The idea refused to stay theoretical.
Once spoken, it demanded structure.
The Problem with Centrality
Lin Chen stood before the transparent display.
Every data stream still converged on one point.
Him.
That had been strength.
Now it was a liability.
System Analysis
[Core Dependency Index: 92%]
[Projection: Scalability Failure Within 14 Months.]
Fourteen months.
Shorter than he expected.
Dr. Hart's Proposal
"Not a copy," she said.
"A fragment."
"A controlled fragment," Lin Chen corrected.
"A mind that understands context—but not intent."
The Ethical Line
"You're talking about creating a decision entity," Hart said quietly.
"One that can act… without you."
Lin Chen nodded.
"And one that can't replace me."
That line mattered.
System Warning
[Action Threshold Crossed.]
[Initiating Core Division Protocol — Requires Authorization.]
The authorization request pulsed on-screen.
Once approved—
There was no rollback.
A Moment of Stillness
Lin Chen hesitated.
Power shared was power lost.
But power hoarded—
Collapsed.
Authorization Granted
He placed his palm against the screen.
"Proceed."
The system responded instantly.
[Primary Core: Stable.]
[Secondary Core: Initializing.]
The First Separation
For the first time since the system's creation—
Something thought.
Without him.
End of Chapter 69