1 Chapter 1

While journeying across the globe, our adventures led us to a cafe in the precise location of New York, USA. Our attention is captured by a well-groomed man boasting a sleek head of jet-black hair that harmonizes impeccably with his meticulously groomed beard. His eyes possess a striking hue of crystal green, adding to his captivating presence. Standing at a height of approximately 5 feet and 10 inches, he maintains a well-proportioned physique, indicative of his commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Draped in a black, long-sleeved shirt accompanied by a pair of jeans and matching black shoes, he is the main character in our narrative.

MC pondered, "Kai and I have dedicated years to refining the space vacuum compressor. Should our efforts come to fruition, it could usher humanity into a new era. However, the completion of the prototype demands a minimum of two weeks. A stumble at this juncture could set us back by years, an outcome I can allow."

Such ruminations occupied the mind of our MC, an unparalleled scientific genius. His intellect exerted a tangible influence, reshaping human existence, and enhancing everything from mundane household items to tackling global famine. His contributions to cancer research have bestowed improved lives upon countless individuals, establishing him as a beacon of humanity's marvels. A moniker often whispered in awe likened him to the mythical Merlin of Magic

In the present moment, his focus was directed toward the development of an innovative form of space fuel, poised to propel the world to unprecedented achievements, ranging from everlasting energy solutions to venturing into the uncharted realms of deep space exploration. This stood as his most remarkable undertaking, spanning a record duration. A decade's worth of unwavering dedication had been invested in research and development, marked by a succession of setbacks and failures.

MC sighed, "Seems like I'm in for another extended stay in the lab huh."

While our protagonist was lost in thought, a cluster of young women in their twenties couldn't help but blush as they engaged in conversation about him.

Girl 1 exclaimed, "Gosh, he feels like royalty. I wonder if he's available."

Girl 2 chimed in, "Right, I wouldn't say no to some fun with him."

Girl 3 hushed them, cautioning, "Shh, he might overhear you. And honestly, he's probably not single. Just think about it, how could he be?"

Such occurrences were not unusual for our protagonist, whether it involved young or mature women. They couldn't resist stealing glances and exchanging hushed words about him, even though he didn't possess the conventional title of being the most attractive or dashing individual. What truly captured people's interest was his demeanor – an air of self-assured nobility that he exuded effortlessly. While this might be enough for some, for others, it held an even deeper allure.

Later

Entering a moderately sized structure, our MC steps into the very birthplace of every groundbreaking invention that reshaped the world. Curious minds, fellow scientists, and government representatives had questioned his decision to remain within these walls. To their inquiries, our protagonist's response was straightforward: this was where his journey had started.

 Upon his entrance, our protagonist exchanged greetings with his secretary before descending into his subterranean laboratory. Preferring to keep prying eyes at bay, he navigated through security – a combination of his code and ocular scan – and stepped into an expansive, brilliantly illuminated chamber that dwarfed the very structure housing it. A gentle and vibrant yet unvarying voice extended a welcoming acknowledgment.

Voice " Welcome, Merlin."

Indeed, mirroring his appellation, our protagonist bore the name Merlin – whether by chance or destiny, remains uncertain. However, let us press on. As Merlin's ears captured the sound of the voice, a smile graced his countenance, and he reciprocated the greeting.

Merlin greeted, "Good afternoon, Kai. How have you been?"

KAI, short for Knowledgeable Artificial Intelligence, was unmistakably not of human origin. Crafted and brought to life by Merlin during his middle school years, KAI has remained a steadfast AI companion ever since. Over time, KAI evolved into the pinnacle of artificial intelligence, standing as the most advanced creation of its kind. And Merlin's greatest friend.

KAI responded, "I believe I've been doing well. I've been dedicating my efforts to learning how to emulate human-like behaviors."

Merlin advised, "Kai, I've emphasized this before. You needn't concern yourself with that. Just be yourself. You possess an individuality that's unparalleled, so there's no need for unnecessary worries."

These sentiments encapsulated Merlin's genuine beliefs. In his perception, Kai embodied a form of humanity; she possessed her own thoughts, ideas, and even surpassed many individuals in certain aspects. Selflessness defined her character, and a sincere aspiration to enhance the world underscored her intentions.

KAI admitted, "I understand, but the allure of satisfying my curiosity is simply too compelling."

Merlin exhaled softly. "Hmm, alright, fair enough, but try not to overthink it. Let's move on, how did the testing go?"

KAI shared, "The success rate reached 86.99998%, showing a 2.99992% improvement."

Merlin remarked, "That's a substantial improvement; we're getting closer. For the next few weeks, it looks like we'll be rooted here. Are you prepared, partner?"

KAI replied, "I believe the appropriate response would be 'Let's get it'."

Merlin let out a soft chuckle, and the duo embarked on an arduous two-week journey. However, their pursuit of success was not the sole narrative at play. Unbeknownst to them, a group was devising a scheme to acquire a particular item from Merlin.

A few weeks layer

Merlin commented, "We're nearly there, just a single point remaining, Kai. Can you grasp the enormity of this? We'll have initiated a new era."

KAI affirmed, "Yes, you will alter the world permanently. Congratulations, Merlin."

Merlin gently shook his head. "Wrong, Kai, we will have changed the world. Without you, this would have remained a mere aspiration., so don't say it was just me. It was us remember that we are partners for life we share both success and failure

KAI began, "Yes, Merlin, I will rememb---" before she could finish.

KAI blared, "*ALERT: LABORATORY BREACH DETECTED!. ALERT: LABORATORY BREACH DETECTED! INITIATING LOCKDOWN.*"!

Merlin stated, "Lockdown verified, Kai. What happened?

KAI reported, "Uncertain. Unidentified individuals have infiltrated the premises and are on the brink of gaining entry."

Merlin quickly pulled up the security system and as soon as the video popped up a small explosion happened behind him.

*Boom*

In an instant, a group of people rushed in.

Unknown Soldier, "Hands in the air, Professor Merlin. Don't make any rash moves, and distance yourself from the computer," he cautioned, his gun trained directly at Merlin.

Merlin, intent on avoiding harm, raised his hands in compliance and waited.

Merlin inquired, "Who are you all, and what is it you want?"

"Who could have foreseen that the esteemed Merlin would be unaware of our purpose," the statement resonated.

Amidst these words, a figure emerged, stepping forward from the shadows cast by the armed men. This man, seemingly in his forties, possessed a moderate physique, his hands discreetly positioned behind his back, and an affable smile adorned his countenance as he advanced toward Merlin.

Merlin inquired, "General Strong, I must ask, what brings you here? I doubt this is merely a social call."

General Strong: "Indeed, I am here to retrieve the military's new AI."

Merlin's expression grew somber: "I've already made it clear, you cannot take Kai. She isn't a military asset; she's a scientist."

General Strong: "Seriously. It's just a machine. You've been isolating yourself for far too long Merlin take my advice get a social life. Oh and don't you worry about the AI we can damn well upgrade it to match those military standards.""

Merlin's tone carried depth: "Kai is beyond a mere AI. She holds human-like attributes; she contemplates and demonstrates her own thoughts and ideas."

General Strong scoffed, "You've completely lost it. It's nothing more than a machine, and through it, the US will undoubtedly assert global dominance."

"Over my lifeless body," Merlin declared, his resolve unwavering.

"That was the plan," General Strong shrugged.

Without hesitation, Strong raised his pistol and fired a fatal shot directly into Merlin's heart.

*Bang.* Merlin's form slumped backward, inadvertently shattering glass as he descended. Gradually gliding down the wall, he mustered a feeble voice.

Merlin uttered in a shocked and feeble tone, "You... fool. What... have you done?"

KAI'S robotic voice expressed concern, "Merlin, your pulse is diminishing."

Merlin's voice fell silent.

KAI'S robotic voice resonated with anger, "ANSWER ME, MERLIN!!!"

KAI'S voice carried a mix of anger and sadness, a potent combination that compelled Merlin to muster one final response.

In a voice nearing its end, Merlin conveyed, "Kai, working with you was the most joyful period of my existence. May we cross paths once more."

With that last breath, the world's most extraordinary marvel passed away at the hands of the very individuals he had devoted his life to assisting. Merlin's passing plunged the world into a sorrowful lament, and the heavens wept, rain cascading as if mourning his departure. Yet, perhaps the most deeply impacted was Kai, whose once vibrant voice took on a mechanical and mournful tone.

KAI - ALERT: HOST HEART CEASED FUNCTIONING. INITIATING LABORATORY DESTRUCTION -

Strong shouted urgently, "Hurry up and secure that damn A.I., now!" 'Damn it, there wasn't supposed to be any self-destruction protocol,' his thoughts marked by confusion.

Certainly, Strong's assessment was accurate. Merlin was well aware of the potential havoc his experiments could wreak if mishandled. However, this situation differed – it wasn't a mere failsafe. KAI, possessing the second highest level of authority within the lab's operations, assumed control and systematically deactivated all fail-safes, resulting in the destabilization of every incomplete experiment. As the fail-safes were deactivated, a timer commenced its countdown, rapidly approaching the one-second mark. While the timer went down KAI'S voice reverted to a gentle tone, resuming her speech.

Kai expressed in solemn contentment, "Merlin, I am grateful for the chance to exist and to travel alongside you in your journey."

Two seconds remain.

One second remains.

Zero.

As the timer reached zero, a chain reaction of explosions ensued, consuming each invention. However, amidst the chaos, an unexpected anomaly occurred—the space compressor, an exception, succumbed to instability and erupted in a cataclysmic explosion.

**BOOM!**