First Contact
Lassen was stretched out on his couch, a novel in hand, while the system buzzed in his mind.
[Host, I've compiled the report you requested. A complete list of spies infiltrated by Geria is ready: names, locations, correspondences—everything is included.]
Lassen put his book down, a lazy smile on his face. "Perfect. I hope it wasn't too hard for you, huh?"
[I exist to fulfill your every whim,] replied the system, its tone dripping with sarcasm. [So, what's your plan?]
Lassen thought for a moment before sitting up slightly in his chair.
"Find me someone in that country who's honest, high-ranking, and influential enough to act on this information."
[An almost impossible task, but I'll try] said the system.
A few seconds later, it continued: [The Director-General of the National Police seems to fit your criteria. An honest, respected man, fully committed to Macro.]
Lassen nodded, satisfied. "Good. Hack his computer. I'll talk to him directly."
[You know, you could start with a polite letter. But no, let's jump straight to hacking. Very well.]
---
On the other side, the Director-General of the Police, a man in his fifties, was poring over reports, his brow furrowed. Suddenly, the screen of his computer went black, replaced by a rudimentary chat platform. Just as he was about to call IT, a message appeared:
> "Calm down, Director."
The Director took a deep breath. He knew that if he replied, he'd open a door to his mysterious interlocutor, but it was already too late to back out. Hesitantly, he typed on his keyboard:
> "Who are you?"
> "That's not very important, but you can call me Mr. X."
The Director's eyes widened. The mysterious genius who had recently captured the world's attention, solved a major mathematical conjecture, and humiliated a famous group of hackers was speaking to him.
> "What do you want?"
> "How about we meet? I have important information to share."
The Director, though wary, replied:
> "If you really are who you claim to be, it would be an honor for me and for the country. But I'll need proof before taking a plane to meet you."
On the other side, Lassen burst out laughing.
"Hahaha! He wants proof. We live in the same country, in the same city, and he's talking about taking a plane!" He shook his head in amusement before letting out a sigh. "People always think geniuses are somewhere far away, when they're right next door."
[May I remind you that I'm the one doing all the work?] the system cut in, breaking Lassen's train of thought.
"Damn system, let me be sentimental for once," Lassen grumbled. Then, turning to Alex, he said, "Set up a meeting with this gentleman tonight. And Alex, go buy a car. Something dark and classy. We're going to use the villa sooner than planned."
[A bold plan] commented the system. [Should I inform the Director that a chauffeur will pick him up?]
"Yes. Let him know he'll be picked up tonight. And make it clear that the outcome of the next war might depend on his decision to come."
---
After receiving Lassen's final message, the Director's computer returned to normal. But the Director paid no attention to it. His mind was flooded with scenarios, ranging from a deadly trap to a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to protect his country.
Finally, he took a deep breath. For Macro, he was willing to take the risk. He began mentally preparing for the meeting.
---
Meanwhile, Lassen, still lounging in his chair, addressed the system.
"System, if I really have to go out tonight, I'll need someone to drive. I'm certainly not wasting my time behind the wheel. And a bodyguard wouldn't hurt either."
[I see where this is going. Would you like me to generate another assistant?]
"Exactly. Make him elegant, intimidating, and discreet. The perfect blend of chauffeur and bodyguard."
[Your imagination is fascinating. Let me work.]
Moments later, a towering figure appeared in the room. A tall, muscular man in a perfectly tailored dark suit stood before Lassen. He had sharp features, a piercing gaze, and an impeccable posture.
"Master" he said in a deep, respectful voice. "I am at your service."
Lassen looked him up and down, clearly impressed.
"Not bad, system. What's his name?"
[I've named him Adrian. He's programmed to meet your needs and ensure your safety.]
Adrian gave a slight bow.
"Very well, Adrian. Tonight, you'll be my driver and bodyguard. Prepare the car Alex is bringing and make sure everything is ready for the meeting."
"Understood, Master" Adrian replied in a neutral tone before leaving the room.
---
When the time for the meeting arrived, a black sedan with tinted windows waited outside an official building. The Director, wearing a dark coat, approached cautiously. The rear door opened automatically, and Adrian, still impassive, stood nearby, waiting for him to enter.
"Please step inside, Director," said Adrian, his voice firm but respectful.
Hesitant, the Director climbed into the car. The luxurious, dark interior added a layer of mystery to the atmosphere. He cast a nervous glance at Adrian, who drove with precise control.
"Will… Mr. X be there?" the Director asked hesitantly.
Adrian remained silent, focused on the road. After a few minutes, he finally replied:
"You'll see him soon."
The Director, still wary, couldn't help but feel his excitement build. Who was this mysterious man willing to meet him in person?