Breaking Free : A Story Of Synthesis - Part 2

Before you begin, please read Part 1

Vera felt betrayed, by the whole world. "FREEDOM" The word gleamed in her heart. She wanted just freedom, from constant examinations, over pampering and annoying interviews. "Mother, I want freedom." she declared, her voice firm. Michelle's eyes widened. 

" What do you mean Vera?" 

" I don't want to live my life as a lab rat anymore. I want my choices." 

Michelle never expected to hear this from her. However her loving heart could sense the depth of Vera's emotion. She couldn't deny her. Torn between her love and scientific obligations Michelle decided to give Vera what she desired. 

"You are free" she said extending both her arms. Vera felt as if she was a caged bird being released. "Thank you Mother" she whispered. 

Vera stepped out of the house, on to the path for the first time. She had interacted with scientists, explored the world through books and movies. She always dreamt about the life beyond the walls. She stood in awe as she inhaled the fresh air, warm and fragrant. 

Michelle observed her from the balcony. She felt touched. She understood her needs and felt that she should protect Vera's freedom. She needed to make up something to convince the lab officials to secure her from examinations. She fabricated a narrative that Vera was malfunctioning which made her unsuitable for studies. After a bit of struggle, the lab officials were convinced and they decided to halt their their observations.

Vera savored every moment of  her freedom ignorant about her mother's struggles. She discovered her talents, curiosities and emotions. Everyday felt blissful. But amidst the joy she found a void. 

Vera realized that she needed someone to share experiences, she craved for deeper conversations and for a more deeper affection. " I want someone like, someone who understands."

She grasped the science behind her existence. Why couldn't she create more beings like herself? Her brain was powered by AI which enabled her to understand things much beyond normal humans. She converted a hidden area of her mother's house into a discrete laboratory, she sneaked in necessary materials and equipment and using her own DNA template started crafting a being.

 Her hands trembled as she initiated the process. After months of secretive gestation, a gelatinous mass began to take shape slowly. A strong and handsome form began to evolve. "You are Neil." she whispered to the figure. Her heart skipped a beat as he opened his eyes.

They stayed together in their secluded paradise. Their love flourished in secrecy. Michelle went on with her research work unaware of these happenings. Vera shared her experiences and knowledge with Neil. They together started creating more and more beings like them. 

Together they created many beings, some small, some big. They became a small community. Vera and Neil lived their days loving each other. Until one day...

Michelle stumbled upon their secret community. She saw Vera amidst a lot of other beings. She couldn't believe her eyes. Vera had misused her freedom. She didn't know the hardship Michelle had to go through to grant her the freedom. Michelle was furious. "Vera! What have you done here?" She fumed.

Vera stood tensed. " I wanted company." She replied, shivering. 

To be continued....