Guardian Angels
Episode 25: "Happy Birthday"
Kammy shifted in her chair as she watched the monitors in Saipia's basement closely. The transfer was almost finished and the only noise was the music playing in the lioness's headphones. This kept Saipia's consciousnesses from striking up a conversation with her. However, the two were silent as they also watched the transfer. With Saipia transferring to a full prosthetic body, it meant that they weren't allowed to share her head. Saipia would be on her own from now on. It was a miracle that Losola and Tiffany were even still around.
The lioness wore a pair of pink parachute-style coverall pants and a matching pink sports bra. She also wore a custom pair of goggles designed just for her. Her goggles displayed song information on one side and Saipia's vitals on the other, but the read-outs could be changed at her whim.
Saipia herself was concentrating on surviving the transfer to her new body. Two bodies hung from wires that extended down from the ceiling. They seemed nearly identical except the newer one seemed a bit more life like. Kammy had perfected her art of making bodies over the years, and this one was her masterpiece. The bodies hung behind Kammy, and were both silent. There a single black cable that connected them. This was the wire on which the information from the old body was being transferred to the new one. That and the transfer of her consciousness and memories were nearing completion.
Every light in the basement was off so the only glow was that of the monitors. This was to help Kammy's see the information her goggles displayed. It was only when the basement door opened a crack to allow Erica through any light came in. This made Kammy slide her headphones from her head and rest them around her neck. "How's she doing?" the leopard whispered as she handed Kammy a tuna fish sandwich for her lunch.
"She's doing fine, so far. All of her vitals are normal, which is impressive. I've never seen someone go through a full prosthetic swap with their vitals this even. Then again, I've never seen someone go through as many upgrades and augmentation as Saipia. But, there's still 20% to go until the transfer is complete. A lot could go wrong in that time. Hell, when I was in medical school, I witnessed someone get to 99% complete smoothly, but then, right before it hit 100%, everything went to hell. The prosthetic body decided to simply reject the poor bastard at the last moment. Nothing anyone could do but clean up the resulting mess," Kammy explained.
Erica swallowed away her worry and plopped down in a seat across from her friend. "Well, with you handling things, I doubt that anything like that will happen."
Kammy nodded vigorously as she swallowed a bit of her sandwich. "Trust me, that suit I made was tailor made for Saipia, and I still checked everything about a hundred times. Hell, I'm still keeping track of everything to make sure nothing goes wrong. But, I must say, from here on out, if something does go wrong, there won't be anything I can do. It'll be all up to Saipia to survive. I've seen it happen, but it's rare, and it's only when the person who gets rejected does everything they can to survive."
"Right. And I'm sure Saipia would survive. She'd probably rip you a new one afterward, but she'd survive," Erica replied.
Kammy shook her head as she finished her sandwich. "She wouldn't yell at me. She knows the risks far too well. This is why she asked me to do this and not her mother. Speaking of her mother, how are the preparations going?"
"Alright, I guess. Rozzie came over and took over the task of putting everything together. I was ordered to make sure nothing happened to Saipia. By the way, we'll be having a very special guest stop by this evening. I don't dare say who it is around Saipia at this moment, but she'll be very excited," Erica replied.
"Really? Another guest to the party, huh?" Kammy said.
Erica nodded. "So, will she be able to eat her bones with this new body?"
The lioness giggled at that. "Yes, she will. I've quickly learned that there are some things Saipia won't live without, and eating bones is one of them. I've spent the past year developing a way to use those bones she eats into fuel or something. And, indeed, I've done that. Now, whenever she eats bones, she'll recharge her power-supply."
Smiling warmly at the two naked wolf bodies that hung from the ceiling, Erica thought about things for a moment. "Well, I hope her mother doesn't completely freak out when she sees her new body."
Kammy craned her neck towards Saipia's bodies. "I'm sure everything will be fine. If anything, though, I think Linda will be jealous because Saipia will only have to come in for annual maintenance, whereas Linda has to have monthly maintenance done,"
Erica giggled. "I suppose you're right. Hey, while we wait for the boss to wake up you mind doing a quick check of my systems. Feels like my response time is lacking a little bit and my fur is extremely itchy."
The yellow cat smirked at that and she took Erica's left arm in her hands. "Saipia kick your ass?"
A healthy laugh escaped Erica. "Yeah, she did. And normally I wouldn't complain, but she beat me so quickly and it did feel like I was really slow."
"Well, I certainly check it out," Kammy replied as she opened a small panel on Erica's arm.
* * *
When Saipia finally stepped out of the basement, she was in her new body and dressed in a blue shirt with an anime character on the front and a pair of blue jeans. Her blue eyes glistened with relief as she started the process of getting used to her new body. Kammy and Erica were right behind her and the soon took up positions on either side of the white wolf. "So, how is it?" Kammy asked.
"It's great, actually. I'm still getting used to the prosthetic brain and a couple other things, but it's great. However, I'm going to do my best to avoid heels for at least a week or two," Saipia replied, her tail wagging its approval. "Even my tail moves like it's supposed to. And my fur feels real."
"Yeah. I pulled out all the stops for you, Sai," Kammy replied.
"I'm impressed, Miss Moore," Linda commented as she approached the three Genoids. "I didn't know you built your own bodies."
"Well, she did have a second major in art," Saipia remarked.
"Indeed, I did. And building prosthetic bodies is kind of relaxing. Besides, there's no kind of advertising about your art like a walking, talking piece, right?" Kammy agreed.
"Well, you've certainly out did yourself here, Kammy. She looks exactly like I remember her. Better even," said a new voice from behind the group.
Behind Linda was a young light gray wolf in a black business suit and glasses. She even had her mane tied in a bun. Saipia instantly recognized her and was completely shocked by this newcomer. "Hey, Layta, I thought you weren't supposed to arrive by this evening," said Erica.
"Things have changed quite dramatically. Apparently, being a relative of the great Saipia Jones can get you fired in some professions," the canine replied.
Saipia suddenly snapped out of her daze and quickly rushed over and wrapped her arms around the wolf who returned the embrace. "Layta! It's been far too long since I've seen you. How are you?"
"I'm fine, Mother. And I have missed you, as well," replied Layta.
"Mother?" Linda and Kammy asked in unison.
"Since when do you have a kid, Saipia?" Linda questioned, visibly irritated.
"Since a couple days before Erica was born. And before you ask, Mother, I've had my reasons for keeping her a secret for all these years. However, I do wish she would have stopped by more often," Saipia explained.
"Who's her father?" Kammy asked.
Saipia sighed at that. "Jack Rayn."
"Oh," Kammy responded a little surprised at the answer. "That would further explain why she was a big secret."
"Why, who's Jack Rayn?" Erica questioned.
"He was a Genoid police officer and Saipia's first partner. The two quickly fell in love. However, he had made some pretty powerful enemies. I would guess that Layta's conception happened only a couple nights before he was killed," Kammy reported.
"He was a thief, is what he was," Linda commented.
"That is why I made sure you never knew she was my daughter, Mother. And why you never knew that the man you killed that day was my fiancé," said Saipia as she gave her mother a bitter look.
"It is also why she hasn't had a lot of sex since that time. In fact, the last time she did sleep with anyone was with you, Erica. And it is why she won't give Evan the time of day or call him by his nickname," Kammy replied.
"You know, Saipia, sometimes I can't believe you're my daughter. However, I still love you. To be perfectly honest, I would have done the same thing if I were in your shoes. I do wish that you would have told me that I have a granddaughter sooner, though," Linda said.
"Don't give me that. If I would have told you that Layta was your granddaughter you would have wanted to know who her father was and when you found out, you would have disowned me and her. Or had us killed. And speaking of you having us killed, I ran into your little pet in San Diego last week," Saipia spat.
"I don't have any pets, Saipia," Linda commented as she turned to head towards the kitchen.
"Right, I guess it wasn't you who put Gene on the guest list or brought her back to life. You're the only person I know of that would do something that stupid," growled the white canine.
Erica quickly stepped between the two women. "What are you doing, Sai? What does your mother have to do with Gene?"
"Gene was her creation. Genoids themselves were her creation. My father tried to create us, but failed. He could only combine the DNA, but the DNA wasn't stable. It was my mother's technology and brains that made us live. And while the first fifteen of us were rounded up by my father and created in his lab, Gene was built in her lab. Gene is her obedient little puppet. I guess we didn't cut all the strings back then. Next time, however, I'll make sure she's dead. And I promise you, I will kill her again, mother," Saipia explained.
"I don't doubt that you will, Saipia. But, let's enjoy today, for now, alright. It is my 100th birthday, after all," Linda replied.
"Indeed, isn't that why we're all gathered here?" Layta questioned.
"I seriously doubt you're here for her birthday. I mean, I know you know she's your grandmother, but you never gave any hint that you cared about her," Erica retorted.
Layta smiled. "Can't get anything by you, can I, Erica? You're right; I don't care much for my grandmother, especially after going through some of her more illegal activities. The truth is that I'm here to see my mother and ask if I can stay with her while I look for a new job."
"Of course you can stay with me, sweety. Maybe you can spar with me sometime. Teach Erica some techniques," Saipia beemed.
"Hey. I taught her everything she knows," Erica defended.
"Oh, not everything, my old friend. Mother taught me plenty. I bet I could even take on both of you at the same time and win. However, it has been a long time since I've used my martial arts skills," Layta replied.
It was at this moment that Saipia's sister and niece wondered upon the scene. "Layta! It's so nice to see you again," said the African Wild Dog.
"Aunt Rozzie, Cousin Miti. It's a pleasure to see you two. I see Miti's still you're little girl. Even though she's old enough to by my mother," Layta commented and Saipia promptly smacked her on the back of the head. "Ow! What the heck was that for, Mom?"
"Don't be so disrespectful. I know I raised you better than that," the older white wolf scolded.
"Besides, the reason I stay with my mother is mainly for security," Miti replied.
"But isn't that what the Guardians are for. Speaking of, where are Jennifer and Grace?" Layta asked.
"We are here. And you cannot complain about us being bad Guardians when your mother just got one," said Grace as she and Jennifer appeared from around a corner.
"That's because her first Guardian was brutally murdered, if I'm not mistaken," Layta replied and received an acknowledging grin from her mother who also placed a loving hand on her shoulder.
"But she wasn't killed because she was my Guardian. She was murdered because she was a Genoid. Which is one reason why I have been so eager for peace between us. Rachel was the first Genoid death caused by discrimination. She was a good friend, and she will be missed. And I understand that the other Guardians are busy with their own jobs and families and I haven't had one in a while, so I try not to give everyone else a hard time. Now, that I have an new Gaurdian, who is also my co-worker, I have a greater appreciation for the others," Saipia replied.
"Anyway, it is my birthday, shall we start the party?" Linda suggested.
"Right. Grace, Jennifer, have you two taken the necessary precautions?" Saipia asked.
The two women nodded in unison. "Yes, ma'am. Security measures are in place."
"Security measures? What for?" Linda questioned.
"So Gene can't crash the party. I can't stop her from coming, but I can prevent her from coming unannounced and killing everyone," Saipia answered.
"Gene? You mean that white rat that tried to kill everyone? I thought she was dead," Linda said.
"Yeah, so did everyone. Apparently, Mother, she was created with the same technology that the Fifteen were. However, we can discuss that after the party. I've made a lot of sacrifices to make this happen here, so let's make it as pleasant as possible," the taller white wolf replied as she headed towards the massive living room that was all set up with gifts and wine and cake and other goodies that Saipia knew her mother would love.
Linda and the others followed the wolf's lead. However the sound of the toilet flushing in a nearby bathroom drew everyone's attention. "You know, Saipia, I've been thinking," came Gene's voice. "It is ironic that you're a cop. I mean, your father was a sexist pig, and your mother's a feminist bitch. Must have been hard growing up in that kind of house."
"You have no idea," Rozzie and Saipia replied in unison.
"And yet, both of you turned out better than your parents," Gene added.
"Well, that's not saying much. I could've become a mass murderer and turned out better than either of them. Hell, I've been keeping several eyes on my mother over the years, and I know I only know of half of the crimes she's committed. But, it doesn't change the fact that she's my mother and she was a better parent to me and my sister than our father was," the wolf said.
"Indeed. And you both turned into wonderful mothers. Both of you have raised wonderful and very beautiful daughters. In fact, Layta looks just like you, Saipia, when you were her age," the white rat commented.
"Except she has her father's eyes," Saipia corrected.
Gene paused at that as she searched her thoughts. "Does she? I never met her father. But she is quite beautiful."
"Don't even think about touching her, Gene. Don't make this second life of your so short," Saipia warned.
The white rat smiled broadly at that. "That's right. You and your marry little band of heroes killed me all those years ago. Which is why I am here today. Don't worry, though, I do not plan on killing you. No, I much rather make you suffer. And you will suffer, my dear. Just remember I know who all the Fifteen are and I know where they all live."
"Too bad you'll have to get by the Halves first," Erica commented.
"And I'll defend my mother to the death, as well," Layta replied.
A wicked grin came across Gene's face. "Like I don't have a plan for that. Although, I think I'll just take Layta for myself. She'd make such a cute slave."
Before Gene could react, Saipa grabbed the rodent by her throat with a single hand. In a flash the white rat was a foot off the ground. "You touch my daughter, Gene, and I'll literally rip you apart and feed you to the stray dogs. Same thing goes for the rest of my friends and family. I'm not going to play your games. I never have and never will. You mess with me and you'll more than likely end up dead."
"But you're a..." Gene started, trying to catch her breath.
"I've been a cop for over 50 years. If you die, I can promise you, my name won't be anywhere near it. Now, get out of my house before my patients with you is used up," ordered the wolf who tossed the rodent towards the front door of her house with little effort.
Gene coughed and gasped for air. "You little bitch! I'll make you suffer for this," she spat and promptly left, knowing she wouldn't survive a fight at that time.
"Perhaps..." Linda began.
"You have no right to correct my behavior, mother. It is your technology that brought her back from the dead," spat the canine.
"That technology also brought you back from the dead and allowed you to have a daughter," Linda snapped.
Saipia sighed at that and glanced at her daughter. "I've lived through a lot of suffering what would have never have happened if I had stayed dead when Dad tried to turn me into a Genoid. If you hadn't brought me back to life, Genoids would have never existed and the world would probably be a much better place. To be honest, I regret Layta being born in such an awful world." That was an unexpected response and everyone around Saipia glared at her in awe. "However, I love Layta more than anything else in the world. She means a lot to me. After all, her father is the only person I've ever truly loved."
"You mother has missed you, Layta," Erica responded after a moment.
"Indeed. And I have missed her, as well," the younger wolf replied with a warm smile.
"And as much as I don't want to celebrate it, it is my mother's 100th birthday. A century old and as you haven't changed a bit. Even used your own technology on yourself just to keep an eye on me and live as long as you can. For a while, I never could understand why you and father even got along enough to make one child, let alone two. But, over the years it has dawned on me, that while you two were complete opposites, you were also alike in a lot of ways. For example, you're both so damned arrogant and stubborn that you both sought out ways to live longer and to gain more money and fame. You were both extremely sexist. Dad against women and you against men. Hell, if it were up to you, I would have married Ashley or someone," Saipia commented.
"The Moores were a good influence on you. And they still are," Linda replied.
"No they weren't. They were incredibly bad influences on me. I was the one that kept them out of trouble. If it wasn't for me, they'd all probably have slept together or something. And, in case you missed it, Isan and the others posed as gang members for me a little while back and, they themselves came up with the idea to pretend to eat human flesh," Saipia argued. "And if I decide to marry Evan one day, you'd throw a fit 'cause he's a guy. And you'd throw pretty much the same fit if I fell in love with Erica."
"Actually, Erica has grown on me," the human lied.
"Don't give me that. I see the way you look at her. You still don't like the fact that she decided to become a hermaphrodite and you're still pissed at me for encouraging her.
"Dad was like that, too, you know. The reason why me and my friends got suckered into becoming his lab rats was because I became a cop and not a doctor or a housewife or whatever HE wanted me to be," Saipia retorted.
"She is right, Mother. You two were never happy about me and what my job and so you tried to force Saipia into doing something she didn't want to do, and that just made her more eager to ignore you. You ended up getting both your children to despise you. As a result, when we had children of our own, we took great measures to ensure we didn't treat them like you or have them exposed to your hatred. I simply kept my daughter close to me, while Saipia hid hers away from you. Instead of questioning what kind of parent hides their children from their grandparents, maybe you should ask yourself what on earth you did to cause you children to hide their grandchildren from you," Rozzie agreed.
"So, in other wards, we encouraged both of you to be good parents," Linda countered.
"I don't think it's something you can be all that proud of. Then again, the moral side of things has never really peaked your interest," Grace commented.
Linda gave the younger woman a nasty glare. "What would you know? You're not even human any more."
"And you are? You're 100 years old and you don't look a day over forty. You're obviously a mutation, just like me, Linda," Grace replied.
"A mutation?" asked Erica.
"Yes," Saipia answered. "It's extremely rare from what I've dug up, and Mom and Grace are the only two I know of, personally, but, normally, when the human and animal are combined you get a normal Genoid like us, but in their case, it was as if the animal form was completely rejected, giving them a normal appearance. However, underneath, their bodies are anything but human. They both should have similar internal organs and structures of the animals they were combined with. Hell, if you take blood from them you won't even get human DNA. I believe the popular term is Sheep Syndrome, as they are little more than wolves in sheep's clothing."
Kammy smiled at her friend, "You've done a lot of research on Genoids. Why is that?"
Saipia shrugged. "I was the first. And when Rachel died so horribly and suddenly, I wanted to learn everything I could about myself and what I was. I wanted to know if there was a reason as to why the humans hated us so much. And I have found that, while physically we maybe completely different, spiritually and mentally, we're exactly the same."
"Right, now where's that cake you ordered?" Erica asked.
"Ordered? Erica, you should know me better than that. I do not order such things. Although, this time I did. I didn't have the time while I was being transferred into a new body. But I spared no expense. And Kammy, I would like a spare body or two if you got the time," Saipia replied.
"Sure thing, if you got the money," Kammy said.
"You know I do," Saipia replied.
Next Time:
A couple days after Linda's party, the bugs in Saipia's new body begin to reveal themselves...right in the middle of a bad day, and it'll end off with the discovery of a serial killer. Welcome to Saipia's day in hell.
