AGWW Online - Log 2003/02/05

Mage - Adventures in the Digital Web

Session 1x06: Meetings and a Decision

This page was last modified: 2003/03/25

Stayka's World of Darkness Stuff | Digital Web Campaign | Online Games Overview

 Agent Kevin Grey (NWO) - played by Stayka
 Dr.Lyman Cleve (Void Engineers) - played by Stayka
 Dr.Marcello Keagan (OoH bani Thig) - played by Dingo

<D1ngo> Oh... Would Grey allow a request?

<AC_Newton> It depends on the request

<D1ngo> It's probably a simple one, I want a few instruction manuals on their dimensional technology..

<AC_Newton> Hm... It depends if he has them. I don't think so.

<D1ngo> No access to them?

<AC_Newton> He is a normal member of the NWO, no Voider NSC guy.

<D1ngo> Doesn't he have them on a computer file either?

<AC_Newton> Nope. The Technocracy operates that all things are on a need-to-know basis. And Grey definitely does not need to know somthing like *that*.

ZenCadet had great fun with the "need to know" business with his Technocracy game.

<AC_Newton> Zen: Hehe.

<ZenCadet> I had great fun with a long handout giving mission reports from a field agent with lots of censored black chunks missing. And of course, they had to find this missing agent, knowing nothing about the finer points of his mission...

<D1ngo> Perhaps you want to tell me something, Agent Grey?

<AgentGrey> It depends, Mr.Keagan.

ZenCadet shoots AgentGrey in the back of the head.

<AgentGrey> Zen: Heh!

AgentGrey falls down and dies.

<D1ngo> Yeah :)

Asm0dai tsks and looks at the corpse.

<Asm0dai> Hey stupid, we needed him!

<AC_Newton> Dingo: Sorry. Obviously, the Union does not tolerate traitors... ^_^

Asm0dai activates the secret weapon and erases ZenCadet from the web

<D1ngo> ZenCadet: You fool, you big fool...

AC_Newton looks at the body and snifs.

Asm0dai looks down.

<AC_Newton> Poor guy! He just wanted to help Dingo!

ZenCadet grins evilly.

<Asm0dai> Oh, we are so stupid!

ZenCadet cackles evilly.

<Asm0dai> We are in virtual reality. He is alive and he knows THAT WE WILL BETRAY HIM!

<AC_Newton> He will have a huge headache, too.

Asm0dai screams.

AC_Newton looks sadly at the corpse. She didn't want to betray him.

<Asm0dai> Neither did I. Hmm, when did I inform you about twiping, derezzing and stuff?

ZenCadet is now known as Union_Spy.

<Union_Spy> Oops!

Union_Spy is now known as ZenCadet

<Marcello_Keagan> (Dr.Keagan CAN be killed here... so please stop shooting around!)

ZenCadet whistles nonchalantly.

Asm0dai is now known as John_Courage

<John_Courage> hmmm this was not well planned

AgentGrey reappears, holding his head

<AgentGrey> Ouch!

<John_Courage> Oh, he saw me!

<AgentGrey> Which idiot derezzed me?

John_Courage is now known as Asm0dai.

ZenCadet is now known as HITmark

Asm0dai hard derezzes the HITMark.

<Asm0dai>!dice 9

<agww-dice> Asm0dai rolls the dice and gets the following results: 7 3 6 2 8 6 9 3 9

HITmark releases several laser guns from his arms.

<HITmark>!dice 33

<agww-dice> Forget it! I'm a dice-script, not a spam-script.

AgentGrey dodges.

HITmark was kicked by Asm0dai (HARD DEREZ)

<Marcello_Keagan> *sigh*

HITmark has joined #agww

<AgentGrey> So, where were we, Dr.Keagan?

<Marcello_Keagan> *LAUGH*

<Asm0dai> Watch, it Grey :)

HITmark crashes.

AgentGrey massages his temples. He has a very bad headache.

Asm0dai prepares to dump the HITMark again.

HITMark looks over Marcello.

<Marcello_Keagan> Is anything bothering you Mr.Grey? - Do you have a first name?

<AgentGrey> Well...

HITmark turns on the RD Asmodai and targets him for destruction!

<HITmark>!dice 20

<agww-dice> HITmark rolls the dice and gets the following results: 9 1 4 3 5 9 6 1 3 9 6 1 2 9 1 8 1 2 8 7

AgentGrey looks puzzled at Dr.Keagan.

<AgentGrey> A first name?

HITmark was kicked by Asm0dai (FRACTAL DERISION!)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Sorry, this is mean, I saw that he was known as Agent Grey on his character sheet, I knew I had to ask.)

AgentGrey didn't use his first name for about 3 years now.

HITMark has joined #agww

<HITMark> Oi! No fair!

<Marcello_Keagan> Yes, a first name...

Asm0dai dodges.

<Asm0dai> (LOL)

<Marcello_Keagan> It makes conversation so much easier.

HITMark punches Asmodai in the face.

<Asm0dai> (Zen, did you see your roll?)

Asm0dai dodges.

<HITmark> Yes.

<AgentGrey> You really want to call me by my first name?

<HITmark>!dice 20

<agww-dice> HITMark rolls the dice and gets the following results: 5 7 6 2 6 3 7 2 4 7 5 8 9 1 10 4 8 8 4 2

<Asm0dai> :)

AgentGrey sighs.

<AgentGrey> That's very unlike usual Union procedure.

<Marcello_Keagan> Of course, how else can we become friends.

HITmark was kicked by Asm0dai (He will never learn will he?)

HITmark has joined #agww

AgentGrey is now known as KevinGrey

<KevinGrey> Kevin. Kevin Grey.

<HITmark> Play fair!

Asm0dai braces against the hitmark.

<Asm0dai> I am playing fair. I just have better Magick than you do!

Asm0dai sets mode: +o HITmark

<Marcello_Keagan> Well much better, I'm Marcello, Kevin.

<KevinGrey> Hello, Marcello...

<Asm0dai> Well, that is roleplaying a derez :)

Asm0dai was kicked by HITmark (Because I can)

HITmark cackles.

<Marcello_Keagan> (Kids...)

<KevinGrey> (Nods)

<Marcello_Keagan> But Kevin, I have noticed that something is bothering you very much... Having any troubles at work?

<KevinGrey> Well, sort of...

<Marcello_Keagan> Anything you can talk about, or is it all top-secret?

<KevinGrey> Well, there is this problem that I suspect that one of my Supervisors might be a barabbi.

<Marcello_Keagan> That is a serious problem.

<KevinGrey> Yes. You see now.

<Marcello_Keagan> Anything I can do to help?

<KevinGrey> Well... I found some people willing to help me. Although I don't know whether it was really a good idea to ask *them*.

<Marcello_Keagan> And this is bothering you even more, isn't it, Kevin?

<KevinGrey> Of course! I believe in the goals of the Union. So if I ask RDs for help, I'm technically betraying my people.

<Marcello_Keagan> Kevin, what would happen to you, if you were wrong about your suspicions of your supervisor?

<KevinGrey> If I were wrong? Then I'd be in deep sh*t.

<Marcello_Keagan> And even if you were right, what would happen when your supervisors found out that you enlisted the help of "Reality Deviants" to get rid of a barabbi?

<KevinGrey> Well, there are some dire straits where we are allowed to work together with RDs. One of them is to get rid of Nephandi. I should precise - to work together with Tradition RDs. There is no excuse to work together with Marauders of the Fallen at all.

<Marcello_Keagan> Yes, I did understand that Kevin, the Nephandi are our mutual enemies, and that would make us friends for the moment now, wouldn't it?

<KevinGrey> Indeed. With Nephandi we are not supposed to hesitate, but eradicate them when possible. Although, I don't know whether I would go so far as to call us "friends". We have a mutual goal.

<Marcello_Keagan> I'd really like to be friends. You don't seem like such a bad fellow.

<KevinGrey> Well... Let's get to know each other first before taking any rash actions.

KevinGrey is a rather private person.

<Marcello_Keagan> (That would make him a good friend for Marcello, he truly likes people. Not really, though. He only acts like it.)

KevinGrey sizes Marcello up. Hm.

<Marcello_Keagan> (I'm thinking how to push Kevin over the edge. At least being on first name basis could help a little.)

<KevinGrey> (Hehe, but he will probably not be that easy meat ^_^ Even though he does doubt a little, He is principally loyal to the Union. And he has a certain agenda of his own...)

<Marcello_Keagan> (He could also convince me - if he gives a reasonable enough explanation - to become loyal to the Union....)

<KevinGrey> (Hehe. Currently he is disappointed that there may be a barabbi among his superiours - and he is mortally afraid about that, too.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (The members of Bani Thig have fairly good relations with the Janisaries. Thought that strange. Aren't the Janisaries the equivalent of the SoE?)

<KevinGrey> (Dunno right now. I'm no OoH specialist.)

<KevinGrey> I only hope I did the right thing. I have the feeling that I might have been too fast giving these guys the chance to get into our Construct's computer.

<Marcello_Keagan> It will probably turn out alright. - Tell me, Kevin, are you married?

<KevinGrey> Married? No. I don't have much time for a private life. I devoted my life to upholding order and to keep humanity safe.

KevinGrey wants to see to it that the Masses can live a contented life without having to worry about Reality Deviants and dangers of any kind.

<Marcello_Keagan> But there must be someone about whom you care? Someone special in your life? Any friends?

<KevinGrey> Well, the other four Enlightened Scientists of my Amalgam have become rather close to me, although I have currently a special assignment. Classified, of course.

<Marcello_Keagan> But would you trust them with your life?? Or would they sacrifice you for their own well-being?

<KevinGrey> Trust them? I learned very early not to trust anyone but me.

<Marcello_Keagan> So you wouldn't consider them friends? You can trust friends, you know? That's the idea about friends. I'm not going so far as to tell you that you can trust me, but I must say that I want you to trust me, I want to be your friend. You must have run a background check on me??

KevinGrey looks thoughtfully at Marcello.

<KevinGrey> So you expect me to trust you, who is basically a Reality Deviant, when I do not even trust my fellow scientists? But of course. You give 'Psychotherapist' as your job description, don't you?

<Marcello_Keagan> That is correct. That is my profession. That is what I use my... my... (thinks about the correct term) ...gifts for.

<KevinGrey> Well, this makes me wonder how much you just want to influence me to your ends.

<Marcello_Keagan> You know I cannot use my gifts on you without you noticing, Kevin. You do have a talent in the same direction, so you can trust me on that one.

KevinGrey looks thoughtful.

<KevinGrey> This is indeed true. Why do you support the Reality Deviants?

<Marcello_Keagan> And you must also know that as a psychotherapist, it is my job to change the deviant into normal members of society, so we are not so much different in our professions either.

<KevinGrey> Wouldn't it be more beneficial for you to join the Union and do good with the benefit of proper funding and an organisation that backs you up?

<Marcello_Keagan> (Darn, this is a really strong argument.)

<Marcello_Keagan> Interesting argument, but... Well I don't agree completely with your methods. Wouldn't it be better to give the Deviants a chance to reform, perhaps re-educate them, instead of brainwashing them?

<KevinGrey> Of course we give them the chance to reform. But sadly there are too many whose beliefs are so deeply ingrained and dangerous to boot. So we have to take action in those cases.

<Marcello_Keagan> I can actually understand that, Kevin. You remeber that I asked for literature on your Dimensional Technology? That's because, well - it interests me.

<KevinGrey> I'm sorry, that I don't have access to that, but I don't belong to the Neutralisation Specialist Corps. I belong to another Methodology that concentrates on the powers of the Mind

<Marcello_Keagan> Interesting. (I don't have to feign interest) - Would it be too much to ask for a tour? I give you my word that while on this tour, I won't attempt to escape.

<KevinGrey> Well, the problem is that the NSC is mainly run by the Void Engineers. My Convention does not work much in their areas of expertise. But I could tell you what I know about the NSC.

<Marcello_Keagan> Please, tell me.

<KevinGrey> They are the ones wo keep humanity save from transdimensional entities. A collegue of mine was recently transferred to an NSC Amalgam. He told me he had some run-ins with dangerous critters that threatened the lives of hundreds of Sleepers. The Amalgam was able to contain the threat and then eradicated all evidence, so that the mundanes wouldn't get into some useless panic. We don't want the Sleepers to get worried about things we have vowed to take care of, would we? - Well, the Voidies even patrol outer space to keep the Earth free of alien incursions. You might have heard of stories about UFO abductions? They were all real. Too bad that the clean-up crews sometimes weren't 100% successful. But we are working on it, of course. The thought of evil aliens would be too disturbing for the Masses. So it is us - mainly the Void Engineers, but also NWO Operatives and other Union Agents - who dedicate their lives to safeguarding humanity from such threats. Wouldn't you also like to be part of such an organization? We can make a difference, be it out there or on Earth.

<Marcello_Keagan> And what do I have to do, to become part of this organization? I can understand what you are doing, I can even agree with it to a certain extent...

<KevinGrey> Well, you do use science and technology already, don't you? The Union frowns on indiscriminate use of superstitionist techniques. You just need to fully embrace the idea of Enlightened Science. Abandon the notion to use Devient "Magick". "Magick" is what earlier people used when they didn't understand the benefits of technology and science. "Magick" was only for some select few. Technology and science are goods for everybody.

<Marcello_Keagan> I use science with some of my techniques, even if they seem wrapped up in superstitionist believes, but I must admit that some of my techniques are just plain mumbo jumbo, even to me - but I use them because they have effect, the effect I want it to have. If you can give me a way to get the effects without using the mumbo jumbo, please tell...

<KevinGrey> But this is easy. You only need to study the sciences involved.

<Marcello_Keagan> (Couldn't find a flaw representing perfect understanding of one sphere and only crap of the other.)

<KevinGrey> (Heh. No, that doesn't exist. Just use Roleplay to do it. - AC has the same problem. She absolutely can't make anything of Spirit in the Mystick sense. I decided to give her the Techie version, DimSci instead.)

<KevinGrey> For example, the Mind technologies I apply are well founded in advanced psychology - there is no need for any mumbo-jumbo there.

<Marcello_Keagan> I am not using mumbo-jumbo for my gifts of the Mind, they only seem that way...just must have read treatises on hypnosis...

<KevinGrey> Of course. And not only that. You can even read Minds of others using the parts of the brain that are normally unused. It needs quite some training, but it does work!

<Marcello_Keagan> (This is btw, how Keagan sees his powers of the mind. It's not magick, it's advanced application of science (and perhaps a little bit of ESP, but he won't say that).)

<KevinGrey> (Sure. Psychology and Psionics... *g* Psionics is a science, too :-)))

<Marcello_Keagan> **GASP**

<KevinGrey> Well, our specialists researched deeply into the capabilities of the brain. It's easy to understand once you read the theories. All brain functions are based on electrochemical reactions. One simply needs to enhance those reactions and thus can take direct influence at the electrochimical processes in another brain.

<Marcello_Keagan> Could I please see those theories? All of them?? Give me a few hours???

<Marcello_Keagan> (BTW, if he gets what he wants, he is sold...)

<KevinGrey> (Hehe. As Kevin knows that Marcello does know that Sphere anyway, he doesn't betray any secrets there)

<KevinGrey> Hm. I'd have to get you the textbooks of my Mentor. Dr.Dillinger wrote two very erudite books on the topic.

<Marcello_Keagan> (It is possible to get temporary enhanced learning capabilities with Mind 4, so working through all that material is a piece of cake. If those are standard material, I will have read it.)

<KevinGrey> (Standard among the NWO ^_^ I don't think the OoH will have such stuff in their Libs.)

<Marcello_Keagan> I don't know of his work.

<Marcello_Keagan> (Oh, BTW, Dr.Keagan is pretty close to being converted. Well, at least where it comes to the sciences of the Mind.)

<KevinGrey> Well, Dr.Dillinger's publications were kept within the Union as the Masses are not yet ready to absorb this knowledge. As soon as the Time Table allows it, we want to introduce these theories slowly. It will cause a major social upheaval, though, which is why we have to lay the grounds very carefully. I think you should understand that very well.

<Marcello_Keagan> But since I already have a working knowledge of most of this science, could I be granted a special permit to read them? Now?

<KevinGrey> I think this should be possible. After all, you already deal intimately with the science of the Mind. If you would excuse me for a moment?

<Marcello_Keagan> Of course...

<Marcello_Keagan> (Keagan feels like a little boy in the candystore..)

KevinGrey walks out of the room, only to return 5 min later, with two battered hardcovers under the arm.

<KevinGrey> Sorry, they are a bit worked through...

<KevinGrey> (You see lots of notes on the pages, textmarker underlining important passages etc)

Marcello_Keagan almost grabs the books from under his arm, and starts reading (using that Mind trick to do it faster).

<KevinGrey> (He reads some known stuff, but also scientific explanations for stuff he didn't quite see that way before. Actually it's a step-by-step manual how to make the most of the brain and the powers slumbering within. In clear scientific terms.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Forget hiding emotions and intentions... Keagan wants more, and he will probably do almost anything to get it...)

<KevinGrey> Is that what you wanted to see?

<Marcello_Keagan> (Well he will only be sold completely when someone gives him a decent technological explanation of the Spirit powers, until that time he is just another OoH bani Thig)

<Marcello_Keagan> This is really interesting, do you have more?

<KevinGrey> Well, of course we have more. If you would agree to join up with the Union, you would get access to everything that is within your areas of expertise

<Marcello_Keagan> Where do I sign?

<KevinGrey> Well, first you need to go through a number of examinations, of course. We need to know your strengths and weaknesses, so that you can be assigned the proper courses...

KevinGrey omits the fact that he has to be properly evaluated about his former Deviant allegiance and practices, too, and ...educated to become a fully loyal Union member, too.

<Marcello_Keagan> Okay, where do I sign...?

<KevinGrey> The Union takes much care of putting the right people in the right places, and we take much care of proper education, too. Well, I can show you to our application office. There you have to fill a lot of forms first... I'm afraid, but forms are one thing you have to keep up with here.

<Marcello_Keagan> Ah, my job with the police required me to file forms and reports almost daily. That's not so much a problem. So show me.

KevinGrey sizes Marcello up once more and thinks his interest seems to be genuine.

Marcello_Keagan (Actually it IS genuine.)

KevinGrey decides to lead him out of the cell.

<KevinGrey> (The Construct is closely monitored of course, so that it's not really a risk.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Hey, right now Keagan doesn't want to go.)

<KevinGrey> (Heh. But for Kevin taking precautions is second nature ^_^)

KevinGrey shows him into a large room where some other persons sit and wait.

<Marcello_Keagan> (Well, he has only converted me so far on the part that what I already believe is actually science. They still need a darn good explanation for Forces and Spirit. But hey, even then, I might be able to fool them.)

<KevinGrey> (Well, sure, they are not 100% foolproof. But they would like to think they are :-)

<KevinGrey> Just a moment. Sit down here. I will tell Ms.Thornton that we have another candidate for the preliminary examinations.

<Marcello_Keagan> (I peek at the other "what I think are cadidates")

KevinGrey walks to a desk and talks to a middle-aged brunette.

<Marcello_Keagan> (Oh, only exception, I wont betray those from my past life.)

<KevinGrey> (Well, in the ItX revised, the story was told by a VA who changed sides. There it didn't seem he was required to betray all his friends either. I think the Union figured out that personnel management can be done in different ways.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (What are these other people doing?)

The other candidates are a maybe 17 year old girl with a long, blonde ponytail... A man in his 30es who looks like a bureaucrat... A young woman who might pass for a secretary, and a youth who definitely looks like a late punk. The girl chews on her pencil while she leafs through a heap of papers that she still has to fill. The 'secretary' frowns deeply, while she fills in the pages in a neat, clear script. The same goes for the 'bureaucrat'. The punk makes faces, but also fills in the pages, at a surprising speed.

<Marcello_Keagan> (I get it, MiB - movie - test...)

<KevinGrey> (Very similar, yes. *g* Actually I took this more from the ItX Rev test ^_^)

<Marcello_Keagan> (It's alright.)

<KevinGrey> (But I'm sure they lifted it from the MiB Movie, too.)

KevinGrey returns from he desk, with a little booklet and a pencil.

<KevinGrey> Here's your questionnaire. Please fill it in.

<KevinGrey> (It contains many personal questions on the first pages. From name to age up to favourite foods, movies and books... The remaining parts are comprised of a pretty difficult test that asks for a broad variety of knowledges.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (I speed up my mental process, using a lot of Mind Magick ;) and start writing, telling the truth on all innocent questions...)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Yippie! See my charsheet to how I score on those things.)

<KevinGrey> (The test is not a multiple choice test, but the people have to fill in everything themselves.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Yup...)

<KevinGrey> (I think the Union will welcome you as a valuable member of the Enlightened Scientists :-)

<Marcello_Keagan> Favorite book: Machiavelli's "The Prince" (actually my favorite book, too), Shakespeare (I don't care much about it)... Favorite Movies: "Godfather" series..

<KevinGrey> (Hehe. Shakespeare is utterly fascinating when you know to read him properly. You should read his stuff for the secondary and tertiary meanings, not only the obvious surface meaning.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (I have his complete works..)

<Marcello_Keagan> Favorite food: Bangers & Mash...

<KevinGrey> (Bangers?)

<Marcello_Keagan> (I think it was written like that. White beans with tomato sauce and sausages and mashed potatoes. Actually, I like that, too, but it's definitely not my favorite.)

<Marcello_Keagan> Age: 28... And thats about all it needs to know...oh wait, I know another one. Sexual preference: MALE (and that doesn't count for me)

<KevinGrey> (Hehe)

<Marcello_Keagan> Test finished. (I hope before the other candidates)

<KevinGrey> (Very likely so. Although the punk turns it in with you - though he had some minutes headstart.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Oh, and my handwriting stinks.)

<KevinGrey> (*g*)

KevinGrey smiles at you and leads you out of the room. He closes the dort quetly, not to disturb the others

<KevinGrey> I think you might want a coffee now? It will take a while until the test is evaluated.

<Marcello_Keagan> Sure, black, no sugar.

KevinGrey leads you to a cafeteria. Behind a counter there is a woman who serves the foods and beverages The woman pours you a coffee that smells like freshly brewed. KevinGrey takes another coffee, but dilutes it with some milk.

<Marcello_Keagan> I see another benefit in the Union... (BRB, getting coffee.)

<KevinGrey> (LOL)

<KevinGrey> Yeah. The canteen food here is marvellous. The higher ups figured out that people work better when they are properly cared for.

<Marcello_Keagan> Yep, good secondary work benefits are really increasing productivity.

<KevinGrey> Last week we had Greek Food week. I can tell you, the moussaka was divine!

<Marcello_Keagan> Are there perhaps any Void Engineers around who might have the clearance to tell me some technicalities about their specialty?

<KevinGrey> Hm, well... We might take a detour into the DW.

<KevinGrey> I'm sure Lyman will be in the Cafeteria there. He's a member of CyberSquad Alpha, the local VE amalgam.

<Marcello_Keagan> (Actually if it weren't for his honest interest in the Union (as it stands now), Keagan has noticed a lot of possible escapes already.)

<KevinGrey> (Well, likely ^_^ But Kev currently sees a potential new Union member by now :-)

<Marcello_Keagan> Ah. Any idea when my test will be evaluated?

<KevinGrey> The results should be in this evening. - If you like I can introduce you to Lyman.

<Marcello_Keagan> I would be most pleased to meet with him and I thank you for giving me that opportunity ...my friend.

<KevinGrey> Well, we have to go to the VR access room for that.

KevinGrey leads the way

Marcello_Keagan follows

They reach a room that is dominated by sepate cyberbooths. Some are occupied, the inhabitants shielded by slightly shimmering forcefields from outside interference. KevinGrey points to an empty booth.

<KevinGrey> Jack in there, please. The entry point in the DW is by default set to the Cafeteria, which is our favoured meeting place.

Do you know your way around in the DW?

<Marcello_Keagan> A bit, but I am more used of going there in person. I know...superstitionist beliefs, but they can get me there.

<KevinGrey> Oh, I see. Well... You have some knowledge in the science of Correspondence, have you?

<Marcello_Keagan> Not really.... (With much hesitation, BTW)

<KevinGrey> (frowns) Hm. So, how did you go there when not via VR Gear?

<Marcello_Keagan> Well, I just went there... with well... don't get me wrong... superstitionalist (really big frown) rituals...

<KevinGrey> Rituals? This sounds truly peculiar. But I think I should be able to adjust the booth. A moment, please.

KevinGrey adjusts some settings and some lights change colour.

<Marcello_Keagan> You see, why I want to speak with Mr.Lyman....so I can understand the science behind these superstitionalist beliefs...

<KevinGrey> This setting works also without knowledge of Correspondance. The experience is more detached, of course, but this is just for a meeting. Just enter the booth. It will bring you into the Cafeteria.

Marcello_Keagan enters.

<KevinGrey> Now get into the VR suit, please.

<Marcello_Keagan> (Checks, if it's simple.)

<KevinGrey> (It is moderately simple, but you should manage.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Okay, I get in the suit.)

<KevinGrey> Okay. I will meet you in the cafeteria.

KevinGrey acticates a surveillance program that makes sure that Marcello won't get anywhere the the DW without him noticing and that also closes him into the booth for the time being. Then he slides into the neighbouring booth, where he activates the VR gear and stands in the Cafeteria.

It'a a place that's lighted with bright neonlights, the tables and stools are pristine white, and the patrons are clad in very cool colours, too. KevinGrey still wears his black suit and mirrorshades.

<Marcello_Keagan> (How do I look?)

<KevinGrey> (You also got a black suit and mirrorshades ^_^ It's the default setting.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Cool. Darn, now if I could remember Jay's quote in Men in Black...)

KevinGrey sees Marcello materializing and points to a table with a solitary figure in a bright orange jumpsuit. The man is maybe 25, has brownish blonde hair and the name "Cleve" on a plate sticking to his jumpsuit.

Marcello_Keagan walks over there.

KevinGrey hurries to catch up with Marcello.

<KevinGrey> Hello Lyman. That's Marcello. He wants to learn a little about various matters..

<Marcello_Keagan> Hello, I'm Dr.Keagan...

<Lyman> Hello Dr.Keagan. I'm Dr.Lyman Cleve. But Lyman suffices. We Voiders are mostly not so big on formalities. BTW, it's not so often to meet a "doc" among the MiBs.

KevinGrey grins at Lyman.

<Marcello_Keagan> (smile) Probably they are still quite rare, since I am not an MiB, I'm just using this "suit" because I have no idea how to do it differently.

<Lyman> Hm... Normally Agent Grey here is very big in formality, too, so I'm a bit puzzled to hear you are on first name basis...

Lyman chuckles.

<Lyman> I wasn't even aware that his first name wasn't "Agent".

<Marcello_Keagan> That's rude.

KevinGrey shakes his head in amusent.

<KevinGrey> Not rude. Just Lyman...

<Lyman> Well, so you are no MiB? May I inquire what else you are?

<Marcello_Keagan> Well Dr.Cleve, I am a reforming Reality Deviant.

<Lyman> (grinning) That's a fun description. But obviously you seem to be on the proper track or Agent Grey wouldn't have brought you here.

<Marcello_Keagan> At the moment, Dr.Cleve, I must say I have won Agent Grey's trust, where I myself would not have given it so lightly. But on the other hand I must say that Agent Grey, is an excellent judge of character and I belief he knows that I have no intention of escaping just yet.

<Lyman> Well, it's not too easy to escape from an NWO Construct, and I take it that's where you jacked in.

<Marcello_Keagan> You are correct in that assumption, Dr.Cleve, and at this moment I have no intention of escaping.

<Lyman> So, why did you want to talk to me?

<Marcello_Keagan> Because I must admit that being an RD isn't really what I think I am, I am just a man who uses "methods" that are a little unorthodox, and I may even be uneducated where it comes to that matter... And that's why I wanted a word with you, Dr.Cleve.

Lyman listens intently.

<Lyman> So you want me to educate you?

<Marcello_Keagan> In a way...

<Lyman> Would you please be so kind as to elaborate?

<Marcello_Keagan> I want to know what that Dimensional Science of yours is all about, I know nothing about it, except a few unorthodox methods to attain the same effects.

<Lyman> Ah. DimSci... Now that's a slightly problematic subject. Many of my Union colleagues don't want to touch the Sphere of DimSci, and if it was with pincers.

<Marcello_Keagan> Try me, you may find me a pretty quick student. As Kevin probably can tell you, Mind Sciences (my own specialty) are pretty handy for picking up knowledge fast.

<Lyman> Well, I am aware of that. Let's see... DimSci allows you to access Subdimensions of the standard Reality. How much do you know of the concepts of Reality?

<Marcello_Keagan> I know you have the standard 3 dimensions of space, the 4th of time, and I have heard theories of several dimensions mirroring our own. One of my gifts enables me to enter these nearby realities or contact creatures roaming in those realities.

<Lyman> Well, then have you in fact reached a basic understanding of Subdimensions already. These Subdimensions parallel the standard reality, and it is possible to phase over into them.

<Marcello_Keagan> (I actually tried to leave out all mumbojumbo from this and I actually know these "dimensions" are there.)

<Lyman> (Good, good. You *will* become a proper Technocrat without much stress :-)

<Lyman> This 'phasing over' is controlled by technology that synchronises your personal 'phase' with the phase of the desired Subdimension. To use a bit more technical jargon, it's your Quantum Resonance which has to be adjusted.

<Marcello_Keagan> Just a little theory, but would it be possible to adjust that Quantum Resonance by just willing it?

<Lyman> Hm... Willing it? I think I heard that one person didn't use any Apparati to do that, but I always thought it was an urban legend. But then, I have seen a true Teleporter once. She explained she used brain areas that were normally mostly untrained to invoke this effect.

<Marcello_Keagan> (nods understanding)

<Lyman> Maybe one can figure out how to adjust the Quantum Resonance by pure Will? I know I need my QR-shifter or a Dimensional Gateway to do that...

<Marcello_Keagan> (Strangely enough, Keagan now thinks this Union is just a bunch of loons, halfway on the right track as the Traditions are, too. It doesn't sound "right", but it's easier to swallow than Traditionalists beliefs.)

<Lyman> (A bunch of loons? Why that? *curious* Does your char step sideways without a focus?)

<Marcello_Keagan> (A bunch of loons because both sides try to explain what they do, while it is all so simple... It's the powers of the mind of course. And no, he still needs a Focus.)

<Lyman> (Hehe. All power of the Mind... That's in fact practical)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Hey, it's a shrink just told that most of his "magic" tricks are in fact just powers (scientifically explainable) of the mind....so what else is new? Oh and BTW, I am still a RD in mind, just a different, more scary and subtle one.)

<Lyman> Well, I belong to the VE CyberSquad, but some of my colleagues travel Deep Space and other Subdimensions in their VoidCraft. These are Dimensions where you desperately need the use of a spaceship.

Marcello_Keagan scratches his head.

<Lyman> (Maybe you could relate more to the VEs - they are the most free-spirited Union members...)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Bwoah... If I was a Union member, I would probably be a "Tradition" on my own.)

<Lyman> (LOL. Better join the Sons of Ether then. There every member sports a Paradigm of his own.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Hey, I know... I'm a completely out of whack character, but hey, at least the Union gives a better explanation.)

<Lyman> (And the Union fights for a safer future for humanity.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (And that's something that interests my character, too. Perhaps the most persuasive argument in combination with the rest.)

<Lyman> ( *g*)

<Lyman> And what do you think now of the things the Union has to offer?

<Marcello_Keagan> I may have a bit to learn, perhaps even theorize a few things of my own, but the Union sounds interesting. And the social benifits are better.

<Lyman> Well, I am proud to be a member of a Union that creates a stable and safe future for the Masses. Before we came, there were diseases galore, and only a handful of herb witches to heal them. As soon as we figured out the reasons, we could provide treatments not only for select few. We are the ones who make life easier for humans by introducing ever new and practical tools... We are the ones who hold up the torch of the questing mind when we explore new frontiers - and the latter is really *us*, the Void Engineers. Many people who dream to expand the frontiers are among us. Not only scientists, but also dreamers and writers of utopian novels...

<Marcello_Keagan> Of course...

<Lyman> Exploring new frontiers is dangerous and taxing but also a lot of fun.

<Marcello_Keagan> it all sounds mighty interesting. Thank you for you explanation, Dr.Cleve, I'm already looking forward to working with you one day.

<Lyman> Well, it depends on which Convention you decide to join in the end. I'm a hyperphysicist by trade and now became quite a computer specialist with the advances and spread of the Digital Web.

<Marcello_Keagan> (If you haven't noticed it, Dr.Keagan really fancies becoming an MiB, for that is the place that gives as he sees it now, the most freedom to actually do stuff)

<Lyman> (Sure *I* know that. But the VEs look out for new candidates, too.)

<Marcello_Keagan> Ah yes, the Conventions. Kevin mentioned those, too, what are they exactly and what is their purpose? I know you are a VE, and your Convention manages interdimensional and deep space sciences, including all the problems that show up.

<Lyman> Well. My folks can be dubbed the explorers of the Union. Well, and the guys who take care that no aliens invade Earth, too. Agent Grey belongs to the NWO - they are somewhat obsessed with information and how to make the most use of it... If there are problems where information leaks out, the NWO sends a clean-up team. Mostly our fabled MiBs.

<KevinGrey> Exactly

KevinGrey grins.

<Lyman> Then there's the Syndicate. They are the guys who own the money. We VEs often have some squabbles with them, when they decide to cut important funding again... The Progenitors look for cures for diseases that afflict humankind. They are very close to find a cure for dying, even... And our esteemed colleages from Iteration X are the ones who build all the fabulous tools the Union employs. Many of our VoidCraft designs were originally created by the Iterators.

<Marcello_Keagan> ...but of course refitted to your specific needs and uses?

<Lyman> Of course. ItX and Voidies get along very well. We found them some cool playgrounds, and they offer us great toys in exchange. But we all share a common goal: We want to explain the world, make it more understandable and help the Masses to live in peace.

<Marcello_Keagan> As you bring it, Dr.Cleve, I think that even though I might have some talent at becoming a Void Engineer, the New World Order sounds more like the place for me.

KevinGrey beams.

<KevinGrey> Really? Now that is cool!

<Lyman> Well, the Union tries to offer everybody a place where he belongs and can work most effectively.

<Marcello_Keagan> (I wonder if training and acceptance can be done in two days, probably can...but still, sounds cooky...The group goes to save an OoH bani Thig, and rescues an NWO agent :))

<Lyman> (Well, you can be rescused but still return to the Union :-)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Yes, and that's what scaring me the most. I wonder how I return...)

<Lyman> (Now that might be truely fun. Have the poor Trads invest all that planning to get you out, just to have you go back again.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Oh yes, at this point I have decided not being able to use any Sphere but Mind, until I can get a set of better more scientific Foci)

<Lyman> (How? Easy. We are in the DW most of the time, in that fabled Bar Spy's Demise. The Demise is neutral territory - and you can easily just walk into the cafeteria and look for Lyman or Grey there.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (No, not that HOW... If I don't get treated well enough by the Traditionalists, I might even consider turning them in - of course for their own good, and that will probably include AC (from what I've seen))

<Lyman> (LOL. You might even get help by A.C. there... And Hannibal and Asmodai are both very close to being Techies, too ^_^)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Poor MC, and especially poor Marvin. Actually, Keagan will probably think MC to be totally insane...)

<Lyman> (Well, A.C. has been badly treated by Asmodai, and she decided he doesn't merit her trust anymore. And this Agent Grey didn't anything else but act nicely towards her. *And* he is very cute, too... *g* AC also thinks that MC and Marvin are not quite right ^_^)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Well, from what I've heard of Marvin, he just has a depression that needs fixing, then he can be a very productive member of society.

<Lyman> (True. Many Orphans have been brought into the folds of the Union :-)

<Marcello_Keagan> (MC is just a really big loon as 'Speaker of Dreams'. Oops, a mentally disturbed person...)

<Lyman> (Absolutely. She claims this naked girl that runs around with her is a "dryad"... And the other weird girl is some kind of "spirit", too, according to her...)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Hehe)

<Marcello_Keagan> Dr.Cleve, might it be to much to ask you for some literature I could read while waiting for my test results to come through?

<Lyman> (This game might get some fun twists... I was playing with the thought of having AC defect to the Void Engineers for quite a while now. Her main reason not to is that she finds their dress sense horrible.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Hehehehe, well Dr.Keagan - the reformed one - might be just the person to pull her over the edge...)

<Lyman> (A.C. was already intrigued by Susan, the scientist of the VoidCraft Stargazer.)

<Lyman> Well, I could give you some foundational stuff...

Lyman rummages through his pockets and procures a minidisk.

<Marcello_Keagan> Ehrm, aren't we in a virtual environment?

<Lyman> (Sure. But even so some people like to use devices... Virtual devices, but they look real nonetheless. How you read them is your own style :-)

Lyman passes the minidisk to Dr.Keagan. It glows in an eerie green.

<Marcello_Keagan> (I just noticed how good Mind is for reading stuff and the like. It actually makes learning a matter of turning pages.)

<Lyman> (Seen Tron? Something like a minaturized version of the disks they carried there. You can modify all data in the DW. You can turn the disk into a book by some little programming, of course.)

<Marcello_Keagan> (Seen it, but a truly long time ago, can only remember small parts of it.)

<Marcello_Keagan> Okay, gimme a book!

Lyman looks at the minidisk, smiles and types something into a PDA and the disk changes form to become a book.

<Lyman> Better?

<Marcello_Keagan> Much better. I know a little bit about computers, but I have absolutely no clue about programming beyond the most basic things.

<Lyman> Well, if you visit here more often, you will get the hang of it. And I think if you get the proper NWO training, you'll learn a bit of programming, too, at least when you sign up with the DW faction of the MiBs.

<KevinGrey> Sure. We don't expect people to know everything right from the start. That's what training is for, after all.

Marcello_Keagan smiles and starts reading (pure interest).

Lyman smiles too.

<Lyman> I think I should leave you to reading. I have to go now - duty calls...

And this concludes this little episode ^_^

-- To Be Continued --

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