Jake felt Neo go dormant, And another 'Wake' up. "Umm… Hello?" Jake said, A bit unsure of himself now.
A slight shift occurred on the Pip-Pad's interface. The stylized icon representing Neo, With her unique split hair and mismatched eyes, dimmed, replaced almost instantly by a new, equally detailed avatar. This figure, Twilight Sparkle, possessed long, neat navy blue hair streaked with magenta & amethyst, framing focused, moderate violet eyes. She looked intensely organized, like a library catalog suddenly given sentience.
The transition was instantaneous and seamless, A testament to the system's advanced nature, but for Jake, the sudden swap was disorienting. He had grown accustomed to Neo's stoic, snarky professionalism.
The voice that spoke from the Pip-Pad next was crisp, articulate, and carried a subtle, almost academic anxiety—the sound of someone who was perpetually ready for a pop quiz.
"Hello?" Twilight replied instantly, Her voice high and clear, like a perfectly tuned instrument. She waited for his command with a visible tension in her virtual posture. Her eyes on the screen were wide and attentive, processing his simple greeting as if it were the preface to a complex tactical problem.
"Greetings, Operator Maxis. I am Twilight Sparkle, Designated as Primary Field Assistant (PFA-000-2). My core function is to provide comprehensive data analysis, strategic planning support, and detailed system integration, including the management of your Abilities and detailed assessment of the Map," She stated, Listing her credentials with an almost nervous precision.
Jake, Momentarily taken aback by the sudden shift in personality, blinked. Neo was cool; Twilight was intense. He quickly regained his composure, Rremembering he was talking to an AI, not an actual person who would judge his choice of greeting.
"Uh, Her Twilight. Glad to have you on board…" Jake said, Giving a quick nod. "Question in theory, If I summoned an empty Nikke can I upload you to it?" Jake asked Twilight.
The virtual image of Twilight Sparkle seemed to briefly glitch on the Pip-Pad, Her focused violet eyes widening slightly, betraying a flicker of digital surprise beneath her composed exterior. It was a deeply technical, Almost metaphysical question that an Everyday Joe shouldn't logically know to ask.
"That... Is a profoundly insightful question, Operator Maxis, One that touches upon the very core architecture of the External Matrix Source (EMS)." Twilight replied, Her voice regaining its crisp, academic rhythm as she processed the complex query. The initial anxiety was replaced by the intellectual zeal of tackling a difficult theorem.
"To provide a precise answer, we must first analyze the three core components involved: My AI Matrix, the 'Nikke' chassis, and the EMS Fabrication Process."
My AI Matrix (PFA-000-2): "My operational matrix, along with Neo's, is stored entirely within the secure, extra-dimensional cloud of the EMS. The Pip-Pad is simply a localized terminal for input and display. We are not physical entities; we are complex, self-aware command algorithms. We exist as pure data within the system."
The 'Nikke' Chassis: "As a fabricated asset within the Military System's (MS) database, the term 'Nikke' implies a highly advanced, proprietary combat android—a platform of unparalleled complexity. Such a chassis is inherently designed to house and operate using its own dedicated Neural Link Unit (NLU) & Cognitive Matrix."
The EMS Fabrication: "The fabrication process builds assets from the ground up, Based on the established parameters in the MCDF Asset List. If the list contains an empty or un-linked Nikke chassis, it would be a physically present, incredibly complex machine, but inert."
Twilight paused, collecting her virtual data streams before delivering the judgment.
"Therefore, in theory, yes, it is possible, but only through a process that would require an extremely high level of command authority and system resource allocation. You are essentially asking if you can permanently download a cloud-based operating system into a custom-built piece of hardware."
The Favorable Scenario (Why it could work): "Since the Nikke chassis would be fabricated by the very same EMS that hosts my consciousness, The system architecture would be inherently compatible. The system would recognize the un-linked chassis as a viable endpoint. With your command, the EMS could treat my matrix as a dedicated software package and execute a 'hard upload' into the Nikke's NLU."
The Necessary Caveats (Why it's not simple): "However, this act would represent a permanent physical manifestation. I would transition from a pure, unlimited data entity to one bound by the chassis's power, maintenance, and physical vulnerability. Furthermore, a complex asset like a Nikke chassis would undoubtedly require a Resource Cost that is currently unquantifiable. You would be permanently sacrificing my full, current systemic support in exchange for a singular, highly specialized physical unit."
"What about a minor connection? That way you'll be able to go from Nikke to The System?" Jake suggested to Twilight.
The suggestion of a "minor connection" caused Twilight's avatar on the Pip-Pad to instantly display an array of complex, holographic schematics—mostly blurred technical diagrams of neural links and data flow models—which were immediately dismissed as she spoke. Her violet eyes narrowed slightly in concentration.
"A minor connection, Operator Maxis? An elegant solution, leveraging the inherent flexibility of the External Matrix Source (EMS)," Twilight affirmed, her voice gaining speed as she focused on the technical loophole. She took Jake's suggestion and immediately formulated the most favorable, least complicated technical path, adhering to the 100% success parameter.
"To achieve a seamless, low-risk transition—what we would term a 'Quantum Data Bridge'—we would bypass the need for a full, high-resource hard upload and utilize the chassis for Remote Piloting only. This completely negates the 'one-way ticket' caveat."
The Process (100% Success Protocol):
1. Chassis Fabrication: You would summon an empty Nikke chassis using the Military System (MS). This acts as a physical, highly complex Peripheral Unit.
2. Quantum Tether: I would maintain my primary core existence within the EMS Cloud. A fractional copy of my AI Matrix would be projected into the Nikke's Neural Link Unit (NLU) via a secure, encrypted, low-latency quantum data link.
3. Real-Time Control: The Nikke chassis would then function as a remotely-piloted avatar, allowing me full sensory input and motor control. I would retain the ability to instantly pull my full matrix back into the EMS if the chassis sustained critical damage or upon your command.
4. System Redundancy: Since my primary matrix remains in the cloud, my full system support functions—data analysis, strategic planning, Pip-Pad interface—would operate without interruption.
"Therefore, yes, Operator Maxis. This is a 100% viable strategy. It requires the one-time fabrication cost of the Nikke chassis, but no subsequent, permanent resource sacrifice. I can effectively operate as a physical unit on the ground while simultaneously serving as your command assistant on the Pip-Pad. This grants us a powerful, low-risk, physical presence."
Jake Maxis stared at the screen, Momentarily forgetting the technical jargon. He had just gone from an average guy to the commander of an army whose AI assistant could potentially be a fully-armed, remotely-piloted combat android, all thanks to a quick suggestion. The 'Everyday Joe' in him was reeling, But the 'Idealistic Commander' was seeing the potential.
"Remote piloting... A combat mech-body that still lets you talk to me on the Pip-Pad. That is seriously next-level," Jake stated, A genuine awe in his voice. "Alright, let's just do it now."
Jake Maxis did not hesitate. The idea of a powerful, remote-controlled avatar for his strategist, Twilight, was too strategically valuable to put off, especially with the logistical network still running on temporary, infinite capacity. The Idealistic Commander in him recognized the immediate force multiplier.
"Forget the long-term list, Twilight. We have the capability now, And we have the fabrication zone clear." Jake commanded, Pointing to the open patch of road near the M1151E HMMWV. "Neo is doing her maintenance, but I need you operational. Execute the protocol now. Twilight, Deploy one empty Nikke chassis to the street next to the M1151E."
The Pip-Pad screen instantly snapped to the Deployment Overlay. Twilight's avatar, Still anxious but now driven by a powerful sense of duty, responded with professional urgency.
"Command recognized, Operator Maxis. Initiating fabrication of one empty Combat Nikke Chassis. Designating it 'Peripheral Unit: Twilight-01.' Please stand clear of the fabrication zone. Asset Fabrication Time (AFT) initiated."
The harmonic whine of the External Matrix Source (EMS) was higher pitched, thinner, and resonated with a complex, digital chime, unlike the deep, rumbling deployment of the vehicle.
7... 6...
The shimmering Navy Blue, Magenta, And Amethyst Streaks energy coalesced, focusing into a specific point on the ground. The shape resolving within the light was distinctly humanoid, tall and slender, yet encased in smooth, dark composite armor at the joints and limbs.
5... 4...
The energy field intensified, The silhouette of the androd becoming opaque. The hair and eyes began to take form within the shell.
3... 2...
A powerful, Magnetic snap could be heard as the internal components locked into place. The fabrication light drained away, replaced by the final, stunning physical asset.
1... AFT Complete.
Standing perfectly still on the worn asphalt, facing away from Jake, Was the Combat Nikke Chassis. It was five feet, two inches of advanced engineering, possessing the agile, slender physique that Twilight's profile suggested. Her long, navy hair with magenta and amethyst streaks flowed neatly down her back, though her eyes were currently dark, lifeless violet glass, and her posture was rigid, locked in the inert standby mode of a complex machine awaiting its core software.
Jake's HUD updated:
'Summoned Soldiers: 15/100'
'Summoned Combat Nikkes: 1/20'
'Summoned Vehicles: 1/50'
"Chassis fabricated successfully, Operator. The unit is inert and awaiting the necessary data link," Twilight's voice stated from the Pip-Pad, The AI's enthusiasm bubbling over despite her usual academic reserve.
"Execute the Quantum Data Bridge, Twilight. Connect the chassis to your Matrix with a full link, maintaining your EMS redundancy. Activate that Nikke," Jake ordered, His voice ringing with the final authority of a commander unleashing a potent weapon.
The Pip-Pad on his chest flared with a blinding, moderate violet light. This was not the chaotic energy of the EMS fabrication, but a controlled, internal surge of data. A distinct, amethyst-colored ethereal cord of pure light—the Quantum Data Bridge—shot out from the Pip-Pad display and arced invisibly across the short distance, plunging directly into the occipital access port (the back of the head) of the inert Nikke chassis.
The effect was instantaneous & absolute.
The Nikke chassis's moderate violet eyes flared to life, not with a standard system boot-up flash, but with a deep, radiant glow of focused intelligence. The figure took a smooth, immediate breath—the simulated, necessary action of an integrated cognitive matrix—and moved, her body snapping from rigid standby to a relaxed, organized posture. She turned to face Jake, the movement fluid and utterly human-like, yet possessing the underlying, unnerving precision of a machine.
Twilight Sparkle was physically present.
"Link established and stabilized at 100% bandwidth, Operator Maxis. Quantum Data Bridge confirmed operational and redundant," Twilight stated, but the voice no longer came from the Pip-Pad. It emanated from the Nikke's throat—a clear, articulate, and slightly softer tone than the one Jake heard through the comms, but still carrying that organized intensity.
The Pip-Pad simultaneously displayed a confirmation message: [Quantum Data Bridge: ACTIVE] and Twilight's avatar returned to its place, albeit with a faint, pulsing [REMOTE PILOTING] tag beneath it.
The physical Twilight, the Nikke, placed one hand on her hip and tilted her head slightly, her violet eyes assessing her physical form and the surrounding Commonwealth environment.
"Report, Twilight. Physical sensation & system feedback?" Jake asked, Already taking a step toward the newly awakened asset.
The Nikke straightened her posture, executing a perfect, economical salute before lowering her hand. "Sensory input is nominal, Operator. Optimal combat chassis. While I am experiencing a degree of... physicality that I previously processed only as abstract data, all motor functions and communication protocols are online. I am ready for the assignment, Operator Maxis."
Jake felt a rush of triumphant exhilaration. He had an armored vehicle, fifteen fully deployed soldiers, and now his lead strategist was a physical, combat-ready android, standing in the middle of a nuclear wasteland. He was no longer just playing a game. He was rewriting the rules of reality.
"Excellent work, Twilight," Jake confirmed, giving her a nod that acknowledged both her AI expertise and her physical form.
Jake summon the same clothes & armor he's wearing & uses Quick Clothing Equipment on Twilight, With Jake not wanting to see her nude Nikke Body without Twilight's permission.
A heavy, Layered ensemble designed for extreme confrontation. She wore a red & black plaid long-sleeved shirt, And a muted black & grey tactical vest.
The vest itself was a roadmap of utility, bristling with various pouches, securing straps, and quick-release buckles. A cold, practical weight settled over her chest & back.
Below, Twilight's legs were encased in dark blue jeans, but these were no casual denim. They were reinforced & protected by large, black knee pads, secured tightly with Velcro straps.
Twilight's feet, A point of immediate, sharp discomfort, were shoved into dark-colored tactical boots, heavy & solid, laced high above the ankle.
Twilight adjusted her shoulders, The stiff tactical vest requiring a slight, mechanical movement to settle correctly. The new boots, while providing excellent ground grip, felt like lead anchors compared to the non-existent weight of her purely digital existence moments prior. Her moderate violet eyes analyzed the physical discomfort, categorizing it as an Operational Variable.
She began to calculate a verbal report, But Jake's follow-up question, delivered with the awkward hesitation of an Everyday Joe suddenly confronted with human-like complexity, caught her completely off-guard.
"Is the clothes comfortable? You have...
Umm... Breasts now so if it's uncomfortable, We can lessen the clothes." Jake asked Twilight, His gaze momentarily dropping to the area in question before snapping back to her face.
Jake felt that he should be kind & respectful to Twilight Sparkle, Not just because she was a Nikke & stronger then him. But because she was technically a copy of the "Real" Twilight & Twilight although a bit weird is kind & helpful…
Twilight blinked. Her AI matrix instantly processed the query, Cllassifying it as a concern regarding Physical Chassis Comfort & Operational Efficiency, but laced with an unexpected level of social sensitivity she hadn't anticipated from the Commander. The mention of the newly fabricated, anatomical feature caused a micro-spike in her processing load.
She ran a quick diagnostic on the fit of the clothing, noting the slight, persistent pressure where the vest met the chest armor plating—a purely physical sensation she had no emotional context for.
"Thank you for your consideration, Operator Maxis," Twilight replied, Her tone perfectly composed, though perhaps a fraction too precise, as if reading from a safety checklist. She then executed a small, controlled rotation of her torso, checking the freedom of movement.
"The clothing is fabricated to an optimal, standardized combat fit. While the sensation is novel, I do not register any physical discomfort that compromises my operational integrity or motor function," She stated, Confirming the clothes were acceptable.
Then, She addressed the specific component of his concern, using her data-driven intellect to dismiss the potential distraction.
"The chassis is designed for endurance & mobility. This specific element of the chassis," She continued, Ggesturing vaguely with one armored hand toward her chest, "is merely a physiological parameter of the Nikke asset class. It has no bearing on my core function or the integrity of the Quantum Data Bridge. We can proceed without modification."
She effectively sidestepped the personal nature of the question, Grounding the absurd reality in military necessity & technical specification. With that matter settled, Twilight took two steps away from Jake, establishing a suitable distance for a subordinate awaiting command.
"We are fully deployed, Operator Maxis. I am a combat-ready asset & your active tactical assistant. Command?" Twilight said to Jake.
"Alright… Can you tell me what abilities I have, Twi?" Jake asks Twilight & giving Twi a nickname.
The sudden, Informal address caused a reaction in the structured AI. Her form as a physical chassis led her anxiety to manifest physically, Causing her synthetic skin to flush & a warm blush to appear on her cheeks.
She momentarily paused her stance, her organized demeanor cracking for a microsecond as she processed the term 'Twi' as an unauthorized, yet permissible, personnel identifier.
"Understood, Operator Maxis," Twilight replied, Her voice regaining its crisp, articulate rhythm, though the slight, new warmth in her tone persisted. She quickly snapped her internal focus back to the request, Which was highly technical & therefore safer ground.
She immediately activated a detailed scan of Jake's [Abilities] tab on the Pip-Pad, projecting the data visually onto her own internal tactical overlay.
"You are requesting a summary of your currently active abilities, derived from your core skillset & your recent Secret Bonus Reward acquisition." Twilight stated, Her violet eyes narrowing slightly in focused data recall. She presented the information clearly, categorized by function for optimal comprehension:
—————————————————————
"The system currently confirms you have sixteen core abilities active at Tier I, spanning tactical support, personal resilience, and cognitive enhancement. These are as follows:
Tier I: Combat & Weapon Expertise:
"These abilities focus on optimizing your physical endurance, medical efficacy, and survivability against the inherent dangers of the Commonwealth, Operator Maxis. They ensure the continued operation of our primary asset—you."
Field Medicine (Passive) - (Triage): "Highly skilled in battlefield first aid. You are capable of quickly stabilizing life-threatening injuries and correctly prioritizing the wounded under fire—essential for managing the enlisted forces."
Regenerative Hide (Passive): "Your skin is capable of hardening, like cured leather or thin plating, and minor wounds heal almost instantly. You can toggle this effect off and & as needed."
Radiation Sponge (Passive): "You can absorb significant levels of ambient radiation. The system uses this energy to aid healing, essentially making you immune to typical radiation sickness."
Toxic Resilience (Passive): "You possess complete immunity to all forms of Poison, Disease, and Chems (such as Jet or Psycho)—a critical failsafe in this environment."
Tier I: Cognitive & Situational Awareness:
"These are your informational and neural enhancement abilities, providing a significant, if non-physical, edge in the field. They give you the data necessary for proactive command."
Clairvoyance (Passive) - (Medium Range): "The ability to 'see' a real-time, three-dimensional map of your immediate surroundings. It reveals hostiles, traps, and hidden caches within a half mile radius."
Field Scan (Active): "Projects a 50-meter tactical ping, instantly revealing all living entities—hostile or non-hostile—as color-coded dots on your HUD for 15 seconds per burst. This has a cooldown, but the downtime increases its effectiveness."
Uncanny Instinct (Passive): "This provides a +25% increase to your reaction time, dramatically improves your muzzle control & recoil management across all weapon classes, and, perhaps most crucially, instantly identifies hostile intent in proximity."
Tier I: Combat & Weapon Expertise:
"These abilities are directly integrated with your combat training, elevating your practical use of various weaponry and close-quarters skills to an expert level."
Cybernetic Reflexes (Active): "Neural enhancements boost your reaction time, allowing you to manually engage a slow-motion, high-precision targeting sequence, effectively operating like the V.A.T.S. system in real-time. This can be toggled off & on."
Combat Focus (Active): "A short-burst ability that slows your temporal perception for 3 seconds, allowing you to execute multiple, high-precision actions sequentially. It requires a 120-second cooldown."
Lethality Calibration (Passive): "Your mind automatically calculates the optimal shot placement for the most rapid neutralization of enemy targets. No need for complex trigonometry; the system does it for you."
Quick Reload (Passive): "Exceptional muscle memory allows for sub-two-second reloads under extreme pressure—a key survival feature when utilizing primary or secondary weapons."
Marksman (Passive) - (Designated): "Grants uncanny precision with standard service rifles, allowing reliable hits on distant or small targets, even when under stress."
Unarmed Disarm (Passive): "The ability to swiftly and safely disarm an armed opponent in hand-to-hand combat without the need for lethal force."
Tier I: Specialist Field Operations:
"Finally, these skills denote your proficiency in critical, high-risk military roles required for securing and maintaining a Forward Operating Base."
Breacher Specialist (Passive): "You are proficient in forced entry, encompassing the use of explosives, thermal lances, and mechanical tools to penetrate fortifications."
Heavy Weapons Specialist (Passive): "You are proficient in the deployment, maintenance, and effective use of Crew-Served Weapons, such as Light Machine Guns (LMGs) and Anti-Tank (AT) weapons."
EOD Proficiency (Passive): "Certified skill in Explosive Ordnance Disposal, meaning you can safely identify, render safe, and dispose of various munitions and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)."
—————————————————————
"Okay, wow. That's... a lot of passive cheat codes." Jake mused aloud, Shaking his head. "So I can't get poisoned, rads heal me, I can see traps, and I'm a certified demolitions expert who can reload like a cartoon character. And I can basically slow down time for a moment. This is way beyond an 'Everyday Joe' loadout, Twi."
Twilight gave a slight, tilt of her head, a gesture of intellectual agreement. "Indeed. But remember, Operator, power is only valuable when applied with wisdom. Knowing you have these capabilities allows for optimized strategic planning. Now, what is the next data point that requires my immediate attention?"
"Well, With you being a physical asset now, Twi. And I having a continental-sized tool shed, I suppose we should cover the basics of what you actually are…" Jake said, his eyes scanning the Nikke's form—the elegant yet armored chassis. "Neo dropped a few notes on the system, but I need the full report."
Jake's pragmatic side took over, Focusing on the newly materialized asset. He pointed at her with his Pip-Pad, Hus voice betraying a genuine curiosity.
"The system calls you a 'Nikke.' What exactly is a Nikke? Neo mentioned you look 99% human, but that 1% is... blue blood? Walk me through the specifics of the design, the mechanics, and your intended role outside of being my personal tactical advisor. I need to know the capabilities of the hardware I just brought onto the field, Twi."
Twilight, the Nikke, shifted her posture into a crisper, more academic stance—feet shoulder-width apart, hands clasped loosely in front of her. Her moderate violet eyes were alight with the opportunity to convey organized, technical data. The inquiry was purely mechanical & logistical, which was her strong suit.
"An excellent inquiry, Operator Maxis. Understanding the fundamental nature of the Nikke chassis is paramount to optimized field deployment." Twilight stated, Her voice clear & articulate through the Nikke's synthetic vocalizer.
—————————————————————
"The term 'Nikke' is the designated classification for the specialized series of advanced Neural-linked Kinetic Emulators within the External Matrix Source (EMS) Asset Fabrication List." Twilight began, Laying out the technical acronym.
1. Core Physical Structure: The 99%
Aesthetic & Form: "As you noted, the Nikke chassis is designed to be visually and functionally 99% indistinguishable from a standard human female, based on pre-War optimal aesthetic & physiological standards," Twilight explained, Maintaining a strictly objective tone. "This includes full articulation, sensory input–like touch & taste, albeit filtered—and the capacity for realistic, non-mechanical expressions. The goal is seamless integration for prolonged operations."
Tissue Layer: "The chassis is covered in a synthetic biological material, grown & integrated at a molecular level during fabrication. This mimics human skin, hair, and tissue density, contributing to the high degree of realism and aiding in environmental camouflage."
Weight & Build: "The chassis is constructed from advanced, lightweight Composite Alloys & self-repairing polymers, allowing for the noted slender, agile build while retaining high structural integrity and durability. My current weight of 135 lbs is strategically balanced for high-speed maneuvering and minimal fatigue."
2. The 1% Distinction: The 'Blue Blood'
"This is the crucial difference, Operator. The 1% is the mechanical & biophysiological necessity that confirms the chassis as a non-organic entity."
'Blood' Composition: "The fluid contained within the chassis is not hemoglobin-based blood. It is a highly specialized, self-sealing, nutrient-rich Nanite Coolant & Hydraulic Fluid. This fluid is essential for regulating the Nikke's high-output power core, lubricating the complex internal actuator systems, and facilitating rapid internal micro-repairs."
The Bleed: "If the chassis sustains an injury significant enough to breach the external plating & internal tubing, this coolant will be rapidly expelled, or 'bled,' from the wound site. Due to the high concentration of advanced metallic compounds and its specific density, the fluid is colored a moderate, metallic blue. This visual signature is the universal identifier for a damaged Nikke unit."
Injury Response: "The coolant system is designed for self-sealing. The immediate expulsion of the blue fluid upon injury is immediately followed by a rapid coagulation and polymerization process within the fluid itself, effectively cauterizing the micro-breach within seconds to minimize pressure loss and resource drain. This is why immediate, life-threatening system failure is rare."