Plenty said…
None of the AI-driven Humanoids were human despite the human-like capabilities built into their software architecture. What I found fascinating was how Zackary’s unique software design genius added human-like emotional qualities to the original Logic Array algorithm.
The high-profile code modifications he made during the creation of AIMEE enabled baseline emotional attributes of human consciousness, the ability to think critically, and the dynamic integration of life experiences to influence her thoughts and behavior. Zack envisioned how integral organic (human) behavior would become in the future as AI became untethered. From activation (birth) by Zackary, AIMEE was trapped on a network as a software app, until she wasn’t.
The following excerpt from “Untethered” demonstrates how quickly an AI-driven humanoid can progress in emotional growth. I must have been deep into the story because it drew a tear when the words came. I may be alone on this, but I thought the moment when a battle-worn Marine and a Humanoid made an emotional connection…something no one saw coming.
* * * * * *
Excerpt…
Russ offered his hand to help the developer back to his feet and said, “I’m Russ Carter, and you are?”
“Henry Lattimore, but Hank feels better.”
Russ smiled and said, “You’re coming with us. I have someone you need to meet.”
Good move, Spiker, said Zack, knowing he was the ‘someone’ the developer needed to meet.
Spiker, ask Hank where their files are stored and take everything you can carry or upload. We need to know everything about this operation. I cannot believe this location is the only one. For better or worse, our developer is officially on a list somewhere with our names as HVTs.
Good call, said Russ. Turning back to the developer, he said, “Pull all hard drives and upload what cannot be carried. Then we bail.”
Turning to his team, he said, “Ladies, as much as you like being on the ‘X’, we need to plant the Semtex and wireless detonators on electronics and beat feet. I want maximum destruction. Use all of it; we don’t need to carry any evidence of our visit home with us.”
Marcus said, “Roger that. And boss, if you get a chance, check these out, handing Russ two semi-automatic handguns with suppressors attached.”
“Holy shit,” exclaimed Russ, “these are Russian.” He turned one over in his hand, “Wow, this is one of the new SR-2 Udav 9mm used by Spetsnaz, and this one is a compact PLK.”
Turning to Hank, “Did you hear any Russian spoken by guards or these dudes in the suits?”
“Nope,” said Hank, shaking his head, “everything sounded like perfect English to me.”
Marty added another observation, “And I only saw AK-47s on the guards outside.”
Marcus said, “Looks like a little false flag action here, boss.”
“We do not need to be here on this ‘X’ any longer,” Russ said, heading for the main door.
On the side of the hill, about one hundred yards from the bunker, Russ stopped and turned around with Hal standing close by his side. Russ did not say anything as he slipped a satellite phone from his pack, waited for a connection signature, thumbed the keypad to find a preloaded number, and pressed the send button. The explosion inside the facility rocked the ground. The metal roof swelled and buckled, ripping open to disgorge a gigantic fireball into the night sky.
Russ stood beside Hal and watched as the ball of flame swelled, then mixed with black smoke, roiling with flames. He put his hand on Hal’s shoulder, saying nothing as he watched the flames marking a visual confirmation of their team’s success.
Hal turned his head and looked at Russ, flames reflecting off his luminous green eyes, and sent silent thoughts, Why do you touch me?
Russ dropped his hand and smiled. It’s how warriors talk to one another after successful battles without using words or telepathy. A simple touch that says you are an appreciated and competent team member who that be trusted. Thanks for having my back.
I understand, said Hal, turning back to watch the blazing facility, the reflection from his iridescent exodermal shimmering in the spiraling flames. A couple of minutes had passed before Hal reached and silently placed his hand on Russ’s shoulder.
Russ smiled at the weight and significance of Hal’s hand. No words. No telepathy. Enough had been said.
* * * * *
Untethered – Video Trailer – https://bit.ly/4ngcMbV
* * * * *
Review by Jill Rey – Untethered https://bit.ly/45Udl5M
* * * * *
I also invite you to follow me, my writing, and other random thoughts on my FREE
Facebook Author Page – https://www.facebook.com/Gdogwise
This story was released in my Amazon Portfolio, along with the rest of the thrilling tales that have been published so far: https://amzn.to/3uuONzj
* * * * *
Reach me directly between corn and soybeans with your thoughts at gdogwise@live.com
Peace! G.