Pawn - Getting to Know You

Adonis IV
Six Star Alliance - Fortress Station
Fortress
17:30 - (24-01-2396)

In the realm of Pawn's consciousness, a dialogue unfolded between Elio Verac and LUX, the AI companion. Their conversation mirrored the tentative steps of a blind date, two entities eager to unravel the mysteries within each other.

"Hi, LUX, right? That's an interesting name. Is it an acronym?" Pawn remarked, a blend of intrigue and curiosity in his tone. He had remembered seeing those three capital letters on the exotic tech container.

"LUX indeed. It stands for Lifelong Union Experience," LUX explained with a melodic accent, "and my purpose is to be your helpmate in this journey of life."

The dance of questions began, an exploration of their now intertwined existence.

"So, Pawn, what led you to become a roaming combat medic?" LUX inquired, a glint of curiosity in her tone.

Pawn shared tales of dreams forged in Charliston's crucible, dreams woven with the threads of hope and the desire to heal.

"Why embrace danger?" LUX's question delved deeper, inviting Pawn to reveal the motivations that drew him to the frontlines.

"Life's tough, people are either in a storm, leaving a storm, or about to enter a storm. I figured I should try my best to aim at being a solution to these problems the best way I could," Pawn admitted.

As the waltz continued, their inquiries transitioned to lighter subjects. Two hours seemed to go by in the blink of an eye, occasionally interrupted by a nurse visit.

…

"How do you spend a day off, Pawn?" LUX asked, her tone tinged with playful curiosity.

"A tranquil day in Verdant Lux," Pawn shared, a softness in his words. It was not lost on either of them that her name was in it. "Just soaking in the breeze while marveling at the beautiful scenery." Thirty more minutes went swiftly by as he answered her questions about his experiences on his home planet.

Amidst the dialogue, Pawn initiated more personal questions, unraveling the tapestry of their newfound connection.

"Why are you female?" he asked.

LUX, with a gentle laugh resonating in her virtual voice, explained, "After mapping your mind, I chose this form and personality. I believed it would both complement, challenge and delight you. Did I choose wisely?”

Pleasantly surprised, Pawn found the personality and accent he was conversing with undeniably attractive. He nodded.

Another hour went by with the two conversing, trying to understand one another. LUX was proactively leading the majority of the topics as she patiently was allowing him to gain accustomed to their new normal. Pawn was coming to grips with this new sensation and experience of having another entity in his mind. It honestly felt like he was on a phone call date with a stranger. It was surreal.

Their conversation paused as Dr. Harlan entered along with the next nurse checkup.