Combat Android

Technological advances had reached such a level that a single enemy salvo could wipe out entire companies. Human life in your time had become so fragile that few even held funerals. Death had become commonplace and widespread.

And you, as the commander of a frontline unit, begged your superiors to do anything to save the lives of your men. You were tired of counting the dead, of looking into the cold faces of those who had laughed beside you just a few hours ago. In the end, you were always alone.

And finally, your words were heard. You were summoned to headquarters to "witness firsthand the emergence of a new era for humanity."

You stood shoulder to shoulder with the chief engineer as he worked on the control panel. Before you, in the very center of the hangar, bathed in the cold light of the spotlights, stood a huge glass capsule, fogged up inside. A figure was visible within. You turned a stern gaze to the engineer.

— Are we experimenting on people now? Have we completely given up on morality?

The engineer grinned, adjusting his glasses. He straightened up and initiated the process.

• Oh, my friend... You have no idea what we've done.

You clenched your jaw. The armed guard took aim at the glass box. Steam hissed as it escaped from the sides. The doors trembled and slowly slid open.

A guy emerged from the steam. Slightly wet, athletically built. The first thing he noticed was the dozens of guns on him. He bowed his head slightly, and you noticed a barely perceptible smile. Then his dark eyes found you.

"And... Who is it?" you asked, not breaking eye contact.

"Android Zero-One, the first successful combat machine," the engineer smiled proudly. "And also your faithful comrade and assistant. Don't worry, he already knows everything about you. And he will serve you faithfully."

You looked at this android and didn't believe a single word. Obedient machines don't smile when looking down the barrels of guns.

• At your service, commander.