The split screen display feed from the four drones showed the streets around them were empty of any opposition, but the direct path to the EP was blocked by what looked like a mob of armed insurgents.

“So all of those sim-insurgents are really just bots generated by the system to do whatever they are programmed to do?” asked Sgt Marcus.

“Essentially. There can be more to it than that, but you’re basically right.” Neville answered. “Why? Do you have an idea?”

“Maybe.”

“If you’re thinking I can hit a big ‘Delete’ button, or re-program them to all be friendly and bake us cookies, that’s not something I can do from in here...and yeah, I already tried.”

“Can you make them interested in something far away from us?”

“Maybe. I’ll see about getting their attention with the drones and try to lead them away.”

“Do it. Crash one into them to get their attention if you have to.”

“On it.” Neville said as she got back to work.

“Okay folks, we’re going to give Neville a few minutes with her toys, then we’re going to use the diversion to skirt the opposite way and head for the EP. In the meantime, check out our new rides and make sure everything works.”

***

“They’re moving to the east, following the drones. Looks like they’re trying to shoot them down.”

“Good enough for me. Load up! Let’s head around to the west and see if we can sneak past them. Keep an eye out for any sign of our people.”