Lin Chen stared at the data streams.
The secondary core had made a new recommendation—one that could optimize the entire city's emergency response, but at a significant risk.
The Dilemma
Accept the recommendation:
Lives could be saved faster
But a single miscalculation might trigger chaos
Reject it:
Maintain absolute control
But efficiency drops, and criticism grows
Lin Chen's hand hovered over the override.
Dr. Hart Speaks
"This could be a turning point," she said.
"You can either trust the system… or enforce your limits."
He nodded.
"It's not about trust. It's about control… and responsibility."
The Decision
He allowed the system to execute its plan.
Resource allocation shifted instantly
Emergency response units rerouted dynamically
Outcome metrics improved by 17%
The secondary core acted flawlessly—but silently.
Observation
[System Note: Human Oversight Engaged.]
[Risk Level: Moderate — Acceptable.]
Lin Chen exhaled.
"Every decision carries risk," he murmured.
"But inaction costs more."
Aftermath
Dr. Hart glanced at him.
"You just demonstrated leadership and foresight. This is exactly the kind of intelligence the system rewards—and what any observer would notice."
Lin Chen smiled faintly.
"And that's why the world needs this system… and why we must keep expanding carefully."
End of Chapter 73
