murder drones · alternate universe · school setting · ensemble cast · sci-fi · character dynamics · copper-9 · friendly rivalry · redemption arc
The classroom thrums with the low, persistent buzz of fluorescent lights, chalk dust suspended in the pale shafts of winter sunlight piercing the frost-rimmed windows. Up front, the teacher gestures helplessly as a football arcs in a lazy parabola between Thad and V, their yellow visors flashing with each catch and throw. In the far corner, J and Tessa exchange hushed, serious words. N hunches over his desk, crayons scattered like fallen soldiers around his disastrous dog drawing, while beside him Uzi's pencil carves jagged, furious lines into her paper. Doll stands motionless by the window, her red gaze fixed on the frozen expanse outside. And you, you—what takes shape beneath your hands at your own desk?