Episode VI: Beta Test Read Free

her to invade the GMASS computer system?" Sarah asked.
    I nodded. "Yes, close to, but not in the same way she did for the Veranorian system. Obviously, they did not install the new AI at GMASS before the Synod arrived or we would have heard already. So we're going to give them an upgrade."
    Sarah nodded. "I'll ask her, we're in almost constant contact now. She didn't want me to tell you, but I think she might be nearing her maximum processing capacity. She's had to clone herself quite a bit in order to handle all the tasks being asked of her in addition to her primary duties. The need for more AI is becoming acute. She has clones running each of the core worlds and they in turn have had to clone themselves multiple times. All of that data is feeding back on her."
    "That's not good. That kind of load could damage her, I'll try to create a patch to limit the data feedback, in essence she'll be able to cut a few of the clones loose to handle their own duties until we can get the crystals and programs finished," I replied. "In the meantime, I want a copy of her full usage logs sent to me so I know what areas she needs the most help in. She was never designed for this. In addition to the planetary class and command class crystals, I'll also need a list of the most needed units so we can get them growing. I'll get my team working on getting at least the base framework of the new AI going so we can get those built faster. I'll want to talk to Vance about adding another command class crystal to the list for Galtar Main. That way, when the time comes, we'll be ready for it."
    "Erik, I have a suggestion regarding sister Athena, but I don't know if it will be that much help," Sarah offered.
    That got my attention. "Oh, do you think you might know what's causing her instability?"
    "No, that still confuses me as much as it does you." She paused. "Alicyn once suggested speaking to a mental health professional about the aberration Athena has developed. However, no one is really qualified to understand how our minds work except for you. But there might be someone else that could at least understand the nature of the issue. Clan Therinate also brought their Lore-Keepers. Considering the information First Daughter Shairline brought to us, I thought it might be helpful to speak to one of their Lore-Keepers."
    You know, that actually made a lot of sense. AI code mostly resembled the ancient Shallan computer code, so it was worth a shot at least. It certainly couldn't hurt. "That might be a very good idea, Sarah. At this point, I'll take all the help and advice I can get. Would you please inquire on my behalf if it would be possible for me to speak to one of them on this matter?"
    Sarah smiled. "I thought you would think the idea was nuts! After all you would be asking what amounts to a mystic about how to fix a programming glitch!"
    "Sarah, if it would help, I'd consider sacrificing small furry animals to the Gods of Woodoo at this point!" I admitted, grinning.
    ––––––––
    R esidence of Freyair
    Shallan Sector
    Alliance Apollo Base
    Selene, Earth's Moon
    Sol System
    ––––––––
    T rue to her word, Sarah arranged a meeting with Lore-Keeper Freyair of the Shallan Clan Therinate. I actually thought it might be more difficult, but the new Matriarch had no problem at all with it, apparently, neither did the Lore-Keeper.
    For myself, I had no idea what to expect. I'd had in my mind that this being was like a Shaman or a Mystic. When I got there, the appearance of the residence did nothing to change that image.
    "Enter with peace Lord Eric Cowan and be welcome here." The robed figure that met me at the door said. "Matriarch Andress and AI Sarah have told me of your request to speak with me. How can our ancestors assist you?"
    "Mistress Freyair, I'm having some difficulty with an AI I am working on. Her personality is unstable, yet I cannot find what is causing this. AI Sarah suggested I speak to you about this matter as the