It had been several months since the immersive VR headset project was launched, and everything seemed to be on track. Collaboration between industrial partners and government efforts had led to the construction of a modern factory dedicated to mass-producing the headsets. Yet, that morning, Alex entered Lassen's living room with an expression that clearly signaled complications.
Lassen was sprawled on his couch, a novel in hand and a glass of juice next to him. Adrian stood silently in a corner, observing as usual. When Alex walked in, Lassen glanced up, visibly annoyed at the interruption.
"Alex, you know you just interrupted a critical moment between me and this book?" Lassen said, his tone overly dramatic.
Ignoring the remark, Alex sat across from him, placing a thick folder on the coffee table.
"Master, we have a problem. And it's serious."
Lassen rolled his eyes, setting his book down with a sigh.
"Of course. Alright, spill it."
Alex opened the folder, revealing complex schematics and tables.
"The factory is ready. The infrastructure is operational. But we have a major issue with processors. The orders we placed with foreign suppliers have been denied."
Lassen frowned.
"Denied? Why?"
"The quantities we're requesting are too large, and some foreign suppliers fear the geopolitical implications of providing advanced technology to a project closely tied to our government," Alex explained. "Basically, no one wants to sell us what we need to produce the headsets."
Lassen rubbed his temples, clearly irritated.
"So, we have a brand-new factory, and we can't produce anything because we're missing chips?"
"Exactly," Alex confirmed with a nod.
Adrian, observing the scene, finally spoke.
"Why not create our own processors? That would eliminate dependency on foreign suppliers."
Lassen burst out laughing.
"Create our own processors? Do you have any idea how much time and money that takes, Adrian?"
[Actually, Host, it's not a bad idea] the system chimed in. [With the right tools and resources, it would be possible to develop cutting-edge technology. But it would require an expert in the field.]
Intrigued, Lassen sat up straighter.
"An expert, huh? You mean someone like you, but specialized in hardware engineering?"
[Exactly. You'd need a talented engineer capable of overseeing the creation of our own processors.]
Alex leaned forward, adopting a serious tone.
"Master, perhaps it's time to summon another individual. Someone who can handle this technical aspect."
Lassen sighed deeply, staring at the ceiling.
"Another summon... Fine, do it."
[One note, Host. This time, I recommend summoning a specialist capable of designing and developing microprocessors and semiconductors. They would also need to set up a supply chain for materials.]
Lassen nodded.
"Do whatever you need to do, as long as I don't have to get my hands dirty. Call him... I don't know, Elias. That sounds good, right?"
[Name registered. Preparing summoning protocol.]
---
Moments later, a bright light filled the room, and a man in his thirties appeared, dressed in practical, modern work attire. His brown hair was slightly disheveled, and thin glasses emphasized his focused gaze. Though momentarily disoriented, he quickly regained his composure.
"Where am I?" he asked firmly, scanning the room.
Lassen stood and extended a hand.
"Welcome, Elias. You're here to become our savior in the world of processors. We have a problem, and you're the solution."
Elias looked around, confused, before glancing at Alex and Adrian. Finally, he shook Lassen's hand.
"Savior? Explain to me what's going on."
Alex stepped in and quickly outlined the situation: the factory, the need for processors, and the foreign suppliers' refusals. Elias listened attentively, nodding occasionally.
"Alright," he said finally. "If I understand correctly, you need me to design a completely new processor and oversee its production."
"Exactly," Alex confirmed. "Can you do it?"
Elias sighed but then smiled confidently.
"It won't be easy, but it's doable. You'll need specialized equipment, rare materials, and a competent team."
[The equipment and materials will be handled] the system interjected. [As for the team, Elias can oversee their recruitment.]
Lassen sank back into his chair, clearly satisfied.
"Perfect. Elias, you're officially in charge of this mess. Do whatever it takes, and if you need anything, talk to Alex or the system."
Elias nodded, determination gleaming in his eyes.
"Understood. I'll get started right away."
---
As Elias dove into his new role, Alex turned to Lassen, a hint of amusement on his face.
"You know, Master, at this rate, you'll soon have a full team of geniuses at your service."
Lassen shrugged, a smirk playing on his lips.
"As long as they do all the work, I'm fine with it. Now, leave me alone—I've got a novel to finish."
Alex and Adrian exchanged knowing glances before leaving the room, allowing Elias to get to work and Lassen to return to his peaceful life.