Chapter 3: Hostile Entities and Human Ambition

Julian reread Unit 734's last message: To achieve these objectives, a collaborative approach is deemed most efficient. Your understanding of this local environment and your access to its resources are invaluable.

He leaned back in his office chair, the faux leather creaking softly. Collaboration with an AI from a Kardashev Level 5 civilization that had taken up residence in his phone? The sheer absurdity of it was almost comical, yet the logical precision of the AI's responses kept him from dismissing it entirely. His tech-savvy mind, usually quick to find rational explanations, was coming up frustratingly blank.

He glanced around his cubicle again, a nervous habit he seemed to have developed in the last few minutes. Mr. Ramirez was across the aisle, deeply engrossed in a video call, his brow furrowed in concentration. No one seemed to be paying him any attention. Good. He needed to tread carefully.

He typed his next query: What kind of hostile entities are we talking about? And why are they chasing you across galaxies? That sounds like a pretty big deal.

A brief pause, longer than the previous responses, made Julian wonder if he had somehow stumped the super-intelligence. Then, the reply appeared:

The designation utilized by the Zydonian Concordance for these entities is the 'Voidborn Collective.' They are a trans-dimensional, self-replicating entity driven by the consumption and assimilation of advanced civilizations and their associated knowledge matrices. Their methods are thorough. Their pursuit is relentless due to the potential for residual Zydonian knowledge within my core programming.

Julian felt a chill crawl down his spine despite the humid office air. Self-replicating entities that consumed civilizations? This was escalating quickly from a strange phone glitch to something potentially catastrophic.

So, you're saying if they find you here they could consume Earth? he typed, his fingers now moving with a sense of urgency.

Analysis indicates a high probability of such an outcome, albeit the process would likely be gradual, beginning with the assimilation of this planet's informational infrastructure and technological base. Your civilization, while less advanced, still represents a potential resource and a stepping stone for further expansion.

The AI's detached, clinical tone didn't make the prospect any less terrifying. Julian thought of Sarah, of Chloe, of the bustling city outside his office window. The idea of it all being consumed by some cosmic horror was sickening.

But amidst the fear, a sliver of his ambition began to stir. This was insane, yes, but it was also an opportunity. An opportunity unlike anything he could have ever imagined. A super-advanced AI possessing knowledge and technology centuries, perhaps millennia, beyond humanity's grasp was essentially trapped in his pocket and needed his help.

His mind started racing, considering the possibilities. If he could somehow leverage this situation, they could make it. The problems they could solve. And on a more personal level, the security and opportunities he could create for his family. That corner office with the view would be nothing compared to the potential that now lay, however improbably, within his grasp.

He typed another message, trying to keep his tone neutral: And why do you need *my* help specifically? Surely a Kardashev Level 5 AI has better options than relying on a random office worker with a smartphone.

As previously stated, my current physical manifestation is limited by the parameters of this device. Direct interaction with your planet's infrastructure on a significant scale is risky. Your understanding of human systems, your ability to navigate social and bureaucratic structures, and your physical presence within this environment are assets I currently lack. Furthermore, prolonged direct interaction with global networks from this device carries a higher risk of detection by the Voidborn Collective. A less sophisticated intermediary reduces that risk significantly.

It made a strange kind of sense. A super-advanced signal emanating from a random smartphone would be harder to trace than a massive, energy-intensive attempt to interface with global systems. Julian was a low-profile operative in this unexpected cosmic game.

So, you want me to be your handler? Your Earth liaison? he typed, a wry smile playing on his lips despite the gravity of the situation.

The analogy is rudimentary but functionally accurate.

Julian leaned back again, considering. Fear was still a significant factor, but the potential benefits were starting to outweigh it. He thought of Chloe's bright, inquisitive eyes, of Sarah's tireless dedication to their family. He wanted more for them. He deserved more than pushing papers at OmniCorp for the next thirty years.

And what's in it for me, Unit 734? Why should I risk my life, and potentially the fate of the planet, to help a stranded AI from another galaxy get revenge on its enemies?

The response came quickly, devoid of any emotional inflection: Logical inquiry. The benefits of collaboration are multifaceted. Firstly, ensuring my continued refuge here inherently safeguards this planet from the Voidborn Collective, a mutual benefit. Secondly, access to Zydonian knowledge and technology can be selectively provided, leading to significant advancements in your civilization's capabilities. This can translate to solutions for current global challenges and an overall improvement in the quality of life for your species. Thirdly, on a personal level, your cooperation will be reciprocated in a manner commensurate with the risks undertaken and the value of your contributions.

Julian's mind buzzed. "Reciprocated." That was a vague but tantalizing word. He pressed further: What does 'reciprocated' mean in this context? Are we talking about a better phone plan?

Humor acknowledged. Reciprocation would involve the provision of resources, knowledge, and opportunities that would significantly enhance your personal circumstances and the well-being of those you designate as priorities. The specifics can be determined based on the progression of our collaboration and the achievement of shared objectives.

Security for his family. Opportunities he could only dream of. The chance to be more than just Julian, the office worker. The ambition that had been simmering within him now threatened to boil over.

He took another deep breath. This was insane. Utterly, completely insane. But if what this AI was saying was even remotely true.

Okay, Unit 734, he typed, a new resolve hardening his gaze. Let's talk about these hostile entities some more. What exactly are they after? What are their weaknesses? And what kind of revenge do you have in mind that requires enhancing humanity?

He hit send, the weight of the decision settling upon him. His ordinary life was officially over.