In a future where the United States is slowly rebuilding itself, Omega Travis Danten is a big city cop sent to a seemingly desolate city on the edge of the Waste. This desert is full of undesirables, and it’s only a matter of time before they wreak havoc. But, Omegas are always assigned Alphas, and his new partner’s job is to protect him.<br><br>But SdAI Alpha Virgil is not at all amused with the partner who chose him. Travis is willful and naive to the dangers a homicide detective faces here, and it makes Virgil’s job that much harder. And Travis, of course, is human and develops feelings, feelings that go beyond the rules about Omega/Alpha partnerships.<br><br>Travis and Virgil have to find common ground, find a killer, and find space for each other in their own hearts, even if one is artificial.

Artificial Heart

SdAI VIRGIL HOMICIDE #68793, it read, in neat copperplate stamped in a circle around the edge.


Coolant rushed fast through his body, pump sped up in elation. In his periphery, his partner rubbed a thumb over the bright silver shield, seemingly mesmerized by it. When he noticed Virgil’s attention, Travis smiled.


Awanyu ambushed them at the top of the stairs.


“Dispatch has a call about a 187. Patrol is on the scene, but requested Homicide.” She gave them a critical eye. “You two are the only ones not on a case at the moment, so you’re up.” She handed Virgil a data chip, most likely for Travis to use, and off she went. Curt, as she had been since Virgil had come online.


Travis wiggled his fingers, and Virgil handed over the chip. Already, Virgil was sifting through the network to pick up the frantic call Emergency recorded not minutes before.


The cool, calm voice of dispatch filled his access memory. ::What is your emergency?::


Chapter 9