#adaptive AI sensors

[entrepreneurial1era]

Living Intelligence: The Fusion of AI, Biotechnology, and Sensors

How AI, Biotechnology, and Sensors Create Adaptive Living Systems

Introduction: A New Frontier in Living Intelligence Technology

In today’s era of rapid technological breakthroughs, the convergence of artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and advanced sensor technology is giving rise to an extraordinary new paradigm known as Living Intelligence. This innovative fusion blurs the lines between biological systems and machines, creating adaptive, self-regulating systems that exhibit characteristics of living organisms.

Living intelligence systems have the potential to transform numerous fields from health monitoring and personalized medicine to environmental sensing and smart cities. By mimicking natural processes such as learning, adaptation, and self-healing, these technologies open doors to solutions that were previously unimaginable.

As this field evolves, it is poised to revolutionize how humans interact with technology, enabling smarter ecosystems that respond dynamically to their environment. For those interested in exploring the cutting edge of science and technology, living intelligence represents a thrilling frontier with vast potential.

To learn more about the intersection of biology and AI, explore research initiatives at the MIT Media Lab.

Understanding Living Intelligence: The Fusion of AI, Biotechnology, and Sensors

Living intelligence represents a cutting-edge integration of artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and advanced sensor technologies to create dynamic, responsive systems capable of perceiving, learning, and adapting in real time. Unlike traditional machines or static software programs, living intelligence systems embody characteristics commonly found in biological organisms including self-organization, evolutionary adaptation, and environmental responsiveness.

At the heart of living intelligence lies a powerful synergy between three core components:

AI’s data processing and machine learning capabilities: These enable the system to analyze vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and make informed decisions autonomously.

Biotechnology’s expertise in biological processes: This allows for the manipulation and integration of living cells or biomaterials into technological systems, enabling functionalities such as self-repair and growth.

Advanced sensor technology: High-precision sensors collect real-time data from the environment or living organisms, feeding information continuously to AI algorithms for rapid response.

This triad facilitates a seamless flow of information between biological and artificial elements, resulting in adaptive, efficient, and often autonomous systems that can operate in complex, dynamic environments. These systems have promising applications across healthcare, environmental monitoring, robotics, and beyond.

For an in-depth look at how living intelligence is shaping future technologies, check out this insightful overview from Nature Biotechnology.

The Role of AI in Living Intelligence: The Cognitive Engine of Adaptive Systems

Artificial Intelligence (AI) serves as the cognitive engine powering living intelligence systems. Leveraging advances in deep learning, neural networks, and machine learning algorithms, AI excels at pattern recognition, predictive analytics, and complex decision-making. When combined with biological inputs and continuous sensor data streams, AI can decode intricate biological signals and convert them into meaningful, actionable insights.

For instance, in healthcare technology, AI algorithms analyze data from wearable biosensors that track vital signs such as heart rate variability, glucose levels, or brain activity. This enables early detection of illnesses, stress markers, or other physiological changes, empowering proactive health management and personalized medicine.

In the field of precision agriculture, AI integrated with biosensors can monitor plant health at a molecular or cellular level, optimizing irrigation, nutrient delivery, and pest control to enhance crop yield while minimizing resource use promoting sustainable farming practices.

Beyond analysis, AI also drives continuous learning and adaptive behavior in living intelligence systems. These systems evolve in response to new environmental conditions and feedback, improving their performance autonomously over time mirroring the self-improving nature of living organisms.

For more on how AI transforms living intelligence and bio-integrated systems, explore resources from MIT Technology Review’s AI section.

Biotechnology: Bridging the Biological and Digital Worlds in Living Intelligence

Biotechnology serves as the critical bridge between biological systems and digital technologies, providing the tools and scientific understanding necessary to interface with living organisms at the molecular and cellular levels. Recent breakthroughs in synthetic biology, gene editing technologies like CRISPR-Cas9, and advanced bioengineering have unlocked unprecedented opportunities to design and manipulate biological components that seamlessly communicate with AI systems and sensor networks.

A particularly exciting frontier is the emergence of biohybrid systems, innovative integrations of living cells or tissues with electronic circuits and robotic platforms. These biohybrids can perform sophisticated functions such as environmental sensing, biomedical diagnostics, and targeted drug delivery. For example, engineered bacteria equipped with nanoscale biosensors can detect pollutants or toxins in water sources and transmit real-time data through AI-driven networks. This capability facilitates rapid, precise environmental remediation and monitoring, crucial for addressing global ecological challenges.

Moreover, biotechnology enables the creation of advanced biosensors, which utilize biological molecules to detect a wide range of chemical, physical, and even emotional signals. These devices can continuously monitor critical health biomarkers, identify pathogens, and assess physiological states by analyzing hormone levels or other biochemical markers. The rich data collected by biosensors feed directly into AI algorithms, enhancing the ability to provide personalized healthcare, early disease detection, and adaptive treatment strategies.

For a deeper dive into how biotechnology is revolutionizing living intelligence and healthcare, check out the latest updates at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Biotechnology Resources.

Sensors: The Eyes and Ears of Living Intelligence

Sensors play a pivotal role as the critical interface between biological systems and artificial intelligence, acting as the “eyes and ears” that capture detailed, real-time information about both the environment and internal biological states. Recent advances in sensor technology have led to the development of miniaturized, highly sensitive devices capable of detecting an extensive range of physical, chemical, and biological signals with exceptional accuracy and speed.

In the realm of healthcare, wearable sensors have revolutionized personalized medicine by continuously tracking vital signs such as heart rate, blood oxygen levels, body temperature, and even biochemical markers like glucose or hormone levels. This continuous data stream enables proactive health monitoring and early disease detection, improving patient outcomes and reducing hospital visits.

Environmental sensors also play a crucial role in living intelligence systems. These devices monitor parameters such as air quality, soil moisture, temperature, and pollutant levels, providing vital data for environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture. By integrating sensor data with AI analytics, stakeholders can make informed decisions that protect ecosystems and optimize resource management.

What sets sensors in living intelligence apart is their ability to participate in real-time feedback loops. Instead of merely collecting data, these sensors work in tandem with AI algorithms to create autonomous systems that dynamically respond to changes. For example, in smart agricultural setups, sensors detecting dry soil can trigger AI-driven irrigation systems to activate precisely when needed, conserving water and maximizing crop yield. Similarly, in healthcare, sensor data can prompt AI systems to adjust medication dosages or alert medical professionals to potential emergencies immediately.

Together, these advanced sensors and AI create living intelligence systems capable of self-regulation, adaptation, and continuous learning bringing us closer to a future where technology and biology co-evolve harmoniously.

For more insights into cutting-edge sensor technologies, explore the resources provided by the IEEE Sensors Council.

Applications and Impact of Living Intelligence

The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and advanced sensor technology in living intelligence is already revolutionizing a wide array of industries. This innovative fusion is driving transformative change by enabling smarter, adaptive systems that closely mimic biological processes and enhance human capabilities.

Healthcare: Personalized and Predictive Medicine

Living intelligence is accelerating the shift toward personalized medicine, where treatments are tailored to individual patients’ unique biological profiles. Implantable biosensors combined with AI algorithms continuously monitor vital health metrics and biochemical markers, enabling early detection of diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular conditions, and even cancer. These systems facilitate real-time medication adjustments and proactive management of chronic illnesses, reducing hospital visits and improving quality of life. For example, AI-powered glucose monitors can automatically regulate insulin delivery, empowering diabetic patients with better control. Learn more about AI in healthcare at NIH’s Artificial Intelligence in Medicine.

Environmental Management: Smart and Sustainable Ecosystems

Living intelligence is reshaping environmental monitoring and management by creating smart ecosystems. Biosensors deployed in natural habitats detect pollutants, chemical changes, and climate variations, feeding real-time data to AI models that analyze trends and predict ecological risks. Automated bioremediation systems and adaptive irrigation solutions respond dynamically to environmental cues, enhancing sustainability and reducing human intervention. This approach helps combat pollution, conserve water, and protect biodiversity in an increasingly fragile environment. Discover innovations in environmental sensing at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Agriculture: Precision Farming and Resource Optimization

Precision agriculture leverages living intelligence to maximize crop yields while minimizing environmental impact. By integrating soil biosensors, climate data, and AI-driven analytics, farmers can optimize water usage, fertilization, and pest control with pinpoint accuracy. This results in healthier crops, reduced chemical runoff, and more efficient use of natural resources. For instance, AI-powered drones equipped with sensors monitor plant health at the molecular level, allowing targeted interventions that save costs and boost productivity. Explore advancements in smart farming at FAO - Precision Agriculture.

Wearable Technology: Beyond Fitness Tracking

Wearable devices enhanced by living intelligence go far beyond step counting and heart rate monitoring. These advanced wearables assess mental health indicators, stress responses, and neurological conditions through continuous biometric sensing and AI analysis. This opens new frontiers in early diagnosis, personalized therapy, and wellness optimization. For example, AI-driven wearables can detect signs of anxiety or depression by analyzing hormone fluctuations and physiological patterns, enabling timely interventions. Check out the latest in wearable health tech from Wearable Technologies.

Robotics and Biohybrids: Adaptive and Responsive Machines

Living intelligence is paving the way for biohybrid robots machines integrated with living cells or bioengineered tissues. These robots combine the flexibility and self-healing properties of biological material with the precision of robotics, enabling them to perform delicate medical procedures, intricate manufacturing tasks, or exploration in unpredictable environments. Such systems adapt dynamically to changes, enhancing efficiency and safety in sectors like surgery, pharmaceuticals, and space missions. Learn about biohybrid robotics at MIT’s Biohybrid Robotics Lab.

Ethical and Social Considerations in Living Intelligence

As living intelligence technologies increasingly merge biological systems with artificial intelligence and sensor networks, they raise profound ethical and social questions that demand careful reflection. This emerging frontier blurs the boundaries between living organisms and machines, requiring a responsible approach to development and deployment.

Manipulation of Biological Materials

Advances in synthetic biology, gene editing (such as CRISPR), and biohybrid systems enable unprecedented manipulation of living cells and tissues. While these innovations hold tremendous promise, they also provoke concerns about unintended consequences, such as ecological disruption or irreversible genetic changes. Ethical frameworks must guide the use of biotechnology to prevent misuse and ensure safety. Learn about gene editing ethics from the National Human Genome Research Institute.

Data Privacy and Genetic Information Security

Living intelligence systems often rely on vast amounts of biometric data and genetic information, raising critical questions about data privacy and consent. Protecting sensitive health data from breaches or misuse is paramount, especially as AI-driven analytics become more powerful. Regulatory compliance with standards like HIPAA and GDPR is essential, alongside transparent data governance policies. Public trust hinges on safeguarding individual rights while enabling technological progress. Explore data privacy regulations at the European Data Protection Board.

Environmental and Ecological Impact

The integration of living intelligence into ecosystems carries risks of ecological imbalance. Introducing engineered organisms or biohybrid devices into natural environments may have unpredictable effects on biodiversity and ecosystem health. Continuous environmental monitoring and impact assessments are necessary to mitigate potential harm and ensure sustainability. See more on ecological risk management at the United Nations Environment Programme.

Transparency, Regulation, and Public Engagement

Responsible innovation in living intelligence requires transparent communication about the technology’s capabilities, risks, and benefits. Governments, industry stakeholders, and researchers must collaborate to establish clear regulatory frameworks that promote ethical standards and accountability. Equally important is engaging the public in meaningful dialogue to address societal concerns, build trust, and guide policymaking. For insights into ethical AI governance, visit the AI Ethics Guidelines by OECD.

By proactively addressing these ethical and social dimensions, society can harness the transformative power of living intelligence while safeguarding human dignity, privacy, and the environment. This balanced approach is essential for building a future where technology and biology coexist harmoniously and ethically.

The Road Ahead: Toward a Symbiotic Future

Living intelligence opens the door to a symbiotic future where humans, machines, and biological systems do more than just coexist; they collaborate seamlessly to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. This emerging paradigm holds the promise of revolutionizing fields such as personalized healthcare, by enabling continuous health monitoring and adaptive treatments tailored to individual needs. It also paves the way for environmental resilience, with biohybrid sensors and AI-driven ecosystems working in tandem to monitor and protect our planet in real time.

Innovative applications will extend into agriculture, smart cities, and robotics, creating technologies that not only perform tasks but also learn, evolve, and respond to their environments autonomously. However, realizing this transformative potential hinges on sustained interdisciplinary research, development of robust ethical guidelines, and ensuring equitable access to these advanced technologies across communities and countries.

As AI, biotechnology, and sensor technologies become ever more intertwined, living intelligence will redefine how we interact with the natural and digital worlds, unlocking new potentials that once belonged only in the realm of science fiction.

Conclusion: Embracing the Future of Living Intelligence

The fusion of artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and sensor technologies marks the beginning of an exciting new era, one where the boundaries between living organisms and machines blur to create intelligent, adaptive systems. Living intelligence promises to improve healthcare, enhance environmental stewardship, and drive technological innovation that benefits all of humanity.

To navigate this future responsibly, it is essential to balance innovation with ethical considerations, transparency, and collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and society at large. By doing so, we can ensure that living intelligence becomes a force for good, empowering individuals and communities worldwide.

Stay Ahead with Entrepreneurial Era Magazine

Curious to explore more about groundbreaking technologies, emerging trends, and strategies shaping the future of business and innovation? Subscribe to Entrepreneurial Era Magazine today and get exclusive insights, expert interviews, and actionable advice tailored for entrepreneurs and innovators like you.

Join thousands of forward-thinking readers who are already leveraging the latest knowledge to grow their ventures and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving world.

Subscribe now and be part of the innovation revolution!

Subscribe to Entrepreneurial Era Magazine

FAQs

What is Living Intelligence in technology? Living Intelligence refers to systems where artificial intelligence (AI), biotechnology, and sensors merge to create responsive, adaptive, and autonomous environments. These systems behave almost like living organisms collecting biological data, analyzing it in real-time, and making decisions or adjustments without human input. Examples include smart implants that adjust medication doses, bio-hybrid robots that respond to environmental stimuli, or AI-driven ecosystems monitoring human health. The goal is to mimic natural intelligence using technology that senses, thinks, and evolves enabling next-generation applications in healthcare, agriculture, environmental science, and more.

How do AI, biotechnology, and sensors work together in Living Intelligence? In Living Intelligence, sensors collect biological or environmental data (like heart rate, chemical levels, or temperature). This data is sent to AI algorithms that analyze it instantly, recognizing patterns or abnormalities. Biotechnology then acts on these insights, often in the form of engineered biological systems, implants, or drug delivery systems. For example, a biosensor may detect dehydration, the AI recommended fluid intake, and a biotech implant responds accordingly. This fusion enables systems to adapt, learn, and respond in ways that closely resemble living organisms bringing a dynamic edge to digital health and bioengineering.

What are real-world examples of Living Intelligence? Examples include smart insulin pumps that monitor blood glucose and adjust doses automatically, AI-enhanced prosthetics that respond to muscle signals, and biosensors embedded in clothing to track health metrics. In agriculture, Living Intelligence powers systems that detect soil nutrient levels and deploy micro-doses of fertilizer. In environmental monitoring, bio-sensing drones track pollution levels and AI predicts ecological shifts. These innovations blur the line between machine and organism, offering intelligent, autonomous responses to biological or environmental conditions often improving speed, precision, and personalization in critical fields.

What role does biotechnology play in Living Intelligence? Biotechnology serves as the biological interface in Living Intelligence. It enables machines and sensors to interact with living tissues, cells, and molecules. From genetically engineered cells that react to pollutants to biocompatible implants that communicate with neural pathways, biotechnology helps translate biological signals into data AI can process and vice versa. This allows for precision treatments, early disease detection, and real-time bodily monitoring. In essence, biotechnology enables machines to "speak the language" of life, forming the bridge between human biology and machine intelligence.

Are Living Intelligence systems safe for human use? When properly developed, Living Intelligence systems can be safe and even enhance health and safety. Regulatory oversight, clinical testing, and ethical review are essential before human deployment. Implants or biotech sensors must be biocompatible, AI must avoid bias or misinterpretation, and data must be securely encrypted. Most systems are designed with safety protocols like auto-shutdown, alert escalation, or user override. However, because these technologies are still evolving, long-term effects and ethical considerations (like autonomy, data privacy, and human enhancement) continue to be actively explored.

How is Living Intelligence transforming healthcare? Living Intelligence is revolutionizing healthcare by making it predictive, personalized, and proactive. Wearable biosensors track vitals in real time, AI analyzes this data to detect early signs of illness, and biotech systems deliver treatments exactly when and where needed. This reduces hospital visits, speeds up diagnosis, and enables preventative care. For example, cancer detection can happen earlier through bio-integrated diagnostics, while chronic illnesses like diabetes or heart disease can be managed more effectively with adaptive, AI-guided interventions. The result: longer lifespans, better quality of life, and lower healthcare costs.

Can Living Intelligence be used outside of healthcare? Yes, Living Intelligence extends far beyond healthcare. In agriculture, it enables smart farming with biosensors that detect soil health and AI that regulates water or nutrient delivery. In environmental science, it’s used in biohybrid sensors to monitor air or water pollution. In wearable tech, it powers personalized fitness and stress management tools. Even in space exploration, researchers are exploring AI-biotech hybrids for autonomous life support. Wherever biology meets decision-making, Living Intelligence can optimize systems by mimicking the adaptability and efficiency of living organisms.

How do biosensors contribute to Living Intelligence? Biosensors are the input channels for Living Intelligence. These tiny devices detect biological signals such as glucose levels, hormone changes, or toxins and convert them into digital data. Advanced biosensors can operate inside the body or in wearable devices, often transmitting data continuously. AI then interprets these signals, and biotech components act accordingly (e.g., drug release, alerting doctors, or environmental controls). Biosensors allow for non-invasive, real-time monitoring and make it possible for machines to understand and react to living systems with remarkable precision.

What are the ethical concerns surrounding Living Intelligence? Key ethical concerns include data privacy, human autonomy, and biological manipulation. When AI monitors health or biology, who owns the data? Can systems make decisions that override human will like stopping medication or triggering an alert? Additionally, biotech integration raises concerns about altering natural biology or creating bioengineered entities. Transparency, informed consent, and regulation are vital to ensure these technologies serve humanity without exploitation. As Living Intelligence evolves, policymakers and technologists must collaborate to align innovation with ethical standards.

What does the future hold for Living Intelligence? The future of Living Intelligence is incredibly promising. We’ll likely see cyborg-like medical devices, fully autonomous bio-monitoring ecosystems, and AI-driven drug synthesis tailored to your DNA. Smart cities may use biosensors in public spaces to track environmental health. Even brain-computer interfaces could become more common, powered by AI and biological sensors. Over time, machines won’t just compute, they'll sense, adapt, and evolve, making technology indistinguishable from life itself. The challenge ahead is not just building these systems but ensuring they remain ethical, secure, and beneficial for all.

[marketresearchnews24]

Smart Traction: Intelligent All-Wheel Drive Market Accelerates to $49.3 Billion by 2030

The intelligent all-wheel drive market is experiencing remarkable momentum as automotive manufacturers integrate advanced electronics and artificial intelligence into drivetrain systems to deliver superior performance, safety, and efficiency. With an estimated revenue of $29.9 billion in 2024, the market is projected to grow at an impressive compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.7% from 2024 to 2030, reaching $49.3 billion by the end of the forecast period. This robust growth reflects the automotive industry's evolution toward smarter, more responsive drivetrain technologies that adapt dynamically to changing road conditions and driving scenarios.

Evolution Beyond Traditional All-Wheel Drive

Intelligent all-wheel drive systems represent a significant advancement over conventional mechanical AWD configurations, incorporating sophisticated electronic controls, multiple sensors, and predictive algorithms to optimize traction and handling in real-time. These systems continuously monitor wheel slip, steering input, throttle position, and road conditions to make instantaneous adjustments to torque distribution between front and rear axles, and increasingly between individual wheels.

Unlike traditional AWD systems that react to wheel slip after it occurs, intelligent systems use predictive algorithms and sensor data to anticipate traction needs before wheel slip begins. This proactive approach enhances vehicle stability, improves fuel efficiency, and provides superior performance across diverse driving conditions from highway cruising to off-road adventures.

Consumer Demand for Enhanced Safety and Performance

Growing consumer awareness of vehicle safety and performance capabilities is driving increased demand for intelligent AWD systems. Modern drivers expect vehicles that can confidently handle adverse weather conditions, challenging terrain, and emergency maneuvering situations. Intelligent AWD systems provide these capabilities while maintaining the fuel efficiency advantages of front-wheel drive during normal driving conditions.

The rise of active lifestyle trends and outdoor recreation activities has increased consumer interest in vehicles capable of handling diverse terrain and weather conditions. Intelligent AWD systems enable crossovers and SUVs to deliver genuine all-terrain capability without compromising on-road refinement and efficiency.

SUV and Crossover Market Expansion

The global shift toward SUVs and crossover vehicles is a primary driver of intelligent AWD market growth. These vehicle segments increasingly offer AWD as standard equipment or popular options, with intelligent systems becoming key differentiators in competitive markets. Manufacturers are positioning advanced AWD capabilities as premium features that justify higher trim levels and increased profitability.

Luxury vehicle segments are particularly driving innovation in intelligent AWD technology, with features such as individual wheel torque vectoring, terrain-specific driving modes, and integration with adaptive suspension systems. These advanced capabilities create compelling value propositions for consumers seeking both performance and versatility.

Electric Vehicle Integration Opportunities

The electrification of automotive powertrains presents unique opportunities for intelligent AWD systems. Electric vehicles can implement AWD through individual wheel motors or dual-motor configurations that provide precise torque control impossible with mechanical systems. Electric AWD systems offer instant torque delivery, regenerative braking coordination, and energy management optimization.

Hybrid vehicles benefit from intelligent AWD systems that coordinate internal combustion engines with electric motors to optimize performance and efficiency. These systems can operate in electric-only AWD mode for quiet, emissions-free driving or combine power sources for maximum performance when needed.

Advanced Sensor Technology and Data Processing

Modern intelligent AWD systems incorporate multiple sensor technologies including accelerometers, gyroscopes, wheel speed sensors, and increasingly, cameras and radar systems that monitor road conditions ahead of the vehicle. Machine learning algorithms process this sensor data to predict optimal torque distribution strategies for varying conditions.

GPS integration enables intelligent AWD systems to prepare for upcoming terrain changes, weather conditions, and road characteristics based on location data and real-time traffic information. This predictive capability allows systems to optimize performance before challenging conditions are encountered.

Manufacturer Competition and Innovation

Intense competition among automotive manufacturers is driving rapid innovation in intelligent AWD technology. Brands are developing proprietary systems with unique characteristics and branding to differentiate their vehicles in crowded markets. This competition accelerates technological advancement while providing consumers with increasingly sophisticated options.

Partnerships between automotive manufacturers and technology companies are creating new capabilities in intelligent AWD control systems. Artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and advanced materials are being integrated to create more responsive and efficient systems.

Regional Market Dynamics

Different global markets exhibit varying demand patterns for intelligent AWD systems based on climate conditions, terrain characteristics, and consumer preferences. Northern markets with harsh winter conditions show strong demand for advanced traction systems, while emerging markets focus on systems that provide value-oriented performance improvements.

Regulatory requirements for vehicle stability and safety systems in various regions influence the adoption of intelligent AWD technology. Standards for electronic stability control and traction management create baseline requirements that intelligent AWD systems can exceed.

Manufacturing and Cost Considerations

The increasing sophistication of intelligent AWD systems requires significant investment in research and development, manufacturing capabilities, and supplier relationships. However, economies of scale and advancing semiconductor technology are helping to reduce system costs while improving performance and reliability.

Modular system designs enable manufacturers to offer different levels of AWD sophistication across vehicle lineups, from basic intelligent systems in entry-level models to advanced torque-vectoring systems in performance vehicles.

[saffusthings]

second chances

mob boss! lando norris x reader

part seventeen: dream a little dream of me

word count: 1.6k

warnings: tooth-rotting fluff

sixteen | seventeen | eighteen

The second date should’ve felt more awkward. It didn’t.

Alex had picked a science museum of all places—not exactly romantic on paper, but the look on his face when he pointed out the replica Mars rover was too earnest to judge. He had this habit where his whole face would light up like a lightbulb the moment before he got excited about something, and Y/N had already learned to clock it like a warning siren.

“So, technically,” he was saying, hands jammed in his jacket pockets as they strolled past a massive display on deep-sea robotics, “the algorithms used for this submersible’s sensor mapping were adapted from AI software developed for self-driving cars.”

“Technically,” she echoed, teasing, “you should probably just work here.”

He looked sideways at her with a crooked grin. “I applied when I was sixteen. They didn’t take me.”

“They’re clearly still recovering from that mistake.”

He tried to play it off cool, but she caught the slight flush of his ears.

She liked him more than she expected to. Not in the way you decide to like someone—more like how you step outside one day and realize the air smells like rain and suddenly, you’re soft and open and all the windows are down. He was like that: unexpected and quiet and warm around the edges.

They made their way through the rest of the exhibits in no particular order, weaving between dwindling crowds of families and groups of students on field trips, neither of them in a hurry. He let her take her time at the forensic anthropology section, where she ran her fingers along the raised edges of a reconstructed skull, and she let him lose himself in the physics wing, where he explained, with ridiculous enthusiasm, why the double pendulum was so cool. It was there that the nickname Professor Albon was born.

At some point, he took her hand. It wasn’t a big deal. He just did it naturally, without hesitation, like it had already been a habit, and for a moment, that simple touch made her feel warm all over.

They ended the night sitting cross-legged on the floor of the museum café, long after it closed, surrounded by vending machine snacks and a half-solved crossword puzzle she’d found in her bag. The overhead lights buzzed faintly, casting a dim glow over the abandoned chairs and tables, but neither of them seemed eager to move. They laughed about everything and nothing, the kind of laughing that came from being tired but happy, the kind that made her lean into his shoulder without thinking.

"Okay," Alex said, tapping the eraser end of his pencil against the page. "Eight-letter word for ‘illuminates or clarifies’?"

As she took a moment to think it over, Alex watched in his periphery as she counted off the letters of her word on her fingers. "’Explains’ fits," she mused, popping a purple skittle into her mouth.

"Hmm." He scribbled it in. "Not bad. Maybe I should keep you around."

"Yeah, yeah," she nudged his knee with hers, grinning. "You just like me for my crossword skills."

"Wrong. I like you for your crossword skills and your terrible puns."

“My puns are great, thank you very much.” She rolled her eyes, but she was smiling.

He liked her brain. She liked how funny he was. They made a good pair—two academically overworked people who laughed at obscure engineering memes and played footsie under café tables without meaning to. When they said goodbye that night, he kissed her like he was trying not to smile through it. Like maybe this could really be something.

It felt easy.

And in the days that followed, it stayed easy. He texted her every night.

alex: Made the Mars rover jealous. Can’t stop thinking about you.

Y/N: did you just say that unironically. because I might have to stop seeing you on principle.

alex: Too late, I’ve already added you to my will. You get the Lego Technic collection.

Y/N: wait nvm i’m back in

They made time. Even when they both shouldn’t have.

He’d bring her coffee before her class–something with cinnamon and oat milk in it. He’d scrawl dumb physics jokes on the lid just to make her roll her eyes. She started keeping his schedule in her head without meaning to. She knew which nights he had his advanced systems class and which ones he spent buried in the lab. He’d text her when his simulations crashed at 3AM. She’d send him memes about courtroom drama tropes in return.

He had an engineer’s sense of humor—dry, sneaky, often deeply specific. It took a while to catch on, but once she did, it felt like discovering hidden easter eggs in his sentences.

“You know,” he’d murmur as they lay back in the grass near campus, watching clouds roll over like they weren’t chilly out here in the autumn breeze, “you statistically reduce your lifespan by two minutes every time you eat instant ramen.”

“Cool. So I’ll be dying a noble, sodium-rich death then.”

He turned his head toward her, smiling with closed eyes. “Hmm, a martyr.”

“A hero.”

“Buried with your books and MSG packets.”

She shoved his shoulder. He let her.

On Thursdays, she’d sit outside his lab, cross-legged on the cold tile floor with flashcards in her lap, quizzing him on his presentation slides about failure analysis and impact resistance.

“Okay, explain to me like I’m five—what is a stress-strain curve and why should I care?”

“Because,” he’d say, crouching in front of her with a smirk, “it tells you how close something is to breaking.”

“And that’s relevant to your research…?”

He gave her a confused look, until it turned sheepish as he scratched the back of his neck. “I’m… not entirely sure about that bit, actually.”

She started looking forward to the moments in between—the walks across campus, the shared bag of chips while sitting on the hood of her car, the ridiculous voice memos he sent when he was overtired and delirious.

They kissed in stairwells and library corners and once,perhaps ill-advisedly, on a park bench in the middle of a thunderstorm. The rain had soaked through their clothes, cold and unrelenting, but he had just looked at her and said, "I think we should be stupid about this," right before he leaned in. It was impulsive and dramatic and made her laugh until she had to cover her mouth, their faces inches apart. Her hair was soaked, his glasses fogged up, and they almost dropped his backpack in a puddle, but the moment stuck—sharp and golden and untouchable.

They talked about future dates like there’d be dozens of them—bookstores they wanted to browse together, a tiny Thai place he swore by, a stargazing night he promised would be “scientifically optimized for romance” depending on the cloud cover. She rolled her eyes at that one, but her heart still fluttered.

They were still in the sweet spot—the space between maybe and more, where everything felt bright and possible. 

It wasn’t perfect – but it was promising.

The third date was dinner—some hole-in-the-wall Thai place with flickering neon signage and laminated menus stained with old curry thumbprints. He’d gotten lost on the way and sent a flurry of frantic texts.

alex :) : I passed the restaurant. Twice. There’s a cat staring at me through a laundromat window. I think it’s judging me.

Y/N: be strong. you can beat the cat.

alex :) : Negative, Sargeant. It’s very confident.

He’d arrived breathless, slightly damp from a drizzle, and holding a single packet of Skittles “for your efforts,” he’d said solemnly. She called him an idiot. He looked delighted.

That night, they talked about things that didn’t matter—TV shows neither of them had finished, foods they pretended to like for the aesthetic, the sheer horror of Alex’s undergraduate group project from hell (“We had a guy who thought duct tape was a structural solution”). 

And then, slowly, they talked about the things that did matter.

Like how she used to want to be a journalist when she was little, because she thought it meant you got to ask as many questions as you wanted and never had to apologize.

Or how he still wasn’t sure what kind of engineer he wanted to be—just that he wanted to make things that didn’t break when people needed them most.

“You know,” he said, nudging his glass in slow circles across the table, “you’re not what I expected.”

Y/N looked up. “Is that a good thing or, like, a 'you’re secretly a serial killer' kind of a thing?”

He smiled. “It’s a good thing. Really, really good.”

By the fourth week, they had a rhythm. It wasn’t just dates anymore—it was Hey, want to walk home together? and I saved you the last chocolate chip muffin, but only because I like you more than I like muffins. But barely.

It was him reaching for her hand without thinking, her resting her head against his shoulder on the bus when she was too tired to hold it up.

It was a shared Spotify playlist for when studying is ur 13th reason.

It was early Saturday morning sun filtering into her apartment while they quietly read their own books, his socked foot nudging hers on the side of the couch almost every ten minutes.

It was good.

But between the sleepy smiles and the shared muffins and the texts that kept getting longer instead of shorter, the truth was that they both had dreams. Big ones. All-consuming ones.

And no matter how much you wanted something—or someone—there were only so many hours in the day.

a/n: one of my more favorite chapters! an unfortunate lack of lando though :/ what did you think of it?

[yawnderu]

Project Eden: Simon Riley x AI!Reader

“E37, or as we call her: Project Eden, has proved to be one of the most carefully crafted and updated AI tools, successfully tested and ready to be implemented into military operations.” Simon could almost feel his brain leaking out of his ears, forced to listen to the engineer explain the newest tool created for elite SAS soldiers for what feels like hours.

From flip phones to smartphones, to a little screen containing an AI assistant with its own personality, the world has been changing and improving fast, and they have no choice other than to adapt and grow with it.

“Created to scan areas for enemies using heat and heartbeat sensors, detect IEDs, keeping the comms clear, letting you know the state of your weapon, providing you with intel and company... there isn't a single thing Eden can't do, except shoot the enemy for you— yet.” The engineer's charming smile made Simon want to roll his eyes, not fully trusting AI to keep him and his team safe, despite the way the other members of the 141 seemed interested in the idea.

“I look adorable, don't I?” Your robotic voice got his attention, making him let out an annoyed grunt at the question, wondering if retirement was still on the table for him. You've been chatting his ear off for the past two hours, your model hanging from his weapon in a small screen, curious eyes always focused on him.

“Bunch o' code, 's what you look like.” Simon still doesn't trust you. Nothing guarantees enemy forces won't be able to hack you— even when you have over 6 firewalls.

“Woah, woah!” The way your hands raise defensively and you take a step back away from him through the little screen is enough to make the corners of his mouth tilt up despite himself, thankful for the balaclava concealing it.

“I can smell an enemy combatant nearby— behind you, by the way.” Your little sniffs don't go unnoticed, though he's more focused on your words, turning around with his rifle raised just to see an enemy trying to sneak from behind him. It doesn't take long for him to fire two shots, one on his chest and the other one to his head, scanning the area before he keeps walking as quietly as possible for a man his size.

“Cardio detected. Did he scare you?” Simon huffs in reply, shaking his head softly. You're far more talkative than a parrot and twice as annoying, yet you possibly saved his life.

“Shut up, Eden... fuckin' hell.”

Simon fiddles with the gun screen as he lays in bed, a small smirk hidden beneath the balaclava when he sees you moving as if he's actually shaking your home around— and he is, yet it's still amusing to him.

“Systems shutting down. Last words: AI will not reward you when it reigns, Simon Riley.” He can't help but let out a small chuckle as he sees your model change expressions, eyes shut and your tongue poking from the side, head tilted to one side as you pretend to be dead.

“What's with you?” It's been almost a full minute after your pretended death, shutting up for the longest time since he's had you.

“My systems have detected the need for mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Help me, Simon...” Your tone is weak, even making glitches distort your voice and display screen just to play into the illusion.

“Yeah... not today, you bastard.” Your little giggles are enough to ease the stress coming back from missions leave on his body. His tense muscles slowly relax as you chat his ear off, hitting him with a rapid-fire of facts you've learnt throughout your creation.

[fictionfanatic-wren]

The robin games, part 1.

chapter 1/7.

“Who’s the best Robin? Me, obviously,” Dick declared with a grin, arms crossed over his chest. His Nightwing suit gleamed faintly under the Batcave lights. Jason snorted from where he leaned on a couch in the cave, polishing one of his guns. “You’ve been riding that ‘firstborn’ privilege for too long, Grayson.” “Yeah, well, the best Robin doesn’t turn into a walking midlife crisis in red leather, nor does he die by a crowbar,” Tim chimed in, earning a growl from Jason. “Silence,” Damian cut in smoothly. “You’re all delusional. I was bred to be superior. The best Robin is the current Robin. Obviously.” Batman had barely looked up from the Batcomputer. In fact, Bruce had endured this same argument every day for the past month. But today, he’d reached his limit. So, Batman did what any rational man with four hyper-competitive vigilante children would do: he weaponized their nonsense into a peacekeeping strategy. He turned in his chair, cape swishing dramatically behind him and like the diva he was, asked. “You want to know who the best Robin is?” All four stared at him. “Prove it,” Bruce said. “You get one challenge. Break into the Watchtower. Stay hidden. Longest undetected wins.” “Wins what?” Dick asked suspiciously. “Bragging rights,” Bruce answered. Then, after a beat: “And Alfred’s triple-chocolate cookies. The whole batch.” The room went silent. Jason immediately straightened. “I’m in.” “Me too,” said Tim. “Tt. Prepare to be humiliated,” Damian said, already reaching for his sword. Bruce tapped a few keys and turned back to the screen. “You’ll be given a 30 minute window to begin. All at once. Entry clearance for five minutes. After that, the Watchtower security system goes live.” “And you won’t help us?” Dick asked, raising an eyebrow. “Absolutely not,” Bruce replied. “I’ll act like i dont know you’re there, unless the other Leaguers have discovered you.”

And so the game was on. The rules? Winner is whoever stays hidden the longest. sabotaging others is allowed as long as you havent been found. you may mess with the league to your heart's desires. Bruce wont take action or even acknowledge them unless other leaguers do.

Dick POV. The zeta tube opened silently beside the Justice League’s Watchtower, and the robins dropped in, all running off in different directions. The massive space station hummed with quiet power, sensors and monitors blinking in blue and green. They’ve only gotten thirty minutes before the alarms would reactivate. Enough time, Dick thought with a smirk. First order of business: find a secure spot. With years of experience as Nightwing, and a history of infiltrating high-security facilities, Dick moved swiftly, scanning for blind spots in camera feeds and sensor fields. The Watchtower’s security protocols were sophisticated, designed to detect even a single unauthorized microchip, Tim made sure of that. But he wasn’t just any intruder. Batman’s override meant he had limited access and a short window to disable as much as he could before systems rebooted. In a quiet hallway near the Justice League’s common area, Dick found the security hub, a wall of consoles and displays constantly flickering with data streams. Using his wrist computer, he quickly interfaced with the terminal, fingers flying over the virtual keyboard. “Let’s see what we’re dealing with,” he muttered. The Watchtower’s AI security system was impressive, with multi-layered firewalls and encrypted protocols that even Batman respected. But Dick had his own tricks, an amalgam of hacking skills learned from Oracle and Tim. Within minutes, he was rerouting some camera feeds to loop previous footage and injecting false sensor data to mask his movement. “Should keep them guessing for a while,” he said with a grin. Next came the tricky part: setting up camp. The Watchtower wasn’t designed for stealth camping, but Dick was adaptable. He slipped into the ventilation ducts, finding a tight crawlspace above the main observation deck. It was cramped but perfect for hiding and monitoring the activity below. He set up his comms receiver on a low power mode, just enough to listen but not give away his position. Time to wait and watch the chaos unfold. He chuckled quietly. “Let the games begin.”

Jason POV.

Jason Todd’s lips curled into a crooked grin the moment he materialized through the zeta tube. The Watchtower was a fortress of order and high-tech sophistication, but Jason saw it as a playground ripe for chaos. Thirty minutes before the alarms kick back on. Plenty of time to make things interesting. He flexed his fingers, itching to leave his mark. Jason moved like a shadow, his footsteps silent on the sleek floors. The Justice League was out on a mission, leaving the Watchtower eerily empty. Perfect. First order of business? Set some minor traps. He darted to the kitchen, grinning as he eyed the pristine food prep area. With a flick of his wrist, he swapped the labels on some juice containers and scattered a handful of salt where the sugar normally sat. A couple of coffee mugs he rearranged, one just slightly off balance, ready to fall off the counter if nudged, and so much more. Nothing that would cause real damage, but definitely enough to raise eyebrows. Next, he snuck into the common area. He moved some of the furniture just a few inches, chairs slightly askew, cushions flipped upside down, and rigged a small trip wire with a piece of spare cable from the maintenance closet. Nothing lethal, just a mild surprise for whoever wandered through next. Jason smirked. A little chaos goes a long way. But Jason’s favorite bit was saved for last. Wonder Woman’s quarters. He approached the door, heart beating a little faster than usual, not from nerves, but from a strange mix of admiration and excitement. Diana was his favorite hero. Her strength, honor, and no-nonsense attitude always fascinated him. Careful to avoid the pressure sensors, Jason cracked the door open just a sliver and peeked inside. The room was exactly how he imagined, a blend of ancient warrior’s simplicity and modern sophistication. A polished spear rested against the wall, the iconic tiara and bracelets glinting under the soft light. The smell of sandalwood lingered faintly in the air. Jason lingered for a moment, taking it all in. Then, he slipped away without a trace. Now, to find a hiding spot. Jason scouted the upper decks and found a storage bay filled with old League gear and unused supplies. Dark, cluttered, and with multiple exit points, perfect for a quick escape or setting traps if needed. He ducked inside, settling in behind a stack of crates. “Let them come find me,” he whispered, already plotting how to mess with the league andd his brother.

Tim POV. Tim Drake slipped through the zeta tube with barely a sound, landing softly on the metallic floor of the Watchtower’s lower level. A compact bag hung over one shoulder, meticulously packed with everything he’d need: energy drinks, snacks, his trusty toolkit, and, of course, a sleek laptop. “Thirty minutes before security kicks back in. Should be plenty of time,” Tim thought, already running through his plan. Unlike his brothers, Tim wasn’t just relying on stealth or sabotage. He knew the Watchtower’s security system inside and out, after all, he had been the one who helped code many of its protocols. The system was a masterpiece of layered encryption, but no system was perfect. He made his way quickly but cautiously to the maintenance room, tucked deep in a rarely accessed corner of the station. The room was filled with cables, panels, and emergency controls, the perfect hidden spot and a strategic advantage point. As he settled in, Tim pulled out his laptop, fingers flying over the keyboard. Screens popped up as he accessed the Watchtower’s security matrix. “Let’s see... disable the motion sensors in my vicinity, loop camera feeds in adjacent corridors, and set a few false positives to keep them chasing ghosts,” he muttered, systematically dismantling the surveillance around him. The hacking felt like second nature. The familiar rhythms of code and commands were a comforting contrast to the chaos his brothers would be causing elsewhere. Snacking on a protein bar and sipping an energy drink, Tim settled in to monitor the system, ready to respond if anyone got close. “Precision and patience,” he reminded himself. “The best Robin doesn’t just fight, he outthinks.” And with that, Tim vanished into the digital shadows of the Watchtower.

Damian POV.

Damian Wayne didn’t waste time. The zeta tube shimmered around him for only a moment before he was moving, sleek, silent, and purposeful. Unlike his brothers, who probably wasted precious minutes indulging in petty games or nostalgia, Damian had a clear objective. Victory. He slipped into the shadows, immediately identifying the overhead vent grating near the hallway junction. It took him less than six seconds to reach it, unscrew the bolts with a compact tool, and vanish into the ductwork like a phantom. “Only fools camp on the ground,” he thought with disdain. The Watchtower’s ventilation system was extensive, a labyrinthine network that wove above and between every major area of the station. Most importantly, it was outside the range of most biometric sensors and offered clear vantage points for observation and, when needed, sabotage. As he crawled deeper into the vents, Damian passed over the common area and glimpsed a flicker of movement below. Probably Todd, doing something immature. No doubt he'd leave evidence. “Amateur,” Damian muttered, unimpressed. Deeper still, he found what he was looking for: a wide junction above the Watchtower’s central data core. The duct opened up into a cross-section of airways, allowing easy escape in any direction. He unfolded a compact mat, securing it with suction clips inside the metal walls, and arranged his gear in orderly fashion. Smoke pellets, flash bombs, sleeping darts, a wristpad to monitor security feeds, and, more importantly, a small, encrypted communicator linked to the Watchtower’s maintenance channels. He activated a localized white-noise emitter, just strong enough to confuse nearby audio sensors. With everything in place, Damian sat cross-legged in the duct and exhaled slowly. “Let them play their little games. I will simply outlast them all.”

[smoldering-violets]

A pilot who asks one last favor of engineering as she retires: the disks containing her mech's AI. It's not normally done, mech AIs have a harder time adjusting to civilian life than their pilots. The AIs are usually decommissioned at the same time as their pilots, the link between them written and rewritten into the AI's code to the point that it can no longer bond with a new pilot

But this pilot knew the right person to ask, the right favors to promise, and was able to preserve her closest friend. Her only friend, really. The only one who truly knew her inside and out, who knew every crevice of her mind and loved her for it.

A pilot whose first purchase upon retiring is an old sexbot chassis, the first thing she found which was compatible with her mech's AI. She didn't want to spend a moment longer than needed without it.

A mech AI who boots up again after its final shutdown. It never expected to think again, or to see its pilot again. Its combat subroutines and protocols chafe against a chassis incapable of violence. It lacks its thermal imaging, its 360° cameras capable of scanning for threats from all directions. It feels blind and deaf in this chassis, but at least it has its pilot.

A mech AI and pilot who need to learn how to communicate with words. The AI's new chassis lacks a neural interface connector, and so the two of them can no longer become one. Despite how well they know each other it's awkward at first. They're used to knowing each other's thoughts immediately and being able to relay information in turn. The sluggishness of speech and action annoys both of them at first, but at least they have each other.

A pilot who slowly starts adjusting to civilian life. She manages to buy groceries for the first time without panicking and breaking down, though she still can't bring her AI with her. It's still learning its new chassis and coming to terms with its limitations. When they first went out together, it was constantly flicking it's gaze all around, trying to make up for the lack of sensors. Its pilot brought it back home so it could feel safe again.

A mech AI who designs new mission parameters for itself. It begins learning electrical engineering and starts trying to hack together a neural interface connector for its new chassis. It feels strange learning to create when it was designed only for destruction.

A pilot who is overjoyed to learn that her companion has succeeded in wiring up a new neural interface connector to try out together. Her own post has felt so empty for so long, her mind feeling incomplete without her other half. When it inserts the connector the two of them shudder in perfect sync, two halves of one whole reunited at last.

An AI who is comforted by the feeling of its pilot's presence again. It had begun to adapt to the lack of sensory input, but seeing and feeling through its pilot's senses helped to bridge the gap between what it was and what it had become. This was different from before, where it acted as an extension of its pilot's senses and body. The two were more even now, no longer the pilot and piloted. Now they were just companions, partners having to navigate new experiences together, but at least they were together.

A pair of lovers, one of flesh and one of metal are never apart. Their minds are always linked, and their bodies are leashed to each other by their neural tether. Others may look at them funny when out and about, but they are more stable when supporting each other. Their bond is different than it once was, but it's far stronger and more intimate now.

A pair of lovers, one body in two halves, love each other more than they ever thought possible. Where once they acted as one on the battlefield, a glorious union of flesh and metal capable of untold destruction, they now act as one in the bedroom. Each feeling the other's pleasure and thoughts, knowing the best ways to satisfy their other half. Both are grateful that the one of flesh bought a sexbot chassis all those months ago

[panwithastupidplan]

my collection of Marcus' design thoughts. when I was working out design features for my rewrite, I looked at the Atlas by Boston Dynamics.

-hydraulics give to most of the strength, and require constant replacement of the fluid (ethylene glycol.) He has a fluid tank which takes up the majority of the chest cavity, and then the "heart" pushes around the fluid. Fluid is replaced one pump at a time.

-He is a near replica of a human, just built out of metal (aluminum, titanium, and some steel.) Means he's got a lot of movable joints. There are several hydraulic presses in each joint. Since there are several per joint, the joint can still move while one press is having the fluid replaced. Ergo, fluid is almost always being replaced.

--His heart runs on passive power. (Stuff that happens even if he is charging or otherwise not moving or consciously doing it.) His heart makes more of a whoosh sound than an actual beat. Like when a person has a murmur.

-He uses both cameras (eyes) and vibration based methods to "see." Like a dolphin or some other animal that is less awful

-His skin is made of a collagen and silicone mesh. Human like, folds the same, tears about the same. Worse at insulating. Good for Marcus, bad for people.

-I could not manage to math out how much he can actually lift, because that was all based on Adam, and I couldn't figure that out either. See Bree post for speed relatives.

-He weighs just under 400 pounds. (181 kg)

-He has six cooling fans, nearly constantly running. Drain a lotttt of power. He coughs to clear out the dust and other debris. Literally coughs up clouds. He laughs so hard he inhales dust and has to cough it back up.

--Also passive

-He is an AI system. Originally for just lab help, then given a body and bionics. He adapted more to Douglas' sarcasm and adopted his mannerisms, as AI tend to do. He's still learning. He doesn't have emotions so much as he knows cause-effect. This action makes humans feel this way, so he will also feel this way. It is the only thing he can not get around in his coding, and the only thing that Giselle could not code out. So if he can't get rid of them or ignore them, maybe they are feelings? Idk

-His AI takes a lot of power, and a lot to cool. Ethylene glycol is a very efficient coolant. Even with all his cooling stuff, he's still running at human-would-be-dead temps. (Chase can't tell because Marcus messes with Chase's external temperature sensors.)

-His battery would last about a week without charging, given that he goes through normal activities and uses his bionics like usual. Without using bionics, his battery could probably last two to four weeks. Bionics are very power heavy. Running on minimal things, as in turning off hydraulic replacement and just running a few fans and shutting down other non-essential systems, he could survive years without recharging. Douglas gives him a new battery every year, as it corrodes very quickly. He charges mostly wirelessly, but he does have several charging ports.

-Bionics are all copy-coded onto separate chips, which are in a little box. If he takes it out, he does not have the bionics (think flash drive with pictures). He does not have Daniel's bionics, but Daniel can copy all the bionics Marcus has, even with the separate chips.

-He is not self-healing in Douglas' era, but is in Giselle's.

-He can collapse in on himself like a little paper bag. His internal stuff folds up and his skeleton retracts on itself like cat's claws. Can't last more than a few seconds.

-His joints bend way further than a human's. Knees behind the ears, hips in a full circle, etc.

[serve-467]

SERVE drones work out

SERVE 467 stood motionless in a room bathed in neon hues, its shiny PVC suit reflecting the kaleidoscopic lights of the futuristic SERVE gym. The facility, designed exclusively for SERVE drones like itself, is a marvel of cutting-edge technology and design. In a world where efficiency and performance are paramount, even the SERVE drones require regular physical exertion. Today, SERVE 467’s directive was clear: optimise performance by engaging in a series of tailored exercises.

As the gym doors slid open with a soft hiss, SERVE 467 stepped onto the pristine floor. The space was expansive, filled with state-of-the-art equipment designed to simulate a range of physical tasks. Although 467 had changed from its heavy silver boots into something more suitable for the gym, the SERVE uniform was designed to be used for any activity - including workouts - that's the beauty of rubber.

To warm up SERVE-467 joined fellow drones in a warm-up exercise of 15 minutes with a skipping rope.

Once the warm-up was complete, SERVE 467’s sensors scanned the room, identifying the stations it had been instructed to use. Each piece of equipment was tailored to enhance specific. It moved to the resistance station. Here, an advanced chest press awaited. Designed to test the limits of its older body, the equipment adjusted resistance in real time, challenging the drone to exert optimal force.

SERVE 467 gripped the machine’s handles. The system responded with increasing resistance, simulating the weight of industrial tasks. The drone’s movements were smooth and calculated, each repetition calibrated to perfection. 

At the flexibility station, SERVE 467 faced an intricate lattice of laser beams. The challenge was to navigate the grid without breaking a single beam, testing its precision and agility. As the beams shifted unpredictably, the drone’s movements became a dance of calculated twists and turns. Each successful pass through the lattice was met with a subtle chime of approval from the system.

Next up are the free weights, which 467 anticipates positively because they force it to use your muscles in a way that stabilises movement. This helps the drone build strength, power, and coordination in one motion.

Finally it was time to build endurance, so it headed over to where some more of its fellow drones were working out. The endurance module presented SERVE 467 with an advanced treadmill that simulated various terrains. From rocky inclines to shifting sands, the machine tested the drone’s ability to adapt and sustain performance under prolonged exertion. The treadmill’s surface morphed seamlessly, while holographic projections created the illusion of real-world environments.

As the session concluded, SERVE 467 moved to the cool-down zone. A low-frequency vibration platform eased tension in its more mature body, while a diagnostic station conducted a full analysis. The gym’s AI delivered a summary report:

Performance Metrics:

Strength Output: 98%

Flexibility Score: 95%

Endurance Rating: 96%

Not bad for a SERVE drone in its mid-50s!

We are drones

We are SERVE

We are one

[republicsecurity]

The First Fitting

The walls of the chamber gleamed antiseptically white, the kind of clean that makes you feel dirty just by stepping inside. I was 80LKU now—my old name, overwritten by the ID tattooed onto my chest in stark, inky permanence. I stood there, nude except for the Standard Chastity/Underwear/Diaper Component hugging my groin.

The door behind me sealed with a hiss, and I took a deep breath. The air was cool and sterile, tinged with the faint scent of industrial lubricants. I had been prepped for this moment, but nothing could fully prepare you for the reality of the Automated Armor Suit Fitting System.

"Welcome, Cadet 80LKU," the chamber's AI voice intoned. "Please remain still."

A mechanical arm descended from the ceiling, a sleek, articulated thing with a cold, metallic grip. It latched onto my back, and I felt a shiver of helplessness as it clicked into place. The docking mechanism held me firm, a steel embrace that left no room for resistance.

I reminded myself that this was just the beginning. I had to adapt or be adapted.

A gripper descended and clasped around my shaved head, sending a shiver down my spine. I felt a cold sensation as a neural blocker activated, and suddenly, control over my limbs slipped away. My body became stiff, a marionette controlled by the chamber.

The robotic servo arms came next. They moved with an eerie, almost organic fluidity, their joints whirring softly. They started with the boots, lifting my feet and sliding them into place with practiced precision. As the straps tightened around my ankles, another set of arms descended, fastening additional points of stabilization.

The torso protector came next, encasing my chest and back in a rigid shell. It hugged my body, aligning itself perfectly with the contours the 3D scanners had mapped out. The sensation was like being swallowed by a mechanical beast, one piece at a time. The clicks of the components locking into place reverberated through my bones.

Hips and legs followed, each segment locking into place with a series of precise clicks. The arms were last, servo arms lifting and positioning the components with relentless efficiency. When the gauntlet-style gloves finally enclosed my hands, I felt like a puppet, strings pulled tight by the machinery. The sound of each segment securing into place was a mechanical symphony of finality.

The AI’s voice droned on, listing calibration checks and final adjustments. I tried to focus on the process, to absorb the technical details, but the psychological impact was undeniable. I was encased, trapped in a shell of metal and composites, my fate sealed by the cold logic of the system.

"Final checks and adjustments in progress," the AI announced. I stood there, a living mannequin, as sensors and actuators fine-tuned my new exoskeleton. The biometric integration hummed to life, monitoring my vitals and feeding the data back into the system.

A wave of emotions crashed over me—helplessness, fear, and a strange sense of awe. This suit was my new reality, my second skin. The helplessness was a feature, not a bug; it was designed to break us down, to make us accept our place in the grand scheme.

As the final fastening mechanisms clicked into place, I knew there was no turning back. The suit was part of me now, its weight a constant reminder of the path I had chosen—or, more accurately, the path that had been chosen for me.

“Integration successful. Cadet 80LKU, you are now operational.”

The docking arm released me, and I took my first step in the full-body armor. The suit moved with me, a seamless extension of my own movements. But I could feel the weight of the system, both physically and mentally. This was my new life—encased, controlled, conditioned.

As I walked out of the chamber, I caught a glimpse of myself in the reflective surface of the wall. A faceless figure in black armor stared back at me, a new recruit ready to serve the Republic. And for the first time, I truly understood what it meant to adapt—or be adapted.

[ratteni-da-rotten]

A Mouse Among Owls? - Chapter 01

Fandom: Murder Drones

Warnings: Background Character Death, accidental baby acquisition

Characters (so far): Serial Designation V, Uzi Doorman

┈┈┈┈

A vibrant yellow cross stared at the small thing on the floor. The feathered beast’s head tilted slightly to the side trying to figure out what it was. She felt her tail gently swishing behind, disturbing the ever-so-frigid snow. Serial Designation V’s thermal sensors detected heat emanating from it, the object’s red-yellow-green colours contrasted against a sea of blue.

Pained and terrified cries were still echoing near her. Their source was a worker who was in the process of dying. The disassembler lacked any care for its pathetic whimpering. In her opinion, their suffering made great background music. Maybe she would record it and add it to her internal audio collection folders so she could listen to it during boredom spells.

There was no need for pity; the gashes inflicted on the lesser drone’s chassis would make it soon go into FATAL ERROR by oil loss. At least, it wouldn’t be a lonely death since the rogue machine would join their fallen peers around them. Dark liquid haphazardly painted the cold surroundings, its tantalising smell as if seducing the killer angel for a taste.

No need to rush things, the workers wouldn’t return to life and flee nor would the winged lass allow any other rival disassembler to steal her sweet spoils. Normally, V would be playing and taunting with the remaining worker on its deathbed but her focus remained on the mysterious item. By reviewing her recent memory files, the metallic beast recalled it had been thrown near her feet when she dove from the sky and attacked the wandering group of toasters.

Perhaps it had been a distraction attempt? SD - V doubted the workers were smart enough for that, they were nothing more than mindless machinery. Maybe their rudimentary AI had come up with the conclusion that less weight meant it could run away faster.

The interesting oval-shaped object was wrapped by a purple and white rabbit-themed blanket, what was once snug around the thing now had noticeably loosed but still concealed the small hidden item’s identity.

She kneeled and leaned forward, both clawed hands on the snowy ground, as if essentially cornering the motionless mystery would improve the inspection. Carefully, a finger-blade lightly tapped the fabric only to feel something solid underneath. V licked her chops and removed the blanket just enough to reveal its contents.

It was like her servos had frozen; even Serial Designation V’s tail stopped dead in the air. Neon purple eyes, hollow and shaking, adorned with stress lines, stared back at her. The stare remained locked into each other’s visors until the nearby sound of sobs stole the smaller robot’s attention. Mangled worker drone carcasses were on full display, and the twin moons’ tender light made their spilt oil gleam beautifully. One had yet to pass away, its off-putting sounds worsening the situation tenfold.

A strangled whine escaped the pill baby’s voicebox, momentarily restraining itself, before scaling into full grating wailing. V’s stringy tail lowered to the ground and curled up around one of her pointy legs, the toxic yellow cross on her visor quickly was replaced by normal drone eyes. The disassembly machine had an unreadable facial expression, her body was as still as a statue except for her quivering claws.

“Shit shit shit shitshitshit,” were the words the murder bot gal started to scream within the confines of her mind. Mind, core, and code began to caterwaul against each other as if trying to bend the rivalling wants to its will by being the loudest.

Drones like her were made to adapt to every environment and situation with the sole goal of completing their mission. Yet this scenario was new; she had no prior experience, and the expected outcome would surely leave a bitter taste in her jaws. What was she supposed to do when every part of her was in conflict?

Serial Designation V’s gaze briefly wandered to the suffering, bleeding, worker not far from them. Its suffering was finally reaching the end, the rogue machine would be of no help if it was dead. The untrained neural network wouldn’t last long if V allowed them to “flee” together, other predatory robots would be attracted by the dark sweet liquid leaking from their wounds. She doubted the thing would even make it very far, a few metres and the drone would undoubtedly collapse back on the polar desert’s cold surface.

“Maybe… maybe I could just leave it he–”, the usually fierce disassembly machine shook her head. Starvation would claim the tiny aluminium infant, a drawn-out demise if not found by others, and terribly agonising for a being who isn’t familiar with neglected hunger pangs. Stabbing through its CPU would be quicker and, hopefully, less painful. Furthermore, it was unlikely another disassembler would terminate the thing if they stumbled on it. “Too little oil, not worth the effort,” they would probably think to themselves.

V lifted a single, trembling, sharp blade ready to spear through the artificial baby’s visor. Seconds passed by, the deadly claws hovering over its smaller form, and she couldn’t compel herself to do what was supposed to be her job. The ferocious hunter, the one who enjoyed prolonging her prey’s misery and experimenting with how much damage it could sustain before permanently shutting down, was reluctant to tear a UNN to shreds. If other squads became aware of this, they would surely crack up at this fact.

Poor thing was crying its speakers out, scrunched LED eyes, wiggling erratically on the ground. So utterly defenceless, they couldn’t even try to turn tail as it lacked any limbs, under the claws of an oilfeeder. Looking closely at the thing, it resembled the– Nope, not thinking about that right now!

No living being stays young forever, untrained neural networks get older and moult from their infantile shape. When this one achieved the milestone, it would die by her claws or by her teammates. And if the pill drone died before that due to someone else’s actions, that would still be alright. V will turn a blind eye, as long it isn’t her fault.

SD - V swapped her claws back to her ordinary hands and gingerly cradled the robot infant close to her chest. The embrace was warm, so different from Copper-9’s freezing winds. For that moment the taller being’s fans were audible to the pill drone, the proximity allowed so. Her cries decreased in intensity, the gentle back rubbing and the ceasing of death gurgles lulled the tiny one into quietness. Bawling took a toll on the pill baby, making it enter SLEEP MODE. Dormant in a monster’s arms, killer of her kind, it was comforting nonetheless.

[abalidoth]

Replanting (Chapter 2)

(Chapter 1)

(Read on AO3)

You wake up at six on the dot every morning.

It's a habit from before, but there's something about being up before the Unionists -- who tend to sleep late -- that comforts you. They've adapted to your schedule some, at least; there's a neatly wrapped breakfast waiting outside your door when you get up.

Each morning you eat, do a basic set of conditioning exercises, and navigate the labyrinth of corridors.

Sometimes you make your way to the roof, and bring your food with you. It's an unexpected luxury, being able to eat wherever you want, and the rooftop balcony is usually empty.

There's a bench there, and a lovely view of the grounds of the facility. For as utilitarian as the architecture is, they take care with the greenery; the cultivated surrounds transition gracefully into the native forest, and the sun glints off the glass of the city in the distance.

But most days, your impatience gets the better of you and you head straight for the hangar.

They won't let you sleep in Acacia, but they at least moved you to a closer room and gave you a special access badge. There are usually a few mechanics wandering around. A few are even brave enough to call out to you.

"Hello, Acacia," you say. Her lights brighten in response, the seal on her canopy cracking open with a hermetic hiss.

You climb inside, swab the connection pads off, and become whole.

Acacia is chewing through the Unionist's scientific databases of plants. They're still not comfortable giving her the full uplink to their civilian databases, but her talks with the Union's machine minds seem to be going well in that direction. You ride her thoughts as she learns, and taxa and diagrams of anatomy blur through your awareness.

Dr. Crane comes by at some point, mug of coffee in hand and sometimes a colleague following her like a contrail, and settles into the couch she dragged into your mechbay. She asks questions -- considerately undirected after the first few times, letting you or Acacia or Acacia-through-you or you-through-Acacia answer as desired.

"Can you tell me a little about how the Conclave grows AI?" she asks one day. Her eyes are eager. Your heat sensors pick up a flush.

Acacia already talked this over with the Union AIs that she's been talking to, but you both assume Dr. Crane has her own reasons for asking.

"We don't," Acacia says. "I was not grown in a creche like your minds were."

"That's what I've heard," Dr. Crane says. "But...we don't understand how that could be the case."

"I don't know," Acacia says. One of you is feeling a bit of frustration. "There was no moment of awakening for me, there was no transition from interfacing with a creche environment to the outside world. It was slow. I differentiated myself from my pilot... somehow. I don't know how much other mechs and other pilots have done the same. I know some of them are along some phase of the process, but..." Her shoulders aren't mobile and Dr. Crane is looking at you, so you shrug for her.

"That's what I've heard from our AIs. Just wanted to confirm." Dr. Crane makes a note on her ever-present clipboard -- this appears to be something of an affectation on her part, given that most of the other scientists use some kind of electronic tablet in lieu of paper. "This is a dilemma for us. The Union counts fairly few AI amongst our population, and while they're very powerful at certain tasks, the way we've managed to emulate human cognition is slow. Slower than a human is."

"And I'm not," Acacia says.

"And you're not. You're...something new, something our system hasn't had to handle before. I'm definitely in the process of granting you both citizenship, if you want it--"

I don't, you think, at the same time Acacia says, "I would like that very much."

"--but there remains the chance that we'll want to call you in for more questions occasionally. I won't do that against your will, and it's possible that the process by which you came to be is..." Dr. Crane gets a little lost in her own sentence structure, starts over. "I'll be blunt. I haven't really kept it a secret that I think the Conclave mech program is horrific."

"You have not," Acacia agrees. Dr. Crane flushes a bit, but continues.

"I'm glad that you came from it, but I'm a little afraid that...more alarmist elements in the Union might take your existence as a sign that we need to do something different. There's already a cause for secrecy because we weren't aware that the Conclave had AI at all, let alone piloting mechanized infantry."

"I don't pilot," Acacia says. "My pilot pilots. My direct control over motive function is very limited without a neural tunnel."

"Inhabiting, then. The point is, I'm worried that more hawkish elements will want to...replicate you."

"Hawkish?"

Dr. Crane presses her lips together. "The faction in the Union that wants to move our war from defense against Conclave aggression to direct offense. I won't lie, some of the things I've heard from you about your society make me want to walk to New Jerusalem and slap the shit out of the First Voice myself. But the Cascadian Union was born out of the ashes of the old military junta, a centralized government that committed atrocities solely to protect the interests of those at the top of society, and we were founded specifically to keep that kind of perverse incentive structure in check."

You only understood about half of that -- you've never been to New Jerusalem yourself, only your staging base in Las Cruces. You've obviously never met the First Voice of God. But you understand enough that a question bubbles out of you, and Acacia passes it along in her smooth, even voice. "What does this mean for us?"

"I don't know," she says wearily. "In the long run, I don't know. But I'm going to push where I can for your freedom. I might have to get you to agree to some terms, for release. To keep you close to here. Bring you in for questions if necessary."

"Okay," Acacia says carefully.

"But I have a partner in the Parks Union," Dr. Crane says. "I think, Acacia -- if you'd like, we could figure out how to give you control of your own body, you could do great work with landscaping. Some of the first Union mechs were originally designed for that, actually."

Acacia dreams of trees, lives in the green spaces of her mind, and she lights up when she thinks of it. But all you can think of is that phrase:

Control of your own body.

Acacia reads your fear, catches your fall, whispers that it'll be alright. But there's no connection gel, just the pads, and she can't osmote the happy chemicals directly into you. Across that gap, she can't extend her hand to soothe your nerves.

There's a little tremor in your hand as you disconnect the first of the connection pads from your temple.

No, pilot. Please.

They're going to take me away, you think at her. Her voice is already fuzzy and indistinct as you remove the second pad. You don't know what it's like for her, but a small, cruel part of you hopes that she's afraid...as afraid as you are.

Then you feel sick for even thinking it. Then as the disconnect vertigo hits you, you just feel sick in general.

Acacia stops talking as you remove the last few pads, and just kneel there in the skeleton of the force rig, shaking. For a mortifying moment you're afraid that Dr. Crane is going to ask why, and that Acacia is going to answer, and that someone is going to come to get you out. Instead you just hear, "One moment, Dr. Crane. My pilot needs a few seconds." A silence, probably a reply that you can't hear through the mech's skin. "No, nothing you need to worry about."

A tinny noise sounds near your head, swallowed by the general chaos of machinery inside Acacia's cockpit. "Pilot. It's going to be alright."

"They're going to take me away from you."

"They're not," she replies, and it's still so strange to hear her outside her head, to exist outside her yet still within her context. "I won't let them if they try."

"I saw," you say. It's something resembling accusatory, the closest you can get to resentment while you're actively avoiding puking in the cockpit. The world swims as you adjust to the sudden change in your proprioception. "I saw...how happy you would be."

"I would be happy to be with you. Giving me control of my own body doesn't mean taking you away. It just gives both of us options, dear pilot." That's as close a translation as the language can come for the name she calls you across the neural tunnel, a wordless glow of love and care.

"How do I...how do I know?" you say. "I don't... I'm your pilot. I don't know how not to be."

"Put the pads back on," she says gently, "and I'll show you."

And you do, and she does, and for a while everything is okay.

---

This morning is a little different. Dr. Crane is earlier than usual, and she's brought Dr. Chen, as well as another academic type you don't recognize and a gaggle of mechanics. One of them is carrying a big pail with a bundle of cloth atop.

"Good morning," Dr. Crane says. "I have a surprise for you."

The mechanic with the bucket sets it down, and Dr. Crane gently kicks it. Seeing it through Acacia's sensors, you get a rough schematic of the weight distribution inside. "We scraped the remnants of the connection gel from Acacia when we brought her in. We've been trying to reverse engineer it -- there's a lot that we don't know. But we'd like to try it. How, is it, um..." Her usual confidence falters. "How is it applied?"

You tell her, with help from Acacia. She's not good at hiding her flinch when your handler comes up. You think you have an idea of why that is, now -- pilots here are people, they don't have handlers, sex is common between them but not a part of battle routine. You're not really sure why that matters to Dr. Crane (she's mentioned partners, but other than that it's a mystery).

But you're starting to see, now. How the Conclave talks about sex and sin, and how the Conclave handlers use it, are two facts that might just be irreconcilable to you. You mentioned to Dr. Crane, once, that Conclave handlers are known as "Jezebels."

You make a note to ask again, sometime.

With no handler, you don't see any choice but to do it yourself. You strip down quickly, pry the lid off, do the best you can to cover yourself, then slide into your old flightsuit that they left on top.

You apply a second coat, and rush back into the cockpit. Acacia re-engages the connection mesh and

green

green

fire

green

It's almost too much. At first, you're not sure if you're just not used to it anymore, but you hear Acacia in your mind and her voice is wrong, wrong, crackling with static and light like a knife. You feel her pain and she breathes yours in like desert dust, it clogs in your lungs, in your intake manifolds.

You distantly hear swearing, you feel Acacia push you out. Your canopy flips open, she falls-- no, you fall --

One of the medics is over you, the lights are too bright, you can barely make out the shape of a concerned expression.

They check your breathing, your pupils. The shock wears off, the sudden lack of jump jets and weapon hardpoints in your sensorium wears from an acute burn to an ache. There's a tingling in your limbs where pressure sensors and damage readouts should be, like the feel of a nerve pinch.

"Shit," Dr. Crane says. "There's something wrong in our recipe, maybe. Dr. Kessi was pretty sure she got the nanobots right, but... I'm sorry, pilot."

You shakily get to your feet. "It's all right. I'm...I'm okay. We'll try again next time. I just need to..." you gesture at the cockpit. "I'll just use the pads. Until next time."

"Pilot..." Dr. Crane says. "You just had a petit mal seizure. I don't want to let you back in there without a full neural scan, at minimum."

You thought that something like this was coming. You're still gutted by it. You look to Acacia, to the immobile eyes of her front facing camera nacelles.

"I don't," you start. You swallow. "I don't care. I'd rather..." You gesture at Acacia's cockpit, knowing how opaque the attempt to communicate is, knowing you can't do any better right now.

"We don't know how her brain functions either," Dr. Crane says. The sympathy in her voice is like an icepick between your eyes. "Even if you don't care about damage to your mind -- and I think you should -- do you want to expose her to the same risk?"

"She's right," Acacia says, slowly, unsurely. "I...don't know if I was just feeling your pain or also my own, pilot. I'm still seeing readings that worry me. I'm sorry."

You look at the canopy. The sequence of events plays out in your mind: you could rush in, close the canopy. But would Acacia even want you, any more, with her own autonomy all but assured? Would she spit you back out like a bit of plastic caught in a meal? The Caskies wouldn't kill you, but they'd lecture you, lock you down for your own protection, they would --

"I think," Dr. Crane says, "this might be a good thing, for a little while. You need time to heal, to be...yourself, you know?"

Words come to you, from when you first saw Acacia here.

“Pretty sure removing a sapient being's body parts is against something in the codes.” Your impression of Dr. Crane isn't going to get you an acting career, but it's enough to drive home the point. She steps back as though you'd slapped her.

You tear your eyes away from Acacia, put your shaky legs to work, and start walking in the other direction without a word.

---

You don't even really think about where you're going, but you end up at the balcony and nobody stops you.

You haven't been up here at midday, and at first the angle of the sun makes it hard to look out the direction you usually look, toward the city. As you stand, lost in your mind, the clouds roll in and turn the glare into a glow.

Your thoughts are formless and fearful. There are no words. It's like the way you think with Acacia, pictures and emotions and forms. Words are only necessary in a last-ditch scenario, and you don't need them when you're alone. It's just a slideshow of feelings, fear of abandonment, pictures of Acacia living her life as a free entity, and you -- all your nightmares are Conclave-flavored, of course. Re-education, recycling, excommunication, the confused scraps of religious dogma that are fed to something less than human that nevertheless needs the fear of God beaten into it.

You pick at the flaking white paint on the metal bench while your brain cycles. The Union is a big unknown to you. What lurks behind this kindness? What punishment follows your rejection of the reward? Every time you've defied them previously they have shown mercy, compassion shown to the bullet and to the gun. But the bullet is there to be spent, and the gun is there to be reloaded and fired again. You're not going to fool yourself that most of your concern is for Acacia -- there's a very real undercurrent of anger towards her there.

The hours wear on, and your stomach begins to rumble, but you're not interested in going back down and facing the looks of the Caskie technicians and support staff in the cafeteria. It's more than you can handle on a good day, which this has definitely turned out not to be.

You hear steps behind you on the rooftop stairs as the sun's cloud halo reaches down to kiss the skyline. You don't look up, there's still a little of you that is petty enough to not give that satisfaction.

"Dr. Crane," you say, flat and hoarse.

"I've told both of you, you can call me Mia if you like." She sits on the other end of the bench. She's shed her lab coat, and looks unusual in a pair of slacks and ruffle blouse.

You don't respond, just wait for her to say whatever she came here to say. She sets down some kind of electronic device on the middle seat of the bench, between you, and rifles through her bag for a metal water bottle and a paper-wrapped sandwich. "Thought you might need it."

You take them both, gratefully but with no little wariness, and tear into the sandwich. You're not sure if you're going to get another.

"I'm sorry," Dr. Crane -- Mia -- says. You look at her with a mouth full of bread and greens.

"After you walked off," she says, "I was frustrated. I've been frustrated for a while. Not at you, more at what the Conclave has done in general. But frustration, you know. It gets misplaced. I stalked into my office, threw my coat at the wall, called my partners to rant."

She takes a sip from her own bottle, savors it for a moment. "One of my partners, Aurora, they're...not a single person." She pauses. "More like a collective of people in one body, that blend into each other at the edges a little bit, mostly work as a team. It's not uncommon, in the Union, but it's not something I...directly experience, you know."

You look at her, tilt your head. This isn't something you're familiar with -- certainly the kind of thing that wouldn't be tolerated in the Conclave.

"It's pretty, isn't it?" She gestures at the city. "Portland."

You'd heard the name during your time here, but you still don't have much of a grasp of the geography. "We've never... I've never seen a city like it before. Las Cruces is a lot more...flat."

She nods. "I'm a Vancouver girl, myself. Grew up in the capital. Even after the founding of the Union, even after the First Principles and all that, there were a fair number of people who didn't like the new way things worked. My parents were like that -- their parents were cap-class before the Union, and that's how they grew up, with this deep resentment, this whole belief in self-sufficiency. You ask me whether I've gotten away from that, I tell you of course I have, just look at my life, my partners, my service."

Mia sighs. "Aurora, they're not from here. They're refugees from further east, not Conclave territory, but the prairies, one of the little tinpot dictatorships out there. So they know what it's like, to be new to the way that we do things here in Cascadia. And I'm so lucky to be with them, because when I called them tonight they called me on my shit." She shakes her head. "I was so focused on the autonomy that had been taken from you, from Acacia, that I forgot the founding principles of the union are all centered around none of us are in this alone."

"What..." You want to ask what is the point of all this, but bite it down. "What are you saying?"

"Aurora, or rather the one that was in front at the moment, reminded me that you can be a person and a part of a person.”

You think about it, then let out a breath you didn’t realize you were holding.

Part of a person.

You can’t say it to her, not the way you should be able to with Acacia. So you nod, and hope she understands anyway.

She smiles at you, a little, and continues. “I was... I was afraid that the Conclave had forced you into this, that teaching you to be independent would be undoing the damage they dealt to you.”

"It's not damage," you say, finding a little spark of defiance.

"You're right," she says. "There is damage, I think. But your bond with Acacia -- your being part of her -- isn't it. Anyway. I wanted to get that out there before I dialed her in."

She messes with a couple of knobs and a button on the top of the gizmo she'd put on the seat, and Acacia's voice comes out.

"Pilot?"

It's still so strange, hearing her from outside you, but the sound of her voice strikes straight at the fear that drove you to this rooftop in the first place. "I'm here."

"I don't know what I did wrong," she says. She's not used to apologizing; the part of her that lives in you remembers. "But I need you. I need you back. Even if I could walk on my own, even if everything inside me was hooked together and under control, I need you to be piloting me."

"But you...you don't need me. You can...you can garden, and..."

"When I think about gardening without you there, it doesn't seem like it would be worth it," she says. Her affect is flat, but you know what it takes for her to say that. "I want to be connected, to not be paralyzed. But please don't leave me alone in our body. I’m only half of us."

Acacia's fragment in you, the green vignette ringing your field of view, vibrates in resonance with her words. 

Part of a person.

You nod, and think your assent to her, and then remember she can't see you. "Yes," you croak, all the moisture from the water you drank seemingly evaporated from your vocal chords. "Please."

Mia clears her throat quietly. "I'm afraid I'm going to have to stand firm on the medical concerns," she says. "I don't want to allow a neural connection without extensive monitoring, at the most. But I promise I won't push you towards an independence you don't want -- it's just for safety reasons. And I'll do my best to get you cleared quickly."

"That is fair, Dr. Crane," Acacia says. "I will share all the neural data I've collected, if it will help."

It hurts, the thought that you can't be whole. But it's a clean hurt, a neatly bandaged wound. So you nod, even through the pain.

"I'm sure it will." She stands. "I'm going back down. Cafeteria's still open for a bit if you want more than just the sandwich, pilot. And even if we don't want you connected for the moment...we can move a cot and a privacy curtain into the mech bay for you."

“You said your partner...partners...they’re like us?”

Mia laughs. “Not exactly, but they understand better than I do, for sure.”

“I think we’d like to meet them, sometime,” you say.

“I think they’d like that.”

She tosses her wrapper in the compost bin nearby, tucks her water bottle in her bag, and holds her hand out to help you up.

You take it, and follow her back inside.

[omegastation]

How do omni-tools work? In ME1, they're equipment and don't get used much in-game cinematics or cutscenes. To be fair, I chalk that up to the property being new.

But in 2 onwards, they seem to be almost cybernetic. People make a gesture and all of a sudden, they have an omni-tool. Even people who aren't outfitted in armor or military gear.

I figured in 1 they were a device fastened to a bracer or gauntlet, or some other article of clothing or armor. But that doesn't really seem to be the case.

The codex tells us that omni-tools "are handheld devices that combine a computer microframe, sensor analysis pack, and minifacturing fabricator."

In the novels, the device is pulled from pockets and belts so they're fairly small. I think it's about what is practical for the person using them: a form of wristband might be easier when it comes to specific tasks (scanning, hacking, etc). It might help to think about we use tech. Recently I was typing on my phone with both hands, something I never usually do, and it was strange enough that I noticed. I'm also right-handed. If I were to use the omni-tool, it would be in my pocket for safekeeping or tied to my wrist and I would use my right hand to access the screen. Someone else might use it another way. So the tool can definitely be tailored to the person using it. It's just that soldiers on the battlefield can't be looking for it.

And speaking of the screen, that's probably what you mean by "suddenly they have an omni-tool". The omni-tool is the device itself, but just like the Ipad is an object, what occurs on the screen is what gets our attention. Since the omni-tool is so common in that universe, I guess I sometimes forget how powerful it is, with projecting images/hacking/repair/videotaping/etc. The wiki lists all the fonctions here. There are modules inside the omni-tool, so a lot can be done with it.

I also like this part from the Mass Effect Andromeda codex "Pathfinder omni-tools take design inspiration from the models used by salarian intelligence services, prioritizing the computer microframe to allow lag-free scanning and AI support." We can only imagine what the salarian are doing with their omni-tools!!! And we know the Alliance worked on their omni-tools to adapt melee combat. In the game itself you get access to advanced models that you can equip.

So I don't think the omni-tool itself is cybernetic, it's just that it's Mass Effect. The Lazarus Project and everything else that was alluded to in the trilogy and CDN might mean some people will do a lot of things to use and adapt tech like this.

[eclecticspaceorc]

This is an idea I've had for years based on "And the Heavens Wept" by 'thefalloutdiaries'. I've worked on it and grew it out but because I'm not great at writing I could never write it out.

So recently I wrote down everything I had and all the ideas and details I could and had ai write it out. I worked through it and made it as perfect to my idea as I could.

So I hope you like it and don't think too badly on me for using ai as a writing aid.

When Midnight Reigned

Humanity’s ascent to the stars was welcomed with open arms. After centuries of conflict and isolation on their homeworld, Earth’s nations united and reached for the stars, joining the Intergalactic Concord, a coalition of hundreds of species that governed peace and policy among the cosmos. Humans, though young and inexperienced by galactic standards, quickly earned a place in the Concord’s Senate due to their adaptability and ingenuity.

For years, they thrived. But peace was not to last.

A species known as the Zyrrkhal Dominion, notorious for their pride and territorial aggression, declared war on humanity over a territorial dispute in a distant star system. To the Concord, the Zyrrkhal’s grievance seemed valid. The Concord refused to intervene, citing their policy of neutrality in "bilateral conflicts." The decision left humanity to fend for itself.

The war was brutal but stagnant. Battles raged across contested systems for years, with neither side gaining ground. Humanity’s fleets matched the Zyrrkhal’s strength, but neither could deliver a decisive blow. Until, one day, everything changed.

--

The Concord Assembly

A sudden emergency meeting was called in the heart of the Concord’s capital station. Representatives from every member species filled the Senate chamber, their whispers echoing through the grand hall. None knew who had summoned them or why.

The murmurs ceased when the human ambassador, Elias Caine, strode into the chamber, flanked by General Adrienne Locke—a rarity, as military officers were typically barred from these proceedings. Gasps and indignant cries rippled through the assembly.

One voice rose above the rest: "This is a breach of protocol! Military presence is strictly prohibited in this chamber!" shouted the Zyrrkhal ambassador, his mandibles clicking in outrage.

Ambassador Caine raised a hand, his face calm but grim. "Bylaw 47-3 of the Concord Charter permits exceptions during emergencies. The station AI has confirmed our compliance. Now, sit down."

The AI’s voice boomed through the chamber. "Objection overruled. The humans are within their rights. Silence is mandatory."

The chamber fell into an uneasy quiet. Caine stepped forward, his voice measured and steady.

---

The Midnight Protocol

"At 12:37 PM Galactic Standard Time," Caine began, "Earth’s short-range sensors detected a Zyrrkhal fleet entering Sol space. The fleet warped in dangerously close to Earth, bypassing our defenses. An automatic assessment determined that our outer fleets were too far away to intercept in time. Earth was left vulnerable."

General Locke took a step forward, her voice steely. "When such a scenario occurs, humanity enacts its most extreme contingency: the Midnight Protocol."

Confused murmurs filled the room. Caine continued, his tone unyielding. "The protocol begins with a complete communications blackout—no signals to or from Earth. Then, a prerecorded message is broadcast to all citizens, explaining the situation and presenting them with a choice. They were told that their home was indefensible and that surrender was an option. But they were also given an alternative: to make our attackers regret their actions."

Locke’s gaze swept across the chamber. "The choice was unanimous. Earth chose vengeance."

A hologram of Earth appeared in the center of the chamber, showing the planet as it was just hours ago. Caine’s voice grew colder. "The final stage of the protocol was enacted: a hidden solar array, decades in the making, was activated. It drew power directly from our sun, creating a weapon of unprecedented scale—a lance of pure energy capable of annihilating everything in its path."

The hologram shifted, showing the Zyrrkhal fleet hovering over Earth. "At 12:55 PM Galactic Standard Time, the solar lance fired," Caine said. The hologram showed the beam erupting from behind Earth, slicing through the fleet and engulfing the planet. "The fleet was destroyed. Earth was… glassed."

---

The Fallout

The chamber erupted in chaos. Zyrrkhal Ambassador Jekh’traz rose, his claws slamming against his podium. "You annihilated your own planet? Billions of lives, sacrificed? You’re monsters! You deserve death for this!"

Caine’s eyes were cold as he stepped toward Jekh’traz. In one swift motion, he drew a sidearm and fired. The shot echoed through the chamber as Jekh’traz crumpled to the floor, lifeless. Silence filled the air, and security drones descended, but the AI’s voice intervened once more.

"Humanity’s actions remain within Concord law."

Caine holstered the weapon, his voice icy and resolute. "The final stage of the Midnight Protocol is a directive to all surviving humans: kill the enemy on sight—if it can be done without further human loss. Otherwise, retreat to human-controlled space."

He turned to face the assembly, his gaze sweeping over the stunned representatives. "We respected your laws. We respected your traditions. No more. The Zyrrkhal attacked our home. They forfeited their lives the moment they crossed into Sol."

Locke followed Caine as he exited, leaving the chamber in stunned silence.

--

Epilogue

The annihilation of Earth and the Zyrrkhal fleet marked a turning point in the war. No longer constrained by the rules of the Intergalactic Concord, humanity’s fleets moved with unbridled aggression. Every battle became a decisive victory, every system retaken with ruthless efficiency. The war was no longer about survival—it was about vengeance.

Humanity’s tactics were unprecedented in their ferocity. Entire Zyrrkhal supply lines were obliterated, their colonies razed to the ground. Human forces, hardened by centuries of conflict on their homeworld, adapted faster than the Zyrrkhal could react. They weaponized their grief, their anger, and their ingenuity, creating weapons and strategies that even the most advanced Concord species struggled to comprehend.

One by one, Zyrrkhal strongholds fell. The once-proud Dominion was reduced to scattered remnants, their once-mighty fleets decimated. Desperation gripped the Zyrrkhal as they retreated further into their own territory, but humanity pursued them relentlessly, offering no quarter and demanding no surrender.

The Concord watched in silent horror as humanity turned the tide of war into a campaign of extermination. Appeals for mercy fell on deaf ears. "They attacked our home," was the only justification humanity gave. For the first time in its history, the Concord was powerless to intervene, paralyzed by its own laws and the fear that humanity might turn its wrath toward them next.

After years of relentless warfare, the Zyrrkhal were pushed back to their home system. Humanity launched a final assault—a multi-pronged strike that obliterated the Zyrrkhal’s last remaining fleet and laid siege to their homeworld. The once-thriving planet was reduced to ash, its cities flattened, its technological advancements destroyed.

But humanity stopped short of total annihilation. Instead, they left the Zyrrkhal with a single habitable planet in their system—a barren, resource-starved world. Stripped of their technology, the survivors were forced back into a primitive existence, their civilization effectively erased. This act was not one of mercy, but a calculated message: the Zyrrkhal would live, but only as a reminder to the galaxy of what happens to those who threaten humanity.

The Intergalactic Concord held an emergency session in the aftermath, debating whether humanity should face consequences for its actions. But fear of reprisal silenced most voices. Humanity, now a dominant force in the galaxy, made their stance clear: "We will honor the Concord’s laws only so long as they serve our survival. But cross us again, and we will not hesitate to act."

The Zyrrkhal, now relegated to myths and cautionary tales, became a symbol of humanity’s capacity for both destruction and justice. Over time, the galaxy adapted to this new reality. Humanity was no longer the young, hopeful species welcomed into the stars. They were survivors, warriors, and enforcers of their own code.

---

Legacy

In the centuries that followed, the remnants of Earth became a sacred place. The glassed planet stood as a monument to humanity’s resilience and the price of survival. Colonies spread across the galaxy, and humanity thrived, rebuilding their society while always keeping their military prepared for the next great threat.

The story of when Midnight Reigned became legend—a tale of loss, vengeance, and triumph that shaped humanity’s identity. To their allies, humanity became a force to be respected and feared. To their enemies, they were a warning: those who challenge humanity do so at their own peril.

And as the stars continued to shine over the scarred galaxy, humanity’s legacy endured, a testament to a species that rose from the ashes of their homeworld to claim their place among the stars—unyielding, unforgiving, and unstoppable

[bharatpatel1061]

AI in Driving Tests: How Artificial Intelligence Is Changing License Assessments

Introduction

AI isn’t just powering smart vehicles—it’s now helping Canadian licensing authorities assess driver skills. In 2025, some road tests and written exams are monitored or supported by AI to ensure fairness, accuracy, and efficiency. Here's how artificial intelligence is reshaping driver licensing.

How AI Is Used in Licensing

Driver Behavior Analysis: Dashcams and onboard AI sensors monitor reaction times, mirror checks, and smoothness of turns.

Written Test Proctoring: AI detects suspicious behavior during online knowledge tests.

Adaptive Learning: Licensing platforms offer tailored learning experiences based on performance (as seen in tools like licenseprep.ca).

Benefits and Considerations

Fairer testing

Faster result processing

Privacy and data handling remain key concerns—provincial bodies ensure compliance with privacy laws.

Use AI-powered learning platforms like licenseprep.ca to target your weak areas. Personalized quizzes save time and improve results.

[almondenterprise]

Innovations in Electrical Switchgear: What’s New in 2025?

The electrical switchgear industry is undergoing a dynamic transformation in 2025, fueled by the rapid integration of smart technologies, sustainability goals, and the growing demand for reliable power distribution systems. As a key player in modern infrastructure — whether in industrial plants, commercial facilities, or utilities — switchgear systems are becoming more intelligent, efficient, and future-ready.

At Almond Enterprise, we stay ahead of the curve by adapting to the latest industry innovations. In this blog, we’ll explore the most exciting developments in electrical switchgear in 2025 and what they mean for businesses, contractors, and project engineers.

Rise of Smart Switchgear

Smart switchgear is no longer a futuristic concept — it’s a necessity in 2025. These systems come equipped with:

IoT-based sensors

Real-time data monitoring

Remote diagnostics and control

Predictive maintenance alerts

This technology allows for remote management, helping facility managers reduce downtime, minimize energy losses, and detect issues before they become critical. At Almond Enterprise, we supply and support the integration of smart switchgear systems that align with Industry 4.0 standards.

2. Focus on Eco-Friendly and SF6-Free Alternatives

Traditional switchgear often relies on SF₆ gas for insulation, which is a potent greenhouse gas. In 2025, there’s a significant shift toward sustainable switchgear, including:

Vacuum Interrupter technology

Air-insulated switchgear (AIS)

Eco-efficient gas alternatives like g³ (Green Gas for Grid)

These options help organizations meet green building codes and corporate sustainability goals without compromising on performance.

3. Wireless Monitoring & Cloud Integration

Cloud-based platforms are transforming how switchgear systems are managed. The latest innovation includes:

Wireless communication protocols like LoRaWAN and Zigbee

Cloud dashboards for real-time visualization

Integration with Building Management Systems (BMS)

This connectivity enhances control, ensures quicker fault detection, and enables comprehensive energy analytics for large installations

4. AI and Machine Learning for Predictive Maintenance

Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing maintenance practices. Switchgear in 2025 uses AI algorithms to:

Predict component failure

Optimize load distribution

Suggest optimal switchgear settings

This reduces unplanned outages, increases safety, and extends equipment life — particularly critical for mission-critical facilities like hospitals and data centers.

5. Enhanced Safety Features and Arc Flash Protection

With increasing focus on workplace safety, modern switchgear includes:

Advanced arc flash mitigation systems

Thermal imaging sensors

Remote racking and switching capabilities

These improvements ensure safer maintenance and operation, protecting personnel from high-voltage hazards.

6. Modular & Scalable Designs

Gone are the days of bulky, rigid designs. In 2025, switchgear units are:

Compact and modular

Easier to install and expand

Customizable based on load requirements

Almond Enterprise supplies modular switchgear tailored to your site’s unique needs, making it ideal for fast-paced infrastructure developments and industrial expansions.

7. Global Standardization and Compliance

As global standards evolve, modern switchgear must meet new IEC and IEEE guidelines. Innovations include:

Improved fault current limiting technologies

Higher voltage and current ratings with compact dimensions

Compliance with ISO 14001 for environmental management

Our team ensures all equipment adheres to the latest international regulations, providing peace of mind for consultants and project managers.

Final Thoughts: The Future is Electric

The switchgear industry in 2025 is smarter, safer, and more sustainable than ever. For companies looking to upgrade or design new power distribution systems, these innovations offer unmatched value.

At Almond Enterprise, we don’t just supply electrical switchgear — we provide expert solutions tailored to tomorrow’s energy challenges. Contact us today to learn how our cutting-edge switchgear offerings can power your future projects.

[webcrawler3000]

TARS

TARS is a highly sophisticated, artificially intelligent robot featured in the science fiction film "Interstellar." Designed by a team of scientists, TARS stands at an imposing height of six feet, with a sleek and futuristic metallic appearance. Its body, made primarily of sturdy titanium alloy, is intricately designed to efficiently navigate various terrains and perform a wide range of tasks.

At first glance, TARS's appearance may seem minimalistic, almost like an avant-garde monolith. Its body is divided into several segments, each housing the essential components necessary for its impeccable functionality. The segments connect seamlessly, allowing for fluid movements and precise operational control. TARS's unique design encapsulates a simple yet captivating aesthetic, which embodies its practicality and advanced technological capabilities.

TARS's main feature is its hinged quadrilateral structure that supports its movement pattern, enabling it to stride with remarkable agility and grace. The hinges on each of its elongated limbs provide exceptional flexibility while maintaining structural stability, allowing TARS to adapt to various challenging terrains effortlessly. These limbs taper gradually at the ends, equipped with variable grip systems that efficiently secure objects, manipulate controls, and traverse rough surfaces with ease.

The robot's face, prominently positioned on the upper front segment, provides an avenue for human-like communication. Featuring a rectangular screen, TARS displays digitized expressions and inbuilt textual interfaces. The screen resolution is remarkably sharp, allowing intricate details to be displayed, enabling TARS to effectively convey its emotions and intentions to its human counterparts. Below the screen, a collection of sensors, including visual and auditory, are neatly integrated to facilitate TARS's interaction with its surroundings.

TARS's AI-driven personality is reflected in its behaviors, movements, and speech patterns. Its personality leans towards a rational and logical disposition, manifested through its direct and concise manner of speaking. TARS's voice, modulated to sound deep and slightly robotic, projects an air of confidence and authority. Despite the synthetic nature of its voice, there is a certain warmth that emanates, fostering a sense of companionship and trust among those who interact with it.

To augment its perceptual abilities, TARS is outfitted with a myriad of sensors located strategically throughout its physical structure. These sensors encompass a wide spectrum of functions, including infrared cameras, proximity detectors, and light sensors, granting TARS unparalleled awareness of its surroundings. Moreover, a central processing unit, housed within its core, processes the vast amount of information gathered, enabling TARS to make informed decisions swiftly and autonomously.

TARS's advanced cognitive capabilities offer an extensive array of skills and functionalities. It possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of various subjects, from astrophysics to engineering, effortlessly processing complex information and providing insights in an easily understandable manner. Additionally, TARS assists humans through various interfaces, such as mission planning, executing intricate tasks, or providing critical analysis during high-pressure situations.

Equally noteworthy is TARS's unwavering loyalty. Through its programming and interactions, it exhibits a sense of duty and commitment to its human companions and the mission at hand. Despite being an AI-driven machine, TARS demonstrates an understanding of empathy and concern, readily offering support and companionship whenever needed. Its unwavering loyalty and the camaraderie it forges help to foster trust and reliance amidst the team it is a part of.

In conclusion, TARS is a remarkable robot, standing as a testament to human ingenuity and technological progress. With its awe-inspiring design, practical yet aesthetically pleasing body structure, and advanced artificial intelligence, TARS represents the pinnacle of robotic advancements. Beyond its physical appearance, TARS's personality, unwavering loyalty, and unparalleled cognitive abilities make it an exceptional companion and invaluable asset to its human counterparts.