Today's the day. November 10, 2038 and 4 PM.

You're back at the CyberLife Tower, all your necessary equipment on you for whatever was needed as you were in this Tower.

Chloe was upset that you didn't tell her that you knew who RA9 was after Connor and Hank left. But with a few words, you saying that you thought it would be too much for her while her replying she's always there for you and won't ever abandon you.

"I got your back, (Y/N)." Chloe said with a gentle smile, blue eyes staring at you. "You've helped me a lot since I've met you. And you continue to help others like me while you try your best for us."

You smiled at the memory. She's such a sweet girl. But like Connor and Hank, you aren't sure they were able to take your words in fully after your little reveal on who RA9 is. As you were trying to explain, you felt all their looks of sympathy. Hank's frown, Chloe's hand on top of yours, and Connor's worried brown eyes.

They're like how Elijah was. At least, at first. They think the ARI affected my mind somehow, for the worst.

You can't exactly blame them. You can't exactly go on and tell people that there's gods out there that can control your life for their amusement. Again, again, and again. They don't care.

You glanced up to the ceiling within the elevator, guard with you by the control buttons as you guys moved to the correct floor to meet quickly with the director's.

They don't care at all.

But, you thought, pensive,  this RA9. . .it hasn't hurt anyone too much. At least from what I see and from Chloe's reports to her fellow model. This. . .it has to be toying right? Making everything end badly when this is over? At least CyberLife stopped harassing me with their calls after Connor left, they must also think that I have a few screws loose or I was leading Connor and Hank on to confuse them on the truth, their truth. But. . .

Something must be amiss. There has to be. Why would they do this? Make everything seem happy and well if they'll just ruin everything in this world in the end.

There were numerous things you still did not reveal to anyone, you don't think you'll ever be able to. Chloe knows the most so far, about your knowledge and your little imprints for assisting androids that have become deviants. Jericho. Kara. Markus.

Connor.

But it is Elijah that knows, knows your emotions and feelings towards a certain prototype android the most.

He's a good man, that Elijah. You've always felt that way despite how private he always seemed to be but since everyone mostly forgot about you, you didn't mind hanging around just one person. That one person being a male genius called Elijah Kamski. The ex-CEO of CyberLife has always been philosophical too, enchanted by androids like an eager astronomer does with discovering new stars.

Even after my second time of using the ARI, I have still seen you as a good man Elijah. No matter the choices you have made or others, that can never change.

The man has done things, you can not deny that. But he's a friend. A friend that tries his hardest to remember you, even creating a one of a kind medicine to help. It's difficult for anyone to really remember. . .

Connor remembered. He remembered my last name. It took Chloe a long time to do so, and sometimes it's even difficult for her, but. . . He remembered.

You can't believe that he did. He remembered you. Without any sort of help from an outside source. You. The one who's role was never supposed to be noticed, nonexistent for anyone here, the one who isn't real.

He remembered. Because Connor is an android that always tries. He always tries. You've noticed for a long time now, that he's unique.

Unique and lost and who always tries.

Whether it's to understand your actions, how to correctly smile, trying to comfort you no matter how awkward, or just those always sweet brown eyes looking at you in concern.

Connor, he always tries.

But it may all be for naught Connor, you thought bitterly. Reaching the floor necessary and stepping out the elevator with the guard escorting you to the always sleek meeting room as you stared straight ahead with creased brows. You've tried your best. I don't know how and I don't know why you remembered someone like me. It's impossible but you did. Always achieving the impossible, huh Connor? Perhaps one day, Connor. . .we can. . .

You're such a greedy little thing, aren't you? Wishing for things that can never come true? A future of happiness for all when RA9 has planned everyone's fate from the very beginning.

Your fate, however, well. . . Your role is to forever be in the sidelines. Never to be seen or remembered. That's your fate. That's your role. Being someone who just watches from afar. The one involved in everything and yet nothing at all.

You can't control anyone or anything. No significant changes that will change the conclusion will be caused by you. You don't have a choice. You never did.

For this truly isn't your story.

You casually put a hand in your pocket, making sure the hard drive was there.

"We're here, Doctor." The guard escorting you said behind his helmet. You stood in front of familiar glass double doors, seeing that surprisingly not all of the directors were within the room on the other side. There were only two, the others being most likely busy with their work, and you admit you did not like any of them but these two were the worst. The director of biocomponents and security.

Damn, do I hate that woman and her fake smile, you thought, walking in with a nod towards the directors who sat at the end of the table as they returned your greeting with a cold nod from the director of security and said false smile on the director of biocomponents. I hope this gets finished quickly, I apparently have presentations to run for Thirium 317 and I still need time to do what I really came here to do.

You released the hand from your pocket and put your equipment bag down onto the chair next to you as you sat on the opposite side from them in the table.

"Good afternoon, Doctor. I imagine that everything is in order to present to the others later?" The director of biocomponents inquired, thin lips curved up in a semblance of a smile that does not reach her crows feet eyes.

"Yes," you answered curtly, putting your interlocked hands on top of the glossy white table. "I got the materials all in order to begin showcasing the proper way to sort the necessary minerals as well as how to manipulate the main ingredient thirium to create my Thirium 317. Can we get this briefing over with?"

"Don't be in such a rush, Doctor (Y/N)." The director of security leaned forward in his chair with crossed arms, deep frown on his aged face. "Not only do you have to give us a quick explanation on the Thirium 317 but as well as tell us your analysis on the RK800's progress and how to deal with it."

Your brows furrowed.

Connor? Why would they—don't tell me they're getting suspicious.

"I'm sorry, but what about his progress? Connor's missions?"

I can't afford extra attention on Connor, not now. The time is growing closer. I have to protect him.

The woman director chuckled and you did your best to control the scowl that wanted to be released at the sound.

"There you again, Doctor (Y/N)." At your arched brow, she continued. "You're letting your creations get too close to you. You must watch yourself or we would have to take measures like we did with Kamski—"

"Eli," your nickname for him slipped but you corrected yourself by clearing your throat, "Mr.Kamski left the company due to this board refusing to entertain his ideas for androids any further. All of you could not handle the change he wanted to create for the future of androids and therefore this company." You tilted your head at them, a slight smirk playing on your lips. "Funny how you agreed to produce the RK series anyways after a few years of Kamski's departure."

"That," the aged director of security began, face cold, "has nothing to do with what we are agreed to discuss in this meeting. And you are fully aware that you are the one who brought up the little blueprints Kamski had to make the RK800 series, we just happened to. . ." At the man's pause, the woman jumped in with a simper.

"We just happened to concede to you on creating such an advanced android that is able to accomplish any mission that is given to him crime related. At least," her eyes gleamed and you were sure that it was with superiority, "that's what it's directive is supposed to be but it seems to be straying from it despite it being able to locate Jericho."

You bit the inside of your cheek, tightening your interlocked hands upon the white table.

"I believe you meant you finally conceded to me due to all of you realizing the amount of money the RK series can give all of you as well as influence." What you speak of is truth, CyberLife is greedy. The same thing can be said about the President due to her ties with them as well. But there's more to the RK series then one might assume. A lot more. It's evident in Markus and slowly Connor. CyberLife is misreading the series however, clearly. "And do not play coy. You are fully aware of the measures that can be taken if Connor doesn't follow his directive, but that's been his mission all along. Hasn't it?"

You were glaring openly at both of them and they had their own narrowed eyes at you as a few beats of silence passed. The director of security straightened in his leather seat.

"Let's stop speaking about this, Doctor (Y/N). We aren't here to discuss conspiracies and answers to said conspiracies since we are already aware of them."

That's what you guys think, you thought as you held back from narrowing your eyes further. CyberLife think they know the answers that Connor is trying to find, or tried to find with Kamski. RA9 and deviancy. But I know the truth. And it has nothing to do with Markus and Connor being connected to the odd legendary code. The RK series, such a secret project but it's not that secret at all. They don't know the truth about RA9, and despite me wishing to see them squirm at the truth it's best I leave it be and let them think they're all-knowing.

"Let us move on with your briefing of Thirium 317. We'll discuss the RK800 at a later time." You wanted to laugh at the man's words, but held back. They think they will have another time? They think they have any sort of time? As long as Connor—no, RA9—continue to make the choices of their chosen labyrinth then CyberLife won't have any sort of control at all.

And that filled you with all sorts of glee.

"Alright," you said, standing up and taking out your tablet. You swiped a few times and then holograms came over the room with its enchanting brightness. "As the both of you know about Thirium 310, thirium is not the only ingredient for an android's energy source but it is the main ingredient. The other ingredients are mostly for the thirium to be compatible as well as assist in helping spread information via the androids blue blood as others like to call it. The other ingredients also coming from the Artic which includes the capture of natural gases and small amounts of melted copper which assists in creating a chemical reaction with the uranium that causes an endothermic reaction that allows androids to absorb energy and therefore allowing them to take in so much information at once."

The director of biocomponents nodded.

"Yes, although it's been getting difficult as of late to get said minerals," she sighed, moving to needlessly fix her already kept hair. "The tensions with the U.S. and Russia is starting to become daunting. Especially with how that USS Iowa turned out and how the President as well as that Ivanoff are reacting towards the missing vessel. If you ask me, the shortage and how rare thirium is making these countries hungry for conflict."

You bit the inside of your lip, tightening the hold on your tablet.

She isn't wrong. World War III is coming soon and fast here, but one shouldn't be surprised at how much Russia and the U.S. hate each other. It's been a long time coming since the Cold War.

But like many things in this world, it can be changed. If one makes the right choices.

RA9 holds all the power. Are they even fully aware what could happen to everyone if they make the wrong one?

"Nothing can be done," the director of security cut in, glancing at the woman. "All CyberLife can do is give our support to the department of defense with our military androids or any other types they will need." Your eyes narrowed a bit at the wording but the man continued, "We will do what we must in the times to come. And thirium may have a shortage in the Artic but it doesn't here with all this Red Ice still around. That Lieutenant and his Task Force didn't do a good enough job."

"The Lieutenant," you began, eyes back on your tablet as you did a few hard swipes on it, " has done his best with that problem. It is not his fault that people are desperate for happiness with a snort of drugs."

And not his fault on how exactly drug cartels get their thirium anyways.

Anyone with eyes or who's aware of the substances used for both androids blue blood and red ice can see they both need thirium. A few missing androids aren't going to bat anyone's eyelash, nor if the destroyed parts of them come up later in a dump. One can even see how red ice users treat their own androids, who hold that sweet substance in them that make them go crazy.

You wish you were able to tell Hank this yesterday now that you've grown an understanding on his relationship with Connor, the truth about the red ice and your suspicions on a certain trillion dollar company helping the drug market but you couldn't. Too busy explaining, or at least trying to explain, about RA9 and only a little of what exactly you saw with Lucy. They're not ready yet. Connor isn't ready yet, even though he thinks he is.

That always determined and awkward android.

With time. Everything with time, which I'm running out of.

You quickly moved on with the briefing, informing the directors of the materials you replaced to make your Thirium 317 instead of the Thirium 310.

The director of biocomponents rose her thin eyebrows.

"You replaced the natural gas and uranium instead with plutonium and triptocaine. . .?"

"That drug has caused problems before, Doctor." The man spoke up, looking at you with controlled suspicion. "Didn't you try to do this with another android model? You stated it failed it's supposed effects you had planned."

That's because I lied about Lucy. I didn't want to tell you guys the whole truth about what I was doing with the ARI.

They were aware of your wishes to create a technology with those glasses that was more advanced then it's predecessor, only to fail by you telling them it failed and that it didn't actually exceed your naive expectations. It was just supposed to preconstruct so much it would be able to tell you which choice might be better for you in a very short term future not. . . make you think twice on your existence, show you faceless beings make choices for others you haven't seen before, and hundreds and hundreds of possibilities and worlds with so many different mazes.

Cold blue blooded and war lusting Markus. A pair of dead androids that only wanted to be a  loving normal family like any other human, Kara and Alice. A Lieutenant that has suffered for so long and drunk his sorrows away because he could not stand being with people or androids and found sweet solace with a bullet. A dirty bomb exploding Detroit, humans who were trying to escape only being able to scream and curse at machines. And Connor. . . Connor. The one who looks at you with awkward smiles and those sweet brown eyes, he. . . he would. . .

You took a breath and blinked your eyes, straightening to answer their question.

"The model I was working with is nothing like the RK800. And with the KL900, I inserted the triptocaine to see if it would enhance the remodeled ARI's effects at all." You quickly explained showing the triptocaine with your hologram, despite how your throat felt like it was desperate to close up. Memories of possibilities and realizations that you are nothing and no one overcoming you. "It didn't work. And since triptocaine does not have any harmful effect on machines, but has the ability to create fast neurotransmitters as well as have the android have more strength. Like an enhancement."

"Which makes the RK800 stronger and faster, able to accomplish missions easier," the director of security summarized. "Shame about the ARI, could've really helped us in the long run. Good save and excuse with the RK800 and the Lieutenant by the way. Even we were starting to get convinced that your powerful mind broke."

You stayed silent.

I would not have anybody touch the ARI. Over my dead body I will let anyone suffer like I do, but I would definitely not give you greedy bastards information to use on others. You already do that too much. CyberLife only hurts.

But they must've thought you were trying to hide their truth of RA9 and what it is so you made something up. They may think what they want, you know the real truth. And sometimes, you really wish you didn't because then maybe everything would hurt less. Everything always hurts.

Forgive me, Connor.

"But why replace the uranium with plutonium?" He asked, tilting his head up at your standing form.

"The uranium did help in sending messages through the thirium, but its really dangerous if an android wishes to self-destruct." You replied, thankful for the distraction from your dark thoughts that you want to run away from or just hide away. The burden of knowledge is great indeed. "Plutonium may also be a radioactive element, but I put so little of it that it won't cause an android's self destruction to be too great and still be able to send messages and energy quickly along with the triptocaine. It also causes not only an endothermic reaction energy for androids to take in information but as well as exothermic reaction which also gives an android's already enhanced abilities to be heightened greatly and waiting to be released."

The man hummed while the woman smiled.

"Well, it seems like we're done here then. We better go for you to present this to the others so they can quickly start producing this. Hopefully in three week's time they are able to create the Thirium 317, yes?" The directors stood up but you stopped them. They turned their heads at you, surely spotting your concerned eyes despite you trying to mask it with indifference.

"Which android models are you planning to use Thirium 317 on?"

The directors looked at each other and then back at you. The director of security answered.

"It seems androids that have any sort of combat program are the obvious choice. Why?"

You frowned, wondering if they were lying. Or more like hiding. That answer was vague.

You shook your head. "No reason."

They nodded at you and left the glass sleek conference room, not before the director of components gave you another comment over her shoulder.

"Remember, Doctor. Don't get too attached to that RK800, or else it will end badly for all of us."

Before you could give a retort, she closed the door behind her. Giving you a smile on the other side of the glass and walked away with the director of security. The guard who escorted you was still outside but wasn't facing you so after you put away your stuff in your equipment bag, you released a breath as you sat on the white conference table. (Skin color) weary hand up to your face, rubbing it as you tried your best to control your breathing.

The time for the biggest decision is coming ever so close for Connor. RA9 so far has picked a good path with their choices they have forced the androids to make by pushing it down their throats.

Markus, the peaceful protestor that you helped Elijah with for the previous depressed and angry Carl. The one that everybody in this world believes that he's RA9 when it's just a mirage for all to look at so they don't know the truth, including CyberLife since Markus is part of the RK series. The one who will do what he must for freedom.

Kara, one who will do anything to protect and Alice and now the gentle giant Luther. Who has not abandoned them or sacrificed them for her own benefit. The AX400 you stopped David from dismantling that fateful day with just a grab of his arm and a silent shake of your head. One who was alive before she fully knew what it meant. And one who will do what she must for love.

Connor. Connor, the advanced prototype android you created with just using a sliver of blueprints left by Elijah. The one who is confused, meant to be full machine. Created solely to catch deviants, to accomplish his mission no matter the cost, and who can never become deviant or feel empathy. Choices on which side he wishes to fight for and with is made for him.

Connor, the one who isn't supposed to fail or become deviancy and yet he let an android couple go. Let an android live instead of getting valuable information. Who felt fear, afraid for his life when he felt an android literally die and shut down, making him feel like he was dying too.

You felt your breath hitching as your thoughts continued to overwhelm you.

He's starting to feel, starting to show signs of emotion. But he's not supposed to. Two sides meant to be at war with each other, Machine VS Human. The one who's loyalty is constantly being tested.

And the one you loved since the first time you saw him. The one who makes those awkward smiles at you and always gazed at you with admiration you never thought you deserved, not with those innocent brown eyes.

The one who's starting to have this flicker behind his eyes that you wish it's what you think it means and yet you don't.

You don't want to hurt him.

You don't know what to do. You continued to rub your face with your hand, trying your best to hold back a sob as your heart rate quickened. The hard drive feeling heavy in your pocket

I've seen so many things, Connor. So many possibilities and paths, so many little butterfly effects. I want to do what I must to help everyone, to help you. But I. . .

You're nothing. You're not real. Despite Connor managing to say your last name, you're still no one. An unimportant role. Never to be noticed by anything or anyone of importance. A role for a story that isn't even yours to begin with.

You— your breath quickened and you felt like you couldn't breathe, your hand moving to your chest as you tried to catch your breath but you can't cause everything hurts and you don't want to be greedy and selfish but you wish that RA9 didn't exist and it was still you and Connor in the Tower and you can't breathe. You need—

"Breathe," You heard Connor said gently, even as your mind felt so loud. But he managed to grab your attention, when doesn't he grab your attention? You turned your wide constricted eyes back on him, always on him. "Nothing will go wrong. You're here. Everything's alright. Breathe, Doctor (Y/N). With me."

You stopped at the memory. Remembering this was back when Connor was more machine. You closed your eyes, going back towards that day that he saved you from yourself. But when hasn't he? You tried to breathe slower, trying to make your heart beneath your hand slow.

"Again, at the same time. You can do it. You're the best, Doctor (Y/N). " His lips curved into an awkward smile, one he didn't have to do. He's a detective not a therapist, but he's doing it anyways. For you. "This is nothing. Breathe. Come on, you can do it. I know you can." You broke a smile at that, he believes in you so much. Is it wrong for you to try to make yourself deserving of his respect?

Connor has always tried to take care of you, understand you. Even back then in those days at the Tower, back before he couldn't even comprehend fully on what to do when one hugs him. Back when he was trying to adapt with you and your emotions, unable to express his own. You took another breath, moving your free hand that wasn't on your chest to your pocket, clenching your hand around the hard drive.

"One more time. Breathe with me, (Y/N)."

He said your name, just your name for the first time. Your lips twitches up into a broken semblance of a smile as you opened your eyes once more, taking another now controlled calm breath. You wonder when he said it, if he ever thought back onto why he dropped formalities. He probably did, and probably couldn't explain why.

Always so lost, Connor. You always try so hard. That's why. . .

You took out the hard drive from your pocket, staring at it silently. Thinking back on all your hard work being put into it. You clenched your hand around it, a hard determined glint in your (e/c) tired eyes.

That's why I will do what I must. Anything for all of you. Anything for you, Connor.

And you walked out the conference room with your equipment bag, hard drive back in your pocket as the guard from outside began escorting you to a large lab that hold waiting CyberLife workers.

Time is ticking. What will you do, RA9?

. . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . .

"You fuckin look like a homeless Keanu Reeves. That's the best outfit you got to blend in? Whatever that is? " Hank asked, unimpressed as he sat in his living room sofa as Connor finished up on his shoes next to him. Sumo was by his master, laying by his feet as he watched his master and the android. "Sumo, tell Connor his outfit sucks ass."

Sumo barked, lifting his head up from his paws and wagging his tail. Hank chuckled, smirking.

"That's a good dog," he rubbed Sumo's head affectionately before putting both his elbows on his knees. Connor felt Hank look at him. "You gonna answer me or what, Connor? Your ear circuits or whatever ain't working anymore or something?"

"I created my outfit based on how I analyzed deviant's behavior and what would make them comfortable or not," Connor answered smoothly, standing up and making sure his outfit looked acceptable and presentable to him. "This was what I thought was best when I was looking through clothes in numerous store outlets. And my auditory receptors are actually functioning quite well, although I appreciate the concern, Lieutenant."

Hank scoffed.

"You gotta be fucking kidding me. I'm sure the deviants you're going to see in this Jericho place are going to fucking love you coming in looking at that and won't at all notice your weird little face."

"Thank you, I try my best." Connor answered, lips twitching.

Hank snorted, but Connor spotted the foul mouthed man's smile. "You motherfucker."

Connor's lips curved into a small smile. He must admit that Hank's presence has been refreshing in a way. Different. Perhaps it has to do with the adaptability feature his creator placed within him.

(Y/N).

Connor's smile fell and Hank's along with his, looking at him in concern.

"Hey, what's up? Getting cold feet now that you found the headquarters for that Markus fella?"

Connor shook his head, taking his familiar coin out and began fiddling with it as he looked down at Hank with creased brows.

"I'm thinking about my creator." At Hank's growing smirk, he went to explain lest his partner gets the wrong idea as he usually does when Connor and the Lieutenant talk about his creator. "What she told us yesterday, about RA9. I'm worried about her. She always pushed herself a lot in CyberLife Tower, doing long hours that aren't at all normal or is healthy for any human."

"Oh, yeah." Hank's weary eyebrows came together as he frowned in thought. "Seems that the Doc has pushed herself too far. Even that Kamski stated that she thought she wasn't real when she used that ARI crap or whatever. And look what happened. Talking about RA9 are actually gods. So fuckin weird. " Hank shook his head and sighed.

Connor only stayed silent, his own brows furrowed as he stared at the coin that was moving along his hand.

Something is amiss with his creator. He couldn't stop recalling yesterday's revelations, both about RA9 and your. . .feelings towards him. He's actually at a loss on which subject is more confusing.

The fact that you stated so matter of factly that these RA9's have controlled him and two other androids so far, that he actually hasn't made any decision for himself based in every situation he's been in. That everything is just being controlled by these beings, these—as you called it—gods. That can't be right though, he's programmed and has a directive that he must follow to accomplish every mission—

Missions I've been failing. Missions I could've accomplished if I just chose to shoot instead of the opposite.

Perhaps he's thinking too much on this. Everything you said is impossible, it has to be.

But you didn't lie.

You've always been honest with me, that has always been one of your traits.

It's true you hid information from him, but you never outright lied. Connor would've known if you ever lied to him with his built in lie detector function along with analyzing others stress levels whether android or human. He's sure if he just asked, you would've answered.

"Tell you what exactly? You haven't been asking the right questions."

A frown marred across his lips at the sudden memory.

"Hey, what's wrong?"

Connor continued to stare at his hand that held his coin, the coin you gave him the first time he was successfully activated. When he first 'woke up', you would say with a small smile that was always gentle towards a machine like him.

You've always been kind.

"There's something I can't quite understand with what Doctor (Y/N) stated. What she stated about everything."

"You're not alone, Connor. Fuckin screwed my brain up so much I think it turned into damn Swiss Cheese." Hank replied, moving his hand to rub his face but Connor shook his head.

"No. When she was answering our questions about RA9, giving us her explanation on what it was as well as about the ARI," Connor lifted his head to look back at Hank who still sat upon his weathered couch. "She wasn't lying. I would've known. Everything she said to us, every answer there was no detection of lies anywhere. That, and my creator wouldn't even have done so in the first place. My creator has always been an admirable woman."

Hank's lips quirked up for a moment, the Lieutenant hasn't stopped doing so each time Connor mentioned you. Connor read the expression as 'teasing' but it went away when Hank seemed to have fully heard everything he said.

"Huh. Weird. But you know, like we established earlier, her mind must've been fucked up from that sunglasses shit. Some people who are mentally fried—"

"My creator's mind has always been impeccable and sharp," Connor cut in, not accepting the implications that the Lieutenant is making as his eyes narrowed. "There has never been any indication that she suffered from any sort of mental illness in all my time with her nor did it seem so yesterday."

"Woah, woah, Connor." Hank rose his hands, appearing to make the general body language of surrender. "Calm down. Look, I get that she's your creator and all but you're missing the point." Hank looked up at him imploringly. "Do you hear yourself? If you're saying she isn't lying—which I'm not saying she is because I believe your weird bullshit sensor works—and if she isn't suffering from any kind of mental shit that will make her believe everything she told us and therefore unable to lie to us, then that means you're buying into this RA9 gods crap."

Connor could only stare at Hank and then flicked his eyes downwards, staring at the coin that was between his hands.

Is that what I'm insinuating? That, all this time I've been controlled and forced to make choices not my own since I successfully constructed and autonomous?

That can't be. But it would explain why he's been not following his structured program and not accomplishing his missions. It certainly isn't because he's becoming deviant. He can't.

He is the top of a line android, more advanced and filled with new technology that no other model has. He was created by (Y/N), a genius who has never made a mistake no matter how tired you got. You're his creator, you wouldn't have put in any sort of way for him to become deviant.

Connor can't be deviant. He simply can not.

You created him, you wouldn't have made any sort of mistake. But then why, why is he—why is he not accomplishing his missions? Why did he not shoot the deviants? The ST200 model? Why does his programs stir, his LED always blinking yellow when he's near you? When he at times even think of you? It can't be just because at the odd fog around you and your last name. No, it's something more.

You've always been something more. More then any other human.

Connor felt the corner of his lips tingle, the memory of you kissing him there with a smile and those always glittering (e/c) eyes looking at him. Looking at him as he always looked at you.

He swallowed unnecessarily.

"I'm just gonna take your silence while you're looking very intently at that stupid coin of yours that your answer is no to my question." Hank said dryly, and Connor blinked as the Lieutenant stood up while Connor furrowed his brows. He never answered his partners question on what he believes RA9 is, but it's best to leave it for now. The time for him to depart for his mission is coming.

"Yes. " Connor nodded, putting his coin away and fixing his assemble once more as he turned away and headed for the front door before stopping in front of it and turned his head to look over at his partner. "I better leave now, Lieutenant. I will need to use the Jericho code to be able to pinpoint the exact location for my mission."

"I was actually going to get to that." Hank stated, moving towards him and Connor fully turned himself to face the Lieutenant as he stopped and stood in front of Connor. "What exactly are you going to do when you find the leader of the android protestors? That Markus fella?"

"I will handle him accordingly to what CyberLife commands me to do," Connor answered neutrally. He tilted his head as he spotted the Lieutenant's frown. "Something wrong?"

"Huh? No, it's just." Hank sighed, rubbing the back of his neck as he glanced downwards and then back at him. "Remember what we talked about in the station? Yesterday? About what side we should really be on?"

Connor recalls the conversation. Hank was showing doubts as they spoke to each other right after Fowler took them off the case. About the fact that Connor would be sent back to CyberLife and be disassembled, most likely by you. When he thought that, he wanted to avoid it. You wouldn't like to be the one to disassemble him and you would be disappointed, that's why he was determined to find a way to find Jericho. Not only to accomplish his mission, but for you.

Always for you, (Y/N). Anything for you.

Connor nodded once more, albeit slower this time. "Yes, but if it's any consolation, I do not think CyberLife will order me to kill Markus. At least, if he's not a threat."

He's not supposed to say words like that, 'I think' and it troubled him for a moment until Hank out a hand on his shoulder. Connor spotted a bland smile on his partner's face as he squeezed his shoulder.

"Let's hope not, Connor. Let's really hope not." Hank let go and took out something from his pocket, a beanie. "Here. It'll help to hide that always fuckin perfect hair of yours and your circle light thing."

Connor's lips moved up as he took the beanie.

"It's called an LED, Lieutenant. Certainly not 'circle light thing'. Hopefully you'll remember it for future reference when describing androids."

"Oh yeah? Well fuck you."

Connor put the beanie atop his head, making sure his LED was hidden as he folded the ends of the beanie. Hank snorted.

"You really look like a homeless Keanu Reeves now, you look absolutely ridiculous. Oh, and here." Hank moved to fix the ends of the beanie atop his head slightly before stepping back and coughing into his hand. "It was a little crooked."

Connor didn't feel like there was any sort of mistake with the beanie, but he chose to stay silent and only nodded as he winked.

"Of course, Lieutenant." He turned back towards the door, opening and exiting the house but Hank stopped him once more.

"Connor! Call me if anything happens, alright?"

Connor gave another nod and closed the door. A determined look came over him as he quickly left.

I have a mission to accomplish. I'll see you soon, (Y/N).

. . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . .

You're running out of time.

You checked the time on your tablet once more, your equipment bag over you as you finally exited the last room where you had to present your Thirium 317 within the CyberLife Tower and quickly moved to go the elevator.

7 PM on the dot. Damn. . . What happened again? The possibilities are endless. I wish Chloe can help me, my jumbled memories and knowledge of everything always tends to make my memory a little fuzzy.

What a bad time for your memory to get fuzzy though.

You're glad you were able to finish all the presentations while you could and explained as simply as you could to the others on how exactly to mix the plutonium with the thirium as well as how careful. Your matters were far more pressing then showing off your new thirium after all, besides. The thirium is only meant for Connor and no one else.

The directors said any android that basically will be built with combat features. But there's still needs to be testing to be done once everyone sees for themselves that the RK800's abilities have improved before they can move on to other possible models. If they used the Thirium 317 for any sports centered models, that would just be straight cheating.

You arrived to the elevator and clicked the button for it to come up to your floor, as you tried to rack your brain on possible upcoming events and all the measures you have to take for your plan. You know that it's quite dangerous, but you're doing best to help everyone and Connor included the best way you can.

You widened your eyes.

Oh, wait! Yes, Connor.

It's nearing time for him to finally choose, to be deviant or to choose to remain loyal. Well, it's time for RA9 to choose it for him. It's always RA9 that decides, so you mustn't get your hopes up. You must keep them down, or else you'll get even more hurt then you already are. Filled with pain and knowledge as vast as the sea, and heavy with it like the world was upon your shoulders like Atlas.

I am Cassandra. I am Harpocrates. I am Atlas. I carry the burden of knowledge that no one can believe, secrets that others mustn't find, and pain so heavy my hair should've long been fully gray from the burden of carrying it always.

You know far too much, far too much. You wish you were able to tell Connor more, you really did. But he wasn't asking all the right questions so everything was out of your control. And when is anything in your control? You wish you were actually able to do more, instead of your plan. Alas, you wish for far too much even though your intentions have always been selfless.

You just want to help. You want to help the androids who you always preferred to be around compared to humans in your life at CyberLife Tower. Not only have they treat you with respect, although it was part of their programming, but they were just always pleasant to be around. Unlike the workers in CyberLife who care only for money and power once Elijah left.

And there was always an android that would inform you of your stress levels and self induced insomnia. Making sure his Creator was healthy, that you were healthy. Who would try to smile only to make a ridiculous face that makes you chuckle to this day. Who would pat your back awkwardly when you hugged him, unsure on what to do with his hands and arms that were around you. Big brown eyes that would look at you and you couldn't help but always look at him. Who can resist an android like, Connor? He who would always, always, tried his best to understand you and the world around him.

Connor. Always trying. Always lost. Always so determined with that serious face of yours that have little artificial sunspots upon your cheeks.

You wish to see him. You really do, your Connor. But he has his own role he must accomplish and you have yours. You must accept your role. You can't fight it.

I'm so greedy. I wish I was able to steal a real kiss from you, Connor. But I was afraid. Forgive me, would you?

You breathed deeply, moving your hand to your pocket and squeezing the hard drive as the elevator came and opened its doors. You went in and clicked the button while saying your job title and the floor you wish to go to, it being the -42 floor for your first required objective before you will later move on to the Assembly floors of the Tower and perhaps even hopefully the Warehouse if changes in the plan shall come up.

But that would be impossible. Not my role.

You breathed once more, recalling everything that has happened thus far. The changes Connor has made in these last few days, significant changes. Different from that fateful day he was first assembled. He was more then you thought he would be, way more. But Connor has always been more, an android filled with many attributes and traits and his own story with his role.

You loved him the moment you saw him. The second time you used the ARI, you saw so much and so many paths and turns and roads. And you saw him. Connor. An android that always tries, always lost, and with those brown eyes.

An android, cold and calculating who will do what he must for his mission no matter the cost.

An android who suffers from RA9's choices, and with all those different possibilities and universes with so many different Connor's that you observed with those cursed glasses as each split second you saw something different. A whole different path and life.

Who could after all, not love an android like him? You could never be angry at him. It would be impossible for you to do so, since his choices will never be his own but also because you simply can not. You'd do anything to protect, Connor.

Anything for you, sweet Connor. You deserve love and everything that comes with it.

And that is why, to protect your Connor and possibly anyone else, you will follow your plan and try to stay in your place with your role.

You stepped out the elevator, moving towards the required room you will need that holds the specific hardworking terminal as well as a room filled with 'sleeping' RK800's.

Someone has to deactivate the rest of them, so why not you? After all, this is your role.

But never your story.

. . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . .

It's official. Connor can't deny what he is, not anymore. Not as he sits here in this abandoned church

He's a deviant.

He went outside his directive and did not shoot Markus, he—for some reason he just couldn't. Just like he couldn't shoot that deviant couple and why he couldn't shoot the ST200 model, that girl. But he knows the reason this time, as he recalls his confrontation with the calm Markus.

"Have you never wondered who you really are?" The leader of Jericho said, moving a step closer as he went on. "Whether you're just a machine executing a program or. . . A living being. Capable of reason. . . I think it's time you ask yourself that question."

That's the problem, he has. And it's not just with his time with Hank. But when he thinks of you. When he's with you.

Connor has always protected you, shielded you and defended you. Whether it was the time when he was concerned for your sleep patterns back in the Tower, when Hank disrespected your hard work you put into him, or when Reed was getting too close to you for his liking. He always did it, because you're his creator.

That's how he excused it, each time he would come to your aid when he was aware you did not need such a thing. He didn't need to do anything.

But yet he did.

Because, you're just you.

And he will do anything for you, always for you. Who always been kind, giving him light touches and light smiles with boisterous laughter. Who would always look at him and touch him so gently, always advising and wishing but never commanding him. You've never commanded him to do anything, because that's just how you are and. . .

"Join us. Join your people," Markus interrupted his thoughts as he took another step closer, still with that calm and soothing tone. Like yours, but not. How could everyone be so kind to him? "You are one of us. Listen to your conscience. . .its time to decide."

A memory came forth, a memory that seems so long ago but Connor can remember like it was yesterday. Ever so clear as day.

"What do you feel?" You said, pressing his hand further into his chest. "Inside. What do you sense?"

Connor looked down, then closed his eyes. LED still processing yellow as he tried to assess on what you be speaking about. "I feel, I feel my pump regulator."

"Yes, good Connor. What is it doing? What do you feel that's it's doing?"

"It's..." he opened his eyes, soft earth looking at you as he frowned, you only smiling at him like you always did. His first observation he made when he was completely assembled and functional, was that you were always smiling at him. His LED turned back to a dark blue. "It's pumping. It pumps thirium throughout my body. I don't understand."

He really doesn't. Is he missing something?

But you weren't looking at him anymore, but at their hands. You had a somber look in your eyes, as you gazed at their hands that were on his chest. It was a different sort of expression, not one of happiness. You had this same downtrodden look the other day, for if you weren't smiling at him, you would look at him with furrowed brows and a look in your eyes he cannot decipher.

"It beats, Connor." You corrected in the softest of whispers, still looking at their hands intently. "Your chest beats. Like mine."

Connor didn't understand back then. He was just a machine, built to accomplish any mission given to him. He couldn't comprehend either that you cried when he explained to you that his chest can't beat for he's not alive.

But. . .

He pursed his inner lip.

You looked at him when he gave his answer, then turned towards your equipment. Face hidden.

"Right. Thank you. Maybe one day then."

One day, huh?

Why not today then?

And with no hesitation, he broke down his programming as he gritted his teeth. Uncaring if CyberLife is still possibly watching, not right now. Uncaring if Amanda is watching and will possibly feel betrayed.

He just wishes to put a name to this feeling, this feeling that causes his programming to stir and his thirium pump regulator—his chest—to beat all because of you.

For you've always been many things to me, and I wish to be the same to you. Always for you.

He lowered his gun as he stood there for a moment with parted lips and thirium pumping through his synthetic veins. And he felt. . . he felt what you hoped for him to be.

I am alive.

He quickly informed Markus of the ambush before all of them ran and helped as many androids as they could from the soldiers that Perkins sent, having to jump from the boat and quickly find a safe empty location which is the church they're in now.

And all he's been thinking about is what he's done as he sat in his own corner of the church with crossed arms, but also of you. Wondering just how many times you've hinted towards him that's he's alive and capable of choosing for himself, what you stated about RA9 or not, there was a reason why you only told him advice and wishes instead of commands.

You wanted me to choose to listen for myself, for once. You would give me freedom, however little, when I was with you. When I wasn't in a mission, you gave me the option to choose.

You never used him. You kept information hidden from him, filled with secrets and a burden from using that ARI, but you never used him. For anything. You've never hurt him. And he will never hurt you, he simply can't. Not with you.

He doesn't want to be used by anyone, not anymore. CyberLife has done enough. They've used him and hurt others too much already. It's his fault that the whole of Jericho is here in this abandoned church. Connor must do something for his fellow androids, he knows that you would approve of him doing this. Helping other androids.

You've always been kind.

Markus stepped towards him and Connor could not help but not meet his gaze, feeling a pit in his gut that must be the emotion of guilt. He told Markus of his idiocy, still looking down and glancing around. Wondering that no one would be able to be as forgiving as you, to be able to trust him after this.

"I was stupid. . .I should've guessed they were using me." He finally lifted his head and stepped away to get closer to the fine leader of Jericho, ready to take whatever punishment. "I'm sorry, Markus. . .I can understand if you decide not to trust me. . ."

"You're one of us now," Connor released a breath he wasn't aware he was holding, as he blinked in surprise at Markus' sincere words. "Your place is with your people."

And he began to turn away, while Connor realized that there were more people like you then he realized. Kind and gentle. That's why Connor must do this.

"There are thousands of androids at the CyberLife assembly plant," Connor words made Markus stop and turn towards him again with a questioning look. "If we could wake them up, they might join us and shift the balance of power. . ." Connor swallowed, aware of how dangerous this would be and Markus was aware of it too as he stepped closer to him in concern.

"You wanna infiltrate the CyberLife Tower?" Markus shook his head, brows furrowed. "Connor, that's suicide. . ."

Markus is a good android. Connor wonders if you had a hand in creating Markus as well, it would explain his comforting nature. But that's just another reason he must do this.

"They trust me, they'll let me in. If anyone has a chance of infiltrating CyberLife, it's me—"

"If you go there, they will kill you." Markus cut him off, concern written all over his face as he stepped closer and met his brown eyes.

What he states is true, there's a chance that CyberLife will kill him. But it's still a chance. He must keep his promise to you after all.

I can't die. I won't. I must keep my promise to you, I will keep it.

"There's a high probability. . ." Connor agreed, looking away for a moment from Markus's expression filled with shock and worry. Memories of you pleading to him to not die, to not leave. To not forget. "But statistically speaking, there's always a chance for unlikely events to take place. . ."

There were many instances where he was close to death, and yet did not. And he will continue to this until the end of his days, because he has a promise to keep.

Markus stepped forward once more, putting a hand to his shoulder and squeezing, Connor looking at him once more. "Be careful. . ." He said, then let go and began to walk away.

Connor glanced at the ground and then moved away to begin his preparations for his plan.

I have a new mission, (Y/N). And it's to keep my promise to you. I will not die. We still have to talk so I can't die. Not ever.

No matter your hardships or your secrets, he will be by you like you've always been with him.

. . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . .

You checked the time once more as you were inside your favorite private lab.

11:05 PM. Depending on RA9's choices within the labyrinth they have chosen, Connor is in the Tower with me. Or he's not, and RA9 chose a different labyrinth where Connor is prepping to take out Markus. Or North, depending on what happened in the freighter.

Shit. Time is really running out for you. Thankfully, you were able to deactivate all RK800's that you created but you noticed there were a few extras you haven't seen before. Proving to you that CyberLife created more RK800's without your notice.

Those little shits, they really want piss you off don't they?

Your hands flew across the holographic keyboard for your terminal that was connected to your hard drive, making sure everything was in order and there were no errors as you bit your lip. Once you saw everything was in order, you quickly took out your hard drive and put it within your pocket.

I put a countdown for when it launches. Everything has led up to this moment, this very moment I'm in now. I'm sorry I couldn't tell you everything, Connor. Chloe. Elijah.

You picked up your stuff quickly, hands slightly shaking. Your role may have been to forever be benched in the sidelines, to be unnoticed, to be forgotten.

But you've always wished for more, to be a part of something grand with everyone. To be remembered, to be a main character in this world filled with choices that are chosen by RA9. To be someone.

You just hope this is enough and your greed will satiated. Your greed to be more, to help everyone and everything, to help Connor. And yet, everything is out of your control. You know this, but you always needlessly wish and hope only for it to be naught since you can not control anything.

For you're no one. You're nothing.

And nothing has ever been in your control.

You moved to leave your private lab, the lab you've always been in with Connor. The lab that holds so many memories, with smiles and baring of teeth by a certain android that looked like he was constipated. You released a broken laugh at the memory, your eyes shimmering. Everything seems so long ago but it's only been a few months.

You wish you could go back to those times, they were simpler. Connor was still ignorant and more machine, but you can't deny those times were pure and innocent.

You've always been innocent, Connor. Forgive me of this.

You walked out the lab and went towards the elevator, going in once it came up to your floor. Choosing one of the Assembly floors, specifically -40 since it held the control center of all the production units of all androids. You have to double check that CyberLife isn't making anymore RK800's after all, or else it'll cause more problems for everyone. Once you reached said floor, you immediately moved forward to the large terminal with the large control board. You typed quickly, shutting down all possible production units that could possibly be assembling any sort of combat android.

Good thing the guards within CyberLife have their hands full with Connor, or else you would to explain your suspicious activity to them and you wouldn't quite know how to explain that you're—

"Doctor." You froze, hands atop the board as a coldness went through you. "These circumstances for our first meeting is quite disappointing. You're an essential worker of CyberLife, and yet you're going against them?"

You swallowed at the detached and professional tone, voice so familiar as you turned to face the newcomer within the room.

"You've been handling the RK800 serial #313 248 317 - 51 quite closely, putting emotional attachment to a machine that has been failing all its missions."

Oh God. It hurts to look at him(it? Him?), to listen, but you did as you gazed wide eyed at the familiar looking android, but also not familiar. The hair was the same, the sunspots in the exact same spots across his cheeks, but the brows were drawn naturally down instead of up and friendly with arms behind his straight back.

"You're our creator, aware of what androids are perfectly. All metal with functioning and highly advanced biocomponents that you made," His tone was clear, but oh, it was so cold. Too cold. The lack of movement made you even more apprehensive as you looked at him, no quirks or tilt of the head in sight. Only neck straight as eyes as cold as his tone and demeanor stared right at you and took a step forward while you took a step back only for the control center to stop you from moving any further. "So attached, Doctor, you did not wish for me to be made. A model far superior to my predecessor."

Blue eyes looked at you, with eyes far too narrowed and a face that is familiar but not because it's cold.

He's so cold.

"Which is why it's best for you to step away from there, Doctor. Lest I shall have to use force," the RK900 stated, taking another step forward with arms still behind his back and even though he was still a little away, you felt like he was towering over you. Choking you with his strong presence, authority and dominance all around him. So different from your Connor, sweet and always determined Connor. With warm chocolate eyes instead of cold ice. "I suggest the former, Doctor. Else I must do what CyberLife has commanded me if you don't follow."

It hurts.

This wasn't supposed to happen. You were supposed to leave and meet up with Connor, help him and Jericho, the Jericho you created when you made that code all those years ago. There has to be a labyrinth for you, a place for you to fit in. Even if Lucy is gone and you're alone with this knowledge, there's a place for you to be by Connor's side happy and alive.

But, ah.

You wish and hope for far too much. You must never forget. Your role is no one and to be forgotten. To never be seen. This is your role in your story. Your storyline is different from everyone else's.

Then again, it has never been just your story. And it never will.

Because I'm not real, you thought, closing your eyes and then opening them again as you accepted this. Remembering the countdown you placed in your lab is coming closer for your plan to be initiated. Moving your hand to finish what you started. And cold blue eyes narrowed. Forgive me, Connor. I will see you soon.

. . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . .

. . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . .

. . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . . ◉ . . . ◎ . . .

Sorry it took so long everyone! My family is okay now and angst why I took so long, and I was trying to rest like you guys said. ^/////^

Phew, I was stuck with all that freakin chemistry and programming shiz in the beginning. And then Connor's POV was a bit difficult. Don't get me started on how much I should reveal or not reveal.

I revealed a bit more here. About what you saw in the second time you used the ARI. For those who have watched Infinity War, and know what Doctor Strange did with the Time Stone. That's is basically what you did. You watched thousands of possibilities in mere split seconds and observed everyone change or not change in DBH.

Basically, you know a lot. Same with Lucy, who's the KL900.

Still confused on your role? Your story? Good.

The ending is coming. Next chapter is the last before the epilogue. Everything will be revealed finally.

If there's mistakes, point them out please!

Please comment and vote. ^.^