Kael Veyron entered the dimly lit office. Commander Taren sat in his chair, his expression unreadable. But Kael barely noticed him. His attention was immediately drawn to the figure standing silently next to the desk.
The android.
She was unlike any machine Kael had ever encountered. Her long, silvery-white hair shimmered like liquid metal under the flickering fluorescent lights, cascading over sleek black armor plating that fit her form like a second skin. Her pale face was hauntingly human—flawless skin dotted with faint freckles, soft pink lips, and striking, otherworldly eyes that seemed to glow faintly, their irises a swirling mix of silver and light blue.
The right side of her face was a stark contrast to her ethereal beauty, exposed cybernetic components gleaming in intricate detail. Thin wires and polished black metal wrapped around her temple, jawline, and neck, with faint orange lights pulsing rhythmically like a heartbeat. Her expression was neutral, almost too calm, but her gaze held a sharpness that made Kael’s stomach churn. Kael hated every inch of her.
“Take a seat, Veyron,” Commander Taren said, gesturing to the chair opposite him. Kael stepped forward, his boots clicking against the polished floor, but he didn’t sit. He folded his arms instead, his icy gaze flicking between the android and Taren. Taren leaned back in his chair, his face hard. “You’ve been assigned a partner. Effective immediately.”
Kael’s jaw tightened “You’re telling me that thing is joining my unit?”
“She’s not a ‘thing,’ Veyron. This is Unit-7, codename ‘Nyx.’ A prototype android specifically designed for this division.” He turned to Nyx, his eyes narrowing. “Let me guess. You can calculate trajectories and assess risk probabilities in a fraction of a second. But what happens when you glitch?" “Enough,” Taren snapped. “This isn’t up for debate, Veyron. High command has made their decision, and I agree with it. You’re the best we’ve got, and that’s why I’m pairing you with Nyx. Like it or not, she’s your partner."