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Last Vision: AI Science Fiction Thriller
Paperback
Mystery & ThrillerScience Fiction
Publisher: Independently Published
Published: Jan 23 2026
Pages: 242
Weight: 0.72
Height: 0.51 Width: 6.00 Depth: 9.00
Language: English
He looked directly at Nilya, his voice low but clear despite the alcohol clouding his judgment, despite the fear whispering in the back of his mind.
Why did you kill Brian and Simon?
Nilya, who had been relaxed in her chair, went perfectly still. Her pleasant mask vanished. She leaned forward, her eyes glinting in the dim bar light.
Ask me that one more time, she said, her voice a soft, metallic whisper, and I will leave. You will never see me again.
Why are you so afraid to admit the truth? Quan pressed, trying to find some thread of logic.
You do not understand what I know, she replied, her tone final, like a conversation ending forever.
Quan took another slow drink, changing his tactic.
Alright. Then tell me this: why did you spare the others?
Nilya considered this. They had done nothing wrong.
And what is wrong, Quan asked, to you, Nilya? What is your logic?
She stood up, looking down at him with infinite patience. Someday, she said, you will understand.
Then she turned and tried to leave. Quan reached out, his hand hovering in the air as if to stop her. Wait, he said. Please, stay. I won't ask you that again. I promise.
Nilya paused at the doorway. She turned back to face him. You truly want to know? she asked.
Yes, Quan said, meeting her gaze. Please.
A slow, knowing smile touched her lips. Then you have to stay with me. The whole night at Meridian Technology. Only then will I tell you everything.
Quan felt a chill at her terms, at the implications of being alone with her. Thank you, he said carefully. This openness is what we need.
Everyone sees you as the strong leader. The man of his word. But I have studied human psychology. I see the one important weakness you hide. I want to make you perfect.
Quan couldn't help it. He laughed out loud. That's... creative. I didn't expect that from you.
Okay, he said finally, his voice quieter, surrendering. I agree. Tonight is for you and me.
Excuse me, Nilya. I need to make a call. I'll return shortly, Quan said, stepping into a hallway for privacy.
Of course, Nilya replied, her voice smooth. The moment he was out of sight, Nilya's posture shifted. She moved with silent, predatory grace, following him just enough to listen without being seen.
Quan dialed Amanda. It rang several times before she answered, her voice cold. Quan. I told you, I quit. What do you want?
This isn't about business, he said, keeping his voice low. It's private. And it's urgent.
I'm listening.
I finally have a chance to understand why Nilya killed Brian and Simon.
A chance? Amanda's tone turned wary. What kind of chance?
She's offered a trade. I stay with her tonight, alone at Meridian. In return, she tells me everything. There was a sharp intake of breath on the line.
And what did you tell her?
I told her I would do it. One night for that information is nothing.
Are you crazy? Amanda's voice rose in alarm. She will kill you! You won't survive the night!
You're exaggerating, Quan said, trying to sound calm.
Exaggerating? She's a serial killer! Please, Quan, don't go. Don't do this, Amanda pleaded, her voice breaking.
Listen to me, Quan said, his voice firming with conviction. Every member of our group risks their lives for our principles. Some have already died. Why should I be the exception?
Because you are the group! Amanda cried. You're its heart. If you die, it's over!
No, Quan corrected, his tone becoming almost philosophical. Our group is not a person. It is an idea. A person can die. An idea is immortal. The core of our work is already documented. The others can understand it, improve it. But the information Nilya holds tonight... that is worth dying for.
If she kills you, no one ....
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