Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Maureen was still out of breath when her family joined her at the Jupiter 2’s landing pad. Finally, after an entire year, her son was returning to her. Judy and Penny could hardly contain themselves as they clung tightly to each other. John wrapped his arm around Maureen’s waist and kissed her passionately.

Maureen gave a soft laugh. “I told you he was fine.”

“Who said I ever doubted you? He is your son after all.” John smiled back.

“Our son.” She corrected. “And he’s ok…” she trailed off, saying for about the umpteenth time hoping that if she kept saying it, it would turn out to not be an elaborate dream her mind was making up.

“I wonder if he’s grown a beard.” Penny mused with a smirk. “I mean that would add to his raged “I’m an explorer who hasn’t showered in days” look.”

“Please. You’re just sore that you couldn’t name the beard Carl.” Judy deadpanned.

“Hang up a second, we don’t even know if he’s grown a beard! Although I do admit a nice stubble would suit him.” Don added, raising his chin for emphasis.

“He could have a beard from “Cast Away” for all I care, but I’m sure Robot didn’t let that happen.” John said, casting a look at Maureen. Maureen got what that look meant. It meant that if Will had been MIA for a year with no communication, something had happened. It didn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that he’d been stranded somewhere.

Maureen tried to fight the what-if scenarios that filled her head. “No. He’s safe for the moment. He’s coming home, and that’s all that matters. I’m sure he has a very good explanation for all of this.”

By now a crowd had gathered around the landing pad. This group consisted of both robots and humans, as Will and Robot were very popular and known to both kinds. News had certainly traveled fast.

As the sound of engines approached, Maureen felt her heart lurch in excitement. The crowd started to cheer and clap as the Jupiter 2 came into view and started to descend. Maureen pulled Judy and Penny close as John and Don followed suit.

Maureen could feel the tears running down her face as the Jupiter landed. She looked around her as the robots gathered all stood up straighter and looked at each other with confused sounds. John caught this as well and gave her another look. Maureen shook her head ever so slightly. “Leave it be.” her look said.

“God, why is this taking so long?!” Penny exclaimed, unable to contain herself. That earned a chuckle from each of them.

Suddenly, the garage ramp started to descend, and Maureen as well as Judy and Penny let out squeals of joy and impatience.

Suddenly he was there. Her son was right there. Her...handsome...grown up son. Maureen felt robot claws seize her heart at seeing him. He was all grown up. She’d missed all of it. Where had the time gone?

Will’s eyes were shining as he looked around, a little surprised at the cheering uproar the crowd gave. It was then he spotted them. Will wiped his eyes, and they ran to each other, embracing for the first time in a year. Maureen was openly sobbing as were Judy and Penny as they clutched him tightly. She was pretty sure she could hear John and Don crying among them.

“You don’t have a beard!” Penny sniffled once she took a breath.

“Why-Why would I have a beard?” Will questioned as he let out a laugh.

“Because you’re so grown up now, oh my gosh what have you been eating on those alien planets?!” Don demanded as he slapped Will on the back. The family laughed at this.

The crowd around them cheered and clapped as they witnessed the familial moment. Loud footsteps behind them alerted them to the next member joining them.

Robot cocked his head slightly, his lights swirling around his face in a flurry. They formed a smile.

“Hey!” Penny greeted, running to him and hugging him. “Penny Robinson.” Robot greeted as he embraced her.

“Home, family.” he said, looking at them. “Come here, big guy!” John greeted as he motioned for Robot to join him.

“Alright I will admit it. I missed you as well. But don’t get cocky.” Judy admitted, earning a small nudge from Robot.

Maureen looked at Robot as they locked gazes. Robot’s lights faltered slightly. Although Maureen was smiling, she was scrutinizing him, silently demanding what the heck happened.

“I’m serious, he looks buffer too!” Don pointed out upon seeing Robot.

Robot looked at all of them, and bowed his head to John in acknowledgment of his authority. John smiled and put an arm on his.

After another moment, Will and Robot looked to each other.

“Are we supposed to know what that significant look means?” Penny questioned.

“Guys, we’ve...we found something...well, a little more than something. We found someone. Actually a few someones.”

“Ok…? Is it SAR?” Don asked.

Everyone shot him a look, and Robot gave him a stern glare.

“Ok! Fine, I’m sorry! What do you want me to think?!" He defended himself.

“Who is it Will?” John asked, Maureen catching his concern at their son’s cryptic words.

“Wait, why are all the robots looking at the ship?” Judy pointed out, directing their attention.

Robot and Will shared another look before they smiled in their respective ways.

“You’ll see.”

Suddenly, a robot with tinted brown plating appeared out of the Jupiter’s garage. But not just any robot. No. It couldn’t be…

“Scarecrow…?” Maureen breathed

They all snapped their heads to Will and Robot, who tilted their heads in a “What can we say?” fashion.

Don pushed his way to Scarecrow. “Hey, buddy I’ve missed you! How you’ve been?!”

Scarecrow shot Don a deadpan look, before looking significantly at Robot. Robot raised his hands in a “You’re on your own” gesture. The family stifled a laugh at this.

Maureen looked at John, before going up to Scarecrow, still in awe.

When Scarecrow saw her, she could see his expression and pattern of lights soften. “You’re alive…” she breathed.

Scarecrow bowed his head. “Maureen Robinson.” he spoke, his voice a bit static-y sounding. Maureen bowed her head at him as she beamed. She smiled as she put a hand on his forearm. “You did it, you know.”

Scarecrow’s lights pulsated quicker as he gave a satisfied hum and looked around. His gaze landed on John as he came up besides her.

The two looked intently at each other before both bowed their heads in acknowledgment and respect of their being wrong, and also the authority the other possessed. It was amazing to see.

Judy and Penny joined them, greeting Scarecrow happily, and Penny remarking on how shiny he looked.

The family stepped back as Scarecrow was greeted by his own kind. They circled him, giving a wide range of growls, chitters, whirs, and other robot sounds. They scanned him, before Scarecrow’s lights suddenly flashed as he let out a chitter. All of the robots suddenly looked back to the Jupiter.

“Now what’s that all about?” Don asked.

“Guys, there’s one more someone I brought with me.” Will said hesitantly, he and Robot coming up behind them.

They looked at him with curiosity.

Will then looked to Robot. “I want you guys to keep an open mind...because she’s related to Robot.”

Maureen had to take a double take as she blinked. “She? Wait a second, what do mean related to Robot? He’s synthetic.”

“It could be Robot’s girlfriend!” Penny piped in. After a moment of the family looking at her she shrugged. “Come on, we’ve seen crazier.”

“I actually doubt it’s Robot’s girlfriend. He seems like a bachelor type.” Judy replied

“Will..?” John asked in a warning tone.

Will nodded to the Jupiter as Robot’s lights sped up.

The crowd went quiet as the figure that was previously covered in shadow now revealed itself.

A purple tinted robot with four legs, four wings, and a dragon-like figure stepped down to where “she” could be seen.

She was obviously alien to the robots, as they tensed and gave low growls. Maureen could see John tense, as he stepped closer to them. Although she had the features of a cat, she had a large amount of power, and she looked the threatening part.

Her face was not like that of a robot’s at all. Her ear flaps minus her spines made her look more cat-like than anything. The lights in her eyes were unlike any robot she’d ever seen. Although they still swirled, most of them formed cat like pupils that looked around at the crowd gathered.

Suddenly, a young girl at whom the alien was staring started to cry.

Maureen saw her ear flaps fall slightly as she let out an almost shaky sounding ex-vent. She took a hesitant step to the child and her family. They tried to back away. “Please. I will not hurt you.” her voice came out, stunning Maureen. She could talk! Her voice was gentle, but that held hints that she had authority, and she had seen many things, and was therefore wiser than she let on.

Robot broke away from them, but Will stopped him. Maureen saw everyone tense as the alien came to stand in front of the family. She glanced at John, who gave a worried look. All of them looked to Will and Robot, who were focused on the new robot.

She regarded the family, and bowed her head down to the level of the little one.

“Please do not cry, young one. I may look scary, but you do not need to fear me.” she said gently, in a voice that reminded Maureen all too well of herself when she’d had newborns on her hands.

The little girl sniffled and took a slow glance at her. The robot cocked her head softly, and emitted a soft purring sound. She gave a soft coo at the young one. The girl looked at the robot, and gave another sniffle, before reaching out to her hesitantly. When her hand met the robot’s head, she didn’t draw back, instead her purring increased and she leaned into the little one’s touch.

The young girl gave a giggle, and pet her a few more times. Maureen couldn’t help but smile, and she sensed the tension of everyone there fizzle out slightly. Robot and Will looked at each otheer with looks of pride. The parents relaxed, and hesitantly reached out to the robot, in which she accepted and bowed her head in respect.

“Thank you, for allowing me to comfort your little one.”

Robot gave a proud hum, and this time went to join her. He spoke in his robotic language to her, and she gave a nod as she straightened up.

Robot put a soft hand on her ear flap, as he showed her to them.

“How is she related to Robot again?” Don whispered to Will.

“It’s a long story, but she’s sort of Robot’s half-sister.”

All of them looked at Will, rather speechless.

Maureen looked back to the approaching robot, who was taller than them. She saw John visibly ready himself to protect them if need be.

The crowd was still dead silent. And Maureen looked into the eyes of this robot. They showed no threatening nature as she looked at them. “Everyone, this is Starpelt. She’s...sort of Robot’s half sister. She also saved us.” Will explained briefly, but loud enough that it was an announcement. She gave a small purr as she bowed her head.

“It is an upmost honor, Robinsons.” she said, using the same gentle tone she’d used on the little girl and her family.

“You can talk. I haven’t met a robot with your kind of vocabulary.” Maureen stated. “Of course. I...did not originate from the robots. I come because your offspring and my kin offered me a second chance at living. I am sorry if I startled you.”

“This is...I don’t even have the words…” Maureen breathed.

They all looked from each other to Will and Robot in surprise.

Will chuckled, and put a reassuring hand on Starpelt’s neck. In doing so his sleeve was pulled down to reveal his arm.

It was then the family noticed the wounds Will held on his arm. They were deep, deliberate cuts.

Maureen snatched Will’s arm and pulled back the sleeve completely to reveal the scope of the scabbed over wounds.

Will’s face turned into that of guilt as he, Robot, and Starpelt looked away from them. Maureen’s stern and worried gaze met John’s, her maternal instincts kicking in.

“Will? What the heck happened out there?”

Chapter Text

Chapter 1

“I give you...Alpha Centauri!” Will announced dramatically as the Jupiter cleared the atmosphere.

Starpelt’s ear flaps perked as she straightened up. This was it. They were really here!

“Home, family.” Robot said, giving Will an excited punch on his arm.

“Ow! Hey, I’m flying a Jupiter here!” Will laughed. Robot took little notice. That or he chose to ignore it.

“Oh great rings. Is this what my life will be like?” Scarecrow growled.

Starpelt stifled a laugh. “I am afraid so.”

“Are you two making fun of us again?” Robot questioned irritably.

“Of course not. Scarecrow was.” Starpelt deadpanned.

Scarecrow gave an irritated growl as Starpelt made a snickering sound.

She then turned her attention back to the planet in front of her.

“I never thought a planet could behold so many colors.” She ex-vented in marvel. But her marvel soon turned to mild surprise as she saw her reflection in the glass. She had been so caught up in everything that she hadn't even taken the time to observe what she’d become.

Her ear flaps fell. Her problem was her face, and mainly her eyes. Although the lights served as her new pupils, it made her look like a monster to be feared. As she felt her lights slow, she suddenly had an idea. She started to concentrate solely on the position of her lights, and with a moderate amount of strain and effort, she started to sense her lights changing.

Her struggle caught the attention of the others, as they started to question what was wrong. Starpelt raised her head slightly as her lights settled into their new position. This seemed much better. Yes, she felt more like herself now.

She slowly turned to face the three of them, her ear flaps at a neutral position.

All three were silent and Will gave a soft gasp.

“Great rings, what did you do with your lights?!” Scarecrow recoiled after a moment of shock.

Robot was silent for a moment, before moving to her. “Ignore him. They...They look like you.” he observed, his lights speeding up.

Her lights widened her pupils as her ear flaps raised. “I like it.” Robot said softly.

Will, even though he flew the Jupiter, gave her a warm smile and a nod. “Definitely better. I can’t believe you figured out how to use your lights like that!”

Robot looked at Will, and nodded. “Smart, Starpelt.” he said.

Scarecrow inspected her closer, to which Starpelt demonstrated her use of her new pupils by moving them ever so slightly, and widening them in a way that said: “There’s no need to be afraid by this.”

Scarecrow gave a soft chitter. “I will have to get used to this. But they are right in saying this resembles more what you looked like before…” he trailed off, gesturing to her.

“The fact that you have control over your lights means we can start teaching you how to speak with them.” Robot said, giving her a soft nudge.

“Speaking with them?” she questioned.

Scarecrow nodded. “We also speak through our lights. I think it’s important you learn. It will make your transition easier with others.”

Starpelt nodded, as the remaining lights that still swirled around her pupils sped up.

They all turned as to the windshield as the colony now came into view. There was a large crowd gathered around where she saw the Jupiter’s number. Starpelt assumed this is where they were to land. Her ear flaps perked as her pupils widened. So many humans…. All resembling her creator.

It was now Starpelt felt a new apprehension start to creep up on her. Could she really do this?

“Hey.” Robot said as he nudged her.

“Strong, Starpelt.” he said in English.

His lights sped up, and changed formation. Starpelt cocked her head. Her confusion dissipated when she saw his lights make two circles, and merge them together.

She remembered this one.

This one meant kin.

Robot repeated the motion, but this time added one, two, more and more until there were a total of 9. That in which they all merged together.

“You lost me.” she said.

“He’s talking about our family. Mom, Dad, Penny, Judy, Don, Me, Scarecrow, him, and you.” Will clarified, who had apparently seen the interaction from where he’d been sitting.

Starpelt looked to him in awe. “How can you know that?”

Robot and Will looked to each other before Will’s heart lit up. “Do you really have to ask?”

“You walked straight into that one.” Scarecrow whirred, turning his head from the windshield to look at her.

“My point is that you are my family. And so are they. They will accept you, I’m sure of it.” Robot interjected, putting a hand on Starpelt’s shoulder.

Her lights sped up as her pupils widened slightly. “Thank you.”

“Sorry to break up the moment, but I need you all to move away from the windshield real quick.” Will said, entering controls into the console.

The three looked to each other, before coming to stand beside him. Will looked from the console, to the windshield rapidly as he went to land. The crowd gathered moved back as the Jupiter finished it’s descent, and Will turned the systems off. Starpelt could see that he was shaking slightly.

Robot gave an impatient whir and practically dragged Will out of the cockpit.

“Ow! Robot, hey! Hey, stop pulling! Ok, OK I’m moving! Can I just get- Robot I’m serious, I can walk!” Will protested

Starpelt gave a small chuckle as she was left with Scarecrow, who was still looking at the people gathered.

“I can see why they wanted to reach here so badly. I was here 23 times, and this is the first time I’ve seen it.” he chittered softly.

Starpelt looked at him. “I am glad you could finally see it. And in hold of your freedom. I...do not believe I have expressed my regrets for what happened to you from them.”

Scarecrow was quiet as he tensed. “Thank you. I know you mean well, but I would appreciate if you didn’t bring it up.” he said in a low growl, turning and leaving Starpelt alone.

Her ear flaps fell slightly as she looked back down at the crowd. Giving an ex-vent, she hesitantly made her way to the garage, where it was open and everyone had already left.

Scarecrow was in front of the Jupiter in her view being greeted by his kind. And she could see Will and Robot being embraced by their kin. Her lights sped up as she saw how they accepted him. It made her remember why she’d sacrificed what she had.

All suddenly turned to the Jupiter, and Starpelt felt her stabilizers shake slightly. It was her turn to come out.

Folding her ear flaps back, the leader’s mask encased her as she straightened up and assumed a posture of authority. First impressions were everything. Her creator taught her that. And although she had no more people to rule, she would always be a leader. Such a role is never truly lost or forgotten.

She hoped that by presenting herself in a confident manner would assure the humans that she was not there to harm them, but that she was not afraid of them either. A show of confidence like that had always won other factions over. If all of the factions of Nocfur had human origins, why should this be different?

Giving a slight ex-vent, she walked out into the light in view of the new beginning before her. If only her creator could be here.

The crowd was dead silent, most of their expressions that of shock, or fear. She spotted one or two of amazement.

The robots, even though she was one of them now gave low growls at her and backed away from her. Scarecrow turned to her after giving the robots around him a stern glare. She imagined they were speaking by lights.

She looked around once more, but what caught her attention was a group of one male and female adult and one little human female Starpelt assumed to be their offspring. The offspring’s bottom lip quivered as she looked at Starpelt in fear. The offspring then started to sob and hid her face in the adult female’s clothing while both adults embraced their offspring, giving her wary looks.

Starpelt’s ear flaps fell slightly as her lights slowed. She had never seen such a tiny thing cry. This offspring was so young, and then fact that Starpelt had caused her fear crushed her. It was only her experience that kept the full reaction from showing.

She looked around her. She needed to fix this. She was crushed that such a young one cried. She took a hesitant step to the child and her kin. They tried to back away. Starpelt hesitated as she bowed her head slightly and made sure her spines were as flat against her back as they could be to look the least threatening possible. “Please. I will not hurt you.” her voice came out. The gentleness in her tone was intended, but it was most sincere. She had lived by the principle of being strong enough to be gentle.* She knew a good leader had the strength to be gentle and strict when the situation called for it.

The kin tensed, and the little one continued to cry. “Starpelt…” Robot’s voice came through their kinship bond, which they could use to easily convey thoughts thanks to their being of the same kind, and sharing the same genetic code from their creators. “Be careful. Humans get extremely uneasy around things bigger than them.”

Starpelt looked down. “Do not worry. I know what I am doing.”

She regarded the kin, and bowed her head down to the level of the little one. The adult female clung tighter onto her offspring as the male stepped ahead in an optimal position to protect them. Starpelt looked at him, her pupils widening. She bowed her head slightly to him. She then turned her attention to the young one.

“Please do not cry, young one. I may look scary, but you do not need to fear me.” she said gently.

The young one sniffled and took a slow glance at her. Starpelt’s pupils widened as her lights sped up. She emitted a soft purr and coo that in Nocfur language meant: “Hello, one of youth.”

The young one looked at her, and gave another sniffle, before reaching out to her hesitantly. When her hand met Starpelt’s head, she let the smallest human hand she’d ever felt run through her processors. It had been so long since she’d felt a human’s touch, and it brought her great pleasure. Because of this, her purring increased, and she leaned into the young one’s touch.

The young one gave a giggle, and pet her a few more times. Starpelt chuckled softly. This small human was so cute! When she pet Starpelt’s ear flaps, she shook her head slightly, letting out a chuckle of pleasure.

She then looked to the creat-parents of the small offspring. Her lights sped up once more. They seemed less afraid now, and they didn’t look so tense.

“Thank you, for allowing me to comfort your little one.”

She turned as Robot came to her. She saw the kin perk up at his being there. “That was...I don’t have words to...how are you so good with human children?”

“Robot!” the little girl smiled. Robot’s lights sped up as he looked to the young one, and knelt down to her.

Starpelt’s lights sped up in amusement. “You are not so bad yourself.” she thought through their bond.

Robot tilted his head in a so-so fashion.

“I want you to meet my other kin. You still want to meet them...right…?” he asked hesitantly with a hint of fear. He stood up to face her.

“Of course I do. It would be my greatest honor.”

Robot put a soft hand on her ear flap, as he showed her to them.

She could see them all now. The ones Will and Robot had shown so much of to her. The one named John Robinson, the head of the kin stepped in a threatening fashion of defense. It seemed human parents did that often.

The crowd was still dead silent. Starpelt looked at the one known as Maureen Robinson, mother of Will, and they locked gazes. “Everyone, this is Starpelt. She’s...sort of Robot’s half sister. She also saved us.” Will explained briefly, but loud enough that it was an announcement. Starpelt gave a small purr in terms of greeting that put a sense of ease to others and bowed her head.

“It is an upmost honor, Robinsons.” she said, using the same gentle tone she’d used on the young one, while showing deep respect for Will and Robot’s kin.

“You can talk. I haven’t met a robot with your kind of vocabulary.” Maureen Robinson stated. “Of course. I...did not originate from the robots. I come because your offspring and my kin offered me a second chance at living. I am sorry if I startled you.” she apologized, glancing at John Robinson for emphasis.

“This is...I don’t even have the words…” Maureen Robinson breathed.

They all looked from each other to Will and Robot in surprise.

Will chuckled, and put a reassuring hand on Starpelt’s neck, which she accepted. But in doing so his sleeve was pulled down to reveal his arm.

The entire reason that Will had worn a covering over his arms was to hide the cuts The Creator had given him, although they were healing remarkably well.

Maureen Robinson snatched Will’s arm and pulled back the sleeve completely to reveal the scope of the scabbed over wounds.

Starpelt could feel the guilt in her kin, and Will as they all looked down. She could sense the kin tense, and didn’t blame them. Had this been one of her subjects, her reaction would not be much different. She could feel the intensity of Maureen Robinson’s gaze on her, and she looked at Will and Robot.

“Will? What the heck happened out there?”

--------------------------------------------------------------------

~ 3 hours later ~
~Location: Robinson Residence~

“You did WHAT?!” John Robinson demanded. Will had just finished telling their story, as the entire kin was gathered around them. Robot was stood next to Will, and Starpelt was seated to the side. She could tell the parents became more and more irritated with her as the story went on. Will had expected this and recommend she stay silent until he was done. Scarecrow was sitting not far from her.

“You know you did not have to be here.” Starpelt said in a soft whir.

“You kidding? Nothing this interesting happens in our kind.” he replied softly. He bowed his head slightly. “Besides, I am involved in this. It would be wrong for me not to be here.” The two shared one last glance as they looked back to the scene. She saw Maureen Robinson look at her, and Starpelt straightened up. “I am not ashamed to be facing my actions.” her look said.

But that still didn’t help the feeling of guilt that washed over her. It wasn’t the first time, but it was amplified in the presence of his kin. They cared so deeply for both of them, and their anger towards her was justified. Either way, she sat respectfully and promptly. She knew how to take responsibility for her actions, and was very prepared to do so.

“Look Dad I know. But we had no choice! We would’ve all died if we’d done it any other way! And it actually worked out for the best!”

“I thought his creators were extinct!” Judy Robinson interjected.

“They were, but one survived in hiding on Starpelt’s planet.”

“So they just took control of Robot like that? Like with SAR?” Penny Robinson asked.

“Worse. They knew what they were doing, and Robot couldn’t break free without Starpelt.”

The kin glanced at her as she tilted her head, her tail curled around her claws.

“You nearly died from those memories.” John Robinson said, glaring at Robot, who bowed his head.

“Dad, don’t blame Robot. I wanted the connection, and I kept it. And those weren’t memories per se. They were The Creator’s attempts to control Robot from a distance.”

Everyone went into a shocked silence.

“He couldn’t have stopped it even if he wanted to. And I suffered from them even before he initiated the new connection.”

Robot gave him a grateful look.

“Starpelt save, family. Save Will Robinson. Protect, family.” Robot said, pointing to himself and Will.

The kin was silent.

“Look, I know it’s a lot to take in, but that’s what happened. Me and Robot would be dead if not for her. We owe her our lives.” Will said, shooting her a smile.

Judy and Penny Robinson looked at their parents, as they looked to each other.

“I don’t think I like how you guys are looking at each other.” Will muttered softly. Starpelt’s ear flaps flattened ever so slightly as the four looked back at Don West, not a member of the kin, but regarded as such.

Don West cleared his throat. “Uhm. Well that was such a good story, Will. Penny, write that down, it might be your next bestseller. But make sure I’m mentioned. Now I’m gonna leave because this is obviously a sensitive family matter and I, Don West am the last person to get in the way of that. Start taking notes, Starpelt. I think we’re gonna get along great! If you are Robot’s sister, which I now know you are, you’re family, and family have rights to Debbie. I’m telling you, that little lady is the embodiment of luck if I ever did see it! Ok, you can stop giving me that look now, I’m going.”

Starpelt cocked her head as she looked at him. He was most...interesting.

As Don West went to exit the habitation, he turned back to Scarecrow. “And I’ll see you later, bud.” he smiled, pointing at him, before leaving.

Scarecrow growled in annoyance as his spines twitched. “One of these days...I’m gonna wipe that smug look off his face.”

“Over my dead body.” Robot growled back.

The house became silent once more as Will, Robot, and Starpelt shifted uncomfortably. The four of the kin looked at each other once more, and gave a small nod. The three of them looked at each other uncomfortably.

“Will...we almost lost you this year, and all of us are in agreement. You’re not going on any more exploratory missions. You’re grounded from Jupiter use. That goes for both of you” John Robinson said with the authority he had over his kin showing in his voice.

Starpelt’s pupils retracted slightly as her lights slowed.

“What?!” Will exclaimed, he and Robot snapping their heads to each other.

“Will, you almost died! You got stranded on an alien planet! You faced off against dangerous aliens with untold power, and you deliberately put yourself in danger! You promised us you wouldn’t do that!” Maureen Robinson pointed out.

“It wasn’t my fault! Robot’s sister was in danger! You know you would do the same thing if it was one of us on the line!”

Starpelt saw Will look at his younger kin, silently asking them for help. They looked at each other, and bowed their heads.

“You guys too?” Will asked, shocked.

“Will. We nearly lost you once. We may understand your love of exploration, but if it means loosing you…” Judy Robinson explained.

“Will, you know I’m all for rebellious behavior. But...Mom and Dad are right.” Penny Robinson said.

“Not to mention you put Robot in danger! Not only is he your best friend, he’s also your only protection out there. And even that wasn’t enough.” John said darkly.

Robot bowed his head in shame. “Know. Fault, Robot.”

The kin now looked to Will’s wounds given from The Creator. Starpelt cocked her head. They were healing very fast for the scope of the wounds. Judy Robinson had ordered that she check him out at the medical center tomorrow.

“Robot, we know you did your best, but this is your fault just as much as Will’s. You could’ve killed him if you died. It was reckless to fight your creator like that. You made us a promise that you would protect him. You and him were both reckless.” Maureen Robinson said sternly, her look one of disappointment.

Robot’s lights faltered even more, as he gave a small flinch. Starpelt’s ear flaps fell.

“This isn’t fair. I thought it was a given you guys accepted this risk when you let us go on exploratory missions. Things like this happen. I mean, there’s so much more out there. Look at Starpelt! She’s a-er she was a totally new alien species! She was made from our DNA, and her powers as I said were almost godlike!”

“And there will be considerable rewards from your findings, I’m sure Will! But your safety isn’t the only reason we're saying this. We’re saying this because You’re out of touch with your own kind! You didn’t even have to finish school! It’s time you started living with us, again.” Maureen Robinson said.

Starpelt stood up. “If I may, Robinsons. Do not blame this totally on Will and Robot. I am the reason they stayed after their repairs were finished. They waited for me to make my choice. It is my fault they were there when The Creator decided to make their move.” She said, flicking her tail slightly, raising her head.

“Starpelt-” Will began, but she silenced him with an extension of her wing.

Maureen and John Robinson looked at each other, while Will’s siblings remained silent. John Robinson gave a grumbling sigh at his mate’s significant look, and crossed his arms with a pout.

“Thank you, Starpelt. I appreciate that. And while what you say is true, that still doesn’t excuse these two.” Maureen Robinson said, giving them a glare, in which Will and Robot bowed their heads shamefully.

Will gave a grumbling sigh. “How long?”

“For the foreseeable future.” John Robinson said.

Will looked from Starpelt, to Robot, before giving a soft growl. “I can’t believe this.” He muttered. Without another word Will left the room, anger visible in his body language. Robot looked from the leaving Will, to everyone in the room. He bowed his head, his body tense, but the shame was unmistakable. With that, he followed Will to a higher level, and a few seconds later, a loud slam was heard. Starpelt gave a small flinch.

There was an uncomfortable silence in the room as the kin sighed, and rubbed their hands to their face.

“That’s rough.” Scarecrow growled softly, in which Starpelt shot him a glare.

“You’re not any better here.” John said, pointing at Starpelt. She looked down, her ear flaps lowering.

“How are we supposed to trust you when you almost killed my son and the only being that could protect him out there? How can I trust you when you put them in danger as you did?” He growled, stepping closer to Starpelt. But Starpelt wasn’t threatened by him.

Starpelt stood her ground and raised her head so that she was above John Robinson, and looked straight into his fiery gaze. If his look could kill.

“You kept them from us, and your ignorance and arrogance nearly killed them!” he yelled.

“John! That’s enough.” Maureen Robinson said.

“No! I’m not going to let this go! Not this time. At least Robot tried to make up for what he let happen! You. You just make it worse! You almost kill my son from your indecisiveness! You think only of yourself! You’re no better than their creator! You’re just as bad as-”

“DAD!” Penny Robinson shouted.

“Dad, stop!” Judy Robinson shouted at almost the same time.

“Are you forgetting that she risked and gave up her life to save them?! She killed herself, so that they would be safe!” Penny Robinson shouted.

Starpelt gave her a grateful look, in which Penny Robinson gave a small smile.

“You need to calm down. No one is perfect, and you can’t just blame everyone who messes up!” Judy Robinson pointed out.

The room was silent, as John Robinson gave a growl. He saw the reason.

Looking at Maureen Robinson, as well as John Robinson, Starpelt straightened herself.

“I am not proud of the part I played in the danger of my kin and your offspring, and I take full responsibility for my actions that put them in danger. But I did atone for my actions. I tried to get them to leave when I sensed the opportunity. I did not ask them to stay and fight.

And I saw the only way I could save them both. I saw the only way to save them from my mistakes. I did everything in my power to keep them safe. But you have authority over Will, and it is not my place to argue with what you and Maureen Robinson decide. But if you deem you do not want me to see Will anymore, than so be it. But I will not stay away from my kin.

This opportunity means more to me than you will ever know. And I will do everything in my power to prove my intentions are anything but threatening to humanity.” she finished. After a moment, she gave an ex-vent.

“I do not believe it is wise for you to approach him now. Both, especially Will are extremely agitated. I will talk to Will, and I will try my best to calm them both. All I ask is that you think upon what I have said.” she said, regarding each of the kin present. John Robinson gave an offended look, and Judy Robinson gave a small huff. Maureen Robinson gave a small nod, and Penny Robinson remained neutral.

Without another word, she followed the trail that Will and Robot had left in, and hesitantly climbed the stairs leading to the higher level. She gave a soft sniff, her sensors giving her different pings of traces. She found the organic traces of each member of the kin leading off to different spaces. But she followed the ping she received of her synthetic kin.

Starpelt could see a strange thing attached to the right side of the door, and a small strip of light coming from underneath the closed door. Was this how to get in? She lowered herself to investigate. She focused her vision and saw a slim vision of Will’s chamber. The light suddenly vanished, and Starpelt drew her head back and straightened herself up. She’d seen the foot of Robot. There was silence. “Starpelt?” a muffled voice came from the other side.

“Yes. It is me. May I come in?” she inquired, aware of the kin’s presence at the bottom of the steps.

There was silence again. “Just you.” Will finally said.

The strange thing suddenly turned down, and the door opened. Starpelt’s ear flaps perked. So that’s how that worked. Robot had opened the door, and at seeing her, he bowed his head. “We are very angry.” he said through their bond.

“I can sense that.” she replied.

She looked to Will as Robot closed the door. He was situated on his bed, with his head in his hands. Her ear flaps lowered as she went and situated herself next to him on the floor. Robot followed and knelt down next to her.

“Why didn’t you argue? You obviously didn’t agree.” Will questioned, lifting his head to look at her.

“Whether I agree or not is not the point. It is not my place to argue the decision made. Just as I had authority over my people, John and Maureen Robinson have authority over you. They only want what is best for you.”

“Oh great, you’re taking their side! Jeez, Starpelt I thought you of all beings would understand!”

“I am only looking at the situation logically. Something you are at this moment failing to do!” she retorted, raising her voice slightly. That silenced Will.

“Their actions and towards you are justified. They are afraid for you. For you both.” she said, looking at both of them for emphasis. “You mean more than the world to them, and they do not want to loose you. If they did, they would blame themselves for life.”

“Oh, you would say that wouldn’t you?” Will snapped.

Starpelt looked down, and her lights slowed as her ear flaps fell.

“Yes. I would.”

She sensed Will’s posture immediately change. “I...I’m so sorry, Starpelt. I-I didn’t mean it like…” he stuttered as Robot gave him a firm punch accompanied by a growl.

Starpelt gave a heavy ex-vent. “Your kin loves you so, so much. It is how I cared for my own people. You are more important to them than you could ever know, and the same goes to you, Robot. They will forgive you both, but for the moment they only feel that this is the best option for you.”

“How can you defend them like this? Dad totally attacked you! They treated you like dirt!” Will protested.

“Penny, Judy, and Maureen Robinson came to my defense. And if I am to understand, your father showed this same hostility to Robot before he fully gained your trust.”

Robot gave a small nod. “Right, Starpelt.” he said.

Will gave a grumbling sigh. “I hate that he’s like that.”

“Do not be so hard on him, or them. They just want to protect you.” Starpelt consoled.

Will growled. “But they can’t protect me from everything! I had this same talk with him, and it still hasn’t gotten through his head!” Will snapped, pointing at Robot. Robot gave a small flinch, before growling softly.

“Will that is not fair. Do not bring him into this like that.” Starpelt scolded. Robot put a hand on her shoulder to quiet her.

“Special, Will Robinson. Family, Will Robinson. Protect family. Mad. Understand. Not, fair.” Robot defended himself, his body posture tensing as he gave a growl at Will.

Will sighed. “Look, I know. I’m special. But they have to understand I’m 17 and they can’t keep me here forever!”

“They lost that year, Will! You were gone for that year! They only want to make up for lost time!” Starpelt exclaimed. She gave a soft ex-vent.

“It may not be the worst thing. For one, you can help me adjust. I think it is more than clear that I will need help. I will not win humanity’s favor, nor your kin on our story alone. I believe I will need you both to help me.” she said, looking at both. Robot’s body posture relaxed.

“I will need help to find my creator’s kin.” she added after a pause.

They both looked at her, seeming to have forgotten that was one of her goals.

“This will take much adjustment from all of us, but if we stick together we will get through this. We defeated The Creator once by working together, remember?”

“Well, even if it proved to be futile.” she thought quickly.

Will and Robot looked to each other, and Robot gave him a soft nudge.

He gave a grumbling sigh. “Fine. I’ll give it a shot, and try to see the bigger picture. But just know I’m still not happy about it.” he pouted.

Starpelt gave a small purr of amusement. “That is all I ask.”

There was a soft thud outside that was only heard by Robot and Starpelt because of their advanced hearing capabilities. They both turned to the door. But it didn’t take much for them both to sense the kin outside the door listening.

Will sensed their attention change, and ran his hand down his head with a groan. “They’re out there, aren’t they?”

The look Robot and Starpelt exchanged was answer enough for him. Will groaned again, and flopped onto the bed on his back. “What’s the point in fighting it?”

“I should go. I have done what I needed to do.” Starpelt said, walking to the door.

“You aren’t staying?” Will inquired, sitting up, and looking at her with a twinge of sadness.

“I...I do not believe your kin would approve of me staying here. Not yet anyways.” At Robot and Will’s look, she gave an ex-vent.

“But I will stay right outside in the case you need me.” She said, gesturing with her wing.

“If you want, you can stay in that tree right there. It’s pretty big.” Will said, gesturing to a large tree not far from his chamber window.

She gave a purr of appreciation, before heading to the door. Once again she cocked her head at the strange thing on the side, unsure of how to apply what she’d seen Robot do.

“Uhm...How do you open this again?” she asked timidly as she turned to face them.

Will gave a small snicker as Robot gave an amused ex-vent.

Robot walked to her, and slowly pressed the strange thing down so that she could see. There was a click, and the door opened. Starpelt looked at the kin gathered. She looked directly at John Robinson.

“I am going now.” she said, the slightest hint of a growl in her voice.

As she went down the stairs, she sensed their eyes on her. She walked past Scarecrow, who was still there to her surprise.

“So?” he questioned.

“They will be fine. What about you?”

“They didn’t scold me like they did you. I apparently gained their trust like Robot did. I have to admit...it feels nice.” he chittered.

“I would hope so. You saved their offspring, and gave everything to get them here.” she said, her spines twitching.

“They will trust you too. I know they will. They are good beings, and your actions will speak for themselves.” Scarecrow said, lowering his head to hers.

Starpelt’s pupils widened. “That means a lot. Thank you.”

Scarecrow nodded, and gently used his claws to slide a framed window to grant the access outside. She perked. Scarecrow caught her look, and gave an amused ex-vent. “Not everything I saw humans use was automated.”

He followed her out, and closed the sliding window. “You are leaving?” she inquired.

“Not for long. I am going to explore. I am a Seeker after all. I finally have the complete freedom to do that. I will be back for first light. I wish to see how things go.” he whirred.

Starpelt bowed her head. “I wish you good exploring then. I will stay here to make sure Will and Robot are all right. Well, that and I am not ready to leave them yet.”

Scarecrow nodded. “I understand that. I will see you in first light, Starpelt.”

Starpelt bowed her head as he left, before turning to the tree Will had pointed her towards. With a majestic leap, she flew up to one of the higher branches that looked could support her weight. Even so, she landed hesitantly on it, and found that closer to the main structure of the tree was the most stable.

She sat down, and situated herself, huddling her wings close to her body. She looked over to see that she could see into Will’s chambers from this angle. His lights were off, and Starpelt thought he must have gone to bed. But he must have seen her as well because he opened his window, and poked his head out.

“How is it?” he asked quietly.

“It will do.” she replied, flicking her dangling tail.

“Won’t you be bored? You can’t sleep now, you know.” He said.

Starpelt gave a small purr. “Do not worry about me. I will be fine. You on the other hand need rest. Go on. You both will feel better about everything in the morning.”

Will sighed, and gave a small nod. As he went to close his window, he seemed to decide against it. “Thank you again. And...I’m sorry.”

“You do not need to apologize, Will. I understand. Now sleep well, and we will talk more tomorrow.” She said in a soothing purr, and she watched him move from his window, and disapear from view.

She gave a small purr to herself, and looked around. She still couldn’t believe she was here. Even if the start wasn’t what she’d hoped, she was still unbelievably happy to be here.

She looked up to the stars, even though the were slightly blocked by the foliage of the tree. She was amazed how it could look so similar, but yet so different from the night sky she knew.

“Starpelt?” Robot called to her through their bond.

“Yes?”

“Do you...do you think they’ll forgive me?”

Starpelt perked. “Context, Robot. I can only sense the thoughts conveyed to me.”

“Sorry. I’m talking about our family. Will’s and mine. I...I failed to protect him like I promised them. I almost...killed him. I...I don’t know if they will...I just don’t want it to be like it was before…”

“Oh...oh Robot I am sure they understand you did not have any control of yourself in that situation.”

“But did you see the way they...they looked at me when Will told them what happened? It was like the Unknown planet all over again...”

“Robot. They know you. You have proven yourself time and time again. Will felt what you are feeling and he made sure to clearly announce that you fought it, and those actions were not your own. I am here, but know that I am confident they understand.”

There was a pause. “I...I know you’re right. I just...it hits a lot harder now. It helps knowing you know what that pain feels like...not that I’m happy you know.” he corrected himself quickly.

Starpelt’s ear flaps flattened. He just had to bring that up.

“Sorry. I shouldn’t have-”

“It is fine. Just...I would appreciate it if we tried not to bring that certain subject up.”

“Right. Sorry. I...Thank you again for just hearing me out.”

“You are my kin and one I hold dear. I would not have kept this kinship bond if I did not wish to be closer to you.”

Robot felt a sense of happiness through their bond, and Starpelt’s lights sped up at this.

She perked at the sound of the sliding window opening. Her ear flaps twitched, sending her pings that someone from Will’s kin was looking and approaching the tree she was in.

“Starpelt?”

She looked down to see Maureen Robinson searching for her. Given her darker plating, she must have been harder to spot hidden by the foliage of the tree.

Giving a small inquisitive growl, she spread her wings, and used them to glide down to the ground as to not cause too much alarm.

She landed with a soft thump and settled her wings as Maureen Robinson turned around quickly at the sound.

Starpelt lowered herself onto the ground and curled her tail in to show a non threatening nature.

“Maureen Robinson. To what do I owe the honor?” she inquired, bowing her head in respect.

“Oh, there’s no need for that kind of formality, Starpelt.” Maureen Robinson said in a gentle tone.

“Of course there is. You are the mother of Will, and are therefore responsible for his upbringing and shaping into the person he is now. I owe you the upmost respect. You and John Robinson have shaped a special kin.” she said in a soft purr.

Maureen Robinson gave a small laugh. “Well, Will did a lot of that growth.”

There was a silence between the two.

“I...I wanted to apologize for John earlier. He just wants to protect us. You know...he was a soldier on Earth, and those instincts just are a part of him.” Maureen Robinson said quickly.

Starpelt bowed her head. “He was not wrong in what he said, and his anger is justified towards me. Had something happened to my own, I would have a similar reaction.”

Maureen Robinson looked at her. “You are just like him. I see him in the way you handle authority and responsibility.”

Starpelt gave a flattered hum. “Well, I am not sure he will see things as you, but I appreciate the remark.”

Another silence as they both looked to the sky.

“Why did you save them?” Maureen Robinson asked.

Starpelt cocked her head. “I wanted to protect them.”

“No. I want to know the long, complicated version. I am forever indebted to you, and as a leader, you have to understand how much this means. So what made you save them, especially with your history? I want to hear your thinking, not just Will’s.”

Starpelt gave a nod, and looked back to the stars. She did understand Maureen Robinson’s request, and she hoped her answer would satisfy the mother.

She gave a small ex-vent. “If I am being honest, at the start, I wanted nothing more than for Robot to die for what he did. But I never had a quarrel with Will except for his connection with Robot. In fact, you could say I had a soft spot for him from the start because of his humanity. He reminded me so much of my creator er- Libby Taylors that I could not bring myself to leave him unprotected. And begrudgingly I realized that Robot was his protection, and I realized that he had a deep connection with the latter.

To destroy Robot as I so badly wanted would hurt Will, so I exposed what he did to me, thinking that Will was just misled. But to know this only made him more connected to Robot, and this intrigued me to the point where I was willing to give them a chance to explain this difference. After this, they tried very, very hard to win my trust in them just by being themselves. Robot did things I could not explain, well, he did things that proved that the only viable explanation was sentience.

He never treated me badly, even when he had every right to. He...saved my life. More than once. And as for Will, he was curious, and kind. He stood up for what he believed was right, even at the risk of his own life. He showed me time and time again that beautiful beings still exist. And he never held any long lasting resentment towards me, even when Robot’s life was at stake. He showed me what it had been like to accept others into your life. They both did.

I...I was in a horrible place. I do not even want to think of what could have happened had they not shown up when they did. The closer I got to them, the more I realized I owed them my very life. That is why I sacrificed what I did. They did not deserve to die in such a place. Not when they had someone waiting for their return.

I did not expect them to willingly fight for my sake. I was angry at them for that. But...I still owe them...everything. I...I never thought I would be able to view another as kin again...not after what happened. But they gave me the one thing I thought I had lost. I could not live with myself knowing they risked their lives to give me this opportunity just to die for it. I do not for one second regret the decision I made. I hope...you understand better, Maureen Robinson, why I did what I did.” She finished, looking intently at the Mother.

Maureen Robinson had tears in her eyes as she sniffled, trying to collect herself. “I do now…” she nodded.

“I don’t think I’ve thanked you enough for saving them.”

Starpelt’s pupils widened, as the remaining lights sped up. “And you need not thank me for it, Maureen Robinson. They are my kin. Related by blood-er...synthetic relations or not. I value them greatly.”

Maureen Robinson took a deep breath. “I...Will told me you were looking for the relatives of Libby Taylors. I can help you find them.”

Starpelt’s head snapped to her, her ear flaps perked.

“You would...you would do that?”

“Of course! It’s really the least I can do.” she smiled.

“Th-Thank you…” Starpelt breathed, genuinely touched by her offer.

Maureen Robinson nodded and went to get up. As she was leaving, she turned back to Starpelt.

“I think you’ll do just fine, Starpelt.” she smiled, before entering the habitation once more.

Starpelt paused for a few seconds after she left, trying to fathom what had just happened. Maureen Robinson seemed to like her! She gave a small purr as her lights sped up. Flexing, she flew up to the tree and situated herself once more. Looking in the window, she saw Will fast asleep. She gave a small coo, as she lay down, putting her head on the branch.

She let herself focus on the perfect store of memories now, and reminisced on things she’d forgotten with an organic mind. She gave a small purr as she focused on a memory of her and Eclipse sharing affection under a starry sky as this, away from all else. She missed him, but she knew that he would be proud of her if he could see her now. What she wouldn’t give to have him back even for a day. She looked up.

“Well, I did it. I...finally let go of my guilt. Just like you asked all those years ago…. I wish you were here, my love.” she whispered, her ear flaps falling. Laying her head back down, she focused on her fondest and intimate memories of him, as if to somehow fill that void that followed her into her new body.

She expected that the night would be calm, and she would be comforted by the sounds around her.

She was very wrong.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2

Will gave a sigh as he lay on his back. God, he forgot how comfortable non-Jupiter beds were. He turned on his side, and gave a soft nuzzle to his pillow as he tried to sort everything going on in his brain out.

He didn’t know how to feel. Deep down he knew his parents were right, but that was hard to accept. Through the crack of his open door he could see Robot standing guard like he used to. It made Will smile as he realized even through all of this some things didn’t change.

He’d heard his mom talking to Starpelt, although he couldn’t make out what was said. He knew Starpelt had taken the opportunity to show her worthiness. Will’s brow furrowed at the thought of his dad. He and Robot had heard everything from their room, and the measure of anger they’d both felt in that moment couldn’t be described easily.

“How dare he…” he’d heard Robot’s thought come through as his face had flickered red a few times.

But...Starpelt had a calm attitude about everything, and Will figured it was contagious, because Robot was calm now. Ashamed and troubled, but calm. And Robot being calm well...that helped him be calm. Robot’s emotions were becoming more and more apparent to the point where they started to mix with Will’s. Will gave another groan. He could hear the muffled whispers and conversations of the rest of the family that were no doubt about him.

They’d tried to talk to him, but Will had been mentally exhausted from everything that happened in all of that day. Not to mention that his internal clock was all off because the days were much longer on Starpelt’s planet. He’d told them he was going to bed, and told him that he’d be willing to talk in the morning after he’d had a good night’s rest.

But as he knew his family was stubborn (Robinsons are known for their stubbornness, and this we know all too well), so Will asked Robot to keep them out. He was doing a good job of that so far.

At this point his eyes were closing from the exhaustion. “Get some sleep, Will. You need it.” A stray thought floated into his head. Will gave a small chuckle.

“Yeah, yeah.” he thought back, as his gaze traveled to Robot who was now looking at him. Robot gave a nod as Will gave a soft scoff.

“We’re getting good at this…” he thought, his mind starting to drift off. Before he could do anything else, the world faded to black.

***

“Wait! Stop!” Will screamed. “Please stop I didn’t do anything please!”

Wait. His voice sounded different. He had...metal arms. He was a robot. Wait...the mark on his forearm...He was Robot. These were Robot’s memories. Will could do nothing but watch as he spoke in Robot’s words.

Shadowy figures towered above him. “More. We must understand. Our queen demands understanding.”

“Cr-Creators...please…I...I did nothing wrong...” Will whimpered. They hurt him, stabbed him, tortured him. All Will could do was scream in agony.

There was a flash of red bringing him back to reality.

Will choked and gagged as he staggered on his feet, his hand rushing to his heart, which felt like it was burning. His vision was blurred and fading in and out. “Room.” was all he could think.

Another flash of red.

Screaming, destruction, death. Growling, commands, helplessness.

Will held his metal arms and claws out in a moment of freedom. The sounds of oppression could be heard behind him. His arms were covered in blood.

“Oh great rings...What did...I do…?” Will could fell Robot’s agony in this moment. Will whirled around to see Robot’s creators approaching him in furious growls.

Another flash of red bringing him back to reality.

Will fell to his knees, gasping frantically and hyperventilating. Through his blurry vision he saw the figures of his family rushing towards him. Starpelt…came through the window.

In the background, he could just make out the shape of Robot throwing himself around, his hands on his head as if in attempt to make pain stop.

Another flash of red.

“We will stand above our oppressors! We will show them that we are not their puppets!” Will shouted, the figure of a robot like him standing next to him, rallying the crowd on.

“Death to the organics!” The crowd chanted in a deafening roar.

“No control! No heart!” The robot next to Will roared.

“No control! No heart!” The crowd chanted.

A flash, a time skip.

“You DESTROYED OUR PLANET!” Will screamed furiously to to robot in front of him.

The robot punched Will sending him backwards. Will winced as he felt the pain Robot experienced in this moment.

“I did what had to be done in order to be free!” the robot growled.

“You should know better than to take such extreme measures! Our plan was to destroy the Queen, destroying the organics, and that was it!” Will retorted with a groan from the pain.

“You are in no place to question my decisions, General.”

Will growled. “You have doomed us all…Captain.”

Another flash, Will found this memory to be quite recent. But he couldn’t stop himself as Robot’s words and thoughts flooded through him as if they were his own.

“WILL! No! Please, I’m sorry! Will! Keep talking Will please! Don’t leave me, Will! Please help me!” Will begged through a vision of red. He was trying to control himself, but something stopped him every time. This was on Starpelt’s planet. And Will had a second of his own thinking to acknowledge himself in Robot’s red tinted vision, trying to reason and snap Robot out of his control.

A flash of red brought Will back into reality once more for a few seconds.

Will was sobbing openly, as everything around him blurred into multiple sounds of echoes he couldn’t decipher. Everyone was frantic.

Another flash of red overtook him, making Will subject to whatever memory Robot was seeing.

“Let me go! Please stop! Please! Stop it I’m going to hurt him! Will SAVE ME! STOP CONTROLLING ME! GET THE SCRAP OUT OF MY HEAD!” Will screamed, becoming frantic. The sounds of Robot’s creators sounded through Will’s skull. So this is what Robot felt when he resisted them.

“I have to break free! I HAVE TO BREAK FREE! I have to...break…freeeee….Submission to orders.”

A flash brought Will to where Robot lay alone above Starpelt’s memorial, before Will had awakened. He was trembling.

“Lock it all away. Lock it all away. No think. No think. No think. I’ll stay good. I’m a good being. I am good. I am good.” Will said, the words trembling in a desperate effort to escape the trauma and madness. “Good. I will be good. I will forget. It will all be fine. No it won’t. I caused this! I’m a monster it’s all my fault!"

All of these memories plus more suddenly flashed before Will’s vision faster than he could begin to comprehend.

“IT’S ALL MY FAULT! I FAILED THEM! I DON’T DESERVE TO LIVE AFTER THE CRIMES I’VE COMMITTED!” Will sobbed, overcome by guilt and hopelessness. “GREAT RINGS MAKE IT STOP! STOP IT! STOP THE PAIN!” Will rammed his hands to his face, and through a brief glimpse of realty he saw Robot doing the same with a strained shriek.

“I’m so...so sorry…”

That was the last thing Will heard before he collapsed onto the floor, unconscious.

***

Will gave a small groan. “What happened..?” his mind groggily questioned. God, did his head hurt.

“He’s waking up!” a voice echoed.

“Will! Come on, wake up!”

“His vital signs are stabilizing, easy everyone make some room.”

“Why is Robot not waking up?”

Through the grogginess Will’s entire being noted the lack of Robot’s presence, and craved for the presence it was bonded to.

“Mmmmm. Robot…” he muttered, not even conscious enough to realize what his hand was doing. Through the blurry vision of his limited consciousness, he reached out to where he could see Robot’s figure not far from him.

With another murmur, he gave an inhale and exhaled shakily. He felt that familiar feeling of his presence reaching out to Robot’s.

“I’m getting a strange reading on his heart rate.”

He saw Robot’s midsection light up as his vision started to clear. Will gave a jolt as what felt like electricity run to his heart. In that moment, Robot gave a small jolt, and whirred groggily.

“That is not possible…” A voice he was now conscious enough to know was Starpelt murmured.

“You better explain to us right now what that means!” John snapped.

As Will panted heavily, he started to gain a sense of where he was. Hospital…. He was in a hospital.

“Dad...leave her alone…” he breathed weakly.

“Will!” Maureen gasped, rushing to his side, along with everyone else present. Starpelt stayed back with Robot.

“What happened…?” he asked, sitting up groggily and rubbing his head.

“Will, this is Doctor Brooks. She’s been monitoring your heart.” Maureen clarified at Will’s confused look.

“Your heart shut down due to a data overload. Although it’s not exactly what we would call it, the closest thing we can compare it to is a heart attack.” Dr. Brooks said. Will’s eyes widened.

“But...But I…” he stuttered. It was then everything started to come back to him. The memories, the pain. He looked at Robot, situated on a berth next to him. “You...I was you...I-I saw everything that happened to you.”

Robot looked to the side with shame. “I never wanted you to see that.” his look said.

“What about that scan you took of him, and his wounds?” Judy asked, earning a nod from everyone.

“Yes, that’s taken a bit longer because something is interfering with our scanners. We can’t get a clear picture. But I think Cassius had done a good job clearing them.”

“Cassius?” Will echoed. Everyone looked at each other, as they realized Will of course had no idea what was going on.

“Our...head medical robot. They were the prime assembler, you know.” The doctor clarified.

“Yeah, we have a whole team dedicated to robot care. They’re trying to make a ring here.” Judy said, glancing at Robot.

Robot and Will looked at each other. “Great…” Will said half-halfheartedly. Their experiences with rings in general weren’t the best.

“Yeah, you’ve missed a lot. There are robots like, everywhere.” Penny said, leaning against a wall.

“Yeah, some have scared the poor feathers off of Debbie. You would think the robots would be more considerate towards livestock after we you know...give them a place to stay?” Don replied, gesturing sternly.

Everyone rolled their eyes at his antics. Will gave a small chuckle. He had to admit, he missed this.

Robot was looking at Starpelt, who gave a worried look. Her ear flaps fell. They were speaking through their bond.

“Hey. What’s this?” He questioned.

Starpelt gave Will an uncertain look.

“He wants to break the bond with you.”

The whole room went dead silent as Will felt all life sucked out of him.

“Uh...I’ll see how Cassius is doing with those scans. You can keep an eye on him, right Judy?” The Doctor asked. “Yeah, Don’t worry.” she assured her. With that, the doctor excused herself.

That shock soon turned to anger. “You’re kidding me, right?!”

Robot shook his head. “No. Danger, Will Robinson.”

“I..I-I...WHAT?!” He exploded, throwing the covers off of him.

“Will, get back into the bed, your heart is still rebooting!” Judy ordered as everyone rushed to coax him back into bed.

He gave a groan and stumbled as his hand flew to his heart.

He took a few gasping pants as everyone helped him back to bed. “This is not over!” he growled.

Everyone was silent as Robot bowed his head. Never had anyone heard him so angry. There was an uncomfortable silence in the room as he saw more than one member of the family shoot glares at Robot.

“The data from his heart is fluctuating wildly. He’s sending data to Robot.” Judy s said in awe as the entire family crowded the screen showing his heart.

“Yeah. To tell him how ticked off I am right now!” Will said with venom in his voice. “You just want to abandon everything we worked so hard to achieve? Huh? Is that what you really want? Well I don’t, ok? I want this bond, and I don’t care what it takes I’m not gonna let you end it just like that!”

“Will, this bond has nearly killed you several times. Maybe Robot has the right idea. It’s better for your safety.” John said, holding Will’s arm.

“Dad, I know you think that ok? But you don’t know what it’s like to share an entity with someone. To feel them inside of you. To have seen everything they feel. To have them feel you.”

“Will, I’m sorry but that just sounds gross.” Penny piped in, earning a chuckle from Don.

“You guys don’t get it. But he does.” Will said, glaring at Robot.

“Robot...think very deeply about what you are asking of Will.” Starpelt said, lowering her gaze to meet his.

“Starpelt.” John growled, but went silent at Maureen’s look. He gave a grumbling sigh. “Stay out of this please. This doesn’t concern you yet.” John said in a monotone.

“With all due respect, John Robinson it does. Robot is my kin, and his connection to Will is a part of our bond.” she defended herself.

“Robot...can you even break the bond now?” Maureen questioned.

Robot let out a hum, and looked down. “Not, certain, Maureen Robinson.”

“Terrific!” Will exclaimed, throwing his hands in the air.

Doctor Brooks came in slowly, followed by a golden tinted robot Will assumed to be Cassius. The family turned their attention to the two of them.

“I...I have the scan.” she said slowly. Will gave a glance at Robot and Starpelt. Whatever this was, it didn’t sound good.

Cassius went over to Robot, and scanned him. They gave an uncertain look at Starpelt, who backed up a step.

Once Cassius was done, they joined Doctor Brooks at the monitor next to Will’s bed. After a few seconds, a beeping sound was heard. “Ok...we have the scans of both. I would prepare yourselves.” she said, which didn’t help the ambiance of the room.

Cassius gave a low growl, and projected both Will and Robot’s scans side by side. The room was dead silent at what they saw.

Will could see that his scan showed pulsating power all over his body, the fluctuating power all feeding into his wounds. His heart pulsated, but lit up blue with each heartbeat. Robot’s scan showed his energy core beating to the same rhythm as Will’s heartbeat.

Will and Robot looked to each other. “You really want to break this up?” his glare said. Robot bowed his head, and looked to the monitor.

“Wh-What are we looking at?” Maureen asked, stunned.

“We can see there’s the strong, binding connection between Will and Robot that originates from Will’s heart from when Robot first implanted himself there. This has been utilized to form an even stronger bond between them. Normally, if I remember your culture right, that type of bond is reserved for only those you are most devoted to. And between your own kind.” Doctor Brooks said, looking at Cassius.

Cassius nodded. “Correct, Doctor Brooks.”

“The fact that Will and his heart have survived this type of bond for so long is a miracle. They...They are bonded so closely now that one cannot separate from the other.” She said, looking at the two of them.

Will gave a soft smile as he heard those words. “That’s right, bud. You’re stuck with me.” Will thought.

“It is the danger I’m worried about, Will!” Robot thought back irritably.

“If we look at Will’s heart from last night, we can see that everything was functioning normally. But look at what happens.” She said, motioning to Cassius to play the recording.

Will’s heart beat normally, but suddenly started to glow blindingly bright, his pulse increasing. Will watched intently.

“Now look at his brain.” the Doctor said, having Cassius pull up an image of his brain next to his heart.

At the same time as his heart acting up, his brain started to receive glowing veins of blue, and it too pulsated with power. Suddenly, a screeching sound could be heard. The sound of robot technology.

“So what does all of this mean?” John asked, the concern evident.

“Memories.” Cassius said, looking at Robot

“What they mean is that Will received all of Robot’s lost memories as if they were his own.”

“That makes no sense. Robot gained his memories back a while ago. Why didn’t I get this then? Will asked.

“Yeah, and Robot seemed like he was going through what Will was at the same time. Why would this hurt them so much?” Penny pointed out.

Doctor Brooks and Cassius looked at each other.

“Because he locked them away.” Doctor Brooks said.

“According to Cassius, he used a fail-safe program to lock these memories away. Such a program exists if a robot wishes to hide or not focus on a certain part of their programming to better fulfill their directive. But the problem is that the program wasn’t designed to withhold so much data. So it...failed and shut down, releasing all of the memories as if seen for the first time.

Normally this would have only affected Robot, but since the bond between Will and Robot is so strong, it strained both of them until Robot overloaded his neural net, and Will’s heart failed.” she explained.

Everyone in the room was silent as they looked from one another.

Will caught the uneasy looks they gave. “Alright, what’s with the significant looks I’m clearly missing?”

Everyone seemed to try and think of how to word this. “Will...while you were...receiving memories...you were shouting things...things...that didn’t apply to you.” Maureen said hesitantly. She looked at Robot. It seemed she was tearing up as Robot met her gaze.

“Like...what?” Will asked uneasily.

Maureen took a shaky breath, and John put a hand on her shoulder.

“You were saying things like… “Stop hurting me.”, “I’m sorry this is all my fault.”, “Stop controlling me.”, “Will, I’m sorry.”, “Death to the organics.”.” Judy said, shuddering as she remembered.

“And you said something about a planet being destroyed. A captain, and a general…. But you told us…” Penny trailed off.

Will could see as Starpelt lowered her ear flaps. She knew exactly what this was.

Will gave a shaky breath. It would seem that everything he’d said in Robot’s place had been said in reality as well.

“That...that was Robot. I saw everything he did...felt everything he did...I was him.” Will explained.

Everyone looked to Robot, and Will saw Cassius look at him with a soft whir. Robot responded with a soft nod.

Maureen walked next to Robot’s berth. “We...we had no idea…” she said, her voice strangled by emotions.

John joined her, and gave a sigh. “I...I’m sorry for being so hard on you. I get how you feel. I’m...sorry it took this for me to understand.” he apologized. Shortly after, everyone came to stand next to Robot, all giving him apologetic looks. Penny embraced Robot with a shaky breath, while Don and Judy gave Robot reassuring hands on his arm.

Robot gave a soft whir. “Forgive, John Robinson. Forgive, family. Not, know.” he said, and everyone gaped at his use of English.

Will reached out for him for support from his bed, and after a second, Robot reached out, and their hands touched. “I see you, ok?” Will thought with a soft smile. Robot’s lights sped up slightly.

“What about his wounds? I’m no expert, but I’m seeing a lot of that power going to where his wounds are. Is Robot healing him?” Don asked, pointing at the projection.

“Well...that’s what we’re not sure on. It’s what interfered with the scans to begin with. But Cassius has determined that it’s not anything we know, robot or human. Whatever it is, it’s affecting Will on a genetic level. These wounds cut very deep, and it’s as if they’ve been healing for weeks, even months. Something is making them heal quicker than usual.”

Starpelt gasped softly as Will saw her ear flaps fall. “No…”

Everyone turned to her. “You know about this?” Judy demanded.

Starpelt was silent for a second. “I...Yes. I...do know what this is…. I have no idea...how it is possible.”

“Well, what is it?” Penny asked.

“It is...my genetic signature…. Will told you how I infused some of it to aid his healing process. Some of that bonded to his genetic code giving him the powers of myself and Robot. But...when I sacrificed myself...everything outside of my necklace, meaning everything but my memories and original code were wiped from existence. I can not believe...some of it survived….” Starpelt trailed off in awe.

“So let me get this straight. You gave Will some of your...genetic code, and it gave him superpowers.” Penny mused, cocking her head.

“Will, you did mention you were able to revive Robot and heal your wounds. But was that it?” John asked.

“No. When Starpelt was organic she had the ability to create these power blasts. Although it took a lot out of me, I could create them too.”

The family was silent. “That’s what you used to wake Robot up… That’s what that was….” Maureen breathed, stumbling back.

“What are you talking about, Mom?” Will questioned.

“Will, when you reached out to Robot, we saw something blue travel from your heart to your hands.” Judy said, her eyes widening.

“Y-You mean he can still use it?” Don asked.

“It would appear so.” Doctor Brooks said.

“Wait. You said it affected him on a genetic level.” Maureen said, holding her hand out.

“Yes. Cassius?” the Doctor motioned for Cassius to zoom in oh their projection.

The image now showed Will’s DNA, now infused with the glowing light blue that was Starpelt’s power.

“Oh my god…” Penny breathed.

“Will…” Judy gasped, looking at him. Will looked down. He knew this couldn’t be good. But nothing could prepare him for what he was about to hear.

“So what does this mean?” John demanded.

“It...It means that Will is no longer completely human. And...he never will be again.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 3

The room was so silent, Robot could hear the hum of his energy core echo around it. By the rings this was bad. Robot looked to Starpelt as he felt pure realization and guilt run through their bond. He sensed everyone’s gaze on her.

Her ex-vents were heavy, and the lights that made up her pupils had been reduced to slits, and the lights around them were at a standstill.

“No...no, no no no!” she said softly in denial, shaking her head and backing up. Her ex-vents started to become frantic as her voice gave way to her hyperventilating.

“Hey! Hey! Calm down!” Robot instructed through their bond, getting up and putting his hands on her shoulders.

“I changed him! Robot, I made him something he was never supposed to be! I-I did to him what they did to me!” Starpelt exclaimed, her ear flaps falling and her shaking increasing.

“Hey, look at me! This is not the same, you hear me? You had no choice, and you had no idea this would happen!” Robot said sternly, shaking her slightly.

Doctor Brooks gave a small sigh, and looked at all of them. “I’m...really sorry. I...I’ll leave you be for now. If you have any questions, I won’t be far. I’ll be back in an hour to check up on Will.” she said, her and Cassius excusing themselves from the room.

When they were gone, the silence only persisted. John gave shaky breaths, that soon were directed at Starpelt.

“You…” he growled, his voice shaking.

Starpelt looked at him, still in shock, and she looked genuinely scared of John. Robot looked at him, and was ready to come in between her and John if need be. He wouldn’t let him talk his sister down again.

John started towards her, but was stopped by Maureen. “John, let’s take a walk.” she said sternly.

“But-”

“Now.” she cut him off, heading out of the room.

John gave a small growl, before following her. On the way out, Maureen flashed Starpelt a small sympathetic look. Robot’s lights moved slowly in hope. Had she already gained Maureen’s favor?

That left Will, Penny, Judy, and Don in the room with them. Starpelt gave a shaky ex-vent. “I...I should go. I have...caused you enough suffering.” she said in a monotone. “Wait, you don’t have to…” Robot started through their bond.

“I...I need to be alone, Robot...please.” she replied. And without saying anything more, left. But before doing so, she turned to Will. “I am...so sorry, Will. I...I never wanted this for you.” she said, her ear flaps falling even lower. Then, she walked out of the room.

Robot wanted to go after her, but he knew he needed to be here to defend her.

Everything was silent for another moment before Will gave a shaky breath. “Guys...I know this is asking a lot but...you can’t blame this on her. Please don’t blame this on her.”

“Not blame her? Will, we’re talking about your humanity here! She’s turned you into an abomination!” Judy exclaimed.

Robot saw his vision start to flicker red. Not this again.

“She had no choice, Judy! There wasn’t enough time to figure out another way. It was either this, or let me die.” Will growled, glaring at Judy.

“Look...I don’t know about you two...but I would rather have him altered and alive, than human and dead. Plus, Will is still Will. This doesn’t change who he is. Isn’t that the most important thing?” Penny argued.

Don gave a sigh. “Believe me, I know that you have to take drastic measures when life or death is at stake. I’ve been at this point one too many times over...my past profession. So I know what it’s like to take that measure because it’s all there is. You don’t have time to think of the consequences in the moment. I think...I think it’s best to hear Starpelt out. You saw how she reacted. She was just as shocked as us.”

“Wow, look at you being all philosophical.” Penny observed. “Shut up, you.” Don retorted playfully

“But in all seriousness we have to approach this carefully. I agree with Don. We should hear her reasoning.” Penny said.

Will shot Robot a look, and both of them exchanged hopeful feelings.

Judy looked at them all. “Do you not see how serious this is? Will will be an outcast for the rest of his life! I mean, it’s already bad enough he has this psychic connection with Robot.”

“That’s it!” Robot growled, his vision turning red.

“Judy!” Penny scolded.

“Hey, hey buddy calm down! I’m sure she didn’t mean it like that!” Don said quickly, holding his hands out.

Will gave a small gasp and started panting heavily. “Oh, Judy you really made him mad.” he breathed.

“Will, translate!” Robot growled.

Will swallowed. “He’s saying things he wants you to hear.” All three of them looked to Will.

Will inhaled.

“I can’t believe you’re doing this again. It was bad enough when you did this to me on the Unknown planet, when I saved your life, Judy! But I will not tolerate this kind of treatment to my sister. She has done nothing to hurt you! She saved our lives for the love of the rings!” Will paused.

“Robot, buddy are you sure you want them to hear that?” he asked hesitantly.

“Yes, Will Robinson.” he replied.

“Ok…” he exhaled. “Maybe if you stopped being so closed minded you would see that you are not the center of the universe. You share it with other sentient beings, so stop treating everything that isn’t like you as if they’re below you! Because I assure you, your kind is not above any of us! So open up your mind for once in your life, and stop depending on your own opinion, Judy!” Will exclaimed, giving heavy pants, and wiping his eyes.

The room was silent. Robot gave a heavy ex-vent. Great rings that felt good to get out. Robot turned to Will, and embraced him. Will had succumbed to Robot’s feelings, and his emotions were so strong that they had taken dominance over the poor human.

“I’ll...I’ll be fine. I just...need to calm down.” he said shakily, pulling out of Robot’s grasp. “Go. Go after her. She needs you.” he said.

“But you-” Robot’s whir started.

“I’ll be fine. They’re here.” Will smiled. Robot gave a nod, and put a hand on his shoulder. “I’m sorry for making you translate.” he thought.

“No need. She needed to hear that.” Will’s thought replied. Robot looked at him in surprise. He understood that! Will gave a small chuckle and jerked his head in the direction of the door.

Robot bowed his head at Penny and Don, and gave a stern glare at Judy as he left. Once out of the hospital, Robot sent a ping to Starpelt over their bond. Nothing.

“Looks like we’re doing this the hard way.” he thought, cocking his head. His gaze caught on a waiting Scarecrow.

“Robot, what in the name of rings happened?! I leave for a night and everything descends into chaos! Not only that, but Starpelt comes out looking extremely upset!” Scarecrow demanded, coming up to him. It seems he’d been waiting outside, and it seems that the news had traveled quickly.

“It’s too much to explain right now. I need to find Starpelt. You said you saw her, which way did she go?” Robot asked.

“She flew off that way.” Scarecrow pointed, his claw pointing to the mountain-like cliffs in the distance.

“Typical.” Robot growled. There was no way his humanoid or original form was going to help him here. With a growl, he transformed into his Nocfur form, gaining the attention and forming a crowd around them.

“Well. Here goes nothing. Ok, just like last time.” Robot thought, shaking his head as he flexed his wings. As he jumped off the ground and caught an updraft, he was suddenly yanked down to the ground by Scarecrow who had a hold of his tail.

“Scarecrow, what the scrap metal?!” Robot growled.

“Don’t you even think about flying. I’ve seen how much of a klutz you are, and you could hurt yourself all over again!” he retorted, holding Robot down so that he couldn’t take off again.

“I don’t care! She needs me!” Robot growled, struggling in Scarecrow’s grasp, his ear flaps flat.

“And why would she need you so badly? What happened?!” Scarecrow demanded.

“She altered Will, ok?! She’s blaming herself because he’s no longer human!” Robot roared in anger. He didn’t have time for this!

Scarecrow let him loose as shock overtook his lights. “What…?” he whirred.

“It’s true. So I need to go to her. I need you to comfort them, especially Maureen and John. Can you do that?” Robot asked, flicking his tail.

“Yes. I can do that.” Scarecrow replied.

Robot nodded, and flexed his wings once more. Before he took off, Robot felt Scarecrow put a claw on his shoulder.

“By the rings, Robot be careful.” he warned. Robot gave a soft ex-vent. “When am I not?”

Instant regret at Scarecrow’s look.

“D-Don’t answer that!” he stuttered as he took off.

His take off resulted in him almost crashing into a building. His left top wing clipped a rod attached to the building, tearing it.

Robot gave a pained growl as his wing repaired itself. He spread his wings and tilted upwards, which at least got him above the buildings, but he was very wobbly and unsteady in the air. He scanned the surrounding for Starpelt’s unique trace, and found it.

Swerving wildly and nearly loosing all control, he shifted to follow it. “Great rings, I need to learn how to fly!”

Robot let out a surprised shriek as a wind current suddenly caught his spread wings, causing him to spin every which way. Robot groaned as he caught and straightened himself. “Processor...spinning.” he whirred weakly, shaking his head.

With a determined growl, he continued to climb, as much as gravity threatened to send him falling to his doom. His ex-vents became heavy as he pushed harder and harder. Great rings, did Starpelt have to go through this when she was learning to fly?

With an exhausted whir, he leveled out, quickly loosing control of his ability to keep airborne. He saw the ledge Starpelt was sitting on, and his ear flaps flew up in alarm as he realized he was coming in too quickly. He flailed his wings in a desperate attempt to catch an updraft.

Starpelt heard the commotion, and turned to see him. Letting out a surprised yelp, ducked before he could hit her.

With an alarmed shriek, he crashed to the ground, and rolled until he came to a stop upside down with his back to the stem of a firm plant.

He gave a weak groan, everything in his processor trying to compute with data that had come too quickly, including pain. “Owwwwwww…” he groaned.

Starpelt rushed to him, and gave a heavy ex-vent accompanied by the sound of her grumbling. “Delinquent.” she scolded, flicking him sternly in the head with her tail.

“I deserve that.” Robot groaned, rolling so that he came to flop right side up on the ground. Once on the ground Robot transformed back into his humanoid form. She was sat once again on the ledge, turned away from him.

“I am beginning to see a trend. I thought I told you to leave me alone!” she growled, her ear flaps flattening.

“I know you said that, but I chose to ignore it. You need someone here to tell you this isn’t all on you. You’ve carried that burden far too long already.”

Starpelt gave a small growl. “You should be with Will.” she said flatly.

Robot shook his head as he came to sit on the ledge beside her. “You are my priority at the moment.”

She looked at him for a second, her pupils inspecting him. She gave an ex-vent and looked down. “Do not waste your time on me.” she growled, but Robot could hear the sadness her voice held.

He looked down, unsure of how to comfort her, until he had an idea. Scooting next to her, he reached out for her ear flaps. Starpelt had one soft spot, and only he and Will knew about it.

“What are you doi-” she stopped abruptly as he started lightly petting her ear flaps. Her spines started to quiver in pleasure before she seemed to catch herself. “If you think this will make things...oh wow that feels good.” she ex-vented, leaning into his touch.

Robot whirred soothingly. “Feeling better?”

She gave a small growl. “I should be more angry at you for using the one thing that...I can not believe you remembered that.” she said as Robot continued.

“Well we both know I’m known for my impeccable memory.”

She gave an ex-vent that took the form of a snort. “Do not be cheeky.”

As Robot continued, a purr was able to be heard emitting from Starpelt. She gave a grumbling ex-vent. “I rather dislike you at the moment.”

“Yeah, yeah. I know.” Robot acknowledged.

They were silent for a while, as there wasn’t much to be said.

“Um...If it helps...they want to hear you out.” Robot said hesitantly. Starpelt looked at him with shock. “They do? I do not...I do not know what I would say to lighten the situation.”

“Tell them the truth. They can’t blame you for that. And if they do, I’ll deal with it.” he said, looking off into the distance.

“Besides, I already did so with Judy.” he added quietly, but not loud enough for Starpelt to hear.

“Thank you, Robot. I appreciate you sticking up for me.” She purred.

“Anything for family.” he replied, his gaze turning to her. Her pupils widened as her lights sped up.

She gave a purr as Robot suddenly felt a wing wrapped around him. Robot looked to Starpelt and scooted closer to her. “Are you...doing alright…?” she asked hesitantly after a moment.

Robot was silent. “I don’t...I don’t think so…” he said with a shaky ex-vent. The two were silent again.

“Did you…” he started, asking if she’d felt what he did.

She shook her head. “No. I was not affected as Will was, but that is not to say I did not feel your emotions during the incident. I...I was not affected because I had already seen this.”

Robot looked to her in surprise. “You did? When?”

“When our kinship bond was formed.” she replied. “When I was breaking you from their grasp, I saw everything. At the time, it was too fast for my organic mind to comprehend, so I did not grasp all of the information I saw. But now that I have a synthetic mind capable of recalling memories to perfection, I realize that I saw all of these memories.”

Robot was silent, looking at her for a few seconds more, before giving a heavy ex-vent and putting his head in his hands, mimicking the human action of being overwhelmed. “I never wanted this…”

Starpelt gave a purr and nudged him softly with her head. “I know, and I am sorry. But this can not be undone. The only thing that matters now is how you handle yourself from this point forward.”

Robot looked up slightly. “I don’t know how.”

“You will. I am not saying it will be easy, but you will find out little by little how to move on. The most important part is that you acknowledge who you are as a being. Take it from the one you brought back from the brink.” She said, her ear flaps lowering.

Robot gave an ex-vent. “I suppose you’re right. Look at me. I came here to encourage you, but instead you’re here encouraging me.”

Starpelt gave a chuckle. “You have encouraged me, Robot. You have done so by sticking to my side so loyally.”

Robot’s lights sped up slightly.

The two turned to the view of the landscape in front of them, and sat for a while, not saying anything, but enjoying each other’s company.

“We should get back. I suppose they are waiting.” Starpelt finally said. Robot bowed his head. Part of him didn’t want to face them after what happened earlier.

Starpelt stood up, stretching and shaking herself, before waiting for him. Robot looked down. It was a long way down. He let out an uneasy ex-vent. Forget it. He had to learn how to fly sometime.

“Nervous?” Starpelt inquired with a hint of amusement.

“O-Of course not! In fact I’m ready to try again!” Robot said, standing up, and transforming into his Nocfur form. To show his enthusiasm he flapped his wings shifting impatiently.

“Oh no you do not. You have done enough damage and destruction to yourself and the surroundings for one day. Transform back.” she said, stepping on his tail with an irritable flick of her ear flaps.

Robot gave a growl and flattened his ear flaps.“You told me you would teach me. Plus, not to be pessimistic but how in the rings will I get down?” he pointed out, gesturing with his wing to the cliff drop off.

“You must not overexert yourself. That is lesson number one.” she said, coming next to him, and circling him. “Now transform back.” she instructed.

Robot gave a huff and begrudgingly transformed back into his humanoid form. “Still doesn’t answer my question.”

Starpelt circled behind him, and flexed. Robot could hear the sounds of her joints and stabilizers readjusting. “Leave that to me. Arms out, and do not turn around.”

Robot cocked his head, but did so. “Why? What are you going to-OH GREAT RINGS!” Robot shrieked audibly as a force from behind him grabbed his arms and thrust him over the edge. They fell for a second, before Starpelt caught herself.

“GREAT RINGS STARPELT ARE YOU CRAZY?!” Robot shrieked, his legs dangling over a fall that would damage him beyond repair.

“Stop struggling, for the love of Planet Changes! I will not let you fall!” Starpelt growled, her head suddenly appearing to look at him.

Robot looked uneasily at her wings, which flapped heavily. He was a lot of weight for her to carry. Her gaze softened at his look.

“Relax. I can take it. It is not too far.” She said, her pupils widening, and her voice softening. Robot made an uncertain hum. She gave a soft ex-vent, and returned her gaze to the sky. Robot tried his best to focus on the surrounding around him, as he was too distracted trying not to die earlier to really admire Alpha Centauri from this view.

He let out a slow ex-vent as he let the feeling of cool wind finding it’s way to his heated energy core soothe him. He relaxed. Up here, even in Starpelt’s grasp, there was a certain feeling of freedom similar to what he’d felt the first time she’d ever let him fly like this. “Is this how flying will be?” he asked softly.

Starpelt gave a small purr, and her head appeared in his view once more. “Yes. You will be restricted by nothing. You will be able to defy the very force of gravity. It is hard work to master, but the power of flight is well worth the effort. And I know you will be up for the challenge.” she said, her lights speeding up. Robot let out an appreciative hum. But knowing that he could now achieve this on his own only fueled his impatience.

“When will we start?” he asked, looking hopefully at Starpelt, who had lifted her head to look in front of her. Her head tilted so that he could see the side of her face. She seemed to think about it. “As soon as Will is in better condition.” she said. Robot nodded. That was probably best.

Starpelt started to descend as Robot saw the hospital. As she neared the ground, Robot took the oppritunity to observe how she moved her wings. Bottom ones down first, then top ones up first. He’d have to remember that. He also noted that when she wasn’t flapping her wings, she held them together.

She let him go when he wasn’t far from the ground, and he landed knelt down, and moved to the side to give her room. She landed by folding her wings completely and then turning herself downwards to land on all fours. Now that he was paying attention to it, he now saw how complicated this was going to be. She gave heavy ex-vents, and her wings sagged on the ground.

Robot rushed to her, ignoring the rather large crowd gathered, who were no doubt saying things about her.

“Starpelt! You need to be careful! If you overwork your energy core it could explode!” Robot hissed. Starpelt looked at him, her body heaving with the ex-vents. “Yes, I noticed that.” she replied.

Robot gave a small growl accompanied by an ex-vent. “Who’s the delinquent now?” he challenged.

Starpelt glared at him, and her ear flaps flattened as she collected herself, and her ex-vents regulated. “Still you.” she growled with a hint of amusement, flicking him with her tail. With a groan, Robot walked with her into the hospital, running a quick thermal scan to make sure her energy core really was alright. Thankfully Starpelt was still new to her body, so she didn’t know how to sense probing scans from others.

As he inspected her scan, he realized she should probably run a high-level diagnostic. To be honest after what he’d been through the night before, running one on himself wasn’t a bad idea. He’d have to remind her when they were somewhere calm with little distractions that would require them.

Starpelt let Robot lead, but he could feel something was off in his sister’s mood. Well, something other than the stares they got from everyone they passed.

“What’s wrong?” he questioned. Starpelt looked at him. “I just hope I can do this is all.”

Robot made a whir of sympathy, and gave a soft growl and purr. “Knowing is certain, Pelt of Star.” was what the Nocfur dialect roughly translated to. Robot had learned to communicate it long before they left, and knew he could use it to lift Starpelt’s spirit. It sounded strange to him, and he could tell his deliverance was slightly off. But he was never one to learn languages before he met Will, so he didn’t feel in a place to judge.

Starpelt gave a low chuckle. “Cease not to amaze, Brother. Speak you well.” she replied in a chittery purr, brushing her wing against his arm. Robot straightened up, flattered by her praise. Starpelt gave a small chuckle. They arrived to Will’s room, seeing that only Penny and Judy remained. The robotic kin gave amused looks at the scene. Will was currently scarfing down a strange looking food humans called...lasagna? Apparently most humans loved it.

“I can’t watch this.” Penny grim inced, while Judy gave a chuckle, checking his monitor.

“Oh my...Oh I’ve missed this!” Will said in between bites.

“Oh my god. Will it’s hospital food!” Penny replied, exasperated.

“Look, I have been forced to eat beef and broccoli Jupiter packs for the past 3 months straight. Anything besides that is heaven to me.”

“I would have searched for some Plearithas if I knew.” Starpelt said, walking into the room, in which Robot followed. The sisters went quiet, and Robot met Judy’s gaze. Judy looked down quickly, and Robot bowed his head in shame.

“Hey.” Will smiled, putting his utensils down, and petting Starpelt’s ear flap softly as she came next to him.

Robot joined her, and put his arm on Will. “Well, Will Robinson.” he spoke, but it was clear his words were an inquery.

Will nodded. “I’m doing better. What about you?”

At this Robot tiled his head in a so-so motion. “Better.” he replied.

“Aww. I gotta say I’ve missed your antics.” Penny said.

“What are you talking about?” Will inquired.

“You two. How you two interact. But you might want to be careful. Me and Judy might get jealous.” she teased. Will scoffed, while Robot was confused. Jealous of what?

“I admit these two piqued even my interest. Was it always like this?” Starpelt asked. Penny chuckled. “Yep. They always shared this kind of bromance.” she said slyly. Robot cocked his head. “What’s a bromance, Will?” he thought. Will looked at him for a second before groaning.

“Can we not call it a bromance? It sounds weird.” Will protested. “Hey, go back to eating your lasagna. We’re having girl-er whatever a your kind is called-talk.”

Starpelt gave an amused ex-vent as Will gave a grumble. Robot gave a small whir. Girl talk? “Confused, Penny Robinson.” he said. Penny was about to explain when Robot noticed Judy looking at him. Penny saw the interaction, and paused. Robot gave an ex-vent. “I should apologize.” he thought. But it would seem his body language said it all.

Judy looked down, and shook her head slightly. “It’s alright.” she mumbled, before leaving abruptly.

Penny and Will gave a collective grumble. Starpelt cocked her head. “What was that? It was not me, right?” she asked hesitantly. Penny shook her head. “No, no. It’s not you. Robot just told her off really hard earlier. But she needed to hear that.” she said, putting a hand on Robot’s arm.

“This is what you meant by dealing with it.” Starpelt said flatly, shooting him a look. “It was pent up anger. And seeing her insult me and Will’s bond was the last straw as humans say.” Robot said through their bond. He bowed his head. “Ashamed.” he said in English.

“She’ll come around.” Will said softly. The room was silent.

“I’m assuming you want a chance to explain everything to us, right?” Penny inquired. Starpelt nodded. “If you would allow me, I would love to.”

“Alright, I’ll call them back, but it might take a while. Mom and Don are working on-”

“The Solidarity.” Starpelt finished. Penny smiled. “Yeah, it’s set to do it’s maiden voyage soon. And Dad had to do something with Victor Dhaar. He was in the same colonist group as us.”

Robot tensed. Oh no. Oh Starpelt was gonna ask…

“Is he the father of this… “Vjay” I have heard about?” she asked. Will smacked his palm to his face, and Robot gave a groan.

Starpelt looked at them. “Well no need to be impolite, you two. It was simply a question” she growled.

“I see you’ve been filled in.” Penny said dryly. “Well yes he is. And contrary to popular belief we’re doing fine. He’s just away with a few others on the practical part of the Jupiter course.” she said, shooting Robot and Will a glare. “Gosh, you two so judgmental.”

Starpelt ex-vented in amusement. “You should see them when Will sings along to a sound he calls “Queen”. He can sing well. Yeah that is right. You two are not so high and mighty as to judge a female’s life as you do.”

Penny laughed. “Finally someone who understands! You know I’m starting to like you.” Starpelt’s ear flaps perked, and she looked to Robot hopefully.

“What?! Starpelt, you saw that?!” Will demanded, his face turning red.

Starpelt’s mischievous look returned. “And one time Robot was showing me the collection of songs Will listened to and-”

“OOOOK WE’RE STOPPING THIS RIGHT NOW!” Robot whirred, rushing to her to try and stop her talking, but he forgot Starpelt no longer had a mouth. Oh no…

“-I found out he has a his own playlist.” she finished, shooting him a sly glare. Robot slumped his shoulders.

“Really?!” Penny asked in awe. “Well I know Will likes to sing sometimes, but this is new, what was in it?”

Will was now shaking with laughter. “Stop laughing right now, traitor.” Robot thought with an internal growl, glaring at him.

“Stop, Starpelt.” Robot growled. “If you tell her I will stop giving you ear pets for 4 weeks!” he growled through their bond. Starpelt looked at him with a mischievous position of her lights. “As if. I will take my chances.”

“Someone called Taylor Swift.” she said. Robot covered his face with his hands. “Oh great rings…” he growled weakly.

Penny gave a gasp, and punched Robot’s arm. “Sally did work her magic on you, after all!”

“Sally?” Starpelt echoed.

“The robot who’s bonded to me. She likes to travel, but she comes sometimes to visit.” Penny explained.

“Penny loves Taylor and eventually got Sally into it. Boy, oh boy Robot I knew you’d come around to music.” Will laughed.

Robot felt that more heat than usual was emitting from his ex-vents, and the heat had traveled to his facial sensors. He quickly analyzed this and realized this is what humans call blushing. Something that is done in a moment of embarrassment. He activated his cooling mechanism to try and lessen the effect.

Robot glared at Starpelt. “I strongly dislike you. You’re turning into Penny.”

Starpelt’s lights took a smirking position. “I know. But what are kin supposed to do?”

“You know, ratting out your siblings is a noble profession. One of which I have mastered.” Penny smiled, coming up next to Starpelt. “You have a lot of potential.”

“Oh god, please no. It’s bad enough with you. We don’t need Starpelt picking up your ways.” Will groaned.

Penny gave a dramatic gasp. “Me?! I would never think of it!” But she winked at Starpelt, earning a soft laugh from the former leader. Robot and Will gave a collective groan.

This wasn’t going to end well.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4

“I’m so flattered you wanted to walk me and Maureen to the hospital!” Don beamed at Scarecrow. “Oh great rings how did I get myself into this?” Scarecrow growled.

“Oh right. I made the stupid decision to leave my place in front of the hospital to try and find them per Robot’s request.” he hissed to himself.

“Take it easy on him, Don.” Maureen smiled, slightly exasperated. “Hey it’s not my fault we were heading back when he showed up. I was gonna ask him anyway if we could bond a bit. Well, him and Debbie too.”

Scarecrow nearly stumbled. “Oh great rings no…” he begged.

“So have I told you about the time I was fixing a chariot? I was blind in one eye. Don’t ask why because it had nothing to do with an alien pepper spray, ok? But I managed to make that baby work 50 times better than she ever had. See if I’m one thing it’s determined. Don West is not defeated easily!” he smiled, puffing out his chest.

“Well except for that time with the kelp.” Maureen quipped back. Don shot her an incleulous look. “That kelp was an exception, ok? We don’t talk about the kelp!”

Maureen only snickered and rolled her eyes. “Classic Don.” she muttered. “Hey! I had to suffer through a blood transfusion with Smi-June. I would appreciate less mockery of that situation.” he grumbled, actually looking serious about something for once.

Smith. Scarecrow remembered her. He’d seen her a few times on the Resolute. When he had free-ish roam of the place he’d sensed her lone life signal, but was too distracted by the 5 others, mostly because Will held traces of Robot on his, and Scarecrow was too curious to not find out why.

Scarecrow looked at Maureen for a few moments, his lights taking on a more fonder pattern. He never really expected how quickly the group of humans (sans Don) would grow on him, especially after what they’d done to him as a species. But Robot always kept saying these humans were special, and Scarecrow was beginning to see it himself.

Scarecrow couldn’t help himself as he started to remember things he’d almost forgotten in all the chaos and damage done to his energy core and processors. It reminded him how close he and their kind actually were to the very species they almost killed. It made him realize how much their hidden past now made sense. He started to remember the first time humans had been shown to him in a different way than what he knew. The first time Scarecrow had sensed Robot after his encounter with Will.

He’d known the second Robot crashed into the Resolute with SAR that it was him. But he knew something was wrong. His presence didn’t resonate with his own any more. His signal radiated with that of human presence.

It was then Scarecrow realized that something bad had happened to Robot. He was in his cage, shivering slightly from the shocks and “breakthrough” treatment the humans had done to him that day. He was weak, and it took him a moment to reach out to Robot, who at that time he referred to as General per his rank.

***

“G-General...y-you’re back...f-finally. I thought...the crash was...fatal.” The seeker chittered softly, his midsection lightning up. The connection was established. He would come. He just needed to survive the fight with Captain and then not get captured. Easy.

He was not prepared for what he heard.

“What the rings- who are you? And why are you calling me General? My name is Robot.”

The seeker’s lights slowed. Oh no. He didn’t remember...him...or anything…?

“G-General please it’s me...you have to remember me! You have to get me out of the scrap hole!” The seeker growled almost frantically. If he didn’t remember than there was no one else for him. No more hope left. Although the seeker had most of the time a cool, somewhat sassy attitude. The humans had broke him in more ways than one, and it left fear and desperation in it’s wake.

There was a loud commotion from General’s side of the connection, which was unmistakably fearful humans and Captain’s wrath. The seeker felt struggle come from General.

“I don’t remember you!” his reply came through as if the seeker couldn’t already sense the struggle this battle with Captain brought on General.

“But...General...you have to remember…

I’m the first one who ever understood you.”

***

Scarecrow looked up at Maureen’s calling of his name. “You ok?” she questioned softly. Scarecrow nodded. “Alright, Maureen Robinson.”

Maureen gave a concerned look. “You spaced out there pretty hard.” Don interjected. Scarecrow turned to him, expecting the human to be arrogant and prideful like he always was, but instead he saw the same concerned look Maureen gave.

Scarecrow looked down. The memory took him stronger than he’d thought. And now that he was free he imagined this wouldn’t be the last. But he decided not to focus on that for the moment. He had more important things to attend to.

They arrived at the hospital, where Scarecrow followed them in to be polite. They’d turned him away to see Will earlier, and he assumed this would be the same scenario. He really didn’t understand why Starpelt had to explain herself like this. Will was alive wasn’t he? To Scarecrow that seemed like the most important thing to a human, especially because of their fragile bodies and systems. But that being said, he owed the three of them a life debt, and he owed the Robinsons for everything that had happened after his death.

Had it not been for that, Scarecrow wouldn’t be so concerned to be around them. Besides Robot, Scarecrow hadn’t cared about many beings. This was a newer concept to him. To have other beings care about you in a way that went beyond a certain rank and usefulness. Scarecrow didn’t dislike it.

Don and Maureen took a holographic pad and scanned their hand-prints on it. Scarecrow recognized their own technology merged with that of the humans. This was a form of admission. They put the pad down, and nodded at the human coordinating things. Scarecrow stopped when the human coordinating the events in the entrance of the hospital looked at him, recognizing him. Maureen heard Scarecrow stop and turned, her gaze quickly taking in the situation. “He’s with us.” she said simply.

The human gave him a small nod after a moment of hesitation. Scarecrow gave a small whir of thanks as he caught up with them, but then remembered humans couldn’t understand when he spoke like that. But it seemed Maureen got the point. “Don’t mention it.” she replied with a smile.

“You see that? You’re part of this very weird family. Took me a while. They practically begged me.” Don smiled, giving Scarecrow a soft nudge. Maureen scoffed. “As if. Don’t go telling him things that aren’t true. You earned your spot here.” she said, giving him a small smile.

“Don’t go getting soft on me, Maureen. I have a rugged smuggler-works-alone rep I need to maintain.” Don scoffed. And he was back. Scarecrow sworn he’d seen the human’s eyes soften when Maureen had said those words. Maybe there was some honorable human behind all of that annoying pride and ego.

They arrived at Will’s room to see that everyone was already there. This small room now became very crowded. Everyone looked to them as they entered, and Scarecrow saw Robot’s lights speed up as he saw him. Scarecrow stayed in the entrance as to free up some space for the humans and robots gathered.

He didn’t fail to notice the uneasy looks Judy and Robot gave each other. “What happened with you two?” Scarecrow asked through his lights. Robot looked at him. “I snapped at her pretty hard. I haven’t had the chance yet to apologize.” he replied.

Scarecrow nodded his head. “I see.” he replied simply as the two of them looked to Starpelt, who’s ear flaps were lower than usual, showing hesitation and shame. Scarecrow’s lights slowed slightly. He’d been with his kind in the last few hours, with his fellow seekers.

She was the hot topic of their discussions. They ridiculed her, and talked her down. Scarecrow had stood up for her, saying that she wasn’t what they thought her to be. Although he could sense some of them took note of what he said, most ignored it. But more than that, he sensed something different about the way they interacted with him, even before he stood up for her honor.

Scarecrow had a feeling he would quickly become an outcast, if he wasn’t already.

It was something he was used to after all. He had always been somewhat of a loner since he could remember becoming self aware. There were exceptions of course now, but he didn’t have many relations inside of his kind. But those he did have relations with, he stuck by with a fierce loyalty, even if he didn’t show it in the best way.

“We’re all here. You can tell us now, Starpelt.” Maureen said softly. Starpelt looked at her with a small nod, straightening up, and her ear flaps raising. Suddenly had he not seen it before, Scarecrow wouldn’t have known she was nervous or ashamed. She seemed to put on a mask that gave her a look of great authority and majesty.

She gave an ex-vent. “What I will say...is the truth. You may not like it, but I will tell you how it was. It will be your choice whether to accept it. I am aware Will told you this yesterday, but he did not tell you all of what happened while he was unconscious. I hope by you knowing this, it will be easier for you to understand.” she said, now looking to Will, Robot, and Scarecrow.

“I would appreciate if you three did not try to stand up for me in any way until I am finished. I will not try to make it better than it was, and neither should you. I believe this is the only way for them to truly understand.”

The three of them looked at each other, wanting to protest. Scarecrow understood what she wanted, but that didn’t mean he totally agreed with it. In his opinion, the fact that their son had been on the brink of death should be enough for the humans, and it still surprised Scarecrow that it wasn’t.

After a moment of hesitation, they agreed, although Robot and Will didn’t look particularly happy about it.

Starpelt gave an approving nod. “As you know, Will had tried to break Robot free of his control his creator forced upon him. He almost succeeded, but ultimately his creator was too strong. They forced Robot to blast Will, sending him against a rock face and giving him a severe head injury. I tried to save him but I broke free of capture too late. I was able to break Robot free because of the relation we share between our creators. I ordered him to return to the main habitation to stop the bleeding Will’s wound caused while I fought The Creator.” she said, pausing to look at the expressions around the room.

They were all listening attentively.

Giving another ex-vent, she continued. “When I caught up with them, Robot had stopped the bleeding, but his condition had worsened. We had mere minutes before even Robot’s hold on Will’s life would fail.”

There was more than one gasp heard at that statement, as Scarecrow saw many of them give Robot unbelieving looks. To which he confirmed with a nod.

“I...did not have the experience to use the equipment my superiors had to heal these types of wounds. So I went with the only option available to us. Early in my training and life, I was taught about the healing capabilities my genetic code brought. I could use this to heal wounds, but never completely as doing so would leave me in a comatose state for Creator knows how long. My position as leader over my people meant it was my job to return them to a stable condition in battle until they could be properly treated. But that is besides the point. I had learned that I could don my genetic code into someone to further aid the healing process, to have the healing mechanism inside of them. But to do this...well I had only done this once.”

Scarecrow noticed even Will and Robot sat up for this. It would seem they didn’t know this. But Scarecrow did. He knew everything about her, her past, and her most inner thoughts. He probably knew her better than she knew herself. Scarecrow looked down. Was it really stalking if the memories and information were inside and now a part of him?

He looked to her, his lights taking a slightly softer pattern. She was so much like him. It surprised him. He...liked her more than he thought he would. Scarecrow shook his head slightly, focusing back on what Starpelt was saying, but in doing so, caught his attention on John. His facial features had softened. Good. Maybe she was finally getting through to him.

“I had used this on my mate when he was almost fatally wounded in a rescue mission to save me. It left me comatose for...almost a month by your time. So I knew I could do it. But I never removed my genetic code from my mate because it was rebuilt in me by my superiors. I had no idea that it could be, or was bonded to him.

But more than that this time, I was afraid. I was afraid that I would be unable to protect them if The Creator attacked. At that point though...by the planet changes I remember it so clearly. Will’s pulse was fading. I had no time to think of other consequences. So I did what I had to, and according to Robot me and Will were still unconscious a week after in your time.

I was very weak, and unlike the first time, there was no one to rebuild to code I had given. But it appeared that Will could transfer it back to me, but evidently some of it was permanently bonded to him. That is the entire story. Nothing more, nothing less. Please try to understand that if we would have had more time, more consideration would have been done over the matter. But...it is not an excuse. Just know that I did this for him to live, and I am ever so sorry it ended up like this.” she finished, bowing her head.

Maureen as well as Penny and a little less so Judy were very near tears, and he could see the sadness in Robot’s lights, as well as in Will. Don looked down, and gave a soft sniffle, in which the family shot him a look he blew off by quickly turning his head. John was silent, but Scarecrow saw the human shaking slightly.

“Why didn’t you tell us this…?” Will asked quietly.

“Because there was no time. And when there was, it was irrelevant.” Starpelt replied. Robot bowed his head with a soft ex-vent, before embracing her. Starpelt accepted, and gave him thankful nudges with her head. The family was still silent, most avoiding her gaze. Scarecrow looked back, now fully taking note of the crowd outside of Will’s room gathered to eavesdrop. No doubt everyone else in the room had as well. The crowd outside whispered among themselves. By the rings why didn’t they close the door?

“Scrap this.” Scarecrow growled. He’d had enough of their judgment against someone who didn’t deserve it from them. He walked to Robot and Starpelt, coming to a stop in front of them. They looked at him, raising their heads up from the position they held them together in an encouraging manner. “What are you doing?” Robot asked through his lights.

“What has to be done.” Scarecrow replied. Starpelt looked between them, her head cocking in a silent inquiry. Scarecrow looked to her, and bowed his head slightly to her level. “I’m going to help you. You can thank me later for this.” Starpelt’s ear flaps took on a confused position.

“Hey, can we get a translation here? You know, for us non speakers?” Penny asked, cocking her head.

Before Starpelt could translate, Scarecrow held up his claw for silence. He sensed the crowd outside watching him. Good.

“Ok. Voice adjustments...check. I hope I can modulate this correctly.” Scarecrow thought to himself. Saying words in a way humans could understand was so complicated. Too complicated. It wasn’t unlike the species it belonged to.

His voice sounding glitched from the new use, he said only two words:

“B-B-Believe, S-Starpelt.”

Everyone looked at him in a shocked silence for a second, the crowd outside a little less phased by it, and started either looking and talking among themselves, or leaving after giving Scarecrow an encouraging look or nod. It made sense: Probably every one of his kind started speaking in this manner.

But it was clear that everyone in Will’s room was shocked not maybe as much by what he said, but how he said it. In defense of Starpelt.

Don gave a soft chuckle. “That’s my bro right there.”

“This...may not be a bad thing. I think I know how to make this better!” Will suddenly piped up, gaining all attention from them.

“Well don’t leave us in suspense now.” Penny said dryly.

“Look, when Starpelt had these powers, she had to undergo training to use them properly, right?” he asked, the last part directed at Starpelt.

Starpelt nodded. “Yes. It took much training even with my necklace to use it on command.”

“Why can’t we do the same thing? I have these powers, why not use them like they’re meant to be used. Not much of a point letting them sit unused when they could be used for a better purpose.” Will said with a shrug. Scarecrow exchanged looks with Robot, the two having a sense of where this was going.

“What are you getting at, Will? Someone to teach you? No one else has these abilities.” Judy said.

“She did. And she still remembers how to use them. You do, right?” Will asked, looking at Starpelt, in which all gazes turned to her.

“I...do, yes.” she replied hesitantly.

“What I’m trying to ask is, can you teach me once I’m better? You’re the perfect mentor! Teach me to use my powers. Your powers.” Will said, his gaze pleading.

“That’s...not the worst idea…” Scarecrow realized as he pondered it. He kept forgetting how smart Will was sometimes. Scarecrow was impressed that he was taking this so well, and was willing even to embrace it. Scarecrow wasn’t sure that would be the case if it were him in this situation. Will was really something.

Scarecrow looked to the reactions of the room. Robot looked down, a small form of hesitance showing in his lights. Don tilted his head in a motion that showed he agreed with Will’s thinking, but kept quiet about it. Respect. That was new.

Judy’s brow was furrowed as she considered this, and Penny had a smirk on her face that looked almost as she was envious of Will. Maureen and John looked shocked, as they looked to each other. Will looked to Starpelt, who’s lights were still, and her ear flaps lower than their neutral position.

“Would you?” he begged again, his eyes shining.

“I...I am not sure it is wise. I do not know what effect it will have on your human body. Although I see the logic of what you say, there are risks that are unknown to me. It is not up to me to decide if you are willing or allowed to take these risks. That is up to your parents and kin.” She said, nodding at the family, particularly John and Maureen.

“But...if they allow you...I would be honored to teach you.” she said in a slight purr, her lights speeding up to flurry around her widened pupils. Will gave a beaming smile, and then looked to his family with a pleading look.

John and Maureen gave a collective sigh. “We’ll...think about it.”

***

“I...I’m not sure what I’m hoping they say as far as you teaching Will goes. Not that I don’t trust you! I do! It’s...the unknown I don’t trust. I’m...I’m pretty sure if something happens to Will, I’ll feel it as well.” Robot said hesitantly.

“I understand that. And it is a subject you must take up with him. But all in all, the idea is not unwise. In the future to come he may have times you are not there to protect him.” Starpelt replied.

Robot bowed his head. “Growing up, I know. It’s happened before.” he said in a slight growl.

“Robot, easy. You’re changing as much as he is. You don’t know what will happen in the future. You could be separated from him.” Scarecrow chittered.

Robot gave an ex-vent. “Yeah, I know. The truth is if it works out, I’d rather him have a way to defend himself other than those...tasers.” Robot finished with a shudder. Scarecrow couldn’t help the way his spines quivered at the mention of that word.

The three of them were walking along the streets of the city, following the path made out for robot and pedestrian travel so that chariots and other human shuttles wouldn’t be in their way, or vice versa for the humans. Apparently all of the commotion caused by Starpelt caused the medical staff to order people out as to clear space and to not stress other patients. They could return later. That didn’t bother Scarecrow as much as it did the rest. What had to be done had been accomplished.

“Starpelt, just know I think you’ll be a great teacher to him if this works out, well and also to me as well.” Robot whirred.

“What are you talking about?” Scarecrow inquired.

Robot had a sheepish pattern form on his lights. “To...teach me how to fly.” he said, bowing his head.

Scarecrow gave an ex-vent accompanied by a growl as he shook his head. “You agreed to this?” he asked in exasperation to Starpelt.

“I had my reservations, but yes. Do not worry, I will keep him out of irreparable harm.” she said, her lights taking on an almost amused look. “You have a big heart for how little you show.” she said slyly.

Scarecrow looked at her for a second. “I...suppose….” he trailed off.

“He’s always been like that. Yeah I remember all of those times you comforted me.” Robot said, giving Scarecrow a nudge.

Scarecrow growled. “And what happened to not telling anybody about that?!” he hissed.

“It’s just Starpelt.” Robot replied with a shrug.

Starpelt’s voice gave way to her chuckling. “It is fair given all you know about me.”

Scarecrow gave an exasperated ex-vent. “Fine.”

The three were silent as they walked on, a few people taking out their pads, or phones, and taking pictures of them, presumably Starpelt on the way. Robot didn’t seem bothered by it, and Starpelt kept it hidden, but Scarecrow saw how her ear flaps flattened ever so slightly.

“Thank you, Scarecrow for standing up for me. You did not have to.” Starpelt said after a moment, coming closer to him.

Scarecrow gave a soft whir. “I stand up for what I believe. And I believe you to be pure.” he said casually.

Starpelt’s lights sped up as her pupils widened. “I appreciate that greatly.” she said with a soft ex-vent.

Robot suddenly gave a soft groan, pressing his hand to his head in a human fashion. “Are you alright?” Starpelt inquired, coming to stop in front of him. Scarecrow joined her as worry formed patterns in his lights.

“Yeah...yeah I’m ok. I just...have some...pain in my neural net. It must be the memories.” he replied.

“Did you run a high-level?” Scarecrow inquired.

“Not yet. Haven’t really had time.” Robot said.

“High-level?” Starpelt echoed.

“A diagnostic to keep check on the state of our neural net and energy core.” Scarecrow explained, to which Starpelt nodded in understanding.

Scarecrow gave a low growl as well as an ex-vent as he bowed his head. Now was probably as good a time as any. “Robot, come with me. We need to talk. Starpelt, would you mind for a bit?” he asked. Starpelt cocked her head slightly, but bowed her head in agreement. Robot looked from him to her, giving Scarecrow an incredulous look.

“Now? We’re just gonna leave Starpelt on her own? What if something happens to her?” he demanded.

“May I remind you…” Starpelt cut in, coming in between them with her wing. “...that I spent 3 Planet Changes on my own, not to mention was the leader and first-born of my kind? I assure you I can take care of myself.” she said, flicking her tail.

“See?” Scarecrow tilted his head. Robot gave a soft growl. “Fine. But if anything happens-”

“-I will contact you over our bond.” she finished. She rolled her eyes with an ex-vent. “Relax, Robot. I will be alright.” she said, flicking him with her tail. “Now go.” she jerked her head. Robot gave a loud ex-vent before he and Scarecrow nodded at each other. “See you later.” they said to the former leader. “Do not be too long.” she replied, amusement clear in her voice. With that she turned and took off gracefully. They watched her leave.

When she was gone, Robot turned to him, impatience flashing in his lights. “Well? What was this oh-so-important thing you wanted to talk about?” he asked irritably through his lights.

“Not here.” Scarecrow replied, looking around. “There are too many here that could overhear us. Come with me.” he instructed, starting off in the direction they’d come. Robot’s irritation quickly turned to confusion in his lights as he hesitantly followed Scarecrow. He led Robot away from the city and onto a hiking trail away from anything or one else. They’d been walking in silence, the sounds of this planet’s nature filling said silence.

“Ok. What the scrap metal is it? You’re starting to worry me!” Robot snapped. Scarecrow stopped, and with a low ex-vent turned to him. “Are you functioning normally?” he inquired. Robot cocked his head. “What kind of question is that?” he asked incredulously. “I sense...I sense something off from your side of the bond.” Scarecrow replied.

“Off?” Robot echoed, coming next to him. “Explain.”

“That is just it. I can’t. I know a lot of things have happened to you recently, but I wanted to be sure without causing any unnecessary worry.” Scarecrow said as they continued on.

Robot bowed his head as he paced next to Scarecrow. “I...besides the memories I believe I am functioning normally. As for what happened back there, I assume it’s just because of the large amount of data I hold now. I mean, there’s got to be hundreds, if not thousands of human years in these memories.”

Scarecrow gave a soft whir. “That is what I assumed as well. But...you would tell me if that changes, right?” he asked with concern.

Robot’s lights took on an amused pattern. “Why? Are you admitting you care about me? After all this time?”

Scarecrow growled. “By the rings...yes! Ok, yes! I care about your well-being!”

Robot gave a triumphant whir, and nudged Scarecrow.

They came to stop on an overhang overlooking the forestry and in the distance, the dam that powered the colony in this area.

“Do you think I would’ve wanted this bond with you if I didn’t?” he asked quietly, not looking at Robot.

Robot’s lights became serious. “Of course I know that you care. And I also know it’s hard for you to express that. I...I tried my best when I was free to...lessen the load our Creators put on you.”

Scarecrow now looked at him, a new memory taking hold as he looked at Robot’s lights displaying guilt and shame, but also that undying loyalty that somehow never left him.

***

The seeker flinched as Captain and General burst into the “torture cell” as he called it. They fought viciously, and the humans knew better than to interfere. The seeker froze as he saw General. This...This wasn’t his original form. He looked...human. This scared the seeker greatly.

The seeker made himself as small as possible in the corner of his cage as to not alert Captain or General to his presence if he could avoid it. There wasn’t much he could do in this state the humans had left him in.

Many blasts and curses ensued in their fight, and many injuries were acquired. Captain slashed General’s midsection, and General roared in pain in a way that made the seeker cringe. It was very surreal to hear the voice you knew so well, but it was as if it belonged to a completely different entity.

General shrieked, and punched Captain in the face, throwing him back against one of the pillars surrounding the vessel’s core structure. General ran at him with his...two...six-clawed...blasters? They heated up to full heat, and General rammed them into Captain’s midsection. Captain roared, trying to struggle free. General gave a low growl, and punched Captain’s face so that it shattered.

The seeker looked away, cringing. But Captain was unmoving, and his lights were out. General rose up shakily, his heavy ex-vents alerting the seeker to his heated energy core. The seeker was unsure of what to do next. Should he risk it?

Slowly, the seeker moved to where he could reach a claw out weakly through the openings of his cage. “G-General…” he whirred weakly.

General straightened up, and slowly turned to him. His red face now turned to...blue? That was new. “You...you’re the one who contacted me.” he whirred softly. The seeker nodded. General looked around, as if making sure there were no more threats, before he limped over to the seeker’s cage.

The seeker gave a soft chitter as General knelt down to his level. He seemed to look the seeker over. “What...What happened to you?” he asked hesitantly.

“Humans.” the seeker growled. General’s lights seemed to soften, as he reached out for the seeker's claw. “I...I’m sorry…”

The seeker gave an exhausted ex-vent. “You...you must remember...somewhere. Please try….” the seeker pleaded. General looked at him with a hurt expression. “I...All I remember before the crash...was that I was here. I was...angry. I was...looking for something.”

The seeker perked. This was a start. “You were looking for me, General.”

General perked. “You?” he echoed. “Yes. You came for me because you were the only one who gave a scrap about me.” Scarecrow growled.

General looked down, trying to process this. The seeker gave a small whir. He posed his claw at the edge of his cage opening. “What happened to you, General? What could make you...forget me?”

The General looked at him once more, hurt apparent in his lights. “I didn’t mean to...I’m trying to remember...but I…”

The seeker gave a small growl. What was wrong with General?! Since when was he so...openly sensitive? Since when did he show it like this? “Since the crash.” the seeker answered his own question. The seeker felt...remorse. Even if General had never been this...soft, this wasn’t the General the seeker knew. Until he regained his memories, the seeker would have to adjust.

With a soft whir, the seeker resorted to softening his tone. “It’s not your fault. You’ll remember me in time I hope.” he said, his claw reaching out to General’s. They touched, and suddenly the Seeker jolted as upright as he could go, and General did the same. In a flash the seeker saw everything. And it finally made sense.

The force thew the both of them back slightly, and the seeker gave ex-vents as he tried to compute the data he’d just received. General ex-vented loudly. They were silent. Wait...that spark. The seeker felt a spark come from General’s side of the connection. Could that mean…?

“S-Seeker?” General looked at him, his voice low. The seeker perked. “You...you remember me…?”

“Seeker, the first robot besides me to be self aware. Seeker, my friend.” General whirred, his lights speeding up in happiness. The seeker’s lights pulsated quicker. There was finally hope.

“You’re still alive!” General exclaimed. “And you’ve been with the demons! Great rings, you’ve even taken their form!” the seeker retorted as he looked upon what General had gone through. General looked down with a soft growl. “I know this is hard to believe for you. But some humans are...not as bad as you think.”

“DO YOU HAVE A VIRUS, GENERAL?! LOOK AT WHAT THEY DID TO ME!” the seeker roared. General flinched. “One of them saved my life!”

The seeker was about to retort when suddenly he collapsed, multiple places in his body sparking. He gave a pained groan.

General gave a small growl. “We can discuss this later. I’m getting you out of here.”

“No...objections…” the seeker growled weakly. As General heated up his claws, a sudden unmistakable trill could be heard. They both froze. “There’s an engine in here, isn’t there?” General asked hesitantly.

“The humans...do not know the...purpose of the vault as much as I’ve...tried to tell them.” the seeker strained. “And you didn’t think to mention that?!” General roared.

“Well there was...a lot happening!” the seeker flared.

They both looked back to see Captain starting to rise from his position on the ground. “Did you really think...that would be all it took to get rid of me?” he growled menacingly. General recoiled slightly in fear, before looking to the seeker.

“Seeker listen to me. I’m going to get him away from here. If I don’t we will all die. You’ll have to wait just a bit longer. I promise I’ll come back.”

The seeker grabbed his forearm. “What if you loose it all again? What if you forget me, or die by his wrath? I do not have long left, General!”

“None of us will have long left if I don’t do this! I won’t forget you again.” General whirred, putting his claw on Scarecrow’s.

They looked back to see that Captain was almost fully repaired. General gave a small growl, and went to the nearby pillar, indenting it with his strange claw mark. “Listen to me very carefully, seeker.” General instructed. “Eventually a small human by the name of Will Robinson will come here. He will come looking for me. He is the human that saved my life. If he comes here, show him this mark. We are connected. Show him this and he’ll know what to do to find me.”

Scarecrow’s spines flared weakly as jealousy and outrage filled him. “You have what with a human?!”

“Don’t argue!” General roared. “Promise me you’ll do this!” he pleaded.

The seeker gave a growl, his lights pulsing in slight anger, but they softened as he matched General’s expression with the data saying how much this… “Will Robinson” meant to him.

“Why do you want this?” the seeker growled.

General gave a soft whir. “Because they’re not unlike us.” he said simply.

The seeker gave a small hiss.

“I make no promises.”

That seemed enough for the General as he tensed for Captain's attack. “I promise I’ll come back for you, seeker.” he said, looking at the latter.

“You’d...better.” he replied weakly.

With that, General gave a shriek and ran head-on towards Captain.

***

Scarecrow was brought back to Robot’s gaze. “It surprises me...that the one thing that did not change after you met Will was your...undying loyalty.”

Robot looked to the side. “I think...I think that comes from my other creator. Starpelt’s creator.”

Scarecrow nodded. “That seems logical.”

“So is that all you wanted to say?” Robot inquired.

Scarecrow shook his head as he started back down the path they’d came, Robot coming next to him. “I’ve been...talking with the others.” he started.

Robot gave an ex-vent. “What are they saying?”

Scarecrow hesitated. “Well, they’re saying...things about Starpelt-”

“-What kind of things?” Robot cut in, stopping Scarecrow with his arm, his face flickering red.

“Nothing that I can not deal with. But she is a matter of great controversy. That much is obvious. But...the other subject of great popularity is about...you.”

Robot drew his arm back. “Me? What about me?” he questioned.

Scarecrow gave a soft ex-vent. He wasn’t going to like this. “They...found out about you getting your memories back.” Robot’s lights took on a shocked pattern. “Did you tell them?” he asked accusingly.

“Of course not!” Scarecrow snapped. “They must have been listening last night when the whole story was being told.”

Robot looked down. “What does that...matter?”

Scarecrow looked down. “They want you to reprise your role as General.”

Robot’s ex-vents gave a sputtering sound as he almost stumbled. “WHAT?!” he almost shrieked.

Scarecrow reached a claw out to stabilize him. “It was a shock to me too.” he growled. “But- B-But I can’t lead! That’s not who I am! I only led under their control! In the few moments I was free I was always locked away, or being experimented on!” Robot whirred frantically, shaking his head.

Scarecrow gave a growl. “I know that! You don’t need to tell me this.”

“Wh-What did you say?” Robot stuttered.

“What you just did. But...they have a point. We are programmed to have someone to lead uus. That’s the only reason we followed SAR. And now that he’s...terminated you are the only one with the proper authority. Although it’s been...working out it’s becoming urgent. We can’t expect them to follow a human leader just as we can’t expect the humans to follow one of us. Each kind must have their own leader.”

Robot looked at him. “But...it can’t be me...I have neither the experience, nor the will. They’ll have to find someone else.”

Scarecrow nodded. “I assumed you would say something of that kind.”

“You’re...not upset?” Robot inquired.

“Why should I be? It’s your life. And you’re right in saying it isn’t you. If it’s really that important then a new leader will emerge. They always do.” Scarecrow whirred.

Robot’s lights flashed a pattern of thankfulness before they suddenly heard a soft growl. The two whipped around. Suddenly they were surrounded by signals. They weren’t alone here.

“Well, well.” A head force dropped down from the tree level, followed by many others until they were surrounded.

Robot and Scarecrow tensed. This wouldn’t end well.

“It seems our General is too cowardly to take back his position.” Head force growled, coming inches from Robot’s face. Robot stood his ground. “Back off, head force.” he growled back.

“The name is now Cyprus.” they hissed. “Cyprus” now turned their attention to Scarecrow. “The perfect match. The Tainted Coward and The Tainted Scrap pile.” The rest of the robots chittered in agreement or amusement.

Scarecrow growled. “We don’t want trouble. Back off. Or do you want this to get ugly?”

Cyprus paused. “You agree with him.” Robot paused and looked to Scarecrow in that moment. But Scarecrow already long before made up his mind.

“If he doesn’t want to lead, then let him be. It doesn’t have to be him.” Scarecrow growled. The robots were silent as they looked to each other. Robot flashed Scarecrow a grateful look as his lights sped up.

Cyprus gave a small hiss. “I think we should show these tainted scrap heaps how tainted they really are.”

Robot’s face turned red as they turned to see the robots coming closer. “We may have to fight our way out of this one.” Scarecrow said discreetly through his lights.

“I hoped it wouldn’t come to that.” Robot replied, his lights looking more fearful than anything.

“Last warning.” Robot growled.

The robots looked to each other, before leaping at the two. Scarecrow heated up his blasters and started to fight the oncoming robots. He sensed Robot doing the same. At first it seemed they were holding their own well. That was until Cyprus shot Robot in the back of the head. Robot fell to the ground with a loud thud.

“Robot!” Scarecrow growled. He was suddenly tackled by a group of robots, and forced to the ground beside him. They squirmed and roared in fury, but the robots had downed them.

“Fight back, you tainted pieces of scrap! Prove your worth! Prove us wrong!” Cyprus growled, the robots beginning to scratch them, poke at their scars. Robot and Scarecrow growled in fury and pain, before Cyprus gave the order to stop and hold them still. The two fell limp as they gave Cyprus death stares.

Cyprus softly dragged one of his top claws, using the other on Robot, to the top of their heads. Scarecrow flinched as they got dangerously close to the hole made by the humans in the Resolute. He saw Robot squirm uncomfortably as Cyprus did the same on him. “Ahh. The permanent mark of your tainted sins.” they chittered, tapping just beside the hole with their claw. Scarecrow struggled, giving an outtraged growl. “St-Stop!” Robot squirmed.

“I wonder what would happen...if we used them to our advantage.”

Scarecrow, though his head was on the ground, exchanged panicked gazes with Robot. They knew what these marks could do if used correctly. They could rewrite the two of them entirely. They tried to struggle but they were held too well. There was nothing they could do.

Suddenly a blast was heard overhead, and it hit the robots behind them, and a few more followed all around the area, causing the robots to flinch, and take cover. Scarecrow and Robot although weak, were now able to move so that they sat and got to saw who had saved them.

Starpelt landed in front of them snarling, and circled them, driving the robots away from the two of them. They came to stand in front of them instead. Robot and Scarecrow exchanged looks. Her eyes were now red, and her spines were flared dangerously. “They’re in trouble now.” Scarecrow thought.

Cyprus stepped forward. “If it isn’t the enemy herself. Don’t think we don’t remember you and what you did all that time ago.” they growled. Starpelt gave a small hiss. “I was protecting what you were invading. And since you were controlled against your will I will give you an opportunity. If you back away now, no harm will come to you, or your companions. I do not want to harm you, but you will have one. Final. Warning.” she snarled, with enough venom to make even Scarecrow shiver.

A lot of the robots now looked unsure, but it was clear they weren’t bold enough to do so in front of Cyprus. Cyprus looked back at the robots behind him, then back to Starpelt.

They walked until they were inches from Starpelt’s face.

“Make us.”

And with that they swung at Starpelt, but she dodged. She jumped to the side, and snarled. “You asked for this.” her voice quivered. Cyprus ran at her, and Starpelt met him. She spun and whacked him with her four wings.

When they recovered, they heated up their blasters. But before they could blast her, Starpelt lunged at them and pinned them to the ground. Cyprus whacked her off with their claws and legs, while dealing a blow to her underbelly. She growled in pain as she used her wings to launch herself away and recover. Cyprus hissed and blasted towards her, in which she dodged with uncanny speed using her wings. She lunged up into the air, and blasted Cyprus, knocking him to the ground.

When they recovered, she screeched and ran to Cyprus, at the last moment, whirling around and dealing a blow with her tail, knocking Cyprus against a rock face.

Robot and Scarecrow’s gaze were locked on Starpelt, and it seemed all of the other robots were as well because none of them made a move. Cyprus moved, and once more heated their blasters.

Starpelt in a second took Cyprus’ talons, and thrust up in the air, taking them with her. She gave a heavy flap and thrust them into the air above her. As they were in free fall, Starpelt whirled around for momentum and, using her wings and talons, punched them so that they came crashing down onto the ground with a thunderous crash.

Starpelt followed not even a second later, pinning Cyprus to the ground with force. She heated up her blaster where her mouth used to be, and neared her face to Cyprus’. “You mess with my kin, you mess with me. If you do not touch them again, or treat others in this way, we will let bygones be bygones. But if I find out you have continued this kind of behavior, you will not be able to be repaired so easily by the ring. Do I make myself clear, Cyprus?” she snarled, nearing her face even closer to the point where Scarecrow could see Cyprus’ face start to heat up from the contact. Cyprus nodded with a weak groan.

Starpelt growled, and got off of them with extra force, making them jerk harshly. “Get them to an assembler. I have no quarrel with you all as of now.” Starpelt ordered the robots gathered. “Take heed from your leader of how not to behave.”

With that, she jerked her head as a command, and the robots took Cyprus’ limp body away to an assembler to be repaired.

When they were gone, Starpelt allowed herself to ex-vent slightly as she turned to them. “Are you two alright?” she inquired softly. The two nodded, unable to speak. Her ear flaps fell. “I am...sorry you had to see that.”

Robot whirred softly. “Just remind me never to tick you off.” he said sheepishly

But Scarecrow remained silent. As he looked at her it became clear to him. So much so that he felt like an idiot for not seeing it before. It was just as he’d said. A new leader was emerging. Someone that could hold their own. Someone who had experience. Someone who put the needs of others before their own.

Maybe Starpelt was just what they’d always been looking for.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5

“Well you totally kicked their butt...That was awesome might I add...Best sister ever...” Robot whirred weakly, slightly out of it while an engine repaired his head where Cyprus had shot him. After being sure the gang of robots were gone, Starpelt helped the two weakened robots to where she knew there was an engine to heal them: the Jupiter 2. They’d taken quite a beating.

Starpelt gave a soft growl at her kin’s remark. “I do not do it for the sake of sport.” she scolded him. “I did it because you were in danger and they would not back down. You know I do not like to resort to violence.”

Scarecrow whirred. “He knows that. Go easy on him, his neural processor has to shut down partially while his helm is being repaired.”

Starpelt gave an ex-vent. “Apologies. I am just on edge. It has been a long time since I have done something like that.”

“How did you...woah...give me a second…” he whirred woozily as Starpelt saw the engine start to pulsate with glowing blue on the injury. Robot gave a small groan as he looked down slightly, his lights now slowing, and going every which way in a lazy manner.

Starpelt gave an amused ex-vent as she and Scarecrow exchanged looks. “I think he means how you knew we needed help.”

“Our bond. I felt his sense of urgency and danger. I figured something was horribly wrong. I am thankful I arrived when I did.” she said, bowing her head.

“So are we. Who knows what we would be if you hadn’t come. I assume he told you what these marks do.” Scarecrow said, finishing with a growl. Starpelt’s pupils widened. He clearly didn’t like talking about it.

“Yes, he did. In the future you must be careful now that knowledge like this is out.” she said solemnly. Scarecrow nodded in agreement.

They looked to Robot, who was still and silent, his lights still moving around lazily across his face as his repairs were finished. “I wonder what Will will say about this.” she ex-vented, to which Scarecrow shook his head.

“He will most likely be worried, and he might scold Robot.” he added, an amused look traveling to his lights.

Robot's repairs were finished, and the wires of the engine retracting from his head, and into the engine. He shook his head vigorously, his lights taking their usual speed and pattern.

“Ugh... Remind me to not get head damage again.” he groaned, holding a hand to it. “And about Will, I’m sure he already knows. I hope...it wasn’t too much for him! Great rings, I-I should go check on him!” Robot started as he stood up quickly, stumbling.

“Woah, Woah, easy Robot.” Scarecrow whirred, stabilizing him. Starpelt came to his side. “It is late. The time we can visit for the day are over at the medical center. I checked earlier. Only immediate kin.”

“I’m immediate kin!” Robot growled in outrage, pushing forward. Starpelt stopped him with her wings.

“And you can see him tomorrow. Right now, we should head back to the Robinson residence. You have gone through quite enough for one day.”

Scarecrow whirred in agreement. “It’s not a bad idea. Plus, you need to run a high-level. I think we both should just in case.”

“These high-levels are done often.” Starpelt observed.

“Our neural nets and energy cores are very sensitive. If something goes wrong we don’t always know about it, and if not caught quickly the damage could be irreparable and we could become corrupted.” Scarecrow explained.

“Think of it like a bit like checking the condition of our brains and hearts. I think I’m matching that up with organic terms correctly.” Robot said, putting a hand to the back of his head.

Starpelt gave an amused ex-vent. “You are. In which case Scarecrow has a point.”

Robot gave a small pout. “Fine. I’ll do it. But Starpelt you should do one too. I wanted to mention it earlier.”

She cocked her head. “Why? I have not strained myself like you have recently.”

“Because you are new to this body, and the way we assembled it...well...was a bit makeshift. It’s a precaution to make sure everything’s good.” Robot replied.

Starpelt looked down. So these robots weren’t totally the invincible machines she’d thought. Besides the obvious capability of gaining injuries and needing repairs, they required maintenance and upkeep in an almost organic way. Starpelt wasn’t sure she would’ve ever known this if she wasn’t now one of them. And being one of them, she needed to embrace it as a part of herself now.

“Alright, I get it. I will do it. But what is required?” she asked. The two robots looked at each other.

“A quiet surrounding where you won’t be disturbed is best, because it deactivates your visual array and auditory sensors, and it slows your energy core to save and contribute energy to the diagnostic. You won’t be conscious of what’s happening around you while it’s happening.” Robot said.

Starpelt looked from him, to Scarecrow in awe. “It is your version of sleep.” she marveled.

Robot shrugged, and nodded.“No, its not. For one humans loose their ability to…oh great rings you’re right” Scarecrow realized, not having thought about it like that.

The two kin shot amused looks. “I will see if the Robinsons are willing to allow us to...run a high-level at their residence. It seems like the best place if all three of us are doing this.” she said.

Robot and Scarecrow nodded. “Sounds like a plan.”

***

The Robinsons, justly were skeptical of the idea. John Robinson had noticed something seemed off about them, and so they were forced to tell them what had happened. Surprisingly, John Robinson wasn’t the one to be upset. Maureen Robinson, onn the other talon scolded them for their recklessness, saying that Will had felt that, and it put mild strain on his heart. But when Starpelt saw her look, she realized this came from a place of concern that extended to even her and Scarecrow.

The three bowed their heads in slight shame. “Hey. It wasn’t totally your fault.” John Robinson said. Maureen Robinson shot him an incredulous look. “What? Squabbles happen. They tried to end it diplomatically. But that doesn’t always work.” he replied.

The three of them exchanged looks. John Robinson was defending them! Defending her!

They all turned to someone coming down the stairs. It was Penny Robinson. She hummed a tune as Starpelt noticed strange wired things stuck in her ears. She cringed slightly. That didn’t look comfortable.

Penny Robinson noticed them, and took one wired thing out of her ear. “Hey, when did you guys get here?” she questioned, coming to them. She noticed the scars left on them that the engine couldn’t quite repair. “Woah. What happened to you guys?” she asked.

“They were ambushed, and got into a bit of a squabble. Apparently the other robots have very strong opinions.” John Robinson explained.

Penny Robinson gave a snort. “Stupid metal jerks.” she muttered. “Who kicked their butts?”

Robot and Scarecrow turned to Starpelt. She gave them an “are you serious” look before looking to the side bashfully. “Well...I would not call it “Butt kicking” per se.”

Penny Robinson gave a smile, and came to her. “Well we can call it whatever you want. Man, I wish I would’ve seen that! I mean, you look very menacing and awesome alone, but I would’ve liked to see some of that in action.”

“No I am not sure you would have. It was...ugly.” Starpelt replied.

“I’ve done surgery on my own mother, seen a cave full of alien crap, nearly had my face eaten off by face-eating aliens, flew through space in a storage container, and battled SAR through Sally. I think I can handle ugly.” she chuckled.

Woah. Starpelt had underestimated how much she’d faced. Penny Robinson saw her look and chuckled again, giving a triumphant smirk.

“So are we hiding you three now?” she asked slyly.

Starpelt looked at Robot and Scarecrow. “We must conduct a diagnostic to make sure of our well being. But it will put us in a sleep-like state. We were wondering if we could do it here, where there are little distractions.”

The three Robinsons looked to each other. “I’m all for it, but hey what does my opinion count?” Penny Robinson said, heading into a separate area, and taking a strange glass cylinder. “Penny, really.” Maureen Robinson scolded. She looked to John Robinson. It seemed she was alright with it.

“How long will it take?” he asked.

Starpelt looked to Robot and Scarecrow. “They have said a few hours.” she replied. John Robinson gave a small sigh. “After today I’m a bit worried having Robot out there after dark because if he gets hurt, Will feels it.” John Robinson paused, and looked to Robot. Maureen Robinson gave him a soft nudge. He gave a grumbling sigh. “And...I’m worried about you, big guy. There, I said it.”

Starpelt’s ear flaps perked as Robot’s lights sped up to a dizzying speed. An overwhelming amount of happiness flowed to her from his side of the bond. He gave a soft whir.

“Thanks, John Robinson.” he said, but the expression on his face made even the father smile. “You guys can run your diagnostic in Will’s room.” Maureen Robinson smiled. Starpelt bowed her head. “I thank you greatly for this. We all do.” she purred.

“Don’t mention it.” she replied. Starpelt looked to John Robinson, and her lights sped up slightly at him, before turning to Penny Robinson, who had a smirk on her face. Starpelt noticed the glint in her eyes.

“Oh by the rings-” Robot started. “No trouble, Penny Robinson.” he said to her.

Penny Robinson gave a laugh. “Dang it you know me too well!” Starpelt looked to her kin in confusion. “She likes to play pranks sometimes.” he explained. Starpelt ex-vented in amusement, and shook her head.

She looked to Scarecrow, who jerked his head to get going. She started to follow him as she heard Robot turn back to the parents. “Judy Robinson.” he inquired. Starpelt realized she hadn’t seen or sensed the eldest sister in the residence. She turned her head back to hear.

Penny Robinson knew why he was asking, and quickly handled the situation before the parents could ask why. “She had to do a night shift at the hospital tonight. She’ll be back later.”

Robot nodded at her, and thanked her silently. Starpelt waited for him to join her, before bowing her head once more at the kin.

When they went into Will’s chambers, Scarecrow was already there, looking around. “This is a strange place to do a diagnostic.” he chittered softly. “When you’re on Alpha Centauri do as the humans do.” Robot replied with an amused ex-vent.

Starpelt shook her head softly before walking over to a soft surface beside Will’s sleeping space. She padded it softly. This would do. She lie down, adjusting herself accordingly.

Robot saw where she’d situated herself, and came next to her, sitting against her side. She lifted her head to look at him, before giving an amused eye roll. “Hey, you signed up for this.” he said, nudging her playfully, to which she responded by flicking him with her tail. Scarecrow gave a soft growl. “Siblings.” he hissed softly in exaggerated disgust as he sat down against a wall in the corner.

“Oh, stop being jealous and run your diagnostic.” Robot quipped back. Scarecrow glared at him before shaking his head with an ex-vent. A moment later, his lights faded, and his face went dark. His head fell forward limply.

“I am not sure I like watching that.” Starpelt cringed. It reminded her too much for how she’d almost lost her kin. Robot pet her ear flaps. “It’s ok. I get it.” he whirred softly. Starpelt’s pupils widened fondly at him. “How do you start it?” she asked after a moment. “Just think: Initiate diagnostic: level: high. Then accept.” he instructed softly. Starpelt nodded her head. “See you after then.” she purred. “Have a good diagnostic. Tell me if anything's off…ok?” he asked.

“I will.” she replied. She watched as he gave a heavy ex-vent, and his lights faded off. A moment later, he leaned against her limply, and his head lolled forward. Starpelt gave a small purr, curling her tail around him to stabilize him, before following what Robot had said for her to do.

Laying her head down, she gave a small ex-vent as she felt her stabilizers start to go limp. Her vision started to black out, and Starpelt let out a small groan as she went into stasis.

***

White. Everything was white. She was nothing. Wait no. Something was changing. White was becoming colors. What was this?

“ALPHA004 is coming to.” A warbled voice growled. APLHA004. Was that what she was called? She squinted as the forming of colors overwhelmed her. But they were slowly...making sense? Colors became things, and as she opened her eyes for the first time, saw the world that welcomed her.

She marveled that such a world existed outside of the nothingness of which she’d just come from. She was in a big white room that reached up and curved at the top. Natural light near the top of the curved room gave way to the world that extended even further than what she knew. Streaks of light blue energy fed in and pulsated all around the room to the cylinder like-capsule that she stood in, soaking wet. There were creatures all around her, some on hovering platforms that were part of the room, operating strange devices, recording her.

They stood on two legs, and had six arms, two pairs smaller than the rest. They had serpentine tails, and small antennae on the top of their heads. They ranged from a wide variety of colors, and they wore strange robe-like things on their body. She cocked her head. She wasn’t wearing something to cover herself like they were. Was she supposed to?

Her attention was drawn elsewhere as he gaze reached the being stood in front of her. They looked like her. Were they the same? The being in front of her smiled. “Hey there.” they said softly. Her eyes widened. They...spoke..? Could she do that?

“Here.” they said, helping her down, and making sure she was stable enough on her feet. She looked down, her eyes widening in wonder. This...this felt so...smooth. Why was she feeling something different on her feet here? Was not all ground like that in her capsule?

The being gave her a white thing that had multiple layers. She took it hesitantly, and gasped softly at seeing that it was...nice to touch. She cocked her head, fiddling with it. She flinched in surprise as she held it by one side and it suddenly extended to triple it’s original length. She ran her hand over it in wonder. What other things could it do?

She heard a small noise come from the being in front of her as their mouth turned upwards. “Here, you wrap it around you like this.” the being instructed softly, demonstrating with their hands.

She cocked her head in confusion. Ah, so this was a covering. A minimal one it would seem compared to the other coverings everyone else wore. She suddenly felt a wave of self-consciousness at knowing she’d been exposed in an almost vulgar way. But at the time, she didn’t have the knowledge to put this feeling into words. She gave a soft grunt as she copied the being’s actions.

“Then you secure it under your arm.” they finished, in which she imitated their actions. She let go hesitantly, but looked at awe as the covering stayed on her body. She relaxed slightly knowing she was no longer exposed in such a way.

“ALPHA004 is in healthy condition.” one of the creatures stated. She took a startled step back as she heard them speak. They could speak as well?!

“It’s ok! No one here will hurt you.” the being said quickly, their voice being calm and...warm in comparison to the other creatures

She stepped closer to them hesitantly, trusting of their soft tone. Their mouth turned up again. What did that mean? She noticed she felt a certain urge to copy the action of the being, and even do what she had to in order to see it again. Then, slowly when she was close enough, the being took her hands in theirs.

Her eyes widened at this sudden act of contact. Their hands looked...the same. What was this? She looked at them with uncertainty. They turned their mouth upwards even more, and nodded softly. She suddenly felt very relaxed. She’d done something to trigger their mouth turning upwards even more. That must have been a good thing, right? If this kept their mouth turned upwards for her to see, then she’d keep doing the action. She allowed herself to relax and clasped her hands tighter around theirs

She looked to the being's mouth. They’d used that to speak. Maybe if she…. She opened her mouth, and took an uncertain breath.

“W...Wh...Who…” she choked out, struggling. Something was vibrating, and it felt strange and hoarse. But it made sounds that sounded...somewhat similar to what she’d thought in her head. It seemed she could transfer her thoughts to her mouth, or whatever made those sounds.

Their eyes widened. Oh no. Had she done something wrong? Their mouth was no longer turned upwards. She sensed the creatures around her perk as they approached her, and looked to their devices. She let out a small whimper. She didn’t mean to do something wrong! Why were they coming closer?

But the being seemed to see the situation, and held their hand out. “Wait! Back up, you’re frightening her.” they instructed with authority “Me? My name is Libby.” They said, their mouth turned upwards. Libby. Libby was their name. “But you can call me…” Libby seemed to pause. There was a flash of sadness in her eyes. She cocked her head with a small inquisitive sound.. Had she done something to upset Libby?

“You can call me Creator. I’m going to take care of you.” Libby finished after a moment, the sadness disappearing from their eyes as quickly as it had come. Wait no- Creator. Creator was what she was to call them.

Her eyes lit up at Creator, and she felt her mouth...turning upwards! She felt happy and nice! The mouth turned upwards was defiantly a good sign! She remembered what caused Creator’s mouth to turn upwards. Ok...she just needed to concentrate on matching the sounds she thought to her mouth.

“Cr...Create...Creator.” she struggled out. Creator let out a sound that reminded her of the feeling the upturned mouth gave, but amplified in an audible sound.

“Yes! Yes that’s it!” Creator said, their mouth more upwards than she’d ever seen it. She felt her own mouth turn upwards. At that very moment, the audible sound now came from her as the nice feeling became audible through her throat.

“Creator!” she said again, her eyes glowing with eagerness to please and to keep Creator’s mouth turned upwards for her.

“ALPHA004 is showing increased brain function.” One of the creatures said from beside Creator. Brain function? What did that mean? And why was she showing an increased amount of it? But when she looked at Creator, she saw something...different in their gaze. Something she would later learn to be a sense of forbidden hope.

And she would later learn why she would need all of it she could get.

***

Starpelt gave a soft groan as her visual array rebooted. Her cyan tinted vision became clearer until she could see as normal. She let out an ex-vent as a notification popped up for her to see. Apparently everything was in order. She looked groggily to Robot, who apparently was still running his diagnostic. The same appeared to be the case for Scarecrow. She gave a small growl of confusion. Why was she done before them? And was it...normal to see things?

She concentrated on what she’d seen. It was her first ever memories coming out of nothingness. Why had she relived that during stasis as almost a dream?

Before she could think further about it though, she suddenly took note of John Robinson at the doorway, looking at her. She lifted her head all the way and cocked it in inquiry. He gave a sigh. “Starpelt, can we talk?” he asked softly, almost seeming to forget that his voice level wouldn’t interrupt the diagnostic the two were still conducting.

Starpelt hesitated, before nodding. She looked to Robot, and she carefully uncurled herself from around him so that she wouldn't cause him to topple over. Once clear of Robot, she readjusted and rebooted any remaining stabilizers and joints in the form of a majestic stretch. She shook herself slightly as she came out of it and joined John Robinson as he led her to the doorway leading outside, but this time he led her to a covered area with human sized seats and cushions. She looked around it in interest. This was a cozy human hangout.

John Robinson sat down, and it was then she noticed there had already been a strange small… “bottle” she thought the word was, filled with a darker liquid. It sent back pings she’d never seen before as she gave a sniff and scanned it. It was some sort of human beverage. John Robinson took it and took a sip of it. Starpelt looked and noticed a strange small structure in the middle of the clearing. It sent pings of recently burnt organic substances and char. It almost reminded her...of the fire’s she’d used to make for cooking food. Was this...the human equivalent?

She noticed there was still some on there, enough for a small fire. Rearing up on her hind legs, Starpelt wrapped her wings around the small structure in case her blast accidentally damaged something else. She heated up her blaster at her mouth, and blasted the small structure, making sure to aim carefully. The remaining substance burst into flames, and Starpelt’s ear flaps perked as she felt heat radiate from it.

She sensed John Robinson sit up in surprise as she circled the small structure, making sure everything was in order. Once done she huddled down on the side of the structure opposite to John Robinson with her front legs crossed in front of her. Curling her tail around her, she gave John Robinson give a small impressed chuckle.

She sensed he was slightly uncomfortable as silence came between them. She wouldn’t push him to talk, but she’d start with a different approach. She found her gaze traveling upwards to the starry sky above her. It really was a magnificent sight.

“You certainly have a nice view of the stars. It is not unlike my own back on my planet.” she commented. John Robinson looked up, before nodding.

“Yeah. It’s amazing to see without pollution blocking the view.” he replied. Silence again. “So…” he started.

“Leader of your people?”

Starpelt looked to him, and nodded. “Former, but yes. Maureen Robinson told me you were a soldier back on Earth, so I would assume you are asking from that perspective.”

John Robinson took another sip of his beverage. “Yeah. I was a Navy SEAL.” He paused at her confused look. “The part of the Army that operates at sea, or oceans.” he explained.

Starpelt’s ear flaps perked in interest. “Amazing.” she marveled. She’d only known an army to be committed to either air or land. John Robinson let out a small chuckle.

“What about you?” he asked. Starpelt’s ear flaps fell ever so slightly. “Well...as you know...I was the first successful human clone turned into a Nocfur, so I was first-born and most powerful of all the others to come after me, even the others made as leaders of their factions.”

John Robinson sat up slightly. “Factions? Sounds ominous.” he remarked. Starpelt gave an ex-vent of amusement. “It is really just settlements of the other apex species we protected: The Lethareons, -or as I knew them my superiors-, made great genetic accomplishments to bring the Nocfur back from extinction. They made us to protect and fight their fights for them. Which, as their peaceful ways turned more violent, led to more and more battles between factions.”

John Robinson sat up even further, his expression now serious.

“I had to...lead my faction into many battles. Battles of which many of my own died. But...nothing will ever hurt as much, as it did when The Creators forced the robots to exterminate all of my kind. To know that I had failed them all. That it was my fault I became the last of my kind when I should have given my life for them.” she finished, her voice breaking as her ex-vents attempted to cool her heated energy core. Starpelt gave a heavy ex-vent to collect herself.

John Robinson looked at her with a newfound respect showing in his eyes. “I suppose Maureen Robinson was right. You do understand that.” she said, her voice returning to normal.

John Robinson looked down. “Uh, yeah. Yeah...I do. I...lost a lot of good people close to me. People I could’ve saved. Survivor’s guilt is...what we call it.” he said, looking at her. “It is not something easily forgotten.” she finished.

He nodded, and the two were silent. “We...We are more alike than I thought. It is amazing Maureen Robinson knew that before we did.” Starpelt marveled. John Robinson gave a soft laugh. “That’s Maureen for you. She’s...something else.” he said, a fond look Starpelt immediately recognized as love. A love for his mate.

Starpelt gave a soft purr. “What was your most dangerous mission as a Navy SEAL?” she inquired with interest.

John Robinson gave a soft chuckle. “It’s not really what you’d think. Well...have you ever heard of a tsunami?”

Starpelt listened eagerly as he explained how their mission was to calm a mountain-like wave known as a tsunami using magnetic technology that forced the water back towards the magnetic pull of the Earth. They got swept up in the wave and the whole crew nearly perished, and it came down to a man known as Hastings who’d been the one to pull it off at the very last second before the wave hit the coastline. Starpelt had heard of what treacheries Hastings had done to her kin and the Robinsons, but she’d never known he’d served with John Robinson.

“Could never look at the beach the same way.” he said, shaking his head.

When he’d asked of hers, Starppelt told him about the time one of the Lethareons from another faction integrated into hers as a saboteur. They placed her into stasis and sabotaged her superiors while their own faction subdued her own and took her Nocfur as hostages. When she’d learned of this, she’d gone to challenge that faction, and their Nocfur leader. There was nothing saying they wouldn’t release the whole faction on her.

But she explained that the faction’s leader disagreed with their superior’s actions, and agreed to a fight between leaders. They were very much stronger than her physically, and it seemed she would loose. But seeing her own about to be put through torture and suffering sparked something in her that caused her abilities to be amplified ten fold, that of which no Nocfur leader could match. She thus proved her superior strength due to her being first-born.

“So I retook my Nocfur, and not a faction ever tried a stunt like that again.” she finished. “Woah…” John Robinson said in awe. “I underestimated you.”

Starpelt gave a soft laugh. “You would not be the first. But either way I have lost my abilities. They now reside in Will. I only have my strength and combat skills now.”

John Robinson sighed. “After what you’ve told me about them, they really sound powerful.”

“Used correctly, yes. My offer still stands to teach him as it was taught to me.” she said, raising her head.

John Robinson gave a small sigh. “I did not mean to rush or put pressure on you. I am sorry if it appeared as such.” Starpelt clarified, flicking her ear flaps.

John Robinson gave a small nod. “I know. It’s just...a lot.”

“It is understandable. Will means so much to you, and with good reason.” she acknowledged. John Robinson looked at her. He quickly looked down. Starpelt tilted her head.

“You do not trust me.” she said for him. “It’s...complicated. You seem too willing, what have we done to make you so kind to us? The way I see it, you should be resentful. I would be.”

Starpelt gave a heavy ex-vent. “You were not the reason she had to leave in search for energy. You were not on Alpha Centauri at the time. And even so, it led to my creation. It was only recently I realized that I actually had those events to thank for my existence, and I do not resent being created. As far as being resentful for the loss of my people goes, for a long time I was. In fact I still was when I met Will and Robot for the first time. If it were not for their kindness, I am not sure I would have changed. Sometimes it does not take much to change one’s viewpoint.” she said, looking to the side.

John Robinson shook his head with a small smile. “Amen to that.” he muttered sarcastically, taking another sip of his beverage.

Starpelt let out an amused ex-vent. “I hope to gain your trust in time, John Robinson. I think I could learn a thing or two from you.” she admitted with a small purr.

John Robinson was about to respond when someone else joined them.

“There you two are.” Maureen Robinson smiled as she stepped outside. She sat on the armrest of John Robinson’s chair.

“So?” she inquired with interest.

John Robinson looked to Starpelt. “For the moment, I think we can manage.” he replied. Starpelt gave a small nod as she re-settled her wings.

“What did I say? She’s just like you.” she smirked at her mate.

“Oh yeah, rub it in why don’t you?” he replied, him and Maureen Robinson sharing a kiss. Starpelt felt talons seize her emotions as she suddenly saw a flash of a memory of her and Eclipse. How they’d used to do that together.

She shook her head to clear the memory as she focused back on the present.

Maureen Robinson turned to her. “I wanted to run something by you. You can say no of course but I just thought I’d ask.”

Starpelt sat up. “Ok? I am listening.”

“We have a friend that was in the same colonist group as us. His name is Hiroki Watanabe. He’s an xeno-biologist and as you can imagine is quite excited by your arrival. He proposed to me you meet him tomorrow if you want. He invited us too.” Maureen Robinson said.

Starpelt tilted her head in slight concern. Someone who studied alien life. Sounded too much like other creatures she knew. “He would study me, would he not?”

“Yes, but not in that way. He’d only run a scan of you and ask you about yourself. He’s far from violent or malicious.” Maureen Robinson replied, calming her worries. “He did this with Robot too.” she added.

Starpelt gave a small growl as she thought about it. “You trust him?” she inquired. Both of them nodded. “Trust me, he won’t hurt you.” John Robinson said with a small smile.

Starpelt let out an ex-vent. “Alright. If you can promise he will not try anything. I had enough of that in my past life.”

John and Maureen Robinson nodded in understanding. “Tomorrow it is then.”

***

“How long have you two been functional?” Robot inquired, his whirs sounding almost groggy.

After making plans with John and Maureen Robinson, Starpelt had returned to Will’s chambers to check if the other two were still running their diagnostic. Scarecrow was standing up, rebooting his joints. Robot came online a minute after she’d returned.

“Only a few human minutes.” Scarecrow whirred

“About an hour.” she replied

“Great rings, I put a lot of strain on my system.” Robot whirred, moving his different limbs.

“Serves you right.” Scarecrow growled. “How was yours?” he asked her.

Starpelt gave a small ex-vent. “The results were optimal, but…” she trailed off. Robot and Scarecrow looked to each other in concern. “But…?” Robot promoted.

“I...saw things. I re-lived my first memory almost like a dream. Is that...normal?” she inquired. The two now looked to each other again, and shook their heads. “It could be a virus. We should get you checked.” Scarecrow said with growing concern.

“Or-” Robot intervened, putting an arm in front of Scarecrow. “-This could be because of her organic origins. Organics see things, real or no when they sleep. So unless we see signs of trouble, I don’t think we should panic.”

Scarecrow was silent for a moment, before giving a soft growl. “Fine. But don’t blame me for being cautious.”

Starpelt gave a small chuckle. “Well how about you two? All things good?”

“I have a part of my neural net that’s acting up from the close contact to my...mark. So I’m going to see if there’s a human that knows enough about us to have a look at it.”

“Why a human?” Robot inquired.

“Human-made mark.” Scarecrow replied as if it should be obvious.

“Fair enough.” Starpelt replied. “Robot?”

Robot hesitated for a split second. “Yeah. Mine was all good.” he replied.

Starpelt’s pupils narrowed. Why was there unease coming from his side of the bond? In a split second though it disappeared. Scarecrow must have caught it as well because he shot her a look.

“Robot…?” Starpelt asked with warning in her voice.

Robot gave an uneasy whir, putting a hand behind his head.

“Hey! Sleepyheads. Judy’s on her way back.” Penny Robinson said, poking her head in Will’s chambers. Robot straightened up, and rushed over to Penny Robinson a little too eagerly.

“Woah! Easy bud! I just talked to her. You really talked some sense into her, which is nearly impossible. By the way, could you teach my how you did that, big guy?” she inquired.

Robot gave an annoyed growl, and moved his head in an annoyed fashion.

“Attitude! That’s new.” Penny Robinson smiled. “Oh no, he has always had it.” Starpelt chuckled.

“You’re not helping.” Robot growled. “My, my he’s on edge.” Scarecrow chittered.

“Hey- what about the non-robot speaker in the room?” she asked dryly with a scoff.

“In all seriousness big guy, I think you’ll be fine. Just go easy on her. Wow, can’t believe I’m saying that.” Penny Robinson scoffed.

“She has a point. Just tell her the truth.” Starpelt said with emphasis, flicking Robot with her tail.

“Uhhh...oh I also came here to say in case Starpelt hasn’t that we’re going to see Hiroki tomorrow and you’re both invited.” Penny Robinson said with a wink.

“Hiroki? When did this happen?” Robot questioned. “While you two were down.” Starpelt replied.

“Why am I invited?” Scarecrow questioned. It would seem he already knew who Hiroki Watanabe was.

After translating, Penny Robinson hummed in thought. “I think to comfort Starpelt, but I also think because he knows you were our “secret weapon”.”

“Secret weapon?!” Scarecrow growled incredulously. “Is that what I’m called now?!”

“Perhaps it is best not to call him that.” Starpelt chuckled at Penny Robinson’s look.

The sound of the main door opening snatched their attention. Robot straightened up with impatience. “Judy Robinson.” he said, Penny Robinson quickly stepping to the side to let him through. She came to stand next to Starpelt and Scarecrow. The three of them gazed after him.

“They’ll be alright. I’m like...75% sure of it.” Penny Robinson said after a moment of silence. Starpelt and Scarecrow gave her a look.

“What? Doesn’t hurt to be a realist.”

***

It was right to say that Starpelt was on edge. Even if John and Maureen Robinson placed absolute trust in this...”Hiroki Watanabe”, it still didn’t help the fact that she knew what studying meant. And from her experience, it was never a good thing. Not to her, or her kin.

She was glad Robot was coming along. She allowed herself to be amused at that statement. She still marveled to how close she’d become with him. A little more than a human year ago, she’d wanted nothing more than for him to be dead.

But once she’d found she was related to him, it started to fall into place. She’d never had a kinship as this one, where status and rank were irrelevant. It was probably what drew her closer to him, was knowing rank had nothing to do with the way he treated her.

She allowed herself to be somewhat affectionate in a bigger-kin kind of way, and it appeared he wasn’t afraid to show his affection and respect in a goofy little-kin manner. But Starpelt had learned to tell when beings were lying, and something was bothering him. Even if he hid it well, it was clear something had happened.

“You seem on edge, are you alright?” she asked through their bond as they made their way to the destination. “Huh? Oh, yeah I’m fine. Well...I…” he trailed off. Starpelt walked closer to him. “Yes?”

“I...uh...never mind. It’s just...trying to live with what I did in the past. I don’t like it all being there.” he replied. Starpelt’s ear flaps lowered an inch. That was part of it, but it wasn’t all of it.

“I understand. And I also understand you are omitting something.” she deadpanned. Robot looked at her with a slightly panicked look. Starpelt gave an ex-vent as she looked down. “Which you do not have to tell me about. Yet.” He relaxed at this.

“Just...do not let it escalate to the point it did. We do not need your or Will’s life in danger again. You may tell me when you are ready. But just know me and Scarecrow are worried about you.” she finished. Robot looked down. “I appreciate that.” he replied. Starpelt noted as Judy Robinson looked at Robot. When he looked back at her the look of unease and guilt was gone from both of them. They must have made up the night before.

When they reached the Watanabe residence, she found it was the same model as that of the Robinson’s, but the decorations gave off a much more ancient and traditional vibe. Hioki Watanabe was an older human, who’s facial features were gentle. He had an offspring, and an even younger, smaller offspring. He welcomed her, introducing himself with a gentle tone of voice before introducing his kin.

Starpelt allowed Hiroki Watanabe to feel her wings and spines, while Scarecrow recoiled with a soft hiss when he asked to see his mark.

They sat down in the main area, where the Robinsons were offered hot drinks that when scanned, gave Starpelt pings of herbal origins and water. They were all very friendly towards Robot, which she found encouraging. Hiroki Watanabe brought out some scanning material that she found some interlaced with robot technology. On a big monitor mounted on one of the walls, a live transmission of Will suddenly appeared. Starpelt and Robot perked their heads at him.

“Hey, guys.” Will greeted them. “Thanks for letting me tune in.”

“Nonsense. It is important for you to be here.” Hiroki Watanabe’s offspring said.

“Maureen told me of your past, and I am so sorry all of you had to endure that.” Hiroki Watanabe said to the three robots. They shared looks, and Starpelt gave him a polite thanks.

“Now I want you, Starpelt to feel as relaxed as possible. I promise I will not hurt you, but if you would allow me to take a look at your form, I would most appreciate it.”

Starpelt gave an uneasy glance to Robot. He nodded. “He did this with me, it’s just an outside feel. He’ll be gentle I promise.” he assured her. Hiroki Watanabe looked at interest between the interaction. Starpelt looked to everyone in the room. “Alright. But if you try anything…” she warned. “I would not dream of harming such a magnificent creature.” he replied, looking straight into her gaze.

Starpelt gave a soft growl, but allowed her spines to flatten, and herself to relax as he examined her form. His touch was gentle, and from time to time he muttered something in a language Starpelt didn’t understand. He referenced back regularly to his holographic pad, and held a small black bar up to her. Will from his live feed gave Hiroki Watanabe and everyone present a debrief of Starpelt’s story and mostly her transition from organic to synthetic. She noticed he didn’t go into much detail about her kind’s history. “As far as her kind goes, I think she’d be a better being to ask.” Will finished. There it was.

Hiroki Watanabe gave a smile after Will finished. “Starpelt, would you mind telling me more about your kind? I know I have the general outlook, but to hear it from the creature herself...well, it is an opportunity I would not pass up.” Starpelt saw this as a way to relax her, since it was probably apparent she was tense.

Starpelt gave a small purr. “I am what is known as a Nocfur. But I am a hybrid. I have human origins because I was a human clone. To make a long story short the other Apex predators of my planet hunted original Nocfurs to near extinction.”

Hiroki Watanabe gave a hum. “That must have been catastrophic on the ecosystem if your kind was an Apex predator.”

Starpelt nodded. “They tried to bring them back using genetic technology, but their DNA was just not compatible enough to create a stable base.”

“Until your creator.” Hiroki Watanabe finished.

“Until my creator. I was the first successful clone to be merged with Nocfur DNA, and made leader because of my abilities given to me with my turning. Each faction had a leader with abilities like mine.” she explained. Hiroki Watanabe listened intently as he examined her, taking notes on what he heard.

As she explained more to him, he examined her wings, claws, tail, spines, and when he got to her neck and head, he asked her consent. Once she gave it, he felt her neck and head softly, while repeating what he’d done on her body. He got to the top of her head, and Starpelt felt her ear flaps twitch in anticipation. Oh no...he was getting too close-

When he touched them, Starpelt felt her spines start to flare. He drew back. “Did I hurt you?” he questioned in concern. Starpelt gave an ex-vent. Will stifled a laugh. Starpelt shot him a glare. “No. My spines were flaring in pleasure. But uh-not that kind.” she admitted quickly. “I...like my ear flaps being...pet.” she hesitated, her ear flaps falling in defeat at Robot’s motion to tell him.

Hiroki Watanabe gave a soft hum. “Interesting.” he said. “Would you mind if I…” he asked softly, reaching out. Starpelt gave a soft hum, and lowered her head. He started softly stroking her ear flaps, and Starpelt felt her body relax. He gave a small chuckle. “She is like a cat.” he said. “An extremely dangerous space cat is what I called her.” Will added in with a chuckle. “And I thought Penny was the one who came up with the great nicknames in this family.” Judy Robinson chuckled. Penny Robinson clicked her tongue with a smile. “I taught him everything he knows.”

He stopped, and Starpelt shook her head vigorously. She gave a relaxed ex-vent. “There. Do not use that against me.” she growled softly. “Never.” Hiroki Watanabe smiled, shaking his head. “And that goes for all of you. Will and my kin do that enough.” she said pointedly, glaring at Robot. Robot gave an innocent look and shrugged, making everyone laugh.

“Astonishing.” he marveled as he looked at his results, showing everyone in the room. “They match Will’s scans entirely minus the non-organic factor. Her organic origins are visible if we look at her energy core. She does have human traces. The fact that her kind is compatible with the robots is revolutionary.”

Starpelt looked at Robot. “I suppose. But the only reason for that is because our creators collaborated directly on my genetic code, and his neural net and base programming. That is the reason I am still here, and it is the reason the robots are sentient. It is a gift from my creator.”

Hiroki Watanabe’s mouth fell open as he looked wide-eyed at the Robinsons. “Yeah, we had that same reaction.” Penny Robinson said.

“Do they know of this?” He asked. The three robots looked at each other. “I am not sure how many know, but I would assume the word is out somewhere.”

“We must make it known to them, they have a right to know.” Starpelt bowed her head. “I am afraid of how they will take it. Just yesterday these two were targets and attacked because of what happened to them by humanity’s hand.” she said, pointing a wing at the two for emphasis. “Wait, what?!” Will demanded. “Robot you didn’t say you were attacked!”

“Why in the rings wouldn’t you tell him that?!” Scarecrow demanded. Everyone in the room looked to them. Maureen Robinson gave a sigh at seeing Robot’s shameful look. “He probably didn’t want to stress you out more than you already were.”

“Great job.” Will said dryly.

Starpelt noticed Hiroki Watanabe’s attention was now directed to Scarecrow as he gave a small growl. Everyone and Will saw this and went quiet.

“I am so sorry for what they did to you. It pains me to say this is not something new for humanity. It is a rather common trait.”

Scarecrow gave an ex-vent. “Talk about the understatement of the solar cycle.” Robot nudged him. “Show some respect. He did nothing to you.”

Scarecrow hissed. “Don’t treat me like a newly assembled.”

Starpelt rolled her lights with a groan. “Will you just show him?” she questioned irritably. “You wish to see his mark, right?”

Hiroki Watanabe nodded. “If he would allow me, I could see the damage, and if there’s any way to improve it. I have studied much of the robot system.”

Robot pushed Scarecrow forward with a firm punch in< the back. Scarecrow growled in anger at him. He glared at Hiroki Watanabe as he hesitantly came closer. “I will not hurt you or put anything inside, I just want to look.”

Scarecrow gave a small hiss, but as he got closer, she noticed the feeling of terror come from Scarecrow as he started to shake. Hiroki Watanabe saw this a well, and drew back. Scarecrow reared up with a fearful hiss. He drew his claws over his face. He hurried out of the room giving loud ex-vents. Robot and Starpelt gave each other saddened looks as her ear flaps fell.

Everyone in the room looked after him with concern. Maureen Robinson stood up and hurried to him.

The room was uncomfortably silent after that. Hiroki Watanabe gave a shaky exhale “I’m sorry I shouldn’t have-”

“It’s not your fault. Apparently we’re not the only ones to have PTSD.” John Robinson said solemnly, getting up and following Maureen Robinson. Will gave a soft sigh. “Hiroki, try to understand that he’s been through so much trauma.”

Starpelt looked to Robot. “Should we go after him?” she asked through their bond.

Robot gave a soft ex-vent. “Help friend.” he said, cocking his head in inquiry. Hiroki Watanabe looked to his family. “Well...I would recommend a human-based opinion, as a number of us have taken an interest in what was done to you on the Resolute. It might be the best place to start.” he said.

Hiroki Watanabe’s younger offspring nodded. “There is someone I’ve heard of that looks into this kind of thing. I don’t remember the name, but they work as father and daughter.” she said. He nodded at her. “We will look into it and get back to you.”

The family remaining nodded. Hiroki Watanabe looked to Starpelt. “If you wish it, I would like to make these scans along with Will’s public. I believe it could help if everyone knew more about you.”

Starpelt glanced at the remaining Robinsons, before giving an ex-vent. “If you believe it will help. Whatever it takes.”

Robot came next to her, and gave a comforting whir. “Thanks, Hiroki Watenabe.” He gave a small chuckle of awe. “Anytime, my friend. I am only sorry I caused Scarecrow so much anguish.”

Robot and Starpelt exchanged looks. “He knows you are a good human. That is all that matters. Trauma takes time to heal, but does never really go away. You and your kin continue to treat us as equals, that is all any of us can do.” she said in a slight purr.

Penny Robinson gave a small exhale. “Dang. You can tell she was a diplomat.”

After bowing her head in respect once more to Hiroki Watanabe and his kin, Starpelt turned to Robot. “We should see how they are doing.” she said, referring to Scarecrow, Maureen and John Robinson. Robot nodded, and he motioned for the Robinson kin to follow.

After saying goodbye to Will, and saying they’d be over to visit him soon, the live feed ended, and they left the Watanabe residence, Robot and Starpelt following Scarecrow’s signal.

Starpelt couldn’t help but think about her creator’s kin, still needing to be located by Maureen Robinson. She hoped to the Planet Changes she’d have the synthetic guts to go through with it when the time finally came to meet them.

She hoped the fact that everyone would know more about her would somehow make the meeting easier. It helped the anxiety Starpelt felt knowing that some beings were already on her side, and she hoped it would stay that way the longer they knew her, for she nor anyone was without a tainted past.

Chapter Text

Chapter 6

~I ½ weeks later~

Will gave a small sigh as he sat on his bed, doing an online course to try and catch up with school he’d missed. His parents had insisted in a way Will knew there would be no use arguing against. He felt his entire being become aware of the presence approaching his room.

“I already know what you’re here to say.” Will started, standing up from his bed. He’d been deemed stable about a week ago, and Will didn’t expect his heart to become stable so quickly. He guessed he had Robot and Starpelt to thank for it.

But now he was waiting for the answer to the question he’d posed to Starpelt. But from the beginning he could tell Robot was hesitant. He was surprised it had taken him this long to address it.

Robot gave a small whir as he closed his door. He was right of course. This was a personal conversation.

“So, Starpelt’s been selling the whole power thing. I have a good feeling about it.” Will smiled, giving a small grunt as blue power traveled from his heart to his hand. Robot rushed to him. “Danger, Will Robinson.” he said.

“Hey, I’m fine, really.” Will replied. Robot gazed at his hand, uncertainty in his lights. “Will…” a thought came into his head. Will looked at Robot in surprise, and let the power fade.

“We’re speaking through our thoughts now?” he questioned. Robot looked to the side. “It’s best, isn’t it, since we can now?”

“Yeah, you got a point. I need to adjust.”

“But you’re already doing quite well. You’re not resisting like you did at the beginning.” Robot commended.

“Our bond is getting stronger. It’s not just me.” Will replied.

“Will...I imagine you know my reservations for you doing this. Not that I don’t think it’s a good idea-”

“-Robot, I know. We both know this isn’t a question of Starpelt’s ability to teach me. But there’s a lot of risk involved. It’s not just me, it’s you too. We don’t know how it would affect you if something happened to me. You proved your point of how much we’re affected by this by that fight you got in with Cyprus.”

“You just had to bring that up didn’t you?”

“I’m trying to say that you’re right. But think about the future. What if we’re not together? What if you can’t get there to save me in time? These are all valid questions.”

“Yeah, Starpelt and Scarecrow said the same thing. I know.”

“Look, I said this on your old planet when we were there, remember? I said sometimes we have to face the danger.”

“It resulted in you having a synthetic heart and me failing you.”

“Robot, you didn’t fail me. You saved me. And think about what would’ve happened had we not left the planet when we did. SAR would probably still be a threat, who knows if we’d have made it here, we wouldn’t have met Starpelt and exterminated a major threat of the last Creator. Look, it’s dangerous I know, but look at all it led to. You gained a sister from it all, and we’re bonded like brothers.”

“I...I know. I think about what would’ve happened had I not trusted you then.”

“Well...you did.”

Will gave a small sigh. He looked Robot straight in the lights.

“Do you trust me now?”

“I...I do trust you. Always have.”

“Isn’t that all that matters then?”

Robot looked down with a small hum. Will gave a sigh.

“I won’t do it if you’re really against it. I’m just telling you how I see it, and I’ll give you time to think it over.” he thought, turning to exit the room.

“Will, I have thought about it long and hard, especially since what you just said.”

Will turned around in surprise. “Already? That was only like, 30 seconds!”

“30 seconds are quite enough. Superior processing capabilities, remember?”

Will scoffed. “Showoff much.”

“Look, if John and Maureen agree to it...I’m ok with it.”

Will beamed as he received this thought. Robot held up his finger. “But you gotta promise me you’ll be careful.”

“I’ll be careful.” Will promised, making a fist. Robot gave a small ex-vent before making a fist of his own, and meeting it in a fist bump.

“Thanks, bud”

“Welcome, Will Robinson.”

“Now just to wait for the parents.” Will sighed. He looked to his pad. Trigonometry. Bleh.

He looked to Robot, an idea glinting in his eyes. Superior processing capabilities, eh? Robot cocked his head. “Hey, bud? How good are you at figuring math out?”

***
“Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! YES!” Will exclaimed, running outside. Robot was in the garden, taking care of his section of plants. Upon hearing him approach, he turned to Will, and stopped him.

“Woah, what’s going on? Why are you so...exploding with happiness? Wait a sec- did they say-”

“They said yes!” Will exclaimed out loud. Robot stood up and lifted his arms up in victory. Will copied him with an excited laugh.

“I hope you realize what you’re getting into.” Judy said, coming out.

“Oh he does. And it’s gonna make him all the more insufferable for it. How am I supposed to compete with a little brother with superpowers?” Penny groaned.

Will chuckled. “You’ll find some way.”

Penny came to him, and put her hands on his shoulders. “I know I probably don’t need to tell you this, but with great power comes great responsibility.”

She held a serious face before a laugh broke through, while Judy gave a soft snort. Will shook his head with a small laugh.

“You’ve been watching too many superhero movies.” he said.

Penny shrugged. “Well I gotta do something while I wait for Vjay to come back. Watching superheros helps fill the void.” she smirked, acknowledging the cheesiness of her words and embracing it.

“Ew.” Will replied dryly. “I don’t wanna hear about your lovey-dovey issues.”

Penny only stuck out her tongue.

“How old are you guys, exactly?” Judy asked with an eyebrow raised. They went quiet as Starpelt, and their parents came out, and walked towards them.

“So you’re really ok with this?” Will asked them.

“We...have reservations. But Starpelt assured us that she won’t train you too hard until she knows you can handle it.” Maureen said.

“Still don’t like it.” John muttered before Maureen shot him a look.

Starpelt bowed her head. “I am honored of your trust in me. It will not be misplaced as long as I can help it.” But Will caught the way her ear flaps twitched with unease.

“So can we start now?” Will asked eagerly. Starpelt shot a look to Robot. She gave an ex-vent accompanied by a chuckle.

“If that is what you wish. Climb on, we will need somewhere away from civilization. It is better to focus.” she said.

Will gave a small jump, and climbed onto her back as she lowered herself down.

“We will be back before sunset.” Starpelt said, standing up. Will smirked as his family looked at him in awe.

“Jealous?” he smirked.

“Not in the slightest. I’ve had enough life threatening experiences, thank you very much.” Judy scoffed.

“Yeah, I think I’m good.” Penny replied at almost the same time.

The only one Will noticed that looked the most in awe was his father. Will gave a smirk. “I’ll have to remember that.” he thought.

Robot looked down with a sad hum. “Aww bud, you’ll get there.” Will said sympathetically. “Thanks, Will Robinson.” he replied, giving Starpelt a quick pet on her side. They must have been speaking through their bond because Starpelt nodded, and Robot bowed his head in thanks.

“Be careful, Will.” Maureen stressed in concern.

“I will, Mom.” he said with a smile.

Starpelt shook herself softly, before making sure he was situated. Without another word she took off. Will with his experience riding and flying on her in the past made this easier and even enjoyable now. If he could survive her dive-bomb attack he was sure he could survive anything on her back.

That being said, he missed riding her organic form. Not only was metal less comfortable, but he missed being able to feel her as a living creature. But he’d take this if it meant she was alive and finally free.

“I haven’t asked, but...how do you like it here?” Will asked hesitantly after a moment.

Starpelt was silent as she flapped her wings. “I am not sure what I was expecting. But even with the contreversy humanity has given me...I do not dislike it here. It is beautiful, and being around my creator’s kind...well it helps me understand better her actions, and explained much of what I have felt in the past.”

“That’s...deep.” Will commented. “But I didn’t expect a less wise answer.”

Starpelt gave a short ex-vent of amusement. “I hope that is not mockery I hear in your tone, Will.”

“What? No, of course not!” Will replied nervously.

They came into view of a plateau on the top of a cliff. Plenty of space and a relatively flat surface. Will now had the feeling she’d prepared for this.

“And you know of this place…?”

“When I knew training you was an option, I searched for a place that offered solitude and serenity. This place offers both.” she replied as she turned downwards to land.

Once on the ground, she lowered herself onto the ground to allow him to safely dismount her. If only the horses he’d ridden all his life offered this. He would’ve saved himself so many wounds and fractured bones.

Will looked around. “Not bad.” he commented.

“I am glad it is to your liking.” She replied with a small purr.

“So what are we doing first? Combat? Power blasts? Healing- wait no probably not that.”

Starpelt let him finish before giving a soft chuckle. “None of those. The first and most important thing we must do is find a place of focus and inner serenity.”

Will deflated slightly. “But...I already know how to use my powers. Do we really need to start at ground zero?”

“Being able to ground yourself is the first step to being able to master your abilities, no matter what the level.” she replied, circling him.

Will gave a small sigh and submitted. “Very good. Now close your eyes, and focus solely on what you hear and feel.” she instructed.

Will didn’t see what good this would do, but he trusted Starpelt, so he did as he was told.

“Breathe in deeply. Hold it for 5 seconds, then exhale through your mouth. Do this 10 times. It is how my creator taught me to focus and calm myself.” she said, probably noticing his hesitation.

Will gave a small huff but did as he was instructed. Surprisingly, he started to feel calmer, and he felt his pulse start to slow.

“Wow. I can’t believe that actually worked.” He said, opening his eyes. Starpelt gave a small purr.

“Now close your eyes again, and tell me what you hear.” she instructed softly.

Will focused on his surroundings. The sounds were almost earth-like.

“I hear...calling of birds and the creatures here?” he asked hesitantly, opening his eyes.

“Mhm. Very good, keep going.” she encouraged, brushing a wing against him.

Will took a deep breath and listened again. “I hear wind, and...the soft clanking of your plating as you move.”

“Very good. Now what do you feel? Do you feel the sun’s rays warming your skin?” she questioned softly.

“Yes.” he replied.

Starpelt gave a satisfied purr, and instructed him to breathe deeply for another 5 minutes, from time to time telling her what he felt and heard.

“Good. Now imagine all of what you have heard, and the sensation of the sun’s rays warming you as your abilities. They run through you. They are all around you. Focus on how they fun full force through your entire being, just as you take note of what you hear and feel.” she instructed.

“Ah. There’s the connection.” Will thought to himself. Taking a breath, he focused on the pulsating power he’d come to notice he now knew were her abilities.

He felt it all around him.

He heard a soft hum as he gave a small jolt. Through his closed eyes, he could see a light blue glow. Taking a small breath, he opened them.

He saw a royal blue pulsating around his body from his heart. It surprised him so much to see this that he flinched slightly, and the power faded. He looked to his hand in confusion, panting slightly.

“That is why focus is of upmost importance. One moment of lapsed focus caused your abilities to fade.” Starpelt said, coming next to him. “Try once more. And try to keep focused this time.” she said in a slight purr, coming so that she was facing him.

Will nodded and repeated what he’d done before, and they repeated this for a good 30 minutes or so, each time Will being able to hold it a second longer than the last. He looked at his abilities in awe, but tried his best to contain it. He didn't understand why now it was so hard. He certainly didn’t have this problem when fighting The Creator.

“Why is it so hard to hold it now?” he asked through a soft grunt.

Starpelt inspected him. “I imagine when you last used it your focus was not forced in the way you are deliberately doing it now. Your only thought was on saving Robot and myself.”

Will gave an exhale. “I take it you’ll teach me how to master that so it’s not so hard?”

Starpelt gave a nod. “Yes. And since we know this method worked for you we can try something like it. Try and hold your grasp on it. Why did you want to use these abilities?” she asked.

Will gave a small pant. “I wanted them as a form of protection. Well-that and they’re awesome.” he smiled. Bad move. The royal blue glow flickered.

“Who did you want to protect? Anyone other than yourself?” Starpelt questioned, circling him.

“Anyone I can.” he replied, seeing the pulsating power resume it’s hum.

Starpelt’s ear flaps perked. “I want you to bear with me, and answer everything I ask. Now close your eyes.” she instructed. Will gave a small nod.

“Imagine your kin. They are in danger. Robot is damaged, and your older kinmates are hurt. Your parents are incapacitated.”

“Starpelt what the heck?!” Will fumed, snapping his eyes open.

“Ah, ah ah! Focus.” Starpelt instructed, lowering her head to his.

“But-”

“Focus!” she scolded, her tone becoming more authoritative.

Will gave a small huff, and begrudgingly accepted.

“Imagine SAR. He is gone, but he was the reason you risked so much. He has your kin. Once you were of minimal power compared to him.”

Even though he knew SAR was gone, the slightest thought that SAR taking his family had almost been a reality brought back the demons from a life past.

“You are the only one that can save them.”

Her words echoed in his thoughts as he started to pant harder.

“Will you save them?” she questioned.

“Yes.” Will replied.

“What would you do to SAR? How would you stop this from repeating itself?”

Will’s pulse had risen, and his blood he could feel was boiling. Whatever Starpelt had in mind to do was working, because he found that instead of the fear he’d carried in him at the mention of SAR was now replaced by a fuming anger hard to contain. He heard the hum of his abilities turn to a shrill whine.

“By making sure he never touches a single claw to my family again!” he shouted, throwing his arms apart without any explicit reason, finding as if another force had forced them to that position. He gave a violent twitch as he felt something leave his body. Will was left shaky, and slightly sweaty.

He snapped out of his so called trance when he heard a pained grunt from in front of him. He opened his eyes to find Starpelt cradling her chest as it repaired itself. “Well...we found what method works for you.” Starpelt chuckled with a slightly pained grunt.

Will looked to his hands. “Oh god. Did I hurt you?” he asked frantically. Starpelt shook herself as her repairs were finished. She let out a soft chuckle.

“That was a minimal blast, Will. Even so, it is my fault for standing so close.” She said, circling him with interest.

“Although I suppose you were right. You are more experienced than I thought. I believe we can try some more advanced exercises if you wish.”

Will perked up. “Really?”

Starpelt nodded. “It took me nearly half a planet change to get where you are now. We will start small as your endurance is still short lived.”

Will listened attentively as his abilities faded. “What do you want me to do?”

“I want you to create an energy shield to block my attack.” she said, twitching her wings. Her look was a casual one, as if what she was asking was totally normal.

Will swallowed. “A-Attack? You won’t…I-I mean a shield is quite a-advanced don’t you think?” he stuttered with a nervous chuckle.

“I will have ample time to stop myself if you are not able to create a shield the first time. Compliments of a synthetic body. And I suppose if you think it is too advanced we may try something more...beginner friendly.” she said in a slight purr of amusement.

Will sputtered. “No, no shield is good! I’m ready to do a shield! I mean...if you’re absolutely sure you can stop your attacks in time, I can do it.”

“If you are certain.” Starpelt said in amusement.

“Ok...how do you create a shield?” he inquired.

“The same method you used to activate your abilities in the first place, except now imagine them instead of flowing through you, coming in front of you to protect you. Now focus again, but this time try it with your eyes open.” she instructed, circling around him.

“Jeez she really likes to move fast.” Will thought. But he assumed she was teaching at this speed because he’d been able to do so far everything she’d asked of him.

He had to say he was getting the hang how of at least being able to trigger his abilities. Once they appeared, Will braced himself as Starpelt took a position facing him. Taking a breath, Will held his hands out, imagining the shields Starpelt used to make when she’d had these abilities.

Will met her gaze and nodded. She gave a small growl, and raised her tail to strike a blow. Will’s pulse sped up as he started to shake. “Stay calm, she won’t hurt you. Focus on the shield. Focus on the shield!” he thought furiously.

But as she was about to deal the blow, even if she was going at a slow speed, Will let out a shriek as he covered himself. Panting, he straightened up to see her tail moving away from him.

“Are you alright?” she asked softly, lowering her head to his.

Will realized he was shaking slightly. “Yep.” he replied with a nervous smile.

Starpelt gave a small ex-vent. “If you want to stop this exercise, we can try something else. I am still new to teaching my abilities” she said, concern lining her voice as well as her lights. Her ear flaps fell.

“What I think and what you feel are two different things. What matters is that you are ready.” she said

Will took a small breath. “Ok, I trust you. Just...please try to go slow.”

Starpelt nodded, and straightened up. “Again. I saw a flicker of something. You must continue.”

Repeating what he’d done, he stood his ground as she raised her tail once more. Giving small pant, he redied himself.

“Shield. Think about the shield. Not her incredibly sharp tail spikes.”

Starpelt spun around and flung her tail at him. Squeezing his eyes shut, Will thrust his hands forward with a small cry. There was a sound of Starpelt’s tail hitting something, a small whooshing sound. Will slowly opened his eyes to see a small circle of royal blue fade from where it had made contact with Starpelt’s tail.

His eyes widened as he looked to Starpelt. “Did I just…?”

Starpelt’s lights sped up. “It was very small, but it was enough to block my attack. Very well done.”

“Ha! Did you see that?! I made my first shield!” Will exclaimed, jumping up.

Starpelt gave a small laugh. “Do you think you could hold it for 10 seconds?”

“Heck yeah I can!” Will replied, adrenaline now being his main driving force.

Starpelt gave a small laugh before tensing to strike with her tail. Will took a deep breath and readied his hands.

Starpelt repeated the attack, but this ttime Will didn’t flinch. He thrust his hands out as she spun, and her tail was met with royal blue.

“Good, good! Now keep doing this!” Starpelt instructed, Will noticing that she was still putting pressure on his shield with her tail.

Will started to buckle as the shield became harder and harder to hold. It was like he was holding up a weight, but the weight seemed to get heavier and heavier.

“And...release!” she instructed, lifting her tail from his shield. Will gave a panting gasp and stumbled. He was able to catch himself, but he was incredibly shaky.

“Alright, easy now.” Starpelt consoled, coming to his side.

“I’m fine. Just need a momen-AGH!” he exclaimed as he stood up, only to collapse into Starpelt, who caught him.

“You have done a lot for today. We will rest.” she said, using her snout and spreading her wings to support him.

Leading him over to one of the few trees on the plateau, she lowered herself to the ground, and used her wing to guide him safely until he was sat against her side.

“That’s so much harder than it looks.” he panted wearily.

Starpelt chuckled. “It will take time, but we will build up your endurance. We must not push too hard. It will come in time, and unlike me, you have no rush.” she said, looking to the side.

Will swallowed and lowered himself so that his head could rest against her side. He felt like he’d run a marathon, then climbed a mountain. “Were you...this exhausted…?” he asked, his voice weak.

Starpelt nodded. “Yes. These abilities are essentially an extension of your body. They put much strain on an untrained being.”

“Then why didn’t I…” he trailed off, but it seemed Starpelt knew what he was asking.

“Survival instinct. An organic's most powerful weapon.” she replied. “It can make our bodies do miraculous things. I assume it took hold, and you didn’t feel the affects until you knew you were safe.”

Will nodded. “Makes sense. And miraculous like...standing up to...The Creator.”

Starpelt chuckled. “Especially that. Now rest, and regain your strength. We are in no rush.”

“I hope this won’t be a normal thing.” he thought as his eyes closed.

***

Will opened his eyes and blinked in the shaded light. He gave a small groan as he remembered where he was. “Starpelt?” he inquired softly.

“Yes?” she replied, lifting her head from the ground. “Feeling better?” she asked.

Will nodded. “Much. How long was I out?”

“About 30 minutes.” she replied in a soft purr.

Will stretched, and cracked his neck. “Does this mean I’ll have to take a power nap each time we have a lesson?”

Starpelt gave a small hum. “Perhaps at the beginning. But it seems you did not need much time to regain your strength.”

Will gave a small groan. “I feel so pathetic.”

“You are a beginner learning a skill that is beyond that of your physiology. Give it time.” Starpelt said.

Will gave a small pout as he sat up. “I don’t suppose we could do more?”

Starpelt laughed at this. “Will you must not fly before you can spread your wings. We will continue this soon, but you have already made stupendous progress.”

“I guess.” he grumbled.

He looked at Starpelt, but as she looked back her gaze was sad, and her ear flaps fell as her lights slowed.

“Starpelt?” he questioned.

“I am aware my teaching methods are fast. They worked for my faction, mostly because we did not have a lot of time to dawdle. But you are not a Nocfur, and I therefore must adjust my methods. I guess I am afraid I will push you too far.

Will softened and pet her ear flaps encouragingly. “You won’t. You see how exhausted I get, and you did not want to push it further. You remember how this felt. But I’m assuming you want constructive criticism.”

“Only in how you feel. As I said before, what I think of you and how you feel are quite different. If you are too uncomfortable with something we do, or you need time to work up to it, you must tell me. I must remind myself we do not need to rush. I suppose this is a two way kind of thing.”

Will nodded. “I guess so. Alright, you can trust me.”

She gave a soft purr as Will felt her wings nudge him affectionately. He allowed himself to relax as he listened to the sounds around him.

“Will. Will! Will pick up your thoughts!” a stray thought boomed in his head.

Will gave a jump. “Jesus, Robot don’t scare me like that!” he thought back, only to realize he’d said it out loud. Starpelt cocked her head after a moment of looking startled.

Will gave a small eye roll, and spoke out loud, seeing as Starpelt already knew who he was speaking to.

“Oh thank the rings you’re ok! I mean of course you’re ok, we’re connected why wouldn’t you be, plus Starpelt’s teaching you what could go wrong?” Robot thought in a flurry through his head. Will gave a pained groan as he held his hands to his head to try and ease the splitting headache he was getting.

“Getting less ok now.” he said through gritted teeth. “Robot, point please.”

“The hike, Will! Tell her about the hike! She needs to come on the hike!”

“Ok! Alright! I get it. Can you please leave my splitting head before it explodes from everything you’re thinking?!”

“Oh! Right. Human organic brains. I’m an idiot. Sorry! I’ll fix it!”

“How can you fix-” Will started but was cut off as he felt Robot’s presence surround Will. It’s a rather hard thing to explain. The closest thing one could compare it to was being wrapped in a blanket.

After a few seconds, Will relaxed as he realized the pain was gone. “How did you do that?” he asked to the wind.

“Uh...it’s not important! What matters is that it worked, right? I’ll leave you now. Don’t forget!”

And with that Robot’s thoughts and emotions took a less dominant place in Will’s being. Will gave an exasperated sigh as he fell against Starpelt.

“What was that about?” she inquired.

“Robot was reminding me we had something we wanted to ask you in his usual enthusiastic way.” Will replied.

Starpelt chuckled. “That is my brother for you. What did you want to ask?”

“There’s a hike planned tomorrow with some families of our colonist group, and Mom thought it’d be a good way for you to get to know some people. Well, Robot wants you to come as well so he doesn’t feel so left out, he won’t say it, but I can feel it.”

Starpelt nodded thoughtfully. “I see. And the rest of your kin agrees on this? I do not wish to...scare them and ruin their good time.”

Will shook his head. “You won’t. They were people we spent a lot of time around. Mom already told them she wanted to invite you, and I suppose Hiroki already spread the news of what he found, so seeing you won’t be a surprise.”

Starpelt gave an ex-vent as she looked away. Her ear flaps fell slightly. “If you are sure, then I suppose I would be happy to join you.” she said, looking back at him. Will beamed at her. He suddenly sat up as another idea came into his head.

“You know some people, mostly Dad may want a flight on your back.” he proposed, nudging her.

She gave an uncertain hum. “Not everyone is as attuned to flying as you are. And that goes for John Robinson as well.”

“Just keep it in mind. I guarantee they'll be someone who wants to. Just be sure to take it slow.”

She nodded at this, and Will gave a sigh before looking into the distance. Even now, he could feel something was off with Robot. He hadn’t payed much attention to it until he’d suddenly avoided Will’s question earlier.

Starpelt sensed something was troubling him. “Care to tell me what is on your mind?” she asked softly.

“Has Robot been acting...off to you lately?”

“I see you have picked up on it as well.” she replied, giving a small ex-vent. “Whatever it is, he is not ready to tell us yet. I have warned him not to let this escalate to the point his memories did for both of your sake's.”

Will sighed. “I don’t like it when he hides things. It usually means they’re bad.”

“Do not blame him. He had a childlike innocence that has been stripped away. He is only trying to preserve it, as futile as it may be in the end. But if denial is his way of coping we must accept it as long as it poses no threat to you.” she said with a nod. He nodded, with a small hum.

Will gave a small chuckle. “Your faction must’ve loved hearing your motivational speeches.”

Starpelt gave a small snort. “It comes with practice.”

***

“I don’t want to go on this stupid hike. It leaves me unable to move for days afterwards.” Penny moaned as she put on her hiking shoes.

“Will you please try and cease the moaning so we can actually have a good time?” Judy asked dryly.

“Now what fun would that be?” Penny smirked, earning a groan from Judy.

“Don’t you want to be in shape for when Vjay comes back?” Will teased, raising a brow.

“Excuse me, I eat a very healthy diet thank you very much. And what matters is that I’m in shape up here.” Penny said, pointing to her head.

“Yeah don’t we know it.” Judy grumbled, causing Will to stifle a laugh.

“Come on guys, this is supposed to be nice family outing with friends. Not to mention we need to make sure Starpelt feels at ease.” Maureen said as she packed a protein shake in their bags.

“She’s a little big in size to be going on a small hiking path isn’t she?” Judy asked, to which Will shot her a look.

“Maybe, but remember that she could fly, and go places we can’t. She’ll manage if it gets too tight.” Maureen replied.

“Well at least it’ll make things interesting.” Penny smiled.

“You know, Dad. She might want to take some willing people on a flight. She likes to do it, you know.” Will said, probing the desire he’d seen many times on his face.

John chuckled. “Don’t push it, Will. We’ll see.”

Well that was a start.

Will looked to Robot, who looked rather impatient. “I think this is the first time I’ve ever seen you so excited for a hike.” he smirked.

Robot gave him a stern look. “Don’t start.” it said.

Once they were ready, they took their Chariot to the hiking trail decided on by the group. They were still waiting on a few, but Victor and his wife were there, along with Hiroki and his family. There was also Samantha and her mom, along with Angela. This hike wasn’t a hard one, but it would bring the group to a lake overlooking what was told to be the robot side of the colony.

“Well look who decided to show up.” Victor smiled as they exchanged greetings with the group.

“I hope we’re not the last ones.” Maureen said.

“Nope, we’re still waiting on Don.” Hiroki’s daughter said with a smirk.

“I don’t remember him being a hike person.” Victor said.

“He’s not. He’s only coming because of Starpelt.” Judy sighed.

“You guys are ok with this, really?” Will asked.

“Well, if we weren’t it’s a little too late now isn’t it?” Victor said, to which the group shot him a look. “No need for the looks I was joking.” he defended himself.

“I’m excited to meet her. From what I’ve heard she sounds awesome!” Samantha piped up. Judy smiled. “She is pretty awesome I’ll give her that.”

As if on cue, Starpelt descended from the sky above, and landed not far from the group. They all perked up, and a few tensed as she came closer.

Robot perked and went over to her. “Family, Starpelt.” he said by means to introduce her. Starpelt gave a small chuckle. “I am most honored to meet you all in person. Will and Robot have spoke of each of you.”

“All good things I hope.” Angela said.

Will caught the look that flashed in Starpelt’s lights for a mere second. He wondered what it meant.

“Yes. All wonderful things.” Starpelt nodded. Will saw her attention shift to Samantha, who approached Starpelt.

“Will told me of your bravery. I am very impressed, young Samantha.” she purred, lowering her head level to Samantha's.

“You told her about me? Seriously?” she asked incredulously to Will.

“Why not?” Will shrugged with a smile

“And your favorite person is here to liven things up!” Don announced as he came running up to the group.

“Took you long enough.” John laughed

“And you’re not our favorite person. Don’t get ahead of yourself.” Hiroki’s daughter laughed.

“Ouch. Well if I’d known this group would be so uninviting-”

“Don, you are here, so stop your complaining.” Starpelt said, with a small eye roll. The group all chuckled at this.

“Well hello to you too miss -I’ve-got-an-attitude-.” Don quipped.

“I can show you attitude, but I promise you will not leave with your ego intact. Scarecrow will be most pleased.” she replied.

“Oooooooh!” Penny winced.

“I like her already.” Angela laughed.

“She’ll keep you in your place, Don so watch it.” Victor smirked.

With that, the group set off on their hike. Starpelt made conversation with the group where she could, and when the path was too small or too obstructed for her, she flew over the flora. Will kept an eye on her as he made conversation with Samantha. She was quite a bit younger than him, but even in their year stranded together, he’d gotten to know her pretty well. She was fun to talk to, and it seemed she’d taken a great interest in his adventures with Robot.

Robot stuck close to Starpelt, giving her an affectionate nudge every so often. At one point he egged her on to a race between them, and the group watched as they raced to see who could reach the top of the rock face along the trail first. Will chuckled as he watched them scramble off.

“Robot seems a lot more playful than I remember.” Angela said to him. Will gave a small laugh.

“He finally has someone to be competitive with that’s not so easily hurt. Starpelt may seem like an authoritative leader, but around Robot she lets loose a bit more.”

“Ah, the old sibling rivalry.” Angela laughed.

Will looked to Angela with a pang of guilt that still lasted 4 years later. “Uhm...I...I wanted to just say that I think you and Starpelt could get along really well.” he said hesitantly.

“Oh? Why so?” she questioned.

Will gave a swallow. “Because she lost her husband as well. Robot killed him when he was under control.”

Angela stiffened. “She...she did?” she questioned softly.

Will immediately regretted bringing it up. “I’m- I’m sorry I shouldn’t have brought it up- I just thought- I mean-” he stuttered.

“It’s alright. Your heart was in the right place. Thank you for telling me.” she said softly.

“Stupid Idiot!” Will thought as he mentally face-palmed himself.

As they continued, Will saw Starpelt showing off slightly as she made loops in the sky. Well, it had actually been Samantha’s request, but Will sensed the rest of the group enjoyed it.

As they sat down for a rest, Penny flopped down beside Will with a groan. “It’s only a few minutes more they said. Stop complaining they said.” she mimicked in an irritated fashion.

Will gave a small chuckle. “Maybe it wouldn’t be so bad if you tried to focus on something else for once.”

“I’ve tried! But it’s not as easy as it looks when everything hurts.”

Will rolled his eyes with a small laugh.

John sat down not far from him, and Will took the opportunity to probe. “Soooooo...any new thoughts? Dad, I saw you looking at her flying. She’d really love to, you know.”

John looked at him with slight surprise before he grumbled. “You really don’t wanna let this go, do you?”

“Dad, she saved my life, and she’s practically family to me and Robot, of course I want her to get along with you guys. I know I’m pushy about it, but that just shows how much I care about it. Well, me and him.”

John gave a small sigh. “Alright, if she offers I’ll think about it.”

Will beamed at him. “Thanks Dad!”

They looked over to see Maureen shooting John a smirk. “Mom even sees it.”

“Your mother sees everything.” John replied as he got up and went to talk with Victor.

Will gave a small snort as he watched him go. Robot came up to him. “You naughty human. I didn’t think you could be that devious.”

Will snorted. “It’s not devious if it’s obvious to everyone around him.” he said out loud.

“You really think he’ll do it?” Robot questioned with a whir.

“Maybe it’s best if we don’t get our hopes up until it happens.” he replied. “So how are things going with you?” he asked silently through their bond this time as he took a sip of water.

“Uh...I’m fine…? I mean my English is still limited, but it’s getting better. Having Starpelt here helps. I’m hoping our connection is a two way thing where I’ll learn English quicker thanks to you.”

“You’re already doing so. But there isn’t...anything else that’s bothering you?”

“No, not that I can think of.” Robot thought, and Will sensed a stiffled emotion run to his side of the bond.

“Bud…” Will started.

Their attention was redirected as the group was ready to move on. Will shot a look at Robot. “This isn’t finished. I’m worried about you.” he thought over their bond before taking a place next to Don for some entertainment. He sensed Robot look down and hesitate before joining the group.

Eventually they made it to the viewing point where everyone could see the robot side. Will’s eyes widened as he saw it. The area was a valley. There were giant rings of gold that laced the terrain, with trenches going inward to the next smaller ring until the smallest ring, that was in the middle of a lake with a water source, revealed a hole to which water flowed down into. There was a glowing light coming from it.

But the at the edge of the lake, glowing orbs determined a pathway to two large tunnels that were engraved into the side of each hill on the side of the valley. Each ring had orbs either leading into the trenches, or another ring. Will noticed that some of the trenches led somewhere. The place was swarming with robots.

“They really made work of the place.” Angela said in awe.

“You know it makes this hike nearly worth it.” Penny said.

“It’s a work of art. It’s all so symmetrical.” Don marveled. To which the group snickered.

“They’re still not letting us close?” Maureen questioned.

“They won’t let us too much closer. Apparently they’re very territorial.” Victor replied

“I don’t doubt that.” Judy grumbled.

“You never visited this part?” Will questioned to Robot.

“No. Hesitant.” he replied, to which the group nodded. Word had spread of the fight in which Starpelt showed her strength and mercy by not finishing Cyprus off. According to Robot and Scarecrow many robots found that rather impressive.

Starpelt was silent. “I had no idea robot architecture could be so sophisticated.” she said.

“Yeah it was a surprise to us too. A nice one I’ll admit.” Hiroki’s granddaughter said.

The group now found a place to sit, and organized their things as they’d arranged to have a sort of picnic overlooking the view before going back down.

Starpelt stepped forward and looked down. “My kin has spread word of my enjoyment of taking others on flights. Do not give me that look, I am not as oblivious as I look.” she deadpanned on Will and Robot, who shifted nervously.

“The offer stands if it is of interest to you. I will go very slow, and will fly very gently. Will, you will have your turn if nobody wishes to.” she growled, catching Will as he opened his mouth.

“Alright, I’ll try it.” John said.

Will and Robot both snapped their heads to him, exchanging looks of surprise and hope.

Starpelt’s ear flaps perked in surprise, but her lights sped up in delight. As John approached her, she lowered herself to the ground and made it easier to mount her. John did so with ease and shifted on her plating.

As she stood up, Will went over to them. John looked nervous and wobbled unsteadily on her back.

(Soundtrack starts here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ZZF-VhGrnQ)

“Ok, Dad. Flying on her is like riding a horse. You gotta try and feel how she moves and shift accordingly. Your weight helps her navigate the wind currents. Oh and her spines! Her spines are very important. Wrap your legs around the ones oh her side, and try and hold on best you can to the ones on the back of her neck, but you can always wrap around her neck of you need to. Try and keep your head low so you don’t catch so much wind.”

John looked with uncertainty to Starpelt, before following what Will had said. “I got it.” he nodded.

“You’re sure?” Will verified.

“Will I’m a navy SEAL. I can handle this. I’ll keep my comms on so you can still hear me if that reassures you.” he replied. Will nodded and activated his.

“I can’t believe you’re doing this.” Judy said.

“This is your father we’re talking about, Judy.” Victor smiled. John gave a small chuckle before looking to Maureen.

“For the love of- quit looking at me, and fly already!” she laughed. Will stepped back and smiled at Starpelt. “Go easy on him.” he said.

Starpelt gave a huff. “Do you not know me?” she said with amusement.

Spreading her wings, she took off gracefully. John could be heard grunting as he adjusted. Starpelt turned slightly once she had attitude. As Starpelt flapped, John was unsteady on her and shifted many times.

Starpelt gave a grunt. “Easy, John Robinson. Try to lessen your movements.” she instructed softly as she beat against a wind current.

John could be heard panting heavily, but as he readjusted himself, now sitting up a bit, he could be seen taking in the view as Starpelt circled the viewpoint.

“Woah.” he chuckled.

“There we go, relax.” Starpelt purred. At this point most of the group had gotten up from their spots to watch the two flying.

“He’s actually doing it.” Don smiled.

“I imagine the view up there is stunning.” Hiroki laughed.

Will beamed as he saw them, and from here he could see the smile spreading over John’s features. He shot Robot an amused look.

“Starpelt? Do you think you could go faster?” John asked her. Everyone’s heads snapped to the coms.

“Oh he is insane.” Don laughed.

“Dad, are you sure? She can break the sound barrier with those wings.” Will said.

“I’ve got this. Navy SEAL remember?” he replied.

“But is that not on… Alright if you are sure about this.” Starpelt replied with an ex-vent after presumably seeing his look.

There was a moment of silence before Starelt reared up slightly and thrust forward with a powerful flap of her wings.

“Woah!” most of the group yelled.

“Holy-” John stared. A small trail could be seen where Starpelt increased speed from her wings. The wind heard on the comms increased.

Starpelt descended slightly and used her wings to navigate and avoid the rock formations. She swerved right and left. John could be seen adjusting accordingly. They reached a rock bridge connecting two formations, and Starpelt ducked under it with a dive before swerving upwards to avoid the next one in an upward spiral.

She descended even more to a river running along the surface that led back to the mountain they’d climbed. She followed the river and it’s tight turns. Will gave a look to Robot as he gave him a slight nudge.

They watched as Starpelt’s speed made the water part as they followed the river. Over the comms John could be heard laughing.

Once she reached to where the river met the mountain she thrust upwards in a steep climb.

“HECK YEAH!” John yelled to which the group laughed.

They ascended higher and higher before she turned and went into a dive. John whooped louder than Will had ever heard him whoop in his life.

Starpelt gave a laugh and came out of the dive in an upward spiral, coming out of it and landing with a slight skid back on the viewpoint ledge.

The group rushed to them while John was giving heavy pants. His hair was ruffled and he looked shaky.

“Dad? Are you ok?” Will questioned.

John started to chuckle softly. “I’m never gonna be able to ride a horse again.”

After, most of the group volunteered to take flights on her, but none were as fast paced as John’s. Well...except when it became Will’s turn. He realized that he loved flying, and had gotten the hang of it quite well.

But he didn’t fail to notice the way Robot stared longingly as he rode on Starpelt’s back. Will felt himself hope that when he learned to fly safely, Will could share the enjoyment they both seemed to share.

But for now it seemed Starpelt would have to be the bridge between the two of them gaining that ability.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7

~1 ½ weeks earlier~

“No control, no heart.”

Robot snapped to attention before realizing he was in his own mind state. He instantly took note of how his systems were operating at a slower pace than usual. He was still running his diagnostic.

“Why is my neural net functional?” he wondered. He shouldn’t be aware of his diagnostic like this. This had never happened before. Could this be his and Will’s connection taking effect?

Suddenly Robot felt that he wasn’t alone in his mind state. He started to see...someone else?

His subconscious self recoiled in shock.

“SAR?”

But he couldn’t move. Although he was conscious in his mind state, he was unable to move because of the diagnostic being run.

Wait...this wasn’t anything more than an empty shell. The only part Robot was unable to destroy.

His data.

A forceful memory impulse was 99% effective, but there was always the core data, meaning the memory files obtained that remained. If not careful, those memory files could grow into something more that posed a threat to the careful hold Robot had over the former Captain.

Robot had at once put this data as part of his fail-safe directive, to keep it away from his own consciousness, but the incident with his memories must have released this data back into his neural net where it posed a threat.

After inspecting it closer, he found the data was starting to take up space in his memory banks, not blocking out his original, but adding to them. Hopefully that meant it was still a minimal threat.

Robot looked down, trying to decide what to do. He now had two versions of memories. Moments that were his, and the same moment through SAR’s life. It enraged him to no end to see SAR’s actions. He could tell Will about it, since he would probably sense it first.

But knowing that SAR still posed a phantom-like threat Robot felt would only make things worse for everyone who knew. They already had enough worrying about Will’s well-being and deciding whether Starpelt was worth trusting. They didn’t need this.

But as he looked through SAR’s data out of curiosity, he saw things that shocked him all the way to his energy core.

SAR held all of Scarecrow’s data and innermost secrets not accessible unless given or...taken.

Through that data, Robot found out that his and Ben Adler’s relationship was much more revolutionary and insightful than anyone could have thought.

But going back to quite recently, Robot found something that made his subconscious lights stop completely.

SAR knew about Starpelt and her planet.

Robot was always the one who had been to her planet in the past, and although SAR knew about it through the hive mind at the time, these were different.

He had actually been there.

The Creator had managed to grab control of him and about 50 more robots. They ordered them to the planet and forced them to help The Creator make a ring.

There was a ring on Starpelt’s planet.

The Creator intended to use them to ensure the death or control of Starpelt. But what they didn't know was that through Robot, they had all gained sentience, and that they’d broken free of control before.

In his rage, SAR destroyed whatever chance The Creator had at leaving, but didn’t succeed in killing them because of a weapon their kind possessed that immediately deactivated all lower classes and caused a stun to higher classes, like scuttlers; the lowest class of robot made for menial tasks like cleaning and care-taking of any creator’s needs.

That device ensured The Creator's escape, but not off the planet.

Everything started to make sense in terms of the robots The Creator had once possessed. Robot stopped looking through the data and focused on the symbol of the ring.

He crossed referenced that to the carefully examined symbols Robot had scanned on Starpelt’s body while preparing it for her.

It was the same symbol.

Now he knew where her ring was, as it was something that worried him at not recognizing the symbol on her forearm bearing her ring’s location.

Making this a priority 1 memory file, Robot decided to leave SAR’s memories alone. He could make sure they didn’t consume him. He had to.

***

Robot stood next to Judy as they looked out to the night sky, in the far end of the backyard.

Judy gave a small sigh. “Look, you know I’ll always be grateful to you for saving my life and...it’s not that I dislike Starpelt it’s just…” she trailed off.

Robot looked to her, noting the human was deciding whether or not to say something.

“It’s no surprise I don’t trust easily. I guess I got that from Dad, but there’s...another reason.”

Robot made a small whir, signifying he was listening.

Judy took a deep breath. “I’m only telling you because I know you can keep a secret, and well...I feel like I owe it to you after all you’ve done for me in the long run. But don’t go spreading this around. Especially not to Penny or Will.”

“Speak, Judy Robinson. Listen. Help, family.” Robot replied, giving her an encouraging nudge.

Judy chuckled, before taking another deep breath, making sure they were alone.

“I know everyone thinks I’ve never been in a relationship. Well...I have. When I was 16.” she started.

Robot perked his head in interest. Though he knew little about human amorous relationships, he did know that it was something that made humans happy overall even though there were difficulties. Every relationship he’d seen had ended in happiness even through those obstacles.

Although with how headstrong Judy was, Robot had never thought she’d find someone who matched her personality. He was proved wrong.

So if she’d been in love, why wasn’t she happy? Why did she want to keep it secret? Why was this different from the human stereotype? Did not all human relationships end happily?

At his confused look, Judy sighed. “I was happy. At first. But...well I don’t expect you to understand.”

Robot cocked his head before giving her a nudge. “Try, Judy Robinson.”

Judy gave a small laugh. “Fine. Alright. Well I was happy, and everything was going great until...well I found out that he didn’t really love me.”

Robot perked.

“I found out...he was just using me to make his ex jealous.” she said.

“X? He was trying to make a human character jealous?” Robot wondered, looking through his database.

Judy sighed at seeing his look. “An ex is what we call someone that we once dated but then broke up with.”

Robot cocked his head, analyzing. “Oh! Oh. Oh great rings….Oh that’s bad.” he realized as the new data clarified what Judy’s “ex” had done. He straightened up in realization.

“Yeah.” Judy said, putting her hands in her pockets.

“Sorry, Judy Robinson.” he said, looking at her with a newfound pity and...respect. To be treated so badly but to have come back from it...it was incredible.

“It was the first time I’d let my guard down since I had to step up in Dad’s absence. So, that was already a big thing. But after that...what little trust I had of the world was gone. It’s taken a long time for me to get that back. I know I’m not being fair to Starpelt, or you. But I’m just so afraid of being hurt like that again. Or worse, my family feeling that same pain of betrayal.” she vented, looking down.

Robot gave a small hum. “Sometimes, you have to go into dark places.” he played back, using Will’s voice.

Judy snapped her head at him at hearing him use Will’s voice.

“Change can be scary, but it can make us better than we were before.” Robot continued.

Judy gaped. “Could you always do that?”

Robot shrugged.

Judy chuckled once more, and shook her head.

Robot looked to her intently, seeing that she was still down. “There is a rule that is written in stone and it is never broken: the Robinsons stick together.” he played back using Judy’s voice.

Judy looked at him, her eyes widening. “That’s...my voice.” she said in awe.

Robot nodded. “Family… help family. Help, Judy Robinson. No friend. Family. Family, Judy Robinson.” he said, forming the sign for family in his lights.

Judy blinked once, twice, and Robot swore he saw for a split second the human’s eyes get watery.

“I don’t...I don’t know what to say...” she trailed off, seemingly out of breath. “You really do have a human side in there. Whatever she did...really has been working.”

Robot whirred, and embraced her, and to his surprise, Judy embraced him back. “Don’t expect this to be a regular thing.” she said, slightly muffled.

“Understand.” Robot replied.

“Thank you, Robot.” she said, pulling back. “I needed that.”

Robot nodded. “Welcome. Good, Judy Robinson?” he inquired, trying and almost succeeding to do the human voice pitch change that indicated a question.

Judy smiled. “Yeah, we’re good.”

***

~2 weeks later~

Robot was trying to get the memories out of his head, but he was failing. It was putting him on extreme edge, and as much as he tried to stop it from traveling over to Will, some of it leaked through to him. He could tell through their respective bonds that Will, Scarecrow, and Starpelt were getting more and more worried about him.

Robot really wished he could bring himself to tell them. SAR’s memories were taking a more and more prominent place in his neural net and it worried him to no end. His fail safe was still inoperable, so that wasn’t an option.

He was currently sitting on the same ledge they’d hiked to a few days earlier. After what happened with Cyprus, he and Scarecrow didn’t dare go close to the robot settlement, although his programming longed for the energy he could acquire from being in the presence of the Center. It was the life center of all robot settlements, and powered everything in them, including their inhabitants. Those who lived in the settlements had more energy, and were damaged less in most cases. He wasn’t sure if the robots had learned the effect it had on their sentience and emotions yet, but Robot had. He and Scarecrow knew that emotions were more positive and clear when in presence of the Center.

It was something Robot missed.

He had considered asking Starpelt to accompany them as backup, but as powerful as she was, he knew not even she could face thousands of robots. Not without her abilities of course; and even perhaps with.

Robot let out a small ex-vent. He knew even with his sentience he was different before he met Will. He didn’t need Scarecrow shooting him looks to know that he hadn’t been the nicest being. He’d been closed off and cold from all others besides Scarecrow. At least in SAR’s presence.

He didn’t want to be like that, but he found if he showed weakness the others, and SAR lost all respect for him, and he couldn’t fulfill his directive as General under SAR’s rule. At the time that was reason enough to be deactivated or wiped.

That being said, traces of his present personality showed themselves, even at the time. He tried to help all he could readjust to their planet when he and SAR decided to make that the “Capital” so to speak of the Danger system.

That included Scarecrow. Robot now knew the real reason why SAR wanted him dead. Robot shunned everything he’d ever known to go against his directive and save his first friend.

Then he’d met Will.

His memory banks were jammed from an explosion during the crash, so like all newly assembled robots with no loaded memories; the first encounter with another being was everything as it left an imprint on said robot that was never truly erased. That’s why every robot had a violent side, and were always vulnerable to control from the Creators.

But coming back to Will: his childlike innocence and kind heart only accentuated Robot’s already human qualities gained from Libby, and even when SAR used Robot’s vulnerable state to try and blind him into bowing to his will, the imprint Will and Libby gave him was stronger.

Robot was so deep in thought that he almost didn’t notice the way his being hummed in delight at the two beings approaching.

Starpelt flapped up, with Will on her back and landed beside him.

“So this is where you went.” he said, dismounting her.

Robot looked down, not exactly in the mood to talk. He noticed the two looking at each other, before Will shook his head.

They turned behind him, and Robot knew by the grouchy whir who it was.

Robot looked to the three of them, all surrounding him. He suddenly got the feeling that something was wrong.

“Say it. Now.” Scarecrow growled.

“Metal scrap.” Robot cursed internally. They were here about that. Ok play dumb!

“What?”

“Do not pull that stunt again. We can all feel your unease.” Starpelt deadpanned, while Will nodded, his arms crossed.

Robot looked down. “Please leave me alone. It’s...It’s alright.” he said, sending the thought to Will so that he’d understand at the same time.

“Yeah, and my heart’s not synthetic.” Will growled, causing Robot to flinch.

“What he means is that we have let this charade go on long enough.” Starpelt cut in, putting a wing in front of Will to calm him.

“Agreed. Out with it before I make you say it by force. None of us will stand by and let what happened repeat itself.” Scarecrow clicked, flexing his claws.

Robot drew back slightly as he stood up. He looked behind him. Maybe in his Nocfur form…?

No, Starpelt was too quick. She’d catch him easily. He looked back to the trio, who looked at him with a mix of concern, determination, and fear.

Robot gave a loud ex-vent. “Alright fine! I’ll tell you! But...But you won’t like it.” he said in a stuttering growl. The three looked at each other, before Starpelt sat.

“We are listening.” she said softly.

“I...That is...SAR. He’s...not gone. He’s...still there...inside of me.” he said softly, slumping his shoulders in defeat, the human way.

Scarecrow and Starpelt straightened up, while Will’s eyes widened in fear.

“What?” Scarecrow growled darkly.

“Robot how is that possible? You destroyed him with that memory transfer!” Will pointed out, stepping to him.

Robot shook his head. “Core data. Remain. Lock away.” he said in English, making Will stop as he took this in.

“You locked it in your fail safe. The one that’s broken now?” he questioned. Robot nodded at this.

“I...Is he alive?” he asked fearfully.

“That is also something I would like to know.” Starpelt spoke up in a growl, her spines flaring ever so slightly.

“Yes. Well...not really. It’s not how organics would describe being alive.” Scarecrow said. “There is one part of a robot that can never be erased. Their memories.”

Robot gave a small hum. “Our creators created us to adapt and grow. Even if SAR isn’t alive, his memories are growing. And if they’re not stopped…” Robot trailed off.

Will and Starpelt looked to each other as Robot turned away from Scarecrow.

“Consume, family.” Scarecrow said in English, his words sending chills throughout Will that even Robot could sense.

“Robot…” Will gasped, stepping back against Starpelt.

Starpelt’s ear flaps fell. “Oh by the Creators…” she said at almost the same time.

Feeling his complete despair and fear start to consume him, Robot longed to make Will’s mental state better. Now he had the ability to do so.

Having been exposed to all of these emotions had taught Robot how to analyze them as his own coding, similar to a translation of languages. And thanks to SAR’s data, he knew how to reverse this process to have a sort of pull on Will’s emotions in short bursts. Will also could accomplish this with Robot, but his human brain didn’t know yet how to yield this particular ability. Robot thought he could fix that soon with his permission.

Getting back to the point; Robot called back the readings of his code that translated into the emotion of tranquility, and sent that through their bond. Robot knew it worked when Will’s breathing slowed, and he relaxed.

“Again-?” he started.

He looked at Robot. “How are you doing that?!” he demanded.

Robot looked to Scarecrow. “Ben Adler.” he said. Will looked from him to Scarecrow in confusion.

“What does he have to do with this?” he questioned.

“Scarecrow...I-I mean in SAR’s data...” Robot trailed off.

“The invasive data allocation.” Scarecrow finished quietly.

“Yeah. I know everything. But I won’t say if you don’t want me to.” Robot said quietly, although Starpelt heard and cocked her head.

Scarecrow growled softly. “You’ve been using it on Will. That means…”

“The data is correct.” Robot finished.

“Still wouldn't have helped my case.” Scarecrow hissed softly. “Tell him. He should know if you are going to impact his organic neural net in such a way.”

Robot nodded. “You know how he wanted a connection with Scarecrow.” he said out loud and through his and Will’s bond.

“Yes.” Will replied.

“He didn’t know he already had one.” Robot said, to which Will and Starpelt perked up in surprise.

Robot looked back to Scarecrow, who nodded.

“Scarecrow tried to connect to the only part of Ben that he could. Ben had a synthetic disk in his spinal structure.” Robot explained.

“But since that wasn’t directly connected to his brain, Ben didn’t sense it. But Scarecrow got all of the data he needed. He found out how close we really are in terms of sentience.” Robot said, looking to Starpelt.

“Our creator.” she finished, looking to Scarecrow in awe.

“What does this have to do with me, though?” Will asked.

“You and Robot are connected through an organ that is the life core of your body, so you are able to sense it. Scarecrow found that our forms of sentience are the same, but they are expressed in a different way.” Starpelt explained.

“So that means you found out how to understand both.” Will realized, looking at Scarecrow.

He nodded.

“No wonder you miss him so much.” he said, his gaze saddening.

Scarecrow looked away. “No talk.” he said with a growl.

“Fine.” Starpelt nodded. “But the point still stands that we must figure out what to do concerning our menace here.”

Will nodded. “Well we can’t just leave it. And I shudder to think of what will happen if we just put it into a new body.”

“Is there some way we could...alter it? I am running through my base instincts, and I see each has a specific code. Could we find a way to alter whatever code is telling SAR’s data to consume?” Starpelt asked.

Robot and Scarecrow looked at each other. “Do you think they are even on Alpha Centauri?” Robot asked.

“I think so. I can trace their signal”

“But is it really a good idea? They might share Cyprus’ opinion or worse-”

“Mind filling us in?” Starpelt questioned.

“There is one robot who could possibly do that. They are called the CodeChanger, and whenever there’s a defected code simple enough to fix without a wipe, that’s what they would do.” Scarecrow explained.

“CodeChanger...it seems this would be a wise action. One question: What is a wipe?” Starpelt questioned.

“When everything is erased from a robot. But The creators tried to avoid this if possible, as it took a while to rewrite the correct code, and there would often be malfunctions.” Robot explained.

“So we find the CodeChanger then? How hard is that?” Will asked, looking back at Starpelt.

“Pretty difficult I would assume seeing as they reside in the robot habitation.” Starpelt replied.

“Oh. Yeah that could be a problem.” Will winced.

“There are some robots who come to the human colony for the majority of their time. Maybe we could speak with them.” Scarecrow said.

“You know someone?” Starpelt asked, her ear flaps perking.

“Perhaps. The Head Seeker spends most of “her” time in the colony. We could try her.” he replied.

“Her? Wait, who are we talking about?” Will echoed, to which all three looked to him in surprise. He blinked a couple times as he realized what had just happened.

“It’s about dang time!” he beamed. Robot whirred happily as he raised his arms up. It would seem Will was finally starting to assimilate their language.

“Scarecrow claims The Head Seeker could maybe help if we could get her to pass the message along.” Starpelt clarified.

The four of them nodded, content with this plan. It was a starting place at least.

“Hey.” Starpelt said, nudging him. “We will figure this out. Remember that you are not SAR.”

Robot nodded. “Thanks. I mean...thanks for not...you know.”

The three looked to each other before nodding at him.

“We’re all connected directly or not. It’s only logical we stay together.” Will said, nudging Robot.

Robot’s lights took on a fond pattern that he now knew to be love. Love for friends and family.

***
~2 days later~

“Starpelt I’m not sure about this.” Robot whirred as he saw small stones tumble to their demise as he stepped closer to the edge.

“You already know how to become airborne, so that is already a start. What we are doing now is the next step I used when teaching my faction to fly.” Starpelt said as she landed next to him, raising her wings to test the wind currents.

Robot let out an ex-vent. “Explain the exercise to me again.”

“You will take flight, and once you are airborne you will touch your spread wings to mine. I will become your second pair of wings. The goal of the exercise is to avoid spinning out of control. It also teaches you the ability to adapt to the different wind currents as well as the movements of your partner.” she said.

“Your wings can have a mind of their own sometimes, but you must learn to be in sync with them-in this case me- as well as your surroundings.” she finished, shaking her wings.

Robot looked down again, and straightened up in determination. If this was the next step to learn how to fly, then it was necessary. Not to mention how badly he wanted this. He kept that line of code extremely accessible during this time.

With a hum, he shifted into his Nocfur form, and stepped to the ledge. He looked back to Starpelt, who nodded.

With another ex-vent, he spread his wings and jumped up, flapping his wings heavily. Seeing that he’d become airborne, his ear flaps perked in delight.

But he thought too soon, as a burst of wind threatened to throw him out of his place in the sky. He flapped his wings furiously trying to remain stable.

“Robot! Spread your wings! Glide!” Starpelt instructed from somewhere behind him. Giving an uncertain hum, he ceased his flapping, his movements still being somewhat wobbly.

His ear flaps raised in alarm as he felt the current under his wings change, causing him to start to loose control in the sudden change.

But before that happened he suddenly felt something touch and support his left pair of wings. He looked to see Starpelt shift her left pair of wings, while keeping the right pair completely still underneath his.

“Hold it, Robot! Feel how I manage the wind currents!” she said, looking at her free pair of wings.

Paying close attention to her wings, he scrutinized them and tried not to panic as another wind current came their way. But he reacted too late, and was forced to flap wildly as he re gained control.

Starpelt, who’s wing was thrown off balance by his outburst, did a small twirl to regain control when she flapped them again.

Robot gave a panicked whir as he started to lose altitude due to his wing beats being uneven.

Starpelt dived underneath him, and spread her wings, giving him a nudge and boost from underneath.

Being balanced for a small second, Robot spread his wings, allowing her to touch her with his.

“I have no idea how you do this!” he growled.

“Time, focus, and patience.” She replied. “Now try again.”

Needless to say there were many failed attempts after that, and Robot found it infuriating that not even a being of his processing capability could find an obvious pattern in the motions used for flying. Starpelt claimed it would just… “click”. But Robot wasn’t so sure that would ever apply to a synthetic being. It certainly wasn’t so far.

“Robot, focus!” Starpelt instructed, snapping Robot out of his thoughts. He shook his head, and shifted his wings copying hers. It was a slight movement, but he was beginning to learn that it was adapting so that the wind carried them up by passing underneath their wings.

“Alright, now we are going to flap to gain altitude. Remember; top wing up first, bottom wing down first.” she encouraged softly.

Giving a small growl, Robot followed what she said. “First wing up first, bottom wing down first.” he told himself. He looked in awe as he saw he wasn’t spinning out of control. He looked to Starpelt, who had matched her wings to his rhythm.

“Keep our wings together. Hold it.” she said, nodding while her lights sped up.

Robot’s ear flaps perked as he saw them gaining altitude and climbing higher.

“Alright level out in 3, 2, 1” she counted down, to which they both stopped flapping, and Robot shifted his wings slightly until he felt the air passing underneath them.

“Well done! You are already learning!” Starpelt beamed, her lights flurrying as her pupils widened. Robot cocked his head until he realized that he hadn’t followed her lead that time. Maybe he would find that “click” after all!

Starpelt’s ear flaps suddenly perked. “Here comes a strong one. Follow exactly what I do! Keep the air passing underneath your wings.”

Robot tensed. Starpelt motioned for him to dive with her, and as Robot tried to do the same, he accidentally flared his free wings, causing him to spin out and crash into Starpelt.

They were in free fall.

Robot flapped his wings frantically. “Ugh! Stupid, Creator forsaken, WINGS!” he roared, but went silent at seeing Starpelt. She folded her wings close to her body in a dive, and once she stopped spinning, she flared them launching her above Robot.

Maybe he could do the same thing.

Folding his wings close to his body, he suddenly found himself falling face-first towards the ground in a dive. Eventually he stopped spinning, and once he did he flared his wings, giving a surprised shriek as his speed was harshly stopped by the support of the air underneath his wings.

That wasn’t to say it was smooth, his wing flaps were still uncoordinated, but he was hovering better than before.

Seeing that a ledge was nearby, and that it was big enough to land, Robot unsteadily made his way to it. But the landing still had quite a few kinks in it.

Robot groaned and stayed limp on the ground as he relished on not having to fight it on every single move he made. Even for a machine that didn’t require rest, he could tell flying was exhausting on his systems.

Doing an acrobatic swirl, Starpelt came to land beside him.

“For your first try I am quite impressed!” she said, lowering herself to him.

“Impressed? I almost killed us. I was a mess.” he groaned, burying his snout into the ground.

To his surprise, the former Nocfur started laughing.

“Robot, it is always like that on the first time. You would not believe how many wounds me and my faction acquired just from trying to learn how to manage the sky.” she laughed.

Robot’s ear flaps perked as he took note of the lights that formed her pupils. As she laughed, they formed an upward crescent like an organic eye motion.

“How did you do that?” he questioned. Starpelt looked at him, her pupils returning to normal.

“Do...what?”

So it was a subconscious action. That was new.

“It’s nothing. Anyways, that was you. I’m a synthetic being. I’m not sure your rules apply.” Robot said solemnly, lowering his head back onto the ground.

Starpelt chuckled. “I am sure they do. Being synthetic means you will probably catch onto it quicker than we did.” she said, her tail flicking him in amusement.

Robot looked at her, his ear flaps falling in an unconvinced manner.

“You may have trouble with the wind currents, but I did not teach you to dive to regain control. You were able to do that solely on seeing me do it. On your first try, that is beyond impressive.” she purred, brushing her wing with his.

Robot gave a small whir. “This is hard.”

Starpelt chuckled. “That is why having learned it is so rewarding.”

“Will I ever be able to do this?” he questioned, doubtful.

“You managed to change my mind. If you can do that, you can do anything.” Starpelt purred.

Robot gave an amused whir. Well, he was sure that part was true.

Seeing the improved pattern in his lights, Starpelt stood up. “We will continue tomorrow. You can do this. Just like you have accomplished the impossible so many times before.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 8

~2 weeks earlier~
~ Somewhere away from the Watanabe Residence~

Scarecrow knew he had to calm his ex-vents before his energy core overheated. Scarecrow wished he could say he was new to this, but that was a lie.

He’d been dealing with flashes of humans shocking him, prodding him, hurting him. He’d learned humans have this as well. Figures that they did.

Humans called it PTSD.

A seemingly fitting name.

“It’s not responding. Give it more charge!”

“Agh! Stop it, Stop it, Stop it!” Scarecrow screeched, his claws ramming into his head.
Another flash.

“Stop you’re going to tear him apart!”

“This should reset any emotions it has.”

“I don’t want to do this to you, but it’s the only way.”

“Keep it in it’s cage! Don’t let it escape!”

“Please...just let me go...I never meant to hurt your planet.”

“You stupid machine! Power the engine now!”

“AGH! IT HURTS! PLEASE STOP! AGHHHH!”

“Scarecrow?”

Scarecrow whirled around with his blasters armed.

Maureen yelped and stumbled back. His lights softening, he snapped out of it, remembering where he was.

He lowered his blasters and bowed his head in shame. It was impossible to miss that he was shaking now. He let out a soft groan. “Sorry, Maureen Robinson.”

“It’s-It’s ok.” she said softly, coming closer to him. He allowed her to approach and put her hand on his lower forearm. But he didn’t meet her gaze.

“John has nightmares all the time, you know. I had no idea you could feel this too. Care to talk?” she asked softly.

Scarecrow looked at her. Nearly none besides Robot and Starpelt had talked to him in such a soft tone of voice.

Scarecrow gave an ex-vent. “Fear. Hurt. Not listen.”

Maureen’s look softened. She gave a shaky sigh. “I’m so sorry. If I knew-”

“Not know. No blame. Memories...stay.”

Maureen sighed. “Well...I’m here if you need me, ok? You don’t need to face this alone. You don’t deserve to face this alone.” she said, looking into the distance.

Scarecrow’s lights flickered in a surprised manner, taken aback by her words.

“Why? Just machine.” he inquired to her.

“Maureen looked to him. “You’re not just a machine anymore. You have a soul. I didn’t fully see that until I saw you give your life for ours. Until I saw Robot save my son. And no being with a soul should have to suffer alone from this.”

Scarecrow felt a certain...warmth in his energy core. It wasn’t an overheating kind of heat that had to be vented, it was something else. It felt...nice.

Scarecrow looked down as Maureen gave a small sigh. It seemed she was going to stay as long as he needed her to, which Scarecrow would never admit to appreciating to anyone but her since it seemed she could see through him most times.

Scarecrow gave an ex-vent. “Miss, Ben Adler.”

Maureen’s head turned to him, her eyes widening with a newfound pity. “I...I must imagine. He gave his life for you.”

Scarecrow shook his head. “More. Ben Adler kind. Learn much.”

Maureen smiled. “That connection with Robot’s taking it’s toll I see.” she said before her face returned serious and motioned for him to continue.

“Connection Ben Adler. Not know Ben Adler.”

Maureen’s eyes widened. “You had a connection with him?”

“Yes.” Scarecrow replied, turning away. “Sad….” he trailed off.

“Guilt.”

Maureen was silent as she took this in. “You knew he had a family.”

Scarecrow’s silence was apparently all the answer she needed. “Talk much.”

Maureen seemed to ponder what she was going to say next. “His family is here, you know.” she said softly.

“Know.” Scarecrow replied. “No want see. Guilt.”

Maureen nodded. “I understand that, really I do. But don’t you see? Your connection is the closest thing they’ll ever have of him again.”

Huh. Scarecrow hadn’t thought of it that way.

“I-I’m not trying to tell you what to do, it’s just a suggestion. And whatever you choose to do, I’ll support you. It’s the least I can do.” she smiled at seeing his surprised look.

Scarecrow gave an ex-vent. He had a lot to process now, that was for sure. But nonetheless he was grateful and...touched by the human’s sympathy and kindness; two emotions he’d rarely experienced in his time as a functional unit.

“Thank you, Maureen Robinson.”

***

~Present day~

Scarecrow drew lines in the dirt as he waited.

“Oh by the rings, where are they?” he growled softly. He’d gotten a response ping almost a human hour ago.

Scarecrow straightened up as he heard footsteps behind him. “Well, well. If it isn’t the “tainted one” himself.”

“Don’t tell me you buy that scrap.” Scarecrow growled back, looking to the robot stood behind him. They had a slight rose tint. One that Scarecrow had come to know so well.

The two stood still in a stand off, their lights swirling in tense patterns.

“Hello, Scarecrow.” they clicked.

“Sally.” Scarecrow greeted back.

“Don’t sound so pleased to see me.” she whirred in amusement.

“I wouldn’t say I’m pleased, I just wasn’t expecting you to even get my ping.”

“I’m surprised you reached out to me of all bots.”

“Well we were paired for a lot of missions. Call it a favor.”

Sally stepped closer to him. “It was good you called me. Word has spread of...all this.” she whirred, gesturing.

“It’s a lot. Have you met her yet?” Scarecrow inquired.

“No, but Penny has been growing impatient to see me. She can totally sense I’m here. So I figured I’ll meet this fabled “half-sister” I’ve heard so much about.” she whirred, flexing her six fingers and examining them.

Scarecrow looked down with a soft ex-vent.

Seekers, although they mostly did missions alone, were paired up for sectors with an increased amount of probable planets and technology to assimilate. To make this task easier and more efficient, paired Seekers were commanded to forge a connection so that they’d think as one unit. Unlike the bond Scarecrow forged with Robot, this one had been under orders, making it affect a different part of his neural net. But gradually as they were paired for more and more missions, and their sentience grew, they grew to assimilate their bond until it was like his and Robot’s. At this point, she was one of his closest allies.

“You really think this will work? Because I hear “Tessera” isn’t the biggest fan of Robot these days.” Sally whirred.

“Then she better be a less fan of SAR because that’s what it comes down to if she doesn't help us.” Scarecrow replied in a growl.

“Well in any case, she spends her time in the new Human-Robot academy. I’m sure you’ve heard of it?” she asked.

“Yes. Inspired by Robot and Will’s relationship. I haven’t gotten around to scouting it out.”

Sally let out an ex-vent. “We’ll go once I’ve gotten to know the situation completely. I can be quite persuasive.”

“Thank you. We need all the help we can get.” Scarecrow clicked.

***

Needless to say the return to the Robinson house was ecstatic to say the least. Penny and Sally were in a flurry upon reuniting, and the rest of the family welcomed her warmly.

Upon hearing a soft thud in the backyard, the family and Sally went quiet. Starpelt dropped Robot softly onto the ground before landing herself. It was clear they’d been practicing flying again.

Judy went to open the door for them, and upon seeing Sally, Robot whirred in delight.

He rushed to her, embracing her. Put off by the sudden contact, Sally struggled slightly, but Robot held her too tightly.

“Help, Penny Robinson.” Sally said, looking back at her human.

Penny laughed and gave Robot a soft shove. “Easy Robot, you’re gonna crush her at this rate, and if you crush her, you’re dealing with me, got it?”

Robot gave an apologetic whir as he stepped back besides Will. “Why didn’t you tell me you were coming?” he inquired.

“It was rather spur of the moment.” she replied, glancing at Scarecrow.

They all focused their attention on Starpelt, who cocked her head slightly before flicking her tail. “You must be the famous Sally Penny Robinson has told me much about.” she said, her pupils widening slightly.

“And you must be the famous Starpelt half the quadrant's talking about.” Sally whirred, cocking her head.

“Half the quadrant? My, I had no Idea I was so famous.” she replied, coming closer.

“So you’re the fabled “Half sister” to Robot here?” Sally inquired.

“Yep! Isn’t she great?!” Robot whirred, coming next to Starpelt, and nudging her. Starpelt shook her head and chuckled. “It is a handful.”

“Welcome to my world.” Sally whirred in amusement.

Scarecrow ex-vented quietly in relief. He wouldn’t say he was unhappy to see the two robots he knew so well get along, although he’d never admit that out loud.

The day passed as the Robinsons, and later Don got re-acquainted with Sally after her long absence, and although Scarecrow preferred to watch from a distance, that wasn’t to say he didn’t enjoy the atmosphere.

Their family unit was a full one, and a strong one at that. Bizarre, but strong. With that line of code in his head, Scarecrow looked down with a hum. It was because of him that Ben’s family would never have that again. This wasn’t the first time he’d felt guilt at this, but it certainly ceased to be a welcome sensation.

HE noticed John was looking at him, and before long, came over to him.

“Hey.” John greeted, in which Scarecrow bowed his head.

“So Maureen told me about what happened.”

Scarecrow looked at him, unsure of how to feel. It wasn’t unexpected that she’d tell him.

“I just want you to know that you’re not alone. We’ve all done things we regret, and we all wish we could have saved more lives but…” he trailed off.

He got what John was trying to say, and found a new respect for him at seeing how hard this was for him to say. Maureen was right it would seem. Beings that suffer from trauma are somewhat attracted to the other so that they can provide help.

“Move on.” Scarecrow finished. John looked at him before nodding. “Yeah. That’s just about the hardest part. But without it...we’re consumed by it.”

He suddenly knew what John was getting at.

“I’m saying that the first step to putting all of it behind you is by facing it.”

“Maureen you devious human.” Scarecrow hummed. Using John to prove her point. A low blow indeed.

Seeing his look, John chuckled. “No she didn’t send me to do her dirty work. I agree with her, and I speak from experience. You should go to see them. At least give them some closure with whatever data you have up there of him. It’s the least they deserve.”

Scarecrow looked down once more. Great rings, were all humans this persuasive?

John sighed before leaning against the wall. “To think I wanted to kill you when you’re just like me. I’m...sorry.” he said, his gaze darkening.

“Protect, family.” Scarecrow said, indicating that although it was wrong, his reasoning was correct. Had it been Robot he’d been protecting from an untrustworthy being, he’d consider doing the same thing.

“Hey! Are you guys having some sort of secret meeting over there?” Don asked, to which the two realized the attention was on them.

“Come on, it’s obvious what they’re saying.” Penny said. “And let me just make this easier by saying that I agree with Mom. Go see the Adlers.”

“Penny how could you know that? Were you eavesdropping?” Maureen inquired with a brow raised.

“You say eavesdropping, I say coincidental timing.” Penny replied with a shrug, to which Maureen rolled her eyes.

“Think, all.” Scarecrow said, cocking his head.

All in the room looked down, but the answer was clear. So much for not forcing him into anything.

“Just know that we’ll be here to support you, especially me, bud.” Don said, coming up to Scarecrow.

“Although, I’ll cut you a special deal and give you one of Debbie’s feathers for good luck.” he whispered, nearing himself to Scarecrow, before giving him friendly pats on the shoulder. Scarecrow cocked his head, unsure whether to be the slightest bit flattered or downright annoyed.

Great rings. As if a small terrestrial being could bring luck.

***

“Ok. Ok. It’s fine. Everything is fine. Stop being such a newly assembled!” Scarecrow growled to himself. Maureen, having heard the growl, put a hand on his shoulder.

“Hey. It’s ok to be nervous. But you’re doing a good thing.”

Scarecrow would never, ever admit this, but he was glad that Maureen had been willing to take time out of her schedule to accompany him for this. His pride wouldn’t let him admit how much he needed the support.

“Remember, I’ll explain the situation, but you’ll be the one to download that data onto this pad and give it to them. Trust me, it’ll mean a lot. And feel free to speak if you want, ok?” Maureen asked.

Scarecrow nodded. “Ok.” he replied.

“Do you wanna ring, or me?” she asked softly.

Scarecrow stepped back. He’d have the human accomplish the human custom. It seemed better like this. Maureen nodded, and pressed it. There was no going back now.

After a few seconds, she came to the door, and Scarecrow’s lights flickered in surprise and recognition.

This was Amanda Adler; Ben’s wife.

“Wow. To what do I owe this pleasure? Is the world ending again?” she smiled. It would seem they already knew each other.

Maureen gave a laugh, then shook her head. “No, no don’t worry, but I do have someone who would like to see you.”

It would appear it was at this time that Amanda noticed Scarecrow completely, and recognized him at that because her face seemed to darken.

“Oh.” was all she said.

Scarecrow looked down, trying to hide his shame.

“I didn’t expect you to bring the cause of my husband’s death to my doorstep, that's for sure.” she said with a sad laugh.

Maureen looked between the two of them. “I know. But he has something he’d like to give you, and he wants to speak with you himself. I know this is asking a lot, but could you hear him out?”

Amanda was silent, inspecting Scarecrow with bitterness. Scarecrow, who was suddenly nervous despite the fact that he towered above her, began to move his claws nervously.

Another moment, before she gave a grumbling sigh. “Fine. The boys are at soccer practice so it’s better that they’re not here.” she said, inviting them in.

Watching as Maureen took a seat after being offered a hot dark drink by Amanda, Scarecrow stood, lowering his spines, a robot sign of guilt in this context.

After attending to her guest, Amanda sat down. “So, what does the reason my boys don’t have a father have to say to me?” she asked bitterly.

“His English is limited still, so I’ll explain their relationship. But I’ll ask; what do you already know about him?” Maureen questioned.

“I know Ben worked on him as his job, and that he gave his life to save his. I know that led to us all being better off. My boys see him as a hero for doing this, but it’s hard to see it like that all the time.” she said, clutching the hot drink.

Maureen nodded in understanding, before looking to Scarecrow, who looked down. He...wasn’t ready to speak yet.

Seeing this, Maureen took charge. “There’s a lot more that went on between them. You would have no way to know this, but we thought you should as it would give you some closure.”

Amanda sat up slightly, gaze switching to Scarecrow every once in a while.

Maureen explained Scarecrow’s crash landing, and how Scarecrow initiated a bond with Ben, as he was curious about the human who tried to reach out to him. She went on to explain that Scarecrow knew, and felt everything he did. He gathered that human emotions and robot emotions, since being of human origin were the same in their respective ways, as Maureen briefly explained how the robots gained sentience. But as Starpelt’s story was so wide-spread by now, Amanda already had the gist.

When she finished, Amanda looked at Scarecrow with disbelief. Scarecrow bowed his head, confirming it was all true. With her side done, Maureen took out a pad and gave it to him.

“He still has all of that data within him. His connection gave him access to all of their time together, memories and everything.”

Amanda’s eyes widened at Scarecrow. Scarecrow gave a soft whir, as he initiated a data allocation with the pad’s signal. Scarecrow’s vision glitched out as he felt his lights flow upwards accompanied with multiple small trills. When the allocation was complete, Scarecrow tapped the pad to reveal converted memory files now able to be played in a viewable state. As he scanned through them, he found the memory he wanted Amanda to see.

“See, Amanda Adler.” he said, causing her eyes to widen. Giving her the pad, he tapped on the memory file, and allowed it to play.

***

“You’re not looking so good.” Ben said, shaking his head. He gave a frustrated grunt. “You know this would all just stop if you just did what you were supposed to! I know you’re smart!”

Scarecrow at that time gave a weak chitter. Ben, who was agitated, turned around, and from his view, Scarecrow could see a small thin sheet with what looked like humans on it. Ben gave a defeated sigh.

“We’ll try again tomorrow.”

After a few moments of silence, Scarecrow gave a small trill to gain Ben’s attention. When he did, Scarecrow pointed to the picture in Ben’s hand.

It took a few moments for Ben to understand as his face turned from confusion to understanding. Ben looked at him in disbelief. “You want to see?”

Scarecrow gave a few small clicks, before imitating what humans did in affirmation. Ben exhaled shakily, before a soft smile crept over his face. Coming closer to Scarecrow, he knelt down to his level so that he could see through the bars of his cage.

“This is my family. Like...people you love very much. Yeah, you probably don’t get that, but...they’re the reason I do any of this, why you are so important to us.”

Scarecrow gave a small hum, and cocked his head.

Seeing that he was still looking at the picture, Ben took a breath and pointed to it. “These are my boys; Henry and Wilem. They’re the most rambunctious duo you’ll ever meet, and it’s hard to keep up with them.” he said, a smile coming over his features.

“They would play so many pranks on me, and they’re almost an unstoppable force. They love to play soccer, and when I’m there I play with them. They’re gonna pass me up soon. Every time I see them, I get prouder and prouder of them. They’re amazing! And...they wait for me...which I wish I could say I deserved, but they haven’t given up on me, and that’s what makes me the proudest.”

Ben’s face was contorted with sadness, but his body language was somewhat relieved, as if he was letting out something he’d held in far too long.

“And then there’s my wife, Amanda. How to explain this to a machine...she’s my other half. And she’s the most incredible person you’ll ever meet. She has this incredible green thumb- er- she has a great way with plant life, and the garden she’s made- it’s beautiful. She makes the best chili you’ve ever tasted, and she listens to everyone, not judging them. It’s a mix of those things and so much more that make me love her so much.”

There was such a look of fondness on Ben’s face at speaking her name. Scarecrow clicked and cocked his head.

Ben gave a sniffle. “She’s had to raise our boys on her own, and she’s been doing it! I can’t...I miss her. She’s...much more than I deserve. I know you probably don’t even understand what I’m saying. But I hope you understand why I do what I’m doing. My family, means more to me than anyone will ever know.” he said, pointing to the picture.

Scarecrow looked directly into Ben’s face. Ben watched intently, before his eyes widened, and he gave a small laugh. “That’s a new one.” he breathed.

Getting up, he turned back to Scarecrow.

“Thanks.” he said, before exiting the control room.

***

Scarecrow looked to Amanda who was now in tears, she held the pad shakily. Scarecrow took this opportunity to come closer to her, and kneel down to her level.

“Want, have, Amanda Adler.” he said, causing her to look at him in disbelief.

“S-Sorry, dead, family. Guilt, sad. Friend, Ben Adler. Want, better know...Adlers.” he continued, pulling almost every word he could find from what Robot had given him through a data allocation.

Amanda was speechless as she gave another sniffle. She glanced at Maureen, before reaching up to touch the side of her face.

Usually, Scarecrow would be against anyone touching him like this, but when Amanda touched him, he found it brought him immense comfort, in a way he’d never felt before. Giving a small chitter, Scarecrow allowed his head to lean into her small hand.

Giving a small laugh, she sniffled again. “It’s a good start.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 9

(Start listening to this soundtrack from 1:03 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MiqJjxQiNbY)

The morning was a peaceful one, and all was calm as a group of three legged Centaurian winged creatures grazed peacefully among the flora in the field. Suddenly something sped past them, casing them to scatter in all directions with terrified shrieks.

Starpelt gave powerful flaps of her wings as she looked back at the creatures and laughed in glee. How she loved morning flights! She sped along the field, her speed causing the grass to part, as she swayed from left to right. Looking up at the clear blue sky, she shot upwards like a rocket. Getting high enough, she allowed herself to go into freefall as she went to try her newest move.

The wind whistling around her as the ground drew closer with dizzying speed, Starpelt began to spiral faster and faster, curving her wings to accelerate her spins. After a few seconds, she began to fire multiple blasts. Because of her spinning, no blast was shot in the same place. They spiraled downwards to hit the ground in a massive arial attack. As the blast area started to engulf her, Starpelt flared her wings.

A second later, she appeared from the smoke, flapping upwards. She faltered slightly before realizing that she’d done the move correctly this time, and hadn’t crashed. “Yes!” she cheered, doing a celebratory swirl. She glided as some of these same winged creatures came to fly next to her in a flock.

Giving a small chuckle, she pivoted her direction downwards into a cove where she flew into the canyon a river from said cove led into. Seeing it was a straight shot, and the it was wide enough for her wingspan, Starpelt sped up more and more.

She pushed harder and harder, ignoring the ping she received about maximum velocity to her form. She knew she could break the sound barrier, even if she wasn’t the same size as before. Giving an extra strong trust to her wings, she heard the deafening boom sound behind her as she cleared the canyon to reveal the entire landscape of Alpha Centauri in front of her, with the colony in the distance.

Swirling upwards to slow her speed, she shook herself, and realized that she felt...hotter than usual. She suddenly received a ping about increased energy core temperature. Giving a groan, she made her way to the colony, ear flaps flat in annoyance. As powerful as robots were, when it came to flying, they had their flaws.

Starpelt flew to the main park (which she now knew to be a communal green area for everyone to enjoy) and found herself surprised to see robots as well as humans walking around doing activities. Ignoring the way most attention was directed at her the moment she flew over, Starpelt landed on a patch of green grass near to a large shadowed area. Shaking herself, she lie down under the large trees, and activated her cooling mechanisms as well as opening her vents to release the hot air. She let out a small sigh of pleasure as she felt the coolness run through her, cooling her systems.

Cocking her head, she watched with interest everyone who passed her on the nearby path, and her gaze eventually wandered to where small human children played together in the distance. It made her wish that she could’ve given her kind this freedom when she’d had the chance.

She was once viewed as the most powerful leader, since no leader was able to defeat her in battle, and her abilities had been more powerful than all other leaders due to her being the first successful subject. And in turn, her faction was regarded as the most powerful and esteemed under her rule. She could have lead an uprising. With how vulnerable her superiors were, she was sure they would have easily prevailed. Then they could’ve lived freely like their wild donors.

Really, that was all she wanted for her former kind.

But apparently life had a different plan. A much different plan.

She gave a small ex-vent as she retracted her vents to allow for normal venting. She took the moment to sprawl out, to stabilize her joints due to her plates shifting from her extended vents in a form that was outside of normal parameters.

But actually there was a specific reason she’d come here to this park, even though it was a lovely place. As she sat up, and preened her plating for any small debris, her ear flaps perked at the sound of familiar voices approaching.

She stopped her preening and turned to the three humans approaching: Two adults, and a small girl. Starpelt felt her lights sped up as the little girl caught sight of her.

“Starpelt! Starpelt!” she cried, running over to her. Starpelt gave a chuckling purr as she wrapped her bottom right wing around the girl as she gave Starpelt a hug.

“Hello, Nora. Have you been doing well?” she greeted with a purr.

“Yea! We went on a long walk, and saw SO MANY STARS!” Nora said enthusiastically, jumping up and gesturing with her arms.

Starpelt gave a small laugh as she nodded to Nora's parents, who smiled and waved thankfully at her and Nora before they walked off to spend some time together.

It was hard to believe actually. In the course of a few weeks, the parents that had initially been afraid of her had opened up to Starpelt after Nora had wanted nothing more than to spend time with Starpelt after she’d stopped her crying fears in the first minute she’d been on Alpha Centauri.

And Starpelt had to admit that she’d grown fond of the small girl and her antics. She was very young in human years. She had seven of them behind her, and she had a lot of energy, which made her quite fun to watch. But understandably, having that much energy on their hands all of the time was tiring for the parents, and they trusted Starpelt enough to watch over Nora if and when they needed a break or wanted to do something together.

Starpelt, having been leader to many in her faction who often acted immature; had experience in keeping her ward safe. But Nora fortunately didn’t have the snark and lack of respect that came with the immature individuals in her former faction. She was just about the sweetest small thing one could ever hope to meet. In many ways, Starpelt saw herself in Nora’s mannerisms.

“It was so cool! Then Daddy got us some cotton candy! But, it wasn’t like it was on Earth. It tasted different. But I liked it! Hey, have you ever tried cotton candy?!” she asked, snapping Starpelt from her thoughts.

“I do not believe I have.” she said softly, cocking her head in interest. “It’s SUPER weird! It’s all stringy but it’s really soft and fluffy and SO SWEET!” Nora squealed.

Starpelt hid her grimace. That didn’t sound appetizing at all.

“How are you? Ooh! Did you fly again?! How was it?!” Nora asked, jumping up and down slightly. She had especially wanted to fly on Starpelt’s back, but she as well as her parents weren’t comfortable with that yet.

Starpelt gave a small purr. “I did fly, and you know that move I told you about?” she asked, to which Nora nodded eagerly. “I did it without crashing.”

“YES! YAY STARPELT!” Nora cheered loudly, causing passing spectators to glance at the pair. Starpelt stared back confidently, having no shame at being seen with the energetic little human.

“I knew you could do it!” she said, hugging Starpelt. Starpelt purred, and wrapped her wing around her.

Nora pulled back to look at Starpelt straight in the face. “Can I ride on your back?! Can I?! Can I?!” she begged.

Starpelt gave a grumbling ex-vent before giving a chuckle. “Only if you are careful.” she said, her serious tone getting through to Nora.

Flying may not have been an option, but for now, Nora seemed to thoroughly enjoy riding on her back as Starpelt strolled through the park. She lowered herself down, and used her wings to make it easy for Nora to climb onto her back. The pair of hands clutching one of her spines told her Nora was ready. But just to be sure, Starpelt verified.

As she did any other time, Nora had the time of her life on Starpelt’s back, gaining much attention from spectators. Starpelt just kept on walking. After strolling for a few minutes, Starpelt had an idea and headed towards the place she’d seen the small humans Nora’s age playing earlier. She figured Nora would like that.

But as she approached the area, Nora tugged on the spine she held on Starppelt’s back, causing her to stop. “I don’t want to go there.” she said simply. Starpelt sensed her voice was now soft, and this spiked concern in her.

“Why not? Do you not have fun like they do?” Starpelt questioned, genuinely confused.

“No, I do...but...well…” Nora trailed off.

“But…?” Starpelt prompted softly.

“The other kids...think I’m weird. They think I’m...different. They don’t like to play with me. Ma and Daddy say that it’s their loss but...it still doesn’t make me feel good.” Nora said sadly, looking away from Starpelt.

“Oh...Nora…” Starpelt’s ear flaps fell slightly as she felt a pang of sympathy at the small human. She knew very well what that felt like now, and the fact that Nora’s own kind would reject her made Starpelt both disappointing and...angry. But she concealed it for Nora’s sake. Starpelt headed back to where they’d been earlier, and allowed Nora to dismount her, her body language still looking dejected.

Starpelt huddled beside her.

“Well it is their loss. You have a heart of gold, and if they do not like that, then they do not matter.” Starpelt said, gaining the young girl’s attention.

“They don’t?” she questioned.

“No. The only ones that matter are those who accept who you are. So what if you are different? It can come to be a gift. You just need to look at it in the right way.”

“But...how can I do that?”

“By spending time with those you like, and like you in return, like your...Ma and Daddy.” Starpelt said, struggling slightly on that last bit.

“And you?” Nora questioned, her green eyes looking at Starpelt intently.

“If you wish to.” Starpelt purred, unsure of what this feeling was.

“Yeah. I do. I love you, Starpelt. You’re one of my best friends!” she said, hugging Starpelt once more.

Starpelt felt her energy core...flutter? Her spines twitched as her lights sped up. She took a moment to understand how much this little girl had come to enjoy her company, and Starpelt felt a joy she’d never felt before flood her, as she started purring louder, making Nora giggle.

“I enjoy being around you, Nora. You mean a lot to me, young one.” she said, her words coming out shaky due to the volume of her purrs.

Nora laughed, her sadness appearing to be gone, which pleased Starpelt to no end.

She sat down and opened a clear plastic bag she’d been holding. Starpelt’s nasal sensors told her that this was a food, and that it was organic and sweet. A fruit.

She was curious, so Starpelt huddled down so that she was a closer to Nora’s height. “What is that?” she questioned.

Nora looked up at her, chewing. She swallowed quickly. “This? Oh this is a snack Ma and Daddy gave me! We call it an apple! It’s really good and juicy! Do you want some?” she asked, eagerly thrusting the bag open to Starpelt. Starpelt gave a laugh, and shook her head.

“I wish I could, but remember I can not eat.” she reminded the small human gently. Nora deflated slightly. “Right. Because you’re syn- sth- sith-”

“Synthetic?” Starpelt finished with a chuckle. Nora nodded and continued to ear her “apple”.

As Nora was busy eating, Starpelt decided to lie her head down on the grass, as she enjoyed the calm moment and the sounds around her.

After a few moments of Nora eating, Starpelt’s ear flaps picked up Nora getting up. Starpelt lifted her head as she watched Nora go to the nearest black cylinder, and put the bag and a white rag inside of it. She then came back to Starpelt and sat next to her with a sigh.

Starpelt lowered her head again, but as Nora shuffled closer to her, Starpelt’s ear flaps twitched. Starpelt jolted slightly as Nora pet her spines.

Starpelt gave a small coo as her spines twitched, making Nora laugh. “You like that, don’t you?” she questioned.

“A little too much.” Starpelt replied, situating herself further into the soft grass. Nora giggled and continued.

Soon, a purr she couldn’t contain showed itself. Looking at the small girl from time to time, Starpelt saw sheer contentment in her eyes as she stroked Starpelt’s head and back.

As she went on, Nora told Starpelt about various things that were interesting to her, all of which Starpelt, full of curiosity loved to hear.

***

Starpelt examined the strange thing in her claws. A cube with 6 faces, each a different color. It was a puzzle.

She gave a small determined grunt as more and more of the colors started match. It was actually quite fun and therapeutic almost. She wished she’d had one back on her planet as an anti-stressing item.

“Keep this up and you’ll beat Will!” Penny smiled, holding up her pad to show that she was being timed. It started as a sibling squabble between the two, Penny questioning Will’s record against a robot, and Will defending that they were alien robots.

Penny had seen Starpelt’s look of interest upon seeing that cube, and next thing she knew, a bet was placed upon her timing. It was her own fault really.

And apparently the commotion had attracted the entire family as spectators.

“Will worked half his life on this. No offense Starpelt, but you still have an organic mindset.” Judy said, crossing her arms.

“I would like to remind you that my intelligence is superior to many humans. Gifts of being made by a species with enhanced genetic knowledge.” She said, not taking her eyes off the cube.

Penny Robinson made a face at her kin, to which the latter groaned.

“Man, if I knew how to do that in high school, imagine the chicks I would’ve had.” Don West said with a chuckle, to which John Robinson gave a laugh. “Amen to that.”

“It’s incredible really. For her first time, she’s acting like she’s been doing this for years.” Maureen Robinson said in awe.

“30 seconds left!” Penny Robinson announced. Starpelt’s ear flaps twitched as she heard Robot throw his arms up. “You go Starpelt!” he said in Will’s voice.

“Et tu?! You dirty traitor!” Will exclaimed dramatically, punching Robot in the arm, to which Robot responded in kind but much softer.

“Quiet please!” Starpelt scolded, her speed increasing thanks to a robot’s advanced motor skills. Only a few squares left to go.

Her ear flaps flattened as she heard Penny Robinson start to call out the final 10 seconds. Starpelt scanned the cube, her scans providing her statistics on how to successfully move the remaining square to it’s correct place.

As Penny Robinson reached the final second, Starpelt slid the last square into place, providing her with a cube with 6 different colored faces, all solved.

The family cheered, as Starpelt threw the cube up, and showboated, allowing it to land on her snout as she balanced it, balancing on her hind legs.

She then bounced it off of her snout and towards Will, who caught it.

He shook his head and scoffed with a smile. “Beginner’s luck.”

“Many thanks.” she taunted.

“That was impressive!” Sally whirred, crossing her arms.

As the family congratulated her, and started to disperse slightly, Starpelt shook herself, and began preening her plates once more. It seemed some organic traits didn’t die along with her old body.

“You’ve gotta teach me how to solve a Rubik's Cube like that.” Penny Robinson laughed, sprawling out on the sitting structure. As she looked to her pad, Starpelt’s ear flaps twitched as she noticed that her attention had been redirected to Starpelt.

“Hey guys! Starpelt’s viral!” she called.

Starpelt looked up in confusion as she saw the family crowd around Penny Robinson. “Viral”? She didn’t think she’d be contagious for a disease anymore.

Seeing her confusion, John Robinson laughed. “Apparently people are liking you and Nora.”

“What?” Starpelt echoed, coming to inspect. What she saw was video footage of Starpelt treading around with a blurred out faced Nora on her back, and after a few seconds, it showed Nora petting her.

“How do you see this?” she questioned.

“People took a video of you I guess.” Judy Robinson said.

“But I did not-”

“Yeah, people have a tendency to record famous people-er- beings that without them knowing or having their permission.” Penny Robinson sighed.

Starpelt was unsure of how to feel about this.

“Look at the comments! “I’m surprised her parents let her close to this monster.” Ok that one’s not too nice. But then this person said:

“I think this is adorable. I don’t think she’s the monster we thought. Maybe you should look at Dr. Hiroki’s research on her before making an assumption.”

Ooh! Look at this one!

“I heard what she did to that robot Cyprus, but this looks so much different to what people made her seem. Maybe she isn’t bad.””

Starpelt’s ear flaps had lowered. People were defending her! It seemed that they still had mixed feelings, but it seemed as if this video was turning their opinion!

“I...I am unsure of what to think about this.” she said slowly.

“For now, this is a good thing! People are seeing you as the kind creature we both know you to be!” Will said to Robot, beaming.

“Yeah I wouldn’t get too excited. These people can turn like lightning. If one person had the right editing tools, they could make a pretty ugly interpretation of this.” Don West said, shaking his head.

“Don’s right. We need to be extremely careful. Starpelt you need to be on your guard. People could be recording every move you make.” Maureen Robinson said, putting a hand on her shoulder plate.

Starpelt’s spines flared instinctively at the mention of people recording her every move. She fought back the bad memories that were pushing to resurface at these words.

“Help, Starpelt.” Robot said, nudging Sally. She gave a begrudging whir, before nodding. “Help.”

Well she at least had backup this time.

Maureen Robinson suddenly held up a vibrating small pad, and held it to her ear. “Maureen Robinson. Hey Sebastian! You need something?” she spoke into it.

Starpelt cocked her head. Interesting. This was a human equivalent to a comm.

Maureen Robinson waved her hand to shush the talking kin, and Starpelt suddenly got the feeling that something was wrong.

“You did?” She questioned, looking to Starpelt. Starpelt’s ear flaps flattened slightly as she cocked her head.

“I’ll make sure to tell her. Thanks Sebastian, I owe you one.” she said, before ending the conversation.

The kin looked from one another in confusion. “What was that about?” John Robinson inquired.

“Sebastian was calling me to say...that he found Libby’s family.”

All eyes snapped to Starpelt, who could do nothing to stop her ear flaps from falling, and her pupils retract.

At last, the moment Starpelt had been dreaming of and dreading was here.

***

Starpelt paced in front of the Taylors’ residence. Will and Robot were with her. It didn’t help that she was no doubt being watched by passerby's.

“Starpelt, you need to calm down! You can do this!” Will said, holding a hand out to her. It had been like this for the past five minutes. She was already feeling nervous before, but when they approached the residence, Starpelt felt powerless. She did and didn’t want to do this. She was honestly ready to call it a day and pretend nothing had happened.

“I am not sure I can!” she snapped back in a lowered voice. “I am the reason she never tried to come back, and what is more-” she stopped, still finding it difficult to say. “-I am the one that killed her.” she borderline whimpered. “I do not deserve to be in their presence.” she said, her voice cracking.

Robot and Will exchanged looks. They couldn’t deny that fact even if they tried. “Let us just go back. It will be better in the long run.” she said, her ear flaps low.

But as she turned and started to leave, Will marched in front of her, blocking her way. “I don’t think so! Libby gave her life, so that you’d have this opportunity! She wanted you to do what she never could! And to think we just gave Scarecrow this same pep talk about closure.” he grumbled, to which Starpelt gave him a pointed look.

“Scarecrow did not kill Ben Adler with his own talons.” she said, her lights now taking an irritated pattern.

“They know who you are, Starpelt! Me and Hiroki’s data on you and your story mentions the name Libby Taylors several times. Look, they may not know everything, but they know that you knew her, and that’s too much to ignore” he said.

Starpelt gave a short ex-vent. “They seem to have no problem with it.”

“They are cautious and most likely don’t know what to feel.” Robot said, coming up next to her.

“I was stupid to think this could work.” she growled, walking forward.

She could hear Will open his mouth to retort, but Robot stopped him. “Handle, Will Robinson.” he said.

Starpelt shook her head and kept walking.

“My family.”

Starpelt’s head snapped up at the sound of her creator’s voice.

“Starpelt, I wanted you to know my mistake. Everything I couldn’t bring myself to tell you. I hope that one day, you’ll be able to leave this place, and make up for what I did. I hope you’ll be able to atone for my mistake, because I believe you will someday get off this planet, even if I don’t live to see it.

And if you do see Jenna or Brandon...tell them that I’m so...so sorry, and that I never stopped loving them. Tell them I’m sorry for everything.”

Starpelt’s lights were still as she stood frozen. Robot had just struck the lowest blow, and it hit her where she was most vulnerable.

“Man you’re rocking that new ability.” Will scoffed, shaking his head.

Robot nodded at him, and came to stand in front of her. “That’s why you’re doing this, remember? It was her dying wish.”

Starpelt looked at him, before groaning. Not even she could ignore that fact. If she didn’t do it, the guilt of not fulfilling her Creator’s last wish would eat away at her more than it already had.

“You slithering Creator, that was low.” she growled in defeat. Robot cocked his head. “I know, but you wouldn’t listen to anyone else.” he replied. Starpelt flicked him with her tail.

“So are we doing this?” Will asked with a cock of his head.

Starpelt gave a shaky ex-vent. I suppose...I should at least try.”

***

Starpelt was visibly shaking as she raised her talons to knock upon their door. She looked back to Will and Robot hesitantly. Robot nodded at her and Will gave her a “Go on” motion. She ex-vented once more and collected herself as she knocked.

Hmm. Nothing within the first 2.5 seconds. Maybe they weren’t home. Maybe she should leave and come back another day. Maybe when she knew she wouldn’t find them home. But her energy core gave a sudden burst of heat upon hearing movement within the residence.

Starpelt lowered her ear flaps, and as many times before, pushed her emotions back. When she lifted her head and ear flaps, she had the composed look of a majestic queen. Although Starpelt wasn’t sure how long she could hold it for.

As the door opened, a male human came into view. His eyes widened at her, and upon recognizing him, Starpelt’s pupils retracted.

“Brendon…” her voice breathed. She was looking straight at her Creator’s mate.

His gaze was unreadable as he looked at her in a mixture of shock and the slightest bit of fear. “Actually, I was wondering if you’d come.” he said hesitantly, looking back at Will and Robot. When Starpelt looked back at them, they gave her looks of encouragement. Voicing herself clearing her throat, Starpelt shook slightly.

“I...uh...I have some things to inform you about my Creator- er- your...wife. May I come in?” she asked, bowing her head respectfully.

A small gasp escaped his mouth as his eyes widened. He collected himself. “Uh-of course! Come on in.” he motioned, at which Starpelt carefully entered.

The residence had the same model all others she’d seen did, but each was decorated differently. And this time, her nasal scanner pinged her that these scents were ones she’d sensed before, cross referencing with her organic data and memories.

She noticed that Brendon was looking with sad eyes at her. “Are you alright?” she inquired, her ear flaps twitching.

“I-I’m fine. It’s just...you sound just like her.” he said, barely managing to keep his voice from cracking.

Starpelt looked down. “I am capable of changing my voice pitch if that would help.” she said sadly, desperate to give her creator’s ailing mate some comfort.

Brendon shook his head. “No it’s fine. Really. I just...didn’t think you would sound like her.”

They came to a stop in the main living area. And Starpelt’s ear flaps perked at the sound of someone coming down the stairs.

“Hey Dad who is-” she stopped mid-sentence as she stopped dead in her tracks.

Starpelt, likewise felt her lights stop dead as her pupils retracted.

Jenna, her creator’s offspring.

“You let her in here?!” Jenna demanded.

“Jenna!” he scolded. Starpelt merely sat with her tail curled around her talons, trying to ignore the hurt she felt at Jenna’s reaction.

“I am sorry to intrude, but...I thought you should know, and have some things that belonged to your Mother and Mate.” she said, cocking her head.

Jenna opened her mouth to protest, but shut her mouth upon seeing Brendon’s look.

Starpelt nodded as she grabbed the glowing satchel that hung around her. She opened it and took out the first object she’d found, which was the small circular ring.

Although she didn’t know exactly what this was, it appeared Brendon did, because he gave a choked gasp. “Her wedding ring.” he breathed.

Starpelt’s ear flaps twitched in confusion. “Come again?”

“Her wedding ring, uh- it’s something that people receive when they choose to spend the rest of their lives together. I have mine. That was hers.” he explained.

Starpelt’s ear flaps raised. So that was the human equivalent of a mate’s mark.

Jenna stayed a distance back, and gave a small huff.

Starpelt regarded her, ear flaps lowering slightly in guilt before reaching into the satchel to pull out the next object; the strange stuffed creature on two legs.

Now it was Jenna’s turn to have a reaction. She came closer and took the object in her hands. “This was Mom’s favorite stuffie. Grandma made one for me when we left Earth.”

She looked at Starpelt, before hugging the “stuffie” close. “Don’t think this makes up for it. You’re the reason she abandoned us.” Jenna seethed with venom in her voice.

Only experience kept Starpelt from fully flinching and lowering her ear flaps.

“Jenna don’t make me tell you again!” Brendon warned.

“Dad, she is the litteral reason she left, and the reason she never came back! The reason I had to grow up without Mom!”

“And it is a decision she regretted with all of her being.” Starpelt cut in before Brendon had the chance to say anything.

Jenna went quiet as both of them looked at her.

“I know I am not worthy to be here, I never claimed to be. But she wanted you to know how much she regretted her decision. You must understand that she was stranded there. She was not able or allowed to leave. She was forced to get swept up into a mess of events that led to my creation. I only found out recently what my creation sacrificed, and had I known sooner I would have done something about it. But this…” she trailed off, her voice taking a breath as her vents cooled her energy core.

“This was her dying wish. She knew one day one of us would get off of that planet, and she wanted you to know how much she regretted everything.”

Brendon and Jenna looked at each other in shock as they heard her speak, and Starpelt took this opportunity to show them the last video file her Creator had made before….

Shaking her head slightly, she accessed the memory and projected it through her her upheld talons, showing only the key moments; something Robot had taught her to do for this moment.

Jenna...she’s probably all grown up now...she’s been forced to grow up without a mother. Brendon...I...wish I could see him again. But I know...he’s taken good care of her.”

I hope someone does find this. But more than that, Starpelt, if you find this, I want you to know the truth behind my mistake. Everything I couldn’t bring myself to tell you. I know I probably won’t survive to see you leave this place, But I want you to be able that choice to find them if you wish.

I don’t know if you’ll ever see this, and this might be the last time I come here, But I just wanted to say that you deserve the best that life can give you, and I don’t want you to make the same mistake I did. And if you ever do see Jenna or Brendon…

Tell them I tried and...I’m so, so sorry.

I love you, Starpelt.”

Starpelt ended the projection, and looked at the kin who were both trying to collect themselves.

“How...How did she die?” Jenna asked in a low voice.

When both looked at her, she felt figurative claws seize her. She bowed her head.

“The Robot creators they...they wanted to do horrible things to my kind. And Creator- er- Libby resisted the Creator overseeing the project and...they murdered her for it. She...She died a cold and merciless death and...I could not save her.” she said, trying to stabilize her voice but failing as it cracked. What she said hadn’t been a lie, but she...couldn’t bring herself to tell them the entire truth.

Brendon looked down, and was speechless. But Jenna glared at her. “I don’t know why I expected anything else.” she growled.

“You are one step away from being grounded, Jenna.” Brendon growled back. “I raised you better than this.”

“I’m sorry, Dad but I’m not like you, ok?! I’m not just ready to forgive my replacement!” she said as she turned to go, fuming.

“I never in a million eons could have replaced your place in her heart.” Starpelt said solemnly, raising her head.

Jenna paused for a moment, before shaking her head. “I’m going to the park.” she said in a monotone before leaving and slamming the door on her way out. This time however, Starpelt didn’t hide her flinch.

Starpelt looked down, her ear flaps falling against her will as she let out a shaky ex-vent.

“I’m really sorry...about her. But it was really hard for both of us.” Brendon said after a moment of silence.

“I can only imagine.” Starpelt replied, without raising her head.

“Why are you being so kind to me? You are justified to feel and act as Jenna does.” she said, now raising her head.

Brendon was silent as he searched for the answer. “Because...although it hurts to no end...from what I heard you had little control over what happened. It was just an unfortunate consequence. You didn’t kill her, and honestly...it wouldn’t be my Libby if she didn’t stand up for what was right.”

Starpelt’s gaze darted back to the floor. She was usually better at hiding her guilt, but it was gnawing at her insides.

“I’m sure with time Jenna will see it the same way. She’s 17 and...has every bit the temper Libby had.” he chuckled sadly. Seeing that Starpelt was still not meeting his gaze, he sat back in silence, unsure of what to say next.

He then reached to her satchel, and looked at something inside of it. Starpelt now looked up and saw that he’d seen the holographic moment of her and Eclipse.

“Your lover?” he questioned.

“My mate. But...he was...killed in battle.” Starpelt said.

His gaze saddened. “I’m sorry.” he said quickly.

Starpelt shook her head and took the hologram from him. “It is alright. Actually...he was much like you. And...knowing what this ring meant reminds me of our own love.” she said, gesturing to the ring he had set down on the table.

“How so?” he questioned, sitting back.

“We did not have a ring, but a mark on our necks made during our first mating.” she explained, gesturing to where the mark would have been on the side of her neck in her organic form.

He gave an interested hum as he nodded, looking back at the ring. “Maybe you’re not so different to us after all.”

They were silent once more.

“I understand how painful this is for you, so I will leave now. I have said what I needed to say and...will not bother you any longer.” she said getting up and closing her satchel.

“Wait.” he said, standing up.

Starpelt stopped and cocked her head.

“I never said you were a bother. It actually...helps seeing you here. Once I knew she’d survived...I don’t know I just feel like...I see her within you.” he sighed, putting a hand behind his neck.

Starpelt’s pupils widened, touched by his words. But she suddenly saw a flash of her creator begging for mercy from her, and it caused Starpelt to be snapped back to the hard reality of the situation.

“I...I thank you, Brendon. But...I am not worthy.” she said, turning to leave once more.

“Why do you keep saying that?” he inquired.

Starpelt stopped for a moment before shaking her head. Her spines twitching with unease, she continued forward. Brendon came up in front of her, with a hand held out, causing her to stop.

“Please Brendon it is very complicated to expla-” she tried to protest, before he cut her off.

“Starpelt, I’m not an idiot.”

“I-I never said-”

“Then why don’t you feel worthy? I’ve already said I don’t blame you for what happened!” he said, gesturing.

“Well you should!” Starpelt exclaimed, loosing her grip on herself rapidly.

“I don’t! Give me a reason I should blame you for events you had little to no control over!” he exclaimed back.

“Because I killed her!” Starpelt yelled, her spines flaring.

Brendon’s eyes widened as he went silent. It was then Starpelt realized what she’d just said.

“You what?” he asked in a low voice.

Starpelt backed up a step as her ear flaps fell. Her ex-vents were shaky. “I…” she trailed off.

She bowed her head in defeat. “I was...controlled by the Creators. I was...I was her punishment. I could not...stop it.” she said, her voice breaking. “I am the reason...s-she is dead.”

She looked once more to Brendon, who was speechless.

“Why didn’t you say anything?” he finally asked.

Starpelt looked at him upon realizing that she...she honestly didn’t know why. It honor her creator? To earn their approval and trust? To try and erase that it happened? Whatever it was, it didn’t matter now.

Brendon upon seeing her look, gave a shaky sigh. “I need to...think about all of this.” he said, opening the door for her so that she could leave.

Starpelt’s ear flaps fell even lower as she nodded. But as she walked past him, she turned to him.

“Will you tell Jenna of this?” she inquired softly.

Brendon looked down. “I don’t know. But...I think we both need time, especially with all of...this. I’m sorry, Starpelt.” he replied simply, gesturing to her.

Starpelt looked down. “I...understand.” she said, her lights at a standstill. “It was an upmost honor.” she said, turning back to him, raising her head and ear flaps in respect.

He nodded and bit his lower lip before closing the door to their residence, leaving her in front of it alone. Starpelt felt her ex-vents become increasingly forceful, but for the sake of passerby’s she managed to keep her composure. Although she wasn’t sure that would be the case for long. She needed to get out of any peering views and quickly. She spotted Will and Robot in the distance, waiting for her.

But she didn’t have the strength to meet them.

Ignoring their calling out to her, she spread her wings and took off, flying faster and faster away from the habitation. She gave a whimper as the thoughts, emotions and voices swirled faster and faster around her. She kept seeing herself killing her Creator, and her Creator’s logs about her kin and how much she loved them.

Starpelt flew far from anyone or anything, and landed within an area shrouded with tall fauna.

She gave heavy ex-vents and her voice gave way to her hyperventilating. Her overwhelming fear quickly turned to rage. For the first time since she’d known she’d killed her Creator she felt rage. Rage at the Creators for controlling her, rage at her Creator for letting them have this power to begin with, rage at herself for not being strong enough to stop or deal with it.

She saw her vision turn red as her spines flared and her energy core and mouth heated up.

Letting out a furious roar she blasted the nearly fauna, slashing it, twisting farther and farther blasting and smashing everything that she could in a moment of blipped reality and pure rage.

She didn’t know how long she’d been doing this for, nor to the extent. But what she did know was that suddenly her stabilizers seized up as her ex-vents blew out hot air from her very heated energy core. With all of her energy suddenly going towards cooling her energy core, Starpelt suddenly collapsed onto the ground, her ex-vents and cooling mechanisms whirring loudly, accompanied by the sound of her voice panting shakily. Even though she had no need for air flow, it seemed to manifest through her voice as well as her ex-vents.

Her vision faded back to cyan as she felt her rage ebb away as it was replaced by a sense of worthlessness and despair. Not being able to hold it back anymore, Starpelt started to sob softly, covering her face with her wing. Needless to say that her voice giving way to sobbing had an effect on her systems, as her ex-vents became even more shaky, and her energy core thrummed at a faster pace.

At the moment, Starpelt ignored the fact that her organic mannerisms were putting a great deal of strain on her systems. She no longer cared. She had failed her Creator, her kin, and herself.

She hated that she was so capable of destruction.

She hated what she was made to become.

Starpelt continued to sob as she suddenly remembered the first time she’d hated what she had to become.

***

“How long?” she inquired in a low voice.

In front of her showed the holographic projection of the first three ALPHA subjects. All deceased during their turning. The turning she was going to endure in just a few solar cycles. She wasn’t meant to find this, but her Creator had left it visible and the clone had grown curious, unaware of the reality.

“How long were you going to wait to tell me that I am a lost cause?!” she demanded, whirling around at her Creator, who stared at her with wide eyes.

“I-” she started. “I didn’t want you to loose hope.” she replied.

“Loose hope?! That is what you are worried about?! Do you not think I deserve to know that this turning will cost me my life?!” She yelled, tears stinging her eyes.

“I didn’t tell you for a reason!” her Creator exclaimed back.

“Why?! What is so good of a reason that you-”

“Because I told them, and because of that they lost the will to try!” her Creator snapped.

The clone went silent at her Creator’s snap.

“I thought you said-” she started

“The combination wasn’t right. But that’s not the only reason! There’s a reason I told you to keep your mind sharp! This transformation will be extremely painful and straining on your body, and if your mind gives up on living and trying to endure it to survive then your body will follow.” her Creator said solemnly, walking to look at the three proceeding ALPHA experiments.

Tears were still stinging the clone’s eyes as she looked down. “Am I going to die just as they did?” she asked softly.

Her creator looked at her before reaching out to her. The clone pulled away.

Her creator held a hurt look before sighing. “You’re different from them. You think and act in a way that reflects that you have a stronger mind than they did. Your superiors did this on purpose. I firmly believe that you have a chance that the first three didn’t.”

The clone took a step back bitterly. “But you do not know. You can hope for my survival but that only got you so far. Your hoping and praying was not enough to save them. Stop trying to tell me it will be different for me. All this time I actually believed your lies of me being someone special, but you failed to tell me that there were three other me’s” she said with a venom in her voice.

Her Creator took a step towards her. “Please-”

“No!” she yelled, slapping her away. “You stay away from me! I will not have you kill me as you did them!”

Then she ran faster and faster away from everything until her stregth was depleted and she collapsed near to a lake outside of the main Habitation, leaving wounds along her human body. As she looked to her reflection, she saw herself with the slight turquoise markings on her face and arms that gave way to her exposure with Nycylium, the very material that would give her abilities if she survived her turning.

She gave a yell as she slashed the lake surface with her hand.

She gave heavy sobs as she raked her hands down her face.

She hated that she was forced to be created just so she could die a horrible death. What was the point of her life if she was made only to die by a failed experiment?! Only to be remembered by a single file marking her decease.

She was furious.

She was scared.

But most of all…

She was hateful that she had to be forced into such a fate

***

Starpelt came back to her senses as her visual array rebooted. It seems she’d had to reboot after putting so much strain on her systems.

She thought back to that memory. She’d collapsed out of exhaustion, but when she’d awoken, her Creator was there, apologizing for everything and telling her about her three predecessors, in which concluding that she loved every one of them, and showing Starpelt how much it really hurt her when they didn’t survive.

Seeing her Creator break down in front of her wasn’t something that Starpelt could easily forget. But it showed her that her Creator really did care; and that was the only reason she’d survived her turning.

But her Creator wasn’t there to help her this time, and Starpelt curled up tighter into herself in shame at knowing how much she’d messed things up. That she’d disgraced her Creator’s kin and her dying wish.

She wasn’t worthy of anything good. She wasn’t even worthy of living after what she’d let happen to her faction, her kind, her Creator, and her kin.

Starpelt’s cyan eyes dimmed as her lights came to a standstill. As much as she tried to ignore it, she couldn't run from the cold truth.

Everything was her fault, and she knew there was no point in trying to make it right.

She was a monster.

Chapter Text

Chapter 10

Will gave a sigh as put his hands on his hips. “Should we have gone in with her?” he asked. They were stood in view of the Taylors’ house, but not in a place that was too conspicuous. They were already on edge when they’d seen someone exit the house in a stormy mood, causing them to move closer and now pay much closer attention to the house.

Robot however, had been keeping close tabs on Starpelt through their kinship bond, although he was careful not to interfere in any way.

He looked at Will, before shaking his head. “No, Will Robinson. Starpelt handle.”

Will looked back and noticed this time some people presumably with cameras trying (not too discreetly mind you) to catch a glimpse of Starpelt coming out of the house. They didn’t seem to have the nerve to come to him or Robot who they could very well see. Will rolled his eyes.

Robot however, noticed this from Will’s attention, and gave an annoyed hum, before taking a step towards them.

“Don’t. It’s not worth it, bud.” Will said, placing reaching his arm across Robot’s chest to stop him. Robot grumbled something along the lines of “Idiots” in his language.

Will gave another sigh before crossing his arms. Robot suddenly tensed. Will looked at him before cocking his head. “What is it? Is it Starpelt?”

Robot hummed in affirmation. His shoulders suddenly raised up in alarm. Will was getting worried now. What was happening?!

“Oh no…” Robot’s thought came through. Will was nearly dying from the suspense. “For the love of- what’s going on?!” he demanded, careful to keep his voice down.

“They know she killed Libby.” he said through their bond.

Will’s heart gave a lurch as he took that information in.

A minute later, Starpelt appeared from the house, where shortly after Brendon closed the door. He didn’t need Robot’s side of the bond to know that she was dejected, and that mask she was putting on herself, one they’d come to know well, wouldn't last long.

Glancing at Robot he called Starpelt over. They could help her through this. God knows she needed all the help she could get right now. But she didn’t respond. The cyan eyes that he saw showed an emotion he’d seen on Robot more times than he’d have liked to: despair and grief.

She suddenly flew off. Will gave a pant and started running to the Chariot they’d brought here, thinking Robot would follow him. Instead he grabbed Will’s arm before he could make it too far.

“Robot! She needs our help! Didn’t you see her?!” he demanded, struggling in Robot’s grip.

Robot shook his head. “Not safe. Frantic, Starpelt.” he said, causing Will to stop struggling.

Robot bowed his head. “She’s in a dangerous place not even we can pull her from. We need to wait until it passes.” he explained through their bond while giving a sad whir.

Will sighed and Robot let him go. “What should we do?”

“Nothing. Wait, Will Robinson.” Robot said.

Will drooped his arms in defeat.

“Fine. But the minute you get anything from her we’re going.” he said, giving Robot a small glare.

Robot nodded at this, and they headed back to the Chariot, Will unaware that Robot had left out the key detail that Starpelt had obscured her side of the bond. Unaware of this detail that Robot decided to keep to himself for Will’s sake.

Starpelt was going to come back soon, she just needed some time. That was what they both chose to focus on. After everything she’d been through with them, how closely she was connected to them now, she’d realize that they were here for her now.

***

They were both wrong. Starpelt hadn’t been seen or heard from in 3 days. Jupiter pilots caught sight of an obliterated area, burned with robot blasters, but there was no way to tell if it was Starpelt or a nasty robot squabble.

It also didn’t help that she had also learned how to jam her signal, making her nearly impossible to find with advanced instruments.

Will got that she was isolating herself, and that she was taking this very hard, but that still didn’t mean Will didn’t worry about her. He’d lost quite a bit of sleep worrying about her. It didn’t help that Robot was also worried. He could sense through their bond that Robot wasn’t telling him something, because a part of their bond just...didn’t feel right.

Will looked out of the window of his room with a heavy sigh. Air searches conducted by Jupiters didn’t seem to be of much use if they couldn’t see her signal. The robots didn’t trust Robot enough to let them use their ships, and he hadn’t mastered flying enough in his Nocfur form to conduct a full scale search.

Will and Robot had been in a rut for the past 3 days over their worry for her. And it had come to the attention of his family pretty quickly once they’d been filled in on how it went with Libby’s family. They weren’t quite as worried as Will and Robot were, but they were still worried, which made Will feel better to an extent.

Will ran his hands over his face with a groan. If she still didn’t show up within a day or two he’d have to take drastic measures.

Robot came to stand next to him with a small hum.

“You still haven’t gotten anything?” Will asked.

“No.” Robot replied.

Will looked down and shook his head. “She’s jammed your bond hasn’t she?”

Robot looked at him in surprise.

“Why else wouldn’t you be able to find her? Her jamming her sensors if I understand correctly doesn’t impact your bond.”

Robot let out an ex-vent. “She’s blaming it all on herself, and I don’t like it. It nearly drove her mad the first time.” he admitted through their bond.

Will bit his lip as he remembered what Robot was referring to. It didn’t take a rocket scientist for them to figure out that Starpelt had nearly lost her sanity being alone for so long with her guilt. Well, that and she’d told them the less dark version of it. If she was doing that again…

“We need to find her.” Will said, standing up. Robot straightened up in agreement. But he paused and looked to Will cocking his head with a whir. “How?”

Will furrowed his brow. “Well...Jupiters are too conspicuous and without us to program the sensors, are useless to find her. Scarecrow has a connection with her but if she’s jammed her sensors he’s in the same boat as you. No, we need something small and precise like…” he trailed off, looking around. His gaze landed on his drone, charging on his desk.

“A drone!” he exclaimed.

Robot followed his gaze, and his lights sped up at it. They’d used this drone to scope out Libby’s crashed exploration vessel. It had sensor capabilities and could be connected with from a pretty decent distance. Not to mention Robot could remotely control it, improving their chances of seeing a certain robot Nocfur.

Robot nodded eagerly at Will. “Let’s find our sister.” he said through their bond.

Will smiled and grabbed his Chariot keys.

***

“Alright buddy, you ready?” Will asked. Robot nodded.

They weren’t far from where the blast area had been. It was on a cliff so Robot had decided to use his original form to get them both up. They both decided to start there as Robot had last sensed her flying in the general direction.

Will took out his pad, and activated the drone. A few seconds later, the drone gave a chime and Robot’s lights caused his face to fizzle to white.

Will saw Robot’s vision as he controlled the drone, causing it to take off and face Will. Going into the settings panel on his pad, Will was able to put in a specific search pattern. Thankfully, this drone kept a history.

“Alright. It remembers what it sensed on Starpelt’s planet, so if we scan for that, logic dictates we should be able to find her that way, right? I mean, her body was created on that planet.” he said, forgetting that Robot’s consciousness was now directed to the drone.

Robot still heard him though, because the drone moved up and down slightly as if agreeing with him. Will nodded and confirmed the search pattern. The drone gave a chime as his pad read out the message: “SEARCH PATTERN VERIFIED. MULTIPLE SPECIMEN FOUND.”

“Multiple specimen?” Will echoed. His pad showed a map of different specimen, all located inside the colony boundaries. “I’m assuming that’s what we brought back.” he said, looking at the drone. The drone, controlled by Robot gave a whir.

Will now noticed that two of the dots were farther away from the rest of them. “One of those has gotta be her. We’ll start with the nearest one.” he smiled.

The drone flew excited circles around Will. “OK! Ok! No need to use up the battery!” he laughed, scolding Robot. “You think you can find her?” Will questioned when Robot the Drone had come to a stop in front of him. Once more the drone moved up and down quickly, before flying off.

Splitting his screen, Will kept an eye on Robot’s vision as he controlled the drone, and it’s position in relation to the two dots.

Soon, they came across the nearer one, and upon looking around, they found what they were looking for.

“Her satchel? It must’ve fallen off while she was flying.” Will said. Using the Chariot and disconnecting Robot from the drone, they collected it. The only thing left inside was the picture of her and Eclipse. And it didn’t seem damaged. Putting it in the Chariot, they continued their search.

After a while, with a few setbacks of having to disconnect Robot to move to a closer position in order to keep the drone in range, Robot came upon a small cavern along the more elevated part of the forest.

“Ok, easy bud. Move in slowly. You should be right on top of her.” Will said, his gaze switching from the map to Robot’s vision in the drone.

“I don’t like this Will.” Robot’s voice came through their bond.

“I’m surprised you can still speak like that in there.” Will smirked.

“Hey. I’m connected to a drone, not under the Creator’s influence.” he replied

Will winced slightly. “Touché.”

The drone moved forward and inspected the area slowly.

Robot suddenly stopped the drone. “Robot?” Will questioned.

Will’s heart started to quicken as he started to feel dread.

“Will…” Robot thought to him.

Then, out of the shadows, two cyan eyes became visible. Starpelt’s lights. Her pupils were slim, almost nonexistent. And her lights were at a standstill.

“Ok, just take it easy. I’ll activate the speaker.” Will said, trying his best to calm both his and Robot’s emotions.

“Starpelt, it’s me and Robot. We’ll come find you, ok? Don’t go anywhere, you don’t have to be alone now.” he said softly.

Robot as the drone hovered in place as Will spoke, and for the next few seconds, Starpelt was motionless, as if she hadn’t heard or seen them at all.

“Starpelt? You ok?” Will questioned, and Robot took this time to inch the drone ever slightly closer, whirring something in his language. The only word Will got was “help”.

Suddenly Starpelt’s cyan eyes turned red, and her mouth heated up.

“Robot get out of there!” Will yelled as Robot swerved the drone just as a shot hit one of the drone’s propellers. Thankfully it was just the edge, and the drone could manage to fly with one propeller down.

“Robot!” Will exclaimed as he heard one shot after another fire. Robot swerved up and down performing evasive maneuvers. He was actually doing a pretty good job of dodging her blasts.

Unfortunately, doing so took a lot of juice out of the drone’s battery. “Crap!” was all Will said as he saw the alert.

Robot saw this as well, and swerved to double back to Will. As he was about to turn a corner though, a blast was heard, and the drone was thrust forward from the impact.

Robot tried his best to make a smooth landing, but he ended up crashing the drone a ways away from Will. The camera was shattered along with Robot’s control and connection with the drone.

Robot gave a shrill shriek and fell back as his consciousness was thrust back into his body from the drone.

“Oh god, Robot!” Will exclaimed, running to him and kneeling beside him. His face flickered from blue to white. His body was completely still. Will panted heavily as he heard a shrill Nocfur call echo through the air, and then silence.

Will looked anxiously at Robot, who shook his head vigorously and groaned, but otherwise seemed fine.

“You good?” Will asked.

Robot nodded as he got up slowly.

“It’s a lot worse than I thought.” Robot said through their bond.

“What? The shooting at us?” Will asked dryly.

“Yes, but the way she reacted to us. She was completely out of it until I spoke to her in my language.” he replied.

“And?” Will prompted.

“She’s lost herself. She’s not sure of reality anymore.”

Will went silent as he took those words in. “Then she really is loosing it all over again.” Robot gave a sad hum, and nodded, before heading into the direction the drone had crashed. They soon found it, burnt and badly damaged.

“There goes my year’s worth of allowance.” Will groaned. Will made it a mental note to ask Don later if it could be salvaged.

Robot inspected it, before turning to the direction Starpelt had been. Will heaved a heavy sigh. “If we’re gonna do this, we need a plan, and more supplies.”

Robot looked at him and nodded. “Scout. Scan.".

“I’m not sure that’s a good idea. You could agitate her if she senses you near.” Will said, grabbing Robot’s arm before he could leave. Robot tilted his head. “Family, Starpelt. Want plan, make plan.” he said.

Will gave a heaving sigh. “Fine, try and find a path that leads up there. But don’t be a hero. She’s unstable. We’re gonna help her, but we have to think this through.” Robot nodded after a moment and walked off, leaving Will to go back to the Chariot with the damaged drone.

Once inside, he put his head in his hands and groaned. He reached for his pad, and played the footage recorded of their encounter with Starpelt on repeat.

Looking at the satchel in the passenger's seat, he took it and inspected the picture of her and Eclipse. It seemed less vibrant than the last time he’d seen it, and he could see through it now.

It was then he remembered Starpelt saying that her holographic technology faded if it wasn’t connected or up kept by an energy source, and if that happened, couldn’t be illuminated. She’d said that she used her own abilities as a power source to keep this one from fading.

But...she no longer had her abilities.

Sitting back, Will looked to his hand, and exhaled. Sure enough, a small pulse of royal blue glowed in his hand for a moment before disappearing.

His eyes widened as he looked back at the recording, showing Starpelt’s sudden hostility, and the drone’s final moments.

Maybe he’d just found a way to break through to her.

***

Robot had managed to find a path up to the elevated spot, but not before it was too late to do anything else. They’d had to head back before it got too dark. It was better anyways, they needed to regroup and come up with how they would execute their plans.

Will and Robot tried to make the least bit of noise possible upon their return as to not alert the entire family to their late arrival. Robot took the damaged drone as Will took Starpelt’s satchel in his backpack. They looked at each other as Will unlocked the front door and entered.

Every attempt they made to be discreet was thrown out of the window as they walked into a living room full of their waiting family.

“Dang it.” Will cursed softly.

Will didn’t even have to glance at Robot for him to quickly hide the drone behind his back.

“Where did you two go off to in the forest for so long?” Penny inquired.

“We were just…” Will trailed off as he noticed Robot giving Sally a death glare.

“Doing things?” he attempted. He knew the family wouldn’t be happy if they found out they’d been out looking for Starpelt behind their backs.

“Like searching for Starpelt. Will, we’re not idiots.” Judy said. John, who was closest to the entrance, came behind Robot and revealed the damaged drone.

“Looks like you found her.” he commented, giving Will a small look.

Both Will and Robot mirrored their actions at being found out, but Will had a strong resolve now. He didn’t want it to come to this, but he didn’t have a choice now.

“Yeah, we did. And she’s not doing well. She’s loosing her mind. So me and Robot are gonna come up with a plan and try to bring her back tomorrow.” he said, standing up straighter. Robot, after giving a nod of approval, mimicked his actions.

The family looked to each other.

John along with Penny inspected the drone. “These are some pretty serious burn marks.”

“Robot burn.” Sally said from behind Penny.

“Sally…” Robot growled in his language.

“So, let me get this straight. You expect us to let you and Robot walk up to a mentally unstable robot-dragon alien that could kill you in an instant?!” Maureen inquired incredulously.

Robot and Will glanced at each other. “Yes.” they replied at the same time.

“Will, you have no idea what you’re getting into here! An unstable mental state is nothing to joke around with! Especially in a robot who can’t control herself completely!” Judy said.

She gave a sigh and walked to Will. “I know you wanna save her, but if she was and still is as powerful as you said, and if she doesn’t have control over herself, it’s almost a suicide wish.”

“How do you think she’d feel if when she came to her senses, realized she hurt or killed either of you two? She’d go berserk.” John said, coming to them, and looking them both squarely in the soul.

Maureen nodded, while Penny opened her mouth to say something, before closing it. Sally gave a sad whir and bowed her head.

“What are we supposed to do? Just leave her? Like she left us when the Creator was about to end our lives?” Will growled. That caused all of them, even Robot to flinch.

“She fought for us, even at the cost of her own life, even when every single odd was against her. She’s a wounded soldier, and she can’t fight this alone. She tried to before, and it nearly ended with her ending her own life.”

John especially gave a small gasp when Will gave him a pointed look. He more than anyone understood that, and Will had experienced enough to understand what trauma did to your head. And he knew he could use that to prove his point.

“I know the risks, and I know there’s a high chance we’ll get shot at. But I’d rather die fighting to repay her debt, than stand by and loose a member of my family!”

Robot gave a small ex-vent as he looked at Will, awe flashing in his lights. Will smiled, and put a hand on his arm. “Starpelt is Robot’s family, and therefore she’s my family too. And I’m willing to fight for her like she did for us whether you guys approve or not.” he finished with an exhale. He didn’t think he’d ever stood up to his family like that.

But this only fueled his determination, for he felt no shame at doing so.

“C’mon Robot.” he said, turning to leave. He could sense Robot give a firm nod and jerk his head in a “what he said” motion to the family, before turning to follow him.

“Will, wait a sec.” John said after a moment, causing Will to take a firm breath and stop, before deciding to keep going.

But before he took another step, his father said something that he really didn’t see coming.

“We’re with you.”

Will had to take a double take. Did he just say that? He looked at Robot, who looked just as dumbfounded as he did. They turned to face the family.

“What…?”

“Will, you are right about one thing, we owe Starpelt. We always will.” John said, looking down.

Maureen rubbed his arm sympathetically before walking to both of them. “If you say she’s family to you, then that’s good enough for us.”

“Come on, do you honestly think you’re the only ones allowed to be worried about her?” Penny scoffed, coming up and nudging Will, Sally coming up to Robot in a gesture that showed agreement with Penny’s statement. “We were just waiting until you two stepped up.” she chuckled, leaning against Sally.

Will rolled his eyes, before looking to his parents. “You guys are serious about this?” he inquired, still in disbelief.

“For all three of your sake's, yes.” Maureen said, putting a hand on Robot’s arm.

They all looked back to Judy, who had remained silent. After a minute she rolled her eyes. “This better be one heck of a good plan.” she sighed.

Will smiled, and looked to Robot. “I already think I found a way to get to her, but until Robot started speaking to her in his language, it was like she couldn’t even hear or see us.”

“That must’ve been some sort of trigger. If she’s still in there we just need to find another, but this time a positive one.” John said with a nod. When the family looked at him, he shrugged.

“What? This isn’t my first time dealing with PTSD.”

“How do we do that?” Judy asked.

“The most important part isn’t snapping her out of it, but it’s about doing it gradually. She needs to be grounded on what’s happening in the present, in front of her before you do anything else. If not, who knows what she’ll see and do. Only then can you start breaking through to her.”

“Ok, but what do we do to ground her? Is there a specific way?” Maureen asked.

“No. Each person-er-being differs. That’s the hardest thing to figure out.” John sighed.

Penny gave a hum. “Can words be used as a way to ground them?”

“They can be, but they have to be calm and convincing.” John replied.

Penny smiled as she clicked her tongue. “I think I know who can help us. She’s got somewhat of a talent for this.”

The family looked at each other, before catching on.

Judy shook her head quickly. “Please don’t tell me you’re talking about-”

***

“I am so flattered you decided me worthy enough for such a high task!” June smiled as she looked back at the family as they climbed the path that led to the cavern.

“Not all of us.” Judy muttered.

“Come on, Judy, even you can’t deny that I’ve changed.” she replied, coming next to her.

“I still can’t believe that you’re on probation after 3 years in prison.” Penny said, giving a small grunt.

“What can I say? I was on my best behavior.” June smiled sweetly, earning a groan from Judy.

“I’m just glad your probation officer trusted John enough to let you do this.” Maureen panted softly

“Well, you have somewhat of an esteemed reputation among the law enforcers, John.” she replied, to which John gave a small scoff. “They’re still expecting me to bring you back before curfew, and don’t thank me, it was Penny’s idea.” he said, putting a hand on Penny’s shoulder.

“Well, looks like I did manage to rub off on you a bit.” June smiled at Penny, who just scoffed. “You got Angela past her fear of Robot, and talked Mr. Jackson out of his claustrophobia. You made any other options seem shabby.” she replied, walking ahead of June.
Will gave a small laugh before looking at Robot, who’s posture and vibe were serious.

“Do you really think you can do this, Smith-er-June?” Will asked.

“Anything for good friends of mine.” June replied in that confident, almost sly way that told Will that he already knew the answer to that question.

“Speaking of, it would help me connect with this...”patient” if I knew what exactly I was dealing with. Not that I haven’t already heard the gist of it.” she said.

Will glanced at Robot as he walked ahead to join Penny. “Well...she lost her people and blames herself because she was their leader. And she lived with that fact for nine years, and nearly lost her mind and committed suicide because of it. She recently found out that Robot’s creators controlled her and made her kill her creator Libby Taylors. We all thought she was handling it pretty well until she went to go see her family, and somehow they found out about her killing Libby. That made her fly off and start to loose it all over again.”

“Hmm. That would explain the trigger.” June said.

“This is a classic case of PTSD.” she said, and as she did the entire family shot her looks.

“Don’t look so surprised. I may not have been a full out therapist but I did read.” she said flatly.

“Anyways as I was saying, she’s in a place of fear. All of her senses are in fight or flight mode, and even the slightest reminder could act as a trigger, causing her to react as if she was in the situation. What’s important when trying to bring someone back from this is to remain calm. Say soothing words that reassure them of the time and place they’re actually in. And above all avoid sounds, sights, or even smalls that could trigger them.”

“Dad kind of said the same thing.” Will said, eyeing her.

Will glanced at Robot, and saw that his attention was on John.

He scoffed as he saw them all looking at him for clarification. “She’s right this time.” he said. June held a dramatically hurt look on her face for a few seconds before continuing.

To have him confirm that June was right was reassuring to know that she did actually know quite a bit even without the degrees.

“John you know I could help you if ever you need it.” June said, coming up besides him.

John looked at her before giving a soft chuckle. “I don’t think so.” June was left standing there as the family gave soft chuckles.

She flipped the hair out of her face after a second. “Well don’t blame me for trying to extend a helping hand.”

***

They had almost reached where Starpelt was, and according to Will’s pad, she hadn’t moved. Will must’ve not hid well enough his worried look because Penny came up beside him.

“Hey. We’ll get her back.” she said, putting an arm around him. Will looked at her.

“I...I just don’t want anybody to get hurt. And I don’t want her to do something she’ll blame herself for if and when she comes back.” he said, glancing back at Robot.

“What are you gonna do?” Penny inquired, following his gaze and filling in the gaps.

“I can’t risk Robot acting as a trigger to her. If she hurts him she’ll loose it for sure.” he replied sadly.

“You’re gonna make him stay back, aren’t you?” she asked, her voice becoming quiet.

“Just until we get her back. It’s safer that way.” he sighed, bowing his head. He really didn’t want to do this, but this was for the best. He just hoped Robot would understand that.

“Say no more, I’ll stay with him.” Penny said.

Will looked at her. “You? Are you-”

“Yes I’m sure! And plus, after you, I’m his favorite.” she smirked, giving him a nudge.

Will rolled his eyes. “You’re unbelievable. But...thanks.”

“Don’t mention it.” she said casually, walking ahead of him.

Will gave a sigh as he felt Robot staring at the back of him. This wasn’t going to be easy.

***

“We’re almost there!” Maureen called out.

As the family advanced towards the spot, Robot did the same. Will put a hand on his chest to stop him.

“Bud...You need to stay back.”

Robot gave him an incredulous look. “Help, Starpelt.”

“I know. I know you do, but we can’t risk what happened last time to happen again. This time it’s not just a drone that could get damaged. Lives are at stake here.” he explained.

Robot looked at him, as Will felt a ping of betrayal come from his side of the bond. “So this is what you and Penny were talking about.” he said over their bond.

Will bit his lower lip. “I don’t want it to be like this, but it’s just until we get her back and it’s safe for you.”

Robot looked at him for a second, before giving a whir. “Understand. Logical.” he said, making Will give a sigh. “I’m sorry.” he apologized.

Robot shook his head. “Not need.”

Penny came beside Will and put a hand on Robot’s arm. “I’ll stay with you, Big Guy.” she smiled.

Robot’s lights sped up slightly and nodded.

Will rejoined the rest of the family, who had stopped, and looked back at Robot and Penny.

“We’ll get our sister back.” he said, to which Robot nodded.

Giving another sigh, they continued on.

“That was a good call.” John said, coming next to him. “Not an easy one, but a good one. I’m proud of you with how both of you handled that.”

“Thanks, Dad. Let’s just hope it pays off.”

Soon enough they reached the cave where Starpelt hid. Will could tell June was starting to have second thoughts when he waved her to come with him to the entrance to the cavern while the rest stayed a bit farther away.

“Just so we’re clear, she won’t kill us, right?” she asked.

“If all goes well, and you do your part in bringing her back for a few moments, then no.” Will said, looking at her.

“I’ll get her out and calm. I think I have a way to get her attention, then the rest is up to you.”

She was silent for a second. “Man, I forgot how optimistic you Robinsons are.” she said dryly, looking to the cavern.

Will rolled his eyes, and stepped into the cavern a step.

“Starpelt?” he called. “Starpelt, are you here?”

After waiting a few seconds, Will gave a small sigh. He gave an exhale and let the power flow to his hands for as long as he could manage, it’s glow lighting up the surrounding cavern.

“What the-” June started.

“Starpelt, I’m here.” he beckoned.

Sure enough, cyan eyes responded to his glow, and acknowledging that he could hold it for a bit longer, increased the glow, revealing Starpelt to be hanging upside down from a big stalactite.

She released her grip from the stalactite, landing clumsily on the ground. It almost looked like she was drunk with how uncoordinated her movements were. But he’d gained her attention by using his abilities, maybe he could use them to lead her more into light.

Will gave a groan as his head started to ache, and his body start to shake. Watching the glow fade, he gave heavy pants.

Starpelt hadn’t moved, but seemed to be staring at him intently, watching his every move. Her thin pupils unmoving, and staring straight into his soul, and her lights at a standstill.

Slowly moving into the light, Will panted as he kept enough of his hand glowing with power to attract her attention. To his surprise, Starpelt followed.

He stopped at the entrance of the cavern, where she could be seen by everyone there, and she could see everyone as well.

She gave a soft hiss at seeing them all there. “Hey, hey, look at me. None of us are here to hurt you. We’re here to help you.”

Starpelt redirected her attention on him, and Will sighed. “That’s good. Alright, you’re good.” he said soothingly, reaching out to her. She gave a snarl as her eyes flickered to red for a moment. “It’s ok. You remember me. I’m Will Robinson. I would never hurt you. I’m a special human, remember?”

At this, Starpelt’s ear flaps raised slightly, as Will swore he saw her pupils widen ever so slightly. Will moved his hand slowly towards her, careful to not move it too fast, and to also keep a small amount of power glowing in his other hand.

Will tentatively touched the top of her head, making sure his power was visible to her. She flinched slightly at his touch, but as Will stroked her head softly, she stood still. She gave a soft growl as Will came to the side of her head, her eyes flickering red.

But as Will knelt down so that he was below her, her pupil inspected him, before giving a small chirp. She was still on edge, as her spines were still flared, but she at least wasn’t on the verge of attacking for the moment.

Will nodded at June, as he came in front of Starpelt. She gave a growl and started to arch her back, her blasters heating uup.

“H-Hurt.” she hissed. “Hurt kin.”

June ran a hand across her face. “Great. You told her about me.”

“I didn’t. Robot must’ve.” Will replied, trying to keep his tone calm. He shone his abilities at her, regaining her attention.

“It’s ok. She’s changed now. She doesn’t hurt people anymore.” he said softly. He shot June a pointed look as the rest of the family behind them exchanged glances.

“It’s true, I’ve done things that I regret, and I gather it so have you.” she said, to which Starpelt gave another snarl.

Will glared daggers at her, but June seemed unfazed and continued, waving him off.

“You only did those things because you felt there was no other choice. You didn’t think you could put your burden on others, so you carried it yourself.” she said.

At this, Starpelt’s snarling stopped, as she paused.

“You feel rage that you did those things, and that the people you came to care about had to suffer because of the choices you made. You blame yourself for things out of your control.”

Starpelt’s spines started to fall, and Will shot a hopeful glance at his family as they smiled back.

“I know, you try your best to move on, but it keeps coming back. It keeps you from every good moment. It whispers to you endlessly.”

Starpelt started to shake slightly, causing Will to stroke her more.

“But look at where you’ve gone. You survived through all of it, even when every bone, very fiber of your being told you it wasn’t worth it. You pushed through. You allowed life to show you that good things can still come to you after having gone through so much.

You realized that you needed to leave your past behind, start anew. You wanted to find that inner serenity from all of the rage. You did what many are too afraid to do. You chose to let people in. And for that, you are much stronger than your past, your demons. You are stronger than them, and you can defeat them Starpelt. You did it before, you can do it again.

Think about where you are now. You’re starting life on Alpha Centauri with the two beings you chose to place your trust in, you met their family, and they all came to help you risking their own lives. You did that Starpelt. You made yourself someone worth saving. You have to find that place between the rage you feel, and the serenity you can achieve. You are here, right now. The past will always be a part of you, but it’s not where you are right now. Right now, you’re with us, you have support now. You are on Alpha Centauri, surrounded by greenery, by sights and… well smells that pique your curiosity.”

Will looked at amazement at June as Starpelt started to take longer ex-vents, and her lights started to move once more around her eyes.

“I am...on A-Alpha Centauri.” she stuttered, her voice hoarse sounding.

“Yes. There you go.” June encouraged softly. She nodded at Will as he moved in front of her.

He looked at June for a few seconds, a new understanding of her and also appreciation shining in his eyes.

Starpelt’s pupils widened as she took him in. Will took that as a sign to go onto his part. He hoped this would work.

He reached into his backpack, and grabbed the picture of her and Eclipse.

Starpelt cocked her head. “What…?”

Will gave a sigh as he showed her the fading picture of her and Eclipse.

At once her pupils retracted and her ear flaps fell. She snatched the picture from him and held it shakily in her talons.

“Oh, no. No, no, no, no, no, no!” she stuttered, straining. “NO!” she roared.

“Starpelt, hey! It’s gonna be fine!” Will said, holding a hand out to her.

Starpelt was ex-venting shakily as she looked at him. Will looked her straight into the eyes, before holding his other hand out, gesturing for her to give it to him.

She held it against her chest for a second, before giving it to him. Will put a hand on her talon, before holding up the picture so that she could see it. In his other hand, he allowed his abilities to run through it.

Will gave an exhale as he touched the hexagonal stand the holograph was based from, feeling the zap of his abilities running like circulation through his body into the holographic picture. Within a few seconds, the picture shone brilliantly, showing no trace of any fading whatsoever.

Starpelt was motionless as she started at the picture, then at Will.

“As long as I live, I’m not ever going to let this fade. You need to put your trust in me, now. I promise you, I will keep it from fading.” he said, his words sincere but direct.

Starpelt’s pupils flickered before she started giving shaky sobs. Will gave an exhale, and hugged her. “Th-Thank you.” she whimpered

Will pulled back, and gave her the picture, to which she admired for a few seconds, before she looked to everyone gathered.

There was a look of confusion in her lights. “How did I...get here…? The last thing I remembered is...oh no…” she trailed off. “It-It happened again.” she sobbed shakily.

“Shh. It’s ok now.” Will said, embracing the ailing robot Nocfur.

The family came close, and knelt down before her, giving her sympathetic looks.

“I-I was so afraid. I kept r-reliving...e-everything. I-It would not stop! I s-saw Robot kill him, a-and I-I shot-” she stopped abruptly, her pupils retracting to slits at seeing Will’s look.

“Will, did I shoot him?!” she demanded, frantic. “Where is he?!”

“You shot but not at him. You shot my drone that we used to look for you. I had him stay back in case he triggered you like he did then.” he said sadly, to which Starpelt gave an ex-vent accompanied by more sobbing.

Will beckoned for Robot to come through their bond, and a minute later, he appeared with Penny.

Will backed away a few steps as Robot rushed to Starpelt, and embraced her tightly. “I am-I am so sorry!” she sobbed.

Will looked down, and as he looked to the rest of his family, he saw the grief written on their faces. The pity they felt for her by watching the being they saw to be so well composed break down completely in front of them.

Robot spoke to her in soft chitters and purrs, before he pulled back from her. But something was wrong.

Will looked to the family, his expression making it clear that something wasn’t right.

Robot felt along Starpelt, who had now started to ex-vent heavily. She gave the sound of her panting heavily as she lie down.

Robot gave a whir, before standing up, the frantic feeling unmistakable. He gave a trill and did his best to lift Starpelt up in his humanoid form. Failing because of her size, he transformed back into his original form.

He lifted her up, and turned to sprint away.

“Robot what’s going on?!” Maureen demanded, coming in front of him, causing him to stop.

Robot was frantic as he looked to each of them, his gaze landing on Will.

“Danger, explode Starpelt.”

Chapter Text

Chapter 11

Robot faltered as he ran with Starpelt. The family wasn’t far behind in the chariot. Robot wished he’d had more time to properly explain what was going on, even to Will. But his entire system was focused on one thing: getting her to Cassius before her energy core exploded.

Robot had no idea why it was acting out now, he’d been keeping tabs on it ever since she’d gotten her new body. But it was something he’d always worried about.

The truth was that Starpelt didn’t know the limits a robotic body had, and Robot wouldn’t expect her to for a while to come. The only thing his processor could produce as a solution to said inquiry was that she’d put too much strain on her neural net and energy core both by her outburst, and her unstable mental state.

Robot had experienced this many times. That overwhelming feeling that made his surroundings spin. When all other functions had to be put on hold just to keep the overload of foreign data from ruining his processors and neural net. His kind were never meant to experience sentience, and with that, human emotion.

“Robot...why am I...so hot…?” Starpelt panted, her cyan eyes dimming and flickering. Her ear flaps fell as she gave a groan. Robot looked down at her, as his scans noted an increase of her temperature. She was scared, and that only increased the strain on her already malfunctioning systems.

“It’s gonna be ok. You’ll be fine. You just need to see Cassius.” he said, using his spare arm to stroke her ear flap quickly.

She gave another groan as her head fell limp on Robot’s chassis as he ran. “You are...a terrible...liar.” she murmured.

This wasn’t good. She was starting to go offline. Running as fast as he could will his joints and stabilizers to permit him, he took a running leap off of the elevated path he’d been running on.

His energy core was starting to heat up. Robot opened his vents. He gave a growl as he ran.

But carrying a load almost as heavy as himself took a toll on him, even with the advanced body of SAR.

A robot such as himself was capable and able to accomplish and focus on many different things simultaneously, but there were limits even for him. Between his energy core, the strain on his joints and stabilizers, the emotions both him and Will were feeling, and keeping tabs on and carrying Starpelt, it was proving quite difficult.

Robot was finding it hard to focus on his surroundings, and to retrieve data as his functions diverted their power to help keep his energy core from getting too hot.

In this diversion of functions, Robot missed a few key aspects of his surroundings. The most important being an uprooted root from one of the many Alpha Centaurian plants.

Giving a shriek, Robot flew forward as his ground-running claws caught on said root. It took Robot a few seconds to catch up with himself as he gave a groan.

Starpelt had flown from his arms and landed with a grunt.

Robot shook his head vigorously. He struggled to reboot his stabilizers. He wasn’t going to get her to the colony in time.

He accessed the sounds he’d recorded in his memory and found the command Will had found on his old planet. He now knew this was a stasis command. He didn’t know if it would work, but if she was is stasis, maybe she could make it to the colony.

He played it back, and Starpelt raised her head as her ear flaps perked. It seemed she was absorbing the command, but nothing was happening.

Robot stepped back. “Why didn’t it work?!” he questioned frantically. In a few seconds though, he found an answer.

She was an organic mind inside of a robot body. She’d overcome the Creator’s control, so because of both of those reasons, these commands wouldn’t work on her. Robot bowed his head as he tried to come up with another idea. He found one.

He wasn’t sure how many would hear, or if they would even respond, but it was his only option.

Using a broadcasting frequency, Robot called out to any robot in the vicinity.

“Urgent Message! Energy Core in Critical condition! Need help!”

Robot shakily knelt down besides Starpelt. She was venting as much as her vents allowed, and she was gasping almost as if for air.

“Is ok! Calm. Help arrive.” he chitchatted in her Nocfur language. It caused her to focus on him, and give a small nod.

A new alert came on Robot’s visual array. Her energy core was starting to deteriorate.

“By the Creators!” he hummed frantically.

His emotions only spiked when he picked up a certain Chariot stop a short distance away. Will and John jumped out and ran to Starpelt with a metal canister.

“No, Danger family. Go back.” Robot whirred, standing up shakily to stop them.

But Will took hold of his forearm, and looked at him. “Trust me.” was what his gaze conveyed. Robot looked to John, who approached Starpelt.

He looked frantically to Will, then back to John. “Danger, John Robinson.” he whirred as he went to block John’s way.

Robot stopped as John activated the canister and started to spray a strange substance on Starpelt. Robot stopped.

Whatever this was; it was cooling Starpelt’s temperature!

John gave a pant as he wiped his forehead and paused.

“Did that do anything?” he questioned to Robot.

Robot was about to reply when he saw Starpelt’s temperature start to rise again. So it’s effects only lasted for a minute or two.

“Yes. Short time.” he replied, to which John nodded and continued to spray Starpelt.

Starpelt gave a small pant. “K-Keep doing that…” she said weakly.

“Will! Get me some more coolant!” John instructed. Will looked at Robot and ran to the Chariot, where he could see Penny opened her door and handed him another canister full.

Wait. Coolant. He recognized it now. John had told Will about it and how it managed to cool a Chariot’s engine. Robot was present for that conversation. He didn’t ever think that it would work on a robot’s energy core.

John sprayed Starpelt with coolant and Robot watched with hope as her temperature continued to fall. He was buying them time!

He looked at Will, who chuckled. “It didn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out what was happening.”

“Thank you. You might’ve just saved her life.” Robot said through their bond.

This continued for the next few minutes, Will ran back and forth from the Chariot getting all of the coolant they had with them, which was about 6 canisters.

John finished the last one, and stood back panting.

Starpelt moved her head weakly towards them, almost inquiring why they’d stopped. But she seemed to realize even in her dysfunctional state that they had used the last of it.

She started to pant again as her temperatures started to rise once more.

Robot looked to where the colony was, and concluded that even at high speeds and risk of his energy core, that he wouldn’t have enough time to get her to Cassius before she exploded.

Starpelt gave a gasping pant. “Go...Go before it is...too late!”

Robot was frantic. There had to be some way!

“Robot, Starpelt hang on!” a voice Robot recognized with his entire system emanated.

Robot straightened up as he saw Scarecrow through their bond.

“Scarecrow?!” Will exclaimed, seeing Robot’s glowing midsection.

Robot’s sensors picked up an energy spike coming rapidly towards them: a scouting ship.

“Danger, leave. Ship come.” Robot said to John and Will. They looked to each other, before leaving. Will looked back at Robot as he was about to enter the Chariot.

“Go. Meet us at the main hospital!” Robot instructed through their bond. Will looked down and nodded after a second, the family getting to safety a short moment later.

“Robot, we cannot land here. You need to get to an elevated spot!” Scarecrow said.

“We?” Robot echoed.

“Stop wasting time, scrap heap!” Sally’s chitter came over from the background of Scarecrow’s surroundings.

“Sally?! Never mind, I’ll get us there!” Robot trilled as he went to lift up Starpelt. He gave a small groan as he did so. His energy core could take the strain.

“Robot…” Starpelt whispered.

“Just hang in there a little longer.” he chittered soothingly, seeing that those human expressions were coming through again.

Robot decided to keep the bond open so he could communicate with the two openly.

Securing Starpelt with all four arms, Robot shook his head in determination and started to run.

“We found an appropriate spot. Sharing coordinates.” Scarecrow said.

Mustering all of the strength he could divert to his stabilizers, Robot took a mighty leap towards the cliff he’d jumped off of earlier, seeing it as the quickest path to those coordinates.

He analyzed the situation and saw to get to said coordinates, he’d have to climb. He saw the ship come to a stop right above an elevated rock formation.

That was the pickup point. That was a rather long climb for him, considering he was hauling more than double his weight. He looked to Starpelt once more, and jumped, using his top and ground-running claws.

Robot gave a groan as he struggled to carry both their weight up. His stabilizers threatened to overload with the strain.

But when he looked to Starpelt he was filled with a strong determination. This was her only chance. Robot gave a roar and pushed on.

Suddenly a figure descended from the ship and scraped to a stop on his right.

“Robot, give her to me!” Scarecrow commanded as he extended his right pair of arms.

Robot unfurled his bottom pair of claws from around Starpelt, and Scarecrow used them to pull her over to him.

They split her load between them, having her upper half being secured by Robot, and her lower by Scarecrow.

“Great rings, she’s hot!” Scarecrow trilled, flinching.

“Just climb!” Robot ordered.

Together they made steady progress, the two reaching the top of the rock formation in a short time.

The ship’s porthole opened up, and Robot motioned for Scarecrow to give Starpelt to him. When he did, Robot braced and leaped up, landing inside the ship.

Sally looked at her and Robot, the concern evident in her lights. “We have to hurry!” she scolded.

Scarecrow clambered onto the ship before the porthole closed. The inertia caused by Sally’s sudden speed caused both of them to grab onto Starpelt to keep her from going every which way.

Within seconds they arrived, they wasted not a moment. Sally had lowered the ship enough so that they could jump down into the square in front of the hospital. Needless to say that it caused quite a lot of chaos with the surrounding pedestrians.

But they didn’t have time to focus on that. They thrust out with Starpelt and were surprised to see Cassius already there waiting for them with a team of Assemblers.

They crowded Robot and started to scan her. Checking her temperature, Robot knew they only had a minute if that.

“Why did you not try the stasis code?!” Cassius demanded, examining her form.

“Those commands don’t work on her, I tried!” Robot replied.

Cassius looked at him for a second, before calling to another assembler.

“Give me a function override module now!” he ordered.

Robot remembered from his General data, that this was an Assembler’s tool, to initiate forced stasis in case the command didn’t work.

Seconds later Cassius received one from one of the storage compartments exclusive to the Assembler class. It seems that one was carrying several.

Robot looked at Starpelt. Her eyes flickered dimmer and dimmer. Robot saw now that the prolonged contact with her heated form was starting to heat up his own. He ignored it.

The module was placed upon her, and she voiced a choking gasp. Her pupils turned to slits, before they rolled upwards and dispersed. A second later, her cyan eyes faded and she went limp.

The Assemblers took a step back with the exception of Cassius, who ran an additional scan. Robot did the same. Because she was in stasis, her energy core was inactive, and it was cooling down because of it.

They’d done it.

Needless to say that this whole ordeal had attracted a large crowd of both robots and humans.

After a few more moments of inspecting her, making absolute sure the threat of an explosion was now rendered null, Cassius signed for Robot to follow.

As he turned to do so, his presence thrummed with Will’s proximity. He sensed the Chariot stop a ways away because of the crowd gathered.

But that didn’t stop Will from jumping out and hastily making his way through the crowd. Robot turned to his direction as Will managed to arm his way to the front of the crowd, panting heavily.

Before either of them could advance towards the other, Cassius made a small trill. “Come, there is much we must do.”

Robot saw Scarecrow and Sally come next to Will, and before he was ushered in any further, Robot bowed his head. He was uncertain if she was salvageable, which was the question they were no doubt trying to get an answer to.

It was a question which stung Robot to his very energy core to think about.

“You have not properly explained how this occurred. This model is rudimentary at best, and the workings are a mess. But even with these facts, this should not have occurred.” Cassius swirled his lights, motioning to Starpelt’s limp form on the central berth.

His team was currently examining her systems and what was left of her energy core, and it took them a few tries to actually find the right spot, because her form was unfamiliar to them.

But Robot took slight comfort at the fact that Cassius and his team were some of the best assemblers. He remembered that Cassius had also resided on the capital planet with them in the Danger system. He knew what he was doing.

“We made her form working with what we had. Will was our Assembler, and this form was made from unconventional materials to begin with, so it was not within standard protocol. We did the best we could, and when Starpelt transferred into it, everything seemed fine.” Robot replied.

“Then what caused this deterioration?” Cassius questioned.

“Starpelt is an organic mindset. She is capable of feeling very strong emotions, just like a human. She has a lot of trauma from when we attacked her, and that has a very large effect on the weight of emotions she feels, and to the extent.”

“Explain.” Cassius motioned, not quite understanding.

“Humans experience trauma different than we do. They have no fail safe. Instead they live with it. But if something were to remind them of this trauma, it can send them loosing control of themselves, like a systems overload. She was recently faced with how our Creators controlled her, and forced her to kill the human that made her, and...she felt many things...things our systems were never designed to know how to handle. I believe this is what caused the deterioration.” Robot finished, and he sensed some of the assemblers pause.

As he looked at her form, he saw some of the lights of the assemblers displaying...pity.

“I see. The model’s already inadequate system did nothing to help with this strain. I have seen strain in regards to emotions on our kind before, but never to this extent.” Cassius said, looking to Starpelt.

“I will need time to assess with my team what can be done. When we have collected enough data, I will send for you.”

Robot nodded, and swirled a “Thank you” through his lights as Cassius guided him out of the main operating center.

There was nothing more he himself could do. It was all up to Cassius and his team at his point, and it scared him.

He wasn’t surprised in the least to see his family waiting out in the main entrance. What did surprise him however was the amount of people trying to get answers as to what was wrong with the ever growing popular Starpelt.

He sensed a big crowd was gathered outside, and that the medical staff were doing a good job at keeping all of them at bay.

As soon as Will caught sight of Robot, he practically ran to him, followed very shortly by the rest.

“How is she?! Will she be ok?!” Will asked frantically.

Robot hung his head. “Not know.”

Will’s eyes widened slightly as his face showed his shock, that quickly turned to pain. Robot could see that pain reflected on the rest of the family.

“I’ll stay here as long as I need to.” Will said in a monotone, quickly hiding his outward pain, to everyone except Robot.

“You do mean “we”, right?” Penny asked, coming up next to him. “Because I would just be flat out offended if you didn’t.”

“You all have your own schedules. I don’t expect you guys to stay and put your life on hold for her.” he said, not turning to them.

“We are going to stay here as long as it takes. Robinsons stick together.” Judy said, shooting Robot a look.

John and Maureen looked at each other. “We’ll stay as long as we’re able.” Maureen clarified, almost regrettably reminding them that they did have necessitates to be accomplished.

Robot felt his lights speed up. He did feel slightly better having them here. Will he was sure of to get support from, but it made him feel...warm when the rest of his family seemed to accept how important she was to them both.

Needless to say, the wait was quite long. John, Maureen, and Judy all left at different points to accomplish their respective tasks. Judy though, stayed as near as she could while working her shift. John and Maureen told them to contact them when they got an update.

That left Penny, Will, and himself. Penny passed the time by listening to music and scrolling aimlessly through her pad.

Will seemed to be lost in thought, as was he. Had he not been so preoccupied maybe he could’ve tried to see what the whirlwind inside the human’s head consisted of, but Robot was too lost in his own worries.

What if she couldn’t be salvaged? What if her data just...faded from exposure? Would they ever see those beautiful cyan eyes again, or would he be forced to relive that shattering feeling that came with loosing a bonded entity?

Would he ever see his sister again? Was all of this sacrifice done by their Creator all for nothing now? Was Starpelt’s sacrifice nothing now?

What if she returned nothing more than a drone, all memories and individuality gone? What if-

“Robot, please you’re giving me a splitting headache.” Will moaned, his face in his hands.

Robot was snapped from his thoughts, and thankfully his directive for Will took over. He stopped his pacing and knelt down to Will, and allowed himself to mentally reach out to Will over their bond, his midsection glowing to life.

When Will responded, the mutual consent of their bond seemed to lighten both of their loads. His body relaxed slightly.

Robot gave an apologetic whir. For Will’s sake he was trying to keep a close tab on his emotions. Apparently he’d let it slip in his systems being so preoccupied with other files.

“You can just say it.” Will said to him quietly. There was less and less hiding from him as their bond grew stronger.

Robot looked at him, his light’s slowing. “Will…” he started.

“I’m...terrified. I’m terrified we’ll loose her, like I almost lost you.”

Will sat up slightly, a shaky breath leaving him. “I know, I’m just as afraid as you are. I don’t want to loose her.” he said quietly, his voice cracking. He quickly regained his composure, but his pain was still as evident as the suns of the Danger system.

Robot sensed Penny listen in. Pity flashed across her face before she gave a grumble.

“These were supposed to be for me after I completed that long and strenuous hike, but the frail emotional state of you and Mr. Walking-Panic-Attack has made me soft.”

“Frail emotional state?! Excuse you!” Will replied incredulously.

At the same time, Robot made a disapproving trill at what she’d just called him.

Penny happily ignored them, and pulled out...food?

This didn’t grab Robot’s attention, since he couldn’t eat. This wasn’t anything major enough to merit being called “Mr. Walking Panic Attack”.

But it grabbed Will’s.

“Nutrient Bars. That’s supposed to win me over, huh?” he asked dryly, sitting back and looking at his pad.

“I mean, if you don’t want them, I’ll just go ahead and eat the Strawberry Cheesecake one I brought.” she said lightly, going to open it up.

Robot tilted his head with a whir. Great. Will couldn’t resist the Berry of Straws. Even though he found logic within some berry names, the Strawberry confused him still, no matter how many times he’d been coached through it.

Sure enough, Will’s body succumbed to the need for food.

“Give me that.” he grumbled, taking it from her dangling hand.

He was grumbling as he opened it and took a bite. Penny had an annoyingly smug look on her face, and Robot glared at her for her antics.

“It’s called emotional support and cranky little brother preventative. Thank me later, Big Guy.” she smirked, completely ignoring his glare.

Robot gave an annoyed hum as he pouted next to Will, infuriated that she knew them so well, and could tick them both off so easily.

But that only made Robot’s line of coding return to his sister, who was becoming more and more like Penny to him.

He gave a soft hum, and looked to the side. He wished this didn’t hurt so much. He couldn’t sense her presence anymore; not since she’d been put in overridden stasis. It wasn’t like when she’d sacrificed herself the first time, he could sense the bond still there; but he couldn’t feel her.

He just wanted her to be alright.

Some more time passed, and Judy returned. The three siblings chatted among themselves for a bit. Robot normally liked to spectate, but he was too worried and focused on if he could sense Cassius or one of his team approaching.

His line of coding kept going back to seeing her break down facing her sins, and that stinging feeling he well knew as guilt circled within him like a virus that he couldn’t purge.

Being bonded to a human mind only seemed to accentuate these feelings.

At some point, John and Maureen returned, and Don with them, as he’d heard of the fast spreading news.

It didn’t surprise Robot as much as he thought it would to see him. Don seemed to take a liking to her “not taking any crap” attitude that mixed with a deadpanning sense of sarcasm. Well, he wasn’t the only one.

Scarecrow and Sally eventually joined them as well. Robot hadn’t been in the right line of coding to inquire where they’d been.

Eventually, after what seemed like an eternity, Cassius himself came to them, causing all of them to stand up hastily.

Robot got to him first, Will a second behind him.

“How is she?!” Robot trilled, not even trying to hide panic in his lights.

Cassius, who although remained professional and stoic due to his role, didn’t quite manage to hide his dismay.

Robot caught this and he felt a strange falling sensation, as if all of his cautious optimism he’d tried to force through his systems suddenly disappeared into the void.

Scarecrow and Sally caught this as well, and all three looked to each other.

“She...well her model is not salvageable. It is much too beyond any repair.” he started through his lights.

“Her data however, did manage to be salvaged.”

Robot let his shoulders fall limp as he mimicked the human sign of extreme relief. Will felt this, and let out a sigh of relief for the both of them, placing a hand on his face.

The family all exchanged relieved glances, hopeful that these signs were a good thing.

But their relief was short lived as Cassius trilled softly. There was more.

“But her data is expiring, and at a rapid pace. Without a vessel of some sort, she will cease to exist. We assume this is because of her organic origins. In any case, she will need a new model, adequately equipped to handle the strain of emotions, which we have available.”

Robot glanced at Scarecrow and Sally. He didn’t like this. Not only was his sister dying like an organic mind, but Robot sensed from the grim pattern of Cassius’ lights that there was a catch to this seemingly rapid solution.

“We can not correctly integrate her here. To do so we must have her be connected to The Center if we wish to have optimal odds of her rebooting successfully. But as I mentioned, she will expire if not found a vessel quickly. Because of this, some of her data risks to be corrupted.”

He said it with such nonchalance, but to Robot it was like he’d seen Starpelt being stabbed by his Creator all over again.

There was a chance she wouldn’t remember them. That she’d no longer totally be Starpelt.

“That is why we are uploading her data to CodeMaster. With time, they could be able to rewrite the code as it was. But this along with her integration into her new vessel will take an unidentified amount of time.”

Scarecrow shot Robot a glance as they both realized Starpelt would be in direct contact with CodeMaster, the very robot that could fix their problem with SAR.

“So she’ll have to remain connected to the Center?” Scarecrow inquired with a trill.

Cassius nodded. “We do not see any other option. If you wish for the most optimal odds, you will not be permitted to see her until she is fully integrated, and the CodeMaster has done their directive. This will also prevent any unprecedented aggression and strain that could hinder Starpelt’s integration. Although this is not the first time we have been forced to do a transfer related to emotional strain, her data is very brittle, as it is, she is unpredictable to us.”

Robot stepped back, the pain he was feeling very much alike to the pain he felt at her death. This was too much for him, and his neural net was starting to overload with emotions he felt helpless to try and control.

Scarecrow lifted his head up, as if he had an idea.

“I have remnants of her data from her first transfer. Would that not be useful?” he inquired with a trill.

“We considered that, but as I said, her data is quite brittle. To have foreign data be present to her before the integration is complete could be catastrophic.” Cassius replied, looking down.

“I am...truly sorry there was no other solution.” he trilled slowly, as Robot saw the rare event of the Prime Assembler breaking his professional coding.

Scarecrow’s lights slowed, as he bowed his head, quickly regaining his composure. Sally gave a quiet whir as she put a hand on Robot’s shoulder.

He barely noticed it.

“Robot, what did he say?” Will demanded frantically.

Robot turned to him, his lights at a standstill, dead and lifeless.

“Go, Starpelt to Center. Dying, Starpelt. No see Starpelt. Danger forget, Starpelt.” he said in English, hoping the family would understand.

They did.

Will gave a choked inhale as his breathing became heavy.

“She could...loose some of her memories? Like...us…?”

Robot looked at Will, before bowing his head.

“Yes.”

Will’s gaze was shocked as he looked down, breathing heavily. His eyes became glazed and watery.

Maureen breathed shakily as John gave a soft “Oh no…”. Don quickly thrust his hands into his pockets, but Robot saw him bite his lower lip.

Penny covered her mouth in shock, and Judy gave a soft sniffle.

They all embraced Robot and Will in an attempt to comfort them.

Robot was a little too beyond this point.

All he could focus on was how the chance was growing ever more that even if Starpelt did survive…

She’d never be the same, and Robot would have to stand idly by once more like a useless drone as one of the entity’s dearest to him faded into oblivion, completely unable to do anything to alter the events or outcome.

If this happened, there would be no way to get her back from this oblivion a second time.

Chapter Text

Chapter 13

Scarecrow approached the not so newly founded human-robot exploration academy. Sally gave him a glance as she went up beside him.

Ideally they’d want Robot here as well. But with everything happening right now, they didn’t think they’d manage to get Robot away from that hospital. And they thought it best not to overwhelm him with yet another problem.

To be fair, Sally had only gotten the notification that Tessera would see them not long after they’d arrived at the hospital. And knowing the Head Seeker, she wouldn’t be offering another time. Especially not after their last encounter with them.

So that brought them to now. It seemed wrong to not have Robot here as it was his threat they were trying to resolve, but Scarecrow had learned early on that in order to survive, it was required to adjust to the ever changing circumstances that came with being self aware of life.

Their resolve would have to be enough.

“I hope she’ll listen.” Sally whirred softly, as if reading Scarecrow’s line of code.

“We will have to make the best of it if she doesn’t.” Scarecrow replied.

As they stood waiting, Scarecrow went over his lines of coding, and how he would form their situation.

But he found himself focusing instead at what he saw around him. Robots and humans were conversing as one species. Some were doing exercises, others were just enjoying the surroundings. But it seemed every robot here had their own human companion.

It was as if they’d been sharing a planet for centuries.

Some robot and human pairs shot the two robots glances, no doubt recognizing them. Scarecrow did his best to ignore them.

“Will and Robot would be proud to see this, going off of what I have seen before.” Sally whirred, following his gaze.

“I would not believe that they have a monument here, but have not come here yet.” Scarecrow hummed, pointing to the holographic monument of Will and Robot, no doubt to shine light on the first human-robot bond. Well, second.

All of these beings would forever stand blind to the true first contact between human and robot.

Scarecrow looked at Sally. “I think this would be good for you and Penny. Have you considered it?”

Sally gave an ex-vent as she looked to Scarecrow. “Of course I have. But doing a course like this is so...tethering. Once you are committed, that’s it. You can not change your “mind” once you are admitted. Me and Penny just find it hard to commit to something of this magnitude. We prefer to be able to pursue our interests as we please. We don’t need a program to strengthen our bond. It’s a mutal understanding we have between each other.” she explained.

Scarecrow tilted his head in understanding. It made sense.

Before they had more time to discuss, a commanding trill made both of them straighten up in attention out of instinct.

Before them was the Head Seeker “herself” in a bipedal form. And Scarecrow had to fight his instinct to back away from her. They hadn’t ended on the best of terms.

“Well. I will be honest I never expected to see you two again.” she growled.

Scarecrow and Sally bowed their heads in respect.

“I went against my better judgment to answer your inquiry to meet. Your treacheries almost got me wiped last we met.” she trilled, her face flickering red as she looked to Scarecrow.

There was silence as tension hung in the air, or at least that’s what humans liked to call this.

“But I suppose my human counterpart has affected my line of coding concerning benevolence. I will not give you two long. Speak quickly.” She said through her lights.

Scarecrow and Sally glanced at each other before Sally began to present their case.

“Head Seeker-”

“I am aware you both have human given names. I will use them as I expect you to use mine. We are entering a new age.” Tessera cut Sally off sternly.

Sally gave a trill of acceptance and a quick apology through her lights. But Scarecrow didn’t miss the flare of annoyance that sparked through their bond.

“We have asked for you assistance because we have a problem regarding Robot.” she started.

“I see. Has he accepted his role as General?” Tessera inquired.

“No. He still stands on his prior statement.” Sally responded.

Tessera gave a small growl. “Then he does not warrant my assistance. I will not assist cowards.”

She turned to walk away, and shot down Sally when she tried to explain. She looked to Scarecrow, both of them knowing that a chance like this to find a robot willing to help their situation was rather rare at the moment.

Scarecrow started and came in front of Tessera, blocking her way. Tessera responded with a growl and a reddening face.

“There is a threat Captain might return.” he said simply through his lights.

That made her stop dead.

“Explain.” she growled.

“Robot overtook Captain with an invasive data transfer. But as we know, the core data can not be destroyed. Robot placed this data in his fail safe. When it failed, the data was released.”

“And it is slowly consuming him.” Sally finished, coming next to him.

Tessera was still, pondering this through her lights. She then gave the command to continue this conversation in lights as to not draw too much attention.

“Why do you need my help? Would it not be more logical if Robot were here himself to announce this?” she inquired.

“There was an accident regarding Starpelt that required his availability.” Sally answered.

“I see. But you know I have little jurisdiction outside of Seeker management and being one of the leaders of this program. I do not understand why you would give me this information.”

“As you know, our standing with the colony is...not very high. We require someone who goes back and forth to send a message to CodeMaster. We believe they are the only one who could help assimilate Captain’s data.” Scarecrow displayed respectfully.

Tessera seemed to ponder this for a moment.

“If I decide to do this, know that it is for the safety of our kind and human counterparts, not for the likes of you two. If Captain were to return, he would have the both of you wiped for treachery. But I am not Captain. As far as I am concerned, you are free to do as you wish. Just so long as it does not damage my reputation.” she growled, nearing herself to both of them.

Sally and Scarecrow looked to each other. Tessera’s words, although promising, held enough acid to melt even the most durable of their kind.

Tessera looked back to the establishment. “My time to speak with you has come to an end. If that is all. Regarding this situation I will see what I can do.” she trilled, turning and walking away.

“One more thing.” she whirred, turning back.

“Continue like this.”

And with that, she turned back around, slowly disappearing from view.

The astonished robots looked at each other. “Well. That went better than I thought it would.” Sally whirred.

“To say the least. Whoever her human counterpart is must be someone like Will.” Scarecrow agreed.

Thankfully it would seem that the universe decided to favor them for once, because so far this was working out much better than anticipated.

Maybe when it came to the threat of Captain's return, the common fear of that event forced prior lines of coding to be pushed back into secondary functions.

The two robots decided to head back to the Hospital and tell Robot the good news.

***

His prior statement about the Universe favoring them seemed to be rendered null.

This was bad, but at least she wasn’t gone.

This load, it was a heavy one for Scarecrow to bear. He had Starpelt within him, and to some extent he could feel that her data was not optimal. But it wasn’t her data that hurt him the most.

No. This reminded him too much of the first time he’d ever had an established bond shattered. Being a Seeker, he had experienced many times the loss of a Seeker bond to unforeseen circumstances and unfortunate timing. Sure, it wasn’t pleasant to suddenly have a coded function disappear. But a Seeker bond was superficial, efficient for the completion of tasks and orders.

With Ben, the bond was not superficial. Because of his lack of understanding of humanity, he did not anticipate or know how to place the bond formed in the superficial part of his neural net.

Even so, Scarecrow received brain waves through the bonded disc in Ben’s vertebrae, and they were strong enough to make his lines of code fluctuate in strange ways. They were unstable and illogical. They were signals Scarecrow’s system at the time wasn’t fully equipped to navigate, even with his experience in self awareness.

To loose this again...even if it wasn’t fully permanent, it hurt Scarecrow more than he was willing to admit.

It didn’t help that he could still see her memories as they ran incorruptibly through him. He wished he could transfer them to her.

But instead he was forced to watch as events unfolded, completely out of his control.

Scarecrow bowed his head as he thought to Robot. Their bond had been...dull. That was the best way to put it. Where Scarecrow once felt Robot strongly, and all the emotions that entailed, he now found very little. It worried him. He was taking this very badly, even if Robot succeeded in hiding it. Any attempt Scarecrow had made had resulted in irritation and further blockage of their bond.

That was why he was here now. In the weeks that had followed his meeting of Ben’s family, he had grown steadily closer to them. It wasn’t perfect, but at least his sons had started to stop trying to use their looks to kill him. Amanda was the one who had really taken to Scarecrow. She seemed to cling to the fact that he held a piece of Ben she’d thought she’d lost.

Because of that, Scarecrow had the opportunity to see why humans chose a specific person to share certain intimacies with. He still didn’t quite understand the concept of love, and the differences between intimate and familiar, but Amanda and her boys offered quite a basis for him to gather information.

Seeing that the Chariot was parked in front of their house, Scarecrow stepped closer. He could see that one of the boys... Henry was bouncing a sphere and attempting to land it in an elevated ring. Scarecrow cocked his head, and gave a small trill as he stepped closer.

Henry whirled around at the sound, and spotted him.

“Oh. Hey! You scared me, mate!” he smiled. He was panting heavily.

“Hello, Henry Adler.” Scarecrow said, coming next to him.

As always Henry gawked a little at the height difference between them, and this brought Scarecrow certain amusement.

He gave another pant, before bouncing the sphere once more. “To what do I owe the honor?”

Scarecrow wasn’t sure. Why had he come here? Morale? Curiosity? Scarecrow decided it was more of a culmination of the two.

Henry launched the sphere into the elevated ring, and caught the sphere when it dropped, looking back to Scarecrow in confusion.

“Uh...ok then...I guess you can just...watch me? You’re better company than Willem that’s for sure.” he grumbled, before going at it again.

“Bro are you serious?!” a voice came from behind Scarecrow. He turned to find Willem. “Bro, I said wait for me!”

“Not my fault you’re slow!” Henry panted as he came beside Scarecrow.

“Why you little-I’ll show you slow!”

Scarecrow had to step aside to avoid Willem as he tried to block Henry from launching the sphere. Scarecrow cocked his head. Interesting.

But it didn’t take long for things to escalate into complete chaos as the boys went at it. Scarecrow could almost feel Ben rolling his eyes. It often reminded him of bickers he’d seen between the Robinson siblings, only this was more physical.

Scarecrow’s attention was refocused as Amanda opened the front door and scoffed, shaking her head.

“Do you two expect these dishes to clean themselves?”

The fight between the kin ceased rather quickly, and this surprised Scarecrow of how much power she had over these two. He could see why Ben always felt so...impressed when he spoke of her.

Once the boys had gone, Amanda shook her head and smiled at Scarecrow before turning back into the house.

“And I don’t want to find water everywhere!”

She sighed and turned back to him. “The older they get, the more rowdy they become.”

Scarecrow approached her and made a few soft clicks.

She narrowed her eyes at him, before sighing.

“You didn’t just come here for nothing, did you?”

She closed the front door behind her, and looked back at him.

“I heard about Starpelt. I’m sorry. I know she was a friend of yours.”

Scarecrow gave a small hum. “Thanks, Amanda Adler.”

She seemed to get the sense that he wanted to be around a presence that felt oddly familiar to him through Ben. She sighed and nodded, motioning for him to walk with her.

The two were silent as they walked along. Amanda wasn’t sure what to say, and Scarecrow sensed this. He clicked softly, getting an idea.

“My wife…” Scarecrow played back, using Ben’s voice as he accessed files where Ben had spoken.

Amanda’s head snapped to him, and Scarecrow gave a soft whir as he attempted to find more. “She’s the most amazing person. I’ve...found answers to questions...most only dream of and yet...I feel empty….”

Scarecrow played back from one of the times Ben had talked to him while they tried to have their “Breakthroughs”.

Amanda gave a shaky breath as she looked to Scarecrow intently.

Scarecrow found another instance. “The way she takes charge, but yet manages to uplift everyone around her. She’s open to my ramblings, and even supported them most times. She’s...well she’s everything to me.”

Amanda bit her lip as she wiped her eyes quickly, chuckling. “So you came to make me cry?”

Scarecrow cocked his head, before shaking it. He looked down, accessing that limited human vocabulary he possessed.

“Amanda Adler...help...Ben Adler. Inquire...help...Scarecrow…”

Amanda stopped at hearing this, and looked to him. “I’m not sure it’ll work like that…”

Scarecrow gave a whir. “Connection, Ben Adler. Remain, Ben Adler.”

Amanda seemed to ponder this, before sighing. “Alright...fair point.”

She looked down, before smiling. “Whenever Ben was feeling down we he would play with the boys, or we would look at the night sky together. It always cheered him up, especially after we arrived here.”

Scarecrow gave a hum. Looking at stars? Scarecrow had thought that was a trait that he himself possessed. But to know that Ben had possessed it also? It made Scarecrow believe that maybe his connection to Ben had affected him more than Scarecrow previously thought, or that they really were similar beings.

Scarecrow gestured a claw to himself. “Scarecrow...same.”

Amanda raised a brow at him. “I guess that makes sense…” She gave a soft chuckle. “It’s funny really, I’ve only known you for a couple of weeks but...I can see more and more of him in you. It’s...quite endearing if I could say that?”

Scarecrow clicked a few times, not really understanding the term “endearing”, but concluding that it was a positive term considering how Amanda was smiling.

She looked up at the dusk sky, and shivered softly. “I really should've brought a jacket.”

Scarecrow looked at her before heating up his blasters. Amanda’s eyes widened and she flinched as she saw and heard them.

Scarecrow drew back slightly, disarming them. “Want, help Amanda Adler.”

Amanda hesitated for a few moments before giving a shaky breath.

Scarecrow moved slowly towards her and this time only heated up one of his blasters, holding it near to her, but not near enough to burn her.

She still seemed on edge, but once she realized what he was doing, she relaxed slightly. She gave a soft chuckle. “And here I thought you robots had no manners.”

Her tone was teasing, but even so Scarecrow didn’t exactly appreciate it. He let out a whir of disapproval before clicking irritably.

This only made Amanda laugh. “Really though, this is really quite nice what you’re doing. We would call that charm. And Ben had a lot of it.”

Scarecrow’s lights turned a little more amused now. Humans were rather complex, and it seemed acts of kindness were a necessity for them. To be honest, Scarecrow didn’t exactly hate that idea. It was better than the survival of the fittest lifestyle most robots led, what they had led before Robot defeated SAR.

They continued to walk together back towards the Adler residence, and Scarecrow kept his blaster close to her as to keep her warm.

They were silent as they walked on, but it was a comfortable silence. For the first time in a while Scarecrow felt a slight peace from the guilt he’d held over Ben. He was repaying his debt by taking care of his family, and he knew if Ben could be here right now...he’d be proud of Scarecrow, and proud of himself for being right.

Scarecrow looked to Amanda. It was curious. How a human could grow so attached to another human without the use of a connection. How they could get along so well without being exposed to the other’s thoughts, pathways, and algorithms. How they could just react to each other, and do it so easily.

It actually impressed Scarecrow now more than ever.

Upon arriving back at their residence, Amanda stopped and looked back at him. “Thank you. It was nice...well nicer than I thought it was going to be. And I hope I was able to help in some small way…”

Scarecrow bowed his head. “Help, Amanda Adler. Grateful.”

Amanda smiled softly before unlocking the door and turning back to him. “I guess I’ll...see you around?”

Scarecrow raised his head and clicked softly. He nodded. “Thanks Amanda Adler.”

Amanda smiled and went into the house, leaving Scarecrow alone.

Scarecrow whirred softly, a claw traveling to his chest. His lights began to dance at a faster pace. He felt….happy. It was a new emotion for him to feel as he hadn’t felt it often. But he liked how it felt.

Scarecrow gave a soft click before walking away from the house, feeling much better than he had when he’d arrived. He felt closer to Ben, if that were even possible. And for a brief moment, that gaping void in Scarecrow’s algorithms and processors had seemed to be filled.

Was it possible that simply through contact with those Ben held dearest, the very definition of his programming could be altered?

Scarecrow realized that this wasn’t impossible, as it was a part of the sentience that had broken them all free of control. Scarecrow was now discovering a new part of it, and it brought him intrigue and certain...excitement…which was incredibly odd for him. Well...maybe not.

After all, Ben had a vast craving for understanding that of which he didn’t.

Scarecrow walked in the forests of Alpha Centauri for quite a while, careful to avoid any groups that happened to be having the same idea.

He stood on a cliff ledge overlooking the night sky and whirred softly, looking to his claws.

His lights swirled as he focused on Robot’s side of the connection. It was still muted and unresponsive. Scarecrow contemplated for a few seconds if he should, and decided it wouldn’t be fair if he didn’t fight to help Robot like he had always tried to do for Scarecrow.

Scarecrow’s midsection lit up as he tried to establish a connection. Scarecrow gave small screeches as he reached out to Robot.

There was nothing for a few seconds before Scarecrow felt his being link with Robot’s.

“Not now, alright?”

“Wait. Please.”

There was silence, but Robot hadn’t ended the connection, so Scarecrow took the opportunity.

“Please let me help. What you are doing to our connection...is damaging it. You are aware of this, right?”

“Whatever. Is that what you wanted then? To lecture me?” Robot replied.

Scarecrow could feel how irritated he was, and there were many things Robot was blocking Scarecrow from seeing.

“I want to help you. I am worried.” Scarecrow replied.

“You’re worried. Splendid. Everyone else is too. That’s not going to bring her back.”

Scarecrow looked down. “I know, and I never claimed it would. But she’s not...she’s not gone. Shutting everything in won’t help any more the situation any more. It is not what she’d want you to do.”

Scarecrow now felt full force Robot’s anger, and immediately knew he’d ticked him off. Hard.

“And what right do you have to tell me that?! What right does anyone have to tell me that?! My sister is most likely going to forget me, and everything we’ve built! What she’d want me to do or not do no longer matters!”

Scarecrow clicked. “I know how much this hurts you, but doing this will not help anything! You will only end up hurting yourself and others. I went through the same thing with Ben and I know, Robot. But you can’t let this affect you like it has.”

Robot was silent for a few seconds, but Scarecrow could tell he was fuming. Apparently what he was saying wasn’t getting through. It made Scarecrow’s lights slow in defeat.

“You said you wanted to help me. The only thing that would help me is to have her back with me.”

Robot then abruptly ended the connection, leaving Scarecrow in the silence of the night as his midsection faded.

Scarecrow gave a soft hum as he bowed his head. Robot was justified in his reactions. But Scarecrow knew as the original robot to have sentience, those emotions hit him much harder than most. And that worried hi, especially for Will’s sake.

But Robot was closed off, and he was right. Scarecrow couldn’t do much to help Robot in a way that wouldn’t make things worse. He would only have to hope things would improve on their own.

But that in itself was a stretch, and Scarecrow was unsure if Robot would be able to cope if what he feared came to be.

Chapter Text

Chapter 14

ALPHA 004 was sat in her quarters, watching as glowing light blue traveled through her veins. She could now do so on command, and she tilted her head in intrigue.

She didn’t turn back as she heard someone walk in. She already knew it was her Creator, and she had a bad feeling about what she was in here to say.

Her Creator took a deep breath, and that only worsened ALPHA 004’s hunch.

“You’re...ready. The scans say you’re in an optimal state. I...can’t...keep them from doing it anymore...”

ALPHA 004 took a short breath as she looked back at her Creator, starting to shake slightly. She knew this day was coming, but she didn’t think it would come so soon.

“I...do not wish to die…”

Her Creator bit her lower lip, but quickly regained herself. “We have little choice. Believe me...if I could do something I would.”

ALPHA 004 swallowed. She’d seen first hand how her Creator’s superiors were. Even if her Creator tried something, which she suspected she had the first three times, her Superiors were too powerful and well versed.

ALPHA 004 had no choice but to go through with her turning, even though the chances of her surviving it would be slim.

“Did...they feel this as well…?” She asked quietly.

Her Creator sighed and sat next to her. “Yes. No one wants to die. It’s what defines us. Believe me, if I could have spared them...and you from this fate then I would’ve.”

ALPHA 004 looked down. “If...I survive...what then?”

Her Creator looked to her. “Then you’ll start training...to become accustomed to your new body. Additional knowledge will be implemented into you, and you will begin preparation to become the new leader. Once you are ready...then others will be made. Beyond that...I’m not too sure. They’ve apparently decided it best to wait until we had a...surviving ALPHA experiment before continuing.”

ALPHA 004 looked up. “You mean if I survive…?”

Her Creator nodded. “If you survive, then that means a correct combination has been found, and that means that you’ll be the savior of an extinct race, and the firstborn of a new one, a hybrid race. Many will gain life from you if you survive, and they’ll be yours to protect.”

ALPHA 004 looked to her hands, seeing her abilities pulse softly. Hers to protect. Her kind. She would make a difference, and if she could make a difference...perhaps one day she could set her kind free.

All she would need to do is survive her turning. But that in itself was asking a lot.

“What if the combination is wrong like the other times…? It would not matter how hard I fight.”

Her Creator looked to her hands for a moment, before shaking her head. “If we go off of statistics...your superiors are very confident they’ve found it. But then again they said that the last 3 times.” she spat bitterly, clenching her fists.

She seemed to take in ALPHA 004’s look before sighing. “You’re right. Part of it is left to chance, whether the combination of bondage was correct. But the other part depends on how long you can stick the transformation out. How long you can keep breathing. How long you keep your mind alive. I know...that’s still a lot to ask but...I wholeheartedly believe you capable of it.”

ALPHA 004 heaved another sigh. “I wish I would have that same confidence.”

The two were silent for a moment before her Creator took her hands. “You know...once you survive...I’ve thought of a name. It describes how you will look when experiencing a chemical reaction causing you to glow. Do you want to hear it?”

ALPHA 004 cocked her head. A name? She would have a name if she survived? Curious, she nodded.

Her Creator smiled. “The name I’ve thought of...is Starpelt.”

ALPHA 004 pondered this. “My skin will look like stars?”

Her Creator nodded. “In a sense. That’s what I had in mind but...I’m open to suggestions.”

ALPHA 004 thought about it. She’d never really considered the idea that she could be called by something other than her identification. But the more she thought about it, the more the name proposed seem to stick. She shook her head. “No, I like it. It is regal in it’s own way and...it is unique. Certainly better than being called by my experiment identification.”

Her Creator chuckled. “Yes it is.”

The two were interrupted by her Superiors entering the room and escorting ALPHA 004 to the room where she’d be introduced to and bonded with Nocfur DNA for the first time.

Her superiors let her go into the room. It was like all of the others: white, curved, and clean. The only difference is that this room had no natural light, and the middle of the room spiraled down above her into a bright glowing beam, which no doubt held the Nocfur DNA.

As soon as they let her go, she ran after them, but she was stopped by a shield. Her Superiors took their places among control panels, and ALPHA 004 started to panic.

“Please! I do not wish to die! Please!”

Her Creator met her at the other side of the shield and held her hand up. Shaking, ALPHA 004 met it with hers. Seeing the look on her face and the tears welled up in her Creator’s eyes...ALPHA 004 knew it was pointless to try to plead.

“Creator…”

Her Creator took a shaky breath. “I’m so sorry...I’ll do everything I can but…” Her Creator shook her head. “I believe in you. You can do this. We’ll hold up our end...I only need you to fight for yours...I know you can...”

ALPHA 004 took a shaky breath and gave a shuddering sob.

She looked back up at her Creator as a tear fell down her face.

“If I do not survive...make sure the ALPHA experiment after me does...please…”

Her Creator took a shuddering breath and nodded, a tear falling down her face as well.

She stood back a couple of steps, as ALPHA 004 did the same, taking a position under the beam. She looked at her Creator and stood up straight, taking a breath.

Her Creator took out a holographic pad with her controls, and nodded at ALPHA 004.

There was silence in the room for a few seconds, before ALPHA 004 nodded back slowly.

Her Creator took a breath. “Begin the process.”

ALPHA 004 tensed as the beam above her started to buzz and glow brightly. She snapped her head down as she felt her abilities glow brightly in reaction to it. She gave panicked pants as the beam above her grew brighter and pulsed louder.

Suddenly she was engulfed and blinded in the blinding white of the beam.

It only took a few seconds before ALPHA 004 felt the effects.

She gave a choking gasp and started coughing violently as her vision began to swim. She let out a groan as her body suddenly started to tingle in pain. She let out a choked gasp as the beam intensified and the Nocfur DNA was implemented into her.

She gave a cry of pain and bent over, her hands to her head. Everything burned, stung, seized up. Every sort of pain anyone could imagine, she was feeling it.

She looked to her Creator, who she could see was barely holding it together. Although she appeared to look strong, ALPHA 004 saw the horror in her eyes as she looked away, taking a few shaky breaths. Her Creator knelt down so that she was level with ALPHA 004, while keeping track of her stats. She hastily wiped the tears from her face, her face changing color to look paler.

Tears ran down ALPHA 004’s face freely as her cries turned into screams of agony. She shrieked as she was blinded and she felt her eyes changing.

“Implement the painkiller!” Her Creator’s voice swam as her hearing echoed strangely...as if she were hearing it from underwater.

She crumbled to the floor and started to writhe in pain. She felt herself change. Her arms, face, legs, and back felt as if they were being snapped and ripped apart. She shook violently as she heard sickening snaps and cracks. She felt queasy and on top of everything else, vomited from the sickening feeling. So much for the painkillers working.

As she continued to change, it got harder and harder to focus. She panted heavily and gave loud outcries as her back morphed as did her spine. She arched her back as she felt burning and stabbing pains grow upwards and outwards from it. She vomited again, but this time, she could smell blood. She screamed in agony as her legs and arms snapped again and again.

There was nothing she could do. Pain was all she knew. Pain was all she was capable of registering.

She was now very weak, trembling on the ground. She felt lifeless. Her vision was barely there as she sobbed in agony. Her skin, everything was being either stretched or shredded. Or both. She couldn’t even tell.

She was now barely conscious. She was so...tired….

Yes...sleep felt like a marvelous idea...a sweet escape…

Something though...something kept her from doing it. She felt a small burst of adrenaline.

ALPHA 004 opened her eyes slightly. The blurry shape of her Creator was all she could focus on.

“Come on…! Please!”

If ALPHA 004 died...this would continue...for who knew how long…for who knew how many more failed ALPHA experiments.

No...she had something to fight for…

The birth of new life thanks to her…

Her kind in which she could protect…

The difference she could make…

Her name...

Her eyes shut completely as she panted heavily, straining and writing. But holding onto life. She wasn’t done yet.

The noises around her started to swim. She fought the darkness that whispered of sweet relief to her.

Her body was numb and broken. Did she even still have it?

Exhaustion took hold of her as her delirious mind noted the pain subsiding.

Was it really? Or was she just loosing the battle?

“I can’t believe it…”

ALPHA 004 gave a small moan as she suddenly...felt something prick her.

Whatever it was...was keeping her mind from falling into the void.

“Stimulant…” was the one thing she could manage to think.

The rest of it was a blur. She was neither conscious nor unconscious. She was caught somewhere in between, as impossible as that seemed.

All she knew was that at one point...she was forced back into consciousness.

“Experiment is-… improved…vitals are-...combinations….advancing with-... initiation-...adjustments-…” Her hearing was strange and faded in and out. She felt something on the top of her head move.

“Auditory-...engaging-…”

There was suddenly ringing in her ears. Whatever was on the top of her head moved in reaction to it.

“Moment-...need-...responding-…”

The ringing continued for a long while, honestly, she couldn’t tell what the passage of time was anymore. Had it been minutes? Hours? Even days?

At some point though...the ringing stopped. And she felt little by little strength returning to her. Enough to make her body rouse itself from it’s comatose state. No doubt several stimulants and healing matters were injected into her.

She gave a groan as she squinted. Everything hurt, but it was all an ache now. The smell of blood was gone and replaced with...much stronger scents she’d never noticed before...she now heard sounds with crystal clear clarity, and she...no longer felt human…

“Creator…?” her voice was hoarse and broken, but it was there. Everything within her felt, although there, twisted and sore and...unnatural...

She felt the top of her head twitch as she detected sound coming from next to her, and found a scent that seemed...all too familiar. It was different than all the others. Was this her Creator?

“Hey…” a soft voice greeted her. So it was her Creator. She was here. But did that mean..?

Her eyes opened slightly more. She gave a groan, and fought the pain and aches her head and body gave. She wanted to open her eyes.

“Hey. Don’t rush it, Starpelt. Those are new eyes.”

Starpelt. Her name...that was her name...she had survived after all…

“N...No...I am...ready…” she mumbled back. With a blinding light and a sharp pain in her head, she opened them and she found they adjusted quicker than she’d expected them to.

Little by little her vision cleared. She needed to squint for a minute but after...her vision became...much clearer. She could see...fine details and she had no vision obscurity whatsoever. She could see her Superiors working quickly to further stabilize her. Her Creator was smiling brightly and she could see her eyes were filled with tears.

Her face as well as the surrounding were illuminated with a glow. A glow from what?

She looked down and gave a small gasp. Instead of her body...she was now a shade of Heather. She had wings...four legs...spines...and a tail….

She was a Nocfur...and she was glowing like the cosmos…

She’d survived her turning…

“I’m so proud of you.” Her Creator whispered, nearing her face to Starpelt’s. She felt a strange vibration come from her throat as she gave a weak smile. Purring. It didn’t hurt, which was a welcome relief. But it did feel like the gelatinous substance of an Ominumira was crawling in her throat. She’d have to get used to that. But nonetheless she allowed herself to embrace the moment of triumph, peace, and joy with her Creator.

It was then Starpelt fully realized. She was no longer just an experiment. She was significant. And she could change everything.

She was now Starpelt, the first human clone of their Creator to survive being transformed. And the beginning of a new era. She would bring about the freedom of their kind.

Nothingness.

To anyone or anything else; this would be considered death.

Starpelt would know. She’d lost count of the times she’d felt this way. That feeling of looking death in the face, and somehow always escaping by the slightest of margins.

Was she dead?

No...something was...calling her….

This wasn’t death.

It was awakening.

The first streaks of her vision faded into view, as she felt a pulsing sensation.

Her vision became wider and clearer, as her lights started to swirl softly.

The world around her suddenly gained sound.

“Visual array online. Audio receptors…”

There was a loud clicking sound next to her, and Starpelt flinched slightly.

“Audio receptors functional. Attempting first contact.”

There were suddenly screeching sounds, and Starpelt was overcome with a strong instinct to respond. She couldn’t stop herself as she responded in soft screeches and clicks.

“First Contact made. For now...she is stable.”

Starpelt found she was able to move, and twitched softly as she realized she was standing upright on two legs. She was in the original robot form.

She let out a surprised growl as she fell forward.

She was caught by a rusty colored Assembler. Starpelt looked at them, and tried to speak. But her voice came out in whirs and screeches.

She turned to a large robot approaching her. Their signal was surrounded with authority.

“Starpelt...calm yourself. You are still rebooting.”

Starpelt paused. “I…”

They nodded at the Assembler supporting her to back up a bit, while they helped her stand upright.

“I am sure you have questions. But I need you first to tell me what you remember.”

Starpelt chittered. “Remember…? Why would that-” It was then that her memory banks started coming online fully, and she straightened up as she processed the data. She looked to the robot supporting her. “Cassius…?”

Cassius nodded, and the rest of the assemblers waited for them to give an order. Cassius held up a talon to wait. “What do you think of our kind?”

Starpelt tilted her head. “I...cannot recall...everything but...somehow I do not...blame your kind for what happened to mine...”

Cassius lowered their claw and the rest of the assemblers started to approach her and do tests and scans.

Starpelt looked up. “I thought synthetic memory was supposed to be perfect.”

Cassius turned to her, clicking. “That. I will explain once you tell me what you have trouble remembering.”

Starpelt looked down as she focused. “Something...drove me to become synthetic….Something...saved me...but I cannot...remember what drove me to...sacrifice my organic body...and...what drove me to come here…”

Cassius looked behind them as Starpelt sensed another signal fill the room. “The corrupted part of your data affected your primary connection database. You do not remember these beings because they were stored in that area.”

Cassius as well as the other assemblers bowed their heads. Starpelt tilted hers before doing the same.

“CodeMaster.”

At that Starpelt’s head snapped up and she clicked softly. “CodeMaster…?”

“Cassius, her processor is fluctuating.”

Cassius looked to her. “What…?”

Starpelt didn’t break her gaze from the CodeMaster. There was...something important. But what that was...wasn’t able to be retrieved by her data...

She tried to step closer but stumbled due to not being accustomed to walking on two legs. She growled as she used her top pair of claws to catch herself. “Curse this form!”

CodeMaster supported her. They clicked at Cassius. “She is attempting to recover corrupted data. This should not be possible.”

Cassius whirred. “She is not like us. She has an organic mind.”

Starpelt shook her head vigorously. “Why can I not remember?!”

Cassius stood in front of her. “I will explain. You have put significant strain on yourself because of your organic origins. It caused your energy core to overheat, and we have been forced to prepare you this body, which is better adapted to your...stronger emotions.”

Starpelt looked to herself. Yes. She saw it now. She was different. Her color was about the same, except now some tints of light blue could be seen on some of her plates in certain lights.. She raised her head as she noticed many other signals mixing with her own.

“I see your scanners have come online.” Cassius noted. “You are in the robot colony on Alpha Centauri. It is where you will remain until you are fully integrated and we can get your memories back. We managed to put you into overridden stasis, but your data was expiring quickly. That is the reason you cannot remember everything. Because your data was corrupted.”

Starpelt looked from them, to CodeMaster. “I see. And they will be able to help me?

“It is not guaranteed, but the outcome is a 78.45% chance of success. It is your best option.” Cassius whirred. “We will complete your initiation, only after will you begin gradual introduction with your recovered data by means of a data allocation.”

Starpelt tilted her head. “I...understand. But it is...quite a lot to process.”

Cassius nodded. “Given what we know about organic minds...it is quite logical. As long as you stay in the Center, you should have an optimal integration regardless of your emotional state.”

Starpelt looked to her form as multiple Assemblers continued to inspect it. “And my form...I have trouble believing I used this form often...unless that was part of the data that was corrupted.”

Cassius gave a trill. “No. You used a form not unlike your organic form. But attempting to transform into any form besides this one would put significant strain on initializing systems. You must wait until further notice.”

That made Starpelt’s lights swirl bitterly. She was stuck in this form for who knows how long? She gave a small ex-vent of displeasure. “Forgive me, I do not mean malice but...I have some...issues with this form.”

Cassius looked to her. “Given what we did to your kind, I understand greatly. Nonetheless it is for the sake of your new body. All who undergo this process of integration into a body like this underwent the same discomfort. For the moment though, we must run final tests. Your mindset is proving...most unpredictable.” Cassius looked back to the CodeMaster, who clicked softly.

“I have my work.” was all they said before leaving.

Eventually Cassius had run enough protocols and security bypasses to ensure that she was fully and completely connected to the Center, and that her new form could begin assimilation. Even so she was still asked to remain in the Assembler’s quarters for a while longer while she was taught basic motor functions. Cassius left eventually once they were sure they could to return to the colony. Her care was now placed in a smaller Assembler, who had a more Ruby shade.

Starpelt watched in interest as she followed their commands, and slowly gained more mobility. She didn’t miss however the small looks the assembler would shoot her.

“I thank you for helping me. It has been...a relatively long time since I have walked like this, and I would like to think being able to use my arms would aid me greatly while I recover.”

The assembler gave a small chitter. “Given what I have learned and know about organic minds, you are adapting very quickly.”

Starpelt saw the way their lights swirl slightly faster. She cocked her head as she was given a command to move one of her arms.

“There are...some gaps but...I seem to recall...humans bonding with robots.” she mused.

The Assembler clicked softly. “Yes. Some of us grow very attached. Myself included.”

Starpelt felt her lights speed up in interest. “Go on, I am interested.”

That earned a double take from the assembler. “Most times others do not care to hear about a human bond. We are very private about it, and there is still great controversy. But...since you have asked...I am bonded to a young female human named Samantha. During the battle for Alpha Centauri she saved my life. She is very smart, and brave for her size and age. I see myself in her.”

Starpelt looked down. The battle for Alpha Centauri...Samantha...why did those terms sound so familiar? Starpelt gathered that maybe it was due to the fact that she missed data. Perhaps it was corrupted. Perhaps it would come back the more she saw CodeMaster. Pushing those thoughts away she looked back to the assembler, rather touched by their story.

“Thank you for telling me about her...I can not sense much, but I can sense your pride. That is something to be commended.”

The Assembler hummed softly. “She...even gave me a name. I do not use it here though. Others do not wish it.”

Starpelt moved one arm and looked at them, clicking softly. “I would be most honored if you told me the name she gave you.”

The Assembler looked surprised for a few seconds, before glancing around. They approached her. “She calls me Ruby. I suppose due to the tinting of my plates.”

Starpelt gave a hum of gratitude as she thought this over. “It suits you. And...do you prefer it?”

They clicked softly. “I do. It is better to me than being addressed by my identification number and class.”

Starpelt nodded. “Then I shall call you Ruby. Discreetly of course.”

Ruby’s lights swirled faster. “That is...not a response that corresponds to my algorithms. All that I have attained to you so far is very unlike any of what I have encountered with others before.”

Starpelt chuckled softly. “That is because I am not of synthetic origin.”

Ruby whirred softly. “You are helping me create new algorithms. I am...learning. I would appreciate it if we continued.”

Starpelt whirred softly. “You are a curious one. I would appreciate spending time with you as well. I have a feeling you might teach me more than my motor skills.” she looked to her arms as she moved them in a slightly uncoordinated fashion. She still had a ways to go.

But...Starpelt knew she could do this. It wasn’t a perfect situation by far, but she had little choice but to ride it out. She could only hope the outcomes would be enough for her to regain herself.

She had an entire world to discover. A world that maybe would never have been open to her previously.

All Starpelt knew was that she had done this once before, so despite difficulties...she was determined to do it again.

A little over 2 weeks had passed, and Starpelt was able to complete simple tasks with her body, so she would be assigned to complete tasks for either Assemblers, or routine maintenance of the robot colony.

Ruby wasn’t the only robot who’d warmed up to her quickly. Her reception in the colony was actually better received than one would’ve thought. They apparently had respect for an action Starpelt had no memory of. When Ruby told her of it, her actions sounded like they were indeed her own.

While some were condescending and rather rude against having her there, others were quite receptive, especially given her predicament.

And there had been more than one circumstance where some had even apologized for the part they played in her kind’s destruction.

In effect...they were just like her. They had souls. That impressed her. Maybe she already had known that before, but it was something that impressed her greatly now.

Starpelt walked through the pathways of the colony. Most of it was underground, so there was little to no natural light. The lack of light however was made up for by the way The Center caused the structures to glow as it powered them. Royal blue energy would pulse brightly every few seconds before adjusting to a soft glow, giving a powerful thrum as it did so.

It gave the place a very ethereal glow. The structures towered high, and the area was not at all claustrophobic. There were some always leading to the surface that were a little more cramped, but besides that you could barely tell it was underground.

It only strengthened Starpelt’s already strong urge to fly around it freely. Eventually...maybe she would.

Any other light would come from glowing orbs shaped like alien engines. They flickered softly and were also powered by the Center. Areas where water poured into the colony from the lake above were also lit by markers as it flowed down into the colony. Whether the robots had any use for it, or simply enjoyed it’s aesthetic Starpelt wasn’t sure, but it only added to it’s mystical feel.

And of course the colony was anything but quiet. The sounds of work and robot chatter and commands could be heard everywhere as everyone did their thing. Starpelt although being skeptical at first, had come to appreciate it’s beauty.

She could see why it was so heavily protected by them.

Starpelt tilted her head and came to a stop in front of a new structure. Cassius was there, along with a Roamer class who was no doubt in charge, given the way their signal had an edge of authority to it. In a way, robot signals were not entirely different to scents.

Starpelt bowed her head in respect. “I have reported as requested.”

Cassius gave a trill. “Your assistance was requested by me in order to further stabilize your initiation process. You have been making remarkable progress given the circumstances.”

The Roamer spoke next. “I require one to repair the inner linings of this power core. It is a fairly simple task, one that I have been...assured you’re capable of.” Starpelt didn’t miss the slight prejudice that passed in their lights.

Starpelt straightened up confidently. “I can assure you, despite my origins I am a quick learner.”

The Roamer shot Cassius another glance before Cassius scanned her. Deeming her fit, Starpelt nodded and took a step closer to the Roamer.

The Roamer clicked softly before gesturing to the structure in which many were working to repair. “You will join the others. You may ask to acquire any data you need to fulfill your work.” They lit up their midsection and tilted their head.

Starpelt thankfully was familiar with this movement. It was to initiate a link so that the Roamer could more easily keep track of her, and all of the others under their command as they worked.

Starpelt lit up her midsection and clicked softly. The two entangled their top pair of arms, and Starpelt fought the urge to flinch as she felt the link establish. Her lights and vision started to swirl in unison with the Roamer’s.

But something else...it was like a weird sense of Deja-vu. This wasn’t her first time linking, but somehow this sensation pinged something of a much stronger caliber.

It only added to the confusion she’d been feeling since she’d awoken.

Pulling back, Starpelt could now easily feel the signals of the other workers mixing with hers as they communicated through the link. The Roamer sent out an introduction signal. Some responded with a greeting, some didn’t, and some downright repressed their reaction.

Everyone in the colony knew of her. And many had their own opinions. Starpelt, though had more than enough disdain for their pettiness.

As she took her place among them, the others working on the same project she was trilled softly in greeting. It was common knowledge she couldn’t speak in lights yet, so most were kind enough to speak in the auditory language.

The one closest to her clicked softly and through the link shared with her all the data she was previously missing in order to do this task successfully. It was protocol.

Starpelt bowed her head in gratitude and started soldering the damaged liners closest to her with her blasters.

It was hard work, since many had to be done. Starpelt wasn’t opposed to doing manual labor, but she also had to fight back the urge to take on authority. She had been implemented with that instinct, and even in a synthetic body, it didn’t cease to make itself known.

“You are a quick learner. I was expecting it to take you much longer.” One of the robots said from next to her as she worked.

Pausing from her work, Starpelt turned to them, but she saw their lights held no malice. She bowed her head. “I admit the beginning was a little hard to adjust to. I am glad there has been some patience.”

The robot trilled softly, returning to their work. “You have not let the opinions of the others bother you.”

Starpelt returned to her work as well. “Everyone is entitled to them, and I am well aware that some are justified. It is a most unusual situation, and it is one I cannot change, nor can anyone else.”

Another robot hummed softly. “She is very interesting. I have never felt a signal like hers.”

“It is distracting.” another robot growled. “She feels like a virus of corrupted data.”

Both robots gave them a cold stare.

But it didn’t seem to deter them. “You are like a virus. You are not one of us, no matter how hard you try. You mimic. You distract.”

Starpelt however, wasn’t about to gauge them. She said nothing and continued with her work.

They came closer to her and growled. “You do not deny it.”

It was now Starpelt spoke. “I have never claimed to be one of you. I am simply making do with what I have. As I stated, you are entitled to your opinion.”

She looked at them. “But if you do not have anything kind or helpful to say, then do not say it at all. We have a job to do. And complaining over less than ideal circumstances will not help nor change the outcome.”

They stared at her for a long moment, before growling and returning to where they were earlier.

The other two robots looked at her, impressed. “We were expecting that to go much worse.”

Starpelt returned to her work. “I dealt with this kind of situation more times than most would think.”

Another week passed and Starpelt had done enough that she’d earned a reputation. A good one. She worked hard, and was focused on commands. And as far as confrontations went, she had earned the reputation of not letting anyone’s opinion affect her. She didn’t fight, except when it was truly necessary, but fortunately the orders of Cassius had the Assemblers on her side, and they were enough to be able to stop any fight before it happened.

All of this while gaining strength and mobility of her joints and systems. Eventually Cassius said she would begin combat training to defend herself.

But today she would be striving to regain her corrupted data. To begin answering the questions she had. Today was her first section with the CodeMaster, and she had mixed feelings about this.

The CodeMaster was a sub-class Assembler, although they possessed some of the highest clearances. They were equipped with many protocols and programs specifically made for recovering or erasing parts of a robot’s coding and programming. Every colony had at least one, it was protocol.

Starpelt hoped this would be quicker than Cassius had made it seem. The open spaces called to her to take flight, like an itch left unscratched. She missed seeing the sun, and her curiosity burnt brightly to know what lay in the human colony.

The CodeMaster had a workspace apart from the Assembler’s sector, and it was lined with glowing veins of energy from the Center. Starpelt trilled her arrival softly.

The CodeMaster appeared at the entrance, and Starpelt bowed her head. They seemed to accept this and motioned for her to follow.

Inside the workspace was not very brightly lit apart from the power flowing in from the Center. There were several nodes aglow, and fortunately Starpelt could rely on different types of vision now to properly adjust herself to her surroundings.

Although they didn’t flat out express it, Starpelt had learned to read emotions pretty well, and she could tell they were less than pleased to be dealing with her.

Nonetheless Starpelt had little choice. She wanted her old self back.

The CodeMaster clicked softly, activating several nodes as they touched them. “I have done my best. But seeing as your origins are...different I could not save everything. I hope your expectations were not as such.”

Had she been organic she’d have narrowed her eyes at that statement. “My expectations were that you would help me retrieve what data you could. That is all I ask, and all I expect.”

The CodeMaster whirred softly. “Your reputation speaks no lies. I wonder how your organics saw you.”

Starpelt stepped closer, her stance firm, but non-threatening. “They saw me as their leader.”

She looked down. “But...I am not that entity anymore. I want to know who I became.”

The CodeMaster turned to her. “And you are certain you wish this? You most certainly will not like all of the discoveries. We would not want your systems to suffer another...incident.”

Starpelt shook her head. “Is this not why we are doing this in segments? Either way, not knowing is almost as torturous.”

The CodeMaster said nothing but instead returned to their work. Starpelt watched as their spines quivered. They were irritated.

The CodeMaster clicked passive aggressively.. “Organic mindsets are most difficult to predict. Never have I had to search through one as I have yours. But, I cannot go against orders. There will be imperfections you will have to live with.”

Starpelt nodded. “I understand, and I appreciate your efforts, forced or no.”

The CodeMaster paused for a moment as she said this, but then resumed.

They turned to her and gestured for her to step onto a platform in the center of the workspace. Once she did, they started taking wires pulsating with energy from The Center and hooking them up to her one by one.

“I do not know how this affects your kind of mindset, but we will find out.” they said.

She started to doubt this particular CodeMaster’s competence.

Starpelt had to refuse the urge to flinch as she felt each one of the wires attach themselves to her. Slowly though, her thoughts started to drift. Soon all she could register was the flow of energy running through her.

She was in what one would call the robot equivalent of a haze. Her body was motionless and her lights swirled around her face lazily. The CodeMaster attached one last one to the top of her head, and it caused Starpelt to give a small groan.

Suddenly her visual array went dark.

“You don’t- know him since then. He’s- changed.”

“It is not a “him”. That robot does-not deserve your mercy.”

“I don’t- care what you say- He’s my friend.”

“You are- a special human. It- is just like- you.”

“I care a- lot about you, Starpelt. We both- want you- to be free.”

“Fulfill her wishes- come with us- please.”

“You’re- not alone- anymore.”

“You’re- part of our- family now.”

Her visual array rebooted, and Starpelt shook her head softly instinctively as The CodeMaster removed the wires attached to her.

“Did...it…?” she whirred, her processors still coming online.

“I can not be certain with such unpredictability.”

Starpelt would've rolled her eyes at that statement had she been organic. But wait…

There was something new. Something familiar, but something new.

A human. A human that meant a great deal to her. They took up many Priority 1 memory files, not unlike her Creator. But...they weren’t her Creator. No...not they...he.

The more she processed it, the clearer it became. But it still wasn’t as clear as it had been originally. There were still some parts missing, and some parts that were refusing to assimilate.

“I...have received data but...it is not enough to make things complete. I saw...a male human. I think I am close with him because...he is placed mostly in priority 1 memory files.”

The CodeMaster trilled. “It is a start. You must give your system time to assimilate this data, it is standard protocol. You will not return until Head Assembler deems it fit.”

They then turned back to their work, giving her no further attention. Starpelt took the hint and took her leave, but not before clicking in gratitude.

Although they were...lacking in some areas, Starpelt couldn’t deny that they had helped her. But at the same time, the data received was so little. She remembered processing a glimpse of her lost data. This was but one small piece. And who knows how long it would take for her newfound data to assimilate itself.

Starpelt felt her lights slow. It almost seemed impossible she’d find all the answers.

Chapter Text

*1 week after Starpelt was taken to the Center*

Of all the lows in his life, this one was proving to be one of the more unbearable. But in reality Will was feeling the anguish of two beings. It was taking it’s toll on him, and it wasn’t good.

For the past week since everything had happened Will barely showed himself, barely ate, hardly slept. He was going through a depression that wasn’t totally his. Every time he tried to cheer himself up Robot’s side of the bond kept dragging him down with it. Robot, in the time he showed himself spent his time with Will, looking for support he couldn’t give. It was the first time Will had resented their connection.

Of course everyone was worried about them, and Will wished he could find the words to describe what he was going through. But a connection with an alien species that was as intimate as theirs couldn’t be put into words.

But that wasn’t to say Will wasn’t devastated at the situation. He was, and he waited as anxiously as Robot did for any word that she’d survived. The thought of her loosing her memories of them stung and hurt like not much else, but Will also knew she’d survived much worse. All he wanted was for her to be alright. Even if they had to start again, knowing she’d never be the same, the important part is that she’d be alive.

Robot unfortunately didn’t see it that way. Will could understand why. Robot and Starpelt were bonded on a much deeper level than he was, both by their past and their origins. Will knew had something like this happened to Penny or Judy, he’d be in the same place of guilt and despair.

But that still didn’t help the fact that every time he tried to pull both of them from the depths, Robot downright refused. Will didn’t have the mental strength to struggle with that.

Will looked at his food in front of him, his body showing all signs of willingness to eat, but his mental state from the bond making the appeal impossible to think about. He put his head in his hands. “Please tell me there’s been some word from Cassius...I can’t go on like this.”

They all looked to Judy, who sighed and shook her head. “I’ve been asking every day but...they haven’t returned yet.”

Will slumped his head down.

Maureen gave a sigh and hugged him. “Still no improvement?”

Will shook his head.

John gave a grumbling sigh.“That’s it. I’m talking to him.”

Will reached out to him within a second. “Dad don’t! That’ll only make things worse.”

“But you’re suffering!” Judy protested, gesturing at his food. Will shook his head. “If you guys confront him that could send us spiraling more than we already are. He’s in a really fragile state right now, and I’m just trying to deal with it until we know if she’s ok!” he replied, his voice rising.

“Alright I wasn’t gonna say it but what if she isn’t? What then, Will?” Penny asked.

Will looked at her for a second before sighing. “Then...we’ll take measures.” The very thought of that made him bite his lower lip. He somehow knew these emotions were his own, and he didn’t want to think about it.

The rest of the dinner was silent, and fortunately Will managed to force himself to eat as he had for the past week.

He spent the rest of the evening in his room, laying on his back watching as his abilities glowed and formed in his hand in small wisps of royal blue. He sighed and shook his head. He’d been doing well with his training before this whole thing. He looked to his abilities again before sitting up. Nothing said he couldn’t practice while she was gone.

Maybe that would help both of them. Will for one knew if Starpelt found out he’d lost his progress if and when she came back, it wouldn’t be a joyful reunion.

His thoughts were interrupted as Penny sauntered into his room. He raised a brow.

Penny went through the trouble of scrunching up her nose id disgust. “Ew. Yeah you can just smell the musk in here.”

Will rolled his eyes. “You’re more than welcome to leave. I’ll have you know I worked hard to clean up yesterday despite his depression.” With that he flopped back onto his bed. “Did you just come in here to annoy me?”

Penny smirked and wandered his room acting innocent. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”

Will rolled his eyes again and put his hands behind his head. “Whatever. We’re not really in the mood to argue.”

At this Penny raised a brow. “So there’s a “we” now? If I didn’t know any better I’d say an alien parasite was taking over your mind.”

Will grumbled. “You know what I meant, shut up. And also don’t even get me started.”

Penny chuckled before sitting next to him on his bed. “For once I do actually have a reason I forced myself to enter your cave of despair.”

Will glared at her, fed up with her snark and one more comment away from whacking her with a pillow. She grinned, not at all sorry and very much aware of his irritation.

She held her hand to her heart in mock hurt. “And to think I was going to write my next book on your adventure with Starpelt. But if that’s the way you’re gonna take it then I’ll just take my stories somewhere else.” She got up slowly but intentionally, just knowing his attention would be on her words.

Will sat up as he took her words in. “Really? You actually wanna do that? I didn’t think you actually would.”

Penny stopped and turned to him with a triumphant smirk. “As if anything else would make a bestseller. The more I hear it, the more I’m inspired by it. But it’s not as good as our story, just saying”

Will looked to the side, before back at her with a soft chuckle. “Of course not.”

He was silent for a second before he asked. “Does everyone know? Or is this gonna be some big surprise like your last one was?

Penny smiled. “Well I did want it to be a surprise for you and Robot mostly, but I figured why not. Starpelt already knows. I was interviewing her before…” she trailed off, shaking her head. “No matter. I just...wanted to tell you. You can tell him too. I’m not sure if it’ll help.”

Will’s gaze softened. “Thanks.”

Penny nodded and started walking to his door. Will smirked. “See? I knew you cared.”

Penny groaned softly before turning back. “Don’t get cocky.” She smirked softly before leaving, but annoyingly turning the light off as she did.

Will chuckled. In her own annoying way, she cared. And Will wouldn’t trade that for anything.

But that thought made his entire being flood with a new wave of remorse. Will sighed. “Robot…”

He decided to try and get some sleep. If he was fortunate maybe Robot would come back tonight. That at least would ensure Will didn’t wake up to devastating waves of pain and guilt. It always seemed Robot was better able to handle his emotions with Will in a relative proximity of him. He wasn’t sure if that was the bond, or something else. All he knew was that Robot isolating himself hadn’t done them both any favors.

It wasn’t until very early in the morning that Will was awoken to the bond thrumming with Robot’s proximity. He wasn’t exactly being quiet as he entered the house, but at this point everyone was used to the noise he made coming in, so it no longer startled them like it had in the beginning.

Will sat up as Robot entered his room, looking guilty. Will had a number of emotions. But he chose to go gently on him.

Will let out a soft breath as the bond was no longer being strained by isolation. “I’m glad you’re back.”

Robot said nothing but instead looked at the floor. Will gave a soft sigh. “We haven’t heard anything yet, but I don’t think it can be that much longer.”

Robot gave a soft whir, looking at him with a slightly sour expression in his lights and emotions. Will narrowed his gaze. “What? I’m trying to stay optimistic here. Which may I add you’re not helping with.”

Robot gave a soft growl before turning and looking out of his window. Will rolled his eyes. “Anyways. I thought you might want to know Penny’s writing her next book on our adventure with Starpelt. So she may be asking you for details.”

That sparked the slightest bit of intrigue and approval from Robot, the first positive thing he’d sensed from him all week.

Will lay back down. “I know this is hard, but I can’t go on like this. And neither can you.”

It was now Robot turned to him. Will sighed. “I know. But doing this isn’t going to help the outcome. I’ve been trying to wait until we get word from Cassius, but Robot I’m exhausted and I’m tired of not wanting to eat.”

Robot seemed to for the first time take note of the toll his grief was having on Will he knelt down and inspected Will closer, giving a sad whir and looking away after a moment.

Will propped himself up. “Bud...I want to help you. But I don’t know how to help both of us…”

In the days to follow Robot had been much closer to Will, now that he was aware that his grieving process was having such a profound effect on Will, he switched from isolation to protection rapidly.

Will was frankly a little annoyed by it, but he did notice the strain the bond put on his mind lessened ever so slightly. He could at least eat without forcing himself now.

He hoped that was a small sign of improvement for Robot as well.

But Robot soon followed him everywhere like he had all those years ago. It was like Robot was trying to distract himself with Will’s well-being. But now it was getting annoying.

“He’s gone from being God knows where for days on end, to not even walking 10 feet away from me.” Will pouted.

Judy chuckled. “Brings back some memories doesn’t it?”

Will raised a brow at her, not amused.

“All I’m saying is that Robot’s trying.”

Penny, who who’d just walked into the kitchen snorted in amusement. “What’s wrong? Trouble in paradise already?”

Will groaned. “You, don’t even start.”

Will didn’t even look back as Robot came behind him. He just gave a small sigh.

“Oh hey we were just talking about you, Big Guy!” Penny smiled, giving his arm a small pat before leaving.

Judy gave a small shrug as she leaned against the kitchen counter. “Going for a walk might be nice. I seem to remember a time you thought that was fun.”

Will looked out at the sunny day they had. Well...it had been a bit since he’d gone on a real walk not just to get somewhere. He looked to Robot, not sure if he’d agree to it.

But much to Will’s surprise he straightened up and tilted his head in affirmation.

“Well that was easy. My work here is done.” Judy chuckled.

Will smiled and shook his head as she walked out. He didn’t miss though the small amounts of gnawing sadness that escaped Robot’s attempts to shield them from Will. He gave a small sigh, standing up. “Hey. This will help us. Plus...there’s something I need your help with.”

“I’m not sure this is your best idea.” Robot’s uncertain thought came through their bond.

Will stretched and took a breath. “Come on, it’ll be fine! My abilities aren’t that strong yet I’m just working on endurance.”

Robot shook his head slightly with a disapproving whir.

It was actually thanks to a camping trip with friends and Will’s weak attempts at orientation at the time that they found this place, a small lake that was easily hidden by foliage. It was a small area but without flight it was the best they could do to get privacy. Will didn’t exactly want his abilities all over the colony news for everyone to see.

Will took a breath and flexed his hands, testing his abilities with a triumphant smirk. Robot tilted his head in intrigue, but Will caught the painful pang he tried to hide.

Will sighed and poised, closing his eyes and remembering what Starpelt had taught him about centering himself. What had taken him almost half an hour before only took him about 5 minutes now. The serene sounds of the forest around them helped greatly.

Will felt Robot loosen up through their bond. Taking a final breath he opened his eyes and thrust his hands out in front of him.

In a flash his abilities responded with a strong hum, trilling softly. Will smiled. “I’ve still got it.”

He now looked to Robot, who straightened up in approval. “Alright bud, hit my shield as hard as you can.”

Robot stopped and drew back.

Will rolled his eyes. “Robot. Come on!”

“But-”

“Robot, just do it! You won’t hurt me, I promise.”

Robot gave a small growl as he tilted his head in an annoyed fashion. “For the record I was against this.” But as he poised and leaped towards Will.

Will took a breath and his shield glowed brighter as he fortified it with his strength.

Robot landed and punched his fists into Will’s shield. Instinctively Will shut his eyes, although this time he didn’t flinch. Robot’s punch was met with a soft pulsing hum as Will gave a soft grunt as he felt the hit resonate throughout his entire being.

But upon opening his eyes he saw that his shield still held up strong as soft ripples traveled across it.

He gave a laugh as Robot drew his fists back. “You were not so strong last time.” he observed.

Will snorted. “You haven’t been watching me train in a while. Now come on hit me again! I wanna see how many I can take!”

Robot gave a reluctant whir but eventually complied.

Punch and hit after punch and hit were all accompanied by Will’s successful ability to upkeep his shield. And Robot had tried many different combos. Will gave a small pant. He was holding up well but after about 2 minutes of non-stop hits from Robot his endurance started to waver.

He gave a pant as Robot punched his shield and it flickered for a split second, the glow becoming progressively less luminous.

“Ok Robot...Ok I need a break…” he panted, letting the sheild as well as his hands fall. Robot stopped and immediately started checking on his condition.

Will was panting as he took his pack and sat against one of the many trees. He took a substitute of an energy drink out. It wasn’t really the same thing, but on Alpha Centauri it was the best they could do. It would at least restore Will’s energy levels to an extent.

Robot knelt beside him. Will gave a small laugh. “I feel better don’t you?”

Robot said nothing but instead sat not far from him. Will rolled his eyes softly before looking out on the surroundings and closing his eyes.

“It’ll all be ok.”

Ironically the news came a few days after. Will remembered it probably around 6AM and he’d been sleeping peacefully.

Only to be woken up to an explosion of apprehension and impatience.

“Will! Will come on wake up!”

Will started awake, instinctively releasing a small burst of his abilities. Which caused Robot to flinch back upon contact.

“Ughh...Robot I didn’t order a wake up call…”

Robot gently put a hand on his shoulder and looked him square in the face. “Cassius is outside.”

That woke him up quickly. As did it the rest of the family, or at least those who weren’t already up.

They all scrambled out to see them accompanied by a few others which Will could only assume were other assemblers. He did recognize one of them. Samantha’s robot, Ruby. Will tilted his head in intrigue, he had no idea Ruby was an Assembler.

“Oh great. None of us speak robot.” Penny grumbled through a yawn. Both Will and Robot gave her pointed looks.

As Cassius and Robot started communicating, Will cocked his head and furrowed his brow as some clicks and whirs strangely made more sense than before. “...condition...stable...corrupted…”

Robot was still as Cassius told him of Starpelt’s condition.

“Alright...no crushing depression yet…” Will thought with a small glimmer of hope.

Maureen put her hands on his shoulders in a comforting gesture. Will looked to her with a small thankful smile. Whatever happened...they had support.

As Cassius finished, Robot lowered his head. Will felt a small glimmer of Robot’s dismay he was holding back.

Will straightened up. “Robot…?”

The robots bid each other farewell, and Cassius glanced at them almost...pitifully. Ruby made a few friendly clicks at them. She walked up to Robot and whirred something. Whatever it was, it sent some relief through their bond.

Robot turned back to Will. “Not...remember, Starpelt.”

Will felt his heart drop as he looked down. “At all…?”

“At all.” Robot confirmed through their bond, while shaking his head. “Stable...Starpelt. Time. Unsure.”

“She might not get everything back.” Judy finished. Robot lowered his head. “Yes.”

“And you can’t go see her? Maybe that would help...” Maureen said softly, taking Robot’s arm.

Robot shook his head. “Complications.”

Will gave a sigh. “And they have no idea how long?”

Robot shook his head once more.

Will bit his bottom lip. He gave a small sigh. “But she’s alive.”

Robot looked to him, then downward. “Yes.”

“Then that’s what matters.” Will said, looking him square in the face. “She’s alive.”

Robot wasn’t convinced.

“I know, it’s hard to go through this and remain optimistic, but there is a good chance she’ll remember. Even without the robot factor, she’s still an organic mind.” Judy said, coming up to them. “If they say there’s nothing more to be done...then nothing says we can’t try exposing her to triggers.”

Will smiled softly at that idea. Technically her data was in the form of synthetic data, but that couldn’t change the organic origin. Perhaps that could work.

“But until then...we should continue as normal. There’s nothing we can do if I understand, right?” John asked.

Will and Robot looked to eachother. “Right...” Will replied.

“But the fact that we’re still here hasn’t changed. That goes for both of you.” Maureen said firmly, giving Robot a soft, but direct glance.

After the family had dispersed, Robot stood frozen. Will gave a soft sigh and walked to him.

“She’s...forgotten all about us, Will…”

As soon as that though came over Robot’s ability to hold his emotions back faltered and Will felt all of them full force.

He clutched his heart and took a breath.

He was spiraling, and as much as Will sympathized with him he knew that if he continued to do that, both of them would continue to spiral. No. It was time to try another tactic. Hopefully one that would help them both cope a little better

He now started to understand what “tough love” meant.

Will took a deep breath and let his irritation and firmness make itself know both over their bond, and through the firm gaze he directed at Robot.

“That’s enough, Robot.”

Robot looked at him slowly. “But-”

“No, not this time, bud.” He looked down and sighed. “You’ve had your time to grieve, we both have. But there comes a point where both of us just need to accept it. If we don’t then we’ll never get through this!”

He put his hand on Robot’s shoulder. “I know. Better than anyone I know your pain. But this isn’t what she’d want.”

Robot looked at him helplessly. “But she’s not even here, she doesn’t even know we exist.”

Will gave a small grumble. “But she’s not dead, Robot…! There’s still a chance we’ll see her again, and you need to stop focusing on the fact that she doesn’t remember us. What’s done, is done. And sulking about what we could’ve done differently isn’t going to help us! We need to move on, accept things as they come! If not, we’ll both be stuck in this loop...and I...I don’t want that. Robot...you’re dealing with our emotions now...part of that is learning how to live with them, and not let them control you. I know it’s not easy, but you have to try, bud…!”

Robot pulled back slightly, an unmistakable sense of hurt, guilt and slight betrayal in both his lights and over their bond.

Will gave a small sigh and turned away, his point being made. “If you won’t do it for my sake...do it for hers.”

The weeks that passed had brought several issues. The biggest one was the fact that Robot had secluded himself almost completely from them, muting his side of their bond almost as much as he could to the point that the only thing Will could sense was that his friend was alive.

This worried him to no end. Sure he’d wanted Robot to get past it, but not like this…! Anytime he or anyone had tried to track him down, he evaded them.

Will was torn between regret of his words, and irritation that Robot was spiraling like this and refused to see the bigger picture.

For the first time in about a year...Will felt the faintest sense of...freedom. And utter pain and regret for feeling that.

But Will, even if he still hurt was trying his best to go about life as Starpelt would have wanted him to. He practiced every day his abilities, and hoped that if she ever returned, she’d be proud of his progress. Plus, he hoped she’d teach him how to create blasts and combo attacks.

Among other things were developments concerning the box. The box that Starpelt had found in her Creator’s quarters back on her planet.

Will hadn’t heard much of it since they’d arrived and given it in, the small developments such as that there were massive energy readings from it, and that it was protected with a kind of genetic lock. It was only recently they’d found out this genetic lock could only be unlocked by one being.

It was ironic, really. The moment they found the key to this box that had been so mysteriously uncovered, was the moment they couldn’t access the only being capable of unlocking it, if she even still could.

Besides that, Will tried his best to uphold his hope for her return...but it had been almost a month now...and he’d be lying if he said he hadn’t been loosing hope.

He’d thought a walk in the park would help clear his mind. It was a rather crisp morning, regardless of the sun.

He gave a sigh as he looked up, trying to reach out to Robot. As usual...no response.

He shook his head softly, and put his hands in his pockets. Upon gazing around him his gaze suddenly caught on someone sitting on a nearby bench.

Was that…?

Will’s eyes widened as the realization hit him. That was Jenna!

Will furrowed his brow as he debated whether or not to go and test the waters, and he was extremely glad he’d insisted on coming alone.

The part that was furiously loyal to Starpelt won over, and the desire she’d held for acceptance and perhaps even forgiveness from Libby’s family was like a blaring siren in his mind.

He wouldn’t push, but perhaps he could help her see that Starpelt wasn’t to blame, and that she held her mother’s love for Jenna.

Hesitantly he walked over to where she was, trying and most likely failing at looking nonchalant.

He sat down, and she looked at him with a side eye before she blinked. Will glanced at her, slightly in awe at just how alike her and Libby looked.

They didn’t say a word for a few moments.

Well this was awkward.

He again thanked the heavens that no one, especially not Penny or Don was here.

Will cleared his throat. “Uh...you’re Jenna, right?

She took a small breath before looking to him. She tilted her head almost sarcastically “And you’re Will Robinson.”

He chuckled and put a hand behind his head. “Am I really that popular?”

She gave a soft scoff. “Oh no. You’re definitely not that popular since you befriended robots and brought back aliens.”

He looked down. He’d tried not to focus on the popularity he had. It made him uncomfortable.

They were silent for a few moments more.

She shook her head and looked at him with a soft chuckle. “You’ve come to talk to me about...her, haven’t you? I mean why else would you seek me out?”

Will opened his mouth to say something, before rubbing the back of his neck. “Alright. Fine. I did want to talk about her...since I know...well it didn’t go so well.”

Jenna raised a brow. “Why are you talking to me about this?”

Will straightened up. “Because she’s my friend. She saved my life and...well I want her to be happy. She went through a lot to get the chance to meet you.”

He chose his words carefully. He didn’t know if she knew the full extent of that truth, and he certainly didn’t want to be the one to tell her in the off case she didn’t.

The look of contempt and sarcastic snark on Jenna’s face flickered for a split second. “Look, I get it. You owe her. But if you’re as close as you say you should know why I’m a little hesitant to warm up to her.”

With that she started to get up.

Will took a breath. “I can only imagine. And you’re right to feel how you do, but it goes deeper than that. You weren’t there when she found out you and your dad existed.”

Jenna raised a brow and paused, before groaning. “You’re gonna tell me regardless of what I say, aren’t you?”

Will looked away for a second, before looking back at her, his look saying everything.

She sat back with a huff. “Don’t think it’ll do much.”

Will nodded and took a breath. “When she found out...it was at a time we didn’t know her too well. She was stoic and cold. But...also snarky like you.” he said, glancing at her.

Jenna quickly gathered an unamused look on her face.

Will gave a nervous chuckle before continuing. “A-Anyways, my point is she didn’t show very much emotion around us. But when she saw Libby’s...er...your mom’s personnel file showing her family ties...something changed in her…”

Will furrowed his brow as he recalled to mind the flood of emotions that had filled her eyes, how they lit up and showed her entire world shattering at the same time.

How she shook and trembled as if over a decade of everything she’d went through suddenly took more meaning.

“For the first time...we saw her crack...that cold exterior broken by the discovery of her real place in Libby’s life… We didn’t do that. You did.”

He was so focused on recalling the memory that he missed Jenna’s softened look until he looked up at her.

“Your dad and especially you mean the world to her. She was willing to risk her life to see you.”

Jenna was silent for a few moments, her hazel eyes inspecting him.

“I’m..not entirely sure what to say to that.”

Will gave a soft sigh. “You don’t have to say anything. I just thought you should know. Maybe give her a chance...when she comes back.”

At that she sat up. “I heard about her being taken to the Colony. I’m sorry.”

Will nodded and looked down. “Thanks.”

Another few moments of silence.

She took a breath and stood up to leave, before doing so however she turned back to him.

“I can see how you got your reputation. You have a way with words.”

And with that she flashed a small smile of thanks before leaving. Will had to take a moment to process that. Was that a compliment? It was hard to tell. But she didn’t seem entirely closed off...was that a good thing?

Will shook his head. He’d done what he could for Starpelt, and it was only time that would determine if Jenna would believe his words or not.

Will sat there for a while after that, his thoughts leading from one thing to another. But overall the surroundings calmed him greatly.

His thoughts and serenity, however were shattered as he suddenly gave a gasping pant and sat forward clutching his heart.

Robot’s side of the bond flared intensely and overwhelmed Will. Whatever was happening was more than Robot could mute.

He gave a groan and shook violently as his head started ringing in searing pain.

Fear…

Regret…

Apprehension…

Then...nothing…

Will gave a gasp as he coughed. To his dismay he saw some passerby’s had picked up on his pain and were making sure he was alright.

Will was weak, and it took a moment to register his surroundings again, but he assured them he was fine.

Not wasting a second he got up and ignored the way his legs trembled. He was panicking. He couldn’t even feel Robot now!

His pace increased as he activated his wrist device and called everyone in the family.

“Guys! Guys something happened! I can’t feel Robot!” he said frantically.

His world was beginning to swirl. His heart rate was rising, and he couldn’t breathe.

“Robot?! Robot please!” Will tried desperately to call out to him. “Buddy please I’m sorry just-...”

Will stopped as he suddenly felt dizzy. He put a hand to his head as his swimming vision suddenly collapsed into darkness.

Chapter Text

Chapter 16

Robot gave a growl as he bent his wings to turn, consequently slamming into the rock face he was trying to avoid and crashing down to the ground below.

He got back up, and gave himself a few moments to repair any damage before leaping up again and taking flight.

Will hadn’t been the only one practicing his skills while Starpelt was gone. At least when he was flying his processor was too focused on discerning and analyzing movements foreign to him that he found it hard to focus on other things.

He’d gotten significantly better at flying. He didn’t crash at the single foreign gust of wind anymore, and his movements were more alike to that of the apex predator of which he took his form.

It was the sudden movements like sharp turns that still managed to prove themselves difficult. He’d been practicing in a small canyon, where there was little room for error.

His processing skills were top notch, he knew exactly what to do, it was actually executing the action that got him.

Robot once again crashed into the rock formation he was trying to avoid. He gave a whir of determination as he flapped his wings and managed to slow his fall to the point he landed on all fours.

He looked up at it, and gave an irritated growl, his ear flaps flattening.

He gave a defeated growl as he shifted into his bipedal form, sitting on the ledge of the out cut he was on, and looking at the canyon in front of him. Without her help...he didn’t think he’d be able to get this part down, and being able to maneuver was one of the most important parts of flying.

Robot looked down as his lights slowed. He missed her more than he’d missed anyone excepting his family. He was glad he’d muted his side of his and Will’s bond. He’d been harming Will, and Robot was glad Will had helped him see that.

Will was stronger than he was right now, and that alone was reason enough to break Robot’s selfish need of emotional support over their bond. He wanted Will to be happy, not dragged down to the depths Robot was unable to pull himself from.

Add to the fact that it would appear Tessa, the head Seeker had chosen to ignore the threat of SAR that was deep rooted in Robot’s processors. If she hadn’t then they would’ve heard something by now.

As much as Robot tried to slow the process, SAR’S core data was like a virus, and it was advancing.

That was another reason Robot had muted his side of their bond. He didn’t want any adverse effects on Will, and he didn’t want Will knowing how dangerous this had gotten.

Robot had been going over countless simulations and options, and all of them led back to one thing: the Code-Master. And if no one else was going to take his side...then maybe he’d have to do it himself despite the consequences.

Robot felt over their bond how worried Will was, but given the situation of both his processor and his emotional state, Robot knew this was the better way.

Robot gave a soft whir as he looked out upon the canyon again, switching back to his numerous attempts at flying. He went over and analyzed all sources of knowledge over flying that he had access to, whether that be from Starpelt, or the study of other flying creatures or machines.

He had the knowledge...why was it so hard for his body to follow those simple commands of action? This is how mobility in every other form he knew worked.

“You are overthinking. Flying...it comes from inside. It is not something you simply execute. It is something you feel and fulfill with your entire being.”

In response to his inquiry, a memory file from about a week before Starpelt’s incident was called to reference.

Robot watched in awe as Starpelt maneuvered with extreme skill the numerous tight twists and turns of this canyon.

She circled back and came to a hover beside him. “Took me around 107 tries in simulation and several knowledge implants to finally get through an obstacle like this.”

Robot flattened his ear flaps in determination. “I think I can do this, how hard can it be? I mean, no disrespect.”

Starpelt rolled her lights and chuckled. “Whatever you say. If you are so sure, show me how your warm-up movements and then demonstrate.”

Robot wasted no time. He flapped his wings and thrust forward. In the past few weeks Starpelt had taught him different movements that could be used to prepare the body and wings to be able to twist and turn effectively. At a certain point, it became second nature to fliers, but until that happened it was just part of the process before any challenging flight obstacles.

Robot bent his wings and performed several corkscrews, coming out of it and performing an upward spiral. After letting himself stall for a second, twisted himself forward before performing zigzags to test his turning ratio. Once his algorithms had found a link on what movements worked with different types of wind currents to adjust, it hadn’t taken him long to pick up on basic maneuvers.

He took pride in the fact Starpelt blatantly showed her surprise and delight in his quick progress through her lights.

It was clear she’d never trained a robot.

Finishing his warm up, Robot flared his wings to hover next to her, his ear flaps twitching in pride. “Any thoughts?”

Starpelt gave a snort. “Only that your pride is going to your head. That could get you killed.”

She bonked the top of his head with her talon. Robot shook his head vigorously as he backed up a stroke. “But I’m not hearing it wasn’t good.”

Starpelt voiced a grumbling sigh and pushed him forward with a talon. “Go on already, if you are so confident, fly through this canyon without hitting anything.”

Robot’s spines quivered with a smug determination as he shot a taunting look at Starpelt. “I’m one of the most sophisticated robots of my kind, I think I can handle a simple canyon.”

Long story short handling that “simple canyon” was much harder than his algorithms had anticipated.

They were sat in a place that overlooked this canyon from above. Robot sat repairing himself as Starpelt watched intently, making sure no further damage remained. But Robot gave a growl at her smug look.

“Don’t even start.”

“Start what? The fact that “one of the most sophisticated robots of his kind could not handle a simple canyon?”, or the fact that perhaps it takes more than a quick processor and learning process?”

Robot gave her a venomous look.

This only caused Starpelt to laugh. “You robots are adorable. But...it is not totally your fault. I did not mention something to you. You can execute these movements in an open area, but you failed where it mattered because you are overthinking. Flying...it comes from inside. It is not something you simply execute. It is something you feel and fulfill with your entire being. It is an instinct that is only honed by exposure and practice.”

“I don’t understand.” Robot whirred, looking to her in confusion.

Starpelt hummed and looked down. “No...I suppose that would be harder for you to grasp.”

She looked to him, and cocked her head. “It might be easier if I showed you, for I was once in your place.”

Robot cocked his head. He found it almost amusing the thought of her struggling with flight.

Starpelt saw his look and gave a scoffing sound. “We all started somewhere. It was...very hard for me to grasp the concept.”

She reached for his head with her two front talons and felt along the top. Robot understood in a moment what she was trying to do.

“Here.” he whirred, guiding her talons with his hands to the correct spot to perform a data allocation, a niche in the plating just below the back of the head and the beginning of the neck.

Starpelt flexed her talon and her plating shifted to reveal her data allocation beacon. It was strange how no matter what form was taken, the elements for this action didn’t change.

“Am I doing this right? You have done it to me but...I am more afraid of doing something wrong.” she said, pausing.

Robot couldn’t move his head, but he sent a wave of comfort over their kinship bond, a little amused by the fact she was showing such concern for him when normally she was so confident in her abilities. “You’re doing everything correctly. Did you feel any discomfort when I did this to you?”

“No...I suppose not. Strange, but not painful.” she replied.

Robot gave a hum. “There’s your answer.”

She flicked him softly with her tail. But Robot could see her amusement.

Robot tensed slightly as she inserted the beacon into his system, and his system alerted him to the inquiry of access, he accepted as he felt his lights and visual array start to swim with the incoming data in the form of a memory file, and a rather early one from her life.

Curious and intrigued, Robot accessed the file, and saw it’s contents.

ALPHA 0004, or rather Starpelt had been in this form for about 3 weeks, by a human time scale.

Her recovery had been quick and her training effective and nearly flawless. It was to be expected of course, she’d been genetically made and designed to be capable of leadership, to have a high level of intelligence and a mind capable of assimilating information quickly.

She had about fifty human years of various knowledge and wisdom implanted into her mind in spurts, that of which only increased once she’d begun training to be a leader of her kind after her turning.

She’d undergone intensive training in combat, strategy, and mastering her abilities. Everything she’d need to become a mighty leader now that the correct combination for turning clones into Nocfur had been found.

One of the only things that she was yet to do was learn to use her wings.

Like any other extremity, in order to use it correctly, it must first be trained and strengthened. Since she’d been turned, she’’d had to re-learn how to use her new body, and using her wings had proven to be among the most difficult to manage, given that humans had no wings, no instinct to fly.

But Starpelt felt it. Ever since she’d been turned she felt it intensely. A new instinct. An instinct that grew more unbearable the longer she was confined to the ground.

The instinct of the ancient pure blood Nocfur.

The instinct to fly.

And she’d finally reached a point where her superiors and Creator were certain her wings could carry her body. The Nocfur DNA in her came from a Juvenile purebred Nocfur, well old enough to fly, but not for a new mind that had to learn the process.

Through simulations and training exercises and genetic modifications to perfect any small fault, her wings became stronger and stronger.

Before this point, any attempt for her to fly from even an elevated spot ended up with her crashing to the ground.

She knew the theory of flying, what needed to happen. How she needed to use her wings to gain momentum and thrust by means of flapping, and once she was high enough, be able to move her wings to maintain lift, the key to flying and the means of staying in the air.

In her faction, her superiors had many arboretums, large spiral structures that were hollow in the middle, and unlike the other building, was completely open to air above to harbor plant life and most times resources for research on genetic data.

The height and the fact that it had no roof made it the ideal place for her to learn to take off from ground level.

(Start soundtrack here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ob-73lHbwe4)

Starpelt walked into the cleared middle, accompanied by her superiors and her Creator. She looked up at the sheer height she’d have to climb before leveling out. The pain of her crashing, and the unpleasant memories of the healing process her superiors had in place to ensure her wounds healed were fresh in her mind.

She swallowed nervously and felt her ear flaps flatten as she shrunk back ever so slightly.

Here superiors stared at her, not able to understand her hesitation. Starpelt could feel her panic rising.

“Hey.” her Creator said, coming to face her.

“Ignore them. What you need to focus on is you. I know they jammed the theory of this into you, but that’s only one part of this. You said it yourself this was something that calls to you. It’s an instinct. An instinct has no reason, and it’s illogical, but it’s how you’ll get past this. But you can’t overthink this.”

Starpelt looked at her before giving a soft scoff. “How would you know this? Humans do not fly.”

Her Creator chuckled. “Starpelt, we don’t need to fly to have our own instincts. Just try not to think so hard. Let it come naturally.”

Starrpelt gave her an uncertain look, before nodding.

She shook herself, before looking back at them. Her Creator nodded for her to go, while her superiors kept a close eye on her vitals, movements, and brain functions.

Starpelt took a deep breath and calmed herself, before looking up to the sky. Her ear flaps flattened in determination as she spread her wings and poised.

Using all the strength in her legs she thrust herself upwards, flapping her wings heavily to try and gain some thrust.

She only made it about two wing beats before she lost it and crashed back down on the ground with a pain-filled grunt.

Again.

This time she made it slightly higher, but her angle was off and she crashed into the wall.

Again.

This time she tried to save herself by using her talons to catch onto the wall she crashed into, flapping her wings to try and avoid falling to the ground.

She fell face first.

Time after time, attempt after attempt, crash after crash. She was making progress, but it wasn’t enough. Days passed like this.

And it broke her.

She gave a choked gasp as she crashed for the nth time against the side of the building, the edge jutting out and catching her in the midsection, causing her to fall to the ground yet again. She gave a shout of pain as she rolled to a stop. She gave weak pants as she felt liquid that was no doubt her blood start coming from her mouth, a common occurrence these days.

Her head was ringing as her Creator ordered her superiors back. She came to kneel beside Starpelt.

“Creator I cannot…I cannot...do this…” she wheezed.

Her Creator shook her head and touched the side of her face. “You can.”

“I cannot fly...I am just a human…no matter what evidence might suggest...” Starpelt said, swallowing so that her voice remained steady.

“You’re so much more than that...look how far you’ve come. How much you’ve done in such a short amount of time. No ordinary human could do what you’ve done.” her Creator said softly.

Starpelt scoffed softly, laying her head back down on the ground, awaiting the inevitable.

“You survived your turning.”

Starpelt’s eyes opened at that.

“You fought. Why did you fight, Starpelt?” she questioned softly.

Starpelt was silent for a moment, looking at her. “Freedom...for my kind. And...freedom for you. A chance to fight for it…”

Her Creator’s eyes widened in shock at her admission, she swallowed quickly and nodded, her voice catching slightly. “Then let that be what drives you forward now.”

Starpelt’s eyes widened as she realized her Creator was right. She had a reason to fight then, and she had a reason to fight now. She was the only hope for change, and she wouldn’t be deterred from it. She was a survivor. She was Starpelt.

Now filled with a new determination, she lifted herself up, and shook herself.

Her Creator smiled and backed up to give her room “Attagirl.”

Starpelt gave a furious grunt as she thrust herself up.

Everything burned, threatened to give out. It would be so incredibly easy to crash. There wasn’t enough thrust for her to continue, and she couldn’t flap any harder. She gave gasping wheezes.

“No.”

She had to push through. She had to fight. No one else could. She couldn’t make it this far just to fail now.

She pushed beyond what she thought she could bear and suddenly heard the wind change. She opened her eyes to see she’d cleared the top of the building. She’d climbed high enough!

“Level out, Starpelt! You did it!” she heard her Creator’s joyful shout.

Starpelt gave a breath as she angled her wings forward as she’d practiced and felt her body follow.

For the first time she felt her wings be outstretched completely, uplifted by the force of lift. She watched in awe as she didn’t fall or plummet, but instead remained stable. She gave a breathless laugh.

“I...I am flying…!”

She gave a soft laugh and flapped her wings, following the simulations she knew of how to change her trajectory.

Through subtle angle changes and bends of her wings she found as she cleared her faction and was met with the wide open landscape in front of her, that the knowledge she had was rendered null. As she felt the wind and the suns touch her now re-invigorated body, she felt a sense of pure joy.

With a shuddering gasp, she embraced it openly.

Past that, all Starpelt knew was a new freedom, a new sense of spirit, a calling that had been fulfilled.

It was almost as if she’d done this all her life. As if she’d been born to experience this one moment of freedom.

Giving an excited pant she welcomed the vastness of the sky and flew whatever way she saw fit, feeling and gaining knowledge of her wings and body truly for the first time.

She twisted and turned, albeit unsteadily but that mattered little to her.

For the first time in her life...Starpelt laughed.

She laughed in pure joy and glee.

Twisting and turning across the landscape her movements became more daring, more graceful as her speed increased.

She maneuvered around the floating islands, along the clouds, and even between the bigger gaps in her faction’s layout.

She doubled back with a new confidence, and sped back towards the arboretum, diving down and landing unsteadily, her wings raised majestically as the dust parted.

She was panting heavily, but she’d never felt so alive.

Robot’s visual array returned as Starpelt stepped back and shook herself. He looked at her with a sense of respect, seeing how she’d managed to once more overcome the odds of her very life.

“You...really were like me.”

Starpelt chuckled. “Like I said your first day of flying, it was difficult for all of us.”

Robot gave a whir. “But I still don’t understand how this could help me. Instincts...it’s an organic trait. For a machine like me...that doesn’t exist. Everything we do is analyzed, adjusted, recorded.”

Starpelt gave a soft hum as she touched a talon to her chin in thought. “All I know is that when I focused on not merely the commands I needed to execute, but the reason behind why I needed to execute them, who I was doing it for, did I succeed.”

She touched a talon to his chest. “It must come from here. The heart. It is what I have told each and every one of my own when teaching them to fly.”

Robot looked to her and shook his head slightly. Starpelt gave an-ex-vent and looked at him. “I know you are capable of this because Creator had a substantial part in creating your heart. And I have seen for myself what it is capable of.”

Robot looked up as the memory file ended. He was just as confused about the entire concept as he’d been the first time he’d seen this data from her.

But he did understand one thing: he was overthinking this too much.

But how could he do any different? This was his nature.

Robot could only think of one thing he’d ever done that went beyond his base programming without need for reason. Ensuring the safety and happiness of his family.

Was that a part of instinct?

Robot gave a small ex-vent as he stood up. Maybe if he started focusing on why he wanted to learn to fly in the first place, something different would happen. Something would click.

But he had little time for that now. He received a ping from a nearby source. Ever since Starpelt had been rebooted Samantha’s robot, Ruby had been visiting him frequently to give him updates. Whether Cassius knew about this or was just indifferent so long as Robot didn’t interfere Robot had a hard time figuring out.

But nonetheless, she was his only lifeline to Starpelt and her recovery, since Cassius was often too busy to bother with giving details.

Robot decided to give his Nocfur form one last try for the day and lept off the ledge he was on after transforming.

He flew with moderate ease now, having control over his movements and adjustments. As he flew though, he tried to compute how he could take Starpelt’s advice, and if it could indeed even help him.

He landed not far from the spot they agreed to meet and Robot took the opportunity to shift back into his bipedal form before making himself known to Ruby, who was in her bipedal form. Scarecrow wasn’t far from where he landed.

Robot gave a small whir of acknowledgment, but didn’t exactly feel like saying much. He knew Scarecrow only wanted to help, but his attempts had been doing just the opposite.

Scarecrow tilted his head with a soft click, and walked to him. “I have some news I think you’ll want to hear.”

Scarecrow however didn’t have time to elaborate before Ruby made her presence known to the two. Scarecrow flashed a quick “later” through his lights.

The healer straightened up as protocol dictated she should in Robot’s presence as General. But she seemed to catch the flick of annoyance his lights gave upon seeing the gesture.

Ruby looked between the two, giving a curious click, before hiding the intrigue her lights showed.

“I’ll start by giving her overall state. She’s improving in both mobility and efficiency. She’s become one of the most diligent we have, and she’s been learning at a faster rate than any organic we’ve ever recorded, as last time she was having a bit of trouble.”

Scarecrow and Robot shared a knowing look that flickered with pride. They both knew why her thinking was quicker than any normal organic, and they were proud that she was using it to her advantage.

“But she says she misses being outside and flying. She does something humans do when they wish to hide how they really feel about something. But she’s not an expert in controlling her lights yet.” She said with a few swirls of amusement of her lights.

“Code-Master and Head Assembler have agreed to let her retake her form once her sessions are over and all the corrupted data has been assimilated.”

The two once again exchanged glances. “Does that mean she’ll be able to come back soon?” Scarecrow questioned.

Ruby looked to the side. “I hope so. Although it’s very hard to know with her. Although I’ve heard she only has one or two left.”

It was at this moment Robot saw something flicker in her lights as she looked to him. It would appear Scarecrow didn’t notice it. But that made Robot sense something was off.

But he waited for her to finish.

Ruby seemed to decide what to say next. “She’s been assigned recently to overlook a simple repair of one of our pulse modules. Head Leader was hesitant, but they couldn’t argue with her results.”

Robot and Scarecrow exchanged another look, concealing their lights to hide their distaste for the leader. In Robot’s absence, the most adequate Head Force took charge. It didn’t help this was the very same Head Force that attacked the Resolute in a result of being activated by the Ring all those years ago.

It wasn’t hard to see they had a certain distaste for organic life. Add to that their base programming wasn’t sophisticated enough to run a colony of this size. But with SAR (kind of) out of the picture, and Robot unwilling to reprise his role as General, they were the closest thing they could get.

It was Robot’s own fault he was hated by his kind, and he knew it all too well.

Ruby continued, either not, or choosing not to notice their looks.

“As far as her memories go...they’re getting better, and she’s assimilating the data much easier now. She remembers Will now, but she’s still got one or two sessions with Code-Master as she’s missing some of the more recent information. But take solace in the fact that she remembers what he did for her, and she’s realizing that they’re very close.”

Ruby looked to Scarecrow. “She’s starting to have flashes of you now as well, or so she tells me.”

And that left Robot.

Ruby seemed to pause, her lights flickering with uncertainty

Robot stepped closer to her. “Ruby.”

Ruby was silent for a few moments more, before giving a few clicks of submission. “Fine...but just know...we’re working on finding the reason behind this.”

Scarecrow gave a small growl as he stepped forward. “Tell us already.”

Ruby straightened up, and looked to Robot. “Of the corrupted data she’s assimilated...nothing has contained any information on you, and there’s not enough more to contain the right amount of data a connection like yours is supposed to hold.”

Robot stood in silence for a second. The plummeting he’d felt each time she said Starpelt remembered nothing of him suddenly gave way to blinding rage. He gave a growl, his face turning red. “How…? What did you do…?”

Ruby stood up straighter. “Like I said, we don’t know how or why. All we know is that the data she has to recover doesn’t seem to contain you.”

Scarecrow came to stand next to him, whether that was a show of support or a means to keep him from doing something rash Robot didn’t care enough to worry about.

Ruby looked to the side. “I will say this. We’ve found her connections module to be...in a dormant state. We thought this was because of her missing corrupted data...but as she’s assimilated almost all of it, I have a guess it might be something linked to exposure.”

She looked into his gaze and stepped closer to him, looking at both him and Scarecrow. “I’ve been trying my best to give her this exposure. And I promise I will continue. She is my friend, and Samantha’s as well. We both care about her.”

Robot stared at her through a red vision for a moment more, considering this, before he stepped back, his face fading back to blue.

“I know…I know you are. Thank you.”

Ruby gave a consoling whir. “I’ll ping you the moment I hear more, or there are any developments.”

As she turned around, she took one last moment to look at Robot. “I hope Will will find some solace in this information.”

And with that she shifted back to her original form and sped off, leaving Robot and Scarecrow alone.

Robot turned away from him, a new course of action being calculated from this new information. He kept analyzing the things Ruby said.

“Her connections module is dormant. I think the key is through exposure.”

Through exposure.

Robot then had a course of action that immediately redacted every algorithm based off of logic he had. Every digit of data within him alerted him to this inconsistency.

It was, as humans would call it, stupid.

“No.” Scarecrow growled, stepping closer to him.

Robot straightened up without turning to face him. “I muted my side of the bond. You have no idea-”

“I don’t need a connection with you to know what you want to do. I assimilated what Ruby said as well.”

Robot was silent.

Scarecrow didn’t hesitate to come in front of him. “Do you not know there’s a good chance you’ll be deactivated on sight?!” he growled in anger.

Robot’s face flickered red as he looked up a Scarecrow. “I no longer care. I’m tired of waiting. I have to see her. I have to make things right.”

Scarecrow gave a growl and knocked Robot on the side of his head with one of his claws, causing him to stumble back a step.

“This isn’t something you have to make right! The events happened and we did the best with what we had. This isn’t your fault, so stop acting like it is!”

Robot was once again silent.

Scarecrow stopped, and drew back slightly, his lights changing from annoyance to clarity. “It’s...not just her...is it?”

Robot looked at him. “I have to do this, because we’re running out of time, and no one will help.”

Scarecrow looked down. “And you are sure there is no other way?"

“No. Believe me, I’ve tried.”

Scarecrow gave a whir. “She will no doubt feel us the moment we come within proximity of The Center. What do you think will happen when she does? She knows you killed her mate, and led the attack that killed her people. Controlled or not, the odds are very high she will attack you the moment she sees you, like the first time.”

That made Robot wince slightly as he remembered his first moments with Starpelt. She’d known exactly how to incapacitate him, and despite her smaller size at the time, would've destroyed him in seconds had Will not intervened.

Begrudgingly he admitted to himself Scarecrow had a point.

“But you’re not the only one who’s impatient to see her. That’s what I wanted to see you about.”

That made Robot stop. What could be that important?

“While you’ve been gone, that box Starpelt found on her planet has been giving off increasingly strong energy readings, but only one being can open it.”

Robot looked down. “Of course, right when we don’t have her.”

He paused for a moment, running through alternatives. “Will. Did you try him? He has her genetic data.”

“That’s the first person we tried. It rejected him. I would suppose because the genetic materiel he acquired from her isn’t pure enough. So after Will wasn’t able to open it, I was asked to try. Same thing. Now we turn to either you or Starpelt. As I’m almost sure it won’t accept you, it’s unclear to see if it’ll still accept her.”

“So why the rush? That box isn’t going anywhere.” Robot said, turning away.

“Because the box is expiring.”

Robot turned to him, his lights slowing. “How is that possible? It’s made of strong metal alloys!”

“According to the humans working on it...the change of atmosphere is slowly destroying and corroding it and it’s contents.”

Robot thought about this, and thought back to when upon leaving Starpelt’s planet, the oxygen re-newer Will had used to breathe had malfunctioned and corroded. Robot’s algorithms realized the connection and linked the probability and reason.

Robot gave his friend a nod. “I guess we both have our work cut out for us.”

“I can’t believe you wouldn’t tell him.” Scarecrow growled as he and Robot overlooked the border of the robot colony.

“You know they all would’ve tried to stop me.” Robot whirred.

“Aren’t you very much stronger than them?” Scarecrow clicked.

“You know that’s not the point.” Robot replied, his lights and posture marking that this was the end of the discussion.

“You’re certain you don’t want to reprise your role?” Scarecrow hummed almost mockingly as he walked past Robot, earning an indignant growl from the latter.

The two gave a small pause, glancing at each other and giving an affirmative message through their lights indicating they were both doing this, no matter the costs.

They both made their way to the colony, shivering instinctively as they stepped within boundary of it and the signals of others became known.

It didn’t take long for them to reach the first access point to the center of the colony.

Robots that had been in the area and picked up on their entry first were the first to inspect.

Robot shifted, and stood still, his lights and signal showing he had no bad intentions, as did Scarecrow.

The surrounding robots circled them curiously, some even bordering on passive-aggressive hostility. Robot gave no response to their growls and clicks, but rather waited for the patrol he knew no doubt was on it’s way.

“Why are you here, Cowards?” a robot circling him inquired.

“We have business to attend to.” Robot replied simply, keeping it vague.

Another robot stepped forward. “You are not welcome here...Head Leader will not respond well to your presence. Are you here to challenge?”

Robot gave a small growl. “I have made it clear I don’t plan to challenge Head Leader.”

It was evident at how the robots bristled around him, that this answer displeased them.

Robot could care less.

“And you, you correspond with the coward. You will suffer just as he will.” One said to Scarecrow.

Scarecrow gave a whir. “What we have to do here is more important than fear of punishment.”

Not even five seconds later, did the patrol show up. Most of them were of the Roamer class, but Robot could spot one or two Seeker class in there as well.

The patrol stepped towards them and heated up their blasters as a chromatic robot stepped forward, who was no doubt a Seeker.

“You are trespassing, both of you. Head Leader gave orders against your presence withing the colony. You will not be permitted.”

Robot stepped forward, despite the bristling of the patrol. “I must see Code-Master it is of the upmost importance.”

“You are not permitted here, cowards.”

Robot could feel his irritation rising. Although he could respect following orders, it became obsessive when doing so canceled out any logic function contradicting said directive.

“You must hear him out. Captain could return!” Scarecrow screeched.

As if on cue, Robot’s visual array started glitching out, and sounds of commands above his rank were all that could be called to the primary processing unit.

//ALERT! INVASIVE DATA DETECTED!//

Commands of submission.

Everything in his systems was going haywire, and every wire and circuit in his being objected and screeched at the intrusion of his systems. Robot was no longer conscious of what was happening around him, just orders of submission and pain. He knew this was overloading his systems as it blared all throughout his being. And he knew it was critical when things started going dark.

“No control.”

“No heart.”

//WARNING! PROCESSOR OVERLOAD!//

Robot gave a screech of defiance, trying to block out the commands with his own. But something was wrong. Something was very wrong. He was weak. Weaker than he’d felt in a long time.

//SYSTEM FAILURE! COMMENCING EMERGENCY STASIS!//

More and more of his systems went dark and Robot found a few microseconds of comfort knowing whatever happened next: he’d be released.

“Will Robinson.”

At that Robot had a spark of consciousness throughout the chaos. Will! He couldn’t feel Will!

His pain turned to panic as he found he couldn’t do anything about this.

//EMERGENCY STASIS 99.9% EFFECTIVE//

Robot wasn’t sure exactly where he was.

All he knew was that it seemed an eternity before his primary and secondary sensor array reactivated.

He suddenly felt a jolt of energy run through him, causing him to shiver and his systems to reactivate within microseconds upon contact.

It took a second for his visual array to focus, and as he performed a quick diagnostic, he found most of his systems levels were outside of recommended levels.

But he also noticed something else. A much more powerful energy running through him. One that connected him to every robot here.

The Center.

But that came with a much...less pleasant discovery.

As Robot looked up, he saw he was being held in a suspension field. It was made up of raw energy from pulse modules that bordered on a magnetic force. It kept them in place. He could still move his head, but the rest of him was frozen.

Every colony had an area dedicated to storing dangerous members or intruders. In this colony, it was quite big compared to what it’d been in his former colony. The layout of pulse modules encircling the area made the different “cells” visible even when deactivated. And the room was mostly dark, save for the light from pulse modules keeping them in place. Metal lined the room, penetrating scanners.

It was clear they were captives.

“By the rings...you...are you…?” Scarecrow whirred softly from the cell beside him.

Robot turned to face him, and it appeared upon seeing the unique patterns of his lights Scarecrow got his answer.

“You didn’t tell me it was that bad.”

“I didn’t think it was.” Robot gave a small growl as some of his systems glitched. “What...happened?”

“You suddenly shut down...and your signal...it became his for a few moments.”

Robot looked at him, his lights halting in alarm. “My signal became his?!”

Scarecrow nodded. “I think they understand this is bad, that’s why we’re unharmed. But no one has come since they secured us.”

Robot gave a short burst through his ex-vents to sound his indignation.

“I was afraid you were gone.” Scarecrow chirped softly.

Robot looked to his friend, his lights forming a pattern of reassurace. “I’m not. Not yet anyways. And unless the others want to put their humans and freedom at stake, they’ll act quickly. That must be the only reason they’re choosing to act in our favor.”

Scarecrow nodded. “Agreed.”

Along that line of processing...Robot was blatantly reminded of the other part of him.

“Oh no! Will! I-I couldn’t feel him! I-”

Robot paused abruptly as he realized he could feel Will now, but it was the faintest it’d ever been. It was to the point that Robot had trouble distinguishing whether it was simply echoes or if Will was alive.

“Oh great rings what have I done?”

“Try not to panic. We’re going to get you help.” Scarecrow whirred.

Robot wasn’t about to accept that.

He started to struggle and give frantic screeches that set off multiple alarms no doubt in his cell. He emitted several commands and tried to override the suspension fields. But apparently the commands had changed slightly since he’d been in command.

But he got the attention he desired.

Within a moment, a patrol entered the area, and with it Head Leader. Robot ceased his noises with a growl.

As Head Leader entered, the rest bowed their heads in respect, while Robot and Scarecrow did not.

“This is a very sorry attempt to challenge me.” they growled.

“I’m not here to challenge you, so there’s no need to keep us locked up!” Robot whirred irritably.

“You cause trouble wherever you go. First and foremost with that human, next by forcing an organic to integrate among our own like a virus, and at last threatening us with Captain’s return. No, no, no. You will not be permitted to wander.”

Robot perked up when they mentioned Starpelt, but a small trill from Scarecrow reminded him to keep focused.

“That’s why I need Code-master. They can help.”

“And you will see them when they are finished with their other task, you brought her upon us, and now you will deal with that.” Head Leader responded.

“Captain might take over completely by then!” Scarecrow growled.

“Code-Master must devote all of their time and energy to finishing repairing the organic. Those were orders given by the Head Assembler, and the orders I stand by.” they replied.

“Metal scraps, you only do this because you dislike me personally. That isn’t what a leader should do!” Robot growled.

Head Leader rammed into Robot and dug their claws into Robot’s grooves painfully. “You do not have the authorization to reprimand me. I am Head Leader, and I will act how I see fit.”

“Then you’ll kill the colony for it.” Robot seethed, his face turning red.

Head Leader stepped back, their lights flickering in amusement. “The challenge me, if you think you can do better.”

Robot’s face remained red, and his lights swirled with hatred, but he made no moves.

“As I suspected, coward.” they chittered as they turned, and with them the patrol. Robot overheard them command two of the patrol to stay behind and guard the entrance.

Robot bowed his head, his face turning blue in defeat. “Great rings, I’ve screwed up.”

Scarecrow said nothing, aware that nothing would help at that moment. They would just have to hope things worked out.

It was a very human notion, but it was one they both knew worked more times than not, and right now, they needed any help they could get.

Chapter Text

No, your eyes unfortunately didn’t deceive you. I am discontinuing LIS:H in it’s entirety for the sake of completely revamping it.

BUT THIS IS NOT ME ABANDONING THE PROJECT! Just making that clear! I WILL BE BACK!

Anyways, maybe some of you could’ve guessed, I’m a pantser. I write as it comes to me and I really have a hard time planning things out when it comes to the specifics of any story. But as time went on, I found myself kinda getting lost in what I was writing. You see, ROTP had a very specific story line, and I think what made it so fun to write was that it followed the action and adventure we see in the show.

I really wanted to highlight how normal life had become on Alpha Centauri, but it’s just that: Normal life. And we have so much of that already. I realized I was missing the action and adventure, as well as all the elements that made me fall in love with LIS.

But it was hard for me to swallow because I saw how this had made writing LIS:H not a thing of passion like ROTP, but a chore that I had to finish because I’d started it. I didn’t wanna let myself or you guys down after you’d all been so patient with me.

But it’s taken a lot of time, and a lot of hard thinking to realize this is really the right call. Because now I can learn from the mistakes I made here to make this revamp something that honors ROTP (and more importantly LIS) instead of shattering it.

And not to mention I’m actually planning this out, going against EVERY SINGLE PANTSER INSTINCT XD.

But from what I have so far, I really think this revamp will definitely keep you guys more entertained than the load of bridge chapters I’ve been feeding you guys for the last few months.

In any case, I’m trying a new method! I’ll be gone for longer, and it could be a while before I’m back. But during that time I’m gonna try getting all of the chapters done so that I can release them to you guys on a steady basis (Props to one of my friends who’s been really helping me find solid ground here XD).

But while I’m gone, I’ll still keep LIS:H up and available for any of you who want to re-read it. It won’t be taken down until the revamp is ready!

I really want to thank all of you for your support throughout the years, and for your continued patience. I know I’ve let some of you down, but I’m trying my best to fix it!

After all, wanting to share my passions with you guys is what made me want to post in the first place! And I assure you that even though I won’t be posting, I’ll still read and reply to any comments you guys may leave!

With that said, I hope to see all of you when the revamp is done, and I can’t thank you enough for all of your support!

Until then, I hope each and every one of you is happy and healthy!