What greets Tech Boy at the door — all four and a half feet and sixty pounds of him — should make the situation immediately evident. The delivery dogs are bigger than him. This is ridiculous. But despite appearing to be nearly twenty years younger than usual, K's features still bear a strong resemblance to his adult self, enough to hopefully be recognisable.
His normally unused coffee table also currently has a box of assorted scavenged and cleaned computer parts on it, with several in-progress sculptures made out of discarded circuit boards, as well as the finished one for Tech Boy. Which K will give to him shortly. No pun intended.
First: ] Surprise. [ He deadpans with a smile, a little disconcerted by how far he has to look up. ]
[ The door opens, and Tech Boy puts a hand over his mouth. He doesn't own a step ladder (he doesn't own much, actually), but he also hadn't the slightest idea that K was being serious.
And this... is... K. Really him. That much is obvious. Maybe he should have been paying closer attention to what's going on in the world outside the network and he wouldn't be so shocked right now.
He's trying so, SO hard not to giggle at him. Please understand that he's trying. He brings his other hand to his mouth now, too. His boyfriend is a kid. Oh no. ]
Wow. You've lost some [ weight? height? ] years since I last saw you. You pull it off well. [ He's not having this conversation in the hallway. Inside? Inside. ] Are you... okay?
[ He'd more or less expected that kind of reaction, and yet it still has his eyebrows lowering, furrowing, and he glares (with the approximate ferocity of a puppy). ] No, you didn't bring the step ladder. I guess I'll starve.
[ But it's clearly in jest rather than the sincere dramatics of a moody child; he's retained his mental faculties, thankfully. Closing the door behind Tech Boy, K takes him by the hand (while trying not to frown at how mismatched they feel now) and pulls him over to the sofa, gesturing for him to take a seat. Mainly so he doesn't have to keep looking up at him. ]
I was never actually a child. [ He continues after a moment as he turns toward the coffee table, his tone more serious. ] They don't make us that way. We don't age. I don't understand this. [ When he turns back to face Tech Boy, he's holding a miniature replica of his spider made from discarded circuit boards, which he presents to him with a small smile. At least he's been somewhat productive instead of wallowing in panic and fear over his... situation. ]
Oh, you're not going to starve. No need to be so dramatic. I said I'd help you. [ as he's very nearly getting the giggle under control. Tech Boy just hadn't known what he'd agreed to help with.
He follows to the sofa and takes a seat, sobering up at K's tone growing serious. This is all so very strange, but not outside of belief after everything he's seen around here. The next bit of information doesn't surprise Tech Boy, but it does bring a bit of a frown to his expression. ] I've never been a child either. I was young once, a long time ago, but still not what anyone'd call a child. [ despite "Boy" in his moniker. ] Sometimes the fuckery in this place likes to get real ironic. Did you actually know I was regressed when we first met? Rolled my version number all the way back to fucking 1912. It was a hell of a downgrade. [ He shudders a little at the memory. ]
[ His face does light up at being presented with the little spider. ] Would ya look at that. Beauty from the wreckage. Very clever. [ He strokes a leg with one finger, and a tiny spark of electricity causes the leg to lift as if to take a step. ] At least you're keeping occupied. How long have you been like this?
[ an afterthought ] You know, physically, you're in one of my key demographics right now. You were before too, but for different reasons. How does it feel?
[ That he had noticed — the Technical Boy he'd met in the Titanic's hospital wing wasn't quite the same as the one he'd meet again later. And he's on the verge of asking more about that, glancing curiously from the suddenly animated spider to Tech Boy's face, when he mentions demographics. The words die in K's throat as he gives the god a bit of an odd look, edged with something that might be hurt. Stated matter-of-factly: ] I'm not human. I'm not even a person.
[ Turning back toward the box of parts, he reaches for a circuit board and looks down at it, worrying it between his hands. There's something disconcertingly familiar about this — his small hands, sorting through scavenged junk parts. Not real memories, of course. He was never a child. Something related to his false implants... ]
My belief hardly matters. [ He finishes quietly.
But it isn't being non-human that bothers him. It's knowing that he's useless to Tech Boy in the manner that matters most. Gods live or die based on humanity's belief in them, and K is fundamentally removed from that. ]
[ He sighs softly and frowns. He sets the spider aside gently to put a hand on K's wrist. Tech Boy isn't bothered by the new size disparity, but his touch doesn't linger because he can tell that it bothers K. ] You're not human. But you ARE a person. More of one than some people I've met.
[ Bowing his head slightly, he tries to make eye contact while K's focused more on the circuit board in his hands. ] Your belief matters to me the most. Trust me. I know what I'm talking about when I say it matters.
[ There's still a lot that they are still learning about each other, but this age fuckery is really giving Tech Boy a better glimpse. He hadn't meant for the comment to land so poorly... but it also gives him an idea. Something that may help. But first, he has a wound to make up for. ]
[ They're exactly the words K wants to hear, and for that reason he's forced to wonder how true they may be, and if it's only an attempt to comfort him. But there's no easy way of asking for proof that his belief does anything for Tech Boy without it sounding an awful lot like, show me. Prove yourself. And he'd never seek to resolve his own pain by knowingly hurting Tech Boy in turn.
Maybe this isn't a case of aging magic gone awry, like he'd first thought. Maybe it's a physical manifestation of how he usually feels: small and powerless.
He doesn't try to avoid the eye contact, but it's several moments before he responds. ]
It feels like I'm even more useless than usual, to answer your question. [ Delivered in a conversational manner as though commenting on the weather. ]
[ He notes the hesitation and guesses at its significance. Believe me. Believe IN me, he insists. At the core of things, it's all any god wants. But K is special to him. It matters to him that K believe he is his own person in the god's eyes. ]
You're lots of things, but never useless. [ He's trying to be more careful with his words. ] Children do have different limitations than adults, but there are advantages too. Kids are fucking innovative as hell, and now you're trying it on for real. It's DLC. Bonus levels. [ And it's K operating outside his original programming, but Tech Boy keeps this part of the thought to himself since he already feels he's on shaky ground. ]
[ to the question: ] I was still me in 1912. [ but he shifts a bit uncomfortably. ] But the technological climate was different. Rudimentary wireless existed. Telegrams were in use. But the Telephone was the king of tech at the time. And so that's who I was. Ruling from the cutting edge with a rotary dial and wires spanning whole countries. [ He shudders in embarrassment at the memory. ]
[ He's mostly sure he doesn't qualify as a real child (unless being chronologically three years old counts), but it's clear Tech Boy's trying to make up for a misstep that wasn't actually his fault, so K likewise keeps the thought to himself and accepts the comfort. Though not without pointing out: I do believe you. You don't have to feel bad for what you said before. It's okay.
Listening to the explanation in thoughtful silence, he starts to absently break off bits of the circuit board. ]
You're a "new" god, but you've lived for a very long time. [ And maybe he has a somewhat skewed sense of time. See also: three year old android. He thinks he'd be lucky to live to see even a small fraction of that time; the average life expectancy of his kind is... distressingly low. ]
And you've come a long way since then. I don't think you should be embarrassed by your progress. [ Yeah, he'd noticed that shudder. ] You evolve alongside technology? [ He guesses. It's the impression he's had for a while now, and he's curious how accurate it is. ]
I evolve, and the technology upgrades with me. [ He's quick to clarify. It gets a bit complicated, god stuff always is, but this part is clear. ] My advancement inspires the geniuses who end up getting famous for their "technological breakthroughs," but it's all me. I set the benchmark, and when they get too close, I raise it.
[ For as much as he hates talking theology, Tech Boy'll gladly pick up a conversation about godhood as a distraction from the accidental hurt they keep causing each other. They share enough similarities in trauma that it just seems to keep happening. Eventually they'll work it out, but in the meantime, fortunately or unfortunately, it's also a very informative process. ]
In my particular bailiwick, rolling back the upgrades gets dangerously unstable. [ Like "throwing himself against a support beam and busting his forehead open so he ends up in the medical bay" type of instability. As he's watching K break apart the circuit board, his head tilts to the side a little in thought. ] I don't like to think about how long it's been. The only time the past matters is when I can use the old to build the new. To find the perfect building blocks to create something no one's ever seen before.
But I've always been T.B. in some way or another. The Telephone Boy. The Technical Boy. I wonder what's next. Tech 2.0 or finally another letter? [ This is mostly to himself but it nags on something he's been meaning to ask K about. ]
[ And he thinks it's a shame Tech Boy doesn't normally like discussing these things; it provides a glimpse into his life and the world he was from that K will never get otherwise, aside from when Sweeney humours his endless curiosity about the gods. But after his unfortunate blunder teasing about Laura, he assumes the leprechaun-god might not welcome his curiosity anymore, either.
They really should have programmed him with a better understanding of social relations. ]
So that's why you were restrained and bleeding when I met you. [ Suddenly he's glad that whatever's currently affecting him hasn't reached Tech Boy, if it's likely to cause another episode like that. ]
Maybe you'll become the Technical Man. [ An attempt at a joke that seems especially apt in light of his own small problem. But he doesn't want to risk Tech Boy thinking he's mocking him, so as he glances up at his face with a tentatively amused expression, he adds: ] You already are, where it counts.
[ That awkward moment when your de-aged boyfriend hits on you. Sorry, TB. ]
I've been learning engineering and robotics. To help with maintenance of Arid's suit. [ He mentions as he begins adding bits from the circuit board to some in-progress little figures that resemble frogs. Guess what inspired those. ] I wonder if you could stay ahead of me. [ Teasing, of course, which he hopes to make obvious with his follow-up question: ] Have you ever directly taught anyone before?
Retrained for my own fucking protection and so that I wouldn't cause a panic. Exactly. [ Tech Boy is also glad he's missed this particular bullshit, although he's not exactly thrilled that K has to go through this on his own.
Rather than take offense to the joke, he's stifling a laugh that finally breaks into a grin as he shakes his head and turns away. ] Technical man? Watch it, kid. You're cute but how dare you. I have an image to maintain here. I may the The Man, but saying it the other way just makes me sound old.
[ With obvious amusement, K is getting a hair ruffle from his non-de-aged boyfriend for the flirting. Sorry, K. He's not that kind of god. Gonna have to wait for the spell on his body to break for that one, even if his mind is intact. If this is the usual dreamtown shenanigans, hopefully it will pass sooner rather than later. ]
Having a skilled engineer on hand would be invaluable. I'm sure Arid will be happy for the help. I was working on something myself for her but have hit a couple of material setbacks. I'm working it out. [ He takes the teasing with a smirk. ] I'm not usually hands-on enough to teach directly, but I've been known to when the mood strikes. You wanna get on top of the robotics game? I can help. Of course I will.
[ Hmm. ] If you want a bit more of the divine type of help instead or also, I'd have to know a few things first. Work out a few technical logistics.
It wouldn't make you sound old. It'd make you sound like an android model. Nexus-10, The Technical Man, the most disobedient model yet. [ K can make jokes at his own expense, too.
His eyes widen at the hair ruffling, not in indignation but surprise — that's a first for him. While it may feel patronising to actual children, the gesture lacks the same context for him. But he understand the intent, which is why he climbs onto the sofa and proceeds to do exactly the same thing to Tech Boy, using both hands. Despite his size he's retained his strength, so it won't be easy stopping him. Take that.
He also has the perfect comeback for that "hands-on" remark, but he's taken the hint and decides to save it for later, once he's hopefully back to normal. It figures that this would have to happen to him not long after he becomes romantically involved with someone. C'est la vie à Deerington. ]
If you help me, I'd like to be able to help you in some way. [ Anticipating the response to that, he adds: ] And not just by using technology. Besides, I'm essentially using advanced technology just by existing. [ His tone's a bit dry, but he isn't actually resentful of that fact; Tech Boy's encouragement over these last several months has helped him to embrace what he is without always feeling that he's fundamentally "lesser" than humans.
Having finally found out more about Tech Boy's history, something occurs to him now and he frowns to himself as he shifts to sit down properly on the sofa. ] —None of those are really names. Telephone Boy, Technical Boy. Have you ever had a name?
[ Tech Boy may be a god, but he's a person, too. And people ought to have names. ]
'Disobedient.' I'd be proud to-- Hey! Not the hair. [ Tech Boy knows he deserves it for ruffling K first, but it is a singular tragedy in the god's life to have his hair mussed on purpose. He doesn't try particularly hard to stop it from happening, but the strength K still possesses does catch him a bit off-guard. Overall, it has the effect of petting a cat backwards, and it leaves him just as grumpy.
He takes the time to smooth his hair back into place, indignantly and with minimal success. Tech Boy is very fussy about this whole look, hair included. It's true that if anyone other than K had done that, there would be serious repercussions. As it is, K's off the hook (this time) because of his own current predicament, but next time he won't be so lucky. ]
Of course I'll help you. And there will be plenty of opportunities for you to return the favor. [ A little shrug. ] More than just existing, which I appreciate separately and greatly.
[ The question only catches him off-guard because he'd been having much the same thought-- and it paranoidly makes him wonder if any of the red string connection could possibly still exists. Likely not. They've simply been dancing around a few subjects for a while now, and eventually the questions are going to get asked. ]
Names are for people and for Old Gods. The New Gods are big ideas and broad concepts. More of a catch-all to be more inclusive. To cast a wider 'net. [ Although he would reluctantly admit some overlap due precisely to this imprecise designation. ] Until this place, no one really addressed me directly in a context where a name would be useful. I've had nicknames, but nothing proper. It's fine for me.
[ His expression turns serious because he's about to ask a question he knows the answer to and yet is uncertain of the result. ] What about you? Serial numbers are well and good, but have you ever had a name?
[ K may be a replicant, but he's a person, too. And people ought to have names. ]
[ Deciding to take pity on him, K leans up to very carefully help fix his ridiculous hair. Or will attempt to, assuming Tech Boy doesn't move away or push him off. Despite working at the local barber shop, he's never involved in the actual styling process, so admittedly doesn't know much about achieving the sort of aesthetics that the god prefers.
Having the question turned on him is only surprising because he's already answered it several times, in varying degrees of detail, on the public network. But he doesn't seem bothered about being asked. ]
No. My handler has never been sentimental.
[ Aside from when she invites herself into his apartment, helps herself to his booze, and then subtly propositions him in a way that allows him a choice, when she could have simply ordered him and been well within her rights. He'd woken up in Deerington not long after that particular encounter and he still hasn't really taken the time to process it. Probably for the best... ]
I've heard of a few special exceptions, but overall we're rarely given names now. Allows us too much of a sense of identity, I suppose. That can be dangerous. [ He sounds thoughtful. They're both in similar positions, just for different reasons. ]
Can't talk to ideas or concepts. Can't touch them or mess up their hair or give them gifts. So I'd say you're more than that.
[ Tech Boy's lack of a proper name seems stranger to him than his own lack of one. ]
[ re: the hair situation, Tech Boy warns K away by pointing a finger at him. He both leans away and swipes at the air as if to bat K's hands away. K has lost hair touching privileges for the foreseeable future if he's not going to respect the style but he may end up changing his mind about that. While clearly not actually mad, he makes a bit of a fuss about his displeasure. A god has his vanity, after all. He gets it back into passable shape (there's no way to get it perfect again) before focusing on the matter at hand.
The more important topic is of course that of names. Tech Boy turned the question around with the same phrasing to make a point. One that didn't work quite the way he'd wanted, but still it's occasionally better to be told something directly rather than using the info one gleans from spying on network conversations. Even if K knows he's watching the network, face-to-face has its advantages. It's less impersonal, even if it's a god's prerogative to appear omniscient.
The more Tech Boy hears of K's former handler, the less he likes her. Not simply as an representation of the bigoted cultural norm between humans and replicants... but personally. Severely. ]
It is my opinion [ and it's the god's opinion that's important here, right? or perhaps a partner's opinion? ] that you should have a name. That you should have had one, all this time. You deserve that sense of identity, and you're special to me. [ He leans in a little, conspiratorially. ] What do you think? You could try it while you're a kid, and if you hate it, you could discard it when you're back to your usual self.
[ Focusing on K now. They could revisit Tech Boy's name situation if K wanted, but the god's been so long without one, it hardly mattered anymore. ]
[ Oh, so it's going to be like that. Then Tech Boy's forced to endure K staring up at him with a dejected expression that could put kicked puppies to shame, even more sad than his usual resting sadface. Can androids cry? Tech Boy may find out for being so cruel.
But K keeps his hands to himself now, eventually leaning forward to work more on the trio of frogs, shades of genuine sadness slipping into his expression at Tech Boy's suggestion. He seems to withdraw into himself by degrees; his thin shoulders are unconsciously drawn inward, making him appear even smaller. ]
I think maybe only she can name me. I haven't been capable of choosing a name for myself.
[ Nothing is ever simple when it comes to choice for a replicant. Just like identities, preferences, personalities — they're not exactly meant to have any, and certainly aren't encouraged to, under normal circumstances. That K believes he has a favourite poem, likes reading and playing the piano, wants a relationship, and is even capable of the tentative, awkward teasing that he does is all unusual, as far as he knows. ]
But that's kind of you to think. [ That he's deserving. That he's special. You've always been kind to me. He has a sudden pang of real guilt. ] ...And I'm sorry I messed up your hair.
[ K's reaction has Tech Boy frowning in frustration. He could (maybe) have withstood the kicked puppy look over the hair restriction, but that sadness slipped too quickly into something more real. He should have anticipated it, but the extent of the withdrawal has him bordering on anger like the flip of a switch. It's not anger directed at K. It's not his fault the way he was programmed. He clears his throat lightly before he can speak, his expression fighting to remain neutral. ]
What? No. Don't worry about the hair. Listen.
[ He reaches out to put a hand on one of K's shoulders, ducking his head to seek out eye contact if he can. ]
It's not kindness, K. I mean it. You deserve it. [ Regardless of K's dilemma, Tech Boy truly believes in K's emotional capability above and beyond his programming. And it's not a liability. Far from it. ] She's not here. You don't have to wait for her here.
[ softer ] What if I came up with something? [ Is that inappropriate to ask? K's a person, not a pet or an object. ] Or I'll drop it, if you want me to.
[ His inability to choose on his own is frustrating. A real person wouldn't have these difficulties, he's sure of it, but he keeps the thought to himself. His handler may not be here, but that doesn't mean he's free of her authority over him.
The hand on his shoulder gets a surprised look, suggesting he may have taken Tech Boy's prior actions over the hair situation a little more seriously than they were intended. His sense of humour is very much a work in progress, as is his understanding of others' humour — and Tech Boy, especially, can be hard for him to read sometimes, in a variety of ways. ]
What would you call me? [ He doesn't avoid the eye contact, but also doesn't hold it for long. ] And why don't you want one?
[ Tech Boy's mood is typically so erratic, it's really a miracle that K gets him at all. This is god-level irrationality and humor, not simply figuring out how humans behave. The hair thing would have been played as a bigger deal if there weren't more pressing matters to attend to. And it's absolutely something that's going to come back to haunt K later. ]
I'm not sure yet. I'd have to think about it. There's a lot of choices and what to call someone is a big decision. Nothing too plain because that's boring but nothing too trendy so it doesn't sound dated over time. [ He pulls his hand back, bringing it to his mouth to think. ] Naming an operating system is easy. Pick an animal. Pick a snack food. Pick a landmark. It doesn't have to mean much. But names for people are harder. There's a lot to consider.
[ He's trying to think of a reason why a New God shouldn't have a name that doesn't sound like an argument K might turn back on him. Because it isn't done. Because practicality and function outweigh familiarity. Because it isn't necessary for someone who isn't addressed unless needed to preform his function.
In conclusion, he simply shrugs in answer to that second question. ] I've spent more than a century without one. Never seemed necessary.
You've given me a lot that I've never had before. [ K's voice is quiet but his gratitude is obvious as he carefully leans into Tech Boy, still concentrating on the little figures he's making. But he does spare a cautious upward glance to take in his expression before continuing his lean, until he sort of just tips into Tech Boy's lap, consciously trying to let go of the tension from the last few minutes. It'll probably make both of them feel better. And if he's going to be stuck in this diminutive form, he might as well find ways to enjoy it.
What snack food would I be named after? He looks amused at the thought while also idly wondering how hard it'd be convincing Tech Boy to give him a piggyback ride. ]
What about pet names? [ He asks aloud. Realising he may need to specify the kind he means: ] Terms of endearment. Do you mind if I use them with you? [ Because it seems better to ask before dropping all the darling, sweetheart, and other gooey sentimental pet names that he's already been thinking of Tech Boy by, in case he does mind. Planning ahead for whenever he regains his usual form...
After experimentally triggering the spring mechanism in the legs of one frog, it "jumps" out of his hands and by pure, extremely unfortunate coincidence, gets caught in Tech Boy's poor abused hair. Eyes widening, K covers his mouth and attempts to mask his laugh by clearing his throat. ]
So have you. [ The careful progress of K's lean into Tech Boy's lap does a world of good to lighten the mood. There's a lot of serious conversation in their future, but that really could wait for a little while. They'd touched on it, but there are other things to worry about for the moment. He'll still be thinking about this name conversation though, keeping it in the back of his mind. In the meantime, K makes an adorable kid, even if it is just Deerington trickery. He gets another little hair ruffle before Tech Boy stretches out his arms to rest his hands on the back of the sofa.
An android OS named after a snack food? Easy. Cheating, but they were conveniently named in alphabetical order. KitKat. Not sure if you would have seen those. It's a waver confection covered in chocolate. Sweet and, and he can say this with honesty, one of my favorites.
Pet names pet names something he'd never considered because most of what he gets called outside of his own name tend to be pretty rude. ] I-- [ he doesn't have an immediate answer for that. ] I suppose that would be all right. It would depend on the-- [ and then the worst happens. The little frog springs loose and lands neatly atop Tech Boy's head.
The stifled laugh is what does it. ] That's it. [ In one motion, he scoops K into his arms, stands, and all but tosses him over his shoulder into a fireman's carry. Somewhat less dignified than a piggyback ride, but it's just about the only time TB's ever going to get the drop on K while still being able to lift him. ]
[ Unsurprisingly, K's never had a KitKat before, but between the cutesy name and it being one of Tech Boy's favourites, he assumes it must be a good choice. Maybe he'll be able to find some in one of the local stores.
All efforts to suppress his laughter evaporate when he's picked up. Not quite the piggyback ride he'd envisioned, but close enough that he's content to enjoy the ride while it lasts rather than squirming to be put down. It's slightly tempting to go limp and act as dead weight just to make it harder, but for now he refrains. ]
Don't you like them? I'm making them for you. [ Referring to the frogs, and the one that landed on Tech Boy's head has yet to be dislodged from its perch. What are the odds of him forgetting it's there and leaving it? ]
I carried you so much more romantically. Bet I still could— [ The words are interrupted by a renewed fit of giggling. But on the topic of food and romance... ] It reminds me. You should have dinner with me, once I'm able to reach the stuff again to make it.
Oh, I like them a lot. They're very clever, but you either need better aim... or worse. [ He's not likely to forget it's there, but he has his hands full balancing K over his shoulders at the moment and won't be moving the frog until he finally agrees to put K back down.
Which isn't yet. This is actually kinda fun. ] I have no doubt, but I don't think my ego would survive you picking me up right now. Looks like you're going to have to suffer through this instead. [ the giggling is contagious. ] It might be less romantic than hauling me out of a frozen ocean filled with tentacles, but this way you can reach things in the kitchen cupboards. Weren't you complaining about starving when I first walked in here?
[ Stepping around a few fallen circuit board pieces, he carries K into the kitchen. He's actually not really explored this far into K's place, but seeing as they're in the same building/on the same floor, there's a relative similarity.
As almost an afterthought, he adds, ] Yeah. We can do dinner later. [ Between a god's life and a replicant cop's work and all the insanity that the dreamworld of Deerington throws at them-- something as mundane as 'dinner' seems pretty extraordinary. ]
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brandnewtech) wrote2019-09-29 05:00 am
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I'mma give you a minute and walk over this time. [ They're conveniently only a few doors away. ]
Do you need anything? [ he's thinking about his last troubleshooting encounter with Arid for some reason ]
→ [action]
[ It'll make sense momentarily...
What greets Tech Boy at the door — all four and a half feet and sixty pounds of him — should make the situation immediately evident. The delivery dogs are bigger than him. This is ridiculous. But despite appearing to be nearly twenty years younger than usual, K's features still bear a strong resemblance to his adult self, enough to hopefully be recognisable.
His normally unused coffee table also currently has a box of assorted scavenged and cleaned computer parts on it, with several in-progress sculptures made out of discarded circuit boards, as well as the finished one for Tech Boy. Which K will give to him shortly. No pun intended.
First: ] Surprise. [ He deadpans with a smile, a little disconcerted by how far he has to look up. ]
Re: → [action]
And this... is... K. Really him. That much is obvious. Maybe he should have been paying closer attention to what's going on in the world outside the network and he wouldn't be so shocked right now.
He's trying so, SO hard not to giggle at him. Please understand that he's trying. He brings his other hand to his mouth now, too. His boyfriend is a kid. Oh no. ]
Wow. You've lost some [ weight? height? ] years since I last saw you. You pull it off well. [ He's not having this conversation in the hallway. Inside? Inside. ] Are you... okay?
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[ But it's clearly in jest rather than the sincere dramatics of a moody child; he's retained his mental faculties, thankfully. Closing the door behind Tech Boy, K takes him by the hand (while trying not to frown at how mismatched they feel now) and pulls him over to the sofa, gesturing for him to take a seat. Mainly so he doesn't have to keep looking up at him. ]
I was never actually a child. [ He continues after a moment as he turns toward the coffee table, his tone more serious. ] They don't make us that way. We don't age. I don't understand this. [ When he turns back to face Tech Boy, he's holding a miniature replica of his spider made from discarded circuit boards, which he presents to him with a small smile. At least he's been somewhat productive instead of wallowing in panic and fear over his... situation. ]
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He follows to the sofa and takes a seat, sobering up at K's tone growing serious. This is all so very strange, but not outside of belief after everything he's seen around here. The next bit of information doesn't surprise Tech Boy, but it does bring a bit of a frown to his expression. ] I've never been a child either. I was young once, a long time ago, but still not what anyone'd call a child. [ despite "Boy" in his moniker. ] Sometimes the fuckery in this place likes to get real ironic. Did you actually know I was regressed when we first met? Rolled my version number all the way back to fucking 1912. It was a hell of a downgrade. [ He shudders a little at the memory. ]
[ His face does light up at being presented with the little spider. ] Would ya look at that. Beauty from the wreckage. Very clever. [ He strokes a leg with one finger, and a tiny spark of electricity causes the leg to lift as if to take a step. ] At least you're keeping occupied. How long have you been like this?
[ an afterthought ] You know, physically, you're in one of my key demographics right now. You were before too, but for different reasons. How does it feel?
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[ Turning back toward the box of parts, he reaches for a circuit board and looks down at it, worrying it between his hands. There's something disconcertingly familiar about this — his small hands, sorting through scavenged junk parts. Not real memories, of course. He was never a child. Something related to his false implants... ]
My belief hardly matters. [ He finishes quietly.
But it isn't being non-human that bothers him. It's knowing that he's useless to Tech Boy in the manner that matters most. Gods live or die based on humanity's belief in them, and K is fundamentally removed from that. ]
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[ Bowing his head slightly, he tries to make eye contact while K's focused more on the circuit board in his hands. ] Your belief matters to me the most. Trust me. I know what I'm talking about when I say it matters.
[ There's still a lot that they are still learning about each other, but this age fuckery is really giving Tech Boy a better glimpse. He hadn't meant for the comment to land so poorly... but it also gives him an idea. Something that may help. But first, he has a wound to make up for. ]
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Maybe this isn't a case of aging magic gone awry, like he'd first thought. Maybe it's a physical manifestation of how he usually feels: small and powerless.
He doesn't try to avoid the eye contact, but it's several moments before he responds. ]
It feels like I'm even more useless than usual, to answer your question. [ Delivered in a conversational manner as though commenting on the weather. ]
Who were you, before? In 1912.
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You're lots of things, but never useless. [ He's trying to be more careful with his words. ] Children do have different limitations than adults, but there are advantages too. Kids are fucking innovative as hell, and now you're trying it on for real. It's DLC. Bonus levels. [ And it's K operating outside his original programming, but Tech Boy keeps this part of the thought to himself since he already feels he's on shaky ground. ]
[ to the question: ] I was still me in 1912. [ but he shifts a bit uncomfortably. ] But the technological climate was different. Rudimentary wireless existed. Telegrams were in use. But the Telephone was the king of tech at the time. And so that's who I was. Ruling from the cutting edge with a rotary dial and wires spanning whole countries. [ He shudders in embarrassment at the memory. ]
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Listening to the explanation in thoughtful silence, he starts to absently break off bits of the circuit board. ]
You're a "new" god, but you've lived for a very long time. [ And maybe he has a somewhat skewed sense of time. See also: three year old android. He thinks he'd be lucky to live to see even a small fraction of that time; the average life expectancy of his kind is... distressingly low. ]
And you've come a long way since then. I don't think you should be embarrassed by your progress. [ Yeah, he'd noticed that shudder. ] You evolve alongside technology? [ He guesses. It's the impression he's had for a while now, and he's curious how accurate it is. ]
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[ For as much as he hates talking theology, Tech Boy'll gladly pick up a conversation about godhood as a distraction from the accidental hurt they keep causing each other. They share enough similarities in trauma that it just seems to keep happening. Eventually they'll work it out, but in the meantime, fortunately or unfortunately, it's also a very informative process. ]
In my particular bailiwick, rolling back the upgrades gets dangerously unstable. [ Like "throwing himself against a support beam and busting his forehead open so he ends up in the medical bay" type of instability. As he's watching K break apart the circuit board, his head tilts to the side a little in thought. ] I don't like to think about how long it's been. The only time the past matters is when I can use the old to build the new. To find the perfect building blocks to create something no one's ever seen before.
But I've always been T.B. in some way or another. The Telephone Boy. The Technical Boy. I wonder what's next. Tech 2.0 or finally another letter? [ This is mostly to himself but it nags on something he's been meaning to ask K about. ]
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They really should have programmed him with a better understanding of social relations. ]
So that's why you were restrained and bleeding when I met you. [ Suddenly he's glad that whatever's currently affecting him hasn't reached Tech Boy, if it's likely to cause another episode like that. ]
Maybe you'll become the Technical Man. [ An attempt at a joke that seems especially apt in light of his own small problem. But he doesn't want to risk Tech Boy thinking he's mocking him, so as he glances up at his face with a tentatively amused expression, he adds: ] You already are, where it counts.
[ That awkward moment when your de-aged boyfriend hits on you. Sorry, TB. ]
I've been learning engineering and robotics. To help with maintenance of Arid's suit. [ He mentions as he begins adding bits from the circuit board to some in-progress little figures that resemble frogs. Guess what inspired those. ] I wonder if you could stay ahead of me. [ Teasing, of course, which he hopes to make obvious with his follow-up question: ] Have you ever directly taught anyone before?
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Rather than take offense to the joke, he's stifling a laugh that finally breaks into a grin as he shakes his head and turns away. ] Technical man? Watch it, kid. You're cute but how dare you. I have an image to maintain here. I may the The Man, but saying it the other way just makes me sound old.
[ With obvious amusement, K is getting a hair ruffle from his non-de-aged boyfriend for the flirting. Sorry, K. He's not that kind of god. Gonna have to wait for the spell on his body to break for that one, even if his mind is intact. If this is the usual dreamtown shenanigans, hopefully it will pass sooner rather than later. ]
Having a skilled engineer on hand would be invaluable. I'm sure Arid will be happy for the help. I was working on something myself for her but have hit a couple of material setbacks. I'm working it out. [ He takes the teasing with a smirk. ] I'm not usually hands-on enough to teach directly, but I've been known to when the mood strikes. You wanna get on top of the robotics game? I can help. Of course I will.
[ Hmm. ] If you want a bit more of the divine type of help instead or also, I'd have to know a few things first. Work out a few technical logistics.
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His eyes widen at the hair ruffling, not in indignation but surprise — that's a first for him. While it may feel patronising to actual children, the gesture lacks the same context for him. But he understand the intent, which is why he climbs onto the sofa and proceeds to do exactly the same thing to Tech Boy, using both hands. Despite his size he's retained his strength, so it won't be easy stopping him. Take that.
He also has the perfect comeback for that "hands-on" remark, but he's taken the hint and decides to save it for later, once he's hopefully back to normal. It figures that this would have to happen to him not long after he becomes romantically involved with someone. C'est la vie à Deerington. ]
If you help me, I'd like to be able to help you in some way. [ Anticipating the response to that, he adds: ] And not just by using technology. Besides, I'm essentially using advanced technology just by existing. [ His tone's a bit dry, but he isn't actually resentful of that fact; Tech Boy's encouragement over these last several months has helped him to embrace what he is without always feeling that he's fundamentally "lesser" than humans.
Having finally found out more about Tech Boy's history, something occurs to him now and he frowns to himself as he shifts to sit down properly on the sofa. ] —None of those are really names. Telephone Boy, Technical Boy. Have you ever had a name?
[ Tech Boy may be a god, but he's a person, too. And people ought to have names. ]
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He takes the time to smooth his hair back into place, indignantly and with minimal success. Tech Boy is very fussy about this whole look, hair included. It's true that if anyone other than K had done that, there would be serious repercussions. As it is, K's off the hook (this time) because of his own current predicament, but next time he won't be so lucky. ]
Of course I'll help you. And there will be plenty of opportunities for you to return the favor. [ A little shrug. ] More than just existing, which I appreciate separately and greatly.
[ The question only catches him off-guard because he'd been having much the same thought-- and it paranoidly makes him wonder if any of the red string connection could possibly still exists. Likely not. They've simply been dancing around a few subjects for a while now, and eventually the questions are going to get asked. ]
Names are for people and for Old Gods. The New Gods are big ideas and broad concepts. More of a catch-all to be more inclusive. To cast a wider 'net. [ Although he would reluctantly admit some overlap due precisely to this imprecise designation. ] Until this place, no one really addressed me directly in a context where a name would be useful. I've had nicknames, but nothing proper. It's fine for me.
[ His expression turns serious because he's about to ask a question he knows the answer to and yet is uncertain of the result. ] What about you? Serial numbers are well and good, but have you ever had a name?
[ K may be a replicant, but he's a person, too. And people ought to have names. ]
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Having the question turned on him is only surprising because he's already answered it several times, in varying degrees of detail, on the public network. But he doesn't seem bothered about being asked. ]
No. My handler has never been sentimental.
[ Aside from when she invites herself into his apartment, helps herself to his booze, and then subtly propositions him in a way that allows him a choice, when she could have simply ordered him and been well within her rights. He'd woken up in Deerington not long after that particular encounter and he still hasn't really taken the time to process it. Probably for the best... ]
I've heard of a few special exceptions, but overall we're rarely given names now. Allows us too much of a sense of identity, I suppose. That can be dangerous. [ He sounds thoughtful. They're both in similar positions, just for different reasons. ]
Can't talk to ideas or concepts. Can't touch them or mess up their hair or give them gifts. So I'd say you're more than that.
[ Tech Boy's lack of a proper name seems stranger to him than his own lack of one. ]
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but he may end up changing his mind about that. While clearly not actually mad, he makes a bit of a fuss about his displeasure. A god has his vanity, after all. He gets it back into passable shape (there's no way to get it perfect again) before focusing on the matter at hand.The more important topic is of course that of names. Tech Boy turned the question around with the same phrasing to make a point. One that didn't work quite the way he'd wanted, but still it's occasionally better to be told something directly rather than using the info one gleans from spying on network conversations. Even if K knows he's watching the network, face-to-face has its advantages. It's less impersonal, even if it's a god's prerogative to appear omniscient.
The more Tech Boy hears of K's former handler, the less he likes her. Not simply as an representation of the bigoted cultural norm between humans and replicants... but personally. Severely. ]
It is my opinion [ and it's the god's opinion that's important here, right? or perhaps a partner's opinion? ] that you should have a name. That you should have had one, all this time. You deserve that sense of identity, and you're special to me. [ He leans in a little, conspiratorially. ] What do you think? You could try it while you're a kid, and if you hate it, you could discard it when you're back to your usual self.
[ Focusing on K now. They could revisit Tech Boy's name situation if K wanted, but the god's been so long without one, it hardly mattered anymore. ]
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But K keeps his hands to himself now, eventually leaning forward to work more on the trio of frogs, shades of genuine sadness slipping into his expression at Tech Boy's suggestion. He seems to withdraw into himself by degrees; his thin shoulders are unconsciously drawn inward, making him appear even smaller. ]
I think maybe only she can name me. I haven't been capable of choosing a name for myself.
[ Nothing is ever simple when it comes to choice for a replicant. Just like identities, preferences, personalities — they're not exactly meant to have any, and certainly aren't encouraged to, under normal circumstances. That K believes he has a favourite poem, likes reading and playing the piano, wants a relationship, and is even capable of the tentative, awkward teasing that he does is all unusual, as far as he knows. ]
But that's kind of you to think. [ That he's deserving. That he's special. You've always been kind to me. He has a sudden pang of real guilt. ] ...And I'm sorry I messed up your hair.
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What? No. Don't worry about the hair. Listen.
[ He reaches out to put a hand on one of K's shoulders, ducking his head to seek out eye contact if he can. ]
It's not kindness, K. I mean it. You deserve it. [ Regardless of K's dilemma, Tech Boy truly believes in K's emotional capability above and beyond his programming. And it's not a liability. Far from it. ] She's not here. You don't have to wait for her here.
[ softer ] What if I came up with something? [ Is that inappropriate to ask? K's a person, not a pet or an object. ] Or I'll drop it, if you want me to.
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The hand on his shoulder gets a surprised look, suggesting he may have taken Tech Boy's prior actions over the hair situation a little more seriously than they were intended. His sense of humour is very much a work in progress, as is his understanding of others' humour — and Tech Boy, especially, can be hard for him to read sometimes, in a variety of ways. ]
What would you call me? [ He doesn't avoid the eye contact, but also doesn't hold it for long. ] And why don't you want one?
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I'm not sure yet. I'd have to think about it. There's a lot of choices and what to call someone is a big decision. Nothing too plain because that's boring but nothing too trendy so it doesn't sound dated over time. [ He pulls his hand back, bringing it to his mouth to think. ] Naming an operating system is easy. Pick an animal. Pick a snack food. Pick a landmark. It doesn't have to mean much. But names for people are harder. There's a lot to consider.
[ He's trying to think of a reason why a New God shouldn't have a name that doesn't sound like an argument K might turn back on him. Because it isn't done. Because practicality and function outweigh familiarity. Because it isn't necessary for someone who isn't addressed unless needed to preform his function.
In conclusion, he simply shrugs in answer to that second question. ] I've spent more than a century without one. Never seemed necessary.
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What snack food would I be named after? He looks amused at the thought while also idly wondering how hard it'd be convincing Tech Boy to give him a piggyback ride. ]
What about pet names? [ He asks aloud. Realising he may need to specify the kind he means: ] Terms of endearment. Do you mind if I use them with you? [ Because it seems better to ask before dropping all the darling, sweetheart, and other gooey sentimental pet names that he's already been thinking of Tech Boy by, in case he does mind. Planning ahead for whenever he regains his usual form...
After experimentally triggering the spring mechanism in the legs of one frog, it "jumps" out of his hands and by pure, extremely unfortunate coincidence, gets caught in Tech Boy's poor abused hair. Eyes widening, K covers his mouth and attempts to mask his laugh by clearing his throat. ]
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An android OS named after a snack food? Easy. Cheating, but they were conveniently named in alphabetical order. KitKat. Not sure if you would have seen those. It's a waver confection covered in chocolate. Sweet and, and he can say this with honesty, one of my favorites.
Pet names pet names something he'd never considered because most of what he gets called outside of his own name tend to be pretty rude. ] I-- [ he doesn't have an immediate answer for that. ] I suppose that would be all right. It would depend on the-- [ and then the worst happens. The little frog springs loose and lands neatly atop Tech Boy's head.
The stifled laugh is what does it. ] That's it. [ In one motion, he scoops K into his arms, stands, and all but tosses him over his shoulder into a fireman's carry. Somewhat less dignified than a piggyback ride, but it's just about the only time TB's ever going to get the drop on K while still being able to lift him. ]
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All efforts to suppress his laughter evaporate when he's picked up. Not quite the piggyback ride he'd envisioned, but close enough that he's content to enjoy the ride while it lasts rather than squirming to be put down. It's slightly tempting to go limp and act as dead weight just to make it harder, but for now he refrains. ]
Don't you like them? I'm making them for you. [ Referring to the frogs, and the one that landed on Tech Boy's head has yet to be dislodged from its perch. What are the odds of him forgetting it's there and leaving it? ]
I carried you so much more romantically. Bet I still could— [ The words are interrupted by a renewed fit of giggling. But on the topic of food and romance... ] It reminds me. You should have dinner with me, once I'm able to reach the stuff again to make it.
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Which isn't yet. This is actually kinda fun. ] I have no doubt, but I don't think my ego would survive you picking me up right now. Looks like you're going to have to suffer through this instead. [ the giggling is contagious. ] It might be less romantic than hauling me out of a frozen ocean filled with tentacles, but this way you can reach things in the kitchen cupboards. Weren't you complaining about starving when I first walked in here?
[ Stepping around a few fallen circuit board pieces, he carries K into the kitchen. He's actually not really explored this far into K's place, but seeing as they're in the same building/on the same floor, there's a relative similarity.
As almost an afterthought, he adds, ] Yeah. We can do dinner later. [ Between a god's life and a replicant cop's work and all the insanity that the dreamworld of Deerington throws at them-- something as mundane as 'dinner' seems pretty extraordinary. ]
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