Chapter 8: There is no tomorrow

14th of January 3100

The figure in the battered green armor gasped for breath, hazel eyes dimming as life slipped away. Coughing weakly, the broken visor revealed the face of someone who had faced the harsh reality of their mortality. "Adam... I guess I won't see tomorrow," the voice barely audible amidst the heavy breathing.

Back in the present, on the 4th of January, 3100, Samuel, having just completed a rigorous workout, checked his communicator to find messages waiting for him. Opening them, he saw one from his mother and another from Dr. Vice. With a resigned mumble about not wanting to deal with anything after training, he responded to his mother's message, agreeing to visit her office to examine his leg after the intense workouts of the past few days.

As he confirmed the appointment with his mother, he turned his attention to the message from Dr. Vice. The reminder about an evaluation appointment struck him with regret, realizing he had completely forgotten about it. Samuel acknowledged Dr. Vice's message with a heavy sigh, silently preparing himself for the upcoming evaluation.

Placing his hand on the panel next to his mother's office, Samuel listened to the automated voice announcing, "Madam Valkan is currently in a meeting. Please wait for a moment, sir." Nonchalantly, Samuel responded, "Thanks, Jaya. I'll be in the waiting area. Notify me when I should be back." With that, he walked away.

Inside the office, a spirited exchange unfolded between Teresa and her colleague Harold, both seasoned scientists engaged in a dialogue reflecting the intricacies of their profession.

Teresa's tone carried a note of frustration, "Harold, what is the purpose of this meeting? It wasn't you who stood in the aftermath of the last project's complications, facing the scrutiny of our peers and superiors."

Harold, maintaining composure, responded, "Teresa, scientific endeavors are inherently complex. Risk mitigation is a shared responsibility, and unforeseen challenges are inherent to experimental pursuits. It's about collective accountability."

Teresa, with a discerning gaze, retorted, "True, but my warnings about potential visor issues were clear. Scientific progress demands acknowledging uncertainties, not assigning blame when those uncertainties materialize."

Harold, defending his perspective, asserted, "In our field, outcomes matter. The incident led to a reevaluation of our project involvement. Scientific pursuits entail calculated risks, and we must adapt based on the results."

Harold, realizing the need to steer the conversation toward constructive possibilities, shifted focus, "Teresa, I understand the setbacks, but we can't let one incident overshadow the potential breakthroughs we could achieve. I've been working on a concept for Vioflux batteries, a revolutionary idea that could change lives."

Teresa, intrigued despite herself, raised an eyebrow, "Vioflux batteries? We've been down that road before. What's different this time?"

Harold leaned forward, enthusiasm evident, "Imagine batteries that not only power devices but also actively contribute to environmental sustainability. We could integrate self-sustaining energy-harvesting mechanisms, making these batteries a driving force in green technology. It's a chance to redefine the role of energy storage in our lives."

Teresa, considering the proposition, questioned, "And how does this tie into the larger picture? What's your grand vision here, Harold?"

Harold smiled, "The potential applications are vast.

From powering homes in remote areas to supporting sustainable development, Vioflux batteries could be a catalyst for positive change. Moreover, I propose a new project – integrating this technology into advanced war machines. Imagine providing our soldiers with cutting-edge equipment that enhances their capabilities and aligns with global efforts towards a greener future."

Teresa, initially skeptical, contemplated the implications. "Harold, you're suggesting a paradigm shift in both civilian and military domains. It's ambitious, to say the least."

Harold pressed on, "I believe in the transformative power of science. We have an opportunity to lead the charge toward a better future. With your expertise, Teresa, we could bring about revolutionary changes and, in doing so, overcome the shadow of past setbacks."

Recognizing the potential impact, Teresa sighed, "Harold, you're relentless. But I can't deny the allure of a project that promises meaningful change. Count me in, but let's ensure meticulous planning and address the risks upfront."

Harold grinned, "Fantastic! Together, we can make a difference, not just in our field but in the world. Let's shape the future, Teresa.

With the weight of the conversation still lingering, Teresa bid Harold goodbye.

Waited until Harold left, then turned to Jaya, "Inform Samuel that I'm ready, Jaya."

Jaya's prompt response echoed in the room, "Certainly, ma'am. I've archived the entire conversation for your records."

Teresa sighed, grateful for Jaya's efficiency, "Thank you, Jaya. You're indispensable to me."

Jaya's AI voice responded, "Your words are flattering, ma'am, but remember, I exist because of you."

A subtle chuckle escaped Teresa as the door swung open, and Samuel entered. Without delay, Teresa gestured, and her workstation materialized.

After 45 minutes, Samuel walked toward Dr. Vice's office. Upon knocking, he heard a "come in" from Kendrick. Entering, he saw Dr. Vice wearing an unexpected expression. Lieutenant Karlenki stood opposite Dr. Vice, engrossed in what seemed to be an essential discussion.

"Sorry to bother you. If this isn't a well-timed moment, I can always visit later," Samuel offered. Karlenki smiled, "No, you are right on time. I'm here for you; I have a proposition." Samuel raised a brow, "Really?" Dr. Vice said, "Yes, Lieutenant had some curiosities about you, so he came to me and asked about the recent evaluation."

Samuel pondered for a moment, "I see. May I ask what this curiosity is about?" Karlenki looked at him before glancing at Dr. Vice. As soon as Vice noticed Karlenki's gaze, he coughed, "So, he wants you to train in the simulation again under the supervision of Captain Jack to get you back in shape faster. My advice is don't do it just yet. I am still in the process of observing you. But since this is his request, it will be your choice."

Samuel was genuinely surprised by this, sparking a sense of happiness, but simultaneously, he sensed something was off. "What's the catch? This doesn't sound like a normal process because I would be skipping the whole recruitment test and more to be back in simulation."

Karlenki looked at him sharply, "The thing is, yes, normally we wouldn't do this nor make exceptions for this matter, but it would be a waste of time to delay your growth so much while you can also help others grow in the meantime. My request is more biased towards helping train the newbies in the Whales team." Samuel felt conflicted

"Would that mean I can still get back on the field?" Samuel questioned, hopeful. Karlenki looked at him but shook his head, "No, I don't believe you are fit to be back on the field. But I do believe you would be an excellent coach with the experience you have built in your short span in the Ferret unit. Consider this because I know you dream of being back, but with that leg, it would be me putting a liability in a team. So, think about my suggestion."

Karlenki walked away after delivering his perspective, leaving Samuel to absorb the weighty information.

Dr. Vice walked towards Samuel, patting his shoulder gently. "Samuel, I want you to consider Karlenki's suggestion seriously. Things could have been much worse for you, and this coaching opportunity might be a new path for you to contribute. It's a chance to shape the next generation of Ferret unit members."

However, Samuel refused to entertain the idea. With determination in his eyes, he responded, "Doc, I appreciate your concern, but I've come a long way. I won't settle for anything less than proving my worth in the simulation. They can't deny the fact that I'll be useful in the field. I'll show them, and everyone else, that I still have what it takes.