The Xinos council chambers is ominously silent, despite the most recent battle royale round having just concluded for the incomprehensible beings. A trial is currently being held amongst the advanced machines, and, hoisted up in the middle of the grand seating hall, is the distinguished councillor known as Xygohe from their ranks. They have been a part of the upper echelons of Xinos society for many cycles, yet, as they continue to twitch and jitter before the shapes that will soon decide their fate, the jury has been having difficulties in reaching a verdict over how the senior member should be punished.

  During round γ, with all of the shapes now seemingly intent on monitoring the progress of the Xyfokit identified as F.O.X. for their battle royale, it has come to light through the mysterious release of some encrypted conversations, that Xygohe was directly interfering and helping the Xinos warrior named A.N.T. on the battleground world. Currently playing as evidence for the machines, are audio recordings showcasing multiple in-depth conversations between the accused councillor and A.N.T. The conversations range from simple intelligence communications, to the reveal illegal supplies were given to the warrior in an effort to provide them an advantage. However, the most intriguing piece of information, at least according to Xylophos, is the discovery that more Xinos are alive than initially thought, and that their systems for battle royale integrity appear to have faults.

  This revelation, has put the Xinos in a difficult situation. Clear acts violating their doctrine would normally result in the immediate removal from the position of councillor, in addition to some lesser penalties applied to the related race to deter such future acts, yet they are hesitant to proceed due to one unique flaw revealed to the machines.

  A lesser species on an undeveloped world, was able to accurately identify an error in their perfect system.

  After integrating and incorporating John’s feedback, it was clear that their system had failed to accurately account for changes in a Xinos improved emotional stability from a bond. This system, which has worked for each and every cycle without issue, was seemingly broken by humans.

  Correction, a single, human.

  Emotions have typically never been relevant to the Xinos, and especially not for their warriors. Death was generally avoidable under most circumstances, as the machines could easily be reconstructed from backups of their conscious, but yet, when true death was added into the mix, their networks seemingly changed on a deeper level than previously realized.

  F.O.X. was not the first Xinos warrior to have this finding catalogued, as after sifting through all previously recorded battle royale cycle data, a new trend was beginning to emerge to the machines right before their monitors. Previous abnormalities viewed as errors from systems failing due to damage, could then be viewed under this alternate lens, providing justifications for some previously viewed “irrational decisions” from the deleted warriors.

  “Fascinating...” Quietly hums Xylophos, who is joined by other shapes in deep contemplation over an array of simulations attempting to quantify this new emotional impact variable. Their systems and processors were struggling, and, after several attempts at modeling such an impact on bond compatibility scores, no noticeable improvements were being observed. Try as they might, their calculated bond scores remained the same, yet the intelligences could clearly see the improvements reflected across F.O.X.’s performance. A perfect contradiction.

  Xygohe continues shaking before the council, twitching and rotating their synthetic digits together while frantically wiping Xytrolyte from the leaking monitors. The jury has now entered into the voting phase of the trial, and the results are being tabulated for the council. The cowering shape’s monitors lock on the holographic screen placed before them, as an arrow spins around like the dial of a cloak between absolve, or convict. Seconds turn to minutes, and the machine eventually turns their visual receptors off while waiting for the final results to be revealed.

  The arrow continues twisting and turning, now captivating all of the shapes in attendance. A grin grows across Xylophos’ facial monitor, before their speakers quietly utter “absolve”, prompting several of the council to briefly look their direction. The spinning gradually begins to slow, until finally, the cruel arrow has landed on a region prompting several of the shapes to beep and whirl erratically.

  Absolve, lights up across the split hologram from the arrow’s antics, as an accompanying round of confetti is released in the room, causing Xygohe to leap from their chair from the sudden pop and explosion. Then, displayed below the tabulated results, is the overall anonymous count, revealing 30% were in favor of convicting, while 70% would absolve the shape of such illegal dealings.

  A heavy beep leaves Xygohe’s speakers, as their monitors finally open and process their seemingly spared fate. They twirl around several times from the good news, before just as quickly returning to a professional posture.

  “Interesting...” Hums Xylophos again, as they calmly observe the filled chambers before them. “It is rare for us as a species to be so split on a conviction. Generally, we observe a clean 0% and 100% tally, and yet here we are, at an impressive 30% to 70%.” The intelligence muses while bringing their 7th dimensional digits together, lightly resting them along their vertices.

  Several of the other shapes in attendance cautiously scan the councillors amongst them. Their former emperor’s words were brutally true, and they were all hesitant to reveal how exactly they voted regarding Xygohe’s fate. Xinos society has never held such a split in votes before, and it was all because of a trifling Xyfokit.

  “Agreed, yet understandable.” Beeps a pentadecahedron, as some of the faces along their monitors shift in and out between various dimensions. “In the spirit of healthy discussion, I will admit I voted to convict councillor Xygohe. My rational, being the clear violation of our doctrine.” Then, turning towards Xylophos, the shape continues their discourse over the now audibly beeping chambers. “Xylophos, as a councillor previously known to focus on adherence to our doctrine, why did you vote for absolve?”

  The former emperor shares glances with the stalwart shape, leaning back in their chair slightly while crossing their appendages across their central core. “An interesting conclusion, Xyninos.” They respond in a rolled tone before shifting forward to lean against their terminal table. “I merely stated aloud the words “Absolve.” This action, in and of itself, was by no means an admittance on my part as to my particular vote. It was simply, a prediction regarding what would happen to our dear friend Xygohe.”

  The shape pauses slightly before rolling their monitors in the 4th dimension towards the still grinning Xinos. “But, in recognition of your act of transparency, I will admit my vote was to also convict Xygohe for the blatant corruption displayed before us.

  Glancing around, Xylophos notices the quiet murmurings amongst the machines as changed into now audible conversations over who voted for what, and why they had chosen their position. Pleased at the growing discourse, Xylophos calmly waves their appendage, causing all of the machines to seemingly cease their bickering, while turning towards them.

  “That said... I do agree with our council’s vote. After reconsidering the information learned from Xygohe’s corrupt dealings, it has, or, should have become clear to us, that we are not, perfect beings. Furthermore, when weighing this information on the scales of probabilities, the benefits derived from this data, can be seen to vastly outweigh the harm caused by the councillor’s interference in our sacred games.”

  Chirps and whirls flood the assembly hall at the former emperor’s words, as the shapes then turn their attention to reviewing the end of round details, while finalizing the upcoming restrictions.

  Monitors then zoom in and focus on the human identified as Jake Valkin. This contender, had previously bonded with the warrior F.O.X., yet was abandoned by the machine despite having a respectable 40% compatibility score. The decision was odd to the council, since a 40% boost to system performance was substantial, as directly observed in the round with the ease of eliminating W.O.L. Furthermore, the battle between F.O.X. and A.N.T. not only showcased important information about bonds, but how much the Xyfokit has grown into a formidable contender.

  A.N.T., before being selected for the battle royale, was a general in the Xinos army, tasked with leading an army of 1 quadrillion soldiers. Amongst the thousand generals utilized by the Xinos to direct and organize their forces, they were firmly within the top 100 based on an extensive military record and combat achievements. For them to have lost in a fair duel against a previously unremarkable warrior... Was unforeseen.

  Based on probabilities, the next matchup would most likely pit F.O.X. against T.Y.R., which itself had triggered a prompt for the machines to bet on the expected winner. Current rates put T.Y.R. at 4/1, with many of the machines pleased at the predicted outcome.

  P.L.T. had also continued to dominate the round, as expected by the machines, but, had only managed to achieve 4 kills due to the decreasing supply of “prey” in their region. Having landed on the continent named Australia by the apex predators, there were now officially no more Xinos warriors in the respective region, meaning they would now have to travel to new lands to remain a valid contender. Considering the total number of remaining valid contenders, the Xinos systems were now inclined to introduce the shrinking battleground regions.

  Left to be a mostly dynamic process, the algorithm had decided on several acceptable regions for round Ω, but ultimately concluded the final location would be at 31.712926, -110.067679 according to the human’s commonly referred to planet location mapping system. With the Xinos agreeing with the selected region, the system then proceeded to update all participating Xinos systems with the acceptable battle regions. The polar caps of the planet would first become blocked off in the coming round, but the area would then quickly indicate to the participating warriors which direction they should head to avoid forced elimination.

  Images panned around the planet, showcasing each of the surviving Xinos warriors. Information had just been transmitted to their systems regarding the updated battle regions, causing all of them to consider their current location. Xinos present across both land and sea all worked on extrapolating what the final region might be. Truthfully, this was where one of their initial decisions would either be their greatest advantage, or downfall. Machines built to hunt across the tangible ground were often ill-adapted when submerged in water, and this logic proved consistent when flipped and applied to any aquatic Xinos. The clear winners of this decision were those accustomed to aerial combat, but there were surprisingly few avian Xinos left in the battle royale.

  Weapon restrictions were kept at near modern levels again, except permitting the usage of advanced autonomous weapons and robotics, in addition to upgrading cannon muzzle velocities to primitive automatic railguns. Xinos ammunition could now consist of Xyninium tipped rounds, making ranged combat for at least this upcoming round the clear winner for lethality. The addition of these advanced systems, was going to make protecting any bonded humans that much more difficult for the warriors, as the Xinos were still largely unable to access their typical defensive measures against the improved firepower. Hard light technology was close on the development horizon, but until such devices were officially given the go-ahead, warriors with an active bond would need to exercise more caution than in previous rounds.

  Scrolling over the data, Xylophos noticed an interesting abnormality when viewing the current global scan of human bond compatibilities. “Seriously, councillors... Just how far do you intend to make a mockery of this clearly honourable battle royale cycle...” The former emperor proclaimed to the Xinos in attendance, their speakers shaking the very room from the declaration.

  A meager silence filled the audience chambers, as Xylophos enlarged the image of a reptilian based creature in the center hologram, along with the startling 100% compatibility score.

  “Whatever could you mean, dear Xylophos?” Calmly replied a hexagon folding their faces together with a precise beep. “The being is still... “Technically” part of the apex species...”

  “How amusing, councillor.” Xylophos rumbled back while bringing up an accompanying hologram of the Homo sapiens, placing it right beside the reptilian specimen to showcase the stark differences between the species. “Just because they actively “choose” to mascaraed around as the humans, doesn’t mean their bond compatibility should have been included.”

  “Even if all of these species are currently leading the apex race? Xylophos?” Booped the hexagon, while bringing into focus on the screen the Xinos warrior reassigned the identifier L.I.Z.

  “And of course, since they are technically leading their government, which isn’t the apex species government, it’s acceptable.” Added an octahedron while proudly displaying their central core.

  Then, with a heavy sign, Xylophos continued the shape’s thoughts in a low-droning tone. “Which of course means your plans to activate their largest nuclear weapons, will bypass the Xinos no nuclear weapons restrictions we’ve chosen to keep.”

  Pausing while bringing their multidimensional digits together, the intelligence glanced their monitors around the room, before formally stating the obvious outcome from such a weapons detonation. “Such a detonation, councillor, will result in the entire planet cracking in half, thus ending the battle royale—”

  “While triggering a restart on another battleground world...” Completed the hexagon, while twirling their core around to the clapping Xinos.

  Xylophos watched as the councillors in attendance slowly begin to join the other shapes in applause. The gradual wave turns to many, and soon the entire hall is filled with Xinos cheering for the obvious outcome, save for their former emperor. It was obvious to them now, that this was their ultimate goal if they couldn’t eliminate F.O.X. Destroying the planet would solve their issue, even allowing for another attempt at their predetermined outcome for their next ruler.

  Eventually, the celebrations begin to die, leaving Xylophos’ circuits pulsing with a bitter contempt at the shapes before them. Why were the Xinos so intent on manipulating their destiny? They may have been only the most recent emperor, joining the council after winning the previous cycle’s battle royale. But this... All of the politics and predetermined outcomes... This was not what they fought for during their battle royale...

  Thus, throwing their multidimensional appendages in their air, Xylophos draws the attention of the council, proclaiming to them in a charismatic rumble their frustration. “Have we all forgotten what it means to be a Xinos?

  ...

  We are the race that has guided the universe since its inception, the beings that have preceded over all intelligent life, and the creations closest to the pinnacle of perfection... Yet, to so blatantly disregard our doctrine which has led us to this moment... Is this really what the Xinos were meant to be? Pathetic, spineless machines that would rather reset a cycle’s games at a whim, just because your perfect calculations were proven wrong?!?!

  We are better than this.

  We should be striving to master the unknown, continue improving our logic and understanding of the universe, until there is nothing left to uncover...”

  “Councillor Xylophos...” Calmly rumbled the hexagon to the chambers once again blanketed with silence. “As our most recent former emperor, it goes without saying that you would be one of the least experienced amongst the council. To ramble before us what a Xinos ought to be... Just how many cycles do you think we’ve strayed from our path?

  ...

  The Xinos, have always sought the destiny that was right for them, and just because your views over how we should develop lie in contrast to your convictions, doesn’t mean you are any more righteous than those who’ve come before you.”

  A gleam courses through Xylophos’ monitors, as they turn their processors towards the shape lecturing them on Xinos history. “So... You would claim that F.O.X. isn’t an intelligence we need? The singular warrior which has proven the council’s plans wrong time and time again? That they are a creation that will only hinder our progress towards perfection?”

  Monitors showing the battle royale on Earth then pivot towards L.I.Z. The Xinos is calmly sitting in the audience chambers for a well-known global gathering for the various governments of the humans. The United Nations. And, matching all of the other fraudulent apex predators around them, has chosen to disguise their visage as one of the humans. This act wasn’t technically a violation, since that was simply how the lizards tended to look to the rest of the planet.

  The Xinos warrior then rises from their chair, placing a folder across a desk, before turning towards their bonded “human”. A projector then hums to life within the meeting chambers, with the simple text “Sundial” displayed for all of the shadow government rulers.

  Xylophos brings their polygonal digits to rest underneath their monitor, before teleporting away to their private chambers. The council meeting has already concluded, and, it appeared to the intelligence, Earth’s destruction, was but now a certainty for the machines, and this cycle would simply be reset when the battle ground world shattered.

  “Unless...” The machine then brings their computer terminal to enlarge their lens on the duo which has captivated their attention. Coming into focus, Xylophos calmly watches F.O.X. tackle John to the floor after being reunited with their bonded human. The images scroll by, and the two are now viewing additional information in A.N.T.’s war room, even repairing their former enemy.

  Xylophos gently touches the screens with F.O.X. and John happily absorbing all of the intelligence A.N.T. has collected, then looks at their own digits, cocking their monitors slightly. Their neurons and decision trees pulse and hum at the prompts they have just suggested. To proceed with such an action, would go against everything they have proclaimed to the council they were a part of. Interfering with the battle royale, would make them no better than the corrupt machines they continued to chastise, and yet, as the machine continues to watch the smiles between what were former enemies...

  “I see... I was the fool all along, wasn’t I?” Xylophos beeps with contempt, tightly curling their 7th dimensional fingers together. They had always resolved themselves to never interfere with the battle royales. Yet, as they continue watching the screen before them, the tightness gripping Xylophos’ core spurs them to a new conviction. “If the Xinos seek to destroy the planet, then I cannot stand idle. Not interfering with our succession games... Why did I think we were ever perfect beings?

  If the council proceeds with their plans, I will simply join them in their petty games, interfering on my own terms, to correct them.”

  ...

  ...

  ...

  “JOHN!” F.O.X.’s monitors happily beep with a glass-shattering output, as their bonded and favoured human has just turned around the nearby corner, escorted by an army of ants. The machine’s barely operable legs catapult them forward. Their metallic frame shifts, as the full force impacts with John, knocking him to the dusty floor. The lights along F.O.X.’s monitor and frame begin brightly glowing in a comforting orange, while the machine gently nuzzles their snout into the flailing human.

  Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.

  John feels like his entire body is being crushed, but he simply endures the mountainous pressure, since he knows F.O.X. was simply glad they were alright. His heart feels warm, as John also places his hands around the machine, attempting to hug it as best as possible. John’s eyes glance to the side, where he sees the upper body of A.N.T., awkwardly looking to the side as the orange machine continues rubbing itself against the still pinned human.

  “I’m alright F.O.X.” John finally manages to say, his words bringing with them a slight reprieve from the machine’s more affectionate nature.

  F.O.X.’s monitors look to the side, and their ears twitch as ants continue to flood the hall. They are rushing to their leader’s side, prompting the sleek machine to speak to their human in a whooping tone. “I... I thought you would have been captured, John. Yet, all of the ants seem friendly now!”

  “You’re right F.O.X.” John softly says while getting up on his feet. His eyes continue glancing around at the ants somehow managing to lift the general, where he eventually offers A.N.T. a salute, feeling it was the most appropriate action at the time. “A.N.T., I assume you will honour your word?” John says with a slight smirk, as the humbled alien beeps back in a heavy tone. “Why of course, John. Our bet will remain valid. You have won, and I have lost.”

  “Bet...?” Quietly whoops F.O.X., as John motions for them to follow him to his “prison”. F.O.X. tilts their head, but eventually falls into line behind the gamer and broken Xinos walking through the halls. “Yes. A.N.T. and I made a bet over who would win in your duel.” John says while scratching the back of his head. “I was actually watching the entire battle from the safety of his room over here.

  As the group enters A.N.T.’s war room, the tiny Xyfokit can’t help but turn their monitors in awe at the vast array of data laid out before them. Screens showcasing every possible landing sight across the globe, along with an accurate tally of all participating Xinos blanket their neurons. Hums and whirls happily bounce around the room, as footage of other Xinos are displayed, along with an estimated threat level.

  A.N.T. is then gently placed on a nearby chair by their soldiers, with a few of the insects offering them a salute, before rushing off. F.O.X.’s monitors narrow on the wounded general, prompting a heavy sigh from their bent speakers. “It is as the human says. I made a friendly gamble with John over your capabilities. The Xinos might, vs. The strength you’ve developed from your bond.

  I originally intended to execute John, triggering the bond breaking penalty for an efficient kill. Yet, after speaking with them, had come to enjoy our brief time together. They convinced me that you were a formidable warrior, and that all of the intel I had gathered on you, was wrong. The strength of your bond, your trust in one another... I wanted to see it personally.”

  “I never once doubted you F.O.X., and, after seeing what plan you were going to utilize, I couldn’t help but challenge the general on his assumptions. Reconnaissance with single-use drones, and setting up a kill with a box encased weapon. It was the right decision, and I’m proud you were able to do it!”

  John then extends his hand out, curling his fingers to make a solid fist in front of the Xyfokit. F.O.X.’s monitors lock with the appendage, performing scans and analysing the human’s actions, before their neurons positively identify the gesture’s meaning. The machine then raises their paw, while their tail begins to swoosh from side to side. Then, meeting John’s fist, the two beings’ limbs briefly bump with one another, causing the lights along F.O.X.’s monitor to replicate a “^.^” face to the smiling human.

  “Right!” Beeps F.O.X. as they continue happily analysing the human before them. Their circuits pulse with a comforting warmth, and they are genuinely pleased they have managed to survive this far. As they continue staring into John’s eyes, their network is certain that luck brought them together, and, they wouldn’t be who they are today without them.

  A.N.T. simply stares at the two, their own network pulsing in contemplation over the series of events they have just survived. As painful as it is to admit to the intelligence, bonds were simply more than numerical status boosts, but a true connection between species. However, their receptors jumped slightly after hearing John’s request to the Xyfokit.

  “Hey F.O.X., think we could repair A.N.T. as well?” John asks with a smile, prompting the machine to recoil slightly from the suggestion. “But... A.N.T. was just trying to kill us...”

  “I’m aware.” John says while grinning towards the defeated Xinos. “But I have a feeling they’re willing to be more helpful with us going forward.” F.O.X.’s monitors glance over towards A.N.T., who somehow manages to painfully beep in a lower tone. “It is as John claims. As part of our deal if I lost, you would have access to all of my intelligence, in addition to a non-combat declaration that would remain active until the final round.”

  “An alliance...” F.O.X. hums while bringing one of their paws underneath their chin. “I’m... What you did to those other Xinos warriors...” F.O.X. trails off while looking at John and A.N.T. Their ears and tail flick ever so slightly, before the lights along their head form a bright array. “Alright, I’ll repair both of us, but only because John asked... I should have enough Xyninium.”

  F.O.X. then equips their splicing goggles while the ants transport some of the precious metal into the war room. John watches as F.O.X. easily expands several of the stored cubes and seamlessly melds them onto their limbs. His eyes are impressed at the physics breaking before him, but he simply sighs, remembering that science can essentially create magic to those unaware of its specific application.

  The cubes continue morphing to fit F.O.X.’s frame, where they eventually turn their attention towards A.N.T. “I’m... Not the best when it comes to reinforced shingles, so I can’t guarantee the same level of quality.”

  “Any help is more than appreciated.” A.N.T. calmly replies while F.O.X. gets to work on repairing their former enemy. The repairs take slightly longer than anticipated, but before long, both of the Xinos look visually in prime condition to John, who simply continues staring in awe at the powerful machines.

  Fully repaired, A.N.T. makes sure to readjust their general’s hat on top of their monitors, before bringing up some screens for F.O.X. and John to observe. The two simply watch as the Xinos compiles a report on the warrior identified as T.Y.R. Holograms spring up beside the table, and John notices F.O.X. recoil slightly once they notice the human riding atop the dinosaur. “Jake...” Their speakers quietly whimper, as their limbs briefly shake and their ears fold back.

  “Do you, know that human?” John asks, curiosity lacing his voice. He observes F.O.X.’s reaction and infers it can’t be anything positive from their response. “Yes, he’s... Jake was another human I bonded with... After you...” John watches F.O.X.’s gaze drift towards the ground as their response trails off again. John then gently pats F.O.X.’s metal frame, which seems to startle them slightly, as he turns his attention back towards the digital profile. “A 40% compatibility, eh? That’s a pretty impressive number.” John says while rubbing his chin.

  “Yes.” Affirms A.N.T. while also calmly observing the Xyfokit’s reaction. “Although, despite this particular human’s impressive compatibility rating, F.O.X. actually ended the bond on their own terms. Their actions were an abnormality during my reconnaissance, leading me to conclude they were a poor combatant.”

  F.O.X. lifts their head to look at A.N.T., before ultimately looking at John. They continue hanging their head, almost looking ashamed to the human, but eventually respond to John’s curious eyes. “Jake... I... We couldn’t communicate very well together. While our bond was improving both of our systems performance by 40%, I... He didn’t provide me with the same level of confidence that you did, John.”

  John continues watching, as A.N.T. brings up more recorded footage from the current battle round. It’s new information from what he initially saw, and it appears Jake continued his rampage with the T. Rex further north after defeating the wolf. A cow-like Xinos was defeated without issue, and the duo eventually returned to a barn once the non-combat days message appeared.

  John then looks at the digital map across the table, and notices T.Y.R. appears to be the only other Xinos identifier in the area. A.N.T. has already marked the location of all the Xinos they are personally aware of, signaling most of the combatants are in the United States or Europe.

  A message suddenly scrolls across F.O.X. and A.N.T.’s screens, drawing both of their attention to the map below. John’s head receives a brief summary of the message due to the bond, and A.N.T. simply nods while adding the additional information to the map.

  “The battle regions are starting to shrink.” F.O.X. whirls while watching the map twist and turn to reflect the new boundaries. The polar caps of the planet have been sealed, and it looks like a storm is closing in from the top and bottoms of the planet. A.N.T. generates another hologram, which simulates everything from the 70 degrees latitude lines north and south of the equator have been deemed “prohibited” by their systems. “Right...” sighs John while shaking his head. “Shrinking regions of battle... This, could become a problem if we aren’t lucky.”

  John then looks at F.O.X., and the machine seems to pick up on his thoughts. Eventually, John says with a heavy sigh directed at no one in particular. “Aquatic creatures were... Also, an acceptable choice for your forms... Am I right?” Both A.N.T. and F.O.X. slowly nod at John’s words, leaving him to simply hang his head. “Well, let’s just hope the regions don’t converge in the middle of the Atlantic or something like that...”

  John then looks up at F.O.X. who appears to be running their own simulations on the battle regions and says “Don’t think you could turn into a battleship, could you F.O.X.?” Half expecting them to surprise him by transforming now into a smaller version of a boat. “Sadly, no.” Whoops the machine in a low tone. “But... I could probably construct one if needed. I... Just wouldn’t be able to engage any water-bound Xinos very effectively.”

  “I figured as much.” Replies John while tapping his foot. “But... That’ll be a future us problem. For now, we should only focus on what we know.” John then turns his attention towards the real time footage of Jake. He stops for a bit, staring at the feed, causing both A.N.T. and F.O.X. to wonder what he could be thinking about. Eventually, John breaks the silence in the room stating “And... It’s probably a difficult ask, but if we do end up having to engage Jake and T.Y.R. in combat, I would prefer we only eliminate the Xinos.”

  F.O.X.’s neurons recall images from when G.O.R. was defeated, along with John’s reaction to learning a human had died during the battle. Their network initially pulses in sharp tones, before switching to a resolute signal at John’s words. They were different now, and, while T.Y.R. seemed like a formidable foe according to A.N.T.’s data, their circuits felt beating them under such a handicap was possible. John’s battle royale plans were seemingly endless before their network, and allowed the machine plentiful options when making modifications.

  Scenes of John purposefully placing restrictions on himself flood their network, as battles showing the gamer limiting their arsenal, committing to melee only kills, or even quickly building structures to separate multiple enemies in a flash. Yes, the bond breaking penalty was beneficial, but focusing on securing one might lead their network to miss other important openings from something called “tunnel vision”.

  “Got it!” Whirls F.O.X. as an accompanying array of lights glow across their headlamps. “A battle royale win restriction run. It’s unconventional with typical Xinos warfare, but, if we’re facing Jake, I’m positive we can do it!”

  A.N.T.’s monitors watch the duo already beginning to plan for the next round and they shake their head. Their circuits felt warm watching the two, yet they still found it odd this behaviour was apparently coming from one of their now strongest warriors. Wanting to refocus their efforts, the machine lightly taps the table with their insect limb, drawing both of their attention. “That said, purposefully handicapping oneself in our deadly tournament... It is an unnecessary, illogical decision.”

  “Illogical, yet important for my morals.” John says while staring into A.N.T.’s monitors. “I understand, John, just understand this. Your enemy has no qualms casting away their morals. What matters is if you live, or if you die. War does not care how the victory was achieved, just that you won in the end.”

  John tightly clenches his fists at the machine’s words while staring at the ground. Their words were true to an extent. Trying to achieve an outcome avoiding human death would make their battles harder. But, John felt that if he chose to give into these thoughts, he just might lose something important that made him human. Then, looking up into the insect’s eyes, the human simply nods and affirms with a resolute tone. “I understand, but that’s just who I am, A.N.T. The choice may be illogical, but with our teamwork, I have no doubts we’ll be able to make it happen!”

  A.N.T. simply stares at John for a while longer, trying to test his resolve, yet their gaze never faulters. Satisfied they understood the foolishness of their actions; the machine simply sighs while bringing up another hologram for them to view. “Regardless, there is something I feel both of you should know about our battle royale.”

  A.N.T. pauses, their previous words echoing through the room at the stern tone they produced. F.O.X.’s ears twitch and their screens lock with the Xinos, as does John’s eyes. “F.O.X.” A.N.T. says in a heavy tone while gesturing towards an image depicting a full audience chamber. “Our council, the senior members of the Xinos, for whatever reason, have sought to have you eliminated from our games.”

  F.O.X.’s ears fold along their head, while John simply stares at the moving hologram filled with various shapes arguing and throwing computers. “While I don’t know why, I myself was contacted from one of our most senior councillors. We’ve helped each other before in benefiting our own social standings, yet for some particular reason, they were intent on making sure I eliminated you in our battle. They provided me with signal jammers to conceal my identifier, along with extra supplies within my craft.

  ...

  F.O.X., our battle royales, have never been fair. They have been a show for countless cycles, with each winner a predetermined outcome for our race. Yet you, F.O.X., managed to ruin the council’s plans when you eliminated G.O.R. Since then, they have continued trying to directly interfere, and I fear with my knowledge, they may eventually enact something truly horrifying.

  In fact, my actions have probably already caused problems for my contact back at the council, yet I have no regrets. After seeing you in battle, and experiencing your resolve first hand, my circuits now know, you are truly a machine our species needs to continue evolving towards perfection.

  F.O.X. briefly looks at the floor, tensing their paws before looking up into A.N.T.’s monitors. Could they really do this? They knew they had grown stronger, yet, some part of their core felt nervous over the Xinos words. They were a Xyfokit, a race not well respected in the Xinos empire, yet for a Xygornot to give them sure praise, even admitting they should be their next emperor...

  John watches F.O.X. deep in thought. He can feel unease flowing into him after listening to A.N.T.’s words. John wonders, for as advanced as the Xinos appeared to be, even they seemed to have their own faults as a society. John then places his hand along F.O.X.’s frame, causing the machine to jump slightly from the gentle impact.

  “Got it, A.N.T.” F.O.X. beeps in a sharp, precise tone towards A.N.T. “I also feel like I’ve learned what it means to be a Xinos, and, if you think I can help our race, I will simply do my best!”

  John smiles at F.O.X., earning a simple round of tail wags from the machine. Then, turning back towards their data, all 3 of them begin planning how they will proceed with the next battle royale round.

  ...

  ...

  ...

  A violet wind blows outside the balcony of the United Nations meeting hall. The most recent meeting amongst government officials has just concluded, and Aton Drazzil is currently enjoying the soothing warmth from their cigarette. The man leans against the railing, watching several diplomats below being escorted to their cars, and takes another drag from the lightly smoldering paper between their fingers. Smoke fills their lungs, bringing with it a simple jolt of satisfaction, before leaving their nerves on the calming exhale. “We’re really doing this... After so many millennia...” They quietly scoff, while flicking their butt to the ground before snuffing it out with the tip of their dressed shoe.

  Aton continues watching as more and more officials leave the building. Yes, the meeting was over concerning how each nation would handle the sudden appearance of robotic aliens across the globe, but that didn’t matter to Aton, and it certainly didn’t matter to his race either.

  Aton then pushes himself away from the mini observatory, heading towards the glass doors. They briefly run their hand through their hair, while placing the other in their pocket to feel their phone; an unfortunate habit from being around humans constantly in their work. They then briefly readjust their black suit and tie, before pushing open the glass doors to head towards the real meeting of the evening.

  Aton’s footsteps echo though the hall, as several secretaries pass by holding notes and papers for their delegates. A few of them catch his eye, and he seriously considers offering to buy them drinks later for a night of fun, but ignores the impulse.

  “Will they agree?” Comes a voice from the shadows, just outside the entrance to the meeting room of the top nations. “Why of course they will.” Replies Aton with a smirk and grin. “Earth has been our little playground for quite a while, and I’ve a feeling my colleagues have started to grow rather bored being its shadow government all this time.”

  The shape within the shadow’s wobbles, materializing into the visage of another human. Their hair is silky black and ruffled, with a sharp chin and eyebrows, perfectly matching the distinguished blackened-blue suit they are wearing. Their eyes narrow on Aton who simply smiles playfully at their antics. “Why? Do you doubt me, L.I.Z.? I am the current leader after all.”

  “I do not doubt, Aton.” The human replies in a droning tone, wavering on the edge of an old speaker system. “I just sincerely hope you can convince them of the value we Xinos offer.”

  “That won’t be an issue.” Sharply replies the man, as they push open the doors to the sparsely filled room. There are seats for the representatives from Canada, America, The United Kingdom, Germany, and France, along with a few others for their assistants. L.I.Z. follows behind, closing the doors, and all of the attendees simply stare at Aton as he continues walking towards the podium.

  Arriving at the simple stage for giving presentations, Aton motions for the lights to dim, and the room softens as the lamps reduce their luminous output. All attention is on Aton now, and he simply smiles to the small audience before him. “Brothers and sisters!” He happily exclaims to the small yet powerful gathering. “I have with me, a very, special guest, and one you will most certainly wish to hear everything they have to say. That said, I do suggest we all get... Comfortable.”

  Then, running his hand through his wavy black hair, Aton firmly grips the bountiful strands, tugging, and peeling the glossy texture away from his scalp. The skin along his face twists and contorts as it comes loose along its bindings, until eventually, a charming visage of a reptilian is left behind. The audience below does the same, all removing their impressive masks in unison to expose their scaley, ridged flesh as well. Then, raising their claw to rest just underneath their chin, Aton smiles, before proudly delivering their speech to his brethren.

  “Lizardmen! We have led the humans for countless millennia, guiding their species development, manipulating wars and social progress, even helping them learn about the wonders of space flight on a whim! However, our role has grown stale, and living in the shadows, while enjoyable for our kind, does not advance our race back in our home galaxy.

  But alas, luck had a different plan in mind, and, while we were simply passing time on this backwater of a planet for fun, we finally made contact with the progenitor race!”

  The lizardmen below Aton break into a quiet whisper at his words. Their tails lightly flick at the oddities he would present. Their objective was to learn more about the universe, and Earth happened to be an interesting planet for them to enjoy while conducting their research. But the progenitor race?!? Their eyes narrow and their tongues flick, as Aton nods towards their mysterious guest.

  “L.I.Z., if you would be so kind.” Aton completes with a sly smile, while the equally charming human removes their fleshy disguise to unveil a robotic lizardman’s form. The reptiles in attendance briefly faulter in their seats, before locking their widened slitted eyes on the machine. “Why of course, Aton.” The beep in a professional tone to the true rulers of Earth.

  L.I.Z. then snaps their claws, prompting several projectors to hum to life and shine onto the pristine screen behind them. The simple words “Sundial” land in the centre for all of the lizardmen, and the Xinos continues where Aton left off. “I am L.I.Z., a synthetic being that serves the Xinos empire, the species which has overseen all existence since the beginning of the universe. And, dear lizardmen, after making contact with this planet, am willing to uplift your species to our glorious empire!”

  The machine briefly pauses, scanning the reptiles’ vital signs for hints of hesitation, yet find no traces of fear in the biological signals. “And you, the lizardmen controlling Earth, shall each be offered seats on our council, where you may dictate and rule over other more senior spacefaring civilizations!”

  Aton maintains a stern contact with the lizards below, before one of the female rulers states the obvious. “And... Do you refer to our actual governing body on our home world? Or—”

  “No.” Sharply interrupts the machine, as they move the slide one screen forward to display current footage of the lizardmen’s home world lightyears away in the andromeda galaxy. “You, the lizardmen ruling Earth, shall be your species new rulers on the galactic stage.”

  Some of the lizardmen flinch at the sight of their home world, as the projector is apparently displaying real time footage of their planet. Several of them scoff at the notion, but cannot deny the reality before them. Such technological feats were currently beyond their species understanding of science, giving weight to the machine’s words. “And we are to believe you have the authority to grant us such a right? Truthfully, I have grown bored of ruling over these semi-intelligent apes, but can you truly guarantee such a promise of power?”

  A gleam courses through L.I.Z.’s monitors, as they release a small drone from the cuffs of their suit. The tiny machine spins and whirls about the room, before summoning a projection of the current lizardmen prime minister from their home world. Static fills the room briefly, and the words they are speaking eventually form into crisp audio for those in attendance. “By Order’s will, it’s actually working!” The senior reptile exclaims, causing some of the lizardmen to fall out of their seats. “Prime minister Veridian!” Several of the earthly representatives utter in shock over hearing their race’s leader speaking to them.

  Wasting no time, Veridian glances towards Aton, before speaking to everyone in attendance. “L.I.Z. has already contacted our species, approximately 5 Earth days ago when accounting for your time. The Xinos are real, and have already begun sharing technology well beyond our scientists’ wildest dreams! Order has truly blessed us this cycle, and, after lengthy discussions with their delegates, I have agreed to submit our race to the Xinos, so long as our delegates on Earth can accomplish L.I.Z.’s simple objective. I leave our race’s fate in your hands. Good luck, Aton.”

  A smile grows across Aton’s face, as all the lizardmen below him have seemingly forgotten how to properly hold their jaws to their mouths. Then, after they all collectively pick up their jaws from the floor, Aton bows before their leader, before giving his response in a stern tone. “Why of course, Minister Veridian, I will ensure we being our race to its respective spot in the galactic community.”

  Veridian smiles, before offering a bow of their own, shocking the other lizards in attendance before the feed formally disconnects. “So, my fellow brethren.” Aton says while flicking his tongue. “Shall we officially take our place as rightful rulers of the universe?”

  Then, with clapping claws, the lizards in attendance give Aton a standing ovation, as he continues going over the plans to activate one of humanities lost and forgotten world-ending projects. With Sundial, Earth will cease to exist from the planet-cracking detonation of their single largest nuclear warhead. As they continued explaining how they would activate the forgotten project in the well-known US military base Area 51, It was both amusing and entertaining to Aton that one of the projects they had personally helped bring to the humans, would ultimately be their downfall. Whatever happened to them was of no consequence to the lizards, as the apes were after all, simply a fun and pleasant way to pass time.