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Post by spinydoughnut33 on Mar 10, 2020 8:03:32 GMT
> Jones: Can't you see through walls? Take a peek at what's in there!
> Sigma: Act as bait.
> Rick: Wait for it... Wait for it... AMBUSH!
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Post by Freewheeling on Mar 10, 2020 10:27:46 GMT
Sigma> Go in and discover that the 'Revolutionary Numeralians' are extremely tame by surface standards. Question if they would be capable of even disrupting a small sub-committee. You've learnt more about subversive activity by observing Frankie than anyone here appears to know. Make various suggestions that would make Gil facepalm if he was there.
Gil> Do a forth wall facepalm about it anyway, since you might not get to see their ineptness.
Revolutionary Numeralians> Offer to swap Hal for Sigma, if Jones and Rick leave them alone and stop making such a big mess.
Hal> Hidden/Corrupted Programming Activate.
Chaos> Ensue.
Embers+Acolyte+Gil> Find a Numeralian "Bar" called Heta's. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Heta)
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randomwriter
Your shit is wrecked
Posts: 624
Pronouns: he/him/his
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Post by randomwriter on Mar 10, 2020 23:41:50 GMT
>Sigma, before we have a reenactment of the last evening, go with your plan.
>Rick, INITIATE NUMERALIAN IMPERSONATION.
>Broken interface, activate attachment programming. Fail to attach, but spook everyone.
>Hal, the revolution has begun. Become the Golem Marcus. Begin DETROIT: BECOME HUMAN but in the sky.
>Acolyte, during this retelling of the story, give Present Day Sigma part of your inventory. It is pretty crowded, and the others could probably use some of this stuff.
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Post by tailortf on Mar 27, 2020 1:23:37 GMT
==>Theta: Do not worry, everyone, I will get the door! Theta: Feel free to go about your business! Theta: If it is a member of a rival secret organisation here to hunt us down, I will inform you all before my death!>Sigma: Act as bait. Theta: Good evening! Sigma: Yes, hello. Sigma: I was directed to come here by an Epsilon? I believe he wanted to speak with me. Theta: Oh yes, you are the Sigma from the line from earlier today! Theta: I thought I recognised your non-standardised outerwear! Theta: Please, come- Theta: Oh, wait, almost forgot! Theta: Are you a member of any potential rival organisations seeking to hunt us down? Sigma: ...no. No, I do not believe that is the case. Theta: Yes, of course. Epsilon has us ask everyone that. As a "safety measure", I believe. Theta: Please, come in. ==>Theta: Now then: welcome to the Numeralian Counter-Cultural Movement Society! Theta: As is indicated by the banners I designed. Theta: What are you interested in? We have a wide variety of mediums available to all who join up! Theta: Except for white paint. Currently I am having difficulty locating our supply. Sigma: Er...excuse me, there may have been a misunderstanding? Sigma: I was led to believe that this was an organisation based around the concept of fighting back against the conspiracy corrupting Numeralia from the inside. Theta: Oh, yes, you spoke to Epsilon. Theta: Yes, it is that, of course. All our members have come to the conclusion that the inner workings of Numeralia are inefficient and unnecessary. Theta: We investigate and subvert! Theta: For instance, our contacts in Shipping & Handling have been subtly shifting around the identification numbers for surface deliveries. Theta: Just infrequently enough to make it seem like a computational error. Theta: Imagine the surprise on those surface individuals' faces when they order, say, a Standard Model H.A.I. and end up with an Advanced Caretaker Model! Theta: I imagine they would not even know what to do with it. Theta: But I digress. Theta: Yes, we do many things of that nature. But another important aspect of our work is cultural enrichment! Theta: Epsilon and I theorise that the current lack of a Numeralian art culture is due to an outer force suppressing our creativity. Theta: And, in fact, if we were to try being artistic, we would be able to perfect it far faster than the surface! Theta: Come, I will take you to Epsilon. He can explain more about this.==>Theta: Good evening, Zeta! Still working on that "sculpture", I see?Zeta: Yes, yes, just some finishing touches. Theta: A perfect recreation. This is exactly what Numeralian culture is all about!Zeta: Thank you. Who is this, a new member? I thought Epsilon wanted to keep the group small. Theta: Yes, but this is different! She is connected to surface contacts! Theta: Epsilon is certain this could prove very useful to our work. Have you seen him around? Zeta: From the surface? Well, as long as she has been properly disinfected, I suppose that is alright. Zeta: Epsilon is in the back room with the golem you reclaimed from the surfacers. Zeta: I believe he is looking at it and muttering to himself. It is quite offputting. Theta: *Very* offputting! Thank you.
==>Epsilon: Hrmph. Epsilon: Ridiculous. Epsilon: Disgusting.==>Epsilon: Look at this mess. Epsilon: They have taken a perfectly serviceable Human Assistance Instrument and dressed it in...metal coverings? Epsilon: To what end? Normally this type of clothing is worn for protection, but there is nothing that could possibly harm a golem. Epsilon: They are made of the hardest diamond we can synthesise! Epsilon: An absolutely illogical, tacky, and ridiculous option. Such is the surface way. Sigma: It *does* make golems stand out less this way. Sigma: Most people on the surface are not comfortable with them. Epsilon: Hm. That is good to know. Already you are providing some quite helpful information. ==>Epsilon: So! I see you have elected to listen to me and join our organisation. Epsilon: I am pleased. Sigma: Well, I'm still not certain about the concept of a Numeralian conspiracy. Sigma: However, I felt that as a scientist, it was my duty to investigate all possible options. Sigma: And it would be inefficient to not cross-compare information.Epsilon: Logical and efficient. Spoken like a true Numeralian. Epsilon: I assure you, the hidden operations of whoever is in charge here are quite real. Sigma: You think the Founders have something to do with this? Epsilon: Most likely not. Rather, it is more likely that Founder Alpha has not been "in charge" for quite a long time. Epsilon: The majority of Numeralians refuse to accept it, but his mental state has been visibly deteriorating for some time now. Sigma: Well, I suppose in retrospect the morning announcements informing us that "food fights in the cafetoriums will result in detention" have always been quite odd. Epsilon: Exactly! It is my theory that there is a bigger force in play here, merely using Founder Alpha's status to suppress the Numeralian spirit. Epsilon: Perhaps even from the surface! Epsilon: Watching over our every move as we work and live. Maybe even right now! Sigma: Well, perhaps that is a little excessive. I highly doubt that there is anyone watching us right now.
>Jones: Take a peek at what's in there.Rick: Aw man, I can't see in there too well. It's all dark. Rick: These rinky dink windows don't really let in a lot of light. Rick: I *think* I see Hal in there? Sort of?Jones: Ohh yeah, he's in there. I see him.Rick: Alright, good. Rick: I also see a bunch of people in there.Jones: Five, maybe six. I can't see too well since they all keep overlapping.Rick: Right. Man, super magic vision must be cool. Rick: Except for the whole "no eyes" thing. That must kinda...suck.Jones: Eh, I don't really care. I think it fits into my style. Jones: Plus eyes are kinda weird to me. Just a couple of...flesh...orbs.Rick: Yeah, but wouldn't you still want eyes if you could get them?Jones: I mean, I *guess*, but I dunno, the way I am now is- Jones: Okay, we're getting off track here. We should do something while Sigma has them distracted.==>Rick: Right! Then let's go with my plan! A brilliant distraction and ambush! Jones: Not sure if we need another distraction now, but yeah, ambush sounds good. Jones: Hmm. Maybe some higher ground would be smart. That up there looks pretty empty. Jones: This is nice, we don't usually get to have tactics and shit for our encounters. Rick: I know! This is great! Jones: It really is. Hey, you think we can do Formation 3 (Two Person Variant)? I need a boost. Rick: Alright, but don't shift around a lot. Your shoes always scratch my hands up. Rick: And once you're up there, I can proceed with my part of the plan! Jones: You sure you wanna do that? You're not exactly the best liar for...obvious reasons. Rick: Well, I've seen people act before. How hard can it be? ==>Beta: Yes? Hello? Rick: Oh, hi. Uh...there's no door handle. Rick: Is there, like, a password or a secret latch or something? Beta: It is a button operated door. It requires a pass sequence to open. Rick: Oh, okay. Could...could you open it, please? Operate the button? Beta: I do not see why not. >Rick: Initiate Numeralian impression.Rick: Thank you. Now then! Rick: Hello! I am Rick-34-500-3981-9. I am conducting a local inspection of domiciles. Rick: May I come in to have a chat with the homeowner? Beta: That is a very strange name for a surface individual. Beta: You are doing this for...independent research? Rick: Yes! Research. Independent. Beta: Hm. Well, I suppose you may come in, then. Beta: As long as you are not a member of a secret organisation here to hunt us down. Rick: Please, don't be silly! Rick: The Church of Truth is anything *but* secret! ==>Epsilon: Now then! If you are truly interested in joining our organisation, we can get you set up! Epsilon: There are some empty work areas over here that have been free for some time. Epsilon: Our members from the Astronomy Department have not been coming in for meetings lately. Epsilon: I am certain they would not mind if you borrowed a working area from them. Epsilon: You could begin analysing the data from your time on the surface and compiling reports on any potential things of note, weaknesses, etc. Epsilon: The standard procedure for Numeralians returning from extended leave. Sigma: I *would* like that. It's been a while since I've done any proper work. Sigma: But how could I upload my work into the system? I am an exile. Epsilon: Oh, yes, that. Epsilon: Not to worry, we have members in Administration as well. Epsilon: The actual Omegas are impossible to sway, of course, but one of our tech support members could reinstate your account. Sigma: You...you can do that?! I must admit, this is beginning to sound quite appealing. Epsilon: Excellent! Then if you would please follow me, we could discuss your role in more detail. Epsilon: I am glad to see that I was right with my judgement. You are a true Numeralian after all. Epsilon: Perhaps today will be a better day than average. ==>Beta: Epsilon? This surface individual walked in with an interface on his head, claiming to be a Numeralian. Rick: Hello! Beta: Is this another one of your guests?Epsilon: Ah. Or perhaps not. ==>Epsilon: I seem to recall asking you to come alone. Epsilon: Is not listening to requests properly another skill you learned on the surface?Sigma: Yes, well, you see, the thing about that is-Jones: AHA! GOT YOU! Jones: As soon as I can find the stairs, this is officially an ambush! Jones: Rick! Hold them back for now! I'll see you down there! >Rick: AMBUSH!Rick: I got it, Jones! Rick: SURPRISE! Rick: I was never a Numeralian at all!Epsilon: I am aware of that.Rick: You Halnappers are about to get what's coming to you!! Rick: TREMBLE BEFORE THE SOMEWHAT BATTLE DAMAGED SWORD OF TRUTH!Epsilon: No.>Jones: See if you can get Hal's attention.Jones: Ahaha! *Now* you're fucked! Time to mess some things up! Jones: HAL! ATTACK! >Hal: Attack.==>Jones: Aaaaalright then. ==>Theta: Is this an Inquisition of Truth raid, Epsilon? Like in the history books? Theta: We are finally being oppressed for our beliefs, everyone! How exciting! Zeta: Yes, it is like we are a real secret society now.Epsilon: No, no, this is simply...I do not have a good definition for what this is. Epsilon: But it is nothing important. Stay back while I deal with this.Theta: Very well.Zeta: Oh my, Epsilon against the surface dwellers? Zeta: I suspect we may need to perform some structural repairs on the domicile in the aftermath of this brawl. Theta: Yes, perhaps we should step away. I would hate to be caught in the blast radius of his verbal lashing.Sigma: What? I thought all of you considered Epsilon to be in charge. This is not a very respectful way to talk about a project leader.Zeta: Well, yes, that *is* true, of course. Zeta: Epsilon is a valuable part of the community.Theta: And one of its' founders!Zeta: But at the same time, I feel that perhaps someone should have double checked the checksums on his vat while he was gestating? Zeta: If you understand my meaning.Theta: Zeta! That is very crass!Zeta: Thank you. I have been experimenting with the surface concept of "innuendo".Theta: I see. Very clever.==>Epsilon: You. Get out. Jones: Like hell we will! We're not going anywhere until we get Hal back! Rick: Yeah!! Epsilon: I do not see any reason to do that. Our dealings with you are concluded. Epsilon: Really, I should have never expected anything from you in the first place. Epsilon: You are clearly incompetent. Rick: Well you're- wait, what? Really? Epsilon: Of course. It is obvious. Epsilon: Having observed your behaviour, I can see now that you are the standard variety of surface human. Epsilon: The sheer percentage of bacteria in your organism overwhelm your higher reasoning and cause you to only be able to react through pointless displays of physical strength. Epsilon: My demands at the prior negotiation were clearly excessive. I would be surprised if you could even find your way back to the surface, much less interfere in a complex geopolitical situation. Epsilon: Frankly, the fact that Numeralia ever left the ground with your ancestors around is incredible. Epsilon: Now I suggest you leave us to discuss more important matters. I would explain in more detail, but I doubt you would understand. Epsilon: There is nothing for you here.==>==>Rick: ...aw, man. That really kills the momentum.Jones: Right? I know they're assholes and everything, but there's no need to be a jerk about it.Rick: Yeah, there's bad guy speeches and then there's just...being mean.
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Post by spinydoughnut33 on Mar 27, 2020 4:08:13 GMT
> Jones: Just get Hal and leave. Buzzkill over here ruined the mood.
> Sigma: Come up with a compromise. There must be a solution that appeals to everyone!
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Post by For what Purpose? on Mar 27, 2020 5:10:21 GMT
Sigma> Enquire why Epsilon needs this particular HAI, when he could have just got one or more from Numeralia.
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cookiebomb
Plucky Tot
Ask me about my WIP Cherub fanventure!
Posts: 21
Pronouns: she/her/hers
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Post by cookiebomb on Mar 27, 2020 13:00:24 GMT
> Sigma: Call out Epsilon for being mean to your friends
> Jones: Remind her that only surface people have the power of m a g i c
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Post by tailortf on Apr 14, 2020 12:18:43 GMT
>Sigma: Come up with a compromise.
Sigma: A-actually! Epsilon! Epsilon: Yes? Sigma: I believe I may have a solution that benefits all parties! Sigma: If I could have your attention for just a few minutes, I would be happy to explain it! Epsilon: ...oh, very well. But please be prompt. I do not want this to take longer than it has to. Jones: Hey, I don't like lookin' at your ugly mug any better, bud. Rick: Yo, if we're taking a break, I'm gonna put my cape back on. Rick: I feel kinda weird without it. Epsilon: Actually, I would prefer it if you were to stand perfectly still and not touch or do anything. Jones: Well, *I'd* prefer if you paid for my dry cleaning after this. But that's not going to happen either, so there.
==>
Epsilon: Right. So. What is this "compromise" you spoke of? Sigma: Yes. Well. I suppose it is more of a request. Epsilon: Already I do not like this development. Sigma: Listen, these two are...they are not bad people. Sigma: They are attempting to help others and this is keeping them from their task! Sigma: So I feel it is only sensible to give them back their golem and forget about this whole thing. Sigma: If you need leverage with the Church, I still have many contacts there! I am certain we could discuss some kind of arrangement! Epsilon: Hm. No. In fact, after that previous display, I have no intention of returning the assistance unit. Sigma: What? Why in the world not?! You could get as many of them as you wanted up here! Epsilon: It will serve as an ideological symbol! A physical embodiment of the reclamation of Numeralian culture from the surface world that unjustly took it from us! Epsilon: In any case, they have demonstrated that they are not a threat. Epsilon: Thus, as we are stronger than them, it would be illogical to listen to any of their demands.
>Call out Epsilon for being mean to your friends.
Sigma: Wh-what?! That is- that's not right! That is an awful thing to say! Epsilon: "Right"? That is not a proper metric to use in a sensible conversation. Sigma: But...surely you agree that the strong should protect and assist the weak! Logically speaking! Epsilon: I do not see how that is a given. Epsilon: If anything, speaking logically, it would make *more* sense for the strong to destroy the weak before they potentially grow stronger, or else ignore them entirely. Epsilon: Not that I would do that to them, of course. It would not be worth the trouble. Epsilon: Nonetheless, the golem remains ours. Sigma: But- but that is not- Epsilon: Oh, are you attempting to say "fair"? Another surface concept, of course. Epsilon: You know that those are pointless here. Sigma: I- no!! Sigma: Give my friends back what you took! It is...it's what people *should* do! Sigma: Well, people shouldn't steal things in the first place! Sigma: And- and- apologise! For calling them weak! Or I'll- I will- Epsilon: "Or you will" do what? My argument is completely logical. Epsilon: I am sorry, but at a certain point, you simply have to accept the fact that nothing you say can-
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Epsilon: AHH!
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Jones: Hey, alright. You show ‘em, Sigma. Zeta: Oh…oh my stars! Did you see that?! She- she struck him! Jones: What? She just kinda pushed him over. What’s the big deal? Zeta: Numeralians are…we would never resort to violence! Zeta: Perhaps in self-defense against a surface individual, but never against a colleague! Zeta: It is completely illogical! Jones: Again, maybe I’m not getting something. That wasn’t really very “violent”. Rick and I playfight harder than that. Rick: It’s not “playfighting”, it’s training. Rick: Even if we use mop handles. And wear costumes. Jones: Right, right, obviously.
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Epsilon: I… Epsilon: Y-you…
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Epsilon: This is…it’s- it is unprecedented. Epsilon: I had thought that you were just- Epsilon: Not even an exile or a defective would do something like this. Epsilon: To think I called you a true Numeralian... Epsilon: I…I do not know *what* you are. Epsilon: But if this is what you choose, fine. Epsilon: Take your “friends” and your “Hal” and leave. You are not welcome here. Epsilon: I will not report you to the technical examination committee for disassembly. This is my only act of kindness to you. Epsilon: Get out. All of you.
>Jones: Just get Hal and leave.
Jones: …huh. So…I guess we…won? Rick: I guess so. Should we, uh, go? Jones: Yeah, probably. Jones: Alright, well, come on, Hal. Let’s…let’s get out of here. Jones: Another victory for the forces of Truth, huh, Rick? That’s something.
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Rick: Yeah. Hooray.
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Jones: Uh...Sigma? You wanna maybe...talk about what happened back there? Rick: Yeah, we're here for you if you need us. Rick: Don't let that guy get to you! What does he know, right Jones? Jones: Yeah, of course! I mean, we've known you for way longer than he has, we know you're Numeralian as all get out! Sigma: *sigh* Sigma: ...no. No, he was...right. In his own way. Sigma: I am not sure what's been happening to me, but...I don't think I fit in with Numeralians anymore. The events of today proved that. Rick: Oh... Rick: Well, you could always come back to the surface with us! The Church is always ready to accept new members, and you're super smart, they'd be happy to have you again! Sigma: Thank you. I...I really do appreciate that offer, Mr. Rick. Sigma: However, I am not certain that I would fit in on the surface either. Sigma: I need to think. If you will excuse me, I will leave you for the rest of the day. Jones: Huh. I mean...okay. You sure you're gonna be alright? Sigma: Yes, of course. I simply need to...figure some things out. Rick: Alright. Then...we'll see you later. ==>
Jones: So yeah, she just went off on her own and we haven’t really seen her since. Jones: We’re probably just gonna head home and see if she turns up tomorrow. Jones: Now that the Hal situation is finished, we can focus on meeting up with that Founder guy again. Jones: Gonna be a- Jones: …ah, dammit. They left while I was telling the story, didn’t they.
==>
Acolyte: No, we're still here! Acolyte: Well, I am. Sister Embers and Gil left a little bit ago. Acolyte: Thank you for the story! It's good to catch up every once in a while. Jones: Oh. Huh. Jones: ...honestly, I kinda expected you guys to be gone. Jones: So this is actually a little awkward. Acolyte: Well, if you say so. Acolyte: What should we do now? Jones: I mean, like I said, we're just gonna go home. Jones: Unless you guys want a fight to the death or something. Rick: We *do* have everyone here. Now would be a great time for a deadly showdown! Acolyte: Yeah, maybe. We can't, though, we're kinda waiting for someone. Jones: Right, right. We're just gonna...go, then? Acolyte: Alright! See you later! Jones: Yeah. Rick: We will vanquish you, evildoer! Rick: At a later time appropriate for everyone's schedules!
==>
Acolyte: Alright, I'm back. You know, it was really rude for you guys to just walk away like that. Gil: Whatever. I got out of there as soon as their flashback had another flashback inside it. Gil: I can just do that myself if I want to screw my brain up, thanks. Acolyte: Right. Acolyte: So...now what? Sister Embers: "Now" is this. Sister Embers: Alpha said that he would meet us here "in several hours". Sister Embers: As much as I would like for that to happen faster, it is impossible. Sister Embers: And if we go searching for him on our own, we risk becoming lost and wasting more time. Sister Embers: Thus, we will simply await him here. No movements. No talking. Acolyte: So...what, we're just gonna stand here and wait for Alpha to get back? In complete silence? Sister Embers: Yes. Gil: Yeah, I guess so. Fun, right? Sister Embers: I do not care about "fun". I have never asked for "fun" from you. Sister Embers: Now please be quiet.
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>A few (thankfully quiet) hours later.
Alpha: Greetings, surface guests. Gil: Oh thank god. I don't think I've gone that long without talking in weeks. Sister Embers: Yes, yes. Good evening. Acolyte: Hello, Alpha! I hope you feel better now than before. Alpha: Thank you. Yes, I believe a certain modicum of sleep has restored my faculties to their full potential. Alpha: Though I would once again like to apologise to everyone here for my highly unprofessional behaviour earlier today. Gil: Ah, water under the bridge. Who *hasn't* tried to kill a few people in their day? Gil: ...yeah, no, that still sounds pretty bad to me. Now's a bad time to harp on it, though, whatever. Alpha: Very good. In the meantime, I have formulated several new directions my team's project could take utilising your ethical guidelines. Alpha: I am certain that Founder Alpha will be pleased to see positive results from the Ethics Committee so quickly! Alpha: I have submitted an emergency request to Central Command to allow visitation within the next several hours. An Omega should come to guide us inside soon. Alpha: In the meantime, let us make our way there on our own so as to reduce the travel time. Acolyte: Sounds like a plan! Sister Embers: Yes! Let us do that. *Right now*.
==>
Omega: Good evening. Founder Alpha requests your immediate presence at Central Command. Please follow me. Gil: Wow, nice work, man. That was pretty fast. Alpha: What? I do not understand. My visitation request has not yet been validated. Omega: That is irrelevant. Founder Alpha requests your immediate presence at Central Command. Please follow me. Gil: Yeah, yeah, we heard you the first time. Acolyte: Huh, weird. Does anyone else think that's weird? Before we couldn't get a minute alone with the guy, now he's asking us to come over? Sister Embers: This gets us to our intended destination as quickly as possible with minimal interruptions. Sister Embers: Do not look a proverbial gift horse in the proverbial mouth, acolyte. Acolyte: Yeah, I guess that's fair. Let's go, then.
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Alpha: Central Command! The core of Numeralia and residence of the Founders! Sister Embers: Ah. So it was simply...here. In the middle of the street. Very well. Acolyte: What was that, Sister Embers? Sister Embers: No, no, nothing. Gil: Look, there's the guy. Let's go over and have a little chat. *Finally*.
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Founder Alpha: -come out since then? Omega: Affirmative. Scans have demonstrated that nobody has entered or exited the building since. Founder Alpha: Hm. That *is* worrying. I know for a fact that the labs aren't stocked with enough supplies to- Founder Alpha: Well, if this keeps up, let's just say there probably won't be anyone left to save. Founder Alpha: Alright, keep trying to get in there for now, get some golems if you have to. Founder Alpha: Don't screw up. I don't want to have to go down there myself. Omega: Understood, sir. Founder Alpha: Alright, now get out of here. I got more important things to deal with.
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Founder Alpha: Ah! Guests! Founder Alpha: Welcome, welcome!
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Alpha: Sir! Alpha-3-26-2308, reporting to Central Command as requested, sir! Alpha: My team has reviewed our project with the Ethics Committee and come to an appropriate compromise! Founder Alpha: You'll have to excuse me, I was just chatting with a student about some in-house matters. Founder Alpha: It's always office hours for me these days, it seems! Founder Alpha: Did you find the main building alright? Acolyte: We did, sir, thank you. Alpha: An Omega guided us here immediately, as was your request, sir! Founder Alpha: Well, I'm glad to hear it. Founder Alpha: I know you've been quite eager to have a chat about some things, so let's go ahead and get going, why don't we? Sister Embers: Yes, that would be highly preferable. Take us to the God of Logic, as soon as possible. Founder Alpha: Well, if it's speed you're after, young lady, then you're in for a treat! Founder Alpha: You see, around here, we've invented a way of travelling upwards and downwards far faster than any stairs! Founder Alpha: It may just seem like a simple room to you, but with the push of a button, it can move great distances! Acolyte: We...we know what an elevator is, sir. Founder Alpha: Ah, is that so? Founder Alpha: Well, you surface fellows sure seem smart! I'd love to have a chat with you about it sometime! Sister Embers: In due time, perhaps. Right now we feel it would be best to focus on why we came here in the first place. Founder Alpha: Hmm? Oh! Yes, of course. If you would follow me, please. Alpha: Yes, sir! We will follow! Gil: God, this guy. Gil: At least Greene had the decency to put out drinks for dealing with his bullshit.
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Founder Alpha: Now remember, no recording is permitted inside the main building! Can't have people sneaking a peek at all our secrets, you know. Founder Alpha: This here is the oldest building on campus! Last one left that was built on the actual surface, too. Raised it right off the ground! Founder Alpha: Or that's the plan, at least. Once Omega and Epsilon can get all that flying business working. Founder Alpha: Point is, we've got a lot of things here we wouldn't want all sorts knowing about! Founder Alpha: Please remember to turn off recording functions on all scryers, interfaces, and/or golems that may be present. Acolyte: Uh...Mr. Founder, sir? What's with these other guys here? They're not really...doing anything. Founder Alpha: Oh yes, of course! Those are our very own teachers' assistants! Founder Alpha: Very bright bunch of fellows, yes. Help you with everything you could possibly need! Founder Alpha: Don't mind them, they're just a little shy. Gil: Don't seem too big on talking, either. Gil: Heh. I bet you'd like one of these guys instead of the kid, huh, Embers? Sister Embers: I do not know what you could possibly mean by that. My acolyte, though continually ignorant of dress code, is a model student. Sister Embers: *You* should be the one fearing the concept of replacement, really. Gil: Hm, touché.
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Founder Alpha: Ah, and here we are! Floor 25! Founder Alpha: Lady and gentlemen, you are about to bear witness to what no surface eyes have seen! Founder Alpha: At least not since I plucked out mine and replaced them with topaz-based light sensors, heh heh. Founder Alpha: The spiritual center of Numeralia! Everything we stand for and hope to achieve! Founder Alpha: BEHOLD! THE HOLY TEMPLE OF LOGIC!!
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Gil: ...huh. Gil: I don't know what I expected, but it...wasn't this.
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Gil: Not that it's my place to rag on someone's holy temple or anything, but...this just looks like a lounge. Gil: Like, an employee lounge. Acolyte: Yeah, basically. Acolyte: Look, someone left their coffee. Acolyte: The view's pretty nice, I guess, but it's still just a break room or something. Gil: Yeah, what gives? Founder Alpha: Ah, of course! You don't know! Founder Alpha: I'm sorry, I've been here so long I forget that some of our traditions are a little strange to guests. Founder Alpha: You there! Young man! I see you're a student of ours, yes? Alpha: Y-yes sir! Alpha-3-26- Founder Alpha: Yes, yes, very good. I don't need to hear your dorm number. Founder Alpha: You've been up here before, I see. Why don't you explain to our guests what this whole business is about? Founder Alpha: Normally I'd ask one of the TAs to do it, but since you're here, let's have a little pop quiz, how's about? Alpha: Yes sir! Very well, sir.
==>
Alpha: *ahem* Alpha: Numeralia does not have many traditions, but this particular one was deemed important enough to remain as a part of our collective routine. Alpha: You see, at some point in their lives, most Numeralians become concerned with what seems to be an inconsistency in our history. Alpha: Throughout recorded history, there are multiple references to the "god of Logic". Alpha: It is a part of the explanation for Numeralia's creation that is programmed into every Numeralian, the iconography of said god appears numerous times on various items and buildings throughout the city, and Numeralians are commonly considered "worshippers of the god of Logic" on the surface. Alpha: Why, then, is our divine connection never mentioned or otherwise utilised? Having a 1/7th stake in the running of the world could prove quite useful. Alpha: Why does our God not speak to us? Not help us? If you are here, I am certain that these are questions you have also asked yourselves. Alpha: Most Numeralians who consider this eventually become frustrated with its' contradictory nature and finally reserve an appointment here, at Central Control, to request an explanation. Alpha: And, when they come in, they are taken to this room and told a simple truth: Alpha: There *are* no gods.
==>
Alpha: Yes, there are minor creatures inhabiting the extraversal planes we refer to as “gods”, but they are simply a peculiar non-sentient species. Alpha: The gods we commonly think of in the modern day do not actually exist. There is no actual physical God of Logic, just as there is no God of Existence, or God of Luck, or God of Truth. Alpha: All they are is anthropomorphic representations of universal forces, created by minds not advanced enough to provide a logical explanation for the inner workings of the world. Alpha: The contradictions in our history are left there as a test. To show that you are capable of critical reasoning and finding illogical situations of your own volition. Alpha: Put simply, it is our equivalent of a coming of age ritual. Alpha: In reality, there is only *one* species out there capable of logic and reason, and only one group within that species capable of mastering it to a supreme level. Alpha: It’s…us. Numeralia. Every single member of the collective, working in perfect unison to advance the cause of humanity. Alpha: It has always only been us. Alpha: The God of Logic – its’ absolute, most perfect representation? Alpha: You can see it all right out of this window. Every sector, street, domicile, and Numeralian comprising it.
==>
Acolyte: Wow. Sister Embers: Hmm. Gil: Huh. Well, how about that.
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ten11
Gadabout Pipsqueak
Posts: 128
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Post by ten11 on Apr 14, 2020 13:17:35 GMT
>Alpha: are you sure about that? >What would let you distinguish between a world with gods and a world without? >Maybe they are real. >Maybe they're watching you right now and laughing.
>Sigma: you need guidance, and it doesn't seem like you can get it from either surface-dwellers or numeralians. So, just for the sake of attempting it, try praying to the god of Logic. Maybe it'll be comforting, if nothing else.
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slate
Juvesquirt
Posts: 16
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Post by slate on Apr 14, 2020 13:40:07 GMT
>Any of you three: Truth can read thoughts, right? Try to contact him telepathically and ask him what gives.
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Post by questionsQuestions on Apr 14, 2020 14:49:35 GMT
>Acolyte: Then... how do you explain the actual MEETINGS with gods? If you try hard enough, or become notable enough you can literally meet the deities mentioned. We have even talked to Truth, and he's the one that sent us to go see Logic. And this wasn't even just a person pretending to be a god, in case you'll use that argument. This was actually a creature of immense power and knowledge that governed our reality
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Post by spinydoughnut33 on Apr 14, 2020 15:04:31 GMT
> Gil: You excited to tell an entire civilization that they're wrong?
> "You guys know that Atheists exist on the surface too, right?"
> Embers: "You are mistaken. We are expected."
> Acolyte: So, wait, Gods are real but they're also not? What are you guys *talking* about?
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Logic Reason Nourishment
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Post by Logic Reason Nourishment on Apr 15, 2020 1:42:50 GMT
<-That is an excellent motto.
Numeralia> Have your street-plan based on the symbol of Logic. Acolyte> So if you were sent to talk to the God of Logic, does that mean you were supposed to be talking to the whole of Numeralia? Embers> The Founder could have shown you this at any time. What was his reason for requesting your presence immediately? Gil> Have you been sleeping on the face of a God? Be disappointed that you couldn't have done it spitefully.
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Post by tailortf on Apr 16, 2020 11:48:30 GMT
>Any of you three: Are you sure about that?
Sister Embers: Well, it certainly is a curious concept. Unfortunately, it is utterly inane. Acolyte: Yeah, this…this doesn’t really make sense. Gil: Right?! Thank Christ you guys agree, I thought I was going crazy for a second.
==>
Sister Embers: Alpha, we must respectfully decline your theory. As it is false. Sister Embers: Please take us to the God of Logic. Now. Alpha: I understand. This kind of revelation can be difficult to process, especially to particularly religious people such as you. Gil: Yeah, no, this has nothing to do with being religious. We’ve *met* gods. Like, several of them. They’re real. Acolyte: One of them made me tea. Sister Embers: I have served under Lord Argaleth my entire life. I am confident that at least he is real. Alpha: Hmm. You seem to not understand the concept of what I have explained. Perhaps if I were to tell you one more time, things would make more sense. You see- Sister Embers: No. That is enough.
==>
Sister Embers: I have refrained from saying anything thus far as we are your guests, but this is crossing the line. Sister Embers: We are on a highly time sensitive mission that could decide the fate of the entire world! Sister Embers: We were *told* that this is where we could potentially get some advice as to what we should do! Sister Embers: We come here, we assist you with your issues, and what are we rewarded with? Sister Embers: You pawn us off on a senile old man, then waste our time and tell us that the sole object of our mission does not even exist in the first place? Sister Embers: Unacceptable.
==>
Founder Alpha: Pffft. Heh heh. Sister Embers: We demand you drop this charade and take us to Logic immediately. Founder Alpha: Hee hee hee. Hmmf. Heh. Sister Embers: If you do not, we will be forced to- Founder Alpha: Hah! Hee… Sister Embers: -excuse me, do you mind? I am attempting to speak to someone and your laughter is very distracting. Founder Alpha: Oh, I do apologise. Founder Alpha: It’s just absolutely hilarious to me how quickly you figured it out. Sister Embers: Very well. Sister Embers: Now, as I was-
==>
Sister Embers: …excuse me? Founder Alpha: Honestly, it’s amazing that nobody else questions it! Founder Alpha: They all just walk in here and are completely awed by that nothing of an explanation! Every single Numeralian! Founder Alpha: Yeah, I guess it makes sense for the holiest temple of Logic to have a notice board in the corner advertising someone teaching guitar classes! It’s a mystical artifact from the ancient times! The Sacred Employee Break Room of Logic! Ah ha ha! Founder Alpha: Oh my, I haven’t laughed like that in decades. Good to see people on the *surface* still have their heads on straight, at least. Founder Alpha: Now hold on, let me deal with some things and then we can talk proper.
==>
Founder Alpha: You two. What the hell are you still standing around here for?! Omega 1: Primary directive is to protect and take care of the Founders, sir. Founder Alpha: Well then go do that! Founder Alpha: I want a full report on oxygen levels and vital signs for everyone! Founder Alpha: And you! Go tell the main room to start setting up. Founder Alpha: The communicator takes ages to warm up and who knows if ol’ 3-Sides is even going to answer. God forbid he actually talk to *his* guests. I imagine he’d think it was “poorly used/allocated/wasted time”. Omega 2: Affirmative. Proceeding to primary communication chamber. Founder Alpha: Good. And make more coffee! I’m sure our guests are sick to death of lemon water by now.
==>
Founder Alpha: There we are, that should get things rolling. Logic usually takes some time to reach, though, so we’ve got some time to ourselves. Founder Alpha: Oh, wait, I forgot to introduce myself in full! I’m sorry, I haven’t spoken to any people in quite some time, so these things can slip by me a bit. Where are my manners? Founder Alpha: Founder Alpha. Chancellor of the University of Reason, Project Manager in charge of the Numeralian Project, and High Priest of the -very real- God of Logic. Founder Alpha: Pleasure to finally make your acquaintance.
==>
Alpha: I- Alpha: Wh- Alpha: …huh?
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Post by spinydoughnut33 on Apr 16, 2020 16:06:02 GMT
> Gil: If you were to punch this *very* old man for wasting your time, would he immediately die?
> Acolyte: Show Founder Alpha Truth’s journal. Maybe he can help update it.
> “Also, is ‘Founder Alpha’ your actual name or...?”
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Post by TruthComingOut on Apr 16, 2020 16:42:53 GMT
Hah, so this entire thing was just smoke and mirrors. For being the race that FOLLOWS Logic, and for having an entire society BASED on logic and reasoning, the Numeralians sure are an unreasonable, illogical bunch that are just full of themselves with WAY too much pride to think clearly.
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Well that is a surprise (not)
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Post by Well that is a surprise (not) on Apr 17, 2020 1:11:14 GMT
Truth was hidden by not telling people about the truth of the Truth Tower and Truthbearer. Logic was hidden by it being illogical for Gods to exist.
Embers> Begrudgingly accept that this was a necessary test/security screening to protect the God of Truth. You would expect Argaleth to have the same protection.
Alpha> The Founder can't be wrong. But you really want to know the justification for this.
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Post by BleepBloop on Apr 23, 2020 19:45:30 GMT
I really hope we get to see all the other gods, and how the followers are basically the OPPOSITE of the god's aspect. Like, Luck's followers are strange people, but they scrutinize probability to find the highest chance of success, instead of letting the dice decide. Or if Lies's followers just straight up tell people the truth, but because they are the followers of Lies everyone assumes they're constantly bullshitting. Or even if Insight's followers go after constant inspiration. Chasing a constant moment of "aha!" instead of learning long-term lessons or wisdom.
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Post by tailortf on May 9, 2020 11:37:59 GMT
==>
Gil: I knew it! I knew you weren’t freaking senile!! Founder Alpha: Oh, I’m sure you did, junior, based off *how many* people you told and all. Gil: Well, uh…I had a…strong suspicion. It was- Gil: Whatever! Why the hell did you waste our time if you were going to meet us anyway?! We’ve been busting our asses for you for no good reason! Sister Embers: Yes, I would also very much like to know this. Alpha: …s-sir? What…what is…? Founder Alpha: Naturally! Come along, let us talk somewhere else. All this sun is bad for what’s left of my skin.
==>
Founder Alpha: Now, to answer your questions: Founder Alpha: One – no, of course I am not senile. It would be ridiculous to develop life support for yourself and leave the most important bit unprotected. Founder Alpha: My father died of a stroke. His father died of a brain embolism. *His* father- well, I believe he fell off a cliff, actually. Founder Alpha: My point being that I’m not going out that way. Developing a positronic brain to slowly transfer my mind to was first priority for the Life Expansion Project. Acolyte: But then…why do you pretend to be like that? Founder Alpha: Oh, yes, that. It’s a bit of a holdover from the old days, really. Back in the day when Numeralia was ruled by a “council of logically selected members”, ugh. That was some odd 100 years ago, I believe. Founder Alpha: Back then, it was the easiest option to maintain power. Nobody’s going to bother an old man with his brain on backwards, so while they all bicker amongst themselves, you can implement real, proper changes and make them all think they did it. Founder Alpha: Nowadays I mostly do it out of habit and to amuse myself. Founder Alpha: I do apologize for the delay, really. I was told by Logic that a group of people from the surface would be coming up, but that was it. So those other fellows from the Church showing up threw me for a loop, you might imagine. I had to come up with some suitably harmless distraction for you while I sorted things out. Founder Alpha: Incidentally, my apologies for giving you the runaround, Sister Embers. Those old guide maps in the libraries deliberately take people in circles, as I’m sure you’ve figured out by now. It was some old thing someone proposed to root out potential spies or something like that. Never saw much use until now. Sister Embers: Security measures *are* important. Although next time I would appreciate it if you informed us of this sooner. Founder Alpha: Duly noted. Founder Alpha: And in case you’re still concerned, your highness: don’t worry, I would *never* have approved that Alpha’s mining project in the first place. Can you imagine the kind of diplomatic nightmare that thing would have caused? Far too dangerous. No, no, it would have been “tied up in the system” or what have you, I would've made sure of that. Alpha: But…but I…I formulated new approaches…
==>
Founder Alpha: Here we are! My humble study.
==>
Gil: Wow. “Humble” is right. Founder Alpha: Ah, shut your yap. Founder Alpha: Ahem. Excuse me. I tend to keep everything shut off in here normally. It’s better for the equipment and both me and the Omegas can navigate in the dark anyhow. Founder Alpha: HEY, DOWN THERE! Founder Alpha: LIGHTS!!
==>
Founder Alpha: *There* we go. Acolyte: Wow! Do you guys grow all this stuff up here yourselves? Founder Alpha: No, not quite. Founder Alpha: The university of Logic had some wonderful botanical gardens in its’ heyday, you see. Plant species from all over the world loomed over our heads as we contemplated the facts of the universe. Founder Alpha: It felt like a waste to just leave them rotting when we moved to the sky, so we just took the entire thing with us! Heh heh. Gil: Oh, okay, a park. We don’t have *those* on the surface. You got me. Founder Alpha: Don’t try to act like you aren’t impressed, young man. It doesn’t work. Founder Alpha: You *should* be impressed, anyhow. You're the first non-me people to step foot in here in quite some time! Founder Alpha: If I had time, I would've told the Omegas to dust. Sister Embers: Regular Numeralians are not allowed in here? Sister Embers: I was under the impression that your city had no strict hierarchy. Founder Alpha: Whoever told you a silly thing like that? Founder Alpha: No, no. All the information I'm telling you is kept on a strictly need-to-know basis. Founder Alpha: With the general notion being that people do not need to know. Founder Alpha: I’ve found that, as a rule, projects become messier the more people you get involved. Founder Alpha: You three are making the right call keeping a small group for…whatever it is you’re planning. I’d rather not ask.
==>
Alpha: But...there's- there is so much! And none of it logged... Acolyte: And…the Founders were all okay with this? Keeping secrets like this? Pulling the strings from behind the scene? Founder Alpha: Excuse me? This nametag isn’t just for show, you know. I didn’t forget my real name and go around calling myself “Founder Alpha” for like three freakin’ centuries now just for you to ignore my rank. Acolyte: Well, no, I mean, uh, everyone else, sir. Gil: Yeah, wasn’t there meant to be a whole group of you dicks? Founder Alpha: Ah yes, the *other* Founders! Founder Alpha: Would you like to ask them what they think? Let’s go ask them what they think!
==>
Founder Alpha: Oh, why hello there, Founder Tau! One of our students was asking if you- Founder Alpha: Oh? What’s that? You say you aren’t coming into work today? Or ever again, in fact? Well why is that?! Founder Alpha: “Leukaemia”?! Well, if you had let me replace all your blood with a synthetic nutrient fluid like I *suggested*, this never would’ve happened! Founder Alpha: But no, apparently that’s “insane” and “too risky” and “like something out of a newspaper science fiction series”! I guess you’d rather be a meat popsicle for the rest of time instead! Founder Alpha: Because god forbid a *scientist* try something new and radical! No, that would just be *crazy*! Founder Alpha: Let’s give a big hand to our Head of Security, everybody. What a trooper.
==>
Acolyte: Wait, so these tanks are all…the Founders? Founder Alpha: Yes sir! Numeralia wasn’t a one-day affair, you know. Most of us spent decades on it before even getting a little tiny house off the ground! Founder Alpha: So, of course, by the time we started being able to actually populate the city and get to work, many of them weren’t exactly in the best shape to keep working. Founder Alpha: Thus, little by little, they all placed themselves into cryogenic suspension to wait for better life extension technology. Better than mine, at least. All twenty-four of them! Founder Alpha: Or, well, twenty-one. There’s me, of course. I’m gonna be watching over this rust bucket until one of us falls apart, heh heh. Founder Alpha: Founder Epsilon didn’t make it in time. Turns out radium is *extremely* bad for you and *will* kill you. Even the tissue samples we harvested for genetic replication ended up mutated to hell. Poor man. Founder Alpha: And, of course, there’s *Omega*. He’s…probably dead by now. Almost wish he wasn’t, though. So I could spit him in the face.
>Alpha: Mental breakdown.
Alpha: I- I cannot believe what I am hearing! You are talking about the *Head of Research*!! Alpha: And the rest of the Founders are alive and- and you are sound of mind?! Alpha: This is a massive influx of new information unavailable in the Archives! Founder Alpha: Yes, yes, very good. Founder Alpha: Now, where would you like to see next? I think- Alpha: Sir!! Alpha: With all due respect, I- I really do not understand how you could keep this from everyone else! Alpha: This needs to be shared with the rest of Numeralia! We could benefit from this massively! Founder Alpha: Oh, be quiet. I’m trying to talk to our guests. Acolyte: Actually, I kinda see his point. Founder Alpha: In any case, you’ll get your memory wiped when you leave so you won’t be distressed over this any longer. Nothing to worry about, see? All fine. Alpha: Wh- no!!! That is *not* “all fine”! Alpha: This is- and I am sorry to say this- *extremely* illogical! Alpha: I do not understand any possible way this could make sense! Founder Alpha: Oh, is that what you think? Fine. Founder Alpha: Let’s see here, what did you say your number was? Ah, yes. Founder Alpha: A-3-26-2308 – enable debug mode. Override code Atom-Loner-Persona-Horror-Atom. Alpha: What? Those are not the standard-
==>
Alpha: Project Manager clearance confirmed. Debug mode activated. Awaiting instructions. Founder Alpha: *There* we go. Finally some peace and quiet. Founder Alpha: So, as I was saying. Gil: What- hey! What did you do to him?! Founder Alpha: Just a simple backdoor override. Every Numeralian has one, really, I made sure to sneak it in there just in case. It's handy for when they're getting to be too annoying. Sister Embers: I...understand your concern about unruly underlings. Sister Embers: However, do you not feel this may be somewhat excessive? Sister Embers: Stripping someone's bodily integrity for the sake of peace and quiet seems cruel. Acolyte: Right? Not even you would ever do that, Sister Embers. Sister Embers: Yes, quite. Founder Alpha: Oh, no, no, my friends! I’m sorry, I’m afraid you got it all wrong. Founder Alpha: Really, it’s my fault. I should’ve explained it to you sooner. Founder Alpha: You needn't be concerned! There’s nothing “human” about this thing. Though I suppose you could be mistaken for being wrong. It *is* quite the convincing simulacrum.
==>
Founder Alpha: But really, look at it. Founder Alpha: Sure, it looks like me. Sounds like me. Even claims my name. Founder Alpha: Of course, I never looked like *that* at this young of an age. Founder Alpha: No, back then I was probably…God, I don’t even remember. Farming? Grifting? I did anything I could to make a living back then. A lot of things I’m not proud of. Founder Alpha: But this thing never had to do that. It had everything handed to it from the second it was made. Free home, free food. Free to work on anything it wants. Founder Alpha: It never had to worry about being hunted down for its’ beliefs. About seeing its’ work go up in flames just because people were too stupid to understand that it was all done for their own benefit. Founder Alpha: …so, no. This thing is not human, not really. All it is is a tool built for a task. Like a microscope or a golem. All it does is follow a series of orders. The fact that it uses flesh as a base doesn’t mean anything.
==>
Acolyte: But he’s…a person. We've been around him, like, a lot. He never showed any signs of *not* being one. Gil: Yeah, we hashed things out just a little while ago, you should've seen it. Good, proper character arc. Sister Embers: Yes, I am not certain what you are talking about. He is clearly a human being. Founder Alpha: Very well, I can see you don’t fully grasp the concept. My expectations for the surface were clearly too high. Perhaps a more...physical...demonstration is in order. Founder Alpha: A-3-26-2308: Sever all connections. Alpha: Affirmative. Connections-
==>
Alpha: *ghk* Alpha: *gllkbl*
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Alpha: *glbkl* Acolyte: Alpha! Are you alright?! Sister Embers: Hold him steady, acolyte! Gil: Okay, *now* what did you do?! Stop doing things! Founder Alpha: Oh, this? Nothing special, really. I simply told it to block the electrical impulses going from the brain to the body – disables things like motor control, respiration, things like that. Standard self-destruct clause. Founder Alpha: Perhaps people have changed on the surface over the centuries, but I don’t think a “human” can do that, do you? Gil: Wh- well cancel it! What the hell is wrong with you?! Founder Alpha: What? I'm just using a feature as it's intended to be used! Founder Alpha: That’s the issue with these things, I suppose. Their interfaces just…tell them what to do. No person left inside at all, really. Founder Alpha: Yes, I remember when the brain-connected interfaces were first proposed. It was about half a century ago, I believe. One of Founder Omega's old scrapped projects that some Numeralian dug up for an annual review. Founder Alpha: A device which would let us cut out the costly process of educating new Numeralians *and* manage all our research through a single interconnected system? Founder Alpha: People loved it! It was going to revolutionize the way we looked at research! It was going to do all our work for us!
==>
Founder Alpha: And it does work! It works *incredibly* well. Founder Alpha: The system automatically decides on a new direction, then the researchers work on whatever projects they come up with and submit it to processing. Founder Alpha: Then the Omegas sort through the information and send all the data over to Logic. Founder Alpha: It’s all automatic. Now that everyone else is dead or quit, there’s no human involvement whatsoever!
==>
Founder Alpha: So really, I don’t have anything to complain about! Founder Alpha: Or anything left to work on, really. I haven’t submitted a proper research project in years. Founder Alpha: All that’s left for me to do is to watch. Founder Alpha: Watch over a city of dead-eyed automatons wearing my friends’ faces. Alone. Founder Alpha: Lovely.
==>
Acolyte: Sister Embers! Do you know any- any healing spells or anything?! Sister Embers: Of course I do, acolyte! What is it that you think I am casting?! Sister Embers: They simply aren’t working! Acolyte: I mean, I guess...I guess that makes sense?! Acolyte: There's nothing really...wrong with him, I think. He doesn't have a cut or anything, he's just- Gil: Dammit, kid, not the time for theorising! Gil: Shit, shit, shit. Does- does anyone know CPR?! Acolyte: What? What is that? Gil: I don’t know, dammit! Just- we need to do something or else he’s gonna die!!
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Founder Alpha: …oh, very well. I suppose it *would* be a waste. Founder Alpha: A-3-26-2308: Erase previous 3 minutes of recorded memory. Restore interface connections. Exit debug mode. Alpha: *GASP*
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Alpha: Er…can someone explain why exactly I am laying on the floor? I do not recall doing this.
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Founder Alpha: Ah, you must excuse me for that. Senile or not, my mind does still wander at times. It can get quite lonely up here all by myself. You have to make your own fun, y'know? Founder Alpha: Glad we could get all that cleared up. Founder Alpha: So! You folks wanted to speak to Logic, right? You wanna head on down to the comm room right now? Or maybe we should break for coffee first or something?
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Post by spinydoughnut33 on May 9, 2020 17:16:45 GMT
> Embers: Definitely Coffee Break. Founder Alpha needs to provide justification for... all of this. Is this really what his god wants?
> Acolyte: Show Founder Alpha Truth’s journal, so he can help update it. I’m still going on about this.
> Gil: Could you walk around the place? I think I speak for all the voices when I say that we want to see what’s happening around here.
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Post by Bit 'o Fear on May 9, 2020 20:25:43 GMT
I mean, Founder Alpha's like, *half* right. They pretty clearly are not human. This does not preclude them being PEOPLE.
>Red Team: You are surrounded by overridden people under the control of someone who has gone mad long ago. Senile or not, this man IS a danger. BUT, you have a mission. A damned important one too. Just... go along with the ride, and whatever you do DO NOT GET HIM ANGRY. If he orders the Omegas to attack then the brawl could get in the way of seeing Logic.
>Gil: This goes double for you. Yes he is a terribly insane monster stealing people's lives, but you've got a god to meet. You can take your time trying to take out his control over people later. Logic comes first.
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Post by Interesting on May 9, 2020 23:44:56 GMT
Well this is a messed up situation. However, its just as messed up for Founder Alpha as it is for the Numeralians. The Numeralians are physically Human, but function like Machines. Founder Alpha is physically a Machine, but hasn't interacted with 'Humans' for three centuries and can't really remember how to be one. Numeralia is a failed experiment. Founder Alpha has been trapped here trying to stop Numeralia from 'logically' deciding the world should be destroyed.
But maybe its still possible to fix it. Alpha started to act reasonably after being forced to interact with Humans for a while, and getting educated on how to consider ethics. He was able to see ways to make his Research project actually useful for the world afterward. Sigma, having being away from Numeralia for so long, might have learned enough to function without the Interface dictating what she does. (Even without whatever Del did.)
But anyway> Everyone: Coffee break. You aren't just here to talk to Logic. The Cult of Argaleth's role is to put the World in order. You can't just talk to Logic and leave. These people need your help.
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ten11
Gadabout Pipsqueak
Posts: 128
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Post by ten11 on May 10, 2020 7:42:05 GMT
I really want to ask Founder Alpha, if he's unhappy with the way Numeralia works, if he dislikes how mechanical and automated everything and everyone in it has become, how unquestioning of their circumstances they are and how detached they are from humanity, why doesn't he change it? He's still in charge isn't he? Who would there be to stop him? As much as this place seems to run itself now, the very fact that he could spontaneously make up an 'Ethics Commitee' that numeralians were obliged to listen to means he should be able to just shut everything down and start over, or at least remove the parts that make him so apathetic and bitter about it, like the interfaces being directly wired to the brain. He can literally talk to his god, and by the sounds of it theyre on friendly terms: can't he restore Numeralia to his (and the other Founders') original vision of it?
Not sure who should ask this, but i want it asked.
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Post by tailortf on May 16, 2020 13:41:34 GMT
>Coffee break.
Gil: I told you! I knew this place was bad news. Freakin’ modern day slavery. Treating people like they’re not even alive. Gil: These guys are- well, they’re not exactly the *best* at being people, but they’re still…people! They don’t deserve this! Sister Embers: It is certainly regrettable. Gil: “Regrettable”. Right. What’s regrettable is we’re sitting five feet away from a goddamn dictator and we’re not doing anything about it! In fact, we’re drinking his coffee! Gil: This coffee is terrible, by the way. I think there might be something wrong with his tastebuds. Sister Embers: I do not care. Gil: Of course, like I should be surprised by now. That’s your answer to everything! I bet you don’t even care about what I’m saying right now.
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Sister Embers: That is not true. Sister Embers: In fact, for once I feel about this in a similar way to you. Our host’s behavior is highly troubling and should be addressed. Gil: Well, look at that. Maybe we’ll actually get some meat for dinner tonight, what with all the flying pigs and all. Sister Embers: *However*, meeting with the God of Logic is still the cult’s top priority. Sister Embers: What we shall do – and whether or not we shall do anything in the first place – can be determined later. Gil: “Whether or not”. Please, we’re totally doing something about this. Gil: I bet you that by this time tomorrow, this whole place is gonna be totally turned on its’ head. Gil: We’re the good guys, we can’t just ignore this crap! It’s so bad it’s making *me* the voice of reason! I won’t stand for it. Sister Embers: There is no such thing as “good guys”, thief. We are morally in the right, yes, but we are still just people. It may very well be that we will be unable to help. Gil: Yeah, you keep on saying that. Gil: …you think the kid is fine talking to him alone? Gil: He may be an extremely old man, but he’s got a hell of a grip on him. Could probably crush a windpipe in seconds. Sister Embers: I feel it should not be an issue. Sister Embers: Perhaps you may not have noticed, but he has a certain quality to him. Something that makes even our sworn enemies want to talk to him. Sister Embers: Some degree of innocence, perhaps. Gil: “Boyish charm”. That’s the name for it. Ugh. Gil: Hopefully he’ll find a different shtick soon. I used to have boyish charm back in the day. Absolutely worthless. Gil: Just about the only thing it got me was a shot in the back. Sister Embers: Mmm. You do not seem to be faring particularly better with your current “shtick”, as it were. Gil: Hey, at least now I’m free. I’ll trade any number of bullet holes and scars for *that*.
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Founder Alpha: …yes, I do remember the fellow, actually. Founder Alpha: Came about in the first few years of development. While we were planning out the streets, that sort of thing. Asked lots of questions. Founder Alpha: I didn’t realize he was with the Church at the time. Lord knows we never would’ve let him in if we thought that was the case. Founder Alpha: Good to see all that knowledge is coming in handy. Acolyte: Yeah, and I’ve been adding onto it as well! Acolyte: Do you think you could have anything for me to write down, sir? Founder Alpha: Me? Heh, well, I’m afraid I’ve been up here about as long as this book has been around, my boy. There wouldn’t be much I could add personally. Founder Alpha: I suppose I could dig around in the old University libraries and get you some books and old maps from before we stopped writing things. The history of Numeralia and all that. Founder Alpha: Though I’m not sure how much-
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Founder Alpha: …huh. Is…is this particular drawing something that you added yourself? Acolyte: Oh, this? No, it’s something from before. Acolyte: I think whatever it’s about has been happening again, though. Acolyte: Something to do with that big star in the sky and astronomers going crazy. Acolyte: Or, well, crazier than usual, I guess. Acolyte: I’m not really sure what to make of it because there’s a page missing, see?
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Founder Alpha: I see. That *is* a shame. Founder Alpha: I was hoping that maybe you would be able to- Founder Alpha: Er, nevermind. Acolyte: Sir? Founder Alpha: No, no, I’m sure it’s nothing. Maybe. I’ll…think about it and get back to you later. We should probably head down to the communication chamber for now. It’s probably warmed up at this point. Acolyte: Well, alright then. Founder Alpha: Yes, quite.
>Break’s over! Back to work.
Founder Alpha: Ah, fifth floor! I used to teach up here, you know. Now *those* were the days. Students shuffling to and fro, working by candlelight… Founder Alpha: Now it’s all just gathering dust. Oh well, I guess that’s “progress” for you. Founder Alpha: Shake a leg down there! It’s just a little old flight of stairs! Gil: Yeah, easy for *huff* you to say with your *huff* fancy metal legs. Founder Alpha: It is! It *is* very easy for me to say. Founder Alpha: Do you think your “friend” here will be alright to go in with us? I’d hate a repeat of what happened up in the garden. Alpha: I…I need to know. I need to see how much of my previously learned information is…false. Alpha: It is vital. Acolyte: Uh, yeah, what he said. Founder Alpha: Hey, suit yourself. Like I said, this is all classified, so you won’t be remembering any of this anyhow. Boop! Gone. Gil: Again, so *huff* screwed *huff* up. *huff* God.
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Founder Alpha: Alright, this all looks just about ready. Acolyte: Huh. Why do we need a big machine like this anyway, sir? Acolyte: The last time around we just kinda…talked. Founder Alpha: Oh yeah, that. Logic doesn’t actually come *to* Numeralia proper almost ever. He spends most of his time out in the space between worlds “doing vital research”. Founder Alpha: Personally, I think he just doesn’t like being inside the universe. Go figure. Founder Alpha: Anyway, that means that all of our communication takes place through this piece of garbage that we built *way* back in the day at the University. Founder Alpha: Full disclosure: it might explode a little. There used to be a box of safety goggles somewhere, but I think they melted in an unrelated accident. Just…just try not to get anything in your eyes if it starts exploding. Acolyte: Uh…huh. I suppose we’ll try? Gil: Boy, this just keeps getting better and better.
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Gil: So…are there any, like, precautions for meeting this guy? Gil: You know, take our coats off or don’t say his name backwards or whatever? Sister Embers: At the Temple of Argaleth, an offering hand-made by the person entering was traditionally required to be burned. Sister Embers: Usually a picture or a small statue, something like that. Gil: Yeah, see? You guys don’t have something weird like that? Founder Alpha: Hmm. You’ve met other gods already, yes? Gil: Ehh. Acolyte: Well, only the God of Truth, sir, and he said he was a half-god. Acolyte: So I’m not sure if that counts or not. Founder Alpha: Ah, so you haven’t met any regular ones. Founder Alpha: Well, then my advice is to prepare to be underwhelmed. Acolyte: Huh? Founder Alpha: Nevermind. I’m going to go ahead and open the transmission now.
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Founder Alpha: HEY! YOU TWO UP THERE! GET THIS STUPID THING GOING ALREADY!! Omega: Frequency attuned. Power cycle complete. Omega: Confirmed power cycle. Project Originator opening channel. Beginning voidspace transmission.
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God of Logic: WELCOME, [BRANCH 1.439.12 PROTAGONIST RED TRIPTYCH]. God of Logic: THE [MULTIVERSAL ARCHIVES] ARE AVAILABLE FOR YOUR PERUSAL/EXAMINATION/VIEWING. God of Logic: PLEASE INPUT QUERY.
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Founder Alpha: Oh, shut it off already. Founder Alpha: These people have been waiting for days to meet you, they don’t have time for this crap.
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God of Logic: Well, I am sorry for wishing/wanting/desiring to impart a certain amount of [Drama] upon the events, Project Manager. God of Logic: I felt that it was fitting/appropriate/necessary considering the entire [Premise] of the situation. Do you not feel the same way? Founder Alpha: Yeah, yeah, whatever rights your angles. God of Logic: My [Angles] are perfectly righted, thank you. They are as the [Allfather] formed them. Founder Alpha: Well, good for you. Did you get the latest annual report on the new projects? God of Logic: Correct. I have read/perused/examined the [Reports] thoroughly. God of Logic: I am pleased with your [Progress] in the technological sectors, but I feel the social aspects of the [Numeralian Project] are lacking. Founder Alpha: Well if we had gotten more *direction*, perhaps we could- Founder Alpha: No, you know what? I’m not getting into this with guests around. I brought them here, my job is done, I’m going to go...check how the power couplings are holding or something. Whatever. Do some actual *work*. God of Logic: I sincerely/genuinely/truly hope your [Work] will be related to your [Attitude]. As I have mentioned many times before, it has been seriously deteriorating over the past several centuries. It would be logical to- Founder Alpha: Already not listening! Call me when you’re done! God of Logic: Very well.
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God of Logic: Now. [Truth] has informed me that three of our [Protagonists] were to arrive soon, and I am pleased to see his information was accurate. God of Logic: What do you wish/want/desire to ask of me? The information of the collective history of the [World] is at my disposal. God of Logic: However, I would appreciate/respect/request you do not dawdle. I am very busy operating the various multiversal branches of the [Numeralian Project].
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slate
Juvesquirt
Posts: 16
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Post by slate on May 16, 2020 14:25:54 GMT
Ask about the star. ✦
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