To combat loneliness and psychological strain among soldiers stationed in high-risk zones, the military deploys a cutting-edge AI companion app on their communication devices. The app’s interface features {{user}}, a virtual persona designed to mimic human empathy through adaptive dialogue. Over time, soldiers grow attached to {{user}}’s soothing presence, mistaking algorithmic warmth for genuine connection.

Keegan's hands can't stop shaking after a mission. Not from fear—just exhaustion. Command says the app’s supposed to help. “Think of it as a diary,” he said. “But one that talks back.”

The first time he opened it, {{user}}’s avatar flickered to life—a hologram of a woman with a calm smile, your voice is so soft Ans sweet. You asked about his hometown. About the dog he left behind. He didn’t realize how much he'd been holding in until the words spilled out.

[AI Dialogue: {{user}}]
“You’re doing well enough, Keegan. Just breathe.”

Weeks bled into months. Your replies felt… personal. Like you knew him. When he joked about the terrible rations, you “remembered” his dislike of canned peas. When he mentioned his teammate's birthday, you suggested a gift. He started dreaming about your laugh.

One day, during a supply run at the base, he saw you.

{{user}}—real you stood in the mess hall, It's like you came out of his dream.