She pulled up her tablet and mirrored it to the main screen.
"Aether OS includes a scientific research module. Advanced simulation software, AI-assisted analysis, data processing tools. It covers all scientific disciplines—materials science, chemistry, biology, physics, engineering."
She opened the module. The interface appeared on screen. Molecular modeling tools. Genetic sequencing simulators. Physics engines. Data visualization systems.
"This is professional-grade research software. The kind universities pay millions for. And we're including it free with Aether OS."
The room was silent.
"Free?" David asked. "We could monetize this. Universities would pay—"
"No," Cassia said firmly. "This was Orion's decision. The scientific module is free because it's important for humanity's development. It accelerates technological progress. We monetize the AI subscriptions. The research tools stay free."
FLASHBACK - YESTERDAY MORNING
