They were basically at the doors of FLAG. It had taken them several hours to get there, a long long drive through the rain in broad daylight. They had done their best to keep a low profile but two Trans Am's at the same time in the same place brought about too much attention. Although Kitt and Karr weren't aware of it, wherever they drove they cast a little glimmer from a past world, a long-gone era. Perhaps this too might have made it so the few police cars they passed let them slip by, or on some occasions tailed them quietly in admiration.
It was late in the afternoon now though, making it easier for both AI's to slip by traffic almost unnoticed. Most people looked tired, Kitt could make it out fairly easily through their damp windshields. He came to the conclusion they were all like that from their weekend trips and anxious to get home to get much-needed rest for the work to come tomorrow. Michael had been like that often, although if Kitt had to admit Michael didn't always look that happy about returning to the usual work. It was natural he assumed, it had gone like that for a long time. Michael lived on the road with Kitt, never settling down for too long.
Kitt's engine hummed over quietly as they came to a lonely stop sign. Karr waited his turn before heading down the road but Kitt remained silent and fixed in place. He recognized this stop sign.
He recognized this road.
If he chose to go up the road he would get the answers he wanted, the answers he needed, but there was always the odds that they wouldn't be favorable. Being a computer he was well familiarized with bad news, often giving answers tightly fixed with reality. News that could not be changed nor broken. He had given bad news before, too many times to Michael. Even being a computer he had seen how something like "news" could penetrate even the most robust of hearts. Kitt didn't have a "heart" but he was aware (even though reluctantly) that he did have feelings...What if the "news" he got broke his "heart"? Countless times he'd seen Bonnie's, Devon's, RC's, and Michael's hearts be broken. What if it was his turn? He'd always been there for his friends and they'd been there for each other, but what if there was no one there for him when he finally broke his "heart"?
'Kitt? Is something wrong?' Came Karr's voice, oddly soft from the private channel.
'Wrong? There's nothing wrong Karr, I might have a few programs out of service but that doesn't mean I am too.' Kitt replied, struggling to hide his worry.
'You stopped following.' Karr replied. 'Is it because of the foundation? Do you no longer wish to continue?' Karr replied, sounding too anxious for Kitt's liking.
'Of course not, It's my home.' Kitt replied, looking over the intersection and heading over where Karr was waiting alongside the road.
'Very well, then this is as far as I will take you. I will await you in the vicinity, let me know when to take measures.'
'Measures for what Karr?'
'Escape measures.'
Kitt went silent over the private channel, the black T-top taking in what would soon be the last rays of the partially cloudy afternoon.
'Karr, you sure you can't come with me?' Kitt dared to ask.
'No.'
'It's just…' Kitt stopped himself. He was frightened and the last person he wanted to have known was Karr. '...I will signal you when I arrive and fill you in on the details. Take care, Karr.'
'The same to you.' Karr replied, sounding somewhat saddened, pulling away from the curve and heading down the street in search of a hideout.
Kitt watched painfully until he was out of sight, he didn't want to do this alone. Who would be there to help him mend his broken "heart" if it did end up happening?! Sure Karr probably wouldn't understand but at least Kitt would have the comfort of having someone there to accompany him through the process. He stood there on the curve as the clouds started taking a pink tint around the edges.
He recalled how Bonnie had been there when he awoke after having drowned in the acid pit, he'd been awakened in full panic in a dark space, badly hurting and very alone but Bonnie had soothed him even if it had been through code or writing. He'd known that he was in good hands and that she wouldn't let harm come to him, not for a long time to come and surly while he was so vulnerable. Through the whole process of his reconstruction, he had to admit he'd been very dependent on the technician, asking for her whenever she went on break or simply vanished out of his limited awareness. It was awful and yet she somehow knew how to comfort him, that everything would be alright, that things would get better further down the road and that he'd soon be back to his elegant and graceful form.
The problem was Bonnie wasn't with him, nor was Michael. No one was. He couldn't blame Karr, not completely. They hardly knew each other and he was certain that Karr didn't have a good view on the foundation, not after everything that had happened.
Kitt gunned his engine gently, leading the vehicle out to the headquarters. Putting aside his fears and worries, taking on his role as a computer, as an analyst but he just couldn't. He couldn't help his desire to speed over the limit, he desperately wanted to reach his home...his family.
His tires screeched as he sped into the mansion's driveway and came to an abrupt stop as he arrived. His "heart" sank to the bottom of his tires as he took in the disappointing sight.
Quietly he turned his engine off and stood there, in realization. Taking in the appalling conditions that had befallen the mansion. It was overrun by plant growth, weeds poking through the cracked driveway, and stagnant water in the center fountain. Windows tinted in heavy dust and moss growing on the walls. He took it all in reluctantly, every single detail. He needed to. Convincing himself of reality. He'd been gone for a long time…
Yet again he gunned his engine loudly on driving along the property limits. Avoiding altogether his garage and its painful memories of the past; where he'd spent most of his days peacefully when Michael decided to go on calls alone or was just simply resting.
Naturally, he was drawn to the gardens, there were few other places to see anyways. At first, it was hard for him to drive over the overgrown grass, thinking about what Devon would think but at last, there were few possibilities that there was anyone around anymore...Kitt felt his processor choke momentarily making him lose his grip over the system and noisily ran over a dead bush.
"Good grief," Kitt remarked as he split it in two. He drove over it with little to no problem but couldn't help feeling guilty even though it wasn't entirely his fault. He drove for a little while taking in the neglected gardens and overgrown shrubbery remembering what the former glory of them had been. He rounded the corner coming to another fountain, stopping as he caught sight of a man sitting at the water's edge silently reading a book.
Kitt dismissed the man, not wanting to draw unwanted attention. Being respectful of the man's reading time and retreating hurriedly. He just wanted to get away from it all. It was too heartbreaking to take anymore any further. He'd done it, it'd happened. He'd broken his heart and there was no one around to pick the pieces and help him get through it. He had no home, he had nowhere to turn to anymore...
Kitt, overtaken by what he was feeling, completely missed the fact that he wasn't being discreet. The familiar distant humming of his turbine shook the man out from his thoughts, making him tenderly turn facing the black car.
"My word.." The man mumbled, astonished.
Kitt froze, taken by surprise. He was almost sure he knew that voice but he didn't recognize the face. He carefully looked over the aged man, over his lack of hair and wrinkled demeanor. He felt upset that he didn't have the functions to directly identify the man but was slightly proud he could partially do so without it. He went quiet, taking in the man's mannerism as he slowly rose, running his hands along the spine of his book.
"Devon?" Kitt replied, almost a squeak.
"...It can't be…" The man took a step back, too back…
"Devon watch out!" Kitt jolted forward watching as the man slipped into the cold waters of the fountain. "Devon!" Kitt screamed, coming forward and launching his grappling hook into the waters. The old man struggled beneath the waters briefly but managed to resurface, choking on the water as he grasped the line.
"You alright Devon?!"
"My boy! It's you! Kitt! I never thought...I can't believe this!" Devon laughed floating on top of the algae-filled pool as Kitt pulled him out of the water.
Devon laid still in the grass taking in the gleaming figure before him, as Kitt quickly reeled in his grappling hook.
"Devon you alright? I can't scan your vitals at the moment but I don't think you should stay out here too long. You might get a cold."
Devon brushed himself off standing up and taking in his soggy appearance, giving Kitt the biggest smile he'd ever seen. He just couldn't believe it.
"I beg your pardon? You come back after all these years and the first thing you do is worry about me? Oh, Kitt, I'm so glad to see you again." Devon smiled, rubbing his eyes gently.
"As I am too, Devon. I'm very glad to be home."
Kitt went quiet briefly, making Devon cast a sorrowful glance.
"Devon?" Kitt timidly replied. "How long have I been gone?" A slight shiver escaped his voice.
Devon gave Kitt a sympathetic look.
"I don't think we should…" Devon swallowed thinking quickly over the matter, "We shouldn't get to the details yet my boy. I think a call to Bonnie would be best." Devon quickly approached Kitt, who slowly closed the gap between them. Devon gently patted his hood, Kitt instantly relaxing under the familiar gesture.
"Bonnie's here too?" He squeaked, his voice sounding sharp and very relieved.
Devon nodded, running his hand through his wet hair. Still feeling very well astounded.
"Not here at the mansion but I assure you she is around. I left my car just over there, follow me home and I will take a look over you." Devon coughed the t-top nudging the man on the leg. "I'm alright if that's what's worrying you, Kitt. Thing is, I'm worried about you."
"Devon,"
"Yes, Kitt?" Devon smiled, taking his reflection off of Kitt's shiny hood, something he never thought he'd ever do again.
"Get in." Replied Kitt lastly, popping open the driver's side door.
Devon nodded, almost surprised that Kitt would allow for it given the fact he was soaking wet.
"I'll have to put down your offer." He chuckled. "I can't leave my car in the garden overnight."
"You sure?" Kitt almost begged. Devon shuddered at the sounding of his voice and felt guilt slip into his stomach. He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath.
"If you insist," Devon replied, going around the open door, beaming at the all too familiar dash before taking a seat. He cringed at the sound of his wet clothing soaking into the upholstery, quietly grumbling that he'd done such a thing to Kitt.
"Devon."
"Yes, Kitt?" Devon winced.
"I think the upholstery is the least of our problems."
Devon smiled down at the voice modulator, patting the yoke affectionately.
"I'm glad to hear that." Devon chuckled. "If I could count all the times you bothered Michael about that…"
Kitt's engine died down. Devon bit his tongue and scolded internally.
"Devon, where's Michael?" Kitt begged urgently.
Devon folded his hands, looking down at his lap. Avoiding the dash.
"Kitt, I have the feeling you're not entirely aware of what's happened. I don't think it's the right time for you to know just yet. Let's wait for Bonnie and I will explain the rest."
"Promise?" Kitt squeaked nervously.
Devon grinned back to the dash comfortingly.
"Yes, promise." He replied, tenderly grasping the yoke and leading Kitt out of the garden and out towards the road. Kitt felt comforted by the friendly presence of Devon, and the endearing direction he was providing.
Bonnie was pale and trembling against her Kitchen wall. Her eyes were wide and moist as she listened to a worried man on the other end. From the way the man spoke to her, one could have mistaken him for a troubled father with a sickened son late into the night. However, it could have been much the case.
"You sure...Devon, you saw the wreckage! There is no way…"
"Bonnie, my dear. I know what you think, I couldn't believe it either but it's actually Kitt. I'm not lying."
Bonnie gasped, massaging her fingers over her temples.
"Devon, it's been years. It isn't possible, he might be...he might be a copy! You saw what was left of him, there is no indication that Kitt's processor would have survived the explosion." She bit her lip, trembling and feeling terrible at the thought of Kitt listening in to the conversation.
"Bonnie, I know it's hard to believe. I saw him too! I think we should keep this between us. Whoever rebuilt him must have been very educated on our organization and Kitt's design, there is a possibility that what happened that day was all planned to gain access to Kitt. We need to keep him safe and under the radar so to speak."
"Devon, where is he?" She gasped anxiously, coiling the phone line around her fingers.
"He's here with me, I settled him in my garage. I gave him a bit of a scrub at his request." Devon chuckled lightly into the receiver. "Oh Bonnie he's completely worried about everything, he urged me not to leave him alone just now. Bonnie, he needs your help, he's in desperate need of the comfort of our company. I know this might be too much to ask but could you come over right away? I'm also seeing if I can get in touch with Reginald, it might help Kitt better comprehend how long it's been."
"Of course Devon," She replied, choking back her tears and staring back at the ceiling. "It's just. It's been so long Devon, I...I spent so many years trying to get over it and I'd be lying to you if I didn't admit I had always hoped they'd come home even though I knew they never would and now...he's back and I don't know what to do. I mean we lost Michael and Kitt! All at the same time, it was too much…" she continued, tripping over her thoughts, over her choked sobs.
"Bonnie,"
"Yeah?" She croaked.
"He, he doesn't know about Michael." Devon sighed into the receiver, sounding troubled.
Bonnie drew the phone away, sobbing into her hand.
"Bonnie, he still thinks it's 1986." Devon continued.
"Oh, my God." Bonnie gasped into the receiver between tears. "I'm coming. It might take me a while but I'm coming Devon! Don't do anything until I get there!" She shouted, mentally taking inventory of all the things she would need if Kitt needed any heavy repairs. Heavily surprised when she realized how much she still remembered.
"Of course, oh and Bonnie,"
"Yes Devon,'' she sadly smiled into the receiver.
"Be gentle to him, he sounds very lost Bonnie. He's scared, he needs us...he needs you. He needs you to be strong for him. Can you do that Bonnie? I know it's a lot to ask for on such short notice, I know you wanted to let go of the past but…"
"Devon you can count on it." She grinned into the receiver. "I'll see you soon." She lastly added hanging up the phone and running into her back room to dig through her supplies.
Kitt was feeling rather comfortable in Devon's garage. It was nice and cool but very cozy. He took comfort with the familiar tools hung along the walls and cabinets housing car supplies. Of course, upon arrival, he'd messaged Karr, who had replied rather surprised to know FLAG's headquarters were no longer in use and that a great time-lapse had occurred. He'd informed Kitt of his whereabouts and if he could in some way be supplied with fuel eventually. Kitt agreed but wasn't too sure how he was going to go about doing so, but he was sure an opportunity would present itself. In the meantime, Karr would be hiding out in the countryside.
Now that he knew he was in safe hands Kitt turned his attention to the noise coming from inside the building. Devon had left the door that led into the house open after he had scrubbed him down while Kitt had explained where he'd escaped from (he was cautious to leave out the details involving Karr, he didn't think it was the right time to bring him up just yet), giving him the chance to watch Devon closely every time he walked past. He could tell he was making preparations for the arrival of Bonnie. There were also several other people with him, which Kitt had taken to be his personal staff.
Kitt was feeling nervous and anxious about seeing Bonnie again, and Kitt could only imagine what Michael would have said if he would have told him. Probably would have teased him about it. Kitt internally smiled at the pleasant picture that came to mind.
He was sure that Bonnie would be relieved to see him and very upset too! Mostly about his upkeep and his condition, but her upsetting would be welcomed, Kitt missed the attentive hand of his technician.
Suddenly a thought gently strolled through his electronic mind. What would Bonnie look like? It dawned on him that Devon hadn't changed that much and that he hadn't reacted too surprised and or bewildered liked he'd expected to have reacted. Kitt was aware of the effect of age on people but for some reason those around him...he had never considered age for them too much. To him they would last him a lifetime but...his lifetime was probably significantly longer than theirs. It was very alarming how long he'd been gone and how if he had awoken a little further into the future he would have had no familiar faces to connect him with the present at all!
How about Michael? Kitt suddenly thought. How would he be? How would he look aged? Was it possible he was ever able to re-marry? Would he have a family now? What were they like? Would he be glad to see him again? Or was there a possibility that he was the driver to another car!? Kitt suddenly felt instant jealousy tingle in his CPU. That would be horrible! He knew that dire situations required dire decisions but would have Michael really just shrugged their partnership off and accepted another car right away, just like that?!
"Devon! May we have a word?" Kitt called as Devin passed near the door. The man stuck his head through the doorway looking over Kitt, worrisome.
"Is there a problem? Bonnie should be arriving in around two hours." Devon replied tiredly.
"Devon, I'm aware you don't want to openly share everything I've missed all these years but did FLAG have another car commissioned?" Kitt asked urgently.
Devon frowned. Rubbing his chin.
"Where did you get that idea Kitt?" He sighed.
"Oh, I'm just asking because I'm aware the foundation would have looked for another driver if Michael ever did decide to retire but what about another car? Would Bonnie have made another car for Michael?" Kitt asked, sounding all too displeased.
Devon ran his hand through his hair. Was Kitt worried he had been replaced in his absence as Michael's partner? If that was so...Devon felt his heart sink.
"Kitt, I don't think you should worry but if you must know we never built another car. We could never replace you, and I'm not talking about another car...I'm talking about you, Kitt." Devon smiled going over to the driver's side and glancing down at the bright dash awaiting Kitts reply.
"Oh, well I'm thankful about that," Kitt replied, sounding cheeky. "I don't think another car could stand Michael just like I do."
Devon chuckled softly patting the t-top, a sad smile escaping his face.
"Devon."
"Yes, Kitt?"
"Why won't you talk about Michael? Did something happen to him?" Kitt asked, sounding worried.
"Kitt, I'm…" Devon took a step back looking away from the shiny t-top momentarily. "I'm afraid so, but I will give you the details when Bonnie arrives…" Devon gave him a comforting smile.
"Was it my fault?" Kitt croaked, making Devon jump.
"No. It was not your fault and I would like it if you never thought so!" Devon nearly shouted.
"Yes, Devon," Kitt replied, slowly grasping what it was they would probably explain to him soon. He was feeling anxious now. Something had happened to Michael, something bad...real bad...Kitt scolded himself for not having his other functions online. It would have made it a lot easier to figure out what was going on, but he was sure nothing good would have come of it either.
He recalled the "dream" with dread. He desperately wanted it to be a fragment of his imagination. It just couldn't be a reality...he just couldn't accept it!
"Kitt, are you alright!?" Devon shouted over Kitt's uproaring turbine, opening the driver's door and looking over the dash.
"Oh, I apologize," Kitt replied sheepishly, turning his engine off and going idle.
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing Devon, I'm just...he's dead isn't he…?" Kitt bluntly accused.
Devon closed his eyes, wincing to himself.
"We'll wait until Bonnie gets here…"
"Devon, just tell me the truth, is Michael dead or not?" Kitt protested.
Devon sighed, closing his hands before settling into Kitt's damp driver seat.
"Kitt I assure you it was out of your and Michaels control. You were both overmatched and it very much was NOT your fault! I never want to hear you blame yourself ever again, is that clear?" Devon strongly replied. "Yes, as for Michael I do believe he is no longer with us." Devon put his hands in his lap going quiet, giving Kitt some privacy to process what he'd just said.
Kitt had gone quiet as expected, his modulator dark for a long long time.
Michael couldn't be dead. Kitt wouldn't allow it. It wasn't possible. Michael was one of the most stubborn humans he'd ever come across and despite all his shortcomings one of the smartest. He was no scientist but he was bright. Death just didn't seem to be on Michael's agenda. Kitt tried to pull at his "dream" again, looking over the memory for any evidence that Michael could have survived, but too many pieces were missing. Kitt startled himself, the thought of accepting this "dream" as a reality so quickly giving him a sickening feeling he didn't quite understand. He needed Devon and Bonnie to fill in the gaps for the "dream" if he was to investigate what had happened to Michael. He couldn't have died, Michael had taken on so many dangers in the past that he was basically immune to death.
"Devon, what happened?" Kitt suddenly blurted to Devon, making the old man jump in the seat.
"Kitt, I already told you. We must wait for Bonnie. You are in no condition to be taking this news just yet. Not on your own."
"Devon, but you're here. I need to know if I'm to be keeping my driver safe."
Devon sighed, rubbing behind his neck. It was just so hard...
"Kitt, I believe that's out of your control. Michael doesn't need any more protection." Devon quietly replied, almost in a whisper. "You've done your part and now it's time to...move on." Devon sheepishly replied.
"Devon, are you telling me to forget Michael!? Devon, I would never…!" He protested.
"I'm not telling you to forget, I'm telling you to accept the way things came to be. I know you will never forget and I'm glad you never will...I will never forget…" Devon quietly sobbed to himself.
"Get out." Kitt snapped, making Devon glance back towards the dash in alarm.
"Kitt I…" Devon eventually managed over his alarm. He was going over this too soon and too quickly for Kitt, it was just so hard to wrap his mind around the idea that Kitt's memory had stopped while he'd been with Michael probably just a couple of days ago from his perspective. It was all too heartbreaking.
"I'm sorry. I just...Devon, I need to be...left alone. Please, leave me alone." Kitt's cut in, his voice sounded like it was at the edge of a loud sob.
"Very well." Devon agreed, taking his leave and watching the driver's door close behind him. What had he done?
Kitt was quick to tint his glass and went instantly quiet.
"Kitt, I will make some tea for when Bonnie arrives," Devon remarked trying to soothe the grieving AI. "I will come back and keep you some company. When she arrives we can talk over what's happening and figure out why you ended up in that storage warehouse, to begin with."
"Thank you, Devon, but no thanks." Kitt abruptly replied. "I don't need company right now, when Bonnie arrives you can come…"
"Kitt, you need company. The last thing you need is to be left here alone."
"I'm alright Devon. Nothing Bonnie can't fix." Kitt strongly replied. Devon nodded reluctantly leaving the garage, feeling heavily guilty. Maybe he should have waited for Bonnie, or for the least kept the information to himself a bit longer. Devon took one last look at the quiet Trans Am. He sighed one last time before disappearing into his home.
Kitt watched him leave, feeling rather guilty himself too but he needed to be left alone if he was to concentrate on making a plan for Michael's search.
'Karr, do you read me?' Kitt urgently blurted into the private channel. At the moment the only other person he could turn to was Karr.
'What's wrong? Is FLAG attempting to deactivate you?!' Karr shouted, alarmed.
'No Karr, but we need to find Michael.' Kitt sheepishly replied, slightly surprised by Karr's worry.
'Michael Knight? What happened to him?' Karr nervously recalled Kitt's nightmare a day ago.
'I don't know, they won't tell me. Can you hack your way into a governmental database and look for information?' Kitt begged.
Karr went quiet on his end, taking his time to respond. He wasn't too sure he could.
'Very well.' He finally replied. 'I will attempt to find Michael Knight…' He spat, sounding somewhat annoyed. 'Where is the fuel?'
'I'm still dealing with the subject Karr, I will stay in touch.' Kitt replied, apologetically.
'It's an urgent matter, don't leave me waiting.' Karr growled quietly, slightly touched by Kitt's consideration.
'Of course Karr, I understand.' Kitt replied, patiently.
With that the private channel went quiet, Kitt's anxiety rising through the roof as he waited for Karr to fill him in on the details. He wondered how long it would take until he'd get any leads. His thoughts were answered right away.
'I have information regarding Michael Knight, it is all that I found in a public database. As for the government database, I could not get through it. Here is what I found: Michael Knight died in a work-related accident involving a criminal case in 1986, his body was never recovered. He was announced legally dead not long after they found traces of...' Karr was interrupted.
'Good Karr,' Kitt remarked, not wanting to even think about what it was they found traces of. 'Where was the accident?'
'Happened outside the city of LA, in a fabricating facility that was never specified in the report.'
'That's strange.' Kitt remarked, 'why wouldn't they specify the facility?'
'It was abandoned.'
'What else Karr? Anything else on the report?'
'You were destroyed and killed, your chassis was found burning in a deep ditch inside the building. They could not extinguish you for two days-'
'I died?!'
Karr went silent, thinking over the matter.
'Let me remind you I "died" too.'
'What do you mean by…?'
'The odds of survival happen to be very high for us...unlike Michael-'
'I don't think Michael died.'
'No?' Karr replied rather astonished.
'You said it yourself Karr they never found the body and well...he wasn't inside the building as it burned so they couldn't have missed him.' Kitt painfully replied, going over his fragmented memory. He'd seen Michael alive before he'd blanked out. He wasn't burning to his relief if the memory proved to be accurate but he was aware that he'd been trapped under the rubble. What were the odds Michael got out on his own? What if someone else helped him? What if they weren't friendly? 'I believe he survived and might need our help urgently.' Kitt remarked, trying to ease his thoughts.
'Kitt, you must be broken.' Karr replied teasingly. 'It's been years since the event occurred, Michael Knight would no longer have use for your service if he indeed is alive.'
Kitt had no answer for the last one. He stood in silence taking in the lively chatter coming from within Devon's home.
'I need to know where he is, Karr. I need to find him.'
'Does that mean you won't be staying at the foundation?' Karr asked, excitingly.
'I won't be staying long now, I just need repairs and I will begin my search for Michael.' Kitt replied.
Karr felt excited, so that meant the two of them would be on the run, didn't it? Kitt no longer wanted ties with FLAG; it seemed other than wanting to find Michael Knight's true fate. It was perfect! Karr was sure he could take the opportunity to convince Kitt to vanish with him, he was pretty convinced Michael Knight had not survived based on all the evidence, so after their search concluded Kitt wouldn't have any reason to return. They could finally be free!
'Keep me updated on our departure.' Karr replied, hiding his excitement.
'Thank you, Karr.' Kitt replied, sounding heavily relieved that at least someone was supporting him on this matter.
Bonnie had arrived late in the night. She'd been welcomed in by Devon himself, who was urgently awaiting her by the door with a warm cup of tea. She took in his demeanor worryingly, he looked very tired.
"How is he?" Bonnie asked him anxiously, as he took her arm and led her towards the garage.
"I'm not sure," Devon nervously began. "I might have told him too much."
Bonnie stopped walking looking over Devon's worried glance.
"He knows-?"
"I'm afraid so, he wouldn't allow me to keep it from him any longer," Devon replied, mildly upset with himself.
Bonnie gasped, looking down to the floor.
"In that case, you have to let me see him right away." She quickened her pace.
"My thoughts exactly," Devon replied, motioning her to an open door.
The moment Bonnie stepped in, Kitt exclaimed in full excitement.
"Oh, Bonnie!" Kitt shouted, beaconing the Trans-am forward.
"Kitt!" Bonnie exclaimed enthusiastically, nearly pulling Devon's arm out of its socket as she tried to reach the excited AI quickly.
"Oh, Bonnie, I thought I'd never see you again!" Kitt went on. "I'm so glad to see you!"
Bonnie crouched down patting Kitts hood affectionately.
"I thought I wouldn't too…" Bonnie murmured under her breath, tears of joy going down her cheeks and landing silently on Kitt's hood.
"Bonnie?"
"Yes, Kitt." She sobbed softly, rubbing at her wet eyes. She couldn't believe it, he was in one piece!
"I need you to repair me right away, if I may gently add," Kitt replied, taking a serious tone. Bonnie nodded between moist eyes, glancing towards Devon who gestured with his hands letting her know what this was all about.
"Kitt, I will do my handy work right away." She smiled reassuringly looking over Kitt nervously. "What happened to your scanner?" She remarked slightly alarmed, noticing the absence of its activity as she rubbed her eyes with the back of her hand.
"I had to turn it off," Kitt replied, sounding happy again.
"Why?"
"Well, it wouldn't allow me to think. It's this program that keeps interfering with my functions Bonnie and I can't get rid of it," Kitt explained, sounding relieved she'd be fixing it soon.
"I'll take a look." She replied, being somewhat slow to rise from her crouched position. Reluctant to leave Kitt's side. Kitt took this time to look over her, she seemed to have aged rather well. She still held the elegance she had back in the day, and although she wasn't as nimble as she used to she still held the air of determination.
"While I look over your systems, Kitt, we can all chat about what's been going on." Bonnie comfortingly added as she took several tools out from the bag she'd been carrying.
"Yes, Bonnie. I'd like that very much."
Bonnie smiled, suppressing herself from buckling under her worries. Devon put a comforting hand on her shoulder before he nodded for her to continue.
Kitt opened his hood for her, feeling comfortable around the familiar pair of hands. Bonnie went over her check-up in careful inspection, while Kitt explained what had occurred in the past three days.
"It was terrible! It was what I'd say would better fit the description of a headache. The awful program just kept calling to me, homing me in. I just couldn't understand and then I shut down at the side of the highway. My guess is I couldn't take it anymore. It puts all my systems under so much pressure."
Bonnie was looking over her readings, giving Kitt a worried look.
"I don't recall making this program, Kitt."
"My thoughts exactly. I don't have a register for it."
"It's so well hidden though," Bonnie continued, "You wouldn't know it was there unless you'd known where to look."
"That would explain many things, Bonnie."
Devon nodded from the corner of the garage, speaking up.
"Kitt, I think it's time we told you about your disappearance." He quietly motioned for their attention.
"Maybe it's too soon, Devon," Bonnie replied, taking a step towards Devon. "I don't think Kitt should-"
"No, please. I need to Know Bonnie." He cut in, begging her to let Devon continue. Bonnie nodded, taking a seat in Kitt's driver's seat while she accommodated his system.
"Several years ago, 1986 as you know." Devon began pacing the room slowly. "You and Michael went off on a case involving thieves responsible for stealing high caliber weapons. You two had corralled them in an abandoned factory when suddenly you were ambushed. We lost contact…" Devon trembled, swallowing as he continued. "When we arrived on the scene the building was on fire and your parts, except your shell, were scattered all over the lot. Your chassis was later found in the center of the building in a huge hole. We're not too sure what it was doing there, to begin with, but we were certain it was you. We had Identified everything." Devon took a seat on a stool, putting his hands in his lap. "We found Michael...not too far away inside the remains of the burnt building...what was left...Kitt, I'm greatly sorry but-"
"No!" Kitt shouted, startling Bonnie. "I refuse to believe this Devon! I remember Michael being alive before I blacked out. It couldn't have possibly been Michael!"
Devon stood up making his way to Kitt and tapping his roof reassuringly.
"May we hear what it was you saw?" Devon asked respectfully.
Kitt went quiet, trying to think.
"That's the odd part Devon, I don't remember everything. I do remember limping around the lot looking for Michael after I was presumably struck by an explosion of some sort, but I vividly remember finding Michael outside conscious."
"Kitt, what happened before you blacked out?" Bonnie asked, tinkering with his dash.
"Well, that's the strangest thing, Bonnie. I was dragged away."
"Dragged away?"
"Yes, that's all I remember. I begged them to help Michael but they wouldn't. They kept dragging me away and Michael tried to help but he just couldn't get free from under the rubble!" Kitt shouted, sounding greatly disturbed by what he had seen. "I just can't believe it's true! That all that happened, I thought it was all a dream!"
Devon and Bonnie looked at each other in worry.
"Kitt, I know this is hard for you and it was and continues to be for us. I know accepting the death of someone you love so greatly is very difficult and I want you to know-"
"Bonnie! You can't possibly have also accepted Michael's death too!?" Kitt shouted, his scanner finally lighting to life.
Bonnie shook her head.
"Kitt we had sufficient evidence to suggest…"
"Well, I don't have sufficient evidence to prove otherwise. Michael isn't dead."
"How can you be so sure?" Devon finally asked, curious.
"Take me for example, I'm not dead." Kitt replied, "Karr isn't dead either and I find that rather surpris-"
"Karr!?" Both Devon and Bonnie shouted in unison in alarm.
"I…" Kitt tried to explain.
"Kitt I demand an explanation." Devon was quick to walk over to Kitt's front.
"Devon, Bonnie…" Kitt started. "Karr and I escaped the warehouse together. He helped me come here. I couldn't have left him there and in all honesty, I wouldn't have made it here with my navigational system completely offline."
"I was about to ask you about that Kitt," Bonnie crossed her hands, suddenly turning to Devon as she bit her bottom lip in anxiety.
"I also have a confession. Karr called me."
"He what!?" Devon and Kitt exclaimed together this time looking over Bonnie.
Bonnie laughed slightly.
"Well a day ago, I couldn't believe it either, now it all makes sense. He was trying to get help for you, Kitt."
Kitt's scanner slowed its pace, quietly humming in thought.
"I wasn't aware. Karr does care then." He finally remarked, quietly.
Devon rubbed at the back of his neck worryingly.
"Where is he, Kitt?"
"I don't know Devon but I plan on departing with him to inspect the site of the accident," Kitt replied strongly.
Devon raised his brows.
"What do you expect to find out there, after several years have elapsed, any evidence might no longer be intact." Devon crouched down, looking into Kitt's scanner trying to convince him of the inevitable.
"I have to try," Kitt replied, in almost a whisper.
Devon nodded, in understanding.
"I don't see the harm in it but I'm afraid I don't agree with your notion." Devon sighed.
"Devon, Bonnie?"
"Yes, Kitt?" Bonnie replied for both of them.
"Karr needs fuel, would you two be willing to house him here?" Kitt carefully asked, knowing too well what they probably thought about Karr.
Devon eyed Bonnie closely, deep in thought. She on the other hand looked down at her hands.
"Kitt, he's a danger…"
"If he were then he would have killed someone by now. He hasn't! Not while I've been with him...although...oh dear…"
"What?" Devon and Bonnie asked yet in alarm again.
"He destroyed someone's car…"
"Kitt!"
"-Devon but you should have seen what those animals did to us!? They threw garbage at us and said very offensive things." Kitt explained.
Devon ran his hands through his remaining hair.
"Alright, but that's the last time. Bring Karr as soon as you are repaired. Either way, it's safer we have him close than not." Devon added looking suspiciously over Kitt.
"Yes, Devon," Kitt replied respectfully.
Bonnie shook her head and laughed.
"You've had quite an adventure." She remarked on finishing the last of Kitt's repairs.
"I have, and I can only imagine what Michael has been going through too!"
Devon and Bonnie looked at each other once again. Devon turned away in thought before responding.
"Kitt, I understand you want to look further into this situation and I want you to know you have my approval, but you won't be doing so on your own. I will be calling in Reginald, see if he can get the earliest flight to meet us here so the three of us can put your mind at ease."
Kitt's scanner replied with a soft hum.
"Devon, can Karr stay?"
"Yes."
"-What if he doesn't want to?"
Devon frowned.
"Kitt you must convince him, we are responsible for his actions and we can't let him harm anyone."
"Will you deactivate him?" Kitt dared to ask. Bonnie gently slowed down in her spot, looking over Devon's sickened expression.
"No," Devon replied, sounding unsure. "I suppose not."
"Thank you, Devon," Kitt replied, relieved. "He's been an interesting friend lately."
"I'm sure," Bonnie added comfortingly, as Devon motioned to speak to her outside. "Kitt, I think that's all for tonight…"
"I understand, you should get some rest, Bonnie. See you tomorrow." Kitt remarked, sounding very relaxed.
Bonnie smiled.
"Goodnight Kitt."
"Goodnight Bonnie, Goodnight Devon."
"Goodnight old boy," Devon replied nervously as he led Bonnie out of the garage and switched the lights off, admiring Kitt's glowing scanner briefly before quietly closing the door.
"Devon, what's on your mind?" Bonnie asked nervously, sitting in a cozy armchair with a cup of tea in hand.
Devon was pacing in front of the fireplace, staring at the floor in thought. It was late now, and the sun was to start rising very soon. Yet, Devon knew it wouldn't be too wise to seek sleep just yet.
"I don't know if we can trust Karr, but it would be close to impossible to shut him down especially without anyone backing us up."
"Devon," Bonnie looked over at the worried man continuing to pace. "What will be of Kitt and Karr, FLAG is no longer around so technically they aren't their property are they?"
"If you're suggesting to keep them here with me, I strongly agree. Except what Kitt described out in the desert lets me believe that it was a secured governmental storage site. If that's correct I am sure someone will come looking." Devon nervously replied.
Bonnie nodded, crossing her legs and looking down at her teacup.
"Devon, do you think someone from FLAG copied Kitt's and Karr's CPUs?" Bonnie asked in an almost silent murmur, setting her cup on a nearby side table.
"I'm starting to think so…" Devon replied, "but it wouldn't make sense. You see if Kitt was a copy he wouldn't have the last memories of the original Kitt, especially if he got destroyed."
Bonnie nodded lying back against her chair.
"I'm glad he came back." She gasped dreamily.
Devon looked up from the floor, looking over the tired woman's face in the bright glare of the fireplace. He was happy about it too.
"Bonnie, someone set Kitt and Michael up and used the ambush to steal Kitt for their benefit. They've had him in storage for all these years!"
"I know," Bonnie replied, yawning. "Which brings up the question of who did it? Who am I supposed to smack in the face?" Bonnie grinned tiredly towards Devon who chuckled in the warm living room.
"That's something I'd like to know too." Devon sighed, putting his hands into his pockets as he turned to the blazing fireplace and the logs slowly being eaten away.
"Bonnie, I have a terrible suspicion that maybe Kitt is right…" He replied turning to Bonnie's chair, only to have a large smile form on his face. She had fallen fast asleep in the soft armchair.