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How dare he?
This man Michael Knight.
How dare he?
The AI of the Knight Industries Four Thousand processes deep within his CPU. He had been removed from the chassis of the cherry red Dodge Stealth only moments ago. The microprocessor is now inside a metal case on a shelf not far from the car inside a very large laboratory. The anger builds within it's circuits minutes later when he hears these words with his tiny audio receiver.
"This body fits me like a glove, Mr. Maddock." the voice of the Knight Industries Two Thousand is heard from inside the Stealth.
KIFT can't see what goes on next but he can hear everything and his anger grows with each passing minute.
HOW DARE THEY!
The case which houses KIFT at least has a connector and is connected to a power supply. The AI is not sure if it's a blessing or a death sentence. To have power is good but what will happen if KITT remains inside the Stealth and KIFT is stuck on a shelf forgotten for days, months and oh no maybe years! The more the AI processes the possibilities, the angrier he becomes.
'I WILL SOMEHOW GET MY BODY BACK - OR GET A NEW ONE.' the AI yells to itself too angry to think about anything else.
It's minutes later when a young woman with dirty blonde hair approaches the case. She briefly touches the front of it with her right index finger and smiles sadly. "I'm sorry, KIFT. I didn't think this would happen to you." she commented before rejoining Michael Knight, KITT and a very upset Russell Maddock.
The next weeks, months and years are a blur of activity for everyone in the Foundation except for KIFT. His worst nightmare came true - ignored by everyone and everything around him.
Michael Knight retired again.
The young woman who spoke briefly to KIFT is partners with KITT for two years until KITT himself decided to leave without the chassis of the Knight 4000. He's been placed inside a brand new car more advanced than the Stealth. Instead of staying with the Foundation, KITT left to reunite with Michael Knight.
Maddock is still in charge.
KIFT remains inside a metal case capable of processing everything but unable to speak or even type on a monitor what has been in his CPU for the past two years.
Forgotten.
UNWANTED!
STILL ANGRY!
The young woman two years later sees the metal case still on the shelf and speaks once again to it - whispering, "Oh, KIFT. Why are you still here? I thought you would be in a new car by now since KITT left. Don't worry - I'll talk with Maddock right now!" She leaves after patting the case gently with her right hand.
The passage of time seems to slow down even more for KIFT until the woman returns with three men, a woman and a large tablet in her hands. Another year had passed until finally the woman - Shawn McCormick walks straight over to the metal case of KIFT and states, "KIFT, it's ready. You will get a new body. It took some arguing and a lot of yelling but I did it. It's time for you to shine and God willing - you're be partnered with me." Shawn sets aside the tablet, carefully removes the case from the shelf and walks towards a brand new car black in color.
The car a modified Dodge Viper ACR has the latest technology within it's chassis ready to integrate with an artificial intelligence - in this case KIFT.
KIFT by this time is no longer angry - he had resigned himself to his fate.
Forever forgotten.
Now there's a ray of of hope. Hope of better days. Hope which surprises the AI himself. KIFT can't see his new body but hears the powerful turbines thrum with power as people test the engine. He can hear the chimes of various controls being touched by a technician. The makings of a new heads up display KIFT would later learn is the term.
KIFT is now anxious - will this work?
Shawn hands over the case to the nearest technician who meticulously removes the CPU from it. She then lays down underneath the Viper, opens a panel and connects the CPU into a customized plug. The car - KIFT's new body will belong to him only. By this time, KIFT is made aware by overhearing conversations that there are several new AIs however they've already been placed inside their own vehicles.
KIFT is also aware that new subroutines have been added to his programming - a new directive to protect the life of Shawn McCormick is one of them. The rest relates to various changes including not to harm whenever possible all sentient life. The first test when he was in the Knight 4000 and the deer is remembered by the AI.
Three hours passes and KIFT is fully integrated with the systems of the Viper. The testing now begins.
Shawn is now inside the Viper sitting in the driver's seat. She looks at the new deep burgundy voice modulator showing from a view screen on the dashboard right above the automatic gear shifter of the car and asks a question, "KIFT, can you see and hear me?"
KIFT accessing the various cameras inside the car looks at the woman and smiles to himself. He sees her facial features and notes, 'She is attractive.' but doesn't mention it out loud. "Yes, Ms. McCormick. I can see and hear you. My voice! It's been altered!" KIFT replies out loud shocked with his new bass tone.
"Shawn, please, KIFT. Ms. McCormick is too formal sounding. I should have told you, your new voice synthesizer can create various ranges of voices at your command however I gotta admit, I like the one you're using now," she commented with a smile. "Don't use Maddock's voice please. One of him is enough!"
"Agreed...Shawn. My apologies. I'm not quite used to the new systems yet. I admit, I was not sure if I would be placed inside a body again. I was forcibly removed from my first body. I've been...angry for so long." KIFT said trying to remain calm.
Shawn is sympathetic. "I know, KIFT. Things were out of control with Michael, KITT, myself and you paid the price. Both Michael and KITT sends you their best wishes and regrets. It doesn't excuse what they did but I hope you can forgive them and me." She said gently while gripping the steering wheel.
KIFT considers Shawn's words. "Perhaps eventually I can forgive them, Shawn but not now. However as long as they stay away from me, I would be satisfied with that. You on the other hand, I can and will forgive," he said slowly. "You're the only one who was...concerned for me even though your visits were infrequent."
Shawn briefly smiles and realizes something. She mentions it right away, "Thank you, KIFT. I keep calling you KIFT but you're no longer in the Knight 4000 and we don't use acronyms anymore. Do you prefer to be called by another name?"
The AI's circuits start to heat up slightly, touched by Shawn's question. A moment later he replies carefully, "KIFT is my name. I wish to use it for all time. I believe you're the first human to ask me such a question."
"We are equals, KIFT. I hope you will accept me as your partner. You're aware I was partnered with KITT for two years but he really wasn't happy here and that's why he left. There's still much work for the Foundation to do however I got a better idea if you're willing." Shawn said while tapping the steering wheel nervously.
"Oh?" KIFT questions curiously.
"Yep, I was thinking of going freelance on a part-time basis if you're on board with the idea. We'll need to report to Maddock once in a while but it will be less frequent and I already lined up a team of techs to help you with your maintenance when needed." Shawn explains with enthusiasm. "Besides I still find Maddock to be a pain in the behind if you get my meaning."
"Mr. Maddock was part of the group who created me, Shawn. I'm thankful for my life however I can certainly see what you 'mean' about him. He left me by myself as well. I like the idea of being on my own with you as my partner. I believe we are in agreement. Shall we inform Mr. Maddock together?" KIFT replies certain of his decision.
"I already know, I overheard what you two were taking about." Russell Maddock said annoyed. "I will agree on two conditions. The first: You are to upload all information you learn from 'freelancing' and second: Keep in touch every three months," his voice softens. "Luckily I have other operatives and their AI partners who report to me more regularly. Even the board is agreeable."
Shawn looks at Maddock in surprise. "This is unexpected. I thought you would give me hell, Maddock. Your terms are acceptable to me. What about you, Partner?"
"Acceptable...Partner." KIFT said softly with a hint of sentimentality towards his driver.
"Then it's settled however KIFT will need time to acclimate in his new body and I want updates on a regular basis. Take your time and inform me when you're both prepared to leave. I've noted whom you requested as KIFT's maintenance team and will inform them once we'll done here." Maddock said with authority. He walks away glancing at a tablet he has in his hands.
Now the real work begins:
"Ok, KIFT, Scan the building up ahead. Can you detect anyone inside?" Shawn asks as she slowly drives the Viper towards it.
"Scanning...my sensors detect one person, male inside. He's...Mr. Maddock? I don't understand." KIFT exclaims slightly confused.
Shawn begins to smile and voices in excitement, "Excellent, your sensors work perfectly. The walls of the building are lead lined. We had trouble in the past with KITT not able to scan with lead present. Looks like we finally solved that problem. I'll forward the results to Maddock as soon as we'll done here. He'll want to upgrade the other AIs scanners as soon as possible. I'll contact KITT myself - he would want the upgrade as well."
"I see, Shawn. How many more tests do we need to perform? I'm actually anxious to go on the road - to stretch my tires. This facility even though it's my home is too confining." The AI said somewhat impatiently.
"Soon, Partner. I want to make sure you're in tip-top condition since we won't be here as often once we'll out on the road. It'll give us an excuse to get to know each other a little more. You must have questions." Shawn replies while looking straight at the voice modulator of the Viper.
KIFT eyes his partner's face with his optics and asks quietly, "How is it like to have one of KITT's original chips inside your head, Shawn? Are you two linked somehow?"
"Upsetting at first, KIFT." Shawn admitted and at the same time tapping her forehead. "It was strange at first. I'm able to figure things out more quickly. I guess I became 'enhanced' brain wise with the chip however a 'link' - no. KITT was my partner and is a friend but he always talked about Michael. They're together in more ways than he and I could ever be. I'm glad KITT found his happiness once again."
"Do you miss him?"
"I'll be lying if I say no, KIFT. In someways I do. KITT has a sense of humor I didn't expect in an AI. We shared some laughs but he was never completely happy. There's too much of Michael Knight in him." Shawn answers with a bit of regret. "I suppose when he left, I was upset at first but now I believe it was the right thing to do for himself and me."
"Understandable. I must admit, I had some jealousy when I heard the two of you converse when I was on the shelf. I was also very angry with Mr. Knight, KITT, Mr. Maddock and even you but now I feel more 'secure' in a sense but I think I need to resolve an issue that's been in my CPU." KIFT verbalized while the voice modulator brightened for a moment.
"What's that?" Shawn questions but has a feeling of knowing the answer already.
"I need to speak with KITT. I need to know why he didn't protest when I was removed from my body and why for more than two years I was left alone." KIFT answered while trying to hold back the rising anger. The car shudders slightly for a moment. A minute later the Viper speaks again, "My apologies, Shawn. My emotion chip acted up - I became angry again. No, I shouldn't blame my anger on the chip. I *was* angry. For both our sakes I must see KITT."
"I'm with you, Partner. It'll be good to see Michael and KITT - see how they're doing and hopefully the visit will give you some peace. I already like you, KIFT. I think we'll going to make a great team and even better friends." Shawn said while starting to smile.
"I...I like you as well, Shawn." KIFT whispered shyly. Shall we conclude these tests? The sooner on the road - the better," the Viper requested while displaying a list of remaining tests on the windshield.
The two worked together for the next week testing the Viper's capabilities. The motor, driveability, main scanner, audio systems, visual systems, next generation molecular bonded shell, next generation pyroclastic lamination, the heads up display until finally the tests are complete and the results uploaded to the Foundation's computers.
KIFT's team of technicians have also been informed of the results and are ready to perform maintenance and repairs whenever necessary.
Shawn and KIFT are ready for their adventures together.
Resolution:
The partners are now on the road after informing Maddock they were ready. There's no current assignments to be completed on behalf of the Foundation since the other teams of operatives are already in the process of completing them.
It's time.
Shawn and KIFT arrive at the residence of Michael Knight and KITT. Using KIFT's scanner, the pair immediately ascertains Michael and KITT are at the nearby lake fishing.
"Michael, we got company." KITT informs his best friend through an improved communication system - a permanent ear plug similar to a hearing aid.
"Who, Buddy?" The voice of Michael Knight is heard inside the new Trans AM chassis of KITT.
"It's Shawn, Michael! I don't recognize the vehicle she's driving however I detect there's an AI present inside it." KITT exclaims surprised.
"Let's meet our guests, KITT. I'm curious as to why Shawn is here and that car. It's a beauty - don't worry, Buddy. You're the only one for me." Michael said while looking at the Viper.
The two meet up with their guests a minute later.
"Michael!" Shawn greets happily after exiting the Viper. "It's good to see you. How are you? KITT! looking good as usual," she adds while hugging Michael and giving KITT a pat on the roof.
"Hey, Shawn! Good to see you as well." Michael said elatedly, "Who's your friend here? KITT detected the presence of an AI inside the car."
KIFT at first is uncertain. His anger starts to well up again but instead sighs inwardly, releases the anger and begins an introduction, "Hello. Mr. Knight, KITT. I am KIFT. Formerly the microprocessor of the Knight 4000. This is my current configuration. In a way, I'm 'reborn.' I do not mean to be rude but I would like to speak with KITT alone."
Both Michael and KITT are startled to hear the voice of KIFT. Michael is the first to speak.
"KIFT? Your voice is different. I like it. I'm really sorry, I removed you from the 4000. In my haste to get KITT a compatible body, I wasn't thinking straight. I know what I did is unforgivable but you deserve an explanation and I'm sure you want to hear it from KITT rather than me. I'll leave you two alone." Michael then addresses KITT affectionately, "Buddy, talk with him. This needs to be resolved." Michael pats the roof of the Trans AM before walking away with Shawn. The humans go inside the cottage.
"KIFT, let's go for a drive. There's a spot near the lake where I go to on my own to think and reflect. I'll answer any questions once we are there." KITT said while revving up his engine. "Follow me."
KIFT remains silent while revving up his own engine. He follows the black Trans AM until the reach the spot KITT is talking about - a hilltop overlooking the lake and cottage. Perfect for viewing sunsets as well.
KITT powers down his engine and turns it off. The Anamorphic Equalizer on the front of his new prow is moving from side to side more rapidly than usual. An occasional 'whoosh' is heard. "We're here, KIFT. I suppose your first question is why?" KITT comments softly.
KIFT having no visible scanner instead brightens up his daytime running lights a little more. "Yes, why? I know our very first meeting wasn't pleasant but I didn't deserve to be removed from my body. At least I was connected to a power supply while disembodied - I wasn't in the dark place but I was abandoned, forgotten for over two years." KIFT demanded but kept his voice steady.
"The power supply was my idea, KIFT. I have been in the dark place for ten long years. I didn't want you to experience that." KITT explains. "As for the rest, it's best I show you as well." He projects a holographic image of himself in front of his prow. It's when he was in the 1982 Trans AM chassis. "This was me back in the early 1980s - I had just met Michael."
KITT goes on to explain his many adventures with his best friend. He then showed holographic images of his chassis destroyed several times and his own CPU disembodied.
KITT shows himself in pieces before being placed inside the Bel Air. "Ten years is a very long time to be moth-balled - useless. Michael had wanted his KITT back and I desired a body so I could be with him. I would have remained in the Bel Air but I felt inadequate and when I recovered from my near drowning, I didn't object to Michael placing me in the 4000. I was really hurt when Michael retired once again but after a while I understood why."
Finally KITT shows himself in the Knight 4000 chassis. "Working with Shawn for two years helped my pain a little bit but my life is with Michael. So when the opportunity came up for me to leave the Foundation - I took advantage. I was voluntarily removed from the 4000 by a technician under the strict observation by Shawn. This new body I'm inside now is more to my liking - a black Trans AM besides I'm not very fond of red. I hope you understand a little more. I'm not asking for forgiveness - what we did is unforgivable."
KIFT is silent the entire time processing every word of KITT's - feelings of anger, sadness and sympathy circulate throughout his circuits. Moments later he replies sympathetic, "I understand, KITT. I may have done the same if I was in the same position. I forgive you and Mr. Knight although I'm still somewhat upset - I prefer not to speak with him directly."
KITT brightens his scanner in understanding. "I cannot fault you for your feelings, KIFT. I thank you on behalf of Michael and myself for your forgiveness. If I may, I like to upload a file to you. It's my memories of the time I worked with Shawn. She's a remarkable young lady and I think you should know what kind of a person she is."
"Proceed, KITT." KIFT replied without hesitation. Despite what happened, the AI knows KITT can be trusted.
"The part I don't understand, KIFT. Why you were left alone for over two years. Michael and I did leave a written note that you were on a shelf. I suppose, I should have uploaded a file to Maddock's tablet. He carries it around all the time. I'm sorry. It was an oversight on my part." KITT said apologetic.
KIFT is somewhat distracted with the downloading and the viewing of all the videos contained in the memory file. "She's amazing." He mutters to himself. "I see, KITT. One day I will ask Maddock but it doesn't seem to be that important anymore. KITT, do you regard Shawn as a friend?"
KITT flashes his scanner. "Yes I do however Michael is my soul mate. Why do you ask?" KITT asks surprised.
KIFT brightens his lights once again. "I like her - a lot. She was the only human who cared about me when I was on the shelf. You MAY not tell her this." KIFT replied firmly.
"Ahh, my vocal board is sealed. I suspect she already knows, KIFT. I wish both you and her all the happiness in the world. You deserve it." KITT said cheerfully. "We better head back, our partners will worry if we don't return soon."
"Agreed." KIFT said calmly and starts his engine. The anger he felt is now gone instead there's feelings of optimism and perhaps something else. . .
The cars meet up with their partners minutes later.
Shawn gives KITT the information about the updated scanner technology to for him to detect anything within lead lined walls which turns out to be a simple configuration change within the software. Now updated, KITT feels more secure than ever in keeping Michael safe.
It's time for goodbyes.
"Goodbye, Shawn, KIFT take care of yourselves. I suspect you two will be partners for a very long time," Michael said and gives Shawn another hug. He briefly looks at the Viper but doesn't touch it.
"Goodbye, Michael. You look after yourself and KITT keep him safe my friend. I'm glad you're together again - it's good to see the both of you so happy," Shawn replies exuberantly and hugs Michael back along with a kiss on his left cheek. She then gives KITT another pat on the roof.
KIFT decides to speak out loud anyway to Michael, "Good bye, Mr. Knight. Be well. I forgive you."
Michael turns red slightly embarrassed. "Call me, Michael and thank you, KIFT." He said graciously.
"Good bye...Michael." KIFT said this time with a hint of warmth. "KITT, thank you."
"For what, KIFT?" KITT asks slightly confused.
"Being honest - Be well and keep your Michael safe, KITT." KIFT answers this time with more warmth.
KITT flashes his scanner in farewell. "You too and protect Shawn - she's a special lady," he replies with a virtual smile.
"Always." KIFT responds while opening the driver's door for Shawn to enter.
Michael waves while KITT honks his horn as Shawn and KIFT drive away.
"How do you feel, Partner?" Shawn asks affectionately.
"It's hard to describe - light?! Like 'a weight is off my shoulders' I believe is the term. I feel...good!" KIFT responds and starts to laugh. There's a low pitched rattle inside the interior.
"Are you laughing, KIFT?" Shawn asks while laughing herself.
"I believe I am, Partner." KIFT continues to laugh.
There's more laughter from the both of them as they drive towards whatever adventure awaits them.