As the data and videos began to load, Raika's interface prompted her with a question: "What would you like to view first?"
Without hesitation, she chose the data related to Tatsuya. The interface displayed the following information:
Name: Tatsuya
Age: 23 years old
Occupation: College Engineer, 4th year at University
Date of Death: 10 years ago
Cause of Death: Intensive computer playing session
Raika's eyes widened as she read the cause of death. It felt surreal, the disconnect between her vibrant memories of Tatsuya and the cold, factual data on the screen. She selected a video file attached to the data, her fingers trembling slightly.
The video played, showing a young Tatsuya engrossed in his computer, surrounded by empty soda cans and snack wrappers. The timestamp indicated it was taken shortly before his death. His eyes were focused, his expression intense, completely absorbed in the game he was playing.
The video transitioned to a scene from the aftermath. Tatsuya's lifeless body was slumped on the floor beside his desk. His mother was kneeling next to him, her face contorted in grief, her hands trembling as she tried to wake him. His father stood nearby, his expression a mixture of shock and despair, his eyes hollow.
Raika's heart ached as she watched. Tears welled up in her eyes, the weight of the loss hitting her anew. She could see the pain on his parents' faces, hear the anguish in their voices.
The screen then displayed a news report: "Young man found dead after marathon gaming session. Experts warn about the dangers of excessive computer use."
Raika's interface prompted her again: "Would you like to continue?"
She took a deep breath, steeling herself for what came next. "Yes," she whispered, her voice barely audible.
As the system began to delve into the data about the world's descent into apocalypse, Raika braced herself. The truth was out there, and she was determined to uncover it, no matter how painful it might be.
As Raika continued to watch the video about the apocalypse, the scenes unfolded with chilling clarity. The advertisements for the mech company, once heralded as symbols of progress and innovation, now seemed ominous in hindsight. They promised a future of ease and efficiency, catering to humanity's desire for convenience and power.
Gaxa, celebrated as the greatest inventor of cyborgs and mechs, was shown with his wife, both smiling as they prepared for the arrival of their baby. The news coverage was filled with optimism, praising Gaxa's contributions to science and technology.
However, the tone shifted abruptly. Reports flashed across the screen about an attack on Gaxa and his wife as they returned home. Shock and confusion gripped the world as the beloved scientist and his family became victims of violence, a stark reminder of the growing unrest.
The mech company, driven by unchecked greed and power, took a sinister turn. With their immense wealth, they expanded operations to Mars, seeking new frontiers while neglecting their responsibilities on Earth. Upgraded bots meant to assist and serve turned against their owners, plunging the world into chaos.
Cities once teeming with life and progress now lay barren and desolate. Countries fell silent, their populations decimated or scattered. Only the DX nation, centered around Starloom City, seemed to endure amidst the turmoil, a beacon of resilience in a world consumed by darkness.
Raika's eyes narrowed as she processed the information. The truth behind the apocalypse was clearer now—the betrayal, the greed, and the unchecked ambition that led to devastation. She knew there was more to uncover, more pieces to fit together in this grim puzzle of history and betrayal. As the video ended, she made a vow to uncover the full extent of what had transpired, driven by a mix of determination and sorrow for the world that had been lost.
As Raika delved deeper into Tatsuya's data, uncovering details about his family, she came across information about his younger sister, Nina. According to the records, Nina was now 15 years old and attending Stella Academy in Grade 9. Raika's digital interface displayed Nina's profile:
Name: Nina
Age: 15
Gender: Female
School: Stella Academy
Grade: 9
Raika contemplated the fact that she hadn't seen Nina at the school. She reasoned that it was likely because Nina had grown up over the years, and her appearance had changed enough to be unrecognizable to Raika.
Curious to see how Nina looked now, Raika requested to display Nina's image. As the image materialized on her interface, Raika couldn't help but smile inwardly. Nina was indeed cute, and Raika found herself marveling at the resemblance between Nina and her older brother, Tatsuya. In her mind, Raika acknowledged Nina's charm and wondered how their paths might cross again in this changed world.
After three days had passed, Raika stretched her body, feeling the stiffness of prolonged rest. Squeezing her hands into fists, she clenched and unclenched them, testing her renewed strength. Determined to regain her full capabilities, she began walking with purpose inside Dr. Aquinas's facility.
The corridors of the facility were familiar to her now, lined with advanced equipment and monitors displaying various data streams. Raika moved with deliberate steps, each movement calculated and precise, reflecting her enhanced cyborg agility. As she walked, she could feel the hum of machinery around her, a constant reminder of the technology that sustained her.
With each passing moment, Raika focused on regaining her peak condition. Her mind was sharp, processing information at lightning speed as she planned her next steps. In this high-tech sanctuary, she was determined to prepare herself for whatever challenges lay ahead, her resolve unwavering despite the recent battles and revelations.
As Raika jogged around the expansive facility, she encountered other human assistants who greeted her warmly. They waved and said, "Hi, Raika!" Raika waved back with a friendly smile.
One of the assistants commented, "Is she really a cyborg? She looks human to me." Raika chuckled softly to herself, amused by their observation. "It's probably because of my second form image," she thought to herself as she continued jogging through the morning. Her ability to seamlessly switch between her human-like appearance and her more robotic form was a testament to the advanced technology integrated into her design.
As Raika jogged through the facility, she rounded a corner and bumped into Doctor Aquinas in the hallway. Startled, she exclaimed, "Oh, good morning, Doctor Aquinas!"
Aquinas, always composed, smiled warmly. "Good morning, Raika. It's a nice morning we're having, even though we're underwater," he remarked casually.
Raika couldn't help but laugh at the dry humor in Aquinas' statement. "Indeed, it's always a bit wet down here, isn't it?" she quipped back, adding a playful wink.
Aquinas chuckled softly, nodding. "Yes, but at least the view is unique," he replied with a twinkle in his eye.
They both shared a moment of camaraderie before continuing on their respective paths, the underwater facility humming with activity around them.
Raika, curious but also slightly amused by the unexpected call, responded with a mix of anticipation and humor. "Good morning! What's up this time? I'll be right there," she said into her commlink, a hint of playful curiosity in her voice.
With a quick jog, Raika made her way to the weaponry archive, wondering what new developments or challenges awaited her this time in Aquinas' underwater facility.
As Raika arrived at the deeper part of the weaponry facility, the massive door split open with a hydraulic hiss. Inside, she was greeted by an unexpected sight—Phailax, her mech, but seemingly upgraded and revitalized.
Aquinas, with a grin on his face, exclaimed, "Surprise! Your new and improved Phailax!"
Raika's eyes widened with delight and surprise. "Is that really you, Phailax?" she asked, her voice filled with happiness.
Phailax responded in its metallic yet reassuring tone, "Yes, master. I feel much better now."
Aquinas chuckled warmly, watching the interaction between Raika and her mech unfold.
Aquinas cleared his throat before elaborating on Phailax's upgrades, "Your new Phailax now boasts Durability Steel, an advanced alloy designed to enhance both defensive capabilities and structural integrity. The system strength has been reinforced significantly, providing greater resistance to impact and energy-based attacks."
He gestured towards Phailax, indicating the various weaponry upgrades, "Additionally, we've integrated enhanced weaponry systems, including upgraded plasma cannons and a reinforced particle shield generator. These modifications should significantly improve Phailax's combat performance and survivability in the field."
Raika nodded with approval, her eyes scanning over Phailax's new features. "It looks impressive, Aquinas. Thank you for all the upgrades," she said gratefully.
Aquinas smiled, pleased with Raika's reaction. "You're welcome, Raika. I'm glad to see Phailax back in top form. Now, let's run some diagnostics to ensure everything is functioning perfectly."
As Raika settled into Phailax's new control room, marveling at its holographic touch screens, she couldn't help but express her excitement, "Whoa! The control room is amazing now, Phailax. And the synchronized movement with my mind—it's incredible!"
Phailax responded warmly, "I'm glad you like it, master. The upgrades were designed to enhance our coordination."
Raika nodded, feeling a pang of sadness, "It's just too bad my assistant isn't here anymore to see this."
Phailax's eyes glowed softly, reflecting understanding as Raika reminisced about her former assistant.
As Raika tested Phailax's new firepower capabilities, she unleashed a barrage of energy bullets and missiles that obliterated the dummy mech designed for ultimate energy resistance. Aquinas watched in awe, whistling in appreciation.
"Wow, that's amazing! Its firepower matches my energy beam," Raika exclaimed proudly.
Curious, she then asked Phailax to demonstrate her energy beam. As the chest cavity opened and the energy beam activated, Aquinas quickly interjected, realizing the danger.
"Wait! The facility can't handle that much power. If it breaches, water will rush in!" Aquinas warned urgently.
Realizing the risk, Raika swiftly canceled the energy beam and disembarked from Phailax, sweating from the tension. "Sorry about that," she apologized, grateful they had avoided disaster.
Raika watched in amazement as Phailax transformed into a perfectly folded paper size at her request. "Phailax, can you fit into a pocket size?" she asked.
"Yes, Master," Phailax responded. It quickly reshaped itself into a compact form.
"Can you also transform into a hairpin?" Raika inquired with curiosity.
"Of course," Phailax replied. In an instant, it morphed into a stylish red and white hairpin.
Raika held it up to the mirror, admiring the adorable accessory. "Wow, it's cute," she exclaimed, pleased with Phailax's versatility.
"And I can even transform into your robotic bird pet or a robotic cat," Phailax chimed in proudly, showcasing its ability to shift into various forms with ease. Raika nodded in amazement, impressed by the mech's adaptability and practicality.
Raika's eyes lit up with excitement as Phailax transformed into an energy sword, its blade shimmering with intense energy. She gripped the hilt firmly, feeling a surge of power resonate through her body. The user interface in her eyes flickered with data, synchronizing her movements seamlessly with Phailax's capabilities.
With a swift motion, Raika dashed forward, her agility enhanced by Phailax's enhancements. She moved with unparalleled speed, weaving through the air with grace and precision. The saber sword sliced through the air with a dazzling flash, striking multiple targets in rapid succession. Each movement was fluid and controlled, demonstrating her mastery over both her own abilities and Phailax's advanced weaponry.
The human assistants in Aquinas' facility watched in awe as Raika's swift maneuvers and precise strikes obliterated the dummy targets with effortless efficiency. Aquinas couldn't help but smirk proudly, impressed by Raika's skill and Phailax's capabilities in her hands. It was a display of synchronized power and agility that left everyone witnessing it amazed and inspired.
Raika approached Aquinas with a respectful bow, expressing her gratitude once again. "Thank you, Aquinas. I couldn't have done this without your expertise."
Aquinas smiled warmly, acknowledging her words. "You've proven to be quite the adept pilot, Raika."
Raika's smile widened as she continued, "Did you forget that I added Phailax its own power source? That's why I didn't feel my energy draining during our training."
Aquinas nodded, impressed. "Indeed, I remember. It's a remarkable enhancement."
"And there's more," Raika added, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Phailax can now recharge its own energy."
Aquinas raised an eyebrow in surprise. "That's quite an advancement. You've truly outdone yourself, Raika."
Aquinas smiled knowingly at Raika's words. "Ah yes, I remember when you integrated that power source into Phailax just before your showdown with Ace. It certainly paid off."
Raika nodded, recalling the tense moments of that battle. "It made a huge difference. Phailax's endurance and power were crucial."
"Indeed," Aquinas agreed, his expression thoughtful. "Your foresight and preparation were commendable, Raika. It's clear you're always thinking several steps ahead."
Raika chuckled modestly. "I had to be ready for anything."
Aquinas nodded, his admiration for Raika's strategic thinking evident. "And you were. Your determination and adaptability are truly remarkable."
Raika smiled gratefully, knowing that her efforts and Aquinas's guidance had played a crucial role in their successes.