I stared down at my old phone, holding it between my fingers like a relic from a past life. It was a plain black rectangle, scratches along the edges, and the screen had more dead pixels than a broken arcade machine. The buttons were stiff, the battery barely lasted an hour, and the camera? Don't even get me started—it made everything look like it was filmed through a foggy window.
Honestly, it had done its job for simple calls, messages, and occasional internet searches. But now? Compared to my new goals, it was practically useless. No encrypted calls, no hacking capabilities, no ability to tap into databases or track energy signatures.
"Time for an upgrade," I muttered, tossing it onto the hotel desk.
I picked up my old phone and glared at it. "System," I commanded mentally, "strengthen this phone by 100x."
A moment later, a familiar surge of energy coursed through my body, connecting with the device.
The system's cold, emotionless voice echoed in my head
Congratulations, host. Your mobile phone has been strengthened by 100x. You have obtained the AetherLink
Features :
1. Quantum Communication: Can send instant messages across dimensions, bypassing all physical and digital barriers.
2. Holo-Interface: Projects a full 3D holographic interface, capable of interacting with virtual constructs and AI assistants simultaneously.
3. AI Combat Companion: Integrated AI can predict opponents' moves, hack systems, and even control nearby electronics autonomously.
4. Reality Scanner: Detects hidden enemies, traps, illusions, and energy signatures in a 50-mile radius.
5. Nano-Defense Matrix: Phone generates a personal shield when in danger, can block bullets, energy blasts, and physical attacks.
6. Self-Replication: Can create temporary backup copies of itself to ensure you're never offline or unprepared.
7. Energy Manipulation: Converts ambient energy into usable forms—powering itself indefinitely, or firing concentrated energy blasts.
8. Multiverse Dialer: Can locate and call alternate universe versions of individuals, with optional messaging across timelines.
9. Adaptive Learning: The more it's used in combat or strategy, the smarter it becomes, eventually surpassing human-level intellect.
"This… this is insane," I murmured, impressed even by my own creation
I held the upgraded phone. With a mental nudge, I activated the holographic interface. The screen expanded into a floating grid of information streams, maps, and live feeds.
"AetherLink, locate Dr. Connors in New York," I whispered.
The phone hummed, sending out signals through every network, scanning Oscorp databases, public surveillance, and even private lab signals. Within seconds, a 3D model of the city appeared in front of me, pulsating with energy signatures. One hotspot glowed brighter than the rest—Oscorp Tower.
A window popped up: Dr. Curtis Connors – Present location: Oscorp Genetics Lab, 7th floor, wing B. Current status: working with experimental serum. Heart rate normal. No immediate threats detected.
I smirked. "Piece of cake."
I tapped a few holographic icons on the phone, fingers hovering over the air like a maestro. The screen projected a 3D schematic of Oscorp, highlighting Dr. Connors' current location. With a flick of my wrist, I activated the comm link.
"Calling… Dr. Curtis Connors," the phone announced in a calm, digital tone.
The line rang once… twice… three times. Then a voice, calm but slightly wary, came through:
> "Hello? This is Dr. Connors. Who's calling?"
I leaned back in my chair, smirking. "Dr. Connors, good afternoon. I hear you're working on some fascinating research. I'd like to discuss a potential… collaboration."
> "Collaboration? With whom exactly?" he asked, cautious.
"Let's just say… a fellow enthusiast of regenerative science," I replied, letting my words drip with intrigue. "I'm in New York and would love to meet in person. I have an idea that could help your work tremendously."
There was a pause on the other end, the kind that carried both curiosity and suspicion.
> "I don't usually meet strangers about research ideas. What's your interest?"
I chuckled softly. "Call it… mutual benefit. I can enhance your serum, make it more effective. I'm not asking for anything in return—at least, not yet. But I think you'll find my methods… convincing."
Another pause. Then:
> "Alright… I'll meet you. But I warn you, I'm very protective of my work. Don't try anything funny."
"Of course, Dr. Connors. I wouldn't dream of it," I said smoothly. "Let's meet at Oscorp—your lab, 7th floor, wing B. Say, in thirty minutes?"
> "Fine. Thirty minutes," he agreed reluctantly.
I ended the call and leaned back, grinning. The phone buzzed with notifications, running predictive algorithms on Dr. Connors' reactions and movements. "Perfect," I whispered. "He's curious… desperate… and cooperative enough for me to step in. Time to put this plan into action."