In the heart of the underground headquarters of Messorem, nestled within an expansive forest surrounded by lush grasslands, sat a quaint log cabin. This serene, artificial landscape was meticulously crafted to offer tranquility and solace, even miles beneath the earth’s surface. Here, Alpha, the android representative of the Mind Links in the Messorem, found his refuge.
Alpha sat on the porch of his cabin, his gaze fixed on the tranquil scenery before him. He wore baggy gray jogging pants, a white t-shirt, and a white hoodie, blending into the casual, peaceful environment. Despite his synthetic nature, the scene around him brought a sense of calm, as if he were a part of the natural world he observed. A family of deer wandered close, their gentle movements suddenly halting as they noticed Alpha. Startled, they hesitated, confused by the human-like figure that emitted no scent.
Alpha’s eyes followed the deer, his expression unreadable but serene. His attention shifted as he heard the faint sound of footsteps on the cobblestone path that wound through the woods to his cabin. The soft rustle of leaves announced the arrival of Frangotta.
Frangotta’s rose pink hair fluttered in the gentle breeze, a striking contrast to the natural green surroundings. She wore a bodice that was a masterful blend of black and red. The sharp, angular designs of the red accents resembled flames or the wings of a mythical bird, lending her an aura of fierce elegance. The black fabric clung to her form, accentuating her lithe, athletic build, while the red accents added a dynamic vibrancy. Her shoulders were adorned with angular red epaulettes that extended down her arms, creating a striking contrast against the sleek black gloves that covered her hands. A flowing cape-like element draped behind her, fluttering softly with each step she took.
“Alpha,” Frangotta greeted, her voice a harmonious blend of authority and warmth. “Enjoying the peace and quiet?”
Alpha turned his head slightly. “As much as an android can, Frangotta. What brings you here?”
She ascended the steps to the porch, her movements graceful and purposeful. “We have a situation that requires your unique perspective,” she said, taking a seat beside him. “The Mind Links have detected some unusual activity. We need your analysis.”
Alpha nodded, his expression unchanged. “Understood. I will begin the analysis immediately.”
Frangotta smiled, a hint of admiration in her eyes. “Always so efficient, Alpha. Sometimes I wonder if you ever get tired.”
Alpha’s lips twitched in what might have been an attempt at a smile. “An android does not experience fatigue, but I appreciate the sentiment.”
They sat in companionable silence for a moment, watching the deer move cautiously back into the woods. The artificial sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape. Frangotta turned to Alpha, her expression softening.
“Do you ever wish you could feel, Alpha?” she asked quietly.
Alpha considered her question, his gaze fixed on the horizon. “Feeling is a complex human trait. I am designed to understand emotions and respond to them, but I do not experience them as you do. However, I understand the value of emotions in decision-making and interactions.”
Frangotta nodded thoughtfully. “Perhaps that is why you are so effective. You can see things from a perspective we cannot.”
Alpha’s head tilted slightly. “Perspective is a matter of programming and experience. But thank you, Frangotta. Your trust is appreciated.”
She stood, her cape fluttering with the movement. “Come, let’s return to the headquarters. We have much to discuss and plan.”
Alpha rose, his movements smooth and efficient. Together, they walked back along the cobblestone path, leaving the tranquility of the cabin behind and stepping into the responsibilities that awaited them.
As they walked, Frangotta’s demeanor shifted slightly. “Alpha, there’s another reason I came to see you,” she began, her tone more personal.
Alpha looked at her with curiosity. “What is it, Frangotta?”
“I would like you to be present when James meets with me and Alfina,” she said, her eyes meeting his. “Your insights during the blood-bonding ritual will be invaluable, especially concerning the nano-bots that flow through James.”
Alpha nodded thoughtfully. “Ensuring the proper function and integration of the nano-bots during such a critical procedure is paramount. I will monitor his vitals and the nano-bot activity closely.”
Frangotta smirked slightly. “Ever the precise one, Alpha. Just make sure those little machines don’t start a rebellion in his bloodstream.”
Alpha’s lips curved into a rare smile. “I assure you, the nano-bots are programmed for cooperation, not mutiny.”
Frangotta chuckled softly. “Good to hear. James is tough, but we don’t need any unexpected complications.”
They walked in silence for a few moments before Frangotta broached another topic. “There’s something else, too. Alfina… she’s strong, but I worry about how she’ll react when she finds out that losing her chastity is part of the ritual.”
Alpha’s expression became contemplative. “It is a delicate matter. Alfina values her autonomy and her choices. This revelation might feel like a loss of control to her.”
Frangotta sighed, her eyes reflecting concern. “I know. She’s always been headstrong, determined to forge her own path. This ritual, with its demands and traditions, could be a shock to her.”
“Perhaps,” Alpha suggested, “it would help if she understood the deeper significance behind the ritual. It’s not just a physical act, but a merging of destinies, a binding of fates.”
Frangotta nodded. “You’re right. But how do we convey that to her without making it feel like we’re taking something from her?”
“By ensuring she knows it is her choice,” Alpha replied. “Empower her with the understanding and let her decide to embrace the ritual on her terms.”
Frangotta looked at him, her expression softening. “You always know how to frame things in the best light, Alpha. I hope you’re right.”
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.
They continued their walk, the entrance to the headquarters now in sight. Frangotta paused, turning to Alpha with a determined look. “We’ll get through this, together. For Alfina, for James, for everyone involved.”
Alpha nodded, his human-like face reflecting a calm certainty. “Together, we will ensure the success of the ritual and support Alfina through this transition.”
As they entered the headquarters, the artificial night settling around them, both felt the weight of their responsibilitiesAs Alpha and Frangotta exited the area created for Alpha and entered the main hallway to the headquarters, they stopped for a moment to finish their conversation.
“Alpha, could you check on James before he wakes up? After that, just meet us in the main chambers,” Frangotta requested.
Alpha nodded in acknowledgment. “Understood.”
“See you soon,” she said, turning and walking away.
Alpha started playing a soft jazzy tune in his head, a calming, melodic piece with smooth saxophone lines and gentle piano chords. The tune, though wordless, had a way of making him feel comfortable and focused, a phenomenon he did not fully understand but appreciated nonetheless. He chalked it up to something he would ponder later.
As he walked, a voice called out, “Alpha, how are you?”
He stopped and turned to see Kent and Rosa walking out of a door to his right. Kent was a tall blonde with pale skin and blue eyes, dressed in a typical scientist outfit: a white lab coat over a blue dress shirt, black slacks, and polished shoes. Rosa, with burgundy red hair and green eyes, wore a similar scientist outfit, her white lab coat complementing her practical attire.
“Kent, Rosa,” Alpha greeted them. “I thought the two of you were now council members.”
“We are,” Kent replied, “but there’s no harm in continuing our scientific research.”
Alpha’s curiosity piqued. “What are you researching?”
“We are trying to create a way to read someone’s thoughts in real time and watch it like a show,” Kent explained. “It’s true that there are many species, such as sorcerers, mermaids, vampires like us, and many more, but none could project it onto a screen for all to watch in real time. This would be revolutionary for Messorem.”
Rosa yawned widely, her unmistakable vampire fangs clearly visible. She glanced at her watch and said, “We really need to be going, or else we’ll be late for our meeting.”
“Alpha, dear, if you see Lilly, please let her know we will be home late,” she added.
“I can. I’m actually heading to see her now,” Alpha replied.
“Oh, good,” Rosa responded. “Well, see you later.”
With that, the two vampires poofed into bats and took flight, leaving Alpha to continue his path down the hallway, the soothing jazzy tune still playing in his head as he headed towards his next destination.As Alpha headed towards his next destination, he looked up at the fluorescent lights above and thought to himself how much he hated them. The harsh, artificial glow felt cold and unwelcoming compared to the calming ambiance of his cabin. He wished that the headquarters was above ground so they could have windows for natural light, but then the whole secrecy aspect would be compromised.
He finally reached a big gray door. He knew that this was the place where James was being held, thanks to the nano-bots. His heart rate is normal, he’s still unconscious, and he seems to have fully healed from the conk on the back of his head. Alpha gave a stern knock on the door and proceeded to open it after hearing Mick call out, “Come in.”
He greeted Mick, Lexi, and Lilly as he entered. “Hello, everyone. Mick, Lexi, Lilly.”
“Alpha,” Mick said, standing up and extending a hand. “Good to see you.”
“Hey, Alpha,” Lexi added with a smile. “How have you been?”
“Lilly, your parents asked me to let you know they will be home late tonight,” Alpha said.
Lilly nodded. “Thanks for letting me know, Alpha. It’s been a bit chaotic lately, hasn’t it?”
“We’ve been managing,” Mick said.
Lexi nodded. “Yeah, but we’re holding up. How about you? Any interesting developments?”
“Just the usual,” Alpha said with a slight smile. “Keeping things running smoothly. How is James doing?”
Lilly sighed. “He’s stable. The nano-bots have done an excellent job with his recovery.”
Alpha walked over to James and lifted his head with his left hand. James’s eyes fluttered open for a second and then quickly closed again. Alpha observed him quietly for a moment before saying, “Now I see why Frangotta chose this one.”
He didn’t elaborate on what he meant, and the three people in the room did not bother to ask.Alpha knew that James had a high potential to be a force to be reckoned with, thanks to his little companions inside James’ bloodstream, but that did not say anything about his character. He looked over at Lilly, who was sitting on the table positioned behind him.
“How long have you known James?” Alpha asked.
“Since the seventh grade,” she replied.
“And what is your opinion of him?” Alpha continued.
Lilly thought for a moment before answering. “James is strong and determined. He’s always been someone you can rely on. He has a good heart and a strong sense of justice. He’s the kind of person who would put others before himself.”
Alpha nodded thoughtfully. “That aligns with what I’ve observed. It’s good to hear it confirmed by someone who knows him well.”
Mick chimed in, “James has always been a bit of a lone wolf, but he’s also incredibly loyal to those he cares about. If he considers you a friend, he’ll have your back no matter what.”
Alpha looked back at James, still unconscious but showing signs of recovery. “It seems Frangotta made a wise choice in selecting him. His potential is undeniable.”
Lilly smiled. “I’m sure he’ll prove himself once he wakes up.”
Alpha gave a small nod. “Let’s hope so. For now, we continue to prepare.”
With that, Alpha stepped away from James and refocused on the task at hand. The soft jazzy tune in his head resumed, providing a comforting backdrop as he moved forward with his duties.As Alpha began to leave the room, he turned to confirm that Mick, Lexi, and Lilly knew where to take James once he awakened.
“Do you know where to take him once he wakes up?” Alpha asked.
Mick nodded. “Yes, we do. We’ll ensure he gets to the recovery chamber.”
Alpha gave a slight nod. “Good.”
He left them, stepping out of the room. Although androids have no need to yawn, he did so because it seemed like the right thing to do. He was simply copying what he had seen his fellow Messorem do in situations like this. Now walking to the room where he was to meet Frangotta and Alfina, he decided to try putting some words to the jazzy tune playing in his head:
Sitting here, thinking of you,
Wondering how we got this far,
In the silence of this room,
I feel the echoes of your heart.
Love’s a journey, twists and turns,
In this quiet, I find my peace,
Holding on to what we’ve learned,
In your eyes, my sweet release.
He finally approached a big ornate door. It was an impressive piece of craftsmanship, made of dark mahogany and inlaid with intricate gold patterns. The designs depicted scenes of battles, victories, and mythical creatures, all painstakingly detailed. The door handles were shaped like dragon heads, their eyes set with tiny rubies that gleamed in the artificial light.
Alpha stopped for a second and thought to himself why Frangotta always went overboard when creating things for her rooms. Being an android, he always thought the simple and logical approach, which was to have all the doors conform to uniformity, was the best.
With a final, contemplative look at the door, Alpha reached out, grasped the ornate handle, and pushed the door open to join Frangotta and Alfina inside.As Alpha’s eyes lingered on the glass of wine, Frangotta took notice and smiled. “Don’t worry, my friend. I’m still working on a spell to make you more human-like so you can enjoy the simple pleasures of the living.”
Alpha quickly looked up at her and smiled. “You have been saying that for about the last sixty years.”
Frangotta’s smile tightened slightly, and there was the smallest hint of sourness in her voice as she responded, “Well, great things take time, just like this wine.”
Alpha realized that he might have inadvertently hurt her feelings. Despite her composed exterior, he knew that calling into question her seriousness, even in jest, was a bit hurtful. “I know you’re doing your best, Frangotta. I didn’t mean to sound ungrateful. Your dedication means a lot to me.”
Her expression softened again. “I know, Alpha. Just have a little more patience. We’ll get there.”
Princess Alfina watched the exchange with interest, noting the bond between the two. “It’s clear that you both have a deep understanding and respect for each other. That’s comforting to see.”
Alpha nodded. “Indeed, Princess. Frangotta has been a steadfast ally and friend.”
Frangotta raised her glass slightly in a silent toast, then took a sip, her demeanor relaxed once more. “Now, let’s discuss the matters at hand. We have much to prepare for.”