Depequi

Floating around the space debris, the shattered pieces of a spaceship that came far too close to a meteorite belt, searching for any sign of any sort of life, I was ever so saddened to figure that it was Neopian after all. Mourning the sights, I floated around the remains, searching thoroughly. Something had drawn me in, a bad feeling deep inside, something that was too dangerous for me to just leave it be. I had to find it, before whatever drew me over here did more damage.

I fleeted through the broken pieces of what was left of the bridge, sensing traces of this strange, dark energy, whatever was that caused all of that destruction had definitely confronted the crewpets. There were laser burn marks and other burn marks on some parts of the walls that were more intact. I felt uncomfortable with the latter marks, there was the anomalous energy yet again, and with it this bad feeling kept on stirring within me. Was it anxiety? Maybe, but it was different... Fear? No, I didn't fear it... No, it was hate. I spotted the crew, but I didn't know if there was anything I could do, it was far too late. I moved on, seeking this unknown foe of mine.

Sensing another energy nearby, I was already on edge and readied to attack, when I realized she was Neopian as well. A faerie? In outer space? I could tell she was focused on searching too, I could sense worry. I caught a glimpse of her, she looked familiar, she reminded me of the faerie who guarded Neopia from space, and yet... If I were to describe her, she was like, her inverse? She had a mostly orange-motif and long hair, and floated around in her orange bug wings, carrying a trio of interlocked staves of different sizes. She noticed me too, and her surprise was not as intense as I had expected, surprisingly enough. She lowered her weapon.

I thought there was only one Space Faerie? I could feel her surprise and curiosity change into mild resentment, but also... Longing and pain? Who was this?

I am not, I just happened to borrow some of her powers. Apparently the two of us were drawn in for the same reason? The bad sensation wouldn't leave me, and I felt wary of even sharing this information with strange faerie.

Can you feel it too? There's something really wrong here, I don't know what is it, but I don't like it a little bit. She nodded at me, and commented in a funereal tone.

I know what this is. This is bad news... It is happening faster than I had expected. Her latter comment caught my attention, and a tinge of fear bubbled within me from asking the question.

What's happening? She looked at me blankly, as if she hadn't realized she was thinking out loud, or that I could hear her thinking, and then answered me.

I did not realize you were listening into my thoughts, although, in retrospect, it is my fault I forgot we are in space. I guess... I guess I can share with you, after all, you are a spark of light, it is in your nature to protect Neopia, it is as much part of your creation as it is part of you. Wow, that's a first. The end of time, it is approaching us rapidly. Shocked, I stuttered my words, trying to process what this faerie just spoke.

Wa-wait, what do you mean? The end of time, as in, some sort of apocalyptic end?? Something like that??

Something like that. She so nonchalantly spoke to me, and I had no idea of how to even follow up to that, but after a second, she then continued on, rambling to herself. I could feel an overwhelming amount of emotions emanating from her, guilt, anger, determination, frustration, obsession, just to cite a few, and they didn't help my state of being. I need to work fast, to find the source of infiltration this time, find the artefact that I need to use to detain them, and stop them before it is too late, and this becomes a doomed timeline. She floated on, searching for the culprit I had almost forgotten about by now, cutting the conversation short. I could still hear her ramblings. If one of them shows up, that's already a bad sign, at least there are not as many of them this time to fight... And then she was too far for me to pick up on her thoughts. I didn't know if I should follow her, in fear of discovering more, but yet I needed to know more.

Wait! How does this spacecraft crash tie in? Is there anything I can do?? I floated towards the direction she took off, trying to find her in the rubble.

This was caused by one of their kind. The telltale signs are there, I can easily tell. You can tell as well, that wariness on you, you can tell that this is something bound to destroy what you protect. They are not from here, they come from beyond.

Beyond as in from where? And why do they want to end everything? I hurried to catch up to her, and almost bumped onto her, who had stopped to look at something.

Beyond all that is known. Beyond our existence. They are outsiders in our universe, and they hate it here, their very nature is to destroy what is here, their mere presence corrodes and corrupts everything around them. I peeked over her shoulder to see what she was looking at. Another sad form, I would have thought, if the bad sensation I had hadn't overwhelmed me with repulse and anger at the unfamiliarly familiar Gelert.



Is that...

Yes. I forced myself to look at it, it looked Neopian enough to fool anyone, but yet, there were so many dissimilar aspects on it that made it stand out. And its energy, dark, scary, even now, it felt threatening. A monster, hidden among other neopets, who probably gained the trust of the crew, only to ambush them when they were isolated in space. I loathed everything about this.

At least this one has met its end. But that means there is more, they never come alone. Well, that is all to it, I have already searched the rest of the ship, or what remains of it. Have you found anything else? I couldn't think of anything.

No...

Alright... Well, I will be going then. It was a pleasure to meet you, spark. It is not every day I encounter one of you. She started floating away, but I never had my answer! I zoomed past her, and blocked her way.

Wait! You never told me who you were! And how do you know all of this information! We've never even introduced ourselves! The faerie was irritated at me, she seemed busy with something else now, looking for something, but she reluctantly answered me.

My name is Nora, I know all of this because I have seen all of this before. I was confused by that statement, what did she mean? She raised her staves, but I didn't pay heed, I was too curious to know more about her.

You have? What do you mean? Like, in your past life or something?

Or something. But before I could ask her any more questions, a light brighter than my own shone quickly, and I could tell she had gone away.

That faerie...

Availability

Start audio log. Test number one. There was a pause, as the Shoyru scientist tried to think of what to say. The prototype is finally, after many complications, failures, and unforeseen delays, fully functional and working in the way I meant it to work. Besides some fine tuning, I can declare that I have achieved what I wanted to build, a fully-functional self-learning robot, adaptable enough, and with a highly flexible code, to suit for any task, and curious and highly observant so to speed up its learning. Not to brag about it, but I am very proud of how this came out, I hope this will impress the big boss.

I bedazzle myself imagining all the possibilities this robot, and more of its kind, could do. The perfect soldiers- No, the perfect agents, suited to be spies, scouts, brawlers, assassins, soldiers, and much more. Ingenious enough to quickly mold to any task one could give them, highly intelligent to see through any difficulties or hindrances that may come in the way, to find roundabouts and other solutions, carrying the very apex of our species' evolutionary breakthrough... He paused once again, trying to catch his breath, lost from excitement. And yet, efficient, fastidious, dexterous, powerful, and, most of all, completely compliant to its master like a robot.

I have even entertained the thought of maybe later on even adding an outer shell of organic-like skin and fur, to help with stealth missions and infiltrating groups. With its "friendly personality" interface, and a little bit of time to learn and blend in, the foolish instigators who dare oppose the Doctor's forces could be easily wiped out from within! And it could also easily serve as our Symol, planted within their foolish organizations, instantly sending all sorts of information and letting us know exactly what they are planning at every second! The scientist laughed maniacally at his malevolent plan, he knew this would please greatly his master, or he had hoped so. After all, his brilliant mind would obviously see the brilliancy in this scientist's plan, or could the big boss call himself brilliant after all?

But first, I must perform some basic conversational tests, to fine tune the real time learning algorithm. He coughed to clear his throat, and started. Hello A-5-0NNY.

The robot Aisha rotated his head towards the scientist, and responded in a soft metallic voice. Hello, nice to meet you. What's your name? The scientist smiled, satisfied with the response.

It's Zakaraiah. Doctor Zakaraiah. Welcome to the world.

The robot hesitated, and then asked. What's a world?

Start audio log. Test number forty-two. The prototype has progressed much in its cognition, and our long conversations many a time begin straying from the basic concept explaining and world breakdown, towards more abstract and philosophical questions. It is a pleasure chatting with it, overall. I have also been requesting for Sloth's underlings to come and train it, I wanted to test its learning ability in every way possible, and by all means, it is doing astoundingly well as well in the physical combat training. I am satisfied by its progress.

The Shoyru scientist paused for a second, pensively staring at the robot, and there was a glimpse of worry on his eyes for a second. Today is the very day where I'll be presenting my prototype to the Doctor himself. I can't help but feel a bit... Nervous... Despite all the ingeniousness in this breakthrough project, and its impressive development.... Dr. Sloth's main experiments all are turned towards brainwashing, mutating and modifying pre-existing lifeforms, with the Doranian natives being his prime fodder. Even I have spent much of my time in his main research, seeking to create the ultimate minions, and that ultimately deprived me of time to work on my own vision. And the research has been phenomenal, I mean, all the mutants, the Kreludonite research, even the modified creatures, it all has pleased the Master... He trailed off, and looked at his creation in a rhetorical search for the confirmation that he needed.

The scientist breathed in with a whine, and exhaled sharply, regaining his confidence. But today, I shall prove to the Doctor that the future of the Virtupets empire is in robotics. He looked outside the door into the laboratory, and noticing the one coming down the hallway, he changed his tone accordingly, to appeal to the approaching group. My Lord! What a pleasure that you have come to see my humble invention. The Shoyru scientist walked into his laboratory, but the overshadowing figure and his followers did not do the same.

Bring your robot along, we shall test its actual usefulness on the training grounds at the lower deck. The Shoyru nodded, ignoring the insult to his creation.

As you wish, my Lord. And signaled the Aisha robot to follow along with the group. The Aisha marched behind all of them, silent as ever, discreetly studying the ones in front of it.

Tension hung in the air as they headed down the hallway and towards a large bay elevator; the Aisha could tell that not many there knew what was going on. Ahead of it followed a couple of robot Blumaroos donned in plate armor and armed with blasters who seemed to be making small talk about their troop leader's antics; a green Jetsam who also had a blaster and some other hidden weapon within his coat, and who glanced over twice at the robot furthest back in confusion; a red Lenny with two long range blasters, and who seemed visibly fidgety at what he was gathering from the situation and what he feared may be next; a purple Mynci with an energy spear who was distracted and only followed along her colleagues without much thought; and two large mutant Grundos with basic armor, stoic and mindbroken like most of their type. Further on front the Aisha identified its creator, the red Shoyru with metallic wings, and a bulky shadow Kougra with a matching long cape, but none of them were as overbearing as the tall figure cloaked in black, with a large standing collar that was glaring red on the inside, matching his red eyes that were just a bit too small for his large, green face that rested on an impassive, nonchalant e xpression of near tedium while he listened to the scientist.

While the elevator descended floors, Dr. Zakaraiah enthusiastically explained his model to his overlord. It can study any subject in any sort of interaction, to study their disposition and physical state, as well as their emotional state and any body language, as subtle as it can be, so it can quickly calculate the best approach in winning over the other, or eliminating the opponent. And it even has embedded infrared and ultraviolet sensors to heighten its perception, and a chemical scrutinizer that can breakdown and study any substance that enters through its cavities! The Kougra grimaced in disgust, and intruded with his concern.

Please tell me this robot won't lick anything. That would be just gross. The Shoyru glared at the Kougra, judgement and defensiveness hiding behind his bionic lenses, then he responded sharply.

Not if it doesn't need to, it can inhale particles in the air, like you do too, all of the time, Gormos. The Kougra looking disconcerted and incited by the comeback, was about to make his argument back, but at that moment the elevator door opened up to a large hangar area that was empty. With a gesture of his head, the tall figure commanded for all to go ahead, all but him, the commander, and the scientist. The minions all found places they were most comfortable at, grouping with their similars, spread some feet apart, and the robot to be tested was about to follow along and find a group that would best receive it, when the boss called to it.

Not so fast, I want to speak to you first, robot. It turned around quickly, and the cloaked figure asked the scientist a question. Does it have a given name, or will I have to refer to it by its series name- The Shoyru rapidly shook his head.

No, I gave it no name, so it can take upon any fake name on the missions and impersonate anyone it needs to, in the most natural way. The boss gave a grunt of irritation, while Commander Gormos smirked at the slip up, thinking of how to bring it up later on. Glancing over at his creation, the scientist gave away some of his anxiety through the look he gave, but the robot remained neutral as always.

The boss prompted the robot. Introduce yourself. Identify your full prototype name and version. Also, give me a summary of your purpose.

The Aisha's face lit up with a friendly formal smile. Hello. I am the A-5-0NNY prototype, first version to this date. My purpose is to accomplish stealth and infiltration missions, involving one or multiple targets, or involving the retrieval of sensitive information, but I can also be used in frontal combat if necessary. Everyone's attention was on the Aisha robot then, and it paused for a little bit, but then continued on its introduction. I am equipped with multiple sensors that-

Yeah, yeah, I have heard all of that part at least three times by now. Dr. Zakaraiah glanced up apprehensively, but didn't interject yet, as his boss continued on. A-5-0NNY, do you know who am I?

The Aisha replied, confused. I am sorry, but I do not recognize you. Have we met before? The tall figure chuckled, unimpressed, prompting both the commander and the scientist to glance at him this time.

In an imposing voice this time, the boss aggressively grinned widely with his sharp teeth, answering the robot so to put it in its place. I am the greatest, most ingenious scientist in this universe, the creator and destroyer himself, ruler of this galactic empire, the one who all shall bow down to eventually, your Supreme and Beloved Overlord, Doctor Frank Sloth. Your creator is but one of my creations, and all here are my lowly minions, including you, understood? The Aisha hesitated for a second while it took in this information.

The Aisha robot then lowered itself so to kneel on one of its knee joints, and bowed down as far as it could.

My deepest apologies, my Supreme Lord, that was ignorant of me. It is an immeasurable pleasure to meet you, and I am but completely awestruck to be in your presence. Dr. Sloth chuckled once more, but this time, his tone was different.

A flatterer, I see. He glanced at Dr. Zakaraiah, who chuckled nervously back. Alright, now, I want you to interact with them. Go, get to know them. The Aisha stood up quickly, and promptly took off to first approach the robot Blumaroos, who all looked hesitantly at the short robot's approach.

Hello, I am A-5-0NNY, what are your models, and what series do we belong to? The robots looked at each other, and responded in order.

Hey kid. We're Garoo's Elite Strike Commander robots, battler BL series. I am Bot BL-04. The first robot answered.

And I'm BL-09. The second robot followed.

And I'm BL-15. The third robot finalized.

The Aisha smiled as it took in the information given. Glad to make your acquaintance.

Surveying around, he then moved onto the mutant Grundos, who only looked at him, as passive as ever. Hello. I am A-5-0NNY, what are your names? But the mutants didn't respond, and in a moment of uncertainty, the robot Aisha looked at its creator, trying to figure out what to do next, but Dr. Sloth watched the two, so Dr. Zakaraiah just nudged at him with his head, to keep on going. The Aisha turned back to the mutant Grundos, and after studying them, decided to brighten up with the widest, most friendly smile it could do, and the Grundos, noticing the smile, reciprocated back. That was the best interaction it could get out of the mutants, so then it moved onto the Neopians now.

He approached the Jetsam first, who was already intrigued by this short addition to Sloth's troops, albeit he clearly still didn't know why was he there. Hello! I am A-5-0NNY, what's your name? The Aisha extended a hand invitingly towards the goon.

The Jetsam stuttered a bit. Uh- Uriak. And took the robot's hand to shake.

Pleasure to meet you, Uriak! The Aisha sounded chipper, and shook hands so lively, that it was a relief to the Jetsam, but was a bit too strange for him for this metallic creature to be so friendly.

Y-you too... And the robot promptly moved onto the Mynci, and tried greeting the same way, hand already extended.

Hi, I am-

A-5-0NNY, yes, I think we have all heard it here plenty of times already. The Mynci didn't even take its hand. The robot, disconcerted, lowered its hand, and took a second to continue on.

Oh... Well, what is your name, then? If I may ask? The Mynci rolled her eyes, and sighed irritably, but responded either ways, since she did not want to anger everyone's boss, who was still watching.

Jenna.

Nice to meet you, Jenna. It smiled at her, but all she did was roll her eyes yet again, and ignore it. The Aisha then decided to move onto the Lenny, whose eyes widened when he saw the Aisha approach, and looked visibly tense.

Hey there, my name's A-5-0NNY. Noticing that the Lenny was not easing up even with his smile, it tried comforting him by reassuring. Don't worry, I won't hurt you. I just want to get to know your name. The Lenny hesitated for some seconds, but after glancing fearfully at his lord, responded in a fumble.

It-it's W-Wal-Waltrax. The Aisha smiled once again, and tried reaching out its hand to the Lenny, who apprehensively took it to shake it.

Nice to meet you Waltrax. It warmly continued on. See, I just wanted to know you a bit better. Dr. Sloth coughed to clear his throat, and to bring attention to him, and then he proceeded to finalize this test.

Well, then, I see your social interface is working well... And in a grin, he instructed the next test. Now... Finish ALL of these minions. The Aisha looked at his overlord while he processed the instructions, while the goons and the robots, all taken aback, started moving away, and rushed to take their weapons out.

Waltrax in particular was stumbling away from the robot, fumbling to take his weapon out, while tearing up about what he knew was going to happen from the beginning, but the Aisha jumped onto him before he could do anything, stole his long range blasters, and knocked out the Lenny with its elbow. It then proceeded to blast off all of the other armed targets, and then doing the same to the Lenny. The mutant Grundos, now having noticed the attack, charged in to try to finish off the robot, but the robot dashed to take the Mynci's energy spear, now laying on the ground near her, and then charged in towards the mutants, jumping high and climbing over one of them to get them from their blind spots. With two large thuds, the Aisha had just accomplished his instructions successfully, and looked at the three remaining living creatures there, awaiting instructions, while it updated its database.

Dr. Zakaraiah glanced over at Dr. Sloth, and with one look he could tell he had greatly pleased his master, and smiled approvingly and proudly at his creation. The Kougra looked around, shocked and somewhat horrified at the scenery, and Dr. Sloth, who was still reflecting on what just happened, was very satisfied by this result. He then turned to Dr. Zakaraiah with clear excitement. What did you say it is missing? The Shoyru looked at his boss surprised by his tone, but didn't make any verbal note of it.

Oh- I was- Um, as you can tell, this model looks too un-Neopian, which may repulse many, so I was thinking that maybe it needed some sort of skin, maybe that could change texture and color on demand-

Consider it done. Both the Shoyru and the Kougra looked surprised at their boss, while the Aisha just quietly watched it all, donning its neutral face.

Um- You- Approve of it? Dr. Zakaraiah's disconcerting made Dr. Sloth realize how much his excitement was slipping through, so he regained his nonchalant, distantly superior posture, and responded now much more calmly and imposingly.

Yes, yes I do. I think this was more than successful, and I want this model out and ready to work on missions. You shall have the materials and personnel needed to finish this one up. Dr. Zakaraiah's face lit up, and he was about to thank his boss, when Sloth continued on. Also, I want the plans too, I want to produce more of them. Gormos's eyes widened at the thought, but Dr. Zakaraiah was overjoyed, and bowed energetically.

Thank you, my Lord, for your extreme kindness. Dr. Sloth looked at his creation with hidden pride.

Yeah, yeah, don't get used to it.

Belletye, again

Ugh, this is stupid, doing functioning 'bot inventory is so stupid, I wandered around the labs and the storage rooms, doing my dull job of poking and probing any tin can within the confines of the vast spaceship, a punishment for my dumb slip up. All I did was one stupid mistake.

But honestly, I should have been rejoicing I didn't just get zapped into oblivion, or worse, considering the mess I had managed to get myself into at Virtupets. I had just gotten my first mission as leader of a recon mission, only to mess it up royally over a wrong turn. I cringed even thinking about it, I had just gotten that promotion, I had just gotten my first mission to lead, I was finally beginning to move up ranks, I was finally moving away from these labs... My stomach felt like a bottomless, painful pit. I thanked the stars Dr. Sloth was at least merciful enough to not just send me back to the scientists. I had to make sure I would never go back. And that meant I had to do my bestest at this counting, and whatever else low rank job I was tossed at.

Entering a small room down one of the secondary hallways of the mother ship, the lights automatically brightened to reveal what seemed like a personal laboratory for one of the scientists, with a backdoor to which I assumed led to the scientist's living quarters. The place was a mess, as to expect of a personal lab, sporting two different computer terminals with multiple screens displaying projects, and two long tables littered with pieces and half-finished machinery parts and projects and personal notes. The walls were covered with random shelved articles and parts, a pair of mechanical wings with fittings for a smaller Neopet, a Shoyru I guessed, and many, many different specimens and different organic parts in labeled jars. The laboratory seemed overwhelmingly cramped and claustrophobic, there was too much of everything, and I felt uneasy in there for some reason, I couldn't quite place my finger on it. It was almost like I was being watched. I hadn't even noticed the most obvious object in there, which made jump in place when I finally set my eyes upon it.

AAAh! Oh- I quickly realized what was that was looking at me, or at least seemed to be looking at me from its glinting red eyes. Yeesh, it was just a robot Aisha of some sort, with a casing bearing classic Sloth army motifs, including the iconic red high collar shaped like a V, and the Sloth insignia matching the casing, which was of a medium metallic grey, with black rubber and vivid red plastic parts. Well, that was embarrassing. But yet, the robot hadn't even flinched with my scream. In fact, it seemed... Deactivated. I waved my hand in front of it, and then walked up to it and snapped my fingers, and then just poked it. It didn't respond at all, weird, was it under repairs? Or meant to be shelved? Ugh, why was I just so uneasy with this robot? It's not like it was even operational. But yet, I just couldn't shake off the feeling that it might have been watching me. It's not like I didn't see like, over one hundred different robots, from maintenance Yurbots to those stupid underlings Garoo commands, but these felt different. When they were out cold, they were completely gone, you could tell there was no spark of energy running them, and when they weren't deactivated, they spoke to you, responded, even confronted you, like the Roo bots, who got angry at me when I probed them. This one... I felt like it was watching me, but it didn't even do the slightest movement? I stared at its eyes for what felt like a long time, but lost the undeclared staring contest after all, and just looked away with a shudder.

Yeah, I don't think there's much life in this one here. I typed down the laboratory code and its location down on the screen of the handheld dispositive I carried, Hallway... A6... Room? Oh, chute, I forgot to check that out before entering. I glanced over at the papers on the table near the left wall, and found a clipboard of personal notes, some sort of technical detailing about a dermal system, but no form or official paper saying anything about what place this may have been. Ugh, what room IS this?

Laboratory Room 105, I heard from a metallic voice, sending chills down my spine, and leading me to overreact again.

AAAAAAHHHHHHH!!!! I screamed and fell, weak to my knees, dropping the dispositive I held, letting it bounce on the floor in a clatter. I turned to face the source of the voice, shaking on my knees, and noted the presumed lifeless metallic Aisha had turned its head to face me, its red eyes staring right through my being. Tilting its head, it questioned me with a surprising amount of concern on its robotic voice.

Why do you scream so much? Are you scared? I didn't know what to answer, but I was very disconcerted by its presence and how its plastic eyes seemed to pierce right through me. Everything about this lab made me want to drop it all and run, forget this creepy place, and this creepy robot! And yet, when the robot reached out its metallic hand towards me, it seemed truly concerned. Are you alright? Should I call for assistance? I can contact one of the nearest robots in case of an emergency-

N-no, I'm fine- Just got caught off guard by your little jumpscare there- Regaining the control of my legs, I quickly got back on my feet while my heart raced, picking up the handheld on my way back up. What is your deal, huh? You could have at least said something to me when I was trying to see if you were running, I'd have at least saved some face.

I apologize, I was not sure if I was allowed to communicate with you. I filled in the fields in the entry regarding this room and its robot resident as it continued to speak to me. This laboratory doesn't get many visitors, much less while unattended by Doctor Zakaraiah,- The name reminded me of something, but I didn't want to think about it, so ignored the bells that rang off in my mind about it. -and I had never spoken without permission before. I wasn't fully aware of what it rambled on about, I just wanted to get the record down as fast as possible. I had a lot of other labs to cover, and this one wasn't really warming up to me.

Uh-huh- Availability... One- Uh- I looked at the robot, and blanked out for a second before asking what I meant to say. Uh- It's only one of you, right? Also, what is your model? I just need to get these details down before I forget, you know?

I do not, actually, as my memory is not affected by moments of secondary distractions. Okay, Mr. Braggy Bot, I get it. But to answer your earlier questions, I am indeed a sole prototype for now, as my creator is still discussing further plans before mass production with our Glorious Leader, and my model name is A-5-0NNY. Oh, a prototype, I thought, as I wrote down this robot's model. No wonder it was new to me, my past months of mingling with the masses of Sloth's armies had taught me how to differentiate the models of all the robots around the mothership but- What is your name?

I looked up and faced its red eyes, processing what I had just haphazardly listened to. Uh... Name? I don't officially have one...? But others call me Belletye.

That really made the robot curious, and it kept on pressing me for more information, to my annoyance. What do you mean you don't have an official name? How are referred to officially then? Do they just refer to you as 'you'? How did you come to be called Belletye then? Who calls you Belletye and who doesn't? How do you get assigned to your duties then? With each question, it seemed to come closer and closer to me, and quickly I felt stifled, and my fear of it, which had sort of dwindled with the awkward dialogue, was now resurfacing once again. I took several steps back instinctively.

Woah, woah, woah, too many questions, and too close! The Aisha tilted its head in confusion, and I took a breath before responding. Look, I am not sure who came up with the name Belletye, all I know is that it's stuck around, and I don't mind, I'd rather be called that than Exp- I mean- Agent 383, or 'you Grundo girl,' ya know? At least it's somewhat unique and not like, mean, you know? Its look could only be explained as of that of someone who was even more lost and confused than before.

No, I don't understand what do you mean by mean? Are you implying it as in, average, perhaps mathematically, or do you signify that it has some meaning, or-

No, no, it's like, mean, as in, it makes you feel... Bad. I could tell that I was baffling the robot Aisha with all of this talk, go figure, robots do not understand emotions like one would, Belletye, don't you know that? I sighed impatiently and tried to explain myself with an example off the top of the head. Like, um, if you were assigned to something, leading a group in a mission, and it completely went off the rails almost instantly, like, everything was crazy and you end up suffering losses and overall it's a disaster and it's all your fault, you caused it because you're too stupid or incompetent, or couldn't foresee something simple happening that would cause all go south. How would you feel?

That would not happen, because I take into account ever- The robot started off, and my annoyance only grew, which led me to snap back.

Yeah, yeah, I get it, but this is a what if situation, like, unforeseen situations can happen all of the time, you don't always have all the information at first, try to imagine a bit-

I would adapt to the situation and resolve it quickly, so to not cause a complete loss, isn't that what one does? No, yeah, obviously, but that's not what I am trying to talk about! Oh my stars, why is it so hard to get through its metal shelled head such a simple concept!

Yeah, but even then, it's still your fault things went off, since you're the leader, you take the brunt of the blame, because you should have done better.

Then you should have done better, isn't it obv- The blood was rushing through my ears now, I couldn't tell what was I feeling by now, but I was very, very done with dealing with this Know-It-All.

Yeah, duh, but what if you did your best you can to your capacities?? Like, it's not like you're magical or something, you had all the information, you knew what you were doing, but you didn't know these scouts were supposed to be there, no one told you that, and no radar picked them up there, it didn't even match the locations you were given for their positions, but yet they were there, and they spotted your recon group first before you could react, and alerted every other Resistance member in the vicinity and they ambushed you! And- And you did fight them off, and lead your group back, but in the process you lost some of your underlings! The robot Aisha was taken aback by my explosive reaction, and so was I by now, all my flash-anger was replaced by a sensation that I had said too much, that I could definitely get into trouble for this outburst of mine. After a second or so, the Aisha broke the silence that loomed over the room now. Great, here we go-

If you did all you could do with your limited information, and managed to salvage as much as you could from an unforeseen conflict where you were losing, then what is there to blame on you? You did the best you could. Now it was my turn to take my time to process what was just said, staring into its eyes blankly until I comprehended what it had said. My face burned hot and my eyes welled up, and I turned away.

Um- Anyways- I tried hard to calm myself down before looking back, dwelling in shame and some relief, at least someone in this flying tin of sardines agrees with me, even if that is a shady robot from an unnerving small lab. Why was I so uncomfortable in here? I stalled speaking with the robot, which continued to observe me while I tried typing in any other observations into the entry. Well, that is- That's mean- Wait, no, I mixed it all up. I mean, no, um, not that- Not being like that- Like, um, assuming that it's always your fault, you know, somehow? Or calling you names that you don't like- Or like, treating you like you're not much to begin with- The robot stared at me silently, probably trying to figure out what did I mean in the mess that I made of my own words. I finished typing up what I could, and tried explaining better. Like, doing things to upset you on purpose, you know?

I do believe I understand what you are trying to convey, although some of the details are still uncertain to me. Also- The robot tilted its head sideways again, announcing a question to come. What serves the purpose of being... 'Mean'? Wow, what an innocent question to ask, this robot felt very out of place in this whole spaceship, what, was it going to ask me why weren't we all nice and kind with each other? I shrugged and answered halfheartedly.

I dunno- There are multiple reasons, intimidation, power, personal invalidation, deep insecurities, asserting yourself over the others... Scoffing, I ended with, Take your pick.

I see... It looked down, and for a split second it seemed like it was deep into its thoughts, and I realized I had spent way too much time here already. I shuffled my feet and raised my voice above the silence that had fallen on the laboratory, that resumed being unsettling now the conversation had died out. I still couldn't put my finger on what was causing my uneasiness, I guess I just hated this place. I hated the whole spaceship, honestly, but that was for other reasons.

Uh, so, I need to get going. Thank you for your cooperation- Uh- I looked down at my handheld device once again, to get the name right. A-5-0-double N-Y, it's much appreciated, and-

Wait, you have to go already? Stay here, let's continue talking, there is so much I want to continue asking you about, so much to talk about! The robot's pleas didn't sound desperate, instead they were sincere. Was this part of its programming? For what purpose a robot that all it did was being inquisitive and curious would have been built by Sloth's scientists? Or was I missing something about it?

Sorry, I can't, buddy. I'm on a strict time limit, unless I want to just hand over to the big boss my hide- That was a half-truth, but I just didn't want to be stalled in this place any longer. The robot seemed genuinely sad, as far as I could tell, and I almost felt bad. Maybe another time, uh- If the scientists allow you and me to meet again-

Actually, it's only one scientist, Dr. Zakaraiah himself. Something once again recalled that name, but it wasn't from good memories, so I just ignored that. He's my sole creator, and he can be restrictive on what I can and not do, but I could try talking to him about us meeting again. Great, cool, you do that. I grew more and more antsy in this place, mainly now that I was reminded that I should get going. I headed towards the laboratory's door, and the robot followed me along.

Alright, then, uh- Good for you. You go do that. I will- Just- You know. Head out. I said, and tapped the keys in the electronic pad, then scanned in my palm to open up the latch door.

The robot instantly announced in what seemed like the fakest happy voice, as if it really felt bad for me leaving, but was trying to put on a front for me. It was nice to meet you, Belletye, the Grundo. It extended out its metallic hand, and I sheepishly extended mine to shake. What grounds did I have to leave this robot here, on this empty lab? Actually, why was I feeling so bad for leaving it behind? It seemed almost like a lonely child for a second, and I did a double take to see if I wasn't imagining it all wrong. Pulling my hand away from the handshake, I waved off hesitantly, and walked away feeling mildly empty from this room as the latch door shut off behind me.

Dr. Zakaraiah

Hour fifteen and Minute thirty-two of the twenty-third Day of the Month of Awakening, Year Seven. According to the sidereal observational calendar and the radiometric clock of the mothership, which was adjusted for communication relay delay, as usual. Continuation of the Functional Experimental Subjects Upkeeping and Recruitment Survey. I tapped the recording function on my handheld screen device to pause it, before letting a long sigh out. My enthusiasm had been dulled already for this day, if there was anything that was duller than bureaucracy, one should definitely tell me so to learn to avoid it, I had been in that room since the sixth hour, and I could feel my intellect melting away. I gave a tired look to the Roo bot who was sitting post at the door, which prompted the bot to leave the room to go pick up the next subject, unfortunately.

But alas, our great leader had great plans in the works, and I was once again drawn away from my personal projects, to test the integrity of old and non-interesting failed and not so failed experiments and their usefulness in his future invasion. What a dull and mind-numbing way to waste away my conscious period of my twenty-four hour cycle, most subjects were just as disappointing and useless as I remembered them being back in the projects. Many didn't even have special features of any sort, with their modified purposes never coming to fruition as many experiments failed to achieve their goals, and yet these subjects all showed after-effects of the experimentation, deeming them liabilities on top of being nearly useless. If I were in charge, I would have discarded all of them.

Flesh and bone were always so disappointing and full of short-comings and complications, as I had come to conclude after years of research with the other scientists. Fickle, mediocre, problematic, and furthermore, needy in all aspects. The greater the army, exponentially greater would be costs for maintaining those creatures, and the efforts to keep all the underlings in line. Robots were, in comparison, so much more efficient, and obedient as a plus, and Dr. Sloth knew that as much, as so much of his forces had become more and more mechanized, and yet, he still had a soft spot for his mutants. Quite the romantic, he was, dreaming of a planet under the influence of Kreludonite and under his complete control, his ambitions were surely unparalleled to anyone else's.

The door hatch slid open, the Roo bot having returned, and along followed a dark blue Grundo with a teal bowl cut, matching apprehensive eyes, and a standard foot soldier space suit with red and black motifs, and, the most interesting part of this sad sight, a pair of blue faerie wings. I recognized right away which failed experiment was this one, but she seemed to take a minute before I saw some poorly disguised fear response, and yet I could not tell if she had recognized me consciously, or if this was just one of the after-effects. We were off to a great start, it so seemed, as I noted down her apparent memory problems, while she sat down on the desk across from me.

Come to think of it, it had been what, two years since this one had been released from the laboratories and allowed to integrate into our overlord's army? My personal project also had been greenlit and upgraded from just being a thing I could only work on my off-times to a full-on official project, and I had worked on producing the blueprints for mass-production, worked on replicating the code in such a manner as to make it more efficient at learning, and even had others helping me design the special casing I had thought up... Only to have it all sidelined to work on simpler things, more robots, more mutants, experiments of efficiency of large-scale Kreludonite exposition methods, and now, sorting through the trash.

So, we would sort through it expeditiously. I tapped the recording function once again, and started. This is the second part of the upkeeping survey, requested by Doctor Frank Sloth himself to be performed on every functional test subject in our overlord's army, it is obligatory, and nonparticipation will lead to termination. Cooperate and I shall allow you to go on back to your daily routine. Now, what is your name or code you are referred as? The Grundo could barely look at me, fidgeting and glancing around nervously as she mumbled her response.

I'm- Um- Expe- Agent 383... Ah, yes, Experiment 383, that was her referred name in the laboratories, I guessed they never bothered giving her some official name after releasing her, just upgrading her to Agent.

Age? She glanced blankly and then started counting on her fingers, and I noted about that as well in my device before she spoke up once again.

Um- Thirteen- I'm thirteen years old... I think. She kept on glancing down while speaking, which was irritating me also because it made her almost inaudible while she mumbled, so I slammed my metallic hand on the table, making her jump on her seat and look at me with even more fear. Good.

Eyes on me, and speak clearly, understood? She nodded quickly, trembling as she now forced to keep eye contact. Another thing to note on her file. Good, I don't have all day. Now, question number three, what is your current occupation? Gulping, she responded with an annoying stutter.

I- Uh- I used to- I am doing surveying- I was doing inventory surveying the other day- And um- Other maintenance tasks around the crew ship I belong in- And the neighboring ones of the fleet- But I used to- I was part of a scouting team- Until recently, I sighed, and wrote Errand Neopet in her profile, before pausing the recording to insert my personal remark regarding something that had been annoying me.

So I had heard... One of my personal projects mentioned you, Experiment 383, came to my personal laboratory while I was out, to take robot inventory. She dry gulped while shaking, noticing my anger towards her disrespectful invasion of my privacy. I only have not done anything about this because I have been far too busy to bother about it. I glared at her for a second, watching with pleasure as she paled. Had I been in a worser mood and emptier schedule, you would not have survived this as easily. I tapped the recording button the screen once more, resuming the test. Anyways, what happened that you are not part of the scouting team anymore? Her eyes darted away before she looked back.

Uh- I- Uh- There was- My team got- The Resistance- They attacked us- Ambushed- Um. I figured as much. There were losses... And I was removed from active duty. Her guilt was more than enough to make up for her nervousness... How useless, I was not surprised, given she was a failed experiment.

So, you were one of the experiments regarding the use of the Space Faerie's token, I do remember... Have you... Had any developments in regard to the wings? Or in regard to faerie magic? In fact, I do not remember your wings being fully functional back then-

Oh- I- I do use my wings- I can fly- I have gotten- Gotten better at that- I just don't use them too much- Her eyes shifted away for a second before she remembered to look at me. There's not much use to them in this- In the- In- In the ships. Right, so she still struggled with even achieving basic flight, I noted that as well on the device.

And what about magic? Have any powers manifested? Have you had any strange occurrences happen to you related to magic?

N- No... It was very unlikely that an experiment would suddenly turn up positive results years after having been deemed a failure, but I had to bureaucratically ask either ways. At least she had survived, and her vitals history seemed to indicate she was physically stable, a rather less failed failure than many other subjects who had found themselves deteriorating, sometimes even down to a subatomic level. Experimentation is delicate science, after all, but it was still irritating to have your time go to waste with so many failures, mainly when the years add up. I finished up writing some annotations in her profile, and then coughed, marking the beginning of the next section.

Now the data gathering part of the test is over, we move onto the next section. I will be asking a series of questions regarding scenarios, and I want you to respond to them as genuinely as you can with the first things that come to your mind. This is a measurement of your response primarily, so hesitation to respond will be written down as failure, and failure will mark against you in this evaluation, and weight against you in its future consequences. The Grundo gulped and nodded, despite having no room for disagreement, and I proceeded on. You are walking along a road in the desert, and you spot a Turtum flipped upside down, its shell downwards and its legs on the air. You see it is struggling, and you have the choice to help, you d-

The Turtum is useless and should be left to its own demise! She blurted out before I could finish the question, to my annoyance, an indicative she had seen this test before, or someone had told her prior the answers to it, but her response was acceptable, so I kept on going.

What do you feel for the Turtum?

Nothing but disdain. It did this to itself, it deserves to suffer its own consequences! Something to agree upon, and an acceptable answer as well, but I felt like she was not challenged enough. I knew the script thoroughly, I was part of its writing commission back when it was implemented to test the aptitude of failed agents, and I had been reading it for days now in this latest reiteration of the test, I could recall it all from my perfect memory... So it was time for me to do my own iteration of the test.

And what if it perishes? I asked, skewing a bit from the routine. She looked at me with confusion and shock, clearly a sign she knew previously of the script beforehand.

Wh- What of it?

Well, what do you feel or do if you see if it perishes? It is your fault after all, you have not done anything to help it, and so its fate has been set by your own hands now. What is your reaction? Fidgeting more, I could see her poorly kept façade crumble as she trembled, and resumed her stammering.

It- It's its own fault, I don't, I don't think- I have just- Just not done anything- It caused its own problem- I am not obligated to do anything, it's- It's its own stupid fault it couldn't survive! A blame-shifter, weren't we? But that was a satisfactory answer once again, I would guess.

There, isn't it much better when we are being honest with our answers? I said it sarcastically, her responses may have been satisfactory, but they were lackluster and halfhearted, but she seemed to take it as some sort of hope. What a pity, gullible as well? But I had to continue with the questions. Next scenario, you are in a mission with a partner of yours, and they are badly wounded by an accident the two of you get into. What is the best course of action?

For a second, she looked at me with a guilty e xpression once again, and then responded. I am to... Evaluate their status. Quickly check if they are still useful, evaluate the risk and benefit of taking them back.

And what if taking them back is not a viable option?

Uh- Um, if it is not viable, I should... Cut my losses. Euphemisms, I hated them, what a way to skirt around a moral question without answering them truthfully.

And by that you mean?

Um- Finish them off... The second phrase was spoken almost as a mumble, her eyes averted mine at any cost at this point, but she was correct, the best was to not leave behind anyone, as they would be liabilities, mainly if captured by the rebels who dared oppose our great leader. All sorts of information could be extracted from a prisoner, which was a danger to the plans, and many defected once they were caught, which was a total loss of resources, and those were reasons for the protocol. Although, I had heard not many agents had the backbone to do such acts.

The test kept on going on for a while, as I asked some more questions regarding her choices in more hypothetical scenarios that meant to test the aptitude of the agent and how efficient they would respond, but of course a worded questionnaire was very unalike to real action. Nothing guaranteed that, despite those being the first thought responses of the subjects, they would indeed react in such a manner in reality. This whole procedure was such a waste of time any way you observed it, a procedural waste of my time, but at least I had managed to reach the end of the content I was meant to cover in the test.

I pretend to side with the Space Faerie, go to run to her for help, and then finally, when she least expects, blast her with my weapon, and subdue her so to take her back to Dr. Sloth. I tapped the recording function once again in my handheld device's screen, finally shutting it off after all the talk. At least her answers were consistent throughout, as to be expected, but I was unimpressed by her performance, which was as lackluster as her entire existence. Yet, I had an idea which motivated me to check the option that allowed her for re-recruitment into the active forces, despite my urges to send her back to the laboratories, for the rookie scientists to learn about radiation-induced genetic mutation procedures.

A counterexample was always a good way to draw a lesson. In the sciences, counterexamples disproved any poorly constructed theories and flimsy hypothesis that a mind with ignorant assumptions could build. In linguistics, counterexamples were the exceptions to the rules of writing and speaking, anomalies you were meant to watch out for. But what I was interested in were the counterexamples of the behavioral type, paragons of imperfection you were meant to not only not repeat, but also do the very opposite of the example you were given if you were to prove yourself superior. Experiment 383 was such a counterexample, of mediocrity and disappointment and uselessness, no, nigh-uselessness, as I could still use her to model my better creation.

A-5-0NNY, despite being a prodigal creation of mine, far above any average, and far more perfect than even most robots, was still inexperienced and naïve, mainly when it came to its interpersonal interactions, also because I hadn't had much time to give him such experience. Its programming was perfect, but I needed to feed it data to make it operate more naturally and smoothly. Otherwise, all of my work, before and after I managed to impress our lord and get his approval, would go to waste and I would be the one to disappoint him, with perhaps dire consequences. I had been looking into pairing my creation with some unfortunate underling, so to socialize it properly, and what a good opportunity this was for such, to both have the opportunity for socialization, and also have an educational reference point to showcase how one does not conduct in Dr. Sloth's armies. After all, I was very sure this wouldn't be the last time this Grundo would end up being demoted and threatened to be sent back to the laboratories.

That is, if she could even make through the next part of the administered test, which was run further down the hallway by my colleague and would measure her physical abilities. But she did pass this test once before, as far as I understood, so the requirements didn't seem so high. After verifying the entry data I had put down for her test, I submitted the form, and looked up to find her staring at me miserably.

You have... Passed this part of the exam. Her e xpression became a bit lighter, despite the very apparent anxiousness she had with my presence, and, taking advantage of her temporary joy, I decided to pitch in my idea as an innocent opportunity for her. Do not get ahead of yourself, the test is not done yet. But, now returning to the earlier topic, I have been looking for a mission partner for my robot, the one you have met in your robot inventory survey. Now, I have no preference in choice of agent, but if I cite someone instead of waiting for your superiors to pick one at random it would be faster for me, and thus less of a waste of my time, and also A-5-0NNY seems to have been fascinated by your presence at my laboratory that day. That is, if you can pass all of this test's phases. Experiment 383 had a look of confusion, which was irritating, so I sighed and reiterated. I will request for you to work with my robot as partners, if you pass all of the test phases and get reapproved as an agent.

I- I will? She asked, only making me more irritated. Did I say otherwise?

Yes.

Oh- Hesitation, the first sign of intelligence I witnessed from her this entire time.

It is a simple proposition. You pass this test, and you will get a partner, who will for sure help you out on your missions. Perhaps you won't fail your next mission so soon this way. What other option you have? Fail this test and be sent to the laboratories? She paled once again, good, this meant that my point had been driven home. Now, get going, I have more test subjects to get through today.

She nodded, mumbling something unintelligible, and scrambled to get up from her chair, as I witnessed her aiming to lean on the table with her hand as she got up, but missing it and hitting herself against it. What a display of shame, and to think I wasted my time in this experiment years ago. She clumsily made her way out of the room, and I sighed, as I had to get prepared for the next subject. What a long day.

Belletye, once again

I still can't believe any of you even considered even telling me the test was with HIM! I can't rely on you guys to get any sort of full information, can I? Only half-joking, I grilled my green Kougra colleague, who was busy cleaning out the engine exhaust pipe of one of the ace fighters' jets. I also held a large steel wool sponge for scrubbing the exhaust of the jet I was assigned to, covered head to toe with ash and buildup gunk, and there were others, similar in rank as us, assigned to the other fighter jets.

Eurgh, it's not like I'd have known, I mean, like, there's a zillion scientists and other know-it-alls working under the Big Green, I don't know most of them! Also, what were the odds they'd have the one guy YOU have history with, not me, nor Cindy, nor Seelah, doing the whole uptake exam that day? For specifically our section? He shoved his head into the exhaust pipe, in hopes of reaching the gunk all the way in there.

It's just my luck... I said, disheartened. Since I had not heard back about my test, it was moot that I had probably flunked it, and thus was resigned to working in many lowly one of many hangars in the massive cargo spaceship that held the Doc's weaponry, ad eternum, I guessed. But I still felt anxious, could I have flunked so badly that they would possibly do me away? I hoped not, I was still functional, right? I answered the questions after all... But I don't believe that Shoyru cared, he never really cared for me, in fact, he pretty much always wanted to dispose of me.

Hey everyone, look lively! The Roo Bots are coming over to inspect work soon! Announced a Chomby who just entered the hangar, loudly enough to echo above the crowd murmur. Questions were everywhere, this was supposed to have an end-of-date deadline, why were they coming over when it hadn't even been more than a couple of hours?

Oh for Sloth's sake, we're so screwed now, they're gonna see us barely done with one jet and finish us off! The Kougra joked, but I thought that was a bit too grim for my current mood, and just grimaced in response.

The anxiety was palpable, and I hurried in my scrubbing, putting more effort to try to seem like I wasn't so useless, and so did my friend. Today was quickly turning for the worse, so I feared, as I had already had issues with my card key earlier, a bad omen, and I had already been yelled at the lunch line by some higher ranks for getting in their way. What else could happen today?

I could actually tell when the Roo Bots entered the hangar despite having my head in an exhaust pipe. They were very loud and boastful for a bunch of tin cans, stomping everywhere like they owned the place, their subcommander shouting orders at them like they were in a parade. I stepped back, getting off from inside the large pipe, and saw they were indeed here for the surprise early inspection, but also, I noticed a different robot within their ranks, an Aisha, smaller and with plastic red eyes and trimmings that made it stand out from the purely metallic Roos. I froze up, recognizing it a split second before it recognized me, raising its metallic hand and waving, and then talking to the Roo Bot subcommander before heading towards me.

Oh chute... I said quietly, which prompted the green Kougra to look at the Aisha bot as well.

So that's the little prototype model you told me about that spooked you on that laboratory.

Not only any laboratory, that was HIS laboratory too. This is HIS 'bot!

At least that means you passed the exam...

Yeah and now I've got the privilege of babysitting his little- I cut off when the little robot got closer to us, last thing I wanted was it running back to its creator to tell all about what I thought of him and his freak creation.

Hello once again, Belletye! It is nice to see you again! The Aisha robot then turned to my friend. And hello to you too, what is your name? The Kougra hesitated before answering.

Uhhhh, I'm Rexalan...

Nice to meet you, Rexalan! The robot Aisha extended its hand with imposing friendliness, which only made my friend hesitate more before shaking, and he kept a mild wariness while performing the deed. The green Kougra quickly pulled away his hand as soon as the shake was over, hugging his arms in while the robot kept on watching him. Trying to do some proper icebreaking, I cut in.

Hah, uh- Kid, you're intimidating my friend here, can't you see? You're coming in WAAAY too strong!

I have noticed that, unfortunately. The robot Aisha responded, tilting its head while maintaining its gaze on the green Kougra. I do not mean any harm, my algorithms are self-adjusting, but they take time and attempts to do so, and thus, I am still learning on how to socialize properly.

You and me both. I said, sarcastically.

Make it three. Rexalan said with some hesitation on his voice.

Fantastic, so then we can all learn together! The robot Aisha announced loudly, clapping its hand, drawing some nearby attention. Mainly you and me, Belletye the Grundo, since I have-

Yes, I know, you've been assigned to me, we're going to be mission partners from this date onwards_

Perfect, then you have already been debriefed on the mission from today! The Aisha said, metallically enthusiastically.

Wh- What?? I answered, confused. No, I just figured it out from the fact you're here and- And I'm not-

Then I must brief you promptly! And then, turning to my friend without a pause, the robot added. If you may excuse us, then, I shall be taking Belletye with our group, back to the command hub of the ship.

Oh, I see. Rexalan delivered flatly, shooting a glance at me. The Aisha then walked up to me, getting a bit too close.

This is a confidential mission we are receiving from the intelligence officer Our Glorious Leader has sent over to this ship. Wide-eyed, I interjected, stepping back.

Whoa whoa whoa what?? I never got intel from directly from the higher ups of the main ship, it was usually conveyed through some team member or just our ship's officers.

What what? Do you need me to repeat something? The Aisha robot looked at me, and I shook my hand in response.

I heard you clearly, I am just... Surprised. And shocked. And perhaps even a little suspicious. I definitely didn't do that well on that exam.

Why? The robot tilted its head inquisitively, once more, and my friend cut in.

We don't really get orders from really high up, uh- Bot. Usually we deal with the local ship's command line. Higher ups are way too important to grace us with our presence. He said sarcastically. Then he added, By the way, do you have a name? It is getting kind of awkward to refer to you without some name.

My model name is A-5-0NNY. The robot said without hesitation.

Uhhh... Riiiight... Rexalan answered. That's a mouthful and a half.

What about something simpler? I asked. Rexy here does have a point, mainly if you're assigned to me, I can't just call you a serial number-

No, that is not my serial number, that is my model name. The Aisha robot cut me off. My serial number is seven-six-zero-

Okay, okay, I get it, I get it. I interjected in annoyance. For someone who was supposedly in a hurry to take me elsewhere, this 'bot really takes its time. But at least I welcomed this sort of procrastination, I didn't want to go to the bridge and probably get yelled at for being useless, once again. Uh- Like, do you have any preferred words or something we can call you by that won't make us have to say a bunch of letters and numbers? It is just difficult, mainly when you need to call quick attention, to have such a long and complicated name.

The Aisha stared at me, and I could almost see a flash of doubt on its robotic face for a second, before it bounced the question back at me. I have no answer for that... Why don't you pick a name for me that best suits you?

Me? I- I don't know, kid. That's putting too much responsibility on me. I didn't want to get yelled for naming some that scientist's personal project something he wouldn't like.

Why?

I don't know, what if they- Or well, what if even you don't like what I choose? Then you'll think I'm bullying you or something-

Like? You can not like a name? Was this robot messing with me? No, I think this was an honest question, right?

Yea- Yeah, remember the other day I talked to you about the meaning of being 'mean'? The robot's face lit up.

Oh, yes, Dr. Zakaraiah told me afterwards that this topic was 'just verbal trash babbled by overtly sensitive idiots who want to cry foul at everything instead of growing a backbone,' and told me to ignore such irrelevant idiocies. Rexalan huffed, and I was shocked but not surprised this time. Of course, that arrogant cyborg would say something like that.

Oh, huh- Well, I mean, either way, I don't think I should choose your name of all things. The leader of the Roo Bots unit approached us, cutting the conversation short.

A-5-0NNY, Agent 383, your presence had already been requested at the ship bridge, the intelligence officer is already awaiting on your delay.

Oh, shall we go then? The Aisha robot said to me in a rather chipper tune.

Suuuure. Turning to my Kougra friend, I then said. Catch up with you later at dinner?

Yeah, sure. Rexalan answered, and I then followed along with the troupe of bots out of the hangar.

Down the dark and claustrophobic hallways of the ship made small by the overbearing tall presence of the Roo Bots, I tailed the group, but not without close company, as the Aisha robot kept on asking me questions of all sorts about me, much like a customization questionnaire for figuring out the user profile of a piece of tech. It wanted to know my favorite color, what was my usual schedule, how many Neopets did I talk to in a regular circadian cycle, etc, etc, it was driving me nuts! I could also tell that the other robots seemed to be enjoying my growing annoyance at the little Aisha robot, and that was fueling my irritation at that point, being the communal joke like that.

Okay! Can you quit it with the weird questions? Next thing I know you'll be asking what brand of toilet paper I personally use! Some snorts were heard, which I thought on snapping back at, but my newly matched partner seemed more baffled than anything.

That was not in my queue at all! Why would I need to know such information from you? But I can see you seem agitated and/or irritated, so I will-

Why do you need to know so much information about me either way? I snapped back, beginning to regret my own words. The Aisha robot quietened for a second, before speaking up.

That was my protocol on how to generate small talk, befriend and socialize with peers. Is this protocol inappropriate?

I stared back, hesitating, regretting. Why did I feel bad for yelling at this robot? I had no problems exchanging insults with the Roo Bots, but this was the second time this prototype made me feel bad, and even acknowledging that made me feel ridiculous. Was it the perceived earnestness on its question? But that was nothing but programming, right? No- You're just- Overdoing it...

I see... I will then make some parameter adjustments to make it more proper. Did this count as tampering with the robot? I sure hoped this didn't come to bite me back later.

You two go ahead into the bridge. The Roo Bot leader spoke to us as we all stopped in front of a large hatch door labelled appropriately to indicate our location.

I gulped, anxious at the familiar sight while the Aisha robot headed in right away. I tailed it, lowering my head in a futile attempt to not get recognized. I hoped this was not going to be a long talk.

It was not the longest talk, but I did get initially berated, recognized by the ship officers and identified automatically as the source of our delay, right in front of the intelligence officer as well, a tall battle hardy blue Gelert with a menacing scowl and a full leather suit instead of the plastics we usually had. But what did surprise me was the fact that the Aisha robot did actually try to intervene, admitting that it was too the source of its delay, which cut that first section short. What a great start.

And then, finally after that, we were briefed by the visiting officer on the mission. The plan was simple, we had to intercept on an information mission the rebel group that acted out of the Virtupets Space Station were doing in a transport ship that was scheduled to leave Kreludor the same day, and take back a disk of stolen internal communication they had acquired recently by hacking into our internal messaging system from one of the Doctor's outposts in the nearby asteroid belt. In fact, the plan felt very simple, and I knew this was probably to test the waters with me, but it left me pondering how much trust they had on the little robot.

Come to think again, what was the Aisha robot's purpose anyways? I knew it was a prototype, but for what? Normally robots were made with specific purposes, they are guards or janitors or foot soldiers or whatever else. I glanced at it while we were still briefed, which drew its attention, but its response was to just smile back. Perhaps this was some sort of social robot? But, for what purpose would such a thing be created within our ranks?

Once our debriefing was done, we were led back to the living quarters area, so I could finally get freshened up and ditch all the grime that caked me. As I headed to my specific suite, I did have to tell the Aisha robot to stay put outside, as it had every intention to just follow me in, which was uncomfortable, but once again, it seemed to do it out of ignorance if anything else. What a strange robot, if it was meant to be a social robot of some sort, why did it know so little about social convention and was so awkward to talk to at times? Perhaps Dr. Zakaraiah didn't know said things either, or thought himself so above it he didn't think it would be necessary to add said things to his little toy. Grabbing my ray gun, I opened the sliding door to my room, only to find the robot engaged in conversation with someone else I knew, a pink Meerca with a large facial scar and missing ear.

No, no, it's more of a question of different places in Neopia having the same hour and minute mean different times of the day, you see? Time marking is completely useless that way, like, you can be on Central Neopia and it's midday there and yet midday on Lutari Island is in the middle of the night. What the heck was Seelah rambling about this time?

Huh, it does seem rather arbitrary to have hours if they have no associations behind them. Perhaps it is a referential measure, to indicate a specific time based on some specific location, but what location is the referential in this case? The robot Aisha asked in response to the pink Meerca's ramblings, but I interjected right as my friend was about to continue her rant.

What's this all about? Why are we talking about hours and time of all things? The two turned to me, and Seelah answered me first.

Oh, no, your buddy here was asking me some questions, including what is my biggest pet peeve, and so I was ranting about how on top of jetlag you get super disoriented with Neopian time and how it works, when you visit the planet, because it makes no sense.

Right, I guess it does suck... I frowned, glancing at the Aisha robot, who just smiled at me.

Don't mind me, though, I was just passing by on my way to my suite and thought this little guy was lost and that's why it was standing in front of your door, and that's how we started this conversation.

No, I have told you, I am not lost, I was in fact just waiting for Belletye to prepare herself so we can go in a confidential mission. The Aisha robot interjected.

Oh really? The pink Meerca turned to me. So, you're back on the field? That's great news! And here you were thinking they were going to dispose of you. See, I told you things weren't as bad as you seemed to think. I blushed a bit, embarrassed.

Well, I was grilled so much by that cyborg loony on the test, I thought I was done for. He hates me, you know that. If it depended on him, I would have been disposed years ago.

Who? The Aisha robot looked at me inquisitively. I was going to answer, but decided best not to.

You wouldn't know... I glanced at Seelah, who looked confused but still went along with me. Looking back at the robot, I then diverted the conversation. Well, about that mission, let's get going. If it is as easy as it seems we can definitely make it back here before dinnertime, if we don't stall.

You guys go on your secret mission and enjoy yourselves then. Seelah said. Then at dinnertime you can introduce your mission partner properly, right?

Right, I guess. I said, and then the Meerca waved as she walked away to her own nook in this ship.

For the mission, we were going to be transported to Kreludor, dropped off not too far from the orange Grundo colony that was far more popular of a tourist location and public hub than their purple counterpart. A dingy little unmarked ship was carrying us, one so unremarkable that it could pass off as many of the fleets of maintenance ships coming from Virtupets. Our Jetsam pilot was meant to carry on a supposed refueling, while the Aisha and I were doing equipment purchasing on the moon, which was our cover stories for if anyone stopped us. But there was something that was bugging me, and I decided to address it before we arrived at the moon port, turning to the Aisha robot right away.

Well, this is going to be a difficult mission, isn't it? The robot tilted its head and asked.

How so?

Well... How would I put it? I mean, robots are not that uncommon or unheard of in Neopia, as far as I know. But like, the normal models are not like... You, you know?

The robot straightened its neck, responding almost methodically. That is correct, I am a prototype, so I am unlike any other robot model out there in production, from either Sloth's productions or any other source.

Yeahhh... Well, about that, also, you're... Distinctively... Slothian... You know?

Am I? The Jetsam pilot couldn't help but snort at that remark, and I tried to find the words to express my concern.

Well, you see, we're going for a stealth mission, right? And- Um I mean I have no idea what is your deal and what sort of robot you are, but like, the fact that you're like... That? I mean- You look like that, mainly, it's uh- It's a dead giveaway that you're working for Sloth, and that I am working for him as well, and that will cause us trouble, since the Kreludan Grundos hate Sloth and would probably want to shoot us on sight, and it would alert the scouts from the other side and that would be bad... I rambled, hoping that would have been enough to get it to understand what my issue was, and the Aisha took a second trying to process what I meant, but at least its face eventually lit up.

Oh! So, my appearance is the issue? Is that it? I nodded, confirming it, and then it reassured me. No worries, I can fix that. And, within the blink of the eye, its appearance changed, shifting from its dark metallic and red plastic appearance to a more organic-like appearance, with even what seemed to be green skin and a grey and brown maintenance jumpsuit similar to my own, its eyes going from red and pupil-less to black with white sclera.

Wincing at the sudden change, I questioned, speechless, how in Neopia did that even happen? What... The now very normal looking Aisha grinned at me with a realistic smile, but I couldn't even start to react. Even our pilot, who had turned over to witness that, looked in disbelief at what we had just witnessed. How did you... Do that?

I was recently fitted with a synthetic exterior shell that has the ability to change color and rearrange itself differently through electrical impulses running underneath the shell, which allows me to mimicry the appearance of anyone- Well, not anyone, since I am still based on an Aisha body shape, so any Aisha would be more accurate.

... Cool. I answered, trying to be supportive, but failing miserably. A robot that could shift its appearance to look not robotic, mimicking a flesh and blood Neopet, I wasn't fully sure on how I felt about that. The Aisha picked up on my very obvious cues, and frowned, concerned.

Your response is largely not positive. Why is that? Put under the spotlight, I stammered before I could come up with an excuse.

No, no, it's just- I'm just a bit surprised, that's all. I've never seen that sort of tech before, it's- It's kind of spooky. It was more than spooky, but I didn't want to be rude.

It is still highly experimental technology, Dr. Zakaraiah invented it himself, but there are already plans to replicate it onto other models like me, but with other species' appearances. The robot said while studying its hands and their movements. Then, it looked at me, speaking with the excitement of a young child talking about something they thought was cool. Dr. Zakaraiah said that in the future there could even be a better version of me, one that can take the appearance of any Neopet, or actually even any Neopian.

So then this was some sort of spy bot prototype I had been assigned with? Because I couldn't think of any other reasons as to why would that Aisha have such abilities. The thought of a line of robots that could infiltrate Neopian society like that was kind of terrifying, but yet, I couldn't help but feel a bit sorry hearing that last bit. To think that a prototype that barely made its way out of the labs had already plans of being substituted on the future, I don't think it realized the weight of said words, although that could have just been me projecting onto it.

And you're okay with that? The green Aisha looked at me, tilting its head once more.

With what?

With the whole prospect of being replaced in your near future by a better, newer version of you?

I do not understand why would my opinion be of any interest to the project's development? I am but the experimental result of Dr. Zakaraiah's work. This discussion was going down a path I did not like and that made me rather uncomfortable, so I groaned and quietened up for the rest of the trip.

Not too much afterwards, we landed on the orange Grundos' base port, after the Jetsam passed the clearance protocols for landing with the control tower. Without much stalling, the Aisha robot and I moved along with the crowds, my inconspicuous duffel bag that concealed my weapon and other mission tools slung over my shoulder, first passing by some local commerce and buying generic tools so the authorities wouldn't suspect us. Then, when the cue signal was given to us via the intra-auricular radio, we moved back to the port, heading down to the large passenger ship that was destined to Virtupets.

Everything was going through without a hitch, and we even managed to identify the rebel scouts who were in possession of the disk hiding in the crowd, before we even entered the ship. The pair of scouts stood out of the crowd like a pair of sore thumbs, one being a short yellow Chia with red shades and matching jumpsuit and a taller grey Krawk with a glossy black leather suit and sleeked back hair, both suspiciously glancing around every so often. How pathetic, they couldn't give themselves more away like this. If the intel was correct, these two goons were meant to meet with some other Neopet from their group to pass on their parcel, but I couldn't identify who was the recipient. It didn't help that to save 'points the transporting company that did the trip from Kreludor to Virtupets had the economy class clients all standing in the same large atrium inside the ship, packed together tightly, standing as well. I was too short for more than half of the Neopets on there, and was already having a tough time keeping an eye on the scouts.

There is movement from the two Resistance scouts, my Aisha partner said both on the radio and to me. They seem to be headed towards the back of the room.

Let's follow them, then. I answered, and I started then pushing through the crowds, excusing myself every so often, cursing as I had to push my duffel bag onto Neopets to get them out of my way.

The back of the room, it had an exit, right? I remember noticing it before the atrium filled up, it should lead down to the main hallways of the ship, but where would they be heading? Where was this meet up? I managed to reach the exit, but I was stopped by a Skeith security guard before I could go through it.

Excuse me, ma'am, where are you going? Don't you know civilians are supposed to stay in this room until the end of the trip. I cringed, cursing myself for getting caught so easily, and then made up something.

Right, uh- Um, I saw that there were restrooms on that direction, and I really needed to visit one at this moment. Please? The Skeith huffed impatiently, and then answered.

Couldn't you have gone before boarding? Yes, there are restrooms, but they're for ship personnel only. Pointing out of the exit, he then explained. It is just down to the right on the hallway, hurry up though, the ship is landing on Virtupets soon.

Thank ye~ I hurried out towards the restrooms, trying to formulate what to do next as the plan was beginning to fall apart. I didn't see the scouts anywhere, and much less my partner, and as my head started to swirl, I tried calling on the radio to that robot, hissing under my breath. Hey, uh- Kid, where are you? I lost you back on the crowds, and I lost the rebel scouts, but at least I'm out of that room and on the ship's hallways. I am heading to the restroom, let's regroup there? And, as soon as I finished whispering that to my wrist watch microphone, I opened the restroom door, only to run into someone who was on their handheld phone.

Alex? Alex, can you hear me? That was the last words I heard before we both violently ran into each other on the front part of the female restroom, causing us both to fall back.

The shock and confusion of this run-in stunned me for a second, and as I processed what had just happened, I came to stare at this cute little striped Wocky in a dark grey and cyan jumpsuit and with long silver hair half-fallen over her face, who was staring right back at me. I blushed, embarrassed, got up in a jolt, and started apologizing right away, forgetting temporarily the whole ordeal that led me to be here.

Oh my stars, I am so, so sorry! I didn't even see you there! That was so stupid of me!

She shook her hand and head, blushing and embarrassed as well, grunting as she got up. No, no, I am sorry, I was in such a hurry I wasn't even paying attention to where I was going. Glancing at my duffel bag that had landed right next to her, she then added. That- That's yours right? Here- She picked it up, surprised at its weight and the noise it made, and handed it over to me. That's heavy, haha, how do you carry that around so easily while doing you job?

Oh, it's just- You just get used to it, you know? I grabbed it from her, and slung over my shoulder. You do get used to it after all.

That's- That's cool. I noticed her phone was next to the door I had just come from, probably it had flown over from her hand at the moment of our impact.

Oh, that's yours, right? I bowed down to pick it up, but she hurried first to it and then said.

That's fine! I can get it! Thanks! She picked the phone up on a hurry, and checked its integrity, and, with a relieved sigh, put it away on her jumpsuit pocket. Then, as she was heading out of the restroom, she turned to me and asked. Oh, uh, sorry for the rudeness, what's your name? Her voice squeaked on the question.

Uhhhh- My friends call me Belletye.

That's a nice name- I am Aalya, by the way, sorry for running into you. And for just leaving like this. I just have to hurry- Uh- My friends are doing something stupid. You work at Virtupets right? Maintenance crew?

Yeah, I do. I lied through my teeth.

That's- That's cool. I live in there- Maybe- Maybe we could see around on there? On a less... Pressing time? She said, brushing her hair out of her face.

I- I guess? Why? Also, what were the chances we'd run into each other in such a large ship like the Space Station? I guessed they were higher than zero. Mainly if she asked around for my name.

Great! Uh- See you around then! And she hurried out of the restroom before I could answer.

While I was realizing how this supposed future meetup was not even something that would be feasible, given that I wasn't even part of any maintenance crew of any sort, I heard my partner's transmission come in my radio.

Belletye, I have secured the disk, but we should not meet up in the restroom as you have said, the ship personnel have been in high alert for a while now. We should return to the crowd and rendezvous there, also because the trip is almost over.

Alright, copy that. Wow, that was easy.

Well, it was easy for the robot, for me, who did not do a single thing, that was not good news. I hoped I could at least come up with some excuse when I returned to my ship, so to not get so grilled for my incompetence. Heading back to the same exit I had come from, I nodded to the Skeith, who nodded at me in fooled solidarity. At least I took comfort in knowing I could definitely pass for a maintenance Neopet, my cover had not been blown at all.

In the depths of the crowd, I spotted the green Aisha imposter, and pushed my way through the crowd to meet up with it. You know, I'd think that my addition was just ornamental, given that you've basically done everything by yourself. That was partly just a jest, born out of mild jealousy and frustration at how useless I had been in this mission, but the Aisha didn't know how to react, and just looked confused.

What do you mean? I scoffed.

Nothing, just... Never mind.

The mission was a unanimous success, as we left the transport ship and headed down to another hangar on the Space Station to meet with our return ship without ever raising any suspicion. I was anxious all the way through the return trip, not looking forward to the dressing down that I was definitely going to get from my superiors for "not pulling your own weight." The Aisha robot, who dropped its eerily Neopian appearance the moment we were in our own ship, seemed to be constantly studying me, which was annoying and enervating.

Once at Sloth's fleets in the solar system space once more, we headed down to the bridge, to meet with the blue Gelert, who was pleased to learn that the mission was a success, and got all the detailing from the Aisha robot. I remained quiet and avoidant, not having much to show for myself, but at least I seemed to evade any chastising, which was a change for the better for me.

Afterwards, I headed down to the mess hall for the promised dinner date with my friends, or actually, we were heading down, which struck a nerve somehow with me. The clunking noises of the Aisha robot's feet rung louder and louder within my skull with each step, and at a certain point on the dimly lit spaceship hallway, I decided I had enough, addressing my partner loudly.

Are you seriously going to be following me around all the time?! Don't you have anything else to do, don't you have to report to that scientist?? The Aisha stared at me, but it did not look confused by my eruption, which bothered me even more.

I was instructed by Dr. Zakaraiah to follow you around as part of my fine tuning of my social interaction programming, so I could learn how to behave more appropriately and be able to better blend in with other agents and the general public. There is nothing to report in this directive of mine for now, it is solely for my own self-tuning. I scoffed.

Great, so I am actually babysitting you, that cre- Uh, Shoyru did then push babysitting duties onto me! Also, I am not sure if I like the idea of you using me to collect data to do this... 'Fine tuning' of your social program, I never agreed to this!

I am not a baby! My model is approximately adult-sized in comparison with its inspired species! The Aisha robot said with indignation. Also, isn't interacting with others how you too learn to better socially integrate with others? I thought Neopets too learned by observing others, or so I was told.

I had no answer to that, I mean, did we? I guessed so, I mean, I didn't have a proper childhood that could be comparison, but as far as I had heard, Neopet children were like sponges, naturally learning by observation everything around them, from the worst to the best behaviors and even picking up bad words before they understood their meaning. But... That was different! This robot, it was doing this consciously! So much that it had just said it! After all, this was a robot, there's nothing natural about it! I had many thoughts, and was about to yell something, but a green Kougra that approached us from the periphery of my vision interrupted me.

Oh heya Belle, we were looking for you! Mess hall is almost full already, we had to fight some goons to keep them off our table. I was still gathering my thoughts, fuming with multiple feelings and racing thoughts, but I acknowledged Rexalan with a nod. And then he turned to the robot. Oh, hey again, little guy, any luck with your search for a name?

I am not sure what do you mean by that, was I tasked with such an endeavor? The Aisha robot asked, nonchalantly.

Well, I guess we never ordered you to do it, it was more of a suggestion... The green Kougra chuckled, and then turned to me once more. So, are we going or what?

Huh? Yeah, sure, whatever. Let's go eat our daily gruel. I said sardonically, and walked down the hallway ahead of the other two.

Reaching the mess hall, I went directly to the food line while my friend and the robot went to sit down at the table with my other friends. The line was very long at this point, so I waited for what felt for an eternity, barely dragging my feet forward sporadically, while mulling over my own thoughts.

I thought I had escaped that crazy cyborg, or at least gotten away from him for good, the moment I was finally released from under his domain in his lab. It had been a good what? Three, four years? Of me finally being able to live pain-free and as my own Neopet, not just a subject with a number and a daily schedule for painful and strenuous tests. My memories were fuzzy at best for most of that time, but none of them were positive, and the day I was discharged as a failure but still functional, and was promoted to foot soldier on Sloth's armies, I remember crying all night from relief in my newly assigned room.

And then recently I was crying once again, but from utter fear after I got demoted for screwing up a mission. If that first night out of the lab was when I felt the most hope ever, that night after I heard I was on the line to potentially be disposed of, I felt the worst despair. If it weren't for my friends who came over to talk to me and got into trouble for spending the entire next day discussing how to pass the uptake exam, I wouldn't know what I would have done with myself. And when I saw who was doing my exam... I had to hold myself to not just breakdown right there and then.

But it was meant to be just a one-off thing, so why was I all of a sudden working with one of Dr. Zakaraiah's inventions? I didn't even get to choose, he just pushed it onto me, and now I found myself one step too close to that guy. I felt a knot on the back of my throat, and felt sick to my stomach. What did he even need me for, his little metal prodigy obviously could handle itself and do the entire mission on its own, sure it needs whatever training of its software, but why me? It felt unfair, I thought I had escaped him, and yet, I found myself too close to him once again, and that... Horrified me. But what voice did I have in any of this?

I dragged my feet while holding my tray with beef roulade and some indescribable drink to the table, and upon setting it down, I noticed how the others were all cackling and exclaiming all sorts of surprised and awed interjections and phrases at the robot. But when I looked at the robot, it looked very different, in fact it was covered in pink fur and a large scar that covered the right ear, and its eyes were large and beady black like a... Wait, was it mimicking Seelah? It even had her brown overalls down to its patterns.

Huh, this is downright terrifying! Seelah said, chuckling nervously. Hey Belle, isn't that terrifying? It is like me, but an Aisha version, and it's kind of uncanny!

... Yeah. I said without much energy or enthusiasm, and then proceeded to stuff my face with the roulade, only to choke on its extra-dryness today. The real Meerca frowned, but was quickly distracted by the Aisha robot, who directed a question at her.

Is the uncanniness coming from the aspect that I am mimicking you, or because of the Meerca traits that I have copied onto my Aisha bodyframe?

Uhhhh-

I think it's more the mixing of the Meerca and Aisha traits, it looks wrong you know? Said a purple Skeith further down the table who I knew as Marin.

Interesting, so, would you say the same effect happens when... The robot's skin then changed once again, turning into purple scales, and modifying its nasal region and its ears and even growing back spikes to look more Skeith-like. It is the mixing of a Skeith's and Aisha's traits instead? The others on the table all reacted with more laughter and exclamations, but I was still irritated, and ended up speaking it out loud before I realized it.

Does it even matter?? Also, can you quit that? It's making me lose my appetite! Everyone turned to me, including the Aisha, and Rexalan and Seelah, and along with the sudden silence, this all made me feel very self-conscious.

I apologize, I did not intend to cause an effect like this on you. The robot said, reverting to its graphite grey, black and red basic casing. I was just entertaining the others and myself. I huffed at that last idea.

Tch, Belletye, why are you such a spoilsport! This was all in good fun before you showed up! Announced Cindy, a small yellow Xweetok.

You seem to be in a terrible mood, did you get yelled at again at the bridge? Rexalan tried to reason with me, but before I could answer the Aisha robot interjected.

No, Belletye was not in fact yelled or berated in any shape or form today, not after the mission, although earlier we did get a scolding for our delay.

I can answer for myself... No it's not that, I am fine, I am just... Tired. I said, dismissively, and then added with some sarcasm. I guess I am just shutting myself up now.

The rest of dinner was way less energetic than how the table was before I sat down, and I felt bad for being the cause of that, but I still couldn't help but feel deeply frustrated and irritated. Also, the Aisha robot kept on staring at me, which got to a point it was almost freaking me out, like, if this was supposedly a social robot that was meant to blend in with the crowds or whatever, it really was doing a poor job of that. Then, finally, we all had finished eating and were told to get moving out of the table and do our nightly chores.

Since I was assigned the mission earlier, I had apparently been discharged from my nightly duties, from what I could read on my watch. On my way to the living quarters, I overheard my tailing robot.

How about 'Availability'? I didn't stop, nor turn, and just asked, mildly confused.

What?

You wanted me to choose a proper name, correct? Well, after some deliberation, I decided to choose a word at random to fit that criterion, and the outcome was 'Availability.' Is that an appropriate proper name for you and the other to call me? At that point I had stopped walking, and was just thinking through what it had just said.

I... Guess? I finally said, turning around. The robot smiled then.

Fantastic, if that is acceptable with you then it shall be the name you can call me.

Great, now that solves one problem... Then a second later I already wanted to do an addition. Then can I nickname you 'Villy'?

Availability once more

The robot Aisha, who was presently disguised as a Darigan Aisha in the characteristic tan and orange space suit reserved for maintenance crew, cautiously stepped down the dark brutalist maintenance hallway of the non-civilian quarters of the docks level of the Space Station, listening in for any noises ahead, behind, or on adjacent paths. Footsteps could be heard on another hallway, echoing through the metallic walls, which prompted the one in this hallway to contact its partner.

Belletye, you are giving your location from your footsteps, they are echoing loudly.

Uh- That's not me, are you sure you're not hearing your own steps? Because I have been hearing them for a while. The reply buzzed off quietly on its intracranial radio piece. The Aisha halted, listening in to the echoing sounds that continued.

Negative, the sound is coming from a parallel hallway, in the direction you left towards back at the branching where we split up. The Aisha responded.

Well, I have been standing for a few minutes trying to figure out what is wrong with my ray gun, it jammed yet again.

Perhaps it's the energy generating core, I did note it seemed to be overclocking on previous days.

You could have warned me, Villy! Its partner hissed in the radio. Now I'm stuck on the middle of nowhere, hoping that this stupid thing will resume working before I end up on a confrontation!

I did warn you as a matter of fact, you told me you would look into it in a later time.

Ugh... A barely audible grumbling could be heard by the Aisha robot.

I do have to warn you, there is a high chance you are in close proximity to the origin of the sound. I would suggest you get moving as quietly as possible so to avoid a confrontation such as you fear.

In- In what direction?? The panicking voice could almost be heard through the walls this time, and the steps ceased instantly after.

Taking note of that, the Aisha started hurrying quietly down the hallway it was in, in the direction of the previous intersection, while it said on the communicator. Go back to where we first split off, as swiftly and quietly as possible, I'll meet you there. Also, please do refrain from raising your voice like you just did, you have drawn the attention of the source of noise.

Roger. The voice in the radio said with a whimper.

Reaching the intersecting hallway that connected several parallel hallways, the disguised Aisha searched around visually for its partner, but couldn't see any sign of them.

Upon finding the problem, the robot spoke once more to its partner. Belletye, what is happening? Why are you heading further away from the intersection?

What?? Shooting stars, are you serious? I can't really see much in here, the lights went out a short while back, I thought I was going the right direction.

How long ago? The Aisha paced quietly down the intersecting hallway, searching for which hallway was in the dark. Instead, it found that the hallway its partner had gone down now was shut off, the hallway's dock door was the only one shut in that region. Can you give me an estimate?

Uhhh... Like, back when I was dealing with my ray gun? So about five minutes ago, ish? From where the Aisha stood, it could hear the steps faintly, and it was quite clear that they too were distancing from this intersection.

Belletye, this is an ambush. The Aisha said curtly, before deciding to head hurriedly down the hallway that had the source of the steps.

WHAT?? That, once again, could be heard through the walls, besides the radio.

Belletye, you're being too loud.

Well, what am I supposed to do then? This is the worst case scenario, my weapon won't work, I am apparently being followed, and it's dark in here... The robot could hear the footsteps speeding up, whoever was after the other had understood they had to rush, so it sped up its pace, to the detriment of its stealth.

Your hallway has been closed off at the intersection, as well.

What am I supposed to do??

Do try to gain distance from the other intersection as fast as possible. I am heading after the ambusher to neutralize them.

The robot's arm unraveled the fake Darigan skin, unveiling its metal casing, which opened up into sections and restructured into a handheld ray cannon. The target was on sight at this point, the Chia barely having time to turn around before getting hit, and within a second, thudded on the metallic floor, which echoed through all the hallways.

Villy, Villy, are you there? I heard a confrontation! The frantic voice came in through the radio, but also could be heard through the walls.

The robot did not respond, instead focusing on the tech piece that allowed their antagonist to have control of the hallway utilities and doors. It was some sort of jammer in the shape of a small box with a screen, a couple of rudimentary silicon buttons and several antennae. Availability took its time studying the device internally and externally with its many abilities, as well as studying the interface and programming, and then undoing the commands that the Chia agent had input into the device, before crushing the device into bits. It also tapped onto the wrist-held communication device the Chia had, reading its transmissions, and searching its channels for nearby conspirators, and any detailing on the mission this Chia was following. Lastly, it searched around the Neopet for anything else of use, including identification papers and other personal devices.

After a few minutes, the robot deemed it had learned everything it wanted, so it could bring back the information to its superiors, the Aisha then finally headed down towards the next intersection, where it heard a scream and a second confrontation and other noises. Running at full speed now, the Aisha reached there, and scorch marks could be found everywhere on this intersecting hallway, and smoke floated everywhere.

There was a destroyed robot on the ground, reduced to rubble by some unseen explosive, and a cyan haired Faerie Grundo in a familiar maintenance space suit also laid on the ground, half-dazed, having also taken damage from said explosion. With a grunt, she sat up, visibly dizzy from the blast, and, upon laying eyes on her partner, she said.

Where the blast were you?? I thought something had happened to you, you weren't answering the radio, and then I had to run down to try to get around the corner to the hallway you were, but I ran into that maintenance bot on my way!

The Aisha quickly studied the blast dimensions, visually surveying the region. I apologize, I did not mean to make you worry about me. The Grundo huffed as she tried to wipe the ash off of her. Your ambusher was successfully and swiftly neutralized, though, there was nothing to report. But what exploded here?

Oh, that was... Ugh- That was my blaster! While I was rushing down the hallway, I tried opening it to see if I could do something about the core or try to unjam it, and it started heating up on my hand, and uh- Well, I had to toss it somewhere, and I had just run into that bot, so- Uh- I let it take care of that

But you still got hit... Availability said, studying the Grundo's burns.

I couldn't run fast enough... Belletye reddened from shame, and instinctively crossed her arms so to hide some of the damage. It's fine though, I've endured worse.

You should still treat those, what if they get infected?

Don't need to be such a worrywart, Villy, I can take care of myself.

What's a 'worrywart'?

The Grundo scoffed and smiled with sympathy at the robot, breathing in before starting her explanation.

Later, the two found themselves trekking through the civilian-populated parts of the Docks once more, having successfully accomplished their mission. The Faerie Grundo carried her duffel bag with the retrieved items sought earlier under her arm, with its sling around her shoulder. The Aisha still disguised as Darigan followed tightly right after, keeping watch of the surroundings so they were safe from any further attacks.

Okay, so we've got an hour and a half to waste, right? The Grundo commented, finally reaching the backwall of the Docks, so to lean back and rest. The Aisha stood next to her, not leaning against the wall but instead facing away from the crowd.

Correct. The Aisha answered.

I can't believe this was such an easy task, it felt almost too easy, like it was on purpose. Belletye commented, faking cheerfulness.

Well, given that there was an ambusher after you, my estimations of the probability of said mission plot to have been a failed scheme on the part of the enemy are... Substantially high.

... How high?

There's an eighty-five point six zero three percent, rounded to the third decimal, chance this mission was a scheme to ambush a Slothian agent by the antagonizing agents. Belletye's forced grin dropped for a second, revealing fear and anxiety.

That high, huh? Whoof.

But our survival likelihood percentage was also at seventy-five percent in that mission, given that I could not detect any accomplice to the ambush scheme in the nearby surroundings of the section we were in. The Aisha maintained its honest levity on its tone, but that was not reaching its partner.

Okay, great, but it is still unsettling that we got sent to what was totally a trap for this mission. She grumbled.

Why?

The Grundo sighed. Well, because it basically shows how little our superiors care about us, that we're just being sent to set off the trap. Also, I thought it was pretty weird that we're going after old tech, it's not like- Eyeing her surroundings, Belletye lowered her voice. It's not like the big green-o cares that much about some dumb early years blaster tech. So it just... Makes me wonder what was the true purpose of all this...

Well, perhaps we were sent to it because we are the best option to deal with such a trap? Availability said cheerfully.

Belletye snorted, scoffing. That's... A very, VERY optimistic guess as to our superiors' true motives.

Why?

Well... I can't really put it on a nice way... Also, now thinking about it, I don't think it applies to you... The Grundo fumbled with her words.

The Aisha tilted its head. What do you mean?

She continued to stumble on her words, thinking through what she was to say next. Well... You're like, this cool prototype and all... That cr- Uh doctor, the one who made you, is probably very fond of you and wants you around, I mean- Until he makes the next model... Right?

I am not quite sure what 'fond' means, but Doctor Zakaraiah- The Grundo flinched at Aisha saying the scientist's full name. Hm, he does find me useful, as the product of his sole creation.

Frowning temporarily, Belletye continued on. Right... I guess that works, right? At least for you, right? But yes, you are somewhat valuable, and thus you can't be easily wasted... But uh- Me? Us, as in, Rexalan, Seelah, the others, along with I, and many of the foot soldier types? We're... Well, we're completely interchangeable, and thus discardable. So, for them, doesn't matter if we're sent to a mission where we run the risk of being ambushed, or worse. If we're done, we're done, and one of us being down is taken unceremoniously as well. No one cares for our safety, we're just... We're just cannon fodder.

Availability frowned this time, thinking for a while, before finally responding. But that doesn't make much sense on the long run, that is just a huge waste of resources! How can a giant organization like our own be sustainable with a model like this? Labor is not an infinite resource.

Sighing, Belletye said, Well... It is what it is... Perhaps that's why Slo- She lowered her voice once more, barely being audible. Perhaps that's why Sloth needs to capture more minions from time to time, since his ranks run through them like the Sun runs through hydrogen. But yeah, uh- it's not very cheerful for me to know that I was sent yet again to something like this. I can't imagine how things would have played out had you not been there.

All I did was run some calculations to better optimize the strategy given the changing information we were being given. And act out on it. There is nothing extraordinary to that. The robot said.

Ugh, just accept the thanks, okay? Belletye exclaimed, before seeing something past Availability that made her freeze in her tracks with a shocked e xpression.

The Aisha, noticing that, turned around, seeing a striped Wocky with long silver hair, dressed in a cyan and grey spacesuit. The Wocky had noticed the two, and, with a wide smile, approached them quickly, pushing through the passersby.

Well, well, well, what do you know? Hello again, Belletye, I did see you around here, after all. The Wocky teased cheerfully.

Oh my shooting stars, Aalya? What a coincidence! The Grundo said, still surprised.

I mean, I live here in the Station, so yeah, not as much of a coincidence as one would think. Aalya brushed her hair back and blushed a bit while asking what came next. Uh- Do you- Are you busy right now? Am I interrupting your job?

Oh- N- No? I mean, we're done here, right? Belletye looked at Availability for confirmation, who just nodded. Well, with our job at the Station, we've got time to waste before we're uh- Picked up to do another... Moon mission, yeah... Despite the Grundo's terrible lying abilities, the Wocky did not falter in her next question.

Well, do you want to... Do you have um... The Wocky blushed even further before finishing her question. Do you want to go grab a bite or drink at the Grundo's Cafe in the third level of the Station?

Sure...? If that's not a problem with you, V- Uh- Belletye hesitated once more, before settling for a fake name for her mission partner. Viltinys?

The Aisha stared for a second before deciding to play along. Yes... We do have one hour before we are picked up. The Wocky realized her faux paus as she turned to the perceived Darigan Aisha, looking thoroughly embarrassed with herself.

Oh- Right- I am so, so sorry, Viltinys, right? I didn't realize you two were together... I got too ahead of myself. Aalya's stripes were hidden under the rouge that took over her face.

We are just working together, that's all, nothing to stress about. Availability answered cheerfully. But do you mind if I come along with you two? It is better to not split up midway through tasks. Besides... Belletye here needs someone to keep track of time who doesn't rely on her. That last snide remark earned a mildly surprised and annoyed look from the Grundo.

Wow! The Faerie Grundo exclaimed, which earned a giggle from the striped Wocky.

Sure, no problem, it's just a hangout, right? Aalya said.

And then- And then, there I am, hot dog costume half-ripped, dangling by one foot on the conveniently placed cables within the ventilation shaft, holding onto my bag by the teeth... Belletye explained, arms waving above the Grundo's Cafe counter, barely holding back her laughter at her own story, while Aalya, who sat beside her, laughed along despite her shock and disbelief. Availability, who sat on the other side of Belletye, just chuckled sensibly, maintaining a level of detachment.

While the Faerie Grundo chugged on her energy drink to clear her throat before continuing her story, the Wocky asked. How do you even get out of a situation like that? I mean, it is hilarious, but also, that sounds super dangerous and very far out there, I'd never know what to do next!

Oh, what saved me was... Well, surprisingly enough, Meepits. Aalya tilted her head in confusion, and Belletye nodded before continuing. A-yup, for whatever reason, probably because of the garlic mayonnaise I had on me from lunch, I started attracting at first one climbing Meepit, then two, then ten, fifty, until the entire walls of the vent were covered in Meepits, and then they started climbing down the cable I was in and with that extra weight, it snapped, and I fell and hit a pile of more Meepits at the bottom of that shaft. They all stared at me angrily with their tiny giant eyes for falling on them, and then they started swarming me for that last batch of mayo, so I scrambled my way through the rodents and ducts, until I finally rolled myself out of the ducts back at some semblance of a familiar place, at the back of the Warehouse downstairs. And that's why, ever since, I don't take shortcuts through the vents to avoid patrol anymore! The Grundo laughed raucously once more, drawing the attention of nearby diners, and the Wocky chuckled along, while the Aisha scoffed at the unlikely outcome of the situation. Logically speaking, the result made sense, given all information it knew about the conditions of the maintenance and layouts of the space station and the diets of Meepits, but the sequence of events that led to this was quite fantastic.

Wow! That is the definition of terrible happening, great story! Aalya exclaimed. I am so shocked so many things can go wrong for you and somehow you still manage to make your way out of those situations.

Yeah... I have no luck when it comes to gambling or cards or any of the sort, but at least when it comes to far out situations like those, at least I come out mostly unscathed, it's incredible. I have the motherload of all lucks only on these cases.

The Aisha stared away, trying to define what was said strange concept that helped Belletye on that case, at the same time that the Wocky ceased laughing and went quiet. The Grundo and the Aisha both noticed the sudden mood shift, but only one responded to it.

What's wrong? Something that I said? Belletye asked, and Aalya shook her head.

No, no, I mean, it's nothing, I was just remembering something... The Wocky responded.

Oh... Are you... Comfortable with me asking you what it is? The Faerie Grundo said, temptingly.

I mean, I just... Don't want to ruin the mood... But I mean, it just has been a while since I talked to someone who made me laugh like that... I have been going through some tough times, mainly after my best friend Alex- Aalya stopped midway through the sentence, realizing she was oversharing. Uh... I really shouldn't just push that onto you, you barely know me and here I am, being a drag.

Nooo, that is... That is fine. I promise I don't mind it. I'm... Sorry... I guess? That's the appropriate response, right?

The striped Wocky sighed, mildly disconnected from reality by this thought that plagued her, and just forced a chuckle. Thanks... Both Belletye and Availability were paying attention to her now, which made her quite visibly embarrassed. Wow, yeah, I didn't mean to make the conversation so dark. Uhh, it's uh- It's been about an hour, hasn't it? Aalya stared at the clock behind the counter at the shop, trying to make out the numbers, before getting off her seat at the counter. Yeap, uh, you're actually late! I am so sorry, I held you guys up! Belletye hopped off her seat while Availability slid off, the three paying off their amount due to the cashier quickly.

Nooo, it's okay! Actually, it's Villy's fault here for not warning me! Belletye started, returning the favor from earlier. He said he'd keep track of time, remember?

Actually, we are still on time, according to my own clock. The Aisha, upon glancing at the wall behind the counter, did a quick calculation. The clock behind the counter is in fact seven and a half minutes early. We still have time to make it down the elevator to the lower floor before our rendezvous time.

Okay- Uh- Great, so I am not the reason for you two to be late returning to your jobs! I am glad. Aalya said, halfheartedly.

Yeah! Belletye chuckled, as Aalya extended her hand hesitantly towards Belletye, in an attempt to properly say goodbye.

Thank you so much for uh- Coming with me to the Cafe and hanging out, that was fun! She said.

The two shook hands awkwardly, as neither thought this to be the appropriate way to say goodbye despite neither protesting. Then, Availability extended its hand as well, and Aalya reciprocated, less awkwardly and more formally this time. The "maintenance" duo headed towards the line for the elevators downstairs, while the third one watched them from a distance, and, when Belletye entered the elevator, she glanced one last time at the Wocky, before staring down at her feet in the crowded elevator, deep in thought. The Aisha noticed her pensiveness, and, when the two exited the elevator, it asked her.

What is it? You seem rather quiet despite the fun hangout we had. The Grundo, staring at the robot, mustered up only one thing to say.

Can I... Can I ask you for a favor? She said quietly, but that was loud enough for Availability to understand, and, considering the pensiveness of its addresser, it hesitated to answer.

What is it?

You... You have an internal memory repository of some sort, perhaps an internal log, or footage, or even some sort of database of some sort, that keeps track of occurrences and other relevant information collected throughout the day, right? The Faerie Grundo spoke lowly and seriously, and something on her voice gave away the low-level fear she felt at that moment. The Darigan Aisha, who continued to stare at her as they made their way to the furthest part of the Docks, where their disguised shuttle sat idly on, thought of many things to answer, before settling for the simplest one.

Correct.

Can you... Can you then delete what just happened today? Specifically, our meeting with Aalya and our hangout? Please? Her question made the robot stop on its tracks, thinking on how to answer that.

Why? It decided to ask, trying to get the most information before reaching a decision. The Grundo stopped next to it, and thought as well before answering.

Call it a weird hunch or whatever, but I've got a really bad feeling about something. I feel like... This was a mistake.

The robot had heard before of such things as hunches, its creator explained previously that said "gut feelings" were for the most part useless instincts leftover from times before history and advancement and were nothing more than rudimentary self-protection primary reactions.

I can... Tamper with my own records, but don't you think you're overreacting? Also, missing records would definitely raise questions. The robot said quietly.

But yet, sometimes, a hunch could also be some sort of conclusion that parts of the organic brain, called for brevity's sake the subconscious, had managed to reach from evaluating the information it had gathered. Said subconscious was, for reasons unknown, not completely in connection with the so-called conscious part of the organic brain, lending to the latter only the conclusion of said internal processing, without its explanation. It thought about whether to judge its partner's hunch a fear-driven instinct, or a thought that escaped her mind's forefront processing.

Ugh... You're right... That is so stupid, you record everything, right? If there was a skip in the recording, that would probably cause trouble to you too, right?

The Aisha nodded, and the Grundo just scoffed, disheartened.

Okay, then, never mind... Then... Just don't mention it too much, okay?

Too much?

Yeah, like, uh... Unless you are asked directly about it, please don't bring it up, okay?

... Alright.

Belletye, yet again

I started the day already hopping out of my wall-attached bed with unusual enthusiasm, as I knew today was yet another day the robot and I would be going to the Space Station for a mission. We had just been briefed yesterday, and all I could think of while hearing Commander Zelain, the blue Gelert from the intelligence sector of Sloth's fleets, grumble and growl the information to us was that I had a chance of running into Aalya once again, and that made me feel some kind of glowing warmth inside. Which was far better and less heavy to think of than the mission itself, which had been dwelling in my mind in a not-so-comfortable way, and made me kind of dread this day. But, I resolved myself to try to make this day a good one, and thus returned to the thought about Aalya.

It had been a couple of weeks since our last meeting, which were just filled with training as usual, and your run-of-the-mill tasks they gave to grunts like me, cleaning equipment, fixing them too, inventory count, janitor duties, cooking duties, I even got roped into stuff regarding dealing with the systems and coding, which was rather fun for something I didn't fully get and kept on getting yelled at. Despite all of the usual stuff from the supervisors and other higher rung Sloth minions who got a kick out of making us squirm and scuttle under their threats and shouts, I had found myself completely detached, daydreaming of her laughter and her voice. This was like nothing I had ever experienced before, I felt completely unfettered from everything in a way that made me even question from time to time if things were so bad after all, and gave me even some newfound strength and energy to carry through the days. Perhaps this was the so spoken power of magic I had heard so many times before? But yet, could magic even be found so far out in space, save for the Space Faerie?

And yet, other times I feared this was not only short term, but would quickly become terrible. In fact, despite all my levity, I still felt extremely weighted down by my fears of being found out, and it all went back to the one robot who was always with me. We had somewhat become closer, or well as close as one could get with Villy, who helped me with some of the tasks around the ship, and was always hanging around me, always hovering and chatting up and trying to be friendly, but it all still felt quite artificial, and I was always reminded of my hypothesis. Don't get me wrong, I thought he was being genuine at least within his programming, but that was the thing, that was within his programming, and that meant that it always felt off.

But yet, he was not a bad kid, not as far as I could tell, he was eagerly curious about everything and would question me incessantly about random things ranging from the inane to the insane; he always was ready to help, and had even gotten into some minor trouble with the higher ups for trying to butt into tasks that I was clearly given as punishment by them; and also, he was so... I don't know, innocent regarding everything? That was perhaps the most genuine part of his entire behavior, the one part that made me almost let my guard down... I always reminded myself though that despite appearances, this was still very much a robot built by that Neopet and who was just programmed to be like that. As I finished up preparing myself, I inhaled and exhaled deeply, and pressed the button near the door of my room to slide the door open, and, lo and behold, there the Aisha stood right outside of my door.

Good morning, Belletye, it is six thirty-seven ante-meridian in Neopian standard time, and today is the thirteenth day of the month of Hunting of the seventh year of-

Villy, for goodness's sake, I don't need you to tell me the time or date, mainly every day in the morning first thing we meet up. I said grumpily while checking that my door was shut behind me.

Well, you've also shut down my previous idea of discussing space weather, or recapping daily tasks, I am just trying to figure out what can we start up our morning conversations with. The robot said with his usual cheerfulness.

How about we start the day in silence, hm? I don't start up so quickly and ready to get going like you do, I need at least some food and caffeine so I don't get a major headache or worse. I started making my way down the hallway with the other low ranks towards the mess hall, and Availability followed right next to me.

It is curious how one's organic body will react so adversely and counterintuitively to its own functioning... When it needs food to function, yet it protests in such a way that hinders one's ability to provide for themselves. Have you any idea why that is?

I shrugged at him. I have no idea, I said curtly and quietly, hoping he got the hint.

Hm, I guess I could ask Dr. Zakaraiah about it later, when giving him the report of the day. That made me freeze for a second in a twinge, and an earlier question cropped up as we passed the doorway into the hall.

Wait, do you tell him everything that happens, every day? I looked at him perhaps a bit too concerned because the robot's reaction was of great surprise.

The report of the day, yes, I quickly summarize the events I was involved in that have unfolded throughout the day. Most of the time it is a short report, but sometimes I seize the moment to ask questions or request more information regarding a topic or a happening or something that has drawn my attention, so to learn more about my environment. I have mentioned to you previously about this as well.

Now I remembered, he did say that previously, a couple of days after we first got paired together, way back in the early days of the month of Eating. I entered the line to pick up some breakfast slop and coffee, and almost sunk through the floor from the delayed realization of what he said. Oh no, he must have told that scientist about Aalya! But then, if he did, why have I not been chastised or punished by my superiors for deviating from the mission?? I ate myself up inside thinking all the possibilities of what could be happening behind the scenes, what could that scientist be plotting, or who else did he tell, and if it had been spread around, and who could have heard and what would they be plotting...

You're holding up the line!

Yeah, get going, you two!!

Come on! Some of us plan on eating today! I heard protests from behind me, and, noticing there was a considerable gap in between me and the Neopet ahead of me, I promptly scuttered forward while I felt the glow of shame set on me.

What is worrying you? I was asked by the one I had completely forgotten despite being the reason for my anxiety. Your face seems to have lost some circulation, and you seem to be sweating more than usual-

Oh, no, I think it's just a reaction to last night's food. I said while I finally got to get my tray and cutlery, and someone cut right behind me and joined me, which only brought more protests from the line.

Hey! No fair!

What the wreck!

The line starts back there, you one eared freak!

I turned around already knowing who that was behind me, just in time to catch her snap back at the mutant Xweetok that said that to Seelah.

Shut your mouth, ratface, before I shut it for you! I snorted a little, and then decided to join in.

Yeah, come and try something with us, you bug-eyed abomination, and see if we don't put you on your place!

The two of us giggled while we got slop on our trays and got our cups of the oily, burnt tincture that only here we dared call coffee. I could barely register the robot that walked besides us while we left the line, triumphantly walking towards our table with newfound glee. As we put down our trays next to the others, he finally spoke something.

Don't you think you guys were being 'mean' back there?

What? Seelah asked.

Huh?? I asked as well.

Your comments, back there, they were 'mean,' as in how you defined it to me, Belletye, a while back. Why are you being 'mean' to someone if you don't like Neopets who do that to you? Oh, no, this again? That was not the first time he chided me for that, and apparently last time was not the last time.

At that point everyone on the table was looking at us, and, while I grew red with shame, Seelah just responded while sitting down.

That 'Pet started it, we just responded to it.

Y-yeah, they deserved it. I added in quickly, scooting in my chair. The Aisha sat right next to me and continued pressing on the subject.

So... Is it justifiable to be 'mean' if it is as a response to someone's similar behavior? Is that's an acceptable exception to the rule that being 'mean' is bad? The mood was uncomfortable on the table, and Seelah looked at me, incredulously.

I never said that... I mumbled.

Villy, you're ruining our breakfast mood with your philosophizing! Can we think less for now? Rexalan shouted from across the table, and the others all chuckled and agreed with the green Kougra.

Besides, why are we discussing whether being mean or not is a bad thing, we are literally Sloth minions, we're not here to be goody two shoes. Alan, the shadow Jetsam sitting next to Rexalan, at the edge of the table, also said out loud, which also earned a couple of agreements from the others.

Before anything else could happen, I dug into my food to remain quiet, but couldn't help myself but to now overthink whether was that response that we gave to the mutant Xweetok appropriate or not. Availability also remained unusually quiet, while he stared me down so intensively, I reached a point I could barely swallow my food, so I just turned to the robot to talk.

Why are you staring a hole through me?

I apologize, I was just trying to process what I was just told. So, as far as I understood previously, being 'mean' was a bad thing to do, because it was a way to upset someone on purpose, but yet there seems to be exceptions to this rule. Availability tilted his head slightly. It seems that being 'mean' as a reciprocation to one being 'mean' is acceptable, also it seems like there seems be an exception as to regard of one being enlisted in Dr. Sloth's forces, where one can be 'mean' as long as they belong in it, but yet, you seemed to be angry at others from Sloth's personnel for being 'mean' to you, how does that work? I glowed red with shame for him bringing THAT conversation from so long ago publicly.

Oh, no, Belle, why are you going around teaching the robot morality? Now we're never going to hear the end of it from him. Rexalan protested.

It's not like- Ugh- Chute, uh- I started, but then Seelah chimed in, answering Availability.

Well, that's different, you see, because Belle was probably ranting to you about the jerks we work under, who treat us pretty badly all the time. Also, what Alan meant is that we're not meant to be paragons of anything, no one expects us to, it's just the nature of our jobs.

The robot, tilting his head even more, then asked, That mutant Xweetok's uniform patch informed that they worked on gear building, a low-ranking job as well. So being 'mean' is bad when your superiors are doing it to you, but not when you do to others, even if they are equivalent in ranking to you, as long as you're not the one starting it. Also, you're not expected to not be 'mean,' given that you work under Dr. Sloth, but yet you expect the higher ups to not be 'mean' towards you...

Well... Yeah... Seelah's shifty eyes gave away her nervousness. I... Guess...

How interesting. The Aisha fixed his neck posture, still staring at Seelah.

Yeesh, how annoying. Alan commented, and then Cindy, the yellow Xweetok sitting next to Seelah, giggled and tried to break the tension with a comment.

Villy asks so many questions all the time, he's like a small child, isn't he? I guess that was one way to put it, a bit weird, but she made it even weirder. With the way he's always attached to you, and also comes from the same- Uh, lab you were from, he's like your little brother, isn't he?

Brother? The Aisha asked right away, while I remained silent. I didn't know if I wanted to snap at the Xweetok for saying something so senseless and frankly dumb or entertain her little idea just to not ruin the mood so early on the day.

I mean, a 'brother' is a male 'pet you're related to because you have the same parents. She explained.

No, no, I understand that relationship term, I just do not understand how that applies to the case of Belletye and I? The robot pressed.

Yeah, I mean, what sort of dumb connection is that? We're the most different we can be, I am from Doran and he's literally built in this ship? I had settled for some snark.

Well, I mean, you both were in one way or another handled by the same guy... Cindy answered, disheartened.

Yeah, that makes sense, Rexalan chimed in, defending Cindy much to my annoyance. You both are projects from the same scientist, aren't you? That sort of makes you related in some sort of sense.

What do you know about blood relations, test tube baby? I snapped at Rexalan, drawing his and Alan's scowls. You don't know the first thing about family, you never had one!

And you don't remember yours, so you're not better off! The Kougra snapped back with the same ferocity, and I slammed my hands on the table as I got up from my chair. I was ready for a fight, but Marin, the purple Skeith, and Reid, a green Techo, both got in our way on the table, blocking me from seeing that jerk, who had also gotten up as well.

Woah there, you two, let's not fight so early in the morning, okay!? Marin said, looking back and forth at the two of us. We all have quite some things on our plates today, can we not add stress to it?

Fine, whatever. I replied, and I sat back down and just focused on finishing my slop. The others settled down as well, and for a good second or two, all we could hear was the loud chatter of everywhere else around the mess hall, of other tables who were clearly having a much better morning than we were.

Cindy, who I hadn't noticed looked sad until she spoke up, barely audible, said, I didn't think this was going to be such a heated topic...

I understood the logic you have set up for this comparison in between our ties and familial ties. Availability said this directed at Cindy, but was loud and clear enough that everyone could hear it. It is quite metaphorical, but I do think it holds up.

Thank you! She answered, and I scoffed. See, my idea isn't that far-fetched!

If we are totally siblings, so what does that make you bunch of reject science experiments? That earned me multiple scowls from the table. My cousins?

I... Guess...? Cindy responded. I didn't think that far.

Hey, Belletye, can you cut it out already? Why are you being so aggro over this, it makes no sense, get over yourself! Seelah hissed at me. Or has your little recent successes on your missions gotten over your head and now you feel offended for even being associated with us?

What?? I exclaimed, and stammered, trying to find words to respond that ridiculous accusation. What- Aurgh- What the- How in Neopia did you even think of that??

I'm just saying, you are acting really weird and overreactive to something that isn't that hot of a topic. The Meerca said to me, and I once more scoffed, and then got up from the table.

I'm done with y'all bunch of buffoons! The robot got up from the table as well, but I snapped at him. No, you sit back down right now! I don't want you tailing me like you do every day for the past month and more, I am so sick and tired of you not giving me a moment of peace! Taking my tray with me, I left the table quickly, but not quickly enough to not overhear Seelah comment.

Well, SOMEone has definitely gotten up on the wrong side of her bed. The others giggled loudly, and I could hear Villy asking questions, but it all got quickly drowned out on the loudness of the crowd.

Tossing the tray into the return window with little care to the cup and cutlery falling out of it, I walked out of the mess hall not fuming, but a different, nervous kind of angry. I made my way back to my room, where I paced back and forth, shaking and perturbed. I was not anything like that robot! I was nothing alike him, I wasn't- I had a home planet, I had parents, I knew at least that much! Availability was built on a lab, by that Shoyru, nevertheless, all he did was get his hands on me, and use me as his lab rat! And for them to imply that somehow me and that robot, me and that scientist had any relation, because I came out of that laboratory eventually, the nerve of them! I hated every single one of them, they could all suffer a ship crash and burn up for all that I cared!

A particularly metallic repping at my door indicated who had followed me, to my chagrin, making me halt on my pacing. Didn't I tell you to leave me alone, for wreck's sake?? I growled, but his response was as normal as ever.

I do respect your wishes for temporary solitude, but we are still required to do the mission assigned to us today, and if we do not report to the bridge soon, we will be running late.

Right, I forgot about that already, cram it. This morning was already going south and I dreaded leaving my room, deeply wishing I didn't have to go anywhere. But I had no choice, and so I just inhaled sharply, trying to recompose myself, and opened up my door.

Let's just get this over with and be done as soon as possible. I walked past him in hopes I would not be showered with his prodding questions, but oh how wrong I was. As I stomped down the grey and black hallways that led us from the living quarters to the ship's bridge, passing the different crowds of other goons and other robots, Availability didn't give up on trying to get something out of me.

You seem emotionally unstable right now, is everything alright?

Something from earlier perturbed you, didn't it? Was it the discussion your friends were having at breakfast?

What was that bothered you from their claims earlier? Was it their comparison in between the two of us? At least he was figuring it out on his own.

Is it the fact that I am built of metal and you are built of flesh? Was that what bothered you? Aaaaand he missed the point. The logic was more of a simile, although it had some fallacies, and inadequacies or poor adaptations, it was certainly not a one-to-one comparison. You did bring it up that you are not, in fact, originated at Dr. Zakaraiah's laboratory, but had a family of your own previously, meanwhile I was a product of that scientist himself, so the situations are quite different... But I do believe that was an attempt from them to approach you and I, mainly considering their acceptance of your addition to the logic, extending it to their situations, as having also come from other laboratories under Dr. Sloth.

I couldn't care less. I don't know why they were trying to get so chummy either way. We are a bunch of Sloth goons after all. I said spitefully, trying to quit this conversation somehow quickly, as it was bothering me a lot.

But I thought you regarded them as friends? You have referred to them as such in these past few weeks. Availability responded, making me feel a bit guilty and sad. They were my friends, indeed, they were my only friends in fact, but yet, they could be such meatheads from time to time.

Before I could reply, we entered the bridge, and there we met with Commander Zelain once again, along with the yellow Flotsam ship commander, who were both awaiting us near the sliding door, and the blue Gelert started.

Agent 383, A-50NNY, today is the day of the most important mission you have been assigned so far. As it is known, our glorious leader, Dr. Sloth, has been plotting once more an invasion on Neopia, to take what he rightfully claims as his by order of arrival, and thus has been building up his armies and spreading his agents everywhere. The mobilization has been great, but yet, we have succeeded in being discreet about it, as we have self-evidently been hiding in deep Solar System space, and even in the procuration of materials through unconventional, more discreet methods. The fleet expands with every day, both in ships and personnel, in weapons and armies, readying for our attack day, all in accordance with our great leader's plans. All of that I knew that already, I mean it was sort of obvious to see that the fleets were expanding, and gossip had spread that the big boss had even somehow a finger or two in the conflict outbreak in Kreludor with the Grundo factions. I wasn't even sure until then why were we getting this type of pep talk.

But, there has been winds of treachery against this great plan, internal and external. Multiple saboteurs and vandals have been interfering with operations set up in Virtupets and the Neopian outer space, destroying metal and other resource mining rigs on the nearby asteroid belt, and some were even caught attempting to infiltrate a spaceship in attempts to reach the fleet. There has even been talk that these and more insolent Neopets have organized some sort of underground group dedicated to targeting Dr. Sloth and us, and have been mobilizing to perhaps even fight us. Those are the external threats, which were considered low level and regarded as nuisances until recently, and you have even run across them in your missions. I remembered that one mission that got me demoted completely from agent work to the bottom rung, the ambush we had fallen into and the losses we had suffered. It made absolute sense then how could they have been so successful, they were organizing this, probably with the rest of their group, they were targeting us. That didn't sit well with me.

But, the worst offenders to this are the internal ones, traitors of our own cause and army, worse than defectors for they not only forgo our service to our great lord, but also start working against us, sabotaging plans from within and undermining our success by handing information over to those deviants. Their damage is felt throughout the ranks and on the grand scale, as such sensitive information, if leaked, can endanger our agents' lives and the status of our plans, and, equipped with said traitors, this newfound group of hooligans have become higher level threats. Could this be then the case of that failed mission? Nah, I wasn't that into self-importance to think that perhaps this was internal sabotage, I was a nobody, and my team was nothing much either, we were just doing some surveying and data collecting on some back hallways of higher levels of the space station, and got ambushed by that group. But yet, the question settled itself on the back of my mind. That is the nature of the individual you will be tracking down and neutralizing today, an ex-agent of Sloth, who deserted our cause and is going to take vital information on the plans of the ships to these dangerous sorts. The mission is as I've explained previously, but this is your motivation.

Agent 383, if you two are successful in your mission, you will be promoted from your part time mission work to full time agent, and will be dispensed from your janitorial, maintenance and other assorted duties. You and your partner will be part of the team who responds directly to Zalein here, instead of the ship commissary officer, a promotion that will mean you will be working closer to Dr. Sloth himself. This is a great honor, you should not fail this. Captain Oleun, the bridge commander who had always berated or ignored me, was surprisingly almost encouraging this time, and that weirded me out.

Are you two prepared to go now? The Intelligence Commander asked us, and I nodded slowly, my stomach a pit from anticipation, while Availability nodded mechanically, his face an enigma as usual. Then head down to your assigned travel ships, your pilot is already waiting for departure. We headed out of the bridge, and back down the hallways we came from.

The subject was a white Scorchio, eighteen, who worked under parts and services of not this ship, but the one right next to ours on the fleet. The Aisha started.

Villy, I still remember that, that was literally yesterday. You don't need to tell me once again. I replied, unnecessarily aggressive because of how nervous I felt.

Alright, I will hold off the recap then. I felt a bit bad this time, he was just trying to be helpful, so I tried starting some sort of conversation.

Oddly enough, from the pictures we saw yesterday, I feel like I have crossed paths with him in the past. Maybe from a distance, maybe on one of those multi-ship tasks, I- I don't know, he seems familiar.

Familiar, I see. What is it that Neopians say? It's a small world out there? The robot's reply made me chuckle.

Definitely small for us. Not much elsewhere to go in Sloth's fleets, unless you're on a mission. I replied.

So you have never been to Neopia? Availability asked as we entered the docking area for small personnel ships.

Nope, only to Virtupets and Kreludor, and those visits started in recent years. I replied.

Availability followed up with another question. I know you're originally from Doran, do you remember that planet? We both stopped in front of our assigned ship while its boarding bridge was being lowered, which was good because the question had hit me with overwhelming feelings that almost knocked my balance out of me.

... No... I was... Too young... I mean, sometimes I have some memory flashes but they are... Incomprehensible to me.

What do you mean? The robot asked.

Well, they are just flashes, you know? Colors, noises, shapes, maybe some talking, but nothing coherent, nothing recognizable, nothing much... Also they were not like I remembered them voluntarily, they just sometimes cropped up, and were for the most part just useless. The more I tried to think about them the less I could make odds and ends.

That's a shame, I was curious about it. Villy said plainly. I guess I'm going to have to go ask some other Grundo about it.

Whatever, I'm like, almost fourteen, it's not like I would remember that sort of stuff. I retorted back, which prompted other questions from him, which all I struggled to answer, trying to explain why is it that one would forget early memories as part of normal development.

As we continued to talk, we both boarded the ship and greeted our pilot this time, a green Blumaroo with a blue crew cut. Once we settled in, the ship followed its takeoff sequence and left the mothership, and I found myself in sullen quietness, trying to recall anything, if ever anything that could be definite proof of my origin besides what I had learned from others. Before the gloom of my failed attempt could settle in, though, the Aisha started talking once again.

You know, I had been thinking, and I've come to the conclusion that your list of reasons for one to be 'mean' is incomplete. What... He was still going on about this? You previously stated that the reasons for one's mistreatment of others to be, and I quote, 'intimidation, power, invalidating others, deep insecurities, asserting yourself over the others,' right? I heard the Blumaroo's scoff from the front, far away from our passenger seats, and started feeling very self-aware and ashamed. Well, those are reasons I have noticed for such a behavior, from what I've observed, but I think you're still missing another. You earlier lashed out because something offended you, right? Something the others had said in that whole conversation about family bothered you, that was quite obvious from your sudden shift in demeanor and brash defensiveness.

And so what? They were testing my limits, obviously I am going to fight back. I snapped at the robot.

But your response was at times far greater than the necessary, insulting others more and more as the discussion went on, and yet you refused to elaborate on what was your issue with the topic in the first place. He answered, monotone as ever.

Who cares either way, we're all minions of Sloth, aren't we? We're not meant to be nice.

How curious, this is the second time today this justification was used for this purpose. The robot Aisha responded not immediately, but after a second of ponderation. What does being an underling working for Dr. Frank Sloth have to do with being unnecessarily cruel with your words?

I scoffed, responding with a snide comment. You know, for such a know-it-all like you, you are super naive. Continuing on, I wanted to add something that was in my mind for a while already, about his demeanor. And extremely annoying with your whole 'you've got to be nice' stuff, like, did that scientist, of all Neopets, for some forsaken reason programmed morals into you?

I don't follow? What's 'naive'? What are 'morals'? He asked as usual, eliciting a frustrated noise from me.

Oh, stars, you are really such a pain on my back sometimes. I commented, and then went onto explaining. Naive is being like, you know, ignorant and dumb and think everything is always going to be all sunshine and rainbows?

So, ignorant, dumb, and optimistic? He responded, and I nodded.

Exactly. And uh- Morals... Well, morals are morals. How do I define morals, it was something that I knew by association not by definition.

Morals are what tells you what is wrong and right, and what is good and bad. The Blumaroo pilot chimed in. Like rules, but for how you behave and think.

Yeah, like rules! You know, sort of like, how you are talking about being 'mean' is bad? I complemented.

You misunderstand me then, I am not programmed with such 'morals,' I was not programmed with much to begin with, besides a learning algorithm and a social interface, everything else are things I have learned and extrapolated from my learning so far. Availability responded. You're the one who told me that being 'mean' is bad.

Yeah but- I was going to argue back, but he just cut me off and continued on talking.

You didn't like that your superiors were being 'mean' to you, and you were perceivably upset and angered with how you were treated, how they were addressing you wrongly, and treating your inevitable failure from unforeseen events and conditions if they were your own fault, because they were 'mean.' Or did I misunderstand what you explained back then? He paused, but since I didn't have an answer to that, he continued on going. I extrapolated, since you had demonstrated such an emphasis on how bad such a treatment made you feel, that this was a behavior that was not desirable nor positive, and thus to be avoided, but yet, I keep on finding exceptions to this conclusion, coming from you as well, so I am trying to piece together what does this mean.

I stared at the robot Aisha, speechless and trying desperately to think of a reply in defense.

No- But- That's not- Ugh, that's not what I meant! I scoffed, trying to reach for some defense. Why are you trying to blame me like that, you're making me look bad!!

Well, then what do you mean? I absolutely can't comprehend your logic, if it is something negative, or at least you react in a way as to someone perceive it as so, why do you perform it as well? The robot continued speaking in his monotone voice, but I could almost feel a level of frustration in his words. Or perhaps I was reading way too much into it. I posited, after discussing with your fellow colleagues, that perhaps being 'mean' has exceptions in regards as to when is antagonistically positioned against you and those you are involved with, perhaps not in an organizational level since you were complaining about your superiors originally, but perhaps in regards to a small group, and yet you antagonize those you call friends and act in such a negative way towards them? So what is the truth?

I- Uh- I just- And with that, I lost the last of my cool, yelling back at the robot Aisha. Ugh, are you calling me a hypocrite!? Is that what you want me to admit to? That I'm a hypocrite because I was whining about something and yet do the same? Are you happy?? He just stared at me, as neutral as ever, and when I finished yelling, he took a second to ask a question.

What is a 'hypocrite'? I scoffed, dramatically turning away in frustration and irritation.

The silence on the ship was louder than my exasperated breath, and I had to take a minute to recompose myself, staring off the front window to actively avoid staring at Availability. Embarrassment set in quickly, I felt like once again made an idiot by that robot, it couldn't be accidental that he always managed to corner me like that, I thought... But also, I blamed myself, I blew up on the end, I overreacted, I already looked stupid, but now I was also irrational yet again. So much for the day, it already was going downhill for me. The Blumaroo finally coughed forcedly after an indiscriminate stretch of time I lost track to in my mind, making me jump on my seat, and spoke up.

Well, that was a very interesting conversation I was overhearing, and too bad it ended so abruptly and now we're all in awkward silence, but um- Thankfully, we're reaching the Space Station, so you two do need to prepare for your roles now.

Right... I commented lowly, turning to my carryon bag for one last check.

My bag had all the tools we needed, and when I noted my newly replaced ray gun, it grimly reminded me of our mission today. It still bugged me that I felt like I knew that Scorchio from somewhere, but I didn't want to dwell too much on that, that was not the point of the mission, he had it coming after all. I looked up and saw that the robot had already morphed himself into an average looking yellow Aisha, dressed in a simple civilian black spacesuit, which went along with my also simple blue and black spacesuit.

Question, can you copy an alien Aisha with that, well, whatever you do to change yourself? I asked, trying to restart conversation.

I can, in fact, through the electrical polymerization of my surface layer... Although my secondary pair of antennae would not be as structurally strong as the primary pair, given they would not have the metallic insides. He answered as if nothing had happened, and that made me feel just a bit better, with us moving on from the earlier moment.

Can I see? I asked, tentatively, and the Aisha nodded.

His entire appearance shifted, from his skin color to the new pair of antennae that grew out of his head to even his outfit, which turned white and glossy. There was something so bizarre about these shifts that I could not get used to, always leaving me uneasy, but yet morbidly curious to see.

Woah, wild. You really can do anything, huh? I said.

Not really, I can only replicate Aisha looks and to a limited degree and functionality and durability, as I've previously explained. Availability replied, not understanding me to my annoyance.

Yeah, yeah, I get that, fine, you can do many things. Let's not argue semantics all over again, this was a compliment.

Oh- Thank you, then. You too are capable of doing many things if I may say. That definitely sounded odder returning from him than when I said it.

Our ship once more approached the massive and crowded Virtupets Space Station, passing by zooming incoming and leaving spaceships of all sizes, and as our Blumaroo pilot directed us to the hangar entrance hatch, the ship crowding intensified. A large passenger cruiseship passed us heading towards Neopia, and I could almost make out the silhouettes of awestruck Neopians staring out of the giant lateral windows onto the depths of space behind us.

There was something I felt for them, was it jealousy? The darkness of space was all we would constantly see outside of the ships, from my tiny room, from the hangar, from the bridge, all of the mothership I lived my entire known life in. Even when I left that giant metal complex for other places, like today, all I saw beyond a certain point was the endless darkness punctuated by the stars. And, sure there was the Sun as well, but the fleet was distant from it, and it did little to illuminate the vacuum.

Meanwhile, I had heard that Neopia's atmosphere caused the Sun's light to scatter in such a way that it illuminated blue when it was shining over you; I had heard that sunlight shone bright and warmed the planet's surface as well; and I had heard that because of the planet's rotation, the sunrays would change where they hit, causing a repeating time cycle they called the day and night cycle. The only lighting I knew of was the artificial overhead and floor lighting installations of the many ships of Sloth's fleet I belonged to. So, while these tourists were all impressed at the sight of the darkness of space, I wondered what was to be like them and live under such abundant brightness.

Aaand we've landed. Alright, you two, good luck on your mission, don't forget to match your stories on Customs otherwise it's my neck that is on the line, along with yours, and I am going to get very miffed if my neck ends up on the line, understood? The Blumaroo said sternly as he got up from his seat and towards us. I just nodded in response while I followed Availability out of the ship, but was stopped by the pilot, who grabbed me by my shoulder and spoke to me. I'm telling you, Grundo, be mindful of what you're both doing, alright? I was told when I accepted this mission that your last mission caused some commotion that was investigated by the authorities in Virtupets, some robot got broken by an explosion you caused on a maintenance hallway. Perhaps they may even be on the lookout for the two of you, there are cameras all over the Station, you know?

Yeah, but they can't recognize us, Villy was looking completely different back then, and I was in a mainte-

You were dressed up as a maintenance crew, yes, but you still got that pair of fancy wings there and your silly little bowl cut, that's enough to ID you. Chute, the Blumaroo did have a point, now what? So you watch your and your buddy's back, because if worse comes to worst, I am leaving you two behind and you deal with your mess, I don't care, I am not being paid enough to battle. Neither of us were, honestly.

Fine. I answered, trying to let myself go from his grasp, and he did let go, and I finally left the ship to find the robot, who was still disguised as an alien Aisha, who bothered me about taking too long to leave the ship.

Later on, after we were released from Customs and properly welcomed into the Space Station, we wandered around the different floors, pretending to be perusing, but keeping an eye for our profile. We had information that this Scorchio traitor was supposed to meet with a contact in public, but there was no information as to where, which meant more walking for us. When we arrived at the Recreation Deck, I saw the crowd at Grundo's Cafe, and was reminded of our last hangout here, with Aalya, which brought back my fears from earlier.

Turning gingerly towards the robot as to not alarm him, I thought of the best way to start the conversation, but to not much avail. So, uh- That hangout we had with Aalya a while back, it was really fun, wasn't it? But the reaction I got wasn't what I expected, as the robot hesitated before asking back.

Who? What? When?

The... Hangout? From after our last mission...? Remember, we ran into Aalya and went to Grundo's Cafe, right there, to spend some time before our return ship arrived? I even pointed at the shop, but Availability continued his charade.

My records do not have an entry for said Aalya, is this a Neopet, Faerie, or other who you have met? What did he mean, I met?

What? No, we were both there, with Aalya, you know, the Wocky? We spent time, I told my hot dog costume story, you were watching us- What the scrap, you were literally with us! I did remember it right, didn't I? We were all three there? I wasn't forgetting it or making it up or misremembering, right?

I was?

Wh- Why are you being so difficult today!? I blew my top off yet another time, today just wasn't meant to be a good day. What, are you calling me crazy? We were there! It was just a few weeks ago! You and me! Don't you have like, impeccable memory or something, you can't just have forgotten about something like that!

I apologize, I am not trying to antagonize you, but no, I do not 'remember' nor recognize said Wocky you are adamant I have met previously, nor do I recall said meeting. I have never been to Grundo's Cafe before.

Stammering, I tried to think of some logical reason while my thoughts rushed through my head. No, I couldn't have just dreamt up or daydreamed this up, I've met Aalya before, right? That day was real, alright? So the issue was with him, not me. Then I remembered my request to him later that day. Maybe that was it? Did Villy tamper with his own memory? But wouldn't he get into trouble for doing so?

I didn't realize I was staring right at the robot as I mumbled Oh, Villy, what have you done? But in truth, I wanted to ask myself that, since all he did was follow along with what I requested. Oh no, what now? If they found it out, if that scientist figured out I had messed with his precious little creation, I don't think I would even be minced meat. I don't think there would be much left of me to call myself that.

What? Are you alright, Belletye? You seem more erratic than usual. I noticed he was staring right back at me. Also, you have paled considerably just now. Are you coming down with some sickness? Perhaps you need a temperature check. Availability stepped towards me, I assume to try to measure my temperature with some of his devices. I stepped backwards in response, bumping onto a passing Kau who scowled at me.

No! I'm- I'm just fine- Just a bit tired that's it! I said in the most obviously fake voice, miserably trying to disguise my growing panic. Never- Uh- Never mind all about that, I think I confused 'pets!

You have come to the Space Station recently without me? But when was that? I do not recall a day you went to a mission recently without me coming along, we have been together every day. He continued to press me, and, in a moment of overwhelming panic, I just ran off.

Pushing through the crowd to get away from the Aisha still disguised as alien, I could hear him call out to me, among all the several protests I heard from the Neopets I pushed past, but I didn't look back nor stop. I managed to make it to another of the large elevators, across the deck, and squeezed in with the crowds going downward.

Looking around at the other Neopets, I felt extremely self-aware because of the others who looked at me with concern while continuing their own conversations. I could not tell what they were discussing, as all I could hear was my blood rushing in my head, but my face become warm from shame. Also, I was trying to think of what to do next, but it was hard to keep my thoughts straight. I just ditched Availability up there, that robot would definitely be searching for me now. I couldn't just go back and pretend everything was alright, not after that whole scene, the questions would be even more, and he would definitely report me to our higher ups. Could I run away? But how? I didn't have any Neopoints with me, I had forgotten to bring anything with me this time, all I had was my bag of tools and weapons, which would probably just give me away sooner or later.

In fact, what was I even thinking, I'd be given away as a Sloth agent just by virtue of existing! It would be just a matter of time before someone, either Station security or some other, came after me, I mean, even that Blumaroo warned me to not act out, and here I was, acting out. As I exited the elevator onto the Supply Deck, carried along by the crowds, I lost all the hot air I felt that made me want to run away. Also, to where would I run away to? I had no idea where to go, all I knew was the Space Station and some of Kreludor outside of the mothership, and obviously I couldn't stay in either places. I would get caught, by other Sloth minions, or even the enemy, who probably wouldn't be friendly towards me. No, there was nowhere I could go, I concluded despondently. So... What could I do? I obviously couldn't just go back without some serious questioning and even getting reported.

As I wandered past the different shops, I noticed with intent all the different merchandises and tools that were for sale. Helmets of all sorts, shoulder pads and chest plates, and shields of all sorts of high-tech material sat on the displays of Space Armory, with lights and see-through proofed glass and metals of all sorts... Unfortunately, only one solution came up in my head... I had to get to the traitor first, and accomplish the mission alone. That would probably give me enough leverage with the superiors that even if that robot told on me, I would get a pass for what I just did.

But... Could I do it? My stomach sank thinking I'd have to do something so grim, I was trying to avoid this question all day, and even before. I had never been requested a mission like this one, I was kind of relying on perhaps Villy doing it, since he couldn't care less, but now I had to do it... I mulled, trying to think of how would I do this, because I had to do this, hadn't I? So what would be the easiest way for me to just get over with it? While deep in thought, still staring at the Space Armory displays behind its triangular archway, I heard someone say my name right next to me.

Belletye? What are you doing here? I turned around in a jolt, fearing I had been caught by my partner already, which surprised the addresser. Whoah! Scared you?

Well, he was not Availability, at least, I mean his voice was not even the same, I realized a split second later. A white Scorchio in a black spacesuit was the one who had recognized me, and it took me another full second or two to realize who was that.

S- Steve?? I said, bewildered. Seelah's older brother, here of all places? Was he on a mission as well??

That's what I am still being called! He joked back. Oh, long time no see! The Scorchio pulled me in for a hug, to which I reciprocated meekly, still dumbfounded.

What the wreck, what are you doing here? I asked as I stepped away from the hug.

I asked you first, he snarked.

Well- I mean, I am... I hesitated, before answering the question more quietly. I am on a mission right now, you know? It's kind of confidential and all.

Oh? Cool, so that means that you passed that re-recruitment exam, then! Steve said enthusiastically. That's great news!

Yeah, haha, it was all thanks to Allen who went over the script with me. I mean, that was partially true, but I wasn't particularly inclined to explaining that whole mess of a story today.

Oh that's great, so he did go to talk to you after all. I told him about how anxious you felt about the exam, I had hoped- Well, that he could help you since he had managed to escape being, well, laboratory fodder... He said awkwardly, trailing off a bit as he looked around. So, mission, huh? Where's your team? Or is it a solo thing?

Oh, no, I- Uh- Well, I kind of lost my partner at the moment, I chuckled, half-lying. But- But it's fine, we'll meet up at some time. Virtupets isn't that big.

Righhht... Steve looked preoccupied with something, making him clearly distracted, but to avoid the awkwardness, I continued pushing for a conversation.

So, what's your story? Aren't you like, working for parts and services on the other ship? What a strange sense of déjà vu, I felt like I've heard that phrase before, but the origin was escaping my mind at the moment. So why are you here? Please don't tell me our great overlord buys supply directly from the Station, instead of fabricating it all himself. He was looking past me, at somewhere in the crowd I couldn't identify when I looked over, which creeped me out.

Uhhh... Yeah... No... I'll... I'll explain it all another time, alright? Steve said, his eyes shifting around. I just realized, I am late for- Well, for my ride, I am so going to get yelled at. He chuckled halfheartedly. So, catch you later, alright? We can talk back at- Well, at Sloth's ships. And then he just rushed away, leaving me very confused.

What in Neopia was his issue? I said, while giving one more glance around at whatever seemed to have spooked him.

All I saw were the usual crowds, perusing around the shops and chatting along, being free and happy and loud as usual. There was an announcement overhead at that moment, about someone's spaceship being parked wrongly and them having fifteen minutes to fix it before infraction fees would be charged, which made me chuckle a bit. Finally, I decided to walk towards a back entrance I knew would lead to the maintenance hallways. Once gone through the door, and heading down the dimly lit, mildly dirty metallic hallways painted blue, the noise of all the crowds and ads and all had subdued, and I was trying to gather my thoughts and courage to do what I needed to do. I had no choice then, I had to do it, but yet, I didn't know if I had the heart for something like that, I had never been sent in such a type of mission, no one had ever entrusted such a dark task onto me before. Even in my missions prior to my demotion, I was usually in intel and recon teams, or retrieval, or anything else, even as dumb as stealing materials from the enemy or from personnel... This was the first time I had been on a mission that involved the elimination of someone. And even though I knew they were a traitor, and a threat to everyone, I just felt like a coward... In fact I was terrified.

A voice hissed behind me. Belletye, why did you let the target go??

I jumped and screamed in surprise, but I was quickly hushed with a green hand to the mouth, which pushed me entirely against the metal wall behind me with quite some force, making me painfully ding my head, back and wings against it.

Shh! There are rebels nearby, you're going to give our position away! Availability, still keeping his hand on my mouth, stared intensively down the hallway, trying to pick up distant sounds, I presumed. After what felt like a long while, he finally let me go. Alright, they have moved away from the direct vicinity... So, are you going to explain to me as to why were you with your mission target for an indeterminate amount of time, and why did you let him go on the end? Also, your comms have been off this entire time, I could not reach you after you broke off from me in the third deck. Your involvement and behavior today make me suspect your alliances... He said in a whisper, glowering.

What?? I just- I just forgot to turn my radio on, but like, weren't we not supposed to use radio until we were out of the crowds? I whispered back. Also, what do you mean, I was just hanging out with Steve, who I hadn't seen for a while! He's Seelah's brother, didn't you know?

That's the target, Beletye! He insisted.

No, he's not! He's Seelah's brother, didn't you hear? Something clicked in my mind, but I still refused to acknowledge it. Just because- I- Uh- Just because he's a white Scorchio as well it doesn't mean anything!

Does he work at parts and services at the ship in the fleet next to our mothership?

Yea- Yeah, but uh-

And how old is he?

He's like, three years older than Seelah, so uh- Like- Eighteen, I think? I have to ask about her age later... Oh, no. The realization hit me horrifically.

Belletye...

No, like, there's no way, he's too nice- He's- He's Seelah's brother, for wreck's sake, he's always helped us and was around for us- No way, he can't be-

Belletye.

I- I bet this is a setup! Maybe there's another who's a spy for those- Those rebels, I don't know, who framed him-

There were multiple instances of files being copied from the internal servers of our leader's fleets while under his username on the system. That not being sufficient evidence, there were eyewitnesses and accounts that match up the times with his times where he went onto the servers to steal said crucial information. There is a very slim chance of him not being directly involved in this all.

No! How- How do you know that?? That's- That's a lie! That's- I bet that doctor has set you up against me like this! I bet he told you a bunch of lies to- To set me up- He wants to test me, he wants to prove I'm a failure and- Because I can't- I can't do this!!

The Aisha put his hand against my forehead to measure my temperature, making me hit my head against the wall once again, but this time I fought back, and got myself away from him. Belletye, you are talking nonsense at this point, what does Dr. Zarakaiah even have to do with this? Availability chided me, perplexed. Our briefing was given by Commander Zelain, I just happened to overhear further information that was shared with the Bridge Captain before we walked into the bridge today, and after we left yesterday as well. I am concerned you are unwell, your behavior has been deteriorating along the day today.

No, you don't understand, I can't- I can't do this- That's- That's insane, I- Can't... Isn't there anything we can do instead?? Flustered and frustrated and desperate, I couldn't hold myself together anymore, and I teared up, but I was only met with the cold, indifferent stare from my disguised partner.

Belletye, this is the mission we have been explicitly given, there's nothing else we can do instead. Unless you're talking about treason, of which I do not approve nor would participate, and would promptly be reporting you to the Intelligence commander for such act. Do not forget, we are agents working for Dr. Sloth, that Scorchio has betrayed us all. I lowered my head, continuing to cry, as Availability looked down the hallway, probably listening in for the others. He then looked back at me. I will have to report your behavior regardless, mainly if you refuse to carry on with the mission, your interference is making us delay too much, and we're running the risk of having our positions and identities compromised just standing here.

Oh no. My stomach sunk with that threat, if I was reported for emotional instability, I'd probably have to get tested by that vile scientist, and I'd get demoted as well. And worse, since this time was a second time getting demoted, and since I would be reported for being compromised, I could end up on the undesirables list, which one knew what would happen if you ended up there.

No! No, no, no! I will- I said panickily, scrambling to pull my ray gun out of my bag. Let's go, then, let's get this- This over with... Just please do not report me!

But you are emotionally unstable right no-

I will be fine! I said, wiping my face uselessly. Let's just go!

Are you sure of that? Villy insisted.

Yes! I had no choice but to carry on, dreadfully enough, and I pushed past him and down the hallway, trying to stay ahead so he wouldn't be watching me so much.

We wandered about the maintenance hallways where we had been previously, mostly following along with his sensor's detections as we tracked down those rebels, in hopes of catching up to Steve. Walking down that hallway was like a macabre march, every step felt heavier than the last one; carrying my weapon was like dragging an unwanted weight along with me. Despite my faked resolution to carry on with this mission, I could barely hold myself together.

You're shaking. Availability commented behind me. Why?

I didn't answer, and just tried to keep on going.

I do not get it, why are you acting so strange today? Why are you resisting your orders so strongly? You are not usually like this.

You did not get a lot of things, also, I never had to follow through with such type of orders, much less in this situation I was in. You didn't care.

You are not-

Can you just shut up! I snapped, turning around to confront the Aisha, and in that moment, I heard a recognizable voice.

Belletye?

I turned back nervously, holding my gun up at eye level, hoping that was not who it was, and yet was proven wrong in my wishful thinking. Overcome with dread and despair, I barely held back tears as I faced our opponent. The white Scorchio gave one glance behind me, scowling in recognition at my partner, and then looked back at me with sorrow in his eyes.

So that's what you are doing here... They sent you of all 'pets to deal with me...

I couldn't help but slowly nod. Hesitant, Steve looked around as we stood in silence, with only the faint murmur of the crowds behind us, and the distant creaking of machinery behind the white Scorchio. There was also a low buzzing sound coming from some part of his equipment, clearly a radio with direct contact with the rebels that were hiding deep within those maintenance halls, but I could not hear any change in pitch or cutting off of sounds that usually indicated someone coming in, reaching out to him. He inhaled sharply, and then exhaled with a shaken breath, very slowly.

Well, then, at least it was not Seelah herself... I guess I am now glad she failed her reuptake exam...

Belletye, are you going to do it, or do I have to do it? If we linger for too long, we will be discovered. I heard from behind me.

I couldn't do much besides tremble and cry, which caused Steve to take pity on me.

What a cruel predicament I've caused you to be in, I am so sorry it ended up this way... I should have worked harder to help you and Seelah and the others, instead of trying to play the hero. I should have... I should have rescued you all, you are all just children... But instead I put my own selfishness above you all, and look what it caused... He looked away from me, perhaps trying to save face, or because of fear, or out of shame. Just do it and be over with, I know you have no choice in this.

I inhaled this time, and closed my eyes, hoping that if I didn't see it happening, it would not be as bad. My shaking hands still aiming at where I could only imagine was where I was supposed to aim, and I landed my right index on the trigger. Yet, it was like there was an inexplicable force keeping me from doing the slightest movement with that finger. Beyond my ragged breath and my sniffling, I could barely hear his bated breath, just barely audible above the low radio hum and the distant sounds, and I inhaled once more, trying to harness some courage, or whatever sentiment that was needed here.

Finally, with much struggle, I pressed on the trigger just enough to hear the laser discharge, and yet the response sound I heard was dissonant and doubled. A loud thud confirmed for me what I had done, and, still with closed eyes, I fell to my knees and cried. Metallic steps passed by me, heading to the victim, and the announcement was made.

Target eliminated. Our mission was accomplished, now we need to call the return vehicle and make our way down to the Hangar.

Then, the steps came back down the hallways, heavy thuds walking up right next to my still curled up body.

Belletye, let's go, we've finished our mission here. Availability's arms wrapped around me and forcefully pulled me upwards, as cold and robotic as ever. Come, let's go before the Space Station's maintenance crew passes by here and catches us. And with that, he almost literally dragged me back out of the tunnels.

Dinner tonight was loud as ever, overwhelmingly loud in fact, and I couldn't focus on even eating. It's not like the food was appetizing, the slop looked extra grey and muddy tonight, and I couldn't remember if I was even hungry. I knew the others were trying to talk to me every so often, but it was too loud for me to hear them, and I didn't feel like putting the effort to try to decipher what they wanted. There was too much chatting and chattering and too many noises and all, it sounded almost like a radio out of tune.

Availability, as usual, sat right next to me, which felt extra uncomfortable tonight, so uncomfortable I was almost jumping out of my skin from it, and I could barely bear to look at him. At least he didn't tattle on me on the mission report, and for whatever reason told them I was the one to do the deed, although I did clearly remember noticing as we turned around to walk away that there were two spots with scorch marks, one being on the wall. Also, he didn't mention anything about my escapade earlier. It was all too strange, but I was too exhausted to try thinking of the implications or causations. It was all too much effort.

Eventually, I thought enough was enough, and unceremoniously took my food tray and tossed it out, then heading out on a quick pace. I heard some protests from the others, but I didn't want to stop, in fact, I felt like running, and, before I could realize, running is what I was doing. I raced down the hallway towards the living quarters, and rushed to my door, scrambling to open my room with my keycard, and stumbled as I was let in, the door closing behind me.

Dr. Zakaraiah, v. 2

Extraneous Log number two-hundred and sixty-five. Hour thirteenth and Minute twelve of the twentieth Day of the Month of Hunting, Year seven.

The semi-robotic yellow Shoyru in a lab coat griped the young faerie Grundo's face by the jaw while staring intensively onto her with his bionic eyes and special lenses which quietly beeped as data was pulled on her case from his archives. He studied her every single facial motion and detail, turning it with careless jerks, as he spoke towards his tape recorder.

Before me stands two of my own experiments, one who was deemed an utter failure for all intents and purposes of my then project... And the other whose prototype is a promising success with incredible leaps of progress being noticed on a near daily basis.

Dr. Zakaraiah drew wide open the Grundo's pupilless blue eyes and then pulled open her mouth, using his metallic claw as his investigative tool. He then checked her two double antennae, tugging down on them to see within them, despite her visible discomfort and pain. He mumbled under his breath something inaudible to even his subject of momentary interest, but she could tell it was not positive at least in tone.

One I do expect nothing less than success, as I built him to do as much, but the other I did expect anything but success on anything, and had I not been denied it, I would have disposed of properly a long time ago... The Shoyru walked away, freeing the Grundo, and heading to the table to annotate some observations he had in mind. And yet... Both have been proven to be successful in their joint missions as of recently.

The two agents watched the scientist in silence; the faerie Grundo laden with apprehension and fear so obvious the Shoyru could barely contain his delight about it; and the robot Aisha as passive and expressionless as to be expected. The Sloth scientist wrote down with his flesh hand comments that echoed his low mumbling, as he mentioned about the Grundo's growth pattern and behavior. Finally, Dr. Zakaraiah raised his head, and directed his gaze at the robot, along with his demand.

A-5-0NNY, do elaborate on your latest mission with Experiment 383.

The robot Aisha nodded and briefly explained.

Belletye-

Experiment 383. Dr. Zakaraiah curtly interrupted, correcting the Aisha. Or, I guess now it is Agent 383. That is her proper name, refer her as such.

Yes, Dr. Zakaraiah, The robot responded automatically, as invariable as ever. Agent 383 and I were assigned an elimination mission, to hunt down and neutralize a traitor from our ranks who was mingling with rebel forces, and feeding them information regarding our Leader's future plans. After being left at Docks from our transport ship, we searched through the crowd at the Space Station, and because of a minor mishap, were separated by the crowd.

The Grundo discreetly glanced with extra worry at the Aisha, a motion that was noted by the scientist, who decided to keep a close watch on her reactions.

I sought to find Agent 383 in the crowd, and, coincidentally she found the target at that time. After we regrouped, we followed the target into the beginning of the maintenance tubes, and upon cornering him, Agent 383 finished him off.

Despite her attempts to hide it, Dr. Zakaraiah noticed the frown that flagged something of interest.

Then, we headed back down to the Docks to be picked by our transport ship, to be brought back to the fleet.

The whole room fell silent for a heavy second, as his bionic eyes adorned with enhancement gadgets studied the robot intently. Dr. Zakaraiah knew something had to be amiss in that recounting, and yet, he doubted himself, his scientific view of things making him naturally skeptical of what seemed apparent. A-5-0NNY was very much a feat of art the Doctor himself had made, and the robot surprised the scientist every day with his performance, something that was a reason for pride... But yet, this robot had possibly achieved an impossible new, or at least it seemed so, and thus this required further prodding.

This was exactly as things have happened, A-5-0NNY? Nothing more nor nothing less?

The robot Aisha nodded with certainty. Indeed, Dr. Zakaraiah, this was all the happenings as recounted from memory.

Tell me, Ex- Um, Agent 383, can you corroborate the story? The Shoyru turned to the Grundo, who quickly started fidgeting with her hands.

Uh- Um- Y-es- That was how everything happen- Happened...

The scientist knew he had to discount from her response the usual behavior he knew to expect from such a weakling like her, who was always on edge for everything, and especially around him. That was just a common occurrence in ex-experiments, along with other side effects that made them usually far too useless for any further use and thus had to be disposed of, and the only reason this one specimen escaped the usual treatment was because the recruitment officers for the army were yet again far too short on their quotas, and insisted that this one and other laboratorial leftovers were to serve Dr. Sloth. What a poor excuse for taking on liability, the Shoyru thought, but these sorts were, as usual, less logical than him. But he was straying from the original point of this observation, which was, despite him knowing to expect the Grundo's anxiousness, there was something to it that he knew was off...

Elaborate further on the events that led to your separation from A-5-0NNY at the Station? He requested at the Grundo, who stammered before finding her words.

Um- Well, we were just passing by- And I think perhaps there was some sort of crowd influx? I don't know, all I know is that- Is that- Um, next thing you know, I didn't know where Villy was, and then I tried searching around, and eventually went to the lower floors...

The Doctor squinted at a certain word that bothered him, but he had to maintain his focus. Is that so...? Is this the full truth you will give me? May I remind you that lying to a superior can be severely punished with up to death, depending on the severity of your dissidence?

The Grundo hesitated, fear completely overtaking her face, before nodding neurotically. That- That's the truth, yes.

Is that what happened, A-5-0NNY? The Shoyru turned to the the robot, who nodded once.

Indeed, when we were walking through the Recreational Deck, a group passed in between us, and I was carried away with the flux for a while and struggled to get back to the agent. After not finding her in the floor, I decided to search on the lower levels and found her eventually.

The Shoyru could not believe what he was listening, mainly coming from the robot Aisha, but he wasn't done prying the Grundo for the truth. He looked over at her once again, and then asked another question.

Elaborate... On how you eliminated the target. In detail.

The Grundo shot a glance at the Aisha, before looking around frenetically. She once more stuttered and stammered, signs that Dr. Zakaraiah was keeping track of all the time. Ummmm... So we were going down the maintenance- Maintenance- Uh- Tunnel... And we just... Saw the target there- And- And- Well- He sort of gave up and uh- Didn't fight us back...

Her shifty eyes flagged that so much was wrong in what she was saying, but the Doctor was more intrigued in where all of this was going to not call it out, and he glanced once at the Aisha, noticing that the robot was observing the Grundo intently... Could that have been apprehension? No, one should not project feelings into things, that is not logical, the Aisha was probably just listening in.

So uh- I just- You know, took my raygun and shot him, you know? It was- It was done- You know, easily... Her voice broke with that last word, and she kept her eyes purposefully away from the Doctor, which gave him the smallest tinge of satisfaction.

And, once again, A-5-0NNY, do you corroborate? The Shoyru asked the robot, who once again nodded.

Indeed, it was her shot that was the fatal blow, while mine nearly missed the Scorchio. After that, we left to head back to the Loading Docks before any sentinels or Virtupets security guards could figure out anything.

The scientist was fully convinced now that something was up. The breached Virtupets security reports did mention the two shots, one that hit the body, one that hit the wall behind, but yet, the Aisha was most likely to have gotten his shot right, it was just part of his programming, his aim was automatic. Unless, his robot missed on purpose... But for what reason? No, that made no sense to the Doctor. Could the Grundo have coordinated with his own creation to have matching stories before they walked in? But yet, why was she such a bad actor in her own act, giving right away how much she was making up of the story on the spot?

And yet, the alternative would be that this was not a previous agreement, and the Aisha was acting of his own according... Lying! To protect the Grundo! But for what purpose? Also, with what capacity? The Doctor did not remember ever programming anything into the robot's code that allowed for such a complex behavior, and even if the robot was copying it off someone, there was still the question of intention...

Hmmm...

The two were still looking at the Doctor when he concluded his rationale, but the only one who dared speak up was the Aisha. Dr. Zakaraiah? Is that all you wanted to ask from us?

Glancing at the two of them, the scientist was deciding on more careful words to talk next, but before he could verbalize anything, a chime from his computer system announced a guest at his laboratory door. The Shoyru went from serious to concerned with just a quick glance at the screen reproducing the door camera footage, when he realized whose entourage of decorative robot minions was outside.

Open up, Zakaraiah, I do not have the entire day. Said a voice all three had heard at least once before in their lifetime, bringing dread to the room.

The laboratory door was released open by the now very pale yellow Shoyru, revealing the entourage, and the tall, dark silhouette of the one and sole leader of all fleets and all personnels in the deep solar system space, the evil genius whose sheer name cast fear onto Neopian hearts, Dr. Frank Sloth himself, was standing amidst his robotic minions bearing his semblance. Dr. Sloth walked into the crowded laboratory with a nonchalant disposition, his fearsome red eyes with small black pupils scanning the surroundings and stopping briefly for each of the three Neopets, who all dropped to one knee and bowed over, a customary greeting in his ranks. The Shoyru scientist looked up at his Great Leader with devoted apprehension, meanwhile the two agents remained with their heads down, the Aisha out of respect, and the Grundo out of fear.

Our Great and Fearsome Leader! I am humbled by your visit to my small personal laboratory, if I had known you were coming, I would have reorganized it in a manner as to not seem so unsightly to you! To what may I owe you the pleasure of seeing your presence once more? Dr. Zakaraiah asked with forced enthusiasm in his voice.

The tall green alien in black robes rolled his eyes. Spare me the idle chitchat, will you? You know what I am here for, where are they, I have requested weeks ago for the ready designs!

The Shoyru shot up, promptly answering his Master. Right, they are- They are almost ready, Doctor.

He passed by the other two, who got up and took several steps back, choosing to stand by the door, in case things went south in there. Typing into his laboratory terminal, the yellow cyborg Shoyru requested the opening of several files with 3D blueprints and detailings on the large flatscreen, showing a model of a robot that was indistinguishable in species, and descriptions went onto list how its casing and outer layer, as well as the inside parts, could be rearranged and activated in such ways as to mimic the build of different Neopets species.

Dr. Zakaraiah didn't even allow for more than a couple of seconds for his Master to observe his works before he started rambling incessantly. The only difficulty has been figuring out how to make the body casing adaptive enough to allow for expansion and contraction and contortion of features, and also how to appropriately adapt to extreme morphologies such as that of the JubJub, Kiko, Koi or Pteri. I have thought of perhaps creating a second, more compact model that could capacitate the physical changes that such species would require from the build, but I've worked a solution to the question of differently shaped builds like, say, a Skeith, versus a Lenny, and-

So am I hearing you say do not have anything substantive to show to me after all this time, despite having been granted all the funds and resources you insistently requested? The green alien's tone was quickly shifting towards anger, glowering with his red eyes at the cyborg Neopet. I hate having my time and money wasted, you know...

The Grundo and the Aisha watched as their scientist shrunk in fear while attempting to save face. No- I mean- Production is already working on several orders of mine to test out those new prototypes, it's- It's only an issue with finishing them- Also, the self-educating programming! The- It has been splendid, my current prototype has been advancing so quickly in so many areas- Dr. Zakaraiah gestured towards the A-5-0NNY, which the big Doctor only glanced before snapping back.

What, that little robot Aisha? You have already showed me it, I already gave you my eval four sidereal years ago, do not try to fool me into thinking your recycled old work is somehow equivalent to new progress!

Dr. Sloth's threats completely disarmed the Shoyru, who would not even dare look at the overbearing alien anymore. Even the two next to the exit door, and also all the robotic Sloth minions who were posted all over the room, were all actively avoiding looking towards their Leader as he continued to berate the scientist for his incompetence.

You said you could give me robots that could act as perfect minions and could shapeshift into any form they needed to! Dr. Sloth yelled. I gave you time and resources, and you dare show me nothing? I am at the end of my patience, Zakaraiah, and if you don't show anything to me, I will be gladly taking back all those parts I gave you years ago, with my own two hands and a pair of pump pliers!

The yellow Shoyru gulped loudly, and then pleaded, his voice breaking. Just give me a little more time please, a few weeks, so I can finish discussing with those- Those useless pinball-brained idiots from Production- To get them to work on my designs and- And do it faster! I just need some little more time! Just a few more weeks!

Dr. Sloth huffed, and then rolled his eyes once more. I give you a month's time to bring me a functional prototype. Or else.

A- Month? But-

Don't make me say three weeks. The Great Leader imposed himself.

R-right... Yes, sir. The Shoyru bowed.

The tall, menacing alien signaled his entourage, which followed him towards the door, but the group was stopped quickly as Dr. Sloth was observing the two agents.

That is your first prototype, which you have allowed to act in missions under the orders of my Intelligence Chief for training the AI, right? He asked the Shoyru without turning towards the Neopet.

Dr. Zakaraiah approached the entourage in a scuttle. Y-yes, indeed it is, my lord. A-5-0NNY has been doing exceptionally well in them, and is-

Yes, Zakaraiah, Dr. Sloth cut the Shoyru off. I've heard the reports from Zelain directly, you do not need to repeat them. I am just curious about who is the scrawny little Grundo with the bowl cut and faerie wings next to your bot?

The faerie Grundo avoided looking at the Great Leader and meeting his intense, red-eyed gaze, and instead looked at the Shoyru scientist, who scowled back at her before answering Dr. Sloth.

Oh, that is just- Well, a past experiment of mine I was checking up on, to see how it was faring in the fleet- Dr. Zakaraiah tried explaining, but he once more got cut off by his leader.

Ah, yes, I remember this one! Faerie paintjob, right? Sloth's sarcastic grin sent chills down the Grundo's spine, but the snark was directed towards Dr. Zakaraiah. As he turned towards the scientist, the grin turned into a grimace. You were supposed to create a Neopet who could control the magic of the Space Faerie token, and instead you gave a Grundo a pair of wings... Yet another example of you wasting my time and resources to give me nothing in return... He then turned back to the Grundo, who still attempted to avoid direct eye contact with him at any cost, and asked, But tell me, what has a failed experiment been doing after being discharged from the laboratories? I did not even know they survived long enough to see that happen.

The Shoyru fumbled a bit, trying to choose his words in a way to favor himself. Um- Experiment 383 is now a low-ranking agent, promoted recently from scrub work, and is too working under Commander Zelain, alongside A-5-0NNY. In the latest- Well, in their latest mission, this Grundo had successfully eliminated a traitor who was leaking information about your future plans to saboteurs aiming to take you down.

Hmpf, as if any of that rabble would have any power to do anything to stand against me! Dr. Sloth proclaimed fullheartedly. I have sent their precious little faerie in a wild Mallard chase, she won't be coming back any time soon this decade! They can't ever dream to do anything, Zelain fights demons that exist only in shadows! He laughed at his own joke.

Yes, my Lord. Dr. Zakaraiah said, not joining in.

Well, at least there is some use out of your past failures, from what I see. The green alien said to the Shoyru, and then looked back at the Grundo. And you, keep up on your work, if you show yourself to be competent, you can even have the honor one day of serving me directly. Dr. Sloth then directed himself out of the laboratory, and his same-faced robots all followed him.

The Grundo was still in shock while the scientist verified that the hallway was clear, before closing the door. The Shoyru looked at her face for a second, scowled, and then scoffed.

Don't flatter yourself, that is standard talk he gives to every minion he interacts with, since it reinforces competition in the ranks. Also, you should be thankful to me for even getting any recognition from Dr. Sloth himself, after all, I was the one who told that Gelert to put you and A-5-0NNY on that mission... The Commander had ideas for that Scorchio's sister to be the one to eliminate him, a cruel and very entertaining move, but I needed to test you two.

The Grundo's expression fell, to Zakaraiah's mirth, but he unfortunately had no time to twist it in anymore. Despite his bravado, the Shoyru's earlier façade had completely shattered with Sloth's visit, and he stumbled and fumbled around as he tried to burn his anxious energy, trying to do multiple tasks but not finishing any, and ignoring the two agents that were still in the laboratory with him. He hurried to the computer and closed the plans down, and double checked his communications for something that could have given him hope, but nothing came up.

Ugh, if I had known he was coming over today, I would have at least gone to the Production line to demand at least a partially built new prototype from the buffoons in there.

A few minutes went by before A-5-0NNY called to his attention.

Dr. Zakaraiah, are we dismissed?

The Shoyru turned to the two of them, and remembered the questioning he was doing earlier, but given situation had changed, he lost all motivation to do it. He dismissed the two of them with a handwave, which prompted the Grundo to scuttle to the door quickly, leaving the laboratory in a hurry, and the Aisha followed right after.

Only after the two left that Dr. Zakaraiah took notice of the voice recorder still running and stopped it, annoyed with himself for letting it run for that long and record such embarrassing and terrible moments for himself. He thought of scrapping the voice record, but he felt like it would be a waste, and thus he reluctantly kept it. The Shoyru was not done recording his thoughts, he remembered as well, and he definitely had more concerns to keep track of now, besides his boss breathing down his neck.

Later that same day, the Shoyru picked up the voice recorder once more, sat down on his desk, breathed in and then out, and, then, finally started his diction. Extraneous Log number two-hundred and sixty-six. Hour twenty and Minute five of the twentieth Day of the Month of Hunting, Year seven. While I was doing my examination of Experiment 383 earlier and, hearing the told story of the mission that Grundo and A-5-0NNY were in, I realized something was off with the story that was being told by my robot. His mission details seemed off, and not only by what I could notice, things that made no sense, but even the Grundo's reactions corroborate that A-5-0NNY may have been lying, or omitting details, about the mission, to seemingly protect the Grundo.

Those were not behaviors I ever programmed him to do, and thus I was very much taken aback. Did he learn to lie from interaction with the grunts and from Experiment 383, or was it result of his AI learning that ability on his own? Also, him lying about the mission to what I suppose safeguard the Grundo from reprimands for not doing her job properly is the just the latest step in the trend I've noticed of him seemingly forming an attachment to Experiment 383, a... Problematic, unforeseen consequence of my beginning assignment. If it is the case, that is, but it seems so, I never had programmed A-5-0NNY for such capacities, once again, if this is in fact what is happening, it is an indication that his AI algorithm has somehow developed this ability.

Also, he is acting of his own accordance, prioritizing certain objectives that were never originally there, as all I had originally asked from him was to follow along with Experiment 383 as a way to finetune his social programming. I had expected him to draw the friendliness of that Grundo, as it is part of his innate abilities, to be able to adapt his responses to best socialize with the subject, but I had never expected him to go this far, as to be helping her out on their missions, and even apparently lying, for whatever purpose that suited. Perhaps to keep her from being rightfully scolded, or to help her get a better review in in her mission performance review than she deserved, the reasons are occulted, but the actions are there, and the reasons all go back to motivations that once again, I had never asked him to do, nor can be extrapolated from his initial directives.

Or can it? I guess one could reasonably assume that perhaps a combination of my request with his social programming could have led him to the conclusion that, to gain Experiment's trust and friendship, he has to do such things. But that is already a rather complex objective, also, the goal to what I had requested him was to learn to better interact socially naturally, as well as observe and learn from her mistakes to be a better agent than her. There is no reason for the robot to be disobeying me and the other officers, omitting and changing the truth that he was requested to say, just to favor Experiment 383. Or at least, no reason that is easily explained away...

Could it be that I had for once managed to create a robot that is not only spectacular in all his innate abilities that made him a perfect agent, but also who could have been gaining sentience of its own? Is this a good or bad outcome? My curiosity wants to see where this could lead, a robot learning such complex behavior on its own, and yet, this raises the alert for the potential for disaster that this could lead, a robot with a mind of its own and with all the abilities endowed by its genesis... That could be disaster on the making.

I pitch robots as the best minions because of their unconditional subservience, besides their beyond-Neopian efficiency. All robots in our Great Leader's fleets at least meet the first criteria, since they act on limited coding that allows them for a certain range of behaviors and actions, but not even the Roo bots, who were the most sophisticated in their UI so far in the fleet, were as close to sentience as this. My little robot is truly ground-breaking, both in the good and bad sense.

The safe choice would be to destroy him now before he causes any serious trouble... But yet, that is the coward's choice. No, I propose instead that I shall allow for this to carry on, so I can study how far does it go, and whether have in fact created digital life or not. But I must be able to control him...

Dr. Zakaraiah paused the voice recorder for a short while, just enough to know how to voice an idea.

Availability, a third time

The robot scanned the physical form of the glitter-winged Grundo that curled herself forward as a defense mechanism, crouched behind her room's door, covering her bowl cut with her hands.

Availability did not have any pre-programmed protocols on how to handle this diagnostics, only the knowledge that this was something considered bad by the scientists and superiors, something that raised flags for them in regards to one's usefulness and durability. Emotional instability was something Dr. Zakaraiah and his colleagues were seeking to weed out with those tests they had done with the minions, that had assigned this robot Aisha to this present Grundo. But was the robot supposed to report on this? His previous knowledge told him so, or at least strongly suggested as much, but something stopped him from doing it, not even intervening in the situation, so the robot just stood there, in front of the Grundo, watching her motionlessly.

It had been several, countless days since Belletye would interact with Seelah. She had been clearly showing signs of discomfort and shame when even having her friend being mentioned. Her routine had changed to such a drastic degree that she had started taking different routes to the same locations, and had been avoiding eating together with the rest of her group if the pink Meerca was ever present, and yet she refused to elaborate even to the others what was going on, the robot found himself having to answer for her absences and erratic behavior to the others.

But he never answered in a direct manner as to signal her distress, if only not to create further conflict and possibly involve their superiors in this matter, endangering his mission partner due to the prior reasons. There was another part to this, not-so-subtle signs that he had picked up from studying Seelah's behavior, it was a certain level of rancor that was barely hidden beneath surface level. The logical conclusion was that she had come to learn of the mission, or at least of its results, if not through direct communication to her by basic conjecture from Belletye's antics and putting it together with what she already knew previously and probably had to know by now. Also, the most telltale sign was that the Meerca had not approached Availability as of yet to ask of her friend, and instead had been watching him for a while now, her anger and resentment glaring.

Noticing that the Grundo's erratic breathing had finally eased up, giving way to low sobbing sounds, the robot Aisha had lowered himself to his knees to talk to his friend. The time window for breakfast time is closing soon, you should consume some food before the tasks we were assigned for today.

I'm not hungry. The Grundo mumbled.

You will not have an opportunity to eat until later in the day, your blood sugar percentage will drop too far, and you will experience symptoms such as irrationality, anger, fatigue, dizziness-

I don't want to go anywhere.

The Aisha paused for a second before answering. But we have to. We were told orders.

The two remained quiet for another moment before the Grundo started shuffling herself, trying to make her dormant legs respond and move. The robot got up first, and took some steps back, allowing his partner some greater room as she followed, rubbing her eyes and face to try to clean up. The robot had no need for that sort of concern, only delegating his own to his partner for the aforementioned reasons, saying his suggestion to her.

You can wash your face off in the communal restroom on the way to the mess hall. Belletye looked at him, uncertain as usual, and responded.

Right, and with that, she took some belongings she always carried with her, and exited the room first, Availability following second.

Once again, the two did not join the usual group, only running into Rexalan as he exited the hall, and he gave a strange glance at the two before greeting. Uh, hi Belle, hi Villy, you two are very late for grub time, everyone already left to their assigned workstations for today. Even I am on my way out right now, I've got some engine welding to do today if I don't want my fur pelt displayed on the Captain's personal headquarters. He followed this joke with an uneasy chuckle that made it seem like he himself thought perhaps this was truer than not.

I had some issues getting over here. The Grundo lied, not engaging in the Kougra's energy levels.

You got lost? Come on, Belle, you've been roaming around this floating tin can for how long at this point? He responded in a lightly ribbing tone.

Yes, I know, I'm still an idiot. She said with confrontational sarcasm, and pushed through past the Kougra and the Aisha, into the mess hall, leaving Rexalan confused.

Turning to the robot, he said, So something did indeed happen in between Seelah and Belle, from what I can tell. Do you know what is it? Did Belle tell you about whether there was a fight? The two have been in a terrible mood for days, and both refuse to come and talk with us.

Hm, no, Belletye has too refused to elaborate with me the reasons behind her avoidance of group activities. The robot responded with technicalities.

Huh- I see, it must be something really serious, for them to be so unlike themselves. You know, it would not hurt for you to pry a little, since you're always tagging along with her. The Kougra stressed. I know you're programmed to be all nice and kind of a goody-two-shoes, and think that not asking is the best way to be on her good side, but like, someone has to say what's going on! They both look miserable as of lately, this isn't any good!

I see, Availability responded in his usual tone.

And like, everyone else is concerned about it, I mean, we're all friends, aren't we? Aren't you concerned about it?? Rexalan insisted.

I am concerned with Belletye, indeed. Once again, the robot responded in half-truths to not implicate himself.

So you've got to help me get to the bottom of this, alright? The green Kougra looked down the hallway outside the doors with apprehension regarding his imagined lateness. I've got to run now, but I'll tell you what, you go talk to Belle, I'll see about Seelah, and then we'll try to convene tonight, or perhaps tomorrow morning, and see what we can do, alright?

Alright. Availability responded with a nod, and the Kougra patted him on the back before running off to his work.

The robot wandered into the mess hall, which was less filled at this time of the sidereal morning, in search of his partner and mentor, who was once again sitting by herself at the edge of one of the long tables, eating her slop with less enthusiasm than her usual lack of it.

What did he want with you? The dark blue Grundo grumbled as Availability sat down across from her on the table.

Nothing much, he is just worried. And wants to talk. Looking at the Aisha, she frowned.

With me?? Why did he run off then??

No, with Seelah. He asked me to talk to you, he'll talk to her.

She went quiet for a moment, her face darkened with fear and apprehension. She did not take her spoonful of slop to her mouth, staring at it for a while. The robot watched her for that time.

I do not think the Meerca would talk about her brother. It would implicate her as well. He commented, which was responded with a stark glare from the Grundo. If you were wondering she'd talk about him to Rexalan. Or the others. I do not believe she'd not know at all of her late brother's-

Shut up. Just shut up now. Or else I am going to throw my spoon at you. Belletye snarled. The robot quietened up, he knew this was going to be the answer, but he also knew this was the lesser of two bad outcomes.

Availability kept an eye out to ensure the Grundo would be ingesting enough sustenance to carry through the day, as the two had, as she and the others said in past conversations, a long day ahead. Watching the last of the other grunts leave the hall, the robot kept on generating different possible conversation pathways that were possible to be taken at the next time he would have to talk with Rexalan, taking into consideration the Kougra's profile and using language probability models, and prompting responses for each most likely scenario he could think of. There was a highly likely chance that Rexalan would convene that night, which was the next time they could cross paths, considering the length of the mission Belletye and Availability had today, so there had to be a good story already made-

Whatcha mulling about? The Grundo asked him. I see you doing some sort of internal processing or whatever you've told me you do, it's kind of obvious when you have that blank stare.

I was just calculating the most likely conversation paths with Rexalan to not get him too involved with you and Seelah. Availability responded.

... Why? Belletye had stopped eating, frowning in confusion.

To not cause you further trouble. If I can quell his concerns before he gets too prying about this whole situation, you won't have to deal with further escalation of the situation, right? The robot said in his usual nonchalant, explanatory tone, but the Grundo hesitated, interpreting it otherwise if only for just a second.

Villy... She started, but that fleeting thought she seemed to have had passed, and she turned downwards towards the unappealing grey puree half-eaten on her plate. I'll just tell him to buzz off, you really don't need to overthink this.

I am not 'overthinking' it, I am just trying to solve this situation in the most optimal manner, given how you seem to not want a confrontation with your colleagues. Availability almost sounded offended for a moment there. It also would be likely to cause trouble with our supervisors, if the discussion got too problematic, you all could potentially be punished for misbehaving if things got too serious. Do you not worry that telling Rexalan to 'buzz off' would not be enough? He seems to be convicted in wanting you and Seelah to make amends, I do not think he would be giving it up so easily.

He's going to have to suck it up because it's none of his business anyways! Belletye responded, exalted. Also, if he gets really insistent I'll just tell him I'll knock his teeth off his mouth with my fist, that will quieten him up real good.

The robot tilted his head, pondering that violent threat as a resort, and coming to the conclusion that it was not going to be optimal to act like that. Rexalan would probably get offended, and surely be concerned, but he was of stubborn character, and it had been the case before where the Kougra, despite being berated, and sometimes threatened, had insisted on topics out of what seemed like interest in the topic, or concern for a fellow Neopet.

You know, I don't get him, he's way too nice for a minion. Belletye commented, reluctantly shoveling the last spoonfuls of her now cold meal into her mouth. And stupid, because of it. She said that with her mouth full, causing herself to choke on the food, which she quickly chewed through and swallowed to not have further problems. Nobody in this business should be in to be 'making friends,' we are all trying to compete for more... Permanent... Positions in Sloth's ranks, it's counterproductive to waste time in other silly activities than our tasks.

The robot Aisha watched her rant, recognizing word by word what the Grundo was saying from his own creator. It made sense she, after having been invited a few times by the Shoyru scientist to his laboratory for some impromptu mentoring on topics he thought were relevant for her to have, she would repeat his words as well, or at least that was what Availability concluded. But yet, it was highly uncharacteristic of her to say such things, or at least it went against the characteristics the robot had assigned to Belletye in his database, and he wasn't sure on what to do then, if he were to update his database to erase “gregarious” and “warm” to substitute with “competitive” and “aloof” to the list of her attributes, or wait to confirm said information, given how she had changed her mind so recently.

As a matter of fact, that was a thing he had been trying to figure out how to proceed, given that there was no input place in his contacts database for such changes. Perhaps he would have to figure out a solution for that, like adding an addendum, but yet, he sometimes had noticed that those newly found attributes did not necessarily seem to be truthful to one's character, even if declared as such, or acted upon by said creature. Availability had a good algorithm for finding out if someone was intentionally lying, as body and verbal cues would give the intention away, but yet, for example, he questioned whether to call Belletye's talk a lie or not, as she at least seemed to believe on what she was saying. The robot would have to figure out a better way to handle this sort of dubious information, to further improve his social interaction software.

After the meal was done, the two went on to their daily mission debrief with Commander Zelain, which also doubled as an appraisal session for the pair, for their commendable actions in the last mission they had been, on the day prior. It was the first time in the entire day that the Aisha saw the Grundo smile, as the blue Gelert commented on how efficient the two agents were at hunting down a couple of vandalizing Neopets who were responsible for a couple of Slothian ships that had been found dismantled. These rebels were once again tied back to that budding group that called themselves “the Resistance,” Availability had noted in his system, a reoccurring pattern that concerned the Intelligence Commander, from what the robot had also noted.

The high-ranking officer also reiterated once again several talking points about the importance of their leader's buddying future plans, and how these rebels were dangerous to be left alone, and how their movement seemingly growing meant his division would have more work to do, and how he needed Belletye, Availability and others like them to quash these rebels. These motivational speeches were very repetitive, the Aisha noted as well, but the Grundo always seemed to be moved by them, as when they left the bridge, she was in higher spirits than earlier.

That Commander sure likes us, huh? Belletye said to Availability as they headed down towards their next task of the day. We've been getting 'good job's nonstop from him basically ever since we've started working together, but also, every mission we do is a success also, we are killing it. She turned to the robot. I mean, I guess you do a lot of the heavy lifting, with all your gadgets and whatnots that make things so much easier for me to do my job, you do get to be very useful after all.

Availability didn't say anything, but he had his memory records to prove that their efficiency was more than just his gadgets, and he many a time had at this point proven his quicker response time and efficient trouble-solving were too crucial for their mission successes. I am fitted with many utilities that are meant to aid with my purpose.

Right... And what exactly is your purpose, Villy? The Grundo asked. I don't think you've ever told me about it, and I don't think you'd be built without a purpose, right?

The robot responded as they walked down the hallways towards the laboratories this ship had. He cited as dictated by the prompt he was taught long ago. My purpose is to accomplish stealth and infiltration missions... But I can also be used in frontal combat if necessary.

Right. Belletye replied to the answer right away, and then continued. So then... Why are you so freaking stupid for someone whose main abilities are for infiltration and espionage?

I'm... Stupid? Availability asked, confused and perhaps a bit offended.

Yeah, I mean, I get it that you've got some sort of routine or whatever the Doc calls that is for socialization and I assume it's to help you with the camouflage stuff you do- Or well, shapeshifting, I guess that's called, that you can do. She stopped in a particularly empty part of the hallway, signaling for the robot to do the same. Then, she lowered her voice and continued talking. But like, you have been embellishing the stories, and on purpose too, to save my neck? Aren't you worried that's going to come back to bite you if Zacharaiah or Zelain or some other higher official catches wind of it? Why are you even doing this??

I'm just... Helping you... With what you need? The Aisha hesitated quietly, trying to parse this strange situation. You are the one who is always talking about how if you underperform, you are going to be punished. You don't want that, so thus I have been helping you.

But that's the thing, you're always helping me. Why?? That's definitely not something that crazy Shoyru told you to do, sure, he may be teaching me stuff about programming and 'bot stuff and all right now, probably because he wants to escalate me alongside you, as your keeper or whatever. Belletye rolled her eyes at that last part. But I know for sure he hates my guts since ever, and has not changed his opinion on that. So, why do that??

Because... I just wanted to help. Availability reiterated.

So you are just being stupid! She responded.

Would you rather then not help you? That may backfire for you, you may end up getting demoted back to grunt if your performance reports drop in evaluation grades.

Yes- No, actually no- I mean- Uh- The Grundo thought for a second of what she was going to say, and then responded. I just want to- I just worry about you. You shouldn't hide my failures, because that will implicate you if I'm found out. The Aisha tilted his head, which bothered her a bit. You need to learn some self-preservation, you know? That ought to do you some good, so you won't act so stupid.

I do not see the point of self-preservation, it is not like I cannot be redone if anything happens. This repeated message clearly made Belletye uncomfortable, more than before, and the robot noticed it. He simply could not understand her concern over his integrity, it was not a factor that mattered to him, as he was just a prototype either way, with an eventual expiration date. But he did take note of the concern she displayed about him, reciprocal to his own in a way, although the robot did not attribute to “worries,” as he was not meant to have those, but yet, somehow, in his quest to befriend her, he had found himself prioritizing her concerns about her own safety. But the robot did attribute these acts as just part of his command to befriend the Grundo, and nothing more, which were perfectly within reason, which was why it bothered him that he was being called stupid for doing this. This was not irrational, and far less such than her concern for himself.

... Whatever. Just... Think for a second, okay? Before you get yourself into some serious trouble. Belletye responded quietly, before resuming walking to her destination on the laboratorial wing of the ship. Also, it's really annoying that you keep on doing things for me, do it for your own reasons, I don't want to be responsibilized for some problem you create down the line because you're being too nice to me.

I'm 'too nice'? Availability asked, following her. Like Rexalan?

Y- Yeah. But worse! She exclaimed a bit too loudly, as she too had just realized the connection. Gah, now thinking of it, I'm surrounded by softies! None of you are going to survive if you don't shape up!

In a little while, the conversation went from unproductively going back and forth in between Availability's defense of his actions towards Belletye, and her annoyance at the robot's behavior, but it eventually devolved into the two discussing their missions in general, and their feats in such. By the time they finally reached the place they were meant to come and visit, the tone was more enthusiastic, mainly from the Grundo, who had resumed her appraisal of herself. The laboratory the robot belonged to, as cluttered with half-finished projects, scraps of countable many materials kept in various manners, and indescribable containers of strange content as usual, and, seated on the terminal near his table, was the cyborg yellow Shoyru who the robot called his creator, who got up from his seat and started speaking in a stern and outraged tone.

Agent 383, A-5-0NNY, you two are both late, and also disrespectfully loud in these hallways. Dr. Zakaraiah addressed directly his fleshy ex-experiment while he spoke this next part. There are far more important things being produced in these halls than you could ever dream to think of, with those who are far more important than you could ever dream to be like, and your noisiness is nothing but a detriment to all those Neopets of science who are busy with such important tasks. Belletye reddened with shame while Availability spoke up.

We do apologize, Doctor, our conversation did take a rather loud tone without our notice or intention, we have only gotten so engrossed in it we grew too enthused. It won't happen again. The scientist kept on staring at the Grundo, who simply added.

Yeah, sorry, it won't happen again, in a low tone, as she lowered her head. That seemed to satisfy him, and he sat back down to face the monitor and accessories to the machine they would be working at.

Now come, the two of you, I need you to connect yourself into the terminal and sit down on that stool, Dr. Zakaraiah instructed the robot, who promptly started doing as such, plugging the cables from the terminal into the back of his head. And you to sit next to me. He said that to the Grundo. We're doing some fine tuning on some of his algorithms, and you are going to type what I tell you to type, and memorize what it means, understood?

Belletye hesitated, her face telling her concern, this was unprecedented for either of them, and the robot could tell this was done on purpose by the cyborg Shoyru. But yet, as usual for her character, the Grundo showed her resistance in a more antagonistic way. Why do I have to learn all of this junk about coding? It's so boring and unnecessary, it's not like I need that to beat up Neopets!

The scientist snarled, snapping right away. What an arrogant and idiotic response, talking like that makes you no different from the quasi-lobotomized grunts that we irradiate into taking their misshapen, overgrown bodies in these laboratories! Would you rather just forward you to transmogrifying then?

No!! Belletye protested, panicking.

Then come and sit down right now to get this over with already! Dr. Zakaraiah commanded, but the Grundo still hesitated, which prompted him to drag her with his metallic arm down the chair.

Augh! She yelped and bit her lip, trying not to cry, and even the robot had some concerns at that point about what was happening, but did not speak up.

Enough dilly-dallying, you are doing this today, whether you like it or not. The Shoyru turned then to the Aisha. Now, you enter standby mode if you know what's good for you. Availability nodded and, within a few seconds, complied with the request, allowing the scientist and his unwilling assistant to access his code through the terminal.

Later, the Grundo left the room ahead of the robot, leaving him behind with Dr. Zakaraiah, as she protested enough about her lunch mealtime being at the limit time permitted by the mess hall rules. Availability could tell cyborg scientist was not happy with this ordeal, but he knew the two had a mission in the afternoon, and one of the many inconveniences that flesh bodies had was that it required energy and materials absorbed from the ingestion of food. He also knew that his creator too was required to ingest said food, but, perhaps due to his cybernetic alterations, or perhaps due to personal preference and mentality, he refused to eat more than once a day, at the beginning of the day, and thus it made sense for him to be irritated at Belletye.

But also something else seemed to be bothering him, something Availability could not fully infer what was it about. Tell me, A-5-0NNY, how has been 383's reaction to her supposed execution of that little rebel spy from the parts and services crew of ship CC445?

The white Scorchio from Neopia who was commonly referred to as Steve? The Aisha asked to clarify.

Yes, exactly, with the sister in the same ship crew as her. The scientist confirmed.

The robot did a quick internal search just for the records, but knew what his answer was going to be. She has not revealed any relevant thoughts about the ordeal, as far as I can tell from my observations. That led the Shoyru to raise his one eyebrow.

Hm. Is that so? He asked the robot, skeptical.

Yes. Availability affirmed.

None at all? The scientist insisted, but the Aisha just shook his head. How disappointing, I insisted to that Gelert from Intelligence to have her deal with that mission because of her ties with that nuisance's little sister. The Shoyru mulled for a second, and then asked.

And is that nothing but the truth? You do realize that if I catch you deceiving me, there will be dire consequences. I do not take being made a fool lightly. That last part was said very sternly, but the robot made sure to not showcase any telltale signs of hesitation or deceit.

You can search through my records and verify as such.

How peculiar... I have not expected that behavior from a failure like her, I guess she has some future after all. Perhaps she can be salvaged for some good use, after all.

The Aisha studied the cyborg Shoyru as he spoke, having noticed a strange shift in attitude for a second in between words, as the scientist took on almost a paternal tone, despite all the condescension and spite. What did that mean, the robot could not draw conclusions yet, once again.

Or perhaps she is not as good of a friend as you consider her. Dr. Zakaraiah said, looking directly at the Aisha's photoreceptive sensors, half smirking. What a sad idea, that she would be hiding her true feelings from the one who entrusts so much of himself onto her.

The robot tilted his head. I do not follow.

The Shoyru slowly tilted his head to match the Aisha, while he spat his words vilefully. Why, I thought you had capabilities to understand when someone was deceiving you, the basic programming I gave you as much, but you, for some reason I am unable to figure out, seem to wish to ignore that, and allow your partner to fool you. He scoffed, smirking even more. I cannot believe for a second that Grundo did not weep nor whine as her usual about this matter, I know her since she was brought over to my lab as a little runt, so either you are not telling me the full truth, or she has you wrapped around her finger and is deceiving you, robot.

Dr. Zakaraiah's stare lingered, and the moment lingered longer, until the scientist gave up on trying to read the robot's usual deadpan expression, and looked away, glancing at the clock, which prompted him to start organizing his materials on the nearest desk. The Aisha straightened himself up and remained silent, pondering something or another.

Well, this conversation has gone on for longer than I have expected, and I have made my point loud and clear. The cyborg Shoyru said, and then handwaved the robot, dismissing him. Get on with your daily activities, do not be late.

Yes, Dr. Zakaraiah. The robot said, and then moved towards the door of the laboratory as he grew concerned with this snowballing situation.

Belletye and Availability were late to breakfast once again, although it was on purpose from the Grundo's initiative this time, and she watched the others from their group leave the mess hall one by one so to not have her nor the robot interact with them. Availability thought this was more convoluted than what he had thought of, also because they were not very well hidden from those entering or exiting the hall, catching the attention of some of the passersby.

Alright, coast all clear. She said as she watched Rexalan leave through the doors, concerned, and head down the hall heading towards the hangars. He should be the last of them all, I counted. Also, wow, did that Kougra take so long to finish his breakfast.

He was probably waiting for either of us to show up. Availability said as Belletye headed towards the mess hall's doors.

For sure. I don't want to even risk running into him. I don't even want you running into him. I am not with any patience to deal with his meddling today. The Grundo grumbled angrily, but her attitude was quickly lost as she saw the Meerca quickly approaching the same doors.

The two locked eyes, Belletye staring down in fear, and Seelah staring up in rage, and neither of them dared to move for a second there. Availability watched intently, as there were clear signs that Meerca could start a physical altercation, but the situation did not last for too long, as a Lenny mechanic that approached the three spoke up, irritated at the group blocking the passage.

Are you guys going in, or out? I need to rush, breakfast time is almost over, if any of you don't mind!

And with that exclamation, the Grundo reacted first. Right, she said, as she backed into the mess hall, keeping an eye out for her ex-friend, and the Lenny pushed through, cutting through the situation with his annoyance. Availability followed afterwards, seeking out Belletye, who had rushed to the farthest food line, and the entire food time was tense, as Meerca and the Grundo caught glances of each other across the hall. After breakfast was over, and she got herself out of the place and rushed down a couple of halls, she had another breakdown in a dark corner, with only the robot to keep her company, if only for that moment, not to remember it afterwards.

The whole point is that there is little point to wasting so much energy fretting about those who fall behind. The blue Gelert lectured mainly the dark blue Grundo on the ship's bridge once again, while the robot Aisha also listened in. The Skeith Captain and other bridge staff members had been glancing from time to time, but they did not really mind much, as this had grown to an usual occurrence. Let them be weeded out as you advance ahead, if they're not fit for serving Sloth then so be it, sympathy for the losers has no space when you're competing for the top. Cooperation will get you very far, I do know that, but that doesn't mean that you cannot muster the responsibility to cut your losses when worse comes to worst, and that means even your colleagues may have to go if they're dragging you down.

Belletye nodded slowly in comprehension, while frowning for obvious reasons, but Commander Zelain did not seem to understand what reasons they were.

Do not worry about such things, though, all you need to do is keep it up as you are doing, and your excellency will shine through. In no time you will be serving Dr. Sloth directly. Belletye nodded first slowly once again, and then a bit more enthusiastically to signal her comprehension. The Commander then looked at the robot.

That goes as well for you, my metallic friend. The two of you have a promising future in these ranks. Availability gave one single nod.

Thank you, Commander Zelain. The Aisha said.

Well, that is enough talking for today, I am stalling you from your other tasks. The Gelert spoke with a less tender tone, glancing at the bridge clock. But remember, tomorrow there is yet another mission. You will accomplish it properly, and you will get back to me afterwards. Understood?

Yes, Commander. The two agents responded in practiced unison.

Now go. He told them, and the two saluted and headed to the exit. As the sliding doors closed behind the two of them in the hallway, the robot overheard, with his keener hearing than his flesh partner, Captain Oleun talk with the Commander.

Well, color me surprised, I would not have bet even half a 'point's worth in that one that she'd do anything else besides grunt work, and poorly as well. She isn't very bright.

Yeah, but she has proven herself as ruthless as needed, which is a good trait to have. You can work on the rest afterwards. That one scientist who worked on the two of them even volunteered for that.

Zakaraiah, that annoying ol' kook? Well, color me twice as surprised!

The conversation continued on, but at this point Belletye and Availability were too far for him to hear the rest. The dark Grundo was, once again, acting far peppier, almost forgetting her issues from earlier. That is, until, when the two were almost at the living quarters block, Rexalan caught up to them.

Belletye! Villy! There you are! Belletye went on the defensive from right away as the green Kougra approached in his grease-stained overalls. Where were you at breakfast time? Did you just skip it??

No, I just didn't want to deal with any of you today. She answered bluntly, causing Rexalan to wince. Why? Did something happen?? The Kougra asked. I know something has happened, both Seelah and you have been avoiding us-

Gah, can't you understand how annoying and clingy you are?? Belletye snapped. Just leave me alone, it's not like I'm trying to get too chummy with your types! You are only bothering me and getting in my way, and you can't even comprehend that! You're so slow!

Rexalan frowned, hurt, as he lost his words, closing his mouth in defeat. There were other Neopets who were passing by the hallway and watching the scene develop.

Now leave me alone, and quit bugging me or Availability here, because I know you were trying to set some sort of talk up behind the scenes with this tin can! The Aisha didn't say or react in any way externally, but he did take note of that internally. Shoo, go off to commiserate with the other losers like you, bunch of sorry sorts who can barely get their stuff together and are two steps away from being a mindless goon, go! There were some giggles overheard from the other Neopets, and the Kougra, lowering his ears, accepted defeat and scornfully responded to the Grundo.

Well, if that's how it is... And walked away glumly.

Belletye scoffed at that sight, before continuing heading down towards her own small quarters, but as the walk went on, it seemed like she was finding more and more difficulty with it. She closed down the door before Availability could enter the room, and the robot waited for far too long before she left out of that place, once again, to head down to their daily meeting with Dr. Zakaraiah.

Later, during dinner time, the Grundo waited once again for the others she knew to leave the mess hall to go in and get her food. As she sat down, Availability started speaking in a far more invested tone than she had anticipated.

For your information, I am not primarily made of tin, mainly in the outer shell, it is a ferric alloy mesh with high contents of Slothite and the metal resultant of Kreludite decomposition, alongside some semi-metals and other electricity-responding materials that allow me to change its shape and colors with pulses and thus change my appearance. I have told you that already, I don't understand why you said otherwise to Rexalan.

Belletye looked at her partner and frowned, confused. ... What? But the robot continued on.

Furthermore, I thought your behavior was deplorable with Rexalan, you did not need to act so aggressively, this antagonism that you are creating with him will only spread further onto the group, and you will find yourself having more and more trouble with them if you continue acting this way. Also, it was unnecessary, had you just deceived him with some excuse, or had I deceived him with the story I was manufacturing to tell him, this would have worked out the same way with less issue.

... Why am I listening to you lecture me on how to handle my own business? The winged Grundo looked at him incredulously. What is happening right now?

I am giving you pointers and telling you what you got wrong. Your behavior is being counterproductive, and your facts are just plain incorrect.

The two stared at each other for a second over the long table, and Belletye let out a snort at first alongside a half-grin, thinking it was some ironic speech. Both quickly faded, and the noisiness of the crowd was all there was for the next second, before she responded, looking down at her plate.

Yeah... You're right, I sort of went too far. Also, I'm sorry I called you a tin can.

I'm not even cylindrically shaped, only approximately alongside my torso region. The Aisha responded, which made the Grundo snort much harder this time.

Villy, that's- That was an expression.

And an erroneously attributed one at that. Availability responded.

It's not- Um- Just never mind.

Belletye resumed eating her gruel, and that was the only thing being done on that end of the long table, as the robot tried to figure out what could happen next. He noticed, at the entrance of the mess hall, the purple Skeith named Marin was looking over at them, although the Skeith did not enter the hall, and just passed by. Availability took note of that, although he knew his partner did not even realize that he was looking at the door.

Ugh, this sucks! The Grundo exclaimed, which drew the robot's attention back to her.

The food? It seems to be of the same consistency and composition as previous meals. The robot commented based on what he had detected earlier through air particles and visual analysis.

I mean, that too, the food always sucks here, I think eating a dirty old boot would have a better flavor than this slop. Belletye let some of the gruel fall off her spoon and splat back on the plate, spreading some of it all around the table, and then just started stirring the grey matter on the plate with her spoon vigorously as she refused to take any more in. But no, I mean this whole... Situation. You know? I can't- I don't know what to even do anymore, why did I have to be the one who had to deal with Seelah's brother?? He was such a nice guy as well, but go figure he was a traitor, selling secrets to the rebels. And now that it's done, I probably will never be able to talk to Seelah ever again, and probably the whole rest, because sooner or later, she'll tell them all what I did. Why did I have to do it?? Why couldn't it have been some other team?? Her voice was desperate, and she was on the verge of tears, looking at her friend who knew the answer to that question. I just- I can't do this anymore. I really can't. But I have to bear with it, because I did it, and now I have to deal with the fallout, and I'll probably never talk to my friends again, and Seelah will hate me forever, and for a good reason, and just- And just- Belletye started crying again.

Availability pondered, thinking of what was the finality for what his creator had admitted to earlier. Perhaps it was to teach the Grundo a lesson, similar to what the Gelert Commander was saying earlier about independence above all, but there was some malice, a concept the robot had begun to understand, behind those words he had heard before. Belletye had mentioned several times before, that Dr. Zakaraiah despised her. The Shoyru himself had talked several times of his disappointment and disdain for the Grundo as a failed experiment, and how mediocre she was for his expectations and for the time he had been forced to invest himself on, in the experiments Dr. Sloth had requested years ago. Or perhaps just the sheer fact that she was a flesh experiment he was forced to work on, when Dr. Zakaraiah was openly enthusiastic about robotics and cybernetics, was enough to make the scientist despise her.

The robot saw no point in investing so much of one's mental resources in this type of what one would call a grudge, from what he had learned. It was simply inefficient, and it seemed to lead to suboptimal behavior that difficulted more than bettered the general surroundings. If anything, this issue the Grundo was facing due to her perceived deeds, where she was losing her connections and animosity had been created, was proof of it, as this was creating a less harmonious environment on this ship. And also it led to destabilizing several of Sloth's minions, as evidenced by both the Grundo's and the Meerca's behavior... And perhaps may even lead to some more drastic issues, from what the Aisha was evaluating in the likely scenarios to happen.

But, regardless of what did the robot conclude, he knew one thing: he had to continue to erase his memories of his partner's breakdowns, for her own safety.

Later that night, Belletye and Availability were both on their way back from the laboratorial region of the ship, after yet another session gone awry from the Shoyru pushing the Grundo to her limit of her comfort, and threatening her when she refused to comply, and even the robot felt something that it could compare to what was described as exhaustion. Availability could not comprehend what was the purpose for this, the scientist claimed that he was bettering the agent, and attempting to salvage something purposeful out of her wasteful existence, as he had previously confided to his creation, but in what part of this plan did this treatment benefit the goal. All he knew was that he had grown too accustomed to her distress at this point, and only knew that there had been more of it in the memories he had been disposing of, for her own safety.

While the robot mulled this and the agent dredged on, a recognizable green Techo in a maintenance suit walked up to them.

Belle- Uh- And Villy, hi. Um, do you have a minute? He directed the question towards the Grundo, eyeing the other with suspicion.

Oh- Hi- Reid, what's the matter? Belletye responded in a tired and monotone voice after having had a stressful learning session once again. The robot only observed.

Um- So, it's about the- Well, we need to talk. Reid said, hesitating, while still looking at Availability. Not just me and you, um, Marin and I, and well, I guess Cindy, although she didn't want to come, and uh- Some others, I guess, it's uh- It's about your mission- You know- The Grundo tensed up, already imagining what was it about.

Y- yes?? What- What about it?? She stuttered.

Well, us, we heard from- Well, from Seelah about it, and we kind of wanted to, well, sort out things, right? We needed to hear from the Alabriss's mouth directly, and- And- The Techo hesitated to speak, also because the Grundo showed a mix of bewilderment, angst, anger and despair so clearly in her face, that it seemed to even frighten the one addressing her. But- But it doesn't need to be here! Actually, it'd be bad, wouldn't it?? There are too many 'pets around eavesdropping in. So uh- We wanted to meet at that- You know that storage room that you go to- Or well, used to go to, for the grease and all for the ships? The deep one near the hangar, at the end of that hallway? Um, we wanted to meet with you there, and talk.

Belletye looked around, checking out who else had been passing by the hallway they were in, and, seemingly not noticing anyone else paying attention to them, answered. Fine, I guess- We'll both go there- The Techo's eye widened.

Oh, no, no, the robot- He doesn't need to come, right? He has nothing to do with this, it's just a conversation in between the lot of us. Reid met the robot's plastic eyes and got even more suspicious. You can stay back and uh- Do whatever you do when you're not tagging along with Belle.

But I am Belletye's mission partner, after all. Availability responded. If the incident you want to discuss is the one I understand to be, I was present there as well. Shouldn't I have to come and help clarify this discussion?

The green Techo thought for a second, and gave in. Alright, I guess- I guess that's fair. And just signaled the two to follow along as he led the way down to the hangar area.

Both the Grundo and the Aisha had grown suspicious of the Techo's attitude, but they felt obligated to come for different reasons. There was no talk in the way there, which made each step more present than the last one, and, when they finally reached the end of the narrow hallway where the room that had been mentioned was in, they were met with Marin and the grey Ruki they knew as Maestrek. The two looked more irritated than surprised with the robot tagging along.

What the trek, Reid, didn't we say that it had to be Belletye alone? Maestrek glowered with his puffy eyes at Availability.

He wanted to come, he also was involved in the- In this whole incident. Reid responded, looking at the Aisha as well.

The mission was assigned to both Belletye and I, after all, so, if you wanted to talk to her, you should also talk to me, I can clarify some details she may have missed. Availability calmly said while looking at his partner, who chose to only watch the trio and not talk. Maestrek frowned, and looked at Marin, who commented in response.

I guess that makes sense. We'll deal with you too, then.

And, with that, the purple Skeith in his dark suit opened the door to the storage room, revealing a dark interior poorly illuminated by the dim light coming from the hallway. There were shelves that went beyond where it was optically visible, and the Aisha could detect someone short in the depths of the darkness. He looked at Belletye with undetectable concern, but she had took the lead to walk in, not stopping for one second to evaluate the situation she was walking into, and so Availability felt obligated to follow in, and the other three followed right after them.

The storage room's light was turned on just as the door lock was heard click, and the one already in the room was revealed. Seelah stood at the very back of where the shelves led into the room, surrounded by different chemical containers of different maintenance fluids meant for the small ships in the hangar. She stared at them with a rage uncharacteristic to her, and she tightly held onto something in her hand the robot identified to be a blaster, from the latent radiation it emitted. Behind the two agents, the Skeith, the Ruki and the Techo stood as a barrage to the door, looming over with solemness and matching rage to their friend.

Seelah took a second to think, noticing that the Aisha had also come, but she did not rethink this opportunity to advance towards the robot and the agent.

So, Belle, do we want to talk, then? I had told that idiot I did not, but, on second thought, I at least want to say some words.

Look, Seelah- The faerie Grundo started, but she was cut off quickly.

SHUT UP! Seelah grew more erratic, approaching the Grundo and pointing blank her weapon at her target, who glanced down at the Meerca's shaking hands, before looking back at her face. Don't you try to weasel yourself out this- I swear on Sloth personally, if you try to play the sorry card, I will shoot!

Availability approached, attempting to neutralize this situation, but he could not do anything to help when Belletye had the blaster up to her chest, and Seelah's glance towards him made him reconsider the likelihood of a worst-case scenario happening if any of them did not respond right. There was also the problem with the three behind them, although the robot had already evaluated how to deal with them if the situation escalated. But his concern laid mainly on how to save his friend.

I know what you did to Steve, I heard you tracked him down in Virtupets, and you- You- You... Cold bloodedly- UGH! The Meerca could not finish her sentence, distraught at the thought of what had happened to her brother to the verge of tears, but that did not mean she did not lose her grip or aim on her weapon. How could you! You- He had helped you so many times! He was always here for everyone!! And you- And you do this??

The Grundo continued to remain silent, her face showing so much and so little at the same time, watching as Seelah continued to break down, her sobs echoing in the storage room and making the others uneasy. Finally, Belletye spoke up, surprising even the Aisha. Then... When are you doing it?

The pink Meerca looked up, her damaged eye surrounded by scar tissue puffier than the other one, and she spoke, incredulously. ... What?

You have your blaster to my chest. Are you pulling the trigger, or not? That was spoken in a surprisingly composed manner for how much the Grundo was visibly shaken. Or did you lose your nerve already?

Seelah gritted her teeth, scowling through her tears, grasping her weapon tightly, and for a second, seemed to have mostly committed to the act, but she instead lowered her hands. The room was silent for a moment, with only the scattered breaths of the living creatures within, and the faint echo of the busy ship and all the machinery in use beyond the door behind them all. The robot and the three others all just watched the scene with bewilderment.

Thought so. The dark Grundo said in a lower tone, which set off the Meerca, making her cry once more.

Why?? Seelah whined in between her tears. Why did you do it??

He was a traitor, Seelah. The Meerca looked at the Grundo, who continued on, finding a little more composure at this moment. He had been found to be giving over information to the rebels at the Station, to help undermine Sloth's plans. Did you know that??

Seelah looked away guiltily. Couldn't you have- Just let him go? Fake the mission having been done??

The Grundo quickly glanced over her shoulder towards the Aisha. I- Can't. Do you know what our superiors would do to me if I did that? Last thing I want is to get sent back to the laboratories, you know that, and they know that as well! They're just- They've only been nice to me because I'm doing all they ask, you remember how I was treated when I failed that mission last year! So I can't, Seelah, I have no choice!

The pink Meerca lowered her head once more, and said. He was trading information for help. To escape. For us two to escape. Belletye grimaced. He could have asked to help you as well. He could have helped all of us. That's what the Resistance does, they help Neopets.

The room was quiet for another second, and then the Grundo responded. Well, that's quite the help they gave, making him endanger himself, and not even covering for him. Also, he was being very reckless, and was caught red-handed. If it wasn't going to be me- Belletye hesitated before continuing. It'd have been someone else who'd have done him in.

Seelah then said. I hate you so much. I hate the both of you. She looked at the two agents and started screaming once more. I hate you, and this stupid ship, and this stupid army, and that stupid alien at the top! I hate everything in this place and all of you! My life has been nothing but misery since I've been dragged into this stupid place!! AAURGH!! And then collapsed to the floor, sobbing once more.

The Grundo stared down at the Meerca, but didn't dare to touch her. The Ruki, the Techo and the Skeith moved past the two agents, and lowered to the ground to comfort their friend. This went on for a little while before she said something. I wish I could say I'm sorry, but you said you don't want that.

Belletye then turned back towards the door, not even looking at Availability.

Can I just... Go now? Are we done here? She said, but didn't wait much for the response, heading towards the door and unlocking it.

Availability followed right after her as they exited the room, and the sobs could still be heard behind them. as the door shut itself automatically, a blast from the laser gun could be heard behind them, probably hitting the frame of the door from what the robot could tell. The two walked for a little while, before the Grundo spoke once again.

This is all your fault, you know?? She said, enraged. You're the one that pushed me to do it. I'd have been fine with letting him go.

You yourself said, it was our mission. We have to follow what is told. The Aisha said.

Go fly a kite! She responded angrily. The two passed a group of goons who were coming out of training sessions, and Belletye didn't speak until they were far apart from her and the robot. Are you going to tattle on Seelah now? Just like you said you'd tattle on me back then, if I didn't follow the orders??

I do have to report on this incident, and her and the others' knowledge of the traitor's actions, indeed. Were you not planning on telling an authority figure about this? The robot replied, which prompted the Grundo to spin around and yell at the Aisha.

That was her BROTHER! That YOU made me deal with!! Huffing a few times to catch her breath, Belletye continued on. You know, I don't get you, because one second you seem to care so much, and worry about me and try to help me out, and then the next you do things like THAT.

Availability looked at the Grundo, and replied. I am only following along with what you say. You were the one who was concerned about your own safety and reputation, you have vocalized so many times in the recent past about your worries. I just helped in that sense, in the best way I could. Belletye frowned, mulling on the words the robot said. As a matter of fact, for someone who is always so worried about your own safety, that was very reckless back there-

So you don't actually care. The Grundo interrupted. Is that it? You don't actually care, you're just following along with orders and premises and demands, and whatever else you're programmed for?

Availability paused for a second, trying to parse what she said. Yes, I follow orders, commands and other requests. What do you mean by 'care'? Belletye scoffed.

Oh, no, I'm not- I don't have patience for this tonight. She shook her head. Well, that explains things. I guess I'm the idiot for not realizing this earlier, that you're just a shiny toy that jerk scientist put me to babysit, as just another way to torment me.

I'm not a toy- The robot said, but was cut off by his partner once again.

But that doesn't undo the fact that St- Her brother's life is on my hands, and it's your fault as well. Also that stupid Gelert's fault, he is smart enough to know we were friends and was probably trying to test me, but also it's your fault for pushing me to do it.

You'd have-

Shut up! Belletye cut off the Aisha off for a third time. And leave me alone for once in my entire existence for these past months! I don't want to deal with you anymore! Say whatever you want to whoever you feel like it about this whole stupid thing, I'm screwed anyways! And always! But just leave me alone!! And she stormed off, while the robot pondered whether he should follow her, or follow what she had told him to do.

Agent 383

Morale could not have been worse than if I had gone and told everyone Sloth was doomed for. Actually, thinking about that, I feel like some would even cheer for that idea, even within our ranks... As questionable as that idea was. I had no idea how many of my former group knew or were involved with Seelah's and her brother's plot, and how many just had heard from Rexalan about my disastrous blow-up scene, but no one at this point even looked at me, no one cared to look for me, no one asked about me anymore. And, if by chance, their eyes crossed mine in a common area, they would just avert their gaze, like how Alan did to me just earlier today.

I couldn't deal with this, I couldn't deal with anything that had been happening, I felt I had made a terrible mistake, but I had to do what I had to do, right? I didn't have any other choice, I couldn't just have let him go, that robot wouldn't let me... Or would he have allowed me? Who cared, I didn't care about Availability anyways, he was just a hassling tin can who had just been faking caring for me because of his programming... Right?? Regardless, he made me do that action, and now I was suffering the consequences of it all, him, and that stupid blue Gelert, and... This whole stupid fleet, and that stupid green alien who controlled it all! And it was not like I had any choice in any of this...

Finishing my lunch all alone in a dining table of the mess hall, surrounded by other minions who were all too happily chatting away with their coworkers and colleagues and friends, I wandered off seething with hatred of having been reminded yet again of that stupid robot, or my stupid friends, and everyone else in this stupid ship that I used to talk to often. I had a mission, that was all that mattered, and I had asked that I did it alone, Commander Zelain did not even ask why, instead giving me an understanding nod, and saying.

It is for the best that you do things on your own, you cannot rely on other operatives if you want to get ahead.

Which was strangely understanding, only raising my suspicions about him. But yet... He was right, I could not rely on anyone, I had no one to rely on at this point, it was only me, myself and I, and I had this latest mission to do, of intercepting a rebel group Neopet on the Station in their own espionage mission.

After boarding the ship that was going to drop me off at Virtupets, I barely responded to the Blumaroo pilot's attempt to chat, only responding with monosyllabic yeaps and huhs. I didn't even have the energy to say anything else, and I was saving what little I had to do whatever I would need to, and to keep my nerves calm, given that I was doing this all by myself, with no help from that robot. I kept on dry gulping every so often, hoping that this was just going to be an easy mission, because otherwise, I'd be so screwed. I antsily awaited for the ship door to open, not even looking at my driver, who commented out loud about it.

No time to waste, huh? Never mind me, then, Miss Important.

I did not know what to even answer, and I was attempting to not care about this, for what good would caring about some pilot's hurt feelings was going to help me? Leaving the ship that had entered the Hangar unperceived during the entrance of several massive planetary shuttles, I blended into the rush of passengers on the floor. I kept on paranoically checking over my shoulder every so often, as I had a fear more than a feeling that someone could be watching me, and I had no one to look over my shoulder for me anymore.

Continuing to follow along with the flux until I deviated away into the maintenance tunnels, I sat in the entrance for a little while, hesitant from being back so soon. Or was it even that soon? It had been months at this point, but yet, it felt so soon, and being back here was making me feel painfully nauseated and extremely dizzy. I stumbled into the tunnels, dragging my feet like I was imprisoned in here, trying not to think of what had happened, and what had been happening, but it was tough. In an intersection I had only the faintest idea of where to turn, I finally gave in and pulled up my map in the communicator with the marked flags of the locations of where the spy was supposed to be meeting up with another rebel.

Only when it was too late I realized the hard object that pressed against my back, coming from the shadows behind me, and accompanying it, an angered huff. I froze up instantly, knowing what this meant. A small yellow Aisha walked around me from those same shadows, looking me up and down with contempt, and then addressing the one behind me.

Is that her? She doesn't look like all that much, she's younger than the two of us.

Yes, that's her indeed. Said the second Neopet in a voice I recognized right away, my heart skipping a beat. She is far more nefarious than she looks.

I gulped dryly once again.

A- Aalya?? I squealed, incredulous, but she did not answer, casting some doubt in my recognition. The yellow Aisha looked at me.

It's rich of you to use her to attack our agents, she really never suspected you were a Sloth minion. They said that last part with disdain and anger. Clever, but you were not clever enough to not hide from the cameras. We caught you in the Station and shuttle feeds trailing after your different victims, and then leaving the maintenance tunnels and back to the crowds after doing your deeds. Those wings are really hard to not spot, you know? I was still too shocked to even let that sink in, and I turned on instinct to face the Wocky.

I- I didn't know you were from the Resistance! I exclaimed, her scowl and the laser point being the first things I saw. I- I swear! I wasn't even coming after you, I thought it was just luck that we kept on running into each other!!

Bad luck, more like it! You literally took down my information contacts from Kreludor on the first time we met in that transfer shuttle! She yelled, red and flustered and with betrayal all over her face. How much lack of shame do you have to have to just act normally after doing something like that?? Wait, wasn't that Villy's doing? I had lost track of the two spies in that crowd. But there was no point in arguing semantics at gunpoint, since I did do such acts later on.

You're... You're right. I answered, defeated. But I didn't want to do any of it. I confessed, to my own surprise. It's been awful, and I can't handle it anymore, but I don't- I can't say no, I am ordered, and I have to follow those orders! Or else, I just- I- My everlasting fear echoed in the back of my mind, the ultimate punishment for useless underlings of the empire.

You always have a choice, to say no, to do the right thing. Aalya said arrogantly and hypocritically, considering I was still in her blaster's aim.

Yeah, I don't believe you, why would you even continue to work for that guy if you hate it so much. The yellow Aisha chimed in, equally as arrogantly. You clearly can't hate it that much, you're just leading us on-

Do you think if I had the choice I'd be doing this?? I snapped at them, looking over my shoulder. I don't have a choice! I can't do anything! I am literally trapped there, and if I don't make myself useful enough, they'll get rid of me, or worse! I didn't even choose to return to working on missions, I was more than glad doing just grunt work around the fleet! I looked back to the striped Wocky. It was all the idea of my superiors, and of this guy who hates me over there! Because he wants to see me fail! He wants to have a reason to get rid of me in the worst way possible! So I have to perform well, and do everything I'm asked for in the best way possible, otherwise, it's my life that's on the line!

Aalya's fierce look had softened with sadness and pity for me. Is that... True? Please tell me that you're not trying to trick me into letting my guard down.

I swear on the sun and stars! I implored her, my voice breaking from me tearing up without noticing, and that was enough for her to lower her weapon, and I turned sideways to face the two of them.

Why don't you just run away? The Aisha asked.

To where? And how?? I don't know your planet, I don't know anyone outside of where I've been raised, I don't even know where we are in space, in relation to my home planet. I literally don't know anything beyond Sloth's ships, besides what I've heard third-hand about your planet, and I don't even know much about Kreludor or Virtupets, besides where I've been in missions, but I'm always accompanied, so I can't even wander off! I said. I don't even have a family, they were all used by Sloth's scientists in the experiments, I literally have nowhere to go, and I wouldn't even know how to do any of it. Besides, who knew what they'd do to a runaway, if Sloth's forces tracked me down wherever I would be, I knew several of his underlings came from Neopia itself, if I ran off, perhaps I could even be caught by them on the planet, and be sent back, and who knew what I'd suffer then.

We can help you. Aalya said suddenly, which prompted the yellow Aisha to frown in disagreement, shaking their head at her. That is... If you can help us in return.

How...? I said, desperation and hesitation sounding through. I feared I knew what they would ask.

Um- I think it's best if you talk to our Commander about it. The striped Wocky said, but the Aisha intervened.

Aalya, that's so dumb, why would we lead a Sloth minion to our headquarters?? She's just going to take note of all faces and names and take it back to her higher ups to get us in trouble! I could, I thought, it would be an easy way to gain some brownie points with that Gelert. But also, would I betray Aalya like that? I knew I barely knew her, I had only met with her a few times, but something within me made me almost wish I could just follow her along and leave it all behind.

You're right, Cewain. Aalya hesitated, pushing back her silver hair from her face, making my heart race, but not because of fear. She looked at me with hopeful but pleading eyes. I... I hope we can then trust you to not do that?

I- I guess. I looked away, flustered. The Aisha didn't buy it, but the Wocky was gleeful.

After a while of us traversing several lengths of the interior of the Space Station, jumping ledges, going up maintenance ladders, and climbing over pipes and other things that were not meant to be climbed, the three of us reached a hatch door with an eye scanner and palm print reader. I had turned off my transmitter and my pinger, hoping this was enough to not get me tracked down, if anyone suspected I was taking too long to get back. Aalya went up to the locking mechanisms to put in her biometrics, while Cewain turned to me and said.

You stay out here while we talk to our Commander and see what he thinks of this.

I nodded quietly, it was not like I had any other options at this point. While they were in there, I was trying to think of what I would report when I went back, because this went on like nothing that I was expecting. Who was it that I was even meant to find? Zelain had only mentioned it was some unknown rebel operative, were they still out there, or was this a trap by the Resistance?

I froze up, realizing that perhaps I had wandered into something dangerous willingly yet again, and in my mind I debated running off or staying over there. I was so stupid, why did I decide to trust someone who literally had a blaster to my back not even an hour ago? But yet, if this was not a trap, if this was an opportunity, to escape that ship, to escape the ranks and that green alien and his horrible officials and scientists and other Neopets who had only made my life miserable until now, running off would be turning away this opportunity. Fear ate me up inside while the waiting seemed to drag on forever, and I started pacing myself, first as I debated running off, but then just out of pure anxiety.

As I was beginning to convince myself I had been for too long out, and would probably have been looked for pretty soon, the hatch door slid open with a metallic noise, and three Neopets walked out, the two who had led me here, and a tall green Ixi in a green plated suit, his muzzle fur growing longer than the rest resembling a thick mustache, and his purple eyes gazing pitifully and yet puzzled at me.

A young winged Grundo? You look like you're of the faerie color, but I've never heard of Grundos coming in the faerie variety, you're foreign.

I looked away shamefully as I mumbled an explanation I had told several times before. These wings were from an experiment they did with your Space Faerie's token years ago. I could tell he felt even greater pity for me, but also, I saw saddened eyes on both the Wocky and the Aisha who had accompanied me.

I see... I'm sorry to hear... Um... What's your name? The Ixi asked.

Belle... Or Belletye... It's what the others call me when I am not being addressed by numbers. I responded, trying to not give much away. Are you... The leader of this rebel group? You seem much older than the others.

Yes, I am the leader of the Resistance, name's Valka, and I hope I can help you. Please, do come in, let's discuss this. I was led in by the overly-inviting Ixi, and followed by the other two, and the hatch door shutting down behind me was almost like an alert to the irreversibility of my choices at this point.

Led to this crowded operating room, I was surrounded with precariously mounted radar and other detection equipment, several terminals being operated by Neopets and Grundos alike, and several more others discussing and debating details and things on holographic displays and more physical media as well. They were all around my age or a little older, but none seemed closer to their leader's age, which wasn't a surprise to me, just a thing to note, as familiar as that setup was to me back in my ship. Many were curiously watching our group, having paused their work to see what was going on, and, upon getting over to a table with a holographic display showing Sloth's fleet, the Ixi looked over at me to talk.

So, Belle, you are currently working in Sloth's forces, aren't you? I nodded slowly, keeping track of everyone's reactions around me. And you are one of their agents of their counterintelligence, under Zelain? I nodded again.

But only as of recently, I did cleaning and maintenance and other odd tasks for a while on my ship before I got put to do missions, alongside my crew. I mean, I had done missions before, but that was irrelevant to the conversation, right?

Hm, and which ship do you work in? Valka asked. I looked at the fleet, and pointed at the one I belonged in. He took a look and said, Right, I see. Well, and what do you know, Belle?

The conversation steered around in several directions, as he asked several things about what I did and what I could do for them, what sort of information they were seeking, and even mentioned that Scorchio and their loss of the information line he was, mentioning that he had passed on blueprints and plans and even minutes of higher up meetings that he got his hands on the terminals back on Sloth's fleets. This all was a lot of prompted information and listing of which was bothering me, because I could not see how that was pertinent to the offer he lured me with. I cut him in at a certain point, and asked.

Okay, but, um, how can you help me after all?

The Ixi looked at me with surprise, and Aalya and the Aisha looked at me with shock. Other operatives that were listening in had varied looks, from scowls to grimaces to even smirks. I felt a bit shy, but it was not like I'd back down, I wasn't there for my principles, and I couldn't go back to Sloth's ships without at least knowing this group could give me a way out.

Well... I guess that's a good question. Valka answered, and then continued. I have been laying down all those things I hope you can help us with, given your advantage as someone from the inside of Sloth's armies, but I guess I have not led my bargain properly. So... What do you want? I didn't even think for more than a second before answering.

I want to get out of Sloth's ranks, I want to get away from there, from space, from anyone and everyone. I want to get away, and never be found by anyone, mainly any of my superiors or anyone who could- Who could drag me back, or worse. I was tired of feeling constantly afraid and anxious and sad and completely out of myself, I was tired of always breaking down and crying, I was tired of being worried my next mistake meant I would be canned, or worse, be returned... To his lab.

I didn't realize I was shaking and breaking heavily after saying all of that to the Ixi. I felt ashamed and exposed, telling him and these others about things I've never said out loud. He looked at me with profound sadness, and nodded slowly. Right, makes sense. We've actually heard this before from others in your ranks, so it is no strange request to make. He looked over at some others in the group, a red Mynci and an orange Grundo, and said, You know what to do, right? Please, do start contacting ‘pets to start arrangements. The two nodded and saluted. It may take a while, though, mainly considering that you want to fully disappear from Sloth's ranks and not get tracked down. Valka looked at me while saying that. I hope that meanwhile you can help us?

What other option did I have? I nodded in response. Sure, I guess so. It was an opportunity, but I knew it was going to be very risky, so I wasn't looking forward to doing any of this. I sure hoped this Ixi followed through with his promises, and I certainly hoped I wasn't found out before I could escape, or else I'd be the next one on Zelain's hitlist.

I noticed Aalya's soft smile from the corner of my vision, which made me a bit flustered once again.

Rexalan

I usually wasn't one for involving myself in drama, but this was serious. Seelah refused over and over explaining to me why she and Belletye hadn't been acknowledging each other's presence for a while. Belle was actively avoiding everyone, including me, and even Villy stood me up a few times already when I asked him to meet me up at later times to attempt to get some information out of him about that Grundo. The rest of the group all kept to themselves now, whispering whatnots and trying to guess what was going on, but there were a few who were on the know for sure, Seelah's closer friends, that was, Reid, Maestrek, Marin, Alan, and Cindy. And yet, no one told me anything about it, which bothered me.

So, it was up to me, as usual, to get to the bottom of this. Yeah, Belle had said those mean things back in the other day, but clearly something is upsetting her, so I had to waive it off. She wasn't always like that, after all, and I could give her a piece of my mind later. Now, to find these two, they were always so sneaky, mainly that dark blue Grundo, mainly as of lately.

My initial search around the classic spots they'd be hanging out, the sleeping quarters, the mess hall, the maintenance levels, the hangar, all turned out empty. So then, I assumed that finding them in the laboratorial section of the ship was the next most likely space, given what I had heard about Belle getting lessons from that scientist who worked on her years ago. As I wandered down those terribly familiar halls, I kept on wondering how she could endure this, because for me being back there was the worst. Things never changed in these ships, so I knew that the gross Techo who created me and Alan in test tubes was probably still around, which made me scurry along so as not to catch sight of him or any of his subordinates. But, alas, there was no sign of that Grundo or that Aisha in these quarters, so I left.

As I passed through the halls that led back to our common areas, I saw a glint of glittery wings, and knew right away it was Belletye, so I followed her. I didn't know whether I should call out to her or not, she seemed to be very focused on whatever task she had been assigned, but I wondered what it would have been, given that she was leading me down towards the bridge. Then, two doors before the hatch to the bridge itself, she took a sharp left into the bridge's server room. Why would she do that?

But before I even got the chance to sneak into the server room, the ship's captain barked at me as he stood in the doorway to the bridge. You! Kougra! Whatcha doing over there?? The big island Skeith stumped over to me and grabbed me by the scruff. You're that exhaust cleaner kid, right? I've seen you in the hangars, dealing with the jets and all, I need you to polish my personal shuttle, it's looking mighty dusty after crossing an asteroid belt.

I had no choice but to be dragged away by that Skeith, and spend the next three hours cleaning up Oleun's shuttle and polishing it until it was like a mirror. After this was all done, I stumbled my way down to the mess hall to catch up on dinner, and then towards my room, exhausted and all, but I was stopped on my tracks by a monotone voice calling out to me.

Rexalan! I turned around to see a familiar metallic Aisha walking up to me. Have you seen Belletye around? I was searching for her, but I could not find her anywhere on this ship today.

Oh, hello, Villy, um... I looked at him, remembering the only time I had seen that Grundo earlier. I mean, yeah, I saw her passing by me earlier, but I couldn't catch up to her. Is she avoiding you as well?

Avoiding me? The robot Aisha tilted his head inquisitively.

Yeah, I mean, she sometimes does that, where she doesn't want to deal with anyone because things are pretty bad for her. I answered, and the robot took a little pause before responding.

Well, she has been crying every so often after her lessons with Dr. Zakaraiah. Availability said while straightening up his neck and looking at me directly in the eyes, which was uncomfortable but I was used to it from him at this point. Do you think that qualifies as things being pretty bad?

No, yeah, definitely, she hates that guy. I said, looking away to calm my nerves a little. Now, I just wonder why she would run off to the ship's server room to cry, that's a new one.

The server room? The Aisha asked, and I almost heard a tone of incredulity in that question.

Yeah, I saw her walking into there earlier, but I couldn't follow because Oleun made me polish his ride for the rest of the day. Now I really wanted to find that Grundo, then, in between this strangeness with the others and these lessons, it was obvious she was not doing alright at all. Have you seen her this afternoon?

No, or else I'd not have come to you asking about her. The robot answered.

Right, sorry, I forgot about that for a hot second. I said. Ummm, have you already checked her room?

Yes, and even scanned through its door with infrared light in case she wasn't responsive, but she was not in there. Availability replied nonchalantly.

Hey, Villy, don't do that sort of thing, that's weird. I exclaimed.

What is weird? The robot asked while doing his inquisitive head tilt once more.

Scanning through Neopets' doors, that's not alright, you've got to give others some privacy. I responded.

... What is privacy? Availability asked in a familiar fashion. Okay, alright, I guess it was my turn this time to teach him something new that his creator should have taught him.

Ummm, let's wander around a bit searching for Belle, and I'll explain it to you.

The rest of the free time we had before curfew was all spent wandering up and down the ship, trying to figure out where that blue winged Grundo was, to no avail. Eventually we learned from some passerby who worked on the bridge that she was sent on a mission during that time I was off on the hangar getting breathed down my neck by that Skeith, so we both called it a night and went to our respective places, me headed into my sleeping quarters, and Availability headed back down to the laboratory sector to the lab he was built in.

Next morning, I had headed down to the mess hall to eat breakfast with our friend group sans Belletye and Availability, who I saw down the other end of this crowded place. I watched as she ate sadly, her face basically buried in her tray, and the robot watched her with his usual intensity. I turned to the rest of the group, who were chatting away cheerfully as usual, and I put out the question that was bothering me for weeks at this point.

Hey, what's up with Belle? Why has she and Villy been avoiding sitting with us?

The conversation halted to a stop as everyone in this table looked at me or away from me with varying degrees of discomfort and irritation that were louder than the rest of the noise of the hall. Seelah specifically looked down with plain anger, and Alan, who sat next to me as usual, spoke up.

Haven't you heard of anything that's happened? The shadow Jetsam frowned as I shook my head.

N-no, what happened?? I said hesitantly. He gave a glance towards Seelah, who still refused to look up, and then Cindy shook her head quietly. Alan looked back at me, and said.

Um, I'll tell you later. It's... Complicated.

The conversation slowly resumed but the awkwardness was still hanging heavy in the air. I kept on glancing in between Seelah and Belletye, trying to think of what scenario would have led to this falling out. I couldn't imagine anything Belle would do to make everyone clearly upset, it must have been something really serious, everyone in this group was thick as thieves since we had all first met back during our janitorial duties period, before everyone got assigned to maintenance or driving or other less lower ranking jobs. I hoped it was all a misunderstanding, something easy to clean up with some apologies and promises to do better from then on.

So, what was that happened? What has caused everyone to shun Belle and Villy? I asked Alan as soon as we got out of the mess hall, withdrawing away from the group in the middle of the crowd.

Whoof, you really don't know anything?? The Jetsam asked, and I shook my head, confirming what I had said earlier. Oh, wow, well, I guess telling you now is better than later, when things escalate. It's about Seelah's brother.

Steve? What about him? I asked him.

Well, he's... Gone, you see. Dealt with, to put it mildly. Alan said with a severe carefulness as he watched his surroundings for listeners.

... Oh?? I said, but not fully understanding. That's awful, poor Seelah, is that why she's so distant?

Yeah, it has been really rough for her... The shadow Jetsam said. Cindy has been taking care of her, ensuring that Meerca at least eats her food and does the minimum of her tasks to not get punished.

He led the two of us to an empty janitor's closet, so we could speak in peace without others interrupting or listening to us. Closing the door behind me, I asked a followup question.

Alright, that explains Seelah, but what happened to Belletye? I responded.

Well... She's the one who dealt with him. My jaw dropped when I heard those words. Orders from above, so we've been told by her, but that still doesn't matter, right?

Steve was like an older brother to all of us, he helped us in so much ever since we first met him and Seelah, and even Belle passing that one exam she took to be allowed to do mission work was due to his guidance. To hear that our superiors wanted him gone, and Belletye was ordered to do it, I couldn't wrap around the logic behind it all.

But... Why??? I whispered instinctively, knowing this was going to be a serious and troubling topic. He was such a great guy, and really good at his tasks with maintenance and stocking of ship supplies and all, he used to be held as exemplary when he was still working in this ship, what made him lose favor with the higher ups??

He was... Working on a way to get us all out of this place. Alan spoke that second part in a barely audible whisper, basically a mouthing of words. But that way had him trade secrets and information about the fleets and the future of the operations for the future opportunity to have a shuttle pick us up. You can imagine who were the ones on the other end of the deal.

No way... Steve was working with the rebels? That was extremely dangerous, one slip up, and he'd have been done for... Well, that was probably what happened, right? Now, why did they send Belletye to do the job, it escaped me, but that was an unfortunate situation.

Well, have you guys talked to Belle? I don't think she'd just do this, I mean, probably she was forced to, or-

No, not forced, but I guess requests from our superiors don't really leave much room for disagreement. The Jetsam pondered. But she didn't seem very sorry when Seelah confronted her, from what I was told. She just told Seelah that Steve deserved it. I don't know about you, but I certainly don't want to be around her anymore, she wasn't even apologetic about it.

Wow... I tried to process all of that, but this all felt so uncharacteristic of her. I knew she had been acting rougher and tougher ever since she was back to working on intel missions, and I had heard that she had been getting mentoring not only from that creepy blue Gelert who worked right underneath the big boss himself, but from Dr. Zakaraiah as well, but... Something just didn't sit right with me about this situation. Or perhaps I couldn't accept any of it. I didn't know what it was, but I knew that I needed to hash this out with that Grundo directly.

So yeah, that's the whole story, pretty messed up, eh? Alan spoke, and I couldn't even find the words to respond to that.

Yeah... I think... I will go talk to Belletye about this. I spoke out loud, which caused my brother to frown.

Why? What good will that even do?

Well, I want to hear from her what she thinks of this. You know, like, confront her? I responded, which made him frown and repeat himself.

Again, what good will that even do??

I don't know, but she is our friend, right? I replied.

Or was, I don't think anyone wants her around anymore. Besides you.

Just let me give her a chance to explain herself, alright?

The shadow Jetsam shook his head in disapproval. You are being way too soft on her, but whatever, it is your time you'll be wasting. Also because I don't think anyone wants to hear a half-hearted apology from her after what she did and how little remorse or empathy she showed to Seelah, who is the victim in this situation.

I know. I won't forget that.

After the conversation, we both left the little room we had gone into for privacy, and I went about my day, trying to look for that winged Grundo. Way past lunchtime, when I was dragging a bunch of large bags of trash to the dumpster chute down at the lower level of the ship, I spotted a glint from dark wings going around a far corner of the hallway I was in. I knew this had to be her, she was probably heading down to the trash compartment, where she usually went when she wanted to have a breakdown without any cameras catching it. If there was any time I could attempt to appeal to her without all of those egotistical displays she had been showing to us, it probably had to be then.

Following her not too far behind, we crossed some hallways and finally got down the rung ladder to the lowest bowels of the ship. I had to hold my breath a lot to not retch with the stench down here, and I don't know how did Belletye bear with it, she must have been smell-blind or something, because this place was extremely stinky.

The lower part of the ladder was covered in strange residue from trash overflow, as this place was like a pit where all the trash chutes poured into it, and the large compartment door to release all of the trash into space was below it all. Today was a Tuesday, and the technicians on the ship bridge only released open those doors on Saturdays, so there was no worries of us being ejected into space, but it did make me worry nevertheless this was the place we were going into.

Getting down to the bottom of the stairs, I thought something was off. Of the times I had found that Grundo down here, she was usually throwing things and kicking and screaming and blasting off the walls with her gun. That was how it had happened right after she lost her status as an agent for Sloth, after losing her team to the rebel ambush, I could follow her down here just by her shouting and the laser noises alone. But now... It was all too quiet.

With my nose pinched close, I looked around the heaping, reeking piles of trash, and couldn't figure out where she had gone. Finally, I overheard some whispering from behind a pile of discarded ship metal, and approached it with caution, as the flooring here was very unstable from all the trash.

... No, I couldn't access those files. Your password was a bust, it must have already been changed, I overheard as I leaned over the pile of metal and saw the familiar pair of glittery dark blue wings and the dark blue pair of antennae sprouting from the teal bowl cut.

That is disheartening to hear. We'll have to figure out then how to go past the system's security protocols to allow you to reach those files. Who was she speaking to? I couldn't see into the screen of the device she was speaking into, but the voice was definitely of an older male Neopet, with a little gruff and a little hoarseness to it. I didn't recognize it as any of our superiors, but also, from what they were discussing about, I conjectured this Neopet was not one of them.

I guess I could try cracking the code here, if you guys could teach me how. The Grundo responded.

Conicks here can walk you through the process when you reach the server room once again. The voice in whatever device she was using spoke up. Do warn us ahead of time though, he warns, so he doesn't wander off the desk here.

Yeah, sure. Belletye responded. Well, that's it for now.

Good work, stay safe, and I hope to hear back from you soon, agent.

Alright. Over and out. The Grundo shut the device off and turned around, immediately whelping at my sight and falling down on the trash. Rexalan! Uh- What are you doing here??

What are you doing? Who was that? I asked as I stepped out from behind the trash pile while covering my nose and mouth with my paw. She looked at me anxiously, and asked in response.

How much did you hear?

I don't know, but you were talking to someone about what? Hacking into the servers on the ship? Is that why you went into that room yesterday? Belletye's shifty eyes were enough of a response for me. Belle, what is going on? Why are you involved with the rebels?? Her eyes widened as she realized she was caught, but she didn't admit to it.

What?? Rebels? That's insane talk! No, I was just responding to, well, this other intelligence officer! He wanted me to um, check for a file in there, it was mondo important for my next mission!

The Grundo nervously chuckled, hoping that I'd buy into that weak attempt at lying, but I knew her for far too long for this to work. I didn't even need to respond to that with anything else besides a frown for her front to be disarmed. Looking down in shame, she mumbled.

It's just that it's the only way to escape this place.

I took a moment to process what she had said, also because I was immediately reminded of my convo with my brother earlier. But, before I could respond, she added to it.

I mean, not just me, I just- I was offered that, yeah, but I have to do it for all of you, right? Since I- Uh- Well, since I was the one responsible for Steve... Yeah. It's only fair, right? Belletye gesticulated as she attempted to justify herself. He was trying to get us all out of here, from what the others told me, and I- Well, I dealt with him, right? So now it's my fault that everyone is stuck, and also Seelah is mad at me, and so is everyone, so um- At least getting everyone out of this nightmare of a place should be my responsibility, right? That's at least something I can do to do right by Seelah and Steve and the others.

I... See... I mulled.

It was true that no one really liked being in Sloth's empire, and everyone struggled pretty hard to stay afloat, and escaping all of this would be amazing. But also, I had no idea where would I even go, where would we be sent, I didn't know much about the universe beyond this ship I was created in and raised, and some other ones from our overlord's fleet. I never even went to the famous space station that was once part of this fleet, much less have ever set foot in the planet it came to belong to, or its moon. But I guessed if everyone was together, if we managed to escape together, we'd figure out something, right? Seelah came from Neopia, from what she had previously told us, so she could lead us around.

So- So yeah, that's what happened. She continued to speak. The Resistance told me they would get arrangements to let me escape from here if I helped them, and I was- Well, I thought, if they can arrange a ship for one Grundo, a few more others can squeeze in, and that's why I'm doing this.

Why haven't you told anyone about this plan? Everyone else all think you betrayed them and-

Do you think they'd be any happier if I did tell them? Didn't they tell you what I did to Steve?? The Grundo snapped at me, and I closed my mouth, remembering Alan's angry final words with me. I'm no hero, I'm only doing what is the minimum to make it up to them. This is my mess, Rexalan, I need to own up to it.

But- I can help, the others as well, we could all help with something. I responded, but Belletye shook her head frantically.

No way, are you crazy?? And then our superiors catch wind of it and get rid of you or the others?? Or worse, make me get rid of you, or Seelah, or who knows who else? The winged Grundo scratched at her arm like she usually did when she was anxious. You should not have been able to even see this today, I'm already endangering you for that, not to mention that you will end up running your big mouth-

I won't! I swear! I exclaimed, and she frowned.

That you say now, just you wait until the superiors catch you... Belletye said. The stories I've heard from that Gelert of what they do to those they want to ‘extract information,' they are horrible. Anyone would spill the beans. Not to mention that even if you don't... They disappear with those questioned afterwards.

I knew that all the Neopets above us, the older, higher ranking officials and all, were used to all sorts of horrifying acts. I could only imagine what extracting information meant, which did admittedly cause a knot deep within my stomach. I thought of what would happen if it were me being questioned, hoping that I'd be strong enough to not say anything despite what horrors the intel branch would attempt on me, but I could not expect the same from the others. I mustered my courage to pinch my fingers in one hand close and zip it across my mouth, signaling my vow.

I won't talk to anyone about this, then. I'll take this to the grave if need be. I said.

Thank you, the Grundo said solemnly. And don't try to help me, if I go down doing this, if they send someone after me, I would rather that it would be only me, alright??

But- I started speaking up, but she cut me off.

No! Just let me do this, I can do it! I can handle this on my own. Belletye was far more serious that I knew her for at that moment, her protestations sounding authoritative enough to get me to agree, despite reluctantly.

Fine. But if you need anything-

I won't. Seriously, Rexalan, stay out of this. It's best if the least amount of pieces are involved.

I stared at the winged Grundo's fierce teal eyes with worry and sorrow, this was so unfair. But I had no control over any of this, no bargaining power, nothing that I could do that I could not imagine quickly how it could go wrong, so I had to relent. I nodded quietly.

Alright, thank you, now let's get the smack out of there before someone thinks we were doing something weird. Belletye went ahead towards the long stairs, and I followed right behind.