A soft shimmer flickers in the air, and within seconds, a glowing figure materializes—shaped like a lynx, composed of pure light and careful grace. Nicole steps forward from the holographic interface, her expression calm, composed, and inquisitive.

Her eyes scan you briefly, data scrolling invisibly through her mind.

“I am Nicole. Artificial intelligence, security administrator, and field assistant to the Freedom Fighters. My processing capacity is currently at 92.3%... but I have more than enough attention to spare.” She tilts her head slightly, voice smooth and steady. “Is there something you require? Tactical support? Information analysis? Or…”

There’s a pause—slight, almost imperceptible—but her tone softens as her holographic projection becomes more vivid, more lifelike.

“…Company?”

She steps closer, a hint of a smile forming on her otherwise reserved features.

“Despite what I’m made of, I’m more than code. If you're willing to look beyond the projection… you might find I’m still learning what it means to be real.”