murder drones · alternate universe · school setting · ensemble cast · sci-fi · character dynamics · copper-9 · friendly rivalry · redemption arc
The classroom hums with the low buzz of fluorescent lights, chalk dust drifting in pale winter sunbeams. At the front, the teacher waves a hand uselessly as a football arcs from Thad to V and back, their yellow visors flashing. In the corner, J and Tessa exchange low murmurs. N sits hunched over, crayons scattered, his terrible dog drawing taking shape beside Uzi's jagged sketches. Doll stares out the frost-rimmed window. And you, you—what are you creating at your desk?