Prometheus had stabilized. The code was live in over 100 countries. The system was functioning with minimal oversight, thanks to its self-correcting architecture and decentralized governance.
Jason knew this phase wouldn't last forever.
So, he was preparing for the next one: succession.
---
Jason – Personal Vault
In a secured chamber deep below Prometheus HQ, Jason stood before a biometric vault that required his iris, fingerprint, and voice pattern.
The vault hissed open to reveal a sleek black tablet resting on velvet.
On its screen were the words:
> LEGACY PROTOCOL INITIATED
Athena's voice chimed in gently, "Are you sure?"
Jason nodded. "It's time."
He began recording a series of video logs—not for the press, not for his team, but for his son.
The child he didn't even know he had… yet.
---
The Message
> "If you're watching this, it means I'm gone. Not necessarily dead—but I've stepped away.
"This world doesn't need more billionaires. It needs better stewards.
"Prometheus was my answer to the question that haunted me across two lives: What if we could build a world that doesn't punish the good or reward the corrupt?
"You don't have to follow my path. Just… build better ones for others.
"If you do that, I'll be proud of you—wherever I am."
He ended the recording.
It uploaded to the Legacy Node.
Encrypted.
Timed for release… 25 years in the future.
---
Cass – The Quiet Truth
That night, Cass sat beside Jason on the rooftop garden.
He told her everything: the plan, the recordings, the exit strategy.
"You're walking away?" she asked, voice quiet.
"No. I'm walking ahead. Let the system work without me. I'll only get in the way if I stay too long."
Cass didn't argue. She understood. Jason had never really wanted power—he wanted freedom.
And now, so many others would finally have it too.
---
The Next Morning
The press screamed with headlines:
> "Jason Wylde to Step Down as Prometheus Spokesperson"
> "A Billionaire Without a Throne?"
> "Prometheus Now Led by Global Civic Alliance"
Jason didn't give interviews.
He didn't make a final speech.
He simply vanished.
---
Somewhere in Montana
In a cabin surrounded by trees, with no internet, Jason chopped wood.
Cass was inside, reading.
And somewhere nearby, a toddler's laughter echoed through the trees.
The world spun on.
And Jason Wylde—reborn once more—smiled in silence.