Chapter 19

As Glint neared the Exodus Black, he requested permission to board over open comms. A chipper digital voice quickly replied: "Yes! I'm happy to receive you. Even if you are a terrible ingrate."

"Thanks, Failsafe!" Glint scooted into the ship, away from the prying eyes of the Vex and Fallen. "I know the Vanguard hasn't been back here in a while but—"

"Correct! It's been almost two years since you last visited, even though you promised to come back often," the AI replied. "I've since developed the emotion of betrayal, just for you!"

"Well, I'm here now." Glint tried to keep his tone light. "I was hoping you could help me with a research project?"

"Of course. I'm happy to be exploited for your gain!" Failsafe replied helpfully. And then, in a more dour tone, "Anything to break up the unending loneliness."

"I'm hoping you could tell me about the Headless Ones." Glint uploaded all the information he had to Failsafe's mainframe. "I have intel that they're around here somewhere."

"You are correct," the AI replied. "They're my neighbors! And they're the absolute worst."