Chapter 111: Lab City's Progress (VR & AR)
LAB CITY [VR & AR research institute (white)]
Inside the meeting room, researchers could be seen sitting eagerly anticipating the completion of their latest creation. They were patiently waiting for their latest invention to finish printing so that they could test and see its results.
Shortly after that, Houston stepped into the room, holding a plate filled with intricate minuscule gadgets the size of fingernails. Silently, he placed the plate at the very center of the table before settling into a chair.
Without delay, everyone in the room reached out and retrieved the minuscule devices, carefully tucking them behind their ears.
Everyone in the room said "AR mode" albeit with different timing, causing an instant activation of the devices. Within microseconds, the gadgets projected a holographic screen before them, emanating a gentle green glow to indicate that they were now functioning in standard AR mode.
In a breathtaking display, a myriad of virtual elements materialized, seamlessly blending with reality, rendering them indistinguishable from anything that was real.
When a few individuals attempted to physically interact with the digitally manifested object they saw through the device, it would transmit signals to their brains, creating the illusion of actually touching it. Furthermore, the device would restrict their movement within the object, enhancing the sensation and generating an extraordinary sense of realism.
When they attempted to lift the devices, they were astonished to find that they could indeed raise them. To their amazement, the gadgets seamlessly communicated with their brains, evoking the perception of substantial weight, as though the objects they carried possessed genuine mass.
"Brilliant," exclaimed one of the researchers, wholeheartedly concurring that they had successfully pushed the limits of progress and compactness in the realm of virtual and augmented reality
As they continued exploring the different functions of the device, unbeknownst to them, one individual mysteriously produced a gun from seemingly thin air. Without any prior warning, the individual aimed and fired the weapon directly at the center of the table
The instant the gunshot resounded, the devices positioned behind their ears swiftly picked up the changes and transitioned from their normal state to a vivid shade of red.
To onlookers, the external appearance of the devices remained unchanged except for the altered color emanating from behind the ears.
However, for the wearers of these devices, a wholly distinct experience was unfolding.
"Wow," murmured one of them in a trance-like state, his eyes meticulously following the bullet's trajectory as it punctured the very heart of the table, leaving a conspicuous hole. The passage of the bullet seemed to unfold in slow motion, as if time itself had dramatically decelerated.
As the bullet finally traversed its path, the device swiftly reverted to emitting its familiar green light, signifying a return to normal operations.
"We have finally perfected the augmented reality time perception acceleration," exclaimed Houston with unbridled joy. completely disregarded the fact that someone had discharged a firearm in the room without any prior warning as if it were an ordinary event.
To them, such antics held no cause for concern, for they possessed an unwavering assurance that no matter what they did, they would inevitably revert to a state of flawless well-being.
"Yes, at last!" Tristan exclaimed, wholeheartedly concurring with Issa. "Ever since we embarked on integrating this capability into augmented reality since the 76th generation, akin to what we had achieved in virtual reality back in the 46th generation of the device, we have now achieved perfection. Using it we can finally accelerate our perception of time in the real world, albeit for a mere second, during which it subjectively slows down fiftyfold."
"However," Emanuel interjected, gesturing towards the dwindling power levels displayed on their devices, "it consumes an excessive amount of power to sustain this function." He drew attention to the limited power reserves that remained after the recent demonstration.
"For that particular issue, we simply need to await the breakthroughs from the laboratories engaged in alternative energy research, as well as the fusion and other departments dedicated to energy research," remarked Christina, the sole female researcher in the room.
Her statement hinted that the solutions to the power consumption challenge would emerge from these innovative domains.
"However, when it comes to VR and AR devices, we have reached the threshold of what conventional methods can achieve," Ezra elucidated, carefully removing the device from behind his ear and delicately placing it back onto the plate. "To surpass this point, we would need to venture into the realm of nanomachines. Unfortunately, the laboratory engaged in research within this domain is still in its developmental phase, compelling us to postpone any further exploration for now."
"Indeed, it is regrettable," Ezra concurred, acknowledging the boundaries imposed by conventional size limitations. "However, the vastness of knowledge surrounding this subject still astounds me. It leaves me pondering how Mr. Aron managed to achieve such a breakthrough," he mused, his admiration for Aron's expertise and accomplishments serving as a humbling reminder of his own relative insignificance.
"Sir Aron's expertise is truly unparalleled," Logan exclaimed, his voice filled with a sense of wonder. The profound depth of knowledge displayed left him in awe. Despite numerous iterations spanning over 100 generations of these devices, they had ultimately reached the limits imposed by size constraints. However, they had neither encountered the threshold nor fully harnessed the vast knowledge bestowed upon them regarding this subject matter.
"I must admit, I often find myself contemplating the same," chimed in another individual from among the group, their curiosity resonating with Logan's earlier sentiment.
"I genuinely hope that we are granted the opportunity to meet him in the future," Logan expressed, voicing the collective aspiration shared by everyone in the city. The longing to encounter Aron and Nova was fervent, as they had become figures of great fascination and admiration.
"Alright, let's get back to work, everyone," Ezra said, briefly pausing to gather their attention. After a moment, he continued, "With the production of new generations of VR and AR devices now officially concluded, now we have to upload the accumulated results to the Akashic server."
"Yes," the unanimous nod of agreement rippled through the room. In unison, they closed their eyes and thought about their intentions of uploading their experiences and comprehensive research. A second later, a resounding proclamation reverberated in their consciousness [Upload complete!!!] indicating that they were done with the upload process.
[
The Akashic server was a system devised by Nova to streamline the sharing of knowledge and research materials among all the labs in LAB CITY. It provided convenient access to technology and eliminated the need for researchers to worry about availability.
The server housed vast amounts of data that could be easily assimilated by anyone in need of specific knowledge for their research.
Inspired by Aron's system shop, the Akashic server allowed seamless retrieval of information without requiring any special procedures. It served as a centralized hub, enhancing collaboration and efficiency across the research communities within the city.
]
Shortly after that they opened their eyes and returned their focus to the meeting.
"Now, while we await the culmination of nanomachine research, our next research project, bestowed upon us by Miss Nova, entails delving into the development of machinery that can autonomously produce the previous generations of VR devices we have crafted from scratch, as it is not yet known when the atomic printing research would be concluded," Ezra elucidated, providing his team with an overview of their forthcoming undertaking.
"Yes," Houston responded eagerly upon learning about their next research project, his voice brimming with excitement. Engaging in research was something they all embraced wholeheartedly, devoid of any complaints.
"Is there a particular VR device we should begin with, or are we free to choose at random?" Mason, another researcher, inquired, seeking clarity on the starting point for their project.
"Yes, we have been instructed to commence with the standard virtual helmet and virtual reality chamber," Ezra responded. "These devices will be utilized to facilitate the assimilation of knowledge to soldiers within the virtual chamber during a specific period. Concurrently, the soldiers will be enhanced with a genetic enhancing liquid that is currently undergoing research in the genetic engineering lab."
"Following that we will then start making the machines that can manufacture every generation of the VR & AR devices for every generation and iteration we have ever made" With that Ezra finished telling them the orders they had been given from Miss Nova.
Everyone in the meeting room nodded, signifying their clear comprehension of the designated starting point for their research project.
....
[Tactical Pilot Helmet research institute (White)]
As soon as the knowledge about VR and AR was uploaded into the Akashic server, a research institute located at the center of the bustling city received the notification informing them that the knowledge they needed had been made available in within the Akashik server and was ready for assimilation.
Without a moment's delay, every individual within the laboratory eagerly assimilated the newly acquired knowledge into their own minds.
After successfully completing the assimilation process, they promptly gathered in the meeting room to discuss their subsequent course of action.
Chapter 112: Lab City's Progress (The Universal Tactical Fighter Helmet.)
[Tactical Pilot Helmet research institute (White)]
Within Lab City, there existed a cluster of specialized labs collaborating with each other to develop various products specifically designed for the same domain: The sky. These labs worked in conjunction with different teams responsible for creating diverse flying machines and their respective components.
These labs encompassed a wide range of aircraft types and systems, including fighters, attack aircraft, bombers, airlift and tankers, surveillance and reconnaissance platforms, helicopters, trainer aircraft, special operations aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), interceptors, air defense systems, strategic missile and space systems, experimental and research aircraft, remotely piloted aircraft, search and rescue platforms, electronic warfare systems, experimental prototypes, cargo and utility aircraft, presidential aircraft, airborne command and control platforms, airborne early warning and control systems, communications and satellites, as well as training and support aircraft. Each lab focused on specific areas to contribute to the comprehensive development of aerial technologies.
This particular lab was specifically dedicated to the development of the Tactical Helmet, which would serve as the primary headgear for all future pilots in the air force.
Currently, the lab was eagerly awaiting the completion of the AR & VR research lab's work. Once they concluded their research and uploaded the information to the Akashic server, the team in the Tactical Helmet Lab would be able to access and assimilate that knowledge greatly aiding them in finalizing the design, conducting research tests, and progressing with the manufacturing process of what they referred to as "the Universal Tactical Fighter Helmet."
As soon as the knowledge about VR and AR was uploaded into the Akashic server, a research institute located on the outskirts of the city received the notification. Without a moment's delay, every individual within the laboratory eagerly assimilated the newly acquired knowledge into their own minds.
After successfully completing the assimilation process, they promptly gathered in the meeting room to discuss their subsequent course of action.
INSIDE THE MEETING ROOM.
"Which generation of the technology should we implement?" inquired Luke, the research team leader.
His background as a former Lockheed engineer, where he had overseen the design, engineering, and testing of fighter plane helmets for both the F22 and F35, added an extra layer of assurance to his leadership position.
Nova had materialized him with all of his fellow workers at the Skunk Works division after Aron completed collecting the brain data of everyone on his list who was working there.
"I believe we should utilize the 57th generation," suggested Issa, presenting his reasoning behind the choice.
"It offers the best possible option for integration into the fighter jet pilot's helmet. With its advanced augmented reality (AR) capabilities, we can incorporate AR visuals directly into the helmet.
Furthermore, since it establishes a connection with the pilot's brain, we can eliminate the need for a separate microphone and radio components.
The device will seamlessly read the pilot's brain signals, ensuring clear audio transmission without any additional intervention.
Its compact size allows us to incorporate two devices, one as a backup and the other as the primary unit.
Additionally, the level of technology involved enables Sir Aron to reproduce it in the real world without encountering any complications, if needed." Issa's detailed explanation showcased his careful evaluation of the available options, opting for a generation that, despite being less advanced than others, fulfilled the specific requirements for the fighter jet helmet.
"I concur with that," Ibrahim affirmed, expressing his agreement with Issa's proposal.
This elicited agreement from the majority, although not all members shared the same viewpoint. Andrew, on the other hand, raised his hand, capturing the attention of everyone in the room. Clearing his throat, he stated, "I recommend we utilize the 76th generation device. It would help us avoid potential issues that arose during the VR research team's testing of the 57th generation."
"I understand your reasoning behind recommending the 76th generation, which incorporates time perception acceleration in augmented reality. However, since it is the initial iteration of this technology and is still in the experimental phase, it is impractical for us to utilize it. It is not consumer-ready and lacks the necessary refinement for our purposes," Issa stated, firmly expressing his opposition to Andrew's suggestion.
"To avoid that, all we have to do is use the 80th-generation time perception acceleration tech and incorporate it into the body of the 76th generation, eliminating any potential issues with the first-generation time perception," Andrew defended his choice against Issa's opposition.
"But wouldn't doing it that way pose a challenge for Sir Aron to bring this product to fruition given his current circumstances?" Ibrahim questioned, expressing his reservations about Andrew's suggestion. He seemed unconvinced and raised concerns about the feasibility of producing the device in the real world, considering the limitations faced by Sir Aron.
"Isn't the printing research team currently working on reverse engineering the atomic printers provided by Miss Nova?" Andrew countered, presenting his perspective.
"If they succeed in accomplishing this task within the next few months, it won't matter which generation of the device we choose. Sir Aron will have the capability to recreate any of them in the real world. Therefore, there is no need to worry about the production aspect." He highlighted the potential breakthrough that could arise from the printing research team's efforts, suggesting that it would render the concerns about producing a specific generation obsolete.
"Can we be certain that the atomic printer will be ready within that time frame?" Ibrahim asked, seeking clarification from Andrew after his explanation. He expressed a degree of skepticism regarding the timeline and feasibility of completing the atomic printer.
"We are well aware that the research capabilities within the city are an exponential improvement compared to our previous circumstances," Andrew responded confidently.
"With access to what could be called inexhaustible research funds and materials, not to mention the novel machines at our disposal, it is unlikely that any research conducted under these conditions would take an extensive amount of time. The resources and support available to us greatly enhance our efficiency and expedites progress." He emphasized the favorable environment within the city, emphasizing that the combination of ample resources and advanced technology would accelerate any research done in these environments.
"While I share your confidence in the eventual success of the research, the exact timing of its completion remains uncertain," Ibrahim responded.
"Considering this uncertainty, I am inclined to agree with the suggestion of proceeding with the 57th generation. It is a more viable option given the current circumstances, ensuring that we can move forward with our project without relying on the completion of the atomic printer." Ibrahim expressed his preference for a more practical approach, opting for a generation that is readily available and doesn't depend on external factors.
"Furthermore, the limitation of the atomic printer is not the only factor influencing my recommendation to proceed with the 57th generation instead of the 76th generation you proposed," Issa added to complement Ibrahim's statement. "Starting from the 65th generation onward, the devices incorporate a theoretical battery that is still in the research phase. This, among other considerations, reinforces my preference for the initial choice rather than your suggestion."
"I'm highly optimistic that the theoretical battery will be completed within the next month or two," Andrew persisted, reiterating his belief that the battery's imminent completion would alleviate any concerns regarding his proposed choice leaving behind only the atomic printer as the only concern. He remained determined to convince the team to adopt his suggestion.
The back-and-forth discussion continued until Luke, the team leader, intervened. With a firm strike on the table to capture everyone's attention, he commanded, "Enough arguing." The forceful action silenced the room, compelling everyone to cease their debates and direct their focus towards him. It was evident that Luke had an important statement to make.
Seeing that he had captured their undivided attention, Luke began to speak. "Since you are unable to reach a consensus in a normal way, I have made the decision on your behalves. We will proceed with testing and manufacturing the helmets using the 57th generation of Augmented Reality technology and...." However, before Luke could finish his statement, "But sir …" Andrew interjected with his opinion, prompting an immediate response from Luke.
"I'M NOT DONE SPEAKING," Luke asserted firmly, silencing Andrew and reminding him of the importance of respecting the conversation flow.
"Sorry," Andrew quickly apologized, realizing his mistake, as he had only intended to express his desire to research using the 76th generation of AR technology.
Acknowledging Andrew's apology, Luke continued with his decision. "As I previously stated, we will proceed with our research using the 57th generation of technology. However, once we complete this project, we will move up by ten generations at a time, continually advancing our research.
This approach ensures that we are always one step ahead, ready with the next generation of technology as Sir Aron's production capabilities expand. This includes being prepared with the latest technology when the atomic printer becomes available." Luke's plan aimed to maintain a progressive trajectory while accommodating future advancements in production capabilities.
"Understood?" Luke asked, looking at both Ibrahim and Andrew, seeking assurance that they were attentive and on the same page.
"Yes, sir," they both replied in agreement, a satisfied tone evident in their voices. It seemed that a resolution had been reached, allowing each of them to have their preferences fulfilled without one compromising the other's desires.
Seeing that they were attentively listening to him, Thomas smiled before he stood up and declared, "The meeting is over." He then headed towards the door, making his way back to the labs where they would commence their research on the Next Generation Tactical Pilot helmet. This advanced helmet would be utilized by the pilots of the next-generation fighter jet, which was currently being researched by various labs, including theirs.
Chapter 113: A Day In The Life Of John
In deep contemplation, John could be seen lounged bare-chested on the hotel room balcony, his gaze fixed upon the sky.
As a gentle breeze caressed him, the drapes that concealed the entrance to the hotel room's balcony fluttered, unveiling two peacefully slumbering beautiful women. Their naked bodies spoke of the shared intimacy they had experienced mere hours ago—a tale known only to them and destined to remain a secret held by the confines of the room and the whispers of the bedsheet.
Their story, untold to the world, unless disclosed by those who partook in its clandestine embrace.
As for the contemplating John, his thoughts wandered towards the events that transpired after his recovery.
"What should I do now?" he pondered silently. In the past three weeks, he had indulged in all the activities he had yearned to experience during his injury-induced confinement, leaving no stone unturned.
...
Three weeks ago
A day after Aron healed him, he wasted no time and headed straight to a bar, craving a momentary escape. Upon his arrival, he confidently placed an order for his beloved drink and settled in, waiting for its arrival.
As the waiter gracefully presented him with his drink, he found himself captivated by her beauty. In a moment of impulsiveness, he hastily grasped the beer glass with his hand, eager to quench his thirst without delay.
"CRACK!" The glass shattered and splintered as a consequence of his inadvertently exerted, newfound strength, amplified after his recovery.
"Wow," they both exclaimed in genuine surprise and astonishment, their voices intertwining.
"This is the first time I've witnessed someone shatter a glass just by holding it," the waitress remarked, her awe evident as she expressed her amazement towards him.
"Seems like the glass had a pre-existing crack, and my slightly firmer grip must have been the trigger for its breakage," John said, attempting to shift the focus away from his augmented strength and attributing the incident to an alternate cause.
"I really don't think so" the waitress responded, her tone reflecting deep contemplation as she pondered the glass's condition before its demise.
"Do you genuinely believe I appear strong enough to shatter a glass with just one hand?" John inquired, employing a touch of logic in an attempt to reason with her.
"Now that you put it that way, it does indeed seem highly implausible," the waitress replied, placing a finger on her lips. She was fascinated by what she saw from the glimpse of his well-toned physique when he asked her to look at his body to see if he has a body with the strength to break a glass with one hand.
"I'm John, John Watcher, by the way," John introduced himself with a friendly smile, utilizing the new name bestowed upon him by Aron. He extended his hand, offering a handshake as a gesture of goodwill.
Although his first name remained unchanged for the sake of familiarity, his middle and last names had been altered.
"I'm Aurora, Aurora Nolan," she reciprocated, introducing herself with a warm smile as she firmly shook his extended hand.
"Nice to meet you," she said, her enchanting smile revealing a set of immaculate, pearly-white teeth. John couldn't help but be captivated by her beauty, momentarily transfixed by her radiant charm.
"Nice to meet you too. Could I perhaps have a fresh drink? Judging by the state of the previous one, it doesn't seem easy to consume," John remarked with a touch of sarcasm, eliciting a hearty laugh from Aurora.
"Yes, sir, I was actually about to bring you a fresh one, but it appears you'll need to visit the restroom," she pointed out, gesturing towards his trousers now dampened by the drink that had spilled onto him after he shattered the glass.
"Ah, yes, where can I find the restroom?" John inquired, accompanied by a light chuckle. The realization dawned upon him that he had become so enthralled by Aurora's beauty when she initially served the drink that he had momentarily forgotten about his damp trousers resulting from the spilled beer.
"It's over there," Aurora replied, gracefully pointing in the direction of the restroom, indicating where John could find it.
"Thank you," John expressed his gratitude, before rising from his seat and making his way towards the restroom to attend to his damp trousers.
"You're welcome," Aurora replied, her gaze lingering on the sculpted back of John's physique before she turned away to retrieve his fresh drink.
Upon his return from the restroom, John discovered that Aurora had already placed his drink on the table, carefully covering it with a cup lid. She had also diligently wiped away any traces of the spilled beer, ensuring a clean and tidy surface before she returned to continue doing her job.
Taking his seat once again, John indulged in his drink, relishing each sip as if it had been an eternity since he last savored its taste. With every sip, he immersed himself in the flavors, savoring the beverage until he eventually reached the bottom of the glass.
Upon finishing his drink, John called for a waiter, and a different member of the staff, not Aurora, responded to his call and came over to attend to him.
Slightly disappointed, he proceeded to order another glass of the same drink he had been enjoying.
Having consumed over ten glasses of the drink without feeling the slightest hint of intoxication, he mused to himself, "I'm not sure what Sir Aron did to me, but I must say, I'm thoroughly enjoying this new body of mine."
Sensing that he was impervious to intoxication, save for the persistent urge to relieve himself, he made the decision to leverage his rejuvenated appearance and youthful physique. Determined to revel in the pleasures he had been deprived of in the past, he resolved to visit a nightclub and indulge in an evening of entertainment and enjoyment that had long been inaccessible to him.
He rose from his seat and made his way towards the bar counter to settle his bill for the drinks he had consumed, eager to conclude his time at the establishment and embark on his journey to the nightclub.
"Weren't you serving just moments ago?" he asked, surprised to find Aurora stationed at the POS machine, processing payments.
"My friend who was supposed to be here went to the washroom, so I'm filling in for her until she returns," Aurora explained, maintaining her professional demeanor as she continued to handle the transactions.
"Ooh, alright then, how much do I owe?" John inquired, wanting to know the amount he needed to settle for his drinks.
"Let me check," Aurora replied, inputting the table number John had occupied to access the total amount due for his tab.
"That will be $74," Aurora stated, having glanced at the POS machine. "How would you like to make the payment?" she inquired, ready to assist John with his chosen method of payment.
"Card," he replied, reaching into his wallet and retrieving a card to complete the payment transaction.
"Tip?" she inquired, politely asking if he would like to add a gratuity to the transaction.
"35%," he replied
"Please swipe here," Aurora requested, having already factored in the 35% tip, ensuring it was included in the transaction.
"Shouldn't you be a bit more intoxicated? The machine shows ten glasses ordered at your table, yet you seem perfectly fine. Did you happen to spill the other nine glasses as well?" Aurora asked jokingly.
Smiling, he responded, "I actually consumed all of them. I consider myself quite the heavy drinker," subtly boasting about his capacity for alcohol.
"Wow," Aurora remarked flirtatiously, a playful glimmer in her eyes. Swiftly recovering her composure, she said, "Here is your receipt."as she handed him the receipts.
"When will you be finished here?" he asked, taking a leap of faith, hoping to extend their interaction beyond the confines of the establishment.
"In about thirty minutes, why?" Aurora replied, her smile growing as she entertained the question.
"Once you're finished, are you free? I'd like to invite you to join me in embracing the night," John proposed, his interest evident as he eagerly awaited her response.
"Unfortunately, I won't be available as I have plans to spend time with a friend," Aurora responded, her tone apologetic yet firm.
"That's unfortunate," John said with a hint of disappointment, and then he began to make his way towards the exit, accepting the reality of the situation.
"But you could join us if she agrees," she interjected as she noticed him preparing to leave, offering him an alternative possibility if her friend was amenable to the idea.
"That works too," he replied, his disappointment fading as he considered the alternative possibility presented by Aurora.
"Sure, can I have your phone number so I can reach out to you if she agrees?" she inquired, her eyes shining with anticipation upon witnessing his positive response.
"My number is..." John began, providing Aurora with his contact information for her to reach out to him.
Aurora quickly typed John's number, saving it in her phone. Without hesitation, she dialed the number and promptly ended the call as soon as it connected. With a playful smile, she revealed, "That's my number."
"See you later, then," John bid her farewell with a nod and a smile, before promptly departing from the bar, heading towards the nightclub to embrace the night and enjoy the moments of his life.