So-Rin guided Noa into another room, which turned out to be a state-of-the-art laboratory filled with advanced equipment and apparatus.
Giant screens adorned the walls, showcasing intricate graphs and data sets taken from the subjects, while miniature robots zipped around the room, efficiently carrying out their designated tasks.
So-Rin took a moment to survey the laboratory, eager to demonstrate the cutting-edge technology they had developed. "We have other new projects. In this part of the floor, we focus on exploring the potential of enhancing human capabilities through technology. You might know about this already. It's called Transhumanism."
"In that case, is it one of the new projects that would be launched today?" Noa inquired.
"Yes, exactly," So-Rin responded with a proud smile, sweeping her hand to encompass the sleek and modern laboratory.
They had dedicated countless hours to creating an environment that fostered innovation and served as a hub for exploring emerging technologies.
So-Rin led Noa to a particular machine and proceeded to explain its function. "This device here is known as a neural implant. Its purpose is to establish a direct connection with the brain, seamlessly interfacing with it. This technology has the potential to enhance cognitive abilities by stimulating specific parts of the brain and enable individuals to control machines using their thoughts."
Noa's eyes widened in astonishment. "That's absolutely incredible," he exclaimed, still in awe of what So-Rin said.
So-Rin's smile widened. "I know, right? The possibilities are endless. From boosting memory and learning capabilities to treating debilitating neurological disorders, this technology holds the power to revolutionize everyone's life."
"It's supposed to be good for us, but I doubt that Infrablack funded this project to improve our lives." Noa sighed.
"Unfortunately, it's just as you said." So-Rin's enthusiasm from earlier was dampened. "This transhumanism project will benefit the androids more than humans. The Androids have brains, too. Their memory will be enhanced, as well as their learning abilities. It's an enviable advantage, and Infrablack would be more powerful than ever.
Noa's expression shifted, and he asked with concern, "It will be more dangerous for humans. Why is Infrablack still obsessed with making Androids stronger? He already has control over the world with the Strongest Android System. That's still not enough?"
"Because Infrablack understands that humans, as intelligent beings, have the potential to overcome his control," So-Rin explained. "He might be able to restrict humans with the system, but there's still a possibility that humans can escape from it, like you, me, and Eden. Do you believe that there's only the three of us? Androids can have a human brain, but they can never use its full potential."
Noa nodded pensively, absorbing So-Rin's explanation. It made logical sense for Infrablack to proactively address potential threats, but he couldn't shake off a sense of unease regarding the increasing intelligence of machines.
He surveyed the bright, white room through the glass. The specialists in scrubs were talking to each other, seemingly discussing about something important.
His attention was drawn to a middle-aged man lying on a surgical table at the room's center, his eyes closed.
"What exactly are they doing?" Noa's curiosity peaked.
"They are conducting tests on the transhumanism project we discussed earlier," So-Rin explained. "They are currently developing a BCI."
Noa furrowed his brow. "What is that?"
"BCI stands for Brain Computer Interface. It's supposed to enhance cognitive abilities in humans, granting access to vast amounts of information, just like Androids. It also enables telepathic communication among its users, eliminating the need for verbal exchange," So-Rin elaborated.
Nodding in understanding, Noa observed the ongoing procedure. "So, they're implanting a prototype of the BCI into that man?"
"Exactly," So-Rin confirmed. "Once today's inauguration is done, it's highly likely that the BCI will be mass-produced."
"It's a promising project for improving communication, I suppose. No more need for headsets," Noa concluded, contemplating the potential benefits.
"Indeed. However, it also provides Infrablack with a means to gain complete control over our minds. The system could potentially intercept and monitor all telepathic conversations," So-Rin warned.
"Damn. I'm starting to feel an intense urge to shoot Infrablack in the head," Noa expressed his frustration.
"Patience. Our time will come, remember?" So-Rin reminded him.
"You're right," No begrudgingly agreed.
The lights were turned off, leaving only the surgical lights focused on the man's body. The specialists inside had serious expressions as they efficiently prepared for the intricate procedure, meticulously checking their equipment to ensure everything was in order.
Breaking the silence, the leader of the team addressed them. "Okay, everyone, let's begin."
On that cue, the team sprang into action. One specialist carefully shaved the patient's head, while another inserted an IV line to administer anesthesia. A third connected monitoring devices to the patient, ready to track vital signs and brain activity throughout the procedure.
The man in white coat leaned over the patient, his focus unwavering as he skillfully inserted the small neural implant into the patient's brain. This implant would establish a direct neural link with the computer's basic interface, allowing the patient to access data and information.
While he did all that, the man in white coat calmly directed his team, calmly guiding their movements with confidence. Despite the complexity of the procedure, things proceeded smoothly as each step was executed with meticulous care.
Finally, the implant was securely in place, and the team stepped back to observe the patient's vital signs. Gradually, the patient began to regain consciousness, his eyes fluttering open.
"It seems the procedure was successful," Noa remarked, turning to So-Rin for confirmation.
"Yes, we have tested it before, and the implant worked," So-Rin replied.
Noa's brow furrowed. "But is it safe?"
"For now, it appears to be safe. However, we need to monitor its long-term effects to be certain," So-Rin admitted, shrugging.
Noa contemplated this information. "Like?"
"Well, we have only conducted short-term tests. Extended monitoring is necessary to ensure there are no adverse effects. Once we have gathered sufficient data, it will be really mass-produced for the entire world.," So-Rin explained.
"I understand. It's best to be cautious."
Noa marveled at the advanced technology before him, but a sense of unease tingled at the back of his mind. Living within a system and being controlled was not a path humans typically sought. Freedom had always been a driving force for humanity.
Seeing the worry on Noa's face, So-Rin leaned to Noa and spoke in a low voice, "Perhaps you don't have to worry that much. As you already know, your chip is special. BCI utilizes the H-SIM to interact with our brain."
Noa turned to So-Rin, their faces near each other, as he replied with a whisper, "But we're not sure about that. This current version of BCI is something new."
So-Rin pulled away and changed the topic. "We have one more new project."