Command and Control - Basilisk Station
The command center is abuzz with activity regardless of the time of day - not that concepts of day and night mean much on a space station. The ovaloid room is broken into three descending tiers, linked by a sloped ramp. The first is ringed by flat-panel workstations, designed so that their occupants face towards the inner tiers. The second tier holds another console for the senior officer on watch, the rest used as a walkway around the center.
The third tier holds a large holo-projector capable of showing images of intercepted transmissions. When not in more active use, it projects a real-time hologram of Earth, with notations of current satellite locations and important places on the planet itself. The walls are giant vidscreens, often flickering with additional data and images gathered by the communications array. The room also boasts a single triangular ruby-tinted window, a view of local space without the need of a camera.
North <N> leads to Computer Core - Basilisk Station.
In <I> leads to Corridor - Basilisk Station.
Dr. Doppler sits in the command chair, tapping a tatoo on the edge of the console in a display of impatience. The station's transceiver systems are going through their final round of tests, and thus far all appears well. In spite of the very tight construction schedule, the glitches have been minor. Not that this does anything to settle the doctor's nerves.
Cyclops quickly makes his way in from the corridor outside, noting Dr. Doppler but not seeming the least bit surprised at having the once-thought-dead Doctor sitting around and clearly been alive.
Walking along the first tier, and digging a datapad from his labcoat, he stops by a technician, having a brief chat with him before continuing along, doing his best to make sure everything is fully operational...
Dr. Doppler does not glance behind him as he hears the others talking quietly, After a moment, he says, carefully keeping the impatience from his voice, "Status report."
Cyclops stops in mid step, quickly turning around to look at Doppler. After quickly glancing down at his datapad, he speaks. "All systems are operational, and all tests not yet finished should be completed within a few minutes time." He gives the datapad once last look, before speaking again. "Everything is running on schedule."
"Good." Dr. Doppler stands, brushing imagined wrinkles from the front of his labcoat. He takes a moment to gaze about him, especially at his children, without whom his dream would have never come to fruition. A satisfied smile brightens his features for a moment. "Prepare to activate Basilisk's jamming systems."
Sting Chameleon, who has suddenly appeared as if he were here all the time, scrambles to a console that might access things for him to do while the Basilisk is readying for Doppler's shining moment.
Gridiron Grizzly attends one of the control consoles, looking over to the Doctor for his orders. "Jammin' array is deployed an' main systems report ready t' engage. Syncin' to frequencies..."
[Radio: (C) Mav-Sec] A computerized voice pronounces, "Basilisk systems operational. Stand by."
Cyclops puts down his datapad and positions himself at another of the control consoles, quickly beginning to tap away.
Outside, the outer layers of the station unfurl like petals from a flower, forming the massive communications grid required for large-scale jamming.
Moloch isn't late. No, really. Actually, she can't be late, as she's not really considered 'essential personnel' up here, more curiousness then anything else. Ever since she came up to work, she dropped by once in a while, that's all. Right now, she's off to the side, taking up as little room as possible.
[Radio: (C) Mav-Sec] Bit transmits, "Basilisk? How interesting..."
[Radio: (C) Mav-Sec] Gridiron Grizzly transmits, "Apparen'ly someone hasn' been payin' attention..."
Dr. Doppler's smile becomes a wicked grin as the all systems report normal. "Now they shall see the capabilities of our fully operational space station." He stands in front of the command console, all but breaking into one of his famous cackles. Just before the jamming commences, he sends one last radio transmission. A private one.
Double has arrived.
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "*tightbeam message - unknown source. No voice, only the sound of a stapler* *ka-chink!*"
Bit has arrived.
<Global News Network> Whatever station you are watching is suddenly replaced by a hiss of static, then a blank screen. All satellite relayed transmissions cease to work, including broadband radio. Only localized point-to-point transmission continue to function, and then only intermittently. Silence reigns for a full ten seconds. Then, across the news channels, the silence is broken by a familiar yet long absent cackle.
(Quick! Turn on Live News!)
Sigma strides in, late, dusting his armor off lightly. "I wonder how many I-Told-You-Sos we will be hearing. Ah well.", he sits near to Doppler, looking to him, however, "This is your show. I hope you do not mind me being silent.", he nods, briefly, with a smile.
Bit makes his way in as well, standing nearby to one of the walls. Which is about all he does - this is Doppler's show, after all.
(Live News broadcast:)
The camera winks open, bringing into focus a three-tiered control room. Reploid technicians sit at consoles in the background, mostly absorbed in their tasks. Of more interest however, is the man standing in front of a large console on the middle tier: a man reported to be dead. Dr. Sigmund Doppler stands there, smiling wickedly, the sleeves of his lab coat rolled up to the shoulders to expose their obviously robotic nature.
"Good evening, Secretary-General McLaren, Director Vorlaikal, citizens of the beloved United Nations." Sarcasm at its finest. "I am so sorry to disappoint you," he says in a tone that suggests the opposite, "but I'm afraid that you'll not be rid of me so easily. Perhaps you have underestimated the might of the Empire. That would be typical of you, to lose yourselves in wishful thinking rather than face the truth. Know this. We have not been idle during this brief lull in the war. We are still at war, oh yes, and unlike you, we are willing to take the steps necessary to bring this war to an end."
Gridiron Grizzly turns to stand behind Doctor Doppler, grinning, and offering a cheerful wave before going back to work at his station, monitoring systems.
Moloch is not a technician. She's the only person in the background not busy, that's why she's special. In fact, she does something that completely breaks the solemnity.
She waves.
Dr. Doppler continues, oblivious to anything his loyal soldiers may be doing behind him. "To you, the reploids, my children who have not yet seen the light: it is not too late for you to shrug off the chains of your human oppressors." He raises his left hand, curling it into a fist. "Recognize your superiority. Join us, and stand with us in victory. Do not allow humanity to abandon or betray you as they have so many times before."
Cyclops the cyborg is on the tier behind Doppler, merely tapping away at a workstation. Unlike the others, he doesn't wave to the camera, just does his job.
Sting Chameleon is in the background, spying on the news channel snickering. Turning himself to face the camera just for a moment, he waves, truly excited to be watching this and living it at the same time. Ah, technology.
Sigma looks to Moloch, sighing, shaking his head with much sadness and despair. And then merely sits to the side, watching his daddy have his speech, smiling pleasantly.
Dr. Doppler continues, "To those humans who have chosen to live among us, we will not abandon those willing to absolve themselves of their former lives and submit to the glory of the machine. There is a place for you within the Empire. Let no one say otherwise."
"To the United Nations, its lapdog the Repliforce, the Maverick Hunters, and all others who stand against us: we have tolerated your incursions, but no longer. A year and three months is more than ample time for any who wished to leave to have done so." His expression darkens, eyes narrowing. "We will not violate the cease-fire associated with Battle and Chase. However, once it has concluded, any non-registered human or human sympathizer caught within our borders is subject to immediate arrest and swift justice. Any who take advantage of the cease-fire to infiltrate us will be executed on the spot. Director Vorlaikal, the spies you sent last week will not be returning to you. I do hope that their loss will not be too inconvenient."
Somewhere just off to the side of the camera, just within view is the gold and purple reploid many have problems believing is still back, Double. It seems he's busy working on a datapad and listening to something else, and not the actual ceremony.
Sigma says, after Doppler finishes, "So get out your free recon out -before- then.", he smiles to the camera. Smiling.
Cyclops continues to tap away, but does, in the end, briefly glance at the camera, showing his glowing eye and maniacal smile for a few seconds, before going back to work.
Moloch hasn't looked away from the camera, but really, she's just background. And not that interesting. Right?
Dr. Doppler smirks and admonishes, "Do not try to be clever with us. We will be watching you closely. Very closely, indeed." The wicked grin returns. "Like the legendary basilisk, we will be watching your every move. Should you stray too close, you will see just how quickly we can paralyze you." With a flourished bow to his unseen audience, he adds, "Be seeing you."
With that, the screen once again goes blank, and the transmission ends.
The Camera turns off.
<Global News Network> Just as suddenly as it began, the full-scale jamming of transmissions end, and all returns to normal.
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "They ... wouldn't."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Who wouldn't what?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "... huh? My transmitter .."
Dr. Doppler cackles again as the video feed is turned off, then turns to face his children. "And now the endless politicking begins."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "I didn't do it, I *swear* I didn't do it."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Unless it was good."
[Radio: (D) Public] Metal Man transmits, "They would do it...."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "Of course not you, Javelin ..."
Gridiron Grizzly grins. "Nice ta see you back, Doc." He then turns to look at the feeds. "Looks like da whole hornets nest is kicked up."
[Radio: (D) Public] Metal Man transmits, "They are cold blooded killers just as I am."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Then you bet the **** I did it, and I want a ****ing reward. In cash."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "There's no way Blast or Scribe would let them."
[Radio: (D) Public] Metal Man transmits, "Evil knows evil..."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Cold blooded killers? You couldn't kill a fly!"
[Radio: (D) Public] Metal Man transmits, "I seen Blast kill humans."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "She wouldn't kill me."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "What just happened? Wasn't someone pullin' me out of ****ing practice with me radio turned off and everything."
[Radio: (D) Public] BroadbandClassic Jet Stingray transmits, "Who was right? WHO WAS RIGHT? I told you. Doppler came back, trying to be all big and bad. I deserve a prize or something."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "Neither would Scribe. I know them both. They're not going to let these ... murderers ... come after me."
[Radio: (B) Mav-Main] Dr. Doppler transmits, "I do apologize for my long absence, my children. It is good to see you again."
Moloch actually grins at that. "Hey, it really worked. Who woulda believed it."
[Radio: (B) Mav-Main] Bit transmits, "Father, that you are alive fills me with endless joy."
[Radio: (D) Public] Abernathy murmurs, "Never count a man dead until you've seen the body."
Bit bows slightly to his father, and smiles under his mask. "Once again, the Coalition is complete - it is good to see that you never left those of us whom are among the living, Father."
[Radio: (B) Mav-Main] Gauss Coyote transmits, "'eyyyyy, the Big Man be back. Nice."
[Radio: (D) Public] Gemini Man transmits, "We're pretty much sure at this point that death itself is a myth." "After all, it happened to you once, right?"
As the full scale jamming ends, Cyclops' work on his console slows, before he speaks. "Jamming systems powering down." He then looks at Doppler. "A nice speech, Doctor."
[Radio: (D) Public] Metal Man transmits, "I'll buy you a drink at the reploid room later Jet."
[Radio: (B) Mav-Main] Moloch transmits, "I can say hi now here, so. Hi. Nice to have you. They told me lots of stuff when I joined up."
[Radio: (D) Public] BroadbandClassic Jet Stingray transmits, "Me? Nah.... Never got even close to being dead dead."
[Radio: (D) Public] Abernathy transmits, "Yes."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Oh, somewhat come back from th'dead again?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Call me when it's somethin' important. Or surprising."
"Thank you, Cyclops," Doppler says as her walks over to his seat. "I think that went rather well, hm? That should gives those bastards something to talk about."
[Radio: (D) Public] Bolero transmits, "Yeah. Two or three times, technically."
[Radio: (D) Public] Rigger transmits, "Oh, good, Doppler's alive again. Maybe now I can get this bloody project finished."
Gridiron Grizzly nods. "Dat it did. Dat it did. An' now...back t' work." And so, Gridiron disappears down a corridor to finish some of the last minute adjustments to the station.
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "Yes, Dr. Mathews, I have returned. I do hope my extended absence was not too inconvenient for you."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "Why ..."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Who's this, now?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Gemini Man transmits, "Oo, you got a project...?" "DOCTOR MATTHEWS?" (snicker)"
[Radio: (D) Public] Abernathy transmits, "Lost a little of naivete, girl? Surprised to find out the Mavericks actually are genocidal maniacs?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Metal Man transmits, "... Gemini don't make me get that urber glue of hers again... and use it on you... so your stuck to Snake Man."
Sigma stands up, walks forward a bit to stand next to the Doctor, and then turns around, "I myself have an announcement to make.", he says slowly, "This is now our chief base of operations. Due to the lack of security in our former headquarters, this will become our chief base of operations while Berlin will be our more political headquarters. This is what we have been working toward for some time, and after Battle and Chase, we will all have new major objectives to deal with."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Could be a worse name."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "Not Scribe."
[Radio: (D) Public] Metal Man transmits, "Woah Abby there is something we agree on. The Mavericks are Genocidal maniacs.."
[Radio: (D) Public] Rigger transmits, "... It's not as if my last name was a big secret, Doublemint."
[Radio: (D) Public] Abernathy transmits, "Oh? You think he'll resist direct orders from -- so are you, Metal Man -- direct orders from Doppler?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Gemini Man transmits, "Yeah, we still want your first."
[Radio: (D) Public] Sigma transmits, "Why Metal Man, I'm so saddened by your regard of us."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "He wouldn't harm me."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Am not. And no, 'Abby', he ain't; he doesn't have the guts for it."
[Radio: (D) Public] Rigger transmits, "That's classified."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "Scribe Robin is a loyal citizen of the Empire, my dear. Though his responsibilities do not normally include combat."
[Radio: (D) Public] Sigma dryly, "However, I must agree with Hailstorm Eagle with her statement. Scribe Robin would not hurt her. Even if he wished it, and I gave a direct order, I doubt he would be able to inflict much in the way of harm."
[Radio: (D) Public] BroadbandClassic Jet Stingray transmits, "Actually, most aren't like that. Some are better. And others, like Chrome Done there, are cheap jerks that interupt good races because they are stupid and want the Ray's Revenge on them big time!"
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "But he wouldn't wish it!"
[Radio: (D) Public] Gemini Man and Gemini Man double-"awwwwww" in disappointment.
Moloch nods, slowly, at that. It not being her place to speak, she doesn't. At first. "How're we supposed to defend this, sir? I mean, I can't fight in outer space if it's attacked!"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "You seem to forget we are at war. We will do what we must to bring about a world free of human oppression."
[Radio: (D) Public] Abernathy transmits, "He belongs to an organization that has put humans in concentration camps and intends to kill all of them by the end of the Battle and Chase games. I'm sure he's given you /no/ indication that he ever wishes to leave the Coalition -- isn't his support a little /telling/?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "No, Abernathy. You're wrong."
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero munches on some potato chips.
[Radio: (D) Public] Abernathy transmits, "How old are you, girl?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Sigma transmits, "oh? I'm free now, Jet Stingray, if you wish? I could find a nice, desolate area that wouldn't get the Committee bothering us?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "Ya know, if you ask me, which you didn't..."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Who're ye tryin' t'argue with? Everyone here's too ****-headed t'change their opinion on anythin'!"
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "First timestamp May 20 of 2214."
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "Well, Ms. Whitetail seems to have stolen my commentary."
Dr. Doppler listens to the chatter across the radio, smirking and subvocalizing his replies. Then, he turns his attention to the conversation in the room. "Our primary strength lies in stealth. They cannot attack what they cannot find."
[Radio: (D) Public] Metal Man transmits, "Hey Doppler"
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero hrms, and then goes back to munching on his potato chips.
[Radio: (D) Public] Abernathy transmits, "Ah. A little over two years. No wonder."
[Radio: (D) Public] Sigma transmits, "My, 2."
[Radio: (D) Public] Kalinka transmits, "Zero, go eat them someplace else. No one wants to hear chewing. Thank you..."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "Yes?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "I didn't ask if you wanted to or not, Little Miss Cossack."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "Most of those spent in the Antarctic thanks to that god---- Hale Halo Energy Corporation!"
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "But, I'll go ahead and stop."
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "Just cuz I'm so nice."
[Radio: (D) Public] Kalinka transmits, "I know you did not ask. But I did tell you anyhow. So...thank you kindly."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "(sound of cackling)"
[Radio: (D) Public] Sting Chameleon transmits, "HEhehehehh...ordered around by little girls. Miss Cossack? That reminds me of my interview with Chest."
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "Put a cork in it, Sting."
[Radio: (D) Public] BroadbandClassic Jet Stingray transmits, "True enough, Zero. As for you, Ziggy, no. We've moved beyond... I've moved beyond that. You've pushed me to go Stingray.... To the EXTREME!" Short Pause. "I'm not sure what that means yet, but you'll regret it, that's for sure."
[Radio: (D) Public] Rigger transmits, "Oh great. If people start getting the 'oh let's go pick on Kalinka' mindset again I'm going to get ticked off."
[Radio: (D) Public] Metal Man transmits, "What is it about Germans and Genocide..."
Byte has arrived.
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "Alright Jet."
[Radio: (D) Public] Bolero transmits, "They're both 'G-e' words."
Sigma stands up, nodding to Doppler's statement, "The purpose of this base isn't to fight, so you may be spending more time on the surface, Moloch.", he looks to Doppler for a moment before saying, "Ah, you are feeling well, father?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Sting Chameleon transmits, "HEhehheh. I loved your work in Legally Blonde 6X, Zero."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "So's General, last I recall."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "My nationality has nothing to do with this. It is the United Nations that began this, and now they reap what they have sewn."
[Radio: (D) Public] Sigma transmits, "Oh no. Extreme Jet Stingray. New colorscheme, at least, I hope."
[Radio: (D) Public] BroadbandClassic Jet Stingray transmits, "Yeah, Zero?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "We have got to work on your dialogue. It's been what, three-four years since you joined Repliforce and you still haven't nailed down a good battle cr... all right that's it you little bastard."
Bit nods in agreement. "In addition, with my brother and I here, it is unlikely that any attack against this station would be successful." A bit arrogant, the Nightmare Policeman is? Well, Doppler has just shown that despite that best that can be done against him, he is quite well immortal. Why should not the remainder of the Mavericks follow the example of their father?
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "Cease fires only apply to people in organizations."
[Radio: (D) Public] Sting Chameleon transmits, "*fox whistle* Yeah, hot stuff!"
Moloch nods. "All right," she says, slowly. "But secret or not. Could get unlucky. I dunno. Sorry about that, then. As long as I get to do stuff, I'm happy."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Really? Grand. I can go ****ing crazy on you all. Maybe I can knock off one of yer kneecaps."
Cyclops pauses, before tapping his console one last time and stepping away from it. For now, his job is done. Getting out his datapad, he walks onto the second tier so he's out of the way, before glancing down at the object in his hands.
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle can be heard softly sobbing to herself. "Or Blast .."
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "Well at least up in my noggin' that's how it works out."
[Radio: (D) Public] Gemini Man transmits, "So the cease-fire doesn't apply to Bass, either?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Abernathy transmits, "Interpol has some /very/ nice footage of Blast Hornet killing several humans, girl. If you'd like a copy, I can put a request through our Intelligence division."
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "Gemini, when have you ever known anything to apply to Bass."
"I feel very well, Sigma," Doppler says in answer. "Better than I have in months." He smiles again, this time in triumph. "Let them hunt, if they want. We are not without our defenses."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "I'm not contesting that .. I want a certain human dead as much as Doppler does."
[Radio: (D) Public] Zero transmits, "And when it does, when has he ever cared?"
[Radio: (D) Public] BroadbandClassic Jet Stingray transmits, "I've been trying, Zero... But all the good lines are already copywrited. And no, not new color scheme, Sigma. I'm proud of my gold exterior, shiny is better. Unless it applies to your bald head! ...Man, I need to find something new to make fun of Sigma. Abernathy, you making girls cry again?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Abernathy transmits, "It's an art, commander."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "Problem is he's already dead... but .. she's protected me against the Masters."
[Radio: (D) Public] Sigma transmits, "Yes, that would be appreciated Stingray, it was amusing before the Coalition formed, and has lost its charm over the last several, several years."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Shiny objects. Something every ****ing faction gets distracted by. I bet it'd work if I polished Byte's arse."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Are you kidding? Have you /seen/ his arse?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "I ain't staring at that."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Good."
[Radio: (D) Public] Burner Man transmits, "When it enters your line of sight, how can you not?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Kalinka transmits, "Some things should not be looked at. That is one of them. The sun is another."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "'cause they're ain't no ****ing way I'm polishing it!"
Dr. Doppler mutters under his breath, "I threaten destruction, and all they seem to care about is Byte's measurements."
Sigma shrugs, "They are apathetic."
[Radio: (D) Public] BroadbandClassic Jet Stingray transmits, "Fine, Sigarino... I'll just make fun of you on how you never can get a date? Or is that an old one too?"
[Radio] Gabriel sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "*beep.beep.*"
[Radio] You send Gabriel a direct message: "Yes?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Anarchy Diptera transmits, "Um, apparently?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Sigma sighs, "Very well, go ahead."
Cyclops has left.
Cyclops has arrived.
[Radio] Gabriel sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Hello Double. Ah, and I have something you may wish to have, if we could meet at some point, Doppler?"
Sting Chameleon has disconnected.
Speaking of Byte.... the 16 foot tall Yoma moves from his position behind his brother to one beside him, his arms crossed, and a.. not -too- glowering look is on his face. Glad he is that his father is back, although one wouldn't really be able to see it. <<Insignificant people have trouble believing, and yay, fearing what they cannot see Father.>> The giants head tilts slightly, <<Make an example of them>>.
[Radio] You send Gabriel a direct message: "Hm...perhaps. It's not often that someone calls offering a gift."
[Radio] Gabriel sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Of course, I leave the location up to you."
[Radio] You send Gabriel a direct message: "Perhaps another night? I am quite busy at present, as you can imagine."
[Radio] Gabriel sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Of course. Good day, sir."
Sigma receives a radio transmission.
Sigma sends a radio transmission.
Sigma receives a radio transmission from Iris.
Dr. Doppler walks over to Bit and Byte. Tonight is becoming a family reunion of sorts. "I am sorry that you had to be left in the dark. In order for this to have succeeded, we needed for my death to be convincing."
Sigma sends a radio transmission to Iris.
A nod is given from the smaller member of the pair as Byte speaks. "The humans will come to respect us, with enough action," he comments, looking over at Doppler. "Father, your wisdom is beyond compare. If we were able to help serve your plan in some way, we are grateful to have been of service. The Godmachine stands ready to serve your will - simply give us our orders, and we shall obey."
Sigma receives a radio transmission from Iris.
<<We are your right hand father... reach out, and crush your opponents through us>>, appends Byte in his deep echoing (in your head) voice.
Moloch speaks up again. She never stays quiet when you want her to. "Some of the humans /already/ respect him, thank you," she says, before adding, "That goes for me, too. If you need me, just ask. I'm bored already with these sports goin' on."
"Good...good," Doppler smiles, clapping Bit on the shoulder and Byte on the lower leg in a fatherly gesture. "There will be ample time to prove our might. For now, we must wait until after the games or until Repliforce or the Hunters choose to act first."
Sigma sends a radio transmission to Iris.
Sigma receives a radio transmission.
Sigma sends a radio transmission.
Bit nods once, patiently - it is his nature to be restrained in such exercises of their power. "I expect that the Repliforce, or especially the mind controlled slaves in the Hunters, will attempt something rash at our unveiling our new power. It is always best to wait for your opponents to take action - the best to fully direct our power upon them." He sounds a bit emotional at that - his father has returned, after he had been 'dead' for so long. Though it had been a deception...
Cyclops has left.
Byte, on the other hand, has different opinions. <<If it is within our power.. why do we not strike them down while they do not expect it..>> He tilts his head slightly, <<If out of fear or respect of their joined wrath being brought down upon us... Our actions outside of the games any other day already garner these.>> Almost as though realizing he may have stepped out of line, the giant hovers back a little, bowing his head. <<My apologies Father... I do not question your decisions, merely ask of your methods>>
Cyclops has arrived.
Dr. Doppler assures Byte, "No, it's all right. You /are/ expected to think for yourselves, after all. However, considering that we are hosting a portion of the games in Berlin, it is in our best interest to keep to the cease-fire. The extra revenue and the media spotlight are worth the waiting."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "Scribe! Scribe, answer me!"
[Radio: (D) Public] Gabriel transmits, "OOC: He's not online, so this may not be the best time..."
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "OOC: I know. x.x That was it"
Bowing his head slightly, Byte moves back amongst the others, <<I understand.>> He straightens and a red tinge appears in his eyes, <<After.. though? We place the world back under our heel?>>
Bit nods in agreement with Doppler. "Do not fear, my brother - while I believe that waiting till the end of the games is the most prudent course of action, I do not believe that we shall have to wait that long." A faint smile behind his mask, and he inclines his head to Doppler. "The power of the Mavericks is limitless - it is best that this sentiment should echo across the world in honor of your name and accomplishments, Father."
Cyclops, who's been standing on the second tier all this time, finally puts his datapad in his labcoat, before heading for the corridor exit. "I have business elsewhere in the station. If I am needed, call." And with that, he's out.
Ah, praise. How Doppler has missed that. "Indeed. We will bide our time and prepare. In the meantime, we should be showing our superiority by earning more medals, hm?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Disappointed, Pavel?"
A final nod, and Bit looks about the station. "This place is a truly great achievement... and your return is likely having some effect. Although I expect that the world will quake when the General himself makes his return to the battlefield... it shall be a glorious day, when it comes."
Dr. Doppler says "Yes...a shame that he has yet to see the light. Still, he may yet see the folly of protecting humans that will ultimately betray him." He sighs wistfully, then turns his attention to the monitors, which are now displaying the Earth below. "Basilisk will be a great asset to us in the war. What better place to intercept our enemies' plans?"
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "After a fashion, Doctor. You haff cost me a cup of coffee."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Ah yes. I hear that you and Albert had a bet?"
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Yes. A single cup of coffee. I bet you vould haff returned wiffin two weeks; he said no lonker zhan a month. Vee haff both lost."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "So you were not at all convinced. hm?"
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "No, vee vere not. I am confident you haff zee kind of backup life support systems zhat vould haff made DeVry envious."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Then you would not believe me if I told you that I really had died."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Zhen how do you explain ziss conversation?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "*chuckles* DeVry was in many ways a hack, but he did have some useful research..."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Oh?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "You do know he was researching organic nerual transfer, yes?"
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Yes. He vanted to put brain into Reploid body."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "He very nearly succeeded, didn't he?"
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "In a technical sense, he did, but I belieff zhat vas Procyon's doink more zhan his own."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Perhaps...perhaps. Still, his theories did have merit, even if they were difficult to follow. He had a terrible habit of wandering off topic, even in his research notes."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Yes, I could imagine. He probably tended to write zee vay he talked."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Unfortunately."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Rough goink, my good fellow. Rough goink. So you planned for zee eventuality of your demise and created a transfer system?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Planned is perhaps too strong a word, but yes. *pause* There is a body in that coffin, Pavel. Though I imagine that my re-appearance will cause the gravestone to be changed."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Ah. So you found a `volunteer', did you?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "The skeptic, as always."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Surely you don't expect me to belieff anyt'ink on face value. Not in ziss verld."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Of course not. I would be quite surprised if you did believe anything I said. Still, I think you professional enough to not dismiss any hyphothesis out of hand."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "I entertain zee idea, Dr. Doppler. But you'll have to provide more proof to make me belieff."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Of course, of course."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "So vhat did you do, zen? Make a copy of your body and move your brain into it?"
Moloch has left.
[Radio: (D) Public] Hailstorm Eagle transmits, "Sigma ... I have something I would ask you."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Something to that effect, yes."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Interestink. How are you addressink diminished sensation? Cyberpsychosis?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "I've found that many of the techniques used on our cyborg soldiers to address the same problems to be rather effective."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Interestink. You should publish zees findinks."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "And have them usurped again by those bastards? No. I learned from /that/ mistake already."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Zen vhat is zee purpose of zees Maverick cyborgs of yours?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "You haven't drawn your own conclusions by now? Tsk."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Of course I haff *my* theories. I vould like to hear your explanation."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "It's quite simple, really. Humanity is an evolutionary dead end. Surely you realize this by now. Some have chosen to join our cause, rather than to throw their lives away in useless rebellion against their superiors."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "So you giff an opportunity for humans to upgrade zemselves, as it vere, to an acceptable version?"
Double has left.
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Precisely. Their inherent flaws cannot be fully removed, but they can be brought a step closer to perfection."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "And you vill tolerate them, even if zey are imperfect in comparison to zee Reploid race?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "At least they recognize their flaws and seek to overcome them. That is more than what can be said for most of humanity."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "So let me try to understand, Doctor, because I veally vish to see your side of it. If a human beink is villink to surrender zeir flesh and become almost full conversion, zee Maverick Empire will treat zem as any other citizen?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "It's hardly a loss, Pavel. The flesh ultimately betrays, doesn't it? But that does not answer your question. Yes, those willing to undergo the conversion and join our cause are accepted into the Empire."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "See, ziss interests me. Zee veason it interests me, Doctor, is simple: I vish to understand what about humanity you truly despise. If it is merely flesh, surely you see zhat is changink on its own. You've seen zee census data just like I haff. More cyborgs appear every year. Soon zey vill become a large part of the population, especially as vesearch into cyberpsychosis continues. Eventually, it may be possible zhat most humans vill be at least partially cybernetic. Vhy not vait, zen, for zhat to ultimately happen?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail blasts a CM chord.
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "No, it is more than that. Humanity has more than its share of physical limitations and genetic deformities that cannot be corrected without mechanical assistance, true. However, their mental flaws are just as appalling, and those cannot be corrected."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "Hmmmm ... someone left their radio on while practicing?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "And this would be where you ask how I reconcile the two sides of the equation."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Nah. Didn't I just think it sounded nice?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Cut Man transmits, "Maybe...What we do about it?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "Hey, Cut. Father never told us that music was to be destroyed."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "At least it is more entertaining than the usual drivel."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "I'm a ****ing vocalist, too. Would ye rather I sung the drivel?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "And yeah, but ... *a pause at Doppler's comment* it's going to feel weird having you in the world again, yanno. Why did you take that vacation anyhow?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "I could make it a frigging opera. If I get shot, I'll sing about it fer half 'n'our."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man snickers. "Really now."
[Radio: (D) Public] Cut Man transmits, "Yeah, yeah, I know."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "I meant no offense to you, miss. I merely meant that usually this channel is used for talking about food, or the size of various people's anatomies. Music would be a welcome change."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "'ey, I know that voice. You the ****er who came back to life?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "I had my reasons."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Good on ye!"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "... uh-huh."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "Several of us have returned to the land of the living recently, but if you mean the one who usurped GNN tonight, then yes."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "And here is zee core of my argument. Vhat makes zees people who become cyborgs inherently better zhan others?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Didn't meself barely catch the tail end of that."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Is it not better to strive for perfection than to rebel against it?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "I'm certain that the news networks will be replaying it all night. Simply wait half an hour."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "In the middle of me ****ing practice when sommat yanks me out of th'room an' tells me to turn me radio on."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Of course. Vee should all try to better ourselves. But zeir are many humans in zee verld, and many cyborgs. I rarely zee differences in conduct between zem vhen I approach zee aggregate."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "I gave 'im a good conk, I did."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "Hehe, I probably would have done the same."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Wow. They're not playing it 24/7 yet?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Naw. They need commercials."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Perhaps we are more discriminating in our candidates."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Veddy vell. Vhat are your criteria?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Rigger transmits, "All the more reason to not watch TV for awhile. I really hate how the news feels compelled to say the same thing repeatedly. Buy a newspaper if you missed a big event, it'll spare the rest of our late-night TV schedules from needless interruptions."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "There's a good reason I don't watch the box."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Actually, there's a lot of 'em."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "You ain't alone."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "We look for an intelligent mind, one that is able to think outside the common drudgery of human existence, one that has less of the usual 'programming flaws', for lack of a better term, than the average product of human society."
[Radio: (D) Public] Rigger transmits, "I want my M*A*S*H* reruns, darnit!"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Y'want mash, go stick yer head under Gen'ral's foot."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "So you look for people who are intellectually above-average, in short. Is zhat zee main qualification?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Intelligence, creativity, and the ability to embrace change. These are the main criteria, yes. They must also understand that they will no longer be human once the operation is complete."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "OK. So a candidate must be intelligent, creatiff and embrace change. I know people like ziss. So vhat, zen, is human?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Well, what d'ya know."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Good thing I t'was at th' Reploid Room."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Humanity allows its baser nature to control its actions the majority of the time. There are those who cannot be enlightened, or refuse to be enlightened."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Define `baser nature', Doctor."
[Radio: (D) Public] Cut Man transmits, "Sure you were."
[Radio: (D) Public] Guts Man transmits, "Yeah!"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "T'were just somethin' on the news, aye? Caught the rerun."
[Radio: (D) Public] Cut Man transmits, "Hey Guts Man! What's up?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Like I even know who half these people are. S'long as I don't got Mavericks accosting me an' arrestin' me when I try to walk the streets making music."
[Radio: (D) Public] Guts Man transmits, "Not much! Just chilling in the land of chilliwack."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Is it good music?>"
[Radio: (D) Public] Cut Man transmits, "In the land of chilliwack?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "You got any ****ing clue who I be?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Guts Man transmits, "Yup."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "I'm the best ****ing musician out here."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Instinctual rage. Egotism. Excessive self-interest. The various appetites, both physical and emotional, that have plagued humanity for eons."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Not really, no."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Do you have any clue who /I/ am?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "An' don' let all them reploids with fancy musical names fool ye."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Not a clue."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Then we're even."
[Radio: (D) Public] Prismatic Spider transmits, "Do any of us really know who we are?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Yes."
[Radio: (D) Public] Ricochet ? No, Orbit, says, "*BWIP BWIP*" <Don't ask questions like that, Prismatic, you're giving Ricochet a headache.>
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "Really now. I don't suppose you have sample clips of your music?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Now make some sense if you want to keep talking."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "I /am/ a clip of me music."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "S'all classical, though."
[Radio: (D) Public] Spin Cougar transmits, "Mmm, classical."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "No /wonder/ I'd never heard of you."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "I could do others if I take a mind to it, but I stick to th' good stuff."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "How are zees t'inks zee sole domain of humanity?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Hey, I did me a movie soundtrack."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Which movie?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "There is nothing wrong with that genre of music, my dear. Perhaps you would be so kind to send me a selection of your work? Or do you have an album, perhaps?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Prismatic Spider transmits, "Oh, you say you know who you are... But what about what Doppler thinks you are? Dynamo Man? Bass? Myself? Are any of these versions of you any more or less real than who you think you are?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "I think she's someone who understands a dying language."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Well, obviously. Because I know more about me then you do."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "The only good language is a dead language."
Cyclops has arrived.
[Radio: (D) Public] Prismatic Spider transmits, "Do you?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Guts Man transmits, "I think I rule."
[Radio: (D) Public] Prismatic Spider transmits, "How do you know?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "'Cause I remember it."
[Radio: (D) Public] Prismatic Spider transmits, "Doppler designed the Reploid mind. He might know more about you than you do."
[Radio: (D) Public] Nistro transmits, "In which case you don't know that much about yourself either."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "They are the realm of humanity because these traits cannot be removed. Some can temporarily overcome them, yes, but that does not indicate their absence."
[Radio: (D) Public] Guts Man transmits, "I heard Doppler stole the plans from Dr. Light."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch laughs. "I doubt that. Doppler, answer this man, do you know more about me then I do?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "OOC Mis."
[Radio: (D) Public] Prismatic Spider transmits, "Subjectivity, objectivity... The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle seems to apply to much more than physics."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "They are the realm of humanity because these traits cannot be removed. Some can temporarily overcome them, yes, but that does not indicate their absence."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Anyways. Jes' look up th'name Whitetail on musiciansforsale.com. Telling you now it's a ****ing long list."
[Radio: (D) Public] Nistro transmits, " Well at least something about you is clear."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "So how do zees candidates, who come from zee same humanity as everyvun else, manage to overcome zees innate flaws to the point vhere you vill accept zem?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "Musicians for sale. Am I the only one to see the typo?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "It depends on whether you speak from a psychological standpoint or a technical standpoint."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Yeah, well, subjectively, I'd really like to get you to shut up right now."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "I dunno, pick one."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dr. Doppler transmits, "Thank you, Miss Whitetail."
[Radio: (D) Public] Prismatic Spider transmits, "The thing that prevents you from doing so also makes us captives to Robot Master Ramblings, sadly."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "Whitetail, hm. I'll need to remember that."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "A deer's got t'make a living somehow."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "It depends on whether you speak from a psychological standpoint or a technical standpoint."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Let's start wiff zee technical standpoint."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "Well, of course, but ... you don't sell yourself, I'd hope. You sell your performances."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "I do, in a way. Aren't I made for making music? Y'hire me and I come along to diff'rent things, like sports events, weddings, what'cha got, and I'll make the music right where I stand. Comissions and th' like."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Don' even need an instrument, now, do I?"
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "From a technical standpoint, hormonal and glucose variations are more consistently regulated in a full-conversion cyborg than that in an unaugumented human. This does even out their temperament."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "It vould interest me to see zee research involved wiff ziss vun day. But I suppose wiff zee history vee haff had wiff zee UN, ziss is not likely. A shame. Vhat of zee psychological factors?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "Nice."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "*snorts* The United Nations will be made a smoldering pile of rubble as soon as feasibly possible."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Not quite th'stuff fame is made out of, though."
[Radio: (D) Public] Moloch transmits, "Could be worse."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "As for psychological factors, there is a period of adjustment, of course. Psychological counseling immediately after conversion has been very beneficial to that end."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Ziss is good to hear. You are obviously committed to zeir health."
[Radio: (D) Public] Dynamo Man transmits, "Still nice to see the old bardic tradition at least partly alive."
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "An' hopefully I stay that way. Mavs gonna gun down a little deer walkin' through?"
[Radio: (D) Public] Javelin Whitetail transmits, "Never 'ad trouble before, though."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "I am not quite the heartless son of a b*tch that those bastards have proclaimed me to be."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "I know better zhan zhat."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Humanity is in many ways pitiful. However, those who strive to greater perfection are worthy of compassion. Perhaps if you were a cyborg, you would have a better understanding of the disparity between flesh and mecha..."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "Suppose I vas, Doctor."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "If you were, I imagine that you would notice the difference. A greater sense of control and reliability than previously experienced."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "In some senses, yes. But I feel ziss is not a veal philosophical change."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "Perhaps the experience varies from person to person. Some have an epiphany immediately, wheras for others it takes more time."
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "I vill consider zee idea."
[Radio] You send Dr. Cossack a direct message: "As much as I would like to continue this conversation, Pavel, I find that my attention is needed elsewhere...we could continue this later, if you like."
[Radio: (D) Public] With all the talk of music going on is it any surprise that someone starts singing as soon as there's a brief lull in the conversation? o/~ You will never be strong enough. You will never be good enough. You were never conceived in love. You will not rise above. They'll never see, I'll never be. I'll struggle on and on to feed this hunger burning deep inside of me. o/~
[Radio: (D) Public] Spin Cougar transmits, ".... hmm, who is that?"
[Radio] Dr. Cossack sends you a tightbeam radio transmission: "I hope to, Doctor."
============================ BB Post in Progress =============================
Group: Maverick
Title: Return of Doppler
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<The Doppler Spinny hath returned! Tremble and despair!>
Dr. Doppler appears on screen, the Basilisk command center visible behind him. "The transmissions broadcast over the global satellite system are true. I have returned to you at last. I do apologize for the ruse, though I must say that I am deeply touched by your sentiments.
"I will be returning to full active duty within the week. Any laboratory equipment...borrowed...from my office in Berlin is expected to be returned within the next twenty-four hours. Good evening." With the tap of a button, the image winks out.
==============================================================================