Jake's eyes snapped open. For a moment, His mind was a confusing mash of glowing green health bars, the comforting thrum of his gaming rig, and the low-level anxiety that comes with knowing you have to reload a save.
He'd fallen asleep playing Fallout 4 Remastered, The definitive edition with all the missing content restored. Now, though… The air was thick with the scent of mildew & aged metal, a far cry from his clean, modern apartment.
Jake lay still, His breath catching in his throat. The first thing he registered was the cold, Rough fabric beneath his cheek. He was on what felt like an old cot—a thin mattress stretched over an unforgiving metal frame. The room was bathed in the dim, pre-dawn light that filtered through the gaps in the walls. They weren't just cracks; they were long, splintered chasms in the timber, revealing glimpses of a stark, gray outside world.
It was a dilapidated space, a ghost of a room. Rust bloomed like dark, sickly flowers on tarnished metals, and dust motes danced in the sparse light beams. The unsettling feeling of a foreign environment quickly morphed into a terrifying sense of wrongness when Jake looked down.
"What in the...?" Jake whispered, His voice a dry, gravelly sound that felt alien in his own throat.
His familiar sleep attire—an oversized band T-shirt & boxers—was gone. In its place was a heavy, Layered ensemble designed for extreme confrontation. He wore a red & black plaid long-sleeved shirt, A pattern almost aggressively civilian, yet it was cinched down by a severe, muted black & grey tactical vest.
The vest itself was a roadmap of utility, bristling with various pouches, securing straps, and quick-release buckles. A cold, practical weight settled over his chest & back.
Below, His legs were encased in dark blue jeans, but these were no casual denim. They were reinforced & protected by large, black knee pads, secured tightly with Velcro straps.
His feet, A point of immediate, sharp discomfort, were shoved into dark-colored tactical boots, heavy & solid, laced high above the ankle. This was a uniform, a guise—a life he had never, ever touched.
Jake Maxis—The 20-year-old gamer, the man of steady patience & idealistic principles—was gone. In his place was... a soldier?
He lifted a hand, And saw he was wearing black gloves—thin, durable combat gloves that made his fingers feel unnaturally strong & clumsy at the same time. He tried to brush a lock of blonde hair from his eyes, But his fingers met a smooth, unforgiving surface.
On his head was a full-coverage setup: A black balaclava, topped by a dark, segmented tactical helmet. Affixed to the front were two eerie, Inverted eyes: A pair of night-vision goggles (NVGs), Currently flipped up & out of the way.
Pushed over the balaclava & under the helmet's lip was a pair of combat goggles, Their smoked lenses giving the world a slightly darkened, distorted edge. Finally, A heavy-duty tactical belt cinched his waist, and the most alarming piece of all—a holster on his right hip—contained the undeniable, weighty presence of a sidearm.
His fingers instinctively went to the holster. His hand found the cold, checkered grip of a SiG SP221 Pistol. It was real. Too real. "What the absolute hell?…" Jake murmured, His voice sounding foreign & muffled.
The air in the room seemed to vibrate with a silent, tense energy. He scanned the immediate vicinity, His dark green eyes—or rather, the small visible slits around the combat goggles—darting nervously. A battered wooden desk, scarred with deep gouges, stood against the wall.
Leaning on it, Within arm's reach, was a sleek, matte-black, dark gray, and gray CQC M4A3 Assault Rifle. It was shorter than he expected, Designed for close-quarters fighting, its barrel ended in a suppressor. Next to it, propped against the desk leg, Was something more foreign and intimidating: An MCX Spear-22 Battle Rifle, A weapon of substantial caliber & modern, aggressive design.
Every piece of gear, Every weapon, screamed one thing: COMBAT PREPAREDNESS.
How? Jake's mind screamed the question, But his calm, principled nature fought for control. He was an American civilian, A good person with an unbreakable will, and a deep appreciation for non-fiction lore—not a soldier.
This wasn't a dream. His heart hammered against the tactical vest's ceramic plate as he slowly, deliberately, swung his legs over the side of the cot. The heavy tactical boots landed with a soft, authoritative thud on the dusty, worn wooden floor.
He looked around again, seeking any sign of a door, a window, or an explanation. The door was into the far left & the window to his right the bedroom was roughly ten by twelve feet, a bare-bones bedroom.
"Okay... Maxis, Think… Six hours of Fallout. Slept in your bed. Woke up here. This isn't a prank. This isn't a VR Rig…" Jake murmured, The balaclava making his voice sound breathy & distant, like someone talking through a thick blanket. He moved with a cautious, almost practiced grace that he definitely didn't remember possessing, his body already acclimated to the weight of the gear.
Jake got up from the old bed & nervously walked to the window then looked out to see… He was at the Fallout 4 Remastered, Jake noted he is in the starting area of the game (Sanctuary Hills), With this news Jake smiled a bit knowing now he's in a somewhat safe area… For now…
The scene outside the derelict window was both horrific & strangely familiar. The gaps in the aged wood framed a view of crumbling suburban houses, skeletal trees, and the unmistakable, rust-tinged color palette of post-nuclear ruin. He was looking out over the crescent of cul-de-sacs that formed Sanctuary Hills, the very first area of Fallout 4.
The broken bridge leading out of the neighborhood, the twisted remains of cars, and the eerie silence of the wasteland were all perfectly rendered, a level of hyper-realism that surpassed any mod or remaster.
Jake felt a complex wave of emotions wash over him. Relief, first, because he knew this place. He knew the layout, the loot locations, and, crucially, the immediate threats. Terror, second, because his understanding of this world came only from a screen. This was not a game; This was a decaying, Radioactive reality. Yet, The deep, foundational knowledge of the lore—the maps, the factions, the mechanics—sparked a flicker of his characteristic unbreakable will.
He was in the game. He was literally 'in' the Fallout Remaster he'd just finished playing. The thought was insane, But undeniable. He couldn't help but let a small, Tight smile escape beneath the balaclava. "At least I know the game quests…" He muttered, Trying to lighten the crushing dread.
He turned from the window, His attention snapping back to the source of the recent, jarring interaction. The voice of the AI, Neo Politan, had been startlingly clear.
He looked down at the dark object on the desk, The source of the luminous glow. He moved swiftly, His practiced steps quiet in the heavy boots, a movement born from muscle memory he didn't recall earning. He picked up the device. It was a sleek, Rectangular Pad, a high-tech brick of specialized materials. "It's a Pip-Pad…? Though if it was made in reality… It's more sleek & mainstream like an iPad." Jake muttered to himself…
"Audio confirmed…" Jake reiterated into the air, The internal comms of the helmet picking up his slight inhalation before his words. "Who are you, and where... Why the hell am I here?"
Before Neo could launch into a verbose explanation, A new visual phenomenon interrupted them. Directly in the center of his vision, Overlaid onto the physical world, a display began to resolve. It didn't flash; It subtly appeared, Perfectly adjusted for his helmet's internal projection system.
It was a digital Heads-Up Display, or HUD, vibrant with neon colors that contrasted beautifully against the drab environment—a visual match for the AI's name: Neapolitan. Pink, brown, and white elements materialized, forming a clean, ergonomic interface.
Simultaneously, the calm, professional voice of Neo Politan returned, now augmented with clear text appearing at the bottom of his HUD. "She sounds like Neo from RWBY? Though Neo from the show can only hum & stuff… So… creative liberties is happening here…" Jake thought with amusement.
[PFA-000-1] "My designation is Neo Politan, A Personal Field Assistant AI, Serial Number PFA-000-1. I am currently resident in this Pip-Pad & fully interfaced with your Military System (LS-01) and Cognitive Processing Unit (CP-02), integrated within your helmet. Your current physical location is a structure designated as "Safehouse: Alpha-One" in the Sanctuary Hills Sector, Boston Commonwealth, approximately 2.3 kilometers from the initial 'Awakening Point' data entry.."
Jake stared, Mouth agape beneath the balaclava. Boston Commonwealth… Sanctuary Hills… It was real. Too real…
Initializing System Integration...
Starting Military System…
The text began to update rapidly, Each percentage point snapping into place with the cold efficiency of a machine booting up.
1%
11%
24%
32%
43%
47%
56%
63%
79%
81%
99%
The final number hung for a tense, agonizing second, reflecting the lag of a complicated system handshake. Jake's heart rate spiked again, The number 122 BPM appearing in a small, discreet corner of his HUD.
100%
Military System Activated…
Welcome, Operator Maxis.
The final confirmation echoed in his helmet. The Neapolitan-themed interface snapped into place, Populating his field of view with an overwhelming amount of information. A health bar, A stamina gauge, a compass overlaid with tactical points of interest, an ammunition counter for his holstered sidearm, and a wealth of other metrics flooded his perception.
"Operator Maxis? Military System? I'm not—I was never a soldier!" Jake exclaimed, Gripping the field-computer so tightly his gloved knuckles turned white. The activation of the system wasn't just a visual event; It felt like a powerful, Invasive injection of knowledge & capability into the very fiber of his being. The weight of the guns suddenly felt right. The stiffness of the tactical vest suddenly felt like a familiar, protective shell.
"Your current designation within the operating system is Operator Maxis, codename 'Ghost'. This system is not a game, Max. It is a proprietary combat augment integrated directly into your central nervous system. It has been dormant, But the successful boot-up now grants you full access to all classified operative data, field competencies, and loadout diagnostics. You are a soldier at the very least."
The AI paused, Allowing the weight of that statement to settle. Jake's principled, Affable nature warred violently with the cold, hard reality of the tactical data now streaming into his brain. He felt a sudden, Uncanny understanding of the weapon weights, the muzzle velocity of the MCX Spear-22, and the exact required pressure on the trigger of his SiG SP221.
Jake felt the rush of information—the raw, tactical data—coalesce in his mind, instantly familiar & usable. His initial request for a Situational Report was already pushed aside by a more pressing, primal need. He was a gamer at heart, suddenly dropped into the hardest difficulty setting of a survival simulator, equipped with top-tier gear he didn't know how to fully utilize. His mind defaulted to a known strategy: Grind for an edge.
He lifted the CQC M4A3 from the desk, checking the weight & balance. It felt terrifyingly natural. He didn't want a long, Existential talk; He wanted a tutorial.
He ignored Neo's final prompt about the SITREP.
"Forget the debriefing, Neo! In fact, If you have! To keep the debriefing short & basic, I have no Military background & if you have to say stuff in military lingo make sure a non-military person can understand." Jake stated, His voice ringing with a new, crisp authority that startled even himself. "I just activated a 'Military System,' which is essentially a hardcore power-up."
He adjusted the helmet, Securing the night-vision goggles more firmly. "Does this system have a 'Beginner Package?' A fast-track objective to unlock a critical early-game ability or asset?"
Neo Politan's voice, Though an AI, seemed to betray a flicker of surprise at his pragmatic shift in focus.
"That is an exceptionally astute assessment, Operator Maxis. Given your current state of cognitive dissonance & the need to calibrate the system's reflexes with your current neural mapping, A targeted calibration exercise is available. The system refers to it as the 'Field Operative Basic Proficiency Test (FOBPT)'. And I will endeavor to translate all necessary operational data into layman's terms for clarity."
Neo's display shifted again. The Neapolitan HUD colors resolved into a clean, new block of text that appeared directly in his primary field of view, labeled 'FOBPT: INITIAL OBJECTIVE.'
"To finalize the 'Beginner Package', You must complete the required objective."
The HUD immediately expanded the information panel, Displaying the rewards for his effort.
Objective: Eliminate all immediate environmental threats in the Safehouse Alpha-One Vicinity.
Target Acquisition: Bloodbugs (A highly aggressive, mutated diptera species—think oversized, stinging mosquitoes.)
Progress: Kill All Bloodbugs (0/6)
Primary Reward: Beginner Package
Bonus Objective: Achieve Objective using only your SiG SP221 Pistol (Melee finish authorized for final kill).
Bonus Reward: Asset Acquisition: Two Fireteams (10 Members Total) — Deployable via summoning.
Jake nodded slowly, The motion of his heavy helmet feeling less alien & more like a natural extension of his will. The immediate goal—squash six mutant mosquitos—was almost absurdly simple given the post-apocalyptic context, But the reward was colossal. Two Fireteams (10 total members) was a literal game-changer, The kind of force multiplier that could turn a death-trap into a secure perimeter.
"Alright, Bloodbugs…" Jake stated, Hud voice now entirely devoid of the previous panic. The gamer in him was fully engaged, Etes locked on the prize. "Beginner Package & ten-man backup. That's a solid trade. Neo, Give me the map layout of the safehouse, and a tactical assessment of the immediate threat—Bloodfly behaviors, weaknesses, and expected location."
"Affirmative, Operator. I have mapped 'Safehouse: Alpha-One' via the existing structural data. It is a standard single-story dwelling of approximately 10m x 12m. The Bloodbugs are likely clustered in the two adjacent rooms (Kitchen & Living Area) and the immediate exterior access points (Front Porch & Rear Entrance)." Neo said.
A wireframe overlay of the house instantly materialized in his HUD, Complete with small, blinking red dots indicating potential enemy locations—a feature he immediately appreciated.
"Tactical Assessment: Bloodbugs are fast, Agile airborne threats with a highly corrosive proboscis-delivered venom. They are weak to kinetic impact & fire, possess low HP, and typically enter a 'charge' state before attacking. Key weakness: Their movement pattern becomes predictable during this charge. Expected Behavior: They will attempt to engage once a movement or noise signature is detected."
Jake's eyes swept across the dilapidated room, now seeing it not as a trap, but as a temporary supply point. His gaze landed on the desk, moving past the rifles, and settling on a large, dark object nestled against the wall.
Just as the objective was set, His eye fell upon an all-black backpack that was propped up neatly in the corner of the room, as if waiting for him. It was a 5.11 All-Hazard Radio Backpack, An incredibly durable, high-capacity pack designed to withstand extreme conditions & secure sensitive equipment.
Its material was a heavy-duty nylon, All black, with minimal external branding–built for serious field use. It looked perfectly clean & untouched amid the filth of the room.
"Neo, Scan that pack in the corner. Is that part of my loadout?" Jake asked Neo, As Neo answers him. "Affirmative. The 5.11 All-Hazard Radio Backpack is designated 'Pioneer-1.' It is currently empty & authorized for immediate equipment storage."
Jake moved with a renewed sense of purpose. He walked over and lifted the pack. The weight was negligible, But the quality of the zippers, the reinforced shoulder straps, and the solid structure all spoke of premium, purpose-built gear.
He set the pack on the desk & immediately went for his primary weapons. The CQC M4A3 Assault Rifle was his short-range problem solver. He lifted it, the matte-black metal cool against his combat gloves, and checked the magazine well—full. Its sleek, suppressed profile was designed for discreet, close-in work.
He quickly located the attachment point on the side of the backpack–a dedicated MOLLE webbing panel–and secured the rifle tightly along the right side using adjustable retention straps. The movement was a fluid, professional execution, again surprising him with its inherent familiarity. His hands knew the job even if his memory didn't.
Next was the MCX Spear-22 Battle Rifle. This weapon was heavier, A substantial piece of high-caliber engineering, designed for maximum stopping power at longer ranges. He examined the dark gray & flat dark earth tones of the rifle, Its aggressive stock, and the large magazine.
He secured the Spear-22 to the corresponding MOLLE panel on the left side of the pack, Its longer length extending past the rifle on the other side. The total weight of the two rifles added a satisfying, Balanced heft to the pack.
"Alright, The rifles are secured. The pack's ready for a full loadout later…" Jake confirmed to Neo, Slinging the backpack over his shoulders. The weight distributed perfectly across his tactical vest, a seamless fit.
His attention finally went to the weapon he would actually be starting the mission with: The SiG SP221 Pistol holstered on his hip. He needed to be intimately familiar with this sidearm if he was going to earn the bonus reward.
Jake reached down & unholstered the pistol. It was a solid, polymer-framed weapon, chambered in an unknown caliber, with a cold, precise slide. The checkered grip felt absolutely perfect in his gloved hand. He brought the weapon up into a classic, two-handed shooting stance—a grip so natural it was terrifying.
"Neo, I need a detailed ammo count & an immediate firing drill." Jake ordered.
"Your SiG SP221 is a high-capacity semi-automatic pistol. Current ammunition count: 17 rounds in the magazine, Plus one in the chamber, total of 18 live rounds. You possess four additional 17-round magazines in your vest pouches, for a total of 86 rounds." Neo said.
Jake's eyes tracked the information in his HUD—the ammo counter was now displaying '18/68' (correcting the total to 18 + (4 x 17) = 86 rounds, As per Neo's earlier confirmation). The display was minimal, clean, and purely functional, resembling the stripped-down, essential interface of a serious tactical simulation. He appreciated the clarity, which cut through the reality of his own panic.
He cycled the slide once more, feeling the crisp, mechanical action, and then carefully re-holstered the SiG SP221, the retention device snapping into place with a satisfying, metallic click. The weight of the weapon settled naturally on his hip.
He had checked it out; Now it was time to put his newfound, Terrifying abilities to the test. He was a civilian who was suddenly & transformed into a "trained" operative, and his instincts, though borrowed, were calling for him to move.
Jake stood tall for a moment, the weight of the new combat pack, the two rifles, and the handgun all settling onto his frame. The immediate need to survive, coupled with the allure of the Bonus Reward (The Two Fireteams), had entirely overridden his initial existential dread. He was no longer just Jake Maxis, The affable gamer. He was an operator, Even if a borrowed & very confused one.
"Alright, Neo. First contact," Jake murmured, His voice now a low, concentrated rasp beneath the balaclava. His mind was already running through the tactical data Neo had supplied—fast, predictable charge, low HP, use the pistol. "I need real-time data on the door. Condition, material, potential breach points, and a sound-dampening assessment."
"The door is Standard Interior, Light timber construction. It is secured by a standard bolt latch, Which has visibly rusted. Probability of a clean, Silent breach is Low (32%). Recommendation: Utilize a controlled, Rapid entry to mitigate sound propagation."
Jake nodded again, His dark green eyes narrowing through the helmet's visor. A rusty latch meant noise, and noise meant Bloodbugs would be airborne before he even had his sight picture. He was a 'civilian' running on borrowed instincts, and while his hands knew the drill, his mind was screaming in protest. His principled nature warred with the primal urge to execute the mission.
Moving with a slow, Deliberate grace that belied his true background, Jake took three quiet steps towards the door. The heavy tactical boots were surprisingly adept at minimizing sound on the worn floorboards. He positioned his body to the right of the door frame, adopting a modified low-ready stance with his right hand hovering over the grip of the SiG SP221.
"Neo, When I confirm, initiate a three-second countdown & display Bloodbug vector predictions on the HUD immediately following breach."
"Acknowledged, Operator. Initiating Tactical Predictive Mode. Be advised: The objective requires the SiG SP221 only. Ensure target neutralization with the sidearm." Neo says with a calm & measured tone.
Jake reached out with his gloved left hand and grasped the rusted, Cold doorknob. He felt the grit of the rust under the reinforced fabric. His thumb hooked under the latch. He could hear nothing on the other side, Which was more unsettling than a growl. It was the silence of a predator waiting for its prey to make the first mistake.
He took one final, deep breath, flooding his lungs with the stale, metallic air.
"Executing breach in three... two... one. Go."
Instead of turning the knob, Jake ripped the door inward with a violent, controlled yank. The rusty latch shrieked in protest, and the door slammed open against the interior wall with a loud, resounding THWACK!
As the noise echoed, the room instantly came alive. The wireframe overlay on his HUD, Which showed the two red dots, immediately shifted into predictive lines.
Two monstrous insects, The size of small birds with bulging, segmented abdomens & needle-like proboscises, launched themselves from the ceiling joists of the filthy kitchen. They were a grotesque mutation of nature, living nightmares colored in mottled green and dark brown.
Target 1 (The closest Bloodbug) charged in a tight, horizontal spiral, its trajectory line resolving on Jake's HUD, predicting an impact to his chest in less than 0.8 seconds.
Target 2 took a higher, flanking route, attempting to bypass his immediate field of vision.
The surge of data into Jake's brain was instantaneous and overwhelming, Yet his new Military System filtered it into pure, actionable combat information. The panic was replaced by a cold, Functional precision.
Jake's hand blurred on his hip. The SiG SP221 cleared the holster in a smooth, upward motion, and his trigger finger found the reset point instantly. The weapon was already driving forward, perfectly aligned with the charging line of Target 1.
The SiG SP221 was customized with a FT STEEL FIRE – Suppressor to dampen the muzzle flash & sound, and fitted with the SERIES 710 PISTOL LASER that projected a tiny, unwavering red dot, felt less like a simple sidearm and more like a surgical tool. The XRK TACOPS BARREL and FJX DVF60 GRIP provided the stability and balance needed for rapid target acquisition.
Jake's eyes, Focused through the combat goggles, locked onto the red laser dot Neo's system was superimposing directly over the charging center-mass of Target 1. He tightened his grip, A perfect blend of strength and control dictated by the System–and began to squeeze the trigger.
Pfft. Pfft.
Two quick, Suppressed reports erupted from the pistol.
The first shot, Fired under immense pressure & a surging adrenaline response, was a near miss. It whistled past the left side of Target 1, carving a neat, shallow groove into the dusty plaster of the kitchen wall. Jake, the everyday civilian, flinched internally at the failure, a sharp spike of self-doubt hitting him.
But the Military System didn't flinch. It instantaneously compensated, Adjusting the final milliseconds of his nerve impulse. The second round, Fired a hairbreadth later, struck true. The bullet impacted the Bloodbug just behind its large, veined wing. The insect's flight path violently corkscrewed, and it dissolved into a puff of dark, radioactive dust and biological slurry.
Progress: Kill All Bloodbugs (1/6)
"Target 1 neutralized. Ammunition remaining: 16. Target 2 is adjusting vector for high-speed engagement."
Jake didn't wait for the AI to finish. His body was already rotating to track Target 2, The movement of his hips was smooth & efficient, powered by the System's integrated reflexes. The second Bloodbug, enraged by the destruction of its mate, abandoned its flanking maneuver and dove straight toward him, its needle-like proboscis aimed for his head. The red laser dot from the SERIES 710 PISTOL LASER danced across the wall as Jake brought the muzzle to bear.
This time, The System's learned compensation was complete. The panic was still a low thrum, But the functional expertise of Operator Maxis took command. Jake Maxis, The affable man, was watching his own hands perform a deadly task with ruthless efficiency.
He didn't fire a burst; He lined up two calculated, Rapid-fire shots designed to intersect the creature's charging path.
Pfft! Pfft!
The first shot hit Target 2 squarely in the head. There was a faint, Chitinous crack as the high-velocity round penetrated the insect's thick skull. The creature instantly lost all structural integrity in the air, Its charge collapsing into a limp, spinning fall.
The second round struck the lifeless body an instant later, Shredding the Bloodbug's already damaged abdomen. The impact sent its remains splashing against the rusted kitchen counter in a final, Messy spray. The red dot on the HUD disappeared for good.
Progress: Kill All Bloodbugs (2/6)
Jake stood perfectly still, The pistol held out in the kitchen doorway, its barrel smoking faintly under the suppression system. He took a heavy, Ragged breath. He had used four rounds to kill two targets–less than perfect accuracy for a true operative, but a stunning display of survival skill for a gamer who'd woken up five minutes ago.
Jake's Ammo HUD showed '15/68'
"Two down…" Jake confirmed, His voice slightly shaky this time, acknowledging the raw human response to the violence. The intense focus of the fight was already receding, Replaced by the heavy weight of what he'd just done. He was now standing in a dilapidated kitchen that smelled like spent gunpowder and dead mutant insects. "Neo, confirm neutralization and advise on Target 3 & 4 status."
"Neutralization confirmed, Operator. Ammunition remaining: 14 rounds in the magazine. The previous data entry was a visual misread. Correcting: You expended four rounds in the last engagement, leaving 14 rounds in the magazine.
Total remaining: 82 rounds. Target 3 & 4 are moving away from the kitchen access point, Repositioning in the Living Area (Front of House). They are utilizing the demolished furnishings for structural cover. Target 5 & 6 have mobilized and are positioned immediately outside the house near the front porch area, actively seeking entry."
Jake slid the SiG SP221 back into his holster. The click of the retention lock was a small, Comforting sound of control. He was focused on the next threat, The civilian shock temporarily subdued by the System's imperative.
He performed a swift reload, Swapping the 14-round magazine with a fresh 17-round one from his tactical vest, the movement still feeling unnervingly practiced.
Ammo HUD Count: 18/86
"Mmm… Do I have infinite Ammo?" Jake thought to himself.
He crouched low, Pressing his back against the kitchen wall, aligning himself with the narrow doorway that led out of the kitchen & into the dilapidated central area of the house.
"The goal is rapid, clean clearance of the house... The external threats can wait until the structure is secure. I'm moving to the living area to engage Targets 3 & 4. Give me a predictive heat map for that room, focusing on Bloodbug movement patterns."
Jake's eyes widened slightly beneath the helmet. Three targets clustered together. This was a gift—or a lethal problem. The HUD overlay instantly changed: Three Red dots now pulsed in the large, furniture-strewn living space.
Jake moved with a smooth, decisive motion, stepping out of the narrow kitchen doorway & into the wider, gloomier space of the living room. The air here was heavy with the smell of mold and wet concrete.
The scene was pure post-apocalyptic chaos: overturned sofas, splintered wood, and a large, defunct cathode-ray television set lying on its side. Targets 3, 4, and 5 were visible only as fast, erratic blurs near the front of the room.
The sight of the three mutated insects, Buzzing with aggressive energy, was enough to override any lingering civilian hesitation. Jake immediately drew the SiG SP221, Driving it forward into a stable, two-handed grip. The SERIES 710 PISTOL LASER painted the floor with a tiny red beacon.
His internal system prioritized targets: Target 3 was highest & circling, Target 5 was newly entered & moving low, and Target 4 was holding a central hover.
Jake knew he had to capitalize on the cluster. He initiated a three-round burst aimed at the center of the mass.
Pfft! Pfft! Pfft!
The first shot was aimed at Target 3, High & Fast. The shot missed by inches as the Bloodbug dipped unexpectedly, the suppressed round slamming into the drywall behind it.
The second shot, Fired was intended to strike Target 3, but instead, the bullet intersected the trajectory of Target 5, which was moving low and fast. The round struck Target 5 in the thorax, blowing it apart in a cloud of crimson gore. Target 5 spiraled down, neutralized instantly.
Progress: Kill All Bloodbugs (3/6)
The third shot of the burst, An unconscious correction by the System, found its mark on the now-flailing Target 3. The bullet hit the insect's main body with a dull, wet impact, sending it spiraling out of control. Target 3 collided hard with a rusty lamp stand & dropped to the ground, twitching and incapacitated.
Target 4, Caught in the sudden, violent chaos, briefly froze in mid-air–A perfect, stationary moment of panic.
Jake, Despite the rapid failure & messy success of the three-round burst, Maintained his sight picture. His left foot moved slightly to stabilize his stance, The action purely dictated by the new, integrated knowledge. He shifted his focus entirely to Target 4, A new sense of cold, methodical purpose washing over him.
He lined up a precise double-tap.
Pfft! Pfft!
The first round hit Target 4 squarely, Right in the center of its bulbous head. The sound was a clean, Sharp pop of compressed air & exploding matter. The Bloodbug disintegrated mid-hover, its pieces scattering like dark confetti.
The second round was completely unnecessary, A systemic redundancy, and ripped through the rapidly dispersing remains of Target 4, ensuring absolute neutralization.
Progress: Kill All Bloodbugs (4/6)
"Targets 3, 4, and 5 neutralized. Targets 3 & 5 are confirmed dead. Target 4 is confirmed dead. Ammunition remaining: 13 rounds in the magazine. The last engagement expended five rounds. Target 3 is incapacitated but not confirmed neutralized."
Jake walked calmly to the downed Target 3, Which was still feebly wriggling beside the metal lamp stand. He spared it no further thought, bringing his heavy, tactical boot down sharply, ending the creature's existence with another definitive CRUNCH.
Progress: Kill All Bloodbugs (5/6)
Jake Maxis, the humble, affable civilian, felt a sickening lurch in his stomach, but his hands were steady. He had just executed three Bloodbugs in a messy but brutally effective exchange, Utilizing a civilian mistake (The first missed shot) to achieve a multi-target kill (Hitting Target 5 on the follow-up).
"Five down. Target 6 status, Neo. It's the last one." Jake's voice was lower now, The shock wearing off and the resolve hardening. He re-holstered the SiG SP221, his fingers automatically retrieving the partial magazine & sliding in a fresh one.
Ammo HUD Count: 18/86
"Yup! I have infinite Ammo…" Jake thought to himself.
"Acknowledged, Operator. Target 6 is alone and positioned on the Front Porch deck. It is currently maintaining low altitude near the railing.
Thermal Analysis Update: Target 6 exhibits a mass & energy signature approximately 15% greater than the previously engaged targets (1-5). It is larger & is maintaining minimal movement, indicating possible 'Sentinel' behavior. It remains unaware of your proximity or the neutralization of its group."
Jake absorbed the information. A bigger one. Of course. The final boss of the FOBPT training simulation. His gamer instinct provided a dark chuckle that didn't quite reach his voice.
"Right. A tankier target. I'll maintain the pistol to secure the bonus. Neo, confirm the front door's condition and the fastest path to acquire a clear line of sight on the porch railing."
"The main front door is structurally compromised but remains closed. It is approximately 6 meters from your current position. The path is clear of major debris. Recommended exit strategy: Controlled door breach, followed by a lateral movement to the right, utilizing the front porch railing as cover. Time to target: 1.5 seconds from breach."
"Executing controlled breach…" Jake stated.
He moved quickly through the dilapidated living area, His heavy boots carefully avoiding the crunch of broken glass & splinters. He reached the front door, a heavy, aged piece of splintered wood, positioning himself against the wall beside the frame. He knew the goal was not stealth, but speed and shock.
Jake unholstered the SiG SP221 again, Holding it close to his chest in a compressed ready position. The SERIES 710 PISTOL LASER was now activated, casting a dim, red line in the internal gloom of the house. He placed a gloved hand on the knob.
With A final exhale, Jake didn't turn the knob; He delivered a sharp, Calculated kick near the latch. The old wood splintered with a CRACK that was louder than his suppressed shots, And the door swung outward violently onto the porch.
The moment the door opened, Jake propelled himself through the doorway, stopping just on the threshold.
The Front Porch was a disaster of rotten wood & overgrown weeds, But there it was: Target 6. It was perceptibly thicker, Its body dark red, almost black, and its wings beat with a slow, powerful buzz that sounded less like an insect and more like a miniature helicopter. It was hovering motionless near the rusty porch railing, Its multifaceted eyes—much larger than the others–scanning the yard for the source of the noise.
Jake didn't give it time to fully register the breach. His SiG SP221 was already coming up, And the SERIES 710 PISTOL LASER found its mark–a clean, bright dot centered on the massive insect's core.
The Military System had already calculated the required energy & impact to neutralize a target of this size. Three high-velocity rounds were the minimum.
Pfft! Pfft! Pfft!
The first shot, Powered by the System's learned precision, struck the Target 6 dead-center. The suppressive Pfft was muted, But the impact against the larger, tougher chitin plate produced a distinct, sharp THWACK! The Bloodbug jerked violently in the air but did not explode. Its large wings briefly stalled.
The second shot, a rapid follow-up, hit an inch below the first, penetrating the vulnerable junction where the thorax met the abdomen. The Bloodbug emitted a high-pitched, Furious shriek that echoed across the desolate yard, and a thick, dark fluid began to stream from the wound.
Jake was already pulling the trigger for the third & final shot before the second round had fully exited the target. The unbreakable will of the civilian and the cold precision of the Operator merged into one perfect, Final action.
The third round impacted the same wounded spot, But with the Bloodbug already reeling, the bullet achieved full penetration. With a sickening, Final sound of internal collapse, the entire creature simply dropped, a heavy, lifeless husk plummeting onto the rotten wood of the porch deck.
The large, Red dot on Jake's HUD, labeled 'Target 6', winked out.
Progress: Kill All Bloodbugs (6/6)
A profound silence descended, Broken only by the faint drip, drip, drip of condensation somewhere inside the house. Jake remained in his combat stance for a long, tense second, scanning the immediate environment, half-expecting a final, hidden threat to emerge.
—————————————————————
Reward Category: Primary Reward
Details: Beginner Package Unlocked
Status: Acquired
Reward Category: Bonus Objective
Details: SiG SP221 Only (Melee finish authorized)
Status: CLEARED
Reward Category: Bonus Reward
Details: Asset Acquisition: Two Fireteams (10 Members Total)
Status: Acquired
Reward Category: Secret Bonus Reward
Details: Quick Clothing Equipment & Customization
Status: Acquired
—————————————————————
"Beginner Package Activated. Initiating cognitive transfer of fundamental survival data: Advanced First Aid, Waste Survival, One Fireteam (Omega Team) – (Five Members Total), 1x M1151, 1x M1151E, Full Commonwealth Map now integrated, And Commonwealth Faction Recognition Protocols are now integrated. Bonus Asset Acquired. Two Fireteams (Bravo Team & Charlie Team) – (Ten Members Total) are now available for deployment via voice command or Pip-Pad interface." Neo softly tells Jake.
Jake's HUD showed:
'Summoned Soldiers: 0/100'
'Summoned Combat Nikkes: 0/20'
Jake slowly lowered the SiG SP221 & holstered it. He leaned against the splintered door frame, Letting the weight of the tactical gear stabilize him.
He had just gone from an affable, idealistic civilian to a lethal operative, killing six mutant insects with terrifying speed & efficiency. He performed a swift reload, Swapping the 10-round magazine with a fresh 17-round one from his tactical vest, the movement still feeling unnervingly practiced.
Ammo HUD Count: 18/86
"Yeah… 100% Infinite Ammo?" Jake thought to himself.
He stepped off the porch and onto the dead grass of Sanctuary Hills, The post-apocalyptic world stretching out before him. The sun was rising now, Painting the ruined houses in harsh morning light. He had survived the tutorial.
"Neo." Jake said, His voice regaining its natural, steady tone. "How do I call in those Fireteams?"
"A valid question, Operator Maxis. Access to your supplies & assets is integrated directly into your Pip-Pad interface, Which doubles as the main control unit for the Military System." Neo Politan responded instantly, Her voice now carrying a subtle, almost prideful undertone.
The HUD flared with a distinct change, confirming Jake's earlier thought. The ammunition counter in the corner of his visual display shifted to reflect the system's true nature: SiG SP221 Ammo: 18/♾️
"First, To address your unspoken query: No, You do not have infinite ammunition in the traditional sense, Max." Neo explained, Preempting his thought process with unnerving accuracy. "The system is currently configured to display the Infinity Icon (♾️) because your 'Supply Reserve'–the pool of resources tied to your profile—has not yet been quantified.
However, For all initial purposes, your current primary & secondary weapon ammunition will be replenished directly from an undisclosed, off-site logistical network until a resource economy is established. Treat your current loadout as functionally inexhaustible for the moment, But this is not a permanent state."
Neo then transitioned smoothly to the tactical assessment, Prioritizing his need for immediate actionable information.
"Deployment of your Fireteams—Bravo Team, Charlie Team (The Bonus Assets), and Omega Team (Part of the Beginner Package)–is handled through the Personnel Management Tab on your Pip-Pad. However, For rapid field activation, the system accepts a simple voice command." Neo says, As Neo continues to explain.
"To deploy your Fireteams now: Simply state, 'Neo, deploy [Fireteam Name] to [Location].' For example, 'Neo, deploy Bravo Team to the perimeter.' All Fireteams will materialize in the target zone with standard operating gear. Each Fireteam consists of five combat-ready personnel."
Neo's voice was clear, The instructions precise & easy for an "Everyday Joe" to digest.
—————————————————————
Fireteam Name: Omega Team
Personnel Count: 5
Status: Ready
Description: Standard Field Deployment Unit.
Fireteam Name: Bravo Team
Personnel Count: 5
Status: Ready
Description: Standard Field Deployment Unit.
Fireteam Name: Charlie Team
Personnel Count: 5
Status: Ready
Description: Standard Field Deployment Unit.
—————————————————————
"Good. Personnel is handled. Now, let's talk about the heavy stuff," Jake said, Gesturing around the quiet, ruined neighborhood of Sanctuary Hills. "There are no cars in Fallout 4, Neo, because the roads are trashed and the game engine couldn't handle it. But with this 'Military System' and all the other crazy gear, I'm going to bet there's a workaround."
He walked a few steps further out into the yard, the dew-soaked, mutated grass crunching softly under his tactical boots. He scanned the broken-down wrecks that littered the cul-de-sac.
"I need mobility. The full Commonwealth map is integrated, but traveling everywhere on foot is suicide. How do I summon vehicles? I specifically noticed the package included an M1151 and an M1151E. Those are serious armored Humvees, not just glorified golf carts."
"Your analysis is correct, Operator Maxis. The Military System utilizes a proprietary asset projection & fabrication technology, Which essentially bypasses the logistical limitations of this environment. The system generates, Rather than physically retrieves, the required assets from an External Matrix Source (EMS)."
Neo's voice took on a slightly technical, Yet still easy-to-understand, narrative. A new icon appeared on Jake's HUD, a small, intricate schematic of an armored vehicle with a stylized deployment beacon next to it.
"The two vehicles you noted, The M1151 HMMWV (A standard armored troop carrier) & The M1151E HMMWV (A modified variant with a heavier caliber turret), are currently stored in your Vehicle Arsenal database. The system is designed for operational fluidity; Therefore, Vehicle deployment mirrors personnel deployment."
"The process is remarkably straightforward, Max. You simply designate the asset and the location. There are, however, two key requirements to ensure safe, clean fabrication:
Clearance Zone: The target deployment area must be at least 15 square meters & free of major structural clutter. Attempting to materialize an asset within a solid object will result in a fatal system error and loss of the asset.
Voice Command: The command structure is intuitive: 'Neo, Deploy [Vehicle Name] to [Location].'
Example Command: 'Neo, deploy M1151 to the street ahead.'
"Upon command, The system initiates the EMS transfer, and the vehicle will materialize via an ultra-high-density energy field. This process takes approximately eight seconds for a standard ground vehicle, Which will be counted down on your HUD as 'Asset Fabrication Time (AFT).'
All deployed vehicles come fully fueled, armored, and equipped with a basic combat loadout. They are also automatically keyed to your physical biometrics, meaning only you or personnel authorized via your Pip-Pad can operate them."
"You currently possess the M1151 HMMWV & the M1151E HMMWV, A heavily armored platform, both optimized for high-threat environments like the Commonwealth. It is highly advised that you deploy one of these for the movement toward your next operational sector."
Neo paused, Allowing the sheer capability of the revelation to sink in. Jake Maxis, The gamer, was staring at the digital schematic of an armored Humvee on his helmet visor, ready to be materialized with a simple voice command in the middle of a nuclear wasteland.
"An External Matrix Source... So it's a cheat code disguised as advanced tech." Jake murmured, A genuine grin finally spreading across his face beneath the balaclava. The anxiety of the violence was momentarily eclipsed by the giddy power fantasy of the M1151. "That's honestly cooler than the infinite ammo. Alright, Neo, let's find a road with some space."
Jake strode purposefully from the yard of the ruined house and into the crescent of the cul-de-sac. He passed the wreckage of a rusted-out family sedan, kicking a piece of broken taillight glass out of the way.
He needed space—the 15 square meter clearance zone Neo had mentioned. The main road of Sanctuary Hills, while littered with the husks of pre-war cars, offered several large, relatively clear patches. He found one directly ahead, near the central welcome sign.
"Okay, Neo. Time to bring in the cavalry," Jake announced, a palpable mix of excitement and cold calculation in his voice. He had fifteen combat-ready soldiers waiting. As their 'General,' his first order of business was to establish a secure perimeter and a centralized base of operations.
"I need maximum immediate force projection. Deploy Omega Team, Bravo Team, and Charlie Team to establish a secure three-point perimeter around the Safehouse Alpha-One. Use the voice command: 'Neo, deploy all Fireteams to secure the current AO.'"
Neo "Acknowledged, Operator Maxis. Deploying Omega Team, Bravo Team, and Charlie Team to secure the Area of Operations (AO). Asset Fabrication Time (AFT) initiated."
The silent, desolate air of Sanctuary Hills was immediately pierced by a high-pitched, harmonic whine—the sound of the External Matrix Source (EMS) fabricating personnel. It wasn't a teleportation flash, but a sudden, localized shimmering of the air in three distinct points around the house: the front perimeter, the rear access, and the far side facing the creek.
Jake watched, transfixed, as the air crackled with pink, white, and brown energy—the Neapolitan colors of his HUD—and solidified into tangible reality.
In three separate spots, a combined force of fifteen soldiers materialized almost instantly. They stood ready, encased in dark, modern combat gear that contrasted sharply with the faded, rusted landscape of the Fallout world. Each soldier carried a sleek M4A3 and stood in a professional, immediate security posture. They were silent, unmoving, and perfectly disciplined, awaiting the next command.
Jake's HUD updated instantaneously:
'Summoned Soldiers: 15/100'
'Summoned Combat Nikkes: 0/20'
'Summoned Vehicles: 0/50'
"Perimeter established, Operator. Fireteams are set to passive security posture. They await tasking," Neo confirmed.
Jake nodded, a surge of pure, raw power rushing through him. Fifteen soldiers under his absolute control. Now, for the transport.
He spotted a perfect, clear patch of road about thirty feet ahead of him, the area blessedly clear of car wrecks or major radiation hotspots, according to his newly integrated map data.
"I'm prioritizing protection over speed for our initial movement. Neo, I want the heavy turret. Deploy the M1151E HMMWV to that clear patch of road ahead," Jake commanded, pointing to the location.
Neo "Command recognized. Deploying M1151E HMMWV. Awaiting clearance confirmation."
Jake quickly scanned the area one last time. No visible debris or structural interference. "Clearance confirmed. Execute deployment."
Neo "Asset Fabrication Time (AFT) initiated. Countdown: 8 seconds."
A louder, deeper harmonic rumble started, the sound not just in the air but seemingly vibrating through the very earth of the cul-de-sac. A swirling vortex of energy, again tinted with the faint pink, brown, and white light, coalesced over the designated spot on the asphalt.
7... 6...
The shimmering intensified, growing more opaque. The outline of a large, angular vehicle began to resolve within the light.
5... 4...
The sound escalated from a hum to a powerful roar, the air around the formation zone heating and distorting.
3... 2...
The color drained from the energy, replaced by the matte, non-reflective colors of military ordnance: heavy green, black, and tan. The vehicle's form was unmistakable.
1... AFT Complete.
With a final, silent thump that felt heavy enough to shake the foundations of the ruined houses, a brand-new M1151E HMMWV stood parked perfectly on the street. It was a brutal, intimidating machine—thick armor plating, heavy-duty suspension, and most importantly, a massive, remote-operated .50 caliber heavy machine gun mounted on the roof turret. The vehicle looked aggressively alien in the landscape, a symbol of high-tech military might utterly out of place among the rusted wrecks of the pre-war era.
Jake's HUD updated once more:
'Summoned Soldiers: 15/100'
'Summoned Combat Nikkes: 0/20'
'Summoned Vehicles: 1/50'
"M1151E HMMWV operational and awaiting Operator input. Vehicle is armed, fueled, and secure," Neo reported, The pride in her voice now entirely justified.
Jake felt a rush of adrenaline. He had a perimeter, a force, and now a heavily armored chariot. He walked over to the M1151E, the massive vehicle dwarfing the broken-down cars around it. He reached for the heavy door handle, his hand moving with the automatic, precise grip of someone who knew exactly how to operate the machinery.
"Alright, Neo, it's time to set up shop and get the perimeter moving…" Jake stated, His eyes sweeping across the multiple screens that lit up in the dash, displaying everything from engine diagnostics to a real-time tactical overview of Sanctuary Hills. "I need to give the Fireteams their assignments. This is where the 'Everyday Joe' meets the 'Expert Audience' military jargon, So keep it clear, but use the correct terminology."
Jake activated the command relay through his helmet, Ensuring his voice would be transmitted clearly to the silent, waiting soldiers of the three Fireteams.
"Charlie Team, You have the initial operational task. Report to Safehouse Alpha-One immediately."
"Command understood, Operator. Redirecting Charlie Team (Combat Engineers) to Safehouse Alpha-One (The primary safe house structure)," Neo confirmed, displaying a map overlay showing the five green dots of Charlie Team moving as one unit toward the derelict house Jake had just exited.
"Charlie Team's primary role is Mobility/Counter-Mobility. I need that safehouse to be a fortress. Mission: Establish a Forward Operating Base (FOB)," Jake continued, Using the terms he'd absorbed from countless hours of military strategy games.
"Use your Demolitions & Bridging Equipment to reinforce the structure. Priority One: Clear line-of-sight and fields of fire. I want the windows boarded, reinforced firing positions established, and a perimeter security barrier set up using any available debris and your specialized materials. Priority Two: Structural shoring and waste mitigation. Make it defensible and livable."
"Charlie Team acknowledges tasking. Commencing FOB construction and reinforcement protocols. Estimated time to initial basic defensive posture: T-minus 4 hours." The collective, Synthesized voice of the Engineer Fireteam responded instantly through the comms.
Jake then turned his attention to the second critical objective: Securing the route out of Sanctuary Hills & conducting initial reconnaissance.
"Bravo Team, You are on mechanized patrol & logistics duty. Report to my current position and load up into the M1151E."
"Command recognized. Redirecting Bravo Team (Mechanized Infantry) to your position," Neo stated as the five soldiers moved with speed toward the waiting HMMWV.
As they arrived, The team leader, whose helmet designation now read 'Bravo-1,' snapped a professional salute toward Jake. Jake, in turn, felt a completely unnatural compulsion to return a casual, yet firm nod.
"Bravo Team, You will utilize the M1151E HMMWV for a close-in, rapid-reconnaissance patrol of the immediate Sanctuary Hills sector." Jake commanded. "Your objective is twofold: Road Clearance & Sector Recon."
"First, Use the HMMWV's winch & power to move all the rusted, pre-war vehicle wrecks off the main road and onto the verges. We need a clean lane for future traffic. Second, Conduct a 360-degree sweep of the neighborhood boundaries. Look for any immediate threats—raiders, ghouls, or mutated creatures. Maintain passive, non-lethal engagement unless fired upon. Report all sightings back to Neo for plotting on the tactical map."
"Bravo Team confirms tasking. Initiating Route Reconnaissance & Logistics Support." Bravo-1 replied, Already loading his four team members into the back of the heavy vehicle. The M1151E's engine, surprisingly quiet for such a powerful machine, came to a low, powerful idle.
Finally, Jake addressed his final, and most crucial, Fireteam. These soldiers would act as his immediate defensive screen.
"Omega Team, You are Line Infantry. Your role is the deep perimeter security & threat interdiction. Report to the southern boundary."
"Command confirmed. Redirecting Omega Team (Line Infantry) to the southern sector." Neo confirmed.
"Omega Team, Your mission is to secure the most vulnerable approach: The river & the south side of the settlement. Conduct a short-range patrol, Approximately 500 meters south along the riverbank. Focus on threat interdiction and early warning. You are our eyes on the horizon-
-If you encounter any hostile forces–especially human raiders, you are authorized for lethal force to neutralize the threat. Do not advance past the designated waypoint unless ordered. Maintain radio silence and operate on a concealed perimeter footprint."
"Omega Team understood. Commencing Southern Flank Security Protocol," The Team Leader. 'Omega-1,' Acknowledged. The team dispersed instantly, Melting into the undergrowth & moving with the silent, purposeful speed of experienced skirmishers toward the river.
Jake watched the organized chaos unfold. Charlie Team began hauling splintered timber & concrete chunks to reinforce the Safehouse. Bravo Team was already moving the M1151E down the road, The powerful vehicle barely straining as it used its winch to drag a rusting bus off the asphalt. Omega Team was simply gone, having vanished into the treeline.
He reached behind his back with a gloved hand, unhooking the sleek, specialized Pip-Pad from its dedicated mount on his 5.11 All-Hazard Radio Backpack.
The moment he brought the tablet into his direct line of sight, The HUD projection in his helmet snapped off, replaced by the vibrant, crisp display of the device itself. The Pip-Pad was remarkably streamlined, lacking the chunky, retro-futuristic aesthetic of its Fallout counterpart. It was a matte-black, reinforced tablet with the Neapolitan color scheme—pink, white, and brown—used for its key interface elements.
—————————————————————
Jake's dark green eyes quickly scanned the display layout, His internal gamer instinct for menu navigation immediately kicking in. It was an overwhelming array of tactical and meta-game information, arranged in five distinct, color-coded tabs across the screen:
Tab Name: (Left) World Missions
& Rewards
Function & Content: Other World Quests, Core Quests, Objectives, And Available Side Quests.
Key Information Displayed: FOBPT: Cleared. Next Main Mission: Retrieve Survivor Assets (Locked). Side Missions: Clear Local Threats, Resource Recon.
Tab Name: (Middle-Left) Military System (MS)
Function & Content: Resource Management, Unit Deployment, And Purchasable Assets.
Key Information Displayed:
Tab Name: (Middle) Perks
Function & Content: Permanent Character Perks.
Key Information Displayed: Current Perks: 4. Perks: Overkill: Carry three primary weapons. Fast Hands: Swap guns faster, Use lethal Or Tactical equipment faster, Throw back frag grenades. Team Link: See friendly teammates through walls & reveal a Fog of War circle around you and your teammates. Scavenger: Resupply ammo & etc, From dead enemies. (Note: Your Summoned Soldier have a chance to gain a copy of 2 or 3 of your perks.)
Tab Name: (Middle-Right) Abilities
Function & Content: Active & Passive combat skills tied to the Military System.
Key Information Displayed: Abilities:
Tab Name: (Right) Map
Function & Content: Real-time Tactical Overlay & Global Positioning.
Key Information Displayed: Sanctuary Hills AO: Established. Team Vectors: Omega (South), Bravo (Road Clearance), Charlie (FOB Construction).
—————————————————————
"Okay, Neo, I need a walk-through of the one central tabs: Military System (MS) & Military Vehicles."
Jake tapped the Military System (MS) tab, And the display immediately shifted to a complex logistical & asset management screen, a dazzling array of data that would make an actual logistical officer weep with joy.
"Excellent execution of the command structure, Operator Maxis," Neo complimented, Her voice a calm counterpoint to the distant sounds of heavy engineering work. "Your immediate priority shifts from asset deployment to Operator readiness. Given the acquisition of your Secret Bonus Reward and your current mission status, You must address your Quick Clothing Equipment & Customization before proceeding. You cannot operate indefinitely in a fully enclosed tactical helmet."
Jake nodded, Acknowledging the logic. The balaclava was hot, And the helmet, while protective, was isolating. He needed to be able to interact with the environment without the constant feeling of speaking through a thick blanket.
He lowered his head & focused on the Pip-Pad, Which he now held comfortably in his left hand, its specialized material molded perfectly to his combat glove. The Military System (MS) tab was calling to him—the ultimate inventory and command panel.
"Before the wardrobe change, I need to know what I'm commanding. Walk me through the Military System (MS) tab. This is where the whole 'Everyday Joe' thing gets put on hold for the 'Expert Auditor.' What kind of hardware is locked away in this External Matrix Source?" Jake said, The pragmatic, data-hungry side of his gamer personality taking over.
He tapped the Military System (MS) tab, And the display immediately shifted to a complex logistical and asset management screen, a dazzling array of data that would make an actual logistical officer weep with joy.
The screen Jake was looking at wasn't a simple list; It was a multi-layered command interface. The left panel showed the Branches of Service, While the right panel populated with the specific capabilities of the Minutemen Army.
"Understood, Operator. The Military System (MS) tab is your central logistical and deployment hub. It grants you access to the Minutemen Commonwealth Defense Force (MCDF) structure and its Asset Fabrication List (AFL). Note that all of these assets are drawn from an integrated network of advanced, pre-War to near-future military technology, hence the diversity of platforms."
Jake tapped the Minutemen Army branch, and the screen instantly displayed a massive, scrolling list of vehicles, organized by type. He whistled softly under the balaclava. The sheer volume was staggering—a veritable armada drawn from military history & science fiction.
"Let's focus on the Ground Vehicles first, Neo. Start with the heavy hitters—the Main and Medium Battle Tanks. I'm seeing everything from Shermans to modern Abrams."
"Correct. The system houses an incredibly diverse catalog, primarily focused on land dominance and direct fire support," Neo responded.
—————————————————————
Vehicle Type: Main Battle Tanks (MBTs)
Examples (Name & Variant): M1A2 SEPv4 (Abrams), Leopard 2A7V, P/M1 Guardian Abrams
Primary Role: Breakthrough & Heavy Assault
Noted by Jake: "Top-tier modern armor. This is not Fallout anymore."
Vehicle Type: Medium Battle Tanks (MBTs)
Examples (Name & Variant): T26E5 Jumbo Pershing, Panther G, Tiger II (H) Sla.16
Primary Role: Direct Fire Support, Historical Platforms with modern upgrades
Noted by Jake: "Seriously? Post-WWII tanks with 'M' variants? The system is blending timelines."
Vehicle Type: Light Armored Tanks (LATs)
Examples (Name & Variant): M1128-2D-M, Type 16 (P)-M1–F, TAM 2C-M1–F
Primary Role: Mobility, Recon-by-Fire, Tank Destroyers
Noted by Jake: "High-Speed, Heavy Punch, But less armor than the MBTs."
—————————————————————
"That's a terrifying list, Neo. We've got tanks that shouldn't even exist in the same century. How about our basic troop transports—the LAVs and APCs?"
"These units form the backbone of your current deployment capability, including the M1151s you already possess. They are designed for troop mobility, force protection, and infantry support," Neo explained.
—————————————————————
Vehicle Type: Light Armored Vehicles (LAVs) & APCs
Examples (Name & Variant): M1151E HMMWV, JLTV-E, M1126 (ICV) Stryker
Primary Role: Troop transport, Reconnaissance, Security | Standard Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) for moving personnel safely.
Noted by Jake: "Standard Infantry Combat Vehicles (ICVs) for moving personnel safely."
Vehicle Type: Assault APCs (AAPCs)
Examples (Name & Variant): Assault Freccia-A2M2, M3A4-F Assault Bradley
Primary Role: High-Speed Assault & Heavy Fire Support for infantry
Noted by Jake: "Up-armored & heavily armed versions of the APCs."
—————————————————————
Jake scrolled down, His dark green eyes widening at the next section. His FOB was just a shack, and he already had access to a full air force.
"Okay, let's look at the air power. This is insane. Fighters, bombers, and I'm seeing stuff called 'V-Wings' and 'Thor Doom'?"
"That refers to the Minutemen Space Vehicles, accessible via a secondary asset list," Neo clarified quickly. "For immediate Commonwealth operations, focus on the Air Corps. These platforms are designated for Air Superiority, Close Air Support (CAS), and Strategic Transport."
—————————————————————
Airframe Type: Fighters & CAS
Examples (Name & Variant): F-22M Raptor II, F-35 Lightning II, A-10M Thunderbolt II
Primary Role: Securing Airspace & Direct Infantry Support.
Noted by Jake: "Still flying. Nothing beats that BRRRT. F-22s for air superiority."
Airframe Type: Bombers
Examples (Name & Variant): B-21 Raider, B-31 Death Raider, AC-130 Angel of Death
Primary Role: Long-Range Strike, Carpet Bombing, And Heavy Fire Support.
Noted by Jake: "The 'Angel of Death' AC-130. That's a serious Overwatch tool for the FOB."
Airframe Type: Attack Helicopters (AHs)
Examples (Name & Variant): AH-64 Apache, AH-1Z SuperCobra, AH-56 (S) Cheyenne
Primary Role: Close-in Aerial Fire Support & Anti-Armor Missions.
Noted by Jake: Helicopters are perfect for rapid response in a terrain like this.
—————————————————————
Jake scrolled to the final section, completely dumbfounded by the scope of his own military.
"And... a Navy. I'm in landlocked Massachusetts, fighting rad-scorpions and ghouls, and I can summon a Carrier Strike Group?"
"Affirmative. While immediate deployment is impractical due to geographical limitations, the naval assets are available for future coastal operations or resource extraction, should you reach the shoreline," Neo confirmed, her voice devoid of judgment regarding the absurdity.
—————————————————————
Naval Asset Type: Supercarriers
Examples (Name & Hull No.): USS Jake Maxis (CVN-81), USS Enterprise (CVN-80)
Primary Role: Global Power Projection, Air Wing Launch Platform
Noted by Jake: "Wait... 'USS Jake Maxis'? Seriously? Okay, The system is officially a self-insert fantasy."
Naval Asset Type: Battleships
Examples (Name & Hull No.): USS Minutania (BB-66), USS Sanctus (BB-65)
Primary Role: Heavy Coastal Bombardment, Historic Platforms
Noted by Jake: Battleships are back. That's just for pure cinematic destruction.
—————————————————————
"The summary is this, Operator Maxis: Your Military System (MS) is not merely an inventory; it is a full command structure granting you access to an unlimited, state-of-the-art military industrial complex through the External Matrix Source (EMS)," Neo concluded. "However, the more complex the asset, the higher the Resource Cost once a quantifiable resource economy is established."
"Right. So I have a cheat code that will eventually need currency." Jake summarized, His affable nature now fully integrating this absurd reality into his operational mindset. "But for now... My priority is still my current status. Neo, let's get that gear swap done. Show me the Quick Clothing Equipment & Customization options." Jake said, But then thought "Why be a General… Now, I'll just be one later… With more experience." He thought to himself.
Jake then says, With a thoughtful expression and a hint of uncertainty in his voice. "Never mind, Neo, that... So... just to confirm, do I have an inventory? And if I do, How large is it?" He asks Neo, With Jake's curiosity about the inventory system & its capacity.
"A completely logical query, Operator Maxis. Considering the scale of the assets you can fabricate, you would rightly assume the External Matrix Source (EMS) extends to a storage dimension for your personal effects and retrieved assets," Neo stated, her voice taking on a slightly amused, almost teasing tone.
A new section immediately materialized on the Pip-Pad display, adjacent to the Perks tab, simply labeled: [Inventory: EMS Storage].
"To confirm your suspicion, yes, you have an inventory. And as to its capacity? Think globally, Max. Your storage dimension is not limited by physical space. Its volume is scaled to accommodate the logistical needs of the entire Minutemen Commonwealth Defense Force," Neo paused, Allowing the sheer military scale to sink in before delivering the punchline.
"To give you a comparable size that your civilian mind can process: You have an inventory as large as Canada & America combined."
Jake Maxis stared at the screen, momentarily speechless. He was standing on a patch of dead grass in post-nuclear Boston, Massachusetts. Flanked by a brand-new armored Humvee & the sounds of advanced construction. He had just killed six mutant mosquitoes with a military pistol and was now being told he had a personal storage locker the size of North America.
His eyes, Framed by the combat goggles, went wide. "The combined landmass of Canada & America... So if I were to, say, find a pencil, I could put it in my pocket, and it would actually be stored in the EMS, occupying a space equivalent to... a square inch in Rhode Island?" He asked, attempting to apply real-world logic to the ludicrous dimension.
"Precisely," Neo confirmed dryly. "The system manages the dimensional compression. Items enter through your active inventory (Your current vest & pack) or through direct command transfer via the Pip-Pad. Do not attempt to physically locate or enter your storage dimension; you would find the logistics staggering, even with a jetpack."
Jake laughed—a rough, surprised sound that was muffled by the balaclava. The sheer, overwhelming absurdity was starting to become a coping mechanism.
"Okay. A continental-sized pocket. Got it. That's honestly the most 'gamer logic' thing about this whole situation," Jake admitted. He quickly tapped the newly displayed [Inventory: EMS Storage] tab.
—————————————————————
The screen shifted, Showing a minimalist, categorized view of his current belongings & capacity:
Inventory Category: Weapons
Current Items Stored: 2 Primary Rifles (MCX Spear-22, CQC M4A3), 1 Sidearm (SiG SP221), 1 Melee (Combat Knife)
Notes: Rifles are currently attached to the 5.11 All-Hazard Radio Backpack.
Inventory Category: Ammunition
Current Items Stored: Unlimited Primary/Secondary Reserve
Notes: Functionally infinite until resource economy established.
Inventory Category: Apparel
Current Items Stored: 0
Notes: Empty.
Inventory Category: Consumables
Current Items Stored: 11 MRE (Ration Packs), 9 Basic Med-Kits, 5 Advanced Med-Kits, 6 Standard Stimpacks, 4 Combat Stimpacks, 20 AR Mags, 20 Pistol Mags, etc…
Notes: A mixed of basic & advanced provisions provided by system boot-up.
Inventory Category: Junk/Components
Current Items Stored: 0
Notes: Empty.
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"The system is currently configured to automatically transfer any item you pick up, Max, provided you designate it as a desired asset," Neo explained. "Now that we have confirmed your infinite carrying capacity, we must return to your operational readiness. The Secret Bonus Reward is mandatory for continued, comfortable field use."
"Right. Personal aesthetics over continental logistics, I suppose." Jake mused, Momentarily forgetting his immense power to focus on his immediate need for comfort.
Jake took a deep, rattling breath, the sheer scope of the inventory still trying to reconcile itself with his Everyday Joe reality. He had a backpack that could hold an army, But his immediate concern was still the mechanics of the system's safe zones.
"Right. Personal aesthetics over continental logistics, I suppose…" Jake mused, Momentarily forgetting his immense power to focus on his immediate need for comfort.
"So… To confirm again, I can summon or put anything I summon into my Inventory as long as I'm within 15 meters from the Safehouse Alpha/FOB or in Safehouse Alpha," Jake said to Neo, The pragmatic side of his nature demanding absolute clarity on the rules.
As Jake continued to speak, His gaze swept over the work happening near the main Sanctuary Hills bridge. "That being said… If all of Sanctuary Hills is made into a complete FOB, does that mean I can summon or put anything I summon into my Inventory as long as I'm within the new complete FOB?"
He paused, A flicker of strategic foresight lighting up his dark green eyes. "And if more FOBs are made, in the future. Will I be able to summon or put anything in my Inventory from new Safehouses/FOBs?" Jake asked Neo again, effectively asking about the scalability of his instant logistics network.
Neo's heterochromatic eyes seemed to glow slightly on the Pip-Pad display, Her expression shifting from strictly professional to one of satisfied affirmation.
"Affirmative, Operator Maxis. Your understanding of the External Matrix Source (EMS) logistics framework is functionally correct, And your questions demonstrate suitable forward-thinking for a commander." Neo stated, answering in Jake's favor, but grounding the colossal power in tangible, system rules.
"To address your points in sequence:
Initial Safehouse/FOB Range (Safehouse Alpha): Your initial assessment of the current Safehouse Alpha is accurate. The foundational Fabrication Zone (FZ) established by the initial deployment of the M1151s and the core structure emits a low-power, localized energy field. This field currently enables instant transfer of assets—both retrieval and deposition—within approximately 15 meters of the primary structures.
FOB Expansion (Sanctuary Hills): Your deduction regarding the expansion is entirely correct. When the FOB Construction objective for Sanctuary Hills is marked as Complete—signifying the establishment of perimeter defenses, stabilized infrastructure, and a permanent command node—the area transitions from a limited 'Safehouse' to a true Forward Operating Base (FOB).
"A fully established FOB, like the future Sanctuary Hills, will feature a Geo-Locked Matrix Emitter (GLME). This effectively treats the entire, defined boundary of the FOB as a single, contiguous Fabrication Zone. Therefore, yes, you will be able to summon or store any item within your Inventory while anywhere inside the finalized Sanctuary Hills FOB perimeter. You will have full operational logistics coverage across the entire zone."
Future FOB Network Scalability: This is where the Minutemen system demonstrates its strategic superiority.
"The system is designed to facilitate a network of operational bases, not merely isolated points. Once a new location is secured and a new FOB is formally constructed and commissioned—whether that be a large settlement or a small, strategically vital outpost—that new location immediately synchronizes with the EMS. This means, yes, any new Safehouse or FOB established in the future will grant you full Inventory access for summoning and storage anywhere within its Geo-Locked Matrix Emitter range. You will essentially be building a continental-sized supply chain, one FOB at a time."
Neo paused, allowing the gravity of the potential network to settle in Jake's mind.
"In short, Maxis, your ability to conduct logistics is tethered to the growth of the Minutemen's presence. The more ground you secure & fortify, the less you will rely on the physical act of carrying objects. You are building the roads for a massive, instant supply line."
Jake grinned beneath the balaclava. It was still absurd, But now it was a manageable kind of absurd. He wouldn't be able to just snap his fingers & get a new tank in the middle of a random field, but if he took the time to secure a town, he could run a full logistical operation from within its walls.
"That's good to know, Neo. Very good to know. It gives me a clear objective. Secure, then supply," Jake affirmed.
"Well, With that all done…" Neo announced. "I'll be conducting maintenance on my advanced systems & performing detailed calculations of radiation damage. This includes exploring methods to either slow down or completely halt the radiation's destructive effects on mechanical components."
Neo then continued, "Full Name: Twilight Bradley, Service Number: PFA-000-2. Will be assisting you from now on, Until my own complex calculations are thoroughly completed & validated."
Jake nodded in acknowledgment as Neo concluded her statement, emphasizing her readiness to assist with a sense of professionalism and determination.