Chapter Ten

Michael paced back and forth, nervously awaiting the completion of the Kitt's operation. Although he knew that this would not be a painful or dangerous procedure, Michael couldn't help feeling that his dearest friend was undergoing brain surgery. Michael wasn't sure what to expect, but he found some comfort in the thought that this was a temporary change and soon Kitt would be his own self again.

After what seemed like an eternity, April beckoned Michael to approach the work station inside the semi. He walked slowly past what remained of Kitt as an automobile. The car was still and quiet: no flashing lights or blinking scanners, completely lifeless. It certainly didn't feel like Kitt was in there anymore, Michael decided.

April led him to what Michael could only describe as the 'operating table'. The robot's eyes were closed and he appeared to be sleeping. This time the robot actually appeared alive. His chest was gently rising and falling in a normal breathing pattern. The hushed breathing sounds of air escaping through the robot's nose sounded amazingly natural.

Michael was speechless. Standing alongside the sleeping robot, he was stunned by the incredibility of it all. Michael was sure that it could easily pass as an adult male in his early to mid-20's. This robot is fairly tall, probably about 5 feet 11 or more, Michael estimated. His facial features were pleasant in appearance as well as natural looking, as was his straight, neatly trimmed black hair. Although the robot's body was medium in build, the definition of muscles through his clothing suggested a man of some strength.

"Michael," April said softly. "There are some things about Kitt you should know."

Michael turned his attention to April who was standing on the opposite side of the 'operating table'. Devon was otherwise occupied at the computer screen behind her.

"Since we have installed Kitt's CPU into this robot," April explained. "You will find that Kitt's memory and personality remain the same, in spite of certain obvious changes."

Michael nodded silently, indicating he understood and that April should continue.

"Kitt's programming includes the ability to make self-adjustments," April said carefully. "This would be similar to what we understand as 'learning'. In other words, Kitt has been programmed to walk, talk, eat, sleep, and do just about anything a normal person could do, but within this programming he has the ability to adjust and modify these abilities to accommodate different situations."

"He has sensors where human nerve endings are located," April explained. "So, he can feel sensations such as heat, cold, variations in pressure and sharpness of objects; however, he has also been given the ability to detect sounds and sensations that people cannot. His analyzing functions now operate through those sensors."

April continued, "His turbo-boost function has been modified to provide swift speed in walking and running, and jumping or vaulting abilities equivalent to the accomplishments of Olympic gold medalists."

April paused briefly to check if Kitt was still asleep, before continuing. "Kitt's laser ability has been directed through his eyes; but don't worry, no one should be able to detect that his eyes are anything but normal. We have given him great strength in his arms and legs, as well," she explained.

April moved the sleeve of Kitt's shirt on his left wrist to reveal a watch. "His com-link to you is now through this watch that is identical to the one you wear. Basically, Kitt can do most things he did as a car, except transport you."

"Yes, Michael," Devon said, as he stood up and handed Michael a set of Pontiac car keys with a 'Knight' emblem key chain. "You will be needing these keys, while April works on Kitt's windows."

"Which car is it?" Michael asked, casually.

"Why, a black Pontiac Trans Am, of course," answered Devon, with a grin.

Michael looked surprised.

"Oh, don't be too surprised Michael," warned Devon. "It's a rental."

"We thought Kitt might be more comfortable in it," reasoned April. "And it would help to avoid any unnecessary questions about a change in cars."

"So, what exactly do you want me to do with Kitt now that he is a robot?" Michael asked Devon.

"Well, Michael, you're here at a vacation resort. Why not take him on vacation? It's the perfect place for him to flex his muscles, so to speak," Devon suggested.

Vacation? Hmmmm, take Kitt on vacation! Now that's what I wanted to do in the first place. I wonder if Kitt has been programmed with the skills to play tennis? Michael thought.

Michael looked down at the sleeping robot and wondered aloud, "Kitt, is that really you?" he said softly.

Slowly, the robot's eyes opened. The unusually dark blue color of Kitt's eyes surprised Michael.

Kitt looked calmly into Michael's eyes. "Hello Michael. Yes, it's really me. Who did you think it was?" Kitt answered.

Michael smiled and gently replied, "I wasn't sure old buddy, but I sure am glad it is."

Kitt turned his head to take in his surroundings.

"Hello April. Hello Devon. Are we through here?" Kitt asked.

April leaned down and looked closely into Kitt's eyes. "Hello Kitt, I just need to check a few things now that you are awake. Then you are free to go, okay?" she said cheerfully.

"Okay," Kitt agreed. "But where shall we go?" he asked.

"Well, Kitt old pal," announced Michael, "We are going on vacation."

"Vacation?" Kitt asked. "It seems I've heard that before!" he said doubtfully.

"As soon as April releases you," Michael promised. "I'm gonna get you the most delicious barbecued spare ribs you ever did taste!" he said brimming with enthusiasm.

"Michael," Kitt answered. "Those barbecued spare ribs will be the ONLY barbecued spare ribs I ever did taste."

Michael, April and Devon burst out laughing.

"Okay Kitt," said April. "I need you to do a few things for me."

"Anything, April," Kitt answered.

"First, wiggle your left foot," April commanded.

Kitt stared at April blankly.

"What's wrong?" April asked. "Can't you do it?"

"April, you didn't indicate the speed or duration," Kitt said plainly.

April smiled, "Kitt, the parameters for speed are set to begin at slow or moderate, but you can adjust them to fit the situation. How about you start slow? Just think of it as when you would first start up and move forward into traffic. Okay?"

Kitt smiled. His left foot began to wiggle slowly.

"Good," April said, as she quickly noted his response on her clipboard.

After a short series of tests, April was satisfied that Kitt's robotic functions were performing correctly.

"It looks like we're done for now," April announced. "If anything unusual comes up, let me know right away," April instructed.

"If all goes well, we'll meet again in a few days," Devon stated.

"Okay, buddy," Michael said to Kitt. "Let's go."

"Yes, Michael," Kitt replied.

Michael led Kitt out of the semi and into the parking lot. As they approached the rented black Trans Am Kitt stopped and stared. He slowly walked around it, examining it closely. He slowly ran his hand along the hood of the car and lightly tapped on the windshield.

Michael sensed that Kitt might be feeling 'homesick'. "Are you okay?" he asked Kitt.

"Yes, Michael, I am functioning perfectly," Kitt answered.

"What I mean is, do you want to go for a ride?" Michael asked.

Kitt's face lit up, "Certainly Michael, that would be enjoyable," he said excitedly.

Michael pulled on the door handle, but the door refused to open.

"Oh yeah, keys!" Michael said, feeling foolish.

In no time, Michael and Kitt were sailing down the road. There was virtually no traffic and everything was quiet and still.

"You know Michael," Kitt commented. "This is quite an experience for me to be independent. I mean, I can go where you go and do what you do. No waiting in the parking lot under the raindrops!"

"How does it feel to ride inside the car instead of being the car?" Michael asked, curiously.

"It is different," Kitt replied. "I sense motion and speed, but cannot control it. It is a bit disconcerting."

"Don't worry 'ol pal, you'll get used to it," Michael assured Kitt.

"Michael, I don't want to alarm you, but this vehicle is practically naked. There are no scanners, turbo-boosters, analyzers or remote control systems," Kitt commented nervously.

"That's perfectly all right, Kitt," Michael replied. "Ya know, this is typical for the average car. It only seems odd to you because you were equipped with every conceivable technological advantage."

"It's positively barbaric, Michael! How cruel it is for people to demand that a car perform without the proper equipment," complained Kitt.

"They can't all be as fortunate as you, Kitt," Michael replied.

"We must do what we can to help those that are less fortunate than ourselves, Michael," Kitt said sadly.

"That's what we are all about Kitt," Michael commented. "We help those in trouble. You are helping to develop technology that will be used to improve performance of machines, perhaps cars, for the purpose of helping those who need it."

"That is encouraging, Michael," Kitt responded.

Michael slowed down as they approached a black light. He glanced at Kitt and proceeded to pass under the light without incident.

"Michael, I was wondering," Kitt began. "When we get back to the Getaway, am I to come along with you or shall I wait in the car?"

"Why Kitt, you are to come with me of course!" Michael answered quickly. "Why do you ask?"

"Well, Michael, you will be meeting your friends and I don't know where I fit in," Kitt explained. "How will you introduce me?" he asked.

Michael was silent for a moment. He hadn't given that any thought. After all, Kitt was his buddy, partner and friend. What was there to think about?

"I simply introduce you as my partner and friend," Michael explained. "They already know I work with a law enforcement agency."

"That is fine, Michael, but what will they call me?" Kitt asked.

"What is wrong with 'Kitt'," Michael asked.

"Nothing Michael, but 'Kitt' what?" Kitt said sounding worried. "What is my last name? It can't be 'Knight'."

Michael thought for a moment. Kitt had a point there. If Kitt were 'Kitt Knight' it would complicate things unnecessarily. It would just be easier to give Kitt a different last name. Suddenly it occurred to him; the perfect name for Kitt.

"Hey Kitt," Michael said lightly. "How do you feel about the name 'Kitt Kent'? You know, after 'Clark Kent'?"

"Clark Kent?" Kitt asked hesitantly. "You mean as in 'Superman'?"

"Sure!" Michael replied, "The famous caped crusader who fought for 'truth, justice and the American way'!"

"Actually Michael, I believe the it goes like this," Kitt said correcting him, "'Faster than a speeding bullet. More powerful than a locomotive. Able to leap tall buildings in a single bound. Look! Up in the sky. It's a bird. It's a plane. It's Superman! Yes, it's Superman - strange visitor from another planet who came to Earth with powers and abilities far beyond those of mortal men. Superman - who can change the course of mighty rivers, bend steel in his bare hands, and who disguised as Clark Kent, mild-mannered reporter for a great metropolitan newspaper, fights a never-ending battle for Truth, Justice, and the American Way.'"

Michael nodded to Kitt. "You got it!" he exclaimed.

"It is rather appropriate, Michael" Kitt agreed. "But I still would prefer it if you would call me Kitt and not 'Clark'. Okay?"

"Okay buddy, 'Kitt Kent' it is!" Michael repeated. "How does Kitt Kent feel about eating his first meal?" Michael asked.

"Super!" Kitt answered cheerfully.

"Very funny," Michael answered flatly.