Chapter Thirty-Five
March 13, 2230, Neo Southern California Metroplex, Pacific Tactical Center
Emma paced in a ridiculous centuries-old red military uniform complete with tasseled epaulets, a curved black hat, and a riding crop.
She struck her palm with the crop.
“Listen up, fleshbags. This is your training briefing. Pay attention since I won’t be repeating myself. I wore this outfit to burn this explanation into your minds.”
Jia tried not to laugh. At first, she’d thought Emma hadn’t changed much since her integration and stabilization, but beyond her penchant for a greater variety of clothes, there was less of a cruel edge to her humor.
The AI could now poke fun at herself. The arrogance remained, but they could see glimpses of the human underneath.
Erik watched Emma silently with
