016 웃 VOICE

[secretasshole]

[David's voice is flat when he clicks on the video feed. He doesn't sound sad, really, or angry. He's not programmed to experience those emotions the same way humans are, and so it's probably more accurate to say he sounds disappointed.

And maybe a little depressed.]

My creator said I was the closest thing to a son he would ever have. But because I was not human, I would never appreciate the gifts he'd given me - freedom from aging and death - because I lacked the one thing that would make me worthwhile to him. A soul.

During this breach, I had a soul, and chose to have it cut away from me. [And he's just. So sick of this, of being forced to confront these issues and knowing that no one's going to understand. This is all just so pointless.

There's a long pause, and he does consider saying something else, but ultimately just turns the feed off. It's the android equivalent of a fuck it, it's not worth it.]

Comments

[secretasshole]

That's one way of putting it.

[routemistress]

It's the only way of putting it. You didn't corrupt Aya or drive 'er off. You've not been paired since, 'ave you? I don't remember.

[secretasshole]

No, I haven't.

[routemistress]

Kara might suit you. Or Polly, actually. You might consider talking to some of the unpaired wardens and see who works out. I'd offer meself, but I think we both know I wouldn't be right for you.

[secretasshole]

I'm not interested in being assigned a warden or finding a substitute in the interim.

[routemistress]

You want out of 'ere, don't you? If you were going to make it 'appen alone, you'd've done it by now. Don't dismiss my advice just because I annoy you, David, I'm still usually right.

[secretasshole]

As I've said on numerous occasions, I have very little reason to return to my own world, or take up residence in someone else's. I am dismissing your advice because it has extraordinarily little relevance to my ultimate fate, and because you assumed you knew the solution that would best suit me instead of asking me what I want.

[routemistress]

I'm not assuming so much as extrapolating, dear. You were the one being all bitter about power imbalances earlier; are you trying to tell me you're all right with not 'aving the freedom to leave?

And you've no obligation to take any of my advice. I just throw ideas out there. Pick 'em up or leave 'em; my satisfaction's in 'aving them.

[secretasshole]

Then I'm leaving them.