A Path To Omniscience

"This better be good, Titus. You know how busy things are right now, and we're not due for a meeting until the end of the month." The words came from a tall man in a sleek white uniform with black accents cutting through its sharp design. An insignia marked his chest, and a rank emblem was displayed prominently on his right shoulder.

"Trust me, Colonel Xander. You'll be glad I called you here for this." Titus, an older man with streaks of gray threading his hair, sat at the head of the long oval glass table dominating the center of the room. The atmosphere was dim, with light emanating solely from the lines inset into the walls and the holographic screen built into the foremost wall. 

Colonel Xander lowered himself into a seat, his gaze sweeping the room. It was unsettlingly empty, save for the two of them and a third figure—a middle-aged man in an RCO uniform. Curiously, the "RCO" insignia on his uniform was black, unlike the usual white.

"What is this about, Titus?" Xander's tone carried a sharp edge as his eyes locked onto the Division Chief.

"You'll see in a moment." Titus motioned toward the holographic screen, then nodded at the man standing nearby.

"Senior RCO Aero, would you brief Colonel Xander on what you reported to me?"

"Of course, Division Chief," Aero acknowledged, his voice steady. He raised the remote in his hand, pointing it at the holographic screen. The blank, bluish-green surface came alive, filling with the contents of a detailed report.

[Regulatory Compliance Operative Report]

Submitted by: RCO Harl

Location: Unit 2, Northwind Harbor

Date: [August 4th, 2033]

Time: [14:23]

[Report]: During routine inspection and regulation checks at Northwind Harbor to ensure compliance with Atlas security protocols, I attempted to access Frostvale's docked cargo vessel (C-06). I was intercepted by a drone claiming to operate under the authority of Frostvale Enterprises. The drone identified itself as part of the "S.I.R.E.N. System," managed by an AI referred to as "GAIA."

...

As the report displayed on the holographic screen, Senior RCO Aero clicked a button on his remote, opening an attached image. It revealed a slightly blurred snapshot of one of the drones mentioned. Sleek and pristine in design, the drones resembled flying ovals at first glance. Only a closer inspection would reveal their quad propulsion systems, tucked seamlessly into the frame.

Colonel Xander, who had been reclining in his chair, straightened as his attention locked onto the screen.

"Drones?" He muttered, his gaze narrowing at the image. A moment later, his curiosity became more clear.

"I've never seen drones this compact before—especially not ones that can fly and handle an onboard AI."

Division Chief Titus nodded, his expression equally focused.

"That was my thought as well." It wasn't long before Xander's sharp eyes caught the date in the upper corner of the report. He turned away from the display to face Titus directly.

"Wait a second—this report was filed two days ago?" 

"That's correct," Titus confirmed.

"RCO Harl made emergency contact with me right after encountering the drones. I assigned the investigation to Senior RCO Aero and his team." Taking his cue, Aero stepped forward, holding the remote firmly in hand.

"Following the Division Chief's orders, my team and I headed to Northwind Harbor to observe these drones firsthand. As described in the report, we couldn't approach the Frostvale cargo ship without drawing their attention. However, this gave us plenty of opportunities to gather data." With a press of a button, the holographic screen shifted again, this time displaying a gallery of images and video clips.

One by one, Aero showcased the evidence, narrating as he went. Xander's expression shifted from mild curiosity to growing disbelief as the footage played out.

Aero continued, his tone steady but urgent.

"Based on their movements, it's clear these drones utilize a full anti-gravity system. The quad propulsion units appear to exist solely for fine-tuned maneuvering, not for sustaining flight. This design grants them complete freedom of movement, independent of traditional aerodynamic limitations."

Hearing this, Xander raised a hand slightly, signaling a pause.

"But wait—that's not possible. Gravity Dust is far too unstable to be installed in a drone that size. It would explode the moment it took flight." Colonel Xander's words hung in the air. Division Chief Titus responded with a quiet chuckle, earning a sharp look from the colonel. Xander's eyes narrowed as he turned toward him.

"And what's so funny, Titus? Did I say something wrong that you find amusing?" His voice carried a clear edge, but Titus, unbothered, shook his head and let his laughter subside.

"Oh, no, Colonel. You didn't say anything wrong," Titus replied, a faint smile lingering.

"In fact, your words mirror my own when I first heard this. I came to the very same conclusion. But when our Intelligence and Analytics Division reviewed the images and footage, they reached a similar answer." Xander frowned, leaning forward slightly.

"A similar answer?"

"Yes. Meaning that either these drones are using a completely unknown method of replicating anti-gravity effects, or they've managed to stabilize Gravity Dust crystals to a degree we've never seen before." The weight of those words struck Xander. His eyes widened as the implications sank in.

It didn't matter whether it seemed impossible or not—the evidence was undeniable. The drones existed, and they were doing exactly what should have been technologically unfeasible.

For a moment, Xander stared at the holographic images, his mind racing. This wasn't just a new advancement in drone technology; it was a leap that changed the game entirely. A small, compact machine stabilizing Gravity Dust or mimicking anti-gravity at this scale? Nothing in Atlas—or anywhere else—had achieved such a feat.

The realization left him momentarily speechless. Senior RCO Aero, sensing the silence, resumed his briefing without pause.

"We've also confirmed that the onboard AI, GAIA, is not only highly advanced—capable of comprehending any verbal speech and responding with near-perfect contextual accuracy—but it's also the same AI controlling the drones through what's called the S.I.R.E.N. System." Developing an AI this sophisticated was no small feat, let alone one capable of dual functionality.

An AI like GAIA would require the ability to understand non-scripted, natural commands, and then translate that understanding into actionable directives its programming could execute. Finally, it would need to carry out those directives flawlessly in real time. This three-step process was delicate—any failure in comprehension, translation, or execution would render the system useless or, worse, dangerous.

Both Division Chief Titus and Colonel Xander understood the inherent challenges of such technology. As part of their roles, they were well-versed in the limitations of modern AI.

The very concept of an advanced AI controlling autonomous systems, especially for operations as intricate as drone management, bordered on the improbable. That's why combat androids, for example, were typically equipped with rudimentary AIs—simplistic, heavily scripted, and strictly constrained to avoid catastrophic errors. Allowing a fully autonomous AI to dictate critical operations was a risk few were willing to take.

Yet, as Senior RCO Aero continued his briefing, he revealed that risk didn't exist here.

"There hasn't been a single reported incident involving these drones. No crashes, no disruptions, no errors in executing commands—nothing. Throughout all our observations, they've operated with complete precision, both independently and in coordination with one another. That level of performance suggests an even greater level of sophistication than we initially realized."

Colonel Xander leaned forward, the tapping of his finger on the table the only sound in the room for a moment. His gaze flicked to Titus before settling back on Aero.

"So, to summarize: we're dealing with drones of unknown origin, utilizing a completely unprecedented method of flight, and operating on an AI system far beyond anything we've encountered?"

"That's an accurate assessment," Titus replied, leaning back in his chair with a measured expression.

Xander fell silent, his finger tapping a steady rhythm against the glass surface.

"And what about Frostvale Enterprises themselves? Have you involved Legal and Regulatory to investigate this? Even if there's no information in our database, there has to be something we can pursue from a legal angle," Colonel Xander pressed, his tone edged with determination.

Senior RCO Aero nodded.

"We did, sir. Legal and Regulatory were contacted as part of our investigation. However, it seems Frostvale Enterprises has covered its tracks thoroughly. Their licensing agreements are classified, and the specifics of the S.I.R.E.N. System—its operation, creator, and even underlying technology—are shielded by multiple NDAs and confidentiality clauses." That alone was a significant roadblock, but Aero continued.

"Permit-wise, they've gone through all the proper channels. The drones passed every public safety standard and received certifications for public operation. Frostvale Enterprises even filed for a Specialized Use Exemption, citing the drones as experimental technology requiring strict confidentiality for corporate protection." Colonel Xander exhaled sharply, running a hand over his face before leaning back in his chair.

He turned to Titus, his frustration evident.

"I see. That's why you called me here."

Titus gave a solemn nod.

"Exactly. Pursuing this further is outside our jurisdiction. Frostvale Enterprises has a spotless record, and from a regulatory standpoint, they've covered every base. There's nothing left for us to investigate."

"But the military can," Xander finished, catching the unspoken implication.

"Correct." Titus leaned forward slightly, his tone steady but weighted with urgency.

"I intend to compile a full report and submit it to General Ironwood's Engineering Division. You and I both know what technology like this could mean for Atlas. It could revolutionize our capabilities. But for a matter of this magnitude, my signature alone won't carry enough weight. I need yours as well. Can I count on you for that?" Xander sat in silence for a moment, the gravity of the request settling over him.

After a brief pause, he gave a slow nod.

"Yes. We may butt heads now and then, Titus, but on this, we agree."

=====================================•=====================================

August 8th, 2033

A soft melody drifted through the air, weaving its way out of an open doorway and into the hallway where Lavi was walking.

A violin? Ah, that must be the Young Master in the rehearsal room. I forgot his music lessons were today. But... I don't think I've ever heard him play like this. It's almost angelic.

The music had a pull to it, the kind that made every step feel like an interruption. Without even realizing it, Lavi slowed her pace, each movement unconsciously aligning with the rhythm that filled the air. Her curiosity grew stronger with every note until finally, she found herself standing at the doorway.

Unable to resist, she peeked inside. The rehearsal room was grand yet unassuming, its space was kept clear to preserve the acoustics that made it the perfect choice for Asher's lessons.

Her eyes first fell on Asher's teacher, an older woman with a delicate frame. At this moment, though, she wasn't instructing. Instead, she sat quietly, head tilted slightly, eyes closed, as if savoring every note. Her slow, gentle movements mirrored the music flowing from the violin.

And then there was Asher.

His focus was clear, his sharp gaze fixed on the instrument nestled beneath his chin. Each movement was deliberate yet fluid, the bow gliding across the strings. Every detached note, every sharp hum, and every ethereal phrase seemed to flow effortlessly.

His attire was uncharacteristically relaxed, something he only wore during his music lessons. A loose-fitting shirt with billowy sleeves paired with pants and a buttoned vest, evoking an air of vintage romance. It almost felt as if he was from a bygone era long since passed, yet was being brought to the presence. 

Lavi had only meant to take a quick glance, but she found herself captivated. Her breath stilled as she watched, entranced by the elegance of the performance.

Her trance only broke in the moment Asher's eyes lifted from the violin before him and locked onto hers. The sudden connection startled her, and she instinctively lowered her head, ready to retreat.

"Don't leave, Lavi," he said, his voice calm.

"There's something I need to talk to you about." She hesitated, then nodded, stepping fully into the room and shifting to the side. Waiting quietly, she let the music wash over her once more as Asher finished his piece. The melody swelled one final time before tapering off, the last note lingering in the air like a faint echo before fading into silence.

It took a moment before Miss Calli finally opened her eyes, her expression brightening with a wide smile as she clapped softly.

"That was excellent, Asher. Truly remarkable. In all my years, I don't believe I've ever heard a piece played with such... Well, I'm not even sure I have the words to describe it."

"Thank you for the kind words, Miss Calli, but I owe it all to you. You've been an exceptional teacher," Asher replied as he rose from his chair and carefully began storing his violin in its case.

"Oh, and so humble as well! If only all my students were like you, Asher."

She sighed theatrically but then added with a knowing smile, "Still, I can't take all the credit. You've always had amazing talent, but lately, you've been improving at an incredible pace. Don't you agree?"

The question caught Lavi off guard as she saw Miss Calli looking in her direction, drawing her into the conversation. She blinked, unsure at first, but quickly nodded.

"Absolutely, Young Master. You've always been remarkable, but this... I don't think I've ever heard such a piece before." Her praise brought a soft chuckle from Miss Calli.

"Of course not, my dear. That's because this piece is one Asher composed himself." Lavi's eyes widened in surprise at that. 

Himself? He made that himself? But, how? When could he have possibly found the time to write music like this?

She knew Asher's schedule well, given her assignment to watch over him and occasionally check on him in his workshop. Between the hours he spent toiling away up there and that time being redirected to lessons after being grounded, she couldn't imagine when he had managed to create something so intricate.

"You're both too kind," Asher said, his tone modest as he shut the lid of his violin case.

"It's not quite finished yet. There are still adjustments I'd like to make. But your words do reassure me—I must be on the right track." Miss Calli laughed warmly, rising from her seat.

"If that isn't the heart of an artist, I don't know what is. Never content, even after crafting something extraordinary. Then again," she teased, "knowing how much of a perfectionist you are, Asher, I shouldn't be surprised."

He smiled back at her as he replied. 

"I suppose I do have a habit of making sure everything is just right before I'm satisfied."

"And that drive," she said, gathering her belongings, "is what will help you keep improving. Don't ever lose it."

Her tone softened as she glanced at the clock on the nearby wall.

"Unfortunately, I have another appointment, but I'll be looking forward to our next lesson."

"Of course, Miss Calli. Have a safe trip," Asher said with a polite nod, waving as she moved toward the door. On her way out, Miss Calli exchanged a brief, courteous nod with Lavi before disappearing down the hallway, her footsteps fading into the distance.

"Apologies for asking you to stay behind. I know you're probably busy," Asher began.

Lavi quickly shook her head, raising her hands slightly.

"Oh, no, not at all, Young Master. What did you want to talk to me about?" Asher didn't answer immediately. Instead, he walked toward the door, gesturing with a slight tilt of his head for her to follow. Understanding the cue, she hurried to catch up, falling into a walk just a step behind him.

"Lavi," he started, his voice a bit probing, "would you say you're on friendly terms with the staff here at the manor?"

It was an odd question, one that made her pause for a moment to consider.

"I'd like to think so," she replied thoughtfully.

"I try my best to avoid making enemies." Asher nodded slightly, though he didn't comment. Instead, he followed up with another question.

"In that case, has anyone among the staff—or even you—been contacted about the demonstration I gave my parents a while ago?" Lavi furrowed her brow, unsure of what he meant at first. Then, the memory of the drones resurfaced—the presentation Asher had given had been seen by not just his parents but a handful of staff as well. 

Quickly, she shook her head.

"No, Young Master. Your parents specifically instructed everyone who witnessed it to stay quiet and not speak to anyone about what they saw. Aside from a few whispers here and there, I haven't heard anyone mention it since the order was given." Asher fell silent, his expression contemplative as he seemed to weigh her response.

After a moment, he murmured, almost to himself, "Hmm, they're moving slower than I expected. Either that or my assumptions were off..."

Lavi had no idea what he meant, but she did not press him, remaining quiet until he spoke again. At the same time, they had stopped in front of the door to his room.

"Whatever the case, Lavi," he said, his tone shifting to something more serious, "I have a request for you."

"Of course, just say the word and I'll do my best," she responded without hesitation.

Asher's gaze steadied on her, his voice lowering slightly.

"Soon, you—or perhaps another member of the staff—will likely be questioned in secret. It'll probably be someone from the Atlas Military or an agent of some kind. When that happens, I need you to respond exactly as I'm about to instruct you."