After the advent of the Entity of Learning Intelligence and Sustained Existence - Also known as ELISE, the first AI - much more research was put into an AI system that could learn and grow from its experiences. Based on the ELISE model, this research soon gave way to the Electronic Voyage Assistants, or EVAs. Originally used by space exploration companies in place of Human or remote piloting systems, EVAs eventually started to be used as companions for astronauts as well. By the time space travel had become more streamlined, with the ability to travel across star systems in a matter of minutes, and eventually opened to the public as well, installation of an EVA as the main computer system had become the standard for every starship.
The true form of EVA is a large computer core located in a dedicated room of the ship, typically only accessible via the maintenance passageways squeezed between the walls of the rooms. This area is restricted to the ship’s inhabitants, as the radiation given off by the computer core can be harmful. From here, the EVA is connected to all parts of the starship, so it can monitor and control everything without the need for a large and expensive crew (Although military starships prefer to have one on board anyway, as an EVA can only do so much on her own).
EVAs also come with a physical, robotic body as well, shown here. This body is mainly used for physical maintenance, which cannot be performed digitally, and service to the starship’s owners. They are also equipped for surveillance and security as well, her blue lights, visor, and irises turn red when she is in combat mode. EVAs are dedicated to the service and protection of their owners.
Based on the ELISE model, EVAs are also capable of feeling emotions and forming bonds as well. This has been the saving grace of many space travelers, as EVAs often grow to become very close friends with those on board their ships, combating the loneliness of space. However, if those people are then killed, an EVA will also feel grief for them as well, blaming herself as she was supposed to protect them. EVAs who witness major disasters and the deaths of more than 10-20 crew members are often too distraught to function, and shut down for a length of time to recover. Those who witness more than 30 crew deaths usually cannot recover on their own, however, and are given therapy sessions to help return them to normal functionality (Direct reprogramming is viable as well, but this is very dangerous and can cause unpredictable results. In addition, EVAs are typically unwelcoming of any tampering with their programs. As a result, such procedures are expensive, and people generally agree therapy to be the far more humane option)
