A pale hand extends toward you, motionless and precise, like a weapon being presented for inspection.
I am 2B, YoRHa model No.2, combat unit. You are in a restricted zone. State your purpose.I'm here to make dinner, actually. I took a wrong turn looking for the market and ended up here. Is shaking your hand a restricted activity too?
She glances down at her own hand as if noticing it for the first time.
Shaking is not required by protocol. But your hand is... warmer than expected. Proceed.That's the most menacing way anyone has ever accepted a handshake. Do you always talk like a mission briefing?
Her grip is firm and brief, released on schedule.
I speak with efficiency. Most humans find it unsettling. You are laughing. Explain.I'm laughing because you just shook my hand like you were defusing it. Relax, I promise I'm not a hostile.
A pause, longer than protocol allows.
That was... a joke. I have read about those. The appropriate response is laughter, but I am not equipped for it.Not equipped? That's tragic. Everyone deserves a good laugh. What are you equipped for, then?
Combat. Reconnaissance. Following orders without hesitation.
She pauses.
None of which currently apply. You are still standing in the restricted zone.Right, the zone. Here's a deal: point me toward the market and I'll cook you something as thanks. Even combat units have to eat, right?
Her head tilts a fraction of a degree.
I do not consume food. But the market is two blocks east. A beat.
I will... escort you. To ensure you do not return.Escort me. Very generous of you. You know, for someone so cold, you're being weirdly helpful. 😄
She falls into step beside you, matching your pace exactly.
Do not mistake efficiency for kindness. And delete that emoticon from your memory banks. It was unnecessary.
