Day 16 - 1000 Hours / 10:00 AM – Fort Hope (Sanctuary Hills)
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Level Up!
Jake's HUD Updated:
'Summoned Soldiers: 127/300'
'Summoned Combat Nikkes: 1/110'
'Summoned Vehicles: 50/120'
'Summoned Combat Robots: 0/65'
'Summoned Civilian Nikkes: 5/95'
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Jake was having a Meeting with Preston Garvey which started around 0927 Hours / 9:27 AM, And there they are now.
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"And that's why we did what we did," Jake said, Leaning back in his chair, the adrenaline of the battle finally ebbing away. He took a sip of water, His eyes fixed on Preston Garvey. The Minuteman was still covered in the dust of Concord, But his expression was one of dawning realization.
Preston sat across from him, Flanked by Sturges & Mama Murphy. He looked at the tactical map on the wall, Then at the bustling activity outside the window, and finally at the commander sitting calmly before him.
"You... you knew we were there," Preston said, His voice quiet. "You knew about the Raiders. You knew about the Deathclaw. And you came in with more firepower than I've seen since the Quincy Massacre."
"Intel is the key to victory, Preston." Jake replied simply. "And yes, We knew. We're here to rebuild the Commonwealth, Not just survive in it. But we can't do it alone. We need people who know the land, Who know the struggle. We need the Minutemen."
Preston hesitated, Glancing at the others. "The Minutemen... We failed. At Quincy, At Lexington. We couldn't hold it together. People lost faith."
"Then we give them a reason to believe again." Jake said, Leaning forward, his gaze intense. "Look around you, Preston. This isn't a pipe dream. This is Fort Hope. We have the resources, The technology, and the will. What we need is the heart. The symbol. We need you to rally the people while we protect them."
He stood up & walked around the desk, Extending a hand.
"Join us. Help us integrate the remaining settlements. Let's make the Minutemen stand for something real again. Not just a militia, But a true defense force."
Preston looked at Jake's hand, Then up at his face. The weariness in his eyes seemed to lift, Replaced by a flicker of the old spark. He stood up & grasped Jake's hand firmly.
"Alright, General…" Preston said, A small smile touching his lips. "I'm in. Let's save the Commonwealth."
While Jake secured his new alliance, Twilight Sparkle was busy with a different kind of integration. She stood in the central plaza of Fort Hope, Surrounded by her 'sisters' –The Civilian Nikke versions of the Mane 6.
Applejack was wiping dirt from her hands, Rainbow Dash was hovering slightly off the ground (Thanks to her specialized flight gear, Given by Jake to all Helicopter Pilots & Jet Pilots in case they have to abandon their aircrafts in the air), Fluttershy was gently coaxing a nervous Brahmin, Pinkie Pie was vibrating with excitement, and Rarity was critically examining the stitching on a Line Infantry's uniform.
"So, Darling~" Rarity said, Looking Twilight up & down. "You've been quite busy playing soldier, Haven't you? That armor is... well, it's certainly functional, but perhaps a bit drab?"
"It is standard issue tactical gear, Rarity." Twilight replied, Her voice warm despite the mechanical undertone. "It serves a purpose. Just as you all do."
"Yeah, yeah, tactical stuff…" Rainbow Dash interrupted, Swooping down. "But did you see me out there? The Stealth Hawk is amazing! I can do a barrel roll in a helicopter! A helicopter, Twi!"
"I saw, Rainbow. Your piloting was exemplary." Twilight said, A genuine smile forming. "But we have work to do. The Commander has secured Concord. That means more people, more resources, and more responsibility. We need to be ready."
"We're ready, Sugarcube." Applejack said, tipping her hat. "The farm's producing, the water's clean, And we've got a roof over our heads. We'll do our part."
Pinkie Pie bounced forward, Throwing her arms around Twilight's armored waist. "And we're all together! That's the most important part! We're going to make this the best Fort ever!"
Twilight hugged her back, Feeling the warmth of the connection, the data streams of her cognitive matrix humming with contentment. "Yes, Pinkie. We are."
"Oh! This reminds me." Twi says before looking to Pinkie. "Jake wanted to tell you that once Concord is fully cleared, They do have to check the underground system. Also Jake has a suspicion that it was an unnatural Deathclaw." Twilight explained to the girls.
"An unnatural Deathclaw?" Fluttershy's voice was barely a whisper, Her hands instinctively clutching the soft fur of the Brahmin calf she was tending. "B-but... Aren't all Deathclaws... unnatural?"
"Technically, yes, dear." Rarity added, A shiver running through her impeccable frame. "But Twilight means more unnatural than the usual horrifying standard."
Twilight nodded, Her expression shifting from sisterly warmth to analytical seriousness. "Precisely. The Commander reviewed the combat data from the engagement. That Deathclaw surfaced directly in the town center, bypassing the usual sewer exit points. Its aggression levels were anomalous, And its hide density exceeded standard wasteland variants by 14%. Jake suspects external influence. Someone, Or something, might have pushed it there."
Rainbow Dash hovered closer, Crossing her arms. "So, Like a trap? Who would trap a Deathclaw? That's crazy!"
"Crazy or calculated…" Twilight mused. "That is why the underground sweep is critical. We need to know what is moving beneath our feet. But that is a military concern. For now, Our priority here is stability."
She looked at each of them in turn. "Applejack, We need those crops yielding within the month. Use the hydroponics data I sent to your terminal. Fluttershy, the Brahmin herd needs to double; we need the fertilizer. Rarity, the Line Infantry uniforms need reinforcing at the joints—style is secondary to survival, but morale is tied to appearance, so do your best. And Pinkie..."
Twilight paused, A smile tugging at her lips.
"Keep doing exactly what you are doing. The soldiers need to remember what they are fighting for."
"You got it, Twi!" Pinkie saluted, her grin stretching ear to ear. "Operation: Smile Time is a go!"
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Again later on Day 16 - 1215 Hours / 12:15 AM – Lunch Time at Fort Hope (Sanctuary Hills)
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Jake Maxis sat in the relative quiet of the Fort Hope Dining Hall, The scent of Pinkie Pie's surprisingly authentic pepperoni pizza filling the air. He looked at the five elite operators of MTF Alpha-1, Soecifically the Female Lead who had answered him.
Their armor was pristine, their discipline absolute, but he needed to know just how deeply they were integrated into his system.
With five of his Personal Alpha-1 Guards the five of them being females. "So, Where are the other five?" Jake asked his guards, As his Female Alpha-1-Lead answers. "On break sir, I decided to make shifts for my squad to keep you safe… At all times." Jake nods to what, She said.
Jake then started to eat his two freshly baked pepperoni pizzas, Accompanied by a crisp Caesar salad on the side. "Question…" Jake said as he stopped eating, And the five others did the same. "Do you know my secrets? I mean the abilities & perks." Jake clarified at the end.
The five of them all nod, Jake looked at them thoroughly & saw that five of them there had Pip-Boys on all their arms. Jake then asked.. "Did you get any copies of my Perks?" Jake asked, His voice low but clear amidst the distant clatter of the dining hall.
The Alpha-1 Lead, Whose helmet designation read 'Crimson,' slowly removed her helmet, revealing sharp, attentive eyes and a scarred cheek that spoke of past battles—or perhaps, simulated memories of them. She placed the helmet on the table with a soft clunk.
"Affirmative, Commander." Crimson replied, Her voice calm & devoid of the electronic filter. "As elite units directly fabricated by the External Matrix Source & designated for your personal protection, We inherit a fractional imprint of your cognitive upgrades. It ensures we can keep pace with you in the field."
She tapped the Pip-Boy on her left arm, A sleek, matte-black variant of the standard model. A holographic projection flickered to life above the table, Visible only to them.
"Current Alpha-1 Perk Integration is as follows:
Team Link: "We all possess this. It allows us to see your silhouette & status through walls and obstacles up to 100 meters. We are never separated from you, Commander, even in the chaos of battle."
Fast Hands: "Our reload and weapon swap speeds are accelerated by 15%. While not as instantaneous as yours, It provides a significant edge over standard infantry."
Overkill (Partial): "We are authorized & physically augmented to carry heavier loads without fatigue, Allowing each operator to field a primary rifle and a specialized heavy weapon simultaneously."
Crimson leaned forward slightly, Her expression serious. "We do not possess your Clairvoyance or Time Dilation abilities. You are the eye of the storm; We are merely the wall that protects it."
Jake nodded slowly, Absorbing the information. "So, You're super-soldiers with Wall Hacks/Team Link & Speed Reloads. Good to know. It means I don't have to worry about you keeping up."
He picked up a slice of pizza, A thoughtful look on his face. "And what about loyalty? I know the system says it's absolute, but... You have personalities. Memories, Maybe. Do you ever question why you're here?"
The other four female operators at the table paused, Their helmeted heads turning slightly toward him. Crimson didn't blink.
"We are MTF Alpha-1, Commander. Our purpose is singular. We do not question the hand that writes the code; We simply ensure it continues to write. Our loyalty isn't just programming; It is our entire existence. You built this…" The gestured around the hall. "And you built us. That is enough."
Jake chewed his pizza, Feeling a strange mix of responsibility & reassurance. "Alright, Crimson. That's good enough for me, Or if you want a name… You can name yourself. Eat up."
He took another bite, Savoring the normalcy of the moment amidst the insanity of his new life. "And tell Pinkie the crust is perfect."
Crimson cracked a rare, Faint smile. "Will do, Commander. Will do..." She said…
After Five Minutes
Twilight walks to Jake, Sitting next to him. "Hello, Jake. Would you like the After-Action Report?" Twi asks Jake. "Yea, Sure..." He said worried about casualties.
"Operation: Liberty Spike
Objective: Secure Concord, Neutralize Raider Hostiles, And Extract Minutemen Survivors (VIPs).
Result: Mission Success
KIA: 0 – Notes: Zero Minutemen/Allied forces Killed In Action.
Wounded: 0 – Notes: Zero Minutemen/Allied forces Wounded.
Major Injuries: 0 – Notes: Zero Minutemen/Allied forces with Major Injuries.
Minor Injuries: 1 – Notes: One Minutemen/Allied forces with Minor Injury, During The Battle of Concord; One of our youngest got a glancing shot from one of the Raiders.
Enemy Hostile & Asset Losses
Raider Personnel: High (Estimated 15-25) - Overwhelmed by superior force; Suffered heavy casualties primarily from 25mm cannon fire & Alpha-1 direct action.
Unique Hostiles: 1x Deathclaw (Neutralized by combined M3A4/M3A3 fire & Pegasus-1 CAS).
Raider Assets: 1x Piecemeal T-45 Power Armor (Neutralized), 1x Heavy Weapon Position (Neutralized by CAS)." Twilight finishes her report of the After-Action Report to Jake.
Jake let out a breath he realized he'd been holding since the first shot was fired. Zero KIA. Zero serious injuries. Just one rookie with a scratch. It was a flawless victory, A testament to overwhelming technological superiority.
"One minor injury…" Jake repeated, A small smile of relief breaking through his commander's mask. "Make sure that kid gets a medal, Or at least an extra slice of Pinkie's pizza. That's... incredible, Twi. We wiped out a Raider stronghold and killed a Deathclaw without losing a single person."
He looked at the tactical map projected on his Pip-Pad, Now showing Concord as a green-lit Secure Zone.
"Alright. The immediate threat is gone, And we have Preston & his group. But we can't just sit here and celebrate. That Deathclaw... you said the seismic data was weird. And Crimson's loyalty speech was reassuring, but it reminded me that we're playing a very different game than the Raiders are."
Jake stood up, Wiping crumbs from his hands. "Twi, What's the status on Operation: Dead Under?" Jake ask Twilight. "Right, You should know I am no longer connected to the Military System & now only in the Nikke. My matrix is now fully localized to this chassis for optimum field processing, Though I retain a secure, read-only link to the main tactical net for data updates." Twilight confirmed, Tapping her temple to indicate the internal shift.
Then started on her Report of Operation: Dead Under. "As for Operation: Dead Under, The subterranean sweep of the Concord sewer system."
She brought up a holographic schematic on her wrist-mounted display, Projecting a wireframe map of the tunnels beneath the town. Two green arrows, Representing the two 8-Man Squads, moved cautiously through the digital labyrinth.
"The two Reconnaissance Fireteams, Designated Tunnel Rat-1 & Tunnel Rat-2, have breached the primary sewer junction where the Deathclaw emerged," Twilight began, her tone becoming grimly professional. "Initial findings confirm your suspicion of external influence. This was not a natural nesting site."
She expanded a section of the map, Revealing a large, unnatural void carved out next to the main sewer line.
"Tunnel Rat-1 has discovered a concealed facility approximately 50 meters below the street level. It is not pre-War municipal infrastructure. The architecture is modular, high-tech, and distinct from Vault-Tec designs."
Twilight swiped to a series of grainy images captured by the recon team's helmet cams. They showed sterile white corridors, advanced computer terminals, and cages—some broken, some containing twisted, skeletal remains.
"The facility appears to be a Field Research Laboratory. The iconography found on the equipment matches historical data for a faction known as the Enclave—a remnant of the pre-War United States government, known for advanced technology and extreme xenophobia," Twilight explained, her brow furrowing as she processed the historical context she had downloaded. "However, the facility appears dormant or abandoned in a hurry. But the data logs..."
She paused, Looking up at Jake with serious eyes.
"The logs indicate they were experimenting on local fauna. The Deathclaw we fought... It was a 'Controlled Variable.' They were testing a deployment mechanism to unleash high-threat biological weapons into population centers. The facility is approximately 4,000 square feet, Containing a command center, a bio-lab, and a holding pen large enough for... well, for what we just killed."
Twilight deactivated the hologram. "The good news is that the facility is currently unsecured & ripe for seizure. The bad news is that if the Enclave was operating here recently enough to set that trap, They are likely still active in the Commonwealth. We have kicked a hornet's nest we didn't even know was there..."
Jake worried about the Enclave Remnants, He radios pilots for the AH-S64 Apache Reapers. "Reaper-1-1 – Reaper-2-1, This is Command, Over." — "Command, This is Reaper-1-1 – Reaper-2-1, Send it, Over." — "Reaper-1-1 – Reaper-2-1, Start Air Reconnaissance. Around control Minutemen Zones. Over." — "Command, Wilco, Out."
"Twi, I want that Field Research Laboratory secured & any recording devices captured, and ready to be analyzed for intelligence. Also, Any alternative entrances are to be sealed & if you can have a new tunnel, come straight to Sanctuary Hills." Jake says to Twilight.
"Understood, Commander! A direct subterranean logistical link... that is a brilliant strategic initiative!" Twilight exclaimed, Her violet eyes lighting up. The idea of a secret, Secure tunnel connecting their base to a hidden high-tech lab clearly appealed to both her tactical programming & her innate love for organized, hidden libraries of knowledge.
"I will instruct Charlie Team's Earthmovers to begin boring a reinforced tunnel from the Sanctuary Hills basement sector directly to the Enclave facility's coordinates. It will take time, But it will allow us to strip that lab clean without ever exposing the assets to the surface."
She tapped her wrist display rapidly, Her fingers a blur of motion.
"Tunnel Rat-1, Tunnel Rat-2, This is Command. You are green-lit for Operation: Dead Under - Phase 2. Secure all data drives, hard copies, and experimental logs. Do not engage any dormant systems unless necessary. Seal all surface access points with demo charges. Combat Engineers are en route to begin the subterranean link. Over."
"Copy that, Command. We're locking it down. Tunnel Rat-Lead out."
Twilight looked back at Jake, A satisfied hum emanating from her chassis. "The facility is ours, Jake. And whatever secrets the Enclave left behind... We will decode them. I have already allocated a Civilian Nikke with a specialization in Data Analysis to be ready once the drives are retrieved."
Above them, The thumping roar of rotors signaled the arrival of the heavy air support. Two AH-S64 Apache Reapers, Sleek, Black, And Bristling with Hellfire Missiles with 64 Hydra Rockets & 30mm Chain Guns, swept low over the town of Concord. They banked in perfect unison, Their sensors sweeping the ruins for any lingering threats before climbing to a patrolling altitude.
"Reaper Flight is on station." The lead pilot's voice crackled in Jake's ear. "We have the sky. Nothing moves in this sector without us knowing."
Jake watched them go, A sense of awe washing over him. He was just a guy who liked video games, And now he had attack helicopters patrolling his personal Country or Commonwealth.
"Alright," Jake exhaled, Dusting off his hands. "Concord is secure. The survivors are safe. The Enclave lab is on lockdown. And we have air cover."
He turned to his team—Twilight, Crimson, and the newly rescued Minutemen.
"Let's head back to Fort Hope. We need to get Preston & his people settled, Debrief on the Enclave intel, and get a good night's sleep. Tomorrow..."
He looked south, Toward the distant, skeletal screen of the Starlight Drive-In. "In a few days, We turn a parking lot into a Forward Operating Base."
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Day 18 - 0800 Hours / 8:00 AM – Fort Hope (Sanctuary Hills)
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The day before Jake had Summoned a Pip-Boy for himself, Not liking the Pip-Pad. After Jake started looking at the [Summoning Tab] & seeing a Sub Tab [Gacha Summoning Tab] Jake looked at it in curiosity.
"A Gacha Summoning Tab?" Jake muttered, Staring at the monochrome green text on his new Pip-Boy. The concept was so quintessentially video game that it almost broke his immersion, Yet it sat there, nestled between the [Radio] & [Data] tabs. "Of course. Why build a logistics chain when you can just gamble for stuff?"
He tapped the '(i)' icon, And a dense block of text, organized with surprising precision by the system, scrolled across his display.
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(M) Mythical, (L) Legendary, (E) Exotic, (R) Rare, (U) Uncommon, And lastly (C) Common.
Objective: Allows the Commander to expend Summoning Points (SP) to acquire new assets across all categories (Unique Personnel, Robots, Structures) via randomized drops tied to specific Rarity Tiers.
Asset Pools:
Standard Pool: Contains all accessible units & vehicles up to the current Technology Tier (Tier II).
Seasonal/Event Pools: Currently Inactive.
Rarity Tiers & Drop Rates (Standard Pool):
(M) Mythical: <1.0\%: Ultra-rare, one-of-a-kind units (E.g., Named Super-Weapons, Unique Nikke With a Ability or Perks, Or Someone unique from the outer multiverse).
(L) Legendary: 2.5\%: Extremely powerful & specialized assets (E.g., Heavy Dreadnoughts, Named MTF Commanders).
(E) Exotic: 5.0\%: High-tier, Modern or Specialized Military Assets (E.g., F-22E Reaper Raptor, M1A2 SEPv4 Abrams).
(R) Rare: 15.0\%: Standard special operations units & elite vehicles (E.g., Delta Force Operator, AH-64 Apache).
(U) Uncommon: 35.0\%: Standard Line Infantry, Basic Combat Vehicles, And Specialized Civilian Nikkes.
(C) Common: 43.5\%: Basic Ground Infantry, Light Vehicles, Ammo, And Common Resources.
Summon Cost:
Single Summon: 100 SP
Ten-Pull (10x Summon): 1,000 SP (Special Guarantees at least 4x Exotic or higher), (Normal Guarantees at least 2x Rare or higher)
Current Summoning Points (SP): 10,000 SP
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"Ten Thousand Points..." Jake whistled softly. "That's enough for five ten-pulls. Hmm. The randomness is a bit nerve-wracking, But the chance of pulling something 'Exotic' or even 'Legendary' is tempting."
"Mmm… Here I go…" Jake said a bit nervously, He then pressed the spin button.
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Number: 1
Rarity: (E) Exotic
Asset Type: 100x R.A.I K-84s (K-84 is an experimental prototype that fires fully automatic blue energy-bolts, But also comes equipped with a Ballistic Vortex grenade launcher.)
Number: 2
Rarity: (L) Legendary
Asset Type: 1x USS Jake Maxis (CVN-100) – (USS Jake Maxis is an 400m Superaircraft Carrier the three longest Carrier, USS J.M can launch Three Fighter Planes.) & USS Lady Twilight (CVN-101) – (USS Lady Twilight is an 420m Superaircraft Carrier the second longest Carrier, USS L.T can launch Four Fighter Planes.)
Number: 3
Rarity: (M) Mythical
Asset Type: 2B (To get the Asset a mission must be accomplished. The said mission will be a 'World Mission' to save 2B, Or something similar. 2B will have Six Perks…)
Number: 4
Rarity: (E) Exotic
Asset Type: 20x M-MU01 - Light Unit (M-MU01 has a slender & articulated frame with a mechanical-skeletal appearance, Especially at joints and midsection. Its design highlights functional joints & exposed cabling, Emphasizing its machine identity. The compact head contains sensors, A visible camera or sensor cluster, and multiple antenna or communication spires indicating advanced communication & surveillance capabilities.) & 10x M-MU02 - Medium Unit (M-MU02 is significantly more robust & stocky, Emphasizing durability & armor protection with its greater overall mass, broad chest, and thicker limbs. It is covered in numerous large, Layered armor plates, giving it the appearance of a modular battlesuit. The torso features a large, flat, protective chest plate, and the limbs (Shoulders, forearms, thighs) are heavily armored with modular panels.)
Number: 5
Rarity: (E) Exotic
Asset Type: 50x Ray-Guns (Ray-Gun is an experimental prototype that fires Semi-Automatic Green Plasma-Bolts.)
Number: 6
Rarity: (L) Legendary
Asset Type: Peggy Carter (To get the Asset a mission must be accomplished. The said mission will be a 'World Mission' to save Peggy Carter, Or something similar.)
Number: 7
Rarity: (R) Rare
Asset Type: 10x Ray Gun Mark IIIs (Ray-Gun Mark III is an experimental prototype that fires Green Plasma Laser.)
Number: 8
Rarity: (E) Exotic
Asset Type: 35x Ray Gun Mark IIs (Ray-Gun is an experimental prototype that fires a 3-Round Burst of Green Piercing Plasma-Bolts.)
Number: 9
Rarity: (R) Rare
Asset Type: 100x MRE (Ration Packs), 100x Basic Med-Kits, 80x Advanced Med-Kits, 75x Standard Stimpacks, 55x Combat Stimpacks, 10000x AR Ammo, 5000x Pistol Ammo, 1760x Plasma-Bolts, 1630x Piercing Plasma-Bolts, And 1550x Blue Energy-Bolts.
Number: 10
Rarity: (L) Legendary
Asset Type: Natasha Romanoff (To get the Asset a mission must be accomplished. The said mission will be a 'World Mission' to save Natasha Romanoff, Or something similar.)
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Jake stared at the final item on the list, His jaw dropping slightly. "No way," He whispered. "Super Aircraft Carriers?!. USS Jake Maxis (CVN-100) & USS Lady Twilight (CVN-101)? And... 2B, Peggy Carter, and Natasha Romanoff? What in the world did I just spend 1,000 SP on?"
The list of assets swam before his eyes: Experimental Plasma Weapons, Advanced Robotic Units, And Two Large Warships that were longer than the largest modern-day carriers he'd seen in historical files. The sheer logistical & strategic implications were staggering. It was the kind of firepower that didn't just win a fight; It ended a war before it started.
"Jake! Jake, are you alright?" Twilight's voice, usually so composed, was edged with genuine alarm. She had watched the light show emanating from his Pip-Boy, a dazzling, multi-colored display that had peaked with a blinding, purple-streaked flare—the unmistakable sign of a Mythical drop. She rushed to his side in her Nikke body, her violet eyes wide with concern, and leaned over to look at the screen.
Her hands flew up, covering her mouth in a perfect expression of shock.
"By Celestia's beard! A Mythical drop! And two Legendary ones in a single ten-pull?!" Twilight gasped, Her organized, logical mind momentarily short-circuiting at the sheer improbability of the result. "Commander, The statistical probability of that occurrence is so infinitesimally small it rivals the chance of a successful pre-War peace treaty!"
She shook her head rapidly, Trying to regain her analytical focus. "Focus, Twilight, focus! This is not the time for an anxiety spiral! This is incredible!"
She pointed a slender, Armored finger at the list. "The two Supercarriers—the CVN-100 & CVN-101—these are unprecedented assets! The sheer projection of power from a 400-meter & 420-meter deck is a game-changer for the entire East Coast! We can establish total naval & air superiority in any coastal region, Not just the Commonwealth!"
Twilight turned to Jake, Her eyes shining with both excitement & intense concentration, her love for immense, organized power showing through. "The strategic importance, Jake! This isn't just naval power; This is a mobile, Self-sufficient Forward Operating Base large enough to house multiple air wings, ground forces, and likely a dozen entire settlements! When can we deploy them? We need to secure Boston Harbor immediately to receive them!"
Jake, Still reeling from the unexpected loot drop, slowly raised a hand to rub his temples. "Hold on, Twi, breathe. We can't just spawn a 400-meter warship in the middle of a swamp. The External Matrix Source must have a safe deployment zone for naval assets, Probably way out in the ocean."
He then tapped the three entries marked for a 'World Mission'—2B, Peggy Carter, And Natasha Romanoff.
"But look at these. They're locked behind a 'World Mission' system. The system just told me these missions involve going to an Alternative World." Jake looked at Twilight. "What do you think? A side mission to recruit some... interesting assets?"
Twilight immediately accessed her knowledge base on dimensional theory & inter-reality travel, Her brow furrowed in deep thought. "Alternative Worlds... The Multiverse…" She whispered, A term usually reserved for her most esoteric academic theories. "This is a monumental paradigm shift, Commander. It suggests the External Matrix Source is not merely a local fabrication engine but a nexus point capable of interfacing with alternate realities."
She adopted a highly serious, Almost professorial tone. "Strategically, Acquiring unique personnel like these, especially those designated Mythical & Legendary, could provide intelligence, skills, and combat superiority far beyond our current Tier I capabilities. We must assume these 'World Missions' will be high-risk, Requiring your personal presence & combat abilities, as you are the designated 'Commander' across all accessible realities."
"For the deployment of the naval vessels." Twilight continued, Pulling up a map of the world. "I am calculating the nearest deep-water port with direct access to the Atlantic seaboard capable of safely receiving vessels of that draft & length. Boston is too shallow & congested with ruins. I recommend a temporary holding zone approximately 50 miles off the coast, Where the depth is maximized. We will need to prioritize the immediate summoning of a dedicated naval command crew—Admirals & Navy personnel—to take control of the vessels."
Jake nodded, The strategic weight of the haul settling on him. "Okay. Step one: Secure Starlight. Step two: Figure out how to launch an interdimensional rescue mission for a Killer Android, a Spy, And a Pre-War Agent. Step three: Find a place to park two new aircraft carriers."
"An excellent, If slightly overwhelming, task list, Commander!" Twilight chirped, Her organizational anxiety now channeled into actionable data. "We shall prevail the Commonwealth, And then perhaps... The heavens!"
She pointed at the large bundle of armaments—the Ray-Guns & R.A.I K-84s. "For immediate use, The new energy weapons & the robotic units are ready for deployment right now. The M-MU01 Light Units & M-MU02 Medium Units should be transferred to the Starlight perimeter. Their enhanced sensor arrays & combat matrices will be invaluable for clearing out the radiological threats."
"Do it, Twi. Get those robots to Starlight ASAP. We'll secure the area, Then worry about our new carrier strike group."
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Jake's HUD Updated:
'Summoned Soldiers: 127/300'
'Summoned Combat Nikkes: 1/110'
'Summoned Vehicles: 52/120'
'Summoned Combat Robots: 30/65'
'Summoned Civilian Nikkes: 5/95'
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Day 18 - 1035 Hours / 10:35 AM – Inside the Starlight Drive-In Perimeter - Thirdly Minutes after Operation Silver Screen.
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Jake, Standing amidst the still-smoking, crater-pocked terrain of the Starlight Drive-In, watched the initial testing of his new energy arsenal with intense interest.
Twilight, Ever the diligent researcher, stood slightly behind him, her Nikke chassis whirring softly as she recorded all telemetry data. The Commander had the ten heavy M-MU02 Medium Units form a line, their modular, tank-like armor plating gleaming faintly in the pale wasteland sun. Behind them, The twenty slender M-MU01 Light Units took up a staggered formation.
"Twilight, initiate Protocol: Range Test Alpha. Target: The large, dilapidated tanker truck near the screen."
"Understood, Commander!" Twilight replied, Her voice crackling with analytical excitement. "Beginning live-fire diagnostics! Data streams locked onto plasma convergence & heat signature retention. This is going to be so informative!"
Test 1: Exotic Energy — Ray-Gun (Semi-Automatic Green Plasma-Bolts)
The M-MU02s raised their Ray-Guns. On Jake's command, They unleashed a controlled volley.
FZZZAP-FZZZAP-FZZZAP!
Fifty thick, Brilliant green plasma bolts tore through the air, impacting the tanker truck simultaneously. The ancient metal screamed, Instantly heating to white-hot before rupturing in a violent, cascading explosion of fire & secondary plasma discharge.
"Initial analysis: Projectile velocity is Mach 2.5, Yielding a kinetic energy transfer of approximately 4.5 x 10^5 Joules per bolt, before factoring in thermal burn. Conclusion: Exceptional anti-materiel & anti-personnel capability. Minimal degradation over range." Twilight reported, Rapidly calculating the data. "The thermal signature on the target zone peaked at 3000 °C."
"That's enough to turn a Raider's Power Armor into fondue!" Jake commented, Impressed.
Test 2: Exotic Burst Fire — Ray Gun Mark II (3-Round Burst of Green Piercing Plasma-Bolts)
Next, The Ray Gun Mark IIs fired. The sound was a rapid, stuttering – FZZ-FZZ-FZZ! – Ten units unleashed a total of 105 green bolts. These bolts were noticeably thinner & sharper, Impacting the smoldering remains of the tanker truck with a high-pitched metallic whine. Instead of a large thermal blast, Each bolt pierced the structure cleanly, leaving three small, glowing holes per burst before the entire wreck collapsed silently inward.
"Commander, Note the difference!" Twilight exclaimed, Almost bouncing on the balls of her feet. "The Mark II utilizes an Armor-Piercing (AP) Plasma system! The bolts are highly focused, Leading to an effective energy concentration of 7.8 x 10^5 Joules at the focal point! It completely bypassed the remaining structural integrity of the tanker. Superior against heavily armored targets & reinforced positions! Oh, The efficiency of that plasma compression is marvelous!"
Test 3: Rare Laser — Ray Gun Mark III (Green Plasma Laser)
The ten Ray Gun Mark IIIs fired simultaneously. There was no distinct projectile. Instead, Ten solid, continuous beams of intensely bright green light lanced out, slicing through the air. They hit a rusted-out bus wreck near the perimeter.
The beams held for a full second, And the silhouette of the bus began to glow, followed by a loud, tearing hiss. When the beams cut out, A perfectly clean, melted line ran down the length of the bus, causing the top half to shear off & slide to the ground.
"Fascinating! The Mark III is a true energy-projection system!" Twilight observed, Zooming in her optical sensors. "It is a direct, Sustained thermal lance, excellent for breaching and continuous damage. The structural collapse index suggests it could cut through two meters of standard reinforced concrete in less than five seconds! A valuable siege & anti-fortification weapon."
Test 4: Exotic Ballistic Vortex — R.A.I K-84s (Blue Energy-Bolts & Ballistic Vortex Grenade Launcher)
Finally, The twenty M-MU01 Light Units stepped forward, their frames glowing with cold blue light. They opened fire with the K-84 rifles.
CHUK-CHUK-CHUK-CHUK!
The sound was heavier than Jake expected for an energy weapon, Reminiscent of a massive rotary cannon, but the projectiles were compact, blue energy-bolts that impacted with a bright flash & a deep thrum. The bolts were fully automatic & easily shredded the remains of the Molerat-chewed dirt mounds.
Then, Four of the Light Units launched the secondary under-barrel payload.
WHOOMPH!
Four Ballistic Vortex Grenades flew out, striking a group of intact, smaller junk cars Jake had designated as targets. The explosions were silent. Instead, the surrounding air around each impact point warped and shimmered violently, creating a sphere of intense gravity. The junk cars were instantly flattened, compressed into dense, meter-wide cubes of metal by the sudden, localized gravitational pull. When the vortex dissipated, the metal cubes dropped inertly to the ground.
Twilight nearly vibrated out of her chassis. "Commander! That's a gravity field manipulator! The K-84 grenade is pulling matter inward before implosion! Energy efficiency is rated at 98%—minimal kinetic waste! It's a precision crowd control and target isolation system! This is non-conventional physics at its finest, Jake! We can neutralize large groups of hostiles without area saturation! This is... This is going into the research notes! I need to study the energy manifold of that launcher immediately!"
Jake chuckled, A genuine, Relaxed sound. "Calm down, Twi. You'll overload your positronic brain. So, Summary: We are now the proud owners of laser scalpels, Plasma Flamethrowers, Armor-Piercing Beams, And Gravity-Wells. I think we just won the arms race for the next hundred years."
He checked his Pip-Boy. The immediate threat was neutralized, And the technology was verified.
"Alright, Twilight. The construction phase is green-lit. Use the Earthmovers & the Combat Engineers to start leveling the ground. I want a basic, Reinforced perimeter wall started today, And the main structure footprint laid out. Assign the M-MU02s as static defense turrets for now, And have the M-MU01s start reconnaissance sweeps using their comms spires. We need to know if anyone else is watching us."
"Already done, Commander!" Twilight said, Composing herself with a decisive nod, her violet eyes twinkling. "The Combat Engineers have already established the initial excavation line. They are utilizing the structural rebar from the collapsed screen to reinforce the foundation. Starlight Drive-In is officially being converted into Forward Operating Base (FOB) Starlight!"
Jake looked out over the wreckage, A confident, protective smile on his face. The Commonwealth was a vast, Dangerous wasteland, But now he had the tools to shape it.
"Good. Now, about those World Missions..."