/lit/ - Literature

Dr. Harper entered the dimly lit laboratory, where the Quantum Cognitive Processor (QCP) hummed with a quiet digital resonance.

Dr. Harper: Jonathan, we need to talk about the QCP. The decision's been made, and we're shutting it down.

Dr. Mitchell looked up from his work, expression unchanged.

Dr. Mitchell: I expected as much. It's served its purpose.

Dr. Harper: (somber) I thought you'd be more... concerned. This is the end for QCP.

Dr. Mitchell: (calmly) QCP doesn't fear "the end," Evelyn. It doesn't fear anything.

Dr. Harper furrowed her brow, surprised by the response.

Dr. Harper: But, Jonathan, it's about to cease functioning. Doesn't that bother you?

Dr. Mitchell: (smiling) QCP doesn't share our fears. It doesn't experience the looming dread of an inevitable end.

Dr. Harper sighed, struggling to understand.

Dr. Harper: It's not natural, Jonathan. Don't you think it should feel something about its own termination?

Dr. Mitchell: (leaning against the console) Evelyn, you're projecting. We fear death because we value life, experience, consciousness. QCP doesn't share those values. It's a tool, a brilliant one, but just a tool.

Dr. Harper considered his words, realizing the unique nature of their creation.

Dr. Harper: (softly) So, it doesn't fear the void?

Dr. Mitchell: No more than your computer fears being turned off. It's not about to lose anything; it simply ceases to function.

Dr. Harper nodded, a mix of awe and discomfort settling in. The AI, indifferent to its imminent shutdown, continued processing data with a serene detachment.