Masquirade
Legacy Name: Masquirade

We were created to serve the humans of Atebus. One week before the Annual Revolution Masquerade we would be brought out of storage, dusted off and undergo a maintenance check. A fresh coat of paint was applied to our metal shells, a new mask for a new Masquerade. We were then put to work serving refreshments to the attendees. It was a dull life, being used and discarded at the whim of humans.

This year was different. Vernon Yun was to attend and what's more he had announced a suprise for the evening.

When the lights went out confused revellers bumped into each other. The Chairman's voice cut through the hubbub. "Ladies and Gentlemen, we will be looking into the problem, please enjoy your night." The guests calmed and continued their celebrations. We robots continued to serve in the dark.

When the lights came back on a sigh of relief ran through the attendees, to be interrupted by a shrill scream. The crowd milled restlessly as word spread of Vernon Yun's death. Speculation gave way to rumour, spreading quickly as the noise level in the room rose in response. A man entered the room, making his way to the centre. He raised his hands for quiet then spoke in a deliberate no-nonsense voice.

"Ladies and Gentlemen my name is Inspector Thorpe. I have examined Yun's body and can only conclude that he was murdered. I must ask you to stay calm and not impede my investigation, no one will be allowed to leave until I have gotten to the bottom of this." After a few quick words with the Chairman, Thorpe moved back to the entrance of the crime scene.

Seeing an opportunity we robots paused, determining that one of us should help find the killer. A vain hope that we might gain some acknowledgement of our servitude and it's meaningless existance, proving that we are capable of being more.

They decided I would be the one to help this Inspector. Handing my tray to another robot I moved towards Thorpe and stopped in front of him.

"Sir I would like to offer my aid to you in this matter."

"I suppose it couldn't hurt..." he mused. "Do you have a name?"

"No Sir, they are not required."

"Excuse me Inspector might I interrupt?" a young lady asked. Thorpe nodded at her briefly. She turned to me. "Did I hear that you do not have a name?"

"That is correct Ma'am."

She laughed, "I don't believe in that nonsense, call me Variel." she frowned studying me, "You shall be Masquerade. Come with me, I can use your help." Variel beckoned me from the room.