatova stayed put behind the body of a Volkswagen Beetle while Hunter quickly crouch walked and crawled in a diagonal direction to the middle-right side of the field. Hunter tried to use any objects and indentations in the field to conceal his approach. He heard A2 and 2B clashing in the distance. He kept moving, he needed to be quick before 2B slipped up and took either a sword or laser hit.

2B dodged an onslaught of bullets and sword slashes three times in a row before positioning herself again so that A2 was in the way of Akhmatova's shots. A2 again moved to the side to give her teammate a view of 2B, but 2B anticipated the move correctly this time and moved to the side in unison with her opponent.

"Where's Hunter?" A2 asked. 2B remained silent, so A2 yelled, "Akhmatova, keep your eyes open for Hunter, he could be anywhere."

Akhmatova decided to reposition herself several meters to the left (from her perspective) side of the training ground, and further away from the sword fight. She figured Hunter was coming from this direction, so she used a supine machine's body as cover and as a rest for her reproduction Sturmgewehr 44.

Hunter had made a great deal of progress, but stopped to listen to the enemy team shouting to each other. As soon as he heard that Akhmatova was going to look for him, he popped up his head and rested his M4 on a car hood, and looked for his best friend. He wondered if he should have chosen a different rifle. He never liked the M4, but it was the lightest weight rifle available to him, which was important with all his battlefield movement. As he looked down the optic, he realized the battery on the optic was dead, so he pressed down a little switch on the plastic rear peep sight which served as a backup. Immediately, he saw Akhmatova running and repositioning herself about 70 meters away. Hunter started calming his breathing and relaxed his muscles, bringing his finger to the trigger. 'Think happy thoughts,' he thought, aiming for her head as she took cover behind a machine's dead body. He saw his friend spot him and panic. She started letting off a string of silent and invisible (to Hunter) laser shots. Hunter meanwhile relaxed, took his time, breathed in, held his breath, and slowly squeezed the trigger; still holding his breath, he pressed the trigger gently again.

A buzzer rang out from a pod flying high in the air between the two riflemen. "Match complete," it announced, "proposal: gather in the center of the field to rejoin the others."

The two stood up, breathing hard and trying to calm down from the pressure of the match. Both however, were smiling, as they walked towards each other.

"Who won?" she asked.

"I don't know, it was close," Hunter answered. "That was fun!"

"That was really fun!"

The two embraced, patting each other on the back. They kept their arms around each other's waists, rifles slung behind them, and walked to the center of the field.

A2 was annoyed, "shit pod, why can't you just tell me who won?"

"This pod is waiting for the others to arrive to announce the results. This is standard YoRHa protocol for the debriefing of training exercises."

"We don't need a debriefing, and besides, they've already arrived."

The two friends let go of each other as they approached their teammates.

"Results: 2B and Hunter are the winners. Akhmatova was shot with a laser."

A2 seemed annoyed, "I have to ask to make sure, but did you let Hunter win?"

"I didn't," her teammate said. We had a shootout, but I panicked. I shot quickly, but inaccurately. Hunter kept his cool and applied proper marksmanship, that's why he hit me first."

Hunter remembered his time on the shooting range at a Boy Scout camp. He took just a little bit of time on each shot: about 30 seconds. He qualified for his merit badge effortlessly, while almost all the other boys had struggled. He knew some of the boys had fired off ten rounds in 30 seconds, which is astonishingly quick for a single shot rifle; they had no chance at shooting accurately while shooting rapidly. Those kids had grown up associating guns with first-person shooters and shot them accordingly, but real shooting is nothing like Call of Duty. Real shooting requires patience and discipline.

Hunter remembered he needed to go make some decorations with Operator 60, excused himself, and departed.

When Hunter arrived in a warehouse, 60 greeted him happily, "you're early!"

"So are you. So, we have the paper and scissors?"

"Yep, all right here," 60 said, pointing to a wooden desk behind her. "I've already cut out a few potential snowflake patterns. Take a look and let me know if you like any."

Hunter picked up a handful of papers which had been folded and cut in such a way as to produce beautiful paper snowflakes when unfolded. He looked through each one in turn.

"I love them all! Hang on, why don't we stick with these four patterns? They look great but aren't as complex as some of the others, that way we'll be able to make them in no time."

"That's a great plan! Let's get started."

60 showed Hunter how to make one of her patterns, and he followed along. He started making a couple dozen snowflakes according to that pattern while she worked on another pattern.

"You're quick," he observed.

"Thanks. By the way, I heard that some humans liked cars, and even worked on fixing and making them better for fun. Is that true?"

"It is, some humans liked cars, and a few even enjoyed working on them, though I didn't like cars except as transportation."

"Oh, and what did you like?"

"I always liked airplanes. That's part of why I joined the airforce."

"What do you like about planes?"

"The challenge of flying them mostly. It's a very unique feeling. There's also something romantic about soaring among the clouds and being able to go anywhere."

"Oh, you're a romantic, are you?"

Hunter thought back to his confession and how Popola reacted. "No, I wouldn't say I'm a romantic person."

"You look so sad," she said sympathetically. "Did you get rejected by someone you love, maybe a human girl?"

"I'd rather not talk about it."

"If you ever do need to talk about it, or if you ever need support, I'm here for you."

"Thanks for that."

Hunter felt a kiss on his cheek and turned his head to face her. "What was that for?"

"Just to cheer you up, think nothing of it."

But Hunter did think of it, for hours after.

Work proceeded on the Christmas party day after day. Most of the decorations and food were created by other YoRHa staff – non combat models. Things were shaping up quite well, Hunter thought. He hoped he would get some time at the party with Popola. He had had a strange conversation with her the day after he revealed how he felt about her. She had come to his home and had sat on a chair near him.

"Hunter, first of all, I want to apologize for running away like that, that was completely uncalled for, and I'm sure I worried and confused you."

"I just… hope I didn't hurt you."

"You didn't. There were a lot of emotions and thoughts I had and it was overwhelming. That's why I cried and ran out. Do you remember how my sister and I are programmed to feel guilt for the extinction of humans?"

"I could never forget that."

"Your words of forgiveness when we first met did help me and my sister to feel better than before, but we'll always feel most of that guilt, because it's in our nature. It's impossible to erase that programming without fundamentally changing who we are as people. If the programming was erased, we would essentially be killed, because our old selves would be gone. Like it or not, we have to live with a certain amount of guilt, and we accept that. But can you imagine how I felt yesterday? I admire you for who you are, am captivated by your presence and personality, love looking at your handsome face, want to become closer to you, and yet I feel guilty, as though I've done terrible things to you. I feel so inadequate, and then you, the person I admire most, told me I'm beautiful. You said you would only say that to someone you have romantic feelings for."

"And I do have romantic feelings for you, Popola. So you cried because you felt overwhelmed by being loved by someone you feel guilty towards?"

"Yes," tears were welling up in Popola's eyes and soon began falling, "and it makes it awkward to accept your feelings. When you told me you think I'm beautiful, it was the most pleasurable feeling I'd ever felt, but it stung like Hell as well."

"I understand, and you don't have to return my feelings, or do anything you don't want to, but you have as much of my love as you want."

She shook her head. "You're being such a pain right now."

"What did I do?" Hunter asked, bewildered.

"You're so sweet and accommodating, but that makes this whole situation hurt more. I wish you'd be more selfish. If you were, I'd feel more useful and worthy of you."

"That's strange."

"Strange or not, it's my programming."

"What is it you want when you say you want me to be more selfish? You want me to mistreat you?"

"I don't want you to stop being the sweet and kind person that you are, but I don't want you to act as if you were beneath me. Don't treat me like a beautiful princess who everyone adores, because I'm not. I'm despised and distrusted by most. But you, you're a handsome prince like in a fairy tale, and you deserve love as much as anyone. You asked me what I want, and said it a little timidly, when I'd rather be the one asking what it is you want from me. I want to give my love, and for you to take it happily and as something you deserve. Tell me to massage your back, to clean something for you, to come with you to bed, or even to be your footstool. All I need is your appreciation and a corner of your heart."

"Uh…" the human was taken aback, "I can try to be more selfish." He thought for a moment, "but do you love me?"

Popola looked flabbergasted, "of course I love you! You should have known that: you're amazing." She laughed through her tear drenched face, "I swear, your lack of self confidence is going to kill me."

Hunter wanted to apologize, but thought better of it. This was such a weird conversation, it didn't feel real.

"Oh, and one more thing."

"What is it?"

"How would you feel about sharing me with other androids?"

"I only love you, Popola."

"I know, but there will be so many clones, and it would be better if you had a few wives to help parent them. The future of humanity is at stake, and children are better off with two parents."

"Who else would I choose?"

"Anyone you want. There's Commander White, everyone knows she loves you, and I could share you with my sister. Two is better than one you know."

"I don't know about this Popola. I only want one woman."

"Please think about it."

"Okay," he said, mentally lost. He was so inexperienced with love, and so naive.

"I should get going," she said, shyly.

"Okay," he said, standing up; then he realized something, "give me a hug before you go."

"That's a bit better," she answered.

Hunter couldn't bring himself to tell anyone of that conversation, not even his best friend. He couldn't make sense of what had happened, or of this new side of Popola he had seen, and only hoped she would settle down. 'She was panicked and emotional, so of course she acted strangely,' he told himself. In any case, they didn't see each other much since then, as both felt it would be awkward to speak after everything which had passed between them.


9S had retained his old room in the YoRHa base; he had kept it as a result of being Hunter's body guard, in the hope that Hunter would return to living with YoRHa. 9S was sitting in the dark watching a movie on the screen of his computer. His YoRHa blindfold was gone, and his eyes shone in the light of the monitor as he watched attentively. This was research to understand Christmas, and perhaps to get a glimpse of what gift 2B might want.

"Jack, I don't care about the promotion anymore. I really wanted that position in the New York office, but ever since returning to this small town, I've come to realize that success and money don't matter. All that matters is the people we love, and being with them, and I want to be with you."

"Katie, I love you," answered the male actor.

"I love you too. I'm staying here for Christmas, so I canceled my tickets to New York."

"I need to buy you a present then. Hold on just a second, I'll be right back."

"Hold on, silly, I don't need a present. You're my gift this year."

"Really?"

"Yeah, so hurry up and kiss me," she teased.

As 9S watched the two actors kissing, his mind raced at a million miles a second, thinking through a couple of gift ideas the movie had given him. As the credits rolled, he thought to himself, 'I don't know what this "Hallmark channel" is, but I'm glad they made this movie.'


Christmas day finally arrived, and everyone was excited. A huge tent had been set up to accommodate most of YoRHa's personnel. Essential personnel, such as guards, took turns in performing their duties with others so that everyone on base could participate at least half of the party.

Cotton balls were attached to the tops of rugs to make patches of fake snowy ground. Lanes of fake candy canes lined the ways to certain activities like face painting, a coin toss, pin the tail on the reindeer, and the line to see "santa," who was in fact Hunter in a costume. Of course, everyone had to see Santa. As an organizer of the event, 60 got to sit on Santa's lap first, before the party even began. She was wearing a costume of her own: a sleeveless red velvet dress with white fur trim and a santa hat.

"Hello my dear, Merry Christmas, ho ho ho!" Hunter said with bravado.

60 giggled hysterically.

"Have you been a good girl this year?"

"I've been very good."

"And what do you want for Christmas, young lady?"

"I already got what I wanted," she smiled mischievously.

Hunter didn't know what she meant, but she had wanted to sit in his lap.

'Well I can't let you go empty handed. Take this stocking." He handed her a little stocking, one of many which had been prepared for all the androids on base. They included a small candle, a few candies, and an old-fashioned wooden top.

"Thank you, Santa," she said, hugging him tightly before hopping off. "I'm going to go check on the tree now."

The tree in question was massive, with all the lights and ornaments one would expect, with a large tree skirt underneath and a star on top. Standing tall in the center of the tent, the tree's branches housed many wrapped but empty boxes, which represented presents.

Hanging down from the ceiling were the snowflakes which Hunter and 60 had made together. Several fake snowmen were found around the tent, and a nativity scene was found near the buffet table.

When the party began, almost 200 androids were gathered together, standing around and talking happily. 60 stood on a small ladder to be better seen and heard, "may I have your attention! We're pleased to have YoRHa's first ever Christmas party. When planning began for this, I asked Hunter to write what made Christmas special so I could understand and help get the mood right. He wrote a little poem which I want to share with you:

"Christmas is a day

Where everyone is gay.

Love is in the air,

Light is everywhere,

Bells now brightly ring,

People laugh and sing.

Come and celebrate.

Tasty things await.

Smells of mint and pine

Make the air divine.

Pure poinsettia's glow,

Puts on quite a show.

Gifts and alms allay,

On this Christmas day."

Once 60 finished, she wrapped up with a "Merry Christmas, everyone! Begin!"

Hunter was incredibly embarrassed that she'd read his poor excuse for a poem to everyone, but was soon distracted by the sea of visitors wishing to see Santa. 2B was acting as his assistant, handing him the stockings to give to the androids. She wore the same kind of dress as 60, and looked stunning in it. When it was 9S's turn to see Santa, he had a hard time breathing.

"What do you think of 2B's dress?" Hunter asked.

"It's incredible, I've never seen anyone so…" 9S cleared his throat, "anyway, I'm supposed to sit on your lap?"

The human switched back into playing his role as the jolly Saint Nick. "Hohohoho, Merry Christmas young man! Yes, come sit on my knee."

9S did so, and like almost all the androids looked quite small and childish next to Hunter, who was not only much taller, but also wearing a thick padded suit.

""What would you like for Christmas next year?"

"Um," he said, stealing a glance at 2B, "I don't know…"

"Well there must be something…" After an awkward pause, the human said, "how about a football? Hohohohoho!"

"I'm not sure what that is," 9S answered truthfully.

"Well anyway, take this stocking, and have a very merry Christmas!"

A2 was next behind 9S. She went right up and hopped on "Santa's" lap, her heavy android weight causing him great pain as her metal bone structure hit his right thigh, he concealed his discomfort with a, "hohoho, Merry Christmas! What do you want for Christmas next year?"

"A better sword."

"Remind me later, I'll need to speak to the Commander about that, hohoho! Have you been a good girl?"

"I've been trying to," she answered honestly.

"Excellent, it seems you're on my nice list. Here's a stocking for you."

Akhmatova was next, it seemed they came as a group.

"Hohoho, you've been a very good girl this year, is there anything you want for Christmas?"

"I already have everything I want in life, I'm happy."

"In that case, I hope this stocking will gladden your heart even more. Merry Christmas!"

Towards the end of the line, Commander White came, though she hadn't participated in any of the other activities.

"Hohoho, Merry Christmas! Come sit on my lap young lady.."

"If you insist," she said in a dignified manner.

"Have you been a good girl this year?"

"No, I've been a bad, bad girl Santa."

"Hohoho, don't say that! Now, tell Santa what you want for Christmas."

"Do you really want to know?"

"Perhaps a nice hat?"

"Wrong, let me whisper it in your ear: I want you to let me sit in your lap all year long."

"Perhaps you do need some coal. Unfortunately this is all I have on hand." Santa handed White a stocking.

White stood up and left. After a few more androids took their turns, the line was empty. There would be more androids coming to the party later, but for the next two hours both Hunter and 2B got a break.

"Honestly, I can't believe the Commander," 2B told the human.

"Someone needs to spank her, only it can't be me or she'd probably enjoy it."

"I could do it, I'd love to vent a little pent up frustration on her."

Hunter laughed. "Good luck with 9S. I'm going to go take off this costume and find Popola if she's here."

"I'll go take off my costume too."

"You shouldn't, that dress drove 9S crazy in the best possible way earlier."

"By 'drove crazy,' you mean that he found me attractive?"

"Even more than usual, yes."

"In that case, I'll keep it on for the party. I wonder what other clothes 9S would like to see me in?"

"You can ask him some other time. Alright, I'm going this way, goodbye!"

As soon as 2B started walking back to the tent, she saw 9S coming toward her.

"2B, earlier, I wanted to say…"

"Yes, 9S?" 2B felt powerful driving him speechless like this.

"You're dress looks good on you, I mean you look good in the dress. Wait, that came out wrong, I mean, you're beautiful anyway but…"

"9S," 2B cut him short. "I understand what you mean. Thank you."

"You're welcome. So, do you want to enjoy the party together?"

"Yes, but first I want to give you my gift." 2B produced a cube. It looked black in the dim twilight, except that light shone through it.

"Is that your black box?" 9S said astonished. "But if you're without it for more than a few hours, you'll shut down."

"Don't worry, it's a figure I made to look like a black box. It's meant to symbolize my own. These black boxes are the closest thing we YoRHa models have to a heart. This is what I want to give you."

"2B… that means a lot."

"Well, you mean a lot to me."

"I should give you my gift. I'm still not quite sure if I have the right idea, but close your eyes."

2B closed her eyes in anticipation, and sensed 9S get closer to her. Warmth, soft warmth enveloped her lips. 'It's happening, it's really happening!' She thought. Her heart burst with joy as she focused on enjoying the kiss and returning it, but before she could get in sync with his kissing, he pulled away, leaving her wanting more.

"Well, did I guess right?" 9S asked. "Is this the gift you wanted?"

2B smiled ear to ear, "it is, 9S."

The two walked side by side back into the tent, their hearts filled with happiness.

Meanwhile, Hunter was back in his home removing his costume. He wore a red Christmas sweater which Operator 60 knit for him. Surprisingly, it looked nice, was comfortable, and fit well. It was very nicely made, and it made both his body and heart feel warm.

A few minutes later, he had jogged back to the tent. He searched right and left through the throng for Popola. He pushed in deeper, and still saw no one. He decided to head for the buffet table to get something to eat, figuring that he might see Popola on the way. He didn't see her, and his heart sank as he grabbed a plate and placed on it a few sweets and hors d'oeuvres. As he turned around he saw White standing with two red headed girls and 60. They were talking and snacking together, with 60 beaming with happiness, and White in good spirits as well. The twins seemed happy, but a little uneasy.

60 called out to the human, "Hunter, come on and join us!" He complied, and 60 asked, "did everyone get a chance to sit on Hunter's lap?"

Devola started coughing on her food, and Popola looked at 60 like she was crazy. "What do you mean sit on his lap?" Popola asked.

White laughed, "you didn't know? It's a Christmas tradition to sit on Santa Clause's lap and tell him what you want for Christmas. Hunter dressed up as Santa earlier and everyone stood in line to see him."

"I see, my sister and I were busy working and we only just arrived."

"Hunter will do it again in a couple hours," assured 60, "you'll get your chance then."

"I for one had a great time," said White, smiling.

"Was it fun for you, Hunter?" asked 60.

"It was most of the time." He started laughing, "one android asked me for a flight unit next Christmas."

"Who was that?" White asked, annoyed with the request.

"I don't remember, but I do remember that A2 wants a better sword in the future."

"She'll get one once her skills improve a little more," White answered.

"She really enjoys combat. She's becoming quite the killer."

"Yet she still lost to you in a training exercise."

"You heard about that?"

"I get copies of all the training logs, it surprised me to see you on there."

"To be fair, it really came down to Akhmatova and I fighting. A2 and 2B were keeping each other busy. I just got a lucky shot on my friend."

"How is Akhmatova doing, by the way?" White asked.

"She's doing very well, and happy."

"She's still living with you?"

"She is."

"Perhaps we should give her her own place to live?"

"But we like living together. We're like family."

60 spoke up, "I think it's okay for now, but if you get a girlfriend, you'd be better off with Akhmatova sleeping somewhere else."

"I'd rather think about the present for now." Hunter was getting annoyed by the conversation. "Popola, would you like to come play Pin the Tail on the Reindeer with me?"

"Huh? Sure."

The pair parted with the others and went to play the game. Androids around them watched as Hunter placed a blindfold over Popola's eyes and spun her around twice by the shoulders. He placed the tail with its pin in Popola's hands. She walked slowly forward. She felt the board with her left hand, and pinned the tail on the reindeer's left buttock. She lifted the blindfold and laughed at her mistake.

"It was close," Hunter assured.

Next Popola blindfolded him and spun him around. He ended up way off the mark, not even touching a part of the reindeer. All the androids laughed.

"Let's go for a walk," he suggested.

"Okay, that sounds good to me."

They walked away from the tent. Hunter wanted to avoid any eavesdropping or interference from others.

"Is there something you wanted to talk to me about?"

"Nothing in particular, but there is something I want."

"What is it?" Popola observed the mischievous grin on his face and felt apprehensive.

"I want this." Hunter grabbed Popola's body with both arms and drew her tightly into a passionate kiss. They stood there kissing, Popola putting her hands on Hunter's face and running her fingers through the hair on the back of his head. They kept kissing, and didn't stop for what felt like a long time. When they finally stopped, they were holding each other in their arms, their faces inches apart.

"Now that's better," Popola said, a goofy look written on her beet red face. "Hunter, I love you."

"Be my girlfriend."

"Yes," answered Popola breathlessly, kissing him again with all the feeling in her heart.


Back at the party, 2B and 9S were playing the coin toss.

"Aw, I almost had it!" said 9S laughing.

"You wanted that snowglobe?" 9S nodded. "Alright, I'll win it for you."

2B took the three coins she was handed and started tossing them gently but precisely into the same cup in the back row. All three went in.

"We have a winner! A perfect score, too. You may choose any prize you like."

"We'll take the snowglobe," 2B said.

After receiving the prize, she handed it to 9S. "Merry Christmas," she said.

"Wow, thank you!" 9S was clearly impressed.

"Psst."

The couple looked around. They spotted Hunter, speaking quietly, "follow me to the edge of the tent."

"What do you think he's up to?" 9S asked.

"I don't know."

When they arrived at the edge of the tent, Hunter had them stand near the entrance.

"Aha!" he exclaimed, "above your heads is mistletoe. During Christmas time, if mistletoe is above a man and woman's heads, they have to kiss. Have fun!" Hunter walked away.

2B noted, "he doesn't know we already kissed earlier."

"Let's do it again anyway."

"I won't object."

Several YoRHa units cheered their kiss, which made the two break apart quickly with embarrassment.

At that moment, two androids dragged Hunter back towards the edge of the tent. 2B and 9S got out of the way.

"Heah, let me go! White, make them release me!"

White came into view, "I saw the trick you just pulled with 2B and 9S, I'm just doing the same."

Hunter was released under the mistletoe and White walked up to him.

"Wait, that's not fair."

"All's fair in love and war," she said, kissing him.

Dozens of androids erupted in cheers. Popola, meanwhile, looked sick.

Hunter went back to his home to get back into his Santa costume. An hour later, as Santa Clause, Popola sat on his lap.

"And what do you want for Christmas, my dear?"

"I already got what I wanted for Christmas."

"So did I," beamed Santa.

For anyone wondering, I'll be working on Harem of Hedon and getting out another chapter of that. The reception to Hedon was much greater than this story, which isn't surprising given that that story is the opposite side of the coin to this one. Pensées is intended to be more thought provoking with a more pure protagonist while Harem of Hedon is made to be more entertaining with a more pleasure seeking protagonist. In the meantime there won't be another chapter of Pensées until next year, but the good news is we're getting closer to the end of the story.