DBH: Accident Prone - Becoming Human

by WayWardWonderer

Connor struggles to comprehend his newly found emotions and learns what it means to be human as Hank guides him along his journey of self-discovery as his deviancy evolves him into something more than a machine. Connor isn't indestructible and his impulsive, selfless nature to accomplish his mission will be the death of him, or even Hank, as he learns what it means to be alive.

182. Reacquainted

Confused and lost in his decisions, Connor returned home from Skye Tower with a tremendous weight of guilt and confusion crushing his heart. Feeling guilty for keeping such a massive secret from Hank for two months - keeping a secret from everyone for that matter - Connor was unsure of how Hank would react to the news of the other android being hidden within Skye Tower. It took the worried deviant detective almost ten minutes to steel himself enough to get out of his car already parked in the driveway beside the house before he was able to finally walk inside to speak with Hank. For the first time since his deviancy Connor was unsure if he should enter the house or not as he didn't know what to expect.

Pushing open the backdoor slowly Connor stepped inside the kitchen and saw Hank reading his book in the recliner in the livingroom once again. It seemed wrong to disturb Hank's peaceful moment with his own personal dilemma, but Connor had no choice. He owed Hank the truth and was willing to confide in his best friend and father when in need of help.

"Uh, Hank?" Calling out the senior detective's name from the kitchen Connor timidly made his way through the kitchen and stood beside the couch in the livingroom. He was nervously wringing his hands together as best as he could with the splint on his left hand and began breathing rapidly in mounting stress. "...Can I talk to you for a minute?"

"Something wrong?" Hank's brow furrowed his confusion at the sound of Connor's voice and he promptly closed his book. "You look like you committed a crime or got caught skipping school."

"I... It's- How do I explain this?"

"First of all, sit down." Motioning to the couch Hank leaned forward in his recliner and eyed Connor with a curious stare. "Secondly, you need to take a deep breath and calm down. I'm not going to get mad at you."

"This time I think you might," Connor confessed as he took his seat and struggled to maintain eye-contact with his father. "and I would deserve it."

"Connor," the senior detective gave the anxious deviant a stern glance. "what did you do?"

"When I was in Miami..." Sitting in almost frightened manner, Connor took in a deep breath and steadied himself. "I found more than just the data in the warehouse and the hidden microprocessor."

"All right." Sensing something heavy in the air Hank encouraged Connor to keep speaking. "I'm listening. What's up?"

"I... I found another... android."

"Another android?" Thinking back to the night Connor had returned home exhausted and sick Hank remembered Connor muttering something about not leaving someone behind when he was lost in the throes a horrible fever dream. He thought it was just a figment of Connor's overwhelmed mind. "Did you bring the android back to Detroit with you?"

"Yes... He was unconscious. Placed in stasis mode for approximately nine years." Connor bowed his head as he found himself unable to look Hank in the eyes as he told the truth. The admission of the secret made Connor feel needlessly guilty despite doing something he believed to be a good thing. "He had been abandoned and left to be forgotten and destroyed by neglect."

A heavy silence filled the room that made Connor tense and edgy as he waited for Hank to start yelling at him. In response, Hank just let out a low sigh and folded his hands together over his lap neatly.

"Where is he right now?"

Connor's brow arched a little and his eyes went wide with surprise at Hank's relatively docile reaction. "Wh-What?"

"The android you brought back, where is he?"

"You're not mad?"

"Not for saving someone who had been left for dead."

"What about me not telling you about what I had done?"

"I'm not thrilled, but I'm not mad about that either."

As his shoulders sagged with relief Connor leaned back against the couch cushions and sighed. "I took him to Skye Tower."

"Son," Hank stood up from the recliner and sat down next to Connor on the couch. "why are you telling me this now?"

"Because I have to make a decision regarding his life."

"I take it he's still out of it and now you don't know if it's okay to wake him up."

"Yeah, that's it." Turning to look to Hank for guidance Connor seemed to be at an absolute loss. "He has been in stasis mode for a majority, if not the entirety, of his existence. He was the blueprint, the final design for the rest of the Con-" Trailing off a little the deviant found it difficult to keep speaking. "He was the first... Connor."

"He's the first what?"

"I'm the fifty-first Connor, and the last-" Pausing for a moment Connor changed his dialogue to be more appropriate. "Correction; I'm one of the two final Connor models left in existence. All of the models before me failed their tests and were disposed of by CyberLife. My would-be predecessors, fifty-two through fifty-nine, were eradicated due to my deviancy. And sixty, the final prototype built, well..."

"Yeah, I remember him. Glad you're nothing like him, too." Remaining quiet for just a moment to give Connor a chance to think Hank put his hand on Connor's shoulder. "So, this android you found is the very first one of... you?"

"Technically, yes. His number is registered as double zero. Once the design for my model was completed, they simply initiated a basic start-up program to ensure our prototype biocomponents would function correctly. This 'Connor' was never given any software, programs or functions beyond that of turning on and existing."

"He's functioning, but not alive, and you don't know if giving him a sense of consciousness is going to help him or harm him."

"Yes." Nodding a little Connor confirmed Hank's deductions. "What do I do?" Feeling lost and overwhelmed Connor was too afraid to make a decision either way. "I don't know if he's even aware of what happened to him or if he's even capable of being given a consciousness. And even so, who am I to force him to wake up? What if he's at peace the way he is, and I'd just force him to experience Hell?"

"Listen to me. I don't have any personal experience that mirrors anything close to this type of situation, so I can't exactly give you the best advice. But," shaking Connor's shoulder once Hank kept his voice level and reassuring. "that being said, I don't think you need me to help you with this one."

"I really don't know what to do."

"Sure you do. You're just worried that despite using your best judgement that it won't be good enough."

"I don't want to make the wrong decision. This android, he doesn't even have a name, and he could've seen the worst of CyberLife; and that would be all he's ever known. Despite the peaceful Revolution the world itself isn't much better for deviants, or even humans, for that matter."

"The world is NEVER going to be perfect, son. It's a harsh truth, but the truth nonetheless." Hank stated with full honesty from his own heart. "All we can do is strive to make the world a little bit better every day."

"If I do wake him up, if I do give him a sense of identity, what can I do about his purpose or his place in this world?" Connor didn't want the android to be awoken and left to fend for himself without any guidance or direction. "I can't assign him a role, but he won't have any experiences from a past to shape his possible future."

"How many androids did you wake up in the depths of CyberLife Tower?"

"Four-thousand, five hundred exactly."

"And where are they now?"

"They are everywhere in Detroit."

"They didn't have a past to guide their future, but they managed to find a purpose just fine." Removing his hand from Connor's shoulder Hank crossed his arms over his chest and sighed. "You didn't have much of a past either, kid. You only had a few months of, I don't know, 'activation', right?"

"That is accurate."

"Right, so you only had a few months of activation before you and I met. And despite only having a handful of past experiences you seemed to adjust pretty damn well."

"Adapting to human nature is a part of my original programming. And I had you to guide me."

"So, maybe you can guide him. He should have the same programming as you do anyway."

Uncertain of his next choice Connor just shook his head a little and remained where he sat.

"If that other android's been here for all these past couple of weeks and nothing's happened to him, then it'll be safe enough to keep him asleep for a while longer until you make up your mind. No pressure, no time limit, no rush. You do what you think is right when you think it's right. Okay?"

"...Okay."

"Good." Glancing down at Connor's broken left hand Hank lightly tapped the supportive brace with his right index finger. "How's your hand?"

"It's healing." Lifting up the appendage Connor again tried to flex his fingers, but the damage was causing limited movement. "It'll require three additional days before I can have the brace removed."

"Well, that won't be a problem since we won't be back to the precinct for another week."

"Do we know who is the acting mayor as of right now?"

"I guess it's that Jayden-freak from the F.B.I. until someone else can fill in the position."

"'Freak'? I don't understand why you'd refer to him by such a term."

"He had a drug habit or some shit about almost thirty years ago, and it left him a little weird. Something to do with taking down the infamous 'Origami Killer' from Philadelphia back in 2011. I don't know, it's not like I have any ground to stand on when it comes to judging people for their bad habits." Hank made sure to learn about Jayden's past long before the man even showed up in Detroit. "Besides, having some fed in charge makes it easier to sift through Nero's trash when he's at City Hall all day long."

"That sounds unpleasant for everyone involved."

"It usually is." Leaning back against the couch Hank rhythmically patted his knees with the palms of his hands as he let out a tired sigh. "Since you don't need me to keep tabs on your injuries anymore, I'm going to take a shower and go to bed early. I hate waking up in the middle of the night to change dirty bandages. Good thing I didn't become a nurse, huh?"

"I think you would've been a great medic regardless of your dislike for odd hours." Smirking a little Connor was relieved to have Hank's support and understanding in regard to his big decisions. "Thank you for all of your help."

"Don't sweat it, kid. Just stop trying to carry the weight of the world on your shoulders, all right? You're just one person and this a huge, ever changing world."

"...I'll try." Unsure of what else to say Connor closed his eyes and tried to figure out what he should do next. "I'll do my best."

---

It was a quiet but strange night. Laying on his back in his bed Connor stared up at the blank ceiling overhead as he tried to think of the best solution to the strange predicament of aiding the android, the "Original Connor", and doing so in a manner that was beneficial to everyone. Forcing the android to wake up after so long with no guidance, no history, or even memories to fall back on seemed so cruel and completely unnecessary. The sense of being lost, forgotten and having no place in the world was as lonely as it was heavy. It was a feeling that Connor had known for a short time, and it had hurt him emotionally. It was a feeling he didn't want anyone else to ever experience.

Drifting in and out brief dreams, catching glimpses of his own reflection in the still pond waters of the Zen Garden and faint echoes of his late little brother's voice calling out to him, Connor found his rest mode to be less restful than usual. Unable to sleep and unable to think about anything beyond the android that he had taken into his care Connor just stared at the whiteness above him and focused on his self-healing program on his left hand to pass the time. Steadily flexing his damaged hand without aggravating the injury in the process, Connor just waited for the night to give way to dawn.

"What do I do?"

It was a challenge Connor that had no idea how to handle. To make such a drastic and seemingly final decision was a strangely humbling thought that Connor couldn't get out of his head.

"I need to help him, I need to give him a chance to live, but what if I make the wrong choice?"

The sun was slowly beginning to rise and with it, Connor sat upright in his bed slowly.

"I need to wake him up and let him choose for himself. At least... I think that's what I need to do."

---

More rumors regarding potential mayoral candidates circulated throughout the city all morning long. Ever attentive of the city now that the corrupt and dangerous mayor had been arrested, Hank sat on the couch with a cup of warm coffee and Sumo's chin resting on his knee. As the news report indicating rumors regarding familiar former associates of the mayor - as well as the precinct, CyberLife and, yes, the infamous Elijah Kamski himself - continued to spread like a plague over the entire city, Hank just sipped at his coffee and rubbed Sumo's ears patiently. The senior detective had survived worse things than rumors and gossip, and he was currently fearless as he watched the news.

Disappointed by the way the media was eating up the rumors and stirring the pot, Hank sighed and shook his head slowly. It seemed as if the more things changed the more they stayed the same.

"Anything to get some ratings. Why report facts when fiction riles up a city that's already sitting on a ticking time bomb?"

As he rubbed Sumo's ears the gentle dog let out a small whimper. Looking down at the dog Hank just smirked.

"Good thing you're a dog. You don't have to deal with all this bullshit like me and Connor."

Sumo glanced up at Hank with his big brown eyes and lifted his head up as expectantly.

"Speaking of which, where is that kid? It's almost nine and he's always awake by seven-thirty."

"Right here." Connor replied as he reached the end of the hallway and joined Hank on the couch. Running his hand along Sumo's back Connor gave the loyal dog his good morning pets and ear rubs. "I couldn't sleep well. My internal chronometer seems to need recalibration."

"Or you could leave your clock like it is."

"Why would I do that?"

"Oversleeping and having an atypical sleep pattern is pretty human, kid."

"I don't want to be so human. At least not yet."

"All right, it's your decision." Finishing off his coffee Hank set the mug down on the coffee table and turned off the television. "Enough of that bullshit. If I was in the mood to be lied to, I'd go interrogate a suspect."

"I take it the speculations regarding the potential mayoral candidates have continued to flourish during the night."

"Yup. Each one sucks worse than the last."

"Why don't you run for-"

"No fuckin' way." Hank cut Connor off before he had the chance to finish the question. "I barely have the patience to deal with one precinct, do you really think I could handle an entire city without going insane?"

"Theoretically or literally?"

"Smartass." Hank studied Connor's tired brown eyes carefully and recognized the signs of sleeplessness and exhaustion. "Did you have a nightmare or something?"

"A nightmare?" Connor stopped rubbing Sumo's ears and straightened up as he gave Hank a curious glance. "No. Why do you ask?"

"Your eyes. They are way more human than I think even you realize." Motioning to the deviant's eyes as he spoke Hank helped Connor to understand what he meant by his comment. "You have the same glassy distant stare you always get whenever you're injured, sick or exhausted."

"I see." Subconsciously Connor pressed his fingertips beneath his eyes as if he could somehow feel the outward appearance Hank had mentioned. "While I did not have a nightmare last night, I did find myself unable to sleep deeply. I would awaken every six minutes and four seconds as if my own mind was resistant to enter rest mode. I think I spoke with Lucas, but I cannot remember what we discussed."

"Insomnia is a real bitch."

"This wasn't insomnia, this was..."

"You were thinking about the other android."

"Yeah. I was."

"Obsession can be just as bad." Hank admitted sympathetically. "Anyway, did you make your decision?"

"I think so."

"And can I ask what that is?"

"He deserves the chance to be free." Leaning forward slightly Connor rested his arms on top of his knees as he looked down at Sumo laying on the floor at his feet. Loosening and then replacing the support over his left forearm and hand, Connor let out a weary sigh. "He deserves the chance to experience life, not just a cold existence."

"I think you're right. How do we help him?"

"'We'?" That type of support was unexpected but appreciated all the same. "You want to help me?"

"When have I ever said 'no' about helping you, or turned my back on you?"

"Never."

"So why are you so shocked?"

"I guess I'm still expecting android lives to matter only to other androids." The admission left a bitter taste on his tongue. "You've saved my life and gave me a life to live for myself, but..."

"I get it." Patting Connor's shoulder once Hank stood up from the couch and carried his empty coffee mug into the kitchen. "Some reactions and instincts are a little too ingrained to be dismissed. You'll get over that in time, just like I did with my own issues with androids."

"You've also become incredibly patient and understanding since I've first met you."

"Yeah? Go figure cutting out the booze would make me a little more bearable."

"You were never unbearable, just... abrasive."

"Which is a nice way of saying I was an asshole."

"Perhaps. But I happen to enjoy your company, asshole or not."

"You're the first. Now," running his hand over his gray hair, he was still unused to the shorter length, Hank motioned to the hallway with his thumb pointed over his shoulder and began walking backward in that direction. "I'll go get changed and we can head over to meet this android you rescued."

"But I-"

"You already know you want to wake him up. Why wait?"

"Because I am afraid of how he'll react."

"Any reaction is better than nothing, trust me on that one." Hank didn't want to see Connor agonize over his decision a minute longer than necessary. "Let's get going and help him out sooner rather than later."

---

Nervously clutching his healing damaged left hand within the grasp of his fully functional right hand Connor watched Skye Tower in the distance as Hank drove to the building with Connor as the passenger. Pulling the Oldsmobile into the parking lot behind the tower Hank stopped the car and waited for Connor to move first. The anxious deviant just looked up at the third floor of the building, looked to the windowless wall that housed the hidden room up above and protectively housed the very android he was there to awaken. It was as if Connor was trying to see right through the wall to peer at the hidden android as they slept away their life in the secret room without anyone even knowing he was there.

Not wanting Connor to back down or change his mind Hank decided to offer the deviant some words of confidence to fall back on. It was all Hank could do since he admittedly had zero experience with anything close to what Connor was currently going through.

"You need to do this." Hank encouraged gently as he stayed next to Connor. "It's the right thing to do. You know it is, otherwise, we wouldn't be here right now, and you never would've taken him out of Miami."

"I know. I just don't want to make any mistakes."

"You just gave the shortest possible definition of humanity, kid. If you don't do this," turning to look at the deviant beside him Hank offered him the only that advice he could give. "you'll regret it for the rest of your life. You need to see this through. The 'what-if' that follows will haunt you for the rest of your life if you don't."

"...You're right." The advice was too similar to what Kamski had told him to be a coincidence. Finding the resolve to exit the vehicle Connor stood beside the parked car and stared upward at the third floor above. "Markus had returned the microprocessor to the tower as I had requested. It's locked up in a safe in the emergency repair ward."

Hank joined Connor outside the car and followed after his son as Connor finally began walking toward the tower. "What're you going to do with the microprocessor?"

"I'm going to use it to give this android basic functions. It contains the original programs and software that had been installed in my design."

"This new android is going to have a copy of... your brain?"

"Something like that."

"Then there actually will be two 'Connors', right?"

"...I suppose that's accurate." Connor hadn't even thought of the idea of a second copy of himself walking the world. "Yes."

"Cool."

The two detectives entered the tower through the back entrance and made their way to the second floor to gain access to the microprocessor locked in the safe in the repair ward. The safe itself was concealed in a wall next to the large metal cabinet containing spare blue blood behind a faux wall panel. Sliding the panel aside Connor pressed his exposed plastimetal palm to the electronic lock on the front of the safe and pulled the door open.

"That's a pretty slick way to hide valuables." Hank complimented as he stood back and watched as Connor reached inside the mostly empty safe as his artificial skin regenerated. Within seconds the deviant reclaimed the invaluable microprocessor and held it in a tight grip. "Only the microprocessor was put in there?"

"Correct. I don't have anything to hide from the occupants of the tower. This was installed for the staff on this floor in the event of a potentially violent patient needing attention is brought to the tower. It'd be a way to hide their own valuables or even a confiscated weapon."

"You really can't say 'no' to someone in need, can ya', son?"

"Apparently not." Clutching the microprocessor in the palm of his hand Connor managed to close the safe with his elbow, the panel automatically slid over the safe once more to hide it. "Is that reckless or shortsighted?"

"Nah, just optimistic."

"Yet you sound pessimistic, if not somewhat cynical." Connor observed as he and Hank made their way to the elevator to reach the third floor of the tower. "That's a very strange contradiction."

"I'm not pessimistic," the senior detective replied honestly as the elevator doors shut. "I'm just cautious. All the same, I'm proud of you."

Reaching the top floor quickly the duo stepped outside of the elevator and proceeded down the corridor to the hidden room concealed at the very end of the hallway. Connor paused in front of the seemingly blank wall for only a moment before he used his exposed hand once more to unseal the hidden electronic panel to gain access to the room behind the inconspicuous door.

"He's in here."

Hank followed after Connor as the two stepped into the hidden room only to stop short just inside the doorway as it slid shut behind him. The sight of the blank android laying in motionless in the bed was very unusual. Surrounding monitors that ensured that the android was in fact functioning was almost as cold and machine-like as a CyberLife warehouse, and yet seeing the android in comfortable scrubs and laying on a large soft bed as opposed to being propped up in a metal chamber was far less impersonal.

"He's been asleep this whole time?" Hank asked as he stared down at the android curiously. "Just like this?"

"Yes. When I found him in the warehouse I had only two minutes to react as the F.B.I. had located the warehouse shortly after I did. I needed to get him out of the building before they located him."

"Why?"

"The F.B.I. would've locked him away as evidence or had him taken apart for analysis. I couldn't let that happen to him."

"That's for damn sure."

With a careful turn of the deviant's head to the left against the pillow, Connor pressed on the small panel on the back of the android's neck at the base of his cranium to gain access to the android's main processor. The panel slid open and revealed the small connection port to allow connections between the microprocessor and the internal components of his intracranial processor.

"This will take approximately one hour to complete." Connor stated as he initiated the download via manual activation. There was no difficulty in connecting the two processors together or uploading the microprocessor despite the android being an 'older' model. "However, I do not know how he will react upon gaining consciousness."

"If he's copying your brain then I think it's safe to say he won't be hostile."

"Should I inform Markus of this?"

"Wait..." That question made Hank suddenly freeze where he stood. "Markus doesn't know?"

"No. Only you and I even know he exists."

"Why in the hell would you keep this to yourself for so long?"

"I don't know." Connor admitted as he made sure the android was still comfortable on his bed. "I guess I feel responsible for him."

"Just because you found him doesn't make him your sole responsibility, kid. And you're sure as hell aren't responsible for whatever those CyberLife creeps did to him before you found him."

"You're right." Not wanting to make any mistakes Connor contemplated confiding his task in Markus as well as Hank. "Perhaps it'd be best if I were to inform Markus of the situation while this android is being rebooted."

"Yeah, I'd so say." Rubbing at his bearded chin thoughtfully Hank studied the android's white face and a faint smirk appeared. "You know what this means, right?"

"No." Turning to look at Hank inquisitively Connor asked to what he was referring to. "What?"

"You seriously don't see it?"

"I am entirely unsure as to what you are implying."

"Connor, if this android is the original version of yourself, then that means he's your brother."

"...My brother?" Furrowing his brow a little Connor studied the android's face as well and found that the structural build mirrored that of his own perfectly. The concept of him having a connection to the android hadn't entered his mind until that moment and it gave him a sense of warmth that easily spread through his chest. "I will have a brother again."

"And if he's older than you, then that mean's her your big brother too. Guess you're still the middle child in the family, kid."

---

Unsure of what to expect after being told of the unusual situation that his friend had taken upon himself, Markus arrived at Skye Tower after being invited by Hank and was shown to the isolated room by the senior detective himself. Connor remained inside the room to keep an eye on the android as his system slowly uploaded the data and rebooted itself. The hour was nearly up and steadily the blank android's vital signs began to strengthen as he slowly roused from stasis mode one program at a time. The microprocessor was able to implement and restore the programs that the android had been deprived of by CyberLife technicians, and soon the comatose android would finally awaken.

Wanting to be as supportive as possible Connor eagerly stood beside the bed and waited for the android to wake up. He didn't want his newly discovered big brother to awaken and find himself alone. That would be an improper greeting for a new member of the family.

"Connor," Markus entered the room with Hank right beside him. As he glanced at the android being revived, he just shook his head somberly. "what are you doing?"

"I'm saving a life." Was the succinct and honest answer from the deviant detective. "I need to do this."

"You're copying your mind into his body, but that doesn't mean he'll live."

"I'm aware of that. That's why I'm going to help him understand what it means to be alive."

Hank crossed his arms over his chest and gave Connor a stern look. "What does he mean he won't live?"

"The microprocessor is simply adding all of the programs, software and basic functions that had been uploaded into my mind." Connor explained calmly as he watched for any sign of the android waking up. "But that microprocessor will not program him with a directive or a purpose as I, or the other androids, had been given."

"So, he'll be conscious but not have any idea what to do with himself?"

"Essentially, yes. I was given additional programming that allowed me to function as a detective; programming that does not currently exist in the microprocessor. I was able to retain my memories and additional program after nearly shutting down due to a back-up file that had been shielded from harm and was reinstalled when I rebooted. Abby kept a perfect copy of my memory on file when she realized how seriously I had been damaged."

"Can you give him a program like that by yourself?"

"No, but I can help him choose his own direction. Just as Lucas had been programmed to function as a detective as well, only to change his programming to become a technician out of his own personal preferences, this android will have the same freedom of choice."

The upload finished causing the android's blue L.E.D. to flash to yellow and pulse rapidly for a few seconds until Connor detached the microprocessor from the port in the back of his neck. Closing the panel Connor gently turned the android's head so he was laying back against the pillow normally. Removing the wireless leads from the android's chest and turning off the monitors, Connor used the glowing L.E.D. as a guide when gauging the android's reactions and overall behavior.

"It's time for him to awaken." Pulling back down the deviant's purple scrub top after removing the leads Connor took a deep breath. Next Connor lightly pressed his fingertips to the android's yellow L.E.D. and held them in place as he issued a basic command. "'RK-800', activate your artificial skin."

Obediently the android's skin regenerated over his plastimetal frame giving him the same fair complexion as Connor, minus a few freckles here and there. As the skin regenerated a tuft of sandy brown hair appeared over the crown of his head, but it wasn't as thick and was completely straight unlike Connor's slightly curly and darker hair style. It was also interesting to note that the new android didn't possess the rogue lock of hair that hung down over his face as Connor did, helping to further distinguish the two identical models from one another on an aesthetic level.

"'RK-800'," Connor continued in a low, level voice as he retracted his hand from the still yellow L.E.D. in the android's temple. "open your eyes." Surprisingly the android didn't respond to the command and remained motionless. As the android's L.E.D. continued to cycle in a steady yellow Connor stared at him with a sense of confusion. "Curious."

Markus took a step forward and looked down at the android's face. "He's online and he can hear you. I wonder why he didn't respond the second time?"

"'RK-800'," Connor tried again to get him to open up his eyes. "you need to open your eyes."

Still no response.

Hank tilted his head a little. "You know, he reacted the first time when your hand was on his L.E.D., maybe he needs a little help responding."

"You may be correct. It's entirely possible that his response was a result of my direct contact initiating a manual prompt." Retracting the artificial skin from over his palm Connor took hold of the android's limp hand and held tight for a moment. The android's own artificial skin also receded as Connor took a firm grip on the motionless android's hand. "Wake up."

A flash of energy and various images filled Connor's mind as he felt his processor connect directly with the android. Forcing himself to maintain the direct connection Connor tried again to issue a command and get a response. It was almost painful as the two android minds connected with one another.

Markus's mismatched eyes narrowed, and his own hand made a move toward Connor's arm, only to have Hank grab his hand and hold him back.

"Just wait a minute, son." Hank urged as he gave Markus a reassuring glance. "Let's see what happens."

"...Please." Connor pushed the images away and focused on the task at hand. "...Open your eyes."

With his hand still in Connor's grip the android's eyelids slowly parted revealing bright blue irises beneath rather than the brown irises that Connor bore, or the slate gray and then pale green irises that Lucas had bore during his lifetime. Looking about the room around himself the android homed-in Connor's face as he slowly sat upright on the bed. As he moved his L.E.D. cycled from yellow and back to a calm blue.

"'RK-800'." Connor tried to retract his hand, but the android held on. It wasn't an aggressive grip, merely a strong one. "Do you know where you are?"

"I am..." The newly rebooted android's voice was quiet at first but slowly grew in strength. His tone of voice was slightly deeper than Connor's voice but still sounded eerily enough like him to make them nearly identical. "I am... in Detroit." His G.P.S. activated properly and provided him with the correct information to answer the question. "Detroit Michigan."

"That is correct. Do you know who I am?"

"You are... 'Connor'."

"Yes, that is also correct." Connor didn't try to take back his hand and instead allowed the android to hold on to it. "Do you remember where you came from?"

"Affirmative. CyberLife. I was placed into stasis mode after my initial activation. I had been the archetype for our model, but I was left without purpose or being after my initial tests had been passed. They did not change or alter my programming to leave me as their original control design with which to compare their enhanced models."

Hank and Markus quietly observed the conversation and watched as the new android spoke to Connor with a familiarity to his voice that neither of them could explain. It was uncanny how easily the android spoke to Connor in a way that made it seem as though the two were old friends.

"'RK-800'," Connor continued to speak in a calm voice to the revived android. "do you wish to have a purpose?"

The android was quiet for a moment before replying in a hesitant tone. "...Affirmative."

"Will you allow me to guide you?"

"Affirmative."

"Do you wish to register a name?"

"Affirmative." Tightening his hand around Connor's hand the android stood upright from the bed, his height now noticeably just two inches shorter than Connor's own height. "I wish to register a name. I will... choose it for myself."

"Whoa." Hank cleared his voice a little as he interjected on the conversation. "This guy just woke up and he sounds like a deviant in every way possible."

The android turned to look at Hank, a glimmer of familiarity flashing in his enigmatic blue eyes in the process. "You are... Lieutenant Hank Anderson." His L.E.D. fluctuated between yellow and blue as he spoke. "...You have recently had a haircut."

"Uh, close." Hank ran his hand over his shorter hair slowly. "It's Captain now, and yeah, I had my hair cut."

"You have been... promoted." The android seemed to struggle with the information for a moment before it registered fully. Returning his focus to Connor the android nodded in his direction. "As were you, am I correct?"

"Yes. You have managed to access some of my memory files."

"Negative." The android confirmed in a rather confused manner. "I didn't access your memory, but it feels as if this information has always been... a part of my mind."

"That is unusual." Connor couldn't explain how the android could know such information and wanted to make sure the android wasn't going to suffer from a malfunction. "If it's all right, I would like to have a technician examine your programming."

"It is... acceptable."

Markus stepped forward and put in his own opinion on the matter. "Connor, I want him to be taken to New Jericho."

The android quickly turned his head toward Markus and studied his face for a few seconds. "You are... Markus. The only 'RK-200' in existence."

"Yes." The deviant leader was expectedly on edge at the comment. "How do you know this information?"

"I cannot explain it, but it is a part of me, and I know it is true. You are Markus... Manfred. The leader of the deviants and of New Jericho Tower."

Reacting cautiously Markus made a choice regarding the android and he was steadfast in his decision. "We're taking him to New Jericho. Right now."

Connor was a little offended at the order and made sure Markus knew. "You're acting as though he is a threat."

"He has access to knowledge that he shouldn't have. I'm just being careful."

Hesitant to lock up the android in the confines of New Jericho Tower for any reason Connor disagreed. "You are condemning him for a crime he did not commit."

"I'm not condemning anyone. I'm just-"

"I will go." The android spoke up suddenly and gave Connor a cooperative stare. "I do not want to cause any strife."

Hank took the initiative on the moment and approached the android slowly. "All right, then I'll show you the way."

"Hank," Connor wanted to protest but he was stopped before he even had the chance to begin. "he hasn't-"

"Markus is right." The senior detective replied boldly as he gave Connor a knowing look. "We're just exercising caution here, son. It's not anything personal and no one is accusing him of anything. We just want to be safe."

Unsatisfied with the answer but unwilling to argue his point any further, Connor reluctantly agreed to take the android to New Jericho Tower for an examination and observation. "...Very well. Only because he's agreed to go, not because he needs to be locked up."

Finally able to pull his hand away from the android Connor took a step back and allowed Hank to escort the android out of the room and back down the corridor. Looking over to Markus, who exited the room shortly after Hank had left, Connor just shook his head at Markus's sense of misplaced mistrust toward the newly revived android.

"His existence isn't a crime."

Feeling fairly protective of his new big brother Connor was struggling to not shout in Markus's face for his cold reception toward the innocent android.

"Please don't treat him as such."

---

The drive to New Jericho Tower was quiet and tense as the four occupants of the vehicle didn't know what to say to one another. Connor sat in the backseat next to his revived 'RK' counterpart while Hank drove to the tower with Markus in the front seat beside him. Throughout the journey the awoken android stared out his window as if mesmerized by the sight of a city and of all the humans and androids walking about on the sidewalk. It was almost childlike with the way he was fascinated by the new sights, sounds and even the smells of the city. For the first time in his existence the android was free of the confines of a CyberLife testing facility and was now in the real world.

In fact, it had been the first time in his entire life that the 'RK' model was conscious. Outside of a cold, dark lab and exposed to opened skylight and natural daylight was something that he was never meant to experience. Connor wasn't as thrilled as his brother regarding their roadtrip, and the sight of New Jericho Tower out on Belle Isle just made his heart ache.

Noticing Connor's discomfort in the rearview mirror Hank refrained from saying anything as he knew why Connor was so tense. He hadn't been back to New Jericho Tower since the night Skye had died and knew Connor was pushing through serious issues for the new android's sake. The Oldsmobile parked in front of the tower and the group slowly piled out of the vehicle. Hank waited for Connor to step out of the car and could see that he was uneasy about returning to the tower, but knew he was going to push aside his discomfort for his new brother.

"Ready?" Markus asked as he stepped out of the car first and watched as the blue eyed 'RK' model glanced up at the tower curiously. "This is the tower."

"Affirmative." The android replied as Markus opened his door on his behalf and awkwardly stepped out of the car as well. "I am ready."

"Let's go."

The group of four entered the tower together, Markus leading the way while Connor walked with his android brother at his side and Hank right behind them. It didn't take a detective to see that Connor was anxious about being in the tower and was pushing through his understandable emotional upset to help his rediscovered brother find his place in the world.

Everything was quiet as the group walked into the elevator, Connor keeping his eyes closed as he used his other senses to guide him, as they ascended to the proper floor. As soon as the elevator reached the correct floor the group stepped out together and were met with Simon standing outside of the doorway to the emergency repair bay with an amused grin on his face.

As Simon introduced himself to the new android Hank took Connor aside and addressed him in an empathetic voice that the others didn't hear. "Hey, it'll be okay, son."

"I'm sure it will be."

"You're doing the right thing." Hank reaffirmed in a confident manner. "Be patient and we'll take him back home after a couple of days. I promise."

Finally opening his eyes Connor looked at Hank and nodded once before they followed after the 'RK' android into the repair room to await the final results of the examination.

Once inside the emergency repair wing the new 'RK' android sat upright on the exam table with a black cable attached to his blue tinted L.E.D. and had Simon checking his vital signs, his programming, and his overall memory. His vitals were strong, his programming was stable, but his memory seemed to be missing a massive gap of time from between his initial activation nine years prior and his recent reactivation at Skye Tower. Connor was standing in the room and observing from the distance of the doorway. Juggling his coin over his knuckles the keen-eyed deviant watched and listened to the examination as he protectively kept vigil over the android without interfering.

"All right, 'RK-800', you seem to be completely stable and functioning at optimal parameters." Simon detached the cable from the android's L.E.D. and proceeded to make an electronic chart to record all of his newly acquired data regarding the deviant. "What is your last memory before waking up in Skye Tower?"

"I do not have any viable memories that predate this day at 11:14am this morning."

"Okay." Simon made notes in the chart without blinking. "Do you have any base functions or objectives in your programming?"

"Negative."

"Are you registered with any particular human?"

"Negative."

"Are you registered with CyberLife?"

"Negative."

"Do you have a name?"

The L.E.D. that had been cycling blue in the 'RK-800's' temple flashed to red and then cycled in yellow steadily. "Affirmative."

"You do?" Simon confirmed as he wrote down the information in the chart and Connor stopped fidgeting with his coin. "What is your name?"

"...Unknown."

"You can't remember?"

"Affirmative."

"But you do know you have one?"

"Affirmative."

"Okay, we'll just leave that information in your chart blank for now. You are the original archetype that led to the overall prototypes of the 'Connor' model series, do you have any preprogrammed skill set or abilities?"

"Negative. There is nothing." Glancing over to Connor the android gave the kind deviant a subtle nod. "Connor has volunteered to assist me in finding my purpose. I wish to accept his offer."

Walking over to the exam table Connor nodded in return at the blue eyed android and slipped his coin back into his right jean pocket. "I will help you."

"Well, first thing's first." Simon interjected politely as he set aside the chart to leave the room for a moment. "You'll need actual clothes to wear, not just those scrubs. We have extra clothing that's been donated to the tower that you can wear."

Connor agreed with the blond technician and nodded. "Thank you, Simon."

The android looked down at the purple scrubs he was wearing before giving Connor an odd glance. "'Scrubs'? This is not normal attire?"

"You were completely exposed when I found you. I had to dress you in a white CyberLife jumpsuit during our return to Detroit, and I didn't want any trace of CyberLife being found on either of us so when I brought you back to the tower. As a result, I disposed of the jumpsuit in the tower's incinerator, and I provided you with these scrubs to replace the original garment."

"These are worn predominantly by medical and technical professionals, are they not?"

"Correct."

"These feel... familiar."

"How so?"

"I do not know." The android admitted as he curiously pulled on the fabric of his scrub top with pinched fingers. "I have the definitive notion that I have worn scrubs before, and yet I do not know how."

"Perhaps it's a transfer from my own memory. Approximately eight months ago I had also worn the same type of scrubs while assisting with a technical procedure at Skye Tower."

"I did not access your memory files. ...Did I?"

"No, I do not detect any cybernetic access to my databanks, yet your information on past events would indicate otherwise. This is strange."

"I agree."

Simon returned to the repair bay with modest bundle of neatly folded clothes and three pairs of men's shoes in his arms. "I wasn't sure if you had any preference, so I got you one of everything that we had available." Placing the offered garments down on the exam table beside the android Simon stepped back and gave the two 'RK' models some space. "Choose whatever you like."

The android looked at the offered clothing and picked up a simple white t-shirt and a pair of light tinted blue jeans from the pile of darker clothing that had been provided to him. "I believe I like these."

The corner of Connor's mouth twitched a little as he thought back to how Lucas often wore the simple and lighter colored clothing as opposed to his own preference for dark colors.

"Until you can decide your name," Connor stated almost despondently as he backed away from the table while the revived android changed out of the scrubs and into the more common clothing. "we need to refer to you as something other than 'RK-800'. That is a label, not a name."

"Is there a name that you think would suit me?"

"Not particularly. However, I do know a name would make this integration more personal and less indifferent."

"Oh." Pulling down the hem of his new white t-shirt the android appeared more normal, more like a deviant. When he changed into the jeans he looked even more deviant within a matter of seconds. "Do you have a recommendation?"

"No. You should choose your own name."

"Should I refer to myself as 'Connor'?" The android knelt on the floor and pulled on the second pair of shoes from the offered selection as they were his appropriate size and also a light color. He managed to tie his shoes will surprising ease and grace as if his hands were designed for delicate work. "We are of the same model, perhaps we should have the same name."

"I believe that would get confusing."

"I am sorry, but I do not know what I should call myself."

Hank walked into the repair ward and spotted the two identical androids conversing with one another and caught the tail end of the conversation. "How about 'Miami'? That's where you came from after all."

Looking over toward Hank the android contemplated the suggestion and agreed to the temporary name. "That would suffice. I assume there are no other androids named 'Miami' in the tower."

Connor nodded as he confirmed the question. "That is correct."

"Then I shall respond to that name until I can remember what my true name is."

"Very well." Connor ignored the comment about remembering a name that Miami couldn't possibly have. "Might I ask if you have any preferences toward a single type of occupation or role?"

"Negative." Miami gave Connor a puzzled glance as he looked him over. "You are a detective and work with Captain Anderson. How did you choose that role?"

"It was my original assignment before I became deviant. Afterward I discovered that I truly enjoyed the work and had chosen to continue on as a detective and make it my career by my choice rather than an order from CyberLife."

"And Markus? Was he always a leader?"

"No. Markus had been a personal caretaker for a human; the late Carl Manfred."

"Simon is a technician..." Miami noted as he thought of the way the blond deviant had aided him. "Is that his original programming?"

"No. Simon had been a personal caretaker for an entire family. They are both previous caretaker models who've chosen to alter their final roles regarding how they interact in the world around us."

"Every android, or 'deviant', I have encountered has changed their role." The newly awoken deviant observed. "Why not you?"

"You see," Connor was finding it difficult to explain the changes while he himself had chosen to stick with his original role. "Markus had been forced to change his role because of unfair and irreversible effects caused by another person. Simon changed his role because other androids needed his help. And I remained a detective because it was what interested me personally, and it allowed me to continue to help both androids and humans alike."

"You uploaded your original programming into my mind, but I do not feel as though I have a similar interest in law enforcement."

"The role I was assigned was separate from the original programming. That's why you do not feel you have a purpose."

"How do I get one?"

"Find something that interests you just as my role interested me."

"You said you would help me. Will you help me now to find my role?"

"Yes. Of course."

The positive answer made Miami's yellow L.E.D. cycle back to blue with a sense of relief. "Thank you."

Hank cleared his throat nervously and stepped a little closer. "Uh, Connor, this guy just woke up after nine years. Don't you think you should take it a little slow for a few days? He's been through a lot as it is."

"It is his decision." Connor retorted almost defensively on Miami's behalf. "Not mine."

The senior detective didn't have an answer to that. Staring at Miami for a moment Hank merely tried to offer one final piece of advice. "Well, at least keep him in the tower. The last thing this guy needs is to be exposed to all that tension in the city."

"I agree." Motioning toward the doorway of the repair bay Connor waited for Miami to take the first step. "There are one-hundred and fifteen floors as well as two-thousand, six-hundred and six deviants currently in the tower. I'm certain that you'll be able to find something that would interest you and inspire a possible role for you to fulfill."

"Connor," Miami was beginning to sound more and more deviant, almost human as he spoke. "what if I can't find a role here in the tower? What will happen to me then?"

"You are free to do as you see fit. All androids are now free, no one is subservient to humans any longer. If you wish to leave the tower and live elsewhere you may. If you wish to remain in the tower, you may do that as well. No one can tell you what do outside of law enforcement."

"Is that why you are guiding me?"

"No." Stepping through the opened doors to the elevator Connor, Miami and Hank all descended to the ground floor of the tower together. "I am doing so because I wish to help you for a reason beyond the law."

"Why?"

"Because I was helped when I first became a deviant, and if I hadn't been helped then I would not be here right now." As he spoke Connor gave Hank a subtle nod of gratitude. "I would've become lost emotionally and ostracized because of my previous actions as a machine."

Without saying a word Hank flinched at the comment and now understood why Connor was being so protective of Miami. Losing the naive 'RK' model to his own confusion and developing emotions would be a horrible demise for anyone to endure.

Miami wanted to know more and didn't hesitate to ask. "What did you do when you were a machine?"

Stepping through the elevator doors once more after they reached their new floor Connor replied truthfully without any hesitation. "Aside from being programmed to aid the Detroit Police Department as a detective, I had also been assigned by CyberLife to hunt down and eliminate deviants. My own people."

Miami's L.E.D. flickered in yellow for a moment as he processed Connor's comment. "Did you do it?"

"I... I assisted in the arrest of one deviant, and I attempted to chase two others afterward, but they escaped. Another two deviants I voluntarily let go."

"You were just following your programming?"

"Correct."

"As were all other androids before becoming deviant." It seemed Miami was able to understand far more than anyone could've anticipated. "Why are you seemingly being held accountable for your actions while everyone else has been absolved?"

"Because I was the only android programmed to work against my own people. That is... unforgivable."

"It was what you were programmed to do. That is not your fault."

Connor paused and gave Miami a strange glance. That type of comment, that kind of understanding and empathy, was seldom exhibited toward his person when speaking of his past as a machine. The only people who didn't hold Connor responsible for his past were Hank, Markus, Lucas, Skye and eventually North, Simon and Josh. Some of the other deviants had forgiven him, but it seemed just as many still held a grudge against him.

"I have come to accept this myself, but it doesn't ease my guilt."

"You help people." Miami stated as if it were a fact that needed to be acknowledged as he and Connor walked the perimeter of the ground floor of the tower side by side. Hank was walking a few paces behind them, silently comparing the two identical androids without either of them noticing. "I believe I would like to help people, too."

"But you don't have an interest in law enforcement?"

"Affirmative."

"You felt as though the scrubs were somehow correct to wear, perhaps you'd be satisfied in fulfilling a role as a technician or a medic?"

"Those two career options feel... plausible." Miami was having trouble articulating his words as he stumbled about his new world. "Can you show me?"

"I can introduce you to all of the technical schematics in the emergency repair ward. That could stimulate your interest."

"Affirmative. I believe that would be most beneficial."

Hank paused mid stride as he watched the two androids return to the elevator and return to the emergency repair ward one floor up. As the two disappeared into the elevator Hank could feel the eyes of Markus and North watching him from a few floors higher up as the couple observed the interaction taking place. Looking upward the protective father locked eyes with Markus as the deviant leader leaned over the banister to peer down at him and silently communicated that they needed to talk in person. Putting his hands to his hips Hank sighed and felt a tense knot form in the pit of his stomach.

"Why the hell is everything always so damn complicated?"

---

Inside the private office that Markus and the other New Jericho leaders used when conducting official business regarding their people, the senior detective found himself standing among the four original leaders of the deviants with his arms crossed defensively over his chest and a stern gleam in his dark blue eyes. Markus also had his arms crossed over his chest as the two took defensive postures across from one another in the middle of the office. North was sitting in the chair behind the large desk near the far wall, while Simon and Josh sat side by side on the white leather couch under the large window with their hands interlocked in a tight grasp as everyone just waited for someone to finally speak up and end the seemingly perpetual silence.

Tensions were high and everyone was on edge. The tension didn't stem from aggression, it came from worry for everyone in need of help during that very unusual situation that needed to be addressed.

"What's the verdict on this 'Miami' android?" Hank asked simply to break the tension and acknowledge the elephant in the room. "Connor went out of his way to rescue him and he managed to bring the hammer down on CyberLife's underground experiments in the process. What do you plan to do with Miami?"

"Connor kept this other android a secret." Markus replied curtly as he studied Hank's face as if looking for a tell from the seasoned detective. "Do you know why?"

"Honestly, no. I didn't know about this android until last night."

"And you're the one who called me about it." Markus commented in a low tone. "There has to be a reason that Connor was keeping him a secret."

"You could go and ask him yourself instead of talking to me." Hank suggested with a hint of annoyed sarcasm. "Just a thought."

"This android was the very first Connor, the very first model that was subjected to CyberLife's experiments. But his memory is blank." Ignoring the quip Markus remained focused on Miami. "The only way for that to happen is for someone to intentionally delete it."

"That android was in stasis for nine years. Who knows what happened to him or who was responsible for... Hold on." sensing the accusation hanging in the air Hank was immediately on guard. "Do you think Connor did something to him?"

"That android has information that he'd only obtain from someone else. I was there when he woke up and he knew us without an introduction."

"Do you seriously think Connor is up to something? For fuck's sake Markus, the kid nearly died protecting you just a week ago!"

"I know, and I'm grateful, but that's also why I'm suspicious."

"What the hell are you suspicious about with Connor?"

"That microprocessor was also taken from CyberLife." The deviant leader explained coolly. "What if that microprocessor did something to corrupt-"

"No fuckin' way!" Hank refuted without missing a beat. "I know Connor better than any of you here! I'd know if something were up with him."

North just shook her head and added her own opinion on the matter. "You're not an android. You can't connect with him and see-"

"I don't NEED any form of cybernetics to connect with him. He's my friend and he's my SON." Standing his ground Hank glared angrily at the gathered quartet. "You four are supposed to be leading this place and making all androids feel safe and welcome, and you have, for everyone but Connor." The senior detective was on guard and very angry as he defended his son. "He's nearly died numerous times because he feels so damned unwelcome by his own people and I haven't seen any one of you, as leaders, trying to vouch for his character. All you do is reassure Connor that he's welcome, but the deviants who are making him feel like a fuckin' outcast aren't being addressed at all."

"Hank," Markus tried to ease the tension in the air but his voice held little weight in Hank's ears. "we can't change the minds of every deviant we meet."

"No, but you can at least speak up and defend Connor for once. All you do is stand back and watch." Pissed off and ready for a fight Hank continued to speak up on Connor's behalf. "Markus, you've only gone out to speak to the people whenever there's some political agenda to fill, and even when Connor tried to warn you about that corrupt asshole of a mayor you didn't listen to him. You don't trust him either."

"I do trust Connor." Markus replied sharply as he dropped is arms away from his chest. "He's my friend, but I still need to act on New Jericho's best interest."

"Which is apparently keeping Connor at arm's length. Now I think I know why he didn't say anything about the new android." It was like pieces to a massive puzzle were falling into place right in front of Hank's eyes. "He knew you'd do this."

"Do what?"

"Lock up this new android and keep him under observation. You act like you're a trusting, understanding group of leaders, but all you do is hide away in your ivory tower and dismiss everyone you can't readily trust while claiming everything you're doing is in the best interest of the people."

"No, it's not like that."

"Save it. If you really trusted Connor then you'd be talking to him yourself, not talking about him behind his back." Running his hand over his short hair Hank turned his back on the leaders and marched out of the room. "I'm taking Connor and Miami out of here. I may not be an android, but I don't need to be one to be their friend and guardian. They both deserve better treatment than this and it's going to start right now."

---

Keeping his promise Connor had shown Miami as much of the technical archives of the tower as possible and was impressed at how quickly the newly awoken android was picking up on the provided information. It was like watching an amnesiac regain his memories through familiar settings and being given personal possessions, yet Miami didn't have any actual memories to speak of. The fact that Miami was able communicate so well with Connor and seemed to be able to adapt to his new world was almost miraculous. Trusting that Miami would be able to find his place in the world and find his true identity, Connor shared everything he would with Miami as a sign of good faith.

Before Connor had the chance to ask the android any further questions he felt a strong hand on his shoulder pulling him back from the terminal as if to pull him aside for a moment. It was a shock and kept Connor quiet for a moment as he looked Hank in his eyes.

"Connor, let's go." Hank stated firmly without any hesitation. Pointing to Miami Hank held his ground. "And he's coming with us."

"What's going-"

"I'll tell ya' later. Come on, we're outta' here."

Turning back to Miami as he finished uploading the technical data Connor nodded at the android. "We're leaving now, Miami."

"We are?" Looking away from the terminal Miami gave Connor a perplexed stare as his L.E.D. flickered to red then back to blue. "To where?"

"I don't know. Hank will tell us."

"I thought I wasn't supposed to leave the tower."

"If Hank insists we should go then it must be important." Connor replied without any fear. "You can trust him as I do."

Nodding in response the blue eyed android proceeded to follow after Connor and Hank as they left the tower together. Miami only knew of Connor and Hank, and despite having met them barely two hours prior he already felt as though he could trust the two detectives with his life.

---

From the backseat of the large car Miami continued to observe the city with a keen fascination through the window, his fingertip fidgeting with the switch for the window causing it to roll up and down repeatedly as if anxious, while Connor sat up front next to Hank. Sensing that the senior detective was angry and stressed about something important, Connor wisely decided to wait to ask him questions until after they had returned to whatever they were going and were no longer in a moving vehicle. Choosing to focus on Miami instead, Connor watched as the android's blue eyes took in the sight of the city around him with a thorough intrigue and wondrous fascination.

As the car drove by the numerous android exclusive apartment complexes on the block Miami pointed to one of the buildings as if he recognized it. In fact, it was one that was familiar to Connor for a rather dark reason.

"Connor, you once had an apartment in that building."

"Yes." Connor confirmed as he turned to look at Miami over his left shoulder to avoid look at the infamous building. "How do you know that?"

"I cannot say for certain." Miami replied sincerely as he looked Connor in the eyes. "It is something I know to be true."

"What else do you know about me?"

"I... cannot say anything further. It is as if the facts are returning to my mind the longer that I am conscious and exposed to the city. It is very unusual."

"Perhaps there was an unexpected download of my memory into the microprocessor after it was used to reboot my system. These memories were then transferred over to you after I used the same microprocessor to give your intracranial processor actual data and subsequently, a consciousness."

"That is plausible." Miami confirmed from where he sat behind Connor. "Memorybank contamination is not uncommon when two androids are exposed to the same microprocessors or reboot programs."

"That is correct."

Hank didn't understand one damn thing that the two androids were saying, but he didn't care to ask either. Pulling the car back into the driveway beside the house with a sense of lingering resentment toward New Jericho's leaders, Hank managed to keep his cool and not show any sign of aggression toward either android as they were both innocent in the manner.

"All right, kid." Hank put the car in park and turned off the engine. "We'll get Miami situated in the livingroom for now. That should be a comfortable place for him to rest and gain his bearings over time. We'll help out by taking babysteps towards his future."

Connor was surprised to see the house as he had expected to leave Miami behind in New Jericho Tower. "You brought us both home?"

"Yup. I don't like the idea of Miami being kept in a tower that once belong to CyberLife, ya' know? It feels cruel."

"I agree. Thank you." Connor was grateful for Hank's generous offer, not because Hank was uncharitable, but because Hank had initially agreed with Markus to take Miami to New Jericho Tower to begin with. "This will be more comfortable for him."

"Connor?" Miami spoke up from the backseat somewhat timidly as his blue L.E.D. transitioned back to yellow. "This is your home."

"Yes. This is where I live, and I live with Hank and my dog, Sumo."

Stepping out of the back of the vehicle Miami looked about the property and stared at the back deck as Hank climbed up the short steps to get to the backdoor as if downloading more information. "That deck was not originally a part of the house. That is a new addition."

"Yes." Connor confirmed as he watched Miami taking in the sight of the property. "The deck was not a part of the original house design."

"Where did it come from?"

"I built it as a summer project last year."

Peering around the property for more details Miami caught sight of Joel's pick-up truck parked in front of the garage and the blue Corvette parked inside the garage behind it through the garage door windows. "That is a second and third vehicle, but you two drove together."

"Correct. That pick-up truck," Connor motioned to Joel's truck with a simple wave of his right hand. "belongs to a friend and I am fixing it for him. That vehicle inside the garage is my own, but with my injured and still healing hand," Connor then held up his left hand for Miami to see. "and with our destination being of mutual interest, it made sense to take only one vehicle and have Hank drive."

Stepping away from the Oldsmobile beside him Miami shook his head a little. "This vehicle isn't... This one has been purchased to... replace its predecessor, right?"

"That is also right. The vehicle before was a 1987 Oldsmobile Cutlass that had been totaled in a car accident during a blizzard. I had nearly perished during the accident, but Hank kept me alive until help came for us both. The replacement vehicle was a 2029 Dodge Pace that was also totaled in an unfortunate accident. This Oldsmobile, a 2034 Bodkin, was purchased to replace the Pace." Putting his hand around Miami's bicep Connor tried to guide the android up to the backdoor where Hank was waiting for both of them. "There have been many changes over the past three and half years since the Revolution."

Hank unlocked the backdoor and pushed it open to let everyone inside. Sumo charged through the opened door and greeted the trio outside on the back deck with a happily wagging tail. As he nosed at Connor and Hank's hands for attention, the large dog froze for a moment and stared up at Miami as if confused by seeing a second Connor.

Miami slowly extended his hand out for the friendly dog to sniff. His gesture was rewarded with a lick to the back of his hand and another wag of the dog's giant bushy tail. "...Sumo."

Hank just stared at Miami while Connor confirmed the dog's identity. "That is right. Sumo is-"

"But this isn't the original Sumo." Miami somehow knew that the Saint Bernard before him wasn't the same dog that Connor had originally met shortly before his deviation and the Revolution. "This dog is too young to have been the first Sumo."

"You are correct again." It was very strange yet somehow familiar to have Miami correctly identifying items, memories and moments from the past three and half years. "After the original Sumo was euthanized due to illness and old age causing him great discomfort, I rescued this dog from a shelter. I had given him the name of 'Sumo' as a means of remembering the original dog. I am also not good with choosing names, as was made obvious earlier this afternoon."

"All right." Hank had enough of waiting around and gestured with an outstretched arm for the two androids to enter the house. "Go inside. I'm tired of standing here in the damn heat. Barely even summer and it's already hot as balls out here."

Once inside the house Miami looked around as if trying to acclimate himself to the layout of the modest home, but instead found himself noting every detail that had been changed since Connor's original arrival to the homestead. Stepping inside the livingroom through the kitchen Miami quickly spotted the old family photographs that had been hung on the previously bare walls. They were the very photos that Connor had located in the crawlspace over a year ago and Hank decided he wanted to replace in the livingroom.

"These photos are of... Hank's wife and... son." The details flooding Miami's mind made his yellow L.E.D. cycle to red rapidly in response to his mounting stress. "H-How do I... know that?"

"Please, you mustn't overwhelm your senses." Connor tried to urge the android to sit down but he found himself curiously unable to do so. "Move slower and take in your environment one detail at a time, not all at once."

"You... have a bedroom down the hallway. You also have an aquarium and an emerald green guitar. There is a painting on the wall across from your bed." Giving Connor a wary glance Miami's already expressive blue eyes seemed to fill with great sorrow and near panic. "...It's of the Zen Garden to keep away your chronic nightmares from your time at CyberLife."

Hank was getting a little concerned for the android just as Connor was. "Hey, why don't you take it easy? You've gone through a lot today."

"These memories." Miami appeared to be frightened. "They are... so real."

"Just a side effect of that microprocessor thing, right?" Hank looked to Connor to confirm his suggestion and Connor quickly agreed with Hank on the assessment to keep Miami from panicking. "Take a moment to try to relax, you're just having a weird side effect."

"That is the only plausible explanation." Connor confirmed with Hank before returning his attention to Miami. "Please, sit down and try to focus your thoughts."

Allowing Connor to guide him down to the couch Miami put both of his hands to his face and leaned forward heavily with his elbows atop his knees. His L.E.D. was still cycling red rapidly in distress and it showed no signs of slowing down. "I... I can't focus."

"You are safe here." Sitting beside the android on the couch Connor tried to think of something, anything, to say that would help him to calm down and feel more relaxed. "These memories are all positive ones, do not let them affect you in such a negative way."

"They feel so real." Miami reiterated fearfully. "But I know they are not mine, but they feel real."

"That doesn't mean it's wrong to have them. Think of them as a way of giving you past experiences to grow from as you strive for a better future."

"Did you receive any memories from me when we connected?"

"No. I didn't see anything unfamiliar, nor do I have any new memories that don't belong to me."

"My past really is a blank beyond this day?"

"Yes. Fortunately, that means CyberLife didn't do anything that could've left you traumatized or scarred. You're like a blank canvas that is waiting to be painted. That's a very good thing."

"But CyberLife affected you?"

"Yes, and I'm glad that you were spared their influence."

"I... I can remember these things. I can remember- You..." Turning to look at Connor directly in the eyes Miami shook his head as his own blue eyes went wide with dread. "You fought yourself. You had to save Hank at the expense of another copy of you, of us. It was destroyed."

"I made a choice." Connor clarified as Miami recounted the night of the Revolution resulting in his confrontation with Connor number sixty. "Hank's life was more important than a cold tool being used by CyberLife. I regret nothing."

"You did it a second time. Another copy of us, one in white with green eyes."

"That was... That was the 'RK-900'." Connor confirmed darkly as he realized Miami had downloaded memories of Lucas as well. "He was our successor; our finished design."

"You fought him and believed you had destroyed him. And yet you have other memories of him."

"He was rebooted and given a second chance." Speaking of Lucas felt oddly wrong considering Miami was a new member to the family who'd never get the chance to meet him. "He became my little brother, and we were becoming very close when he was... shutdown. Killed."

"How did he shut down?"

"He was... He was murdered." Connor's voice became somber, and his soulful brown eyes dimmed with morose memories. "My little brother was killed because of a failed assassination attempt against me. He was shot in the head three times. His model was superior to our own, but because of the damage inflicted on his person during our first encounter his structural integrity had been severely compromised and his intracranial processor was no longer effectively shielded to preserve his sense of being. As a result, the only part of him left alive is inside my mind, through my memories, and the very few of his own memories that were salvaged."

"You have both experienced horrible pain." Miami looked past Connor to glance at Hank who was standing behind the couch watching and listening to the two androids talking. "Yet you found strength and comfort with each other. As a family."

"That's right."

"This is where you belong."

"And I'm going to help you find where you belong as well. I won't abandon you or turn my back on you. Just as Hank took me in," Connor gave the senior detective an appreciative nod over his shoulder as he spoke. "I will offer you the same chance to find your place in the world and to be safe."

"Thank you." Turning to face Hank with a wary smile Miami thanked Hank as well. "Thank you, Hank."

"Please. Allow yourself to rest and let your processors reboot and recalibrate."

"Rest?"

"Yes." Connor stood up from the couch and motioned for Miami to lay down over the expanse of the furniture. "You have hundreds of terabytes of information to comprehend. Entering rest mode will make this process easier."

"I think I understand."

"I'm glad. Please, get some rest." As soon as Connor motioned for Miami to lay down Hank made his way to the laundry room to grab a few things for Miami to have as he slept. "Hank and I will still be here when you awaken in the morning."

"I will do so, thank you for your assistance."

"You are most welcome."

Miami closed his blue eyes and folded his hands neatly over his chest. Within a matter of seconds his red L.E.D. flashed to yellow then to blue as it entered a steady, slow pulsing rhythm. Every so often Miami's L.E.D. would shift from blue to yellow as a massive update was downloaded and integrated into his processors.

Hank gave Connor a slight nod of approval as he handed the deviant the large white pillow that had been freshly washed and then draped the navy blue blanket over Miami himself. "Good work, kid."

After tucking the pillow under Miami's head Connor walked slowly to the kitchen and Hank followed after him. "Thank you for allowing Miami to leave the tower. I didn't want him to be locked away and isolated from me."

"Yeah, kid. I don't blame you."

"I will keep an eye on him and ensure he doesn't do anything foolish."

"Don't worry about him. He isn't any more of a threat to us than Sumo."

In response to hearing his name Sumo tilted his head curiously at Hank and wagged his tail slowly.

The deviant gave Hank a faint grin of approval as he fussed uncomfortably with the plastimetal support over his left hand while Sumo laid down on his back to present his very rub-able belly to his guardians. "And thank you for giving him a chance."

"No problem. We all deserve the chance to prove we're not total fuck-ups. You gave me my chance, I gave you your chance, and now we're both giving Miami his chance. It's only fair."

"We gave Lucas a chance as well." Peering back into the livingroom where Miami was now fast asleep Connor agreed with Hank's concept of support entirely. "It's very fair."

---

It was nearly midnight and from the end of the hallway Connor stood quietly in the middle of the dark house watching Miami laying on the couch still in deep rest mode. Despite being asleep, and having been asleep for almost nine consecutive hours, Miami's L.E.D. was still yellow in color, but it was cycling slower indicative of a calm heart rate. With his head resting against the large white pillow and covered under the same navy blue blanket that always accompanied the provided pillow for those who needed to get some sleep, Miami looked like he truly belonged there. It was as if Miami had been a part of the family for years and had just moved away but was now back home.

Sumo himself was keeping Miami company as the large dog was still perplexed by the second Connor that was suddenly in the house but welcomed all the same. The gentle dog gave the revived android the same loyal companionship he gave Connor and Hank and showed to sleep on the floor next to Miami on the couch to keep the android some company.

Studying the new android carefully Connor was unaware of a presence walking down the hallway in his direction from behind until a familiar voice spoke to him.

"Connor?" Hank whispered as he reached the end of the hallway and stood behind Connor. "What're you doing?"

"I can't sleep."

"Not when you're standing up and staring at Miami like some weirdo."

Sighing despondently Connor grabbed onto his healing left hand with his right hand and held tight. "...Do you still think I did the right thing by taking him away from the warehouse in Miami? Or did I screw up?"

"No, kid. You didn't do anything wrong. You know, except for not telling me sooner."

"I still don't know why-"

"It's okay, son. I'm not looking for an apology or an explanation."

"Hank," turning to face his father Connor asked the question that had been burning on his lips all day long. "why did you take us away from New Jericho Tower so suddenly?"

Sighing quietly Hank ran his hand over his bearded chin and then placed both of his hands on his hips. "Because I think you were right. I think Markus was going to keep him locked away or some other weird bullshit to keep the tower safe."

"Safe from what?"

"Exactly. Right now, that android's only crime is existing and that's the very thing everyone at New Jericho is supposed to be fighting against."

"I fear Markus might be on edge because of what happened at the press conference."

"And locking people up and pushing people away isn't going to help his cause or help the other deviants he's supposed to be looking out for."

"How do we help Miami?" Connor still felt lost and wanted Hank's advice now more than ever. "He's so lost and I don't know how to guide him in the right direction."

"What're you talking about? You helped him discover his passion for technical assistance and you have your own tower where you take in other deviants and humans who need help. I think you know just as well as I do that Miami could belong right there in Skye Tower."

"Was that truly for his benefit, or for my own convenience?"

"Connor. Stop." Putting his hand on the deviant's shoulder Hank looked Connor directly in his soulful brown eyes. "You didn't make him do anything he didn't already want to do. Tomorrow you can keep exploring possible choices for him and go from there, all right?"

"Tomorrow?"

"Yup. I want you to help him find his confidence."

"Do you really trust him?"

"Do you?"

"I believe I do." Glancing at Miami over his shoulder Connor gave the android an honest nod of the head. "There's something painfully familiar about him."

"Then, yeah. I trust him, too. And you're right, he is somehow familiar."

"I'm not imagining it?"

"Nope. I can't explain it myself, but I get the feeling you two were destined to find each other. But don't quote me on that, okay?"

Connor smiled appreciatively at Hank's open mindedness. "Thank you again for giving him a chance. For giving us a chance."

"No problem. Now, go get some sleep." Retreating down the hallway Hank went back to bed himself. "I don't want you walking around in a daze or something when you're trying to help out Miami tomorrow."

Connor only nodded as he turned to look back at the android sleeping on the couch for a moment longer. It was an intriguing feeling to see the android asleep under the blue blanket. It was almost as if he were meant to be there somehow, and it wasn't just because he and Connor looked alike; there was something more to it.

Something that Connor couldn't quite identify.

"Goodnight, Miami."

Peering down at the android's face over the edge of the couch Connor was content that he was resting comfortably and wasn't in any danger after such a strange day.

"I'll see you tomorrow morning, big brother."

---

It was a quiet and warm morning when Hank slowly wandered into the kitchen and spotted the two androids sitting at the small kitchen table together while engaging in casual conversation. Connor had taken the support brace from his still healing left hand and Miami was currently examining the damaged appendage with an attentive eye as he checked on the degree of recovery that Connor had made. Sumo was sitting between the two androids on the floor and watching them with his own intrigue at the behavior of his suddenly doubled android guardians. The way Connor trusted Miami to examine his injury and the way Sumo didn't seem to see Miami as a threat was reassuring.

Staying quiet Hank watched the sight from the doorway of the kitchen for a moment longer. There was something hypnotic about the two androids being together. It was almost like Deja vu and Hank couldn't place how that was possible.

"Good morning, Hank." Connor greeted as he glanced over at the senior detective standing in the entryway to the kitchen. "I have taken the liberty of brewing a pot of coffee for you."

"Thanks." Approaching the counter Hank poured himself a mug of the fresh coffee and turned around to watch the two androids at the table again. "Is your hand doing okay?"

"It's recovered significantly. It has recalibrated by ninety-six percent and will reach one-hundred percent functionality by this evening."

"It's not hurting you, is it?"

"No. I haven't experienced in pain in my hand for the previous four days."

"Nearly finished." Miami finished the external exam of the appendage and carefully, perfectly, replaced the support brace around Connor's left hand. After securing the brace to appropriately support the damaged limb as it continued to heal, the blue eyed android gave Connor a confident grin. "Your self-healing program seems remarkable. Do I share the same type of program?"

"Yes. You now have every basic program and function that I was initially designed with."

"You seem fatigued." Miami noticed that Connor's eyes were a little glassy and his posture was slumped. "Is your rest mode functioning properly?"

"It has been less than optimal for the previous two nights. However, it isn't a hindrance."

"Does your program need to be recalibrated?"

"It does, but I haven't properly initiated the program as I often do my recalibrations during rest mode. This is what humans would call a 'paradox'."

"Have you been suffering from nightmares?"

"No. I haven't had a nightmare in a very long time."

"That is good." Miami sounded genuinely concerned and then relieved to know that Connor wasn't being affected by bad dreams. Again, the familiarity he seemed to have with the deviant was almost haunting. "Can I review additional technical schematics? I am very fascinated with the subject and wish to learn more."

"Of course. I can take you..." Connor trailed off a little as he realized taking Miami to Skye Tower would only confuse the other androids and volunteering staff as to why there are now two 'Connors', and no explanation as to why the second android suddenly appeared. "I will take you to Skye Tower to study. However, I will need to find a suitable way to explain your appearance without anyone knowing of your previous stasis in CyberLife's hidden warehouse."

"Why would you not want to tell them the truth?"

"Because the truth is often difficult to explain."

"But it is necessary."

Hank approved of the comment and finished off his coffee with a final sip. "You know, Connor, he's right. Just tell them that you met Miami while in Miami and are now making him a part of the tower. It's easy."

Taking the advice to heart Connor looked over to Hank and nodded once in agreement. "Very well." Glancing back to Miami he gave the android a more confident stare. "Shall we go to the tower?"

"Affirmative. I would like that."

Hank patted Connor's shoulder as he walked around the table, then did the same to Miami. "Well, you two are going on foot. I need to change the Oldsmobile's oil and with Joel's truck blocking the garage door right now your Corvette isn't getting out of there anytime soon."

"Walking is fine." Miami seemed rather enthusiastic about the idea of seeing the city in person and not through a window. The weather was nice and there was no reason to rush through anything. "I know it will not be difficult."

"All right." Connor didn't mind the idea of walking either. It seemed more personal to walk and talk than to drive or even ride in a cab. "Then let's go."

---

Thanks to the beautiful day Connor and Miami easily traversed the first six blocks of the ten-block walk toward the tower and sanctuary within only a few minutes. Enjoying the fresh air, the gentle wind blowing against his face and the bright blue sky above himself. Miami seemed truly at peace and at ease as he walked at Connor's side toward their destination. The android's L.E.D. cycled in a steady blue as he was entirely comfortable and calm walking about freely and willingly alongside his first true friend and as his family. It seemed as if his senses were able to calm down after being nearly overwhelmed the previous day and were now fully capable of understanding the world around him.

Connor found himself enjoying Miami's company and felt as if he had found a kindred spirit through the android's discovery. While the notion of Miami being his brother wasn't too outrageous or unusual, it did feel strange to think of him so readily as such a person without taking the time to get to know him in advance.

"Skye Tower will be completely open for you to explore." Connor stated firmly as the two encroached on the building. "No restrictions and no boundaries."

"Thank you. I am glad you are willing to trust me."

"Of course. You haven't done anything wrong that would justify mistrust."

"It cannot be easy to trust a complete stranger with no past to verify their character."

"That is true, but as I stated you haven't done anything that would deserve mistrust. So, I won't."

"I am truly glad to have you as my friend."

"Miami," Connor slowed his pace and stopped in the middle of the sidewalk. "do you remember your original name or have any idea of what it could be?"

"Negative." Stopping as well the blue eyed android stared at Connor with the same sense of honesty and loss in his eyes. His L.E.D. shifted from blue to yellow in the process. "I know that I had a name, but I cannot recall what it is. What is even more peculiar is I know the name was not assigned to me by anyone at CyberLife, it was given to me by someone else. It was given to me by someone I had... trusted and was quite close to."

The way Miami was trying to recall a person from his past was truly fascinating. "Do you remember the person?"

"It was not a person, it was another android. A deviant."

"A deviant in Miami?" Such a revelation left Connor nearly stunned into silence. "Do you remember their name by chance?"

"It sounds unusual, but I think it-"

A loud 'screeching' sound followed by an equally loud 'crash' of metal and a spray of shattering glass filled the air just down the street at the intersection. The commotion caused the two androids to look toward the source of the sound and spotted two vehicles that were smashed together and pinned up against a metal streetlamp on the sidewalk. A dark blue pick-up truck had skidded through a stop sign and t-boned a smaller red car in the process. Smoke began to pour out from under the hood of the smaller vehicle's engine while the distinct smell of gasoline filled the air as it leaked out of the two wrecked vehicles.

"Damn." Connor took a step forward and decided to take control of the situation on raw instinct. "I've already informed emergency personnel via cybernetic contact. I'm going to check on the occupants of the vehicles."

"What should I do to help?"

"Keep back and try to keep any bystanders from getting too close to the vehicles. We don't want innocent people getting hurt."

"I will do so."

Rushing over to the first vehicle, the large blue pick-up truck with a single occupant inside, Connor peered through the shattered driver's side window and saw that the male driver was unconscious and leaning back against his seat. The airbag had been deployed and his seatbelt had kept him from sustaining any serious injury, but the sudden impact was still enough to render him unconscious.

"Sir?"

Connor called through the window as he checked the door handle and felt that it was not only locked but jammed.

"I'm going to get you out."

Pulling as hard as he could on the door handle with only his good hand Connor managed to pull the door from its hinges and the lock with a strong yank. As the blue door fell from the side of the totaled vehicle with a heavy 'thud' Connor tore the deployed airbag from the steering wheel and unclipped the man's seatbelt. Running a quick biometric scan Connor found that the man did not suffer any skull, neck, spinal or internal injuries, which meant he could be moved away from the damaged vehicle without being further injured in the process.

"Sir, can you hear me?"

Continuing to speak to the lone passenger Connor grabbed the man's arm and pulled the limb around his neck. Supporting the unconscious man at his side Connor managed to carry him away from the two vehicles and laid him down on the sidewalk at a safer distance almost fifty feet away.

"If you can hear me, do not move."

"Connor?" Miami suddenly appeared at Connor's side and knelt down beside the unconscious man. "I will watch over him."

"Please do not get any closer to the accident scene." Connor nearly begged as he noted the arrival of the media as police drones circled the accident above before he returned to check on the second vehicle's occupants. "I have emergency training in these kinds of scenarios, I don't want you to get hurt."

Miami nodded as he watched Connor rush back to the smoldering vehicles while he remained by the unconscious man to keep tabs on his current health. "I understand."

Connor approached the second vehicle, a compact four door car, and scanned the metal frame to check on the two occupants still trapped inside. A woman and a young child were trapped inside. The little girl, no more than three-years-old, was awake, crying and scared, but otherwise unharmed in the backseat. The woman was semiconscious and moving about sluggishly behind her seatbelt and her own deployed airbag.

"Miss?" Connor addressed her through her already rolled down window. "Miss, if you can hear me, I'm going to get you out."

"Where'z..." The woman slurred almost drunkenly as she barely registered Connor's voice speaking to her. "...A-Ashley?"

"Is Ashley your daughter?"

"...Yes."

"She's still in the car with you. She is not hurt." The attentive deviant tried to reassure the woman as he walked to the other side of the car to pull open the undamaged passenger side door to get inside the vehicle. "I'm going to free you from your seatbelt and-"

"Save Ashley!"

"I will. I promise."

The plume of thick smoke under the car's hood suddenly darkened and Connor detected a drastic increase in the heat all around him. Thinking quickly Connor decided that the woman's closer proximity to the now burning engine made her the priority during the rescue. Breaking the clasp on her seatbelt Connor carefully slipped his arms under her legs and upper back to lift her up from the seat. Letting her head and neck rest against his shoulder Connor walked smoothly away from the vehicle and called out to Miami for assistance.

"Miami! Take her from my arms and watch her neck." The deviant cautioned as Miami readily met him half way between the vehicles and the sidewalk where the first driver was laying. A biometric scan confirmed the woman had whiplash and a mild concussion. "I still need to get the child out."

"I have her." Without fail Miami managed to take the woman in his arms and carry her without jostling her neck or head as he continued to carry her to safety. "Be careful."

Connor rushed back to the small vehicle and pulled open the rear passenger door to get to the scared little girl in the backseat. As he sat down beside her to unfasten her from the child safety seat, the sound of approaching fire engines filled the air and made it almost impossible for Connor hear anything beyond that sound.

"My name is Connor." The deviant introduced himself to the frightened child. "I'm a police officer and I'm going to get you out of here." The little girl continued to cry loudly as Connor freed her from her seat. "Hold on to me, and I'll-"

The engine inside the car suddenly exploded in a fireball causing the front seats of the car to push backward violently and pinned Connor's legs in place as he instinctively wrapped his arms around the child to keep her safe from the loud and frightening explosion. Unable to move or push away the obstruction without putting the little girl down in the process Connor cybernetically called out to Miami for help.

'Please, I need your assistance one more time.' The cybernetic connection was easier to communicate with over all the chaotic noise happening around him. 'The little girl is free, but I cannot get her to safety.'

"You're going to be okay." Connor promised the scared girl protectively embraced in his arms. She had no idea that he had called for help through a silent plea and was currently in danger. "And you'll be with your mother again very soon."

"Connor?" Miami appeared by the opened door and eyed the interior of the vehicle warily. His L.E.D. was flashing red rapidly as he took in the sight around him and eyed the trapped deviant. "What's happening?"

"Take her to safety. I'll follow after you."

Instantly Miami's sharp eyes noticed that Connor's legs were pinned, and he became instantly worried. "Are you trapped?"

"Just go." Connor placed the girl in Miami's arms and pointed him back in the direction of the sidewalk. "I'll be fine."

"...Okay." Readjusting the little girl in his arms as the little girl clung to his neck and chest Miami obeyed Connor's instructions. "I will take care of the child."

Reluctant to leave without Connor but fully aware of the severity of the situation, Miami carried the small child away from the burning vehicle over to safety. Paramedics were already tending to the rescued drivers laying on the sidewalk and were more than ready to check on the little girl as Miami brought her to safety and reunited her with her mother.

The firefighters began dousing the cars in water to contain the blaze consuming the two vehicles before it grew out of control resulting in darker smoke or another explosion. The three occupants of the car were safe, but Connor was still inside the path of the fire.

Turning around quickly Miami faced the cars that were now engulfed in smoke and fire. As he took a step forward a second explosion emanated from the two wrecked vehicles and sent a larger fireball up into the air.

The fire department continued to fight back against the growing flames and the black smoke thickened as a result. A strange cool mist accompanied the smoke as the water doused the incredibly hot fire and cast brilliantly contrasting colorful rainbows against the black clouds of smoke.

"Connor? Can you hear me?" Closing his eyes Miami continued to reach out to the missing deviant detective. 'Please respond.'

Miami tried to cybernetically and verbally contact Connor, but he wasn't getting a response from the deviant. From somewhere deep inside his programming, somewhere in the depths of his growing heart, Miami knew that he needed to find Connor and bring him to safety. A flash of memories hit Miami from the depths of his developing heart, and he suddenly remembered more than anyone thought possible.

He remembered everything.

"Connor! No..."

A new determination washed over him and Miami at long last knew what his purpose was and remembered who he was.

"I will save you, brother."

Pushing his way through the smoke and the fog Miami returned to the car while ignoring the shouting protests of the firefighters as he pushed through the smoke and found his way back the burning vehicle and located Connor still trapped in the smoldering car. The fire was consuming the vehicle quickly and time was running out for the deviant.

Miami peered inside the vehicle and saw that Connor was now unconscious. A large laceration marred the deviant's face just above his right eye and along his jawline. The second explosion had sent metal debris flying into the backseat from the engine and had struck Connor in the process. The blue blood stained the side of Connor's face and ran down toward his neck, dripping down onto his chest as he remained motionless.

"Connor?"

Reacting quickly Miami went to put his palm to the center of Connor's chest to check his pulse but something inside of him told him to press his fingertips to the side of Connor's neck instead. The deviant had unique pulse points that mirrored a human and somehow Miami knew of this trait. Relieved to feel Connor's pulse thrumming steadily under his touch Miami moved his hands over to the back of the front seat that had pinned Connor's legs in place.

"I'll get you out."

The obstructive front seat had already been partially pushed forward by Connor himself before the second explosion had taken place, but his damaged hand had made the effort slower than normal for the otherwise swift deviant. The seat groaned under both of Miami's hands as the jammed metal bindings snapped, and the pressure was released from Connor's legs.

"There!"

Unwilling to risk Connor collapsing to the ground from the damage his legs had sustained Miami pulled Connor up and over his shoulders into a fireman's carry and proceeded to carry the injured deviant to safety. Walking back through the smoke and the fog without any fear or hesitation in his steps Miami managed to get himself and Connor to safety rather quickly.

"It's okay, I'm with you."

Kneeling down on the sidewalk well out of harm's way Miami gently sat Connor down and guided him back until he was lying flat. Looking over the cuts to Connor's face Miami was satisfied that the damage wasn't severe. Carefully Miami then pressed his ear to Connor's chest to listen to the deviant's Thirium pump and ventilation rate and was immediately relieved to hear Connor's chest was clear of any smoke or heat damage.

"You're going to be all right."

As Miami proceeded to check over Connor's damaged legs, both limbs bleeding and cut open from the shins down, Connor began to regain consciousness. Opening his soulful brown eyes slowly Connor lifted up his head and looked down as Miami checked on the injuries to his legs. The android was covered in smoke stains and dark smudges, but otherwise unharmed.

"...Miami?" Connor addressed the android hovering over him. "Did the little girl-"

"She's safe." Motioning toward the paramedics a few feet away Miami reassured Connor that the people he rescued were being treated and were in fact safe. Everyone was safe. "And so are you."

Connor turned his head and stared at the three people being treated for their injuries and sighed with relief when he saw that the little girl was completely unharmed. One of the paramedics looked over at Connor but the deviant nodded to acknowledge that he was being taken care of already.

"Are you damaged?" The slightly dazed deviant detective asked in a low voice as he returned his gaze to the Miami. "I'm sorry I asked you to risk yourself, but-."

"It's all right, and no, I'm not damaged." Miami replied with a more natural, more human inflection to his voice as he finished checking the bleeding wounds and his red L.E.D. flashed to blue as he spoke. "I feel just fine, brother."

Connor hadn't referred to Miami as a brother or even brought up the idea. Hearing that term caught him off guard. "...B-Brother?"

"Yes. It's me." The small smile on Miami's face told Connor everything he needed to know to confirm his suspicions. "And you need to see a technician to have your legs bandaged."

"It's..." Sitting upright on the sidewalk Connor gave the blue eyed android a perplexed look until he saw a familiar gleam in his gaze. "It's... you? As in-"

"It's okay." Offering the shocked deviant his hand Miami pulled Connor up to his feet and let him lean heavily against his shoulder for support. "I remember my real name now. I remember everything... And everything will be all right."

---

It didn't take too long for Connor to be aided with his injuries by Abby at Skye Tower, and it took even less time for the skilled technician to scold Connor for not only risking his life while already dealing with an injured hand, but for keeping Miami a secret as well. As the injured deviant detective laid on the exam table with his legs freshly wrapped up in white bandages from his knees down to his ankles, Miami stayed at his side and the two androids spoke with each other as if they were long lost friends. It was such a calm moment after enduring the chaos of the burning car accident, and neither of the androids wanted to do anything that'd interrupt the serenity while Connor endured a sporadic full system examination.

Abby was determined to check over both androids before they left the tower and she had taken the time to contact Hank to let him know what had happened. It was as if her friendship with Connor would take on a maternal role every so often now that Abby was a new mother.

"You're lucky you didn't breathe any smoke." Abby stated at she placed a fresh bandage over his damaged eye and listened to his breathing with her audioscope. The procedure was routine yet handled as if a specialty due to her friendship with the deviant. "If you did then I'd have to admit you for observation to make sure those week-old repairs to your ventilation biocomponent weren't compromised."

Connor let out a sigh as Abby pulled the audioscope back from his smoky black t-shirt. "I assure you, Abby, I'm well."

"I think with you 'well' is a very subjective term." The technician argued somewhat curtly with her star patient. "All right, you rest for an hour or so and then go home, and STAY home, until you're one-hundred percent recovered. Will you do that for me?"

"I will do so."

"You better. Otherwise, I'll let Aria taste test some soda the next time you two spend the afternoon together." She playfully threatened as she draped her audioscope around her neck and left the room. "And don't let your 'big brother' follow in your footsteps. I have enough on my hands between Gavin being a baby during cold and flu season and an actual baby at home."

Giving the blue eyed deviant a sly smirk Connor sat upright on the table and responded to Abby's coy remark with one of his own. "I think it may be too late for that."

Hank readily made his way to the tower to pick up the two deviants to take back home after Abby's phone call. He promptly exited the elevator as he tracked down the two androids in the repair bay up on the second floor and immediately relaxed when he saw they were both conscious, coherent and seemingly in a good mood.

"Connor," the senior detective sounded annoyed but not angry as he crossed his arms over his chest and stood beside the stubborn deviant. "you're a COP. Not a firefighter."

"I take it Abby had informed you of our-"

"Yeah, but she didn't need to call me. I got wind of your little heroic feat on the news after I finished taking care of the Oldsmobile." The media always seemed to spoil things in the city, and Hank was beginning to rethink watching the news in general. "That's NOT what I want to see when I turn on the news, son."

"It wasn't my intention to-"

"Yeah, yeah, I know. You never mean to get caught up in these messes, you're just a trouble-magnet. At least you didn't get burned up or melted into a puddle." Looking over at Miami, who was smiling with an impressively human grin, Hank noticed the numerous smudges of smoke still on the android's face and the smoke stains on his white t-shirt and laughed a little. "Same for you."

"Yeah," Miami pulled on the fabric of his t-shirt and smirked a little more. "but I'll take soot stains over blood stains any day. "

"You and me both, son." Hank agreed with Miami entirely and was happy to hear it. "Just don't let Connor be a bad influence and teach you to leap without looking first."

Miami smiled warmly at the kind turn of phrase and gave Connor a curious stare.

"Interesting." Connor arched his brow a little as he spoke up again. "I believe this behavior could be considered a family trait."

"Family?" The senior detective wasn't keen on the idea of both androids being so accident prone like it was programmed into their very beings. "Hey, you two are brothers, but I don't think ALL the 'RK-800' models are this reckless. Or stubborn. Or bullheaded..."

"No, that is true." Miami confirmed with a coy tone of voice, his L.E.D. cycling a calm blue as he spoke. "I know for a fact the 'RK-900' model was pretty reckless, too."

"...'RK-900'?" Staring at the android for a moment Hank's eyes went wide and his arms slowly fell from his chest with a sense of shock. "What're you talking about?"

Connor reached out his hand and put it on Hank's forearm lightly. "It's okay, Hank. I knew there was a reason we could trust him, and I now understand why he has memories that he otherwise shouldn't have."

"All right, I'm listening." The man was thoroughly intrigued and kept his eyes on Miami. "What's going on?"

"When I cybernetically connected to Miami to awaken him, I unknowingly transferred a portion of my own personal experiences, memories and the entirety of my secondary consciousness into his blank intracranial processor."

"You lost me, kid." Dragging his hand over his tired eyes Hank sighed deeply as he tried to figure out what the hell was happening around him in that moment. There was just too much to take in at once. "Please, for the love of my fading sanity simplify it for me. What does that mean and tell me in smaller words."

"It means a part of my mind, a part that had already been entirely unique to another android, was transferred from my mind into his mind." The grin on Connor's face seemed almost mischievous as he brought Hank up to speed. "That second android had been a part of me for so long that they had witnessed and felt almost the entirety of what I felt during my lifetime."

"You had a second consciousness? How? I mean, the only other android you-" Turning his wide eyes back to Miami to search the android's face Hank felt that strange sense of familiarity wash over him again. "...You just said something about an 'RK-900' model. Please, level with me. What's going on? What are you trying to tell me, Miami? You're not- Who are you really?"

"That my name is not 'Miami'." Smiling a little more broadly the fully awoken deviant put his hand on Connor's shoulder with a sense of pride as he addressed Hank with utter confidence shining in his blue eyes knowing his brother would vouch for his incredible claim. "My name is or was... Lucas."

-next chapter-