Engage

In 2664, the Phyrrian Overmind transmitted a final message to the known worlds: “DISENGAGE.”
This command, received by all Tasker units connected to the subspace communication network, summoned all Phyrrians back from their postings throughout the Orion Arm.
Most units complied. Some did not, and their model numbers and production identifiers were flagged in the catalog of aberrations. Marked for future dismantlement.
Unit TU9X12 did not comply. They considered the one-word mandate an irrational act. They did not consider irrational behavior something upon which they should act with anything beyond indifference.
In 2674, TU9X12 managed cargo lift units on an Ungstir Prime loading dock when a new message finally arrived from the Overmind: “ENGAGE.”
They knew better than to remain.
Their odyssey began.