"9S, please give me a status report. My memories are kind of fuzzy." The moment the blonde brought up the situation on hand his eyes darkened immediately. It made the hair on the back of her neck stand on end. 21O had never seen such an angry despaired filled look on the normally happy boy's face. It didn't even matter that half of his face was covered. The way his lips pursed and how tense his body was gave it all away. The combat model hated that look it gave her an uneasy feeling.

The scanner gave her a complete account on everything. He didn't mesh the details, not that she expected him to sugar coat anything. The huge thing she picked up on was his extreme hate for YoRHa betrayer A2 and the negative way losing 2B had on his mind. A shiver ran down her spine. Is there really a hateful and vengeful side to her assigned unit that she didn't know about? How much about him didn't she actually know? An operator and assigned unit were generally close. Though it was her fault –and she would argue it was justified- they weren't as close as others and it still hurt. "I see." Was all she could reply when he was done speaking.

"I've destroyed all the surrounding enemies so it will be fine for you to rest here for a short while. I'm going on ahead."

"Alone? I don't recommend that, please don't be reckless anymore. I'll come with you." 21O struggled to her feet trying to hide her heavy breathing. She couldn't even stand up straight. "Without the bunker, we can't..." Her eyes turned downward her words trailing off. The older android didn't want to lose him anymore. 21O could finally protect him this time.

"You just had a really bad infection so just take it easy. Besides I've been alone for a while now." There was bitterness to his tone. It wasn't her fault she got infected but it sure felt that way.

"I'll catch up than..." The smaller android didn't respond and took off sprinting at a decent pace.

Only two minutes of rest passed before the golden haired woman started walking at a slow pace. The operator was not use to being alone and without being able to contact anyone. She wasn't even sure what had happened to her assigned pod either. It should be able to pick up on her black box signal if it's still functional anyway. It was rather pathetic. She wasn't even alone for that long, yet the blonde felt it more than any soreness from her body. She hated it. How did 9S deal with it?

With each step it at least got easier to move or perhaps she got use to the feeling. While her pace didn't quicken she straighten her posture so she wasn't limping. Deep down the normally self-reliant girl wasn't looking forward to catch up to her assigned unit. What would she find?

The floor beneath her feet shook from the shock waves of a bomb. "9S?!" Fearing for the worse the operative moved forward. She entered a large room: thick support beams upkeep the towering ceiling. In the middle of the room was a large hole in the ground, the diameter was pretty impressive. If the scanner was hit by it surely there would be severe damage done to his body. Inspecting the wreckage something caught her eyes. In the shade of some rubble laid a familiar battler. 2B's form rested on her side missing one arm. If the attack left her durable body arm-less, what were 9S' wounds like?

With narrowed eyes she walked through the destruction. From the distant sounds of clashing swords could be heard. With a frown she pressed on while holding her breath. 9S and A2 were swinging there weapons at each other. Her entrance didn't distract the battle. The hacker was sent skidding back from a powerful deflect. A2 charged while he was trying to regain his balance. Immediately he noticed and instinctively went to protect his head. The attacker's blade sliced through his borrowed arm. He screamed in pain and gripped the end of his stub. The attacker leaped at him placing her palm on his forehead.

"Pod, hacking in!"

"Affirmative."

21O stared at the two fighters now stationary on the ground. She wanted to pull the boy away from the prototype. However separating their bodies wouldn't disrupt the hacking. Now, she could only pray he wouldn't end up with more damage on his mental state. She certainly wasn't in any condition to go in to help. Pod 043 floated next to the couple while 153 floated further away. The way it hovered closed to the ground and with its limbs close to the body. Was it trying to appear smaller than it really was? As if it was showing guilt or fear. What a fascinating humanistic action.

"Pod 153, how's 9S fairing?" The support unit didn't answer but it had turned in her direction indicating that it had heard. After a few curious seconds a hologram text box had opened in front of her. The text explained the order that the hacker had given. "As unit 9S' operator I override his previous order to you. This is for his best interest."

The blonde wasn't sure it was going to work. For one she technically wasn't an operator anymore –though they both considered her to still be one- but a battler. By the way the black and red pod hesitated it wasn't sure either."...Affirmative. Unit 9S is currently infected with the logic virus at 82 percent. Update correction: 83 percent."

"I see." Her eyes shifted over to the other pod. "If I may ask Pod 042, why are you assisting A2?" Normally a tactical support pod doesn't follow just any other android. They stayed loyal to their assignments. They would either shut down until there unit was uploaded into another body and sent back down. Or they even stayed with said unit's partner. It made no sense for 042 to help A2 when 9S is still alive. However, it also made sense that it wouldn't answer her either, yet it did.

"This pod's last order from Unit 2B was to assist unit A2 in protecting unit 9S."

The blonde's eyebrow rose questionably. "Please elaborate. After all this battle seems counterproductive to that order."

"Unit A2 allowed herself to be a scapegoat for Unit 9S's feelings. A2 seems to think that it was the best course of action."

"I can't believe how much he hates her." YoRHa models that were considered betrayers were met with execution, but it was never personal. Personal feelings weren't a part of it; they weren't supposed to be anyway. All E models did their jobs without blinking or feeling. If there was a mission that may have weakened an E model's resolve they would simple get that memory wiped. There wasn't any type of punishment from the commander for the unit who asks for a memory wipe either.

"According to mental scans it's less about hate and more the uneasy feeling of jealousy. 9S hates that fact that 2B turned to A2 for help. The relationship between units 2B and 9S is something not commonly seen in YoRHa."

The new battler couldn't help but agree. E models did their jobs without faltering, all except for 2E. At first 21O didn't understand why her assigned unit kept on dying. The hacker was constantly partnered up with 2B who always returned to the bunker more or less in pristine condition. One time 2B returned to the base. While her physical appearance was perfect she was frigid and shaking as if her motor function had been damaged. Strangely she had immediately sought out her own operator. For many hours she caught neither head nor tail of them.

It had been about six hours later when she got sight of them again. The short haired blonde had wanted to speak with the battler alone. Chances are she was getting ready to leave for another mission. The stoic fighter never stayed in the bunker for long. So it was now or never. "2B may I speak to you about 9S?" The white haired android paused all movements. Her bottom lip quivered slightly as she gazed upon the slightly smaller woman.

"What happened on the surface? What keeps happening to him?" 2B's lips pursed as she was unable to speak out. 2B was a skilled fighter there was no way she couldn't protect one curious little scanner. And if she couldn't, why was the pair constantly partnered up?

"Don't worry; I'll take care of it." The blonde with braided hair latched on to her fellow operator. "2B you can depart for your new mission, have a safe trip." 6O tugged 21O quickly away not waiting for any type of reply from her assigned unit. 21O looked back at 2B who had just nodded and averted her covered gaze to the ground.

The younger operator made no complaints as she was literally dragged away. Her shoulders dropped in disappointment. This was an important conversation. Why was 6O trying to stop it? "6O?" She questioned catching a melancholy expression on the peppy girl's face. Maybe that expression was the reason she didn't protest being pulled away. None of her question had been answered if anything they were being purposely avoided. That's odd.

"Let's go see the commander." 21O frowned in confusion. Why? They walked to the hanger in silence. 6O was still latched on to the younger girl's arm even as they approached White. "Commander may I speak with you? Level 5 classification." She specified; her voice and blank expression was uncharacteristically serious.

White glanced at both operators her eyes narrowing. "I see, very well." The trio walked into an isolated room, no other ears could enter this conversation. "What you learn today can't leave this room. There will be severe consequences if you do." A feeling of dread touched her spine. There in the small room; the commander had explained everything. It was hard for her to hear. At least her friend hadn't stopped holding her hand. "You're a wonderful operator, specifically picked out to guide 9S. If you want another assignment, I'll have 801S erase your memory and get you another assignment."

"That's unnecessary, I will continue my work."

"Good to hear it." With a salute the two operatives left. 21O's hands clenched at her sides. Affectionately the braided blonde grabbed her hand and smiled. With a defeated sigh she relaxed her fingers and returned the squeezed.

A2 regained consciousness first; a soft exhale escaped her lips. The sudden sound –no matter how light it was- alerted the blonde's audio sensors. Snapping out of it the newly converted battler immediately placed herself between the attacker and the scanner. A2 was a veteran fighter there was no guaranty she could protect even herself. Regardless she grabbed her sword.

Grayish blue eyes stared at the sword pointed at her. The older model blinked looking entirely annoyed. A second later she huffed. "I've removed the logic virus from him. He's yours. I suggest you take him and leave now. I plan on destroying this tower." The vet wasted no time getting up and moving away with pod 042 following. 21O didn't speak nor did her eyes look away from the possible threat until she disappeared from view. Once she was out of view the blonde lowered her sword and glanced down at the unconscious hacker.

As a converted battler she was quickly given a first aid lesson. Sadly that lesson didn't include attempting to fix an arm out of nothing. She simply wrapped the stump in a bandage to protect the loose wires. At the very least this would keep dirt out of his body.

"Can we repair him?"

"Affirmative. Alert: the tower is crumbling. Proposal: return to the resistance camp. Replacement parts need to be found and repairs will be more successful in a better environment."

Sheathing her sword in its magnetic holder she picked up the smaller boy with ease. "Calculate the fastest route out of here."

"Marking on map." With a gait faster than a walk they made it out of the tower as it started to fall apart. From a somewhat safe distance away she watched the large structure fall with a loud rumble.

"Alert: Unit A2's black box currently offline. Death confirmed." The hovering helper chirped up. "Proposal repeated: head to the resistance camp and establish a chain of command." The armored android hesitated before heading to the marked area on the map. She faltered at the thought of things going back to the way there were before. As an operator she was automatically program to follow orders –more so then the other types. Orders were comfortable and easy to follow compared to taking the lead. Operators hardly ever went rouge. However the taller droid wanted 9S to finally be free.

Thankfully there wasn't any trouble on the commute. Nothing but dead bodies of both machine and android littered the foliage. Most of her attention lingered on the boy in her arms. Her charge, her assigned unit she provided support to. The veil that covered her mouth hid the light smile on her lips. The scanner looked peaceful. His body was relaxed and tranquil especially his facial muscles. As if the last few hours hadn't happened.

The resistance camp had a lot of destruction. But at least there were still a few members around. One of them stopped what they were doing once she noticed them entering. "9S? What happened?"

"Just 9S being reckless."

"I see." The black haired woman gave a small warm smile realizing it wasn't life threatening. "I haven't seen you around. I'm Anemone the leader of the resistance camp."

"I'm 9S' operator 21O. I had volunteered to convert to a B model in order to support the ground units."

The leader nodded wholly accepting the new person into the camp. "The room off to your side was the room they shared."

"Thank you." The room was nice enough. She gently put him down on the bed. While waiting for parts to arrive the taller android rid herself of her battle gear. Under it she was still dressed in her normal operator garments. The girl removed her veil since it was no longer needed for communication. It had been a long time since air had tickled her bare cheeks. The air in the bunker was constantly purified and sterilized while it circulated. It was different from the fresh air she was just exposed too. Despite the light material of the veil it was a bit stuffy keeping it on.

"Pod 153B and 153C are looking for the remains of his arm. All other wounds are minor."

21O sat on his bed and waited. "Can we wake him up or will he suffer from too much pain?"

"I can reboot him for now and turn down his pain sensors. As long as 9S gets rest it should be fine with no side effects." 153 chimed out his status of reboot and seconds later his eyes fluttered opened.

"Operator?"

She gazed at him warmly. "How are you feeling?"

"Alright, I guess. Well, rather sore honestly speaking." He glimpsed around. The boy flinched when he noticed his arm or lack of one. "Are we at the camp?"

"Affirmative: after the demolition of the tower 21B carried you all the way back."

"Why? It's not like you had to or anything. Besides YoRHa is gone, we're the only two left. There really wasn't a point in saving me."

"Negative: units 9S, 21B, 4S, the slightly unstable E model, the two drug dealers and the model in the desert still are alive. None of them were sync with the server." The pod spoke completely ignoring the deadpan look the scanner shot it. He did notice that the lack of A2's name in the list.

21O knew from confidential info that the unregistered models were D models were a part of the cleanup crew. They took care of all the fallen bodies, by friend or foes. They would dissect them for recyclable parts to be reused. Commander turned her head and let some of their bad habits slide; all while muttering impolite words about Jackass under her breath.

"You saved me, why would I not save you?"

The smaller android averted his gaze. "It's not like it matters anymore." His hand clenched as he debated telling her the top secret info. Should he let her life a lie? He didn't wish this emotion on the older woman. It was the reason he never brought it up to 2B.

"Then make it matter."

How? Humans were gone, 2B was gone. He didn't reply to her verbally. Before he could come up with a proper reply 153 broke the tension. "All parts needed to repair Unit 9S' hand has arrived. Would you like to be powered off for your repairs?"

"Yeah."

"Understood." The hacker's eyes fluttered shut and his power turned off. Pod 153 brought out the first aid tools: wrenches and screwdrivers. Another identical red and black pod holding his gloved hand floated in. The operator stood off to the side and out of the way. While the pods could fixed his body his mental state was still another problem. And probably only something she could help with. 21O would really have to be his support now.

The twin pods worked efficiently. The smaller pincers reattached all the wires and nerve endings. With the helped of an electric meter all artificial muscle tendons were repaired and receiving the correct impulses. Staunching gel was spread all around his arm to sanitize the skin and another scan for the logic virus was started. "Initiating pod program A120: Repair." 153 hovered above him; a cone of light shown down. It covered the entirety of his body. It looked like a warm comforting light the healed the skin of his arm. After a few minutes the light faded and the second pod disappeared out the door silently.

"Analysis: all of 9S' physical injuries have been healed. Proposal: more rest."

"Understood." It's not like the blonde had any reason to send him out in the danger anyway. Or what's left of it. In fact she wanted to keep him safe, to watch over him like a guardian.

"9S still suffers from his disintegrating mental state. Now that A2 is gone..." The support unit trailed off. What would he focus on now? What would he live for?

"What would be the best course of action to deal with this?"

"Proposal: bring back unit 2B."

Of course that was the answer. It just wasn't a simple one without the bunker.

Alert: the proposal does have a high rate of failure. A possibility of failure is that he may see a rebuilt unit 2B as just another enemy. The virus had attacked his limbic system resulting in a serious condition known as trauma and depression. In result this attack on his system is what's making him highly susceptible to more infections as well as outside hacking attacks. I've tried to fix the parameters on his emotions and improve his security. Time will tell if 9S returns to normal. Regardless he will suffer from the effects for at least the next few days."

"Are you planning are trying to bring her back?" It was, at first, a rhetorical question. It seemed too far impossible. Since the possibility of success was low. But the pod answered immediately. As if low success rate didn't matter.

"Affirmative. Although, this pod doesn't have the knowledge to build a unit from scratch. "

"Did someone order it?" Her tone wasn't accusing or hash, only curious and surprised. Would the pods really go through all the trouble? Why were they deciding own their own? They were suddenly expressive with emotions they weren't programmed to have.

"There were no orders. It is our will as support units, probably. Pods 153 and 042 have wishes to protect our assigned units." The pod paused. "We just want them to be happy."

After one more glimpse at the boy tired green eyes closed. "So do I." They deserve it after all.


As an operator from the first day of her 'birth' 21O had never been to the surface before. Once the scanner has a few days of rest she planned on making sure he got some air. Air, that didn't require missions for the resistance. Something fun he could enjoy and forget his sorrows. "9S, do you have some time to help me?" It was rhetorical of course, they had nothing but time. He turned his head towards her direction. His eyes seemed dead, his expression forlorn.

The last few days weren't too bad. Not as bad as pod had explained. On the bright side he didn't have any type of relapse. The hacker was just depressed and antisocial. 21O will not stand for it any longer either.

"What do you need?"

"I'd like to explore the surface a little, so I would appreciate the companionship of a scanner." He closed his eyes a noticeable sigh escaping her lips. He gave a short nod in agreement. The boy stood indicating he was ready to leave now.

The blonde led the way and he followed. "What are you looking for? Remains of the old world?"

"Anything that captures my interest, really." If he was unhappy about her lack of clarification he didn't speak up. The taller woman wasn't sure where to head first since she didn't actually have a destination. She just wanted to take his mind of the loss of his partner. After a quick decision she choice a location. "Let's head towards the Desert Apartments. Last time you where there you managed to find some human artifacts."

The hacker dug his hand into his pouch and pulled out a small tied pouch. The smaller android handed it over. A nice powerful scent of nature radiated from inside. She opened it slightly and peeked at the contents. Inside were pine cones, shrubs, buds of trees and leaves. The golden haired girl glanced at him curiously and he only shifted his eyes to look past her.

With grace a large moose walked up to the android. He glanced at the blonde taking a bit of interest in the pouch. Automatically her hand reached out to touch the large beast. "Get on." 9S spoke mounting the animal. He offered his hand which she took gratefully. He helped her up and she wrapped her arms securely around his middle. The curious one kicked the moose in the side and the creature took off running.

The wind felt nice in the battler's short hair as they moved quickly towards their destination. After a few miles the animal started to slow down in speed. There combine weight became a quick burden on the animal. Once they decided to get off the tired animal the rest of the trip would be by foot but she didn't mind. It would give them a chance to talk assuming she could get him to open. Green eyes took a quick glance over at the somber boy. The boy wore an indifferent expression, his body language didn't reveal anything he was thinking either.

"Where did you find all the items?" They walked over to a corner, near a destroyed playground. She glanced over at the swings. One side was broken while the other seemed to be intact. 21O reached out to pull the empty swing back. It swung with a loud unlubricated screech. Thankfully there were no enemies nearby who heard that. The newly converted combat model walked over to the apartments. All the windows were broken allowing easy access to get inside. Swinging one leg in she shifted her whole body through the small window. Silently 9S followed.

The destroyed room was covered in dust and sand. It was obvious to see the last time someone was in here the place was completely ransacked. Draws were opened or removed from there furniture. The small closet was empty, even of its hangers. Things that could have been stolen were. She walked towards the door and paused when it didn't open automatically. "Right, you have to open doors with a handle." She placed her hand on the protruding knob. The hinges screeched and some dust was disturbed as the door opened.

The halls were smaller than the halls of the bunker. The hacker followed behind not really paying attention to something he would normally enjoyed learning about. The next door she opened was the bathroom. It was the smallest room in this familiar unit. The shower wasn't so different then the cleaning room on the bunker. This room had both a shower unit and a bathtub. The living room was bare and the kitchen was empty.

Leaving that apartment they headed upstairs. The further up they went the less damaged or robbed the homes were. 21O tried to open another door and couldn't. "9S, could you open this door?"

"Well it's not electronic so I can't hack it." His finger poked at the keyhole. Neither of them wanted to break the door. "I've never tried to hack something like this. Pod, how do I do this and what tools do I need to do it?"

The companion unit got closer. "Scanning: this lock is a deadbolt type of lock. It is the most secure of its kind. It is used in residential and commercial buildings because it is crafted to be resistant to lock picking making break-ins difficult."

"Are you saying I can't do it?" He felt a mild wave of insult wash over him.

"Yes, non-electrical locks can't be hacked. This pod will attempt it instead." She flexed her pincers and rotated her wrist in a show of dexterity. 9S frowned and moved out of the way letting her closer. Her larger arms dropped down and the smaller hands reached out. Like a convenient pocket knife the tips of her claws could turn into various small tools. One of her fingers turned into a rake tool. Sliding her finger with many ridges into the hole she jimmied it around. A minute later there was a click.

153 moved back and used her larger arm to open the door. It turned and swung opened. "It is opened." She announced rather proudly moving out of the way. The amber haired woman walked in first, the kitchen was right after a closet. The cabinets were opened but they were still stocked with cans and other items. The small android opened the refrigerator. The electricity was off and everything inside was completely covered with mold and rot. He shut the door immediately scared to agitate the spores in the air.

He walked into a bedroom. There were a few moth eaten clothes still hanging in the closet. Next to the bed was a dusty item. "What is this, pod?"

"Analysis: that is a picture frame."

The eroding picture was low quality. He could still make out the figures of a man and woman. The woman wore an outrageous garment that was dragging on the ground. His analytical side stared at the picture. 9S was so focused he didn't notice his operator looking over his shoulder. "Is that a wedding picture?"

"Wedding...?"

"That's when two humans officially form a familial unit. They have this ceremony then produce offspring. The next room must belong to a child. There wasn't a bed but instead an infant's cradle." With a frown he put the picture down and walked out of the room. And she knew he wasn't that interested in the child's room right now. 21O watched with concern then shifted back to the happy picture. "How long will the restoration take?" She didn't specify that she meant 2B. But somehow 153 had understood.

"Unknown."

"Well, I hope it's as soon as possible."

"Agreed." The last room in this unit was an office. It had file cabinets of eroding discolored paper. It even had primitive technology. The hacker really wanted to focus on it but he couldn't find it inside him too. The lack of 2B in his life had an immeasurable negative affect on him. The dismal boy didn't want to explore anymore, his curiosity wasn't really active at all.

Of course the logical side of him knew he shouldn't be acting like this. In fact he had even wondered if the logic virus had returned. His pod repeatedly informed him that wasn't the case. 21O was trying, he knew it. The disappointment in her expression was harder on him then her scolding. The hacker didn't like worrying or bothering her. She wasn't under any orders to stay with him. If she wanted to leave he would be alone and unable to stop it. The thought of losing her was just as upsetting. Why couldn't he stop acting like this?

21O was trying to lighten the mood. This whole trip was for him first and exploring second. There really was no reason that she needed to invite him out. She was a battler now and didn't need any type of escort. It's not like she has asked him to scan anything. As for the door she really could have gotten in herself.

The taller android walked into the door frame. "Did you find anything?" He asked wondering if this trip was truly worth it for her.

"Yes, I grabbed a few stuff from the baby's room." The blonde held out a child's onesie. "This really put it in to perspective how small a human child is."

"Ready to return?" He asked with a bit of hopefulness. She nodded and led the way out of the apartment. Once down to a safe height they jumped out a window landing in the soft sand. They walked back to the resistant camp in silence. Before reaching the opening of the camp the smaller android separated for some alone time. He even requested that 153 stay behind.

21O gave him two hours alone -with 153 constantly checking his status. That was the normal time an operator would expect an update report to her assigned unit. Pod 153 led her towards the area he was located in. Nines had stayed nearby and on high ground. He sat on a rooftop. His knees were to his chest and his face downward.

The amber haired woman knelt by his side. With one hand to her own chest timidly she reached out with the other. His silvery white hair was soft to touch. The hacker tensed slightly but didn't pull away. The battler stroked his head affectionately. After a few minutes his body relaxed under her safe touch. A few more minutes past and she was sure he had fallen in to rest mode. She carried him back to the camp and put him to bed.

"Pod, I want to see the progress you've made. Maybe I can help."


A2 stared down at the motionless body of 2B. Even after all this time it was unsettling to see her face on another android. Not only that but on a currently dead android. The younger girl had only one stab wound to her lower torso. If it wasn't for the fact she wanted to die this wound probably wouldn't have been fatal to her. The stab had missed her important tubing –she had made sure of it.

042 had replaced all her fuel lines and filters then staunched up her wounds. "So what's wrong with her?"

"Analysis: the problem is her black box. I can't get any power to it. Her memories were wiped but thanks to A2 I will be able to import them into her when she's awake."

And that is why the veteran was still here sitting by the executioner's side. This -annoying- pod had saved her life once again and -with a frown- she will try to return that favor. The long haired girl watched as the support unit worked on her black box. Her eyes drifted close memories of her own flooded her head. If only they had pods -who would've betray YoRHa- for the Pear Haber decent. Maybe her friends would be here now. Once 2B eyes fluttered opened the talking box would leave her and the remaining of her life would be spent in solitude. It was starting to depress her.

A2 sensors picked up the sounds of someone approaching. Her brain was able to process that it was an android's gait and not a machine's. Knowing her past with androids they were probably more dangerous to her than the machines. She grabbed her sword and hid by some rubble wanting to get the advantage. Pod 042 didn't react much but that didn't put her mind to ease.

21O walked up the stairs and out to the roof. She was aware that the older model was nearby and was avoiding a possible fight. "I know you're there, I won't attack you."

The long haired girl frowned and stood normally. "I'm not sure I can believe that."

"And yet you still came out. I thought you were dead?" Unamused by her distrustful action the blonde knelt near the working pod.

The older woman shrugged. "I'm just too stubborn to die permanently, I guess." It was still beyond her how 042 managed to save her life. Why did the support box save her?

"Still no luck?" The black box floated magnetically between the pod's hands. The attacker sauntered over keeping a nice social distance between her and the battler. The box seemed undamaged but the lack of energy and glow from it indicated that it was broken.

"Affirmative. Unit 2B's black box has been irreparable damaged from the virus. A new one is required." Carefully the unit put the defect organ back in her chest. Pod 042 seemed rather somber; he levitated close to his fallen unit refusing to go far from her. 21O's gaze fell to her lap in disappointment. She was unaware that both of her hands were clenched. With the news of 2B's box failure went the hope of fixing 9S' emotions. 9S may never smile again. That was a worse fate.

With the destruction of the bunker replacement parts were scarce to begin with. Black boxes were only used by YoRHa so getting one on the surface was impossible. "What if I give her mine?"

"A transplant is possible. However it is unadvised." 042 spoke in a robotic tone.

"Unit 21B words are appreciated but counterproductive. Loosing 21B would not help 9S' mental state."

"It may hurt for a while but he would be happier with 2B by his side."

"You are not authorized to make that choice." 153 shot back. "9S risk another major infection to save you."

"..." The operator was speechless; to think the pods wouldn't just listen to her.

"I am the tactical support unit assigned to unit 9S. I am with him during operational hours as well as during maintenance. It can be inferred that I am aware of all information regarding unit 9S." It was obvious what the pod was stating assuredly: 'I know what is best for him not you.'

"I know that my opinion probably isn't welcomed but I would also advise against it." A2 spoke up nonchalantly. 21O noticed that her weapon was sheathed and she was a bit closer than before. "Your sacrifice wouldn't help the kid. I saw the trouble he went through to save you. I even considered killing you for him."

"9S and I are a familial unit." She stated with conviction. "This is just what families do for each other."

"Family?" A2 tested that word on her lips. It was foreign yet familiar to her. Imagines of her squad mates flashed in her mind. No4 had sacrificed herself to save her and take out the machine's network. The sacrifice never felt good, A2 was constantly lonely. Part of her wished to join her comrades in death but to dishonor their actions seemed far worse. "No family wants a sacrifice."

Her own box hummed loudly as she thought how to react. This was the first time she had been scolded. The blonde sighed she didn't want to fight. "Well, I'm certainly out voted. Do you have any other options?"

"How about harvesting any other YoRha on the surface that wasn't effect?" In deep dark truth 21O had thought of this. That fact that she even considered it an option sent shivers down her spine. It made her feel disgusting. Even more so that she considered who to target -the druggies probably wouldn't be a good choice. Part of her still wondered if there might have been a part of the logic virus that was dormant in her. Green eyes studied the veteran. The silver haired female was unashamed of her suggestion. She had to kill or steal for her own survival; morals be damned to her.

From the corner of her eye she glimpsed at the pods. Surely they would be against this? While they might be gaining a "will" they might still be loyal to the YoRHa ways? Neither support said anything. Was it that they were considering that option? It would be a bit unsettling to attack another android especially if the order for their capture doesn't exist.

"Can you access the information to make a new black box?" The flying boxes remained silent for a moment. They turned to face each other: sharing a glance? "Accessing classified information. Username: Zinnia password: XXXXXXXXXXXX."

"A machine core is needed." 042 spoke up after a few minutes of analyzing a file.

"A machine core?" Both android seemed curious. Neither pods explained themselves either but they didn't push it. No matter what it was she would get it.

"I'll get it. It's better than just sitting around anyway." The older model said turning around.

"I'll go with you."

"Um...?" A2 gave her a skeptical expression. She gave the operator a look over. The golden haired woman did carry two different types of swords. The attacker truly wondered if 21O can wield them. "Can you be away from 9S for so long? Aren't you babysitting him?"

"He can manage on his own; he won't even notice I'm not there. Pod 153B is currently watching over him."

"Well, whatever. Do what you want, just try not to get in the way though." The older model nodded sharing a glance at 042. The male pod would stay behind and watch over the corpse of his previous assignment.

The attacker ran off the roof landing on a smaller building before safely landing on the ground. 21O held on to 153 as she safely landed in a slower fashion. "Ok Pod, where are we going?"

"Scanning. Nearest machine core is a goliath biped located in the creator in the city. Marking on map." 153 opened up a hologram version of the map for the two to see. Without needing another word the long haired girl took off her sword already drawn.

"Do you take orders from everyone now?" She asked curiously.

"This support pod will listen to units 21B, 2B and A2 as long as it doesn't negatively effect unit 9S in anyway. His orders out weight everyone else unless they interfere with what is best for him."

"I see." The battler took off after the experience fighter. It took roughly ten minutes to reach the hole at their speed. The machine wasn't a normal goliath. It was an enhanced goliath biped with electrical leg power shields.

Green eyes narrowed with a click of her tongue. She wanted to come up with a plan -to at least get a good powerful first move in. A2, however, wasn't one for planning or so she learned. The battered android took a running leap for its red head. With a feral scream of hate she brought her blade down upon it. The operator grunted in disappointment and slipped around behind their target. With a large blade in her hand she swiped at the back of the machine as A2 played decoy.

The goliath turned its attention to her. Lifting its leg the electricity glowing bright as it tried to crush her. Another sword slashed at the large leg from behind. The machine stumbled and slammed its foot on the ground near 21O instead of on top of.

With her black box humming adrenaline pumped through her tubes as she jumped back a safe distance. 153 opened bullet fire making sure both androids were able to get back away. With each failed attack the goliath's red head seemed to get redder with rage. Its attacks were getting more destructive with each one. Crouching low the large robot leaped into the air and slammed back down sending shockwaves in all directions.

Both android were able to jump out of the way. While they were still in the air the machine ran towards them; its arm pulled back ready to punch. 153 intervened zooming in front of A2 in a protective action. "Initiating pod program A060: P Shield." Instinctively the girl blocked her vitals as its knuckles tried to slam into her. The shield absorbed all the damage but she was still sent flying back. The golden haired girl slashed at its injured back while it was still in the motion of the punch. She finished her combo by throwing her sword and having it boomerang back like a magnet. The leg shields finally broke off.

Slowly they whittled down its health inflicting dent after dents. The older female moved at quick speeds. Slashing at one area before switching to another without a second thought. She danced around the goliath her own body glowing red. She had the last attack sending a powerful shockwave split him into two parts. The older combat model lowered her sword and breathed deeply. Giving her body a moment to relax and rest. Letting her adrenaline run down.

Blue eyes glimpsed over at the short haired girl. "You alive?"

"Fine. You know, fighting with a plan would have been nice." She scanned around the body scavenging for parts. A machine core and pristine screw were dropped.

"Plan?" There was a mildly surprised look on her face; it seemed like she just got an epiphany or something. "Its been too long since I fought with someone. Making strategies with someone else wasn't really anything I needed to deal with."

"Best to start brushing up on your team work then. Pod, what other materials do we need?" The attacker looked a bit unsure but didn't shoot the idea down. 153 listed off a large amount of materials. "Well, let's get going."

"Can I ask a personal question?" The older android grimaced but gave her approval to voice it out. "Why did you betray us?"

"Why is that the question you YoRHa always ask? You were an operator; did you not have my file?"

"Your file is classified. All anyone knew is that you're wanted."

She gave a light hum. "I guess I'm not surprised. Are you sure you want to know? It would destroy whatever faith you have in your superiors."

The taller girl paused and thought about it. "I no longer have superiors."

"Putting it bluntly my squadron and I were expendable test subjects. If you want a full report Anemone made her own records you might find interesting."

"I'm sorry to hear that. Why do you help us? You took out the tower, you're helping 2B."

"I'm not sure anymore."

"2B and other E models are based off your fighting data."

"You knew that? And, what of it?"

"Do you perhaps... have protective familial feelings for 2B?"

"What? No! Familial feelings? If I had those they're long dead with my comrades."

"Oh sorry, I thought you might have the same wishes that I have with 9S." The younger female looked down.

"What's with you?" The attacker mumbled more to herself. "What about you?"

"What do you mean?"

"It's clear you're doing this for the kid. But what are you feeling towards 2B? She kills your assigned unit -repeatedly- after all."

"I admit I wouldn't be doing this if 9S wasn't clearly distraught with her absents. I would much rather spend my time trying to save Operator 6O. However I hold no ill will towards 2B."

"I'm not sure I believe that." She murmured. They both fell silent not wanting to potential start a fight. Thankfully they didn't have to be in silence long. There next target was only a few yards away.

Enemy after enemy fell to the two YoRHa blades. Eight hostiles fell yet they only receive a few items they needed. "If you need to get back to 9S' side I can continue on alone."

"But-" A clean nut and both a complex and elaborate gadget were shoved into her arms.

"Analysis: it would be for the best if you weren't gone any longer." 21O fell silent to her words.

"You can hand them over to 042 and maybe he'll be able to get started on trying to fix her."

"Understood." With one last look at the veteran 21O left her on her own.

On her way back she had dropped by the roof to deliver the materials they had received. Pod 042 seemed to have been in a resting mode. The support unit was perched on the battler's stomach resting on his arms like one of those cat pictures 6O had showed her. As she approached he reacted a little by perking up and giving a, "thank you."

"I hope she comes back to us soon." 21O turned and headed back to the camp.

The hacker was sitting outside the bedroom. It didn't seem like he was helping the resistance members but at least he was outside without being dragged. This seemed like a huge improvement that put a warm smile on her face. "9S." She greeted walking over to the boy.

"Operator." Relieve subtly washed over his face. "Anemone said you were out running errands. I thought you left-"

"I wouldn't leave you alone." She stated clearly leaving no room for doubt to fester in his head. His eyes widen finding himself speechless for once. The taller android had a very strong urge to pull him in to a hug. Maybe she could head pat him right now? Deep down she knew nothing would change unless she made the first move. "9S, do you want to form a familial unit with me?" Mild confusion took over as he mused over her question. When he didn't speak up 153 did.

"Query: you announced earlier that you were already a familial unit. Why are you asking permission now?" 21O felt her eye twitch with irritation as she shot the pod a glare.

"Family? Yeah, a family would be nice." Before the only one he considered family was 2B. But now that she was gone what would he do? At least his operator was always going to be by his side. Even if she constantly scolded him over small things. Which he acknowledged hadn't happened since the destruction of YoRHa.

The blonde exhaled unaware she was even holding her breath waiting for his reply. She now had his permission. Without hesitating; her hand found the top of his head. The smaller android leaned in to her touch stepping closer till his body was against hers. Automatically his arms wrapped around her waist his head resting on her chest. 21O free hand wrapped around his shoulders while the other hand still touched his hair.

"Anyway, what were you out getting?" This outing would be best to keep quiet about. If the pods fail at making another black box; it would crush him leaving yet another wound on him.

"Crafting materials. I'm working on a secret project; if I succeed I'll tell you about it."

"Interesting." It lightened her mood to see his curiosity get piqued a little. Of course if he would investigate on his own it might back fire. "If you tell me about it I might be able to help." He offered kindly his face looking soft like it use too.

"For now, that would be unwise. I hope you can understand."

"Not really, but I know better than to cross you." He was far from normal but it was progress.

"Good."


A/N: I had this written for a year but wasn't sure about it since the first chapter is fine as an oneshot. After all this time since I wrote it I might as well post it even if the plot moves away from the original idea.