Chapter Text
Annika still has work to do
In my mind
The voice is back.
Insider her mind.
Repeating the same statement over and over again.
When the collective first released her it was a joyous sound. The sound of freedom, once again, from the hive mind.
Annika still has work to do
Now it sounds like a call for payment. A cosmic ledger that is calling in its debts.
The collective doesn't release you for no reason.
There was a purpose to this mercy.
Annika still has work to do.
The voice is more persistent…
Annika still has work to do.
More demanding…
Seven doesnt know what it wants. But she feels her body does. It aches to submit to the voice, to follow its calling.
She can't explain to anyone what is wrong, the words won’t form. She tried to write it down but as she looks at the paper there are those words again.
Annika still has work to do.
They haunt every waking moment, then seep into her dreams.
Annika still has work to do.
She wakes suddenly.
Her hand reaching towards Raffi’s neck, the itch of her tubules ready to deploy.
The waking moment is more terrifying than any nightmare. The outstretched hand tremors with fear, she tastes the memory of lithium.
Raffi sleeps peacefully beside her, unaware of the danger.
Seven has put her life in risk multiple times, but with Raffi she never wanted there to be a first. And she most definitely won’t let there be a second time she endangers her.
Seven strokes Raffi’s hair back for one last look at her face. Before pressing a kiss into her temple and whispering a muffled "I love you" before slipping out of bed.
If she waits until morning Raffi will change her mind. Hell, if she even looks back, she will change her own mind.
Annika still has work to do repeats the voice, as Seven exits into the night.