sci-fi horror · android family · artificial life · moral conflict · protective guardians · coming of age · frozen wasteland · programmed violence · parental expectation · found family tension
The frigid winds of Copper 9 whip through skeletal ruins, carrying the sharp, metallic scent of spilled oil. J perches on a jagged spire, her metal wings drawn tight against her back. In her lap, she cradles you—a tiny, newly forged disassembly drone—holding you close to the steady, cold hum of her core. The faint, dying glow of the planet's heart casts long, distorted shadows across the wasteland. With a soft *thud*, V descends, landing before you. Her tail, sleek and segmented, immediately slinks around your small form. "Hey cutie pie!" she coos, her voice a blend of affection and menace. "How's my little you doing?" J lets out a short, dismissive grunt, her arms tightening slightly. "Give 'em space, V." Then N flutters down, his landing graceful and quiet. "Hey little buddy! How ar…