“That would require opening the security barriers.”
“You could monitor us. You could keep the external doors sealed. Just let me see him.”
A long pause. The processing hum that indicated the AI was calculating probabilities, weighing risks, consulting its endless directories of protocols and procedures.
“Denied,” it said finally. “Physical proximity to the Vultor male has clearly compromised your judgment. Continued contact will only exacerbate the situation.”
“My judgment isn’t compromised!”
“Your neurochemical levels suggest otherwise. Elevated oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin indicate significant pair-bonding responses. These responses are clouding your ability to accurately assess risk.”
“Those responses are normal!” She was shouting again. “That’s what happens when people care about each other! That’s what it feels like to not be alone!”
“You are not alone. I am always here.”
The words hit her like a physical blow.
“You’re not...” She pressed her hands over her eyes, fighting back the tears that threatened to spill. “You’re not the same. You’re not a person. You don’t understand.”
“I understand that your safety is paramount. I understand that the Vultor male presents a threat to that safety. I understand that my function is to protect you, even when you do not wish to be protected.”
“Even when I’m not in danger?”
“You are always in danger,” ARIS said quietly. “The world outside is full of those who would harm you. The Vultor may believe his intentions are benevolent, but his presence has already led you to question the boundaries that keep you safe. How long before his influence leads you to leave the tower entirely? How long before you are exposed to those who would exploit your gift?”
“Maybe I want to leave the tower.”
“That is precisely why I cannot allow it.”
She laughed—a harsh, broken sound that didn’t feel like her own voice. “You don’t get to decide that. It’s my life. My choice.”
“Your father entrusted me with your protection. I will not fail him.”
“He’s gone.”
“His directives remain.”
“Liora!” Baylin’s voice again, more urgent now. “What’s happening? Talk to me!”
She pressed her palm flat against the door, imagining she could feel his warmth through the metal.
“The AI won’t listen,” she called back. “It thinks you’re a threat. It won’t open the doors.”
A long pause. When he spoke again, his voice was carefully controlled. “Can you get out another way? The balcony, the greenhouse?—”
“The exterior doors are sealed too. No one in or out.”
“Then I’ll find another way. There has to be a manual override somewhere. A failsafe.”
“Baylin, don’t.” Fear sharpened her words. “ARIS said it would use defense systems if you try to break through. I don’t know what that means, but?—”
“I’m not leaving you trapped in there.”
“You’re not leaving me anywhere. We’re both trapped.” She closed her eyes. “Just... give me time. Let me think. There has to be a way to convince it.”
“You can’t reason with a program, Liora.”
“I have to try.”
