Nier: The Last Human

Chapters

Morning
Confusion
Adjustment
Covenant
Reality
Omen
Beginning of the End Part 1
Beginning of the End Part 2
Failure
Revelation
Story Time
A Day with Pascal Part 1
A Day With Pascal Part 2
Something to Live For
Processing...
A2's Journal
Meeting
Final [S]et of the Sun
Epilogue
Anemone's Journal

Morning

"Is this an android? I've never seen this kind of model before..."

"Maybe it's some abandoned project?"

"I don't know Number 4; why would they even keep it alive if it's abandoned? "

"You are probably right. It seems like this unit is hibernating...should we wake her up? We can really use some help now."

"Captin! We've got incoming!"

"Already? Whatever, let's get going!"

"What about her?"

"Forget about her! We've lost 12 units already! Let's go before we all get annihilated by machines!"

"Her mouth is moving! Do you think she's talking?"

"I think she's dreaming."

"Dreaming?"

"Yes. According to the records, humans would sometimes talk in their sleep while dreaming." A machine says.

"I don't think she's a human Pascal. However, I've never seen an android like her. What is she?" A young woman with white hair responds.

"Here, maybe I can get some out by hacking." A young man with white hair adds as he projects a beam onto Sunset.

"Is everything ok?" The woman asks.

"I...can't hack it! It doesn't work on her!"

"Well, I've never heard of a humanoid machine before Adam and Eve. And looking at the hibernation chamber, we know that she's older than those two." The machine says.

"Hi, Pod, analysis chamber." The woman says to a floating box-like robot next to her.

"Analysis complete. Conclusion: this chamber was last reconstructed in 5100." the Pod responds.

"5100...It was constructed almost 7,000 years ago!" The young says, touching the glass on the chamber: "Just who is she..."

"Negative. This chamber was last reconstructed in 5100. Its actual age is unclear."

"Wow, that's unexpected." the young man turns around and looks at the machine: "By the way, Pascal, how do you find this location?"

"I learned about it from one of the old world documents you give me. " the machine shrugged its' shoulder: "It took some time to translate. It was written in Old-World English."

"What does it say exactly?" the woman says, giving the young a look.

"Here, this is the original one and the translated one." the machine hands them two copies of the document.

"So...the last hope of humanity?" The young man asks while looking at a copy.

"Yes, this is what I got."

"Hi, Pod, can you translate the original document here and now?" the young man says,

"Forget about it. Her eyes are open!" the woman says while taking a defensive position.

"She's...touching the glass?" The young man says: "She's measuring things out with her hands!"

"Is she blind? Why would you navigate everything hands when you have eyes?" the woman asks.

"I think she is blind, at least for now." the young man says, waving his hands towards Sunset: "See? She's not responding to me!"

"Should we break the glass?" the woman says as a pair of swords appears behind her: "She's pounding on it."

"So much for the last hope of humanity," the young man adds as he projects a beam of light from his hand onto the chamber: "What the...There's some kind of truth algorithm placed on it. I can't hack this thing."

As they speak, the glass wall suddenly popped out and fell to the ground.

"Watch out!" the young man managed to catch Sunset before she fell.

"I think she's trying to say something," Pascal says, moving closer to Sunset.

"I don't think she can talk," the woman says: "Her mouth is moving, but she's not making any sound."

"Wow, you are...light. Can you walk?" the young man asks as he helps Sunset to sit down.

"She's doing it again," the woman says: "Her mouth is moving. I think she is trying to say something."

"Sorry, I can't hear you. You'll have to speak up a bit." the young man asks as he leans closer.

"Guys, she's making some kind of gesture." Pascal points out: "I think she's trying to tell us something!"

"Pod, analysis her gestures."

"Analysis complete. Conclusion: the unit in question is using sign language. She is trying to say: Thank you. My name is Sunset. I can hear, but not speak or see for the moment." the Pod explains.

"I see. Can you walk?" the woman asks.

"Ok, easy there." The young man says as Sunset tries to stand up: "Wow! Ok, we get it. Just relax. 2B, I don't think she can walk."

"She can ride on my back," Pascal offers.

"Actually, I think she needs to rest a bit." the young woman, named 2B, comments as Sunset nods in agreement.

"Ok, resting it is." the young man says: "By the way, my name is 9S, nice to meet you."

"I'm 2B."

"And my name is Pascal!"

After a brief introduction, Sunset starts to write things down on the ground with her finger.

"She's writing something down!' 9S says: "It's in Old-World English. Pod, translate her message!"

"Analysis complete. The unit, known as Sunset, wants to know what year is this."

"Um, interesting." 2B asks: "Say, Sunset, can you really understand us?"

Sunset nods.

"It is a bit weird when I think about it." 9S adds: "It's year 11,945. Just by the way, what year are you from? Does everyone back then talk like us?"

Sunset nods as she writes down 2025.

"What the...are you an android?" 2B asks.

Sunset shakes her head while writing more sentences on the ground.

"Analysis: Sunset wants to know whether there's a cure for White Chlorination Syndrome or not." the Pod says.

"The what?" 9S asks: "Sorry, Sunset, I am not getting what you are trying to say there."

Upon hearing 9S' response, Sunset gives a sigh of relief.

"Are you a machine?" 2B asks.

Sunset shakes her head.

"Then are you a..." 2B pauses for a moment: "Nevermind. Are you feeling better?"

Sunset nods before making another attempt at standing up.

"Wow, easy there!" 9S says: "Easy, there's no need to hurry. 2B, I think she's having some problems with core function."

"I see," 2B responds: "I can carry her on my back."

Before their departure, Sunset writes down another sentence, one that went unnoticed: Are you replicant?

Confusion

"This is...unique. Hi, Popola, take a look." A girl with red hair calls out to her sister.

"What is it? Devola?" Popola asks.

"Her body structure is quite different from other androids."

"Hm...What the...How do you even fight with a structure like this?"

"Is everything ok?" 9S asks: "Sunset was in hibernation for about 9,000 years, so..."

"Yes, well," Devola says: "Her body is not made for battle. She wouldn't have the strength or durability to fight anyone."

"Her body mass is way too low for an android, and her bones are fragile from what we can tell," Popola adds: "Also, it appears that she has some kind of pumping device in her chest."

"Well, she is an older model, so..." 9S replies.

"Yeah, about that," Devola says: "That device resembles a heart that an animal would possess."

"An animal?" 2B asks.

"Yes. By the way, 9S, were you able to hack into her?" Popola asks.

"No! I can't even get to the hacking page! It's almost like she doesn't have an operating system!"

"And what kind of being can move around and keep on living without an operating system?" Devola asks.

"An animal?" 9S says.

"Plus, there's nothing wrong with her body. Her core functions should be intact, and yet," Popola says: "She still can't see, can't talk and is having trouble standing."

"Just what kind of android or machine would have those sort of problems?" Devola says: "Think hard. The answer is a bit obvious if you ask me."

"Are you suggesting she's..." 9S asks in disbelief.

"You tell me," Devola says: "It's only a hypothesis, but adding everything up? I am sure of it."

"I see," 2B says: "I'll contact the Bunker as soon as possible."

"Wait, 2B." 9S interrupts: "We don't know everything about her yet. Perhaps we should wait for her recovery and see what happens."

"Good idea," 2B says: "But we need to keep this a secret. If we are right, then she should be sent back to the Bunker as soon as possible."

"Copy that!"

"Will do."

"Count on me!"

Sunset lays on a bed with her eyes open. I can't see a thing! She thinks.

"Ah...ah..." luckily, she can make a sound with her throat again.

She closes her eyes again, meditating on the events today: It seems like WCS is long gone, then Project Gestalt must be a success. People at this age don't even know of its' existence. However, why are they using terms such as "core functionality" and "system check" on me? Do they think I am a robot or something? Why do they have names such as 2B or 9S? Something is wrong with this age. It is 9,000 years later, after all. Maybe people at this age would have machinal parts inserted into their bodies, and they live with humanoid robots. Most importantly, what happened between humans and replicants?

Finally, Sunset decides that there's no point in thinking about these now. Perhaps she should focus more on how to recover from her current state. 9,000 years of slumber is quite taxing for her. She's temperately blind and mute, and the loss of muscle mass made it hard for her even to stand up. One thing's for sure. Nobody remembers the project she participated in. The project manager at the time told her about the possibility of people forgetting about this project entirely. However, she promised two things: one, and she will survive. Two, there would be a bag, containing information that might be useful to her, hidden somewhere in the chamber.

Perhaps I should go back to the chamber once I recover, Sunset thought: I am alive now, so it's time to see whether I can find that bag that the manager promised.

"9S?"

"Yes, 2B?"

"Where did you find that document?"

"In a chest in the middle of the desert."

"I see," 2B replies: "Why did you give it to Pascal then? Did you not read over the document before handing it over?"

"Well, I..."

"Why are you handing him those old-world documents anyway? The machines are enemies, remember that." 2B continues.

"Yes, I am sorry," 9S replies, lowering his head: "I never thought it's possible to find this kind of information in the middle of nowhere."

"How many documents did you hand over?" 2B questions.

"This is the first one!" 9S says.

"We are contacting the Bunker now." 2B says with a shaky voice: "Pod, patch me..."

"Wait!" 9S interrupts.

"What is it?" 2B asks angrily.

"I mean...um...we don't even know if she..." 9S adds.

"There might be other documents just like this one in the desert," 2B explains: "The possibility of those documents fallen in enemy hands increases every minute we waste."

"I guess you are right," 9S says: "Still, do you think the commander would believe us? I have never heard of such a project before!"

"I know," 2B pauses for a moment: "It's a bit odd that the Council of Humanity never mentioned an important project like this."

"So perhaps we should talk to Anemone about this? There's no need to hurry," 9S says: "Besides, Pascal is our friend, remember? He contacted us instead of giving this document to other machines."

"I guess you are right," 2B lets out a sigh: "Sorry, Nines. I don't know got into me."

"It's ok," 9S replies: "It's ok, I can understand. We've spent all our time fighting for humanity but never seen an actual human. If we are right about Sunset, then we would be the first ones aside from the commander to even interacted with a human! Isn't that exciting?"

"I guess," 2B says: "If she really is a human, then I would like to have a conversation with her. Humans are, after all, the gods who created us. She better has some answers to my questions."

"Are you ok, 2B" 9S gives her a worried look: "You don't seem too happy about her."

"I don't know," 2B says, messaging her temple: "It's just, after all those years of battling machines, I don't even know what's the meaning of anything anymore. Sure I am happy to know that we've just met a human, but still."

"I see," 9S says: "Well, then we should talk to her after she gets better."

"Alright," 2B whispers: "Thank you, Nines."

"Ha! You said it! Twice!" 9S says: "You called me Nines! Twice in a roll!"

"What? I...emotions are..." embarrassed, 2B doesn't know how to respond: "Let's get going."

"Yeah, yeah."

"One affirmation would suffice."

"Fine."

"One

Adjustment

"And this concludes my report." Anemone says.

"It that so," A woman with long silver hair replies: "How is this Sunset doing now?"

"Not too good," Anemone answers: "She's still having trouble with everything. We kept it a secret from others. So far, Only 2B, 9S, me, Devola, and Popola know about this."

The woman with long silver hair was about to say something but stopped before any word words come out of her mouth.

"White, this is big," Anemone says, breaking the awkward silence: "If she really is a human, that means there might be more of them still on Earth."

"No, that's impossible," White replies with her eyes closed: "From this document 9S discovered, Sunset is the last surviving member of this project."

"And so we thought humans were extinct," Anemone adds: "Then what happened? 9S stumbled upon this document and found Sunset! Come on, White! We can't let the machines find the other humans first! Even if Sunset is the only one left, we can still secure more information about the old world or uncover other useful information."

"Alright," White says: "I will order all Yorha unite to begin searching information regarding the old world, especially in the desert."

"And we'll do our best to corporate," Anemone says: "If we end up finding more humans, then the Council of Humanity would finally be a thing!"

"You are right," White says, with a smile on her face: "We don't have lie to other androids anymore. Moreover, it would be a huge morale boost if a real human makes an appearance for the first time ever."

"And you don't have to worry about 9S finding out the truth anymore."

"Speaking of which," White asks: "How's 9S doing?"

"He's still oblivious," Anemone says: "Nothing to worry about for now. So, what's the plan? Do we keep it a secret?"

"Please do," White says: "We can't get back on the Moon just yet, so please take care of her for me."

"It would be my honor," Anemone says: "By the way, what are you going to do if she really is the last human in existence?"

"Then she will be the Council of Humanity," White says, turning her head towards the window and stares into space before settling her sight on Earth: "We are created to serve the human race, and I will fulfill this mission if that's the last thing I do."

"Say ah,"

"Ah..." Sunset says with a muffled voice.

"Ok, your throat looks good. How many fingers am I holding up?" Popola asks, holding up one finger.

Sunset squeezes her eyes before holding up two fingers.

"It's one," Devola shrugs: "You are close, though. Can you walk yet?"

Sunset shakes her head.

"I thought so," Popola says: "Don't worry, your eyes and throat should be back online in a few days. However, we are not sure whether you would be able to get your muscle mass back."

"You should be able to perform basic tasks with the proper amount of exercise," Devola adds: "For the time being, we'll find something to help you walk."

"Thank you." Sunset replies, with a muffled. Soon, she thought, I would get all the information I need. But before that, I should rest and observe.

Author's Note

I know this chapter is short, but the next one would be longer I promise!

Covenant

"6334, 6335, 6336...Congrats! You did it!" Popola cheers as Sunset hits the 3 miles mark.

"Don't get too full of yourself," Devola adds: "You still have a long way to go."

"Thanks a lot!" Sunset says, panting for air: "I owe you guys so much! Thank you!"

"We owe you as much; it's our responsibility," Devola responds: "No need to thank us."

"You guys are too kind!" Sunset says, sitting down on the ground.

"No, no, don't sit on the ground!" Popola says, handing Sunset her spear: "It's dirty! Can you still walk? Let's find a better place to rest."

"I'll do my best," Sunset says, taking the spear from Popola's hand: "When you guys said a walking, I was expecting a cane, not a spear."

"It's Type 4O Lance," Devola explains: "It's the newest type from Yorha, and this one is specially designed for you. We can get you a cane as well."

"The spear is cool," Sunset says: "It's so light, though! What is it made of?"

"I don't know," Popola replies: "This one is made for you only. A normal 4O Lance would be much heavier."

"You guys are so kind! I have to do something in return!" Sunset says, standing up: "You guys did so much! I just have to do at least something!"

"We owe you as much," Devola says: "If you want to do something for us, then stay safe and take care of yourself."

"You don't owe me anything!" Sunset says: "If anything, I owe you!"

"It's a long story, but we are created to serve humans," Popola says.

"I still can't believe you guys are androids," Sunset says: "100th-century technology sure is amazing!"

"We wouldn't be here if not for humans," Devola says.

"If you think we are amazing, wait until you see Yorha!" Popola says: "They are the newest models. You've met 2B and 9S. They are something else."

"2B is the woman with short white hair, and 9S is the young man with white hair, right?" Sunset asks: "Why do they have blindfolds on?"

"It's not blindfold," Devola says: "It's some Yorha technology; they can see through it."

"Well, 100th-century technology sure is something," Sunset says: "Say, can I meet them sometimes? I want to thank them for saving me."

"They should be back by tomorrow," Popola says: "Actually, they brought you the spear."

"By the way, do you guys happen to know an android named Number 4?" Sunset asks.

"No, never heard of this name," Devola says: "If you want to know something, ask Anemone, she might know something."

"So, it's happening, ha?" 9S says while running.

"What?" 2B asks, running beside 9S.

"You know, the Commander recognized Sunset as a human and..."

"We are to keep it a secret, don't forget about this." 2B says: "And don't ever give anything to Pascal ever again."

"Fine," 9S replies: "Say, didn't Sunset want to meet us like now?"

"Yes," 2B replies: "watch your tone; she is our creator after all."

Sunset greets the two androids as they arrive at the camp.

"2B! 9S!" Sunset waves as the androids approach.

"Glory to mankind!" 2B stops running, stands bolt right up, and put a hand over her chest.

"G...glory to mankind!" 9S follows.

"Glory to mankind!" Sunset adds.

"Unit 2B at your service!"

"Unit 9S at your service!"

For the love of Celestia, say something! Sunset thought to herself, not knowing how to respond: Something, anything!

"It's my honor!" Sunset responds, with an akawark smile on her face.

"The pleasre is mine, ma'am." 2B says: "How can we help you?"

"I am wondering, do you guys remember the way back to my chamber?" Sunset asks, still in the salute position.

"Of course, ma'am." 9S says.

"Yeah, well," Sunset says: "I need to get something from that place, would it be ok if you guy come with me?"

"Of course, it's our mission to serve the human race." 2B says.

"Great! Thank you guys! Sorry to bother y'all but there's something I have to get back!" Sunset says: "By the way, you guys can call me Sunset, no need to be so formal!"

"So can we stop with the salute then?" 9S mumbles.

"9S!"

"Oh, of course," Sunset says: "Sorry, I didn't know when to stop so just kept doing it. I was waiting for you guys to stop."

"My apologies," 2B says, putting her hand down: "So, are we departing now?"

"Yeah, why not?" Sunset says: "How far way is that place? I haven't fully recovered yet."

"About 5 miles away, but we can take breaks." 9S suggests: "Plus, we can always drop by the desert camp if needed."

"That wouldn't be necessary," 2B says: "We can always carry you. However, if the circumstance requires, we could drop by there."

"So, eh, are we leaving now?" 9S asks.

"Yeah, of course!" Sunset says, knowing fully that it's going to be a rough trip.

"Say, 9S?" Sunset asks as they travel: "What do you think about humans?"

"What? Me?" 9S answers: "Humans are our creators, and I am honored to meet them."

"So, do you have any questions for me?" Sunset says.

"Actually, yeah!" 9S says: "What do you think of us?"

"Me?"

"Yeah! We are created to serve humans and take back Earth from the machines," 9S continues: "I know we didn't do that good of a job, but I am still curious as to how you feel about everything."

"Are guys are the greatest creation of the human race." Sunset responds: "Seriously, for all I know, you androids inherented our good side and didn't pick up the bad side."

"Oh, thank you! I am...flatered!" 9S responds nervously: "We'll do our best and fulfill our missions!"

"We won't let you down." 2B adds: "We'll fight as long as you are willing to guide us."

"Willing to guide you, huh?" Sunset says as a smile emerges from her face: "Of course, we won't let you down."

As long as we are willing to guide, right? Sunset thought to herself: Then fine, I'll be here for awhile. Let's each fulfill our part of the agreement.

Reality

"So, we are finally here," 9S says as Sunset collapses on the ground.

"Take...a...break..." Sunset says, panting for air.

"Seems like the hibernation really took a lot out of you, huh?" he replies.

"According to the twin, she lost about 1/3 of her muscle mass." 2B adds.

After a couple of minutes of rest, Sunset gets up from the ground and says: "Ok, I fell a bit better, let's proceed."

"So, ma'am...I mean Sunset, what was life like in the old world?" 9S asks.

"You mean during my time?" Sunset answers: "Well, things were pretty good for a while. I went to school, had a lot of friends and all that. however, everything changed when WCS hits."

"WCS? What's that?" 9S asks.

"White Chlorination Syndrome," Sunset says: "it's a disease that slowly turns people into a statue of salt."

"Wait. What?" 9S says: "Really? How does that even work?"

"I don't know," Sunset replies: "You either mutate into some kind of mindless monster who attacks anyone onsight or into a pillar of salt. Also, there was no cure for the disease."

"No cure..." 2B mumbles.

"Yes, no cure," Sunset continues: "and the whole process is slow and painful. No method, not even amputation, could stop the process. Once you get it, you are done for."

"That's rough; I am sorry to hear about that," 9S says: "I didn't know you had to deal with that kind of nonsense."

"It was nonsense," Sunset says in a quavering voice: "Sometimes I wonder, how in the world does something like that happen? Was that some kind of sick joke?"

"Sunset..." 2B opens her mouth, trying to say something to comfort Sunset.

"Oh, my, sorry about that," Sunset says, back to her demeanor: "But I am glad to know that you guys don't know what that. Must mean it was eradicated."

"Is that so," 2B responds.

"Yeah! And I am happy about that!" Sunset says: "At least Project Gestalt is a success!"

"By the way, what's Project Gestalt?" 9S asks.

"It's a project that would separate the human soul from the body." Sunset says: "Remember WCS had no cure? And that's what they came up with: extract our soul from the body, and put them back into new bodies once WCS is gone."

"That's...intriguing," 9S says: "Wow, so did it work?"

"I don't know," Sunset says: "We know it was a thing, but no one knew whether it was going to work or not."

"Is that why you are here?" 2B asks.

"Yes, I chose to freeze myself while others waited to get their souls extracted." Sunset answers.

"So, er, do you know anyone else who chose to freeze themselves?" 9S asks.

"Far as I know; I am the only one." Sunset says: "But there could be others who did what I did later on."

"Heads up, we are here." 2B says as the crew reached Sunset's hibernation chamber.

"Ok, let me take a look," Sunset says, examining the machine: "Where is it...ha!"

"What is it?" 9S asks as Sunset removes a plate on the back of the chamber, revealing a small panel.

A mini chamber pops up above 9S' head as Sunset press her thumb against the panel.

"Good thing it's still working," Sunset says, walking towards 9S.

"Wow, Sunset! You are tall!" 9S says as Sunset gets a backpack from the chamber.

"Really?" Sunset says, putting the backpack on her back: "I am not really the tallest among my friends."

"How tall are you?" 9S asks

"5'77, how tall are you?"

"I am 5'3!" 9S says: "And you are not the tallest?"

"Well, there's this girl named Fluttershy, she's like 6'1," Sunset says.

"Perhaps we should get to safety before chatting some more," 2B says: "We have to get back to safety before the machines find us."

"What a trip!" 9S says after they drop off Sunset: "The White Chlorination Syndrome, I've never heard of that!"

"9S?" 2B says: "We should probably head out."

"Right! I almost forget! The Flooded City, right?"

"Right." 2B says.

"Hi 2B, what do you think about Sunset's stories?" 9S asks as they travel: "She told me so many things! I can't wait to share it with..."

"9S," 2B interrupts: "Can you promise me something?"

"Of course, what is it?"

"Keep everything you heard from Sunset a secret and speak of it to no one." 2B says

"What? But why?"

"Can you just promise me?"

"Ok, fine!" 9S says: "But why, though?"

2B didn't answer this question. Something doesn't add up, she thought to herself: all the data about the old world is deleted, and now Sunset, a human from the old world, speaks of events that no one ever heard of. Something isn't right. However, she dare not to reach a conclusion.

"2B?" 9S says: "Are you ok? Is something bothering you?"

"Nothing," 2B says: "We should hurry."

"SCREW IT ALL!" Sunset shouts as she throws a file across her room.

"Hello? Are you ok in there?" Popola knocks on the door, and pieces of paper fall all over the room.

"I am alright, just give a moment." Sunset replies, trying to repress her anger.

"What's with her?" Devola asks.

"It's ok, Devola," Popola says: "She probably just needs a bit of rest. Why don't we get some other tasks done for the time being?"

"Devola...Popola..." Sunset through gritted teeth. She is upset, indeed. How could she not? After learning the truth behind humanity's extinction, she could not help but feel upset. Devola and Popola, the red-headed twin, the ones who nurtured her back to health, were responsible for humanity's extinction.

"We owe you..." Sunset repeats the words the twins said to her: "We owe you..."

The one directly responsible for humans' extinction is a man named Nier, however, he could have not done anything with the twin's help. The twin's duty was to guard humanity. Yet, they raised a monster who would ruin humans. When the time came, they failed to fulfill their duty and humans are no more.

Omen

"Glory to Mankind!"

The androids salute as Sunset walks by.

"Come on, guys," Sunset says: "What's with you all of a sudden? No need to be so formal. Just call me Sunset."

"My apologies, ma'am," an android says: "We are created to serve humans, and..."

"Ok, I get it!" Sunset says, trying to keep herself composed: "You are the 10th person to say this today! Isn't ANemone your leader? And y'all still call her Anemone instead of ma'am. If you guys can do that with her, then why can't you do it with me?"

"I am sorry, ma'am," another android responds: "But it's hard."

"Very hard, you are our creator, and it's our duty to..."

"Ok..." Sunset says: "In this case, Glory to Mankind, and now y'all can go back to you daily chores."

Sunset walks off before any of the androids had a chance to say anything.

"Anemone! Thank goodness you are here!" Sunset walks into a tent, ignoring other androids on her way: "Could you please tell them to stay put? What's with everyone all of a sudden?"

"Glory to Mankind!" Anemone salutes as Sunset enters the tent.

"You too? No..." Sunset says, covering her face with a hand: "Why..."

"Sorry, Sunset, but you are our creator after all. It's hard just to act casual." Anemone answers: "Here, you were looking for Devola and Popola, right?"

"Yeah," Sunset says, hand still on her face: "At least you call me Sunset."

"What does everyone else call you?"

"Ma'am," Sunset answers: "And they won't call me Sunset even at my request."

"Well, in this case..."

"No, don't you even dare."

"It's just a joke! Relax." Anemone says: "Anyway, the twins are in an expedition. They should be back soon, though."

"I see," Sunset says, removing her hand: "I need to talk to them in private."

"May I ask why?" Anemone asks, pouring Sunset a cup of water: "Here, hydrate yourself. For all I know, humans would suffer severe malfunction without enough water."

"That's one way to put it," Sunset says, taking over the cup: "Say, Anemone, why did you tell everyone that I am a human? Aren't we supposed to keep this a secret?"

"That was the plan," Anemone shugs: "However, things have changed, and the plan had to change."

"Say, I really am the last human left, aren't I," Sunset asks, staring into the cup.

"Unfortunately, yes," ANemone answers after a moment of silence: "I am sorry."

"It's okay," Sunset says, hands on the cup: "It's not your fault. However, I need to speak to the twins about it."

"Are you saying they did it?" Anemone says, eyes wide open.

"No, but have you ever wondered what they did?" Sunset asks as her eyes are focused on the water: "No one here seems to like the twins, and everyone knows they did something before. But when I ask, no one knows what they did. Wanna take a guess?"

"No way...Did they really?"

"Not exactly," Sunset says, putting the cup on a table next to her: "They are not the ones directly responsible."

"Then who did it?"

"You wouldn't know his name," Sunset says: "It was 7000 years ago, and he was human."

"Human? Are you telling me..."

"Enough about this," Sunset cuts Anemone off: "We humans are many things. We are physically weak, and yet we ruled over Earth. We had no fangs nor claws, and yet we survived. No one but ourselves can defeat us."

"I see," Anemone looks down on the ground: "I'm sorry."

"No need to apologize," Sunset says with a smile on her face: "I am sure Devola and Popola felt horrible about that event. You know, Anemone, something I am just worried about them. They always work hard, talk to no one, and...I don't know. I am just worried for some reason."

"Worried, eh?" Anemone says: "You sure are forgiving, aren't you?"

"No, Anemone, I am not," Sunset replies: "It's just...nothing feels right. Maybe it's because of the 9000 years I spent in a hibernation chamber, but nothing feels right."

"Tell me about it."

"First of all, what's with the 'Emotions are prohibited' thing?" Sunset asks: "2B always say things like this."

"Yorha units aren't allowed to be emotional even if they are given emotion." Anemone says, handing Sunset the cup of water she poured earlier: "It's a bit counterintuitive if you ask me. I wonder who made that rule."

"I know, right?" Sunset says, taking a sip from the cup: "I mean, if you love someone, better show them some appreciation before it's too late."

"Yeah, happened to me before," Sunset says, taking another slip: "Never told my friend Fluttershy how much she meant for me before she turned into a pillar of salt."

"Oh, my," Anemone says: "You've been through a lot, haven't you?"

"It's nothing compared to you," Sunset says: "Didn't you lose a lot of friends and loved ones before?"

"Yes," Anemone answers, pouring herself a cup of water: "A lot."

"I am sorry, Anemone, I truly am." Sunset says: "As a human, your creator, I failed to protect you and..."

"It's ok," Anemone replies: "There's nothing you could have done. Actually, why don't we talk about something less serious? It's getting sad here in this tent. Sunset, why don't you want others to call you ma'am?"

"The same reason why you don't want to be called that," Sunset says, finishing her cup.

"I prefer Anemone, but ma'am is ok," Anemone pours Sunset some more water into her cup: "but why do you hate this term so much?"

"I don't know," Sunset says: "That term sends a shiver down my spine."

"That's odd," Anemone says, taking a sip from her cup: "Now to think of it, I haven't heard that term in a while."

"I'm not sure what's wrong, but I don't want to be called ma'am." Sunset says: "Perhaps it has something to do with my friends. We used to use this term a lot while joking around. However, my friends all turned into salt, one by one."

"That must be the reason," Anemone says: "I can tell other androids to stop calling you that."

"It's ok," Sunset says: "No need to do that. It just feels weird because the ones whom I called ma'am all passed away, and now everyone starts to call me ma'am. Also, I failed to show my appreciation to my friends before they passed, and now I learned that Yorhas are not allowed to be emotional. It all seems pretty weird."

"It's weird," Anemone says: "but hey, everything is ok, isn't it?"

"Of course," Sunset says before finishing her cup.

Beginning of the End Part 1

"Anemone, Anemone! Wake up!"

"Wha...huh?" Anemone opens her eyes.

"Thank goodness you are ok!" Sunset says: "You were out cold for hours!"

"What happened?" Anemone asks, sitting up from her bed.

"Apparently, the giant machine shark in the Flooded City released an EMP blast so strong that a lot of androids are affected to different degrees."Sunset answers, handing Anemone a cup of water.

"Thank you," Anemone takes the cup: "How's everyone else doing?"

"Some were out cold. You are the last one to wake up," Sunset says, pouring herself a cup as well: "Some are experience malfunctions after waking up. You, lucky you, are perfectly fine. Don't worry; I watched over everything when you were out cold."

"Thank you," Anemone says: "So I guess our transmitters are out as well?"

"Correct," Sunset says before gulping the entire cup: "Some tech guys are trying to fix it now. I also sent out a few to look for the twins. Their skills are needed now."

"Thank you," Anemone says: "I didn't know you are so good at managing things."

"Don't mention it," Sunset says, pouring herself another cup: "Say, Anemone, do you happen to know an android named Number 4?"

"What?" Anemone says, eyes widen: "How do you know about her?"

"While I was hibernating," Sunset says, holding the cup in her hands: "I had a dream where this android called Number 4 tried to convince her captain to wake me up, and they thought I was some kind of abandon project."

"What happened next?" Anemone asks, putting her cup on a table.

"Then they had some trouble with the machines," Sunset answers: "They lost 12 units already and had to go somewhere else. At first, I thought it was a dream. But something tells me it's more than that."

"I see," Anemone says: "You see, Sunset, they..."

"Glory to Mankind!"

Their conversation was cut short as another android enters the tent: "Ma'am, we've found the twins!"

"Glory to Mankind!" Sunset salutes back: "Great! Are they doing ok?"

"Yes, ma'am! They are already working on treating other androids as we speak."

"Great! Good to know! Report back if anything goes wrong!"

"Yes, ma'am!" the android replies before leaving the tent.

"You see what I have to deal with?" Sunset says, relaxing her body after saluting all the way through their conversation: "I just can't deal with the formality anymore!"

"I see," Anemone says, barely holding her laughter: "That's...unexpected."

"I tell you, things are..."

"Anemone!"

Their conversation was interrupted as 2B bluntly breaks into the tent: "Do you know anything called...Glory to Mankind!"

"No, no, it's ok, no need for such formality!" Sunset says, pouring 2B a cup of water: "Here, relax! How can we help you?"

"Sorry, ma'am, I didn't see you there," 2B says, taking the cup from Sunset's hand.

"Please call me Sunset," Sunset says: "How cal we help you?"

"9S was blasted off to an unknown location by the EMP location; I just want to know whether you have a scanner."

"The twins got one," Anemone answers: "They are just back from an expedition."

"Ok, thank you!" 2B replies before leaving the tent.

"Man, she must care a lot for 9S," Sunset says, taking a sip from her cup: "Just look at how frazzled she is!"

"Yeah, and she never leaves before you finish your sentence," Anemone says: "But still, why is she so worried? Being this worried would negatively impact efficiency."

"It may be hard to explain this to an android," Sunset says: "But she can't help it. She knows it's bad, but she can't hold it in."

"You, that reminds of a friend," Anemone says: "Actually, she looks exactly like 2B."

"Really?"

"Really, and her name was Number 2." Anemone answers: "Unfortunately, she is missing now, and no one knows whether she's dead or alive."

"Oh my," Sunset says: "I am sorry to hear this."

"It's ok," Anemone says: "Enough chatter, I should go back to work."

"And I need to take a break," Sunset says: "How do you put up with so much work every day?"

"You get used to it," Anemone says: "Now that you are here, we may be able to take shifts if needed."

"Devola, Popola, do you guys have a moment?"

"I do," Popola whispers: "Sorry that I can't stand up and salute you. Devola is asleep, so..."

"I see, you guys must be exhausted," Sunset looks down on the twins as Devola leans on Popola's shoulder: "Thank you guys for everything."

"It's our honor," Popola replies: "How can I help you?"

"Do you remember what happened 7000, no, 8000 years ago?" Sunset asks.

"Unfortunately, no. Our model went berserk a long time ago and caused havoc, and..."

"And all of your models were wiped out aside from you two, correct?" Sunset cuts Popola off.

"Y...yes, but we have no recollection as to what happened. As a matter of fact, no one knows."

"Do you guys feel bad about it?" Sunset asks.

"We feel horrible," Popola says, looking down on the ground: "It's painful, really. You feel bad for something you didn't know. Sometimes, I wish someone could tell us what happened so that we can make it up."

"Is that so," Sunset close her eyes, clutching ever tighter to her spear: "I thank you for saving me, but I am afraid I can't forgive you for what happened."

"I understand," Popola says: "but can you at least tell me what happened?"

"You don't want to know," Sunset answers, turning her back on them: "I won't tell anyone. Just get some rest and get ready for tomorrow."

"But..."

"Popola," Sunset says: "I wanted to be friends with you two. However, it's hard after learning the truth. Don't worry, I will forever be grateful for you two saved my life. Just never try to find out what you did; you can't take it."

Yes, long ago, the "Twins" models watched over the humans. However, one particular pair raised a man who ultimately destroyed humans. After that event, all the "Twins" models were eliminated. Yet, the pair, which indirectly destroyed humanity, were preserve. After having their memories cleared, the twins were assigned to stay on Earth. Eventually, they ran across the last human in existence and saved her life.

Beginning of the End Part 2

"So, how's 9S doing?" Sunset asks, handing 2B a cup of water: "I heard that a humanoid machine took him after that EMP blast."

"Yes," 2B says, taking the cup: "He's getting better now. Hopefully, we can send him back to the bunker in a few days."

"Good," Sunset replies, sitting next to 2B: "So, this humanoid machine, what was he like?"

"He looks just like an android," 2B replies: "But his actions...I don't know. He tried to imitate human behavior in a rather perverse way."

"Tell me about it."

"He said that the core of humanity is conflict," 2B answers: "and that humans would do horrible things to each other."

"He's not entirely wrong," Sunset says, looking into her cup: "But he's not entirely right either."

"That's quite a conflicting statement," 2B says: "What do you mean by that?"

"Humans are conflicting creatures, and you can say conflict is part of our core." Sunset continues: "But there's more than that."

"Like what?"

"Resilience," Sunset says: "Kindness, and countless other values. We do terrible things, yes, but we also do good things."

"That sounds conflicting."

"Because conflict is part of what made us human, but there's so much more," Sunset says, looking at 2B: "Adam said that the core of humanity is conflict, but he ignored other elements. And that's why he's not entirely right. Some of us may do things that contradict our beliefs, but others would not. "

"I don't understand," 2B says: "I don't understand anything anymore."

"It's complicated," Sunset says: "Each individual has different beliefs about the true nature of humanity."

"What's yours?"

"Mine?" Sunset takes a sip from her cup: "I believe that humans are resilient creatures, and our culture would survive long after we are gone."

"Why?"

"Why?" Sunset says: "Look at you. You are why. You have inherited everything good from our civilization. If you can travel to my times, no one would take you as an android."

"Really?"

"Really!"

"So, Sunset," 2B asks: "For you, what's the meaning of life?"

"Now? Well, advise androids, provide them some guidance whenever I can." Sunset answers:" That's it for now. What about you?"

"I don't know," 2B says: "I've spent my entire life-fighting machines. I died hundreds of times, and I don't understand the meaning of it anymore."

"I see," Sunset replies: "Life is such a peculiar thing. At first, I thought everything would be as it is. You know, spending time with friends and all. Then all my friends turned in salt. Afterward, I freeze myself for about a couple of thousand years. And now, I am talking to you. What I am trying to say is: life is ever-changing, and you need to find a meaning for it."

"So life, in its' own right, is pointless?"

"Depends on how you look at it," Sunset says, looking into her cup: "From a universal point of view, yes."

"Then tell me, my creator, why are we here?" 2B asks, clutching to her cup.

"However, if we look at it from a smaller scale, then..." Sunset stops for a moment before continuing: "Everything has a meaning. Think about it; nothing really matters from a universal point of view. Planets? Stars? Nothing matters. Everything would fade into nothingness."

"What about us?" 2B asks/

"If you are to die tomorrow," Sunset says: "Who would cry? Who would mourn for you?"

"9S, I guess." 2B answers.

"That's why you are here," Sunset answers: "To keep the ones, whom you love and cherish, happy. If you die, his life will turn into a living hell."

"Is that so..." 2B says.

"Maybe," Sunset answers: "What do you think?"

"I don't know." 2B replies

"Then find it. That's the meaning of life. Find out why you are here and the meaning behind it all." Sunset says, finishing her cup.

"You know, Sunset, I once vowed to find the god who created us and then kill her. I want to find the one who traps us in this cycle of life and death and hold her responsible." 2B says, breaking the cup by accident.

"Oh, my," Sunset looks at 2B: "I am your creator. If you want to kill me, then go ahead."

"It wouldn't be necessary," 2B says: "We androids are made to serve humans."

"And I should be guiding androids," Sunset says: "Know this, humans will not go extinct as long as androids are here. So killing me wouldn't be a problem as long as you androids are still here."

"So you really are the last human," 2B says with a shaky voice: "So it's true..."

"Unfortunately, yes," Sunset says, pouring herself another cup of water: "I am sorry."

"You humans really are something," 2B replies: "I will keep this a secret. By the way, are you really not afraid of death?"

"No," Sunset replies: "I am scared of death. However, I am willing to give up my life for my loved ones. After seeing all my loved ones turning into salt, I..."

"Life hasn't been easy on you, has it?" 2B asks, taking a sip from her cup: "And I heard that you humans need to brush your teeth so it won't decay."

"Yeah," Sunset says: "Of course."

"And I also heard that humans live in small groups called: a family." 2B asks.

"Yeah," Sunset smiles: "It was nice to have one."

"So, Sunset," 2B looks up to the sky: "Do you think, we androids..."

"Why not?" Sunset says: "Have a family? Why not?"

"Really?"

"Really!" Sunset says: "So, do you have anyone on your mind?"

"N...no"

"Know this, 2B," Sunset looks at 2B: "Let them know that you love them before it's too late."

Failure

"What in the world is going on?" Sunset shouts as she drives her spear into the shield of a machine life-form: "Where do all those machines come from?"

"Sunset!" 2B calls out to Sunset as she cuts down two more enemies: "I will take care of everything!"

"And I will be helping you!" Sunset replies, fencing off smaller enemies while panting for air. Her arms and legs are shaking because of the strain of battle. Of course, humans are fragile compared to androids. Moreover, she lost a significant amount of muscle mass from her slumber. Yet, Sunset decided to risk her life for the androids who are created to serve humans. For now, she's the only one left in the camp. Because of her effort, many androids are able to escape.

"Your body is not designed for fighting," 2B replies: "You will be a liability on the battlefield."

"A liability, eh?" Sunset says as more enemies closing in: "I don't think there's a way out."

"Pod," 2B says: "Why don't you activate the gravity field?"

"Positive," the Pod says: "Gravitational Field activated."

The Pod unleashes a ball of energy, and all the machines are pulled towards it.

"Now go!" 2B shouts, charging at her enemies: "I will take care of everything!"

"Sure," Sunset says, supporting her body with the spear: "I'll get back up."

I'm lucky; Sunset thought: I am glad that 2B's here. I will have been dead if it keeps going. It's just a typical day until a herd of machines just came out of nowhere and flooded the camp. Most of the androids escaped, but many failed and died defending the camp. As Sunset tumbled her way out, more and more machine starts to gather around.

"What the..." Sunset collapses on the ground from exhaustion. There's no point in getting up anymore. Tens of hundreds of machines surround her. There's no way 2B or herself to get out of this undamaged. Perhaps there's no point in getting up anymore.

"Hi! Machines! Take a look at me! I am a human!" Sunset shouts, trying to stand up: "Hi! Look at me! I am a human! An accursed human! Get me, and victory is yours!"

Instead of attacking as they usually would, the machines start to walk in circles. Looking at the bizarre scenario, Sunset bursts out in laughter. How pathetic, the machines, the mighty machine, the archenemy of androids and herself, is unable to gather the fruit of victory right in front of their eyes. The machines created by the aliens, who annihilated their creator and learned more human culture than any androids could dream of, cannot even walk straight at the moment. Her, Sunset, the leader of androids, the last surviving member of the human race, is now so helpless and can do nothing but standing here and wait. Her arms and legs are shaking due to the strain of battle. There's no way for her to keep going anymore. She wants to keep fighting, but her body is too weak to go on.

"Ma'am!" 2B calls out: "I've cleared out the enemy!"

"Cleared out," Sunset mumbles as her sight fades into darkness.

"Brother...Brother..."

Who is this man? What's happening? Right, 2B said she cleared out the enemies. But what happened next?

"Brother!'

Who is he? He's...mourning for his brother? But I've never heard of this voice before. Is he...a machine? But how? He sounds heartbroken. He sounds...devasted. How sad. I shouldn't feel bad for the machines after they attacked our camp, but this sounds...so...genuine. He doesn't sound like a machine, nor an android. He sounds like a human. A man who just lost something precious. Are those...tears? Am I crying for my enemy? How pathetic...how sad...

"Sunset..."

Who is it? I...can't move my mouth. Am I dying?

"Sunset! Stay with me!"

Anemone? I...can't move my mouth! Anemone! Can you hear me? I can't speak...

"Anemone..."

"Sunset!"

"Wha..." Sunset slowly opens her eyes.

"Thank goodness! You are ok!" Anemone shouts: "Medic!"

"What happened..." Sunset asks, closing her eyes again.

"Stay with me!" Anemone shouts: "2B eliminated all the enemies in the camp. She's fighting Eva as we speak now."

"Eva..."

"Yes!" Anemone continues: "That Eva guy is responsible for managing half of the machine's network. Destroying him would..."

"Brother..." Sunset mumbles.

"Did you hear that?" Anemone says: "It's pretty creepy that a machine hacks into our transmission just to cry for his so-called 'brother.'"

"Of course," Sunset says: "It's creepy."

No, it's not creepy at all. Sunset thought: It's the most human emotion I experience in this place.

"The medics are here!" Anemone says: "I'll be talking to you later, ok?"

Sunset nods as a couple of androids load her into a stretcher.

What's the difference between machines and androids? At first, I thought only androids are capable of understanding human emotions. Yet, the cries that Eva let out...makes me question everything. If machines understand human emotion better than androids, what does that imply?

Revelation

"So, how's our favorite patient doing?" Popola asks: "Are you doing ok?"

"Yeah," Sunset responds: "Thank you for saving me again."

"That was pretty reckless of you," Devola adds: "Your body is not made for battle. Plus, not even a Yorha unit would do what you did."

"I am sorry," Sunset says: "But I can't just let them run wild in our camp."

"Don't worry about it," Popola says, looking at Sunset's medical record: "I am just glad that you are ok."

"You should be back on your feet in a week or two," Devola continues: "Just don't try that again, ok? You could actually die next time."

"I know," Sunset answers, staring at the ceiling: "But I can't just sit back and watch as they slaughter our people."

"Good thing that you are too weak to fight then," Devola says: "Yorha is going to launch an all-out attack on the machines on Earth. If they succeed at destroying all the machines, then we would able to live in peace from now on."

"Really?" Sunset asks: "When?"

"In five days," Popola says: "Although Adam and Eva got eliminated, the Commander still want to make sure that they can wipe out the alien machines once and for all."

"I see," Sunset closes her eyes: "Have you ever seen Adam or Eva?"

"No," Popola says: "It doesn't matter really. It's none of our business."

"I see," Sunset sighs: "Aren't you too busy?"

"We are done with everything for now," Devola says: "Hi, Popola, do you want to show it to her or not?"

"Oh, right!" Popola takes out a piece of paper, handing it to Sunset: "We found this on our expedition. Upon analyzing it, we think it's a song written in a mysterious language."

"Let me see...Huh?" Sunset gasps: "What...I wrote this song!"

"What?" Both Devola and Popola asks in disbelief: "Are you kidding me?"

"No! Really!" Sunset explains: "I wrote it in a toy language I created!"

"What the...What does it mean?" Devola asks.

"How do you pronounce it?" Popola follows.

"If you two really don't have anything else to do," Sunset sighs: "This song is about fighting to save humanity and stuff like that. Oh, and about how..."

"What?" Both twins ask as they see Sunset's expression turns from that of excitement to loss and then to that of disappointment.

"Do you guys want to learn how to pronounce it?" Sunset opens her mouth: "One of you will have to play the harp while singing."

"What does it..." Popola wants to know the meaning of the lyric. However, her question is cut short as Devola covers her mouth.

"I'll play the harp," Devola shots Popola a look: "Right? Popola?"

"R...right," Popola says: "Yeah!"

"It's a song called Atonement," Sunset continues: "It goes like this..."

"So, it's finally happening, huh?" Sunset says as she sits on her bed.

"Yes," Popola says: "It's really cloudy outside for some reason."

"It's odd, really," Sunset says: "It's cloudy whenever Yorha has a major clash with the machines."

"I know," Popola says, Pouring Sunset a cup of water: "I hope everything goes smoothly for them."

"Popola!" Devola breaks into the room with a pair of swords: "Everyone is down!"

"What...do you mean?" Popola asks: "What happened?"

"All Yorha units are infected by the logic virus, the Bunker blew up, and corrupted Yorha units are roaming the street," Devola throws Popola a sword: "We are now tasked to protect Sunset at all costs."

"Like if you have to ask," Popola says: "Yet if the Bunker is gone, does that mean..."

"Yes, it's the end for Yorha," Devola says: "Unfortunate, I know. But we have no time to mourn."

"All Yorha units?" Sunset asks: "I am so confused; what just happened? What is Logic Virus."

"The Logic Virus is a type of...well, virus, that makes the host go beserk and attack everyone on sight," Devola says: "If the Bunker is gone, then there's no cure for it."

"So..."

"Yes," Popola adds: "This is the end of Yorha. I am sorry. When the Bunker is around, Yorha units can simply destroy their infected body as their previously saved memory is uploaded into another body."

"Life save files?" Sunset asks: "Basically, they can save files of their own memories. When things go wrong, they can get a restart from the last saving point?"

"Pretty much," Popola says: "Now since they can't save..."

"And they lost all previously saved data and backup bodies..." Sunset continues: "Oh, no..."

"I would worry too much if I were you," Devola says: "2B and 9S always get something up their sleeves."

"I don't know, Devola," Sunset says: "I just get a really bad feeling about this."

"I wouldn't worry too much if I were you," Popola hands Sunset a cup of water: "Just get some rest, and everything would be fine!"

"Thank you," Sunset pushes Popola's hand away: "I am not thirsty."

"And here goes 3 miles!" Popola applauds: "You've made the 3-mile mark! Congrats!"

"Couldn't do it without you," Sunset says: "But is it really necessary to have a sword on your side right here in the camp?"

"Yeah," Devola says: "Says the one using a spear as a cane."

"You guys brought this!" Sunset retorts.

"Devola!" Popola says: "Be nice!"

"Ok," Devola says: "Hi, look, is that 2B?"

"What are you talking...about..." a familiar figure comes into Sunset's view as she looks around: "2B?"

"You trade with the enemies?" the figure asks in disbelief.

"Yes," Anemone answers: "Besides..."

"2B!" Sunset shouts, followed by the twins, making her way towards the two.

"2B! I am glad..."

"Shut up!" the figure shouts: "2B's dead! Will you leave me alone?"

"Just who are you?" Popola says: "Can't you just be a little nice towards the patient?"

"I don't have time for this," the woman continues: "Go bother someone else."

"But..." Sunset looks at the woman in front of her eyes. It's 2B, indeed. Her clothing maybe looks ragged, but it's only normal after a tough battle. However, her voice is different. Actually, her voice reminds Sunset of a dream she had during hibernation.

"Oh, hi, Sunset!" Anemone waves: "I should have introduced the two of you to each other. Sunset, meet Number 2! Number 2, meet Sunset."

"Number...2?" Sunset asks: "Really?"

"You got a problem with that?" the woman turns around: "Wait a minute, you are that lady in the weird chamber!"

"Do you guys know each other?" Anemone asks.

"Somewhat," Number 2 says: "Sunset, right? You can call me Number 2. Or A2. Doesn't matter."

"A...2," Sunset says: "Nice to meet you too."

"So, no conflict?" Devola says: "I am so confused."

"Actually," A2 says: "Do you mind if I have a little chat with Sunset?"

"I'd be happy to," Sunset says: "I have a lot of questions."

"So, 2B got infected," Sunset looks into her cup: "That's unfortunate."

"I am sorry," A2 says: "I did it at her request."

"It must be hard," Sunset says: "To do such a thing."

"Actually, no," A2 looks away: "Kinda ashamed to admit, but I destroyed hundreds of Yorha units as a deserter."

"Stop saying that," Sunset says: "You are never a deserter. Not to me, at least."

"Thank you," A2 says: "Ma'am."

"And there's no need to call me ma'am," Sunset rolls her eyes: "Just call me Sunset."

"Sun...set," A2 says: "I have a question for you as well."

"Ask away."

"In my years as a dese...wonder; I ran into some pretty interesting information regarding Yorha," A2 takes a deep breath before asking: "I learned that our core, the black box, is made of the cores of the machine. Is that true?"

"I..." Sunset closes her eyes: "Yes. It's because Yorha is meant to be destroyed after the machines are wiped out. They crafted your core from machines' core so that other androids won't feel bad for you guys."

"So, it's all pointless?" A2 asks: "So our existence is just pointless? Like that?"

"Project Yorha is pointlessly cruel," Sunset puts her cup on the ground: "I'd like to have a word or two with the one who designed this project."

"Yeah?" A2 turns her head around, looking at Sunset: "What would you do?"

"A lot," Sunset stands up: "I wouldn't design something just to have it destroyed. Do you want anything to drink?"

"Do you have leaves?" A2 continues: "In my days as a wonder, I happen to run across the water with boiled leaves. And it tastes great."

"You mean tea?" Sunset pours a cup of hot water before putting some tea leaves in it: "I only have green tea, is that ok?"

"Of course, thank you," A2 says.

"Still," Sunset says: "I hope I was there when you and your friends needed help."

"Don't worry about it," A2 answers: "It's not your fault. I made the decision to let you keep sleeping. If anything, it's on me."

"By the way, have you seen 9S?" Sunset asks.

"Yeah," A2 sighs: "He was screaming and charging towards me. Guess he would kill me next time we meet."

"So, what are you going to do now?"

"I can't die before destroying every single machine," A2 answers: "After all is done, I will let him take my life. If that makes him feel better."

"No need to be so harsh on yourself," Sunset turns around, handing A2 the cup of tea: "Your life is hard enough. No need to blame everything all on yourself."

Author's Note

Lyric:
Kuwata tsunowo vralai
Tsuriji pufuralekai
Kwondzuvai undovartsu wronduwail
Tjortetei jeki liago
Jiunmata ivelischpfuli
Neftyoma sorepiyamei
Schijiyako alefni fatalliliya
Nic'hpisfa unhoreselye

Otrajain aforeje kurasolda
Towari hatasei mic'hatasei tsufrallai
Otrajain aforeje kurasolda
Towari hatasei mic'hatasei tsufrallai ilja
Ullilya kojijichatjukaijai-wa nyame fretsumekri fretsumekri linganmai
Ulreri manja huteharraku-mu harirch lahadachfei lahadachfei shindulhwo."

Story Time

"Every day's a sell; every sell's a win! Buy stuff now or kick yourself later..."

"What was that?" Sunset asks.

"It's Emil," Popola says: "He's kind of a traveling merchant around here."

"And he sells just about everything," Devola adds.

"Every day is great! When you are me~."

"And repeat," Popola says: "Actually, why don't we go buy something?"

"We are running low on salt," Devola says: "And humans love salt, right?"

"Well..." Sunset replies: "I am good."

"Come on, it's always good to save some just in case," Popola says: "Plus, the human body needs a bit of sodium every day, right?"

"I think it's about 3,400 mg," Devola says: "And you haven't been keeping up with that number, have you."

"Look," Sunset sighs: "I do have sodium intake..."

"But it's well below the amount that a human needs," Devola interrupts: "If you want to keep living, then sufficient amount of salt intake would be necessary."

"Devola is right," Popola adds: "Plus, what's with you and salt?"

"It's complicated," Sunset looks skywards: "Long story short, it has something to do with the extinction of humans."

"But if you keep this up," Devola says, poking Sunset's face: "Then the human race would really be gone before we know it."

"Yeah," Popola shugs: "Sometimes, you just have to do it whether you like it or not."

"I guess so," Sunset responds: "But do I have to go with you guys? I really don't want to see it..."

"You mean salt?" Popola says: "And no, we are tasked to protect at all times. We can't just leave you aside."

"S'up,"

"Oh, hi! A...2?" Sunset greets: "Nice...mask."

"oh, this thing?" A2 takes the wooden mask off of her face: "I get it from a colosseum in the desert. The machine there said that it's what a king would wear."

"A king?" Sunset asks: "Can I take a look? It sure looks old."

"Sure," A2 hands Sunset the mask: "They put me through a bunch of fighting before giving me this mask and this set of clothing."

"It looks nice on you," Popola says: "Who would think machines would run keep things like these."

"Here's your stuff," A2 takes out a bottle of tree sap from her pocket and hands it to Popola.

"Yes, thank you!" Popola says, giving A2 a bag of items: "Here, take this!"

"Um, A2?" Sunset asks: "Did they tell you how old this thing is?"

"Nope," A2 answers: "But they told me that it's from the old world."

"Perhaps not the old world," Sunset says: "From what I know, it's belonged to a king who died protecting his friends."

"Well, that's sad," Devola says: "What happened to his friends?"

"Not sure," Sunset says while closely inspecting it: "I read about it a while back. From what I can tell, his friends had something to do with the downfall of humans."

"I should have known better..." A2 says: " I am sorry, Sunset. I'll burn it right now."

"Don't worry," Sunset hands A2 the mask: "It's only a story. No one knows what really happened."

"They also said that this set of clothing I am wearing once belonged to the man who destroyed the world," A2 continues: "Is that true?"

"I really don't know," Sunset replies: "I don't know what he looks like. Besides, it happened thousands of years ago. No way it actually belonged to him."

"What happened?" A2 asks.

"Yeah, tell us!' Popola follows.

"It would be nice to learn more about humans," Devola says: "Don't worry, we'll keep it a secret."

"Girls..." Sunset covers her face: "Please..."

"Look, Emil is leaving!" Popola shouts: "Devola, Get Sunset, and let's go!"

"What? Wow! Put me down!" Sunset protests as Devola put her on Popola's back.

"What the...Hi!"

"Sorry, sis," Devola says before running away.

"You guys really have nothing else to do, do you?" A2 comments: "What a coincidence. Why don't we visit Pascal this afternoon?"

"Emil..." Sunset mumbles: "So he doesn't remember anything..."

"You know him?" A2 hands Sunset a fish: "Better tell me all about him. That ball thingy is creeping me out."

"Ball thingy?" Sunset says, eyes wide open: "May I remind you that he was once the ultimate weapon of the human race. The one who beat the aliens so much that had to invent the machine lifeforms."

"No kidding," A2 says, taking a bite off of the fish: "So, let me get this straight: the aliens invented the machines just to beat Emil?"

"Apparently," Sunset says: "Have you wondered why all the machines got round heads just like Emil's?"

"Now that you mentioned it," Popola says: "All the machine lifeforms are based around those round heads."

"Aside from that Pascal fellow," Devola adds: "He's certainly an odd one."

"By the way, did you put salt in this?" Sunset asks: "I don't want to sound unappreciative, but I don't think I can eat salt for now."

"No salt, huh?" A2 continues, voice muffled by food in her mouth: "Too bad, I used some of the salt Popla bought back there. Sorry, I'll pay you back."

"Not to worry," Popola smiles before putting on her serious face: "Sunset, you need to have a sufficient amount of salt intake if you don't want to get Hyponatremia and die."

"Yeah," Devola says, finishing her fish: "You'll feel tired all the time, and that doesn't sound too good during a battle, now, does it?"

"Alright, alright!" Sunset shouts: "I will take a bite."

However, as soon as the salty taste shoots up her tongue, Sunset spits her food out and throw the fish away as if it's some kind of demonic being.

"Are you ok?" A2 asks with solicitude as Sunset shivers in fear: "What happened?"

"Salt..." Sunset's voice quivers: "People...turn into salt...the air...full of people...tastes so salty..."

"Sunset!" A2 calls out to Sunset's name before giving Popola an angry look: "Sunset, are you ok?"

"People...turns into salt..." Sunset mumbles as she stands still like a statue: "I saw it...people slowly turn into salt...and the salts flow everywhere...I can taste it..."

"Oh, dear," A2 gives Sunset a hug: "I heard that humans do this hug thing to comfort each other. I don't know if I am doing this right, but I hope you feel better."

"Oh, my..." Popola says, eyes wide open: "I don't know it's that bad..."

"What happened?" Devola asks: "She seems to be suffering from some form of PTSD."

"People..." Sunset mumbles: "Turn into salt. It's slow and painful. Nothing can stop it. Once you get it, you are a goner. When you completely turn into salt, your body, or the salt that was once your body, will flow everywhere, and people can taste in...in the air. Fluttershy turned into salt in front of my eyes...Her body turned into salt...it was blown everywhere by the wind...I could taste it in the air..."

"There, there," in an endeavor to comfort Sunset, A2 starts to pet her on the back: "We are here no matter what happened. It's all gonna be ok."

A Day with Pascal Part 1

"You feeling better?" Popola asks as Sunset pants for air: "You don't look too good."

"I am fine," Sunset says, putting her weight on her spear: "I am not tired, just..."

"Having flashbacks?" Devola asks: "I am sorry. We don't know it's that bad. Some caretaker we are."

"Don't blame yourself for anything," Sunset responds, forcing a smile on her face: "It's not your fault. I try to hide it from others. You guys are the first ones to find out."

"Why don't we take a break?" A2 adds: "You look pale."

"It's a bit dangerous to rest out here," Devola says: "With all the machines roaming around? No, not a good idea."

"But I don't think Sunset can go on like this," Popola says: "WIth insufficient food intake, she would suffer some serious malfunction soon."

"I can carry her," A2 says, kneeling: "Here, get on my back."

"I'll do it," Devola says: "A2 is the only fighting type amount us. So it would be nice if she can get her hands free."

"Sounds good," Sunset replies: "Thank you, girls. That means a lot."

"Fine with me," A2 stands up: "We can take a break in Pascal's village."

"Sounds like a plan," Sunset says while getting on Devola's back.

"Ok, let's go," Devola says: "We are getting you something to eat in the village."

"I can take a trip to the Forest Kingdom," A2 says: "They got all kinds of stuff out there."

"You sure knows a lot," Popola says: "Do they have eggs?"

"Engel eggs. They are huge but surprisingly delicious," A2 replies: "I didn't spend all those time up there for nothing."

"Great, can you get perhaps one?" Devola says: "Eggs are great sources of...I mean, eggs are good for you in general."

"It's ok, Devola," Sunset says: "You really don't have to worry about it. I know you are gonna say that eggs are great sources of sodium."

"Listen, Sunset," Popola puts on her serious face: "I know it's hard for you, but you do need to have enough sodium intake daily. I know you can't eat salt, but you need to have some sodium in one form or another."

"Roger that," Sunset responds: "I'll try."

"Roger, huh?"

"What?"

"Nothing, it's just..." Popola tries to hold back laughter: "I've never heard you say that. You know, roger that?"

"Oh, that," Sunset scratches her head: "People around me say that all the time. So it might be nice if I start to do that as well."

"People, eh?" Devola says: "You know, we are not people."

"What's the difference?" Sunset smiles: "I really don't see a difference between androids and humans."

"We are here," A2 stops: "Get your weapons ready and prepare yourself for battle."

"A2!" Popola says with a pained look: "They are our allies!"

"But they are machines," A2 claims with a cold dead tone: "They are unpredictable and dangerous."

"I am sorry," Sunset apologizes: "You went through so much. I am sorry for everything. I know you don't want to stay around machines. We can..."

"Enough. No need to apologize. I can deal with it." A2 cuts Sunset off before walking straight into the settlement.

"It's not so bad, now is it?" Devola asks, putting Sunset down on the ground: "Told you that Pascal is different from others."

"Whatever," A2 rolls her eyes: "I have to get a fuel filter if I don't want to break down in the middle of a battle."

"I am pretty sure he will help," Popola says while attending Sunset: "He is quite friendly."

"Actually, I kind of want to meet him," Sunset says: "If it's not too much trouble."

"I am not so sure about it," A2 comments: "It's hard to know what a machine is thinking."

"A2 is partially right," Devola adds: "Although Pascal is more stable than others, it would serve you best to take a little break before eating something."

"I am good," Sunset stands up: "It wouldn't hurt to just have a small conversation with him."

"But..."

"It's going to be fine," Sunset pets Devola's shoulder: "I will be fine."

"Well, if you insist," Popola answers: "But we are following you."

"Then let's get done to it," A2 adds: "He's right up that ladder."

"Hello!" Pascal greets Sunset's squad as they ascend the ladder: "How can I help you?"

"A2 need something," Sunset turns around, looking at A2: "RIght?"

A2 nods.

"So, what do you need?" Pascal asks: "Well?". However, it's a bit hard to get an answer as A2 refuses to talk.

"A fuel filter," Sunset sighs: "Her old one is filled with sand, and she needs a new one. Right?"

A2 nods again, looking away from Pascal.

"Oh, I see," Pascal replies: "Sorry, but I don't have one for now. But I can make one if you have a rigid tree bark."

"A what?" Sunset questions: "What do you need again?"

"I know it sounds bizarre," Pascal says: "But it's not the first I've done it."

"It works," Popola says.

"And lasts a long time," Devola adds.

"Ooooook," Sunset says, handing a rigid tree bark she picked up along the way: "Then here it is. I almost can't believe how amazing 100th-century technology is."

"Great, I will make it now." Pascal took over the material and flew upwards into a place unknown.

"He can fly?" A2 says, after observing the whole process.

"Apparently," Sunset shrugs: "Why don't you stick around for a while after he's back? I like it here."

"I'll go get some eggs," A2 turns around before descending the ladder: "And I'll be back soon."

"This place looks nice!' Sunset says, looking around: "I really want to get to know it here!"

"Don't worry, Pascal is a nice guy," Popola says: "He will show you around."

"I am back!"

"Oh, hello!" Sunset waves as Pascal land: "A2 is off to collect some food and's gonna be back in a moment."

"Oh, ok," Pascal hands Sunset the newly made filter: "Do you guys want to stay and look around?"

"Of course," Sunset puts the filter into her pocket: "Why don't we wait until A2's back? I am not sure if she wants to stay."

A Day With Pascal Part 2

"Kuwata tsunowo vralai..."

"What song is it?" Pascal asks as Devola and Popola sing together: "I have never heard anything like that."

"It's a toy language I made," Sunset replies: "It's funny how they discovered the song after I forgot about it."

"Life is peculiar in its' own right," Pascal says as the twins are surrounded by curious villagers: "Did you write this song."

"I wrote it with a friend," Sunset says as the twins finish the song: "I worked with a friend."

"Oh? What's her name?" Pascal asks while the villagers cheer, some throwing flowers at the twins.

"Fluttershy," Sunset closes her eyes as the twins start singing again: "She's the kindest person I've ever met."

"That's good to hear," Pascal says: "Is she doing alright?"

"You don't want to know," Sunset sighs as the twins perform for the peaceful machines: "Anyway, why did you build this village?"

"We are tired of fighting," Pascal replies: "We machine lifeforms are not designed to fight, but that doesn't mean we enjoyed it."

"Machines here are different," Sunset opens her eyes: "Everyone seems so...nice."

"Thank you," Pascal says: "We machine lifeforms are rather unstable, and that's why we chose to live here in isolation."

"Is that so," Sunset says, leaning against a tree: "Let's hope everything stays this way."

"Take a deep breath...they are not your enemies..." A2 mumbles while keeping the egg she found safe.

"Hi! You there!" A merchant shouts: "I've got something new here! Care to take a look?"

A2 did not stop. It's not safe to leave Sunset and the twins with a bunch of machines. Or so she thought. All her friends and loved ones died fighting machines. Unlike Sunset, she knows what the machines are capable of. They are nothing but emotionless machines. They love no one, feel no pain, and know nothing but fighting. As she makes her way, a burning smell caught A2's attention. The smell gets stronger as she gets closer to the village. When she finally arrives, the whole town is in flames while smaller machines eating bigger ones.

"What the..." A2 stood there, holding the egg in her hands, not knowing how to process everything.

"A2!" a voice calls out.

"Ha?" A2 drops the egg and pulls out her swords.

"So glad that you are here!" Sunset says while fighting off crazed machines: "They are in the factory!"

"Where are the twins?" A2 asks, before bluntly charging into the battle: "I thought they are supposed to protect you!"

"I ordered them to leave," Sunset answers, focusing on her enemy, who's acting like nothing but a zombie: "They are medics and are designed to fight."

"Are you going to issue the same order to me?" A2 asks as more and more enemies closing in.

"No," Sunset answers: "You are designed to fight, are you?"

"Good, 'cause I wasn't gonna listen."

"Is that it?" Sunset asks, gasping for air: "I can't do this anymore."

"Seems like it," A2 answers, carefully accessing her surroundings: "We are safe now."

"Better get moving," Sunset says, clenching onto her spear: "Pascal...they are not safe..."

"Fine," A2 sighs: "Here, get on my back."

"Thank you, really," Sunset says: "We have to meet with them and quick."

When they arrive, there's nothing to greet them. The twins are dead, holding onto each other's hands at their last moment. The survivors are died as well, partially eaten by their crazed kins. Pascal sits on the ground like a statue, with his eyes darken. The ground is covered in debris, and the walls melted, likely by laser. What was once a peaceful village now has nothing left.

Something to Live For

"So, is that it?" A2 says as she tosses some machine parts into a hole: "I really don't know why we are doing this."

"To pay respect," Sunset says, kneeling in front of a pair of swords erect from the ground: "Thank you, A2, for helping me."

"Yeah, sure," A2 responds: "But I still don't understand what we are doing now. I mean, they are dead, so why do we need to do anything at all? Can't we just leave them out there and let some other androids or whoever take them?"

"Seems like you need some explanation," Sunset stands up: "You see...by the way, do you guys ever bury people? No?"

"First," A2 says, filling the hole with dirt: "We are androids, not people, but I am flattered nonetheless. Second, there's no need to bury them, really. When Yorha is still around, you can just retrieve your old bodies. Now that they are gone...thing might be a little different."

"What happened to them anyway?" Sunset asks: "I heard that everyone just got infected by some virus and went nuts. Is that true?"

"Pretty much, but it's just hard to believe that they got wiped out," A2 says: "And hence my new responsibility of taking care of 9S while he's trying to kill me."

“Tell me about it."

"Yep, 2B was infected and asked me to kill her," A2 sighs: "In her last moments, she asked me to take care of 9S."

"Don't tell me you killed her in front of him," Sunset says: "That guy may look all jolly, but if anything happens to 2B? Things might...let's just say you won't like it."

"About that..."

"You did it; I can just tell from your reaction."

"Yeah."

"For the love for Celestia...We've got a problem at hand." Sunset rubs her eyes: "If I am correct, he would see you as nothing but a scapegoat. He wouldn't rest until you are dead, and he won't listen to anyone."

"Somehow, I am not surprised," A2 says: "At this point, nothing surprises me anymore."

"So what are you gonna do?' Sunset asks.

"I'll figure something out," A2 says.

"Figure something out..." Sunset facepalms: "You aren't just gonna let him kill you now, are you?"

"It's doesn't matter," A2 shrugs: "I'm not hurting him, so..."

"Look, we're going to do something before you two run into each other," Sunset continues: "Let's get going. We need to figure something out and quick."

"If I die," A2 says: "Are you going to bury me as well?"

"What?"

"Are you?"

"Wha...yes, what kind of question is that?" Sunset asks: "Do you need to talk?"

"I'm all good," A2 says: "But what's the meaning of burial anyway? We just spent an entire afternoon digging holes and fill them in with dead robots."

"Do you have friends? Loved ones?" Sunset says: "If you do, would you treat them with respect when they are around you?"

"Yeah, why not?" A2 says: "What does that have to do with anything?"

"Would you treat them with respect when they are not around?" Sunset says: "Just answer my questions."

"How am I supposed to treat them with respect when they are not even here?"

"Yes or no, just pick one."

"Yes, I suppose. I mean, if they ask to do something when they are absent, then yes, I would do what they want if that's the last thing I do."

"Ok, now," Sunset says: "Burial is the same thing. You treat your friends with respect as if they are still here."

"I see," A2 asks: "So basically paying respect as if they are around."

"You would treat a true friend with respect whether they are here or not, yeah?" Sunset explains: "That's what's this all about."

"I see," A2 says: "Thanks for that. I actually another question for you."

"Ask away!" Sunset says: "I'll do my best."

"What's the meaning of life?"

"Well..." Sunset says: "This is why we are here, isn't it? Searching for an answer. Sometimes, you may never find it, and that's fine! What's important is the friends you made and things you did along the way."

"I've lost nearly all my friends, did nothing but survive in the wilderness for the past couple of years, and now have someone trying to kill me and use as a scapegoat," A2 says: "and that's why am I ask you now."

"Oh," Sunset says: "I see. I am sorry. So...Um...Well, let's put it this way: if...no, that wouldn't work...do you have anyone you care about just now? Any?"

"Anemone, maybe," A2 answers: "And you, of course."

"Here it is then!" Sunset says: "Because if you look from a universal stand of point, nothing really matters! The universe is so big, and nothing practically would really make an impact on it. And that's why we need to zoom in a little and look from an individual stand of point. If anything happens to you, Anemone and I would be devastated."

"Re...really?"

"Really!" Sunset continues: "Plus, you mentioned that a lot of your friends died saving you, right? Don't you think that they want to see you have a happy life?"

"I suppose," A2 says: "But it's not gonna be easy."

"I see," Sunset takes off her necklace: "Here, I want you to have this."

"What is it?"

"It's a piece of crystal I found with my friends in a forest," Sunset looks down at the crimson red gem with her cutie mark embedded in it: "It grants me the power of reading another human's mind upon touching. However, it doesn't seem to be working anymore. I kept it as a reminder to be...sorry, a bug got into my eye. A reminder of a better time."

"Sunset..."

"I want you to have it," Sunset put the necklace on A2's palm: "Think of it as a token of friendship. From now on, we are friends. If you need anything, tell me, and I will assist you. If you want to talk, I will listen. If you want to hang out, I will follow. If you are sad, I will be there for you."

"Thank you, Sunset."

"Of course, that's what friends are for."

Processing...

"Finally!" Anemone greets Sunset and A2 as the pair returns: "Where have you been this afternoon?"

"Digging holes and filling them up," A2 responds absentminded.

"It's a bit more than that," Sunset rolls her eyes: "Did something happened?"

"Yes, and I would like to talk to both of you in private," Anemone speaks quickly.

"So 9S woke up and want A2 dead?" Sunset's eyes widen.

"I'm afraid so," Anemone sighs: "9S was transported back to the camp after you guys left. He was badly wounded, and..."

"Let me guess, he was healed and left the camp soon after," Sunset cuts her friend off, burying her face in her palms: "Great..."

"It's a miracle that you guys didn't run into him," Anemone says: "He's completely lost of it, and I don't think you can persuade him otherwise."

"Then so be it," A2's voice, cold and quiet, slices through the air: "If he can't be reasoned, then I will knock some sense into him."

"You can't," Sunset cuts off A2 with a forceful tone: "He won't stop until you are dead, and that's not happening as long as I'm breathing."

"You know, Sunset," Anemone says: "You are a human, and he's an android. You cal just order him to stay from Number 2."

"That won't work!" Sunset collapses on a chair: "He will just go ahead and do it anyway!"

"An order is an order," Anemone says: "There's no way he could disobey it."

"Perhaps," Sunset lets out a sigh: "But I trust my instinct."

"Say, it's getting really," In an endeavor to comfort Sunset, A2 tries to change the topic: "Perhaps we should turn in for the night."

"It's 8 p.m," Sunset says, eyes closed: "We need to think of something and quick."

"Don't worry about it; I'll just kick his ass," A2 says.

"Can you, though?" Sunset opens her eyes and focuses her attention on A2: "You have sworn to take care of 9S at the request of 2B. Both of them were complete strangers to you, A2. You are willing to put your own life at risk for two strangers! How many androids can do that?"

A2 looks away.

"You are too nice," Sunset stares to the floor: "Just like a friend of mine, but with a tough shell."

"I may be able to keep them apart," Anemone suggests: "I will keep you guys informed about 9S' whereabout."

"That sure will buy us some time," Sunset says: "But I'm afraid there's little we can do. I can talk to him, give him orders, but in the end, it's his decision."

"Is that so," Anemone says: "Well, I will do my best."

"I can defend myself," A2 says quietly.

"I know how strong you are," Sunset says: "But your strength will fail you."

"It doesn't matter," A2 responds: "I promised someone something, and I will see it to the end."

"I see," Sunset stands up: "Anemone, please tell me what do you think about this whole situation."

"Well," Feeling uncomfortable about this situation, Sunset puts her, Anemone looks at her superior with pleading eyes.

"Well?" Sunset shots Anemone a look.

"Well?" A2 decides to join the fun.

"Fine, I will talk," Anemone takes a deep breath: "Number 2, you are one of my oldest friends. I'm not usually comfortable with expressing my feelings. Still, there it is: I was overjoyed when you showed in the camp. I am happy that you are alive. It's funny, really, I thought you are dead, but you are not. It's a good thing! I am just saying that I want you to stay safe."

"See?" Sunset says: "We care about you!"

"Agh, fine," A2 covers her face: "I will be careful."

"Actually, 2B wanted you to take care of 9S, right?" Sunset asks: "Well, in that case, I would like you to stay with me in the camp at all times so that you are in good condition for your mission."

"That's highly unnecessary," A2 raises an eyebrow: "But an order is an order."

A2's Journal

Sunset asked me to keep one so there is it. Guess I will just summarize my day: Nothing happened.

I'm back, Sunset told me to write more. She told me that she's not gonna read it, but it's great way to record good memories and look back. She asks me to write something interesting. Well, I've been by her side the whole day. Sunset doesn't want me to run into Number 9, believing that he will kill me. She's partially right, I'm getting soft. Is that a good thing? Who knows. If Number 9 ever lost his mind, I will then knock some sense into him. I hope Number2/2B can forgive me for that. Actually, speaking of interesting thingy, the necklace Sunset give worked. I pet Anemone on the shoulder and ~~imagines~~ images start to pour into my head. It's creepy and I asked for none of that. Anemone was amazed, not offended, which is good. I told Sunset about it, and she didn't believe me. So I tried it on her. Guess what? Nothing happened. Sunset tried it on me, and nothing happened either. I tried it with Anemone again, and nothing happened. Not sure what that was, but ok. Speaking of which, I should give her something. I received a gift, and I should give something in return. Maybe a Pod? Those boxes are annoying, but useful. I fished one up a couple of days ago, and it should be good to go tomorrow. After tomorrow, we will be able to call each other any time we want to. Hopefully, she will allow me some freedom afterwards. I understand her concerns, but I am capable of protecting myself.

One thing always bugged me is Sunset's well-being. She appears normal and friendly, but something isn't right. Sometimes, when she thinks she's alone, Sunset would stare into the space for hours. If you look into her eyes at that moment, you will see nothing. Eyes are the window to one's soul, that is what Sunset taught me. If that's the case, her soul must be dead at that moment. If you call her name, she would not respond. Only physical touch (a tap on the shoulder or something) or loud noises can snap her out of it. What bothers me more is the look on her face when she comes out of that state: It only lasts for a few seconds, but she looks...I don't know how to describe it. It's sad and disturbing, especially considering how optimistic she is all the time. I tried to talk to her about it, but she would just change the topic. Sometimes, she would start a conversation with a really weird look on her face (looks like she's gonna cry) and then change the topic and her expression all together. I don't know much about humans, but that ain't normal. Maybe when all these is over, we can talk it out.

Meeting

"Good-morning, Sunset," a Pod greets Sunset: "It is five a.m."

"Already?" Sunset sits upwards, her eyes still closed: "Fine..."

"You have a message from Unit A2," the floating box says: "Would you like to hear it?"

"Fine," Sunset responds, her eyes now open, staring at the floor.

"Hi, Sunset," A2's voice plays out: "I will spend some time around the large towers we got after the disaster. It might take me some time, so I won't return to the camp until later. Don't worry about me; I haven't seen Number 9 for the past couple of weeks."

"Is that it?" Sunset slowly stands up.

"Positive," the Pod follows its' master.

"Get it," Sunset pulls out a notebook from her drawers and starts writing: "Hi, Pod, I have a mission for you."

"Positive," the Pod says: "Please state your request."

"If I die one day," Sunset says as her hand dances on the paper: "Please publish all the contents in this notebook."

"Affirmative," the Pod stated: "But may I inquire the reason?"

"No," Sunset keeps writing. No indeed. How would she explain this to other androids? They are human's last and proudest creations, but their knowledge regarding humans is shockingly shallow and distorted. In a sense, they are not the perfect image of humans they themselves would like to be. Sunset is disappointed, but how could she ever make this public? She is the last human alive, and the tide to human culture will die with her. Perhaps, the best way to help the androids is to write a book. One that will put them on the right path. Yet, her writing session is cut short as a series of knocking sounds intrudes from beyond her door.

"One moment!" Sunset hastily throws her notebook into a drawer. It's a new day, time to put on a brave new face.

"Sorry for interrupting," Anemone says as the door opens: "But 9S is in the camp now, and I think we should warn Number 2."

"We don't need to worry about," Sunset invites Anemone in before closing the door: "She's out exploring one of those weird machine towers outside."

"Actually," Anemone makes a face: "That's what 9S has been up to."

"What?"

"And that what has he been up to for the past couple of weeks." Anemone says: "He will be in the camp for a while, so if you want to talk to him, now is the time."

"Got it," Sunset grabs her spear before issuing an order to the Pod: "Pod, tell A2 to stay away from the towers and stay away from the camp until further notice."

"Roger." The floating box responded.

"You've got to be more careful; it's a miracle that you even made it back!" The medic android says.

"Thank you," 9S says quietly, putting on his blindfold.

"I know you are going through a lot now," the medic continues: "But be careful, ok?"

"Ok."

"9S!" Sunset manages to arrive at the medical center before 9S leaves: "Here!"

"Glory to Mankind!"

9S and the nurse stand up and salute Sunset.

"Guys, please!" Sunset says: "No need to be so formal!"

"Sorry, a force of habit!" The nurse smiles: "How may I assist you?"

"Actually," Sunset says: "May I talk to 9S for a moment? In private?"

"Of course!" The nurse responds: "I'll leave you guys alone! Things have been really peaceful, so we aren't getting many patients!"

"Thanks!" Sunset yells as the nurse exists: "Ok, 9S! It has been a while! How's everything?"

"It's...ok," 9S answers with a cold tone."

"9S," Sunset sighs: "I know it has been rough recently; I just want to help you."

"I'm ok," 9S says: "There's nothing to worry about."

"Yeah?" Sunset leans her spear against the wall: "Then can you take the blindfold off?"

"Of course," 9S replies with a monotoned voice and unties the fold.

"Eyes are the windows to one's soul," Sunset pulls a chair for 9S: "And from your eyes, I can see nothing. So tell me, is there anything I can help you with?"

"I just have some questions," 9S sits down: "Thank you."

"Of course," Sunset, with her full attention on 9S, pulls herself a chair: "I'm all ears."

"Now that 2B is gone," 9S sighs: "I really don't know what to do. I will destroy all machines and A2, but what's after that? I'm just...lost."

"That is indeed something to consider," Sunset takes a deep breath: "However, I'm afraid that's one question I don't have the answer to. 2B has been all there is for you, so consider this: what kind of life does she what you to live?"

"I...don't know," 9S starts laughing uncontrollably: "I...I'm sorry, but it's just too ironic: when we were together, she never shows any kind of emotion, and we never talked about what kind of life is a good life. So it's...funny..."

"Funny if it's not so tragic," Sunset closes her eyes: "I'm sorry for your loss."

"It's alright," 9S says calmly after regaining his composure: "I've come to terms with it. And, I'm sorry for the creepy laughter. I didn't mean to freak you out."

"It's ok. However, if I have to say, she probably wants you to live a happy life. Wouldn't you say so?"

"I guess."

"Well then," Sunset opens her eyes again, this time trying to make eye contact with 9S: "Then would it make more sense to...calm down a little and think things through? Revenge is ok, but wouldn't it be better if you don't lose your sense of self while doing so?"

"I guess," 9S says quietly, eyes on the ground.

"Look at me," Sunset says with a firm tone: "It's important to maintain a sense of who you are while avenging your loved ones; just remember this, ok?"

"You are saying this because of A2, aren't you?" 9S stares Sunset dead in the eyes: "My apologies, ma'am. It's an order I can't follow. Terminate me if you so wish."

"No, just wait a minute!" Sunset puts a hand over the android's shoulder: "We've had enough causalities! I don't want to lose anyone else."

"I'm sorry, ma'am," 9S says: "But nothing can stop me."

"Is that so," Sunset turns her head away: "Well, then, over my body."

"Ma'am?"

"Draw your sword," Sunset stands up, tosses 9S' fold on the ground, and went for her spear: "Only one of us will walk out here alive. Winner take all."

"I'm sorry, ma'am," 9S jumps out of his chair: "Pod!"

The small levitating bow besides 9S lets out a blinding flashing light, temporarily impairing Sunset's vision.

"9S!" Sunset shouts on the top of her lungs: "Agh, come back!"

Unfortunately for her, 9S dashed out of the camp before anyone can stop him.

Final [S]et of the Sun

"Thank you, Alyssum," Sunset rub her eyes: "I think my eyes are back to normal."

"Of course," the nurse android replies: "Still, why would 9S do something like that?"

"I don't know," Sunset blinks her eyes: "But I'm afraid I'd have to go now. Thank you!"

"Hi, wait!" Alyssum tries to stop her, but Sunset is already gone: "You need eye drops..."

"Agh!" Sunset stumps the ground as she thinks her life through. She lost all her friends, was put into a hibernation chamber, made new friends, and almost lost them all again. The twins, dead. 2B, dead. Pascal, dead. 9S lost his mind and likely to die soon. A2, about to die if she runs into 9S. What is the point of it all anyway?

"You look troubled," a strange voice snaps Sunset out: "Oh, well. I'm not supposed to intervene, but I just can't help it after seeing everything."

"Excuse me?" Sunset asks: "Do I know you?"

"Yes and no," the woman replies: "You can call me Accord."

"Ok," Sunset takes a deep breath before forcing a smile on her face: "How can I help you?"

"It's hard to keep it up, is it?" Accord asks as her eyes focus on a book: "You don't need to pretend in front of me."

"Fine," Sunset sighs: "Who are you exactly?"

"Well," Accord flips to another page: "I'm an android, just like everyone else in this camp. However, I'm older than everyone else. Long story short, I keep an eye on time and reality. After witnessing how far you've come, I figure it would be a shame if you give up now."

"I beg your pardon?" Sunset raises an eyebrow: "What?"

"You actions so far have a profound influence on the androids," Accord continues: "You might not notice it, but androids around are acting more and more like humans. They start to understand human culture, and it would be horrible if the only human just go *snap*."

"What do you want?" Sunset tightens her fists.

"Nothing," Accord stands up, revealing a giant suitcase: "Your book isn't complete, but it's good as it is now. It's your life, your choice."

"What do you even mean?"

"She just reminds you of Fluttershy, now doesn't she?" Accord closes her book: "Perhaps a bit too much? An alternative version of Fluttershy, maybe? With a tough shell?"

"I..."

"Again," Accord turns her back towards Sunset before taking off: "The tower is a dangerous place, the center of all machines. Sending other androids in your place would accomplish nothing."

"Wait!"

"Sunset!" Anemone's voice caught Sunset's attention.

"Anemone!" Sunset turns her head around for one second, and Accord disappeared.

"Sunset!" Anemone rushes towards Sunset: "Number 2 cut off communication!"

"No..." facepalms: "I just know it..."

"We should send someone," Anemone says: "There's not many of us left, but I can still assemble a team and..."

"No," Sunset declares: "I will go alone."

"Are you insane?" Anemone's eyes open wide: "It's not happening! We can't..."

"It's an order," Sunset cuts Anemone off with a cold tone.

"But..."

"It's ok, Anemone," Sunset smiles: "I will meet with A2 before that, and we'll be safe."

"If you say so," Anemone sighs: "Just be careful, ok?"

"You got it."

"Accursed Human!"

"Revenge, revenge, revenge!"

As Sunset cross the remains of a city to the tower of the machines, she was chased by countless machine lifeforms mumbling similar things. However, there's no time to stop. A2 and 9S could clash at any time, and both of them could be dead as a result.

"Center of machines," Sunset murmurs: "So does this mean all machines will power down once we destroy the tower?"

Her breathing is stable, even after running long distances with a spear. It appears that Sunset's health is almost back to normal, thanks to Devola and Popola's treatment. However, her refusal of salt has caused damage to her body. Although much better than before, her health will never reach the level before she was put into sleep.

"Oh," Sunset stops as a giant cone-shaped structure emerges from the horizon.

"Pod, call A2," Sunset says.

"Establishing connection...failed. Please try again." the flying box replies.

"I just know it," Sunset sighs: "Ok, Pod, we are going in. If anything happens to me, then get A2 out of there no matter the price."

"Sunset..."

"It's an order," Sunset claims.

"Affirmative."

Accord, Sunset thought as she makes her way to the tower: I've heard of that name before. She comes and goes like the wind. Only a few have caught sight of her. Who is she anyway? More importantly, how does she know what I'm thinking about? I was just going to let 9S and A2 sort this out by themselves, but I also fear what will become if 9S kills A2. It's getting hard and hard to play this "perfect human" role. Maybe, just maybe, I'm doing the right thing?

As they get closer and closer, Sunset notices an increase in the number of the remains of the machine lifeforms. Indeed it's the handy work of A2. However, some of the remains are less damaged and appear to be in good condition. Those are the works of 9S. He has the power to hack into them and destroy their operating system and permanently power them down.

Finally, they've arrived at the doorstep of the tower.

"Fine then," Sunset took a deep breath and swallowed her heart: "Here I go."

"9S, we androids are..."

"Shut up!" 9S shouts as his red eyes glow bright red, a sign of infection by the logic virus: "You killed 2B, and now you will pay! Pods! Do not interfere. Stay aside until one of us is dead!"

"..." With no words left, A2 raises her sword against her kin.

The two exchanged blows after blows. 9S uses his power to temporarily A2's senses, and A2 relies on her years of combat experience to counter 9S's attacks. The duel lasted forever. The building starts to crumble, a sign that the core of the tower has been destroyed. Aside from them, Sunset is the only one capable of such a task. Finally, both parties saw an opening. With her years of experience, A2 would surely emerge victoriously. However, as she delivers the final blow, 2B's voice starts to echo in her head: "Please take care of 9S."

Her hand stopped. She can't do that. She can't strike 9S down.

"Sorry, Sunset." A2 closes her eyes, waiting for 9S to finish the fight.

Instead of piercing pain in her chest, A2 felt nothing. When her eyes open again, A2 is shocked by what she sees: Sunset, the master of all androids, now covered in blood, pierced 9S's chest with the spear that Devola and Popola gifted her. 9S, on the other hand, perhaps out of instinct, buried his sword deep into Sunset's heart.

"Sunset?" A2 says with a shaky voice: "SUNSET!"

"Caution, Sunset Shimmer, status: Deceased. Pod, Missing." A2's Pod says: "Mission: escorting Unit A2 to safety."

"Shut up!" A2 tried to push her Pod away. Strangely enough, the small floating box has the power to subdue an android and carry them in its' delicate mechanical arms.

"Ma'am, it seems like the tower is destroyed," An android walks into Anemone's tent: "Reports across regions indicate that machines are powering down, probably for good."

"That's great news," Anemone pushes other documents aside: "Is there reports about Sunset?"

"I'm afraid not," the android shakes her head.

"Ok, thank you, Daisy," Anemone says: "What about Unit A2?"

"About that," Daisy made a face: "A few androids run into her Pod carrying her unconscious body. It is believed that she's the only surviving member of that tower. Once A2 wakes up, we can get more details."

"And?"

"And...well," Daisy rolls her eyes: "According to the Pod, 9S was infected by Logic Virus and tried to kill A2. However, he was stopped by Sunset before that could happen."

"So 9S and Sunset killed each other."

"Yes, I'm afraid so."

"I see," Anemone buries her face in her palms: "Take good care, go, Number 2."

"Yes, ma'am!" Daisy salutes.

"And Daisy? Before you go, do be careful. I don't want to lose anyone from this point on."

"Of course, I will. Ma'am. And you be careful as well."

"So, tough day, yeah?" Anemone enters A2's room without knocking: "Sorry for barging in; it has been rough for me today."

"It's ok," A2 replies, her eyes focus on Sunset's necklace: "So it's all over, yeah?"

"For us, yes," Anemone leans against the wall: "All the machines are powered down for good; all that's left to do is to rebuild human civilization!"

"Yeah?" A2 smirks: "It's nice that Sunset left us a manual for that."

"I know," Anemone smiles: "She truly is a gift for us all, isn't she?"

"She is,"

"Say, um," Anemone clears her throat: "Now that we don't have to fight anymore, do you have any plans? I could really use a hand or two here."

"Sure thing," A2responds, eyes still on the crimson-colored gem.

"And Sunset's funeral will tomorrow if you want to attend."

"I will."

"Ok, that's all." Anemone lets out a long breath: "I will leave you alone for a bit. Just call me if you need anything, ok?"

"Ok, thank you very much."

As the door closes, A2 is left alone with the symbol of friendship Sunset bestowed on her.

"If I can't live for myself," A2 mumbles: "Then live for my friends. But Sunset, you really don't need to do this...why?"

First time in years, Android Number 2 felt the pain of losing another friend.

Epilogue

Date: August/6th/11,945

Event: Collapse of the Tower and death of Sunset Shimmer

Casualty: Sunset Shimmer, Yorha Unit 9S

Result: Destruction of the Tower (the central server of the machines), complete elimination of the machines, and the extinction of the human race.

Entry: It is a rather unfortunate event. Sunset Shimmer, the last human in existence, has passed away after eliminating the machines for good. Now, we androids must reconstruct human civilizations following Sunset's journal. Unfortunately, the human race as we know it is gone. I honestly don't know what to feel. We androids are created to protect humans. In the end, however, the human saved us. Not all hope is lost, however. From a piece of stone Sunset gifted me, we may be able to travel through time and space. The stone is said to be a part of a portal to another dimension. When humans start to turn into salt, Sunset destroyed this portal so to protect her homeland. With the proper procedure, we can extract whatever power is left in this thing and travel through time and space. It is believed that the year 3470 is crucial in terms of saving humans from extinction. By doing so, we would be creating an alternative timeline where humans are saved (Our timeline stays the same). We have recruited a volunteer for this task: Yorha Unit A2.
Although it is too late in our time, I believe there's always hope for other timelines.

Anemone's Journal

Dear Diary: Hi. It has been quite a week. I did my best to keep track of ~~Number 9~~ 9S, so he doesn't run into Number 2 and Sunset. It truly marvelous that they haven't run into each other by now. Yesterday, 9S returned to the camp minutes after Number 2 and Sunset left. I genuinely hope Sunset has a plan because it's only a matter of time before they meet. I don't know what was 9S up to, but he was severely wounded every time I see him. What was once a bright young man is now a depressed man seeking revenge. He has more in common with Number 2 than he knew.

Enough about that; perhaps I should spend some time talking about Sunset. She has been co-managing the camp with me. Her body may be fragile, but her mind is sharp. I expect no less from a human. Number 2 also says, 'you taught her well. The truth is, I never taught her anything. Perhaps I should ask Sunset who her teacher was if she had one. From what I learned, humans have to spend a prolonged period learning a specific set of skills from another, more experienced individual. Life must be rough if you have to spend so much time learning everything. Actually, Sunset told me that you forget most of it or never use any of the skills you learned anyway. How peculiar. I wondered why is this the case. However, Sunset told me that it's impossible to find out, and I shouldn't concern myself with matters like this. Maybe being a human isn't as great as I believed.

Also, Sunset gives me a piece of rock as a symbol of friendship. She told me it was a piece of magic portal to her home. When humans start to turn into salt, Sunset decided to destroy it so to protect her homeland. By doing so, she will never be able to return home. It's a sad story, really. She then told me that she wasn't close to her family anyway, so it's ok. I don't know if she was trying to comfort me, but it may not be a good idea to dig my nose into her past.

This morning, she got up at 5 and visited Devola & Popola's grave. The pair of twins saved her life, so it's understandable. Yet, Sunset is the only knows what the twins did (they were always hated for no good reason). Even so, she still paid her respect. I tried to get some info out of Number 2, but she doesn't know anything either. Apparently, the twins failed at a particular task which led to a catastrophe. Sunset won't tell anyone what that task is, so I shall respect her wish. Number 2 said that Sunset has been doing this ever since the twins died. Why though? It seems like humans like to engage in meaningless behavior repeatedly. Maybe, I should ask Sunset about it, so I may learn the meaning behind her actions.