Autonomous

Abstract

Autonomous is set in the future, in the year 2144, and follows character Jack Chen, a former scientist/chemist turned pharmaceutical pirate, who reverse-engineers patented drugs to distribute affordable versions (generic versions) to those in need, and the drugs are then sold in the black market. Jack’s latest endeavour involves an experimental drug by the name of Zacuity, which she steals. This is a productivity-enhancing drug that dangerously compels users to overwork, as they get a good feeling when doing it; however, it leads to severe health consequences and has addictive properties. It is discovered that Zacuity was intentionally engineered to have these effects by a corporation called Zaxy. As the drug’s side effects become apparent and many deaths and hospitalisations occur, Jack becomes a target of the International Property Coalition, a powerful organisation enforcing intellectual property laws. She finds herself trying to run away from the Coalition with the help of Threezed, who was being explored, working without a salary, and managed to escape. Assigned to apprehend Jack are Eliasz, a human agent, and Paladin, a new combat robot. Jack and Threezed eventually meet Med, a robot working autonomously and which has been researching the Zacuity cases on its own. Ultimately, Jack, Threezed and Med are capable of developing RetCon, another drug which is supposed to counteract the effects of Zacuity. However, those who consume RetCon seem to develop an aversion to working. Nevertheless, RetCon becomes a widespread treatment for those addicted to Zacuity.