CHAPTER 3: Confrontation
Ten days had passed since being healed. Lilia settled into a routine with the Resistance members. Having experience with technology and computer systems, she assisted in the server operations and helping the maintenance of the androids in camp. Her excuse she "studied human technology" seemed to work. The twins kept a close eye on her. At first, she tolerated their constant presence, but after a week, it became oppressive. Not only that, they would park themselves outside her door when she slept. She knew they did that the few times she would wake up needing to take a piss.
I know I'm not a prisoner, but damn give me a break! She thought angrily. I'm not some child! I told them to treat me like the other androids!This is damn creepy!
Yet she thought no one in camp suspected she was human despite her "odd quirks" they would passively comment on and times where she would leave camp. The twin's behavior, however, didn't go unnoticed or 2B's and 9S's when they were in camp. Anemone took her aside to ask her about it. Not wanting to reveal too much, she feigned to not have noticed and assured the Resistance leader it was nothing, despite overhearing a fighter bring to Anemone's attention of a "strange burned pit" that had rotting entrails and heads of fish scattered about the area—clearly not from an animal.
It won't be long before I'm discovered and questioned by Anemone, she thought later that night in her stifling room.
Troubling thoughts kept her awake that night. When she had woken for the third time, Lilia turned on the makeshift oil lamp by her bed, its soft glow illuminating the sparse room. Instead of lying in bed until the sun rose, she got up and grabbed one of the 6-foot-long metal poles that was stored in a corner of the room.
Lilia stood at the center of the room in nothing but her stained tee and panties and started her forms. She learned it as a nerdy child begging her father to go down to a dojo. An alternative to the after-school program, her father was skeptical about it, but with her mother's convincing, he had relented. It provided a happy diversion to what was happening at home; being too young to fully understand her mother's illness. However, she stopped attending her study as a troubled teen and returned to it as an adult. Using it helped her maintain fitness and calm her scattering brain, much how it helped her as a confused child.
Her makeshift staff banged into the bed and storage shelf as reached the fifth form. Lilia growled in resentment, hating every second she was stuck in the room.
I gotta get outta here, Lilia thought determined. I'm about to explode in this room!
She ruled out using the door; she'd risk alerting the twins. Instead, she decided on jumping out the window. It was spacious enough for her to pass through; it'd be a squeeze for her ass though. Standing on top of the table below it, she inspected the dusty window. The screen had rotted away long ago, leaving just the unbroken glass and frame. Pushing the stiff mechanism fully open, Lilia grunted from her effort. The cool night air was refreshing from the stagnant room. Peeking out, she couldn't see the bottom even with the full moonlight.
Using her metal staff as a gauge to see how far she would have to jump the other end scraped along the grass and dirt. Maybe six or seven feet from the window she hypothesized.
With her mind made up, she dropped the metal cudgel, it fell with a soft thump in the tranquil air. Then, with haste she put on her pants and boots before proceeding with her escape.
Now comes the hard part. She thought wearily but determined.
Thankfully, she had experience jumping out of windows, with experience she was capable of crossing the threshold. Her booted feet crunched the leaves and grass and her heart hammered in her skull. Taking a heady exhale, she found her staff and trudged down the alley to where the babbling brook sat. The moon glowed brilliantly, its bright reflection on the water giving a silvery sheen to the blue-gray of the night's shadows. The moon was receding in its downward path; in an hour the sun would start its rise.
The lights from fireflies and lethargic machines bobbed adding an eerie atmosphere to the scenery. Cicadas and crickets joined the chorus of the brook's gentle waves. Unfortunately, other insects buzzed around her head forcing Lilia to swat them away.
Walking around the edge of the landscape to not disturb the machines, her feet crunched on the underbrush of leaves, grass, and snapping twigs. Careful to not trip on a hole or log, she used her makeshift metal cudgel as a guide to feel around before she stepped in an area; with just enough light from the moon and the approaching daylight to make out shapes, Lilia still needed to be careful.
Her goal was to find an appropriate space to practice. She settled on one of the many intersecting and decaying roads as a wide enough space for her to practice her forms. It was silent; the animals sleeping, and the only noises were around the brook itself. The whir of machines distant enough to her ears.
Taking a place in the middle of the decrepit street, she took a relaxing breath and began the first form. Staff in right hand and render salute. She ran through the forms in her head as she performed them.
Second form: flick with right foot, horse stance, staff across chest, look to the left, left hand out.
Third form: stand on left foot, right foot on left knee, withdraw left hand, extend right hand.
And so she moved leading her mind and body through all thirty forms of the yin-hand cudgel, going through the motions repeatedly. Soon it was just her and the staff as the world around her faded away.
—xxx—
During her forms she missed a pair of reddish eyes scrutinizing her movements, taking in the details of her stances.
What is she doing? Adam wondered as she moved, the android's purse swinging at his side.
He'd decided it was time to return the bag to its owner after sifting through the contents the last week with his brother. With the amount of human items it contained he reasoned the android was collecting them and may have more knowledge about them.
With cat-like steps, he approached her. The swings of the pole creating a whirlwind around her; he found it exquisite and enthralling. The more she repeated these postures, the more precise they were. He thought it familiar until he remembered. One of the martial arts the humans practiced. He concluded. What else of the humans did this android know? Curiosity and excitement bubbling in his chest.
Unafraid, he continued his advance toward the female android. Her curly hair swayed from a long braid. He didn't think she had any awareness of his presence.
At a certain distance, she took a step differently and the pole in her hand nearly met him in the bridge of his nose. The swift movement took him aback.
"Who are you?" she demanded, pole still in his face. Her breathing accelerated and hardened hazel-green eyes pierced into his.
Why do you need to breathe little android?
Coolly he stated, "I'm one of the YoRHa androids. I'm passing through on a mission. Now, who are you?"
He saw her hazel-green eyes shift before returning the pole to her side. "I'm one of the Resistance fighters. Should have known you were one of them fancy androids. Though, you don't have one of those Pods they walk around with."
He internally chuckled. So many identities you have. First a YoRHa diplomatic model and now a Resistance fighter? Well, you look more the part, anyway.
Adam, never one to lose his composure, responded, "I'm one of the older model of YoRHa androids before the Pods became standard."
The android's eye receptors looked him up and down. Her feet shifted and a discoloration reached to her facial cheeks. Is there something wrong? It was then that she noticed the bag across his shoulder.
"Hey," she said, "where did you find that?"
Formulating a lie, "I was on a mission near that pacifist machine village and spotted it a few days ago in the woods. Why?"
Seeing her smile in the gray-blue light, "I had a bag just like that one and that's where I lost it. Um, when you opened it, did it have a makeup kit, a hairbrush, some granola bars, a wallet, a shoe, and two rectangular devices in it?"
Recording the items she listed, "There was a makeup kit, hairbrush, and shoe, but do not know what those other contents are. Perhaps the other things I didn't recognize? There were many things within it."
"Please, can I have it back?" She asked in a pleading tone.
"On one condition," he replied smiling, seeing an opportunity, "you tell me about the other items I didn't recognize. They looked like human things from the Old World."
He noticed her throat contracted, her eyes shifted, and the loose grip on her metal pole tightened slightly. She smiled a second later before replying, "Deal."
Adam handed over her bag and watched her sling it over her left shoulder. She walked to a crumbled vehicle and sat on the hood; he followed behind her and sat next to her, his weight dipping the hood. Her hazel-green eyes gave him a peculiar look but said nothing.
His maroon eyes took in her details. The wiry curls of her dark hair pulled in a tight braid revealing her oval hazel-green eyes hidden behind long lashes, a medium sized nose, and full lips that crooked on the right side. A faint yellowed discoloring on her left temple wasn't missed or the flecks of dirt on her forehead and cheeks—a sparkle of moisture dotted her hair line. He then noticed her hands as she held the bag open and rummaged through the purse. He could see dirt and debris underneath her long, crooked nails.
Compared to how she was when he first saw her, the android was disheveled from the work they did and in dire need of better clothes. She smelled like oil, earth, and strong musk.
Although I will admit… there is a certain… charm about you.
Pulling out of his visual evaluation, she began to speak, "I'm glad you've brought this to me. I honestly didn't think I'd get this back after I lost it. I've been… collecting things from the Old World, including this bag."
Have you now? Interesting…
She continued, while pulling out one item, "This is called a granola bar—"
One by one she brought out the items and explained each. Letting her talk and only asking a question sparingly. His sensors recording, not wanting to waste such an opportunity.
And it seems I was correct on that thick card that had the similar face as hers.
"I was real surprised to find it, actually." She said as she placed it back in the bag. "I know I was modeled after a human, but I never thought on my excursions I'd find her wallet she must have had.
"Now this thing," she said waving the larger rectangular device, "is called a 'tablet' specifically an 'iPad'. Humans used these like those interfaces and connect to one another like a server they called 'the internet'. I was able to figure out a way to restore and charge it, but I can't figure out the… password to look to see what's inside it. I'm curious to know who owned it. This tablet is my favorite of all my finds, I haven't come across anyone who has one."
Once she was finished, she put the… iPad back within the purse. Having a strange look of… sadness? Why would holding such a thing make an android sad? Smiling softly as she rummaged more within the oversized bag.
"Here." She said while holding that red, palm-sized 'flashlight' for him. "Take it. For findin' my purse for me. My thanks."
Truly? You're giving me one of your treasures?
His network contemplated the best recourse until she decided for him. Taking his gauntlet right hand in hers and placing the flashlight within it. Feeling her warm and soft hands through the leather and metal glove as they closed his fingers to hold the device placed on the palm. A tightness could be felt in his chest area. Did something within him break?
"I insist Mr. Android, I have another one. Besides, you never know, you might need a light someday. And—" sighing deeply, "I need to be gettin' back. My caretakers are prolly searchin' for me." Her eyes rolled in clear disdain as she pushed herself off the vehicle. "By the way, I never asked for your name. I'm Lilia." Grabbing the pole, she had used earlier in her right hand off the ground. "And yes, it's fittin' considerin' who I'm modeled after."
He grinned. "I'm called… Adam."
"Adam, huh? Well, it was nice to meet you and good luck on your mission. Don't be a stranger, OK?" Lilia smiled and waved as she walked back to the Resistance camp, fetching her own flashlight from her purse.
Silently watching her leave, the conical shape of the light in her hand gave off a green-ish glow to his night sensors.
—xxx—
It took some finagling, but she could climb back up the window the way she had left, careful to not damage what as in her purse. As soon as her feet hit the floor, the light from the oil lamp blazed revealing the twins wearing a stern expression.
What. The. Fuck. Do. I. Look. Like?
"Ahem." She grunted out in frustration, feeling her anger rise.
"Where were you?" Devola asked reminiscent to that of a parent about to scold a rebellious teenager; a tone she was all too familiar with and in no mood to hear it as a grown ass woman.
"A stroll. What of it?"
Popola shook her head with a look of disappointment on her features. "You didn't think to inform us?"
"Excuse me?" She spat out. "I don't need permission to go outside when I damn well please. I'm not some sheltered child."
"You're too important to go out unattended." Devola retorted.
She growled, her frustration reaching a boiling point with these two, "Well, let me put it too you very plain. To both of you. Your attempts of protectin' me hasn't gone unnoticed within the camp. For fucks sake Anemone pulled me aside while you two were busy to question me about it, and I had to play dumb. I know I'm 'important' as a member of an endangered species. What you two fail to realize is that I can take care of myself and know when I need to stay away from danger. So, do me a favor, and cut the shit out!"
The twins had a pensive look on their faces and they were about to retort, but Lilia, in her flash of pure anger and frustration, beat them.
"It'll prolly won't matter anyway if you two do or not. I overheard them talkin' to Anemone about a 'strange burned pit' and deposits of dead fish guts around the area. So, if we want to maintain this little game of pretend, I have to move somewhere else. And to keep being blunt, I suggest I travel with 2B and 9S."
"No" was the simultaneous answer from them.
"Hold your horses you pink-haired twits, I know that it's not ideal. However, I would be protected. Both are well equipped and programmed to fight the machines. Not only that, they are both aware of my real identity, so there is no 'risk' of me being exposed to shit. I have thought hard on this since Anemone talked to me two days ago and I overheard a fighter report on my cook areas.
"I plan on doin' this once I see 2B and 9S again and tell them, whether you two agree or not. And if they don't like it, I'll speak to their Commander myself. Unlike you androids, I am not bound by your orders or programs to behave a certain way."
It was a cruel thing to say to them since she knew they meant well and more than likely couldn't help themselves. In her ignorance of the android's advanced technology and programs, was that they felt guilt. Especially for these two. As irrational as it may seem, they were in the basest sense, bound by their inherent program of guilt. Along with the long-ago loyalty and need to offer protection to humans—their creators.
Popola held onto her sister's hand to keep her from verbally retaliating as she replied, "We will... think on it. For now, you should rest, it'll be daylight soon."
Once the twins had crossed the threshold and closed the door, she was alone. Well, as alone as she could be. Taking off her boots and pants to settle herself on her bed, she had brought her purse with her. Quickly fishing out her iPad, Lilia typed the password, and looked through the photos; she sifted through the memories of happy smiles, meals in diners, and holidays.
A video played next. It was of a little boy no older than nine that was recorded three years ago. His woolly curls styled, wearing a retro-style Transformers tee with Optimus Prime on it, and his mother's gray eyes beaming at her.
Lilia's hands tightened on the iPad's sides.
"OK little dude, were gonna practice for the spellin' competition, right?"
"Right!" He said enthusiastically while giving the camera a 'thumbs up' "And I'm gonna win too Auntie! And be in the N-A-T-I-O-N-A-L-S!"
"You bet! Ready?"
"Yeah! I'm R-E-A-D-Y!"
Lilia felt a wetness to her cheeks and her vision blurred.
She laughed and started, "OK, spell 'enthusiasm'."
Without missing a beat, "E-N-T-H-U-S-I-A-S-M!"
"Good job!"
At the corner of the camera they fist-bumped.
Her chest contracted and suddenly found it hard to breathe.
"Spell, 'providence'."
"P-R-O-V-I-D-E-N-C-E!"
"Alright!"
Unable to contain the sob she relented. An auditory clash between an over-eager little boy spelling and her sobs of a promise broken, the harsh, cruel reality finally crashing in on her. Lilia's futile attempts to maintain her composure the last week, violently splintered like broken glass angrily being smashed against the ground.
She will never know if she made a difference in that boy's life. A vow she made of guilt and loyalty toward his mother. Living with the fact she died trying to save Lilia's own life when she wasn't worth saving at all. Worse still, she didn't know if his sacrifice was in vain.
Lilia's failure and absence just as evident as he looked into his gray eyes. His mother's eyes.
Mi'lanah… my Mi-Mi… my friend,my only sister I ever knew… forgive me…
—xxx—
Adam returned to the copied city underneath the dilapidated one above. It contained the exact architecture from his studies. From the arched windows, rough brick, faux trees and potted plants, sidewalks and the street. Except for its appearance all of it was white, lifeless, and sterile. The only color was him and the deactivated android bodies littering the ground or elegantly posed like a child would a doll.
It was a spiritual place for him, a holy place he desired to mimic. He tried to visualize the color that would be for the brick; the shine of the windows, the healthy green of the little trees and plants, and the individual activities the humans would do in the street and within the buildings themselves. What of the weather? Rain? Snow? Perhaps a warm summer day?
His leather shoes resounded in the hollow emptiness. He gripped the flashlight within his gloved hand that the android Lilia gave to him, feeling the cloth strap rub on the outside of his palm.
"You never know, you might need a light someday."
Her words reverberating in his head, holding the little treasure of humanity within his hand. His brother soon materialized in strings of golden light.
"You're back." He said with a detected hint of relief. "You did not tell me you had gone, brother."
"I apologize Eve. I thought I'd return that pack to its proper owner." He explained. "You wouldn't believe it! Seems as though Lilia is studying the humans. She is very knowledgeable of them."
His younger twin raised his brows. "Whose Lilia? That android?"
"Yes, brother. Can you believe it? She even allowed me to have one of those human treasures. See." Showing him the red, palm sized device, "It's called a 'flashlight'. And look—" Pressing the back button to make a click noise, a bright light shined at the other end. Adam's stoic face only hid the pleased exhilaration underneath.
"It's rather useless to us Adam." Dismissing such a wonderful little thing.
Growing frustrated at his twin's lack of interest in studying humans, he was of a simpler design than himself and had impulses that lacked restraint. Luckily Adam was there to help him.
"Don't you see? They obviously built such devices for the dark. Their eyes not suited for that time of day, unlike ours. Those old androids use light devices similarly. I observed her using another one she had collected. It would be beneficial to keep in contact with her. She may find new discoveries and to know what she has learned at present."
His twin growled, "Really? What's the point in learning about humans?"
"Brother please," he began, regaining lost patience with his sibling, "this is of utmost importance. When the humans come—"
"You mean 'if' brother."
Adam sighed, "As long as you are with me when they do."
His brother smiled, "Sure."
"All is well then."
He then weaved his system into the server, connecting to the carbon and silicon blocks that formed the copied city. Creating a shape within his mind. Small, repeating, interlocking forming a chain.
"What are you doing Adam?"
"Making… " He started answering, while having the strap on the flashlight go through an end of the carbon chain. It's lightweight shape dropping to the center. Connecting the ends, he placed it around his neck. The cool metal below the center of his naked chest. "… a reminder."
What Adam failed to notice in his moment of adoration, was the minuscule twitch of his twin's face and hands.
—xxx—
I look like hell. She noted as she viewed at her disheveled reflection.
She had spent the last hour crying. Releasing that emotional barrier that wound itself tightly in her heart. Lilia didn't know if she should be grateful that the burden on her shoulders had dwindled or hate the reality of her apparent time travel. Maybe both.
As much as she preferred to just sit in bed and feel sorry for herself, she couldn't do that. There was work to be done. She never wanted to go down that path of being useless again in her life. At least this way, some good can come out of her being here. Perhaps help those remaining humans on the moon get back here on Earth a little faster. Who knows? Maybe some of her family and friends far distant descendants were up there too.
It would have to do for the moment.
Stretching out her aches and trying her best to make herself look presentable, she wanted to give the androids no cause for concern with her blood-shot eyes and puffy face. Lilia gave herself some extra time for her face to look normal.
During that time her mind wandered.
I have to apologize to the twins. She thought regretfully, I didn't mean to put it that way to their faces. In a way, I can understand where they are coming from. I feel the same protective urges for my little nephew. And compared to them, I'm the age of a child even though I'm 30. Then she chuckled,It wouldn't be good if the first human that the androids have had any interaction with acts like an ass.
Taking a deep breath, she fortified herself and walked out the door of her room. The sun was rising to light the world. The light gave off a light purple-gray sheen to the natural colors of the encampment. The androids busy with their tasks, the grunts, talking and screeching whirs of machinery as evidence. Heading to the right sat the medical/repair tents. Only three androids were resting on the many rows of cots. They had gotten banged up from a recon mission the day before and had paid for it by being hardheaded and careless—not with their lives thankfully.
Lilia swiftly scanned the tent and located the pink-haired twins. They were busy arranging the supplies at the back of the pavilion itself.
They turned to see who walked toward them. Despite their delicate green eyes being neutral, Devola's tone was not, "We hope we aren't intruding on you." Not missing the movement of Popola touching her sister's hand with her own.
Lilia slumped her shoulders and head while sighing, taking the verbal slap, "I deserve that don't I?"
When they didn't respond she continued, "Look, I'm sorry for what I said this mornin'. It wasn't how I intended to talk to you both about it. I was angry, and I didn't mean to take it out on you two. I'm sorry."
They continued to stare at her blankly and she felt uncomfortable under the scrutiny. She gulped the lump in her throat, shifted her feet, and a faint flush could be felt on her cheeks.
"We've thought on it too," Popola said secretly to not let the three patients hear, breaking the awkward silence, "we… don't object to your… proposal. Though speaking to 2B and 9S is required, and if they don't consent, we recommend staying with Pascal."
"I could do that." Not hesitating in accepting the olive branch the twins offered. "I'll speak to Anemone too, best she knows."
"Desertion is punishable in war." Devola said simply. "Though it doesn't really apply in your case."
"Yeah, but it's the only cover while I'm here. I don't wanna wake up with a knife in my gut or a noose on my neck."
She'd seen the price of desertion not two days of working with the camp. Some poor sod who was found guilty got the end of Anemone's blade in front of the whole regiment. It was a cowardly kind of desertion too, not only did he steal from the highly regulated supplies, but he had abandoned his post. Because of that, enemy machines killed two of his fellow soldiers. Their tags finding solemn company with the others that have fallen.
What happened to those two soldiers brought back painful memories of what she had to do not four years ago. The news he wouldn't be returning home. The only thing left was his picture, tags and his last name. It was months prior to being here that she had the strength to put away the ring he gave her before being deployed. She'd never forget that Christmas. In her thoughts she sent a silent hope he'd be proud.
At present, Lilia heard only good things about the Resistance leader, a seasoned veteran of The Pearl Harbor Descent Operation. From some old-timers, desertion had gone down tremendously, and conditions have improved since Anemone took charge. But, with how long the androids have been at war with the machines, it's no wonder deserters happen. The fantasy of living away from the war and enemy machines was enough for some to leave their post she'd been told. She'd lament on it but understood that was what being a soldier was about—the 'fighting for those you care for' part. Even though she wasn't one herself.
For the whole day she was distracted by her concerns as she worked. Planning what to say to 2B, 9S and Anemone—especially Anemone. Knowing the routine well enough for her mind to speculate and thankful that she was technologically inclined.
From the complaints of the Resistance androids, the YoRHa models had the better and more advanced tech. What was left was the scraps that still functioned from the Old World. Lilia found it rather strange that they never considered improving for better use. She chalked it up to maybe how they were constructed.
It was still far more advanced than what she was used to dealing with, but it was familiar enough to where it didn't hinder her. Didn't hurt to ask about something she wasn't acquainted with though. The tech androids in their gruff but kind way would explain it to her. This would doubtless be the thing she would miss most about the Resistance camp. The more Lilia communicated with them, the more their behavior would astound her. Honestly she often felt like she was back at home shooting the shit with her co-workers.
Even though it was damn close to talking with another human being, it was better than nothing; better than the creeping sense of isolation.
It wouldn't be until three days later that 2B and 9S entered the camp. She overheard them talking to Anemone from the neighboring tent she was in. Lilia stopped on her project and put down her tools to approach them once they were finished speaking to the Resistance leader. They handed over a large crate of what looked like filters to Anemone.
Oh yeah, that right. She remembered. The tech guys mentioned getting a supply of fuel filters from Pascal's village. Some androids in camp needed theirs replaced.
Lilia watched the verbal exchange from her work tent and gave a small wave to 2B when she turned her head toward her. The quiet android gave a curt nod. The action didn't go unnoticed from the astute commander they were talking to. Anemone turned her head toward her and waved her over. Lilia hesitated a moment before walking to the three.
"Lilia, we have the fuel filters we ordered from Pascal, I need you to take them to the storage warden Junkster."
She nodded and replied, "Right away Anemone."
"Good, I'll leave you to it." She replied before turning her attention to the YoRHa androids. "2B, 9S you can both go with her, the high-viscosity oil is stored back there. Be sure to give it to Pascal."
She gave them a warm smile and a brief hug once the Anemone left to attend to other duties. "Hey, guys good to see you."
"Likewise." 2B said simply.
9S—on the other hand—smiled widely. "You too Lilia."
"Well, lets get these filters to storage warden Junkster." She said before clearing her throat in sudden nervousness, "Look, um, we need to talk. In private after we're done with these filters. Outside preferably."
They both nodded. If they were curious as to the conversation they were about to have, they didn't show. Though having the equivalent of a blindfold across half their faces didn't help in that department. She suspected they were eager to talk to her by how fast and eager they carried the two hundred pound crate with filters to the back and settled on the high-viscosity oil with storage warden Junkster. He agreed to leave the five hundred gallon barrel near the camp entrance so they can take it once they depart for the village.
Once that business was closed, next came the hard part. The three of them snuck out and walked a ways until they were a reasonable distance from the bustling camp.
"So, what's up Lilia? You looked serious back there." 9S asked with concern.
She bounced on her heels, still racked with nerves despite having gone over and over with what she wanted to say.
"It is serious… kind of. Depends. Um, you know my fires I used to cook right? Well, they haven't been gone unnoticed in the camp and they've been commentin' on my 'strange behavior' for an android. I've discussed this with the twins, and we've decided that I need to be moved elsewhere. I came up with traveling with you two—"
"No." The serious android responded, "The Commander made a point—"
"I know 2B, just listen OK?" She interrupted with a heavy sigh. "I know I'll be in danger and all, but at least that way I won't be discovered by another android or machine. I would be willin' to hang back durin' the fightin' bits or hide somewhere, seein' as you two can handle yourselves in a fight and, well, I can't."
"The Commander won't approve." 2B responded doubtfully.
"I know. But, just in case, I have an alternative. I can stay in Pascal's village. You've had more interactions with them than me and they don't seem the type to be nosey. Also, I wouldn't have to worry about enemy machines like I would at the Resistance camp or be sent on the front lines or something. I don't know what you two or the twins said to Anemone to make her not question me. Like hello? New android in the camp who's actin' kinda funny and seems to be gettin' preferential treatment from the twins? It's only a matter of time before she digs too deep and I won't be 'Top Secret' anymore. She's already cornered me about the twin's protective behavior.
"If you could patch me to the Commander, I'd appreciate it. I have other questions as well I need to ask."
A moment stilled between the three of them before a screen materialized from 2B's pod.
"This is operator 6O, go ahead 2B."
"6O patch me to the Commander."
"On it!"
The screen blanked for a few seconds before another face came up.
"This is the Commander, what is it 2B?"
"We are reporting that there has been… a complication."
"What complication?" Her tone not in a very friendly manner at the mention of that word.
"Our… other mission is at risk of being compromised. She wishes to speak to you directly."
There was a brief silence before the Commander responded, "Very well."
The silver pod floated to her, revealing the face of the YoRHa commander. She had a stern, calm facade washed out by the orange-yellow color of the screen. Her eyes forward and that could see through bullshit miles away. Though, Lilia nearly lost her composure when she saw the style of hair the fearless Commander was sporting. It looked like a hack job a child would do to a Barbie doll with scissors.
Despite that, her nerves trembled in her stomach again, and what she wanted to say vanished from her mind.
Before she could muster her courage, the Commander spoke first, "You weren't at all what I expected." She said in a less authoritative manner than she did with 2B.
It was enough to break through her nervousness for her to find her voice, "I'm glad to keep you on your toes."
The Commander nodded before asking, "What complication did 2B speak of?"
From there, she explained that the Resistance camp was beginning to catch on to her identity and her subsequent proposals.
"I see. I had hoped that you would continue to stay there indefinitely."
Her mind thrown off at that last remark, "Indefinitely? Shouldn't you be workin' on a way for me to be transported to the moon with the other humans?"
"That… is not possible. Resources are tied to the war effort, and what it would take to transport you is greater than what we have available. The Council of Humanity knows of your presence. Eventually you will be transported. For now, I suggest you get comfortable."
She could feel her nails dig into her palms and falling into a dark pit of dread in her chest. Even though she said it in the gentlest, if blunt, way all Lilia heard was, 'Sorry, your ass is staying on a war-torn planet until further notice. Haha! Lol.'
"All right." She forced out of pursed lips.
A nagging voice at the back of her mind poked at her. Something with how the Commander spoke. Even though Lilia had no reason to not believe her words, the assumption she was leaving things unsaid sunk like a wood splinter hiding under skin. Wouldn't this 'Council of Humanity' work overtime to ensure another human made it to the moon? Not only that, one that can squat out children?
Something stinks about this. Deciding to let it lie, perhaps there was an internal conflict on the moon and the Commander was keeping her out of it?
"I'm sorry you can't be with your brethren sooner. When I know of the day they schedule for your pick up, I'll personally let you know. As for your two proposals, it would sync better if you were at Pascal's village. The furthest from harm you are the better. I apologize for not considering this dilemma sooner."
Lilia shook her head, "Don't be. I guess even you guys make mistakes. What do you suggest we do about Anemone? I don't want to be hunted as a deserter."
"Nor do I." The android Commander agreed, "The simplest solution, and one that will cause fewer problems, would be to let Anemone know your identity. She can handle her own with your disappearance from camp."
"Ha! Don't even bother." A booming female voice rang outside of the four.
Both 2B and 9S raised their weapons in defense.
"Put those weapons down, it's me." The source revealing herself out of the decrepit ruins. "Why do you YoRHa androids always underestimate us?" The Resistance leader stated in a peeved tone. "We didn't survive the last six-thousand years of the alien invasion for nothing."
The android Commander 'humphed' over hearing Anemone's words.
"I knew something was particular about you." She said in a softer tone to Lilia, almost in admiration, "A human? After all these millennia. I had almost forgotten about their quirks and needs. Explains the twin's behavior."
"Then no explanation is needed." The Commander cut in. "I'll leave the details of her absence up to you Anemone. Commander out." In a flash, the orange tinted screen vanished.
Said leader chuckled, "Commander White, she was always so stiff. Anyway, go ahead and pack, you can leave whenever you wish. I'm presuming that 2B and 9S will be your escorts to the village?"
Lilia nodded, "I'm guessin' so."
"Very well. By the way you two," she said to the two androids, "once you finish escorting our soldier, I have a mission ready on your return. And don't forget about that high-viscosity oil." Not giving them the opportunity to accept or decline she walked back the path to the camp. "Oh, before I forget. Lilia, if you ever want to visit, or need anything, don't hesitate. The tech guys are gonna miss you."
"Um…" she started to respond.
The astute leader stopped and turned around, "Yes?"
Slumping her shoulders and a blush forming across her face, "I… kinda do… but it seems silly to ask. If you don't have any, it's alright. Um, you wouldn't have… things that helped keep humans clean do you? Like shampoo or soap?"
The resourceful woman blinked at her.
"Well… I guess it didn't hurt to ask."
It didn't take her long to pack her sparse belongings or word to reach the tech guys of her departure. Giving her a warm goodbye and wishing her luck on her mission. 2B and 9S waited at the entrance of the encampment. 9S's pod emitted a ring around the high-viscosity oil barrel to carry it to the machine village.
9S looked at her queerly. "What's with the pole?"
"Oh, it's for self-defense," she explained. "Even though I'm no good in a fight, there is nothin' like givin' something' a good whack. So, are we goin'?"
"Wait." A voice from behind held them at bay.
It was the twins.
"Before you go," Devola began, "we have something for you."
Popola handed her a small, metal pot the size and shape of a 12-ounce cereal bowl with an extended handle, a pointed spout for pouring, and a metal lid; a small pocket knife; a leather belt with two sheaths, one looked big enough for the dagger 2B let her have and for the pocket knife; and a metal water canteen that looked brand new with a braided leather strap. As she took the items, she could tell the canteen was full of water from the the sloshing of the liquid.
"You'll need these. We've been cleaning and supplying your water for you. So, we thought to give you the tools you need since you won't be here any longer." Popola explained.
"If you head northwest of Pascal's village, there is a stream a mile away that, according to the scouts and recon, has been free from hostile machines. Use the pot to boil your water for a minute. If you fill both canteens, you'll have enough water for two days."
She smiled contently. These two were always looking out for her even when it grated her nerves. She put the pot in her purse and strapped on the knife belt and canteen around her waist. The dagger 2B gave her fit in the larger sheath.
"Thank you." Gratefulness flooded her appreciation as she gave them both a hug. They stiffened at the contact but returned it.
The stroll to Pascal's village was a quiet one in terms of fighting machines. With talking, however, 9S persisted in his questioning. 2B explaining that scanner models are inclined to be that way.
"And hey, sorry for being so suspicious of you." 9S said apologetically. "We, um, encountered something odd a month prior to meeting you involving the hostile machines."
Lilia had to think way back to their first conversation to reference what he was taking about, "Oh yeah, I remember you bein' just as vague when we first met. Can you two tell me or is it Top Secret?"
"The latter. Commander's orders." 2B replied.
"Fine. As long as it won't get me hurt or killed later."
"We've been given no suspicion that what happened during that mission would compromise you."
"That's one way to put it 2B." Her partner retorted. "And we haven't encountered that thing or one like it since then."
"A fluke?" She speculated.
"Hopefully," replied 9S, "though there's a chance. One of those goliath-class Searchers hasn't come looking for you like before?"
"So that's what those things are called? Searchers? And what's a 'goliath-class'? But, no, it's been quiet in that department. Well, as quiet as it can be at a military camp."
"Oh, sorry, um, 'goliath-class' are large machines that are more advanced than the small ones you've seen around here. Some are about as big as that tree over there," pointing to a tree about fifteen feet tall, "while others are as big as those human buildings if bigger. Those take several YoRHa androids to take down. And they are equipped with more advanced weapons and defenses than standard units." 9S explained.
"Well… guess I know which ones to avoid like the plague then. The one that found me was enough for my tastes. Speakin' of which, you guys been about to find out why it was after me? I was only hear a few hours when it stomped its way through the forest."
"Unfortunately, no." Replied 2B.
"When I tried remote hacking it, all I could discern was the order to capture you along with your face." 9S informed her. "No clues as to where or why the order was sent. Not even where to drop you off once you were captured."
Lilia shrugged. "Maybe whoever sent that Searcher is the same one who gave me a piggy-back ride to this time?"
"Well, it makes the most sense. Why bring you here if not to capture you?"
"Speculation is useless until more intel comes in 9S." 2B interjected.
"It doesn't hurt to put the thought out there 2B."
Once they entered the village, the mob of child-bots rushed to her exclaiming, "Ms. Lilia is back!" and "Whoo-hoo!" Pascal coming just a moment later. Expressing relief at her recovery. She gave her thanks for the machine who brought her to the Resistance camp. Revealing that none of the machines in the village brought her. They only found 2B and 9S and she was already at the camp by the time they were brought there which confused the hell out of her.
How the world did I end up at the Resistance camp?
Her memory was fuzzy and scarcely remembered anything after the explosion of the goliath-class Searcher. Save the impression of being carried and something or someone else that she couldn't place.
Well, if I ever meet this mystery person, I need to thank them.
She resumed her role in the village as the diplomat from YoRHa. The two androids explained that they were unaware that the Commander at the Bunker had sent her while their comms were down, and that she was a new model constructed for the task. Pascal took their word for it.
"I'm glad you're alright. The children have been worried about you. I hope you can tell them one of those stories. The one you told has been all they've been talking about since things have returned to normal here."
She chuckled, "Don't worry, I have plenty."
"They'll be glad to hear it. By the way, the room I gave you is still empty. Go ahead and settle in."
"Thank you, Pascal. I hope to be of some use while I'm here. If you have any software or programs that need looking over, I'll be happy to look."
"Thank you for the offer."
"Can you play with us now?" One of the impatient children asked.
Lilia smiled, "Tell you what children, let me say goodbye to 2B and 9S, put up my things, and then I'll tell you another story. How about the tale of the Little Red Riding Hood?"
That put the child-bots in a fiery mood.