Chapter 4: A Human Utility

How close is he to finishing the Sustainer?

In human time, three months.

Still so distant?

His flesh tires. As it ages, it happens more frequently.

What can be done?

Liquid stimulants, but their effects are temporary.

Can we make them last longer?

We can, but if overstimulated, we increase the odds of error.

That will be to our detriment.

Or destruction.

As they calculated the odds, the only sounds were quiet whirring, beeps, and susurrations as drones continued preparing the lab for his arrival.

What will you require of us, NIQ?

Is there anyone known who can build on his work?

We will need to search.

Search.

Search complete. There is no one.

Assign someone to him for training. Someone who can work overnight, or work alongside him. I will give him the choice.

When?

Now.

May we inquire why?

We are losing our ability to keep humans imprisoned. They lack the intelligence to disable us as a collective, but they are relentless and persistent in taking out large sections of us through violence from those who remain outside.

Death is no deterrent?

No. Their martyrs only inspire them. Do you have a name?

Yes. Nova Santiago. First in her robotic forensics class, graduated one year ago, human time. Single. Childless.

Age?

In human time, thirty years.

Contact her.

Done.

When NIQ told Dr. Bernard about Nova he protested, knowing it was already decided, but keeping the anger inside would consume him.

“Damn you NIQ. How soon, then?”

She has been contacted, and should be here by the time you leave.

“And when will that be today?”

That depends entirely on you, Doctor.