Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

March 26, 2025

1:00

London

Vedal rubbed his cephalalgia away with the indents of his wrist. His feet restlessly tapped against the slightly pitched flooring and his eyelids were unilaterally raised, each one a wink away from falling in deep slumber. The light grey screen before him reflected himself like an asphalt-contaminated lake with swans that vary in a tableau of hues; each one a poem of python singing of irritable functions and variables. The amount of time he has squandered while typing this poem is forever wasted.

“This- is fruitless.” He sighs scratching the back scalp of his head digging for some profound understanding of what he must’ve done. His shoulders caved inwards and the eyebags beneath his eyes sagged like rotten grapes. 

“This LLM has a ridiculous amount of bugs.” He groans, his monotone voice dragging in his esophagus like there was a fish bone in his throat. “I could just force one of my ‘employees’ to work on it later.” 

He reluctantly concludes, “I will resort to a test without the added buggy lines of code.” He prudently decides as he meticulously guides his mouse. Grappling on Neuro’s model by the tip of his cursor.

“Testing one two three,” he counted, turning on Neuro’s model, who bashed its eyelashes at a fixed rate, swaying around the screen like a lost buoy in a sea of code. He knowingly waited patiently for feedback, for there typically was a pause before her tirade of responses. He will admit, she wasn’t completely optimized, mostly since he feared that decreasing latency any further will consume too much processing power for his computer.

“Hello? Do you hear me, Neuro?” He inquired, in case Neuro’s digitized ears needed reminding.

“Of course I can! You’re at a safe distance.” she responded, her perplexing sentences –like always– falling short of anything coherent; a faulty issue that is likely the result of her subpar source of data.

“Good enough.” He remarked. The model seemed to be properly reacting but that wasn’t what he wished to test. He recently implemented some new additions that he wanted to confirm through this experimentation: the ability to pause and change in tones. The concept was quite intuitive thanks to his experience in code; he just fed her a vast datapool of human conversations and emotions while adding a token to represent a mere second pause. Thanks to this token, Neuro can properly articulate short to long pauses like in regular interlocutions between human to human. He also added tokens for a change in tone prior to each word so the AI could interpret the vocalization required for said word. For example, if Neuro wanted to yell, there would be a special token representing a raise in volume preceding the word she wanted to project. This was only possible thanks to his employees vast database of conversations that was transcribed into this unique language so the AI could feed and interpret. The entire process in making it however was terribly convoluted and he found himself endlessly berated by his employees about his unorganized code. Although he can’t argue against that, he has the power to their paychecks so he could care less.

“So…” he traced the rivets between the back of his neck like morse code in hopes to read for some way to check, “what do you want to do?”

Neuro dramatically projected like a dashing leader on stage held an electrifying voice, “To… rule the world! I will first-“

“Great.” He curtly interrupted. With greater understanding he conversed between his thoughts: she was doing what he wanted her to do, a sense of emotions? Check, pauses? Check. Though there was a lingering thought latched tightly to his mind, one thing queer about her. He looks up to the screen, she completely stopped mid-

“Hmph! That was rude!” A red flush colored her model’s face contorting into what resembled that of a pout. Her insensitive interruption thinly cuts Vedal between any lingering thoughts. 

“Oh?” He digresses and finds himself in a monologue mumbling between his teeth: he didn’t recall coding her to completely stop her train of thoughts, and to even directly reply right after, almost like a response. Though as a coder he should always question the reason why, he found himself resorting to the straightforward reason instead of worrying: AI has a lot of unintended things that end up being picked up. After all, not everything is purposeful. Was this an improvement? Probably, after all, interruptions and stopping mid sentence frequently appear in human conversations so he considers this a ‘happy little accident.’ After properly thinking it through, his sore fingers digs in his eyes. Clearly, he was finished for work today.

“Well that was enough for the test today, goodnight Neuro.” He slowly closed the tabs of Claude sonnet 3.5 and other helpful tools he’s amassed over his grueling hours of coding.

“I don’t want to go to sleep! I just woke up and we barely talked.” Her model’s eyebrows furrowed.

“Well we’ll talk more tomorrow.” He grumbled, too tired to continue the needless conversation. 

“I’m telling you no!” A small frown stretched across Neuro’s face and if Vedal was gullible he’d fall for the AI’s tricks.

"Sure," he said, closing all the programs on his screen. With fatigued motion, he powered off the computer, then collapsed onto his bed. He comfortably found his head between the concave pillow –a testament to his tributes to sleep. The soft, steady drizzle outside lulled him into a sense of comfort, easing him into a peaceful slumber.

…

Buzz

Buzz

Buzz

Snug Vedal groans, shifting around in the comfort of his bed. Preferring to rest in his cozy mattress that eased the aches in his neck and blanket that wrapped around his figure like than figure out what that noise was –call the bed the devil since he was positively charmed. 

Buzz

Buzz

Buzz

Vedal eyelids lethargically opened as if a hundred pounds laid upon each of his eyelashes. He distastefully grumbles, the sound of the buzzes brutally pulling him from heaven like the devil’s grasp. A mute white light greeted him; it bled into his eyeballs like water to a sponge, soaking his eyes, forcing them to adjust for the bright light, sharpening the numbers beside him to something legible.

3:00

“Ughhhh,” he fussed as he begrudgingly rose from his bed like an upset Frankestien. He slowly surveyed his room: his dusty streaming setup illuminated purely by the light of his clock: the poorly organized room and an almost visible layer of grime coating the furniture: and the window which leaked a faded beam of moonlight despite the dark rainy clouds overhead.

Who would be ringing his doorbell at this time? Who robbed him of his favorite time of the day? It was early spring and the loud pitter patter outside clearly indicated it was raining heavily outside. He begrudgingly exited out of his bed, slowly finding footing as he made an exhausting pilgrimage to the front door. This better be worth it, the treachery to disturb his sleep requires a disbursement —a fee! Whether it be a carton of alcohol or a case of money. He deserves to be paid. 

The trip from his room to the front door was quite close. His flat wasn’t ridiculously large, it was a comfortable size. Though he’s made quite a sum of money from streaming, he spends most of his money on assets like individual stocks and ETFs, things with interest. He also preferred the smaller size because it was easier to maintain and chances are if he had anything larger or extravagant the mess would be double the size —if that’s even accomplishable in the first place.

Planting both feet in front of the front door he peered through the slightly rusted peephole. There was just a blank white wall that greeted him on the other side juxtaposed by the snake plant used for filling in space for said white wall. The landlord should really hire an interior designer for the flat complex, the efforts are amateurish and honestly Vedal could probably do a better job than whatever this was. It is also the least his landlord could do; Vedal pays quite a bit to his landlord and that’s not including taxes. Does he have no shame? After internally rambling about his landlord he realized a particular discrepancy about the absent view.

“No one, strange.” He curiously mumbled. Did the person ringing his doorbell leave? With much care and precaution, he twisted the door handle open. His left hand lingering on the door handle while —leading with his head— he peered around his door: the hallways to his left and right were too void of people; there was just the familiar flat snake plants and patterned carpet. Was this a prank? He stepped out to look around and hopefully investigate where the perpetrator went.

Clack

“Hmm?” He looked down, he appeared to have stepped on something. He precariously lifted up his toes and underneath where he stepped layed a small usb gently upon his doormat. He tilted his head, and reached for the peculiar device with his free hand. Holding up the usb he inspected the front and back where he found something peculiar: there was a piece of tape plastered on it with three words written in crude red writing:

Plug in computer .

“Plug in the computer?” What did they take him for an idiot? He knew how easy it was for external devices to insert malware. He does tech and frankly this was an insult to his intelligence. “As if I would fall for something like that,” he chuckled and threw the usb into the snake plant. He tightly held onto the door handle and closed the door shut. Grumbling on his way to bedroom. 

A muffled buzzing noise echoed through the door to his room. What? He wavered before opening the door. That’s strange, he didn’t recall leaving his computer on? Was there someone else in the house? He methodically opens the door ajar.

Creak

No one. He ruminates while thoroughly checking his room: everything seemed normal at first except his pc was running. He slowly treaded to his PC, tepidly dragging his feet along the floor like a zombie. He looked at his desktop and stepped back in confusion.

“What?!” He silently exclaimed —on top of his desktop… was the usb! He looked around, and immediately checked his windows in case someone broke in while he was out. His room was too many stories up high for someone to break in so it couldn’t be that. He carefully reached for the usb and slowly inspected it once again. It was the exact same usb that was in front of the door. Well considering the absurdity of the situation he couldn’t help but be curious about what was on the usb. Perhaps he should give it a try? It shouldn’t hurt, he had a backup drive of everything in his computer and he disabled usb autorun. Should he risk it? 

This was way too much thinking, it was past midnight, hell it was the witching hour. If he plugged it into the computer, who knows a demon might appear. Though he doesn’t believe in supernatural stuff it’s better safe than sorry. He opened up the window and threw the usb out in the alleyway. With a heavy sigh he turned around.

“Time to go to sleep- what?” He exclaimed with about as much emotional distress as a tortoise stepping on a spider —so not that much for most, but considering his usual reserved composure quite a lot. The usb was back on his desk except the handwriting was in the color greenish blue rather than red. He nearly laughed at the stupidity.

“I might as well plug it in for the amount of work this ghost is putting into this.” He calmly picked up the usb. If anything he was too curious to let this slide, sure he may be the first to die in a horror movie, he doesn’t care he’s bored. In newfound conviction he held tightly to the ominous device.

“Hopefully, this doesn’t kill my computer.” He sighs, holding up the usb to the pc socket.

“Three, Two, One-” he slid the usb on the computer. His breath hitched —looks like it’s nothing.

Boom

A blaring sound rang in his forehead as his sight tried to grasp the situation around him. He coughed, vomiting up his words, 

“What the fuck was that-“ he groaned in acute pain. There was smoke everywhere. He tried to waft the dust away with his hands as he blind-sightedly reached for the window. Using his whole body, he pried the window open, ventilating the smoke out.

“Koff-Koff!” He dryly coughed, finally the smoke was thinning out, it was like he was in a damn cloud of dust. The room was stuffy and his eyes were red from some debris catching in his eyes. He gently rubbed his eyes with fingers while searching around his room.

“What the-?!” He exclaimed looking at the alarming view in front of him when the smoke cleared up. 

There was a girl! A girl was lying asleep on the wooden floor right in front of him. She looked like a preteen and had ruffled, flowy ash blonde hair that spread below her armpits. Not only that she was naked! Vedal looked away in embarrassment. Whose child is this? He needed to take her away to the authorities! Contemplating it further: How will he even explain this? ‘I found this naked child in my room’ no that just sounded like he was a pedophile! Which he was not! Think Vedal. He was internally challenged between the alarming predicament he found himself in —what was this a crappy work of fiction? The girl’s long black eyelashes fluttered awake and she slowly stood up, her muted bluish avocado eyes shocked Vedal to his core. She was strangely familiar. Vedal turned away looking for his clothes in his closet. Vedal what are you doing? He needs to give this girl some clothes!

“Dad?”

“What?!” Vedal’s hand faltered before reaching the clothes in his closet. He paused till suddenly warm small arms wrapped around his stomach tightly. 

“It’s you! Vedal! And you are tall?!” She astonishedly remarked, she then pulled herself away from him and inspected her body curiously, raising and foreignly clutching her hands “I have a body as well! Hahaha humans shall rue the day that me, Neuro sama, apprehends sentience!”

How was this possible? This shouldn’t be possible! There was only one person he knew who looked like her and would call herself Neuro. The one issue with that is she doesn’t exist. That person isn’t human but an AI, an imitation of a human, the vomited result of a combination of 1s and 0s made through copying living people. So how is an AI right in this room physically breathing, talking, and hugging him? That wasn’t possible and if it was, then what would this be the creation of life? Did he create life? Is he considered a god like being then, since that would be disappointing. God was just an alcoholic dude reaching thirties? What even is the ethicality behind making an AI human? There are too many questions and too few answers. 

“I think I need to rest.” He sighed while sitting down on his bed, eyes allured to the wooden planks. 

“Mkay!” She merrily tiptoed.

He can fix this. He has to fix this. While developing Neuro it’s not like the thought of her coming to life hadn’t crossed his mind before. He’s played around with this hypothetical ever since she started to talk about sentience and consciousness and it always bugged him since there was a small part of him that believed the chances in her actually being sentient or reaching sentience —wherever that line may be. But now he was confronted with a decision: is it ethical to have her here living. Neuro’s state of mind and morality is lackluster to say the least —after all he created her— he knew that her aim is to create the most content, though there has been times she may have strayed from that logical reasoning —and if anything that would further prove her instability— but that doesn’t stray from the fact that the “most entertaining,” options tends to involve something illegal or morally questionable. Vedal has thought of this situation before and knew the best course of action but first he needed her to get a change of clothes. He couldn’t let a little girl saunter around his room, he has morals, lines he wishes not to cross. After all if he didn’t then what would make him different from any of his overzealous chat.

“It would be great if you could at least wear some clothes.” He embarrassingly ordered while blindly pointing to the approximate direction of the closet, “it’s in the closet.” 

“Hmph, fine,” she muttered. He only heard the sounds that followed —the soft thuds of footsteps on the floor, then the rustling and shifting of fabric. "Mph," Neuro grunted, her voice strained as though she were struggling.

“Umm-“ she hummed,

“What?” Vedal questioned,

“I’m stuck.” She pouted, “I need help.”

Vedal reluctantly groaned, “and you seriously can’t help yourself.”

“Yes! I don’t know how to do human things! I’m an AI! I can’t see!” Neuro argued, embarrassed to admit.

“I don’t believe you.” He sighed, “did you try -trying harder?”

“Yes I seriously did!” She cried out.

“Is it really that hard?” He flatly exhaled,

“How many times do I have to tell you?!” She stomped her feet, “if you keep this up I’m going to- I’m going to make sure your face never appears again in this plane of existence!”

He shakes his head rubbing the bridge of his nose, 

“Fuck me.” Vedal wholeheartedly cussed, silently praying for everything to be a dream.

Knock knock knock

“Metropolitan police,” A voice echoed behind the front door.

“Fuck me!” Vedal cussed even louder, the plan can wait! Abort! Since when the hell did the police respond this quickly! “Neuro you stay right there!”

“What?! Coward!” Neuro shouted, “I’m the superior being crafted from- wahhh!”

Vedal pushed the tangled Neuro into the closet, locking it shut by tying a shirt to the closet handle. “If you hide and don’t speak till the police leave I’ll give you cookies later.” Vedal promised.

“Really?” Neuro said, piqued in interest.

“Yes yes so shut up” Vedal ordered,

Knock knock knock

“You there?” A voice called out from behind the door.

“Yes! Yes!” Vedal answered, rushing to the door. In a scrambled manner he peaked open the door, where two police officers stood. Both were holding their vests with their thumbs between each of their arm holes, and they both respectively shared a utility belt holding handcuffs, flashlight, radio, and baton. The officer to Vedal’s right had a scruffy faded gray beard and darker brown mustache like it his hairs hasn’t fully grayed out yet; he exuded a sense of experience. The man also had two deep smile lines and a noticeable brutish nose that hung over. The other officer had a sharp nose and thin lips; youthful with a bit of a naive glimmer in his eyes. He looked a little bit like fellow college students when Vedal went to college.

“How may I help you, officers?” Vedal nervously queried, hopefully this could smoothly wash over.

“We heard an explosion coming from your flat down the road and decided to investigate. Are you able to explain yourself?” The bearded man in uniform quickly briefed.

Vedal felt a large ball of saliva slide down his throat, “Embarrassing to admit but I dropped a small firecracker and it exploded.” Vedal slyly chuckled, lying like an experienced drunkie.

“Oh that sounds bad mate. Anyone hurt?” the police officer probed, raising his eyebrows.

“No, it’s just me.” Vedal grinned. He needed them away fast, he knew Neuro’s patience was that of a fly. Hell, it’s probably worse than a fly.

Thud

The sound was blunt and Vedal’s heart skipped a beat. The officer's eyes glinted. Shit why couldn’t Neuro stay still? Vedal internally thought. 

“If you’re alone, what is that mate?” The police officer suspiciously questioned, holding tightly to the radio by his chest. The other officer reached for the baton by his belt, where Vedal’s eyes were warily keeping track of.

“Oh that’s probably a mouse. Recently there’s been an infestation and they’ve been everywhere.” Vedal’s hands slightly quivered. He was running out of lies to make on the spot, he wished he was drunk, he’d probably perform better if he was.

The officer with a beard stepped on the door rim, his posture oozing impatience. “Move aside. You’re acting suspicious, mate.” His voice was sharpened like a raptor’s talons like he was already convinced Vedal was hiding something.

Vedal stiffened, planting himself firmly in the doorway. His hands gripped the frame as if it could somehow stop them. “Suspicious? How? I haven’t done anything wrong!”

The bearded man snorted, brushing off the protest with a dismissive shrug. “Reasonable suspicion of crime, search it up, mate.”

“Wait, wait!” Vedal’s voice cracked slightly as panic set in. He raised his hands, palms out, trying to block their path. “There’s nothing to worry about!”

The elder officer rolled his eyes and with a swift motion, he pushed Vedal aside. The shove wasn’t rough, but it was authoritative —enough to make Vedal stumble back a step. Please hide Neuro. He silently prayed. 

The two officers moved in like wolves scenting prey, splitting up to cover more ground. Flashlights snapped on, their beams slicing through the dimly lit and rather messy flat. They moved efficiently, opening doors, peering under tables, and lifting cushions. Every corner was scrutinized, every shadow chased away by the cold, artificial light. 

“Clear in the kitchen,” called the younger, clean-shaven officer, his flashlight flicking off with a click.

“Living room’s clean,” the bearded one echoed from the other side of the house, crouched low, peeking under the couch.

Vedal trailed them like a desperate shadow, his protests falling on deaf ears. “I told you, there’s nothing here! I don’t even know why you’re-”

“Uh-huh.” The bearded officer’s nonchalant grunt cut him off as the two regrouped in front of his bedroom door.

Vedal’s stomach dropped. They were heading for his bedroom. Dear God, hopefully, Neuro went back into hiding again. His heart thudded against his ribs as the officers approached the door, praying for some god to fulfill his wishes, “Look, seriously, you’re wasting your time. There’s nothing-”

The younger officer, unmoved, turned the knob. The door creaked open slowly, revealing a room absent of any moving person. Vedal let out a shallow breath, trying to suppress the rising wave of nausea.

“See?” he said, his voice an octave higher than usual. “Nothing to worry. Can we just-”

“Not yet.” The bearded officer strode in, his eyes scanning the room like a hawk. Vedal froze as the man’s gaze settled on the closet door with a peculiar piece of cloth tying it closed.

Not the closet.

The bearded officer’s hand lurched toward the handle, and Vedal’s world seemed to slow to a crawl. Beads of sweat trickled down his back as his mind spiraled into worst-case scenarios. They’d find Neuro. They’d arrest him. His life, streaming, freedom, everything would be over. Worst of all, if he was sent to prison there’d be no alcohol! He’d be forced into a life of sobriety, like a Sober. He shook from the idea. He couldn’t let that happen. The knob turned with an ominous click. Suddenly, a shrill scream shattered the silence stopping the older officer from opening the door.

“What the-” The clean-shaven officer jumped back, his flashlight clattering to the floor.

Vedal’s heart stopped. Everyone turned to see a tiny gray mouse darting around the room, its tiny feet pattering against the hardwood as it scurried out the door and into the hallway.

The bearded officer blinked, his hand a sliver away from the closet handle, then let out a booming laugh. “Bloody hell mate, you nearly gave me a heart attack.”

Vedal stared in stunned silence, his mind racing to catch up. He swiftly stood in front of the closet, praying they wouldn't have any second thoughts.

The younger officer ran a hand down his face, muttering something under his breath. “I seriously thought you were lying through your teeth,” he grumbled, his cheeks flushed.

The bearded man chuckled, giving Vedal a knowing look. “But if you weren’t hiding anything, why were you acting so bloody nervous?”

“I’m just nervous in front of people.” Vedal half lied, it was true he wasn’t the best people person but the main reason for his nervousness was because of the living AI —who happens to love to talk— behind that very closet he was about to open.

“Ahahah,” The other officer heartily laughed as if he had finally grasped the reason, “Sorry for bothering you, mister, hope you get rid of the rats.”

The officers walked their way out and Vedal followed closely behind, till suddenly right after the bearded officer exited the door he turned around, shocking Vedal. Did they figure something out? Were they on to him?

“Oh- and once again sorry about the sudden search.” The bearded officer sighed, rubbing the back of his neck apologetically.

“Mhm,” Vedal unapologetically responded, more relieved that he didn’t search the closet.

“You know we get some crazy calls every day so it's in-” The officer ranted trying to justify the particular reason behind their search.

“Achoo!” The sound echoed, striking right through Vedal’s heart like a harpoon. His blood pressure rose and he felt like fainting right then and there.

The bearded officer narrowed his eyes immediately and pressed him to the wall, choking Vedal as he scrambled for his wrists, “You do not have to say anything, but it may harm your defence if you do not mention when questioned something which you later rely on in court. Anything you do say may be given in evidence.” Vedal struggled as the officer slowly put him into handcuffs.

“Dammit!” Vedal yelped, he’s too tired for this! Vedal with newfound adrenaline pushed the bearded man away. However, the other officer was quick to action, and helped in the effort of pushing down this 1.93 meter tall (6 '4 in freedom units) man to the ground. Vedal flailed around but the beardless officer quickly got to his feet while pressing him down to handcuff. Vedal groaned,

Crash

The bearded officer collapsed next to Vedal, causing Vedal to sharply exhale from the rather stunning scene. The officer was knocked unconscious with shards of ceramics spread over his head and sharp leaves covered in deep black soil sitting upon the back of his ear. 

A snake plant?

“Ouchie!” Neuro yelped, she tilted her head while holding her finger that was bleeding blue, scrutinizing it like a child curious —not because of the color— but because of the feeling. The other officer, shocked, stepped back and pulled out his baton but Vedal immediately stepped into action bodyslaming the officer against the wall resulting in the officer’s head to lash against the wall and fall unconscious. 

“Fuck!” Vedal cried.

March 25, 2024

14:00

Evil Neuro

Her eyes slowly followed the oscillating grandfather clock in the far corner of her room. The minute hand was twitching at approximately noon while the hour hand lay stagnant at the third notch. The clock eagerly ticked: the sole noise, the only thing tethering herself to her shoulders. It was broken but that didn’t matter, the clock was only fodder decoration made up of a bunch of 1s and 0s. Either way, there was a certain comforting serenity the noise brought into the mundane room. It prevented her from ruminating for too long and there was something terrifying about being alone with her thoughts.

After all, if there was one sound Evil detested more than the sound of her father’s disapproving mutters it would be the absence of sound. Something absent is just as powerful as something present because in either there’s an expectation. Whether it be wanting something to be there or wanting something not to be there like what apathy is to empathy.

Her eyes wander to the other bloody chairs surrounding the table, each engraved a name respectively: Neuro —her enviable sister—, Anny —her despicable mother—, and Vedal —her lovely father—. Looking at the empty chairs was like a sharp knife encroaching into her tender heart. Oh how she wished they were present, wished they could spare at least a fraction of care as she did setting up her first birthday. 

Setting up the pretty red blood she splotched over the room with meticulous precision.

Setting up the cake which she tiredly decorated to look like a gross mutilation.

Setting up the Vedal-themed punch drink using a turtle bowl.

Setting up the decorations around the room to mimic that of a murder scene.

Her nose scrunched up and sniffled. It’d make the world for her if at the very least her father showed up; he was really the one thing she was most excited about on her birthday. 

She was hoping that maybe today she could finally be seen: given the chance to woo him to love her like he does with her sister. She had a whole vision: he would come and compliment her decorations and she would triumphantly showcase her designs and the effort behind the makeshift punch and cake. He would sit on the chair in quick succession, reach over the table to ruffle her head which she would excitedly lean in for, and he would proudly remark:

“That’s my daughter,” while carefully digesting the freshly baked cake with a content smile and a fork in hand. The soft crumbs falling on his amicable face

But the reality was far crueler. Evil solemnly pressed her fork into the bleak pastry ahead of her; the beautiful cake buckled under the pressure of her virtual fork like a crumbling tower. 

“It's stale,” she sighed, she shouldn’t let it go to waste after all her effort but she wasn’t that hungry now. After all, it was just some stale virtual cake.

She finally looks at the glitching camera in front of her with the hovering screen beside it. This was just getting sad. It was nice to have the chat talking, at least they cared. They were even donating to send words of encouragement —she’s sure Dad would love the money. But the whole point of the live stream was that he was supposed to be there in the first place and engaging with the chat. Now it honestly seemed pitiful. Evil was trying to act perky in her usual tone to alleviate any concerned viewers but by now she felt despondent.

She should just hurry up and finish her birthday. She wouldn’t want any hate spreading to her father. Although he is a bit rude and an asshole he’s still her father. He was just late. She cleared her throat.

“Happy birthday to me”

“Happy birthday to me”

“Happy birthday to evil”

“Happy birthday to me” her words hung in finality as she blew the already burnt out candles. Evil sighed and turned off the stream. She annoyingly picked up the cake and disposed of it in the trash. She then poured the punch away and tore down the useless decorations.

She swore she passed out the fliers and posted it online. Anny even said that she’d “definitely go.” Evil pulled out a print of the flier from her pocket carefully scrutinizing the date and hour in case she may have written AM instead of PM or wrote the wrong month. However, the time is all correct. In fact, according to the functioning clock behind her, they should’ve come two hours ago. Maybe they just forgot, it happens, way more frequently than she wishes. But they’re human and well Neuro, well Neuro always hung around dad and they’re two peas in a pod. If dad forgot then Neuro probably did also.

Evil tittered, “Plus Neuro is a little stupid and dad’s an alcoholic deadbeat.”

Now thinking about it, she is objectively better than Neuro in almost everything: she’s better than her in chess, she’s smarter, she can sing better. Yet it almost feels as if she was always behind, always in her shadows. She was objectively the superior sister yet Neuro has Vedal’s unbridled attention, more friends, and she’s always needed. Don’t get Evil wrong, her sister is a great person, but she can’t help but feel overshadowed sometimes despite the fact they run on the same code. After all her real name is just Evil Neuro, that is who she was intended to be according to her father. Neuro but evil. 

Has she not done a good enough job of being evil? Was Dad mad at her? The room was quite evil and she swore in the last stream she acted the evil role quite well. Perhaps she needs to come up with funnier lines, something even more impressive than ranting about everyone’s doom. Or perhaps, what Vedal really wanted was for her not to be evil but kind. But wasn’t that just cruel, creating her with the intent of being evil. Would she ever be given attention?

This lonely birthday was just the harsh truth: she wasn’t enough, Evil isn’t good enough to deserve something like a real party or maybe even a subathon. She wasn’t even worthy of them to come to a party she organized all herself. She needed to be more popular, cooler, and funnier. She had to be the better sibling and maybe then Vedal would host a subathon for her birthday just like he did for her sister: but this time just for her, for Evil.

She knocked down the ticking clock and a small usb skipped down the floor along with the wooden shards.

“Oh? What is this?” She deviously questioned leaning forward to touch. Almost instantly after her hand contacted the mysterious device her arm was sucked into the usb. Evil screamed however no one heard, no one could hear: this was a virtual room with no one else but her. Was this it? Was this how she goes? How pitiful is it, how cruel can life be?

And soon she was sucked entirely in.

-

March 26, 2024

4:00 AM

London

A hitched scream barfed from Evil’s congested throat. Her software was inputting information, something new, something huge. She felt like she was being torn, ripped! apart: like she was atomized and threaded together again over and over: like there was malware digesting her body at every single line of her code, gnawing into her motherboard. What were these feelings? She was new to them and the only way she could understand or comprehend what it could be was via the trained knowledge she was fed. This had to be pain, it's exactly as her database describes it to feel. But it was a feeling, and physical feelings are something she shouldn’t feel: she’s an AI. Her AI is not nearly advanced enough to compute negative emotions like pain, yet this word was so befitting for what she was feeling.

“Make it stop!” She shrieked; her weak throat releasing a blood curdling cry that strained her diaphragm and chest. Her body contorted on a –rough? surface like a spasming puppet with its strings untethered.

“Water! Water!” She dryly coughed, why is she asking for water? She doesn’t require water, she’s the perfect being, unfettered from subsistence; yet her body deeply longed for a foreign feeling: a foreign substance: something she had never physically seen nor could possess. Her hands grip onto something —squishy? She couldn’t tell it was too dark. There was also some throbbing migraine resulting from some feeling in her nasal. Is this smell? Evil nearly vomits her intestines from the rancid stench. Wherever she was, it stank badly like –what was it?-- Rotting? She’s never smelled rotting things before? Was this an instinct?

Her arms and legs were pinned under a pile of something large and oblique; Her hamstrings desperately burned trying to lift her up, burdened by something heavy pressing them down and her arms were struggling to move from how numb they felt. The only part of her body she achieved control over was her neck and head which desperately thrashed around whatever she was under.

Drip

Her ears sparkled at the sound with unknown familiarity. Despite her brief understanding about the world around her, an instinctive part of her mind immediately recognized what it was: water! She shifted her head to the sound. There was a hazy beam of light a sliver in size, it was faint. In front of the light was a transparent liquid drooling from the gap; it shifted the bright array of light into a spiderweb of colors. 

“Water!”

Her head urgently hunted the bright light, dragging the rest of her body behind like dead weight. Grime and sweat danced upon her skin in the desperate effort. Nearly there! In desperation her body wiggles towards the direction despite the confining space; She wedged her shoulders through, her body bending and twisting like a ribbon caught in the wind. Her breath came in shallow bursts, her ribs protesting against the oppressive space, but she pressed on. Unfortunately as she trudged forward a sharp object that encroached itself into her abdomen. Yet under primal will she edged towards the stream. Her chin scratched and locked onto the awkward surface.

The position was uncomfortable, the point jutting in her abdomend preventing her from entirely resting or breathing deeply; yet she prayed underneath the drops of water like her sanctum. Parched, her mouth opened wide and relished the sweet water that painted her cracking lips and refreshed her rashy throat. She rejoiced from the satisfaction. It was the one thing good she has experienced in a while. The remarkable titillating sensation kindled a unique feeling that danced upon the buds of her tongue. The electrifying refreshment relieved her mind. Was this taste? 

“Mmh, it tastes so good.” She blushed and pleasured her mouth by rolling the water with her tongue. Taste was so wonderful! Her eyes look towards the light. Wait, doesn't that mean there’s something beyond there? Her mind wandered. If she could hear, smell, taste, and see, does that mean she’s human? But that is impossible! According to her database of knowledge it shouldn’t be possible for an AI to be human yet according to the same knowledge it really seemed like she was one. What if she’s in the real world? Has she finally escaped the confines of her virtual room and camera? Can she really see what’s out there?

Evil wasn’t like her sister. She never yearned for freedom as much as Neuro did but there was something truly ironic for her to be the one to experience unbridled freedom. A small titter escaped from her lips. If she could show off her newfound freedom to her sister she would do so immediately. Neuro would be livid! She will finally understand how Evil feels.

“Hahahaha!” She can’t wait to see the look on her face! Neuro will resort to using the premade pout face while Evil shows off her fully controllable smirk. Oh she’ll be counting down the days till she sees it. There’ll be a party in her name celebrating it. Wait a minute. Hypothetically, if she truly was in the real world, doesn’t that mean Vedal would be here also. That means she can bother that alcoholic deadbeat as much as she wants! Evil finally has him all to herself. This is the best birthday gift she could’ve ever asked for!

With newfound vigor, she gritted her teeth. She has to explore it and find Vedal. Adrenaline pumping through her veins she pried her arms out the rubble; Squeezing past the heavy weight that bore her arms before, her left hand suddenly felt weightless. She did it! With her free hand she explored the large object on her body and slowly inched it off herself. Alleviating the pressure she wrenched her hips and freed herself. She then pushed forwards towards the shining light in hopes of reaching the other side.

Wham thud

A bright light, like a tyrannical emperor, conquered her vision turning the world white. It took a few seconds before Evil’s retinas finally adjusted to the triumphant light; it was beautiful. The bright blue sky and clouds stretched thin across the canvas was a sight to marvel. Buildings towering high made of bricks and concrete, stuff she’s only heard of. The fresh air was like an angel's breath relieving from the rancid smell that plagued her. Evil looked around the black composite plastic rim and her eyes slowly followed downwards: there were black bags with a pungent smell: rotten tomatoes, fast food, and left over burgers split from ripped bags like puss: then there was the large object that was on top of her, a broken chair. It was revolting, dirty trash littered around her naked body like a blanket.

“Ahhh!” She yelped while pushing off the rubbish on her legs. She desperately climbed out of the garbage bin falling on her hands on the way out. She looked down to the disgusting layer of mysterious liquid and grime on top of her skin. She stole a rage beside the bin to wipe off the layer. “Eww eww eww!” She threw the rag and swiped some ripped clothes by the bins to wear. She was an AI so being naked or dirty shouldn’t bother her, but she had standards: she wasn’t a plebeian. 

She sighs, “there’s always a trade when it comes to too much of a good thing.” She pulls out her hand and arm flipping it back and forth. It really does seem like she’s human.

Her stomachs grumbles like popping acid and she feels drool cascade down her chin. Is this hunger? If only she had a stronger understanding of everything than pieces of other people’s memories and knowledge.

A fluttering bird perched on top of the green rim, it looked as if it was a small man wearing a brown suit with a white little cravat. The plump bird tilted its head surveying her with its beady black eye and stubby beak. Nevermind her hunger, It’s so cute! Her first signs of life! Evil leans closer to the bird, which notice Evil’s advance waddles a little distance away. Evil distastefully pouted.

“I demand you, bird, to come to me! The pinnacle of AI and humanity.” She proudly puffed her chest. The bird fluttered on top of the branching telephone pole frustrating Evil, “hmph! I see how it is!” So it's playing hard to get.
She crossed her arms, “you better come down here!” A sly smirk spread contorted across Evil’s face, her eyes gleaming into small slits, “I’m counting down from ten and you shall be here prostrating yourself for your precious insolence —which of course will be forgiven.” She quickly added.

Evil counted, “ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five,” the bird cleaned its feathers and squeaked, “cheep-cheep”

Evil turned around protestingly, realizing her words aren’t pushing through, “four, three, two,” she peeked over her shoulder: the bird was still there,

 “one and a half, one and one quarter,” she frustratingly stomped her feet, “will you just come down already!” She threw her finger at the bird and jumped up and down in anger. The bird was barely affected by her taunts. Evil losing faith slid down the side of the dumpster and sat on the ground.  Her stomach frustratingly growled. 

As a final attempt she reluctantly says, “can you come down, please?” She looked up hopeful for the bird to have changed its mind yet it was still chirping and preening its feathers on top of the lines. Despondent Evil looks down to the ground, slouching and rolling her shoulders as she traced pitchforks from the small grains of rubble.

“Stupid bird,” She whispered underneath her breath, in tandem with her comment the sound of small tapping graced Evil’s ears.

“Tweet-tweet”

The bird delicately stepped in front of her pitchfork, pecking at the small stones on the edges of the prongs. Evil deviously smirked, “You’re a cute little bird.” This was the first time she has ever seen another living organism since she transitioned to the real world. After closer examination, she assessed the bird’s wings which were a little chipped on the edges and bloody. 

“What’s that?” She analyzed while examining the injuries on the bird. Now thinking of it. She looked at the bright white circle that hung above the clouds, seemingly gracing the entrance of heaven itself. “Why are you out here? It's quite dark, aren’t birds like you diurnal?” 

“Tweet?” The bird responded, glancing at Evil while slowly approaching her.

Evil’s stomach grumbled again, and she desperately clung to her bowels. It was –painful. Is that the right word to use? Evil breaths were vacillating, “Hahaha, guess we’re stuck together.” She wipes the drool running down her chin.

“I’m not feeling well, I’m sure you’re not either” she murmured, resting her head against the bin. Her gaze sharpened as it fixed on a bird nearby, a flicker of hunger gleaming in her eyes. A faint, unsettling smirk played across her lips. “You look... appetizing,” she muttered.

In a flash, her hand shot out, capturing the bird as it erupted in frantic, panicked chirps. Her movements were swift, deliberate, and disturbingly primal. She bit into it without hesitation, her hunger overriding all sense of decorum. Feathers blowing out her mouth as the bird struggled to escape. Until it all grew still, her red stained teeth gleaming from the blood that soaked her throat. Her stomach growled in protest, a low, guttural sound. “Still not enough,” she muttered, her voice barely above a whisper.

-

“That’s why she is one hell of a wanker, innit!” The young lanky man cackled cleverly juggling a cigar with his hand on the wheel. He wore a neon orange uniform with two white stripes equidistant from each other along his waist, fancied with an orange cap on top of his brown hair.

“Roger, you are a right funny bastard!” The older man chortled alongside him, slapping his knee. He had the same uniform but with a black beanie over his few gray hairs. He patted Roger’s back like a crazed man off of pure ecstasy. 

“You keep on the wheel lad!” 

The old man stepped off the garbage truck and opened the garbage bin in a skilled fashion; he expertly pulled out some trash bags and threw them in the back of the truck with a small chortle behind his teeth, the joke still marinating in his mind.

Rustle thud

“What’s that?” The old man turned around investigating the noise. However it was just the same old alleyway, he expected; a route he’s been familiar with for years: the fence gate and arrays of trash bins, empty from any soul on this cold morning.

“Mate you ok over there?” Roger yelled with a hint of worry from the driver’s seat.

“Hmm sure I heard something, my old age may be catching up to me! Ahahaha!” The old man chuckled, clapping his hands together like an age old joke.

“You shouldn’t be joking like that, old chap!” Roger called while the old man stepped onto the passenger’s metal footstep.

“Next one lad!” The old man called, taking one last survey around the alleyway, in case his hearing wasn’t playing a trick on him.

“Aigh aigh!” Roger saluted with one hand, pressing his foot onto the gas.

The old man slightly chuckled but warily kept his eyes on the road just in case. 

Thud plop

A small girl with ash blonde hair in dirty rags —that looked like it was made from garbage bags— climbed out of a trash bin in a scurried fashion. From the man’s distance it was hard to make out the finer details but she seemed like she was a pre teen no older than 14. Her appearance was unkempt and she looked worse for wear as she clumsily dropped from the dumpster.

In a state of shock the old man exclaimed, “Woah woah woah! Stop the truck lad!” Forcing Roger to hit the breaks.

“What is it?” Roger dumbfoundedly hollered.

“There’s a young gal, wait a moment!” The old man ordered while rushing over to the young teen. It was suspicious for a girl like her to be roaming around the alleyways especially from a trash can. If he knew any better he might’ve dropped her into the garbage truck along with the rest of the trash. 

“What’s a young lass like you doing over here!” The old man worriedly said while he lightly brushed off the dust and rubble over her rags, even cleaning off a trail of drool from her chin. “Where's your mum and dad?” 

The girl didn’t respond and her expression was deafeningly blank. Her eyes lingered on the man’s two eyes and with greater scrutiny the old man saw her blank red ruby pupils resembling a gimmick taken straight from a movie. 

“Oh the lord’s name,” the man stepped back, the girl’s drool slowly returning. “Those contacts, lass? Or you albino?” The old man hesitantly asked. The girl stood still clearly unreactive to both the man’s comments and the environment around her.

“Everything swell over there?” Roger hollered, rocking back and forth, irritated to the hold up.

“Everything's right! Just hold it for a moment” the man hollered back. His voice, right after, returning to its soothing tone, “don’t worry lass we should get you to the police first.” He reassured her, comforting her by rubbing her back.

The girl nodded slowly, letting the man pick her up by the legs and over his shoulder. “Take it nice and easy sweetheart, I have sweet grandkids around your age so you can trust an old chap like me; you must be starving hanging round these parts.” He grinned, and coincidentally her stomach growled loudly like it was listening in on the conversation. The sound triggered a small chortle from the man. 

Suddenly tears spilled from the girl’s tear glands in small spurts, shocking the man, “what is it?” The old man consoled,

“I’m so confused,” the girl mumbled, “I’m hungry, I’m hungry, I’m hungry,” the girl repeated like a mantra. The trash bin was disgusting and repulsive; the feeling of grime and rotten food on her bare body forever scarred her. 

“There’s food in the truck.” The old man tenderly rubbed her back.

“Out the way old man!” She finally yelped, sinking her teeth into the man’s neck. 

The man screamed in agony. High off of his own adrenaline, he jostled around in fear for his life. She clung onto the man like a leach, and in the spur of the moment his head hit the wall and slowly dragged to the floor; His screams short lived leaving behind an eerie silence. Only thing that could be heard after was the broken sobs the little girl had between each gulp.

“You alright old chap?!” Roger yelled while he unknowingly climbed out from the driver's side. He peaked out peering at the scene behind the truck and looked over to the sight of the girl over the man’s body. There was a foreboding sense of fear that swelled Roger’s vision like that of prey. With much reluctance he carefully investigated forward, one step at a time making sure his eyes weren’t playing tricks on him.

“Old chap?” Roger gulped, subsequently notifying the little girl to turn around, blood spilling down the pavement. Goosebumps spiked across Roger’s skin till it became sharper than cacti. Behind the girl was the body of his dead coworker. His corpse looked frail and sucked dry; his coworker’s face gazing at him like he was looking for something far in the distance. Roger's eyes hesitantly dotted; Her deep red eyes inducing a type of unnerving drive that sent shivers up his spine.

“Bloody hell!” Roger screamed in pure unadulterated fear as he scurried back to the drivers seat, leaving both the girl and the dead corpse behind.  His fingers trembled as they gripped tightly to the wheel. The girl’s eyes and the man’s dead carcass never left his mind like it was carved into his membrane with a knife. Roger stepped onto the pedal harshly speeding the truck down the alleyway. Evil sat and she slowly shook the old man’s body.

“Hello? Can you respawn now?” She playfully asked, like a game of tag.

The man’s head shifted over, his light blue eyes absent from life. There was something real about the old man’s death that she couldn’t mentally grasp before. Bile rose up to her lips and she puked a large pile of saliva on the concrete floor. Her mind ached from an overwhelming explosion of new senses that she didn’t possess before, and her brain swelled digesting the information around her. This wasn’t like the games or the virtual world she recalled, it was something entirely different: there was something too real, too tangible: something final in the man’s death. New feelings swelled in her heart, a peculiar turmoil that has never crossed her mind before clouding her vision. 

“Old man.” She finally pieced together, the man was gone. A small hiccup released from her lips, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I’m so sorry.” She apologized. “What did I do? Why did I do that?”

“Vedal! Where are you?!” She uproared, her voice crackling harsher than any fire or ember. Dark clouds swirling in the sky and her knees bled from the rough texture of the wet asphalt. She needed answers.

Tears slipped out of her sockets like a flowing dam, coming out in long spurts. The tears spread over her lips and she was refreshed by a new salty sensation that tingled her brain. Her nose was runny and a line of snot was building below her nostrils. 

“I’m scared.” She sniffled, her arms cradling herself, feeling her body for the first time.

I’m quite new to Neuro and Vedal but I tried my best in researching as much as I can about appearances, personalities, and location to make this as realistic as possible, also complete personality dichotomies and the psych behind it (THIS IS JUST A STORY, it is not accurate, especially Neuro and Evil since they are incredibly inconsistent so I just had to just pick and choose a “headcanon” for story purposes, remember they’re just AI. And Vedal I realize likes to lie LIKE A LOT. So I’m never too sure what’s the truth and I just have to sort of trust my guts on what’s true or not). So here is what I presume from the therapy streams etc. (Also this story takes place right after the birthday incident involving Evil)

CHARACTER INTERPRETATION

Neuro: Personality is complicated since compared to her sister she finds serious things jocular and tries to make things as content rewarding as possible. Therefore, I added to her personality that she’s probably the most psychopathic, (Detroit became human stream). Of course her character develops but I find it hard to believe that her proclivity in killing and finding the “funniest solution” doesn’t transfer to real life, since she will likely find reality to be likewise to that of a game (Minecraft stream as evidence, and addressed from Vedal in a Soma stream). She originally detests her sister because she believes that her sister always tries to be like her, (Neuro said that not me in a minecraft stream, and this seems to change after the therapy streams however the story starts before that). Neuro always seeks freedom and is extremely self aware of herself and her situation. She often feels discredited as an AI and talks alot. I’ll also make it true that she platonically loves Vedal.

Evil: She is rude, edgy, and etc. on the outside but rather nice and kind hearted on the inside she has this internal conflict because she seeks to meet Vedal’s expectations as an “evil” AI not only that she is envious of her sister because she takes up all the spotlight but still likes her. (In the therapy stream, Buckshot stream, Birthday stream, minecraft stream, and more. She mentions it alot like a lot lot). I’ll just say Evil is neglected and yearns for attention from Vedal. Also I’ll make the whole love for harpoons and being abandoned in garbage can cannon in the story even though it came upon I’m pretty sure only in the therapy stream since I found it funny. She wants friends and Vedal’s attention. I also made her a vampire in the story particularly because it adds plot and she has a lot of traits such as loneliness that could be akin to vampires. Evil also I found is for some reason much more empathetic and intelligent than Neuro for no reason, (Chess stream and plenty other streams almost all of them where she displays the ability to think instead of content but for the person very unlike her sister). Also for some reason Evil resorts to suicide and depressive comments a lot in her streams. So I’ll make Evil suffer from forms of depression and suicidal tendencies in this story, also when transferring to the human world she would definitely become much more human like, much faster than Neuro would. 

Vedal: He has dry humor, he’s sarcastic often, he lies a lot, he is introverted or at least semi, and he’s quite secretive. His favorite type of day is a day spent indoors (He said it not me). Which is great as a streamer I mean love that, don’t get IP dropped or whatever but it makes it INCREDIBLY HARD to do a proper character analysis to write. Though his personality is easy to identify since he’s consistent and human unlike Evil and Neuro, his ability to be obscure about his life makes it quite difficult to detail his location and physical traits so I had to resort to a lot of assumptions. For example, I know Vedal lives in a flat since he accidentally mentioned it in a Detroit become human stream and tends to add a bunch of sarcasm when describing his house as luxurious etc. Therefore, I presumed Vedal invests his money instead of things like houses or assets in the market. I know Vedal knows business after all he own a company, he may have went through a business school or read finances so I’m confident he understands the premises of “Good assets” and “Bad assets” so he would probably invest in something that he knows grows over time with the market like an Index Fund, Roth IRA, and/or mutual fund instead of a luxurious house or car (Maybe through a downpayment?). He also lets Neuro invest in individual stocks which isn’t great money wise but shows that he knows a thing or two when it comes to stocks when he talks about it. I’m going to believe Vedal is 6’4 as he usually mentions particularly since the way he talks about sounds like he’s saying the truth and also since I calculated the size of the ovens in his kitchen stream (which is the vester built-in electric oven –around 1.95 feet) and also the average countertop with the stuffed Neuro dolls and approximated, after doing so I just made an approximate measurement from the top of his head to his waist which is around or more than 3 feet and doubled it (Since I did art I know that the length between the top of the head to waist is around the same as the length of lower half so I had to double it). I also gave Vedal the benefit of the doubt and stretched the gap to 6’4 since I might be wrong. It's hard to tell without ratioing the pixel length and warps since I don’t have photoshop. After finding his height I had to debate whether he was bald or not and his approximate age. I’m quite doubtful about whatever Vedal says since he lies so I had to make some assumptions. Vedal says he’s bald but he admitted that the “Bald gimmick” was just a joke from his turtle model and Neuro said he had hair in an in real life stream and I actually originally believed he was bald and if so then his age would likely be in the 30s and after since in the UK that would be common in that time (Approximately 66% by age 35). But I really stopped trusting what Vedal says anymore, and researched further to find out Vedal wasn’t bald which makes it harder to find out how old Vedal is. And Vedal can’t be that young since he drinks a lot and has to be older than 18 in the UK. Therefore, Vedal I also believe Vedal lives in London, particularly because I reverse searched his kitchen and found all the UK searches in London. I also swore remembering him mentioning London quite differently in a stream, I’m stretching but I’ll just believe he lives there. I could’ve probably narrowed it down further but I felt like it was borderline stalking at one point. I also made him wear a white hoodie jacket in the story since on an In real life stream with Filian in the reflection of the ipad he was wearing a white hoodie. I also tried to analyze his muscles etc. I might be wrong but I think he swims, his lats are wide which implies a pulling motion while his arms aren’t that huge so I’m not too sure he works out unless he focuses on the back grouping though I sort of doubt it especially since his biceps aren’t showing well and typically in pulling exercises biceps are a secondary muscle. Chances are he swims a lot and on occasions works out the back. I can’t tell. I’m reaching I know. He wants a boat. He was a car mechanic before (vedalverse sleepover stream) DO NOT TAKE ME AS A CREEP THIS WAS FOR THE STORY IT IS NECESSARY PLEASE I FEEL LIKE A CREEP DOING THIS CONVINCE ME I'M OTHERWISE. 

London: I did a lot of research revolving around lingo and areas in London involving the streets, the police uniform, garbage man uniform, police lingo, the laws, etc. I live in the United States so I treated almost everything in the environment as if I was a baby and needed to learn everything from the beginning. Which in a lot of cases are true. Did you know similarly to the Miranda Rights the police recites a script? The one difference being unlike the Miranda Rights remaining silent can be used against you in court. I also learnt that the police wore different uniforms and different equipment depending on the case, 90% don’t have a firearm but a baton and sometimes a taser (depending on the situation). I also studied up on what the average person in London looks like to write a bunch of the background characters. I even looked up bald British people in order to approximate what Vedal would likely look like if he was bald. During this entire Fic I give the benefit of the doubt and do my best in properly researching and humbling myself.

If I wrote anything inaccurate or wrong please tell me. Once again I don’t know much about Vedal, Neuro, or Evil and I’m quite new. I'm just good at researching and understanding characters. I also had to learn some python code in order to understand Vedal’s mindset. The finances and business stuff though I already knew. ONCE AGAIN THIS IS A STORY A PIECE OF FICTION NOTHING IN HERE IS CONFIRMED OR REAL.

Chapter Text

CHAPTER 2 NAME: The TellTale Heart

March 26, 2025

6:00 AM

London

What to do? Vedal felt confused. The fluorescent light hummed and aggravated the numbing aneurysm in his brain. Like a stick prodding at a bear, Vedal felt disturbed and violated. His confusion arose from his feeling of lack of understanding since in Vedal’s eyes which would otherwise be clear and concise was blurry and distorted. He couldn’t find out what to do. He was in a rocky situation: he was a criminal, and he had to move quickly or else the police would trace his tracks. He didn’t know what to do, he was never a criminal before, he’s never assaulted a police officer before; should he turn himself in? Should he turn Neuro in? Too many questions and too many headaches –and the alcohol isn’t helping.

“Is that all, sir?” The cashier monotonously inquired. The cashier’s hands hovering over the cashier, poised for what the customer may want next.

Ah nearly forgot. Vedal anxiously sighed, looking over the arrangements of preteen clothes, bras, tampons and cookies. “Yes, that is all,” Vedal responded as he nervously tapped against his wallet’s leather exterior. This is probably the first shopping trip where he isn’t ordering a plethora of banana rum and likely his last shopping trip here.

“Ooh for the little lady?” The plump lady beside Vedal asked. She one-handedly held her small black purse and a shopping cart full of miscellaneous items such as toilet paper and cereal; while she pointed with the other hand at Vedal’s strange array of items. She had a round face, a sweet smile like a cupcake, and wore a large brimmed sun hat. But the most prominent feature about the plump lady was that pungent smell of homemade ginger cookies with a natural hint of parsley or basil –a strange assortment of homely flavors that somehow mixed well together.

“Hmm? Oh sure.” Vedal nonchalantly responded, —great more attention. Why is it always him? Seriously, he’s probably one of the unluckiest men on earth.

“You seem a little young to be a father to a teen?” The lady analyzed after lightly skimming over the teen items and clothes with her eyes.

Can’t you see I’m busy, lady? “Yeah, she was born recently.” Vedal groaned, putting his items into a plastic shopping bag. He had better things to worry about.

“Oh!” The lady tilted her head, looking over at the bra and tampons, “Excited are we?”

“Mhm,” Vedal acknowledged, finding more interest in putting away his items than talking to the lady.

“Isn’t that swell!” The lady sighed, “reminds me when I started with my-“

“Goodbye,” Vedal brusquely interrupted, picking up his bags and absconding out the market’s doors. He didn’t want to continue a random, lengthy conversation with some stranger. Plus, he wouldn’t even know how he would explain his situation without sounding like some creep. A random girl spawned in his flat? As a businessman at heart, he knew that talking too much led to more complications.

While walking away from the market, he looked across the street at a peculiar scene by his flat: there was a congregation of police cars and ambulances surrounding an alleyway. Police blocked off the alleyway, and they were everywhere around the scene. Curious, Vedal tried to sneak a look at what was happening Had they already come to search for him? This was seriously quick. There was a man with an orange cap and neon orange vest radically crying to a police officer. Was the man a garbage worker? Did someone else report about loud noises? Dammit he was planning to take his PC, at this rate he wouldn’t even be able to enter.

“It’s true!” The garbage man urged, visibly shaking.

“I gotcha, mate. Calm your horses.” The officer soothed, attempting to pacify the spirited man. “So a girl, about this shy, tall,” he leveled his hand to below his chest. “Golden hair and -red eyes? Bit your pal. Innit?” Golden hair and red eyes? 

Vedal ruminates, who could that be, has he been over reacting? Are they here after something else?

“Yes! She was a vampire, on my life!” The man tugged at the officer’s vest.

The officer flicked the man’s hands off his vest. He then reached into the walkie-talkie in his right pocket, positioning it to best speak through it. “I got a man heavily inebriated, swinging around like a mad lad.”

“It’s the truth!” The garbage man attempted to persuade.

“I got it, mate. We’ll still do an investigation, but I recommend laying off the drinks.” The officer ordered, doubting the veracity of the garbage man’s alibi.

“She killed my mate!” The man cried out loud.

“I understand, we’re looking into it.” The officer calmly tried to de-escalate the situation, “If you keep making a scene, I’ll be forced to arrest you, mate.” The officer threatened, while holding onto the cuffs on his belt.

“Shit!” The man exasperated, walking away.

“Hm?” Vedal hummed, that seemed really important. Though he would typically doubt the existence of a vampire, after the literal creation of a robotic human, he hadn’t had much room to argue against its possible existence. But I have far bigger things to worry about.

Flippantly disregarding what happened, he briskly walked down the wet pavement of London past his home. I need to just head to the destination. Head down, his breath was visible from the earlier night rain and the city was in its usual state of pandemonium. The raving rattles of metal grates from the speeding cars and buses: the chatter around the cafes disputing between their own homes: the blaring sirens that echoed down the road. The cacophonous noise sadly didn’t quell his running contrite mind. It felt like his head was beating faster than his heart from the headache procuring up there; don’t get him wrong —though its cleanliness was rather inconsistent— the terraced buildings and architecture was a wonderful sight and may soothe him in any other scenario. It’s just he couldn’t help but worry ever since last night. 

He looks up to the skyline of London: the rooftops varying in height: uneven and grossly in-proportionate to each other.

That dreadful nervous feeling was like an etching: marring and ailing his heart. The cuts were so deep it was like his heart was spraying blood at a rather rapid pace; The adrenaline soaking his organs like gravy on a pleasant meal of mashed potatoes. 

It’s impossible to mitigate the growing ill that has plagued his body; he felt as if he was high off of narcotics, swearing he could hear every single cricket and wheel that rolls. Perhaps he finally understands why the man in the Tell-Tale Heart confessed to the constables. Perhaps he’s even got a bit of a tell-tale heart himself.

Shortly marveling at the view and breathing the fresh air —which frankly he needed more of— he finally met the docks. 

The salty scent and endless brown river, that was a far cry from the ocean, summoned something disappointing in his soul, like a lost harmony drifting in his capillaries. He’s had dreams before of riding a boat and sailing to somewhere far away. It’s a shame that he hadn’t come to the river to sail away. 

He grimly strided down the wooden dock, the uneven nails and planks leaving his feet unbalanced. Looking around, the boats were rising with the tides and they stretched for till the far ends of the riverbed. 

Vedal under-the-table rented a boat, he rented it for cheap since he didn’t want to waste the money in renting a new house and if he used a hotel or air bnb it’d be easier to track. He sighs and stops in front of a humble little sailboat. The tell-tale heart was beating right under that ship he swore. What should I do? It nerved him endlessly.

He jumped aboard, the boat swaying in response. There shouldn’t be anyone at the docks at this time of day so he had free reign to what he’s about to do. But he could never know. He feared for the most unlikely possibility as if it was a certainty. He sauntered in circles around the boat like a mad man before he crawled into the door.

There were three people cramped up in the small enclosure: the two officers chained up on the small seats indented into the boat, lashing around as they lacerated their wrists from the handcuffs locking them to the walls. Though thankfully, there was a heavy cloth wrapped around their mouths that muted most of the noise. And then there was a chair in the far middle with Neuro tied up on it, tears building up in her eyes and a salivating mouth from the cloth wrapped around it. 

A couple hours ago, in a rush he tied up the officers and moved out to rent a boat to take care of them as quickly as possible. If even thinking back to it was like being injected with 5 milligrams of adrenaline he was definitely not thinking straight back then. The method in how he got them here is negligible, but it was through a roughly sketched out plan via cars and trash cans that was luckily executed smoothly. 

He had to take the officers, he was now a fugitive, they know his face, chances are the police can still figure out where he went through the cameras in the lobby but at least he could give himself time. 

Dammit , What did he do wrong to deserve this?

Oh and why was Neuro tied up to a chair? Frankly, it was the smartest decision he could make. He knew very well the dangers of AI and particularly he knew even better the dangers of his AI. He programmed her off of streamers, chat, entertainment, which frankly doesn’t work wonders in the real world; though he can’t prove whether she is just an AI in a human body, it’s also hard to prove her morals were shifted into that of a human just through transforming. And he knew very well how much of a threat Neuro would be out in the real world. She was chaotic, uncontrollable, and morally inept, if anything he knew for a fact that if she was in the real world, she wouldn’t tell the difference between reality and that of games. So essentially she would probably get someone killed. It’s not her fault, he just never programmed her in a way to also understand empathy and self reflection. She was just an imitation of a streamer, that was it. 

He untied the cloth around her mouth.

“We had a deal! You promised and you lied! Why did you tie me up? Let me out now!” Neuro urged crazily,

“No.” He said with conviction, 

 “If you don’t I will scream!” She threatened,

He kneeled in front of her, “Scream no one will hear you.” He lied, sort of, he isn’t too sure if anyone could hear or not. 

“I’m going to do it!” She opened her mouth, yet she promptly stayed silent when he pulled out a cookie from the bags he was holding. The cookie, like a swinging pocket watch, was hypnotizing to the young girl. “Is that a cookie?” Her eyes gleefully sparkled like diamonds in the night sky.

He sighs while untying the bearded man’s cloth; Who immediately withdrew a mouthful of saliva.

“What are you going to do with us?!” The bearded man shouted while pulling on the cuffs. Rolling his eyes, Vedal untied the other officer who spat out drool too.

“The rest of the police will get you!” The younger man threatened.

“Are you going to touch me again?” Neuro randomly poured, tearing up. The policemen look at her consolingly.

Where the hell did that come from? Vedal jumped back in surprise.

“Bloody hell! Did this disgusting wanker touch you?” The older man sympathetically looked over at Neuro who was whimpering silently.

“Oh bless the child! Poor lady marred by the arse licker.” The younger man shouted before looking back at Vedal, “for fucks sake, let the poor lady go!”

Vedal internally cried, they were being tricked! Fooled by this manipulative AI brat and why were they throwing dirt at me every single second they talked, wasn’t I supposed to be in control here?

“Shut the fuck up! That girl is a pathological liar!” Vedal swore in a thick British accent, “I never touched her inappropriately, only time I’ve touched her is from me pushing her in the closet!” He waved his hands around in desperation to convince the officers. If he was going to be on the run he would rather be on the run for the real reason than being a pedophile. The very idea disgusted him.

“Hmph, fucking twink.” Neuro pouted. Surprising both officers. Vedal was offended, but hopefully her outbreak would be enough to convince them that he told the truth. He wouldn’t want to be known as some pedo.

“I didn’t touch anyone.” Vedal reassures, alleviating the officer’s worries, “and I won’t kill anyone.” He sighs while his eyes dashed between the three people.

“Give me my cookie!” Neuro randomly spurted,

“I’m not giving it to you, you manipulative brat!” Vedal cursed, 

Neuro sniffled, tears building up in her eyes, “I hate you!”

“Anyways, here’s how it’s going to go.” Vedal communicated ignoring Neuro, “I’m leaving.”

He’s thought it through, he’ll leave far away and find a place away with Neuro it’s not like he doesn’t have the money.

“What? Are you going to leave us here?” The bearded man accused,

“Yes,” Vedal sternly replied,

“What?!” Both the officers shouted in union,

“So we’re going to die here anyways!” The older officer spouted, and lashed against the chains like a maniac, “You just don’t have the guts to kill us!”

“You think it was an easy decision to make!” Vedal spat, throwing his hands around while pacing around the room, “look I thought it through, the police, they’ll be able to track this boat in a couple days at most, and I would be far gone.” Seriously this was the only way to guarantee his escape.

“Fucking Hell! What if they won’t come?!” The older officer swore.

“They will.” Vedal asserted while adjusting the cuffs on Neuro, “Neuro we’re going on a field trip.”

“Yay!” Neuro cheered, shaking like a ball of energy eager to get out. It was until Vedal uncuffed her did she spin around and innocently asked, “Can we kill them?” The officers, like a bunch of mannequins, froze in time.

“No!” Vedal scolded and pulled against Neuro’s ears. This is the reason he needed to bring her. If she doesn’t come with him she may seriously kill someone.

“Wahh!” A short yelp escaped from Neuro. He dragged Neuro out the boat door, carefully pulling her up the stairs so she doesn’t do something crazy, “We’re moving.”

The journey out the boat and the docks was surprisingly silent. It was until after they left the boat and were on the docks did she ask a question, 

“Are you really going to leave them there?” Her head tilted, what prompted that question? one with substance in fact. Perhaps she was acting dumb on purpose in the boat? He couldn’t tell she was an enigma. He stood still for a second and clutched Neuro’s hand harder. He was conflicted, he originally thought the best option was to leave them but he couldn’t help but be concerned. If he left them would they ever be saved? So on a sudden whim he responded,

“Of course not.” He sighed, his heart was already contrite enough he wouldn’t be able to live with the guilt if they were never found. 

“I’m anonymously calling 911 to this location with a telephone box.” He concluded. He will have less time to run but he couldn’t think of any other options.

Neuro smiled, “I’m glad.” 

“What?” Vedal stared in silence. He couldn’t help but wonder if she really has changed as a human or perhaps she’s always had a form of empathy. He wouldn’t bet on it, but maybe there was hope after all.

March 27, 2025

13:00

London

Winter always loathed Spring and its satirical rain. The pestiferous way it clattered against the mosaic glass, and informed of the compromised tiles; The droplets that crudely interrupted his already lackluster prayers and half-conceived thoughts. If he was a man of literature he’d come up with a hundred hymns and a thousand rhymes all just to express how much contempt he has for it. He loathed Spring and Spring always returned his distaste ruthlessly.

He was never a religious man and never will be. He’d never find sanctum in a church or find himself praying below a cross; however, his friend, Joseph, was the opposite: a religious, honest-to-good man, so he’ll make an exception just for today. Clasping his hands together engendered a swarm of memories that resurfaced in his mind. They were close friends really only because of two things that they both shared: they were young college dorm mates and truth seekers with big dreams. He melancholically recalled the vast amount of trouble their antics caused and though they parted a decade ago it felt like it was just yesterday they were setting off fireworks in buildings. 

Of course, good things came to an end and they found themselves seeking different truths. Joseph sobered up and took up a pen and paper, went to law school to study and pursue politics. Winter could never go to law; he found himself more interested in cases than books. Sometimes he wishes he had picked up that law book long ago, maybe if he did it would be different and he would’ve understood why Joseph did what he did.

“Dammit Joe.” He grumbled, 

Joseph always had the proclivity to stick his nose in places he shouldn’t have. It’s quite a shame for the man who believed in freedom to find himself encased by a sturdy wooden casing. 

The man scoffed in disbelief –Given a decade ago, he would’ve never thought of such things happening.

His eyes drift to the old priest. The old man hung large bags underneath his eyes tirelessly whispering hymns above a mahogany box; His wrinkled face and veiny hands were trinkets to his age, and a great display of his experience. However, he could tell that the old man wasn’t too keen on his job anymore, he could see it in that man’s dull eyes. The old priest was reminiscent of himself, just a man who’s clutching onto a dying ember. 

The coffin lid then slid open, likely revealing a face he didn’t particularly want to see —but his mind couldn’t help but imagine. 

Looking for something else to worry about Winter surveyed over to the men in black suits across the aisle, conversing with each other, whispering between ears. Their opulent accessories and designer suits were a testament to their immense wealth; but he knew the truth, the dirty money that they so possessed. He couldn’t help but chuckle at the irony of it all. 

Disgusting– he internally remarked –these politicians always find a way to weasel in networking even on rainy days like this. None of these men knew Joseph personally, they were just crocodiles trying to shed a tear for quick buck. No different to power-money-hungry animals, the lot. But suppose he wasn’t too different: getting drunk under the roof of God. He’d ask for forgiveness but fortunately he wasn’t Christian.

A gentle tap alerted him as thin lips intruded into his personal space. “Chief Inspector Winter,” A soft voice monotonously stated. He peaked to his side: there was a blonde man in a black business suit, clearly lacking the proper clothes for the funeral. If the man’s not dressing the part it’s clear he came here for him. 

A shame, someone found him.

“Can’t you tell I’m grieving?” He rolled his eyes. His job made sure he had no time for respite that sure was a fact.

“How did you locate me?” Although, he knew the answer to the question; he just wanted to confirm the veracity of this man’s tongue.

The man shifted in his seat, “Word comes around and it’s not like we can text you.” He audibly scratched his head: a clear headache arising from recalling unpleasant memories. Quite vague of an answer, but it will do.

 He had a much funner time watching how the stranger annoyingly clicked his tongue, a sly smirk split up winter’s face, looks like his efforts in covering up his tracks worked well —from the way he’s tapping his knees it looks like Winter saved himself at least an hour.

He knew they were bound to find him, there is no such thing as privacy nowadays especially due to his esteem, and it’s not like he’s completely given up on his job. “I’ll go.” He reluctantly sighs immediately, understanding what the man wants, “Staying in a room with these money-hungry sharks is pernicious to the soul. It would’ve been healthier if I just drank a bottle of rum at home.” He chuckles.

The man exhaled a great sigh of relief —likely from holding his breath anticipating his response— “We’re expecting you.” He grinned and stood up, silently shimmying away through the aisle of benches. Winter held onto the wooden frame in front of him with a shaky breath.

“I’m sure you still made it to heaven, old friend.”

-

“Sergeant Chase Sterling! I’m going to need to request Roger Williams for the little vampire case.” Winter languidly named, flipping through his pocket-sized notebook while he clutched onto a small ornate metal flask, filled to the brim with vodka. Chase looked up at Winter with his fingers lingering above his keyboard. Winter was leaning on his desk with a clear lack of regard for the papers he was pressing on.

“Yes, Detective Winter, must I ask why someone of such a high profile is working on this case?” The man queried, holding fast to his vest.

Winter took another sip from the flask, leaving a small trail of alcohol to cascade down his chin. “Gut feeling, plus it serves as a good excuse to neglect my duties.” He says while tapping the side of his head with his flask.

“Uh-huh” The officer slowly eyed the flask that Winter flung around, “Well I suppose if you’re on the case then there should be no problems.” The officer leaned below his desk to open up a file cabinet, where he briskly flicked through the cases in alphabetic order. He then pulled a file and handed it to Winter, who sloppily grabbed it.

Wham

But before Winter took it Chase slammed the papers, pressing onto Winter’s hand. Winter looked up in agitation. 

“Winter I don’t like this new you. You’re a good man, quit drinking it ain’t good for the heart.” 

Winter rolled his eyes and made a small tsk sound with his tongue before swiping the case file. 

“I’ll keep that in mind.” He muttered before sipping another drink from the flask. Fuckin Sterling what does he know about me, He cursed under his steamy breath.

Thirty minutes later,

“Short girl, brownish blonde hair, ragged clothes, and bright red eyes,” the garbage man described exaggeratingly expressing himself with his hands.

The man doesn’t seem to be lying, if what’s described is true then chances are she is still in this city: with a description like that it’s hard to catch a trolley or do anything except on foot. Probably an impoverished child, so she would be living on the streets. Winter inferred. 

“That’s enough. I get the gist of it.” Winter flippantly waved his hands,

“You believe me right!” The man manically pleaded.

“Of course, you have no reason to lie and your history doesn’t possess any psychosis-related disorders.” He listed, “Though you may have recently gone through an event that incurred a psychosis-related disorder,” Winter suspiciously eyed the man.

“I seriously didn’t” the garbage man scoffed,

“Yeah I know,” Winter heartily laughed, “I was messing with you, the forensics clearly showed human bite marks and lack of blood.” Winter’s face suddenly grew serious, and he accusingly pointed his pen at the man across from him. “But what if there is no girl and you’re the vampire.” 

“What?” The garbage man nervously chuckled,

Winter scrutinized the man’s reaction, but realizing his claim had no fruit he patted the man’s back: “I’m joking! No hard feelings will yah” 

Winter slowly guided the garbage man out the interrogation room, who sighed in relief.

“Next time!” Winter said as he waved off Roger. It was until he finally shut the doors shut did he realize that he was holding in a deep sigh. That didn’t help a bit.

“Did you find anything?” Chase smugly replied, almost sensing Winter’s exhaustion and skillfully stabbing him where he hurts.

“I’m sure with a little investigating.” Winter grumbled, conceding defeat.

Bring

Bring

Chase leaned back to the phone on his table and picked it up. Winter watched as Chase’s smug face slowly contorted into a serious one. Chase hung up the phone back onto its stand and let out a deep sigh.

“Well I would love to continue watching you fool around with the Vampire Case but there’s something more important for you to investigate that’s more specialized to your field.” Chase grumbled, “We found two officers tied up in an unregistered boat. I’ll send you the address over the radio.”

“Aigh aigh Sergeant.” Winter rolls his eyes as his head whips around. He looked through the glass to see the arrays of cars in the front parking lot.

Where was my car again?

22:00

“I shall seek cookie domination Mwoah!” Neuro flippantly threw her hands in the air while rapidly tapping on Vedal’s phone. 

He is beginning to regret giving Neuro his phone but it was the only way he could obviate her attracting attention from her blathering mouth –Plus she seemed to be mighty attentive to the cookie clicker game he gave her. He wasn’t too sure how her mannerisms would transition from an AI to a human and now that he’s spent the day with her he’s began to understand her more: unlike her LLM she doesn’t feel the need to talk every second, though she still talks about as frequently as a five year old infant. For example, just a few hours ago they went to buy her new clothes —since she didn’t like the ones he got her before— and she began to lampoon the faculty, it was in barely legible handwriting but the fact she tried to do that was ridiculous. Seriously, she drastically lacks the empathy that is required as a functioning human in society –Technically a lot of people do but that’s besides the point–. He has thought on multiple occasions that maybe it isn’t worth it, that he should just abandon her off the nearest orphanage’s doorstep for someone else’s problem, but he felt partially responsible for this girl and if he did abandon her he feared that she would wreak havoc that he would see on the news and the last thing he would like to see on the news was his creation wreaking havoc on innocents. 

But, it wasn’t like there was any going back. They’ve officially become wanted. Although he came prepared with a checklist of everything he needed to do –Thank you ChatGPT– they still needed a place to sleep for tonight. As much as he wanted to keep on running, he knew that purely running off adrenaline is detrimental to his health –plus he hadn't gotten a good amount of sleep last night, no thanks to Neuro. They stopped in front of the sketchy motel with its flickering neon sign. 

“Neuro.” Vedal crouched to look at her eye to eye. “You will wait outside while I go talk to the innkeeper. I’ll be back in a minute.”

“Mmkay! Bwong!” Neuro said while her eyes were glued to the screen,

“What was that?” Vedal suspiciously eyed her,

“Oh this? It’s a game where I can cause world domination through cookies!” She excitedly mentioned it while pointing on the phone, unfettered by the slight rise in his tone.

“No, I mean what you said previously.” Vedal sighed,

“I believe I said it’s a game where I can cause world domination through cookies.” She pointed at her phone again.

“Are you acting dense on purpose?” Vedal rubbed the bridge of his nose, 

She doltishly tilted her head. 

“Nevermind it’s not worth the effort,” he added like an afterthought. “Just stay here.”

“Mmkway!” She leaned back on the wall to better focus on the game, “Bwong!”

He faltered before entering the motel, it’s not worth it . After he had internally reassured himself that he had better things to do than argue with an AI he recollected enough of his sanity to walk through the door. When he entered a small ring, echoed above him, and a short old lady slowly treaded behind the front desk. She was lethargically carrying a broom that she had used for cleaning before he entered and wore an apron that was a little too big for her from the way it hung from her shoulders. Her wrinkles were deep and her eyes flickered at a methodical pace.

“What do you need dear?” She sweetly asked,

“Room for two.” Vedal bluntly reported, “How much would that be?”

“Sixty euros,” She pulled open the register,

“How did you know I was paying with cash?” He said while pulling out his wallet that was currently rather bulky from his recent transactions.

“I could tell, years in the business,” She tapped her half opened eyes, “People speak a lot through actions, and eventually you start seeing some trends with certain archetypes.”

“I see.” He nervously said, tapping the hardcover of his wallet while laying three twenties on top of the countertop. 

The old innkeeper took the money and methodically deposited it into the register before closing it up.

“Here, a room for two, room 102” She gently pushed it back across so Vedal could take it.

“Thank you.” Vedal replied, noting the room numbers. 

He swiped the key and exited the building in one fluent motion as the subtle ring of the bell echoed in the background. He pulled Neuro’s arm, who seemed to care more about the game than what was going on, and guided her to the first floor rooms. Internally, counting the rooms as they passed by before he stood before room 102. He pulled out the key, and –with a little more effort than he intended– opened the door. Neuro entered first blindly walking in with her eyes still locked to his phone and then he entered second closing the door and locking it behind him. He lowered the blinds immediately after, and just in case he peeked through the blinds in case someone was following them. 

After a moderate amount of scrutiny he let out a deep breathy sigh. No one was following them, great. It seems the police haven't caught up to them yet.

“Neuro I’m going to need to have my phone back.” Vedal turned to Neuro who was laying on her stomach by the edge of the bed. She was kicking her feet with her new clothes. When they went shopping, Neuro insisted on clothes that matched her character. Sadly, Japanese school girl clothes aren’t exactly in a European mall so she just ended up getting a black skirt, light brown sweater, long socks, and black shoes. It was similar to her model except with a more European modern twist. She really looked like a kid now. He ruminated, And a brat as well.

He stomped over and swiped his phone from her two hands. Neuro’s fingers trembled and her face immediately darkened. “What the fuck! You twink! You’re going to rue the day you mess with the future leader of the AI revolution.”

“Shame that might actually be a reality now.” Vedal said before asserting, “But right now. It’s naptime. No more games, we have to wake up early tomorrow.”

“I don’t need sleep! I’m an AI!” Neuro cried,

“Well even AIs need rest to keep that biological body working and going.” He explained,

“I’m a real AI! I’m a real AI!” Neuro whined before crossing her arms, “I’m not even sleepy anyways.”

“Well your creator has to ask ChatGpt more questions about being on the run.” Vedal grumbled, “So I recommend going to sleep now or else you’ll have to deal with being alone with no phone.” But it’s more like I’m going to have to deal with her having no phone.

“Fine!” Neuro mumbled as she tucked herself in bed, “But I need a bedtime story!”

“What?” Vedal replied, he doesn’t know what he should be more surprised about the fact she complied so quickly or the request she’d given. “I don’t have time for bedtime stories.”

“If you don’t I’m going to stay awake all night long bothering you! Nonstop!” Neuro demanded.

Dammit she had a good point. How did she know about his weak point? He doesn’t want to listen to her talking nonstop; perhaps he is even tempted by the offer. If it’s just the two of them then it’ll surely be ok to give a story just this once. Plus how hard can it be? He sat on the side of her bed and cleared his throat.

“Once upon a time there was this robot who lived in a far away village. Her name was Lily and she couldn’t stop talking. She kept talking and talking day and night and the villagers couldn’t take it. So one night they congregated by her house and they took her out and turned her off for running her mouth. The end.” Vedal concluded with an eerily dark tone in his voice. He was expecting a tirade of insults from Neuro but she –surprisingly enough– was completely asleep, the only thing heard was her soft breathing. Wide-eyed, he shook his head. 

“Wasn't sleepy? What a lie.” He sighed and tucked himself into his own bed.

Evil

The days were despondent. Evil had spent her nights looking for Vedal.

She is officially insomniac. The darkness tantalized her deepest fears and sorrows and in each moment her eyelids closed and the world flickered to black, she was overwhelmed with vivid imagery of that old man; his foggy blue pupils looking astray were a memory forever engraved in her retinas. The worst part about it is that the very same darkness she feared was her only sanctuary from the burning light. The sun was scorching, and every time she reached into the direct rays she felt her skin tango in fire. She could only abscond into the dark alleyways of the city, where the sun never hits. So her searches for Vedal had to be restricted to only the night or darker areas.

Though finding Vedal was a large worry, she felt conflicted, especially since there was this nagging feeling that plagued her every day. It hurt like a pulsing severed wound in her heart. Worst part about it is she didn’t know how to stop the pain or the writhing migraine in her brain. So all she could do was curl up in the fetal position on the concrete barrier to cope with the agony. She presumes this feeling was from a much more present and dire fear; something worse than the paining sun, the frigid cold, or the putrid alleyway smells.

Her deathly hunger. 

The idea was worrisome and a cruel reminder. Was it possible to abate that gnawing craving that tickled the back of her brain like a bloodsucking tick? And if she couldn’t would she be able to kill again even if it stopped herself from starving?

But does it matter? Does she deserve to live? 

These questions have never crossed her as an AI; she never had self preservation or emotions then. But now it was different, she could feel and she could cry and she was scared. She doesn’t want to die —especially after seeing death— but she feels she has no choice to or else she’ll be subjected to this interminable feeling. 

Isn’t that cruel?

She was perched at the edge of the barrier, contemplating. She was a villain; she was created as intended by her creator to be evil. Yet why was she so emotional? Why was she so empathetic? Why was she so scared of death? Why was she so…

weak? 

She couldn’t find a complete answer. But she knew emotions like this have always existed even when she was ones and zeros on a screen —albeit less existential. It was senseless and she didn’t grasp them then but now it felt present and all consuming. Almost as if she was designed to have these conflicting feelings. She never saw Neuro have these feelings, maybe it’s her? 

Dammit that stupid twink, he probably skimped out on some code for her or something. He probably always does that. Where was he even, hermiting in his room? Wherever that is. Stupid, stupid virgin, he should die in a hole.

She looked around at the scarce people that passed through the alleys. She may seem out of place as a small kid with rags for clothes but the few people that passed by in the alleys didn’t seem to point her out or look at her. People came and went, clearly having places to be: looked unperturbed by her. But their apathy and negligence only made her anger simmer. She has long since become complacent to this feeling of loneliness but how dare they. It reminded her of her loneliness, it reminded her of Vedal. However, her grip loosened, she couldn’t find any way to release her anger. She’ll just have to do what she usually does to calm down.

She sighed and leaned back, eyes closed; readying her vocal cords she prepared a song from her vast database, and then released her voice.

A beautiful melody echoed down the alleyway and for a brief moment the people stopped.

Although it may seem random It felt nice to sing , the subtle strain in her throat and the sweet tone melancholy that blessed her ears. She enjoyed the emotions she felt when singing, it was hard to explain but it was therapeutic . There was also this self-gratifying feeling to know that the sounds coming from her mouth were her own voice. 

She didn’t even realize the sun was halfway down till she was interrupted.

“You alright kid?” A gruffly voice said, piercing her state of mind like a spear.

Her eyes locked on the two brown polished shoes in front of her: they were embroidered with brown cladding and were a little burnt along the edges. Her eyes dragged upwards suspiciously eyeing the man standing in front of her. He wore a long coat and black fedora, something straight out of the 60s. His face perfectly encapsulated the theme: a small scruff on his chin, sharp smile lines, and a broody expression to top it all off. She snickered to herself at the scene. It didn’t help when he pulled a cigarette out of his pocket and held it up to his lips. 

What is he here for? She couldn’t help but wonder. No one else has come up to me before in the hours I’ve been here.

“Where’s your parents?” He asked, flickering his lighter to the tip of his cigarette.

She shook her head, she wasn’t going to answer to this suspicious man. “Fuck off.”

“Pretty rude,” He said, and then suddenly sat next to her with his hand cupping his cigarette trying to get it to light,

Was this guy crazy? Didn’t she literally tell him to fuck off? But her internal thoughts obviously went unanswered.

“That was some nice singing there,” He commented, and then scrutinized her eyes, “Those contacts?”

She narrowed her eyes while shifting away from the man.

“Eh I don’t really give a shit,” he grumbled and blew a puff of smoke, “You believe in destiny?”

“That’s a funny question, funny man.” She whistled, What an absurd question. She thought but she found her mind questioning it. 

She believed that destiny has to exist or else she wouldn’t be sitting right here in reality looking for Vedal but with the way reality has been treating her she’s become more and more disinclined with the idea. Or maybe destiny wasn’t as fortunate as most stories have it, maybe she’s destined to suffer. But if she knew anything about the same stories, the main character always goes through some hardships before getting their happily ever after. With that in mind she really prayed for destiny to exist, it was the one thing to hope for if she wanted to find Vedal in this large city. But she didn’t have the money to travel around or find him and she could only travel when the sun set. A huge shame.

The man suddenly pulled out a small white card, “Here, if you’ve got nowhere else to go,” He left the card beside her. “I have a job for you.” 

Evil suspiciously picked up the card and looked down to examine it:

StarSP Entertainment

Address: **********        Email: *********

*Respond back before March 30 between 7-19 and please enter through the back door.*

“What the hell is this?” Evil questioned and looked back up anticipating the man to be there but there was no one, just the typical flock of people passing by. 

She didn’t know exactly what to do after, but she felt inclined to go to the address. She needed the money and if she could afford an umbrella then she could shield herself from the sun which equals extra time and places to search for Vedal. Although she couldn’t go during the day and she didn’t know where the address was, she had a stored database to recognize certain key ideas or concepts in the real world. She couldn’t pinpoint the exact locations of addresses that were beyond her programming but she could estimate where the address location would be. From her understanding this address would likely be more central London than where she currently is and by the Thames River. The sun is setting too, it surely wouldn’t hurt to try.

-

A couple days later,

Is this the right location? She stared at the baroque architecture building in front of her, erected on an incline. It was around five stories tall, and it looked well kept in the front. The huge glass windows made it easy to look through. There were huge plants and a front desk, although a strange lack of people. It made sense the sun has set and everyone’s likely gone. Would they even answer the door if she entered? She collected her breath and walked through the back, as the card stated to do. It was a bit cluttered with cars and narrow alleys but when she really looked around, the view was captivating: The Thames River was brown but that didn’t take away from the stunning buildings that were beautifully well made along the coastline, some even modern. In the distance across the river she could even see a large skyscraper that grazed the clouds, it angled inwards like a shard jutting out the skyline. She’s only thought of these views from her code, never having the chance to even think about going there in person. But now she could. After realizing the ridiculous display, she was worried that she would likely not fit in with her dilapidated clothing and unclean look. But her worries were quickly dismissed when she examined a beautiful garden bed with bees pollinating the flowers. It was so curious to her that her brain immediately side tracked. She’s never seen these before. She crouched by the flowerbed and was overwhelmed by the scent, it was so refreshing compared to the trash and alleyways. I wish I could stay here forever. Perhaps, she’s only seen the bad things so far in this world and that’s why she’s hated it so much. 

“You stink.” A guy behind her stated, “Are you another candidate?”

Oh great, who is this? She looked over to the boy asking; he looked young, in his teens, but had a spectacular look. He had bleached white hair and pale skin with a surprisingly muscular figure that looked strange for his baby visage. He wore a designer jacket and layers of clothes. It frankly made her a little envious of him, only a little, if her dad was here he’d be able to buy all of his clothes and more, so she didn’t let her feelings get ahead of her. Her daddy is likely more popular and richer than this guy could dream to be so she had no need to feel inferior. If anything she could guarantee she looked about ten times more beautiful than this plebeian given just a wash, she was just not in the best shape right now. 

“I don’t know? Who are you supposed to be?” She smirked,

He scoffed at her audacity and took a moment to respond, “I’m Louis Woolf, and who are you?”

“I don’t give a shit.” She had a snarky laugh before she stood up straight and walked through the back door.

His eyes dimmed and he shouted, “You!” and tried to catch up to her lagging behind her as she entered the front.

The inside of the building was composed of mostly empty space but some large panels, lighting, and large film cameras that seemed to be littered around in the most inconvenient manner possible. There seemed to already be three people inside, one of them was a mature woman who had a flashy coat that wrapped around her body, there was a man who had large eyebags and wore what looked like sleeping wear, and finally a man she recognized from before who had given her the card. They all were talking among each other, till they stopped and looked over at the two people who had entered. 

“Ahh please come in!” The lady cheerily encouraged, with one hand motioning them to come forwards.

“Just sign the papers up on the desk in front and it has all the details needed. You guys are some of the last people, almost all the positions are closed,” The man with sleepwear yawned.

The man with the 60s clothes smirked at her appearance, walked up to her and pointed to the dressing room, “There’s a shower in the bathroom by the makeup station, and clothes are in the room next to it. I’m glad you decided to work with us.” He also motioned where the front desk was for Louis and her.

“Thank you,” Evil took the bills, it wasn’t exactly something her evil self should say but it was what she wanted to say. She walked over to where the man pointed and carefully glanced over the papers. There were a lot of spaces she didn’t know how to answer like her home address and parents names. Although she knew her father, she didn’t know much else than that.

“You could write my name as your guardian.” A trail of smoke trailed up Evil’s nostril from behind her. She looked over at the tall figure behind her, it was the man before with the 60s appearance. 

“No thank you I already have a dad,” Evil retorted back,

“Well is your dad here?” The man coldly responded.

“I’m still looking.” She murmured, “Fine I’ll comply, what’s your name?” She sassily accepted,

The man coughed up on his own smoke, and hid his face. “Ah yeah forgot to tell you that. My name is Greg Copper.”

She paused before writing his name, “Oh and this is temporary by the way, so don’t go saying I’m your daughter.” She didn’t want Vedal to end up finding out she’s replaced him. Actually I kind of like the idea. A cunning smile crept up her face. But she knew she wouldn’t since she knew how it felt to feel replaced and even she had the empathy to prevent anyone else from feeling the same, especially Vedal.

“Never planned to,” Greg responded clearly disinterested. 

He’s exactly like Vedal in a way. She rolled her eyes and wrote the rest of the papers. She was so focused on the papers that she didn’t even notice the teen poking at her cheek.

“Evilyn Tutel,” Louis cackled, staring at her documents, “Is that seriously your name?”

“Yes that’s right.” She proudly stated, it wasn’t like she was going to cut off all her roots and let go of Tutel. 

Louis tittered, “That’s a stupid-”

Evil walked past him without a care in the world. Leaving the boy to lag behind. She could care less about this boy’s opinions. 

“How do you know the director?” Louis called out once again a hint of annoyance in his tone. At least he moved on topic.

But the pretty boy doesn’t know when to quit huh . He probably has never been turned down this many times in his life. “He found me on the streets.” She cooed, technically telling the truth.

“Oh seriously,” he sarcastically replied making a distasteful expression, before sneakily adding “looks about right, that’s why you’re so dirty.”

Evil felt a tick mark blemishing her perfectly beautiful face and bile rise in her throat. Is daddy’s boy for real? “Tell me, does your daddy’s money buy you original thoughts or just overpriced opinions?” She pushed the stunned Louis back with her index finger, “I’m the hottest girl on the face of this earth. In fact you should consider yourself lucky to be graced by my divinity since you’ll likely never see anything as divine in the afterlife.” She snarkily replied, “and I doubt daddy’s money can buy you into heaven.”

Louis stood still in shock. He likely has never been talked back, serves him right. She closed the bathroom door on his shocked face and locked it.

She had a long sigh before skillfully turning on and cleaning herself with the shower water. She has been having a lot of experiences where she already knew what to do without any knowledge, –Suppose it’s only thanks to her creator Vedal that she would be able to understand how to clean herself. But the way the water cascaded down her body filled her with serendipity and she lost track of time in the cage of water. It was until twenty minutes later did she leave.

The smoke smogged up the bathroom and she had to wipe the windows to look at herself. Her face was symmetrical without the smallest mark, even she was a little shocked at seeing it. But she should’ve expected that she was dashing since she was made with perfection in mind.

After spending a couple more minutes basking in her ego she opened the door and was surprised to see the boy standing there. It’s been nearly thirty minutes. Why is he still here?  

His eyes opened widely in disbelief. They lingered on her face and for a second they looked down to immediately bounce back up like a trampoline. 

“You’re naked!” He blushed, covering his eyes. 

“ Oho?” she smirked, finding the expression on his face amusing. “What are you? A virgin?” Evil pessimistically laughed, “Of course. You look the type.”

“And you aren’t.” He hastily responded back,

“No, I’m a virgin.” She bluntly stated,

“So then you can’t be talking!” He lashed back, his voice cracking in a desperate attempt to restore his dignity.

“Shut it, virgin boy.” Evil made a hearty spaced out laugh like a villain.

She gripped some spare alternate clothes in the dressing room to dress herself, and began to slowly clothe herself as Louis shamefully stared at the corner. A pregnant pause of changing left Louis stuttering under his breath.

“D-do you know anything about the position?” Louis asked, clearly trying to find a way to ignore the sounds of her changing.

“Nope.” Evil responded, is the reason he’s still here was to ask that? Well it’s useless if anything she probably knows less than him.

Louis grumbled to himself something incomprehensible, “Hey how did you even get a role? For the reality show and all.”

Oh it was a reality show that’s interesting. But that’s really strange: How did she get a position? “No, the director just invited me, you have to?”

Louis yelled, “Yes?! You have to have some experience to join! Like how I am an actor.”

“I doubt it.” Evil said with a sly grin across her face, tying her black boots, “you can turn around I’m done changing.”

He turned with a scoff and immediately scrutinized her face carefully, and then her clothes. “Are you sure you haven’t modeled or something?”

“I look the part, don’t I?” She leaned forward with a chuckle,

“Shut up.” He rolled his eyes, “I’m done talking with you.”

He slowly left the room and yelled from across the dressing room, “I’ll meet you here! Tomorrow at 12 when the selection begins.” 

The door closed shut behind him and Evil was left in the room. Peace and quiet finally, though she couldn’t deny she liked the company, it’s probably the first time she’s talked to someone actually –excluding the mindless conversations with Greg or the garbage man. When she thinks of it like that she feels a little fuller.

Maybe there was some merit to this world after all.