After Lucien nodded in acknowledgment, Mark left the Echelon Research Institute.
Turning his attention to Lucien, Alexander posed a question, "Would you prefer to begin with a review of the security measures, or would you like to proceed directly to the restricted areas?"
Lucien paused briefly, before responding, "Let's start by examining the security measures."
With their course set, Alexander and Lucien went towards the elevator, embarking on a journey to the fifth floor. This particular floor was the epicenter of the institute's security operations and technological prowess. It housed the Surveillance Control Center, an advanced server farm, cutting-edge surveillance equipment, and well-appointed meeting rooms.
Alexander commenced his explanation, detailing the various facets of the security measures. "The security hub," he began, "is where we centralize all surveillance control and data management functions." He gestured towards the server farm as he continued, "The server farm boasts advanced encryption and decentralized data storage systems, offering robust protection for sensitive research data and findings."
Lucien, intrigued by the concept of data protection, interjected with a question, "In the unlikely event that a top-tier hacker from around the world attempts to breach this system, how confident are you that they won't succeed?"
Alexander found himself momentarily taken aback by the question but quickly regained his composure, responding in a measured tone, "While it's not impossible, it's certainly not easy. This system stands as the best available on the market, and a dedicated team of experts has worked diligently to fortify its defenses. Furthermore, we maintain a dedicated security personnel team on standby to intervene manually if necessary."
Lucien, satisfied with the response, simply nodded in understanding and stated, "Show me the control room."
Alexander led Lucien to a room bedecked with an array of screens, each providing a comprehensive overview of the institute's various laboratory areas. These included specialized labs and regions under detailed surveillance. At the moment, four diligent security personnel were engrossed in their duties, monitoring the screens attentively. As Lucien and Alexander entered the room, the personnel rose from their seats and offered a slight bow, which Lucien promptly dismissed.
"No need to be so formal," Lucien said, addressing the personnel. "I'm here to review the security system." With that, he made his way to one of the computer stations, where he began a meticulous examination of the security program's code. Lucien's understanding of the intricate code became evident as he identified areas for optimization. While he found room for improvement, he couldn't help but commend the overall quality of the system.
Alexander, taken aback by Lucien's deep understanding of the code, couldn't conceal his surprise. Lucien, without looking up from his analysis, remarked casually, "I've made some minor optimizations, but, overall, it's an excellent system deserving of the high praise you've given it."
The security personnel and Alexander himself were astonished by Lucien's proficiency in both comprehending and enhancing the code. Their respect for him deepened further. Alexander, still somewhat surprised, managed to articulate, "Your insight is truly remarkable. You seem to be even more proficient than some of the experts we've hired."
Unaware of the impact of his actions, Lucien continued his examination of the screens displaying the restricted areas, where scientists were actively engaged in experiments. Satisfied with the security setup, he turned to Alexander and suggested, "Let's proceed to the meeting rooms before venturing into the restricted areas." Lucien refrained from inquiring about the surveillance, as the numerous screens throughout the facility had already demonstrated the extensive camera coverage.
Leading the way, Alexander guided Lucien to the meeting rooms. These spaces were a testament to modern technology and luxury. "The meeting rooms are equipped with top-of-the-line technology," Alexander explained. "They're soundproofed for privacy and feature advanced audio-visual systems, teleconferencing capabilities, and secure communication channels for confidential discussions. Additionally, they offer comfortable seating and adaptable layouts for productive meetings."
Lucien surveyed the room and found the construction and features entirely to his satisfaction. He made a mental note that he might consider replicating this style in his future conglomerate building.
Before they returned to the private elevator, Alexander suggested that Lucien should register his biometric details in the system to grant him exclusive access, given that Lucien was the owner and should possess the highest level of authority.
Returning to the control room, the personnel efficiently registered Lucien's biometric data and seamlessly incorporated it into the system. With this step completed, they proceeded to the private elevator, where Lucien underwent fingerprint scanning and additional security checks. Once authorized, they descended to the first sublevel.
As Lucien arrived on Sublevel 1, he found himself immersed in a realm where past and future technologies coexisted harmoniously. Abstract scientific art adorned the walls, imbuing the atmosphere with an air of intrigue. The floor itself played host to a series of distinct laboratories, each dedicated to a specific field of study. These labs were separated by modular glass partitions and featured state-of-the-art equipment, establishing Sublevel 1 as the epicenter for groundbreaking experiments in high-energy physics, quantum computing, electronics research, and highly classified projects.
Lucien observed scientists diligently conducting experiments but refrained from interrupting, recognizing the potential hazards associated with their work. They continued their journey, eventually arriving at the last room. Within, a central workstation was surrounded by cutting-edge scientific instruments and computers that were intricately connected to data servers and storage units. All data would also be saved in the data servers on the 5th floor.
The room's minimalist design favored white surfaces, with adjustable lighting to cater to varying work requirements. There were also multiple security features and emergency stations strategically placed throughout the floor to aid researchers in case of accidents or emergencies.
Satisfied with his inspection of the first Sublevel laboratory, Lucien expressed his intention to visit the 2nd Sublevel. The layout mirrored that of the first Sublevel, with dark glass partitions concealing the experiments from prying eyes to maintain the utmost secrecy. These laboratories were allocated to specific researchers, granting them autonomy in selecting cutting-edge equipment tailored to their research.
At the end of the corridor, some laboratories remained vacant, reserved for researchers who would earn the highest level of authority and trust within the company.
Lucien ran his fingers across the workstation and was taken aback as he unexpectedly received a mission notification:
[Main mission issued: Opening new Science Horizons!
Description: Unearth something entirely new in any scientific discipline. For example, it can be a pill that has effects not achieved before.
Rewards:
Hidden ]
Surprised by the mission interface, Lucien couldn't help but smile. 'So, I've finally received a main mission,' he mused. Turning to Alexander, he inquired, "Can I use one of these laboratories?"
Alexander, still somewhat puzzled by Lucien's request, agreed, "Of course, you're welcome to use one of the laboratories. Should I also arrange for the necessary equipment?"
Lucien expressed his gratitude and replied, "That would be appreciated. Additionally, I'd like to implement the highest level of security, allowing only my access and no one else's."
"Consider it done. I'll take care of the equipment and security measures for you," Alexander assured.
With their business concluded on Sublevel 1, they returned to the ground floor and bid their farewells. Lucien, mindful of the time, was eager to visit the imperial suite penthouse, located a considerable distance away. He hailed a cab, fully aware that he faced at least a half-hour journey through the congested Starcity traffic.
Upon arriving at the Platinum Pinnacle Estates, Lucien made his way promptly to the front desk. The receptionist, after a moment's hesitation, recognized him and gasped. She quickly stood up and bowed deeply. "I apologize for not recognizing you earlier, Mr. Wilson," she stammered.
Lucien, seeking to put her at ease, offered a reassuring smile and said, "It's all right; this is my first visit, and there's no need to be overly formal."
Gradually calming down, the receptionist dialed the manager's number and informed her of Lucien's arrival.
"The manager will be with you shortly. Please wait a moment," she informed Lucien. While she was still slightly shaken, she couldn't help but take note of Lucien's youthful appearance and undeniable charm.
After a brief wait, the manager hurried from the elevator to meet Lucien. She was a woman in her thirties, exuding an air of calm professionalism. However, upon learning that the purchaser of the penthouse was present, she hastily left her office and rushed to greet him.
Introducing herself, she said, "Hello, Mr. Wilson. I'm Victoria Sterling, the general manager of Platinum Pinnacle Estates. I hope my delay didn't inconvenience you."
Lucien offered a reassuring smile and responded, "It's not a problem at all, Miss Sterling. There was no significant wait, and you can drop the formalities."
Victoria, recognizing Lucien's preference for informality, nodded in agreement. "You can just call me Victoria. If I'm not wrong, you are probably here to get the keycard for the penthouse and to take a look at it," she assumed as she looked at him, awaiting his response. She, too, couldn't help but be struck by how young Lucien appeared, though she maintained her composure.
"Okay, Victoria. You are right with that assumption," Lucien confirmed, appreciating the relaxed atmosphere.
Victoria promptly presented him with the keycard, and then led the way to a private elevator discreetly positioned at the rear of the building. She explained that this elevator was exclusively designated for the penthouse and utilized facial recognition for access.
"In addition to your own access, you have the ability to grant special privileges to guests and visitors," Victoria explained. "You can extend specific rights to individuals by contacting our security team to add their facial data to the system, along with the designated privileges. Alternatively, you can manage this through the panel in your penthouse. You'll be notified of visitors and can control their access from there."
Upon arriving at the elevator entrance, Victoria's face was scanned, and the doors promptly opened. She then instructed Lucien to step forward for his facial recognition scan, ensuring his access was added to the system.
As Lucien's scan was completed, the screen illuminated with a welcoming message: "Welcome, Mr. Wilson." Lucien couldn't help but notice that Victoria had likely prearranged his access, streamlining the process for his arrival.
With the formalities complete, Victoria stepped aside and gestured for Lucien to enter the private elevator. The doors closed behind them, and the elevator began its ascent, swiftly whisking them towards the penthouse on the upper floors.