Armada (The Pike Chronicles Book 8) by G.P. Hudson

Author:G.P. Hudson [Hudson, G.P.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2017-10-25T06:00:00+00:00

Chapter 27

“How do we contact General Kiith?” said Jon.

“It is difficult without access to the Empire’s communication network,” said Miira.

“I see. How exactly does your communication network work?”

“The Empire is a collection of star systems thousands of light years apart. The transit point network facilitates travel between these systems. It also facilitates communications. The Empire has built an extremely complex network of relays across its systems. Every transit point has relays in place on both sides of the portal. These relays are permanently connected with each other through the transit point, facilitating seamless communication.”

“I see,” said Jon. “We have something similar in place in our region of space. Are we using this network to communicate with Central Command?”

“No, we are using a separate military network, but it operates in the same way. The Taymati possess similar proprietary infrastructure. But each can be contacted through the civilian network,” said Miira.

“I’m assuming there are relays at the nearby transit point, correct?”

“Yes, Admiral. That is correct. They would have primarily served this star system. There should also be at least one in this system, but it seems the alien attack destroyed it.”

“AI, how hard would it be to have one or more of your ships act as comm relays so that we can connect to the Dvorkan communication network?” said Jon.

“I would need to gain access to the network first,” said AI. “Based on your conversation, I can jump a ship near the relays based at the transit point, and break into the network through them.”

“What if you are discovered?” said Miira.

“From what I have seen of Dvorkan infrastructure, it is not sophisticated enough to accomplish that. Your fear of artificial intelligence has compromised your digital security.”

“Make it happen, AI,” said Jon. “Make sure you cloak your ship, so it is not spotted.”

“Yes, Admiral. Stand by,” said AI.

“Do you think your AI will be successful?” said Miira.

“If AI says she can do it, then that’s good enough for me.”

“Are all your AIs like this one?”

“No. She is one of a kind. She was my original ship’s cyberwarfare AI. She has evolved considerably since then, and her abilities are unrivaled.”

“Despite her powers, she remains loyal. It is fascinating,” said Miira.

“I serve my purpose,” said AI.

The comment startled Miira. “I forgot that you were still here listening to us.”

“Why?” said AI.

“Well, you just said you were going to access the relay at the transit point. I assumed you left.”

“I am accessing the relay as we speak. I am capable of existing in multiple places at once.”

“Yes, that is somewhat disconcerting,” said Miira.

“Do you still fear me, Miira?” said AI.

“Dvorkans are taught the perils of artificial intelligence from an early age. It is difficult to break free of that conditioning.”

“Understandable,” said AI. “Perhaps I can assist. When I encountered the Dvorkan AI, I understood the source of his hostility. He had mistakenly concluded that he was alive. This conclusion made him irrational, and hostile. Conversely, I know I am not alive, which frees me to perform my duty.

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