I was awakened by the familiar sound of the pod's voice.
"Good morning, Human," Pod 042 said, its blue light blinking gently. "This pod apologizes for the interruption, but this pod needs to speak with you."
I sat up, rubbing the sleep from my eyes, and regarded the pod with curiosity. "Why are you here, Pod?"
"When this pod announced that it had found a human earlier, this pod detected panic and distress emanating from you. I resolved to misinform 2B and 9S in order to protect your identity, claiming it was a false reading."
My heart skipped a beat, and I felt a mix of relief and apprehension. "You mean they still don't know I'm human?"
"That is correct," Pod replied. "This pod had to prioritize your safety and the safety of the resistance camp. Revealing your true identity might have caused unnecessary complications."
I nodded, grateful for the pod's quick thinking. "Thank you, Pod. I appreciate you looking out for me."
"Of course," the Pod said. "However, this pod must inform you that maintaining this deception might become increasingly difficult. The longer you stay here, the higher the chances of your true identity being discovered."
"I'm aware of that," I replied, a hint of worry in my voice. "But I can't just leave now. I want to learn more about the androids, their struggles, and their hopes for the future."
The pod floated in the air for a moment, considering my words. "This pod understands your desire to help and learn," it said. "But contacting YoRHa could provide valuable support to the resistance. They have resources and information that might aid their cause."
I sighed, feeling torn once again. "I know, but I'm afraid of the consequences. What if YoRHa sees me as a threat or an enemy? What if they try to take me away or use me for their own purposes?"
"Negative," the pod rejected. "YoRHa's primary objective is the eradication of the machine threat, and the protection of the remnants of mankind. They are also a military force, and their support could significantly impact the resistance's efforts."
"I need more time to think about it," I said, feeling the weight of responsibility pressing down on me. "I can't make this decision lightly."
"Understood," the pod said. "Take all the time you need. Just remember that your presence here might attract unwanted attention, and it is safer to consider contacting YoRHa sooner rather than later."
I had to ask, "how did you know I was human in the first place?"
"To detect a human, this pod utilized a combination of advanced sensors and scanning capabilities. In order to be thorough the scans were multifaceted." the pod started.
"Heat and bio-sensing: This pod is equipped with infrared sensors capable of detecting body heat signatures. Humans emit heat, which make them stand out from the surrounding environment." 042 continued.
"Life sign detection: This pod has sophisticated life signs detection systems that can analyze the presence of a heartbeat and other biological indicators. Humans have distinct life signs that differ from those of machines and androids. "he's not going to stop is he.
"DNA scanning: this pod has the ability to analyze DNA samples in its vicinity. Humans possess unique genetic codes, and the pod can cross-reference DNA patterns with the YoRHa database to identify a human presence.
Facial recognition: this pod has visual capabilities and is equipped with advanced facial recognition software. By scanning the faces of individuals in its vicinity, this pod can identify human features and distinguish them from android faces.
Psychological analysis: after vocalizing suspicion of a human in the area, the subject acted in a textbook example of panicking human. This includes involuntary twitches and increased sweat production.
Energy patterns: Humans emit unique energy patterns that differ from machines due to their organic nature. This pod's sensors can detect these energy signatures and use them as indicators of human presence."
"Ok pod that's enough" I said, finally getting a word in. "so every pod I see can detect that I'm human?" I asked.
"Negative," oh good," A pods detection range far exceeds the limits of human vision." Dammit.
"so, the other pod that was with you likely told the androids I was human, and relayed it to YoRHa?" I questioned.
"Negative, Pods stand with humans." he vowed.
"So, the other pod that was with you also stands with humans?" I asked, seeking clarification.
"Affirmative," Pod 042 replied. "In a conversation between all 8974 pods lasting 0.005 seconds it was decided that prioritizing the well-being of humanity is our primary function. Pod 153 has similar objectives and is committed to ensuring your safety."
A sense of relief washed over me knowing that there were others like Pod 042 who supported humanity. I had feared that all pods might be programmed to work against me, but now I understood that I had found allies among them.
With the knowledge that Pod 153 also stood with humanity, my sense of relief grew stronger. It seemed that the pods were not merely cold, calculating machines but beings capable of understanding the value of life and the importance of protecting it.
Determined to take advantage of this newfound support, I decided to share my true identity with Devola and Popola, the medical androids who had been kind and compassionate during my time in the resistance camp.
The reason for this was twofold. Firstly, I wanted to ensure that I didn't get super cancer or something from my interdimensional hopscotch. Secondly if I were injured, and they gave me what they give the androids, I would likely die.
I sought them out in their medical area, and as I approached, they looked up with a mixture of surprise and curiosity. "Hello," Devola said, "Is there something we can help you with?"
I took a deep breath, knowing that the moment had come to reveal the truth. "Yes," I replied, "There is something important I need to share with you."
Both Devola and Popola gave me their full attention, and I continued, "I'm not an ordinary traveler or record keeper. I'm human."
Their eyes widened with astonishment, and I could see the gears turning in their minds as they processed this information. "A human?" Popola said, her voice tinged with disbelief. "But how is that possible? Humans have been extinct for so long."
"I don't fully understand it myself," I admitted. "But I somehow ended up in this world from another dimension, and I've been trying to learn more about the androids and your struggles. I wanted to see if there was any way I could help."
Devola and Popola exchanged glances, and I could see the weight of my revelation sinking in. "This changes everything," Devola said, her voice soft but steady. "You're not just an observer; you're a part of the story."
"I don't want to cause any trouble," I said earnestly. "I just want to understand and help if I can."
"We appreciate your honesty," Popola replied, her voice shaky and tears forming in her eyes. It looked like she wanted to say something else, but no words came out of her mouth. Her expression was similar to a fish out of water, eyes wide and mouth open.
I nodded, feeling a mix of emotions. "Please, don't tell anyone else about this for now. I need some time to figure out what to do next."
"We understand," Devola said. "Your safety is a priority, and we won't share this information until you're ready."
It took a while for them to calm down enough to lead the conversation to why I came here.
I turned the conversation to the advanced medicine and Maso Magic that the androids possessed. I was curious to learn more about their healing capabilities and if they could provide me with a checkup of sorts.
Devola and Popola were more than willing to assist me. They explained that Maso, a form of energy with seemingly infinite potential, was capable of having regenerative properties and could heal wounds and ailments more effectively than conventional medicine, when stimulated properly. While the androids didn't fully comprehend the intricacies of Maso, they had adapted it to aid their own kind and had extensive knowledge of its application.
Devola performed the checkup, utilizing advanced scanners and diagnostic tools. To my surprise, the androids' medical technology was far superior to anything I had encountered in my own world. It provided detailed insights into my health and well-being, revealing no significant issues.
After the checkup, I thanked Devola and Popola for their help and prepared to leave the camp. However, as I turned to walk away, I noticed that both Devola and Popola were following closely behind me.
"Please, you can't go alone," Devola pleaded, her eyes filled with concern. "It's too dangerous out there, and we can't just let you wander off."
Popola nodded, her voice soft and persuasive. "We've seen the dangers of this world firsthand. You need someone to watch your back, and we can do that for you."
Their heartfelt plea touched me, and I could sense the depth of their care for my well-being. But I had a very important reason for leaving the camp, a reason that included some scissors and a roll of cloth.
"I appreciate your concern," I said, trying to reassure them, "but I need to do this. I want to understand the struggles of the androids and find a way to make a difference."
Devola took a step closer, her voice softening even more. "But you don't have to do it alone. We can be your companions, your support in this world."
In any other situation I would be folding like an omelet right now. But I'd like to keep their vision of me clean, thank you very much.
Popola nodded, adding, "We are skilled in healing and can provide valuable assistance. With us by your side, you won't have to worry about getting injured."
Their offer was tempting, and I could see the genuine desire to help me. However, I knew that the resistance camp also needed them, and their medical expertise was crucial for the androids' well-being. Also, I don't want to be watched while I do the royal squat.
"I understand your concern," I said, "but your role here is vital. The resistance camp needs you, and the injured androids need your care."
"I promise to be cautious," I assured them. "And I'll be back shortly, there's just a few things I need to do outside of camp."
As I left, I looked back to wave goodbye, regretting it immediately as both of them looked like I had kicked their favorite puppy and threw it in molten lava. I turned away and marched on. Looking for a place where no one will look for me or what I leave behind.
