Glory to Mankind (Nier Automata) ch 20

+++

"Relax," she said. "It's our time off," she said.

And, for the most part, they were doing just that. Relaxing. Kind of.

"So," 9S began, his voice cutting through the ambient hum of trickling water. "What do you think of the humans, 2B?"

She had been quiet—cagey, even—since their departure. It was strange, he thought, especially considering her insistence on going planet-side in the first place. Now that they were here, she seemed... distant.

The two androids walked side by side through the remnants of what the records labeled an old sewer system. It had been thousands of years since it had served its original purpose, and any trace of human activity had long since been erased. Now, it was little more than a lifeless channel for water runoff. The air was damp, cool, and eerily silent, save for the steady rhythm of their boots against the stone floor.

"2B?" 9S tried again, his tone a little more insistent this time.

Still no response. He scratched the side of his head, glancing at her. Okay... was something wrong?

Despite the silence, 9S pressed on, his voice brightening with characteristic enthusiasm. "Well, I think they're amazing," he admitted, a note of awe slipping through. "And I'm not just saying that because I have to, but... wow."

The humans. Meeting them had been nothing short of surreal.

The Doctor, in particular, had left an impression—a strange mix of terror and fascination. The way she looked at someone, it felt as though she could see straight through them, peeling back every layer of programming to lay bare whatever secrets they held. Her frowns were like a blade, sharp and cutting, while her rare nods of approval sent a surge of inexplicable pride through him.

For 9S—young by YoRHa standards, born late into the war against the Machines—humans had always been a distant concept. An abstract, almost mythical idea. He'd grown up hearing stories, not expecting to ever meet one. And now, here they were. Real, tangible, and more complex than he could have ever imagined.

"It's strange," 9S continued thoughtfully. "We've never met them before, and now, suddenly, here they are. It's like... why now?"

"The bunker they were found in is a separate entity from the Moon," 2B finally spoke, her voice steady, though quieter than usual. "That's why."

Her sudden response caught him off guard, and he turned to her with a look of surprise. "Finally! I thought you were just planning to stay quiet the whole time," he teased, grinning. Then, after a moment's hesitation, he frowned. "Wait... am I talking too much?"

The anxiety hit him before he could stop it. "You know, us Scout models, we're usually working alone. So having someone to talk to is kinda exciting, and I guess I get carried awa—"

"9S."

Her voice cut through his rambling—soft, but firm. He froze, glancing over nervously, only to see her looking at him with a rare warmth in her expression.

"It's fine," she said, her tone lighter than he expected. "I don't mind you speaking. It's... soothing."

He blinked. "Soothing?" The words caught him off guard, and a flush crept across his face. He chuckled nervously, scratching the back of his head. "Oh, uh, thanks! My Operator—210? She doesn't think so. She says I'm distracting."

"I see."

It was a simple response, but 2B's tone carried an edge of understanding. She moved on, her gaze fixed ahead, leaving 9S to stew in his flustered thoughts.

2B, of course, was keenly aware of 9S's habits. She had been through 48 missions with him, after all. Well, they ended rather poorly with his death. But that was no longer the case, the Doctor had promised. His chatter, his curiosity—it was all familiar by now. Comforting, even. But her silence now wasn't from apathy. Far from it.

Ever since they had woken up at the Resistance Camp, a strange unease had settled in her chest. Realization hit her like a tidal wave: she hadn't thought this through.

What the hell was she doing?

Her decision to come planet-side had been impulsive, almost reckless. A split-second choice that now left her adrift, unsure of what came next. The first time she had been cleared to actually feel something and she had no idea what to do next. 

Well, there was that Amusement Park. She would have to see what could be done there. Actually...

"Pod," 2B murmured, her voice steady but curious. "What did humans do in amusement parks?"

That was enough to stop 9S mid-ramble. He turned to Pod 042 with wide-eyed interest. "Oh, I'm curious too! What did they do there?"

"Informative," 042 began in its usual monotone. "Amusement parks were locations designed for entertainment. They featured rides, games, and attractions, offering a variety of experiences for individuals of all ages. Many were themed around specific genres or concepts, creating a more immersive environment."

9S blinked, tilting his head. "Okay... can you get more specific?" He glanced at his own Pod. "153?"

Pod 153 dutifully picked up where 042 left off. "Informative: Amusement parks are known for offering a variety of rides, including thrilling roller coasters, water-based attractions, and family-friendly carousels. Interactive play areas, live performances, and other shows were also common. Many parks were divided into themed zones, such as 'fantasy lands' or 'pirate coves,' to enhance visitor engagement. Additionally, amusement parks typically featured food vendors and shops where visitors could purchase souvenirs, snacks, and other goods."

"Whoa," 9S muttered, his voice filled with awe. "Amusement parks sound amazing! 2B, what kind of rides do you think we'll find there?"

"I don't know," 2B admitted, her tone carefully neutral. In truth, she had no idea what to expect. Even though it had been operational in her time, she'd never had a reason to visit. Still, she couldn't deny the faint spark of excitement creeping into her thoughts. A place of fun, allegedly. And she was going there—with 9S.

As her gaze shifted to him, she noted his unfiltered enthusiasm, the way his eyes practically glowed with curiosity. His innocence and sincerity... it was disarming. She could listen to him ramble for hours. It was that very curiosity that had won her over, she realized—though she would never say that out loud. Not yet.

2B was inexperienced when it came to feelings like this. She knew that much. She also knew it was far too soon to even entertain the thoughts stirring in her mind. No, she told herself. She had to be patient. This version of 9S had only just met her, after all. Logic dictated she should be upfront with him, to be honest about the emotions she was feeling. But logic also reminded her that, in his eyes, she was still a stranger.

Friendship first. Then trust. Then she...she'd...

Hold hands?

...****?

"Alert: Unit 2B is experiencing rapid heating. Proposal: Lower temperature," 042 suddenly announced.

9S froze, his expression shifting to panic. "Eh? 2B! You're heating up! Cool down—what's wrong?"

"I am fine!" 2B snapped, a little too quickly. She could feel her composure slipping, but she forced herself to reel it back in. She couldn't let her thoughts betray her. Not here. Not now.

9S didn't seem convinced. "Pod, scan her! That might be a logic virus or something!"

"No need," 2B interjected sharply, shooting a glance at 042. "I said I'm fine."

Pod 042 didn't have eyes, but the way it hovered, tilting slightly toward her, it felt like it was studying her. Judging her. It was almost unsettling how much her own Pod seemed to understand her internal state.

"Understood," 042 replied, its tone as flat as ever.

2B let out a quiet sigh of relief.

"Okay..." 9S muttered, still looking at her with concern. "But really, 2B, if something's wrong, let me know, okay? I'll do whatever I can to help you."

His sincerity hit her like a punch to the chest. For a moment, she just stared at him, unsure of what to say.

The silence stretched, until—

"Alert: Unit 2B is experienci—" 042 began again.

"I said I'm fine!" 2B barked, her voice sharp enough to echo slightly in the empty space around them.

9S flinched, raising his hands in surrender. "O-okay! Got it! You're fine!" He laughed nervously, scratching the back of his head. "Sheesh, 2B, you're scary sometimes..."

2B turned away, her expression unreadable. She didn't trust herself to say anything else. Not right now.

And so, they continued walking, the faint sound of 9S muttering something about "amusement park rides" filling the silence once more.

​+++

They emerged from the sewer entrance not a moment later, 9S trailing behind with a mix of awkwardness and concern gnawing at him. He'd only known 2B for a week, but already, she was proving to be an enigma he couldn't quite decipher. She was absurdly capable, yes—but her body seemed to overheat more often than it should. That definitely wasn't normal. Maybe she needed her systems checked. He'd be happy to help with that, of course—he was a Scanner unit, after all.

His thoughts were interrupted as a distant boom echoed through the air, followed almost immediately by another.

Explosions registered on their sensors.

"Is there a battle happening?" 9S asked, his voice tinged with alarm.

"I will check," 2B replied, already moving toward the ladder that led out of the underground.

"W-wait!" 9S called after her.

She paused, half-turning to glance over her shoulder. "What?"

"Wouldn't it… wouldn't it be better for me to go first?" he suggested with a nervous laugh, gesturing to himself. "I mean, I'm a Scanner unit. Recon is kinda… my thing."

2B tilted her head slightly, her expression unreadable behind the opaque black visor. Her voice, however, remained as flat and matter-of-fact as ever. "Negative," she said. "I am a Battle model. If there is a conflict ongoing, I am far better equipped to handle an ambush. You will provide support from behind."

9S opened his mouth to protest, but the words never came. She was already turning back to the ladder, her tone making it clear the discussion was over.

"Just watch my back," she added as she began climbing.

And that was exactly what 9S did.

As the YoRHa Battle Android ascended, he found himself staring—completely unintentionally, of course. It was just… hard not to notice. Her uniform wasn't exactly subtle. The way her battle skirt swayed with each step left little to the imagination. Actually, scratch that—it left nothing to the imagination.

A spike in his system temperature registered, and for a moment, he panicked. Was that…? No, no, that couldn't be happening. He shook his head violently, forcing himself to look away. But his traitorous eyes betrayed him more than once. It wasn't his fault she had the most perfectly sculpted rear he'd ever seen. Better than anyone in the Bunker—and most of them were women!

He coughed, trying desperately to focus on anything else. "S-supporting from behind. Yep. Got it. Totally."

The warmth spreading through his circuits betrayed him further. He cursed under his breath, his hands balling into fists at his sides. Damn it—YoRHa androids weren't supposed to feel emotions this intensely. Why him?

"The area is clear for now. You may proceed," 2B's voice called from above.

9S hesitated.

"9S," she called again, with a touch of impatience this time. "Move."

He sucked in a deep breath. "Coming!"

He hurried to climb the ladder, praying his own body wouldn't betray him. By the time he emerged from the sewer, the tension had subsided—thankfully. Saved by the distraction of the scene before them.

A vast, decayed amusement park stretched out in all directions. Shimmering lights decorated the remnants of castles and rides, while fireworks exploded in the distance, painting the sky in hues of red and gold.

"This is the park?" 9S blinked, taking it all in.

"It would seem so," 2B replied, her gaze scanning the horizon. She paused, turning toward him. "What took you so long to climb?"

"Don't worry about it!" 9S laughed awkwardly, waving a hand dismissively. "It's nothing."

But as he tried to move past the question, images of her bare rear flickered unbidden through his mind, making his system temperature spike again.

"You're turning red," 2B observed, tilting her head slightly.

"Oh, uh, must be the glare from the fireworks!" he stammered, forcing a grin. "Come on, 2B! Rides! Let's check them out!"

Without waiting for her reply, he marched ahead, refusing to meet her eyes. 2B remained still for a moment, watching him go.

A faint, peculiar scent reached her sensors. Her lips quirked upward in the barest hint of a smile as her tongue flicked out briefly, tasting the air.

It was delicious.

+++

What was that?

Was it deliberate?

"Watch my back." Her voice echoed in his head, looping endlessly.

9S wasn't an idiot. Or… maybe he was. Maybe he was just misreading the whole situation. They'd only known each other for a week—was that enough time for anyone to… to…? No. No, he was not going to think about that. There were more pressing matters to focus on. For example, the unsettling sight of dozens of clown-like Machines roaming the park.

The air was cold, carrying with it the faint smell of rust and the earthy tang of overgrown plants. Ahead loomed a castle-like structure, its silhouette stark against the darkening sky. The central tower was topped with a crooked, witch-like hat, its sharp spires stabbing into the swirling purple and gray clouds. Fireworks bloomed and crackled above, momentarily illuminating the crumbling structure in flashes of red, green, and gold. The display felt… wrong. Like it was stuck in an endless loop, celebrating something no one remembered anymore. The castle itself seemed alive, its windows flickering with uneven light—some warm and inviting, others dim and foreboding. Faint, distorted music drifted from within, a cheerful melody warped into something unsettling, each note jangling like a broken wind-up toy.

The iron gates marking the park's entrance were a strange mix of beauty and decay. Intricate patterns of flowers and leaves, once proud and ornate, were now worn and scarred, the metal chipped and dulled by time. The ground beneath was cracked and uneven, with patches of resilient grass forcing their way through the gaps. Beyond the gates stood the remains of a Ferris wheel, its rusted frame swaying slightly in the wind. Vines snaked along its structure like veins, giving the broken ride an eerie elegance as its shadow stretched across the carnival grounds beneath the faint glow of the fireworks.

And, of course, there were the clowns.

Dozens of them. Machines dressed in garish costumes, their faces painted with smiling patterns that felt more menacing than cheerful.

Talk about an instant mood killer.

"Welcome!" they chorused in unison, their exaggerated voices grating on the ears. "Welcome! Welcome and be merry! Celebrate! Celebrate!"

One of them waddled closer, its movements jerky and uncoordinated. 2B's hand twitched toward her sword, ready to strike it down if it got too close. But instead of an attack, the Machine thrust forward its hands, offering two golden slips of paper. Tickets.

"Watch! Watch!" it repeated, its voice skipping like a broken record. "Watch the song! Watch the song!"

"Song?" 2B muttered under her breath. But the Machine didn't reply. It simply turned and wandered off, its movements mechanical and unthinking.

"Machines," 9S grumbled, his tone brimming with contempt. "Don't let your guard down around them, 2B. They're still the enemy."

"Some enemy," she replied flatly, stepping forward as glitter and colorful streamers rained down from above like confetti. It was supposed to feel festive, but instead, it only made her skin crawl.

She was beginning to regret coming here. This wasn't fun. Not even close. Something about this place felt wrong. The distorted music, the broken celebration, the eerie clowns—it all set her on edge.

"Alert," Pod 042 droned, its voice cutting through the tension. "Multiple black box signals detected."

"Huh?" 9S blinked, his head snapping toward 2B. "We're not the only ones here?"

The unease that had been simmering inside 2B bloomed into something heavier—worry. "Where?" she demanded.

Pod 042 turned its lens toward the castle, its voice calm but direct. "Informative: Signals are originating from inside the structure."

2B and 9S exchanged a glance. No words were needed. The uneasy atmosphere had just shifted into outright danger.

So much for relaxation.

With a soft metallic hum, Virtuous Treaty and Cruel Oath materialized in their hands. The faint light of the weapons reflected in their visors as the two androids stepped forward, leaving the garish carnival behind and heading toward the dark heart of the castle.

"9S, stick close," 2B warned.

He didn't need to be told twice.

The entrance to the castle stretched before them—a long, foreboding walkway that led to massive, weathered doors. For a moment, 9S assumed they'd need explosives to force their way in, but the doors creaked open on their own, groaning as though reluctant to let them pass. The sound echoed through the air, carrying them into what looked like a grand ballroom.

The space was cavernous, with long, crumbling steps leading deeper toward a shadowy chamber beyond. The air was thick and fetid, reeking of decay and abandonment, as if the room had been untouched for centuries. The faint hum of long-dead machinery vibrated beneath their feet, a subtle reminder that the castle was not entirely lifeless.

"Alert: Black box signals detected beyond that chamber," Pod 042 droned, its voice monotone but precise.

"Maybe we should call Command, 2B," 9S suggested, glancing warily at the darkened steps ahead.

"Perhaps," 2B replied, her tone measured. "But we're already the closest units here."

Still, protocol dictated they report in. With a quick motion, she opened the comm link.

"Operator 6O, this is 2B," she stated. "We are detecting multiple black box signals originating from the Amusement Park in the Ruined City. Can you identify?"

"2B?!" 6O's voice crackled, a mixture of surprise and alarm. "Aren't you supposed to—"

"Operator," 2B cut in, her voice sharp. "Focus."

There was a pause before 6O finally replied, her usual chipper tone replaced with something more uncertain. "Ah, right. Let me check... Hmm. That's... strange."

"What is it?" 2B pressed, her grip tightening on her weapon.

"The signals match a patrol unit lost about a week ago," 6O explained. "We assumed they were destroyed, but clearly... we were wrong."

2B's expression remained unreadable as she glanced at 9S. "Do you want to investigate?"

"These are our soldiers in arms," 9S said firmly. "Of course I do."

That was all 2B needed. "Operator, requesting permission to investigate black box signals."

"Permission granted," 6O replied. "I'll notify Command and arrange for reinforcements. Be careful out there, you two. Over and out."

The connection cut, leaving the room once again bathed in oppressive silence.

"Ready?" 2B asked.

"Ready," 9S replied, his voice steady.

They moved forward, their footsteps echoing against the cracked marble floor. Before long, the narrow passage opened into a theater—its grandeur now nothing more than a decayed shell of what it once was.

The stage loomed at the far end, framed by gold-trimmed pillars that had long since crumbled. Once-opulent red curtains hung like torn flesh, their edges frayed and heavy with dust. When the air stirred, faint particles drifted through the dim light, catching in the faded beams of shaky spotlights mounted high above. Shadows stretched across the hall, their long fingers creeping toward the androids with each flicker of the lights.

The marble floor was cracked and uneven, littered with broken wood, rusted metal plates, and the remnants of shattered stone. Every step kicked up the sour scent of decay, mingled with a faint metallic tang that lingered in the back of their throats. The silence was deafening, broken only by the faint hum of machinery buried deep within the walls.

Two balconies lined the left and right sides of the theater, their railings bent and partially collapsed. One balcony hung precariously, its carved stone edges dangling like jagged teeth waiting to fall. Faded carvings of flowers and humanoid figures adorned the structure, their details worn smooth by time and neglect.

And then, from somewhere deep in the shadows, came a sound.

A melody. Twisted and broken, like a child's music box wound too tightly. Its cheerful notes were distorted, warping as they echoed through the cavernous space. The sound crawled along the walls, wrapping around the androids with an unsettling familiarity. It was teasing, as if daring them to step closer.

The stage remained still, its splintered floorboards groaning faintly under the weight of time. What once held life and energy now seemed to hold its breath, waiting for something to bring it back to purpose.

"Pod?" 2B asked quietly, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Signals are coming fro—"

Pod 042 was cut off as the lights violently flickered. A loud mechanical buzz echoed through the theater, drowning out the melody. Both androids dropped into battle stances, their weapons materializing in their hands with a soft hum.

The stage groaned, then began to shift. Dust rained down as the floor split open, revealing a hidden platform rising slowly from below. The sound of grinding gears filled the air, each rotation punctuated by a sharp metallic screech.

And then, it appeared.

The figure towered over the stage, an unnatural amalgamation of machine and grotesque artistry. Its body was shaped like a twisted mockery of a ballerina, encased in a faded red dress that flared out like a rusted bell. Beneath the dress, layers of exposed metal and wires clicked and shifted with every movement, their sharp edges glinting in the dim light. Its arms were impossibly long, stretching out like warped branches, and its hands ended in claw-like appendages that twitched unnaturally.

But its head was the most disturbing part—a porcelain mask twisted into a permanent grin. Its hollow, empty eyes stared unblinking, radiating an aura of malice. The mask's once-delicate features were cracked, as though it had been shattered and hastily pieced back together.

"Black box signals identified," Pod 042 confirmed.

The figure's arms stretched wide, its joints creaking with the motion.

And then, it sang

The air rippled as the machine sang, its voice unnatural and piercing, vibrating from unseen vocal cords. From beneath its rusted, flared dress, hard-light golden blades materialized, shimmering with lethal energy. It moved like a dancer, spinning and flowing across the floor with terrifying grace. But its speed was far from delicate—it was like a meteor tearing across the battlefield.

9S and 2B leapt back, narrowly avoiding the machine's rampage.

"Our records don't say anything about a machine like this!" 9S shouted

"Less talking, more fighting!" 2B snapped. "Pod!"

"153!" 9S cried.

The Tactical Support Pods opened fire, unleashing streams of energy andthat peppered the Songstress. 2B charged forward, Virtuous Treaty flashing in her grip, but her swings glanced harmlessly off the machine's reinforced plating.

"I AM MORE BEAUTIFUL!" the machine howled

"What the hell is it talking about?!" 9S yelled.

"It doesn't matter!" 2B barked, dropping into a combat stance. Her visor glinted as data streamed across her display. "Pod, I need weak points!"

"Identified," Pod 042 droned. Gleaming red markers appeared in her feed, highlighting vulnerabilities in the machine's armor. One stood out: the plating protecting its core.

"9S!" 2B shouted, her mind racing. "Prepare to hack at my command!"

"Got it!" he called back.

2B surged forward, her boots pounding against the floor as the Songstress unleashed hell. Micro-missiles screamed through the air, and machine orbs rained down in erratic patterns, filling the space with deadly light. Pieces of her dress ripped away, and fire singed her synthetic skin, but she didn't stop. She weaved through the chaos, rolling and sliding beneath the onslaught.

Her chance came.

With precision and force, 2B leapt high into the air, spinning as Virtuous Treaty struck the armored plates with everything she had. The impact rang out like a bell. The armor buckled, and the plates shifted, exposing a brief, vital glimpse of the machine's core.

"POD!" she yelled.

Pod 042 moved into position, its barrel gleaming as it unleashed a concentrated beam of energy. The laser punched through the exposed core, sending arcs of electricity across the Songstress's frame. The machine stumbled, its movements erratic as chunks of its ornaments and tattered dress clattered to the ground.

"9S! Now!"

"Hacking!" 9S replied, his voice tight with focus.

2B kept her eyes on the Songstress, watching as its movements became more sporadic. But seconds ticked by, and 9S was still motionless. Worry gripped her.

The machine twitched violently, its body convulsing as metal joints clinked and chatter filled the air. 2B's eyes widened, and she moved on instinct, grabbing 9S and pulling him back just as pools of red energy erupted from the machine's body. The crimson light spread like wildfire, paralyzing anything caught within its radius.

2B zig-zagged across the battlefield, dodging the machine's berserk attacks. The Songstress's once-graceful form had mutated into a grotesque monstrosity. Its dress tore apart as four massive, beast-like legs burst from its body, their jagged edges scraping against the floor. Beneath its crumbling frame, a gaping maw emerged, rows of metal teeth grinding as it let out a guttural screech.

It lunged at her. The attacks were powerful but wild, the machine's newfound strength undermined by its lack of coordination. 2B darted past its strikes, her every movement calculated and precise.

Then came the opening. One of the machine's legs buckled, its weight collapsing onto itself. The electromagnetic shield trapping them flickered and vanished. At the same moment, 9S gasped, his systems coming back online as he greedily sucked in air.

"What happened?!" she demanded, relief buried under urgency.

"I've disabled some of its functions!" 9S replied, pushing himself to his feet.

This was it.

"Pod!" 2B commanded, her voice sharp.

"Affirmative," Pod 042 responded. Another lance of concentrated energy shot forward, striking the Songstress dead center. The machine screeched as the blast tore through its chest, ripping apart its core. Its massive frame shook violently, ornaments and jagged metal breaking free and collapsing to the ground.

"Is it over?" 9S asked, his voice tentative.

2B didn't answer immediately. Her visor locked onto the machine. Its massive form had slumped forward, legs twisted and broken, its chestplate reduced to a smoking crater. And yet, it still stood. Faint sparks danced across its ruined body as it weakly lifted its head.

"Dead but standing," she finally said, her tone steady.

The two YoRHa androids approached cautiously, weapons at the ready. Sparks flickered from the Songstress's mangled frame. Its porcelain mask hung crookedly, cracked and blackened. Despite its faceless design, there was an air of exhaustion about it, as though it were finally succumbing to the weight of its existence.

Virtuous Contract glinted in 2B's hand as she stepped closer.

"Would... he... have... looked... at... me?" the Songstress rasped, its voice faint and broken.

2B didn't respond. She drove her blade into the exposed core, the machine freezing as its inner light flared red. The Songstress let out a final gasp before collapsing entirely, its body exploding into a burst of orange-red energy. The shockwave rippled outward, leaving behind only a smoking crater and scattered fragments of metal.

"It's over now," 2B whispered, lowering her blade.

9S let out a sigh as he dropped to his knees, exhausted. 

So much for relaxation.

+++

"I'm sorry."

They left the park, their steps heavy with emotion. The Songstress's destruction was not just the end of her; it also meant the destruction of the other black boxes. Yet, it was a mercy, not cruelty. What had been done to them defied comprehension. From what 9S could gather, the Songstress had been a simple stubby-class machine, one that became obsessed with beauty. At first, it cannibalized other machines to pursue its twisted goal. Then, it turned to androids.

That part 9S didn't want to think about.

"Huh?" 9S blinked, startled out of his thoughts.

They now stood atop a tall building overlooking the ruined city. Greenery and crumbling grey structures stretched endlessly before them, a strange and quiet harmony. 2B had chosen this spot, advised by the Pods, thinking the view might help them both find a moment of peace.

2B sighed as she sat at the edge of the building, her legs dangling over the abyss. 9S remained standing nearby, his gaze lingering on her.

"I am sorry," she said, her voice steady but soft.

"Eh? For what?" 9S tilted his head, confused.

"This was supposed to be a day of relaxation," she admitted, her hands tightening slightly on her knees. "I didn't expect..." She trailed off, biting her lip. Barely even started, and it was already going wrong. Shame crept in and settled heavily on her shoulders.

"I am sorry," she repeated, her gaze dropping to the faraway streets below.

"Don't be," 9S replied, to her surprise.

"Eh?" She glanced at him, startled.

He laughed lightly and sat down beside her, leaning back with his hands braced on the floor. "No one could've expected a creepy, cannibalistic clown machine hiding out there. I mean, sure, there were clowns, but not that kind, you know?"

2B turned to him, her expression unreadable.

"And besides," 9S continued, flashing her a grin, "we put a comrade to rest. Without us, they'd still be suffering. And most importantly..." He paused, his tone becoming lighter. "I got to spend time with you."

She blinked, unsure how to respond.

"I got to know you a little more," 9S admitted, his voice quieter now. "You're...scary, in a way. But I've seen how much you care. You have these soft moments, sometimes."

2B's core hummed with a heat she ignored. "I am not soft," she said flatly.

9S laughed again, shaking his head. "But you are!" he insisted. "You're apologizing to me right now, aren't you? If you didn't care, you wouldn't even bother pointing it out."

She hesitated. It was a fair point, but it still felt odd. "It is...off-putting?" she tested the word carefully.

"Off-putting?" 9S blinked, his brow furrowing. "No!" he said firmly, his grin returning.

In fact, it only widened. "I think it's kind of cute, actually."

Time froze for a moment.

Cute.

He called her cute.

"Alert: Unit 2B is experiencing rapid internal heating. Proposal: Lower temperature," Pod 042 droned in its usual monotone.

"Pod, shut up!" 2B snapped, her composure cracking slightly.

"Negative," 042 replied flatly. "Tactical Support Units are programmed to provide assistance. This is this unit's designation."

2B sighed, her cheeks heating further as she turned away, determined to ignore the Pod. She would not dignify its interference with a reply. But as she glanced at 9S, his expression told her he wasn't about to let her off that easily.

"You know," he said, his grin brimming with amusement, "you really are soft."

Her eyes narrowed. "Shut up," she muttered.

9S afforded her a grin. Then, he turned away, looking up into the sky. "Say, 2B, what do you think the future is going to be like?" 

She turned back to him. 

"Hm?"

"You know, with humanity coming to live with us, what do you think is going to happen?" 9S questioned. 

Her expression stiffened. She turned away. "I..." she paused. "I suppose we must do our duty as androids." 

​Her programming all but commanded her to join the lottery program. And 2B wished to. But that involved laying with someone else. It was her duty, yes, but in honesty, it was going to be her first time. 

Would it be selfish of her to share it with someone that loved? 

9S was not stupid. He could see she was conflicted. "Hey?" he tried. "Is something wrong?" 

"I..." 

The concern radiated all over him. 

"It is nothing," 2B insisted. "It's...silly." 

"It's clearly bothering you so it's definitely not silly," 9S pointed out. "Come on. What's wrong?" 

​She sighed. 

"...I do not wish to have my first time with someone else," 2B admitted. "I want to do it with someone I..."

She hesitated. He looked at her. "Yeah?" 

"I want to do it with someone...I want to do it with," 2B forced out. 

Understanding filled him. "Ah," 9S nodded. "Then I don't see a reason why you shouldn't? There's nothing stopping us YoRHa androids from indulging." 

​That was true enough. 9S was more than aware of a few happy liaisons some androids had in the Bunker. They weren't exactly discreet.

​2B glanced upon 9S. Was...was he inviting her?

"Really?" 2B deadpanned. 

9S laughed. "Oh yeah. Some people just aren't discreet." 

​2B stared. He was definitely inviting her. 

​"...Are you?" 2B tested.

9S blinked at the question. "Huh?" 

2B turned, facing him. His eyes caught sight of her chest. "Are you discreet?" 

He swallowed a lump forming in his chest. "Uh...yes?" he tried. He definitely would not be telling his secrets to anyone, that was for sure. 2B's lips parted as she considered something. Then the more she considered it, the more her logic dictated her to test it out some more. 

"We eventually must do our duty," 2B reasoned. "But I do not have experience with that, truthfully." 

​9S cursed as the tightness in his shorts returned. The way 2B was speaking, how red her lips were, how she seemed to lean in. 

"Neither do I," 9S swallowed again. 

2B's lips smiled slightly as her gloved hand fell on his. "Care to gain some, then?" she whispered quietly. She then pulled his hand, letting him grasp her rear. She fought the shivering insider her core as she leaned in, planting her head on his shoulder.

"Want to?" she asked.

"But you said you wanted to do it with someone you-" 9S tried to reason out. But then he caught her gaze. 

Oh.

Ohhhhh.

+++

The pods were sent off to scan for threats. The two retreated into the corner, away from the edge. 9S gulped as 2B knelt before him, her gloved hands unbuckling his shorts. 9S gulped as 2B knelt before him, her gloved hands working deftly to unbuckle his belt. A metallic clink echoed in the quiet, followed by the whisper of fabric as his shorts slid down his thighs. His cock sprang free, stiff, needy, the cool air a sharp contrast to the heat flooding his body.

2B's lips parted, breath hitching as she gazed upon him. She lacked the words to quantify the sight, but her processors registered the data regardless—he was big, pale as the rest of him, with a pink, rounded tip twitching in anticipation. She had no true experience with this, but an Executioner model had to be adaptable. She had researched. She had prepared. 

Her fingers curled around his length, testing the weight, the heat. Slowly, she began to stroke him. Up and down, firm and smooth, her touch as precise how she wielded her blades. 9S shuddered, his breath coming in ragged gasps. 9S glanced down and met 2B's stare, how she looked up at him with her red lips parted slightly, steam and exertion pouring.

Then, 2B tore her gaze away from him, and with his length in hand, engulfed it entirely with her lips. 

Her tongue curled around him, mapping out every inch. She withdrew her hand, focusing entirely on the slow, wet drag of her lips, the hollow of her cheeks, the slick warmth of her mouth. Saliva dripped from the corners of her lips, connecting them with thin, glistening strands as she bobbed her head up and down. Slurp. The wet sounds of her devotion echoed between them, punctuated by the soft, desperate moans escaping her throat.

She picked up speed, sucking harder, tongue swirling around his tip before sliding back down. A perfect machine of pleasure, relentless, thorough, giving her all to the act.

"2B—stop! Stop!" 9S panted suddenly, his hands gripping her shoulders.

She obeyed instantly, pulling back with a wet pop, a trail of saliva linking her mouth to his cock. She tilted her head, her eyes half-lidded, lips flushed and glistening. "Is something wrong?" she whispered, voice husky.

"You were… gonna make me..." 9S stammered, barely holding himself together.

Ah.

A slow, knowing smile spread across her lips. "I see."

9S swallowed hard. His body was taut, shaking with restraint, but his resolve burned through. "Let me do you." It wasn't a question.

2B's smirk deepened. She rose gracefully to her feet, her movements slow, deliberate, a predator teasing her prey. Keeping his gaze locked on her, she reached for the hem of her skirt, fingers curling around the fabric.

She dragged it down inch by inch.

9S watched, entranced, and feasted as she revealed more of herself—her smooth, pale skin, the soft curves of her hips, the bare, glistening slit between her thighs. And to her delight, he only got harder.

Her boots remained, a stark contrast to her now completely exposed form. The cold air kissed her skin, but she was burning.

She turned, her hips swaying, as she glanced around and found suitable corner for her to lie down. She did so, slowly, as a cat would, lifting her rear up high. "9S..." she said softly. 

She turned, hips swaying, scanning the ruined structure for a suitable place. Finding it, she lowered herself onto the ground, slow and deliberate, her movements feline in their grace. She arched her back, lifting her ass high, her soaked entrance on full display.

"9S..." she murmured, a quiet command.

He didn't hesitate.

He stepped forward, kneeling behind her, hands gripping her waist. His fingers traced her curves, trailing down to her ass, kneading, exploring. 2B shivered, a muffled Mmph! escaping her lips as pleasure sparked through her nerves,

Then, his hand drifted lower, finding the slick heat between her thighs. His fingers pressed in, testing her readiness, feeling the way she clenched around them. His cock throbbed as he positioned himself, the tip brushing against her entrance.

2B bit her lip, bracing herself.

Then—he slid in.

They groaned in unison, a perfect synchronization of pleasure. 9S fought to keep control as her tight, wet heat swallowed him whole, her walls gripping him like a vice.

He pulled back, only to thrust in again, the friction sending shocks of pleasure up his spine. He fucked her, again and again, his thrusting slow and gentle to take her all in, then increasing in rhythmic collisions, hips slapping together in a carnal symphony. Smack. Smack. Smack. The sound echoed in the empty ruins, lost to the abandoned world around them.

2B's fingers dug into the cracked concrete as each thrust sent electric ecstasy flooding through her circuits. She moaned freely now, her cries sweet, melodic, music to 9S's ears. He gritted his teeth, his grip on her tightening as he fucked her harder, faster, unable to hold back any longer.

"Stop!" 2B whimpered, her voice breathless, trembling.

9S froze instantly, panting above her, his body taut with restraint. He withdrew, his cock slick and twitching, aching for her.

2B exhaled sharply, her chest rising and falling with quick, needy breaths. Her body burned, her circuits overloaded with sensation, but she wanted more—no, she needed more. She shifted, rolling onto her back, her silver hair fanning out over the cracked concrete floor. Her thighs parted, knees bending, a silent invitation.

"I want to see your face," she whispered, biting her lip.

A quiet groan rumbled from 9S's throat. He swallowed hard, his pupils dilated as he drank in the sight of her laid out beneath him—her flushed skin, the way her chest heaved, the way her entrance glistened, still wet, still open, still desperate for him.

He loomed over her, arms caging her in. Their eyes met, and something unspoken crackled between them, something raw and electric.

Then—he sank into her again.

No hesitation. No gentleness.

Just hunger.

Her walls clenched around him, wet and scorching, dragging him in as he thrust deep, hard. 2B gasped, her back arching, nails digging into his shoulders as pleasure slammed through her. Her breasts swayed with each thrust, her body moving in perfect rhythm with his, their flesh meeting in sharp, desperate collisions.

"Ahh—!" she cried out, her voice cracking, her fingers gripping him tighter.

9S groaned, burying his face in her neck, inhaling her scent, losing himself in the heat of her body. He fucked her with reckless need, his pace brutal, his hips snapping against hers with unrelenting force. The slap of skin, the wet sounds of their bodies, the ragged, breathless moans—it was overwhelming, intoxicating.

"2B..." he panted, his voice rough, edged with something dangerous.

She tilted her head back, exposing her throat to him, her lips parting in silent surrender. "Yes—!" she moaned, her legs wrapping around him, locking him in place.

9S's grip on reality slipped. He couldn't hold back, couldn't slow down. He drove into her, harder, faster, their bodies colliding in a relentless rhythm. 2B's moans turned into broken whimpers, her fingers dragging across his back, nails leaving faint scratches in their wake.

Her walls tightened around him, spasming, gripping him like a vice. She was close.

So was he.

"Gonna—" 9S choked out, his thrusts turning erratic.

2B's breath hitched, her body tensing beneath him. "Inside—" she pleaded, her voice strained, her eyes burning into his. "Don't stop."

9S shuddered, his control fracturing, his body tipping over the edge.

Their cries echoed.

+++

"Are you okay?"

9S's voice was quiet, edged with concern. But beneath it lay something softer—something fragile.

2B inhaled deeply. The world around her was a haze of stars, her senses still tingling, overwhelmed. Yet her mind… her mind was at peace. Finally. After so long.

"Yes," she whispered. "Just… give me a minute."

He didn't move away. He stayed close, his warmth pressed against her, their bodies still tangled together. His breath ghosted over her skin, syncing with hers, as if neither of them wanted to break the moment.

She let her fingers trace idle patterns along his back, feeling the artificial warmth of his skin, the steady rise and fall of his breathing. He was still here. Still with her.

"I knew, 9S," she murmured.

He blinked, confused. "Huh?"

"I knew you were looking at me." A small, knowing smile tugged at her lips. "Back in the sewer."

His face darkened with embarrassment. "Can you blame me?"

No. She couldn't.

"You're lucky I'm fond of you, 9S," she said, her voice laced with amusement. "Other YoRHa units wouldn't have been so understanding."

He smirked, brushing a stray lock of silver from her face. "Guess I hit the jackpot, then."

For a moment, neither spoke. The silence wasn't uncomfortable. It was full. Full of the weight of everything—of what they were, what they'd endured, and the fragile thread tying them together.

"So…" 9S began slowly, his voice hesitant. "What does this make us?"

She hesitated, the question hanging heavy in the air.

She wanted more. Something more. But what she felt—what she felt—she wasn't sure if he returned it, wasn't sure if he even understood the depth of it.

"What do you want to make of this?" she asked.

9S swallowed, his fingers tightening slightly against her hip. "Well…" He hesitated, searching for the right words.

She watched him carefully, waiting.

"Emotions… they're prohibited," he said finally. "But people ignore that anyway."

2B gave a small nod.

"Do you feel something for me?" he asked, his voice soft.

She exhaled. It wasn't a difficult question, but the answer carried weight.

"Yes," she whispered.

His lips parted slightly, his expression unreadable. "But… we just met." He shook his head quickly. "Not that I don't want this—I mean, you're… you're amazing, but…" He trailed off, his words uncertain.

A pit formed in her stomach.

"2B?" He blinked at her, sensing the shift in her.

"Not exactly," she admitted. "We've… we've had missions together before. But your memories were never saved."

9S stilled. His brows furrowed for a fraction of a second before his expression smoothed out.

"Ah," he said simply. "That makes sense."

Of course it did.

"Was I the same? Each time?" he asked, tilting his head.

2B looked at him—truly looked at him. "Yes," she said. "Curious. Inquisitive. Troublesome."

And so much more.

A quiet laugh escaped him. "Figures."

Silence settled between them again, but this time, it felt heavier.

"What do you expect out of this?" 9S asked eventually, his voice barely above a whisper.

2B narrowed her eyes at him. "You're turning the responsibility on me."

He grinned cheekily, his boyish charm breaking the tension. "Yup." He even made a small popping sound with his lips for emphasis.

She sighed. "We'll still be expected to do our duty. That won't change."

"Would you?" His voice dipped lower, quieter. "Would you still do your duty?"

Her expression softened, but she didn't hesitate. "Yes."

His lips parted slightly, but no words came.

She reached up, trailing her fingers over his cheek. "But I'm happy, at least, that I was able to make my own choice. Even just this once."

Even if this was a single moment, she owned it. With each sacrifice, with each death, she was owed this. Androids do not forget. And this—this—was something she would not forget.

"I… I don't know if I love you. This is just so sudden," 9S murmured.

It was to be expected, of course. Of course, 2B sighed. This was too quick. Too sudden. Too—

"But I'm willing to explore and try," 9S affirmed, his voice steady.

Her breath hitched. "Huh?"

"We're soldiers and androids," 9S reminded her, his tone resolute. "Our lives aren't our own." 

That was true. 9S then continued. "But...I don't think Command will mind if we're a little selfish this way."

2B stared at him, her lips parting in surprise. Slowly, a rare, genuine smile spread across her face.

"No," she said softly. "I don't think they will."

+++

A/N: This took a whole damn day to write. I needed the research but believe me, it was worth it, researching with one hand. Why yes, I watched videos of 2B climbing ladders to capture the intensity of dat ass, how could you tell?

And just to avoid confusion again, they're not going to be exclusive as everyone is going to be bang everyone. I can't believe I have to go through mental gymnastics for a smut fic of all things. 

Also, I am continuing the deadline to 26 of this month since not quite a lot of people have placed their bets in. So if ya are still interested to have an OC get smashed by the Twins, write your name in!