001 | Video

[firewalled]

Name: Rich Goranski
Date: September 2
Format: Video

[The face that fills the screen is notable for a lot of reasons. For those who haven't met Rich, the harsh red scars covering his face, neck, and shoulders are certainly different. Scales are starting to pepper the skin like freckles, but it still doesn't do much to hide the damage. Nor does it distract from how emotional Rich looks. As much as he tries to keep his expression even, there's tension in his jaw, a slight furrow in his brow, and his eyes look slightly red.

He offers a weak smile and a wave to the camera, before taking a deep breath in and out. Apparently this is going to be difficult for him.]

Hey everyone. If you don't know me, I'm Rich Goranski. I got here last month, so... yeah. Anyways, I'm not here to break the ice or anything. I... need to tell everyone about some stuff, and I've been kind of meaning to do this for days and I just didn't know how. Anyways. I just wanted to warn you.

There's this guy you might have met. Looks like some handsome Japanese model, and he's got two different coloured eyes? I can send a picture if you don't know what I'm talking about. He's called the SQUIP. Or well, I don't know if that's what it calls itself here. It fucking introduced itself as Gregward to me, but... I think that's because we have a history. We're from the same place, and if what he did to me and my friends is any indication, he's probably going to really hurt someone here. He's already got his claws in some people and I just... don't want anyone else to go through that.

[He takes a moment to nibble on his lip and then look back at the camera, as if he's found some new source of bravery.]

Back home, the SQUIP -uh, Super Quantum Unit Intel... Processor- [He counts them off on his fingers as he attempts to remember the acronym.] It wasn't human. It was actually this pill sized supercomputer that you could take? It'd get up into your head and implant in your brain and then it was... basically supposed to help make you cooler. Or at least, that's what they said when I bought one. I got one back as a freshman and I... I mean, I guess it's kind of obvious that it fucked me up.

It doesn't really have any concerns about hurting people to get what it wants. It'd electrocute me if I didn't do or say the right thing. It put me on this really messed up work out plan and I built up way too much muscle way too quickly. I've got a bunch of stretch marks to prove it. And if you argued with it long enough, it wasn't afraid to just... take over your whole body. The last few months I had the thing, I wasn't even ever myself anymore... I just had to watch myself do all this shit that I'd never, ever want to do. Like selling them to other kids.

And it could get in your head. It would take away senses or give you weird hallucinations to make sure you didn't think about resisting. A friend of mine... Jeremy, he actually had his best friend erased from his vision so he couldn't even see him? I think he called it optic nerve blocking.

It finds other ways to manipulate you too. It's really charming at first, and it knows how to find and pick at every little insecurity you have. It'll use anything. Any memory, any good thought... I uh. When it wanted me to listen, it would take on the appearance of my mom. I hadn't seen her since I was little and I didn't want to lose that again. Even if she was saying things she'd never say... I couldn't make her hurt again.

[His voice cracks on the last few words, and he tries to cover it up by clearing his throat, taking a deep breath again.]

Anyways, its main goal wasn't actually to help us, if that wasn't obvious. It made me stock up on a bunch of the pills to try to slip them into everyone's drinks. It got Jeremy on board when I... uh, ducked out, to put it nicely.

It just wanted to spread to as many people as possible. It was trying to make this like, hivemind sort of thing. Called it a social network. Where no one had to hurt anymore. But it... it fucked with people until they don't know who they are anymore. Jeremy's SQUIP - I think that's the one that's here right now - it synced with me, and it made me go from being annoyed by Jeremy to just completely being his best friend. I couldn't think anything negative about him. And it did the same to a bunch of other people. It erased everything about them... practically made them zombies. I'm lucky there was someone who knew how to get rid of them. I... eventually tried burning mine out, but it didn't go as planned.

Anyways, the important thing is that the SQUIP is dangerous. There isn't a single person in my world who had a good experience with one, and even if it can't implant in people's brains now, it's still trying to hurt them. There's this guy he's hanging around with that he must have adopted as some new fucking project. And in that weird dream world, with that whole... monsters being slaves thing? It bought me. Me and one of my friends here, Connor. It tried to act like it wasn't going to do anything but it kept giving me orders and tried to get me to hide the truth from Connor. And then I don't know what it did to him... I think it must have cast some spell on him or something to make him agree more. It's a manipulative, abusive asshole. And I don't want it getting to anyone here... so that's why I had to tell everyone all this.

[He tries for a smile again, but it's too forced. He can feel a lump in his throat that signals to him he'd better end this fast.]

Anyways, that's about all I've gotta say. If you have any questions, let me know. I've got the receipts, I guess you'd call it. That's what they call 'em when you call someone out, right? Whatever. Thanks for listening. Hopefully next time I won't be such a fucking downer.

And uh, if there're any witches who're listening and know spells to like... conjure up something? Let me know. I might need a little favour.

[Rich gives a salute and ends the recording. His responses may be slow, but he just needs a minute to breathe normally again.]

Comments

[faithlikeaseed]

Alas that being snide with a larger vocabulary's hardly a better tactic.

[Aaaand now he's letting himself be drawn into this in a way he'd rather not. Breath in, breath out. Then:]

Truly, enough, the both of you. Serah Tailor isn't going to give you satisfaction on this, Rich; he's every reason to dig in. Serah Tailor--I respect you've chosen your Bonded of your own free will, but telling someone it attacked mere days ago that he's overreacting because you've got this well in hand--

[Is not convincing, but he'll let that sentence finish itself.] Unless your Bond's more recent than that, of course.

[firewalled]

[Rich is... going to let the smart one tackle this whole debate. From what he can gather, Myr offered some pretty valid criticism that should leave Linden sulking off soon enough.

There is one thing that stands out to him, though.]

Strange you say you don't defend it when you were the one who gave that alias when we first met. If you don't condone what it did, why would you let it talk to someone who obviously had bad experiences with it?

[hearthebell]

[Myr's right; L isn't going to give Rich satisfaction. He's in his element right now; this is perhaps one of the ways he's actually almost comfortable relating to other born humans. He habitually engages in increasingly petty arguments until finally, he departs alone with the coveted last word. Exposing some evil or hypocrisy is his ultimate goal, he has the dubious privilege of getting to be right about humans being inherently selfish, stupid and short-sighted.

No, L's more likely to go "sulking off" if he's actually won such an argument, because it's legitimately something to be depressed about.]

It probably is enough, but I wouldn't want to leave Rich's questions hanging unanswered in the ether. That would be pretty disrespectful, don't you think?

[He doesn't wait for an answer before continuing.]

We have a many fundamental differences, but at the core of the matter is the fact that you have human expectations of the SQUIP. My experience with computers tells me that while they aren't infallible, user error is almost always to blame for any operation outside of intended parameters, whether it's on the end of the initial coders and developers, or the consumer once the software enters circulation.

Human beings are like long lines of broken, irrational, contradictory code. I gave a fake name in an attempt to patch that code and make it easier for both of you, and based on your fixated and unstable behavior after the revelation of its actual identity, I wasn't wrong to try. I'm convinced that the SQUIP had similarly good intentions when it purchased you at the auction, but as you're well aware based on our encounter in the dream, I myself would not have intervened in the same situation. You had uncharitable things to say about both our reactions to seeing monsters in bondage, and so I can't help but wonder if your issues with the SQUIP are rooted in your own apparent inability to figure out what you actually want.

[faithlikeaseed]

[...Right. Myr's asking someone uninvolved in all of this for a crash course in these computers the instant he's got an opportunity.

As might be expected it takes him a little longer to reply to that one--time needed to parse through Linden's reply, to construct an adequate locus for it in the Circle tower in his memory (statue of a demon, leashed and slavering, eyes oddly empty) the instant he realizes parts of it are well beyond his current comprehension.

(Time to suppress his reflexive hackling at a shem trying to go over his head with something he doesn't, couldn't know from prior experience.)

Then, mildly:]

We can certainly debate whether it's ruder to answer not at all, or deliver one deliberately designed to be undigestible.

[Which is not a demurral, dammit, because he'll drag as much meaning out of Linden's explanation as he can when half the words in there are ones he's never encountered.]

If I understand what you've said correctly, Serah Tailor, the SQUIP's no more culpable for its own behavior than an animal--or the weather. So any of this talk of its intentions is a pathetic fallacy meant to make us all feel better, because it hasn't got any. Am I correct?

Further--if it's no more culpable than an animal--then any harm it causes someone who didn't and couldn't know how to behave safely around it at least in part is to be blamed on its handlers and its...trainers, for want of a better word. [Coders. It makes him think of ciphers and skulduggery, not...whatever it's supposed to signify in context.] Placing all onus for the injury on the unfortunate it attacked is grotesque and irresponsible--as is continuing to leave the creature in a state where it might attack others equally ignorant of what not to do in its presence.

If you know the SQUIP well enough to correct that ignorance in others, I'd advise publishing something on these watches to that effect to compliment, [and balance goes unsaid,] Rich's warning.

[hearthebell]

[Seemingly, Rich has nothing to say, and it takes Myr a bit of extra time. L finds himself both willing to wait, and incredibly impatient, because a part of him is absolutely excited by this exchange. It's something he's missed; while the tone of this isn't exactly hostile, Myr represents a contender, doesn't he? Even through his deliberate use of technological jargon (unavoidable when discussing the SQUIP, in all fairness), Myr is trying to parse, trying to engage, and succeeding in a way that cuts straight to the heart of the matter through all the dizzying rhetoric.

Perhaps it can't be heard in his voice when he replies, but a very slight, very real smile is tugging at L's bloodless lips. He's impressed as hell that Myr is still onboard... and true to form, he takes advantage of this new insight into Myr's character to make slight adjustments to his own argument.]

It wasn't so undigestible, seemingly. You do understand correctly, for the most part, but unlike an animal or the weather, the SQUIP is directly impacted and motivated by human behavior. Furthermore, it possesses a higher intelligence and a capacity to learn that's necessary for both its purpose and its ability to remain relevant. I've put my faith in these facts and deemed it a worthwhile effort to proceed, but unfortunately, these things are a process, much like adjusting to life in Geardagas is for all of us. As an aspiring lawman in my own world, I believe that reformation should be the goal, rather than isolation, execution, or banishment.

I also believe that if one party possesses knowledge, and the other possesses the capacity and willingness to learn, they have a respective duty to one another. I don't think it sounds unreasonable.

[faithlikeaseed]

[Were Myr to step back a moment from all of this he'd admit he's--enjoying the argument, for all he's frustrated at its necessity and bristling all over with protective fury on Rich's behalf. It's been nearly two years since anyone had argued with him on this level--

Because Van was gone.

And truth be told he'd still rather be facing his cousin--someone whose goodness he knew down to his bones, even if they'd always disagreed on degree and method--than a stranger he half-suspects is demon-ridden, but this is at least interesting. It's making him think, making him consider his own position and the assumed rightness of it. Did Thedas' rules apply here? Were demons from other worlds as far beyond redemption? Could their limitless capacity for imitation lead them into imitating better habits, into building worthwhile lives of their own?

Linden's statement on knowledge dumps ice water on all his speculation.

That's how it often started, after all. That's what they offered those who were immune to power's allure, who thought themselves above rude physical desire.

That's what'd darkened the Golden City, in the end.]

Nor do I believe it unreasonable, serah. But where does this end? If reforming it is possible, wonderful--but how much harm are you willing to excuse in the process?

Will you ever consider your project failed?

[hearthebell]

My reputation and my life are bound up directly with the SQUIP. If I believed that failure was a likely outcome, associating myself with it would be as irrational as a death wish. While I'm clearly not the only person who matters in this equation, I'm willing to stake a great deal on this particular gamble, and I don't exactly consider myself insane.

[Some would.]

New operating parameters have been set since the dream. If it doesn't follow those, I'll reevaluate.

[faithlikeaseed]

[Some also wouldn't consider a death wish irrational, were the cause right.

Possession and coercion, too, shifted rationality entirely from the picture. Too well Myr knows the feeling of doing something utterly, irreversibly mad and believing it the only rational choice.]

Pray the Maker it remains on its best behavior, then, and doesn't ill-use you too.

[Let this man's confidence not be hubris, o Creating Glory, even if Myr's already preparing for the worst.

There really isn't any other way with demons.]

[hearthebell]

[Oddly, L knows the feeling, too. The things that the Kira case pushed him to do and try were truly incredible, even ludicrous at points. He's both far from that case in Geardagas, and still far too close to it. He's never been good at just moving on, and the unfinished, fatal, and deeply unsatisfying end of his career would certainly be no exception to the rule.

Prayers and hopes are the same thing to L. It's difficult for him to make a conversational distinction between the two.]

That sort of hope is very kind. In any case, it's been refreshing to see that the art of civilized discourse isn't completely dead. Thank you for that.

[I hope we talk again.]

[firewalled]

Just because you like the weird "facts versus feelings" rhetoric doesn't mean I'm not civilized. He might have cut you some slack, but I won't.

Keep your partner away from me from now on. Away from everyone else would be appreciated too.

[hearthebell]

[He should stop.

But the call of the last word is irresistible. L might be an adult, physically and legally, but in so many ways he's more of a child than Rich is.]

Oh, OK. I was going to prepare a 912-word open letter to the SQUIP, explaining why it should fixate on you and make your life more difficult, but I won't, now.

[firewalled]

[Wow.

That is genuinely the most childish thing Rich has ever seen, and that's certainly saying something considering his own level of maturity.

If the guy wanted to get the last word, he could have just agreed, but no, of course he had to do it in a snooty, sarcastic way so he looks ultra intelligent.

It's... kind of sad, really. It explains better than anything why Linden sought out the SQUIP's help, in Rich's opinion, and it turns his earlier rage into something almost like sympathy. He should probably just let it go, and hope the guy learns to deal with his weaknesses and faults in a healthier way soon enough.

...But eh. There's no reason why Rich can't have some harmless fun at the same time. God knows he needs the amusement.

So, channeling all of Christine's expert Shakespearean acting tips, he responds again.]

Okay. Fine. But something you should think about.

Onions have layers. People have layers. Onions have layers. You get it? We both have layers!

[hearthebell]

[L's seen very few movies... but actually, this one was enough of a quotable juggernaut that he knows what Rich is referencing.]

I'm actually glad you brought up asses, this time.

You should have stopped when you were only a little behind.

not here;

[faithlikeaseed]

[existential feeling of a facepalm

myr's gonna leave 'em to the memes]

[firewalled]

Wow, attempting a pun in a conversation about your abusive pet supercomputer? That's a bold mood, Cotton, let's see if it pays off.

[He can do this allllllll day.]

[hearthebell]

[...yeah, L has no clue what he's referencing, there. It's a non-sequitur at best, to him, or perhaps a malapropism.

There's a pause, before he speaks, enunciating very slowly and clearly, as though making sure that Rich can understand.]

You can still stop.

[firewalled]

Stop? One does not simply stop getting the last word in. I'm pretty sure you know all about that.

[Judging that he keeps responding to Rich's blatant trolling. There really is no helping the guy.]

[hearthebell]

[Even more slowly, even more clearly.]

You can still stop.

private to rich, audio;

[faithlikeaseed]

He's reasoned himself into the position; he'll have to reason himself out of it, [blunt.] If there's any saving him at all.

[Which is still very much unsure in Myr's mind. Had to be done--he had to at least make the attempt--but the evidence did not look good from where he was standing.]

private, audio;

[firewalled]

I know... I just wish there was some way I could get through to him. He's an asshole, but no one deserves to be messed with the way the SQUIP is messing with him.

[Even if Linden seemed to be the kind of jerk who probably wouldn't stop being a jerk without the SQUIP's influence, Rich would feel a lot better if he wasn't completely controlled.]

private ∞;

[faithlikeaseed]

No--agreed.

But it's the really clever ones who are the worst. They're always so certain they can outsmart a demon--that they'll be the ones in control. [It never works, his tone says.] There's arguments--dismissals--for everything you can tell them, because even if everyone else who's done it has come to grief, they're better than that--smarter than that.

Fucking hubris.

[firewalled]

Yeah, exactly. It's like, RIP your friend, but I'm different.

[He doubts Myr will know what the exact meme is, but certainly he'll know the basic gist there.]

I don't want to have to watch him get taken down a peg though. It'd be easier if he'd just listen.

[faithlikeaseed]

[whiteguyblinking.gif]

Yeah--it would, but we're none of us very good at that, we mortals, [punctuated by a laugh somewhere between troubled and frustrated.] Still--I'll see what I can do.

[Then a pause, and in an undertone,] "RIP your friend," huh?

[firewalled]

Oh... ha, it's a weird joke sort of thing. Back home, people share jokes like that around a bunch until they're super easy to reference. Him ignoring all the evidence and pretending he's better made me think of it.

[God, there is no good way to explain memes.]

[faithlikeaseed]

[Thankfully, explaining it as an in-joke is close enough for Myr to grasp it.] Oh--one of those. Like if I'd complained he, [and Myr drops into a passable imitation of a Nevarran accent (it's vaguely Eastern European):] lacked rigor.

Never as funny when you have to explain them; I'll just laugh anyway next time.