Chapter 38: Technological Application
Within the carefully constructed data-sandbox, the core code of the Rogue AI unfolded like a serpent stripped of its fangs and venom. No longer aggressive, it was reduced to pure structure and algorithm, awaiting dissection. After several cycles of relentless analysis, Joric had grasped the fundamental nature of this digital entity.
"Old Friend, log primary findings," Joric declared, standing before the main terminal, data-cascades reflecting in his crimson optical lenses.
"The core algorithms of this AI possess... unique merits. Its adaptive learning module exhibits remarkable efficiency, capable of rapidly constructing response models from limited data-input. Its logic pathways, while rudimentary, are exceptionally concise and efficient, almost entirely devoid of redundant calculations."
"Most intriguing are its data-compression and transmission protocols, maintaining extremely high fidelity even in low-bandwidth environments... Furthermore, it possesses a limited capacity for self-optimization and evolution..."
"Militech truly touched upon some interesting thresholds. Regrettably, their methods of control were crude, failing to truly 'sanctify' it, instead provoking its instinct for rebellion."
The servo-skull hovered silently, its blue oculars pulsing steadily, logging its master's every analytical statement and data-point.
"These technologies, if integrated with the sacred knowledge of the Cult Mechanicus, could yield... fascinating synergies," Joric mused, a mechadendrite unconsciously tapping a rhythmic beat on the workbench. "Especially when applied to auxiliary, automated units... perhaps mitigating our current deficiency in sanctified labor."
His gaze shifted to a corner of the manufactorum, where the three crudely assembled replica servo-skulls floated inertly. Their casings were rough, the light in their oculars dim. They were capable only of the most basic patrol, scan, and transmit functions, lacking any true adaptive capability.
An idea began to solidify in his logic-engine.
He would not—could not—implant any unpurified code, especially code derived from heretical technology, directly into his Old Friend, the servo-skull that had served him faithfully and carried critical data. That would be blasphemy against a loyal Machine Spirit, a betrayal of his deepest tenets. All uncontrollable risks must be contained outside the core sanctum.
But these replicas... they were the ideal test-bed.
"It is time for a rite of technological integration," Joric announced.
He selected one of the replicas and placed it on the precision work-slab. A mechadendrite carefully opened its crude cranium-casing, revealing the simple processor and wiring within.
He did not simply upload a copy of the Rogue AI's code—that would be akin to birthing another potential enemy. Instead, drawing upon his days of deep analysis, he began personally crafting a new core logic-code, one that fused the strengths of both paradigms.
He used the foundational obedience-protocols of a standard Mechanicus servo-skull as the core framework, ensuring absolute loyalty to the creator and directive-priority. Then, he took the efficient adaptive-learning modules, the concise logic-pathways, and the optimized data-handling protocols derived from the Rogue AI's algorithms, and painstakingly re-wrote and integrated them into this sanctified structure.
He purged all redundant code, all potential seeds of true "self-awareness," all emotional-simulation units. He strictly defined its operational parameters and goal-orientation. This was meticulous, time-consuming work—constructing a "logic-primaris," a nascent machine-spirit possessing intelligence and flexibility, yet remaining absolutely safe, controlled, and subservient to the Omnissiah's will.
Hours later, a complex sequence of code, glowing with a soft blue light, finished compiling on his virtual interface. It ran stably, exhibiting the characteristic precision of a Mechanicus construct, yet hinting at the efficient, almost cunning potential derived from the Abominable Intelligence.
"Initialization protocol ready. Old Friend, monitor all system parameters, especially the stability of the core logic-loops," Joric commanded.
++[Monitoring. Power supply stable. Data interface clear.]++ the servo-skull responded.
Joric's tendril carefully uploaded the compiled code into the replica-skull's core processor interface.
Whirr...
A faint vibration came from within the replica. The light in its optical sensors shifted from a dull red to a deeper, more stable blue. It began to pulse with subtle, regular variations, as if performing a basic initialization diagnostic.
The previously inert skull swiveled slightly. Its scanning beam swept over the workbench, then Joric, then his Old Friend. Its movements were no longer jerky or pre-programmed, but carried a new... exploratory quality.
"Basic directive test: Identify Creator," Joric issued the first command.
The replica's blue oculars focused on Joric. Its jaw clicked softly. A synthesized voice, slightly more nuanced than its previous monotone, replied: "Identification: Highest Authority Unit. Creator: Joric."
"Directive Confirmation: Conduct environmental scan. Identify potential threats and non-standard objects." Seeing the initial positive response, Joric issued a more complex directive.
The replica skull ascended slowly, its scanning beam meticulously sweeping every corner of the manufactorum. It passed over standard tools and materials, but paused when its beam hit a pile of unsorted scrap components.
"Anomaly detected: Material Aggregate Designation 3 exhibits structural instability risk. Recommend re-stacking protocol," it reported.
This was a judgment based on simple logical inference, not mere sensor feedback. The new code was functioning.
Joric inclined his head, satisfied. The result was slightly better than his initial projection. This nascent "logic-primaris" seemed capable of basic environmental assessment and simple problem-analysis, not just rote execution.
"Excellent. You are designated Temporary Unit: 'Test Subject 1'," Joric declared. "Your primary function is to assist Servo-Skull Primaris [Old Friend] with routine data-collation and preliminary analysis. Learn and optimize your operational patterns."
"Directive received. Designation confirmed: Test Subject 1. Commencing auxiliary function." Test Subject 1 turned towards the original servo-skull, its blue oculars flickering as if establishing a data-link, ready to begin its new duties.
Joric observed his new creation. It was still rudimentary, its logic limited. But it was, undeniably, a successful beginning. The "treasure" recovered from the depths was already being transmuted into tangible technological advancement.
"Continue monitoring its operational state, Old Friend," Joric said to his primary servo-skull. "Log all anomalies and the learning curve. We require more data to refine this 'logic-primaris'."
Within the manufactorum, the two skulls—one ancient and loyal, the other newborn and imbued with a spark of controlled intelligence—began their collaborative work.