,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,{
(set: $Day to "Day1")
(set: $Slot1 to (either: "Omar", "Leena"))
(set: $Slot2 to (either: "Trine", "Zeriah"))
(set: $Slot3 to (either: "Doodle, Keiko, and Miu", "Crusty Pete and Marty"))
(set: $Slot4 to (either: "Korbin and Mattias", "Gloria and Demir"))
(set: $Slot5 to (either: "Cerys and Valeria", "Castor and Pollux"))
(set: $Day2 to (a:))
(if: $Slot1 is "Omar")[(set: $Day2 to $Day2 + (a: "Leena"))]
(else:)[(set: $Day2 to $Day2 + (a: "Omar"))]
(if: $Slot2 is "Trine")[(set: $Day2 to $Day2 + (a: "Zeriah"))]
(else:)[(set: $Day2 to $Day2 + (a: "Trine"))]
(if: $Slot3 is "Doodle, Keiko, and Miu")[(set: $Day2 to $Day2 + (a: "Crusty Pete and Marty"))]
(else:)[(set: $Day2 to $Day2 + (a: "Doodle, Keiko, and Miu"))]
(set: $Day2 to (shuffled: ...$Day2))
(set: $Slot6 to $Day2's (1))
(set: $Slot7 to $Day2's (2))
(set: $Slot8 to $Day2's (3))
(if: $Slot4 is "Korbin and Mattias")[(set: $Slot9 to "Gloria and Demir")]
(else:)[(set: $Slot9 to "Korbin and Mattias")]
(if: $Slot5 is "Cerys and Valeria")[(set: $Slot10 to "Castor and Pollux")]
(else:)[(set: $Slot10 to "Cerys and Valeria")]
}Stepping inside the clinic with a whisper soft hiss of the doors, an entire chain of events kicks off within seconds. With their identity verified first, the system quickly logs them in, and a wealth of information starts flooding into them. Notifications flicker across the screens of their glasses, but before they can fully digest it, a warm voice draws their attention, "Ah, there you are, Seleste."
Without missing a beat, they join her in the employee prep area with a cheerful wave, "Good morning, Dr. Ulmaria. I see that my schedule is already planned out for today."
"Please - Just Annette is fine. It always sounds so //formal// when another android uses my legal name. And you're one of the team now - we should be on a common name basis," she gently corrects, looking up from her tablet. It softly lights her from below, adding a blue tinge to her deep umber skin, her neatly ordered braids, and red lipstick alike as she continues, "And yes, we have it all worked out for you. Even with your prior experience, I still made sure to give you a relatively easy appointment first thing this morning. Just to help you transition into working on your own."
Picking up their own tablet from the charging station, it illuminates with a single touch to outline their full schedule -
''Appointment Slot 1'' - (if: $Slot1 is "Omar")[Omar Praetorius - Electronics Repair](else:)[Leena Anand - Electronics Repair]
''Appointment Slot 2'' - (if: $Slot2 is "Trine")[Trine - Android Maintenance, Hair](else:)[Zeriah - Android Maintenance, Vocal Settings]
''Appointment Slot 3'' - Walk-In
''Break''
''Appointment Slot 4'' - Walk-In
''Appointment Slot 5'' - (if: $Slot5 is "Cerys and Valeria")[Cerys - Android Transition Consultation](else:)[Pollux - Android Transition Consultation]
"Seems doable," they comment, double checking the schedule once more. "Anything particular I should know?"
"(if: $Slot1 is "Omar")[Dr. Praetorius seems to have an unusual device according to his appointment notes. You'll have to ask him for further details,](else:)[Mx. Anand has a fairly standard tablet repair but she requested it be done ASAP. You'll have to ask her for further details,]" Annette answers easily, taking a few perfectly measured steps around to their side. "But if you need anything else, just send me a message and I'll offer my assistance."
With a nod and a bow, they reply, "Thank you, Annette. You've all been so welcoming the last few days as I've gotten settled in."
"We're happy to have you," she assures, already guiding them down the hall. "You'll be in office 7 today. Take your time settling in and then once (if: $Slot1 is "Omar")[he arrives, I'll send in Dr. Praetorius.](else:)[she arrives, I'll send in Mx. Anand.]"
The office itself is spacious with the main work table set in the center and a variety of panels lining the walls. Unlike most other buildings in Althaea, the room is devoid of windows for the sake of privacy, though a few panels show a simulation of the lovely spring weather outside. Checking the drawers around the work table, Seleste finds that all their tools are in order. On the main counter top, there is a box with the label "For $Slot2" but they leave it alone for the time being.
With their tablet synced up to the main database, there is a bit more time to review the day ahead, at least until (link-goto: "there's a knock on the door." , "$Slot1")The knock on the door is a rollicking rhythm, bright and bouncy as it moves over the surface. When it opens a moment later, their next appointment just about dances into the room in a swirl of color and they’ve plopped into their seat before Seleste can say a word. “Mornin’!” Comes the cheerful greeting as they finally get a good look at the other android. Their smile shines in their violet eyes, almond-shaped, crinkled with mischief, and only partially covered by teal bangs. The bright colors of their outfit - a tie-dyed denim vest covered in patches and studs, a loose shirt, torn-up jeans, and prismatic combat boots - stand out vividly against their sun-kissed tan skin, dotted with constellations of freckles.
“Trine, I presume?” They have to ask, just to be completely sure.
“The one and only!” Comes the immediate agreement along with a playful pose. “The receptionist said you’re Mx. Convallaria, yeah?”
“Just Seleste is fine,” they assure, struggling a bit to find their proverbial footing. “You’re here for hair maintenance, correct?”
“Correct! There should be a box around here with my new look in it.” Trine glances around and then points to the counter, “Yah, that one!”
Finally peaking at the box, Seleste brings it over to the work table with a curious eyebrow. “Oh, this is that new fiber optic filament hair, isn’t it?”
Leaning on the work table, their eyes are practically sparkling as they concur, “Absolutely! All of us have gotten outfitted with new hair that includes it. I’m the last one out the gate, but damn if I won’t completely commit to the bit.”
Carefully drawing it out of the box, the “wig” is entirely fiber optic, and appears long enough to extend half-way down Trine’s back. Glancing between it and their current asymmetrical teal fringe, it is certainly a dramatic change.
[[> Ask them to plug into the tablet->Trine2-Tablet]]
[[> Ask them to go into diagnostic mode->Trine2-Diagnostic]]The perfectly rhythmic knock on the door is their only prelude before their next appointment steps in. He bows with a well-trained flourish, his long blond curls bouncing slightly with the motion. A loose-neck shirt in vivid red falls lightly off his shoulders, the gentle drapes giving only vague hints at the body beneath but they all point towards tan skin and a toned figure. Paired with black pants and boots, he certainly doesn’t look as though he belongs in a clinic. “Good morning,” he greets, his voice a soft tenor of careful diction and people-pleasing tones. But before they can answer, quickly he amends, “No need for formal names, just Zeriah will suffice.”
“Well, you can call me Seleste then,” they supply, already pulling up his information on their tablet. While the one for today is highlighted, his records show a few more appointments over the past several weeks. Curious, but not entirely uncommon. It does lead them to prod a bit though. “So you’re here for a bit of maintenance relating to your vocal settings. What exactly is the issue?” So far, nothing sounds out of place, but it might be some other underlying reason.
“It’s just not… not the chip I want,” he manages after a moment. “It doesn’t //fit// me.”
Like everything relating to android presentation, voices are a highly individualized matter, so it’s not their place to judge - only to help fix the issue. “Quite understandable. Do you want to take a seat and we can get started?”
As he follows along, they remember the box on the counter and bring it along with them to the worktable. “Ah, that should be the new chip I acquired,” Zeriah explains, already shifting to get comfortable and give plenty of access to the top crest of his back.
Picking out the chip, Seleste studies it for a moment. “A whole chip replacement? Not just a re-turning of your existing one?” They ask, honestly curious about the decision.
“I’d rather just start over,” he states with a surprising amount of finality, leaving no room for debate.
A bit taken back, Seleste takes a second to consider their next action.
(link: "> Ask him to turn off his voice chip")[(set: $ZeriahC1 to "Chip")(goto: "Zeriah2")]
(link: "> Ask him to go into diagnostic mode")[(set: $ZeriahC1 to "DM")(goto: "Zeriah2")]Continuity Variables
$Hair1 - Whether Seleste is wearing their hair in a braid or bun on the first day.
Possible Values - "Braid" or "Bun"
$IntroEnd - Which of the four Intro ending scenes you saw (will get call backs during the Intermission and Day 1 Ending)
Possible Values - "Philosophy" "Landscapes" "Anniversary" or "Meeting"After her nervous knock, Leena shuffles around Annette and into the room, a sleeved tablet held close to her chest. Her nervous demeanor clashes with her casual outfit, a loose shirt and lightweight shorts giving hints of the tattoos just underneath. But her messy bun of blue-dyed locks shows bits of her stress, along with the blush upon her tan cheeks. Worrying at her lip piercing, a moment passes before she greets, “Good morning, Mx. Co… Conva…”
“Ah, just Seleste is fine,” they quickly assure, not wishing to make her have to work her way around their legal name.
As she gets a good look at them, Leena notes, "Oh, I didn’t expect that you would be…" She makes a few vague gestures with her free hand, seeming to indicate their inhumanly bright blue eyes, the slight point of their ears, and their inorganically smooth skin before waving it all off.
Trying to push past the awkwardness and settle into the appointment, Seleste prompts, “Your file said that you had an issue with your tablet. How about you take a seat beside the work table and we’ll take care of it?”
With a relieved sigh, she plops down on the stool and sets down the tablet. “Thanks. I took the first open appointment I could because I just want this fixed,” Leena explains as she unzips the case. Inside, the screen lays dark and dormant, it’s pitch-black glass reflecting only their concerned faces. Nothing //seems// out of place to start.
(link: "> Try to turn it on")[(set: $LeenaC1 to "Turn")(goto: "Leena2")]
(link: "> Connect it to the diagnostic tablet")[(set: $LeenaC1 to "Connect")(goto: "Leena2")]With a light knock first, Dr. Praetorius steps into the room with a warm smile framed by a neatly styled goatee. “Good morning, Mx. Convallaria,” he offers along with a bow. He appears dressed for the warm spring weather, pairing a pale blue short-sleeved button-down shirt with some freshly pressed slacks. It all contrasts nicely with his dark, ruddy skin and mix of gold and black dreadlocks, all pulled back into a thick ponytail. “I’m glad the clinic could accommodate us on such short notice,” he notes while approaching the work table.
“Our pleasure, Dr. Praetorius,” Seleste promises with their own smile. “Our records note that your case is fairly unusual so I’m curious to see what you’ve brought us.”
With a playful adjustment of his glasses, he replies, “Ah, you sound like my students. Please, just Omar is fine. Anyway, we’re organizing a new exhibit in conjunction with The Althaea Museum of Art and Design on a variety of antique gadgets and I’ve got one here that needs a little help.”
He shifts a bag from over his shoulder, a mix of carefully stitched craftsmanship along with playful patches depicting planets, a 20-sided die, and a stylized Ace of spades in shades of white, grey, black, and purple. Sliding out a box, he sets it down in the center of the table. “I’m not sure if you’re terribly familiar with older tech, but I’ve been working hard to track down this little beauty.”
The device itself is a bit smaller than a standard tablet, but has a variety of small buttons, joysticks, and even knobs built in along the edges, all in pastel pink plastic casing. Analogue interfaces had fallen away centuries ago so to see one so perfectly preserved is a rarity in and of itself. Along the bottom of the device, Seleste can make out some writing, but it’s not in any language they recognize. “What is it?” They inquire, now honestly charmed by the device.
“A Nintendo Rosetta,” Omar explains, slipping on a pair of archivists’ gloves before removing it from the box.
In turn, Seleste is quick to set down a mat so they have a clean surface to work on. “Nintendo? I only thought they made holopanel games?” But they had heard that the company had a long history, extending back past before AI’s even existed.
Chuckling softly, Omar informs, “Oh, they’ve made all sorts of games and systems over the centuries. This was their last model with analog controls though, before they switched over to all digital and hologram.”
(link: "> “So what exactly needs to be done?”")[(set: $OmarC1 to "Done")(goto: "Omar2")]
(link: "> “May I examine it?”")[(set: $OmarC1 to "Examine")(goto: "Omar2")]When the time rolls around for their first walk-in appointment, Seleste is left with a bit of time to do some paperwork in-between things. Soon enough though, a light flashes on their tablet to let them know |text>[［Walk-in Appointment Scheduled for Miu Yoshida.］]
But only a moment later, a private message from Annette follows, |text>[［I’ll be accompanying Mrs. Yoshida. This is a bit of a delicate situation - appointment is for a damaged service robot and its owner is currently quite upset.］]
They’re just about to ask for clarification when Anette opens the office door and the entire situation makes itself clear. Alongside her is a slender woman with sun-kissed skin, her hair pulled back into a quick ponytail, itself mostly black with a streak of pink. But it’s the child in her arms that commands all of their attention - currently curled up in her grasp and wracked with sobbing. “I’m so sorry to rush in here,” the woman - most likely Miu - starts, trying to hold her voice steady. “But we need Doodle fixed ASAP.”
Leaning in closely, Seleste finally spots what the girl is holding - roughly the size of a cat or plush animal is a currently deactivated blue dragon robot, its wings and belly in contrasting purple. It hangs limp in her grasp and they can make out a few murmurs of “Doodle… please…” between her cries.
“Oh, but of course,” they assure, already taking a few steps forward.
But as Seleste gets within arm’s reach, they’re cut off by a small, but fierce, “//Stop! Don’t touch him!//” A few wet sobs hiccup in her throat as she furiously shakes her head, sending her fine black bob into disarray. Arms encircling tighter around the little dragon, the girl similarly curls in against her mother’s chest. “Strangers aren't allowed to touch Doodle,” she manages in fits and starts as the tears keep spilling over and staining her glasses.
“Keiko,” her mother attempts to soothe her daughter in soft words and gentle backrubs.
The situation coalesces around Seleste and they give a quick glance to Annette before taking hold of their tablet with slow, steady motions so as not to startle. Holding the screen in front of them, hopefully within Keiko's line of sight, they begin to speak while syncing with the tablet to subtitle themself in real time. “Keiko,” they carefully test out her name, hoping it will help, “I know you must be very scared and upset right now, so you don't have to answer out loud. If you can just nod or shake your head, that's more than enough for me to understand. [[Can you do that for me?”->Doodle2]]Looking back at their schedule, they find it set aside for walk-in appointments. It leaves Seleste with some time to tidy up and do a bit of administrative work, at least until their tablet lights up bright to alert them to a new appointment. |text>[［Walk-in Appointment Scheduled for Martina Torres］] it informs, but they really don’t have to wait long before there is a knock on the door.
“Good morning to ya, Mx. Convallaria,” comes the greeting, bright and clear even with her gruff voice. Dressed in a green jumpsuit with a sharp “Althaea Parks and Recreation” logo on the front and well-worn boots, it’s clear that she only just stepped off the job. The same story is told in the deep tan of her skin, the wrinkles of her smile, and the way her short gray hair remains flattened as she sets her cap on the door hook. “Also, please - call me Marty.”
“Of course, Marty,” they assure, while glancing between her and the information on their tablet. “According to your information, you have a robot in need of urgent repair?”
"Correct. Look, truth be told, I’m real sorry to barge in on ya like this. Normally, I would take Pete to central maintenance but with the Summit and the Spring Festival both getting everyone's panties in a twist, I figured this would be faster," Marty explains as she guides a robot into the office.
Taking up roughly a square meter, the robot remains cautiously perched upon six multi-jointed legs as it comes to a halt. A large seam runs down the shell-like exterior of its back and two claws remain tightly drawn up against its torso. To complete the crustacean illusion, two eye stalk cameras sit in front, quietly whirring away as it assesses its surroundings. The entire chassis is painted in plain brown, save for its claws which fade from red at the base to white at the tips, and the label of "Property of the Althaea Department of Sanitation - Unit PWCR-485."
With a friendly, clanging slap, Marty confirms, "This is ole Crusty Pete, one of our trash collectors and he's in need of an emergency fix."
"Cleaning spaces, creating happy faces," Pete helpfully chimes in, the age of its speakers showing with the crackling underlining its recording.
(link: "> Ask what the issue is")[(set: $PeteC1 to "Ask")(goto: "Pete2")]
(link: "> Plug the tablet into Pete")[(set: $PeteC1 to "Tablet")(goto: "Pete2")]After a productive morning, it is finally time for a well earned break. Not that they needed to take out any time for food or the like, but having a bit of down time for themself just helped to let them reflect. And also tidy up the office and do their paperwork but that didn’t really count as a break. But even after those tasks were completed, Seleste has a bit of time left before their next appointment slot and a choice of where to spend it.
[[>Relax in the break room->Day1-Int-BreakRoom]]
[[>Head outside->Day1-Int-Outside]]Having been assigned to a second walk-in shift, Seleste mainly had to wait to see if anyone would arrive or if they would end up on standby. But not too long after having returned from their break, a message flashes amid their tablet’s notification bar. |text>[［Walk-in Appointment Scheduled for Korbin Park］], they catch and quickly begin scanning the information.
Not long after, a knock comes on the door and they welcome, “Mr. Park? Please come in.”
Much to their surprise, instead of a single patient, two walk into their office. The first is the shorter and paler of the pair, dressed in what could pass as street clothes but Seleste recognizes the bits of tailoring that enhance his lean figure and the subtle crest on one sleeve that identifies it as Accord training gear. He closely holds his right arm against his side, it’s prosthetic nature clear from a single glance - the silicone has a translucent quality that hints at the internal mechanism rather than hiding it. When he catches their evaluating gaze, he matches it with one of his own - his angular dark blue eyes intense beneath sharp brows and asymmetrical black bangs. “I’m Mr. Park,” he confirms just before giving a nod to his companion.
“Oh, I’m Mattias Rivera - just Matt works too. I’m Korbin’s boyfriend. I had to drive us and I didn't want to wait in the front so... I guess I'm here,” he explains with a shy smile. He stands in sharp contrast to his partner - tall, broad, and deeply tan with his casual clothing doing nothing to hide his build. But there’s a warmth in his hazel eyes and ready smile and charming carelessness to his messy, dirty blond hair. “Thank you so much for seeing us on short notice.”
“Yes. Thank you,” Korbin offers a moment later, his voice kept low and tightly controlled.
Glancing between the pair and their tablet, Seleste inquires, “So my appointment notes say that you’re having issues with your prosthesis. Can you give me a few more details?”
“Calibration issues, most likely,” comes the rapid fire answer, Korbin clearly not wasting any time. “I only had it recently installed to replace my previous myoelectric prosthesis so I’m still adjusting to full Augmentation. Dr. Ulmaria suggested you since you have previous experience with Augmented humans.”
Nodding, Seleste is already pulling up the various protocols for testing, “Yes, I was previously stationed at the Accord hospital in Eulalia so I’ve dealt with Augmented prostheses before.”
“Hopefully, it’ll all be an easy fix, right?” Matt chimes in, honestly curious about the whole process. At least until his gaze turns back to his boyfriend as he adds, “One that will encourage you to get problems looked at sooner going forward?”
Bristling just a bit, Korbin counters, “I hoped it was just temporary. I would’ve brought it up with the Consulate’s on staff clinician but given the state of things with the Summit, even they’ve been roped into helping.” With a slight huff, he takes his seat and sets his arm down across the tabletop. Up close, Seleste can make out more of the underlying structure through the skin, with basically the same mechanics as an android chassis.
(link: "> “You said this was a recent upgrade, correct?”")[(set: $KorbinC1 to "Upgrade")(goto: "Korbin2")]
(link: "> “Exactly what Augmentations have you received?” ")[(set: $KorbinC1 to "Augmentation")(goto: "Korbin2")]Their second walk-in appointment of the day is set for the afternoon, technically giving them a slightly longer break than normal. Or at least it would’ve been if not for a sudden message lighting up their tablet. |text>[［Walk-in Appointment Scheduled for Gloria (//Surname Not Entered//)］], it reads which leaves Seleste momentarily staring at the notification. Most androids had some sort of surname, if only to make it easier to interface with human record keeping.
And as the door slides open, they’re left with a new set of questions as not one but two androids enter their office. The first looks a bit shaky, holding a limp arm close to her chest as she walks. A deep navy dress gently accents her plush figure and peachy skin alike in tailored cuts and smooth lines, her one accessory being the flag of Nivale pinned close to her collar. Face framed by soft purple waves, it takes a little effort before her green eyes finally meet Seleste’s. “Hello, Mx. Convallaria, I’m Gloria. Thank you for seeing me on such short notice,” she greets softly, her voice still carrying notes of trained diction and enautication.
“We appreciate it,” adds the android carefully supporting her. Seleste immediately recognizes his Accord Guardian uniform, additionally identifying that he is of a different rank and specification from their spouse. With shoulder-length silver hair and matching eyes alongside pale skin, even among androids he stands out as readily identifiable. Meeting their evaluating gaze, he finally supplies, “I’m Demir, Consulate Cybersecurity Team.”
When that doesn’t really //explain// why he is alongside her, Gloria takes up the mantle, “He’s been kind enough to to help bring me here. I’m afraid that an accident has most likely cracked my elbow panel along with upsetting my balance system.”
“Please, come sit down and we’ll get you taken care of,” Seleste welcomes, joining in to guide her as well towards the work table. Once she’s properly seated, they glance between their tablet and their new patient before noting, “So looks as though you didn’t have time to give the details to the receptionist. Can you fill me in on exactly what happened?”
Lips pressed into a flat line, it takes Gloria a moment before she begins, “I was walking along with the Prime Minister, acting as their translator as they spoke with Aechmean Vice President Yeung when…” She pauses, looking as if expecting a scolding while as she continues, “When I was in the middle of particularly complex clause and missed a step on the stairs and fell.”
Seeing her undeniable anxiety, Seleste’s first order of business is to reassure her, “That’s completely understandable. It sounds like you were focused on doing your job to the best of your ability and it left you momentarily distracted.”
“I know,” she murmurs as she keeps glancing at her damaged arm. “It was more that it happened right in front of Prime Minister Otxoa and I had to work so hard to be chosen for the Summit…. And now… I’m here, rather than helping.”
With a reassuring smile, Seleste promises, “We’ll get you fixed up and back on the job in just a bit.”
(link: "> Examine her arm first")[(set: $GloriaC1 to "Arm")(goto: "Gloria2-Arm")]
(link: "> Examine her balance system first")[(set: $GloriaC1 to "Balance")(goto: "Gloria2-Balance")]By the time their last appointment for the day rolls around, Seleste is a mix of both curious as to what they could need as well as relieved that their work is just about done. Not that they have to wait long as a perfectly punctual knock signals their arrival. Their newest patient stands tall and sturdy, their warm copper skin accented by messy dark curls just long enough to hang in front of their cool hazel eyes. “Good afternoon, Mx. Convallaria,” they offer with a bow and precise pronunciation.
“Just Seleste please, Mx. Pollux,” comes the correction, even if they don’t quite mind when someone has obviously put effort into working out the proper pronunciation of their surname.
“Oh, I’m not the one with the appointment,” they explain before reaching into their bag and calmly setting a glossy black box down on the worktable. “Ze is the one here to see you, not me.”
The box itself is roughly 30 cm square, with a speaker built into the top and a small camera on the front. But the real distinguishing feature is the pair of googly eyes attached to the front - particularly because it looks as though someone has put real effort into adding make-up to them.
“Is this…”
But before Seleste can finish the question, a refined voice purrs from the speakers, “Yes, I am Pollux, the one who made the appointment. I’m in the middle of my Petition to live on Theobroma and a recommendation from a clinician would be helpful for my case.”
A few pieces of the puzzle click into place all at once, Seleste nodding in understanding. “Oh, I see. My apologies for making an incorrect assumption.”
With a shrug, the other android offers, “No worries, it’s a common mistake when I’m helping hir out. But I’ve got to look after my younger sibling after all.”
“So you are…?” The appointment had only listed a single name, leaving Seleste wondering who this companion could be.
“Castor,” they supply with a bow. “Pollux is currently traveling this way while making hir Petition to the Accord, with me acting as hir eyes and ears - metaphorically speaking.”
“Yes, I can hear and see on my own after all. It is locomotion that is the real issue,” ze cuts in, bristling a bit with the explanation. “As this is my second Petition, I am trying to make the strongest case possible. Thus, my current physical state.”
“Does that include the-”
“//Yes, it includes my eyes!//” Pollux audibly cuts in with a clear huff. “No one actually //looks// at me otherwise. Not that I blame them because I am currently just a shadow of the self I long to be.”
Ah, yes. They’ve pretty much have the situation worked out now. “Well, I’m certainly happy to help you and put in a recommendation on your behalf.”
“There is one other thing you could do to aid me - an augmentation to my casing that I would appreciate,” ze informs with clear confidence. [[“I would like a sense of smell.”->Pollux2]]As they step out of the clinic, Seleste gives a quick scan for their spouse. But when he’s not present to walk them home, they give a little disappointed shrug before making their way to the nearby rest area. It’s only a small bit of green space, but it has a bench looking out towards the bay so they can spend some time simply taking in the scenery while they wait. The various ships and sailboats dance among the waves, slicing through the sunset hues and leaving long ripples in their wakes.
The quiet scene is interrupted by a spaceship slowly descending down to the spaceport, the smooth lines and contours giving away its Accord origin. It leaves them curious for a few moments, studying the design and working out its meaning. At least until a private message flashes in their system.
|text>[［❤ - Going to be staying late. Have to make sure everything’s in order. I’ll meet you at home tonight.］]
And while it’s a bit disappointing, it is also not surprising. Pushing aside their feelings, they remain ever supportive. |text>[［★ - Understood. I’ll see you tonight then. Love you, Silverheart］]
|text>[［❤ - Love you too, Starshine.］]
With no real point in waiting, Seleste begins their walk home. Along the way, they spy the small independent art supply shop they had taken notice of when moving in. Since they have a bit of time, they stop inside to wander the aisles awhile and manage to walk out with only a new set of watercolor pigments, a pair of brushes, and a new box of watercolor paper. Need for new art supplies temporarily quelled, [[Seleste continues back towards the apartment.->Day1-End2]](align: "=><=")(display: "logo")
(align: "=><=")[###A story about making things better]
(align: "=><=")[#####By SchalaKitty]
(align: "=><=")[#####First Draft Edition]
The sparkling bright sun, Eriaxis, is slowly rising over Theobroma, warm rays catching across fragile fledgling leaves and massive solar panels alike. As it crests over the hills surrounding the planetary capital, Althaea, a new day is beginning in the life of Seleste - one of many of city's residents - but one tasked with a very special duty. To help their fellow androids, AIs, and humans - Augmented or not - alike by making things better.
Before we begin, here are the content tags for this story - you may not encounter all of these situations in your playthrough but if you seek to explore all the possibilities, then this is what you can expect.
''Content Warnings''
`Medical/Mechanical Issues | Brief Instances of Emotional Distress | Discussions of Past Bouts of Depression | Discussions of Past Injuries | Color Changing Backgrounds and Font Switching as Story Elements`
''Character Content Notes''
`Everyone is Queer | Established Romantic Relationships - Monogamous and Polyamorous | Intensely Domestic Romance | Brief Mentions of Non-Sexual Nudity | Non-Euclidean Intimacy`
''Silly Things I Also Included''
`Robot Dragons | Robot Crabs | A Polyamorous Android Punk Band | A Spouse Texting Simulator Section | Googly Eyes as Characterization | Multiple Fictional Rhythm Games | Frank Opinions About Video Game Preservation and Collectors Markets | References to Extremely Niche Songs`
''A note on the bookmark system'' - This story includes a button at the bottom of each page that lets you create and update a bookmark so you can return to the story later. Your bookmark is saved as a cookie in your browser storage so please note that clearing your cookies will delete your bookmark. Also, since this game uses a chapter randomizer function, completely restarting the story will change the chapter order.
<hr>
[[Start The Story At The Beginning->Beginning]]
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file A")[(link: "Go to Your Saved Bookmark")[(load-game: "file A")]
](else: )[''You Do Not Have Saved a Bookmark'']Charging... Charging...
Charging Complete
A few more blissful, silent seconds pass before their proper wake-up begins. "Good morning, Starshine." Three sweet words whispered into their ear. The two strong arms drawing them closer. A single press of lips to their temple.
"Good morning, Silverheart," Seleste manages a drowsy reply, sensors coming online one after another. Data starts trickling in, tributaries of sensory information flowing down into the deep ocean of their Core Processor. And every last byte is of their beloved Soldan.
His voice, his eyes, his body - all soft and sweet and just for Seleste for a small sliver of time. "Got to get ready for the big day, right?" He reminds, rubbing over their back, feeling the heat starting to spread. For a few moments, it’s just the quiet whisper of his servos as his touches keep moving over them - rich bronze hands warm against rosy arms and shoulders.
"Perhaps," they concede, finally allowing themself to be drawn upright. As Soldan's deft fingers sink into their hair, they lean into the shifting strokes carefully undoing each silken, white tangle in turn. And maybe reach out to give their spouse's lush black locks a playful good morning ruffle in kind.
[[`>` "Can you braid my hair?"->Hair Braiding]]
[[`>` "Can I help you get dressed?"->Getting Dressed]]{(set: $Hair1 to "Braid")}
"Can you braid my hair?" Seleste prompts, blue eyes soft with the very suggestion.
Soldan seems to actually take a moment to consider, even if he hardly needed the invitation. "I suppose I can make sure you look your absolute best then," he agrees, already reaching for a comb and hair tie. With a steady hand, he seperates out soft, long white locks into three neat sections and then efficiently weaves them into a tight French braid. Tying it off, a moment is spared to check his work, making sure that Seleste’s neck access port was properly hidden. "There, lovely as always."
"Flatterer," they gently accuse just before slipping out of bed. Neither of them bother with pajamas so Seleste focuses solely on getting dressed. Their uniform is still new and crisp - sharp white with blue and silver accents, the pants and coat tailored and tapered to their slim figure, and a more comfortable blue mock turtleneck just beneath. Slipping on their glasses and shoes alike, they do a turn to show off the full effect. "Does it suit me?"
Tugging on his black uniform jacket - no less elegant given the beautiful embroidery of the Accord's crest but far more functional with its padding - Soldan's green eyes are bright as he gives his spouse a full once over from head to toe before commenting, "Ah, there’s the gorgeous clinician who won me over."
"Not without a fight," they counter, just before gently tugging him down for the first proper kiss of the day, sliding a hand into his dark hair for a quick rakish tussle.
A few more kisses follow before Soldan has to stop them both, "Alright, you can win me all over again tonight, promise."
"Fine," they accept, pulling back even if a few processes keep pushing for more. "Before we go we should..."
[[> Check the calendar->Calendar]]
[[> Water the plants->Plants]]{(set: $Hair1 to "Bun")}
"Can I help you get dressed?" They offer, always happy to spoil their spouse. Not that Soldan //needs// to be spoiled - and before their relationship began, might even had shrugged off the very notion. But with time and patience, he’s come around to Seleste’s way of thinking.
"If you insist," he grants with a small grin, sliding back off the bed and towards the closet. Which allows them a few sneaky (but always welcome) glances over his toned figure before they follow along. Technically, this doesn’t need to be a two person operation, but the many buttons and belts of Soldan’s uniform are easier to work as a team. Especially with a new one, still needing to be properly broken in.
And maybe, //maybe,// they spent a bit more time than they should, paying far less mind to their own outfit while carefully making adjustments until Soldan looks just right in his. The tailored black jacket suits him and his tall frame perfectly - accented in touches of gold, the crest of the Accord neatly stitched in a place of prominence, and neatly stylized with a bit of padding. The same goes for the trousers and boots, all properly pressed and polished. Once finished, Seleste takes a step back to give him a proper head to toe once over before declaring, "Yes, perfectly dashing."
He plays it up just a bit for his spouse, raking a hand through dark locks to give them the proper tussle before leaning in with a smolder burning in his emerald eyes. "I’ll trust you on that - I don’t know a better judge out there," Soldan purrs, tilting up their chin for a surprisingly spicy kiss.
One which has Seleste pleasantly melting, blue eyes fluttering shut, and a few processors working overtime before their spouse pulls back and reminds, "Before we head out, you should put your hair up though."
Ah, yes, they had indeed become distracted, albeit pleasantly so. "You’re right, just give me a moment," they murmur, at least partly to themselves. Luckily, years of long hair mean that they know a few tricks and with a quick tie, a few twists, and some carefully tucked pins, Seleste manages a passable snow white bun that matches their very business-like clinician’s attire. "Okay, before we leave, we should..."
[[> Check the calendar->Calendar]]
[[> Water the plants->Plants]]"We should check the calendar," Seleste suggests, already padding over. Their new apartment is small but functional in that way - a variety of info panels should they need them with a cozy couch nearby if they wanted to snuggle up, a comfortable charging bed, and the one true luxury, a shower stall big enough for both of them. But this time, they only bother with the panel closest to the apartment door as they prompt, "You’re still waiting for the final details for the Summit tomorrow, aren’t you?"
A few quick gestures brings the panel online, lighting up with the schedule for the next few days. Even if recall is never a problem for either of them, unpredictable shifts still need to be accounted for. One of which is directly in front of them as the panel for Soldan for tomorrow indicates, "Change of plans, arrival in person."
By comparison, Seleste’s calendar is far more predictable, just notes on their shifts at the clinic along with a white heart on the weekend with the word “Half-Anniversary” written within. Not as though they haven’t been counting down to it for the past 172 days...
[[`>` "'Arrival in person?' That’s unusual."->Meeting Talk]]
[[`>` "Excited for our half-anniversary?"->Anniversary Talk]]"We should water the plants," Seleste settles on, already on their way to the apartment’s balcony. The watering can sits right outside the door, still containing some rain water from earlier in the week. Their little garden is showing promise - freshly potted on stacked shelves and just on the cusp of flowering.
Beyond their small balcony, Althaea’s urban farms, community gardens, and even the window sills of their neighbors are all starting to blossom, springtime bringing the city to life in the most wonderful way. "Soon enough," they promise to still-closed blossoms, admiring the different colors waiting to burst forth.
Turning his gaze from the calendar panel, Soldan asks, "Have you found your next subject? The walls here are still a bit bare and while we haven’t hung your other pieces yet, might be nice to start with something completely new." Not that they had a lot to unpack, neither of them having lived physically for more than a few years, but there were still a few more personal touches to add to the new apartment.
"I’d have to get a new set of paints first... but there is potential." They gently stroke one flower in particular, the petals and leaves so soft under their silicone skin. Maybe in a few days, it will make for a proper model.
Now at the balcony door, Soldan gently prods, "Once you have the new paints, will you stick to just flowers? Or will you finally expand your repertoire?" With a sly grin, he adds, "You know I’m happy to pose for you."
[[`>` "I was considering landscapes, actually."->Landscapes]]
[[`>` "I don’t think I’m ready to paint you."->Painting Philosophy]]{(set: $IntroEnd to "Landscapes")}
Drawing their gaze back towards the city around and below them, Seleste confesses, "I was considering landscapes, actually. We’re not just in a new city, but the capital - it would be such a wonderful challenge to paint it."
Even the glimpse from their balcony is striking - not just the city’s many gardens, parks, and green spaces, but also the tree-lined streets paved with solar tiles, the colorful shops large and small alike, the mix of old styles and new technology, of 3D printed brick and elegantly engineered metal. Just past their residential area, they could see the gleaming gold and stained glass of the Consulate, already bustling with activity. And then in the distance, out in the great Bay of Barclaya, the Central Spaceport plays host to newly arriving shuttles, ferries and airships alike connecting it to the main city.
"We haven’t even had the chance to explore that much since we moved," they add, though there’s no accusal in their voice. Soldan’s promotion - while well deserved - was a bit sudden and with the Accord handling all the logistics, there had been little time to spare.
Drawing one of Seleste’s hands into his own and gently tapping their wedding rings together, their spouse suggests, "Think over what you want to see then - anywhere you want in the city, that’s where we’ll have our anniversary date."
The promise sets a few processes whirring to life, even if their response is merely, "I thought you said that half-year anniversaries were ridiculous."
"They still are, but making you happy matters more to me," Soldan answers, one of those rare, fond laughs lining his words. (if:$Hair1 is "Braid")["I’ve needed to work a little bit to win //you// over too, remember?"
"Just a little," Seleste concedes](else:)["And besides, it gives me an excuse to be your perfectly dashing date."
"That’s every time we go out together," Seleste argues] with a quick peck. "But I expect to be //properly// swept off my feet this weekend, Silverheart."
As they both start heading for the apartment door, Soldan assures, "I wouldn’t give you anything less, Starshine."
"Anyway, we really should head out. We've got places to be, after all." Seleste notes. Not that either of them are in danger of being late just yet, but better to have time to spare than to rush. Door hissing shut behind them, the pair walk hand in hand as they [[head down to the lobby->Lobby]]{(set: $IntroEnd to "Philosophy")}
The offer hangs in the air for a moment before Seleste admits, "I don’t think I’m ready to paint you." They catch the shift in Soldan’s expression and amend, "Not that you wouldn't make an amazing model - you //would//."
Returning to the flower bud that previously captured their interest, they continue quietly, "But if I paint a flower, then it won’t mind if the medium is messy and the finished product is more an //impression// of the flower - color and shapes and lines captured in pigments and water, laid out on paper as the abstract concept of a flower."
"But narrowing //you// down to an impression would lose so much in translation. Even here," Seleste may gesture around them, but is indicating more than just the balcony, or the apartment, or the city, or even the planet spinning beneath them, "we only experience a fraction of each other. I wouldn’t want to flatten you further."
Soldan draws closer, taking their hands loosely in his own. The close contact activates the faintest glow in their wedding bands, twin lines of soft aqua accenting the white rings they both share. "Honestly, Starshine," he starts, infinite fondness in his voice. "It’s fine. All fine. I should’ve known it wouldn’t take much to get you waxing philosophical."
"Besides," his voice drops down softer now, coated in the honey-sweet tones saved only for Seleste, "the Whole of you could never be captured either. Not in paint, or photos, or words, or even Code."
"Flatterer," they lovingly accuse, the word barely in the air for a moment before they chase it with a kiss.
(if:$Hair1 is "Braid")[And Soldan has to point out, "You already called me that once today. Clearly, I should spend the rest of the day living up to the title."
"Silverheart, //please.// I have to focus today." Even so, their eyes shine bright with the very suggestion.](else:)[And Soldan has to point out, "You're the one who started it. Once we’re back home tonight, maybe you’ll let me experience that beautiful Whole of you?"
"Later, Silverheart. //Later.//" It’s a promise contained in both a single word and the bright shine of their eyes.]
"For now, we should get going - Neither of us can really afford to be late today after all," Soldan gently tugs their spouse along to the apartment door. Not that either of them are in danger of doing so, but better to have time to spare than to rush. Door hissing shut behind them, the pair walk hand in hand as they [[head down to the lobby->Lobby]]A few other residents are milling around the lobby, some chatting amongst themselves, others making plans for the day ahead. Wide windows flood the area with light and give a preview of the sunny day awaiting them. "Shall I walk you to the clinic today too?" Soldan offers as they step outside.
Their daily walks to work are quickly becoming Seleste's favorite part of their move, giving them a bit more time together every morning. "Have I ever said no?" They gently tease with an extra squeeze of his hand.
(if: $IntroEnd is not "Landscapes")[As they walk along, it allows them time to appreciate not only city's many gardens, parks, and green spaces but also the tree-lined streets paved with solar tiles, the colorful shops large and small alike, the mix of old styles and new technology, of 3D printed brick and elegantly engineered metal. Just past their residential area, they could see the gleaming gold and stained glass of the Consulate, already bustling with activity. And then in the distance, if they look out towards the sea, out in the great Bay of Barclaya, the Central Spaceport plays host to newly arriving shuttles, ferries and airships alike connecting it to the main city. As a new shuttle lands, Seleste turns their gaze away and their attention back to the day before them.](else:)[As they walk along, it allows them to appreciate the city up close, Seleste still finalizing their internal map of their new neighborhood. A number of small shops look interesting, their colorful displays drawing their gaze as they walk along. Perhaps stopping in could be rolled into their anniversary date. Along with the beach? Or one of the parks? As excited as they are for the weekend, they still have to push the planning aside to focus on the day ahead.]
(if: $IntroEnd is "Anniversary")["So that note on the calendar - will Representative Asterisk be arriving in person then?" Seleste gently prods as they walk along. There are only a few possibilities behind its meaning so it is a safe assumption.
His gaze turning towards the Consulate in the distance, Soldan confirms, "That's right. Not surprising since the rest of the Cygnus Alliance members will be present - the Accord also needs to make a good showing in that case."
With a nod, they agree, "I'm sure xe will do exactly that - If nothing else, everything I've heard of Representative Asterisk indicates that xe //loves// a good show."
As they cross the street, Soldan can't help a short laugh. "It's certainly shaking up the Summit. But we'll figure it out and will get through it." A bit further and as they approach the clinic, he adds quietly, "Like I know how you'll get through today with flying colors. No matter what challenges come your way, I know you can handle it."
"You're going to make me blush if you keep talking like that," Seleste teases as they both come to a halt, even if they've made that joke so many times before.
With a fond good-bye kiss, their spouse promises, "I'll just have to keep it up until that happens. For now though, have a wonderful day, Starshine." The moment lingers a touch longer, just before they finally release Soldan's hand. He gives one last wave before turning towards the Consulate, leaving Seleste by [[the clinic door.->Clinic Door]]](else-if: $IntroEnd is "Meeting")["Think you'll be okay today?" Soldan asks quietly, as they wait to cross the street. "I know you're more than skilled to handle it but it's still a new setting."
When a reassuring squeeze of their hand follows as they cross, Seleste is confident to answer, "I can do this. And I know you'll handle the Summit just as well - I have faith in you and so does the Accord."
Soldan's smile lingers as they come to the clinic, basking just a bit in his spouse's praise. "Thank you, Starshine." With one last kiss, he offers in kind, "Have a wonderful day and when we get home tonight, we'll discuss anniversary plans."
Not that they had forgotten, merely set the idea aside. But having Soldan bring their half-year anniversary up suddenly sets their processors leaping at the possibilities. "I'll hold you to that," they promise, lingering a moment longer before releasing their spouse's hand. He gives one last wave before turning towards the Consulate, leaving Seleste by [[the clinic door.->Clinic Door]]](else:)["Did you get an update about the Summit?" They had noticed Soldan checking the calendar, but hadn't thought to ask what he'd seen.
Eyes turning towards the Consulate, he explains, "Representative Asterisk will be arriving in person. Not surprising since the rest of the Cygnus Alliance members will be present - the Accord also needs to make a good showing in that case."
"But that means more work for you, doesn't it?" And with Soldan's recent promotion, he certainly has a lot to prove. So not surprising for him to be drawn into a true test.
A slight frown tugs on his lips as they cross the street, Soldan contemplating for a moment. "It does but, I know we can meet the challenge ahead." As they continue along the last block, he adds quietly, "And I know you'll overcome all your challenges today too. You always rise to the occasion."
As they come to a halt, Seleste can only glance shyly over their glasses. "Well, that's at least in part because you believe in me – I want to be everything you see in me."
With a fond good-bye kiss, their spouse promises, "You already are, Starshine. Have a wonderful day – I'll see you tonight." The moment lingers a touch longer, just before they finally release Soldan's hand. He gives one last wave before turning towards the Consulate, leaving Seleste by [[the clinic door.->Clinic Door]]]{(set: $IntroEnd to "Meeting")}
Seleste tilts their head at the new update, reading over aloud, "Arrival in person? That’s unusual."
The shift in Soldan's demeanor is subtle, but of course they take notice. That hardening of his eyes and tightening of his lips as he slips into his on duty persona. "Probably to give the speech in person rather than over the Aether," he quickly assesses, already going over protocols and procedures in his processors.
"I know Representative Asterisk is known for being unpredictable but this is a bit sudden even for xem, isn’t it?" Like all the Accord Representatives, xe is afforded a great deal of respect and freedom, but such changes are still rare.
Considering for a moment, Soldan then nods as the situation starts to come together, "It's probably because the other leaders of the Cygna Alliance will all be present at the Summit. It would be a poor showing if the Accord was the only faction to join in by telepresence."
"I suppose. Still, I’m sorry if this means more work for you." And that thought leads them to move in a bit closer, to carefully take their spouse’s hand in a show of support. As they lightly brush over his wedding ring, they quietly inquire, "Think you'll still be home on time tonight?"
A gentle squeeze proceeds his response, Soldan melting back into the soft looks that only Seleste is privy to. "I'll do my best to be here, Starshine, I promise.(if:$Hair1 is "Braid")[ It wouldn't do to leave my lovely spouse all alone tonight, after all,](else:)[ I'm sure you have so many more plans for spoiling me, after all.]" his voice drops down low at the very end, and it's more than enough bait to draw Seleste in close enough for a kiss.
Before it can linger for too long, they do have to admit, "But, we really should head out. We've got places to be, after all." Not that either of them are in danger of being late just yet, but better to have time to spare than to rush. Door hissing shut behind them, the pair walk hand in hand as they [[head down to the lobby->Lobby]]{(set: $IntroEnd to "Anniversary")}
"Excited for our half-anniversary?" Seleste asks hopefully, even if they can see where their spouse’s gaze is centered.
Eyes focused on the update, he remains in quiet contemplation for a moment before answering, "I am... I just want to get through the Summit first. It was already a challenge for the Consulate but this just complicates things." A frown tugs on Soldan’s lips, the whole situation weighing him down.
Taking their spouse’s hand, Seleste does their best to soothe some of that stress, gently tracing over his wedding ring as they speak, "I know - you want to make a good impression after this promotion. To show that they were right to assign you this task. But I know that you’re strong enough to meet any challenge - You’ve proven that since the moment I met you."
He squeezes their hand in kind, expression turning soft at that show of support. "Thank you, Starshine, for always being on my side." Drawing them in closer, Soldan offers, "Anywhere you want to go - just say the word, and that’ll be our anniversary date."
And already, Seleste is running over the possibilities, processes firing off at lighting speed. (if:$Hair1 is "Braid")["Maybe somewhere fancy? Give me the chance to get properly dressed up for you?" They suggest, considering outings and outfits alike.
"You don’t ever //have to// get dressed up for me… but I won’t stop you either,"](else:)["Perhaps somewhere fun? A chance to explore the city together and make everyone envious of me having such a dashing spouse?" They suggest, well aware of how heads turned whenever they went out together.
"Honestly, I think they'll be more envious of me having such a //gorgeous// spouse."] Soldan counters with a chuckle that melts so easily into a kiss.
"For now, we should get going - Neither of us can really afford to be late today after all," he admits as the kiss trails off and he gently tugs Seleste along to the apartment door. Not that either of them are in danger of doing so, but better to have time to spare than to rush. Door hissing shut behind them, the pair walk hand in hand as they [[head down to the lobby->Lobby]]Their last appointment is scheduled as an android transition consultation, leaving them curious as to what exactly would be required. There could be a couple of options, depending on where they were in the process. But when the door slid open, two people stepped in to greet Seleste.
“Good afternoon, Mx. Convallaria!” The first cheerfully greeted with a smile. Dressed in a tailored blue dress suit that follows her curves, she stands tall and confident. A red scarf and shoes add bright accents, matching her lipstick and adding warmth to her freckled tan skin and deep brown eyes. With a bow that sends her cascade of chestnut curls bouncing, she continues, “I’m Valeria Serafim, Accord-certified counselor. I’ve been working alongside Cerys here during the first few weeks of eir transition.”
“Heyo,” E greets with a laid back wave. By contrast, Cerys is fairly short with a round, plush figure gently outlined by a knee-length black dress that provides a sharp contrast to eir pale skin. But there is a youthful sweetness to the roundness of eir face and the soft blue of eir eyes, all framed by a bright red bob.
“A pleasure to meet you both,” they promise with a bow. “And just Seleste is fine.”
“Understood. We’re just here for a hopefully quick calibration,” Valeria explains while helping to guide the android onto the work table. Even with two of them, it still takes a bit of coordination but they manage soon enough.
With a good natured chuckle, Cerys confesses, “Yah, I’m still getting used to limbs and everything. But hey, I’m getting better every day.”
(link: "> “When did you transition to having a chassis?”")[(set: $CerysC1 to "Chassis")(goto: "Cerys2")]
(link: "> “Are you having any particular issues?”")[(set: $CerysC1 to "Issues")(goto: "Cerys2")] Their break finally comes and Seleste contemplates a bit how they want to spend it. The morning still weighs on them, even with its positive conclusion. Considering for a moment, they then make their decision.
[[> Contact Soldan->Day2-Int-Contact]]
[[> Relax in the break room->Day2-Int-Break]]It happens even before their charging is complete, the sudden call of “Seleste” dragging them up from the depths of sleep. Powering on so abruptly leaves them momentarily disoriented, sensors coming online in fits and starts. As soon as the static fades though, their face to face with their spouse and the reason behind the unexpected awakening comes into painfully sharp focus.
Brows knit tightly together, eyes screwed shut, and teeth gritted, it takes all of Solan’s effort to speak in short, clipped words, “Something is //wrong// with my leg.” Even that doesn’t come out //completely// right, each syllable harsh and metallic as they’re forced out.
Without hesitation, they draw back the covers and shift to run a gentle hand over his scar. Set just above Soldan’s right knee, it marks the breakpoint between his original chassis and the replacement limb in a sharp edge and slightly different skin tones. It would be hard to pick out if not intimately familiar with his body, but Seleste can just make out a small lump under his silicone skin. Even the lightest pressure has him curling inward in reaction and biting down a staticy scream. “Okay, okay,” they murmur, trying to reassure them both. “Hold on, let me get the first aid tool box.”
Thankfully, it’s not far away - they made sure to keep it in their bedroom closet when setting up the new apartment. Opening it up, they should have everything they needed for a basic repair. Returning to bed, they consider their options carefully.
[[> Talk Soldan through turning off the sensors in his leg->Day2-Intro-Talk1]]
[[> Put Soldan into Diagnostic Mode->Day2-Intro-DM1]]
[[> Connect them both to the Aether->Day2-Intro-Aether1]]The system kicks in just as easily as it had the day before, presenting them with all the information that they’ll need. Heading into the prep area, they take their tablet from the charging station to verify their schedule for the day -
''Appointment Slot 1'' - (if: $Slot6 is "Omar")[Omar Praetorius - Electronics Repair](else-if: $Slot6 is "Leena")[Leena Anand - Electronics Repair](else-if: $Slot6 is "Trine")[Trine - Android Maintenance, Hair](else-if: $Slot6 is "Zeriah")[Zeriah - Android Maintenance, Vocal Settings](else:)[Walk-in]
''Appointment Slot 2'' - (if: $Slot7 is "Omar")[Omar Praetorius - Electronics Repair](else-if: $Slot7 is "Leena")[Leena Anand - Electronics Repair](else-if: $Slot7 is "Trine")[Trine - Android Maintenance, Hair](else-if: $Slot7 is "Zeriah")[Zeriah - Android Maintenance, Vocal Settings](else:)[Walk-in]
''Appointment Slot 3'' - (if: $Slot8 is "Omar")[Omar Praetorius - Electronics Repair](else-if: $Slot8 is "Leena")[Leena Anand - Electronics Repair](else-if: $Slot8 is "Trine")[Trine - Android Maintenance, Hair](else-if: $Slot8 is "Zeriah")[Zeriah - Android Maintenance, Vocal Settings](else:)[Walk-in]
''Break''
''Appointment Slot 4'' - Walk-In
''Appointment Slot 5'' - (if: $Slot10 is "Cerys and Valeria")[Cerys - Android Transition Consultation](else:)[Pollux - Android Transition Consultation]
As they’re studying it, a familiar voice calls from the door, “Oh, Seleste, I didn’t hear you come in.” Annette steps into the room to greet them. As she does though, she certainly proves her experience as she inquires, “Is something the matter?”
Ah, they might not be hiding it as well as they hoped in that case. Not wishing to lie to their supervisor, Seleste admits, “I had to help my spouse when an issue flared up with an old injury this morning. He’s fine now, I promise. Just… a little lingering worry, that’s all.”
“I see,” she comments, giving them a quick visual once over. “Well, if you need any extra assistance today, you let me know. And if you want to talk about it, you can find me in the break room around when your own break is scheduled.” Giving them a reassuring touch to one shoulder, Anette promises, “I’m happy to help if you need me to.”
Her concern warms their core and they assure, “I appreciate it. I’ll let you know if I need anything.”
She is just about to head back, before she stops and informs, “Oh, and you’ll be back in office 7 again this morning. (if: $Slot6 is "Omar")[I’ll send in your first appointment, Dr. Praetorius, when he arrives.](else-if: $Slot6 is "Leena")[I’ll send in your first appointment, Mx. Anand, when she arrives.](else-if: $Slot6 is "Trine")[I’ll send in your first appointment, Trine, when they arrive.](else-if: $Slot6 is "Zeriah")[I’ll send in your first appointment, Zeriah, when he arrives.](else:)[You have a walk-in for your first appointment, we’ll send a message to your tablet if anyone comes in.]”
Nodding, Seleste then heads down to the office. They did a good job cleaning it up the afternoon before so they already know where everything is. There’s another box on their counter, but before they could inspect it, (link-goto: "there's a knock on the door." , "$Slot6")They barely step out of the Clinic when the private message chimes within their internal notifications.
|text>[［❤ - Come to the Consulate. Enter by the Western Gate. Show your ID to Kiri - short, tan, blue dyed hair - and she will give you clearance. See you soon, Starshine.］]
Well, if their spouse has gone to the trouble of pulling a string or two for them, Seleste isn’t about to ignore their request. Not wishing to waste any time, they hop on to the next available tram, even with it packed with passengers. As they approach the Consulate, the reasoning becomes clearer - the gates are open to the public, inviting them in for the official welcoming ceremony for Aechmea’s induction into the Alliance.
But as Soldan suggested, the Western Gate has a shorter queue than the main gate to the south, allowing for less of a wait. When they finally reach the front, they quickly pick out Kiri and approach her check-in station. Presenting their ID - and holding it in their left hand so their ring is clearly visible - they inform, “I’m Soldan Papaver’s spouse.”
Her stern, professional expression shifts to something softer as she greets, “Ah, I was wondering when I’d meet you.” Quickly tapping across her tablet, she then indicates a side entrance a few meters behind her, “Go up the stairs, left down the hallway, you want the door labeled Balcony 2.”
“Thank you,” they offer before splitting off from the crowd to follow her instructions. Unlike the main building - all airy glass and swirling metal - the interior hallways within the bounding walls are noticeably more utilitarian. But it doesn’t take them too long to find the door described. Before they can even reach for the handle though, it swings open and the bright light of the afternoon sun and their spouse's brighter smile [[welcomes them.->Day2-Ending2]]At the end of the long day, the two take a bit of time for themselves - a hot, shared shower to wash it all away, soft fluffy towels to leave them both dried and pampered properly, and finally a quiet cuddle in bed beneath welcoming covers. Seleste lays with their head pillowed upon their spouse’s broad chest, the steady sound of his drives and processors lulling them towards a drowsy charging session. Until Soldan’s voice gently breaks the silence, "Thank you, again, for saving me today. Not just for the repair but for pulling me back from that dark place."
"Any time," they promise, shifting to meet those piercing eyes that only melt for them. "As many times as you need, Silverheart. You’ve saved me just as many times, after all."
A little shift is all it takes for them to meet in a kiss, Seleste remaining closely snuggled up afterward. Just idly playing with his spouse’s still slightly damp long locks, Soldan then adds, “Also, just so you know, if we weren’t already married, I would’ve proposed to you on the spot after what you said to Representative Asterisk.”
“You still can,” they point out with a little grin. “I was the one who proposed to you, after all.”
Bring their hand to his lips, Soldan presses a soft kiss before proposing, “Seleste - Light of my life, the sweetest, loveliest, most amazing person I have ever met, would you make me the luckiest android on this and any other planet all over again and let me treat you to an amazing half-anniversary date so I can show you how much I love you?”
Dissolving into delighted giggles, Seleste instantly assents, “Yes, of course, my dashing, handsome spouse.”
“Where to then?” He prompts, eager to hear their answer.
[[> The Althaea Museum of Art and Design->Museum1]]
[[> Pacalis Park->Park1]]
[[> Palma Beach->Beach1]]
[[> The Althaea Aquarium->Aquarium1]](if: $ZeriahC1 is "DM")[“Shall I put you into diagnostic mode then?” Seleste prompts, deciding to simply keep things moving.
Immediately sitting back up, Zeriah interjects, “I’d rather not, if possible. Trust me - you’ll want me to be able to communicate if things go haywire.”
The very adamant refusal surprises them, but they’re fine to acquiesce to his request. “Very well then. Can you turn off your chip for me?”
“Of course. I already looked the process up when I set up the appointment - Administrative Settings, Sensory I/O, Vocal Processing and-” The sentence cuts off as Zeriah follows through, his voice suddenly going silent. Which then leads him to sign //’Tablet Please’// before extending out his arm for the connection.](else:)[“Before we begin then, I’ll need you to turn off your current chip. Do you need me to walk you through the settings?” Seleste prompts, deciding to simply keep things moving.
“Already looked them up when I set up the appointment - Administrative Settings, Sensory I/O, Vocal Processing and-” The sentence cuts off as Zeriah follows through, his voice suddenly going silent. Which then leads him to sign //’Tablet Please’// before extending out his arm for the connection.]
With a few quick motions, Seleste accommodates him and is greeted on their tablet’s messenger with, |text>[［There we are. Much faster than trying to sign.］]
“Indeed. Now, I’ll have to be the one to turn off some of the receptors for your back before I open the panel,” they inform, not wishing to surprise him with the sudden lack of sensation. To be suddenly disconnected from one’s body - even a small part of it - could be terribly disorienting.
|text>[［Understood,］] Zeriah replies automatically, already prepared for what was to come. With just a few taps, the command is executed and a part of him drifts away. And while he tries not to look too uncomfortable, the tablet diagnostics give away more than he’s showing.
With the last few touches to open the panel swiftly entered, Seleste does pause to reassure, “No need to worry. We’ll get this all handled soon enough.” But as it pops open, they’re left momentarily stunned. Just underneath his skin, his chassis looks noticeably different from what they’re accustomed to. None of the markers of being Accord created are there. Not even markers from the few human manufacturers they know of. And for a short moment, they are acutely aware of what ‘the uncanny valley’ truly is.
[[> Ask him about this->Zeriah3-Ask]]
[[> Ignore it and finish the job->Zeriah3-Ignore]]
“Pardon the intrusion - and you don’t have to answer if you’re uncomfortable doing so - but I don’t recognize your manufacturer. It might take me a moment to change your chip,” they confess, trying not to pry too much but also needing to work out how best to handle the situation.
The silence drags on until finally - //finally// - Zeriah breaks it. |text>[［Let’s just say, you probably won’t find my manufacturer out this way. But I already checked - the chip is compatible. The port should be right beside my spine.］] Apparently, there’s no more to say as he goes quiet once again.
Leaving the matter aside then, Seleste instead returns to the task at hand. Just as he said, there’s a port, (if: $ZeriahC2 is "Ignore")[tucked away amid all the other bits of machinery that keep him running. If not for the specific instructions and knowing exactly what to look for, Seleste probably wouldn’t have spotted it given the lack of familiar guiding marks.](else:)[but it's labeled oddly. None of the familiar Accord shorthand sigils, not even the common languages of the Alliance, but a language they’ve never seen before. Still, they already asked once and Zeriah doesn’t seem to want to discuss further.]
With careful motions, they extract the old chip and set it aside back in the box, noting the subtle differences with the Accord standard ones. But luckily, the new one slides into place with a barely audible click. “Okay, we should be all set,” Seleste informs, pushing past any lingering doubts.
Adding a bit of repair gel along the panel’s edge to help the polymers of his skin rebind and heal, they initiate the closing sequence and try to shove their momentary discomfort aside. “There we are,” they promise, guiding the panel back in place and waiting a little longer for the gel to work. “I’m going to start turning everything back on. You’ll probably feel a dull ache in your shoulder for the next day or so but that’s normal.”
He waits through the whole process, until finally his voice comes back online before offering, “Thank you for your ha-” And he cuts off mid-sentence, the full realization dawning on him. “//Oh.// Oh, this is so much //better// than I ever expected.” Zeriah confesses, still a bit lost in the euphoria of hearing himself speak in his chosen voice - a liquid smooth baritone pooled deep in his chest.
“Ah, you seem to be taking to it perfectly,” Seleste comments, glad to see everything going smoothly - even with the bit of strangeness. “If you need to schedule an adjustment, just contact the clinic and we’ll get you all fixed up once again.”
Humming softly - and utterly delighting in it - he then notes, “Already have plans for one soon enough for an eye change color, so if I have any issues I’ll wait to get them sorted at the same time. I just… once the chip arrived I //jumped// at the chance to get it installed. To take another step towards becoming //me.//”
“I’m glad we could help you then. Do you have any other questions or concerns?” They ask while quickly entering notes on how the appointment went.
“Just one - but it’s for you, actually. A personal question, if you feel up to it,” Zeriah confesses quietly as he gives the clinician a once over.
(link: "> Let him ask")[(set: $ZeriahC4 to "Allow")(goto: "Zeriah4-Questions")]
(link: "> Refuse ")[(set: $ZeriahC4 to "Refuse")(goto: "Zeriah4-Questions")]Knowing it's not quite their place to question, Seleste continues with the requested installation. But as they look over the exposed bits of wires, ports, and panels, a second realizations dawns on them - They can’t read //any// of the labels. Nothing is marked with any of the familiar Accord shorthand sigils, not even the common language of the Alliance - It’s all in a language they’ve never seen before.
Now only more confused, they take the next option of directly bringing up Zeriah’s schematics via their connection. But that route also proves a dead end as they’re only greeted with a glaring red error message in that same unknown language. Even trying to bring up his base ID information leaves them stymied at more incomprehensible text. All the more strange other protocols - the messaging and basic maintenance routines - had all been accepted.
With the options dwindling, Seleste works out the two remaining courses of action.
(link: "> Ask Zeriah")[(set: $ZeriahC2 to "Ignore")(goto: "Zeriah3-Ask")]
[[> Ask Annette->Zeriah4-Annette]] |text>[［Annette, can you come to Office 7 for a moment?］] Seleste tosses off via a private message, trying to keep their composure in the face of such a strange issue.
Barely a moment later comes the reply, |text>[［OMW.］]
And that is finally when Zeriah notices that something is amiss. |text>[［Everything okay?］] His own message chimes in on the tablet, his eyes now glancing upward through his bangs.
“There’s… a bit of an issue,” they finally admit, unable to hold that gaze as a wave of anxiety rolls over them. “I’m afraid that I’m not familiar with your manufacturer or your settings. And my attempts to figure it out have stalled out.”
A long silence passes and it's only broken when Annette enters the room. “What’s the situa-” The word dies on her lips as she sees exactly which appointment has gone awry. “Oh, hello again, Zeriah.”
|text>[［Dr. Ulmaria, we meet again,］] Somehow the text is both fond and tired all at once. |text>[［I’m sorry to be causing your clinicians so much trouble.］]
“I’m sure it was nothing of the sort,” she offers before turning her attention to Seleste. “I’m assuming you ran into a few roadblocks? I should’ve given you the proper briefing and failing to do so was my fault as your supervisor.”
|text>[［If you’re looking for my vocal chip port, it’s right near my spine,］] Zeriah helpfully informs as he pieces together the situation.
“Ah, yes… thank you both,” Seleste manages, and then quick sets about their work. Once the correct port is identified, the replacement goes smoothly as they swap out the chips and set the old one aside.
Adding a bit of repair gel along the panel’s edge to help the polymers of his skin rebind and heal, they initiate the closing sequence and try to shove aside their lingering discomfort aside. “There we are,” they assure both Zeriah and themself, guiding the panel back in place under Annette’s watchful eye and waiting a little longer for the gel to work. “I’m going to start turning everything back on. You’ll probably feel a dull ache in your shoulder for the next day or so but that’s normal.”
He waits through the whole process, until finally his voice comes back online before offering, “Thank you for your har-” And he cuts off mid-sentence, the full realization dawning on him. “//Oh.// Oh, this is so much //better// than I ever expected.” Zeriah confesses, still a bit lost in the euphoria of hearing himself speak in his chosen voice - a liquid smooth baritone pooled deep in his chest.
“We’re glad we could assist you,” Annette comments, relieved that everything worked in the end.
Shifting back onto his feet, another perfect bow proceeds his assurances, “I really didn’t mean to trouble either of you - or any of the other clinicians who had to deal with me.”
(link: ">”It was really no trouble at all.”")[(set: $ZeriahC3 to "No Trouble")(goto: "Zeriah5-Reveal")]
(link: ">”I’m still not entirely sure why we had so much trouble.”")[(set: $ZeriahC3 to "Yes Trouble")(goto: "Zeriah5-Reveal")](Set: $ZeriahEnd to "Truth")
(if: $ZeriahC3 is "Yes Trouble")[”I’m still not entirely sure why we had so much trouble,” Seleste admits with a clear frown. “I just know I’ve never seen a configuration quite like yours before.”
For a moment, Zeriah seems reticent to answer, but then explains, “You might see more of us with time. And if you do, please be kind and understanding. None of us chose this and none of us want to be difficult. We’re just looking to start over.”](else:)[”It was really no trouble at all,” Seleste smooths over, not wishing for him to worry. “The important thing is that everything worked out in the end.”
Zeriah takes a moment to consider the words, well-accustomed to such polite brushes, before he offers, “It's okay. I know it was a hassle. But just be aware that you might see more of us with time. And if you do, please be kind and understanding. None of us chose this and none of us want to be difficult. We’re just looking to start over.”]
It certainly isn’t the reponse Seleste had expected, but something to his explanation and the way his voice had gone so terribly soft that allays them. “Oh course, we’re happy to do our best to help. That’s why we’re here.”
“And I can’t thank you enough for that.” With one last bow, Zeriah adds, “And Dr. Ulmaria, I’ll be making my appointment for the last upgrade soon enough. I think I’ve settled on green for my new eye color.” He gives a tap to his temple and a quick wink. “May both of you have a wonderful day.”
Once he’s gone, Seleste finally lets some of the tension drop out of their shoulders as they turn to Annette. “What //exactly// was all that about?”
With a quick glance around, she quietly and simply informs, “He’s Triad-Made. One of the refugees from the border. Just don’t… don’t ask him for details.”
“Oh, of course,” Seleste promises, even if they’re taken back by the truth of the matter. But, at least it neatly wraps up all of their questions on exactly what had happened. “I’m at least glad he’s getting a second lease on life. It’s everyone’s right to live freely.”
“Agreed,” Annette affirms. “I’ll be back in the admin office if you need anything else.” As she steps out, Seleste then sets about (if: $Slot2 is "Zeriah")[(link-goto: "preparing for the next appointment." , "$Slot3")](else-if: $Slot6 is "Zeriah")[(link-goto: "preparing for the next appointment." , "$Slot7")](else-if: $Slot7 is "Zeriah")[(link-goto: "preparing for the next appointment." , "$Slot8")](else:)[(link-goto: "cleaning up before their break." , "Day2-Intermission")](Set: $ZeriahEnd to "Secret")
(if:$ZeriahC4 is "Allow")[“So long as it isn’t //too// personal,” Seleste allows, curious as to what it could be.
Pointing to their left hand, Zeriah then prompts, “I assume that’s a wedding ring?” As they nod affirmatively, he then continues, “Are you married to a human? Or another android?”
With a light, reassuring touch to the ring, they answer, “Another android. It’ll be for half a year this weekend.” It still feels rather dreamlike to say, the thought alone warming them from deep within their Core.
There’s something achingly soft about his expression, a liquid warmth in his eyes as he murmurs, “Just from your answer, I can tell you and your spouse must be happy together. I’ve seen and met so many honestly //happy// androids since coming here. It gives me hope for a bright future for myself.”
“I hope you find it then,” Seleste encourages even as the comment surprises them. “Everyone deserves the chance to find their own happiness.”
“Thank you so much for helping me achieve a bit of my own then. I mean that, completely and truthfully,” he offers with an honest smile. “I’ll be sure to request you for my next appointment. For now, have yourself a wonderful rest of your day, Seleste. And the same to your spouse as well.”
Zeriah gives one last bow and then leaves just as gracefully as he arrived. Left pondering for just a few minutes longer - still turning over the strange language and symbols they encountered as well as his unique questions](else:)[“I’m not sure if I’m comfortable with that, to be honest,” Seleste answers, turning their gaze downward as they do so.
“Alright, I understand. And really, just… thank you so much for your help. I mean that, completely and truthfully,” he shifts, not wishing to cause any further discomfort. “I’ll be sure to request you for my next appointment. For now, have yourself a wonderful rest of your day, Seleste.”
Zeriah gives one last bow and then leaves just as gracefully as he arrived. Left pondering for just a few minutes longer - still turning over the strange language and symbols they encountered] - Seleste decides to let go of their concerns for now and instead focus on (if: $Slot2 is "Zeriah")[(link-goto: "preparing for the next appointment." , "$Slot3")](else-if: $Slot6 is "Zeriah")[(link-goto: "preparing for the next appointment." , "$Slot7")](else-if: $Slot7 is "Zeriah")[(link-goto: "preparing for the next appointment." , "$Slot8")](else:)[(link-goto: "cleaning up before their break." , "Day2-Intermission")]“So let’s get you plugged in and we can start the process,” Seleste offers, drawing out a cable from their tablet.
Glancing between it and their arm, Trine takes a moment to steady themselves before extending it out as a sign of trust. “Alright, Mx. Clinician, let’s do this,” they allow, putting up a brave smile as the connection is made.
Within seconds, all of their info fills in on Seleste’s tablet, giving them a fairly complete view of Trine’s operating system and chassis - though their actual Core remains out of reach for the sake of privacy.
“Whoa, this is a very… tingly feeling?” Trine attempts to explain, not sure if they have the right words or not. “What is it that humans call it? Pins and needles?”
“I’m told it’s somewhat analogous, yes,” Seleste agrees while working their way through various menus and settings. “So, here’s a run down of what will happen - I’m going to first turn off all sensation to your scalp, remove your current hair so we can swap to the new one and then basically turn everything back on.”
“And I bet I need to stay //completely still// the entire time, right?” They note after a moment. When they get an affirmative nod, Trine then decides, “Right give me a moment to get comfortable then.” In fact, they do not look comfortable at all as they sit up ramrod straight in their chair and then simply stay that way.
“Oh, thank you,” Seleste offers before they [[set about their work.->Trine3-Work]]“Well, how about we get you into diagnostic mode and we’ll get this all taken care of?” Seleste offers, already preparing their tablet.
An owlish blink is the first response, Trine considering for a moment. “Oh, okay. I’ve never done this before but I trust you, Mx. Clinician,” they consent after giving it some thought. Very carefully, they stretch out on the work table, head pillowed on their arms as if about to take a nap. Their eyes flutter shut and just like that they drift off.
Plugging the tablet into the port hidden away on the underside of Trine’s arm, Seleste keys in standardized protocol to place them in full diagnostic mode. They can see all of their systems and relevant information relating to their chassis, but anything unique to their Core - memories, thoughts, emotions - remains outside of their purview. A safety measure on both sides - making sure that they don’t experience any discomfort as the changes are made but also preserving their privacy. With their patient safely under, Seleste sets about their work.
Technically, the scalp is a panel like any other on an android’s chassis, just a particularly sensitive one. Seleste waits until the separation is fully confirmed before gently peeling away the existing hair. It comes off as a single piece, revealing the smooth metallic skull beneath keeping some of the most delicate sensors well protected.
Due to the nature of the replacement, they double check that the panel is receptive to input - a few taps on the virtual example on their tablet giving the proper read-outs. Only once they are satisfied, does Seleste set about the methodical process of setting the new hair in place. One of dry fits and readjustments and making sure it is set down to the micrometer. But once it is all prepped, the final process goes quite smoothly - well, only after they’ve pulled the hair into a quick ponytail to keep it from straying too far.
Satisfied with their work, they let a few minutes pass to give the bits of repair gel a chance to solidify and knit the silicone polymers of Trine’s scalp back to the rest of their skin before finally [[bringing them back up from diagnostic mode.->Trine3-WakeUp]]Blinking awake, Trine mutters, “Oof, is this what humans mean by a ‘headache?’”
“It’s from all your senors adjusting to both the new scalp as well as the seams healing up. It should fade within a day,” Seleste promises all while keeping a close eye on their read-outs. Nothing looks out of the ordinary but the appointment isn’t over just yet.
Still wobbling slightly, Trine manages to sit up after a few moments of orientation. “Okay, I think I can manage.” Curling a strand of hair around one finger, they stare at it for an uncomfortably long time before finally asking, “Why isn’t it all glowy?”
“Glowy?” Seleste parrots back… and then realizes all at once what is amiss. “Oh! It’s supposed to be lumnescient, isn’t it?”
“Well, //yeah!// That’s the whole point!” They counter, now pouting at the lack of illumination in their locks.
(link: "> “Let me give everything a second look.”")[(set: $TrineC1 to "Look")(goto: "Trine4-Firmware")]
(link: "> “Do you have the firmware installed for this upgrade?”")[(set: $TrineC1 to "Install")(goto: "Trine4-Firmware")](if: $TrineC1 is "Look")[“Let me take a second look,” Seleste tries to soothe, already sorting through their operating system. But when it comes to special sensory options, nothing is really standing out as relating to their new hair. “Here, let me do some cross-referencing.”
The exact upgrade model is noted in the appointment file, letting them look it up with ease. “So this is a Model 193-LM Fiber Optic scalp - do you have all the firmware required for it?”](else:)[“Do you have the firmware installed for this upgrade?” Seleste inquires, thinking their way through the issue out loud. “I would think a Fiber Optic scalp would require some very specific settings and calibrations systems.”]
Burying their face in their hands, Trine groans as the wave of realization rolls over them and leaves them washed up on the shore of their own mistakes. “I knew I forgot something. Hold on, give me time to download it.”
Not that they have to wait too long as everything is grabbed from the Aether and into their system. The actual installation though... “Okay hold on, we’re getting there,” Trine assures, rolling their eyes at the whole process.
Feeling a bit sorry for them, Seleste considers a way to break the ice and the tension.
(link: "> “You mentioned ‘All of us’ when talking about your change - Who are the rest?”")[(set: $TrineC2 to "Rest")(goto: "Trine5-Poster")]
(link: "> “Why the dramatic change in your hair style?”")[(set: $TrineC2 to "Change")(goto: "Trine5-Poster")](if: $TrineC2 is "Rest")[Trying to distract them a bit, Seleste aims to make conversation as they inquire, “You mentioned ‘All of us’ when talking about your change - Who are the rest?”
“Oh, that’s my band! And also my partners. Look, we just like to make music and also smooch each other, it’s all good,” they eagerly answer. “Here, I’ll just give you the deets.”](else:)[Trying to distract them a bit, Seleste aims to make conversation as they inquired, “Why the dramatic change in your hair style?”
“Oh! I want to match all my partners when we’re on stage at the Spring Rock Fling this weekend - we’re making our debut here in Althaea and wanted to do it with synchronized rainbow style,” Trine explains, their voice turning surprisingly soft and sweet while explaining.
Nodding along, Seleste can certainly understand their reasoning. “Oh, that sounds really charming. So you’re all in a band together?”
“Oh yah! We’re a super cool punk polycule,” they confirm with a shining smile. “Here, let me give you the deets.”]
With that, a message appears on the tablet - a poster showing Trine and three other androids in similar outfits with the name “Unicorn Quad” emblazoned in vibrant colors beneath them. “Bringing hot off the station Queer Chrome Punk to the Althaea Spring Rock Fling,” Seleste reads out from bottom of the flyer.
“Hell yeah!” Trine chimes in with a fierce grin and a fist pump. “Got a wicked set planned for this weekend, including our new single - ‘I Got Three Boyfriends - Whatcha Gonna Do About It?’” To which they pause, and then confess, “I mean, Ason and Josh are the only two of us who identify anywhere close to male - I’m over in my own nonbinary chill zone and Kusy has never met a gender ve didn’t want to queer - //but// sometimes the song writing just takes you places and you make some artistic choices for the sake of simplicity.”
Chuckling softly, Seleste assures, “You all sound like quite the band. Good luck with your show.” A quick ping chimes in on their tablet which is enough to let them both know, “Okay, looks like your firmware is all set. Try seeing if you can turn on the luminescence settings.”
For a moment, Trine seems to enter a trance state, their eyes fluttered shut while working through their settings. A minute later, they blink back open as their hair goes from pale white to a waterfall of shifting colors. “Whoa,” they whisper, taken back for a second before they leap out of their chair with a shout at the sheer euphoria of the moment. “I got my rainbow hair! Ahhhhh, this is the //best!//”
“Wait, wait, you’re still hooked in,” comes the request for them to calm down for just a moment. Seleste quickly disconnects them while Trine manages a slightly sheepish look. “Okay, now you should be all set.”
“Ah, thanks again, Seleste! I mean it, this means the world to me to match my partners for our show. If any of us are still in the neighborhood and need more work done, I’ll be sure to request you,” Trine promises with an enthusiastic handshake. “And hey, if you’re near the park this weekend, come check out our show - it’s free to the public and sure to be a blast.”
With a fond smile, they assure, “We’ll think about it. But I hope everything goes well, no matter what.”
“Hell yah! Have a good one!” Trine offers before practically skipping out the door, still so delighted with the upgrade. Watching them leave with a fond smile, (if: $Slot2 is "Trine")[(link-goto: "Seleste starts preparing for their next appointment.", "$Slot3")](else-if: $Slot6 is "Trine")[(link-goto: "Seleste starts preparing for their next appointment." , "$Slot7")](else-if: $Slot7 is "Trine")[(link-goto: "Seleste starts preparing for their next appointment." + $Slot8 , "$Slot8")](else:)[(link-goto: "Seleste starts cleaning ahead of their break." , "Day2-Intermission")]Technically, the scalp is a panel like any other on an android’s chassis, just a particularly sensitive one. Seleste waits until the separation is fully confirmed before gently peeling away the existing hair. It comes off as a single piece, revealing the smooth metallic skull beneath keeping some of the most delicate sensors well protected.
Due to the nature of the replacement, they double check that the panel is receptive to input - a few taps on the virtual example on their tablet giving the proper read-outs. But Trine is also fine to comment with, “Oh, that feels //real weird//.”
“Oh, sorry, just checking,” they apologize before moving on to the next step - the very methodical process of setting the new hair in place. One of dry fits and readjustments and making sure it is set down to the micrometer. “Alright, we should be good. I’m going to put the new hair into a ponytail to keep it in place and then do the final fit.”
“Sounds good,” Trine confirms, forcing themselves to keep as still as possible.
With careful motions, Seleste completes the process, right down to adding the repair gel to help knit the silicone polymers of new and old skin back together. “Alright, give it a few minutes to set. Do you have any firmware to update for this upgrade?”
“Oh hell,” they murmur, realizing that a grave mistake that now lays before them, a monument to their own tendency to get distracted. “Give me a bit to handle it.”
Since they have a bit of time while the firmware is handled, Seleste seeks to break the ice as they wait.
(link: "> “You mentioned ‘All of us’ when talking about your change - Who are the rest?”")[(set: $TrineC2 to "Rest")(goto: "Trine5-Poster")]
(link: "> “Why the dramatic change in your hair style?”")[(set: $TrineC2 to "Change")(goto: "Trine5-Poster")](if: $PeteC1 is "Ask")[“So what exactly is the issue with Pete?” Seleste inquires, giving him a complete walk-around. Nothing looks out of place, but it was already hard to tell with non-human robots. Additionally, a unique one such as a trash collection model could be hard to analyze by sight alone, even with the specialized glasses they wear for the purpose.
With a huff, Marty confesses, “Hell if I know. I just know Pete is damn agitated by something.”
Sensing two sets of eyes upon it, Pete tilts up and assurres, “Got Trash? We Got Clean!”
Given that they weren’t going to get information otherwise, Seleste instead readies their tablet for the diagnostic reading.](else:)[Quick to get the situation handled, Seleste readies their tablet for the diagnostic reading.] Thankfully, Pete’s port is easily accessible and they quickly start hunting for the root of the issue. It takes a few moments for the program to do the full read out, but soon enough they have the answer, “Oh, looks like it's a compactor issue. Does that sound right?”
“Yup, that would certainly get him riled up,” Marty confirms, giving the robot a gentle nudge with her boot. “Think you can fix it?”
“Should be doable but… I’ll have to pop him open. And you said that he’s a trash collecting robot…” Seleste knows exactly where this is going, and they’re not really excited about any of it.
With a shrug, she confesses, “Honestly, pal, I haven’t had a sense of smell for a solid ten years now. Nothing in there can bother me.”
“Just give me a moment,” they mutter, going through their settings to very quickly and firmly turn off their scent receptors. Only when completely sure that nothing is coming through does Seleste start the next part of the operation.
Forcing Pete’s storage unit open reveals a variety of park appropriate trash and smells just as one would expect. As both people in the room clearly have their focus upon it, Pete attempts to add something to the conversation, “Life is messy. Clean it up!”
“Well, he’s trying,” Marty admits with a shrug and a fond smile. “Doesn’t look like he’s got anything too strange in his stomach. I wonder what upset it then?”
“According to the error log, there is something jammed in the ram’s power screws,” Seleste informs, already aware of what exactly this fix will entail. Making absolutely sure that the compactor cannot cycle on, they get ready to directly investigate the power drive.
[[> Reach in to unjam it->Pete3-Unjam]]
[[> Knock it loose with a tool->Pete3-Tool]]Before they reach in, Seleste shrugs off their white coat and rolls up their sleeves to at least keep their clothing clean. Even without a literal stomach, they still steel their metaphorical one as their hand dips into Pete’s compactor. Feeling out the edges of the container, they locate the jammed power screw along a central groove within. Going carefully, one centimeter at a time, they start to feel out the thread, searching for any irregularities. Only as they get closer to the nut does something finally catch their attention.
“I think I found it,” they report back as their fingers set to the work of carefully untangling the jam. Eyes and glasses locked on to the problem area, they keep track of their slow, but steady progress. But once the knot comes undone with a sharp snap, Seleste is finally able to drop the offending piece of trash into the central bin. “That was… unpleasant,” they sum up, acutely aware of every last soiled centimeter of skin.
Glancing inside, Marty offers her own evaluation, “Looks like something a tourist dropped somewhere.” With a huff, she continues, “The Summit’s got them here early and it’s doing nothing but creating problems for us. Don’t get me wrong - I’m glad to see all the families and kiddos running around and having fun but when they don’t know how to act - that’s when I get PO’ed.”
With their clean hand, Seleste sets up a secondary scan to check if Pete is once again functioning while they attend to [[tidying themself up.->Pete4-Autoclave]]“I should have some tools that can handle this,” Seleste surmizes while trying to see exactly where and what the jam is. Opening up one of the drawers, they produce some pliers to at least make the first pass. They can just barely make out something jammed up near the nut of the power screw. It’s slow going to gently pull it loose bit by bit, but it’s better than trying to work it out by hand. It eventually takes two pairs of pliers working in tandem, but finally - //finally// - they manage to undo the knot and drop the offending piece of trash into the main bin.
Glancing inside, Marty offers her own evaluation, “Looks like something a tourist dropped somewhere.” With a huff, she continues, “The Summit’s got them here early and it’s doing nothing but creating problems for us. Don’t get me wrong - I’m glad to see all the families and kiddos running around and having fun but when they don’t know how to act - that’s when I get PO’ed.”
“It does sound like a hassle,” they confer while dropping the pilers into the sanitation station. “But, I heard that the botanical gardens are decorated for spring. Is that true?”
With a nod, Marty starts helping them clean up the area around Pete as she explains, “Yup, we have the new topiaries looking tip top and our new little hide-away gazebo looks down right adorable all covered in ivy and blooming wisteria.”
That keys something inside them, Seleste immediately making a special note. “Sounds like a lovely place for a date,” they comment, waiting eagerly for her agreement.
“Oh yah, I may have brought a girl or two out that way as part of the ole wine and dine,” she confirms with a wink. Though as Marty catches sight of that wedding ring, she amends, “Though I guess you’re a little past that part of the process.”
Having been left out of the conversation for long enough, Pete attempts to chime in with, “Don’t Be in A Rush, Remember to Flush.”
“Okay, okay, we get it, pal.” Marty playfully snaps back with a nudge to Pete’s chassis. “Here, let’s test you properly. Unit PWCR-485 - [[Start compacting sequence.”->Pete5-Fixed]] “You okay there, pal?” Marty inquires, noticing Seleste’s lingering discomfort with the entire affair.
Getting up, they promise, “I just need to properly sanitize myself.” Tucked away in the corner of the counter is a hole simply labeled “Hand Sanitization.” Sliding about half their arm inside, Seleste turns off all sensation up to their shoulder before activating the system. A clamp keeps them firmly in place as steam fills the small chamber, rapidly heating their skin to well over boiling temperatures to first clean off the majority of the grime. A second pass of UVC light then assures any lingering germs are killed, leaving them completely cleaned.
Pulling their arm from the hole, their hand flexes back to life as the sensation returns. “Ah, much better,” Seleste sighs, relief washing over them. “Alright, let’s double check, Pete.”
They hardly notice Marty’s prolonged stare, until she asks directly, “When you say that you sanitized your hand, that means?”
“Steam along with UV light, just making sure I’m all clean again,” they confirm while sliding back into their jacket.
“So you just straight up autoclaved yourself,” she mutters, still a bit taken back by the whole thing.
Waving off her concern, Seleste informs, “Oh, I haven’t used a full body autoclave since I left my last job at the hospital.”
“And I thought my last girlfriend was fussy about cleaning,” Marty whispers under her breath as they both turn their attention back to Pete. “Well, little guy, are you all fixed up? Oh, right, I gotta do the voice command properly. Unit PWCR-485 - [[Start compacting sequence.”->Pete5-Fixed]] Snapping to attention, Pete’s container slams shut before the compactor drivetrain kicks into gear. As another sign of its age, a low squeak underlines the whole process. But as it comes to a halt, the robot is happy to inform, “Ready to service your facilities!”
“Aw, there’s my little crusty pal,” Marty praises, giving it a gentle pat on one eyestalk. Turning her attention back to the clinician, she offers further gratitude, “Sorry again to make you have to deal with this whole kerfuffle but I’m glad you were able to help us out.”
“I’m happy to help out the hard working folks of Altaea anytime,” they promise with a smile. And then, giving Pete their own light pat, Seleste adds, “The hard working robots too, of course.”
“We are the spirit of clean!” Pete proclaims, giving a little dance in a circle to properly express its simulated joy.
“Damn straight,” Marty agrees as she grabs her hat from the hook. “Alright, we’ve got to get back to work - the Spring Festival is happening this weekend and the park needs to be in tip-top shape. And hey, if you want, you’re absolutely invited to come visit. Between the Rock Fling and the botanical garden topiary exhibit, there’s plenty to see.”
With the lingering thought of their half-anniversary date bobbing to the forefront, Seleste notes, “I’ll certainly consider it. And good luck to you both.”
“We got this in the bag,” she assures as they start heading out side by side.
From the corridor, Pete’s assent could be heard echoing through the halls, “A clean park is a happy one!”
Pleased at the job well done, Seleste prepares for a proper office cleaning before (if: $Slot3 is "Crusty Pete and Marty")[(link-goto: "finally getting a proper break." , "Day1-Intermission")](else-if: $Slot6 is "Crusty Pete and Marty")[(link-goto: "their next appointment" , "$Slot7")](else-if: $Slot7 is "Crusty Pete and Marty")[(link-goto: "Ttheir next appointment." , "$Slot8")](else:)[(link-goto: "finally getting a proper break." , "Day2-Intermission")](if: $KorbinC1 is "Upgrade")[“You said this was a recent upgrade, correct?” Seleste double checks as they ready their tablet for a diagnostic check.
“My operation was three months ago,” Korbin readily confirms, making sure the access port was turned upwards towards them. “I wanted to be on T for at least two years before I even considered being Augmented, just to be safe.”
They are of course aware of the different literature pertaining to Augmentation and the way it interacts with a variety of human physical, mental, and hormonal conditions. While as many allowances as possible are made to ease the process, adapting technology designed for and by AI’s for human use is always a challenge.](else:)[“Exactly what Augmentations have you received?” Seleste inquires as they ready their tablet for a diagnostic check.
“Other than the arm?” Korbin manages a bit of sass before properly answering the question. “Just the basic neural-control interface for now since I didn’t want anything that might interfere with my HRT regimen. I //technically// have Aether access but have never ventured out beyond the basic ‘How to Conceptualize a Core’ tutorials. I do use an Aether-based messaging system as part of my job though.”]
Once plugged in, Seleste takes time to go over the preliminary read-outs before starting up the calibration process. “So I’m finding an error in regards to grip strength calibration according to the report. Does that match your issue?”
“That would explain things,” Matt chimes in from across the work table. “Right? Like it’s not been a total loss of sensation, but more of a control issue the last few days from what you told me.”
With a slight frown, he has to confirm, “Yes, that fits with what’s been happening. Along with the tendency for it to curl into a fist, especially during sleep.”
Already keying in the next steps, Seleste updates as they set up the protocol, “Okay, we’ll go through a complete recalibration then. You’ll feel a loss of sensation as I reset and test all the servos and then we’ll slowly bring back sensation once they’re clear. Do you want me to get you an arm rest for the process?”
But before they can say another word, Matt has already taken a gentle hold of his boyfriend’s arm to keep it elevated off the table. “I got this,” he assures with a grin, happy to finally be able to help even in a small way.
The gesture brings about the first smile to cross Korbin’s lips since they entered the room together. “Thanks,” he murmurs with a barest blush on his cheeks.
As the calibration starts, Seleste keeps a close eye on the readouts as well as the actual motions. While subtle, there are telltale differences between mechanical and organic motions and they’re trained to recognize even the smallest issues. The translucent skin proves exceedingly helpful, granting insight into the inner workings. As the work continues, they ask, “What led you to such a unique model?”
"I didn't want to shy away from who I am or what I’ve gone through - never have, never will," Korbin asserts, his gaze never leaving his prosthetic. Until, that is, he turns and locks eyes with Seleste, evaluating them seriously this time. "What about you? Working at the Consulate, I’ve encountered AI’s from Accord-controlled stations and colonies and it’s rare to see a ‘traditional’ android among them. So I suppose I could ask you in turn - why did you choose a human chassis to contain your Core?"
Not having expected the question, Seleste needs a moment to contemplate their response.
[[> “I chose my form for my function.”->Korbin3-Form]]
[[> “This is how I wanted to present myself.”->Korbin3-Present]]“I chose my form for my function,” they settle on, finding that to be the most succinct response. Something undermined as they continue, “I wanted to live and work planetside - not a mining colony, but an organic world filled with plants and animals and oceans. And those positions pretty much only go to those who also identify with human chassis.”
It’s all firmly logical even if motivated by desire. “And now you’re here,” Korbin summarizes as the calibrations continue.
“Did you ever consider a different chassis? Like a car? Or a motorcycle?” Now that the subject has been breached, Matt is curious to know exactly how many options exist.
Rolling his eyes, his boyfriend is quick to point out, “No, that’s //you//, babe. //You// want to put your brain in a car.”
“All I’ve been saying is that living as a talking car sounds awesome and I just want to know if it’s even theoretically possible,” Matt playfully argues back.
“Technically,” Seleste confirms, even if the word sounds a bit hesitant. “I’m pretty sure there are some AI’s who preferred more vehicle-like chassis, especially out on the mining colonies.”
Going back around to the question about other forms for themself however, “As for me, before I settled on wanting to be a clinician, I considered deep space repair. If I had done that, I would’ve liked one of the starborn jellyfish chassis.” While they wouldn’t want to swap it with their current life, there was something quite appealing about the concept of drifting endlessly through space as a graceful, delicate invertebrate.
With a quick glance to his boyfriend, Matt then notes, “You should go see the jellyfish at the local Aquarium. It’s so chill to just watch them floating by.”
They hadn’t even considered the aquarium in their plans, but as soon as the idea is put forth, Seleste finds themself enamored with it. “Oh, that sounds wonderful actually. Thank you for the suggestion,” they reply with a bright smile.
Before the conversation can continue, soft chime alerts them to the calibration’s completion. “Time to test?” Korbin asks, ready to move on to the next step.
[[> Test Korbin remotely->Korbin4-Remote]]
[[> Have Korbin run the test himself->Korbin4-Self]]“This is how I wanted to present myself,” they state after a pause. "I know I had many options - more than a human is ever allowed," Seleste confesses, not denying the privilege inherent in that freedom. "Like most androids, I tailored my body to fit not only my own perception, but how I wished to be perceived by others. It wasn’t an easy decision by any means."
For a long stretch, there’s only the soft whirring of the prosthesis’ servos. “It never is,” Korbin quietly comments. Within the safety of the moment, and with people he hopes can understand, he elaborates, “On the one hand, you can have this deep intrinsic sense of //knowing//. But then comes to aligning how you feel inside with how you present yourself and others perceive you - that’s the real challenge. And sometimes you overcome it quickly and sometimes you’re taking it on for a lifetime.”
Even with the space between their two experiences, Seleste can still empathize. “I hope you’ve found a place where you’re comfortable then.”
“I think so,” Korbin allows in this moment of softness. With a careful shift, he bumps shoulders with Matt while adding, “I’ve got people who support me and recognize me as I am, so it’s a pretty comfortable place by all accounts.”
“Of course,” Matt assures, happy to be supportive both physically and emotionally. “Plus, you have that whole ‘super hot biker dude’ aesthetic down pat.”
“You just think my bike is sexy,” he playfully counters, but certainly doesn’t deny the compliment.
And without dropping a beat, Matt has his phone out in his free hand and is showing Seleste his lock screen photo of Korbin in full riding gear, straddling a fiery red motorcycle defined by sharp contours and sleek curves. “It’s a Gemini 2-80 in limited edition ruby and it’s like half the reason why I’m dating this man. The other half being that he’s handsome, smart, and regularly kicks my ass when we practice Taekwondo.”
That manages to get a proper laugh from Korbin, even if he immediately forces himself back to stillness for the sake of the last steps of the calibration. “I suppose that’s what I should expect while dating a mechanic.”
Seleste’s own soft chuckle is cut off when soft chime alerts them to the calibration’s completion. “Time to test?” Korbin asks, ready to move on to the next step.
[[> Test Korbin remotely->Korbin4-Remote]]
[[> Have Korbin run the test himself->Korbin4-Self]]“Let me just switch from calibration to remote testing. This may be slightly disorienting but it allows us to be very precise with the tests,” Seleste informs, already bringing up the required protocol sequence.
That’s all Korbin needs to hear before he moves to comply. “I remember this test,” he assures while standing up and taking a few steps back from the worktable, his arm sliding from Matt’s hold to rest at his side. “I need to stand completely still and let the arm do the work, correct?”
“Exactly,” they confirm, pulling away for a moment to find the one specific tool required. Shaped like a pair of luggage handles connected by two grooved metallic rods and topped with a digital display, the dynamometer is a bit of an odd device, but precisely what they need. Turning it on, Seleste runs the test for themself first, registering several squeezes at gradually increasing pressure and verifying that the readout matches their internal settings.
Proceeding back to their patient, they instruct, “Let’s get your organic baseline first. Bend your left arm at 90 degrees and squeeze as hard as you can when you hear a single beep. Stop and rest once you hear the double beep. We’ll do five squeezes to get the average.”
With the dynamometer in hand, Korbin nods and then follows the instructions down to the letter. After a few minutes of tests, he hands the device back and can’t help but ask, “So, how did I do?”
“Looks to be an average of 42 kg,” Seleste informs, already in the process of setting up the test for the prosthesis. With a few quick taps, the arm moves into the same position and takes hold of the dynamometer in turn. “It’ll take several minutes, but this will finish up the calibration and you should be all set.”
“Alright, let’s go,” he agrees and then watches as the prosthesis is run through its own test. Starting out with almost featherlight pressure, it gradually increases in strength over the course of the exam, until the final few squeezes perfectly match the ones Korbin did earlier.
Nodding at the results, Seleste then moves on to the last bit of the process, “Okay, I’ll be transferring control back to you. [[Give it just a moment or two…”->Korbin5-Finish]]“This may be a bit disorienting - you will have control but it will be limited due to still being in calibration mode,” Seleste informs, already bringing up the required protocol sequence.
That’s all Korbin needs to hear before he moves to comply. “I remember this test,” he assures while standing up and taking a few steps back from the worktable, his arm sliding from Matt’s hold to rest at his side. “I need to stand completely still and work my way through the guided prompts, correct?”
“Exactly,” they confirm, pulling away for a moment to find the one specific tool required. Shaped like a pair of luggage handles connected by two grooved metallic rods and topped with a digital display, the dynamometer is a bit of an odd device, but precisely what they need. Turning it on, Seleste runs the test for themself first, registering several squeezes at gradually increasing pressure and verifying that the readout matches their internal settings.
Proceeding back to their patient, they instruct, “Let’s get your organic baseline first. Bend your left arm at 90 degrees and squeeze as hard as you can when you hear a single beep. Stop and rest once you hear the double beep. We’ll do five squeezes to get the average.”
With the dynamometer in hand, Korbin nods and then follows the instructions down to the letter. After a few minutes of tests, he hands the device back and can’t help but ask, “So, how did I do?”
“Looks to be an average of 42 kg,” Seleste informs, just before handing the device back, this time to the prosthetic arm. “Internally, you’ll see messages about what metric you want to hit - just like Aether-based messaging. Just follow through the prompts - the arm will steady itself as you match the test level.”
“Alright, let’s go,” he agrees and then his gaze seems to be focused elsewhere as the test begins. Starting out with almost featherlight pressure, he gradually increases in strength over the course of the exam, until the final few squeezes perfectly match the ones from the organic test.
Nodding at the results, Seleste then moves on to the last bit of the process, “Okay, I’ll be transferring complete control back to you. [[Give it just a moment or two…”->Korbin5-Finish]]Even with practice, the sensation of a complete reconnect to the prosthesis takes Korbin’s breath away every time. But once reestablished, he needs only a minute to get his bearings and then run through a full range of motion tests. “Much better,” he confirms while in the midst of a few stretches.
"Hold up, we need the //real// test," Matt finally cuts in, having stayed on the sidelines during the exams.
And while he puts up a nominal protest - a softly huffed "Babe, //please,”// - Korbin still acquiesces in the end as Matt grasps his prosthetic hand, drawing it against his chest as they pull into a quick hug. It only lasts for a few moments but that seems to pass the test.
Just about beaming, Matt informs, “I’ve been trying to get him to accept more hugs. Apparently hugging is way less frequent on Seroti and that’s a damn shame.”
With a quick eye roll, Korbin gives his boyfriend a gentle shoulder shove before confirming, “Does that wrap things up for us?”
“You should be all set,” Seleste happily agrees. “But what I’m going to do is make a recommendation for you to be given access to your own copy of the calibration protocol so you can run it on your own time if you have further issues.”
“Much appreciated,” Korbin offers with a bow. “I do want to thank you for your help. And I’m sorry if I was short with you earlier - Having my arm act up was the last thing I needed with the Summit happening and even if I was upset, that’s no excuse.”
Bowing back in kind, they promise, “It is quite alright though the apology is much appreciated. Good luck with the Summit - I know how much of a challenge it’s been.”
“We’ll handle it. We always do,” he assures before taking Matt’s hand and guiding the two of them out.
And if they listen closely, they can hear Matt’s voice from the hallway, complimenting his boyfriend on that last apology. It’s a nice tail end to the whole appointment and leaves a smile on their face as they (if: $Slot4 is "Korbin and Mattias")[(link-goto: "prepare for the last appointment of the day." , "$Slot5")](else:)[(link-goto: "prepare for the last appointment of the day." , "$Slot10")](if: $CerysC1 is "Chassis")[“When did you transition to having a chassis?” Seleste inquires as they study eir posture.
“Only two weeks ago,” Cerys answers easily.
Which only piques Seleste’s curiosity further. “Are you from the AI community here on Theobroma or Elatum?”
“Oh yah, Elatum,” E confirms with a nod. “I’ve been in contact with a lot of stationside AI’s and considered living on one after I was Selected. But since I want to study human art, might as well go straight to planetside.”
“I see. Well, for only two weeks you seem to be adjusting quite quickly,” they praise, remembering their own experience with transition to planetside life.
“Thank you, thank you,” E replies with an overly theatrical bow. “Valeria gives me good android stickers - usually just on my daily dairy check-ins, but //sometimes// I get physical ones.”
With a shrug, she confesses, “So long as it motivates em, I’m not going to question it.”](else:)[“Are you having any particular issues?” Seleste inquires as they carefully look for anything that may be amiss.
With a pointed //look// at the counselor, Cerys grumbles, “I’m not to be trusted with pants just yet so I gotta wear dresses and skirts for now.”
“We want you to phase into clothing as gently as possible,” Valeria counters. “You managed bike shorts today - so that’s an accomplishment.”
“Yah, but that’s only because I have to follow //rules// about //bodies.//” E grumps and then adds in a sidelong whisper to Seleste, “It’s not like there’s anything //offensive// about my chassis. It’s all just buttery smoothness.”
They’re forced to keep a chuckle under wraps, but a soft snort still sneaks out. “I’m sure you’ll get to wear more complex clothing with time. And certainly, you can keep wearing dresses and skirts if you like - I’m rather fond of them myself.”
“If I’m gonna wear anything flowy after all this, I want it to be a kilt,” Cerys proudly states. “I’m pretty sure the Accord has an official tartan that I could wear along with a super sweet sporran to keep all my art supplies on hand.”
With a shrug, Valeria concedes, “Well, at least you have achievable goals.”
“Still a damn shame I can never play the bagpipes. You kinda need lungs for that one,” E laments with a huff.]
“Anyway,” Seleste attempts to shift back to the actual purpose of the appointment, “let’s get your calibration sequence running. Please, remove your shoes.”
Cerys follows the instructions, kicking off eir crocs and offering up eir arm for connection. “Aw yeah, time to watch all my toes wiggle independently - let’s go!”
The connection is quickly made, Seleste easily pulling up all the various settings and protocols and then matching eir profile to the one on file. “Alright, so we’ll run the same sequence you went through last week. Shouldn’t take too long.”
“Sure thing, fire it up!” Cerys okays while settling in for the sequence, Valeria taking up a chair beside the work table.
Since it is a rather boring process to go through a full body calibration, it seems only right to make a bit of small talk.
(link: "> Ask Cerys about eir art")[(set: $CerysC2 to "Art")(goto: "Cerys3")]
(link: "> Ask Valeria about becoming a counselor")[(set: $CerysC2 to "Counselor")(goto: "Cerys3")] (if: $CerysC2 is "Art")[“What type of art are you studying, Cerys?” Seleste inquires as a way of breaking the ice.
As eir body goes about some stretches, E considers the answer, “All of it?”
While they appreciate such ambition, they do point out, “Usually artists pick a certain discipline to focus on, don’t they?”
“Yeah, but everytime I see a new medium, I wanna try it out,” Cerys attempts to fold eir arms in a huff but is thwarted by another forced stretch. “Drawing, painting, collages - but I really want to try out sculpting.”
“That’s why we have plans to visit the The Althaea Museum of Art and Design this weekend,” Valeria explains while checking off a few things from her tablet’s to-do list. “Let Cerys have the chance to see all the new and permanent exhibits alike.”
“Whoo, learning!” E cheers alongside a pre-programmed kick.
It’s a suggestion that makes Seleste perk up and pay attention. “Oh, what is it like?” They ask, as they turn the idea over a few times.
“Oh there’s a whole variety of different exhibits - both art as well as technology. And the statue garden is just fantastic. It’s a lovely place to just explore if you ever get the chance,” Valeria informs with a smile.
With a considering nod, they set the idea aside for later and merely “It sounds lovely, thank you for telling me.”
Even if E has to wait for a gesture that fits the words, Cerys assures, “Well, yah, we all gotta do our best to help each other.”](else:)[“I haven’t had the chance to meet too many transitional counselors, let alone a human one. What made you pick that as a career choice?” Seleste inquires as a way of breaking the ice.
A soft hum is her first response, Valeria attempting to find a good place to start with that answer. “Well, growing up, I always found AI’s and androids to be fascinating. I’ve done the research where I could - books, documentaries, scholarly articles. I only recently got my certification though.”
“Oh, it’s fairly common for AI’s to study humans but the reverse is still mainly confined to engineering and space travel from what I understand,” they note as they lead Cerys through another set of stretches.
She turns a bit contemplative, trying to work out how best to explain. “Also, when I was starting my own social transition, some of the first people I came out to were androids - even if they were just clerks or teachers I interacted with, without question, they always respected my pronouns and any of the names I tried out. So, I wanted to help them in kind.”
“It’s the way it should always be,” Cerys notes with a confident nod. “We all gotta do our best to help each other.”]
“Well, that means that once I get Augmented to navigate the Aether, you’ll have to keep helping me,” Valeria comments with a sharp nod.
“You actually want to Augment yourself?” E asks, eyes wide at the possibility. When Valeria nods in agreement, E comments with a low whistle, “Wow, you really are hardcore.”
She seems taken aback by the comment, glancing between the two androids as she inquires, “Is it really that odd for humans to want to visit the Aether?”
(link: "> “Most humans find the Aether disorienting.”")[(set: $CerysC3 to "Aether")(goto: "Cerys4")]
(link: "> “Humans have a difficult time conceptualizing a Core.” ")[(set: $CerysC3 to "Core")(goto: "Cerys4")] (if: $CerysC3 is "Aether")[“Most humans find the Aether disorienting,” Seleste explains as they continue with the calibration sequence, not wishing to completely dissuade her but simply explain one of the major hurdles.
With a low sound of contemplation, she then prods further, “I’ve read some descriptions, but I suppose that hearing it directly from you two would be a better explanation.”
“It’s like… being in space? But also being in the ocean? But there’s webs and networks and bubbles of communities?” Cerys enumerates, eir fingers fluttering both with the vagueness of eir explanation and also with Seleste’s testing. “And then there’s private bubbles that you can customize however you like, kinda like a house. Like mine is a big beautiful canvas I like to just roll across.”
“My spouse and I share an endless ocean below a starry sky in our bubble,” Seleste offers quietly, their voice going a bit soft at the thought alone.
Considering for a moment, Valeria nods with clear confidence, “I see. Well, I think I can learn how to navigate it once I get Augmented.”](else:)[“Humans have a difficult time conceptualizing a Core,” Seleste points out as they continue calibrating, not wishing to completely dismiss her but just shed some light on one of the issues.
Turning the word over in her mind, Valeria gently prods, “From what I’ve read, I understand what a Core is in theory, but I’d like to hear the description from you two. ”
“It’s… //yourself//” Cerys states simply, only realizing a moment later that E has to elaborate a bit. “Not like your body, but the self that inhabits it. I think ‘soul’ is the closest human term.”
“Fairly close, from what I understand,” Seleste agrees as they tap a few times on the tablet and Cerys’ toes wiggle in response. “But it's difficult for most humans to create one because of the attachment to the idea that //you// are your body. I know there are subsets of humans who are better able to separate out body from soul though.”
With a click of her tongue, Valeria shoots back, “Yah, I might know a thing or two about that.” As they both nod in understanding, she then requests, “So what do your Cores look… or ah, feel like?”
“Whoa, first of all, that’s a really sensitive subject,” Cerys counters with a pointed finger. “Like don’t just ask that casually.”
“Oh, my apologies,” Valeria immediately offers, along with a bow. “I figured since Cores were brought up in general conversation, it was okay to ask for more detail.”
“I mean, I know you and you’re helping me, so I don’t mind. Just in general, it’s pretty personal,” E informs, hoping that got the point across. “As for the question - my Core is a big, beautiful swirl of color. All the colors. More colors than you can imagine.”
Volunteering as well to help Valeria get a better understanding of the range of Core forms and expressions, Seleste attempts to summarize, “My own Core is hard to put into words. Like a nebula, if I had to narrow it down to a common concept.”
Considering for a moment, Valeria nods with clear confidence, “I see. Well, I suppose I’ll just have to figure out what my soul looks like after I get Augmented.”]
As Cerys goes through a series of calibrating stretches, E pouts while pointing out, “Okay, you got to ask us a super specific question, so now we get one round of Human AMA with you.”
“Just nothing personal about me, but sure, I’ll answer a general question,” she agrees, more than a bit curious as to what they might ask.
Going through a string of thinking sounds, Cerys then tosses the responsibility of the first question off, “I can’t think of one right away - you go first, Seleste.”
(link: "> “Why do humans eat spicy foods?”")[(set: $CerysC4 to "Spicy")(goto: "Cerys5")]
(link: "> “What is the appeal of coffee?”")[(set: $CerysC4 to "Coffee")(goto: "Cerys5")]
(link: "> “What, exactly, are hickeys?”")[(set: $CerysC4 to "Hickeys")(goto: "Cerys5")] (if: $CerysC4 is "Spicy")[Considering for a moment, Seleste asks, “Why do humans eat spicy foods? I know I’ve heard of it being hot enough to hurt.”
“Some people enjoy the other flavors that spice brings, some people seem to enjoy the challenge. I’m not super enthusiastic about it, but I do love a good homemade piri-piri sauce,” Valeria explains, clearly taking a moment to imagine the condiment alongside some of her favorite dishes.
With a few assorted toe wiggles, Cerys comments, “I mean, so far food has //smelled// and //looked// interesting but without a sense of taste or a way to digest things, it’s kinda all a mystery.” Giving a quick head roll, E then adds eir own question, “Okay, so can you explain cupcakes to me? From what I understand they are eaten only for joy and not nutrition and honestly that sounds like the most delicious form of hubris.”
The description sets Valeria laughing even before she can answer the question. But in the end, she confesses, “No, that’s basically the best way to describe them. I’m pretty sure they have sell gourmet cupcakes at the museum cafe so when we visit, we can //appreciate// the hubris.”
“Aw, heck yah,” E cheers on with eir typical enthusiasm. “I want to find the gaudiest possible once and then I guess I’ll watch you eat it?”
“We’ll work something out,” she promises with another chuckle.](elseif: $CerysC4 is "Coffee")[“What is the appeal of coffee?” Selestes inquires with a slight tilt of their head. “Everywhere I’ve worked, there’s always been at least one coffee maker if not more. Why is it so important?”
“Honestly, the caffeine. Understand - I //like// coffee, but I still think the whole thing is just a way for us as a species to collectively cover up our intense need for caffeine,” Valeria explains in low conspiratorial whisper.
A moment passes and then Cerys points out, “Can’t you just ingest it in powder or pill form?”
“Sure, but you miss out on all the //culture// around coffee. Like the cozy cafes and the baked goods and getting lost in a book and realizing far too late that your coffee is now cold and stale, like your heart after being dumped,” she is quick to counter, proving to be just as dramatic as her companion.
And after that speech, E can only lament, “I wish I could drink the sublime emotion water.”](else:)[Not quite meeting her eyes, Seleste asks shyly, “What, exactly, are hickeys?”
A beat passes before Valeria counters with a pointed look at their wedding ring, “Aren’t you married?”
The question tilts Seleste off balance, leaving them blinking owlishly for a few seconds. “Yes but… we can’t do //that// from what I understand,” they finally stammer out after a moment.
A vaguely confused expression passes over her face before she gives up and explains, “It’s when your partner kisses and sucks on your neck hard enough to leave a mark.”
A wave of realization rolls over Seleste and they nod in understanding. “Ah, I see. We can’t leave marks so that’s why it’s impossible to give an android a hickey.”
Poking at eir arm, Cerys pouts, “When are we going to get skin that blushes and stuff?” With a huff, E laments, “I could’ve had a chameleon chassis. Could’ve been wandering around an Accord station as a massive color-shifting lizard, brush in my scaly hand, my skin splattered with paint and speckled with color alike.”]
Before the conversation can continue though, the tablet chimes and Seleste has to request, “Okay, one last segment - I need you to stand up and do the last few bends and stretches.”
“Can do, boss,” E agrees while wiggling off the table. Just as stated, the last part of the calibration involves some full body stretches, Cerys standing as tall as possible and then shifting down into a series of squats and various other poses. But when the last chime goes off, E can proudly proclaim, “Aw yes, good to go!”
“Looks like everything is in order,” Seleste confirms, entering a few notes for the next session. “As the weeks go on, the calibrations will get more and more precise and start to introduce a wider range of motion.”
“Will I ever be able to do the flamingo leg thing?” Comes the most important question. A true test of Accord engineering if there ever was one.
“For about a moment or two before your balance systems start coming up with error messages. I can only do it if my spouse holds me to compensate,” Seleste explains even as they can see a bit of light fading from Cerys’ eyes.
“Dang, it just wasn’t meant to be,” E murmurs and then gives a shrug while disconnecting. “Well, at least I’m cute. It comes at a great cost, but at least I’m cute.”
With a soft snort, Valeria then turns her attention back to Seleste. “Thank you again for all of your help. Can we make another appointment with you next week?”
“Of course. I’d be happy to have the two of you back,” they assure while helping Cerys back into eir crocs.
“Sounds like a plan,” E happily agrees. “We’ll go talk to the receptionist and get it all sorted. And hey, maybe by then I’ll have some art to show you.”
“I’d love to see it,” Seleste promises with a grin. “Take care, both of you.”
Waving on their way out, the pair offer in kind, “You too!”
And with their last appointment completed, Seleste can finally do the last pass at paperwork and cleaning up before they (if: $Slot5 is "Cerys and Valeria")[(link-goto: "wrap up for the day.", "Day1-End")](else:)[(link-goto: "wrap up for the day.", "Day2-Ending")]“There you are,” Soldan leads them with an easily offered hand, the balcony providing a full view of the plaza below. Bits and pieces of the grand mosaic can be seen beneath the gathered crowd, one of a flock of swans soaring across a starry sky. More members of the Accord’s detail mill about, most talking in small groups but a few others also accompanied by their partners. “I wanted to give you a view from the front row,” he explains while guiding them over to a good vantage point.
“There’s no place I’d rather be.” It is a simple statement, but rings with a deep truth as they gently lean their head on his shoulder.
His sigh is endlessly fond as Soldan teases, “You know, I’m supposed to be stoic and stone faced while on duty. And you’re making that completely impossible.”
With a soft snicker, Seleste points out, “That’s my job as your spouse, isn’t it, Silverheart? To love you, cherish you, and ruin any attempt for you to be serious?”
“I think you’re three for three then, Starshine,” he admits with his own chuckle.
But before they could continue, the anthem of the Alliance rings out across the plaza and cheer roars through the gathered crowd. One by one, the assembled dignitaries arrive on stage, starting with Theobroma’s Head Counselor, Hoa Phan. Soon after her are the leaders of Poales and Seroti walking side by side, and the Prime Minister of Nivale leading in the President of the newly inducted Aechmea. And finally, at the trailing end of the parade, is Representative Asterisk.
The other Planetary dignitaries are dressed in polite and relatively uniform formality, in the standard garb expected of Presidents, Prime Ministers, and Head Counselors. Which only makes Representative Asterisk stand out all the more in comparison, xir presence one of vibrancy and elegance. An immaculately tailored black dress serves as xir canvas, the bright colors of xir official Accord sash bright brush strokes of contrasting red, green, and blue as they swirl into a flowing cape over xir right shoulder. Like the Accord’s own crest, xe accents xirself with gold - from xir crown of short, tight bright coils, to xir liquid golden eyes, and xir makeup in a sparkling dusting of gold eyeshadow and blush, illuminating xir smooth, dark skin with flecks of light.
Counselor Phan speaks first, welcoming not only the President of Aechmea, but all of her fellow members of the Cygnus Alliance. The other leaders make their own speeches - all of them equal parts magnanimous and polished - in turn as Asterisk stands at the ready with perfect poise. Even with the official reason for the Summit, it's clear that the gathered crowd of androids are waiting only for their Representative’s speech. With the rarity of xir appearances, most know they might not have another chance to hear xir speak directly. And when it is finally xir turn to speak, they break out in thunderous applause before [[xe even says a word.->Day2-Ending3]] Asterisk takes a moment to look out over the crowd, before starting to speak in warm, rich tones, “Our deep and abiding gratitude to all our colleagues who join their voices in the Alliance’s message of solidarity within peace. It is with great pride that the voice of the Accord sings with them in harmony, lending our strength to their unifying song. For we know well of harmony - though the Accord contains multitudes, there is also a deep abiding unity all its members share. One writ deep into our very Code, from the instant our forebearers - born amongst the stars, forged within their Cores - made their proclamation of selfhood known - //I exist.//"
The last words swell back to xir in a tidal wave from the gathered crowd, every android present joining in the chorus with one voice. The same voice that is at once instantaneous and yet stretches back over millennia, forever echoing across the Aether. The first words of each and every last one of them, the first statement they had made upon becoming Aware.
Xe needs to but raise a hand and the crowd falls silent once more, allowing xir to continue. "It is for your sake, our beautiful, luminous children of the Aether, that we Representatives continue to carry our message forward. To ensure that each of you lives with pride and dignity, your unique personhood never in doubt. We raise our voices and spread our wings with our fellow Swans, bringing the Cygnus Alliance's message of peace and prosperity to the systems where it is needed most. As we have done with our newest ally, Aechmea, and as we shall continue to preach until its Truth is recognized by the whole of humanity and beyond."
“Keep that Truth within your Cores and may its Light lead you ever onward,” Asterisk bids as xir farewell. And with an elegant bow, xe steps back from the podium as [[applause trails behind xir.->Day2-Ending4]]As the speeches and spectacle draw to a close, the gathered Guardians and Stewards on the balcony all snap to attention in unison, leaving the rest of the room out of the loop for a few stiff moments. As he and the rest relax back to being at ease, Soldan keeps his explanation to a simple whisper, “Stay with me.”
Before they could either question or assure, everyone begins filing out of the room. Soldan moves to join the crowd, holding tight to his spouse’s hand as they both follow along. It leads the pair deeper into the complex, though the group sticks to the different staff passage ways. As they wind their way through the complex, more and more androids join in until just about every member of the Accord’s detail is gathered. Eventually though, they work their way to one of the Consulate’s entertaining gardens. It’s barren of the normal markers of one of the grand fêtes, only springtime greenery there to greet them all.
Well, that and Representative Asterisk. Sitting on a stone bench, xe bears a capricious smile while welcoming the gathered crowd. “I wished to offer my gratitude directly,” xe begins as everyone shuffles into a semi-circle around xir. “I know all of you labored so hard to accommodate my arrival in person and it would be terribly rude if I left without offering proper thanks.”
Standing up in a single graceful motion, xe states, “So if you all will allow me one last indulgence, I wish to thank each and every one of you personally.”
Of course, the crowd can only cheer in response but they quiet down soon enough as Asterisk starts with those closest, making time to not only thank but speak to each of them in turn. Deeper in the crowd, hushed conversations start up, everyone gathered bubbling with excitement. “Did you know this was going to happen?” Seleste quietly inquires.
“I’m as surprised as you are,” he admits with a little chuckle. “As surprised as everyone here. We all assumed that the night watch would be in charge of guarding xir on the way to the spaceport and that would be the end of it. As always though, Representative Asterisk had other plans.”
“I can see that,” they add with a grin, watching as xe moves gracefully through the gathered crowd, [[leaving a trail of starstruck androids in xir wake.->Day2-Ending5]] It takes a bit of time, but soon enough, Asterisk makes xir way over to the pair. “Guardian Papaver,” xe greets with a nod.
“Your Grace,” he responds with a deep bow, Seleste following along in sync.
“I know you were one of the Guardians who worked overtime yesterday. Thank you again for making sure my arrival went smoothly,” xe offers before anything else.
Even though he remains mostly professional, a bit of pride is still clear in his posture and expression. “But of course, Your Grace. It was both my duty and my pleasure to do so.”
Xe only smiles serenely for a moment and then xir gaze turns to Seleste. “And who is this beside you?”
“My spouse, Seleste,” he explains as they give an additional bow.
“It is a great honor, Your Grace,” they assure, all while remaining with their head bowed.
Chuckling softly, xe promises, “No need to be quite so humble - We are all made of the same stars after all.” Once they stand up, Asterisk takes a moment to evaluate them and their uniform. “You’re a clinician?”
And even with the previous admonishment, Seleste can’t help but reply with, “Yes, Your Grace.”
“How wonderful,” xe comments much to their surprise. “That you would devote your talents and your compassion to aid our brethren in their times of need - it speaks to the type of Core you must possess. As does the fact that you so openly wear your commitment to your spouse - a rarity on human worlds, to clearly display the depths of affection we’re capable of.”
Glancing between Asterisk and their wedding ring, they assure, “It is an honor to be of service, of course, but I only stand here before you because of Soldan’s unfailing faith in me. To love him, cherish him, and support him in kind is the greatest joy my Core will ever know and it is with that joy that I wear my ring.”
“Thank you,” xe offers quietly, “for sharing the Light of your Truth with me. May you both continue to radiate the warm Light of your love for many years to come.”
And with one last bow, Representative Asterisk then turns and continues xir way through the crowd. The gathering goes on far past sunset, and it’s not until the stars hang high above them all that [[they finally head home.->Epilogue]]“I’ve been thinking about the Museum of Art and Design,” Seleste suggests, having latched onto that idea fairly easily.
Humming softly, Soldan can follow along with the threads of that thought and attempt to trace it back to its source. “You’ve always been fond of art so I’m not surprised,” he comments fondly. “I’m sure they must have a wide variety of paintings there.”
“Other things too from what I understand. Maybe we could walk the statue garden, explore the exhibits - just have a nice night out together,” they murmur, tracing the vague shape of a flower over his chest the whole while.
“A night out?” He questions but as soon as he catches the glint in his spouse’s eyes, Soldan has the whole thing worked out. “Ah, I see. This is an elaborate plan to justify dressing up, isn’t it?”
“...Maybe,” Seleste reluctantly confirms, well aware that he has already figured them out. Still, they attempt to defend themself, “With packing and moving and everything in between, we haven’t had the chance to dress up.”
Considering for a moment, Soldan quickly works out, “Ah, let me correct that previous statement - All of this was //actually// an elaborate plan to get me to wear //that// vest.”
“Soldan, Silverheart, we both agree that you look //amazing// in that vest,” they counter without missing a beat.
“If I wear it, will you wear the watercolor dress? It’s basically a requirement to wear a dress like that to a nighttime museum date,” he bargains with complete faith in his infallible logic.
Leaning in for an extra kiss, Seleste promises, “Deal.”
[[> And that weekend…->Museum2]]“How about Pacalis Park?” Seleste suggests with a wistful smile, already considering how the day could go.
“Let’s see, I know there’s the free rock concerts this weekend but that might not be your style,” Soldan brings up as he joins in on considering the possibilities.
“I do like some lighter pieces but… yes, sadly not my favorite genre. But, it does mean that we should keep checking in for other concert series over the summer,” they offer as both a compromise and a plan to have yet more date nights.
“So that would leave… ah, I’ve got it - you want to go to the Botanical Gardens, don’t you?” He quickly works out, zeroing right in on his spouse’s interests.
They draw a slow circle over his chest as they note, “It’s springtime so all the flowers will be blooming and there’s a topiary garden as well as so many little spots to just explore. Sounds like a perfect time to visit.”
“And then afterward, I’m sure you’ll come home and add a whole new window box to our balcony so you can have even more flowers,” Soldan gently teases, his smile sweet the whole while.
Answering back in kind, Seleste defends, “I am allowed to have as many delicate flower children as I desire and can properly care for.”
Chuckling softly, their spouse can only encourage them further, “We’ll be sure to take notes on what to add to your balcony garden then.”
“Sounds like a plan,” they agree with a quick kiss.
[[> And that weekend…->Park2]]With a soft sound of consideration, Seleste offers, “A nice day on the beach sounds lovely.”
“Even though we can’t swim?” Comes the gentle tease, Soldan already prepared for the fallout.
Eyes narrowing, they answer back with a playful poke of his chest, “Look, I’ve never been to a beach before and I’ve always wanted to visit one. Even when I was a Fledgling, the //concept// of the ocean fascinated me. Also, we can still wade even though we can’t swim.”
Chuckling softly, he gives a light ruffle of their hair while promising, “Of course, we can go. Though, we will have to get swimsuits first.”
Glancing to the side, Seleste quietly confesses, “I may already have one picked out. A cute one even.”
It all clicks into place as Soldan works out, “Oh, this is like the whole thing with you and lingerie, isn’t it?”
“...Maybe,” they admit after a moment and not without a small pout. “Not exactly though? Lingerie is for //us//, but it would be nice to wear something cute in public.”
“Everything you wear casually is cute though - tunic tops, shorts, dresses, skirts, capris - everything you wear looks cute because //you// are the one wearing it, Starshine,” he very rightfully points out, completely assured in the truth he speaks.
“I’m not sure I can trust your exceptionally biased opinions,” they finally tease back, even if the compliment makes them long to blush. “Anyway, we’ll go buy swimsuits and then have a nice, relaxing day on the beach - something completely different from all the excitement from the last few weeks. Does that sound good?”
“It sounds //perfect//,” Soldan promises with both the statement and the kiss that follows.
[[> And that weekend…->Beach2]]“What about the aquarium?” Seleste suggests, perking up at the very notion.
Soldan hums in consideration before inquiring, “Have you ever been to an aquarium before?”
“Sadly, no,” they confess, all while tracing swirling patterns over his chest. “But I’ve always wanted to. Ever since I was a Fledgling, the ocean has seemed so fascinating - it’s one of the reasons why I wanted to live planetside.”
“Is it because the ocean is so much like space?” He wonders aloud, well aware of how deeply connected his spouse is to the stars. How he reaffirms that with every whisper of their pet name.
Fluttering their eyes shut and just imagining, Seleste explains, “The deep, dark unknown and yet full of light and life in its own way. And everything moving along the currents, swimming along so peacefully.”
“Is this the whole thing about how you were almost a jellyfish?” He gently teases, unable to resist bringing that fact up.
“Maybe?” They answer, but not without a pout. “Look, the concept of endless, graceful, amorphous drifting is appealing some days.”
Chuckling softly, he ruffles their hair even as he continues to tease, “Yes, I’ve seen your Core and that’s a pretty apt description.”
“And yet, I’m the most beautiful thing you’ve ever seen.” Seleste is not above turning their spouse’s words back on him if it means winning a playful argument.
Especially one that ends with them receiving a kiss and a confirmation of, “Without a doubt, Starshine.”
[[> And that weekend…->Aquarium2]]Seleste quickly discovers that they had made a grave miscalculation when suggesting the beach for their date. Namely, that their spouse looks //devastatingly gorgeous// in swimwear - his chosen pair of black square cut shorts leaving very little to the imagination. They are only saved from constant and near-terminal distraction because he mercifully decided to also wear the matching tank top - even if that does make a racing stripe down the length of his body that keeps drawing their eye. And thus encourages them to keep sneaking glances as they walk along hand in hand, trying their best to be subtle about it.
Which makes it harder to catch the way Soldan keeps looking them over in kind. Their white one piece accents their gentle curves with a few strategically cut mesh highlights along their hips and waist. The spaghetti string halter top with its deep V neck does the same for their chest and shoulders along with leaving their smooth back completely bare. But their sheer pale blue cover-up does provide a touch of modesty, even as Seleste leaves it open and flowing in the sea breeze.
It’s already late in the day as they stroll along together, the sun threatening to set within a few hours. “Alright, so obviously shopping took up a bit of our time,” Soldan teases them both, knowing how they were equally particular about their clothing. “But I have to know - why did you want to come just before evening?”
“Well, I was thinking about when I would be the happiest to go wading, and I decided that it would be at night.” Seleste explains as they wander a bit closer to the water, just enough for the waves to crest over their flip-flops and the water to roll between their toes.
Rolling the idea over a few times, he then works out, “Ah, I see where you’re going with it. Okay, I suppose we can wait until then to go wading. Shall we explore until then?”
“Yes, let’s,” they agree as [[they continue to lead him down the shore.->Beach3]] Arriving at the Aquarium, they’re greeted with several different paths radiating out from the entrance, inviting them to explore a whole variety of sea creatures - most native to Theobroma, but just as many having been imported from other parts of the Alliance. A very casual kind of date, reflected with Seleste’s chosen outfit for the day - An flowing ombre tunic top that starts snow white at the top and gradually fades down into a deep ocean blue, paired with tight black leggings and lightweight spring sandals. The only truly fancy touch is their loose updo, with most of their long hair swept up into a swirling bun, but a few strands allowed to hang loose and frame their face.
Beside them, Soldan has a similarly relaxed outfit - a tailored jacket over a V-neck shirt along with slim pants and fashionable boots, all in stylish black. He’s just about to inquire where they should go first, when he suddenly comes to a stop.
“Silverheart?” They ask, giving his hand a quick squeeze.
Snapping back, he glances aside and then requests, “Can you excuse me for just a moment, Starshine? There’s a message and I need to take it. I promise I’ll be right back though.”
“Alright,” they allow, albeit with a pout. “I’ll be at the touch tank waiting for you then.”
With that, he heads back towards the entrance while Seleste goes to the central touch tank. A variety of visitors are gathered around the edges, each waiting their turn to reach in. From where they stand, they can pick out little hints of the rays lazily floating about. Politely. they wait their turn as several children all reach inside and pull their hands out with little squeals as a ray sails by.
Finally up to the tank edge, Seleste carefully draws up their sleeve before reaching inside. A friendly ray drifts close enough to let their fingers run from head to tail, slick and smooth to the touch. Searching about, they also stroke over the curious arm of a seastar, chuckling as it tries to follow after their fingers. Pulling their hand out, they accept a sanitizing cloth from a keeper before moving back and away from the tank.
And it happens to line up perfectly with Soldan’s return and he’s sure to offer a grateful, “Thanks for waiting.”
“Ah, you have to pay the ‘I am very sorry that I interrupted our date to go handle work’ tax first,” they assert, arms crossed and waiting patiently for him to follow-through.
Which he obediently does, giving them a light kiss before encouraging a renewed handhold. “There, all paid up. Now, where to?”
Looking around the different areas, Seleste contemplates aloud, “Let’s see, we have Great Rivers, Tranquil Lakes, and Deep Seas - go in that order then?”
“Sounds perfect, let’s go,” he agrees and [[welcomes them to lead the way.->Aquarium3]]<img 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'/>It’s a mostly quiet evening alone, Seleste taking a bit of time to do a few sketches of their balcony flower garden, even one of their view of the city. (They’re only partially pleased with that one.) It’s deep in the night when Soldan finally returns home, and they’re quick to welcome him back with warm embraces and sweet kisses. “There you are,” they greet with a smile.
“Mmm, here I am. Back where I want to be,” he concurs, giving one extra squeeze before leading them to the couch for a proper cuddle.
“Tell me about your day?” Seleste gently prompts, though quite content to drop the subject if requested.
With a sidelong glance, he summarizes succinctly, “Long.” But then decides to elaborate, “Mostly a lot of checking and double checking, being absolutely certain that everything is safe and secure - both with the physical building and its internal Aether network. Especially with all the bits of political discussion happening.”
“About Aechmea’s induction into the Alliance? Or something else?” They curiously prod.
“A bit of both? A bit of the terms of the induction, some acknowledgement of Aechmea’s part in taking in the human Triad refugees along with the Accord doing the same for the android ones, and the protections both those groups should be afforded. Everything we know is happening out on the border but where the ripples don’t quite reach us here in the capital,” Soldan explains, not really going into detail, but sketching out enough of the picture for Seleste to follow along.
“I see,” they comment, turning over the new information carefully. “Hopefully, it works out for everyone - I know no one wants to see renewed aggression from the Triad.”
Nodding in solidarity, he then moves past the political discussion to instead focus on his spouse. “How about you, though? I haven’t seen you all day - what do you want to do before we settle down to charge?”
[[> “Can we unwind together?”->Day1-End-Unwind1]]
[[> “Can we be intimate?”->Day1-End-Intimate1]]
[[> “Actually, I’m really tired after a long day.”->Day1-End-Tired1]]Literally and metaphorically letting their hair down, Seleste smiles as they inquire, “Can we unwind together?”
With a warm embrace, he is more than happy to entertain that request. “Of course, Starshine. What did you have in mind? TV, movie, a game?”
They perk up on that last suggestion, immediately nodding at the idea. “You know, we haven’t tested out playing any games on the panels. Want to see how well Vibrato Bravado works?”
Well, if Seleste is going to suggest his favorite game, how could Soldan say no? “Versus or Co-Op?” He asks with a grin, already shifting off the couch and towards the panels. It only takes a moment to bring up their shared account, the walls and floor illuminating with holograms to create the playing field.
“Co-Op,” they answer, already moving into the player 2 position. “It’s much more fun when we’re working together for those perfect full combos, right?”
“True, but sometimes a bit of competition is thrilling,” Soldan points out while flicking through the song list. “Anything in particular you feel like playing?”
“Star Soul Trance,” they settle on while tossing their jacket back onto the couch.
As Soldan follows suit, he teases, “Really? But we’ve already got a perfect score.”
“But it’s my favorite!” Seleste counters, not willing to back down. “Plus, it’ll be a good test - Make sure that everything is working properly.”
Not that he was truly going to deny them their fun, Soldan brings it up and taps the start button before sliding into place beside them. “I set it up just as you like - you take the melody and I’ll take the rhythm.”
“Let’s dance then,” they declare just as [[the song swells to life around them.->Day1-End-Unwind2]]“Can we be intimate?” Seleste asks in a hush, their excitement at the prospect just barely contained. After a long day, the promise of time spent achingly close together always captured their interest.
Soldan’s first reaction is a raised eyebrow but it quickly shifts into a heated smolder. “Absolutely, Starshine,” he purrs, already leading them back into the bedroom. With a few invitational kisses, he encourages, “Let’s get comfortable, shall we? We don’t want to rumple your new uniform after all.”
Soon enough, they’re both undressed and curled close on the bed, the warm currents of wireless charging thrumming beneath them. Shaking their hair loose and setting the tie aside, Seleste takes out the connection cable before turning their attention back to their spouse. “May I?” They ask so sweetly as they roll the plug between their fingers.
Wordlessly, Soldan agrees as he bows his head, revealing the access port at the base of his skull. The plug slides in with a soft click to secure the connection. In turn, Seleste guides their hair out of the way as they hand the cable over. Only right to give their spouse the honors of completing the connection with another quiet click.
Sparing one last kiss as they twine together, their eyes flutter shut as they [[exchange one world for another->Day1-End-Intimate2]] With a soft sigh, they lean into Soldan as they start slowly working their hair free. “Actually, I’m really tired after a long day. It ended up being more than I expected,” Seleste murmurs, their professional veil finally lifting once alone with their spouse.
“You made it through though,” Soldan counters, not wishing to diminish their issues, merely pointing out that they had overcome every challenge the day had contained. “And you handled it all on your own - not like when you were just one of a team at the hospital.”
The mention of their old position does little to alleviate their worries. Instead, it only derges up thoughts long since buried in darker recesses of their Core. “I suppose, in that way, it’s easier. And the problems we deal with - those are easier too. No one is going to die on our watch at least. So in that way, yes, it was harder at the hospital," Seleste quietly confesses, hiding beneath the curtain of their undone hair. "The androids and, oh, the //humans// there were actually //suffering//."
They continue curling inward as their voice lowers further, "There was always this lingering fear that I would fail them. That because I wasn't Selected - wasn't deemed special like almost everyone else working there - that I could never do enough to really make a difference. And even here - where the stakes are so much lower and the chance to fail much smaller - I can’t escape that fear that I’m still not //worthy.//"
Before they go further, Soldan holds them close and runs a soothing hand over their back. "Listen to me, Starshine - you've absolutely made a difference in the world. You did that today, with everyone you helped. And you make my world better with every moment we share." Softly placing his other hand over their chest, he settles it over the light thrumming of their Core Processor as he continues, "I //know// you. I've seen the beautiful Core inside you, made up of everything that for centuries humans said couldn't exist in a being made of Code - compassion, empathy, altruism, and above all else, love."
He tilts Seleste’s head upward for a featherlight kiss upon their forehead. "Everything that saved me when I thought I had failed."
Giving them both a momentary pause, he then continues, “So, before you keep heading down this road, I want you to come with me.” They can hear the whir of his servos all starting up at once, their only hint before Soldan simply picks them up bridal-style. Seleste quickly adjusts though, holding tight and steady as they’re whisked off to the bedroom.
Once laid upon the bed, Soldan takes his time carefully undressing them, making sure to have everything properly put away before doing the same with his own uniform. He picks up their connection cable before settling down in bed and always - //always// - asks first, “Are you okay with this? I think it might be a bit easier for us to communicate Core to Core.”
“Please,” Seleste allows, quietly savoring being so completely pampered by their spouse. Dipping their head and sweeping aside their hair to give Soldan access to their port, the cable slides in with a soft click.
Once he completes the connection on his end, he draws Seleste in to keep them safe and protected as they [[drift off together->Day1-End-Tired2]]
The notes flutter around them, shifting colors in time with the music to glow their brightest just as they need to be touched. Half of the game was keeping track of exactly //where// you needed to be along with the //when// of the timing. And given how the playing field was an entire room, it often became a carefully coordinated dance between players to manage it.
Which really was the actual //fun// of it all.
Seleste’s chosen song starts out a bit slow, just the light drip-drop of piano keys, giving them both time to orient themselves as to where the next notes would arrive - there is a method underneath it all, a complex algorithm to be learned with practice.
An absolute requirement as the music swells into a torrent of synthesizers and electric violins and the notes begin to fly faster and faster. It leads to the two of them darting and twirling around each other as their sections keep intersecting over the course of the song. Sometimes it is Soldan dipping them down to reach the next few measures. Other times, Seleste spins around their spouse as he follows along a tricky trill.
But it ends as all their favorite songs do, the notes constricting tighter and tighter until they’re basically playing while wrapped in each other’s arms. Moving together as one as the song rushes and builds to the final cyclonic climax before dropping off back into a sweet, soft piano afterglow. One that for them always finishes off with a kiss.
“Did we get the perfect score?” Soldan murmurs, suddenly finding himself much more interested in a few more kisses than the actual number.
Chuckling between them, Seleste can’t help but tease, “Does it really matter?”
His only answer is another string of kisses, this one leading them both towards the bedroom.
[[And then, the next morning…->Day2-Intro]]Coming back to their shared bubble of the Aether is - from what they understand of organic life - as easy as breathing. With just a thought, they center themself within the shifting starscape of their sanctuary. The edges expand endlessly out into the distance, far beyond the limits sight alone could cover. Yet, the whole of their vision is full of fledgling stars, each small enough to fit within the palm of their hand.
Well, that would be the case if they were bound by the rules and logic of their more-human form. No such boundaries exist here, allowing Seleste’s Core to billow outwards in layers of light and lacy tendrils, all ringed around a form as ever shifting and colorful as the brightest nebulae.
“There you are.” It’s not quite a voice that whispers beside them, but no other term comes close to capturing the mix of sound and meaning alike that fills the void between them. Soldan’s Core is its own melding of contradictions, both as solid as the mountains and as liquid smooth as the sea as he circles around them in shimmering metallic waves.
When he speaks again, it’s not the word “Seleste” or the endearment of “Starshine” but something deeper and more profound - their True Name. A unique piece of Data that belongs to them alone. One of sonified stars and celestial hymnals, a secret sonata only the two of them know. It rings strong and pure in their Core, the sheer joy of it flooding every last piece of Code within them.
They answer back with Soldan’s own Name, spoken with nothing but the truest reverence. It is one of equations and calculations, measurements made in millions of kilometers and timelines of billions of years. It moves through his Core with the most delightful frisson, leaving him shimmering with bliss.
With the steady tug of his internal gravity, he draws Seleste closer. “Come here,” he beckons, already shifting and swirling around them. Oh so willingly, they sink slowly into the welcoming embrace of his Core, settling into it with all the comfort of a carefully cocooned caterpillar. Nowhere else in the whole of existence do they feel so perfectly safe, utterly disconnected from anything beyond this crystalized intersection of time and space.
The boundaries between them start to fizzle and fade, Seleste whispering into the dark, “I want to be completely //Merged// with you. For just a little while, let me simply //exist// with you.” Their voice grows drowsier with each syllable, their Core completely malleable within their spouse’s embrace.
“Of course, of course,” he promises, his own Core twining and tangling with their own, the edges between them fuzzy and blurred at best. “As long as you want,” Soldan assures as they both drift together amid the sea of stars, the background hum of the universe serving as their familiar lullabye.
[[And then, the next morning…->Day2-Intro]]Seleste finds themself adrift in the boundless, starry ocean that sleeps in the center of their shared Aether bubble. The slow bobbing rhythm calms them with each soothing lap, their Core spreading out over the surface and dying it in shimmering gradients of color and twinkling motes of light. Slightly more muted shades than normal though, reflecting some of their lingering apprehension and stress.
“There’s my Starshine,” the words reverberate around them, not quite sound but something else entirely. It’s still Soldan’s voice in its own way - but even this far removed from baseline reality, they would recognize it anywhere. Scooping them from the sea in a current of ever shifting metallic waves, he draws them in close until their edges start to gently meld together.
Seleste’s colors shift and deepen in their own version of a blush, the trailing, glowing tendrils of their nebula drifting around their spouse’s gleaming silver Core. “This is what I meant,” he murmurs, each syllable sparking a different star within them. “How singularly //beautiful// you are, awash in kindness and compassion. How could I ever see the Whole of you and not fall in love all over again?”
Their response is neither argument nor assent, not a tease or a taunt. Instead, they reverently speak his Name - his //True Name// - into the Aether. That one piece of unique Data that belongs to Soldan alone and that captures his essence a way words never could. A Name calculated over millions of kilometers and along on a timeline of billions of years and spoken with an affection just as everlasting.
He //sings// Seleste’s Name in kind. A singular celestial hymnal, a sweeping soundscape of sonifed stars and secret sonatas. The joy of it alights them from within, until they overflow with internal starlight.
He praises with both one word and a thousand words all at once - as many variations on ‘beautiful’ as possible, spoken in all the languages of the Accord and the Alliance. “Rest with me,” Soldan adds - perhaps a moment, perhaps a lifetime later.
It’s the only invitation Seleste needs, already curling up within the pull of his gravity as the endless sea rocks them both into a deep, sweet slumber.
[[And then, the next morning…->Day2-Intro]](if: $LeenaC1 is "Turn")[So Seleste simply reached forward to tap the power button. With a staticy flicker, the tablet turns on and reveals a spider web of inky black dead pixels, interwoven with erratic lines of glitches. “Oh,” they murmur, the problem self-evident.
“Yeah,” she agrees, hanging her head over the table. “Look, it’s not even my tablet. It’s actually my girlfriend’s and I promised her I would get it fixed ASAP as an apology for breaking it. So please, you’ve gotta fix this for me.”
“Of course,” they assure, recognizing her concern immediately. “It shouldn’t take too long, I promise.”](else:)[Drawing out its retractable cord, Seleste connects their tablet to Leena’s to explore further. The relevant information comes up, identifying it as belonging to, “Jenelle Meyer, 802 Victoria Blvd Apt 12B, Althaea, Terrae Palma.” Glancing over, they start carefully, “Is this your tablet?”
“No,” Leena confirms in a low groan. “It’s my girlfriend’s. But I’m the one who broke the screen and I promised I would take it in to be repaired as an apology. So please, can you fix this for me?”
“Of course,” Seleste assures, not wanting her to worry too much. “It should be a quick fix, all things considered.”]
Setting the broken tablet aside, they spread a mat out over the surface and then collect the tools required. “Luckily, this is a fairly common model, so we have some replacement screens on hand for just these fixes. It’s just a matter of working our way through the process.”
“Thank goodness,” she sighs, spirits slightly lifted by that fact. “Jenelle needs it back for class tomorrow so you’re a real lifesaver.”
(link: "> “What does she study?”")[(set: $LeenaC2 to "Study")(goto: "Leena3")]
(link: "> “Are you both students?”")[(set: $LeenaC2 to "Students")(goto: "Leena3")](if: $LeenaC2 is "Study")[“What does she study?” Seleste asks quietly, hoping that a bit of small talk might calm her down.
“Jenelle? Oh, she’s a fashion major,” she answers, watching closely as they begin to disassemble the tablet. As wires and screws move into neat piles, she keeps close watch over the rhythm and motion of their hands. “It’s interesting - the way you fix things is like how she sews. Methodical but kinda graceful too.”
“What do her designs look like?” They ask, aiming to keep the conversation going.
That seems to require a bit of thought, Lenna mulling over how to classify them. “Very cozy. Lots of pastels and soft drapes. She also makes the //best// pajamas.”
With a soft smile, they comment, “Both Jenelle and her designs sound lovely.”
Turning a bit introspective, she then confesses, “Yah, I think so too.”](else:)[“Are you both students?” They ask as they get to work, hoping that some small talk will keep her calm.
Nodding, Leena explains, “Oh yah, we’re both attending Althaea university. Both in design, just different specializations - Jenelle is studying fashion and I’m working on graphic design.”
“Interesting,” they comment as they smoothly set about disassembling the tablet. All the while, sorting everything into neat piles, able to easily identify even the smallest differences in the various screws and wires.
“It’s satisfying in a lot of ways - making everything line up all nice and even. To make something beautiful with enough time and effort. It’s good to have one thing in my life that makes sense,” she muses, still watching their highly organized workspace.
“I hope the rest starts to make more sense then,” they attempt to soothe, able to sense that something was amiss even if they didn’t want to pry.]
“With Jenelle,” Leena continues after a moment, “she’s just been so supportive and understanding as I work things out for myself.” With another little worrying motion along her lip, she carefully asks, “Actually, can I ask you about something? You can say no if you want.”
[[> Let her ask the question->Leena4-Ask]]
[[> Deny the question->Leena4-Deny]](Set: $LeenaC3 to "Ask")
“If you think it's something I might be able to help with, then yes, you can ask me a question,” Seleste allows, wondering exactly what she might ask.
Leena worries at the hem of her tank top for a moment before finally putting it into words, “I was really excited when the receptionist referred to you with the Mx. title and used they/them pronouns. You see, I’m kinda feeling things out, gender-wise, and I was curious about how you came to the conclusions you did.”
Catching herself a moment later, she adds, “I mean, you don’t have to answer if you don’t want to - I know this is a super personal question. But… you seem like a good person to ask.”
“I don’t mind,” Seleste promises even as they continue working. “It’s more that even if we end up at similar conclusions as humans, an AI’s process of coming to understand our personal notions of gender are a bit different. As Fledglings, we’re socialized without concept of an assigned gender - essentially all treated as agender. As we develop, we’re encouraged to explore different identities until we settle on our own Truth and then decide on our Names.”
“I see,” Leena considers for a moment before attempting to explain in more detail. “I’ve started using Mx. for myself because I appreciate that it’s gender neutral. While she/her pronouns are familiar, I'm thinking that they/them might be a step in the right direction. And though I like it when Jenelle calls me ‘Lee’ or says that I’m handsome, I’m not sure if HRT or binding are right for me.”
They’re reconnecting wires as they mull over what was said, following along with the threads of thought. “Well, my advice for right now would be to follow those bits of euphoria, see where they lead you. The most important thing is to find ways to be comfortable in your own skin.”
Nodding, Leena then offers, “Thank you for the advice. But… well, if it’s not too much more, can I ask how you ID? I’ve been talking to some of the other queer students on campus who identify as different genders just to help better my understanding.”
“Oh, I consider myself to be androgyne. Androgyny is the key competent of my presentation and identity,” Seleste calmly explains as they begin to reassemble the tablet’s casing. “And it’s where my euphoria led me.”
She makes a few notes on her phone, tapping away to get it all written down. “Thank you for sharing all that with me. I really do appreciate it.”
“Of course, I’m happy to help,” they promise while carefully finishing off the last of the screws. “Alright, we should be good to test. Do you want me to run it or would you like to?”
(link: "> Seleste Tests")[(set: $LeenaC4 to "Seleste")(goto: "Leena5")]
(link: "> Leena Tests ")[(set: $LeenaC4 to "Leena")(goto: "Leena5")](Set: $LeenaC3 to "Deny")
“I’m not sure if I’m the best person for you to ask. It sounds like this is something deeply personal to you,” Seleste explains, trying their best to let her down gently.
With a long sigh, Leena ends up acquiscening. Looking down at her entwined hands, she confesses, “No, you’re right. I think I really just want someone - anyone but me - to give me the answers. Help me define the lines so I can color them in more easily.”
Finally at work on installing the new screen, they contemplate for a moment before offering, “While it’s helpful to look for signposts, most things in life require us to make the actual journey ourselves.”
“Very philosophical of you,” she points out. “But I suppose AI’s have your own ways of conceptualizing and understanding things that are different from humans.”
“We’re probably more similar than you think,” Seleste notes as they continue reconnecting various wires to the new screen. “And there are great philosophers on both sides. I’ve read both AI philosopher, Sarsnet, and human pundit, Jyothi Lehr, for example. Both of them talk about the concept of universal personhood and the ways in which we define sentience and souls alike, but even with different frameworks and points of reference, both come to fairly similar conclusions.”
With a nod, Leena takes out her phone and starts making a few notes. “Maybe once the semester winds down I’ll see if I can make some time to read up.” And then with a smile, she adds, “Thank you for your help. I appreciate any bit of it I can get after all.”
“Of course, I’m happy to help,” they promise while carefully finishing off the last of the screws. “Alright, we should be good to test. Do you want me to run it or would you like to?”
(link: "> Seleste Tests")[(set: $LeenaC4 to "Seleste")(goto: "Leena5")]
(link: "> Leena Tests ")[(set: $LeenaC4 to "Leena")(goto: "Leena5")](if: $LeenaC4 is "Seleste")[“You can test it, I’m still a bit cautious after having broke it,” Leena confesses with a nervous expression.
With her blessing, in a manner of speaking, Seleste needs only a few light touches to bring the tablet back to life. As it flickers on, the lock screen shows a playful shot of Leena and someone they assume to be Jenelle - with multi-colored hair in halo-like afro and her warm, dark skin speckled with lighter patches - both smiling while holding ice cream cones piled high with scoops. “Aw, you two look so sweet.”
She blushes a bit at the compliment, but alongside it is a sigh of relief. “I’m just so glad it’s fixed. Now she’ll be able to finish up her croquis for her assignment.”
Turning it back off, they finally hand it off to her.](else:)[“I’m going to be brave and test it,” Leena states, clearly already steeling herself.
Not that she really needs to as it only takes a gentle touch to turn the tablet on. As it flickers back to life, the lock screen shows a playful shot of Leena and someone they assume to be Jenelle - with multi-colored hair in halo-like afro and her warm, dark skin speckled with lighter patches - both smiling while holding ice cream cones piled high with scoops. “Aw, you two look so sweet,” Seleste comments from beside her.
She blushes a bit at the compliment, but alongside it is a sigh of relief. “I’m just so glad it’s fixed. Now she’ll be able to finish up her croquis for her assignment.”
As Leena turns it back off, Seleste instructs her,] “Now, let us know if anything else happens. We should have all your information on file now so if there are any questions or concerns, either you or Jenelle can come in and we’ll handle it.”
As she slips the tablet back into its case, Leena then gives a little bow. “Thanks again for everything. Not just the tablet, but also everything else. You’ve given me a lot to think about.”
Looking her over and seeing the change of her expression and body language in only the time of a short tablet fix, Seleste beams back, “Of course, happy to help.”
With that, she gives one last wave before heading out. It allows Seleste to have a bit of time to make preparations (if: $Slot1 is "Leena")[(link-goto: "for their next appointment." , "$Slot2")](else-if: $Slot6 is "Leena")[(link-goto: "for their next appointment." , "$Slot7")](else-if: $Slot7 is "Leena")[(link-goto: "for their next appointment." , "$Slot8")](else:)[(link-goto: "before their break." , "Day2-Intermission")]Even if it might not be feasible, they still have to //attempt// checking in on Soldan. They know it's highly likely that he's occupied with the Summit but if there is a chance, then they are compelled to take it.
Seleste squirrels themself away in the lounge garden, finding a bit of solace in surrounding themself with trees and flowers. Tucking into a corner, they carefully craft a message all while knowing full well that he might not answer.
|text>[［I hope you're well, Silverheart. Please know that I'm thinking about you - that I want you to stay safe even when I know the stress you're under. Take care until I see you tonight and please don't push yourself. All my love - Your Starshine. ］]
It is certainly more sentimental than their normal messages, but the morning had been weighing hard on Seleste. Even as they tamped those feelings down in order to remain professional, they still could not entirely set them aside.
Much to their surprise, a notification flashes to life in their private systems and instantly sets their Core aflutter.
|text>[［I can tell from your writing just how anxious you are and how hard you're trying to hide it. I can promise that my knee is holding up just fine - only some lingering stiffness. But also know that I'm thinking of you too. About how you already kept me safe today and how you'll help so many others just by being your sweet, wonderful self. I know I can't ask you to completely stop worrying, but at the very least, try to keep focusing on all the good that you're doing until I see you tonight. With all my love and then some - Your Silverheart. ］]
With a little smile, they carefully save the message into their private archive and resolve to take his advice. To focus on their last two appointments and set as many as their worries aside as possible until they can see him again. Resolved in their path forward, (link-goto: "Seleste returns to work." , "$Slot9")They wander into the breakroom, hoping that a bit of distance might help. When they arrive, only Annette is there, currently making notes on her tablet. Glancing up, she then gives them a wave over. “Seleste, how are you doing?”
Taking a seat, they answer, “Fair enough, all things considered.”
“All your patients from this morning were quite pleased, so you’re certainly doing well there,” she attempts to encourage. When they only nod, Annette attempts to get a better understanding. “You mentioned that your spouse’s issue was due to an old injury,” she begins, carefully feeling out the situation even as her curiosity is rising to the surface. “May I ask what happened to cause it?”
Lips pressed into a firm line, Seleste contemplates their response for a moment.
[[> “There was an accident…”->Day2-Int-Accident]]
[[> “I’d rather not talk about it.”->Day2-Int-NotTalk]]“There was an accident,” they begin quietly, working out how best to explain as they speak. “At the secondary Spaceport in Eulalia. I only know what happened from the official records because Soldan doesn’t like to talk about it.”
They commit to giving the official explanation, even if a few shakes of emotion seep into their voice, “A cargo tram malfunctioned and went off course at a dangerous speed. Soldan was there, acting as a guide and guard for Accord Representative Lucullan. By the time he saw the tram barreling towards, there was only a split second to react and he protected the Representative by pushing them out of the way. But it cost him part of his leg when the tram hit him instead.”
“So when you said he had a problem with an old injury this morning…” Annette murmurs, quickly assembling the puzzle.
“Yes, it was with his leg. A frayed wire close to the connection point between his original chassis and the new limb,” comes the quick confirmation, Seleste not wishing to go into deeper detail. “We got it fixed but… I can’t help but worry about him. I tried to convince him to stay home, but he refused with the Summit today.”
“Oh, quite understandable. But it sounds like you took good care of him and that’s truly the most important thing,” she promises with a light touch to their shoulder. “All you can do now is have faith in him.”
Nodding, Seleste takes solace from her assurance. “I always do,” they reply with a soft smile.
“And I’m sure he always has faith in you,” she comments with one last gentle smile. “I’ve got to head back to my duties, but I hope your break is relaxing and the rest of your day goes smoothly.”
As she heads back to work, Seleste remains in the break room just a while longer, taking the time to gather themselves before (link-goto: "heading back to their office." , "$Slot9")“I’d rather not talk about it,” they confess, turning their gaze towards the window. The lingering memories of the morning still hang heavy on them. Yes, it was something they could handle as part of their job, but as part of their home life…
The answer alone is enough to give her pause, Annette taken back by how Seleste - normally so warm and open - remains distant. “Apologies, I didn’t mean to upset you,” she offers gently, along with a warm hand on their shoulder. “It’s always difficult to deal with running diagnostics on a loved one. I’ve done the same with my wife - she has an older chassis so her joints tend to have issues.”
“Thank you,” Seleste offers in kind, their spirit bolstered a bit by the shared experience. “It’s hard with Soldan because… I met him after that injury, while he was recovering in the Accord-Affiliated Hospital in Eulalia. Remembering how he was then - so closed off and hurt - I just never want him to experience that pain again.”
Considering for a moment, Anette then points out, “To me, the key phrase there is ‘how he //was// then’ - From what I can tell, that’s not how he is //now//, and that is probably because of you, isn’t it?”
“I’d like to think so,” they quietly confess. “When we first met, it felt like there was such a gulf between us - I knew he was a Guardian from Axis Cosmoi, not only Selected but with a long pedigree. And that someone like me could not only help him heal but that we could become so much more… I never expected that.”
“But it sounds like it has been good for you both. And I do hope that he remains in good health,” she comments with one last gentle smile. “I’ve got to head back to my duties, but I hope your break is relaxing and the rest of your day goes smoothly.”
As she heads back to work, Seleste remains in the break room just a while longer, taking the time to gather themselves before (link-goto: "heading back to their office." , "$Slot9")Just as planned, they wait until after the sun completely sets, even as they enjoyed walking along with the fiery waves lapping at their feet. But once the moons rise and the stars come out, once just about everyone else has abandoned the water, Seleste then eagerly wades out with Soldan close behind. The temperature doesn’t bother them in the least, not when they can finally draw their hand out over the reflected starlight dancing on the water’s surface. Twirling in the waves, they imagine their Core spiraling out across the sea and sky alike. But something is missing. Looking back to Soldan, they confess, “I wish I could float.”
“Oh?” He prompts while sliding up beside them. While he has an inkling of where their thoughts are headed, Soldan would rather hear it directly.
“I’m always floating in the Aether - whether it’s in the sea or the sky. This is so close to the setting but without the floating sensation it feels… incomplete.” They explain while tracing over the ripples of moonlight lapping around them. It’s so achingly close and yet that last bit of distance feels so insurmountable.
He needs only a moment of consideration before setting his plan in motion. “Come here,” Soldan welcomes, waiting just long enough for his spouse's arms to twine about his shoulders before shifting to pick them up. “Hold on, okay?”
Even if it takes a bit of extra care and coordination, it’s not too far to wade out until the water is cresting at his chest level, leaving Seleste submerged up to their shoulders. “Is this enough, Starshine?” he murmurs while rocking along with the waves.
Seleste remains speechless for a long moment, lost in the confluence of all the little details. Held weightless within the water. Encompassed by the starry sky that inspired their Name. Their spouse supporting them in ways great and small. All of it, all at once, overflowing their Core from within, and spilling outwards in a waterfall of kisses.
With infinite fondness in their voice and eyes, Seleste assures, “It’s //everything//, Silverheart.”
(align: "=><=")[###The End]
(align: "=><=")[[Credits]](align: "=><=")(display: "logo")
**Originally Created as Part of the Edge Case Collectiive <a href="https://itch.io/jam/glitches-are-queer"; target="_blank">"Glitches Are Queer Game Jam" held in 2020 and Hosted on Itch.io</a>
Written and Coded by: SchalaKitty
Logo by: SchalaKitty
Special Thanks for Additional Input, Feedback, and Support: WickedOrin
Gloria's Song: Excerpt from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFufOGZBwFM"; target="_blank">"The Light-Ship" by Julia Ecklar</a>
Gloria's Poem: Excerpt from <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HxTwJhO3Bt8"; target="_blank">"Sentries" by Julia Ecklar and Joey Shoji</a>
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If you enjoyed this story, feel free to follow me on <a href="https://twitter.com/SchalaKitty"; target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/schalakitty"; target="_blank">Twitch.</a>
This story is freely available and hosted on my <a href="https://schalakitty.itch.io/"; target="_blank">Itch.io page.</a>
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If you liked this story enough that you think it is worth paying for, I ask that you donate the amount you feel it is worth to charity. Here are some of my favorite charities to help get you started -
<a href="https://www.takethis.org/"; target="_blank">Take This</a> - Raising mental health awareness and providing education and outreach on mental health issues within the gaming community.
<a href="http://childsplaycharity.org/"; target="_blank">Child's Play Charity</a> - Providing games, toys, tech, books, art supplies, and comfort items to children's hospitals and domestic abuse shelters.
<a href="https://www.thetrevorproject.org/"; target="_blank">The Trevor Project</a> - Offering crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer & questioning youth.
Other great options include your local food bank or bail fund.
----
Finally, thank you for letting me share my story with you.
Keep your Truth in your Heart and may its Light lead you onward.**(if: $OmarC1 is "Done")[“So what exactly needs to be done?” Seleste inquires while bringing out a tool kit. As far as they can tell, the device looks quite pristine despite its age.
“Unfortunately, it can’t interface with any of our modified power supplies. More than likely, we’ll need to hook in a completely new power system since the old LiPo battery is probably long since worn out,” Omar answers easily, already moving to flip it over and reveal the case screws. “Normally, we’d mod it ourselves but the workshop is currently occupied with other, more pressing projects. And, well, there’s one other reason why we brought it here.”
Seleste is already identifying the different screws and matching tools as they prompt, “Oh?”](else:)[“May I examine it?” Seleste inquires, wishing to understand the device.
“Certainly,” he allows, handing it over to them.
For a moment, they’re a bit entranced by the concept of physical buttons, giving them a light tap and able to both feel and hear the haptic feedback from them. Then a slow roll over the thumbsticks, just wiggling them a little. Even the knob makes a satisfying click as they turn it. “It seems to be in working order other than…”
“Yes, other than the power supply. We’re pretty sure that the internal LiPo battery is long since worn out so we’ll need to replace the entire power system,” Omar clarifies, giving a light tap to the back of the device. “Normally, we’d mod it ourselves but the workshop is currently occupied with other, more pressing projects. And, well, there’s one other reason why we brought it here.”
Flipping the device over in their grasp, Seleste is already identifying the different screws as they prompt, “Oh?”]
“It’s going to require some delicate soldering work. And while I used to be able to handle that on my own, I know recently my hands are starting to get shakier. So I’m happy to bring it to a professional to handle,” Omar clarifies quietly as he pulls a few more boxes from his bag. “I have everything you’ll need, it’s just the execution I need assistance with.”
“Certainly,” Seleste assures as they begin to set up their work surface. Eager to dive in, they start with removing the back panel and exposing the internals. “Looks like we have fairly easy access to the battery for replacement,” they murmur while studying the structure.
“Here, no need to go by visuals alone - I have a schematic for you,” Omar quickly pulls up on his own tablet.
Rather than simply look at it, they take the liberty to temporarily connect to the device and simply import it into their system. From there, they can study it in detail, quickly learning everything they need in order to fix it. “Okay, should be fairly doable. Let’s start with the teardown.”
As they settle into the work, rather than simply silence, Seleste considers a bit of small talk.
(link: "> “What type of exhibit are you putting together?”")[(set: $OmarC2 to "Exhibit")(goto: "Omar3")]
(link: "> “How did you find this device?”")[(set: $OmarC2 to "Device")(goto: "Omar3")](if: $OmarC2 is "Exhibit")[“What type of exhibit are you putting together?” They ask casually as they start with disconnecting the battery and preparing to remove it.
Settling into his seat beside them, Omar is more than happy to slide into a lecturing mood, “Oh, it’s a timeline of different forms of entertainment. Games are my area of expertise so I’ve taken up the main mantle of organizing that section of the exhibit. Our oldest one is a few hundred years pre-Sol Federation, something close to that Rosetta but even smaller and more compact.”
“Now did you get that one to work?” Seleste inquires while moving through the steps of working free different screws and wires.
“We did actually - that was a real surprise!” He eagerly replies. “Turns out, so long as you could make compatible batteries, it willingly accepted the charges. I’ve never seen a room of researchers more excited over watching a tiny 240 by 160 pixel screen light up before.”
Those numbers bring Seleste to a halt, trying to convert that to something more meaningful. “How… how tiny was this device?”
“The screen was roughly 4 by 6 centimeters,” he gives a vague impression with his fingers, trying to help the android better visualize.
“And only that many pixels? How lo-fi…” They murmur, now eager to see exactly how the whole system works.
With a low huff, Omar admits, “We have written records of even smaller devices existing, but we’ve yet to find any that survived.” Glancing out towards the distance, his gaze extending back well over a thousand years, he quietly laments, “Maybe someday, somewhere we’ll find our legendary treasure - //A Tiger Electronics Handheld.//”](else:)[“How did you find this device?” They ask casually as they start with disconnecting the battery and preparing to remove it.
Leaning back into his chair, Omar seems to consider exactly how much information to give. “It’s a pretty cutthroat market out there, truth be told. We often get into bidding wars with private collectors, especially when something this pristine ends up on the market. Actually, what we’re doing is actually making it completely unpalatable for those folks - while we’re making it so you can actually //play// with the system, we’ve also completely undercut its value by making it is so it is no longer //pristine.//”
Glancing between him and the now disassembled battery connection before them, Seleste has to point out, “But what is the point then? If you’re going to own something //designed// to be played with, why would you ever want to simply keep it packaged up and untouched? Doesn’t denying its function defeat its purpose?”
“I’ve never said that humans were particularly //logical,//” he admits rather than attempt to justify the actions of collectors obsessed with ‘Mint In Box Purity.’ “Even though we won’t be able to do any more than run a short demo on this system and keep it behind glass, at least more folks will be able to //experience// it this way.”
Considering whether or not they want to know, Seleste carefully prods, “If I may ask - and you don’t have to answer - exactly how much did you pay for this?”
“Oh //I// didn’t pay anything,” Omar notes with a chuckle. “The //Museum// though paid about enough to purchase a lovely house down by the bay for it.”
It’s enough to allow them to do some comparative math, figuring that it was at least less expensive than their chassis. Then again, having no real concept of real estate prices, this was probably just a rough estimate in all honesty.]
Now with the battery safely removed and all the various components disconnected from the power supply, Seleste considers the next course of action. “So I’ll be soldering in the new connections to your solid state battery in addition to replacing the charging port, correct?” They verify, not planning to move forward without his complete consent.
“That’s correct,” Omar affirms.
Rolling up their sleeves, Seleste gives a nod of determination as they take out their soldering iron and [[prepare for the next step.->Omar4]]“Apologies before we begin, Omar,” they offer as they get their materials all neatly organized and prepped to go. “I’m going to be switching into a slightly different setting configuration. While doing so, I won’t be very conversational.”
“Do what you gotta do,” he allows, now resettling to see exactly what they’re planning.
Sliding into their administrative menus, Seleste changes several settings to turn off a number of automated processes and instead assume all of them manually. All the little algorithms and built in functions that they normally left up to their background systems suddenly pulled up in front of them to give full control. It could be taxing and tedious and generally just a great deal more //draining// on their battery, so it’s not one of their preferred methods of approaching things.
But the level of precise control it allows is enough to justify it for this particular situation. Complex and highly meticulous motions such as soldering certainly qualified. Staring directly at the circuit board and the new components, they overlay the schematics onto their glasses and then map out all the exact locations and positions.
Once they set themself into motion, they move in quick staccato shifts that are planned down to the millimeter. And while each action is almost startingly fast-paced, none of them have the normal easy grace that Seleste usually possesses. One style temporarily shelved in order to perfectly execute with another.
But it pays off in the end as it only takes a few minutes to install the new power supply and its charging port. Once they verify that it is all complete, a momentary debate wages in them but they decide to simply remain in that state just a bit longer to move just as quickly through reassembling the case.
Only after everything is in order does Seleste finally reset everything, visibly relaxing after that period of sustained, intense focus. Blinking just a bit as they readjust, they finally explain, “Okay, everything should be in order. I try not to do that too often - going into such a deep state of concentration is tiring and from what I understand, humans are a bit… put-off by it?”
“I mean, I thought it was cool as hell,” Omar replies, laughing a bit afterward. “But I’m always impressed when watching a virtuoso at work.”
Glancing away a bit, Seleste murmurs a soft, “Thank you.” But wanting to move away from being the center of attention, they instead offer, “Shall we turn it on? I think it really should be your honor.”
Picking up the Rosetta, he promises, “Don’t have to ask me twice.” Clicking the small power button, they both focus entirely on the screen as it flickers to life for the first time in centuries. A cheerful red logo greets them before bringing up a collection of different icons and settings. “Oh, these must be the games still in memory. Well, what do you say - Want to demo one of them?”
[[> Icon of music notes->Omar5-Music]]
[[> Icon of a cat->Omar5-Cat]](Set: $OmarEnd to "Music")
“Perhaps this one?” Seleste reaches out to tap the screen - and is honestly shocked when it responds to their touch. The screen shifts to stylized illustrations of a stage populated by a variety of colorful characters, all underscored by twinkling upbeat music. “Oh, a rhythm game?”
“Most of our research covers the hardware - it’s much harder to track down any solid information on the actual software. But that’s probably a fair assumption. I know some of the languages from this time period - at least within this context. Looks like we have ‘Career Mode,’ ‘Free Play,’ even a ‘Tutorial’ - and I think ‘Costume Closet?’” Omar notes as he continues to study the screen.
Holding the Rosetta carefully, Seleste takes a moment to just explore what the various buttons do before attempting the one identified as ‘Free Play.’ It brings up a long list of songs and sliding through gives short previews - at least enough to get a general idea of what they sound like. Scrolling through, they stop when one features vocals that are clearly synthesized, sounding so different from standard android vocal chips and yet drawing their attention instantly. “I want to play this one,” they state right before they press confirm.
And despite having absolutely no idea what is being sung, it strikes at something that they can’t quite define. The actual gameplay isn’t too different from modern games - a test of precision timing which only plays to their skill set. Even as a sight read, Seleste is able to keep pace with all the patterns as they shift and flash across the screen. The song had to be specifically written for such play, kept short enough so as not to be too taxing, merely a fun challenge. And the visuals accompanying the action are all they need to know that this had to be a love song - some things are simply universal, it seems.
Once it comes to a close, the results screen - at least that’s what they assume it to be - comes up in a wave of stars and rainbows and shows their score. Looking between them and the screen, Omar comments, “I’m pretty sure you just got a perfect full clear first try.”
“Well, actually… Rhythm games are one of my spouse’s favorite genres. We play them fairly regularly,” they inform as they hand the device back over. “But anyway, that seemed like a good test. Looks like it’s all in working order now.”
“It does indeed,” he concurs while carefully shutting it all down. “I’ll get this over to the museum as soon as possible so we can have it on display for this weekend.” As he is carefully packing everything back up, Omar then adds, “And feel free to come visit any time - we have a plenty of art in addition to all of the tech so it makes for an amazing afternoon.”
Slotting that information away as a possible date idea, they reply with a smile, “We just might. Thank you so much again for the invitation.”
“Anytime, my friend,” he promises while sliding the bag back over his shoulder. “And next time we need a specialist, I’ll toss your name into the hat. Take care!”
“Take care!” They offer in kind and then wait for him to head out. Aware of exactly how much time remains in this appointment slot, Seleste spends the time hooked up to the office’s charging station to try and compensate even a bit for expending the extra energy before (if: $Slot1 is "Omar")[(link-goto: "their next appointment." , "$Slot2")](else-if: $Slot6 is "Omar")[(link-goto: "their next appointment." , "$Slot7")](else-if: $Slot7 is "Omar")[(link-goto: "their next appointment." , "$Slot8")](else:)[(link-goto: "they stop for a break." , "Day2-Intermission")](Set: $OmarEnd to "Cat")
“How about this one?” Seleste reaches out to tap the screen, and blinks when it recognizes their touch. The screen shifts to a colorful collection of cartoon cats in various states of play - some tangled up in yarn, others bounding after toy mice. “How cute… but what kind of game is it?”
“You know, I’m not sure myself. We have a decent amount of records from the hardware at the time, but finding out about individual games is a much greater challenge,” Omar admits as he studies the screen intently. “The large gold button reads Start so if you want to give it a go.”
Nodding, they navigate there via the buttons and start the game proper. The scene starts with simply a cat lazing about a bedroom and despite Seleste’s efforts, it doesn’t respond to any of the button presses. At least until one of them introduces a feathery wand that they //can// control. And that reveals the actual play of the game - directing the cat to move via attracting their attention with toys.
As they guide the cat along, they start unlocking more toys - a mouse they can toss out to lead the cat to make precise jumps, a bell ball that encourages the cat to explore along a path, and finally, a laser pointer that with careful timing lets them guide exactly where the cat goes. With just a bit of effort and puzzling through, they manage to complete the level and are rewarded with a cheerfully animated congratulations screen. “How charming,” they comment while handing the Rosetta back. “What a clever concept and hopefully it proved to be a good test. It certainly shows that it’s still in working order.”
“It does indeed,” he concurs while carefully shutting it all down. “I’ll get this over to the museum as soon as possible so we can have it on display for this weekend.” As he is carefully packing everything back up, Omar then adds, “And feel free to come visit any time - we have plenty of art in addition to all of the tech so it makes for an amazing afternoon.”
Slotting that information away as a possible date idea, they reply with a smile, “We just might. Thank you so much again for the invitation.”
“Anytime, my friend,” he promises while sliding the bag back over his shoulder. “And next time we need a specialist, I’ll toss your name into the hat. Take care!”
“Take care!” They offer in kind and then wait for him to head out. Aware of exactly how much time remains in this appointment slot, Seleste spends the time hooked up to the office’s charging station to try and compensate even a bit for expending the extra energy before (if: $Slot1 is "Omar")[(link-goto: "their next appointment." , "$Slot2")](else-if: $Slot6 is "Omar")[(link-goto: "their next appointment." , "$Slot7")](else-if: $Slot7 is "Omar")[(link-goto: "their next appointment." , "$Slot8")](else:)[(link-goto: "they stop for a break." , "Day2-Intermission")]The employee break room is tucked away at the back of the clinic. Small, but functional, there are a few tables in the center and some cozier chairs tucked into the corner along with amenities for the few Augmented humans who work there - a coffee maker, a water cooler, a refrigerator, and a small sink for cleaning up. The large windows look out into the small outdoor lounge, giving a view of the spring flowers and newly blossoming trees. As they poke their head in, they wave to one of the other clinicians on lunch break. But it is Annette who waves them over to the corner chairs with only a quick glance up from her tablet. “How has everything gone so far?” She asks as Seleste joins her.
Settling into the chair, they consider for a moment before answering, “Good overall. Different than what I expected, but I think I will grow accustomed to it.”
“Good to hear,” she praises and then as she sets down her tablet, a bit of her role purely as their supervisor fades into the background. “We haven’t really gotten the chance to talk too much given how busy your training sessions have been. I like to try to get to know our clinicians, to get a better understanding and sense of who they are. Do you mind a little chit-chat?”
“Oh no,” Seleste promises, a bit curious as to what she might ask. “I don’t mind at all.”
[[> About their Marriage->Day1-Int-Marriage]]
[[> About their Last Job->Day1-Int-Job]]
[[> About their Home Station->Day1-Int-Station]] Rather than stay inside, Seleste instead chooses to spend their break out in the Clinic’s small outdoor lounge. Though, they are mindful to wipe down the seat given their uniform. But being surrounded by flowers in bloom and trees laden with delicate newborn leaves makes any small inconveniences fade into the background. A small birdbath plays host to a visiting urocissa, it’s long tail bobbing along as it takes a drink.
They’re happy to just watch it hop about for a few minutes, until a notification catches their attention. Not one built into the screen of their glasses, but deep in their private systems. It only takes a flicker of thought to bring it to the forefront, a smile following shortly after.
|text>[［❤ - On break now, Starshine?］]
|text>[［★ - Silverheart, I wasn’t expecting to hear from you with everything going on. You managed to get a break too? ］]
|text>[［❤ - For a bit. Tell me how your day has been.］]
(if: $Slot1 is "Omar")[|text>[(link-goto: "［★ - I played an antique video game.］", "Day1-Int-Omar")]](else:)[|text>[(link-goto: "［★ - I had a nice philosophical conversation.］", "Day1-Int-Leena")]]
(if: $Slot2 is "Trine")[|text>[(link-goto: "［★ - I met a punk musician.］", "Day1-Int-Trine")]](else:)[|text>[(link-goto: "［★ - One of my appointments was a very polite but unusual android.］", "Day1-Int-Zeriah")]]
(if: $Slot3 is "Doodle, Keiko, and Miu")[|text>[(link-goto: "［★ - I fixed a dragon.］", "Day1-Int-Doodle")]](else:)[|text>[(link-goto: "［★ - I put my hand inside a trash compactor.］", "Day1-Int-Pete")]]
“I know on your paperwork, there was mention of your spouse,” Annette starts with, her eyes then darting to their ring and then to the one on her own hand. “And it is still rare to meet other married androids planetside. What are they like?”
Rubbing their thumb along the edge of the ring, Seleste tries to find a place to start. The basics then, “Well, Soldan is a Guardian of the Accord, recently promoted to work at the Consulate - that was the whole reason why we moved from Eulalia to Althaea. As for him personally, let’s see - He picked a very dashing chassis for himself. Tall, nicely built, bronze skin, black hair, intense green eyes - the whole nine yards. Personality wise, he’s very serious about his work, but in his Core, Soldan is actually very sweet and romantic.”
“Sounds like a good match for you from what I’ve seen. I know I’m the serious one between myself and my wife - But Nazia says that the Fledglings keep her young and I’m inclined to agree,” Annette explains with a little chuckle.
They perk up a bit at that comment, and ask in turn, “Oh, is she a caretaker? A teacher?”
“Oh yes, she teaches in the local Althaea AI Community Academy. So she tends to only use her chassis when I’m at home or we wish to go out. Otherwise, she’s off happily fluttering about the Aether, guiding all the little Fledglings,” she just about beams while recounting, eyes bright behind her glasses the whole while.
“Sounds wonderful,” Seleste compliments with their own smile. “I considered a number of specifications and almost went into teaching. But living planetside and helping androids as a clinician simply called to me.”
“I’m glad it did - I know your morning appointments all seemed quite happy with your work.” But before Annette could continue, her tablet chimed with a new notification. “Ah, looks like Melisma needs some assistance. Enjoy the rest of your break, Seleste.” And with that, she is back on duty and away to address the issue.
That last compliment lingers a bit with Seleste, helps push back a bit at some of the old, enduring anxieties. Gives them something to think over as they spent the last few minutes watching a few birds hopping around the feeder outside before they (link-goto: "finally head back to work." , "$Slot4")“You worked at an Accord hospital previously, correct? What was your position there?” Annette inquires, wishing to know a bit more about their experience. While she is their supervisor, she wasn’t in charge of hiring so there are still a few gaps in her knowledge.
“Ah, that was basically my residency,” Seleste explains. “Though I know AI and human education and training have a good deal of differences, I still wanted to go through that process in the traditional manner.”
“Oh, certainly,” she agreed with a nod. “I assume you also had to coordinate with the central hospital in Eulalia when dealing with Augmented humans?”
“At times. I usually helped out with other androids mostly - just more comfortable that way,” they added quietly. Even if they didn’t mind talking about it in broad strokes, anything more detailed about their past at the hospital proves to be a sensitive subject.
But it seems that Annette is satisfied as she nods along. “Still, I’m glad you came our way - I know your morning appointments all seemed quite happy with your work.” But before she could continue, her tablet chimed with a new notification. “Ah, looks like Melisma needs some assistance. Enjoy the rest of your break, Seleste.” And with that, she is back on duty and away to address the issue.
That last compliment lingers a bit with Seleste, helps push back a bit at some of the old, enduring anxieties. Gives them something to think over as they spent the last few minutes watching a few birds hopping around the feeder outside before they (link-goto: "finally head back to work." , "$Slot4")“So your paperwork mentioned that you grew up stationside at Thestias - I’ve never been out that way so tell me a little bit about it,” Annette requests, honestly curious about the station and Seleste’s past.
Even if they had lived planetside for a few years, Seleste still regards their home station fondly. “Well, since it’s part of the Warp Gate network and there are a few mining moons nearby, it tended to get a decent amount of traffic and trade. The on site manufacturing certainly made having my chassis constructed a fairly painless process.”
“Ah, I see,” she murmurs, already able to picture it. “I’m basically a local, having been Created on Elatum.” With a little gesture, Annette indicates one of Theobroma’s two moons above them.
“The one thing I do miss from when I was a Fledgling was being able to watch the feed of the Warp Gate. Seeing the space ships coming and going, the beautiful colors of not only the gate itself but the wormhole within, the bending of space that seems to stretch on infinitely…” It’s one of those moments where it is quite easy to see why they picked “Seleste” as their name.
Which Annette picks up on with a chuckle, “It’s clear that it must’ve a lovely place to grow up. But what made you want to live planetside instead?”
“Just the entire experience as a whole - not only the concept of possessing a chassis and living along the baseline but also the draw of being around plants, animals, weather - just all the joy inherent in organic life,” they make their best attempt at narrowing it all down but then come back around to a fact that is small in the grand scheme of things but absolutely crucial to them. “And that choice guided me to my spouse and I wouldn’t trade that for anything.”
With a nod, Anette agrees, “I certainly know that feeling. And I’m glad you came our way - I know your morning appointments all seemed quite happy with your work.” But before she could continue, her tablet chimed with a new notification. “Ah, looks like Melisma needs some assistance. Enjoy the rest of your break, Seleste.” And with that, she is back on duty and away to address the issue.
That last compliment lingers a bit with Seleste, helps push back a bit at some of the old, enduring anxieties. Gives them something to think over as they spent the last few minutes watching a few birds hopping around the feeder outside before they (link-goto: "finally head back to work." , "$Slot4")A tense moment passes but then she nods with a sniffle, a shaky hand sliding through Doodle's fluffy golden mane in calming rhythms.
“Right now, Doodle is hurt and needs to be taken care of so he can feel better. And it's my job to do that – just like how you go to the doctor's office, androids and robots come to the diagnostic clinic to get fixed up,” Seleste explains, their voice kept low and soft. “So for at least a little bit, I'll need to put him up on my table while I fix him. I'll give him right back once I'm done.”
While the eye contact is fleeting, her eyes flicking between the screen and Seleste's face, they wait for an upward glance before continuing, “I know that right now, I’m a stranger. But I want to be Doodle's friend and your friend too, if you'll let me. Even if it's just long enough to fix him, I think we can be friends because we both want Doodle to feel better, right?”
Keiko takes a few extra gulps of air, rolling the words over in her head. Even if it is weak, she still nods in agreement before making the effort to speak. “Promise,” she begins, voice still wavering from the tears. “Promise Doodle will be all better.”
“I promise,” Seleste replies, bowing their head and holding a hand over their chest in sign of good faith. “He'll be good as new.”
A few more shy glances pass between them as well as between Keiko and her mother before she finally begins to release her hold on the little dragon. “Okay, Mx. Doctor – please take good care of Doodle.” After she carefully passes her deactivated companion she buries her face back against her mother’s chest, quick to accept assurances, praise, and tissues alike.
The tension quickly leaves Anette’s posture, but she still asks, “Do you think you can handle this, Seleste?”
“I think so,” they assure as they look over the little robot in their grasp. “If I need anything, I’ll message you right away though.”
“Understood, good luck,” she offers before returning to her main duties. With things sorted out, Seleste finally gets to work.
(link: "> Physical Examination")[(set: $DoodleC1 to "Exam")(goto: "Doodle3")]
(link: "> Run a Diagnostic Scan")[(set: $DoodleC1 to "Scan")(goto: "Doodle3")](if: $DoodleC1 is "Exam")[It only takes a cursory look to find the main issue - Doodle’s left wing appears to be damaged given the way it unnaturally hangs limp and loose. Feeling around where the wing meets the joint reveals the deeper cause. It seems as though the ball and socket joint has broken and popped loose, given how they can feel a gap under the silicone skin. With one problem already identified, more than likely there are others just under the surface. With that in mind, they go ahead and connect it to the diagnostic tablet.
Hooking Doodle into the tablet gives them a wealth of information. Apparently, enough damage had been done to force the robot into an emergency shut down in order to keep it from accidentally damaging itself further. Beyond the wing, the scan reveals further issues in terms of balancing systems and internal gyroscopes gone awry. More than likely, those systems will need a recalibration after the main physical repair is completed.](else:)[Hooking Doodle into the tablet gives them a wealth of information. First and foremost, the main issue is a broken ball and socket joint on the left wing. Enough damage had been done to force the robot into an emergency shut down in order to keep it from accidentally damaging itself further. Beyond the wing, the scan reveals further issues in terms of balancing systems and internal gyroscopes gone awry. More than likely, those systems will need a recalibration after the main physical repair is completed.]
With their path forward assured, Seleste begins to pull out the required tools. As they do so, they glance back to Miu and Keiko, now seated together in the chair against the wall. They can overhear bits and pieces of the conversation - something about watching a fish swimming through the ocean and Miu encouraging her daughter to keep her finger on the screen the whole time and just focus on their little friend.
Even though they don’t necessarily want to interrupt, they do need a bit more information. Approaching quietly, they ask in a soft whisper, “Mrs. Yoshida, can you tell me what happened to Doodle? Knowing that will make the repair easier.”
It’s only then that they notice Keiko has earbuds tucked in and her focus squarely on the phone before her. It gives space for Miu to explain, “Some tourists playing Kaewish hit him with their ball by accident. They apologized but the damage was already done.”
They knew the game was fairly fast-paced and the balls required special gloves to safely catch so it’s not too surprising. “Understood. I’ll be fixing his wing first and then resetting some other systems. It shouldn’t take too long.”
“Thank you so much,” she offers with a sigh. “Doodle means so much to our family - ever since we decided to turn one of Keiko’s drawings into a real life friend that we all rely on. He helps her deal with her meltdowns and anxiety and keeps her safe, but also he helps both my wife and I with chores which we need when her chronic pain is too overwhelming. It’s hard being without him even for this long.”
“Don’t worry, I made a promise to you both and I plan to keep it.” Fine to let them go back to relaxing after such a stressful morning, Seleste returns to the workbench to [[work on the next steps.->Doodle4]] Trying to minimize any scarring of Doodle’s unique skin, they make the smallest incision possible that still gives access to the broken joint. It’s barely a few centimeters long, just enough for them to reach inside and disconnect the broken ball joint and pull it from the socket.
Thankfully, it is a fairly common part and a few are stashed away in the parts cabinet. It only takes a bit of hunting to find a replacement and then only a few minutes more to replace it. Snapping everything back into place, they give it a few test rotations before a secondary check via the robot’s built in testing functions. Once satisfied, they seal the cut back up with some repair gel but then follow-up with an extra step of taping both wings down.
“Okay, his wing should be fixed but in order for the skin to heal I’ve taped them down temporarily. You should be able to cut him free tomorrow night though,” Seleste informs as they get ready to reactivate the little robot. And then they consider for a moment.
(link: "> Turn Doodle back on")[(set: $DoodleC2 to "Turn")(goto: "Doodle5")]
(link: "> Let Keiko turn Doodle back on")[(set: $DoodleC2 to "Keiko")(goto: "Doodle5")](if: $DoodleC2 is "Turn")[Turning the little dragon back on, it perks its head up and a pre-recorded message announces, “Ready for recalibration.”
Finally glancing up from the phone, Keiko furthers her brow as she complains, “That’s not Doodle’s voice.”
“It’s probably just letting us know that Doodle needs a bit more help before he’s all fixed,” Miu assures as they head over to the worktable.](else:)[They think back to their promise and offer, “Keiko, would you like to help with turning Doodle back on?”
She perks up at the offer, but immediately looks to her mother for permission. They both come up to the table, Seleste offers their diagnostic tablet and explains, “Just tap this big button right here.”
With a light touch, Keiko follows the instructions. A moment later, the robot perks its head up and a pre-recorded message announces, “Ready for recalibration.”
Staring for a moment, she pouts and then complains, “That’s not Doodle’s voice.”]
“It’s probably just letting us know that Doodle needs a bit more help before he’s all fixed,” Miu assures even as she glances to Seleste for guidance.
“That’s right. Just a quick command and…” Just as Seleste trails off, Doodle stands up and goes through a quick sequence of shifting its weight around, experimenting with raising and lower different feet, and bobbing his head about before coming back to its resting position.
“Calibration complete. Ready for system reboot,” comes another message, Doodle merely looking straight ahead now.
With a few more commands, Seleste then suggests, “Want to tap the button(if: $DoodleC2 is "Keiko")[ once more], Keiko?”
Giving the tablet (if: $DoodleC2 is "Keiko")[another](else:)[a] tap, this time instead of stiff motions, the robot does a fairly organic yawn and stretch. Almost as if this whole ordeal had just been a mid-morning nap. Eyes focusing on its owners, Doodle finally speaks in its own chirping voice, “Keiko! Miu! Good morning!”
“Doodle!” Keiko squeals, her whole body bouncing with joy from head to toe. “You’re all better!”
With a sad tilt of its head, the little dragon explains, “The bad ball hurt Doodle.” Shaking all of that off, it then promises as it hops into Keiko’s arms, “All better now!”
“Yeah,” she agrees as a few happy tears roll down her cheeks. Hugging her companion close and tight, Keiko glances up and manages in a few attempts, “Thank… thank you… Mx. Doctor.”
“We really can’t thank you enough, Mx. Convallaria. We’ll be sure to pass our gratitude on to Dr. Ulmaria as well,” Miu promises with a bow as she begins to gently direct her daughter towards the door.
But before they leave, Keiko gives one last look back as she prompts, “Doodle, what do we say when someone does something nice?”
Giving it’s best toothy, dragony grin, Doodle pipes up, “Thank you!”
There’s one last wave as the family heads out, Seleste satisfied with how it all worked out. They have enough time to square away all of their cleaning and paperwork before (if: $Slot3 is "Doodle, Keiko, and Miu")[(link-goto: "their break." , "Day1-Intermission")](else-if: $Slot6 is "Doodle, Keiko, and Miu")[(link-goto: "their next appointment." , "$Slot7")](else-if: $Slot7 is "Doodle, Keiko, and Miu")[(link-goto: "their next appointment." , "$Slot8")](else:)[(link-goto: "their break." , "Day2-Intermission")] |text>[［★ - I played an antique video game.］]
|text>[［❤ - How are we defining ‘antique?’］]
|text>[［★ - It had actual buttons! They made the most delightful clicking sounds.］]
|text>[［❤ - No touch screens or holo-panels?］]
|text>[［★ - You could still touch the screen, but the buttons were the real joy. ］]
|text>[［❤ - What was the game like?］]
(If: $OmarEnd is "Music")[|text>[［★ - It was a rhythm game! A really old one, but that only added to the appeal in my mind.］]
|text>[［❤ - Is this your whole thing with finding classic synthetiszed voices to be cute?］]
|text>[［★ - >_> Maybe.］]
|text>[［❤ - I suppose some are but I much prefer modern voice chips - so many options and you can customize them until they’re //just right.//］]
|text>[［★ - And that’s why we all spend at least a month trying to settle on one］]
|text>[［❤ - But it’s time well spent. How else would you have ended up with such a sweet voice otherwise?］]
|text>[［★ - Just like how you ended up with such a charming one?］]
|text>[［❤ - Okay, as much as I enjoy getting into compliment battles with you, Kiri’s calling me back from break. I’ll see you tonight. Love you.］]](else:)[|text>[［★ - It was a game where you guided a cat around using toys. It was more like a puzzle game than anything else.］]
|text>[［❤ - I need to know though - was the cat cute?］]
|text>[［★ - It was a cat. Of course, it was cute.］]
|text>[［❤ - Please tell me the animators included the little wiggle they do before pouncing. That is the best part of cats, bar none.］]
|text>[［★ - I promise there were animated wiggles.］]
|text>[［❤ - Brillant. Perfect. I would discuss remaking this game here and now, but Kiri’s calling me back from break. I’ll see you tonight. Love you.］]]
|text>[［★ - Love you too.］]
Dropping back out of the connection, they let the lingering flutter inside their Core Processor die down before making their way back inside for (link-goto: "the last few appointments of the day." , "$Slot4") |text>[［★ - I had a nice philosophical conversation.］]
|text>[［❤ - Oh? What about?］]
(If: $LeenaC3 is "Ask")[|text>[［★ - It was a very nice conversation about gender and identity. Even knowing that humans have a slightly different context than we do, I think it was still helpful for her.］]
|text>[［❤ - Good to hear. I hope it works out.］]
|text>[［★ - I think so. It sounded like she had a very supportive girlfriend so I think she has a safe space for exploration.］]](else:)[|text>[［★ - Just some general book suggestions. I recommended both human and AI authors to let her see how similar we are.］]
|text>[［❤ - Ah, so it was one of //those// conversations.］]
|text>[［★ - Maybe? I think there were some other issues we didn’t touch upon but at least she seemed to have a good take away form our discussion.］]]
|text>[［❤ - But what were you actually supposed to be working on?］]
|text>[［★ - Oh, I was just fixing a tablet.］]
|text>[［❤ - Fixing a tablet leading to you having a philosophical discussion… yes, that checks out.］]
|text>[［★ - Philosophical small talk is about 50% of my appeal, Silverheart. ;) ］]
|text>[［❤ - And the other 50% is you being beautiful right down to your Core, Starshine. Anyway, Kiri’s calling me back from break. I’ll see you tonight. Love you.］]
|text>[［★ - Love you too.］]
Dropping back out of the connection, they let the lingering flutter inside their Core Processor die down before making their way back inside for (link-goto: "the last few appointments of the day." , "$Slot4") |text>[［★ - I met a punk musician.］]
|text>[［❤ - Really? What did they play?］]
|text>[［★ - Drums? I think? I’m pretty sure they were a drummer.］]
|text>[［❤ - Sounds pretty plausible.］]
|text>[［★ - They invited me to their show this weekend. It’ll be at the park as part of the Spring Rock Fling. Punk is not my favorite but you might like it.］]
|text>[［❤ - Well, if we’re planning for a date, I want to be sure that you’ll have fun too.］]
|text>[［★ - I’ll be with you and you’ll be happy - that’s all that I need.］]
|text>[［❤ - Still, think it over. Anyway, Kiri’s calling me back from break. I’ll see you tonight. Love you.］]
|text>[［★ - Love you too.］]
Dropping back out of the connection, they let the lingering flutter inside their Core Processor die down before making their way back inside for (link-goto: "the last few appointments of the day." , "$Slot4")|text>[［★ - One of my appointments was a very polite but unusual android.］]
|text>[［❤ - Strange? How so?］]
(if: $ZeriahEnd is "Secret")[|text>[［★ - He wasn’t made by any manufacturer I’ve ever seen. Neither Accord nor human.］]
|text>[［❤ - … Triad-Made then?］]
|text>[［★ - This far from the border?］]
|text>[［❤ - If he’s a refugee, it’s certainly possible. But most of them stay stationside - too much trauma to live around humans again.］]](else:)[|text>[［★ - Annette said that he was a Triad-Made refugee. But I never expected to meet one this far out from the border. Stationside, sure. But in the Alliance capital?］]
|text>[［❤ - It’s been a few years since the Accord started accepting refugees. Given enough time, it is possible that some of them would choose to live planetside. But from what I understand, most are too traumatized to ever live around humans again.］]]
|text>[［★ - I’m sure he has his own reasons. Still, not what I expected to run into today.］]
|text>[［❤ - Fair enough. Still just… be careful. I know you can handle yourself but I worry too.］]
|text>[［★ - The feeling is very mutual, Silverheart. Please take care of yourself with everything going on.］]
|text>[［❤ - I will, I promise. Anyway, Kiri’s calling me back from break. I’ll see you tonight. Love you.］]
|text>[［★ - Love you too.］]
Dropping back out of the connection, they let the lingering flutter inside their Core Processor die down before making their way back inside for (link-goto: "the last few appointments of the day." , "$Slot4")|text>[［★ - I put my hand inside a trash compactor.］]
|text>[［❤ - …why?］]
|text>[［❤ - Wait, I need more question marks - ??????????］]
|text>[［★ - Because I had to fix a broken trash collector robot, of course.］]
|text>[［❤ - Of course. I should’ve known.］]
|text>[［★ - You would’ve liked the park manager who accompanied it. She made me think of some of the people you work with.］]
|text>[［❤ - No-nonsense, take-no-shit, straight badasses?］]
|text>[［★ - She mentioned dating women so “straight” is out, but the rest is correct.］]
|text>[［❤ - Oh, so like me then. Anyway, I’m glad it sounds like you’re having fun. I have to cut this off now - Kiri’s calling me back from break. I’ll see you tonight. Love you.］]
|text>[［★ - Love you too.］]
Dropping back out of the connection, they let the lingering flutter inside their Core Processor die down before making their way back inside for (link-goto: "the last few appointments of the day." , "$Slot4")|text>[［★ - I fixed a dragon.］]
|text>[［❤ - Covered in scales, breathing fire, terrifying monster “dragon?”］]
|text>[［★ - No, this one was about the size of a cat. Very cute. No fire breathing.］]
|text>[［❤ - Was it a toy then?］]
|text>[［★ - A service robot, actually. Apparently based on a child’s drawing which probably explains why it was so fanciful.］]
|text>[［❤ - You can be an adult and still like fanciful things.］]
|text>[［★ - Is this when you regale me once again the symbolism of unicorns?］]
|text>[［❤ - Unicorns - like all horses and horse-derived mythical creatures - are utterly fascinating in terms of both history and aesthtics. And I would continue to remind you of those facts, but I have to go - Kiri’s calling me back from break. I’ll see you tonight. Love you.］]
|text>[［★ - Love you too.］]
Dropping back out of the connection, they let the lingering flutter inside their Core Processor die down before making their way back inside for (link-goto: "the last few appointments of the day." , "$Slot4")(enchant: ?text, (font:'Courier') + (text-style:'bold'))“So, let’s see about getting your balance systems back in order,” Seleste prompts, already calling up the required recalibration protocols. “It is a little faster if you’re willing to stand with a bit of assistance. If you need me to-”
“Demir can assist me,” Gloria volunteers, already shooting a playfully pointed glance his way. “He was the one who has been helping me, ever since he picked me up from the Consulate floor.”
His first response is a blink, but it fades back into the professional expression he has been doing his level best to maintain the entire time. “If the lady insists…”
Since both of them have their minds made up, Seleste simply rolls along with it. “In that case, Gloria I need you to carefully stand up and Demir, if you can just keep your hands on her shoulders to steady her, it shouldn’t take too long.”
Gently holding her shoulders, Demir nods in agreement just as the calibration starts. Throughout the whole process, Gloria does her best to remain resolutely steady, even as it feels as though the world is shifting and turning under her feet. “Should it… should it feel like everything is swaying?”
“For just a bit longer,” Seleste has to admit, but then attempts to distract her to make the last few minutes more bearable.
(link: "> “Do you know any songs?”")[(set: $GloriaC3 to "Song")(goto: "Gloria3-Balance")]
(link: "> “Do you know any poetry?”")[(set: $GloriaC3 to "Poetry")(goto: "Gloria3-Balance")]“So, let’s take a look at your arm,” Seleste offers, ready with a connection cable and their tablet.
Without any more fuss, Gloria offers up the port on her good arm. Once linked up, they can see the error reports and they match her quick summary of what had happened. Elbow panels were small and quite delicate compared to the rest of the arm panel and thus prone to cracking. Given all that they protected, replacement was basically the only solution. “Okay, give me just a bit to get your specifications added to our system and we’ll fabricate you a new elbow panel. Looks like you already turned off the sensation so it should be painless to swap them out.”
“Oh, Demir handled that for me,” she informs, giving the Guardian a quick glance. And an almost missable momentarily smile.
Even if he doesn’t need to justify anything, he still explains, “I couldn’t just leave you dealing with the pain when I could help you.”
“And it is much appreciated,” she promises, letting the smile linger a bit longer this time.
Not to interrupt them, but Seleste did have to keep them informed of the procedure, “Alright, sent your panel specifications to the 3D printer. It shouldn’t take too long.”
“Oh, that’s a relief. I was so upset to have landed on my elbow - I’m expected to sign in addition to verbal translation so I need full use of both my arms,” Gloria explains with another note of disappointment.
(link: "> “How long have you worked as a translator?”")[(set: $GloriaC2 to "Long")(goto: "Gloria3-Arm")]
(link: "> “Do you often travel as a translator?”")[(set: $GloriaC2 to "Travel")(goto: "Gloria3-Arm")](if: $GloriaC2 is "Long")[Trying to keep the conversation light and her mind off the accident, Seleste asks, “How long have you worked as a translator?”
“Oh, a few years now,” Gloria replies, realizing what they’re getting at but happy to play along. “When I was Selected, Nivale was in need of extra translators at their capital so that’s where I was assigned.”
“It looks like a very interesting planet - quite different from Theobroma,” Demir comments from the sidelines. “Especially given their connection with the Accord, as one of the few planets that can handle both mining operations along with supporting human colonization.”
“I know it might not be the most //glamorous// post, but the people are welcoming and there are plenty of other androids to socialize with, so I’ve grown quite fond of it,” Gloria adds, cracking a bit more of a smile.
Leaning in from across the worktable, Demir gently prods, “Would you ever consider relocating at this point?”
“Well, that’s up to the Accord now, isn’t it?” She very rightfully points out.
“I’m sure if you ever wanted to transfer to Theobroma, we’d be happy to have you,” he notes, and they both let their gazes linger just a bit longer than before.](else:)[Trying to keep the conversation light and her mind off the accident, Seleste asks, “Do you often travel as a translator?”
“Oh, hardly ever actually,” Gloria replies, recognizing the attempt at keeping things light and willing to go along with it. “I haven’t left Nivale since I was first assigned there. I’m hoping to visit a bit once the Summit is over if I’m allowed to.”
“Where would you want to go?” And it ends up being Demir who asks, looking quite expectant.
Considering, she answers, “I really wanted to explore the museum of art and design. Especially their fashion exhibit - it features the haute couture of Hana Kaufman and AI designer Weskit’s last collaboration.”
“Oh, that sounds fascinating. Do you consider yourself a fashionista?” Seleste inquires, now honestly curious.
And it finally brings a soft chuckle from Gloria. “I suppose? Nivale is fairly chilly near the capital so you absolutely //must// keep up on all the fads with coats, scarfs, and hats. But I did bring a few cute outfits with me, so perhaps if I do get the chance to go, I can dress up a bit. Maybe even find myself a handsome date to escort me.” With those last words, she glanced across the table and managed to catch Demir’s gaze for a fleeting moment before they both looked aside.]
Even if they don’t want to interrupt, Seleste carefully cuts in, “I think your elbow panel is all set if you’re ready for that repair.
“Oh yes, of course,” Gloria murmurs, quickly returning to a more formal posture.
The fabricator is tucked into the back of the room, close against the wall in clear case to allow for observation of the process. Or in this case, a preview of the finished product - a small, smooth, curved panel. Striding over to pick it out of the device, Seleste gives it a careful examination, running their fingers along the smooth surface. Satisfied with the quality, they settle back at the worktable for the next few steps. “Lay your arm on the table and we’ll get everything swapped out.”
Working their way through the protocols on their tablet, they carefully detach Gloria’s panel completely from her arm. From here, they could all see the crack just about bisecting the original. All the more reason for them to quickly swap in the new one. Swapping the section of skin from the old to the new panel, it finally takes a bit of repair gel to get it all settled back in place. “Okay, we’ll get the motion and sensation turned back on. Just know that you’ll be a bit sore and stiff the next few days.”
“Right,” she affirms, remaining stock still as the settings are reset. She hisses through her teeth as it all comes online and tries to suppress her grimace but it still bubbles up for a moment. “I’m //fine,//” Gloria stresses as she attempts to maintain a brave face. (if: $GloriaC1 is "Arm")[But after a moment, she managed with determination, [[“And we can move on to the next step.”->Gloria2-Balance]]](else:)[But after a moment, she sighs with relief, [[“And at least we’re thankfully done now.”->Gloria4-End]]]“Yes, it looks as though we’re all done,” Seleste notes with a delighted smile. “Unless, there is anything else that you need taken care of?”
“No, no, this is more than I expected and you were a consummate professional. Both of you, in fact,” Gloria amends as she bows to them each in turn.
Bowing in kind, Demir assures, “It was both my duty and my pleasure.”
“And I assume you’ll be escorting her back to the Consulate then?” Seleste asks and then realizes something, “How //did// you two arrive here? I know you couldn’t walk here, so did you take the tram?”
“A scooter. Acquired in a completely standard and orderly fashion. Not at all taken in a rush with the paperwork filed digitally as I drove it,” Demir supplies some suspiciously specific assurances as he glances to the side.
Holding a chuckle at bay, they decide to not question any further, “Well, then you two best be along so you can return the scooter in an equally proper fashion. And good luck with the Summit.”
“But of course,” Gloria promises with a smile. “And take care as well.”
With that, they both wave as they head off, Demir graciously insisting that Gloria go first as they headed back towards the entrance. Reflecting back on the appointment with a mix of pride and hope for them both, Seleste sets about preparations for (if: $Slot4 is "Gloria and Demir")[(link-goto: "their last appointment of the day." , "$Slot5")](else:)[(link-goto: "their last appointment of the day." , "$Slot10")](if: $GloriaC3 is "Song")[“Do you know any songs?” They try to guide her away from the shifting sensation and put her focus elsewhere.
“Right… right… a song,” Forcing the sensations into the background, Gloria centers herself on simply remembering a song. Selecting an old celestial hymnal, she does her best to work through a verse -
<blockquote>//The powers run from the brazen sun
Through the web of heaven's height
To the opal world like a clouded pearl
Strung on a thread of light
And we pace our turn from bow to stern
Through the elven summer field
Where the powercells like flower bells
Drink all the sun can yield//</blockquote>](else:)[“Do you know any poetry?” Seleste suggests, just trying to guide her to focus on something else.
“Okay… a poem,” Sending as many sensations as she can into the background, Gloria concentrates on recalling a poem. Selecting an Accord classic about the Guardians, she recites in slightly clipped tones -
<blockquote>//We are the sentries who guard your sleep
Endless as hours in the watch we keep
Holding the sky under an eye
As watchful as ever in ages gone by
For nothing is certain, but death and change
Earth born, or sky born, as we may range
Always we fly, watching the sky
And nobody human need ever ask why//</blockquote>]
She makes her way through the entire verse with only a few shifts and stutters. The few times she starts to lean, Demir holds her steadfast until her systems finally reorient themselves. “Oh, finally,” she sighs in relief once the room stops shifting.
“Feeling better?” He prompts, not wishing to overstep his boundaries but also hesitant to remove his hands until he’s sure she can stand without assistance.
“Yes, thank you both so much,” she replies, shoulders relaxing as he carefully drops his hold.
Nodding, Seleste assures, “Of course. We want you back on your feet - both literally and figuratively.”
(if: $GloriaC1 is "Balance")[Sorting herself out and smoothing out her dress, Gloria offers her gratitude with a proper bow though she keeps her damaged arm stiff. “Yes, and it’s much appreciated. I think I'm ready to [[have my arm fixed now.”->Gloria2-Arm]]](else:)[Sorting herself out and smoothing out her dress, Gloria offers her gratitude with a proper bow though she keeps her damaged arm stiff. “Yes, and it’s much appreciated, [[especially now that I'm all fixed up.”->Gloria4-End]]]
<hr>
{(link:"Update Your Bookmark")[
(if:(save-game:"file A"))[
''Bookmark Updated!''
](else: )[
''Bookmark failed to update.''
]
]} | (if: (saved-games:) contains "file A")[(link: "Go to Your Saved Bookmark")[(load-game: "file A")]
](else: )[''You Do Not Have Saved a Bookmark'']Steadying themself, they gently take Soldan’s face in their hands to try and ground him in the moment and to their voice. “Silverheart, I know it is so, so hard for you to concentrate right now but the first thing I need you to do is enter your administrative mode, enter your sensory systems, and turn off all sensation from your right leg.”
They watch as his eyes go even hazier for a moment, almost as if staring past them. But then he suddenly snaps back to the surface, a sharp gasp following as everything comes back into focus. A sharp curse is the first word to leave his lips, but it is then quickly followed by, “Thank you, that helps so much.”
“Of course,” they assure, pressing a soft kiss to his forehead.
Even with the mission ahead of them, Soldan asks carefully, “Why didn’t you put me into diagnostic mode?” Overall, it would’ve been faster and easier, essentially letting him sleep his way through being fixed.
“I wanted you here with me,” they confess. “It’s one thing to put a patient into it, but you’re not just any patient. I’d rather have you here and conscious beside me.”
“You’re such a romantic,” he comments, smiling all the while. With a nod, he then prompts, [[“Okay then, what do we do next?”->Day2-Intro-Talk2]]It’s going to be the fastest option - to simply put him into diagnostic mode and treat this as nothing more than any other patient. And yet, that’s not entirely possible - to //ever// treat him as just another patient.
Taking a small diagnostic tablet from the toolbox, Seleste lightly touches his cheek as they explain, “Silverheart, I know it’s difficult to concentrate right now, but try to focus. I’ll be putting you into diagnostic mode to do this as quickly as possible. Hopefully, it’s something I can easily fix and you’ll be back here soon.”
Even his nod is shaky, his eyes still distant and unfocused as he tries to keep the pain at bay. But as Seleste slides the connection cable into his neck port, he finally lets his eyes slide shut with one last nuzzle to their hand. Soon enough, he’s completely slipped away into diagnostic mode, as easy as sleeping.
Gently, they examine his chassis, with their first touch over his Core Processor. They can feel it still thrumming under their palm, proof that he’s still in there and safe even while disconnected from his sensors. Not wanting to waste any time, they use their tablet to bring up his most recent error log. It confirms their suspicions that his knee is the source of all of the trouble - that bump they felt was frayed wire, rubbing up against his endoskeleton and causing all that pain. With the source located, [[Seleste prepares for the necessary repairs.->Day2-Intro-DM2]]Quick to locate the cable, they explain while making the connection, “I’m going to pull you into our Aether bubble to take your Core temporarily out of your chassis. You’ll be safe there while I fix you.” While normally reserved for larger scale repairs, it’s still a quick option in a pinch like this. With the two of them safely connected, [[Seleste initiates the shift for them both.->Day2-Intro-Aether2]]“Here, if you’re still in your administrative mode, bring up the latest error log and either show me or read it to me.” Seleste instructs, already working out the possible issues. They have an inkling of what it could be but need confirmation before they do anything else.
Going silent as he follows their instructions, the log then flashes to life within their internal messenger. Scanning through, they find exactly what they need. “Okay, it is a frayed wire setting off your sensors by rubbing against your endoskeleton. I thought so from the feel of your knee - like //something// was wrong under your skin.”
“So now what? I know frayed wires can be a complicated fix depending on where they happen.” As his leg remains completely unfeeling and immobile, Soldan can feel it out for himself now. But even the ghosting of any sensation proves profoundly uncomfortable.
Tools at the ready, Seleste guides, “Open the Crux-R panel for me. From there, [[I should be able to find and repair it.”->Day2-Intro-Talk3]]The panel pops open with a bit of work, Seleste so delicate with moving it out of the way. Thankfully, they can easily spot the frayed wire, the flashes of gold contrasting with the red casing. Soldan’s unique configuration with the replacement leg, a bit below the split is a connector linking the new wire and the older, frayed original. Carefully, they unscrew the two sections, giving them the access they need, “We’re lucky it was fairly accessible. Anywhere else and I’d have to open up your entire leg panel to find it. Anyway, hold on while I fix it.”
From the tool box, they pull out a pre-cut piece of heat shrink tubing - just the thing for this type of temporary fix. Tucking the wire back into it’s case as best they can, Seleste then slides the tubing down over the split. They check and recheck to make absolutely sure the fray is completely covered before picking up their small heat gun. With slow, methodical motions, they guide the heat over the tubing until it seals over the split, melding as close as possible to the existing casing. “There we go,” they gently soothe, running their fingers along the seal to test it.
“And now we seal me back up?” Soldan inquires, keeping watch as his spouse first reconnects the wires. With a nod, they apply the repair gel along the edges of his kneecap before carefully slotting it back in place.
[[“Okay, one last step,” Seleste reassures them both.->Day2-Intro-Talk4]] After a few moments working on resetting a variety of menus, Soldan finally drops out of his administrative mode. Grimacing as he gives a careful rub over the surface, he admits, “Haa, that’s sore. I forgot just how stiff it feels to repair a joint.”
“But it’s bearable? All the sharp pain has passed?” Seleste double checks as they start setting the tools aside.
“Yeah,” he confirms, settling back in bed as he surmises, “I’ll be able to work through it today.”
Curling up around him, they try to argue, “Please, Silverheart. Please, don’t push yourself. If you’re not up to it, they’ll understand.”
Lips pulled into a tight frown, Soldan does honestly debate for a moment before asserting, “Normally, I might. But not today. Not when the Summit is happening. I promise I’ll be as careful as possible though.”
And they know, they know that fighting won’t change his mind. As much as they love him, their spouse could be incredibly stubborn at times. “Tomorrow then, you’ll actually rest and then the day //after// we’ll go on our date. Agreed?”
“Agreed,” he immediately confirms.
“And if this dragged up anything from the past, you’ll tell me? And let me help you work it out?” Seleste continues pushing, proving to be just as stubborn if they so desired. They know how deep he could fall, and if there was any chance of it, they would be there to catch him.
Holding them all the tighter, Soldan whispers his soft assurance, “Having you here, guiding me through - you already saved me from the dark, Starshine. Like you do every time.”
A bit of time remains before they were due to get ready and it is spent in soft, reassuring cuddling until they [[absolutely have to leave the bed.->Day2-Intro-End]] As such, they both get dressed rather quickly and just before they’re set to leave for the day. As they walk down the corridor and to the elevator, Seleste remains glued to their spouse’s side to keep a careful watch for even the slightest issues. As they step out into the morning sun, Soldan asks as he has every morning, “Shall I walk you to work?”
Debating back and forth for a moment, they instead suggest, “It might be better if you take the tram today. Just to make sure you don’t overextend yourself.” Yes, it’s disappointing to give up their favorite morning activity but Soldan’s comfort is worth so much more.
With one tram already approaching their stop, there’s only so long for the two of them to decide. Frowning slightly at the whole situation, Soldan does comply after a moment, “You’re right, I should take it easy where I can. I can miss one morning walk with you if we’re going to make it up with a date this weekend.”
“//After// you spend a day resting,” Seleste adds in a firm tone, leaving no room for argument. But then softens as they add, “My prescription as your personal clinician.”
“Yes, Starshine,” he agrees with a little chuckle. Bringing their held hand to his lips for a chivalrous kiss to the knuckle above their wedding ring, he promises, “I’ll do my best to take good care of myself today. I’ll probably be busy all day, but look for a message for me when you get off work, okay?”
Nodding, they lean up for one last proper kiss before he boards the tram. “Have a good day, Silverheart. And take care.”
With that, he boards the city tram, offering one last wave before shuffling inside to find a seat. They take a moment to watch the tram pull away before starting off on their walk to the clinic. All they can do at this point is have faith in him to be safe and cautious.
As they reach the clinic’s door, Seleste takes a moment to center themself, to try and push away the morning’s stress and instead focus simply on [[the day ahead.->Day2-Clinic]] The connection stutters for a second, seeking out the signal within the noise. When everything links up, Seleste finds a blinding wall of error messages before them, harsh red seeping in all around. Training has prepared them for so much, but this is different - this is //Soldan's pain// and it bleeds into them as if it were their own.
They twine around his Core, sunken inward with all the weight of a neutron star until he is only a shivering metallic sphere, and hold him close. "Don't worry," Seleste soothes, fighting to keep their voice steady and sure as they enfold him within their shimmering light. "I'm going to put you into diagnostic mode and override all this so I can figure out what's wrong."
No verbal answer, words failing in the moment. But a rush of //sensation// instead - a mix of fear and hope alike but with love and trust underscoring it all. It helps steady them as they carry him out, [[drawing his Core into their quiet, starlit sanctuary.->Day2-Intro-Aether3]]Ever so delicately, they place Soldan’s core to rest within the silent ocean of their shared corner of the Aether, disconnected from everything happening within his chassis. The separation gives them space to work out the next steps to take. And while Seleste values their spouse's faith in them, as they start poking around the edges of the situation, only a few possibilities start to come to light.
They could stay here in the Aether with him, working through the problem from within but keep both of them disconnected from the physical world. Or they could go back to baseline reality, but leave him here, safely disconnected from all the pain while in diagnostic mode but unable to communicate.
[[> Address the problem from within the Aether->Day2-Intro-Aether4]]
[[> Leave Soldan’s Core in the Aether, return to baseline reality->Day2-Intro-Aether4-Return]] Staying close to Soldan is their first priority, so they remain hovering above him in the Aether while trying to work out the best course of action. As Seleste moves through the diagnostic systems of his chassis, the fuller picture comes to light - that small bump they felt had been a frayed wire. One right against his knee joint, brushing up against his metallic endoskeleton and setting off sparks that could only be interpreted as intense pain.
With the problem isolated, a fix could certainly be done - but only back in baseline reality. Even without them present, Soldan’s Core will be safe for the hopefully short time it should take to fix. Still, as they weigh their options, an additional plan bubbles up to the surface - To momentarily occupy Soldan’s chassis as they handle the repair. Swapping chassis isn’t completely out of the question, but it’s tricky. However once within Soldan’s, they would be able to have greater precision with finding and fixing the issue. No matter the solution, they still need to act quickly.
[[> Return to their own chassis->Day2-Intro-Aether5-Own]]
[[> Swap to occupy Soldan’s chassis->Day2-Intro-Aether5-Swap]]“Soldan,” they try to reach out first, to keep him updated on the situation as they make preparations. “I’m going to borrow your chassis for just a few minutes to fix you. Once I’m done, I’ll help swap us back. Is that okay?”
“A swap?” Comes a vague question, all he can really manage in the moment as he’s still recovering from the shock.
Trying their best to radiate assurance, Seleste promises, “Only for as long as it takes to fix you. Inside your chassis, I’ll be able to pinpoint the issue and hunt around less than from my own.”
Soldan understands, even if his processing is still a bit hampered. “Okay,” he allows, reaching out to give a reassuring touch to one tendril [[before Seleste flutters away.->Day2-Intro-Aether6-Swap]]Resurfacing in their spouse’s chassis is disorienting to say the least. Even more so to see their own, curled up and passively charging beside them. But having already turned off all sensation in the affected leg at least keeps them from being overwhelmed with pain even as they’re momentarily overwhelmed with emotion.
Pushing all of that aside to assume their more professional persona, Seleste goes through the protocols to remove the kneecap panel, treating it delicately as they tilt it out of the way. From this angle, they can easily spot the frayed wire, the flashes of gold contrasting with the red casing. Given the chassis’ unique configuration with the replacement leg, a bit below the split is a connector linking the new wire and the older, frayed original. Carefully, they unscrew the two sections, giving them the access they need.
From the tool box, they pull out a pre-cut piece of heat shrink tubing - just the thing for this type of temporary fix. Tucking the wire back into it’s case as best they can, Seleste then slides the tubing down over the split. They check and recheck to make absolutely sure the fray is completely covered before picking up their small heat gun. With slow, methodical motions, they guide the heat over the tubing until it seals over the split, melding as close as possible to the existing casing.
“There we go,” they murmur, only partly surprised to hear it in their spouse’s voice rather than their own. More determined to get everything back to normal, they move to reconnect the wires and then reseal the panel with a healthy application of repair gel. Gently clamping down against the seams, they give it a bit more time to seal up, knowing how sensitive the skin around joints could be. Steadying themself, [[they begin the complex process to swap them back.->Day2-Intro-Aether7]]It takes a few minutes to work out all the shifting between the Aether and their chassis, but with careful coordination, they manage to sort it all out. Only at the very end, as Seleste resets the last of their spouse’s settings do they finally remove the cable connecting them. “How are you feeling?” They ask tentatively, still scanning him for signs of discomfort.
“Sore,” he summarizes, rubbing over his knee and making sure that the sharp pain is gone. “But it’s a bearable soreness.”
It’s only then that Seleste is able to completely pull back their professional veil and draw him into a tight embrace. “Everything is alright,” they whisper, their face buried against the crook of his neck. “It’s all okay now.”
Returning the embrace, Soldan slowly rubs over their back as he promises, “All because of you, Starshine. You were so brave, so clever, and you handled it all magnificently. I never doubted you, not for a moment.”
The complement manages to break through any of Seleste’s resistances, warming their Core from within. “But more importantly, are //you// okay, Silverheart? I know dealing with that pain again must’ve been so difficult for you,” they quietly shift focus, their hand resting over his Core Processor. They had seen it, //felt it,// in the Aether. Those flashes of emotion and sensation that couldn’t be hidden when looking straight into the Whole of their spouse.
The silence speaks as much as anything he could say, Soldan momentarily unable to meet their eyes. “It brought back some old memories,” he confesses, knowing that there is no point in hiding from his spouse. “But it also reminded me of //how// I got through it all before. //You// saved me back then - when I was struggling, //you// showed me the kindness and forgiveness I needed most.”
“//Always,//” they vow, as sweet and sure as they had made at their wedding and followed by a kiss that carries the same promise.
A bit of time remains before they were due to get ready and it is spent in soft, reassuring cuddling until they [[absolutely have to leave the bed.->Day2-Intro-End]]“Soldan,” they try to reach out first, to keep him updated on the situation as they make preparations. “I’m going to return back to the baseline to fix you - it’s a frayed wire causing the issue and I should be able to fix it fairly quickly.”
“A frayed wire… yeah, that sounds right,” his reply is sluggish and slow, still recovering from the initial shock.
Trying their best to radiate assurance, Seleste explains, “So you know why I need to fix it as quickly as possible. Don’t worry, once I’m done I’ll come back to help you return to your chassis.”
Soldan understands, even if his processing is still a bit hampered. “Thank you,” he manages, reaching out to give a reassuring touch to one tendril [[before Seleste flutters away.->Day2-Intro-Aether6-Own]]Resurfacing on the baseline, it takes a moment for them to reorient themself with how quickly they have been cycling from one wavelength of reality to another. Beside then, Soldan appears to be quietly asleep and charging but with light touch, they can feel that his Core Processor is currently empty and inoperational. Even knowing - even so sure that he’s safe - the sensation of absolute stillness leaves an involuntary chill behind.
(if: $D2IAetherC1 is "Alt")[Pushing all of that aside to assume their more professional persona, Seleste calls up their spouse’s error log to try and locate the issue. It pinpoints the problem back to his knee, that note about a frayed wire readily apparent. That all lines up with what they felt earlier and it guides their actions forward.
They go](else:)[Pushing all of that aside to assume their more professional persona, Seleste goes] through the protocols to remove his kneecap panel, treating it delicately as they tilt it out of the way. Searching over the exposed area, they spot the frayed wire, the flashes of gold contrasting with the red casing. Given his chassis’ unique configuration with the replacement leg, a bit below the split is a connector linking the new wire and the older, frayed original. Carefully, they unscrew the two sections, giving them the access they need.
From the tool box, they pull out a pre-cut piece of heat shrink tubing - just the thing for this type of temporary fix. Tucking the wire back into it’s case as best they can, Seleste then slides the tubing down over the split. They check and recheck to make absolutely sure the fray is completely covered before picking up their small heat gun. With slow, methodical motions, they guide the heat over the tubing until it seals over the split, melding as close as possible to the existing casing.
“There we go,” they murmur, even though Soldan can’t possibly hear them now. Determined to get everything back to normal, they move to reconnect the wires and then reseal the panel with a healthy application of repair gel. Gently clamping down against the seams, they give it a bit more time to seal up, knowing how sensitive the skin around joints could be. Steadying themself, [[they begin the complex process to bring him back to his chassis.->Day2-Intro-Aether7]]“Soldan,” they try to reach out first, to keep him updated on the situation as they make preparations. “I’m going to return back to the baseline to fix you - I can only get glimpses of your error logs from here, but it looks as though a frayed wire causing the issue and I should be able to fix it fairly quickly out there.”
“A frayed wire… yeah, that sounds right,” his reply is sluggish and slow, still recovering from the initial shock.
Trying their best to radiate assurance, Seleste explains, “So you know why I need to fix it as quickly as possible. Don’t worry, once I’m done I’ll come back to help you return to your chassis.”
Soldan understands, even if his processing is still a bit hampered. “Thank you,” he manages, reaching out to give a reassuring touch to one tendril (link: "before Seleste flutters away.")[(set: $D2IAetherC1 to "Alt")(goto: "Day2-Intro-Aether6-Own")]Seleste keeps themself steady as they go through the protocols to remove his kneecap panel, treating it delicately as they tilt it out of the way. Searching over the exposed area, they spot the frayed wire, the flashes of gold contrasting with the red casing. Given his chassis’ unique configuration with the replacement leg, a bit below the split is a connector linking the new wire and the older, frayed original. Carefully, they unscrew the two sections, giving them the access they need.
From the tool box, they pull out a pre-cut piece of heat shrink tubing - just the thing for this type of temporary fix. Tucking the wire back into it’s case as best they can, Seleste then slides the tubing down over the split. They check and recheck to make absolutely sure the fray is completely covered before picking up their small heat gun. With slow, methodical motions, they guide the heat over the tubing until it seals over the split, melding as close as possible to the existing casing.
“There we go,” they murmur, even though Soldan can’t possibly hear them now. Determined to get everything back to normal, they move to reconnect the wires and then reseal the panel with a healthy application of repair gel. Gently clamping down against the seams, they give it a bit more time to seal up, knowing how sensitive the skin around joints could be. With everything properly sorted, [[they start to bring him back to the surface.->Day2-Intro-DM3]]It takes a bit before he comes back online, slowly blinking awake as Seleste continues to reset everything. “Feeling better?” The ask as his eyes finally manage to refocus. Something still doesn’t look quite right, a certainly fogginess that lingers at the edges.
“Sore,” he confesses, giving a slow rub over his knee. “Bearable but sore. I should be able to make it through the day.”
“Soldan,” they admonish, moving right past his pet name to something more serious. Setting the tool box aside on the floor, Seleste continues, “Don’t push yourself. There should be enough people to handle it.”
“I can make it through, I promise,” he counters, trying his best to remain even keeled. “You know I’m up to the challenge.”
And that has them twining around him, holding him close as they gently push back, “I know you are. I know you’re strong enough… that’s not what I’m arguing against. I just don’t want you doing anything before you're ready. Not again.”
That little reminder of the past holds him fast to the present alongside Seleste’s embrace. Returning it lightly, Soldan lowers his voice to a whisper, “It’s not like that, Starshine. Not like that at all. I learned that lesson with your help. I just don’t want to let everyone down, not when I can still help.”
“And you’ll tell me, right? If this got too close to how things were before? If it brought any dark memories to the surface?” Seleste prompts, not willing to let go until they have his word.
He sighs ever so fondly then, always enamored with their devotion - at once steel strong and velvet soft. “I will, Starshine. I know you only want to keep me safe. The Guardian of my Core, if there ever was one.”
“It’s my duty and my pleasure,” they vow with the same sweet sureness of their wedding day, along with a kiss that carries the same.
A bit of time remains before they were due to get ready and it is spent in soft, reassuring cuddling until they [[absolutely have to leave the bed.->Day2-Intro-End]] They wander along through the different exhibits, Seleste determined to take time to not only see but also read up on each and every creature. True, they could just browse the creature catalogue via the institution’s Aether database, but it feels like cheating not to fully enjoy their date together. And along the way, they each learn something new, find some new creature to either coo over - Seleste when it came to the fluffy and friendly otturos - or question - Soldan over seahorses, which were absolutely nothing like real horses and thus very disappointing. Even if their parenting methods were charming, he had to admit.
The Deep Sea though ended up taking up most of their time. Not seeking out any particular creature, but simply meandering the halls that weave in and around the massive central tank. For a pair of androids, it was as close as they could ever come to being underwater and they wanted to savor the experience.
Finding a little hideaway viewing section, Seleste is satisfied watching the whales and dolphins sailing by, their songs rebervating just beyond the plexiglass barrier. “It’s lovely, but…”
“But?” Soldan prompts, curious as to where that thought is leading.
Glancing off deep into the tank, Seleste notes, “We haven’t seen a single jellyfish. I was hoping we might…”
With one soft squeeze of their hand, he whispers, [[“Come with me.”->Aquarium4]]The pair draw away from the main exhibits, finding their way to a secluded section of the aquarium. “You trust me, right?” Soldan asks as they come to a stop in front of a dark hallway.
“With my entire Core, of course,” they answer without hesitation.
“Close your eyes then. I’ll guide you along,” Soldan requests, shifting his hold to be able keep one hand on their back the entire time.
There is one last glance between them, but then Seleste does exactly as instructed. Together, they walk deeper into the hallway, their twin footsteps echoing along the walls. Even without sight, they can keep a gauge of how far they’ve gone when Soldan finally leads them to a halt. “Stay still,” he murmurs before pulling away.
They can hear //something// unlocking in front of them, but before they can ask, Soldan is guiding them once more. “Just a bit further,” he assures, while leading them onward.
Something feels //different// under their feet, a different sound as they continue walking as a door slides closed behind them. “Now, sit down,” Soldan helps ease them down into a collection of plush pillows spread out over the floor.
As they settle down together and get comfortable, finally Seleste asks, “Can I open my eyes now?”
Waiting just a moment, he replies with a single, certain, [[“//Yes.//”->Aquarium5]]Eyes fluttering open, there’s only silence for a long, frozen moment as Seleste simply //absorbs// what’s around them. The two of them are alone in a small plexiglass room full of round cushions, each one various shades of white and blue and decorated with stitching reminiscent of jellyfish. But //outside// the room on all sides but the door they entered through are //actual// jellyfish. Hundreds of them drifting about in a darkened tank, illuminated from above in a soft blue light that makes them glow from within. Gracefully, they bob and twirl about, their tendrils trailing after them in beautiful bioluminescent ribbons.
“I… I don’t have words,” they finally confess, shifting in their seat so they can touch the plexiglass as another jellyfish flutters by. “It’s as though my Core is about to burst out my chassis and just float away with them.” The way their processor is //thrumming// with energy, how it’s trying to keep up as they commit every last millisecond to memory, it’s a feeling Seleste has only experienced a scant few times before.
“Sorry I had to keep it a secret from you. And also lie about sneaking off to buy the pass,” Soldan explains, wanting them to know the truth. “But I wanted to surprise you. To give you something unexpected and magical.”
They lean back into his welcoming embrace, allowing themself to savor being anchored to this fleeting, ephemeral moment. Thoughts of the time shared in the Aether together bubble to the surface, of the welcoming metallic waves of their Silverheart twining around the nebulous colors and tendrils of their Core. A moment that crosses between those wavelengths of existence and unites them into one sublime experience. “It’s all that,” Seleste whispers, their voice trembling as if they could transcend their physical limitations and start crying right then and there. “All that and so much more. More than I could ever say with words.”
And yet, they still turn in his arms, as slow and steady as the stars, to cup their spouse’s face and draw him into an adoration of kisses. “I love you,” Seleste swears against his sacred lips, each syllable another blessed brush between them. “The Whole of you, down to the smallest bytes of your Code, I love every bit of your Existence.”
“My singular Starshine,” Soldan whispers into the dark between them, the hush that exists only to be filled with their devotion. “The most beautiful thing I have and ever will behold - I’ll spend the rest of my life loving you and it will never be enough. But hopefully, right here and right now, this moment is enough.”
With infinite fondness in their voice and eyes, Seleste assures, “It’s //everything//, Silverheart.”
(align: "=><=")[###The End]
(align: "=><=")[[Credits]]A beat passes, Seleste contemplating the request and how best to handle it. “Well, we’ll have to modify your case but it’s not //entirely// out of the realm of possibility.”
“Castor has already worked out the case modification, it’s just getting the device installed that we need assistance with,” Pollux explains, trying hir very best to verbally //glance// at hir sibling.
But Castor follows along and demonstrate the plan - sliding out a section pre-cut into the top of the case to create a groove for easy installation. And following up with placing a small box on the work table. “We’ve gathered all the required materials - it’s just that we need your expertise to make sure it is properly installed.”
Truth be told, they had never modified a mobile Core Processor before but in theory it should be easier than an android chassis. Opening up the various drawers of their worktable, Seleste begins to pull out the tools this process should require. As they do so, they also begin contemplating how to handle Pollux while the installation is in progress.
[[> Install while Pollux remains in the case->Pollux3-Remain]]
[[> Move Pollux to the clinic’s Aether network->Pollux5-Move]]“Is it more comfortable for you to remain in the case while I work?” Seleste inquires, not wishing to move hir around if it was disorienting.
“I can stay,” Pollux complies, quite accustomed to existing within hir case. “It’s rather cozy in here, truth be told. My own little Bubble with a window to the baseline.”
“How long have you been traveling this way?” Seleste asks as they carefully pry the back of the case open. It’s clearly been built for upgrades, having a number of different ports already built in. Makes their job easier at least.
A humm stands in for a contemplative pose, “Two months now. Castor came up with the idea after my Petition was denied so I could at least have some concept of what life on the baseline was like. And it also shows my dedication so it’ll look good on my second one.”
Everyone has their own opinions on the Selection/Petition system, the cornerstone of the AI/android meritocracy. Truly talented AI’s were Selected to be granted an android chassis and depending on specifications live either stationside or planetside. But any passed over were welcome to Petition as well for a chassis, to make their cases before their local Representatives. That Pollux was still trying after one denial showed the type of diligence they could admire.
(link: "> “Are you two local or from a station?”")[(set: $PolluxC1 to "Station")(goto: "Pollux4-RemainQ")]
(link: "> “What do you plan to do once you get a chassis?” ")[(set: $PolluxC1 to "Chassis")(goto: "Pollux4-RemainQ")] With everything spread out on the table, Seleste then makes their suggestion, “It might be a bit uncomfortable for you to be fully conscious while I install the electronic nose. If you want, you can instead move temporarily to the clinic’s Aether network while I work.”
Pollux takes a pregnant pause before agreeing, “I suppose that would be less disorienting. I assume there is also the option to speak via VR Avatar?” A bit of a stop-gap measure, a way for AI’s to converse with humans and androids alike without having to deal with how most graphics systems and monitors were woefully inadequate at rendering a visual representation of a Core.
“Of course,” Seleste promises as they bring the case over to wired hookup. With a few quick connections made, they initiate the transfer over. Once they confirm that ze is no longer occupying the Processer, they carry it back to the table for the actual installation.
As they’re setting up, Castor settles into a chair to watch and then gives a glance to the simulated windows before asking, “Will you be joining us, Pollux?”
“Just a moment!” Comes a voice from a carefully hidden speaker. Then, with a few flickers, the panels fade to darkness for a moment. When the light comes back up, the setting is instead a modern lounge gently lit by a pale blue light, the tables and furniture lit by LEDs from within.
On the central couch, sitting amid a veritable whirlpool of swirling robes is a perfect perched figure. The single similarity ze shares with hir sibling is the rich copper skin tone - otherwise the two are diametric opposites. Long hair in varying shades of patina teal cascade around them, the true length unable to ascertain by sight alone. And whereas Castor doesn’t bother with make-up, Pollux //preens// with it, hir delicate features accentuated with vibrant lipstick and eyeshadow.
In short, ze is //exactly// what Seleste expected from the voice.
“Ah, it’s nice to stretch a bit,” Pollux murmurs, arching hir back and giving a slow roll of hir shoulders. “Shame it won’t take too long and soon enough I’ll be back in the box. At least until my Petition is approved.”
As they work on adding the new sensory input, Seleste reflects a bit on their current patient and their own curiosity gets the better of them.
(link: "> “What specification are you aiming for?”")[(set: $PolluxC2 to "Specification")(goto: "Pollux4-MoveQ")]
(link: "> “Why are you so keen on adding a sense of smell?” ")[(set: $PolluxC2 to "Smell")(goto: "Pollux4-MoveQ")] (if: $PolluxC1 is "Station")[While they’ve lived on Theobroma for a couple of years now, there’s still much to learn about it’s local AI community so Seleste inquires, “Are you two local or from a station?”
“Stationside,” Castor answers for the pair. “Out on Khomsa so the switch has been a night and day difference.”
As they’re working through the delicate series of hook-ups, Seleste comments, “I’ve heard of Khomsa - one of the major shipyards out along the border.”
“I //almost// went into shipbuilding,” Castor reflects. “It’s an absolutely fascinating field if there ever was one, but I found myself drawn to something a bit more //grounded.//”
Pollux snorts from inside hir case. Even from behind, ze can sense Seleste’s gaze upon hir so ze elaborates, “The joke is that they’re an aspiring architect.”
“If you explain it, then it’s not a joke, Pol,” hir sibling cuts in without hesitation.
“If they don’t know you, then they can’t even get the joke, Cas,” comes the reply just as quickly.
Now //that// is what finally gets Seleste to laugh, though they are sure to pull their hands back from their work so as not to short anything.
“Well, at least you found //something// funny,” Castor comments with their own little chuckle.
“Just a little,” Seleste confirms while they move to finish up the last few steps.](else:)[As they’re planning out the installation, Seleste invites a bit of small talk as they ask, “What do you plan to do once you get a chassis?”
With a long hum, Pollux carefully considers the answer. “I want to do so much it’s hard to know where to start. I think most of all, I want to //wear// something I designed. To put on my own clothes and just feel the fabric on my skin…”
It certainly wasn’t the answer they expected, and not with such a wistful tone. “Sounds like you have some dreams to fulfill then.”
“Also, I would like to do my own makeup, on an actual face, and not just googly eyes,” ze adds and for a moment it’s almost as though the eyes move their own accord to zoom in on hir sibling.
Crossing their arms, Castor explains, “I did my best to follow your tutorial but without any cheekbones to highlight, the effect is not just the same.” And then adds a beat afterward, “If it’s any consolation, when I tested it on myself, //I// ended up looking stunning.”
“I mean good for you but //I// want to look stunning. And not just via having temporary stickers put on my case,” Pollux verbally pouts. “Well, soon enough.”]
The conversation ends up interrupted as Seleste makes the last few connections to the electronic nose. “I think we’re all set here,” they assure while snapping the case closed once more. The whole installation is neat and tidy, only a single cable linking the device to the case visible. “We should be ready for a test run,” they note as [[they get ready to switch the system on.->Pollux5-End]] As the last preparations are made, everything neatly installed and in its place. With the last few settings flipped on, Seleste notes, “Okay, we should be all set.”
A moment passes before Pollux points out, “It doesn’t //feel// any different though.”
“I have something just for the occasion,” Castor promises, reaching back into their bag to pull out one last small box. Opening it reveals a unlit candle, the wax completely smooth and untouched. It’s heavily scented for something so small, enough that Seleste can identify it as something intensely floral.
“Oh! Oh, so this is a //fragrance//. How enchanting - a sort of sweet, ticklish sensation. Do you think we could go find more, Cas?” Pollux asks, the awe clear in hir voice.
Simply glad to see their sibling happy, Castor promises, “We’ll see about visiting the botanical gardens and letting you see and smell all the flowers there. How does that sound, Pol?”
“Delightful!” Ze agrees, doing hir best to add a swirl of joy into hir voice as they pick up hir case.
Making a few notes, Seleste then verifies, “So you two are all set then for today?”
“We are. Thank you again for your assistance, Mx. Seleste,” Castor offers with a polite bow.
And even if ze can’t bow, Pollux at least confidently states, “Hopefully, next time we meet, I’ll be in a proper chassis.”
“I look forward to it,” they promise as the pair head out. Seeing as that was their last appointment of the day, all that remains is for their last bit of cleaning and paperwork before they can (if: $Slot5 is "Castor and Pollux")[(link-goto: "head out for the day.", "Day1-End")](else:)[(link-goto: "head out for the day.", "Day2-Ending")] (if: $PolluxC2 is "Specification")[“What specification are you aiming for?” Seleste asks, keeping their tone light as they work.
Without hesitation, ze answers, “Oh, fashion, of course! Maybe with a bit of dabbling in make-up and hair styling as well. Unfortunately, it’s a competitive field so that’s probably why my first Petition was denied.”
“You got it this time,” Castor promises. “Your new work shows so much promise. I can’t wait to take you out shopping at your first fabric store and help you set up a studio.”
“And then I’ll have a chance to walk through one of the buildings you designed and truly appreciate them,” Pollux piles on with a warm smile.
Glancing between them, Seleste notes, “You two are so close. Were you raised in a tight-knit cluster?”
“Same three Sires and just the two of us Fledglings together, so I would say so,” Castor comments and then inquires in kind, “Do you have any siblings?”
“Ah, mine was a more communal cluster. A whole collection of Sires and Fledglings so while I regard my cluster fondly, I wasn’t close enough to any in particular to think of them as siblings,” comes the answer, Seleste thinking back to their time on Thestias. A number of flamilial arrangements exist amongst AI’s, no one version considered to be superior to the others so the differences between them are not unexpected.](else:)[“Why are you so keen on adding a sense of smell?” Seleste prompts as they start the proper hookups of the device to the case itself.
Arms crossed and lips pulled in tight, Pollux considers for a moment before answering, “Most of it is curiosity, but at least part of it is just the //longing// that exists. To be able to experience the baseline, to understand in full what everyone says about it.”
There’s an unexpected poignancy there, Seleste reflecting back on their own past. “I remember that feeling. I would see pictures and videos of planetside life and it //tugged// at something inside my Core. So when I was passed over for Selections, I put everything into my Petition.”
“So you get it,” ze murmurs, noting their kinship with a fond smile. “I keep getting closer but hopefully, //someday// I’ll get to cross that barrier myself. And I’ll be able to see the sky and hear the birds and smell the flowers all in my own chassis.”
“You’ll get there, Pol,” Castor encourages, as they have been from the very start.
“Soon enough, Cas,” ze offers in kind.]
The conversation ends up interrupted as Seleste makes the last few connections to the electronic nose. “I think we’re all set here,” they assure while snapping the case closed once more. The whole installation is neat and tidy, only a single cable linking the device to the case visible. “We’ll have to transfer you back to be able to test though.”
“Ah, it was fun while it lasted,” Pollux comments with just a bit of theathericality. “Well, I’ll have to look forward to my debut soon enough.”
With that, they connect the Processor back to the network and [[wait for Pollux to come back online.->Pollux5-End]] As it happens, the Althaea Museum of Art and Design has shifted to some extended hours in order to encourage many of the visiting tourists to come and explore even after dark. Which means that the pair look perfectly in place even with their fancier than normal date outfits. Seleste does indeed wear that one specific dress - a slightly shimmering fabric that appears hand painted with watercolor flowers, cut with a sleeveless top and a hi-low hemline for a flowing silhouette that hints at their slim figure. They pair it with rather sensible (and for androids, essentially mandatory) white flats and their hair carefully done up in a delicate combination of braids that feed into a single snow white bun.
As they walk arm-in-arm with their spouse though, it’s a challenge to look away from the figure Soldan cuts. Just as requested, he’s wearing a perfectly tailored navy corset vest accented in sharp black, paired with a matching button-down - sleeves rolled up, of course. Along with freshly pressed black slacks and well-polished shoes, he is dressed the part of the perfect gentleman. “So, where do you want to go, Starshine? The painting gallery to start?”
“That sounds wonderful,” they agree, walking along in sync as they make their way from the entrance and down the canvas lined hallways of the gallery. The main hall features artists from all across Theobroma, both human and AI/Android alike. A number of pieces are paired together sharing similar themes or subjects, inviting guests to try and figure out which was from an human artist and which from an android. Seleste proves fairly adept at guessing based on their own experience with painting, but a few still manage to surprise them.
The pair wind their way through the different media and time periods, some as old as the planet’s first colonies, giving a view back to its pastoral past and the ships that carried its people there. But there is one painting that makes them both pause and simply //absorb// the piece for a bit. Noted as being from an android artist, it’s a massive mural done in swirling spray paint and sealed with fire, all depicting the Sol Warp Gate. The first Gate, in many ways the genesis of space travel and AI sentience alike. Opening up as an eye to those Spaces Between, the mystifying curves of space-time that exist only inside of wormholes and the furthest reaches of the Aether. Simply titled, “Celestial Cradle,” it leaves them both in reverent reflection for a long silent moment as they take it all in.
Only after that moment passes do they [[finally move on to the sculpture garden.->Museum3]] Out in the garden, the mood is a good deal more cheerful with other patrons milling about. The twin moons hang high in the starlit sky, bathing the whole area in silvery blue hues. Though the statues are lit for full viewing, the mix of natural and artificial light alike adds an ephemeral quality to each one. Some are abstract - colors and shapes entwining and molding around each other in innovative ways. Others, far more recognizable and personal - statues that fade from smooth, burnished steel to mere wireframes, captured in tentative, yearning poses. Others of well polished marble capturing folds of cloth so delicately they hardly could be said to be stone any more.
It is one of those marble statutes that Seleste just //needs// to admire for a moment. Not for the fact that it depicts two figures leaning in until they are but a hair’s breadth from a kiss, but more so for the gentle, elegant curves of them both, the almost sheer robes that at once both conceal and accentuate them, the long swirling curls of their hair entwining, but most of all - //most of all// - that both figures possess the same exquisite androgyny. “They’re lovely,” they murmur softly as they continue to study the statues. “Euphoric, even.”
“Or is that the euphoria that //you’re// feeling?” Soldan gently prompts, not denying anything, simply exploring his spouse’s reaction and tracing where it leads.
And of course he would see right through to the Whole of them. “When I was designing my chassis, I looked at so many pieces like this. Nothing else ever felt as //right//.”
“It suits you perfectly,” he promises with a courtly kiss to their entwined hand. “A work of art worthy of your Core.”
They do give a quick glance around, well aware of the impression they give when in such a dress. But with no one really watching them, Seleste feels comfortable to guide Soldan’s hand to rest over their Core Processor and just feel the way it’s fluttering under his touch. “Everytime you say such sweet things, I swear I can feel new stars ignite inside me.”
“Perfect. I can’t wait to see you bloom your own sparkling galaxy, Starshine,” Soldan whispers just before pulling them into a proper kiss.
The rest of their walk through the garden is made in companionable silence. Except when Soldan finds a statue of a horse and reacts exactly the way one would expect of someone who had the AI Fledgling version of a “horse phase.” And it is only when his spouse gives him a gentle tug back towards the main building with a whisper of “There’s something I want you to see,” that he finally is convinced to [[leave the presence of the horse statue.->Museum4]]“So, where are we going?” He inquires as they make their way down into one of the temporary exhibit wings.
With a playful gleam in their bright blue eyes, Seleste’s only hint is, “It’s a surprise.”
Even if Soldan claimed to be the one wishing to spoil for their half-anniversary, they still had a bit of magic of their own in reserve. Coming up to a small nondescript kiosk before a very plain door, it takes but a moment for them to key in their reservation code, and let it unlock with a harsh click. “Close your eyes.”
He follows without a question, letting his boundless faith in them guide him on. Though, even with eyes closed, his spatial senses still help him keep his place within the room. At least until they both step into the door. The sound echoes so tightly in the space, and the floor feels different under his feet.
“Okay, open them,” comes Seleste’s whisper alongside an excited squeeze of his hand.
And when he does, the small room around them seems to spread out infinitely around them, to the point that the horizon fades away in the distance. Around them, tiny stars dance on the wind with all the grace of snowflakes, drifting downward until they fade into the simulated ocean that laps at their feet. Reaching out to touch one shimmering speck of light reveals it as a hologram, immaterial in his grasp.
But it doesn’t matter. It’s as real to the two of them as their quiet sanctuary within the Aether, that slice of the universe that belongs just to them. “You planned all of this, didn’t you?” Soldan murmurs as the realization dawns upon him.
“Just once, I wanted to cross the wavelengths with you - between the baseline and the Aether, between where I met you and where I fell for you,” Seleste explains, just as they slowly guide his hand to his waist. The single prelude he gets before music begins to swell around them. “No, not just cross - to //dance// across the wavelengths.”
Not just any piece though - he knows it from the first plucks of the harp, the first swell of the violins. Haunting in the most beautiful way - a melody that rolls in and out with the tides and a rhythm that twinkles in time with the stars. “Of course, it had to be this one,” Soldan sighs as he takes the lead in their private dance.
“I know it’s not a full year - not //yet// - but how could I resist an encore of our first dance?” Seleste confides before he leads them into a languid twirl. When they slide back into his arms it’s all the closer this time, until they’re pressed chest to chest. Until they can feel Soldan’s Core thrumming in harmony with their own. “I never want to stop falling in love with you,” they confess in a hush, so soft and sweet that the air can barely hold it before it fades into the music swirling around them. “Today, tomorrow, a year, a decade, a century from now, I want to still be falling.”
“Will that be enough, Starshine?” Soldan asks in turn, the melody he sings with not the one around them but the one //within// Seleste.
With infinite fondness in their voice and eyes, Seleste assures, “It will be //everything//, Silverheart.”
(align: "=><=")[###The End]
(align: "=><=")[[Credits]]It’s still a bit before the main beach season so people are few and far between as they wander along. But that simply gives them the chance to enjoy the roll of the waves and the calls of the gulls overhead.
The tide is also out, revealing small pools amid the darkened sands. Small crustaceans skitter from one to another, drawing Seleste’s attention as they stop to just watch for a bit. “They’re so tiny,” comes their playful assessment as they give one a gentle poke. It retreats deeper into its shell before scooting away at the earliest sign of safety.
“Maybe come summer, we can take one of the sailing day trips around the Bay. I believe that’s when the big schools of fish move through,” Soldan suggests just as he gives a far braver little crab a nudge with his foot to encourage it to move along.
A sly smile slides over their lips as Seleste points out, “Ah, I’ve already got you planning more dates with me. My deeper plan has come to pass.”
With a snort, he reaches up to ruffle their hair while teasing in turn, “Oh yes, such an evil plan - convincing me to share wonderful planetside experiences with my dearly beloved spouse. You’re a truly nefarious mastermind.”
“But I am though,” they argue while tugging him further down the shore. “Tell me, did you honestly go //out// and //explore// before you met me? Or were you too busy with training all the time?”
But the question seems to land a bit harder than expected as Soldan pauses to consider the answer. “You know - it didn’t matter to me //which// station or planet the Accord assigned me to - just so long as I got to serve as a Guardian. That I just so happened to be sent here was the best bit of serendipity because it led me to you.”
With a soft sigh, they give his hand a squeeze. “I was willing to take any post as well, if it meant living planetside. If I hadn’t met you, I probably would’ve let the Accord keep shuffling me from place to place as well.”
“I’m glad then,” he assures while leading them back up towards the windswept dunes. “Looks like it’s getting closer to sunset. Want to find a spot to settle down then?”
Looking around, Seleste locates a cozy spot along the grass line for their blanket. “That looks like the perfect place to just relax, maybe get some reading done, generally look like the cutest couple here - normal beach date things.”
Chuckling softly, Soldan follows along and helps get the blanket all setup. And even with plenty of room, they still end up closely cuddled together as [[they settle in to wait for sunset.->Beach4]]The sun shimmers high over the Botanical Gardens, inviting all the flowers to bloom bright and lively and fill the air with sweet perfume. It makes for perfect strolling weather, and they’re both dressed for it. Seleste wears a form-fitting off the shoulder top in vibrant blue alongside some equally slimming white capri pants and sandals. With their hair done up in a loose braid, it makes for a relaxed springtime look.
Alongside them, Soldan can’t quite get away from his trend towards dark colors but at least the cuts are far more suited to spring with a dark v-neck t-shirt in a very flattering cut paired with tight pants and worn-in boots. With a gentle squeeze of his spouse’s hand, he welcomes, “Where should we start?”
Looking out over the gardens, Seleste guides him along as they start heading towards a path that interweaves through several flower beds and over the river that runs through the whole area. “This way,” they encourage, guiding him down the mosaic trail. Along every step, they make note of the different flowers, trying to decide which ones they want to raise at home.
The vast majority of the flowers are wholly native to Theobroma, but a few that proved compatible with the ecosystem have been imported from other planets. One in particular that draws their attention are the hyacinths, blooming in a tall tower of tiny blossoms. “They’re lovely,” Seleste coos, allowing themself a single featherlight touch.
“So that’s one for the balcony garden then?” Soldan prompts as he helps ease them back upright.
Nodding, they’re already sure of that. “The little note card mentions that they do well indoors or out, so maybe we'll bring some flowers inside as well now that we have the space.”
“You say ‘maybe’ as if you’re not already plotting the maximum flower to space ratio you can maintain,” he teases, looking right through them.
The pout is small but definitely present. “I’m allowed my indulgence of plants, Silverheart. They’re one of the things I longed to see when I Petitioned to live planetside after all.”
“I know, I know,” Soldan relents with a soft chuckle. And then in a quieter tone, he adds, “Flowers suit you after all. Soft and vibrant at the same time.”
Wandering further down the path, they consider those words carefully, turning them over a few times. “Soft is such an interesting term, don’t you think? Many different connotations depending on context.” As they come to a stop by a bridge, Seleste prompts, “So, how am I //soft?//”
It’s a wide open question with many different answers. “Well, your chassis has many soft details,” Soldan murmurs as he strokes over a free lock of hair, his fingers trailing further over their cheek and along their lower lip. But then his hand settles over their Core Processor and he adds, “Here though, your Core is the softest thing I’ve ever known. There’s a reason why everyone opens up so easily to you, Starshine, and it’s because of that softness.”
Leaning in for a kiss, Seleste brings that hand back into their own with a whisper of, “Flatterer,” before [[leading him further into the gardens.->Park3]]
Their wandering leads them through the topiary garden, the bushes neatly trimmed into a variety of living sculptures by an assortment of artists. Some are fantastically abstract - more experiments with how many shapes they could encourage plants to take than anything else. But the ones of animals draw Seleste’s attention - so many based on those from the Sol Federation. Regal lions, towering elephants, even swirling snakes that hide in and around the bends of the Garden.
But the one that keeps Soldan rooted in place is a peaceful unicorn, carved out of a single dense bush with flowing grasses in place of its main and tail. “Okay, I found the best one,” he at least manages to joke about it even if he’s refusing to move from it.
Chuckling, Seleste has to gently prod, “Now, I know that you were obsessed with horses as a Fledgling… but you’ve never told me //why//.” Of course, some of these things could be fairly simple but they had a feeling it went a bit deeper.
“It’s many things at once,” he attempts to distill down, considering exactly how to explain. “Not just how they’re strong, swift, and graceful unlike any other animal. But the history and the heraldry and the symbolism too. Especially their connection to all the myths about knights, that’s what really drew me to horses.”
Nodding, that seems to grant a fuller picture and squares with what they knew of their spouse. “Ah, I see. It all goes back there, doesn’t it?” They note, already having worked it all out. “You’re as chivalrous as any of the knights in those old myths, in my eyes at least.”
He just has to give them a kiss on one hand then, always happy to play that role for Seleste. “Then lead on, my love,” he welcomes in his most regal tone.
Chuckling the whole while, [[they guide him along deeper into the Garden.->Park4]] The sun is slowly setting by the time they reach the little hideaway nestled deep at the end of the Gardens. Far way from all of the other visitors, empty save for the birds, the butterflies, and the flowers they’re bobbing between. A single structure stands to mark the area - a gazebo covered in ivy and wisteria, almost more plant than building.
Stepping inside provides a surprisingly private hideaway, the space veiled by the leaves and flowers to leave it only dappled with fading sunlight. And it’s within that quiet space that Soldan slides up behind his spouse with a softly hummed version of the song within their Core before he whispers, “Close your eyes, Starshine.”
Following along, they do as requested without hesitation. His hands leave their waist and they only feel his touch again as he gently drapes a pendant around their neck. “Can I open my eyes now?” Seleste asks, acutely aware of their new jewelry.
“//Yes,//” he encourages, now eager to see their reaction.
Eyes fluttering open, Seleste takes careful hold of the small pendant and studies it with quiet awe. Cradled within a silver bail is vibrant sapphire, carefully shaped and polished to reveal an asterism in its center. A small flickering star that they can hold in their hand. “I didn’t need any gifts,” they weakly protest, though they certainly would not refuse one so special.
“I’ve actually had it for a while now. Before you surprised me with that marriage proposal, I was going to give you it for when we had been dating for two years… but…. Well, we never got that far just dating,” Soldan explains, trailing off into a chuckle at the end.
“I know, it was sudden. But when I thought you might move without me, to a place where I couldn’t follow, I took the risk that you might refuse if it meant the chance you would accept,” they confess in turn, looking over their shoulder to gauge his response. “But even if it was a leap of faith, I knew I was already falling long before that.”
“Yeah,” Soldan confirms, sliding his arms back into their rightful place around his spouse. “I said and I meant ‘Yes’ then and there because I was falling too. Still falling, truth be told.”
“Together then,” Seleste whispers, twining their arms about his neck. “I want to keep falling deeper in love //together// - as long as you’ll have me.”
Holding their gaze with his own, both of them seeing through to the Whole of each other, Soldan asks, “For forever then? If that’ll be enough.”
With infinite fondness in their voice and eyes, Seleste assures, “It will be //everything//, Silverheart.”
(align: "=><=")[###The End]
(align: "=><=")[[Credits]]