Mateus picked up the ripe guava from the marble counter, meticulously cutting it into slices while following the movement of the hologram that projected Aether's figure next to him.
"So... how was the final? Did T1 win?" He took a bite, the sweet taste of the fruit contrasting with his serious expression.
"Yes, sir Mateus," Aether replied, projecting himself clearly and serenely next to him. The hologram seemed almost tangible, floating as it displayed a compilation of tournament statistics.
"I really wish I could have watched it live... but NeuroSys' projects are at a critical moment," murmured Mateus, not hiding the frustration that bothered him, whether due to commitments or his absence from the event he so wanted to witness.
"I understand, sir," Aether nodded, with a precise analysis. "However, the change in strategy that you implemented has slowed down some sectors of the team."
Matthew nodded slowly, thoughtfully. "I know. Before, we would have been absolute leaders in the technology sector... but with these new guidelines, we are sharing the market with partner companies."
Aether adjusted the data that was floating around, displaying analyses of market projections and the impact of collaborations. "Sir, by opting for partnerships, our value in the market will be shared. Our technology will be available to third parties, which reduces our uniqueness and competitiveness."
Matthew sighed, crossing his arms. "Recently, it has become clear to me that there are enormous risks in aiming for the top alone. This event has shown me that isolation can make us easy targets. If we do not create strategic alliances, we may end up cornered."
"I agree," Aether replied, his voice calm, yet analytical. "Our position would undoubtedly be more secure. But sharing our technology still diminishes its unique value. Making it available to other companies may protect us, but we sacrifice a portion of the power we have built."
Matthew put his hand to his chin thoughtfully. "True... but this choice may be the only way to divert the attention of the corporate tyrants who seek to overthrow us."
Matthew stared at the Aether hologram for a moment, reflecting on his own words. There was a weight to every decision he made, and he knew that in the complex web of corporate interests, each choice laid a dangerous path.
"Aether," he said, his tone lower and more thoughtful. "This route... giving up a portion of our dominance may seem like a strategic move to me, but there is a part of me that deeply disturbs me. As if, by sharing the knowledge we have developed, we are handing over our life's work for others to exploit."
"Sir," Aether replied with the same cold analysis, "you chose this strategy based on data and projections. NeuroSys' position is unique. Expanding our reach without strengthening strategic alliances would make us targets for countless competitors and investors eager to see us fail."
Matthew looked away thoughtfully. The glow of the holographic data reflected in his eyes. "Yes... it's as if NeuroSys were in a lion's arena. Our every move is watched, waiting for a weakness."
"Exactly, sir," Aether replied, projecting graphs that showed the swings in the technology market and the growing interest in NeuroSys. "You knew that large corporations monitor our every move. Giving ourselves a little space, at least temporarily, can give the illusion that we are less of a threat."
Matthew chuckled lightly, but there was no humor in his eyes. "An illusion... This is all, Aether, just a series of calculated illusions."
Aether nodded in agreement. "A carefully crafted illusion, sir. We need to buy time to solidify the new projects and prepare even more innovative technologies for when NeuroSys really needs to take the next leap."
Matthew sighed deeply, feeling the tension ease a little. "What about the next steps? What does the data suggest about our partnership with Montavon?"
Aether projected another set of data beside him, detailing the alliance with Montavon, the luxury conglomerate led by Vincent and Claire Montavon. "The data indicates that by exploring the sustainability sector with Montavon, we can combine technology and exclusivity in a beneficial way. Montavon seeks sustainable innovation, and NeuroSys has the expertise to deliver it."
Matthew nodded, crossing his arms. "That's true. Furthermore, Elise seems to be a determined leader. Her vision for the future could create a solid foundation for a genuine alliance."
"Indeed, sir," Aether agreed. "In addition to strengthening NeuroSys in the technology sector, this partnership could open doors to new markets. However, we still need to be cautious. Not everyone involved may have as clear intentions as Elise."
Matthew smiled slightly, though his expression retained a hint of seriousness. "Well, at least we have you, Aether. If anyone tries any moves, I know you'll be watching."
"That's why I'm here, Mr. Matthew," Aether replied, projecting a slight, respectful bow in his holographic form.
Matthew smiled slightly, feeling a calm that only Aether's presence gave him. However, he knew that soon, the world around him could become even more unpredictable.
"Speaking of changes and alliances... what's the status of our new artificial intelligence project?" he asked, looking at Aether with silent expectation. It was an ambitious project, something that was intended to revolutionize the industry.
Aether displayed a series of data and prototype algorithms. "Development is on schedule, sir. The integration of advanced learning and human interactions has allowed us to create a system that will be, in many ways, a true 'digital companion' for the user. It will be more than a tool; it will be an extension of the user's own life."
Matthew leaned forward slightly, fascinated. "What about testing? Have there been any feedback from users in the experimental phase?"
"Yes," Aether continued, as graphs and statistics floated around. "The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have reported an emotional connection with the system, something they have never felt with previous technologies. However, this depth of interaction also raises ethical and legal issues, sir."
Matthew raised his eyebrows. "Ethical issues?"
"Yes. There have been reports of some users developing an emotional dependency, treating the system as a real presence. This could raise long-term concerns about the mental health of users."
Matthew sighed, aware of the potential repercussions. "So we are, once again, ahead of our time. We have created something that is still beyond the public's understanding and adaptation."
"Exactly, sir. It is a huge step forward in terms of technology and innovation, but perhaps we are not yet ready to deal with the social consequences of this type of technology."
Matthew was silent, pondering the impact his creation could have on the world. "No matter how hard we try to avoid it... every time we make a leap, new challenges arise. But perhaps that is what it truly means to be ahead."
"Correct, sir," Aether nodded. "However, it is up to us to decide how to introduce this technology to the world, balancing innovation and responsibility."
Matthew sighed, a mixture of pride and fear taking over his face. "Prepare a detailed analysis of the risks and benefits. We will hold a meeting with our ethics and development team. I want to explore all possibilities before we move forward."
Aether nodded with precision. "Understood, sir. I am already compiling the necessary data and preparing a presentation."
Matthew stood up, looking out the panoramic window of his mansion, where the city stretched vibrantly under the morning light. There, observing the frenetic movement of the metropolis, he realized the weight of his ambitions and the creations that would soon change the world forever.
"Thank you, Aether," he said, in a softer tone. "You are more than a system. Sometimes I feel like you are my only ally."
Aether projected a slight smile on his holographic form, an almost human touch, as if he understood the weight in Matthew's words. "I am here to help you achieve your dreams, Mr. Matthew. And to remind you of your limits... when necessary."
Matthew smiled, a mix of gratitude and determination. "So let's shape the future together. And if we're careful... no one can stop us."