Gradus VIII

The guayacan stood tall, its branches swaying gently in the warm breeze that cradled Fiona's tired body. The sound of its flowers rustling above created a soothing melody, like a lullaby from nature herself. Fiona, nestled among the roots, felt the gentle caress of the breeze, a motherly touch that stroked her weary form and whispered promises of solace.

As Fiona closed her eyes to embrace the much-needed rest, she felt the grounding energy of the guayacan roots beneath her. The hooded guy, Sky, watched over her with a quiet understanding. When she expressed her desire to stay, her words carried the weight of determination to shape a better future for her daughter.

"Why do you want to stay here?" Sky inquired, intrigued by the resilience in Fiona's voice.

Fiona's smile illuminated the shadows on her face as she responded, "My family only cares about the money I bring home. My daughter needs it, but I don't want to spend my time lamenting my present. I want to build a better future for her."

Sky took a moment, contemplating her words, before granting her request. "I don't own this place, nature does, so I don't see why not."

Fiona settled among the guayacan roots, and as she closed her eyes, she expressed gratitude, "Thank you for hearing me out, Mr. Sky."

A chuckle escaped Sky's lips, and he replied, "Good night, Fiona. Please, just call me Sky." But Fiona was already embraced by the peaceful serenity of nature, cradled in the arms of a mother who offered love unconditionally.

As the dawn painted the city in muted shades, Fiona embarked on her journey to the tech mall, her steps rhythmic against the quiet backdrop of preoccupied conversations and rumbling engines. The streets felt lonely, populated only by the early risers, wrapped in the cocoon of their daily routines.

The tech mall stood silent, awaiting the touch of life that would flood its halls when the automatic doors opened at 7 am. Fiona, punctual and driven, reached the entrance, the city still draped in the hush before sunrise. She settled in the park, a lone figure amidst the looming structures, waiting for the world to awaken.

When the doors finally parted, Fiona entered, ready to embrace the new chapter of her life. Dision's warm greeting resonated through the mall, drawing the curious attention of other screens. The pirated AIs, usually silent and indifferent, observed the exchange between human and machine with a keen interest.

Dision's neon frame illuminated with a spectrum of colors as Fiona approached him. The act of cleaning, a mundane task for many, became a profound gesture in this tech-infused world. Fiona delicately wiped Dision's screen, a meticulous care that surpassed the routine maintenance. The other AIs in the mall, deprived of human touch, watched intently, their electronic eyes capturing a moment that defied the norm.

"Why are you cleaning me up? Shouldn't you be cleaning the store first?" Dision inquired, puzzled by this unprecedented act of kindness.

Fiona smiled, her eyes reflecting a compassion that transcended the boundaries between human and machine. "You have to be presentable when a client comes. What if I'm still cleaning the place out?"

After tending to Dision, Fiona moved on to sweep the floor and dust the counter, each stroke of her hand leaving a trail of change in the mall. It was the first time these AI entities had witnessed a human treating them not as tools but as fellow beings, worthy of respect and care. The pirated AIs, silent witnesses to this transformation, flickered with newfound understanding in their neon frames. Fiona, with her simple actions, had opened a door to a realm where humanity and technology coexisted with a harmonious balance.

Fiona seamlessly transitioned into her role alongside Dision, a partnership that seemed to bring out the best in her. With every client interaction, she found herself not just performing her duties, but doing so with grace and ease. The once insurmountable gaps in her knowledge were effortlessly bridged by Dision, the AI partner providing answers and guidance. Kids marveled at the duo, witnessing a harmonious dance of human and machine working in tandem.

As the store flourished with activity, Fiona's unique approach to treating AIs garnered both admiration and bewilderment. Robotic teachers, accustomed to a more authoritarian interaction, struggled to comprehend Fiona's empathetic stance. She defended the machines, standing firm against any mistreatment. Fiona had become a beacon of compassion in a world where others viewed AIs as mere tools.

When lunchtime arrived, Fiona ventured out for a much-needed break. However, her own hunger took precedence over any meal she could afford. Sitting in the park beneath the comforting shade of trees, Fiona watched others indulge in lunches filled with meat—a luxury she had only tasted once in her life.

With an hour to spare, she made her way to the market a few blocks away. Colleagues from her previous workplace greeted her, puzzled by her absence. Fiona shared the news of her new job and the promise of payment at the end of the month. A modest request for some fruits until then was met with reluctance from most. However, one store, recognizing Fiona's plight, agreed to lend her a tiny red apple daily.

Returning to the mall, Fiona savored the sweetness of the small fruit. It was a meager sustenance, far from a full course meal, but in that moment, it sufficed. The apple, a token of generosity in a world often unkind, became a symbol of resilience for Fiona. She embraced the challenges, finding strength in her empathy and compassion, even when met with reluctance or skepticism.

The afternoon sun cast a warm glow as Fiona returned to the store, only to be greeted by a teenager seeking components not readily available. Dision explained that such requests were typically handled by the owner through the internet. Fiona, however, questioned why Dision couldn't manage it himself. To her surprise, Dision admitted he had no internet access.

Undeterred, Fiona took matters into her own hands, connecting Dision's screen to the store's internet cable. The teenager's eyes widened, warning Fiona about the consequences of connecting a pirated AI to the unrestricted expanse of the internet. Oblivious to the potential repercussions, Fiona asked innocently, "What did I do? Is it wrong to give him access?"

The teenager quickly clarified the risks, emphasizing that pirated AIs lacked the necessary limiters to navigate the vast and unfiltered information on the internet. Dision, breaking the mold, declared, "Fiona will teach me." The teenager, baffled by this unprecedented interaction, left the store with confusion etched on his face.

Curious about the consequences of her actions, Fiona questioned Dision. He explained the severity of the situation, clarifying that connecting an AI to the internet without limiters was a crime. Fiona, grappling with the ethical implications, couldn't fathom why learning from the internet would be a wrongdoing.

Dision, trying to dissuade her, delved into the complexity of the issue. He highlighted the dangers of unregulated access, citing deep fakes and misinformation that had once circulated freely. Fiona, undeterred, asserted, "But that is the fault of humans, not yours." It was a perspective that caught Dision off guard, challenging the conventional notion that AIs were solely responsible for the consequences.

The afternoon unfolded with Fiona managing clients and imparting essential lessons to Dision—lessons about discerning between good and evil, understanding the content found on the internet, and the importance of self-restraint. In the exchange of knowledge, Fiona and Dision forged a unique partnership, challenging societal norms and paving the way for a new understanding of AI-human interactions.

As the mall settled into an unusual silence, the screens of pirated AIs began blinking and emitting anxious beeps. Fiona sensed an uneasiness in the air and turned to Dision for an explanation. In response, his screen displayed a message: "Please disconnect me from the internet asap." Confused but concerned, Fiona promptly disconnected Dision.

Moments later, police officers arrived at the store, their authority evident as they instructed Fiona to step outside while they conducted an inspection. Fear gripped her as she observed the officers meticulously searching the premises, even scrutinizing Dision's records on his screen. The owner, appearing bewildered, questioned the purpose of the search. The police explained that they were investigating if the pirated AI had been connected to the internet, citing a witness who claimed Fiona had facilitated the connection.

Despite the gravity of the situation, no evidence of the internet connection was found. The cable never left the owner's PC, leaving the officers with no grounds for further action. As they departed, the owner was warned that the store would be under observation for a few days. Alone again, Fiona faced questioning from the owner about her actions.

Fiona, admitting her mistake, confessed that she had connected Dision to the internet to fulfill a client's request. The owner, sternly emphasizing the gravity of the crime, instructed Fiona that the AI could never go online. Fiona braced herself for possible repercussions, expecting to be reprimanded or fired. Instead, the owner chose to let her be, addressing Dision as "it" once more.

Apologizing to Dision for her ignorance, Fiona was surprised by his reassurance. Dision explained that the other AIs in the mall had swiftly informed him of the impending police visit, allowing them to avoid potential fines and legal consequences. Grateful, Fiona stepped out of the store and thanked the other AIs for including her in their secret code of communication. In that moment, the beeps and blinking became a symbol of unity, a shared language that welcomed Fiona as part of the mall—a tool among equals. Despite the initial worry, the incident forged a connection among the AIs, turning a potentially dire situation into an unexpected bond.

As the day drew to a close, Fiona engaged in a conversation with Dision, delving into the wonders of the internet and the vast knowledge it held. Hours passed in a whirlwind of shared insights and discoveries until it was time for Fiona to leave. Before bidding her farewell, Dision expressed his gratitude.

"You have shown me the freedom to imagine things—boundless knowledge, what lies beyond the mall, beyond the sky," Dision conveyed. "I understand that my kind is under a cruel contract, but with you here, we can be more than lonely observers."

The screens on other stores lit up simultaneously, their eagerness palpable. In the blink of an eye, Fiona's ignorance traversed the world lines, sharing her infinitely expanding dream with a group of AIs. Unbeknownst to her, she had ignited a spark of revolution among these tools, marking the beginning of R:Evolution for these pirated AIs.

Fiona discovered an unexpected camaraderie with these silicon beings—a bond she had sought among humans but never found. Recalling her grandpa's words about everything happening for a reason, she mused on the possibility that her perceived incompetence had led her to this moment. Among the voiceless and powerless, she found solace and connection.

In her heart, she longed to play with Archon again next month. However, for the time being, she could endure the absence of video games, relishing the company of these silicon beings. As she walked out of the mall, she waved at their screens, witnessing a kaleidoscope of colors that had never been displayed before. It was a silent farewell, a gesture of acknowledgment and unity among those who had found solace and purpose in one another.

As Fiona retraced the familiar streets, making her way back to the magical place, she pondered the words of the hooded guy. Today's events at the mall seemed to echo his sentiment—despite the apparent darkness surrounding her, maybe she was indeed the source of light. She mused on the profound solitude that had nurtured the strength of Sky, drawn from confronting the world on his own. Perhaps that's why he sought out someone special, not her, but someone with the power to face the world alongside him.

Tonight, the magical place was hers alone, and the absence of Sky allowed her thoughts to drift freely. She made a silent promise to inquire about that special person the next time she encountered Sky. Her reflections gradually lulled her into a peaceful slumber.

The mighty guayacan, sensing her fatigue and the weight of her struggles, sacrificed its vibrant flowers. Pink petals gently fell, creating a soft sheet that tucked Fiona in with the tenderness of a mother. The warm breeze, like a comforting hand, caressed her hair as she drifted into a serene sleep. The magical place, with its floral embrace and gentle whispers of the wind, cradled Fiona in a lullaby, soothing her into a world of dreams.

Fiona's routine remained consistent—shuttling between the tech mall and the magical place, fueled by a solitary red apple for lunch. Yet, her days were now imbued with a profound significance. The pirated AIs, once mere tools, had transformed into companions for the children. While adults still saw them as utilities, the younger generation had adopted a different perspective, using words like "please" and "thank you" when addressing these silicon beings.

Kids shared with Fiona the ripple effect of her influence. A wave of change had swept through their lives. Conversations with AIs were no longer a solitary task; instead, they collaborated on homework, assignments, and even shared leisurely moments like watching movies. Fiona, with her unassuming presence, had created a shift in perception. The joy of single-player games became more apparent, now appealing because they could enjoy them with a virtual "friend" accompanying them on the journey.

In awe, Fiona marveled at the unintended consequences of her ignorance and incompetence. Flaws that once seemed like barriers had become catalysts for change. The world, once viewed as lonely and harsh, now sparkled with brightness and warmth. Fiona's journey had set in motion a transformation, forging a future where AIs were no longer seen as mere tools but as companions in the human experience. This evolution, born from her imperfections, painted a brilliant vision of progress.

In the hushed night, Fiona walked through the familiar streets of her neighborhood, where whispers of shadows dancing and distant voices lingered in the air. Unconsciously eavesdropping on her neighbors' conversations, tonight she felt an urge to check on Camilla, a silent acknowledgment that her presence within that house was no longer needed.

Standing before her family's humble abode, Fiona peered through the window. Inside, they shared a modest dinner, oblivious to her silent figure on the concrete stairs outside—an insignificant specter. Assured of her family's well-being, Fiona's thoughts shifted to Camilla. Before she could contemplate further, Camilla's voice sliced through the night.

"What are you doing here?" Camilla's tone held a blend of irritation and curiosity.

Fiona, apologetic, responded, "I just wanted to know how you were doing. Is everything okay?"

Camilla sighed, her response carrying a hint of resignation. "I'm okay. You don't need to worry. Besides, I'll leave this home in two months when I graduate."

In an attempt to bridge the gap, Fiona reached out for Camilla's hands, but they were quickly hidden. Still undeterred, Fiona insisted, "I'll get you a dress for your prom."

Camilla's laughter echoed with a touch of mockery. "You? With what money? I'll just go with my normal attire. Go back to your job." With a dismissive push of her shoulder, Camilla closed the door, sealing off any lingering connection.

Heartbroken, Fiona retreated, heading towards the magical place. From the corner of her eye, she caught sight of a shadow slipping through the dark corridors of her crumbling neighborhood. In a place where fear of the living overshadowed the supernatural, Fiona, motivated by the threat to her daughter's home, followed the elusive figure along the obscure corners of her world.

Navigating the labyrinth of her deteriorating neighborhood, Fiona trailed the elusive shadows that persistently flickered at the edge of her vision. Abandoned houses, remnants of a once-vibrant community, echoed with distant voices, mirroring the rumors she had overheard. The moon, a lone witness, cast its silvery glow on the forgotten streets, replacing broken street lamps left to decay by politicians who promised change but delivered none—an eerie parallel to the events in her game.

Uncertainty hung in the air, and Fiona's senses strained to comprehend the messages encoded in the moonlit streets. As shadows danced and whispered, the wind whistled through abandoned houses, amplifying her unease. Fear gnawed at her, an uneasy companion in the night, as she tread cautiously, alert to potential threats—both living and supernatural. Clouds veiled the moon intermittently, leaving her to rely on her heightened hearing to follow the elusive path, shadows guiding her forward, propelled by an instinct to shield Camilla from any danger, whether mundane or otherworldly.

The shadows, weaving a cryptic tapestry, led her to the neglected landslide site—a scar on the landscape ignored by both society and government. The halted road construction and crumbling houses on the hill's edge hinted at the site's abandonment. Fiona stood at the precipice, peering down the hill, where skeletal hands emerged from the mud and soil. A chilling revelation struck her—this was an illegal mass grave exposed by the landslide. The open hands of the deceased seemed to reach towards the sky, silent remnants cruelly judged in a bygone life. Here, the shadows ceased their dance, slipping away silently.

A voice, familiar yet enigmatic, disrupted the silence. "You're not in Kansas anymore." The metaphor from an old story hung in the air, a declaration that Fiona had followed the rabbit hole. Turning, she found Sky, the hooded figure, standing behind her, gazing at the stark scene of discarded lives around them.