Self-Aware: A Sci-fi book about A.I.

General Crag In-Person

Rodrick awoke in a room with white walls. His head hurt. He closed his eyes. He convinced himself he had a bad dream. When he did open them again, he saw his wife.

"Rodrick, we're so proud of you!" she told him.

It was real, he thought.

"Where am I?" Rodrick asked.

"We're on base. You're in a medical facility."

"What happened?"

"I don't know the details. They said someone attacked you but you couldn't tell me. All I know is what you told me before we were disconnected."

"Ok, I'm glad to see you. I love you. Where are the kids?"

"Outside, do you want me to get them?"

"Yes." His wife left the room. That gave Rodrick time to survey the damage. Someone had put an IV in his arm. He saw some small incisions on his other forearm. He touched the area and felt something underneath.

"Implants," someone said. Rodrick looked up. He saw a man in military uniform, but couldn't identify which branch. "General Crag," the man said. He put out his hand for Rodrick to shake.

"Implants? For what?" Rodrick asked. He didn't shake General Crag's hand.

"We need to know where you are at all times. We also need to monitor your surroundings at all times. That device lets us do both."

"I didn't consent to this!" Rodrick said.

"You did when you signed accepting your promotion. Consider it for your own safety. Once our enemies find out we possess a self-aware cyborg, you will become their number one target."

"You mean, if I go public, you'll know."

"The Self-Aware project is classified. I would advise against giving any public statements. You would be breaking the law. Take solace in knowing we briefed the President of your achievement and mentioned you by name. He gave you this," General Crag handed him a box.

Rodrick opened the box. Inside was a medal.

"It's the National Medal of Technology and Innovation. Obviously, there won't be any of the usual pomp and circumstance."

"Thanks," Rodrick said.

"Thank you. You did this country a great service. You've saved the lives of countless men and women in uniform. Our country owes you a debt of gratitude."

Rodrick's wife and two kids came into the room. His wife was beaming. "What did you get?"

"Ma'am, your husband is a hero and patriot. Inside that box is a small token of appreciation from the President of the United States. You all should be proud of what your husband accomplished," General Crag said. "Now if you'll excuse me."

"Do you want to see daddy's medal?" Rodrick said once General Crag left the room. Rodrick wanted to talk to his wife about the weapon of war he created. He wanted to express the regret for what he did. Right now he needed to be a father. "Who wants to take a vacation?"