/monster/ - The Last Bastion of Romance★

>>349199 (OP)

>connection to the sabbath

That reminds me. @Legal, @Exec, @Management: as I have recently learned - much to my chagrin - that I carry rank Deacon within the Sabbath, technically I count as liaison between that organization and this one. As such, any unauthorized Sabbath personnel of lesser rank can be summarily discharged from the facility at your order, and any of equal rank can be required to provide adequate reason for presence. In addition, I am making use of this rank to offer the company Sabbath-grade electronic data protection systems; at your earliest convenience please consult with IT regarding reinforcement of facility data security.

Kurt: getting the source code took a lot less time than I thought. I've put the relevant drives in a subplane, the access point of which you can find on your desk.

@Adverts: My wives showed me that drive you sent them. Clever that you managed to hide one.

<I'll be dealing with you momentarily.

>>349209

That was actually me who passed it off to your wives, felt that letting them make the decision on disciplining the individuals involved was more appropriate than taking any such action myself.

>>349201

I think there's some working down in Receiving with the orcs, never met any of them personally.

>>349217

Ah, thank you for the clarification. Tess may have written that last line, but it was under a joined-mind of her and my wives - they're currently one combined entity, dealing with the issue in force. I'm not entirely certain what they're up to in Advertising right now, but I'm looking forward to the resync to find out.

…Honestly I'm a bit worried as well. They didn't tell me anything before joining up and heading out, other than to wait and keep Lights out of the area. You wouldn't happen to have an eye in there, would you?

>>349221

They're up to what I Imagine Tandy would be doing with a fleet of loaders if I'd shown it to her.

>>349224

Getting loaders up to Advertising to swat some art fairies would be too much of a hassle. I'd just put bug zapper paddles on some drones.

>>349224

…Wonderful. Well, as long as they're holding back I suppose things will be mostly alright. I apologize in advance for the work you will likely be dealing with as part of replacing the electronic hardware in there. I've pinged myself with a resync request, hopefully Tess catches on and either finishes up or sets in place some more permanent guarantee they won't try this again. I don't really understand what the big deal of the "VN" in question was - I only saw the title and a few settings, Tess and my wives saw more - but if it made even Cressida as angry as she was, it must have been something wrong. Should I wait for the resync to find out, or would I be better off with some preparation?

>>349233

Switched up my formatting, that should be might instead of *might*.

>>349233

Yeesh. That, and the details I just got from the resync, tell me I should just stay out of what they're doing in Adverts.

@Shura, @Warband: Tess, dears, when you're done there please mark some Lights to get things set for IT to have at least a somewhat manageable time dealing with cleanup, would you? And if you're going to use Sgt. Strccckins' speech, remember that the Adverts still need to be capable of working here.

Unrelated: Kurt, if you sent a delivery, the drone carrying it lost the package. There's one of yours just floating here, looking at me. Advise?

>>349252

That'd be the unit that Maria made into a pet of sorts, redirecting it back to Maria with a reminder not to let it wander too far from her.

>>349255

Hey, I don't mind. Frankly, with everything else going on around here my office is one of the quieter places in the facility most of the time, and with the drones taking care of departmental tasks a visitor now and then is a welcome sight. I was just curious, is all.

>>349256

Given how much Maria cares about that particular one and the lesser capabilities it has, I'd rather she use a newer one to pay you or anyone else a visit. I'll have one of the Mk III sensor-specialized drones prepped shortly for her to use instead.

>>349255

Have you looked at the behavioral programming she gave that drone? It's simplistic, but it gets the job done.

>>349260

The software is impressive. I've incorporated a few of the tricks she used into some of the newer drones. The worry I have with regard to it is the hardware limitations, especially on power. Improving that is going to be a father-daughter project, if not a family project.

>>349286

>vn, adverts

Well, at least one good thing came of that.

<I now have - sorry, dears, disembark. There. As I was saying, we now have the Adverts under control. Strccckins was good at what she did, and taught us well. The Adverts will fall in line and stay in line. They no longer know how to do otherwise. Forget orders - now they serve.

…Hopefully they still have enough personality remaining as to be capable of their actual job.

>sadie

Let's see, reports are…Jane's assistance made her mental recovery a bit easier, but she's still in physical therapy. On the other hand, she's been levitating trains without tiring.

>>349287

>serve

As thoroughly perverse as those girls are, I do hope you didn't go too far.

>sadie

Good to hear.

>>349298

Let me put it sharp like this: whatever sort of lecture you gave the little twits last time, we had three separate militarys' worth of drill sergeants' diatribes to call on. So after a bit of internal conference between me, Metal Box, and Scabbard's Double, we pulled out one of the old Order's fall-in-line ladys' breaker blasts. Suffice to say that they now will respond to "Jump" with being already on the ceiling.

And they've been made aware that they will be individually, personally making amends to all those they pulled into that trash can they called a "novel."

We didn't hurt them, really. But they know what's what now.

Also, completely unrelated: after a rather stupid amount of files and folders Scabbard's basically got a direct line to the Sabs' tech labs. He can get you their in-development copies of "source code" at regular intervals. Want?

>>349301

>in-development project sources

Shura should be getting a list of project designations from what he got me earlier. Anything on that list (or similar in nature) gets updated, I want the update.

Most of this is incredibly useful, some of it is a massive violation of professional ethics, and some of it is straight up black-hat. I'm following the appropriate course of action for each case.

Related: Janet, some of your new toys are going to lose some of their effectiveness as the vulnerabilities they depend on get patches released. Sorry to be a downer, but it's a matter of personal integrity.

>>349309

>list, updates request

Understood, we shall mark these for regular checks. Expect deliveries of drives with the relevant files as available.

Separately, while he has been able to access the labs, our husband's rank does not gain him access to anything regarding Maria's core or the construction thereof. It is rather boggling how far up the ranks that particular runs. Apologies, but this is not something he will be able to provide further information on.

Further possibilities for acquiring Sabbath assets for personal or corporate gain must be considered another day, however. Our husband is currently unavailable; the day's events, and tomorrow's likelihood of further fallout from the revelations, have driven him to meditate and then attempt sleep. We shall be following him as he departs; the network can handle things on its own, but in case of emergencies you know how to reach us. Be safe, guarded by Steel.

>>349310

>lack of access to Maria's info

Not too surprised there. Not as bothered about it as I'd expect either. Priority is her health and safety, not replicating the process.

>>349312

>priorities

A good point, and the entire reason I was looking into it. I didn't know how far along the Sabs had taken whatever project resulted in the core - for all I knew, it was a hasty measure to get Maria into a chance of life. I mean, with all the insane magitechery it doesn't give the impression of a final standard production model, right? More like a custom job. And I was able to scry in past the warding. It could have been that there was some sort of vulnerability or instability, and I was hoping that either I would be able to get the details so they could be better guarded against, or find some evidence that I was wrong in the assumption. That the project is as high up the ladder as it is implies that either it was custom-made by casters so far above contemplation as to render the core safe beyond belief, or it was brought to a level of completion capable of removing such vulnerabilities.

And on that note, Tess is likely the only one of me that'll be available for a great part of the day. I've got a mess of meetings scheduled - birth family reunions, unavoidable inheritances, and more paperwork than even I find worthwhile. I'm required because I'm the half that was born into it…

<…but I can get out of attending because I'm ostensibly there already due to being one person. At least this place's madness is reasonably sane. Going to be drinking a lot of tea and resyncing the effects over. Thank you, Zuzi, for rebuilding that particular system.

<…which reminds me. Zuzi? I've noticed that things seem a lot smoother, more responsive, even than before. During the repair work the other night, over the course of replacing the everything that got burned away by holy bloody napalm, did you make any improvements or other changes?

>>349356

I restored it to its previous condition. Any difference is on your end.

>>349373

Honestly, I'm as mystified as you by my situation. It just kind of worked out that way. I mean, sure, I can trace my current condition to a mix of intentional sabotage and opportunistic mad science but ending up with the IT Kraut was pretty random. On the other hand it does make sense that a techie would have a thing for robutts.

>>349361

<In that case, I'd like to suggest that simultaneous meditation or similar synchronized activities - exercise, singing, etc. - be recommended for those interested in the Mindsplit in order to ease acclimation and limit disorientation, especially for longer-term Splits.

<I'm forwarding you my notes on the meditative and mental exercises I've used per your and Kurt's advice and the rate at which my own Split has become more manageable. Hopefully, if you go about adding the recommendation having details could make for more precise instructions.

<With the controlled Split being less deep than mine, might it be possible for something like this to be integrated into the actual Splitting process even before the Split mind "woke up" as it were? I imagine it would make the final product more appealing to not have such a side-effect at all.

>>349373

<Love springs from within, guided by desires and will, perhaps, but it is its own force. In each of the cases you mentioned, the people found Love with one another not simply because of appearances or other traits, but through finding in each other something that made both greater.

<If all you're looking for is a man to be something, you'll search forever. Instead, I suggest you focus on simply being the best you that you can be, and seek out someone with intent, one who meets and fits with you on a more than merely physical level of compatibility.

<It won't be easy, likely. Most of us here have been unbelievably lucky. I personally was preternaturally lucky. But keep yourself strong and you'll find Love.

<Oh, and do not insult my wives again. I do not appreciate it.

>>349373

> Eldritch Abomination

She prefers the term "squamous cuddler."

Just be yourself. Some people prefer what they are familiar with.

>>349373

>turn myself

This is a thing you could do, but I would very strongly advise you not to do it only because you want a man. There are plenty of single mamono here, it is quite possible that it will not solve the problem. It more than likely will fuck up your life. That said, if you want to you can come up to R&D and tell whoever's there you'd like to test the Affinity Scanner. About five minutes and you'll walk out with a little receipt that lists the types of mamono mana you are most likely to be influenced by. So if it says you have a strong affinity for X, you'll eventually become one if you start to hang out with a large group of X or become very close friends with an X. Or we could speed up the process here in R&D.

>>349452

That is, it'll fuck up your life if you only do it because you want a man. If you do it because it's what you want to do, you could be happy.

>>349455

>>349452

>>349373

May I suggest the following reading: http://thecodelesscode.com/case/127

So the meta thread is talking about us again. Think its worth finding another place to have these threads or something?

>>349471

If people get worked up enough to actually shut us down here, I'll put a text file with the archive links on github and we can discuss there alternative locations there.

Unless anyone cares to come up with something better.

>>349474

Forgot to mention, it'll go up on "404mainframe".

Meta post, will delete as thread activity resumes.

>>349471

Cripes. Really? I mean, admittedly I can see how it could be a bit offputting to nonparticipants, and we have lost roughly half the posters over time, but are people really getting so upset over a glorified fully-interactive questing greentext cyoa? Or whatever it is now.

…and after checking the thread in question it seems they are. Wonderful. Well, I'm not going anywhere if things keep going, but as I've said previously I'm fine with moving if we need to shift hosts. Hope we don't, though, this is one of the few places I know of any decency.

>>349474

>>349477

"404mainframe" on github, bookmarked. Thanks for the backups and archives.

>>349483

This style of interaction is thought to help with mental health and act as good stress relief, just like D&D. Given how hard I've found gathering a good tabletop group, and how much I've enjoyed this so far, it's only right that I facilitate it.

>>349356

Shura, or Tess I suppose, I've got some new drone tech for you to test. It should allow for direct interfacing of your existing drone network with the drone designs I've been working up. It's a compressed data burst transceiver working in the ultrasonic and infrasonic ranges. I don't really know how you'll need to calibrate your drones in order to use the framework provided, so I've just documented the hell out of what's there.

>>349491

>new drone tech

<This should be fun. Might even be able to start migrating their control to a more facility-based option in the event I'm unable to keep them online myself.

>calibrations, documentation

<You're not kidding about that - the sucker's actually taking an appreciable portion of my memory. Fortunately, it doesn't look like…hmm. I'm gonna resync and see if this thing's as manageable as I think it is.

<…Well, good news it's viable in a surprisingly simple manner. Just a few array patterns to keep the appropriate communication systems running.

<Bad news is there's a lot of revelations on the Sab front that have given me a couple splitting headaches, so it's going to be a while before any integration can be done. Might have it ready tomorrow. Tea for now.

>>349492

>tea

Speaking of, a significant bulk shipment should be arriving early tomorrow. Even at the accelerated rate you've been going through the stuff, should last at least a couple weeks.

Tee, Zuzi, do you have any recommendations for high-capacity power cells that we can use to upgrade Bumble? As far as the name, Maria seems to think it sounds like an oversize bumblebee, and I'm kinda inclined to agree.

>>349499

>tea

<ALL GLORY TO THE HOUSE OF STRAUSS

<ALL GLORY TO YOM AND HIS WORKS

>power cells

<…Would a permanent power plant be an acceptable option? I had a few testbed options made a while ago, easily testable in some of your more-expendable drones.

>>349499

>>349501

<Sorry if I'm overstepping bounds - I know this is a project you wanted to work on with your family. I just have a few things kinda already made, if you wanted to try them.

>>349501

>house von Strauss

Despite being adopted into the Strauss family and the shadow of my biological family, I still keep the surname "Rosenfeld." I decided to keep it (partly) as a way of living out the saying "The best revenge is living well."

>>349503

>>349501

>powerplant

Maria's got her heart set on a battery pack for Bumble, its behavioral programming is designed to react to the battery level and she wants to keep that.

That said, I've got a couple testbeds for the Mk V drone series that might enable integration of power plants into production for the full deployment of Mk V drones.

>>349509

>family names

<Well, glory to all names you mark yours and all those under your banner, then. Names are tricky business, especially when there's so ruddy many of them to keep track of, and they keep increasing by the day. Already having trouble keeping track of my own now…

<Seriously, thank you. The tea is making things much smoother. Already able to start integrating the sonic modifications. Expect a set of about twenty units available for testing in a few hours' time.

>power plants, battery reasoning

<Sounds like the little one knows what she's doing. I'll just leave that project to you and yours then. Again, sorry for butting in, kinda just slipped out.

<I'll send over the units for the Mk V models to try out, all associated documentation, and discounts for sourcing the materials. Technically it's less a power plant and more miniaturized versions of the access system that hooks the buildings into the AP Jet power plants, but it's the same effect.

>>349455

>>349459

Or to put it more simply, only do it if you are certain it will make you more you.

>>349532

>access system

Oh duh, I can make an access point big enough for any battery we need and run leads through it.

>>349599

I was actually thinking hydrogen fuel cell generators if we could miniaturize them significantly enough. Perhaps we stick a fuel cell generator in the access point and map the charge level readings to the hydrogen level?

>>349601

That could work too.

What a day. What a day. Far too many reunions, far too many new resources, far far far too much paperwork…

Kurt: got a bunch of drones prepped with the sonic transceiver systems for testing. Sorry for the delay, wanted to make absolutely certain I was getting the tech and patterns integrated. Good thing, though, is that they're simple enough to fit into my existing Lights that if things work out I can have the lot ready in less than a days' time. Also, got the latest updates to the source code; expect both shortly, make use of them at your leisure.

Jade: expect a fairly constant stream of electronic parts of all kinds arriving tomorrow. Just let the Lights take care of moving them into the Warehouse. The delivery is a bulk supply of things I've noticed arriving for use in tech projects over the past weeks; fiber, cables, drives, chips, that sort of thing, available for company use. IT, R&D: need or want something that's not there and not Gremtech in origin, let me know or place an order through the Warehouse request interface and I most likely can get it delivered swiftly.

Finance: I'm forwarding details on discount codes on ruddy everything as well as favorable trade deals they work with and on top of, nearly to at-cost. They want to throw stuff at me, I'm bloody well going to make sure it's used right. Which means by someone who knows money.

Adverts: One day down, no Bicorn-imitation styling noticed. Keep it up. Don't expect that to be enough to get my wives' ire down, but it's a start as reparations go.

<Also, good work on restoring the glamour. I won't be finding any untoward modifications in it, right?

>>349610

I feel like any of the Advertising department staffers who act out are entering their names for a Darwin Award at this point. I almost feel sorry for them in that regard. Almost.

>>349622

>adverts, acting out

Ah, that reminds me.

@All: In the unlikely event the Adverts start acting out again, the following embedded codephrases can be used:

>"No Fun Allowed"

Instant hour-long ice-cream headache for all of them.

>"Back On Track"

They'll move to their seats as though they were remote-operated animatronics, and await further orders.

>"You Were Warned"

Immediately they'll move to delete their respective stashes of pornographic materials, then replace it with documentation on safe computer usage. And then they'll study it for an hour.

Yes, Nubia spent a bit of time adding these phrases. No, she will not remove them.

re: the RP complaints, to be fair we have kind of looped through on-topic, out the far end of reasonable and have started nudging the business end of 'donut steel' though

I think it might be an idea to wind up the storylines and just shitpost for a while. The meta poster did have a point about /human/ threads suffering from sue-affliction

>>349625

>>349656

Brieftauben.

>"Back On Track"

The regularity with which that phrase is used in the meetings I take part in makes me a little worried about it being accidentally tripped. Of course, they might be better at staying on topic than some people.

>>349602

Tee, I'm forwarding rough draft designs for a self-contained rechargeable hydrogen power cell generator system to you. Let me know what you think.

>>349629

If it slips too far that way, a thread refresh (or a move to another medium) should be a good opportunity to take measures to correct and guard against such issues.

Measures of this kind would likely be something similar to the rules used for D&D or similar Tabletop RPGs, including selection of arbiters and enforcers of those rules.

>>349629

>>349634

Honestly, as long as we don't go /chaos/ like that one thread the guy mentioned it's fine. Hey there's an idea. If the word of mod comes down and declares RP degenerate, we could head to /chaos/ and give them the pph.

>>349637

I've honestly been thinking about making a board for this, would allow more freedom of operation and avoid most conflicts. Just not sure if the interest is strong enough to make it work.

>>349631

Looks good to me, a chunk of clay and I'll have this fabricated in no time.

>>349639

Good to hear, I've got all the other parts ready for the upgrade.

>>349641

"Thread refresh" as in making a new thread because the old one hit the bump limit.

My primary logic for suggesting a board of our own is the ability to flesh the setting and action out beyond what a single thread allows.

If nobody else has anything to input meta-wise, then back to our regularly scheduled posting.

Judging by the edit, looks like the official ruling of moderation is "keep it in the thread, assholes." Since that's what we were doing anyway, PLAY BALL.

Maintenance Bulletin:

In light of recent events during which outside forces have brought to bear a renewed campaign of disparagement against the company, we of Maintenance would like to thank all personnel for staying strong. "Mamono Consumer Products: Erecting the Future" is not merely a saying reflecting our company's desire to create devices for various sorts of fun. It is also our unified will to see the world made better for any and all.

>>349674

>>349676

>>349677

Please disregard these if they're still in the thread. Poorly-thought out idea, poorly formatted text. Will be deleted momentarily. I swear I'm not drunk.

>>349631

>"Back On Track" concern

Nu chose that particular phrase almost specifically because of its regularity of use. She was angry.

False infohazard inserted into following text, non-named individuals will only see adverts for Joe's Pizzeria and Bowling.

Kurt: I mentioned I had some good news for you in the aftermath of that black market holy napalm attack. Apparently there was one "prey" that wasn't in the joint "burrow" who decided to try attacking our forces. This led to a mass arrest and detainment, as well as discovery and detainment of two final members. Information collected from said individuals and personal effects revealed far more dirt than we'd known, including collaborative measures of covertly funding the bunfighters' motivations. Said funding has been finally cut off as of last night. Additional funding can be put into place at a moment's notice towards demotivating them, should it be a viable tactic.

>>349678

>"Back On Track" reasoning

Fair enough.

Anybody heard from Herr Worthington? I can't tell if Petra's giving me the stink eye because I was right or because things went poorly.

System, please block the following from all but Shura.

>News

Good to hear. That ought to make things easier for us.

based aux

Please excuse my absence yesterday, the Corps decided that then was the proper time to stuff me into a uniform. On the plus side, it looks sharp. Janet's been drooling this whole time.

>>349682

>worthington

I'm sure your future brother-in-law is fine.

Kurt, got in-depth results on the drone ultra/infrasonic mods you sent me the other day, forwarding the details. They worked well enough that I just went ahead and installed them into the full set, so if things prove viable on your end we should have an additional inter-network comm system. I've set it to be hooked into the override codes you've got for the Network as a whole, so you'll be able to just drag my drones into your swarm as need be.

<Kinda interested in seeing if I could get the same thing installed, honestly. Imagine just "whistling" and having a message written up? Maybe it's less quick than regular direct wireless transmission, but if ECM gets pulled in sonics could still be functional.

R&D, how difficult would it be to get tech-based ultra/infrasonic comms installed on Tess for more general use? I could probably get a pattern-based method worked out, but I'd like to have a standard to work from on this format, especially to limit risk of messing up good Gremtech.

<Not worried about limiting to sonics, either. The idea of a more completely full built-in sensor and comms package is appealing, and would be a way to countertest magical tools. That is, of course, if it's not already installed and as usual I'm just being an idiot by not noticing.

Unrelated: got an update on Sadie, she's projected to finish physical therapy and return to duties by week's end. On the other hand, she's been scouted by various companies involving artistic heavy lifting and crafting thereby, including my sister's business, with some pretty hefty offers. Depending on what Sadie chooses she might be switching fields. Either way, she's bound to do well.

>>349735

>integration of sonic comms into sleeve

It should be possible to load the communication protocol from the drones and run it directly. Just a matter of loading the software, unless the expanded sonic capabilities of Tandy and Maria's sleeves is nonstandard.

>Sadie

Good news, glad she's all right.

Greetings, all. I am posting today to announce my departure from MamonoCorp, effective immediately. I know this is a bit sudden, but the company's IT infrastructure is in good hands with Kurt at the helm. With the recent increases in drone capabilities and quasi-increases in personnel, I am certain the IT department will be able to handle whatever challenges come its way from within and without. The appropriate paperwork has already been filed, and a set of documentation compiled from all of my current company projects and responsibilities has been left on my desk.

I have grown much here through my experiences and have met several people who I now treasure as friends. I wish you all the best going forward. Thank you all for giving me the opportunity here to erect the future together with you.

>>349776

>simple sonic solution

Good news, I can load it up. Bad news, either the software and hardware aren't matching up due to being highly customized, they're not matching up because this specific bit doesn't have that ability, or my non-AI mind's still trying to operate things in a conflicting manner.

<The thing is, I don't really have a good way to figure out what the specific issue is. I imagine AI like Tandy and Telia could easily just run a check, and Zuzi could find the problem immediately. I, on the other hand, am essentially telling my tongue to whistle on its own.

I mean, I can run the diagnostics all I like, but if I can't interpret them it's meaningless to me. I know Tess' physical capabilities (I think) but the sensory and tech abilities are still something I'm learning. I suppose it's just a matter of time, but for now I'm flying blind.

>zeke officially leaving

Well. That's…that, I suppose.

Zeke, if by chance you end up reading this - so long, stay safe (much as you can), and thanks. Best of luck, friend.

Zuzi, when you've a moment I'd like to discuss the infra/ultrasonic capabilities and overall sensory package systems Tess has; see my prior post and >>349735 for info on the query.

More importantly, in light of Zeke's departure I'd like to offer a toast.

To Zeke! May his path be ever bright, may his goals be ever within reach, and may what he discovers be ever to his favor!

>>349830

>>349796

>difficulties with sonic data link

There should be a small wireless piece arriving on your desk shortly that you can connect to with Tess's inbuilt networking gear. It can be used to send and receive data over the sonic link according to the specs indicated in the documentation I gave you.

>Zeke

All the best to him.

>>349830

Hear hear!

Daycare, Mofucores, thank you for being such good hosts for our little ones. Sadly, due to the way Spectral Equipment and Nightmares grow, they will no longer be attending. After a great deal of discussion and research, they've chosen to attend boarding schooling relevant to their particular interests. This particular change has been in the works for a while, much though I was loath to admit it. It's going to be quiet under that lonely mountain.

>>349835

>tech piece

Works like a charm. I've arrived at the conclusion that most of my problems with Tess' abilities simply stem from not actually being AI. After using the external tool, internal systems started functioning, and now built-in sonics are online, as well as other comms and sensors.

<It's like a mental block lifted and I started whistling instead of trying to whistle, or seeing different forms of light instead of squinting funny. It's a bit odd compared to the magical style I'm used to normally, but works well. I'd still like documentation because of curiosity, but it's not urgent.

Unrelated: Attacks on Sab servers have dropped off dramatically of late to almost nothing, cause officially unknown. I'll keep checking the codebase for updates, as usual - no need to get complacent.

>>349924

>attacks on servers

Either the hostiles have given up, or they're concentrating forces. Probably the latter, if the amount of force they were willing to bring to bear earlier was any indication.

In unrelated news, and this one's going to be a bit hypocritical, but someone snuck an order past the Frans for six pallets of assorted dildos. Six pallets of different kinds of floppy dongs. You don't even want to know how much the damn things cost. If whoever did this comes forward now, I might stop at nailing a couple to your desk. Try to hide and, well, you know my reputation.

>>349835

>>349924

I leave you kids alone for one minute and you start solving your own problems.

>>349937

>hostiles state

Almost definitely the latter. Idiots never learn. They'll either try and fail over and over, or just try and fail as one.

>dildos

Just in case, we checked with the Adverts; they're clean on this one. Best of luck finding the order source.

>>349939

<Don't worry, I'll probably break something or need more full hardware tech support at some point. For the moment, most issues are a matter of PEBCAK, so patient guidance is already immense help. I've been chewing through manuals to try and improve that, even if it's slow going.

Much as I'd like additions, best to understand what I've got now first. Besides, I somehow doubt Tess' frame could handle any more mods, right? With everything else you've put in there, I find it unlikely anything more could be added without an obvious appearance change.

>>349942

Pff. If you pull the same trick Tandy did with Maria's drone, you could hide suborbital artillery in your pinky.

>>349951

You mean like what I've been doing with my own drones for ages? Pretty sure I mentioned AP Jet-powered cleaning torches and singluarity trash cans being equipped to all of them, among other things, for a while. Wouldn't take much to rework the portals a bit and make them weapons.

<I'm talking the sort of stuff that's locally installed, not stored in a subplane. Concrete hardware, not nebulous cloud equipment. Subplane-based arsenals are one thing, but there's something to be said for tangible, here-and-now strengths.

Besides, I was thinking more along the lines of sensory equipment and mobility than anything else. Know the world before changing it, yeah?

>>349955

Should be easy enough to modulate the ultrasonic portion of the comms setup for detection. You could also (theoretically) get a radar effect by some clever modulations of the EM transceivers included in a default sleeve.

>>349955

I was suggesting you retract bulky actual hardware into sub-pockets, not magic up temp tech. You could do the same for mobility hardware. Wings, rockets, whatever.

>>349962

<Getting a few ideas here. Gimme a bit, I might be able to figure something out.

>>349964

…Confirmation bias, why must thou curse me so? Good ideas, those. I'll consult with my three on the matter, see if they've any input on designs. Depending on what we decide I might end up with a feature request, the logistics of which I'd of course need to get your advice on..

And thanks to you both, I appreciate the help.

Sorry for dropping out like that. Jade, you were technically right. A massive force of what appeared to be the attackers marched on a Sab facility and began a digital attack. They then immediately surrendered and were taken into custody. Main hypothesis running is that the attack was a claim of proof of their nature, the surrender uncertain in motivation. The attackers' full confession has been redacted from the report, sadly.

Begin seventeen-layer mindblock ward, keyed to Jade, Kurt, Tandy, Zuzi; non-keyed will see blank space. Full confession included a belief that something else was hunting them, was angry at their attempts to get at the information, and had taken other members. End ward.

>>349962

Got an update on those suggestions. Sonic sensors was definitely easy enough to create. "Radar" effect…less so. Got it working, sure, but it's sketchy; I'll need to recalibrate it a lot before I'd be willing to rely on it outside. Proof of concept, at least. I'll forward you the details.

<Admittedly it's kind of fun. Disorienting, but definitely fun. World looks so different under tech-based sonar and pseudo-radar. If you get it into a more stable format you might want to try it out through Curta.

>>349964

Had some difficulty with ideas on this particular. Many choices, too many conflicts with the existing form. Don't mind per se, got a few options through both functionality and aesthetic approval. I'm sending basic designs of leg-mounted jet/rocket/whatever thrust systems for improved dashes/sprints, as well as greater back-mounted thrusters for enhanced jumps or brief flight, held in subpockets when not in use. Could you look them over and let me know if they can be made viable, preferably with Tess' current physiology? Additionally, I'm curious as to what sort of stuff could be added to my left arm with the advent of subpocket options. I wouldn't mind a greater suite of tech tools, would certainly be increased motivation to finally learn the stuff to a level of competency.

>>350010

There are multiple standard toolsets already designed to fit in your chassis, you could probably set up any or all of them in an array on a subplane that could interchange them. You want tools? Have all the tools. Any industry you could want. As for the boost jets, this is definitely viable. We won't even need to alter the standard self-sealing-seams in the synthskin, I'll show you where to put the pockets and I'll install the tech. Gimme a day to fabricate the jets and rustle up the toolsets. I know it'd be quicker to use 'clay but it's not quite the same, especially for something that's going to be put through rocketry stresses. Definitely not as satisfying either.

Good news, everyone! Sadie's decided that, when she gets out of therapy, she's returning to work here at Mamonocorp. She'll be taking a different set of hours to accommodate further schooling regarding use of her new powers, but aside from that looks forward to returning to the company.

>>350012

<Sounds great, looking forward to it. Let me know when things are ready and I'll head up there for the augments.

>>350100

I was just wrapping up, actually, come on up whenever you're ready.

>>350115

<I'll be right there. Thanks for getting this set up for me.

Unrelated: Kurt, got another batch of updates to code in the aftermath of last night's fiasco. Additionally, depending on how a request I've submitted to the labs turns out I may have a bit of more important news, but I'm still waiting on results.

>>350116

>updates

Got it. I'll be applying the patches as they pass my audit.

>potential news

Got it.

>>350118

While I'm waiting on the labs for their response, got a bit of a question. Did the legal teams ever get word back from the Sabs regarding who Maria's vendor and official rep are? Or is that still a nebulous unknown?

>>350136

It might be for the best if they were the vendor, because then as a ranking member you could act as service rep.

>>350141

>>350136

If memory serves, the Sabbath is technically Maria's vendor until the legal mess surrounding AI and Automata in general is sussed out.

>>350142

Not if they haven't officially declared themselves such, and they haven't yet.

>>350141

>>350142

>>350143

…if they were technically the Vendor, and I were able to take on the role of Rep, would that be at all useful?

Well, the things that happen over the space of a few days. Apologies for my absence, I just returned from a US Senate hearing where Director Gremory had been called to give testimony on a matter (Admittedly only tangentially) related to the company.

Effectively it amounted to me standing at her left shoulder going "No, you can't kill him… Well, you COULD seduce that one but would you really want to? …Sure, that one you can kill, but I'd make it look like an accident, unofficially." She's such fun.

>Petra stink-eye

There is just no way to tell a Vampire who's sort-of-interested in you that you're leaving for the better part of a week, the day after a very enjoyable (And thoroughly PG-13 rated) evening, to be in very close proximity to a Demon of disturbingly nebulous rank. Why she's decided it's your fault is one of the unsolvable mysteries of the female mind, I fear.

We'll be catching up for a despicably early breakfast tomorrow (IE, it may as well be midnight) so I'll see if I can't improve her mood somewhat.

On the subject of Maria, the word is 'Jurisdictional'. The 'Bunfights' I've been talking about essentially stem from a number of countries who aren't exactly opposed to the idea getting stroppy about potentially having to abide by the legal precedent of a foreign power. And of course the various fundamentalist and anti-AI special interests pouring gasoline on any fire they see don't help.

The horrible thing about it is, we'd have a much easier time if something had actually happened to Maria that we could put to the Hague as a Sapient Rights violation. But I won't advocate putting that dear sweet… Ammit be merciful is she re-enacting a Katamari again?

>>350136

Her Vendor's status is currently 'Under investigation' with MCP holding 'Salvage' rights. (Rights I assure you every department who can action said salvage has been threatened with at least four different flavors of legal and literal tentacle rape if they so much as SMELL like acting on)

>>350144

>>350145

Yes. Absolutely. It would let you make us officially her legal guardians and keep all these shitheads from trying to salvage her. Which would result in their absolute obliteration.

@Kurt, @TANDY, @Jworthington:

Please note this is only a draft. Nothing has been sent. Nothing has been filed. I think this is the appropriate doc, but I'd need advice all the way anyway.

>from: <TnC@Dioconate.Sabbath.com>

>to: <Kurt@it.mamonocorp.int>, <TANDY@resndev.mamonocorp.int>, <JWorthington@legal.mamonocorp.int>

>cc:<Shura@maint.mamonocorp.int>

>subject: INFO Regarding Vendorhood and Rep

>

>Greetings.

>

>As the Sabbath is Acting Vendor of the artificial intelligence Maria,

>I, Deacon Tesshurai nal Cadarach of the Sabbath House Cadarach, do hereby claim title of Service Representative.

>I do hereby enlist Fredrick and Mina Strauss and Sir Worthington for assistance in legal matters regarding AI.

>I do hereby enlist Tandy and Kurt Rosenfeld for assistance in technical matters regarding AI.

>Until such time as legal matters regarding AI Rights are settled I do hereby claim Responsibility over actions taken by the aforementioned.

>I do hereby swear to abide all relevant consequences and follow appropriate courses for this matter.

>

>Rev. Tesshurai nal Cadarach

>( blank space for signature )

>

If they're going to demand I use my birth name and throw a ranking title at me then they can accept that I'm going to use it as I see fit.

>>350145

>explanation

Ah. A classic case of "I'm unreasonably mad at him for leaving, so I'll be unreasonably mad at my brother for introducing me to him." Fair enough.

>Bunfights explanation

Politicians. I'd very much like to introduce the whole mass to my steel-toe leather boot alongside an explanation of what the right thing is to do since they can't seem to get their heads around it any better than Ads were able to get their heads around safe computer usage before that training session.

>'Salvage' rights

Verdammt. That was a nice pen. Would you kindly inform the relevant departments that, in the case that they try anything, whatever you've previously threatened them with will have to be done to what's left after they get the same treatment that put my birth parents behind bars to serve a multi-millennial prison sentence?

>>350148

A) You're a verdammt saint in the making Shura, no matter how humble you may wish to be about it

B) I've a sneaking suspicion that the Sabs may have taken the likelihood of this particular action on your part into account when giving you all this authority that you're using.

>>350150

>suspicion re authority

Believe me, the thought's crossed my mind as well. I mean, I've been here for how long, again? They confirmed my identity…just a bit before Maria's core showed up. And they only really doubled down on getting me to meet after you'd taken in Maria and the whole legal debacle started. For all I know I've also been one of their pawns in this entire thing. That said, whatever their intent may be, I don't really care. If I'm being manipulated into this path, fine. Better to forge on ahead and risk the traps than sit and do nothing.

I've forwarded you all the document in full. When you all have a chance to look that over, let me know if there's any fixes or changes to make and if I should file, and I can get it into their system swiftly.

>>350145

>politics

Ah, that's always a fun part of the Game. Much as I dislike bribery, and as much as they claim to dislike bribery, it tends to work best on the Hill.

You know. Hypothetically.

>legal precedent

…so, let's assume there's a hypothetical minor power that absolutely refuses to abide by US law in this instance. From the perspective of such a leader, the options are to stop the case or tilt it in a desired direction - through legal or extralegal means - or break whatever agreements force them to abide by international law. Obviously the former is more palatable than the latter.

I'll have to do some research, put some feelers out. I've got next to no contacts in the former EU, but that can be worked around. I might be jumping at shadows, but better safe than sorry, and I might just come away with useful data if this all goes well.

>fundamentalists, anti-AI spec-interest

<i'm sorry did you say "organizations with no infosec?" because that's what I read

<i get to do some "research" of my own it seems

>'salvage' rights

Oh, that was what that packet was. Dunno if I was supposed to get one, it just said "do not do x thing under penalty of y." I just kinda figured it was an addendum to the NDA.

>>350153

>suspicions

It's been said that the best trap is the one the prey walks into willingly, and it looks like the washboard society spared no expense. If it brings benefits and doesn't bring downsides, and fighting it brings nothing, does the manipulation really matter? Of course it does, but does it matter enough to fight it for little to no gain?

>>350153

By the way Kurt, I finished modding that MCB doll with a top-notch full sensory set and expanded processor/memory, as well as a gustatory system just in case. But no remote setup that an AI would use to jump in, so the experiment is still valid.

>>350156

>contacts, research

Intel and Infil contacts forwarded and associated authorizations granted for duration of "research project," in case you find them useful. Have fun.

<And I hope you don't mind, but I picked up a new suite of Sab-grade "research tool" software, as well as a dedicated terminal. I can't do a thing with it, curse my ineptitude. I don't suppose you'd know anyone who could use such a device?

>best trap saying

…True. And I'm fine with that. Philosophy aside, I'm not going into this blind; I've consulted my dears, my adoptive family, the Corps, and the Lotus on the matter, and we've all come to the conclusion that it's a trap of some kind. But even so, doing nothing is an even bigger trap. Like I said before, I'd rather accept the risk and chance a greater outcome than be safe and accomplish nothing. Honestly, it's only that it's the right of Maria's parents and their legal team to have the final decision that's stopped me from filing already. Manipulation or no, I've made my choice.

Unrelated: did you ever discover the source of those dildos? Bit of a non sequitur, I know.

>>350161

Messenger Pigeons, right?

I think you meant >>350150 .

>>350166

Ah, yes.

>>350161

Be along shortly.

>>350156

Check your inbox. Tell the locals that you were routed through mainframe 404 when they ask how you got to the site referenced in what I sent.

>>350153

Passed the draft to my folks for review, you should hear from them shortly.

>>350168

>hear shortly

I'll keep an eye out. Any timeframe, you think? Tomorrow, end of the week?

>>350168

Hopefully the test should go better this time.

>>350163

Ooh, new toys. Much appreciated.

<i'm sure i can find a use for that terminal if you aren't using it

>source of dildos

HR. I don't know why I'm surprised. If it isn't manticore venom it's lubricant, if it isn't lube it's dildos. Shame that they're lonely, but they can take care of that on their own time with their own money. Their products have been hand-delivered to their desks, mailboxes, chairs, and other assorted furniture, along with a fair amount of glue and a stern written warning to not misuse company funds. Can you tell I'm annoyed?

>>350168

>mainframe 404

I take it I'm about to hear from people whose handles are profanity in binary. This ought to be good.

>>350156

>No InfoSec

Don't be so cocky, just because they're anti-AI doesn't make them Luddites. The Society for Organic Primacy, for example, has one of the most thoroughly shielded bases of operations I have ever heard of. Faraday caging, Multi-stage scrambling on anything even remotely resembling a cable… Scuttlebutt suggests you can't even get morse code in or out of that building without that they let it happen. Unfortunately for them, they built their hideout 'innawoods' as our /k/ubist colleagues would put it, so currently have a number of Wendigos and Skinwalkers writing them loveletters and stalking the Perimiter.

Which reminds me, I really must buy something nice for that Sabbath representative… that doesn't involve me going within eight hundred meters of anything resembling a 'Tea Party' of course.

>>350172

>terminal

On its way.

>hr

Why am i NOT surprised…

>>350173

>sabbath rep

Just to confirm, which rep? I might be able to make a recommendation.

>>350170

Movement is clumsier than standard sleeve, preloaded programming amounts to a seriously dirtier mind than normal. More observations as relevant.

>>350169

Couple of days at most. Nice thing for private law firms like the one my folks own is that (assuming they have enough cash, which my folks do) is that a high-priority case can be given the entire firm's resources.

>>350172

>binary profanity

Among others. It's a bazaar of favors, where money is of little use. As a new member, you'll find people trading in your favor to build goodwill and trust. Take good advantage of it, and treat the others with similar respect.

>>350173

>Anti-AI, not luddites

Those asshats? I know a few people who would be very interested in any information on the subject of groups of that ilk, and more than likely willing to trade some valuable dirt for it.

>>350174

Witch, purple and argent 'robes' (How a leotard with some skirting qualifies as a 'robe I'll never understand) Staff with a triune gem insert… didn't catch her name as she spent the entire meeting mumbling into it while shuffling her feet and blushing. Legal discussions in yes/no questions, not fun.

>>350176

>timeframe, reason

Good to know, means we can have at least this particular step done and dusted in a timely manner. Would that the rest of it were so easy.

>>350177

>description

Far Fires, that rep? Sorry you had to deal with her, but at least Beatrix tries to be more professional than aggressively vulgar, even if it comes off as an odd sort of shy. Based on what I've learned, best suggestion I can think of is a few novels of good quality, historical fiction tends to be her preference. Or some incredibly cheap booze, apparently that's to her what good scotch is to most others.

>>350176

>bazaar of favors

What's your preferred booze?

Seriously, this is perfect. I've got to get used to doing this over the internet - too used to picking up a phone and directly calling people. Ammit above, between my trading expertise and Janet's extralegal skills…

>>350173

>ridiculous infosec

<the way i see it, when it comes to anti-AI orgs you have three options

<option 1: zero infosec

<option 2: zero technology, to avoid AI infiltration

<option 3: the SOP and its fellows, locked up tighter than a unicorn for fear of AI infil

<#1 is very obviously just a glorified database, #2 is completely safe from me

<#3, though

<the sort of hypervigilance necessary is not sustainable in the long term, someone will fuck up

<eventually an employee/volunteer/brainwashed cultist will bring his/her cellphone into the building or something to give me an opening

<it'll take patience, and i am nothing if not patient

>>350177

At least she was wearing something relatively decent. I've never once seen a baphomet wearing more than a glorified string bikini.

>>350180

>booze

Just keep your interactions there positive in tone to the best of your ability, and answer honestly when asked who brought you in.

Kurt, Tandy, Zuzi, finally got word back from the labs. Request came back positive, I got them to send us a few replications of Maria's core for any investigation you deem appropriate. They wouldn't tell us how to remake them per se, but if you figure it out on your own they don't really care.

Current text block is under seven-layer memetic-unlock false infohazard. Non-keyed individuals will see only details regarding cores' strong defenses. Non-keyed attempts to get past ward will reveal only false details of weaknesses in core security, unremovable due to non-existent links to inherent structural flaws; such attempts will mark infiltrators with trackers. Non-keyed individuals can be keyed in through verbal explanation from three already marked with key. Key currently applied to Kurt, Tandy, Zuzi, Jade, Janet, Sir Worthington, Strausses. Cores delivered are false, part of a decoy measure. Decoys possess basic drone-level behavioral routines, able to replicate the seeming of a child. In event of abduction attempt, decoys can act as standin for Maria. If taken, decoys possess reactive anti-infiltration measures of all variants, both defensive and offensive, and will activate them as well as a multi-format tracking system. With any luck this measure will be rendered unnecessary, but redundancies and failsafes can only work if they exist. End ward.

So, yeah, I honestly didn't understand a word of all that technobabble. Pretty sure the geeks at the lab were laughing behind my back about it. Don't worry about trying to explain it all to me, this is more along your lines of expertise anyway, I'm just passing the message.

Speaking of tech: Zuzi, these tools are superb; I've gone through a few dozen manuals already and I'm still finding new ways to use them. This is some good stuff you got me, thanks!

<And the thrusters are a joy to use. Teleportation and levitation are one thing, but there's just something satisfying about free running and jumping at increased velocity without magical enhancements.

>>350180

>sabbath attire

It's a religious thing. "Proclaim the glory of the physical image" or however they want to word it. In more familial situations some of them are downright prudish in outfit.

>>350176

Well, they're designed to be rather weak and clumsy. Functions all worked fine though, I'm beginning to see the appeal in these things.

>>350180

>>350262

You should see what they wear to tea parties, J.

Also, Shu, you're fantastic. Seriously, even counting everything you've gotten from R&D we still owe you.

>>350262

>He can fly now.

Has Benjamin gone home? Good.

Forget Saint, are you aiming for God? Asking for a colleague.

Must be brief. Petra's on the phone and to be honest it's hard to think. Kurt, I think I may have been a little euphemistic when I said I'd improve her mood. There may have been kissing. Her teeth may have gotten involved. I may be sitting quite insensible in the back of a limousine.

Out of curiosity, what does "Muss er nüchtern sein" mean? Oh, Miss Strauss, you're off the phone… Please do forgive me, I seem to be quite overwh… when did your eyes get so… phone goes away now? Why Petra, what a splendid idea…

>>350340

>Ben gone home

Lord of Light, you must really be mazed. What is a VPN, Mr Hotshot Lawfag? Enjoy never getting to work on your tan again, you heretic.

Eggs are coming along nicely, (yeah, looks like twins.) without that we've got to keep the 'babies' room' at some crazy temperature. I've had to replace the damn heater once already. Machiko says it wouldn't be a problem if we would accept the transfer to somewhere with a proper climate. I told her if that room's anything to go by, I've been to Coober Pedy and fuck that.

>>350262

I am running out of ways to call you a miracle worker, Shu.

>>350316

I'm going to be reworking some of the mechanisms on that unit myself.

>>350340

>Does he have to be sober?

Verdammt, Petra. James, if I have to get either of you out of trouble with Mina you will never hear the end of it. From me or Fredrick. Kindly inform Petra of this at your earliest capacity.

>>350341

>egg heater

I may have something to help with that. A big fan with heating coils, intended for melting snow off of driveways. Its heating elements are rated for 5k BTU, and its airflow rating is almost 48.5k M^3/Hr. Should I bring it by for you to use?

>>350342

Not comfortable with "too weak to run away"? But that's one of the selling points on the box! I kid, though. Don't worry, I'm not into the "struggle snuggle" features, feel free to get rid of any of that.

>>350343

The mods I've got in mind will make it more comfortable for me to use, and may allow for additional functionality to be added to the baseline models.

Apologies for the disappearance. Apparently, taking the role of Deacon even minimally seriously means a robe-fitting, along with the associated fiddle-faddle that hangs on hookloops all around the ruddy thing, and presentation of a confounded scepter-scythe-thing because that's just how it works around here. On the other hand, aside from the legalese being beyond either of my brains' comprehension, I, Reverend Tesshurai nal Cadarach, am hereby prepared to…sign a piece of paper. Tandy, Kurt, as soon as the Strausses confirm the details and I get the form in, this step is complete.

>>350340

>fly

"Flight" is nothing new, levitation and teleportation are Realitwist staples.

<Tech-based powered flight, even for brief intervals, is new. And fun.

>>350341

>twins

Congratulations!

>>350347

The minute it's ready, you bet both your asses we'll be there.

>>350340

>sober

Can vampires get drunk off a drunk person's blood? I guess we're about to find out.

>>350341

>twins

Congrats! Try not to get eaten.

>temperature

Temporarily relocate to Kilauea, maybe? How hot do they need to be?

>>350347

>scythe

What is it with the Sabbath and scythes, anyways? Doesn't seem like a relevant symbol.

Unrelatedly, give your sister my compliments. The new house is finished and it is magnificent. Open Alaskan air, a wonderful view of Denali, and more defensive options than I know what to do with.

>>350350

>Doesn't seem like a relevant symbol.

You've never heard the phrase la petite mort?

>>350350

>new house

Glad you're liking it, I'll pass your thanks to Ada.

>scythes

Sadly, what Tandy said >>350355 . Part of the big reason why the generic Baphomet uniform includes those skulls, and so many Witches have them as well, is that on top of everything else, the Sabs have an obsession with puns and jokes in poor taste.

>>350357

Sweet mother of madness, you think it's just a joke. Why do you think a Black Mass ends with an orgy? It generates power. I'm not into the left hand path myself, but I understand its basic mechanisms well enough. Also, you're probably going to be invited to Black Masses. You should probably decline.

>>350350

>drunk off blood

I could describe what that looks like in detail, but I'd rather avoid the talking to from my mother that would undoubtedly ensue when she inevitably found out. Suffice to say my sister's comparatively low alcohol tolerance is a trait she inherited maternally.

>>350359

>think it's a joke

I've spent multiple days being informed of the depths of the Sabs' insanity, I am painfully aware of how serious they are about those things. It is the aesthetics design that is the pun and the joke, a snide reference to the underpinnings of their methodology.

>black masses

I won't be attending any. Technically speaking, unless I initiate one I don't have any obligation to take part. The Dioconate - and I swear their choice to spell the term that way for their version irks me - is primarily focused on spreading the word and performing good works for this purpose. I can accomplish this by handing out a box of Thin Mints and pointing to the title, or getting a batch of source code updates from their servers and passing them to IT. Speaking of, Kurt, new set ready for your update audit.

>>350365

Oh good. Normally "slippery slope" is an exaggerative fallacy, but there is a slippery slope here. If you go far enough down the left hand path, it'll make Warlocksmithing look like a positive mental attitude.

>>350355

>>350357

>the little death

Ah. I see it now. And here I was thinking they were making some kind of deep statement. I can appreciate a good pun, though.

>>350359

>Black Mass

Excuse me while I vomit profusely. All the awkwardness of a porn store with all the creepiness of a full-on sex cult orgy. Ugh.

>>350371

>slippery slope

Glad we agree. I've no interest in getting involved in the more "practical" rituals the Sabs use. Thoroughly aside from it being disturbing on more levels than I care to describe, it's a cheap road to power, without the associated required understanding or personal growth. That sort of shortcut holds no value for me. I'm okay with using my birthname, wearing an overly-complicated robe and proclaiming "rejoice." But there are lines I'm not willing to cross, paths I'm not willing to follow.

>>350376

>good puns

Then you're going to have fun studying with the Recrines with regards to Psionomania when you get around to it. Half their statements are obvious puns. The other half are subtle. The quality is directly related to how well you're doing.

<Unrelated: Zuzi, the leg and torso thrusters are working great as I said before, but I was wondering if I could get a set for the arms.

Begin false infohazard block ward, key system and keyed individuals as previous, outward and internal appearance light discussion of flight systems and inspiration. Have crafted remotely-accessible subplane pocket "portals" disguised under intense glamour as generic 8.5x11 office papers with faint embossment of duck, identifier chosen as unlikely found elsewhere. "Portals" currently should trigger no tech indication and should scry as generic paper; folding, position irrelevant. If "portals" can be placed within range, tech-relevant devices may possibly be manipulated through accessors. Primary difficulty is getting "portals" into position; currently lack method. Kurt, Jade, am transferring subplanes containing "portals" and accessors. Note that testing has been limited to laboratory conditions; uncertain as to effectiveness of option, but if contacts capable of making use regarding infiltrating hostile elements, can have more made available. Notify request by statement including "missing office supplies again." End ward.

<So in other words, I'd kinda like to be able to have more precise control over movement direction when jetboosting. Thoughts?

>>350479

Apologies for the late response, I've been undergoing extra training with more senior monks so that I'll have more within my capacity if I need to act in some sort of emergency situation. I'll be checking in as I can, but I expect to be exceedingly busy for a couple days.

Anyway, Shura. Have you considered retractable stabilizer fins? Might do some good.

Unrelated: I've got a few drones running tests on your latest batch of creations. Expect detailed results to arrive via drone network interface.

>>350479

We can absolutely put some jets in your arms. Lemme throw you some plans.

BEGIN GremTech max encrypt@Shura. Getting a sheet of paper into a place? Let USPS do the work for you. Just send a nice donation to whoever's cause, and type up a friendly yet bland letter to go with on one of these fancy duck-embossed sheets. As the Trojans proved, nothing like a gift to get someone's guard down. END encrypt.

Something like that work for you?

>>350558

May the training bring you the strength you need, if it's ever needed, and may that need never manifest in full.

>stabilizer fins

Interesting.

>drone test results

Got it, I'll analyze and forward you my findings for you to view when you're less busy.

>>350560

>details

<Sounds good. Could I ask you to get those jets ready, plus maybe Kurt's idea with the stabilizer fins? I've marked the designs we've decided work best with the aesthetic.

Kinda feel silly I thought such things would be so difficult. Especially considering what's been already done previously. I've got some paperwork I need to take care of - forms, requests, that sort of thing - so let me know if anything comes up.

>>350561

I'll get the jets and fins machined in the meantime.

>>350563

Thanks. Paperwork didn't take too long, mostly a bunch of form letters as per usual, a few bits changed here and there. Paid a bit for various forms of delivery insurance, but I think I'll have favorable responses reasonably soon.

<I'll be ready for further flight fancies whenever.

Begin ward as previous. Standardizing ward scheme as pattern "Wall Maria". Took your advice. Donations, well-wishing words, some offers of further assistance, that sort of thing, all from private but interested individual. Not exact wording, got a bit of help on that. With luck we should get useful info in a few days' time. Jade, Janet, I'm forwarding you the details and tracking info for your use and that of the contacts. If we get anything worthwhile, please inform the rest of us, starting with Sir and the Strausses. End ward.

>>350564

Just to check, is there a department the cat tends to stick around, or does the watch pattern vary?

>>350568

>cat

Eh, kinda shows up anywhere and everywhere, but I asked around, and I think it tends to spend a little more time in the general vicinity of the IT and R&D departments than elsewhere. It's not exactly trying to hide, but good luck catching it.

>>350568

(encryptScheme = (sabEnc223; @Shura, @Kurt)) BEGIN: Keeping my eyes on it. Send me some more of those subplane thingies. Jade says he's got a contact can deliver them to a few interesting locations. END

>>350564

I think I've seen that cat around here. Thought it was our resident neko fucking around again, but she's been here the whole day. I'll keep an eye out.

In other news, does anyone know if those cheapo fifty-cent pregnancy tests work properly for Sidhe? Because if so, I have some news for everyone.

>>350570

>IT and R&D

Because of course it is. Where else would it be?

>>350571

Congrats!

>>350570

Thanks for the info.

@All: Folks, please disregard the "cat." Even if you could keep up, it's an illusion. You won't be catching Gran anytime soon, and even if you managed it you'd end up with a five-hour lecture that turned into a seminar on construction. Seems she's decided to visit without telling me. She's likely just curious as to the insanity of her adoptive grandson's workplace, and wanted to learn more about the one my own daughters consider a dear friend.

She's nosy, but means well. Even if she never communicates.

>>350571

Begin ward pattern Wall Maria. On their way. Best of luck. End ward.

>possible news

Congratulations!

Good news to those eagerly awaiting the Algorithmancy book, I just got the proofreading copy back from the Wizard program's publishing company. And apparently I can use standard proofreading notation to make edits which will instantly be reflected in both my copy and the copy on their end.

>>350575

Sheesh, if she wants to learn more she could just come in and meet us.

>>350576

>book

<Shut up and take my money! Wait, no, don't shut up. But take my money anyway! Seriously, though, looking forward to it.

>gran

Yeah, sorry about that. It's just how she is. I'll do what I can to try to get her to cut the hidey-cat act and go in for a proper meet'n'greet at a more reasonable time.

Unrelated: Kurt, Tandy, the Strausses just got back to me. Lot of revisions, fixes, details to parse through. I'll need to go over this carefully, confirm with them, and commit to memory all relevant things before finalizing. Biggest issue - and one I knew ahead of time - I need to file it digitally, in hardcopy, and in a recited oath, so expect a result and confirmation of a mess of things rather a bit late tomorrow. I may be a bit out of comms until things are complete, sadly.

For now, though, I need to get my brains in order. Long day tomorrow. Network will handle automatic systems; in an emergency or if you absolutely need assistance you can reach us at the usual channels, but non-drone response will be delayed.

Rejoice! For I bring good news! Kurt, Tandy, as of this noon I am the Representative the Sabbath have assigned for Maria, and as of now all forms necessary for you to be officially her Legal Guardians have been prepared for your signatures. The moment that's done, I can have them filed and the issue finalized. The Strausses and their associates were most helpful in providing instructions on the appropriate procedure to get the legalities and legalese sorted. I'm going to be entirely honest: I don't really know what I'm supposed to do as the Representative, but give me orders and direction and I'll do my best. Sir Worthington, I'm afraid I may at times be calling on you for clarifications on these matters.

>>350656

>wizard exams

Glad to hear it worked out alright.

>janet.fork()

Congratulations! You're going to do well, I'm sure of it.

Begin ward pattern Wall Maria. Good to know. Can have lesser drones made available, assume similar tech drones also exist or are feasible. Legality limitations as expected, original intent primarily an additional early-warning system against possible attack. Potential intel gain intriguing, if anything is worth it as you say am interested in findings. If need be can draw up forms to mark as Corps Intel/Infil op in response to aid request - technically accurate. Cloak-and-dagger not my strong suit, will follow yours and Kurt's lead on this entirely. Glad for your help. End ward.

Status update: Training's going well, I can now passively spot most magic by the disturbances it creates in the Ki of the target (among a few other handy tricks). I'll be wrapping the training session up tomorrow, and will be back to my usual duties in full by Monday.

>>350656

>fork

I think my laughter may have disturbed the monks meditating down the hall. That's a brilliant way to deliver the news Congratulations mein Freund.

>>350708

>Legal Guardians

Shura, I'm at an honest-to-all-divinities-and-infernal-powers loss for words. There is no way I can possibly express how grateful I am to you for making this happen.

System, please block the following from all but Shura and Jade.

I can make infiltrator-type tech drones, but some of the contacts I introduced Jade to would probably do it better. My specialty is work drones, not combat/black ops.

>>350708

>prepared for signatures

On my way at high velocity. Apologies for the wheel marks on the walls, floors, and in a few places ceiling.

>>350723

>Prepared for signatures

I was so excited about the fact that this is happening that I missed that originally. Expect me to arrive via Lotus Fold momentarily. I have to return to the temple in short order, but I'm not waiting any longer than absolutely needed and we're going to celebrate afterwards.

>>350723

>>350724

Alright, that's the last line…there. Done. All signed and witnessed. I'm going to go get these into the filing systems and have the clerks make sure the system recognizes and updates your status. I should be back by the top of the hour with a hefty batch of documents for your records, and copies for the legal teams.

>>350799

>roleplaying as a manticore

Please return to /mgt/

>>350799

What department are you going to be in?

>>350799

Greetings, Miss Elizabeth. I'm certain you'll find the company to your liking. Nubia will be by shortly to assist you in getting acquainted with the facilities; keep an eye out for a Nightmare in Maintenance Department garb. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to ask.

@warband

Thank you very much for the greeting! I saw the nametags that everyone is wearing, and I was curious where I would get one of those?

@Tandy

I was actually wondering about that, I've heard brief comments about different departments, but never got a full list of all of them. I'm kinda new here

>>350811

>@warband

>@Tandy

>doesn't even know how to reply to posts

How can one faggot be this new?

>>350812

Hey, just because you alped into an akaname you don't need to take it out on everyone else.

>>350812

>in a rp chat

>makes fun of someone role-playing to join

>gets called an alp because he is a fag

it's called in character role play my dude.

Love

Elizabeth

>>350817

>Love Elizabeth

>and I'm the secret gay

Whatever dude. Enjoy pretending to be a girl.

>>350811

>nametag

Should be on the way. Sorry about the delay, the printer for these things is slow. Welcome to the company.

>department list

Hell, I don't even have the whole list. After a certain point it becomes a confusing mash of people.

(encryptScheme = (sabEnc223; @Shura, @Kurt)) BEGIN: Listening devices are in place by the subplanes. I've got a list of names, some I know, some I don't. I took the liberty of passing a few tidbits over on the Exchange; some of these people have made others very angry. Kurt, you'll find an encrypted file in your inbox; it's a spreadsheet with some names of interest. I'll let you guys interpret the data as you will. END

Chill out, nerds. Let's be honest, we're all pretending here.

>>350811

>departments

This is not an exhaustive list, but I know of the following: Management/Exec, Legal, Finance, Logistics (+Receiving, +Assets), R&D, IT, Programming, Advertising, PR, the Daycare, and of course our own group here in Maintenance. You'll learn who's who over time, we generally have the associated codes attached to our message logs. Half the time we end up working directly with other departments anyway, so it's less a matter of dividing duties and more a matter of bureaucracy. Confusing though it may be, there's method in the madness…somewhere.

>>350825

Thank you very much for the information Mr. Warband! I would love to join the PR team! Working men, I mean working with people is one of my best skills, and I hope to be a great addition to the company.

Maintenance Bulletin:

Daycare drones will be offline for a period of approximately fifteen minutes following this posting for routine system checks. Thank you for your patience.

>>350830

>mr.

Mrs., actually. And due to a rather complicated set of circumstances involving manipulation from multiple outside sources, it's three of us under this login. I'm Cressida, I trust you've met Nubia already, and Rossa tends to focus on operating the drones. "Mr. Warband," our department head Shura, is currently locked in a set of thoroughly tedious meetings. Apologies for the confusion. The situation is unconventional, true, but considering the other goings-on of this place it's almost mundane. You may find it beneficial to glance through the messaging system's archives, if only to get a sense of what I mean. February alone was a maddening set of odd events, many of which still do not quite add up.

>pr

Best of luck to you. Fair warning, that department (HR/PR) has gained a bit of a poor reputation from certain members' actions. Take care of yourself, though, and you should do well.

>>350799

welp, we've officially crossed into donut steel territory. It was fun while it lasted.

>>350848

Considering what other characters we've seen around here, my own included, is this really what you consider "the line?"

>>350849

Guy starts out normal then some shit happens and now suddenly he's not as human as he once was or MG Character brought in as a result of the actions of the human male PC vs Straight up Monsona donut steel.

Yeah, there's a difference

Everybody chill out. As long everybody adheres to the redtext, it's fine.

Just got news from Margie, she's got the bowling lanes in the basement up and running. Free for everybody, but you will have to check in with your ID and your department heads will be able to see how often and how long you're there. Bowling shoes available for most varieties of feet and hooves, and if there isn't something that fits we can design something new for you.

>>350861

>bowling

Timeless Tides, after as many meetings as I've had to go through today, that sounds like a great way to get the old thinksink back in order. I'm bringing the Maintenance group for a game on a lane, open invite for competition.

<…No wonder you claimed Joe's might be mad, this is a nice setup. Eh, they'll have to deal with it.

Also: Tandy, you and Kurt should have received the finalized Guardianship docs late last night/early this morning. If there's anything missing from your records, let me know.

>>350879

Got my copies, putting them in a secure subplane filing pocket.

>>350880

Good. I don't like that that's all that's been secured thus far, but until this legal insanity's done and you and Kurt can properly adopt the little one those documents are going to be important. Even if I don't understand legalese well, I know that much. I've got spares ready just in case.

<Speaking of, what all is the status of said legal insanity? I haven't been able to get in contact with Sir Worthington since he went for that interview with the vampire a few days ago, and I've been a bit leery of asking the Strausses about his situation for obvious reasons.

>>350910

>legal insanity

To the extent of my knowledge, the current state of the matter is “held up by politicians who are willing to perpetuate a situation where AI are second-class persons in order to avoid appearing submissive to international law.” I’ve got it in my mind to find the nearest politician responsible for the hold-up and give them a talking to that will make my words in the Advertising mandatory training look like a lover’s whisperings by comparison.

>Interview with the Vampire

I think Petra dragged our good Herr Worthington on one of her “adventures.” I’m honestly not sure that she’s not actually a Dhampir who’s been raised as a Vampire because Mina was too old-fashioned to admit moving that quickly in her relationship with Fredrick.

>>350916

Also held up by lobbyists with very rich backers who have vested interest in perpetuating a situation where AI are second-class persons in order to keep profit margins high.

>>350916

And the only real way of going about fixing the issue right is by going through the system. Stars Above, I can't believe I'm saying this but I almost wish this were a legitimate war. I know how to throw a punch so a field blows up, but going through the courts is just beyond me.

>>350918

>lobbyists, backers, profits

…Out of curiosity, you wouldn't happen to have an up-to-date list, would you?

Corporate announcement to all employees of MamonoCorp:

We here at MamonoCorp make our employees' wellbeing and safety our top priority. This week, the company will be hosting a health and wellness fair. Trained and licensed professionals will be visiting the company campus this week to provide wellness information, conduct therapy sessions, and lead exercise classes.

Examples include:

Spirit energy specialists offering free spirit energy checkups and health advice for maintaining strong production levels. Classes will also be offered for advanced breathing techniques designed to boost spirit energy production.

Acupuncture therapy sessions with a certified raiju practitioner. Utilizing small, precisely controlled electrical pulses conducted through acupuncture needles, her "Electrigger" method can positively stimulate muscles and nerves, relieving stress and tension and rejuvenating the body. Not organic? No problem. Electrigger stimulation has also been shown to invoke a sense of peace and calm within automata and even some slimes. Please stop by and speak with our guest raiju specialist to determine if electrical acupuncture therapy can help you.

Scared of needles? We've got you covered. Massage sessions will be offered with a trained unagi joro masseuse. Let her skilled and professional hands and special massage oil melt away your fatigue and fill you with renewed vitality.

We encourage all employees to take time this week to stop by the health fair and make use of the services provided.

>>350919

I don't have any names in particular but I'm sure someone around here could dig that up, maybe some guy who recently knocked up a fairy, I don't know…

>>350918

>lobbyists

I left this out in order to keep from working myself into an incoherent rage.

>>350919

>war being simpler

In combat, there is a plainly known set of problems and solutions. I can't blame you for preferring that simplicity to the quagmire that is the current situation.

>list request

I think I can get a mostly complete list in short order. Jade's probably been busy online as well as with Janet, and may have more sources on the subject.

>>350920

I may have to see about getting HR to contact some of the White Lotus masters about a wellness program as part of the new official interest in employee well-being.

>>350921

>ask jade

D'oi. Thanks for the reminder.

Jade! Got a bit of a question for you. Actually, strike that: got orders for you. I'm transferring you details regarding my current finances, both the flow from the company and my salary as a Sab Deacon, and my savings. Find out who's behind the lobbying to do with all this legal insanity, and buy them. If it's not enough to get them all, focus on the big fish.

>>350923

If they're reluctant to fall in line, releasing their name and backing (with proof) anonymously to the press may be a valid strategy as well.

>>350930

>Infected

Seems you've not been following proper security practices, and got your workstation tagged with one of the little surprises I cooked up to keep up with who's following good practices and who isn't. Either you got caught in one of the traps set for outbound traffic to certain sites, or you left your station logged in and somebody decided to avail themselves of it for the same purpose. Either way, you dun goofed, and that means you're in for a corrective lecture on the topic of computer safety.

Tee, Shura, check your inboxes. The first incident caught by my passive audit system revealed some interesting info.

>>350923

>orders

Illias's twisted panties that's a lot of zeroes.

>list of names

Oh, I'm afraid it's a bit more complicated than that. We have a few lobbyist groups working on a large number of politicians in a few countries. These lobbyists, according to my, ah, personal research, have finances in the same range as this. They have shared goals, so more than likely if I start lobbing cash at people, they'll figure out what I'm doing, pool their resources and start outbidding me, even if I focus on the "big fish." Best case scenario, I split the vote. Worst case scenario, I can only get a few people. The math changes significantly if some of my, er, other projects bear fruit, though.

In short: Give me a little while. I need to pick my targets carefully.

>>350927

>press

That'd get some of the pesky politicians out of the way, but there's no guarantee that their replacement wouldn't do the exact same thing. Not a bad option, but not one to lean on.

>>350927

That could work too. Money or manipulations, cloak and dagger - you guys know what you're doing in this more than I.

>>350933

>"infected" individual

Well, that's one explanation for all the adverts that just popped up in one of the message logs.

>inboxes

Here's hoping you can put said info to effective use.

<Also explains why Gran claims she's never been here. I could have sworn, though - they act so much alike!

>>350933

That is interesting. I think we'll be learning a lot from this incident.

>>350920

Y'know, I have been worrying a lot lately. One of those Electrigger acupuncture sessions could do me some good. I think I'll also bring along a copy of my book from the crate that showed up on my desk shortly after I finished proofreading, just in case I meet someone who might be interested in such a thing. (Seriously, nobody bother ordering it, I've got a couple dozen of these things.)

>>350934

>finances in the same range

Check your inbox, I've got some ideas and details to cover.

>>350938

>books arriving

I just had an idea that may get Janet a little too excited. I bet there's at least one application for the work you've been doing in cybersecurity, could be interesting to say the least.

>>350938

>book

Tess inbound at high velocity, please excuse scorch marks on various hall surfaces.

<I feel the need - the need to read!

…Also please excuse the mangled movie quotes.

>>350934

>>350943

>finance range

I didn't think it would be so easy, anyway. But if it gets us a step closer it's well worth the price. Do what you can with what's there, I'll work on wrangling some other sources of money.

Jade, Kurt, funding update:

The Corps have been doing a fund drive, to which all members have responded. The Sabs are running a similar matter. Members of my own family with funds to spare, such as Ada and Frank, have sent in offers of assistance. Expect messages with the details shortly.

I know I'm not really contributing much to the fight, and for that I apologize. Chances are, so long as this is a war of words and numbers and not of actions, I'm not going to be of much value. Hopefully what I've scrounged can still be put to work. Good luck.

<Unrelated, and less dreary: Tandy, this book is amazing. I know only half of me is ever going to be able to use any of it, and maybe not even then, but still, it's bloody good stuff you've got written here. Can't wait to try it out once I finish studying.

>>351015

>>350947

>funding

Thank you. At this point that's all I can think to say with how much you've helped, directly or through your contacts.

>commentary on war of words

Quatsch. You've been more of a help than we have any right to ask of you. If the Order of the White Lotus did such things, I'd make a case for having you named a saint. That's the kind of help you've been.

Jade, Kurt, Tandy, Zuzi: Couple things I'd like you to look at. First, I've been designing magic/tech-bridging drones for individual use, with much of the internal logic, interface, and control systems based on improvements you've suggested. They should have potential for customization, like with the Bumblebee, and have room for tools including the Mindlink system; as a consequence they're a bit bigger, but I imagine that could be mitigated if needed. I'm transferring the design docs and a few early-gen units for your review; if you can make them into a viable product, they're yours. Please note that these are entirely prototypes and much calibration will be needed. Second, I'm working on a major redesign of the Network drones' firmware in prep for making them just about entirely automated by default, and more departmentally controlled, rather than a Maintenance device with departmental overrides. Should also make it possible for dedicated sets to have more customized utility. As with the previous item, I'd like your review; in this case it's to catch any issues before I submit the update to Management for their review.

>>351050

>contacts

That reminds me - remember I mentioned learning I had "inherited" a bunch of favors owed? I'm forwarding the list to you and Jade. Use or trade them as you see fit.

>war of words nonsense

I was referring to how this is the sort of conflict you, your family, and Jade understand better than I ever could, and I'm best suited as support. Honestly, I'm kinda glad; as long as my primary skillsets aren't needed it means things are relatively safe and it's just a matter of time.

>>351054

<Just the basics? You've provided a concrete foundation to build on, and that's the most important stage. Even with only this much so far developed, Algorithmancy concepts have improved efficiency for my half of my castings immensely.

I mentioned previously that the best use of magic requires lateral thinking, as you've noticed with a few breakthroughs of your own. This book's just the kick in the pants those geeks need to remember or relearn that basic lesson.

I have returned! Apologies for the extended absence, had to get a few things in order. @HR, the paperwork is properly filed, I know this because I triple-checked it. I know why you're refusing to approve the time, I know this is odd coming from a guy that throws dildos around but please stop being ferocious plasteel dicks about this. If I have to go to Lightfull about this, I will be displeased.

@JWorthington: There's a box here for you, under probably the heaviest coghaz ward I've ever seen. I can't even determine the source. Please tell me you ordered something precious or something.

(encryptScheme = (sabEnc223; @Shura, @Kurt)) BEGIN:

So if you turn on the news, you'll know why I was out. Some of your suggestions were prescient, Kurt. I've run a test case, to see just how far I can push the situation before it pushes back, and, well, I certainly did a thing. I wasn't aiming for regime change, but that's what I ended up causing. The guy coming into power should be easier to deal with. I'm going to monitor certain peoples' responses before I make my next move.

END

>>351194

>hr being dildos

You're literally military now. Just check one of the relevant boxes. How do you think I've been going out of the office so much without issue?

Begin ward pattern Wall Maria. Excellent. Big step closer. As usual, inform if additional resources needed. Future reference re:auth paperwork, not all always needed. Check Intel/Infil for their take on matter - many creative justifications. End ward.

Unrelated: seems the hatemail being sent to my Representative account has switched styles and formats yet again. Wonder when or if they'll realize I'm only downloading the stuff to a shielded, usually-off-network device, and not really caring about the content so much as who's sending it.

<It's almost silly what they've been throwing in these messages. Definitely glad I'm using a separate terminal for the account in question, wouldn't want to have anyone exposed to this garbage.

Maintenance Bulletin (Final):

As of this posting, the Maintenance Department has been dissolved per decision by Management. Drone Network systems, recently made entirely automated and controllable by technological means, have made the department redundant. IT will shortly receive all documentation necessary for adjusting Network activities. Please note that Kikimora personnel, the Kiki Corps of Building D in particular, will not be affected as they are effectively their own Department. All employees currently attached to Maintenance should report to Management for alternate posting options; individuals may make requests for transfer, and Department Heads may request former Maintenance personnel be added to their rosters. Payroll changes will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis as Finance and Management work out details; employees should expect finalized changes by month's end.

To sum up: Not sure which one saw the message, but I got a request from the Bosses to have the update put in for official review and then for installation basically moments after coming in today. So, yeah, we're just Staff now, unless we get pulled into another department. Not sure what to do.

>>351306

>Maintenance Department dissolved

Well, that was unexpected.

>pulled into other departments

I need to go have words with my boss, I'm fairly sure I can make a good case for your integration into IT. Failing that, I'm pretty sure that R&D would be incredibly pleased to have you onboard.

>>351313

>unexpected

More like inevitable. With the Network taking on so many of the department's tasks, there was really nothing for us to do save manage their actions. Who needs a guy to push a broom when you've got the Lights to take care of that, and faster?

<Honestly, as much fun as being able to make the Lights dance was, I didn't want to be chained to them forever, effectively a glorified server for the drones. Besides, this way things can be taken care of at a better pace, without risk of a single-point-failure in case I go offline or something.

>transfer options

A kind offer, and I appreciate the thought. That said, I think R&D might be a better fit, if they'll have me. Simply a matter of being a researcher first and foremost. I've sent a request to Zuzi regarding the matter.

<Besides, let's face it - even with a computer for a brain I'm too much a meathead to safely manage IT tickets. On the other hand, apparently I make useful discoveries by mistake.

>>351306

Honestly, at this point bringing you into R&D officially is more of a formality than anything else.

>>351221

>military box

I did that. They're being petty about it because I consistently block their orders. I get it, but it's no less annoying. They're going to drag this thing to the deadline and no further, because if they decline it they have to bring me in for a review, and I'll go to Lightfull or Nullstricken with all the stupid crap they've tried to order if they try to pull the trigger on that. I know how to play office politics. I just generally hate doing it.

>>351306

>dissolved

…It's kind of a step down, but Logistics can definitely use a guy that can open portals to entire universes of raw materials and make wormholes between places. You know, if R&D doesn't pan out somehow.

>>351317

Storms of the End that's a lot of liability waivers. Signed. I'm in.

<I'm already a madman. Might as well have fun with it.

>>351318

>office politics

…Want me to have a few words with them? I think the Adverts might like a bit of commiseration with their humble pie.

>portals, wormholes

I can still set those up as needed. You'll be learning how soon enough anyway.

>>351221

>hatemail

You're not the only one. You would not believe some of the shit I'm getting, both email and snail. I try to keep Kurt from seeing the worst of it, he'd explode.

>>351436

>try to keep me from seeing the worst

I've been catching more of that than you realize. I'm surprised you never commented on how those never come from the same source more than once.

>>351436

Oh, I believe it. Everything from ideological tracts to death threats to gruesome pornographic scripts involving all sorts of ugliness, right? Then came the videos. Lost track of how many anti-Sab and anti-AI propaganda pieces of varying rage I've seen.

<Frankly, it's more grimly amusing than anything else. I mean, yeah, it's raw hate, and horrific. But it also means the people doing this are busy writing basic text instead of trying anything meaningful, like they can't do anything else. I'm guessing it's going to ramp up as they get desperate.

And honestly, even if it's horrible, it's kinda tame compared to other stuff out there. I doubt this is the extent of what they'll try, but fingers crossed they keep to the words and hold off on the physical or digital attacks.

>>351443

>never same source more than once

Lot of people out there with a lot of hate. Is it really so surprising they'd try to make the most of their numbers for sending such scorn?

Unrelated: I just realized something. That "briefing" joke? Another part of it's (mostly) come to pass. The facility is now effectively self-cleaning.

>>351445

>numbers comment

They couldn't have sent from the same source more than once if they wanted to. There's a reason I've been able to hold my peace about the matter, and that's the fact that arranging for threats (even hollow ones) to be quietly eliminated with extreme prejudice is extremely cathartic. I know that those folks are unlikely to do anything in the long run, but I will take no chances.

>joke

Minor precognition?

>>351450

>cathartic countermeasures

Biggest reason I haven't really tried anything more than (carefully) sending generic form-letter responses. I figured, if you saw them as worth dealing with, you'd have a sensible method. I said it before, you know this conflict better than I. If you thought I needed to do something, you'd say so.

<Besides, the stuff they'd sent was just pathetic. A Satyros dressed like a Baph and mocking the Sabs? Laughable, even to Jessy. An MCB made to look like a sleeve, getting crudely torn apart? I've done worse to myself. So long as Maria's not exposed to it, I don't really care what I see.

Mind, I'm not even going to try to describe the worse stuff. Suffice to say that after certain medical situations, not much fazes a person.

>joke=prophecy?

More like I didn't make the connection with the joke until now. I'd been actively trying to get the Network self-sustaining and separate from my mind for a while, ever since setting up the Gen 8 system and needing the second brain. Too much power in one man's hands is never good.

<Sure, making it entirely company property technically demoted the lot of us. But honestly, it's all gain; I'm now in a department I fit better, my dears have basically taken over Security, and with the Network off my brains everything is much clearer, calmer, quieter. Even meditation's easier.

>>351490

>pathetic

Yep. No creativity. I mean, there's so many interesting ways to mess someone up. Did you know that the mouth is not the only place that tastebuds are found in the human body? There are tastebuds at the other end of the digestive tract as well. And I'm certainly not saying I did this to a guy who accosted me while I was shopping but it's fairly easy to remap sensory input.

<servers pls

>>351319

>help

Nah. They called my bluff; just got out of Lightfull's office, and she was quite displeased to hear of HR's shenanigans. Retribution is coming.

>>351436

>hatemail

One of the benefits of working in the shadows is not having to deal with that. Anything coming my way is either from an Illias domain, which is auto-filtered, or one of their alts, which get filled with matango porn as soon as they pop up.

That being said, you have no idea how many of those mangled MCBs get delivered here. I just forward the wreckage to R&D so you guys can figure out how they managed to destroy something that's capable of resisting a lust-crazed ushi-oni on the full moon.

>>351490

>Warband in security

So that's why they suddenly got competent over there. Thank Ammit.

>network

You might want to pass along whatever backdoor access you put in to Kurt or someone if you haven't already; between the two of us Janet and I managed to turn one of the Lights into Navi, complete with tactical HEY LISTEN action.

<i mean it wasn't easy or anything but zero-days yo

<check your inbox, i sent you the technique we used so you can correct it

>>351515

Tideless Seas, that takes me back. We used to play games with that sort of thing back in training; one involved walking along a line, each round having more complex and confusing nervous system remaps put into effect. It's like related embed, only it gets worse every minute.

<Pretty good practice on its own, helps teach a more inherent understanding of biophysiology. It's one of the reasons the Medical corps is our main combat group - a lot can be classed as healing, even your example, so long as the "uncooperative patient" gets "appropriate treatment."

>>351563

>retribution

All's well that ends well.

>wrecked pieces de (struction) la resistance

I'm guessing they ripped and tore until it was done? Rage and hate make for a destructive force of their own. However they managed it, figuring out how to stymie them will be fun.

>network backdoor zero-day, certain fictional "fairy"

I was wondering when you'd get around to trying that. IT should have the relevant info already as part of the handover, but I've forwarded the technique, the specific backdoor, and my countermeasure suggestions to Kurt for his review just in case.

<Feel free to keep "Navi" as-is if you like, the Gen 5-7 Restock units already made one to replace it. Glory to von Neumann, there was method to my madness!

>>351563

>exploit

I've patched the vulnerability in question on the tech side, thanks for the heads-up. Keep poking the network and reporting any vulnerabilities you find, I'll make it worth your while.

>HR shenanigans reported to Lightfull

Whatever hole they've dug themselves into, I Just dug it deeper by forwarding Director Lightfull the documentation I've been keeping on the subject of HR shenanigans. I was going to wait until I had something extremely actionable, but it seems you've handled that.

>>351580

>suggestions

Your ideas will allow me to better integrate the hotfix I applied already, should be applied shortly.

>>351515

>accosted whilst shopping

Is that what had you in a foul mood when you got back? They seem to be getting braver. I'll need to talk with Mog about some upgrades to that oversized land-barge of a family hauler in case someone tries something on the road. Goodness knows people drive like maniacs when they don't have a grudge against you.

>>351581

>upgrading vehicle

In the off chance Mog charges for the mods, get me the invoice. There are separate funds I wasn't able to apply to the lobbyist takedown order, but are entirely relevant to expenses necessary for protective measures. Sadly, I can't do anything about people using words, but that "accosted" thing did catch my attention. In the event violence gets brought in I've had some emergency evac teleporters prepared, just in case things make your own methods unmanageable. They're keyed to a few options by default (here, my mountain, the academy) and if you focus specifically on a place you know by heart you can have that as an override (such as yours or the Strauss's homes). They're single-use, so if you go through the first set I'll need to make more. Hopefully they won't be necessary, but like you said, no chances taken.

>>351581

>>351583

Relax guys, I was in a stock sleeve, I don't think he knew who I was, he was just an asshole. That said, we should get the car modded.

>>351585

Perhaps I was a bit quick to act, but I stand by my decision. I would rather seem the fool by overreacting to a nothing event than risk underpreparation for an actual hazard.

>>351585

>guy was just an asshole

Easy to forget that not everyone can ID certain AI and Automatons regardless of what sleeve they’re using.

>>351583

>emergency teleporters

Thanks Shura, here’s hoping that it turns out to be unneeded.

Zuzi: I've been working on some of the trashed MCB units we've been getting, and I've got some ideas for adjustments - durability, reliability, that sort of thing. Forwarding the details, they should be simple enough to not impact performance or appearance.

<Also, thanks for the in-depth MCB and Sleeve manuals and the maintenance/upkeep training programs. They're making getting acclimated to the department much smoother. Might even be able to work on self-improvement one of these days.

Unrelated: I know I'm not Head of Maintenance anymore, and I'm pretty sure Maintenanceomancer no longer applies, although I can't seem to get clarification from Management. Purely out of curiosity, what exactly is my position these days? Research assistant? Lab rat? Am I the Igor?

<I was already the Test Dummy, and Test Subject is close enough to the former that it's a bad pun.

>>351591

Here's hoping.

>>351603

Sounds like congratulations are in order! Three cheers for Sam and Miyako!

>>351606

Yes They are busying picking out baby names. Miyako of course has veto on all names. Sam is thinking about working from home a few months after the hatching.

I was planning on getting a few folks together to do a baby shower but am not sure. She like all Usihi-oni are very secretive so I'm not sure what the etiquette is on hosting one. Does anyone from HR have any training on how to do it but be sensitive about it? Sam is evasive on the subject for some reason and I'm concerned if there is some cultural issue I'm not aware of.

>>351606

I've got you on the books as a consultant and specialist.

Also, looking at the scrap I see right away how the broke these things so easy. They're fakes. Knockoffs. Cheapass garage kit. Half of the adjustments you've noted are already in the latest models. The other half, though, show some potential. When you've got a chance, see Frank in Machining, he'll show you the ropes. I know you can magic up machinery but actually working with the materials by hand for a while will benefit you.

>>351676

Sounds like I've got my work cut out for me. More importantly, sounds like it's the worthwhile kind - the difficult, intellectually satisfying variety. Looking forward to it. Still not sure why Management have been avoiding me lately, but whatever. Politics, am I right?

>>351696

Speaking of work, that sounds like a plan. Always did prefer getting into things manually when possible, throwing the Network at everything was simply a means of dealing with automating repetitive tasks on a huge scale.

Zuzi, you weren't kidding about the benefits of hands-on work. I'd spent way too ruddy long using magical means for this sort of thing, so sticking to concrete tools and putting things together the mundane way again was good. Frank was most definitely a big help in that regard.

<Anyway, after having fun learning the machines, I've put together some examples of the options you noted as being possibly worthwhile. I'm running some tests to compare them to our existing MCB hardware (the good stuff, not the knockoffs), and I've got a few sets for you to look at.

Unrelated: Management, I'd appreciate it if you could please cease the communications silence you've got going on regarding myself. I'm not sure what I've done to earn whatever this is, but it's unprofessional, not to mention unexpected and confusing. If I'd done something legitimately wrong, I think I would have received a reprimand or something, so what gives?

Would the individual(s) responsible for attempting to place hidden cameras in various restrooms for both genders and stream the feeds across the company network to an off-site server please report to HR for a formal meeting? If I am forced to hunt down your identity, your HR meeting will take place in the aftermath of a lecture that will leave you in a severely unpleasant mental state.

>>351734

>management acting miffed

I'm wondering of they thought they'd be rid of your salary after closing down the maintenance department.

>>351956

>restroom cameras

<And so it begins. I stop assuming direct control for five minutes and already the bathroom traps are up and running again.

>management

Considering they're the ones who set my salary that way (I think - Finance would know more, probably), I would have thought that to be entirely their prerogative. Different duties, different wages. The thing is, everything was fine while I was still just Staff, right up until I submitted confirmation of transfer to R&D. Then they stopped responding to messages, their schedules suddenly became booked, and if Lightfull hadn't been brought to bear on HR, I would have wagered the lot of them weren't even in the facility, they were avoiding me so thoroughly. I mean, I haven't had the chance to say two words to them since, so it can't be anything I said, can it?

>>351956

>camera

…wasn't the third floor women's in B, was it? Because if so, I'm going to have to join that lecture.

<and if it was the first floor men's in A i'll be there too

>keeping Navi

Oh hell no. Janet's keeping the drone itself, something about "a playmate for the child process," but neither of us want HEY LISTEN to be in the little one's vocabulary.

By the way, we're pretty sure it's going to be a girl. Still working on names.

>management

I've got nothing, dude. Lightfull didn't seem much different from the other times I've ran into her. A bit angrier, sure, but given what we were talking about…

>sam

…but we're still paying him. Whatever, I don't even know anymore, Management can do what they want with their money. Congrats to him, though.

>>351963

Pinhole cameras inserted through the ceiling, I assume by someone who is either small, flexible, or possesses teleportation magic. I've begun running down leads on the identity of the culprit, none of the obvious suspects seem involved.

>>351971

>locations

Every floor in A, B, and C, as well as the first three in D. I caught the cameras when they started streaming HD video over our wifi. I've already shut down the external site that was holding the results, with force.

Related to the above: Legal, you may get a complaint from a cloud computing host about a violent intrusion from our network to one of their client machines. I'm forwarding you logs indicating the reason for said intrusion. If they want to kick up a fuss, their complicit behavior in the streaming of illegal voyeur videos is confirmed in the data I've provided.

>>351971

>definitely not navi

So it wasn't meant as an office tool, such as for adjusting coworker behavior? We're a touch surprised you chose this option - the Lights are more semi-specialized utility equipment than anything else, even the Generation 2 models have better glamours. Still, if that's what you're interested in, we're forwarding the design docs. They should make altering the hardware a touch easier when matching software/glamour modifications.

>child name

Unless you've somehow managed to break the yoke of Mamono-Human relations resulting exclusively in female offspring, I'm fairly certain you're going to have a girl.

>lack of management intel

Well, if you or anyone else figure anything out, let us know? The silence is disturbing.

>>351977

>>351979

>cameras

Yet another reason we are glad that Steel and Spirit have no such need of silly biological functions.

>perpetrator

Apprehended. Apologies for the delay, we have the individual available for your "kind words" at your convenience. This Beelzebub is most uncooperative, and refuses to reveal her name.

>>351980

>perp apprehended

I suppose they were planting more cameras in D then? I'll be along shortly. Got a couple questions for while I'm en route. Does sound ever propagate through subplane access points? And can you prepare a subplane cell? If the answers to both are yes, I'll have a name before I'm done with her.

>>351980

>adjusting coworker behavior

There's a difference between "gentle chastisement" and aural torture. I grew up with that damn game, and by Illias's underfilled bra I nearly punched my workstation just getting the audio file for Janet. I'm not that much of a sadist.

<now I know what to do when we inevitably have some major argument

<just remotely set your notification tone to HEY LISTEN and then spin up an auto-mailer

>only girls

Something that Janet has just made me aware of at significant length. Illias Elementary skipped monster-human sex ed. You'd think they'd have emphasized that, you know, "by banging a fairy you're destroying the human race," but whatever.

>apprehended, beelzebub

Turning the Angry Fucking Officer Dial up to 11, please stand by. Also please ignore the fact that I'm not an officer. I think.

<Once you get her name, pass it to me and I will unleash a wave of pain never before seen on this plane in the general direction of her hard drives, and the drives of any organization that supports her. If Kurt hasn't beaten me to it.

>>351985

In order: it can if it's allowed, and how do you think we're holding her?

>>351987

>aural torture

Ah. Best that it be not so, then.

>illians ideological indoctrination idiocy

Relevant details do tend to get missed when fervor guides education paths.

>officer on deck

According to Shura's notes, you are a Private by rank. However, as his ongoing full-military-authorization effectively makes him a temporary General, the notes also state you may as well consider yourself a temporary Major. So, for now, feel free to use the term honestly. Pray it does not last, the benefits do not outweigh the responsibilities.

>>351987

>pain for her hard drives

I think I remember hearing about a ring of individuals like this. If she's connected to them, I'll get the details that you need to unleash hell.

>kid

Late to the party, but congrats.

>>351989

>if it's allowed

Please disallow it in this instance. I don't want anyone hearing this. Suffice to say, I intend to get answers, and may have to put some of my…. less pleasant skills to good use for the first time since splitting with my biological parents.

>>351977

Considering the coverage mentioned includes the restrooms in and around daycare, whatever video they gathered possibly contains not just illegal but very horribly illegal things, and a violent intrusion is the least of their worries at this point.

>>351991

>disallow, noone hear

Subplanes accesses close by default, and nothing gets through closed "doors." Unfortunately, we have to come in with you, per regulations…

>>351992

…would you look at that, there's an issue in one of the other buildings that needs our express attention. Very important Security issue. Sorry, Kurt, looks like you're on your own!

>>351992

>>351994

>daycare

>less pleasant skills

Y'know, I think I should introduce our guest to the hospitality of the Church of Illias. A phrase I never expected to say, nor really wanted to, but I think I can make an exception just this once. Just let me know if you need the help, Kurt.

>>351997

Oh, good, you can assist Kurt if he needs the help, and perhaps after. Thanks for volunteering. We're a bit busy with Overwh Elmin Grage and Plau Sibleden Iability in Building C, so we may not be available until you're done with the "guest."

>>351994

>>351997

>>351998

I've got good news and bad news.

Good news: The perp handed over all the evidence required to deal with the problem at its source before I so much as touched her. I've sent it to the appropriate people. Janet, the group she was with is a target for scorched-earth tactics.

Bad news: The perp will be unable to answer any further questions for several hours at minimum. Seems that the perp couldn't handle even a description of what I could do towards the goal of information-gathering.

>>352014

Shows how much attention they've been paying. If you actually were another Bile, the upgrades you've made to the buildings would have made you the incontestable ruler of this complex ages ago.

>>351999

>broke

I'm gonna be honest, I'm a bit disappointed. I went through the trouble of going to my old storage unit and breaking out the old Illian vestments and cross, fully expecting to begin the Inquisition, and by the time I get there she's singing like a siren. Normally this is where I'd say I was happy I didn't have to perform a bit of the old ultraviolence, but…

>scorched earth

Janet opened up the server and took a look at their drives. I was standing behind her when she did it. We took one look at the images those sick fucks were keeping and were immediately sick into trashcans. Tandy's "very horribly illegal" comment was fucking prescient.

<Incidentally, this workstation needs decontamination. Preferably with a flamethrower.

Totally unrelated note: I've picked up wormhole creation over the past few days. Usually they start you off by creating wormholes between familiar places, like between two rooms in your house, places that are conceptually close to you. I recently picked up the idea of creating openings at two points at a given distance from myself, bypassing that requirement. I'm pretty sure this is in a Realitwisting textbook somewhere, but I was able to look up the lat-long coordinates of a certain location, do some quick trig, and open a portal inside the building connecting it to the motherfucking mantle. Scorched earth, indeed.

>>352014

>line crossed

See above.

>bosses

I feel like making any comment other than "well it's good the situation was resolved" will be dangerous to my paycheck, so…

>>352025

Personally, I'm glad they were concerned. Even if it was brief and they lost composure owning up to it, they were worried that I might have been getting corrupted by as much power as I've been acquiring lately. Worried about me. Means they care about us all, not that they'd say publicly.

<Besides, if I ever ended up in such a position of power, I'd lose so much good research time just keeping people in line. I'm happy just learning and building, thankyouverymuch.

Speaking of, my results for the tests I've been running are in, and I'm submitting the potentially-worthwhile MCB adjustments for final review and possible integration into products.

>>352033

>decontamination

Just tell one of your department's Lights to take care of it, they've got basic voice recognition and will confirm orders in multiple fashions before carrying them out, along with a huge database to draw from when deciding action paths. It's all in the manuals you should have received.

<You don't want to know the trial and error it took to get the ruddy things to stop setting fire to everything. Even when handed fire extinguishers.

>mantle

I don't know what you saw specifically, and I'm being careful not to imagine it, but if your reaction is anything to go by I completely endorse your method of disposing of the matter. Chances are in response I'd have done worse things, slower. It's not the sort of thing I like contemplating.

<As for how you managed it, nice job. The method you used is definitely in one of the later books, and pretty much is more functional than the baseline in every way, so getting that one working will get you past the early steps.

>bosses commentary, paycheck danger

They might rattle some chains, maybe, but consider what it took to get Lightfull after HR (outright degenerate wastefulness, plus Kurt's evidence) or Gremory after Gazza (family matters). Even Nullstricken was only doing the horrorshow because she thought she lost her precious things.

<I rather doubt a few simple words would raise their ire. Right, Bosses?

>>352033

>>352040

>the slow road

The Sabbath will handle that once they get wind of this whole debacle. They don't take kindly to people harming actual kids. I imagine when they get done with these folks they'll look back on fondly on the day their offices were consumed by magma.

>>352093

I've also arranged for some… unpleasant surprises for any visitors to the few digital holdings of that bunch that Janet didn't raze, and I may have accidentally mentioned this happening in a voice call with a certain group of individuals that I introduced Jade to. Names were given, and tempers roused. There's going to be a lot of work for the cleaners in that network over the next couple months.

>>352093

>sabbath

Uh, yeah, they know, and are busy. Or did you forget already how deeply they'd like to think they've got their claws in me? Anyway, word on that "slow road" from the Sabs themselves, forwarded from my account for expedience:

>from: <TnC@Dioconate.Sabbath.com>

>to: <Kurt@it.mamonocorp.int>, <TANDY@resndev.mamonocorp.int>, <Jade@logistics.mamonocorp.int>

>cc:<Shura@resndev.mamonocorp.int>

>subject: INFO Regarding those utter [REDACTED]

>

>Greetings.

>

>Currently seven (7) Baphomets, twenty-eight (28) Witches, and eighty-four (84) Familiars in seven groups are hunting down remnants of that group and associates. Expect results by morrow noon.

>

>Addendum: No promises on prisoners' conditions.

>

>Rev. Tesshurai nal Cadarach

>Office of Dioconate

>

Kids get in danger, you better believe I'm pulling out the stops. I don't even care that I'm working with the Sabs on this one. Only didn't bring in the Corps yet to keep things semi-clean - besides, Jade would be better at directing them.

>>352095

Glad you've got the digital side of things managed. I think I've got the physical side dealt with, mostly.

On the other hand, we're lucky that more spectral employees don't tend to have much use for the bathrooms, considering their often negative reaction to recording.

>>352040

>what I saw

You don't want to know.

>>352096

>summon the Sabs

I was just about to make that suggestion. I'm sure they can do a better job at hunting people down than I can from here. My thing was very much a no-kill-like-overkill, spur of the moment operation.

Incidentally, that's one hell of a war party. Seven loli-goats? Anything in their sights is going to wish it was dead.

>involving the corps

If anyone in the Corps did anything other than immediately jump on the fuck-these-guys bandwagon, I'd be surprised. Then again, between us, the Sab, and the guys on the Exchange, none of these sick fucks are going to escape. Keep the nuclear option in reserve in case its needed.

In more pleasant news, that jeweler up the street finally got my so-called rush order finished, so I can finally go put a ring on my codefairy. If you hear a quiet, high-pitched noise sometime in the next few minutes, you'll know why.

Update on the Beelzebub group: done. Offline archives deleted and drives melted; personnel in custody; secondary physical holdings being razed as a matter of decontamination.

<Kurt, I'm forwarding a few security protocol recommendations for your review, should help prevent these sorts from getting into the facility again. Better screens means fewer bugs.

>>352098

>sab action, war party

My birth family and their associates may be many things I find disturbing, but their dedication to the protection of children is one aspect I respect. I contacted them the moment we found the Daycare might be involved, I wasn't planning on wasting any time.

<Jessy is terrifying when angered, and here she was furious. She took one look at the servers you didn't go Vesuvius against, and the next thing I knew she'd rounded up her daughter, granddaughter, and a few of their siblings, and prepared the mentioned force.

>ring

Congratulations to you both.

<Thanks for the warning, by the way - that flare of soul's light was intense.

Unrelated: a few of the Ogres and Oni in your department - at least, I think they're yours - challenged me to a drinking game. They said they don't believe a Satyros curse can block good booze, and want me to prove the matter one way or the other.

<I mean, I'm game - it tastes like nothing and does nothing for me anymore, but drinking won't give me problems per se. It's up to you if you think they're being idiots and need to be brought back in line.

>>352096

>>352122

>sabbath bringing the pain

The thought of your perpetually-cheery grandmother teaching those abominations a new definition of pain is simultaneously mildly amusing and terrifying.

>>352122

>security recommendations

After some review, I've drafted implementations for the appropriate changes. They'll be deployed when ready.

>drinking game

This has the potential to go poorly. I want a recording.

>>352098

>Pleasant news

Congratulations.

Unrelated to all the above, the HR staffers who arranged the activities listed in >>350920 have been talking with some of the White Lotus masters about things like basic meditation classes and Ki reflow massages for another wellness event in a couple weeks.

>>352178

Speaking of the arranged activities, I finally got a chance to get one of those electrigger sessions, the acupuncture waiting list was surprisingly long. Also, in a completely unrelated note, I'm sending you a thumb drive via drone.

>>352178

>Jessy attacking [REDACTED]

Just a nitpick: "great-grandmother." There's another generation there. But yeah, the look on her face as she rounded up troops was something else. The face she had when she found those [REDACTED]… There's a reason I'm glad she doesn't seem to be capable of turning that toward any of us.

<Also, got a few names you might find…interesting. A few of the [REDACTED, SERIOUSLY] thugs ended up talking. I think we've seen a couple of these names on those lists of lobbyists.

>drinking game, recording

As long as it doesn't get the kibosh for interrupting Logistics activities, it'll happen tomorrow. The booze in question has to be brought in special, apparently - those challengers don't consider local stuff worth it, and their own stashes are more for casual drunkenness.

<And recordings will certainly be made available, one way or another. You've got your drones, there's the Lights, security cameras, my sensors…lots of options.

>>352122

>congrats

Thanks. The only reason it didn't happen sooner is because finding a jeweler that can make a fairy-sized ring is harder than you'd think, and me trying to magic one up myself didn't go right. The gems always came out looking wrong. I'm honestly a bit embarrassed; usually you marry someone, then knock them up, but the order went in before that, so I guess it's the thought the counts.

>drinking game

Eh, as long as they're on their lunch break or something, I really don't care. I only get bothered about this sort of thing if it stops me from doing my job.

>>352180

>sab murder squad

I've been the target of a mildly annoyed baph before, and sweet Ammit above was that unpleasant. They're definitely having a bad time over there in the Sab dungeon. A fitting punishment.

>lobbyist/asshole connection

Passed some of the data along to some specialists on the Exchange, pro bono. Expect results in a few days. Honestly, I'm kind of impressed that only some of them talked.

>>352182

>ringmaking not easy, embarrassed

Considering that gems have a funny interaction with magic, that difficulty is understandable. They're good for storage, but unless you put in the absurd practice I have, you'd need a Dwarf or earth-aligned Elemental like a Gnome to properly create or modify the things.

<And as for embarrassment: don't be. "Usually" is a silly thing. You already see the truth of it, after all; what matters is that what you do is honest and true, and given how happily the Source is chirruping, I'd say you've steered your course properly.

>game on

Then we'll have the contest around Lunch. I'll be sure to get recordings for anyone interested but unable to attend.

>baphs scary, passalong, "only" some talked

I think you understand why I'm less than inclined to anger Jessy, or my birth mother, or…well, pretty much the majority of my birth family's female population - lots of little goats. I did say that Sabbath monsterization was a bizarre drug.

<Also, good to hear the data's being used effectively already. If we learn any more of relevance I'll pass it along. As for why only a few talked, let's just say that most of the others aren't capable yet. We were a bit zealous, shall we say, in securing the prisoners.

Unrelated: Zuzi, I may be putting in an order for a couple Sleeve units soon. My little 'Tori and 'Tali are getting to the point in their development where moving's difficult; for that, they either need a man (read: lover or husband) to provide Spirit for Mana conversion, or a female host to act as a basic platform. Ro and I have gone over things, and we believe that for now a simple, uninhabited Sleeve should work as a host, without the negative mental effects involved in a Cursed Weapon binding with a woman. Forwarding you the details, how viable do you think it would be?

>>352186

Should be doable, the specs here aren't anything too crazy. And of course, since you've been assisting Frank you'll be right there helping build them.

>>352188

If the feature list seems somewhat basic, it's because the focus was on room for modifications. 'Tori is a warhammer at this point, and 'Tali looks to be turning into a giant shield for some reason, so we wanted them to have the opportunity to decide on how their bodies "grow," so to speak. Whatever Frank's getting paid, I'd like to request he get a bonus or raise or something. Being part of my daughters' lives is important to me, and I didn't expect I'd be able to have a hand in this, least of all so soon.

>>352188

>>352207

>Sleeve designs

I've forwarded you some data from the MCB that Tandy and I have been messing around with. I think the synthetic muscle design I worked up for it might make things a bit more comfortable for your girls, as well as making the sleeves more power-efficient.

>>352207

Did you think I wouldn't have you involved in this now that you're here? You're one of the madboys now. And I think I can swing Frank a bonus for providing cross-training.

>>352261

Looks good. 'Tali has a bit of an interest in heavy-duty hydraulics, but I think 'Tori would like this. We're going with the basic model for the start so they can choose upgrade options, but I'll make sure they know it's available, and who made it possible.

Unrelated: forwarding you the recording of the drinking contest, as requested. Not sure what those Oni and Ogres expected - I mean, I had demonic booze at Gazza's wedding as part of the toast, and even that didn't hit me. Why this fancy swill was supposed to do so is beyond me.

<Also, I'm having trouble figuring out what they said toward the end, my understanding of Zipangunese (however that's spelled) is limited and machine translation is unreliable. Only caught the term "swear" or "sworn" or something. Anyone have any ideas?

>>352263

Less a surprise at being involved, more at being considered ready to be involved. I know you take pride in having things done properly. I didn't think I would have met your standards for this sort of task so soon. Not that I'm complaining, I'm ecstatic to be part of this, it's just unexpected.

>>352265

Well, you will have a spotter, and by the end of this project you'll be able to maintain and upgrade them.

>>352265

>Zipangan

Probably something to the effect of "I'd have sworn nobody could pull that off." Could also be swearing to do something for you since you beat them at a drinking game.

>>352272

Now, see, that's more like what I was expecting and hoping for - not being solo-build ready, not even close, but at a stage where I can work toward attaining that level of skill. Good. Life's a constant stream of lessons and tests, and I'm always ready to learn.

<Considering how much this set of twins like mock battles, I'll be amazed if they go a day without breaking something. It's a relief, knowing I'll be able to patch them up afterwards.

>>352277

"Zipangan" - is that how it's spelled? I'll have to remember that. Frankly, I don't see the point in being owed a favor for winning by default, but if it turns out they did swear a reward, I guess they could go ahead and buy everyone else some high-quality drink of their choice. Seems appropriate.

Unrelated: I took a look at the Network, and it seems some of the changes recently made to the Lights slowed down the Fields' logic systems a bit. I've forwarded some ideas for optimizing the Lights and Fields for these, and hopefully future upgrades as well.

>>352296

>network optimization data

Much obliged, I've worked your suggestions into a new patch for the configs.

>drinking game results

I want to reiterate that I don't know what they said, just guessing based on the aftermath of the drinking contests I spectated in college.

>drinking game aftermath

Took a look at the recording, consulted a few Zipangan-to-English dictionaries. Half my department has sworn fealty to you. Not sure if I should be congratulatory or annoyed.

<hell im impressed

<i went to school with one of them once upon a time and i remember her chugging a bottle of everclear like it was beer

Also, Shura: Mission accomplished. So far, at least. Details are in your inbox, under the standard encryption. We should have an uneasy but stable arrangement until the real fireworks kick off. I'll continue to monitor the situation until then.

>>352329

>network being patched

Good to know, but honestly, I'm of the opinion that it might be in need of a complete overhaul soon. The Network was originally controlled from one source, and the patch that made it possible to hand it over was just that - a patch. It's likely still got all or most the hacky logic and inefficiencies I didn't get around to cleaning out underneath everything. I'm forwarding two documents. First, the original "source code," with the portions that are likely slowdowns, locked-out redundancies, or just simply broken bits marked for review. Second, a proposed full-system upgrade, with changes or new lines highlighted. It's a work in progress, and I don't expect it implemented any time soon, but at least the garbage could stand getting stripped out.

>>352335

>fealty

…Okay then. I still wish I'd had the chance to win properly, rather than letting the curse handle things. Get a proper Bacchanalia going, hit the Satyrwine, and then we'd see some worthwhile drinking contests.

<And really? Everclear? That swill? I would have thought they'd have better taste than that. Even before I started drinking I knew not to bother with such bland junk. Aunt Seren taught me that much.

>mission complete

Details received, excellent work. Standard pay plus hazard and overtime has been credited to your account. Intel/Infil Corps interested in hiring your services on case-by-case basis, details forwarded. You're attached to Med Corps, so this would be a secondary option.

Got an update on the Beelzebub-group punters. Last of them were finally brought to the Inquisitors' tender care, and the list of names has increased slightly. I don't recognize any, but I'm sure the Exchange will be able to make use of the info regardless. Data forwarded as usual.

<Also, I've been authorized to release my sensors' recording of the attack for anyone interested in seeing how thoroughly that [REDACTED] operation was destroyed. It's a bit large in filesize, so I'm putting a link to the media here rather than as a direct embed.

<Sorry about the shaky video feed and the frequent cuts; I had to rip out a lot that wasn't suitable for any eyes, ever, and at the time I was focused on tracking hostiles rather than keeping my head steady. Obviously I don't recommend anyone young view the recordings.

Finally, there are a few bounties to dispense. Everyone involved in this side of things will shortly receive an envelope; feel free to cash, deposit, or donate the funds as you see fit. I don't think this particular group will be a problem ever again.

>>352454

>status update

Not going to watch that video, glad to hear that those kleine scheiße have been/are being purged with extreme prejudice.

>bounties

I'll be putting the cash I get from this incident towards a college fund for Maria.

>>352347

>network

I'll be working out an updated codebase for review before deployment. Some of the magic-based functions don't make perfect sense to me, so I'll be running it by you before deploying the rebuilt/refactored code.

>>352335

>fealty

I'm honestly less surprised than I should be.

>everclear, beer

So like water then?

>>352347

>everclear

It's literally the highest possible alcohol content. No room for flavor.

>intel corps job offer

Well, that's flattering. I wish I could take more credit; everything just sorta fell together, I just nudged it here and there.

>>352454

>names

Oh. Well, hm. I had to provide support to some of these people. Oh well, info packets are away. Hopefully this doesn't kick over the EU house of cards, eh?

>thoroughly

The Codex Astartes approves of this action.

<BLOOD FOR THE BLOOD GOD

>bounties

Maria can have mine as well. My salary isn't quite as large as Shura's, but I still make a fair amount. That and I'm also learning to generate precious metals from thin air. Magic is a hell of a drug.

>>352501

>use of bounty

Put it toward a fund for your kid. At the rate that the money I've got put aside for Maria is growing, she'll almost certainly not need even a quarter of it.

>names, support

Such is the game. One moment you're working with someone, the next you're throwing them under the bus for being the worst possible kind of person.

>>352497

>not going to watch, extreme prejudice

Considering your background, I don't blame you. It wasn't a pretty sight by any means. But yes, we made sure none of those things got away.

>college fund

That's, what, five of those she has now? Yours, mine, the Sabs', the one put together jointly by Management, and I'm fairly certain there's a generic fund for all employees' children.

>codebase

Many thanks. I remember I wrote a lot of that junk while I was still using the old codification style. Remember that mess from way back when, while working on the big dreamlinker? Yeah, nobody really likes using it, but until now it's been all we had.

<Now that Algorithmancy is a thing, I might be able to make things a bit more comprehensible. Tandy, I'll be needing your help with this. Probably a lot of help.

>>352501

>everclear too powerful for flavor

Demonic booze manages that while having flavor and ensuring a "contractual" hangover. Satyrwine manages the same without hangover, and is as easy to walk off as the aforementioned water-like beer.

>skulls for the skull throne

It was a halfway decent WAAAGH indeed. Admittedly, it was also a bit of a sorry slaughter, but hey, that's exactly what they deserved.

<Pity the idiots over there folded like so quickly, I haven't had a good fight in ages, not that this counted. Had to basically compete with the other groups to get a fist or spell in edgewise.

>eu house of cards

Let's just hope that the only ones affected are those deserving of what they receive.

>bounties, funds

Seconding Kurt's advice; you're going to have a kid soon too, and I guarantee you're going to need capital.

>>352503

>>352502

>save the cash

…given the news I just got, yeah.

<TWINS! oh man my pelvis isn't going to enjoy this

>demonic booze, satyrwine

Are both magical, or at least involve magic in their creation, which is cheating. Of course, I also prefer my alcohols at 50 proof or less, so none of this affects me.

>milk for the khorne flakes

I see someone else enjoyed the interdepartmental tabletop game night.

>house of cards

(EncryptScheme = SabEnc223; @Shura) BEGIN: Given that at least one of the Exchange guys has gone the assassination route, I think we're going to have some problems. I'm going to call Infil corps and see if I can't get them to assist a bit - the actors I've been trying to defang are still there, and there's probably going to be a nice big power vacuum for them to fill. END

I have a few pieces of good news. First, Ada finally managed to get through to the terminally-dense guy she's been dating, and they've eloped. Last I heard, they were off to the Mist. Gran's a bit upset she didn't get to plan the wedding.

<Also, 'Tori and 'Tali are set up with their Sleeves, and so far everything's working splendid. Kurt, your synthmuscle idea was well-received, and I'll be getting some of that made for 'Tori's first upgrade set. Zuzi, gonna be working on Sleeve mods for a while, if I could have a spotter ready.

>>352504

>even more family soon

By the Source, congratulations! Also, check your Corps messages. Chances are, the moment you announce officially you'll be receiving gifts and well wishes from everyone. Not to mention part of our salaries already include family-support funds - see handbook page 836.

<And Janet? Pretty sure Fay have some sort of physical advantage in size-handling, right? Merryway's secretary apparently had quadruplets without any pain. And it's not like they'll be erupting from yours or Jade's skulls, the way Nightmares are born. Now that was a headache.

>magic=cheating

Cheating or no, at least they're inherently enjoyable, unlike that paint remover. Still, whatever floats your boat. I admit a bit of bias towards Satyrwine after having been raised on it - anything lesser just never registered.

>dice roll just as planned

What can I say, it's good fun. Bit of nostalgia, too - they're a lot like the seven "adventuring" years of practice. Half the time the games are hectic chaos, the other half they're quiet, even if tense, and every reward carries the risk of ruin, every trap a potential treasure.

>house of cards

Begin ward pattern Wall Maria. I can't even really condemn these actions too much - after seeing what those [REDACTED] had on their secondary servers and backup drives, I can understand the reasons, and even negative change means stagnation is denied. If this leads to conflict at least I'll know what to do for once. Still kinda wish they'd given us warning, given what's at stake. Keep us posted and let me know if you need resources or actions on my part. End ward.

>>352535

>sister taking off with her man

Must be that time of year. I just heard from my sister as well. Apparently there was a misadventure on the trip she dragged our good Herr Worthington on, which ended up in a doctor's office other than our family practitioner. To my mother's eternal embarrassment, Petra is indeed a Dhampir who's been raised as a Vampire. Mina's going to have a bit of an easier time explaining the situation to her mother given the other development on that front: Petra has convinced Herr Worthington to move from the legal department here to the family legal firm, and he's also officially my brother-in-law-to-be.

>synthmuscle upgrade

Mind the pressure on the hydraulic pumps you use for that system, if you push it too far past the pressure rating of the material you use, high pressure leaks can remove limbs as effectively as just about anything else.

>>352504

>twins

Congratulations are indeed in order!

>>352545

>developments, time of year

Congratulations all around! Please pass along my best wishes to your family. I admit ignorance on the significance of your sister being a Dhampir instead of a Vampire, though. That a cultural thing, like with the "Spawn" and "Revenant" terms?

<Also, didn't HR mention something along those lines a while back? Hasn't been too long since then, and let's face it, as crazy as the year's been so far I wouldn't be surprised if the effects were hitting Mamono significantly outside the Beast and Plant ranges.

>upgrade caveats

Noted, and I'll be making doubly certain 'Tori is aware. I'll be experimenting with materials a while to find something that can match the performance she's after while still falling within range of aesthetics and safety. I'll keep a log of anything I come up with.

<Gonna have to get them both set with repair nanites at some point, but while they're getting used to these bodies it's best they first learn how to not tear themselves apart. I'm just glad their sisters don't have to deal with that particular problem, even if they've got their own issues.

>>352549

>Dhampir/Vampire

Being in a relationship with a member of the Vampire family of mamono has some effects on a man. Enhanced physicality, enhanced senses, increased UV sensitivity, etc. If a Vampire conceives a child with her other half before those effects come into their full force (implying that the conception happened prior to the wedding in all but a few outlying cases), the child will be a Dhampir. Dhampii are, in general, significantly less reserved, more resistant to UV radiation, less reliant on vampiric feeding, and lean more towards physicality than traditional vampiric powers. The more conservative, old-guard families (like mine) generally consider having a Dhampir as a sign of moving a relationship forward with improper quickness, something of a "proper lady" versus "party girl" issue. My mother, like the rest of the family, cultivates a very dignified, proper appearance, so having moved with Fredrick that quickly is a bit of an embarrassment for her, so Petra was raised as a Vampire.

Raising a Dhampir as a Vampire can actually affect the physiology and the psychology of the Dhampir in question, moving her towards her Vampire parent in those regards (sometimes to the point that the next generation has a chance to end up as a Vampire if the relationship that conceived that child moves in a way that would produce a Vampire for a Vampire parent).

>materials

The reference materials are carbon-fiber mesh around a Kevlar-reinforced elastic sac. I've tested the above, and found it to have approximately 4x the typical strength density of vertebrate skeletal muscle bundles under the same conditions. I've not tested the design under more anything other than comfortably safe internal pressures, but it should hold up under somewhat higher power.

Adverts, got a project for you. Details forwarded, I'd appreciate results by day's end.

Jade, got a question - that "fealty" thing the Oni put forward, I'm still not entirely clear on what they meant. Is it like a big favor or something? I'm having difficulty believing they swore actual medieval-lord fealty over something so simple as a drinking game.

>>352551

>dhampir/vampire explanation

Seems like a complicated situation. Also sounds like Sir is going to have to live up to the title I've been using for him if he wants to match his new family's expectations, not that I doubt his ability. It's times like this I'm glad I was raised a simple country boy, rather than part of an old House. Less confusing, much more relaxed.

>materials details

Also noted, but physical strength isn't the only concern. The problems 'Tori is facing are a need to be able to lug herself around, combined with a desire for fluidity of movement, and a recently acquired interest in a somewhat delicate appearance. Pretty sure Nu had something to do with that one, after she and Ro watched one of the sidestory media connected to the work she found the "Saber" character in - I think the character in question is one "Berserker of Black." I'll stick to mundane and standard options for the test batches, but considering the custom nature of the sleeves in question I may end up adding in some enchantments to the final modifications simply as a matter of course. I'm not expecting to make much in the way of discoveries - the reference material is bloody good to begin with, and I'm still learning - but the practice alone will be, well, good practice.

>>352561

>performance expectations

The reaction speed of these synthmuscles is determined by how fast the underlying hydraulics can pressurize and depressurize the individual units. Same goes for fluidity of the movements. As for the appearance, they're meant to go under synthskin, and resemble living muscle when so used. Complete with the changes in shape when contracted.

>family complications

You've no idea. I'm convinced that my grandmother thinks that we're still actual nobility as opposed to just a wealthy/respected family, with all the emphasis she places on etiquette and whatnot.

>>352535

>well-wishes, etc

Oh yeah, my inbox is quite full.

>size-handling

<yeah i was being facetious, fairies and sidhe are really damn stretchy

<my worry is more the variability of pregnancy

<the longest recorded gestational period for a sidhe was 17 months; the shortest was 2

<nobody seems to know why its so variable but it basically means the little daemons can pop out at any damn time

<so now the two of us are scrambling to deal with an extra kid that might be right around the corner

>>352545

>developments

And congratulations to you as well.

>>352561

>fealty

Spoke to the oni in question - it's basically just a big favor. She just chose to use old, flowery language because she was extremely drunk.

Server pigeons are acting up, be advised.

>>352564

>synthmuscle clarifications

Good to know, and answers some questions 'Tori sent as part of indicating interest.

<Figure I'll give this stuff a try myself while I'm at it. Might help with calibrating her set when installing.

>grandmother stance on nobility

In that case, if at all possible I request you avoid mentioning my connection to the Cadarach name. Thoroughly aside from it being a Sab line, it's landed, and I'd rather not have to deal with that pompous heraldic guff any more than necessary.

<That first day of reunions had so many title clauses and formal addresses used my head was spinning. You may remember how disoriented I was. How people go about that normally I'll never understand.

>>352565

>prego cook time

Far Fires, that's one maddening situation. Best of luck to you two. If you need any sort of supplies for handling the little ones when the time comes and haven't already gotten situated, I've got a cousin who specializes in outfitting new parents. I can pass along her contact info if you like.

>fealty clarification

I figured as much. Guess I'll have to come up with a way for them to pay it off or something. Maybe if I ever get the curse broken we can try a rematch.

Adverts, good work on the project. After inspecting it, Nubia's decided to go ahead and remove the mental command line involving the words "back," "on," and "track." She'll be by shortly to administer the mindscrub.

Kurt, update on the synthmuscle tests. From a variety of materials I found degrees of strength/flex rate/durability, and while some other options might be more suitable for certain applications, the CF-mesh/Kevlar sac combination you initially proposed most completely meets the points 'Tori specified in her request. I also went about testing a variety of pressure capacity/pressurization rate ranges, and selected pumps to match. I'm forwarding you and Zuzi the data I've collected, both of basic tests and Tess' practical trials. Most of it's in line with your original documentation, but hopefully the increased quantity of data points will be of some use.

<It's not quite like what I have installed after Zuzi went about customizing Dummy, but these are interesting to work with. Not really sure what my limbs' motivators are specifically, there's a lot going on in these arms and legs.

<Also, it is once again immensely useful being able to handle both the roles of researcher and test subject, especially now that I somewhat know what I'm doing and am not simply hacking things open to try and learn how they tick.

Unrelated: White Lotus training has been going well, and I'm up to a total of ten minutes continuous synced consciousness per day. Unfortunately, I seem to have hit a wall of some kind, and barring some unknown development may require significantly more training before I get any further.

>>352573

>maddening

Honestly, knowing what I know of the Fae, it makes some sense. What's a better prank than making the arrival time of your new bundle(s) of joy completely unpredictable?

Unrelatedly, there are more workplace shenanigans. Janet, I apologize for this in advance:

@prog: So, contrary to popular belief, I'm not an idiot. Completely aside from my fiancee being one of your department heads, I do have post-secondary education in the field of computer science, and I also have some hobbyist interest in computers, programming, engineering, etc. It can generally be assumed that I know what I'm talking about when it comes to computers. In the past three days, I've seen a sudden jump in supply orders from certain members of your department, almost none of which would be useful for your actual job. To wit:

>While you guys are performing 3D rendering, you have a dedicated cluster for that purpose. All these high-end graphics processors you seem to want are incompatible with your current hardware, and the particular model you're ordering would not be suitable for that purpose anyways.

>You do not need motherboards coated in LED lights and decorative plasticky bits to compile code.

>You do not need audio cards for any reason - the inbuilt drivers will suffice for your purposes.

>You do not need super-high-end liquid cooling rigs. You have enough aircon units in your department to freeze the Sahara, you can get by with air-cooling.

>One of you morons outright ordered a Bitcoin miner. How you thought I wouldn't notice that, I have no clue.

As a final nail in the coffin, none of the suspicious orders were approved by Janet - they all seem to go through someone called Carraway - implying to me that you knew she'd either deny them outright or alert me to the situation. I could come out and call this fiscal malfeasance, embezzling, or other highly unpleasant things, but I don't have time to deal with that and neither do you. Instead, I'm just going to blanket-deny anything programming department has submitted that I can't directly verify. Please resubmit your orders through someone that can be trusted to properly verify your need for the items - that is, someone that isn't this Carraway person. If they see you actually need it and aren't just ordering parts for your home gaming rig, then you'll get your parts. I trust you guys have enough pattern recognition to not try to buy personal items with company money again.

>>352617

>ordering a bitcoin mining rig

And that's how you get a cranky IT staffer making your life a living hell as he makes sure that you've not tried to hide a mining process in your compiling and/or rendering jobs. Janet, I also apologize in advance.

Also, if there's any need for specialty computer hardware, it's supposed to be put into a ticket and sent to IT for review to make sure we can properly support it (and so this sort of thing gets caught before it takes up the time of the logistics department).

>>352600

>extra data points

Much appreciated. There's only so much I can do with the static tests, and testing it under mindsplit conditions doesn't seem to work very well for me.

>meditation brick wall

There's an old temple a couple hours drive from here, just inside the edge of that weird anomaly that seems to mess with magic in a 6-mile diameter circle. The only monk who's there full time is a little eccentric, but I hear he's good at helping people who get stuck like that. If you can't get past whatever's currently holding you back, might be worth paying him a visit.

>>352573

>landed name

When Gam's got a bit of alcohol in her she goes on and on about being 50th or so in the line of succession to a landed estate. Given how she acts being that far removed (even if it's only in her head, I've not looked into the accuracy of the claim), I can't imagine how your family is on that matter.

PIGEONS, I SAY.

>prog shenanigans

Ah, Mamonocorp. Never a dull day. I'm not surprised they went with subterfuge after all the stuff that happened to Adverts and HR. I am surprised they were so lacking in subtlety, though.

>>352619

>data points, mindsplit testing problematic

Glad it's of use. Should be able to provide more over time, 'Tori insisted on collecting long-term active-use data, and 'Tali insisted on "helping." If you've got any other projects I could provide a couple more perspectives on, pass them my way - I'm certainly in the right department for it now.

<It's a shame you're having difficulty testing under Mindsplit, but I suppose it makes sense. Outside of Resync states, I'm functionally two people, whereas the Mindsplit device can only divide your mind so far into Curta, and even with mods an MCB is basically a glorified drone.

>brick wall

I should clarify that the wall is regarding my and Tess' ability to mentally rejoin - meditation training itself is going fine, near as I can tell. I'll still see about visiting the temple in question when I can; for all I know it very well could be a meditation problem of some kind, and even if I'm on the right track from the regular training, having an additional perspective never hurts. Besides, if this monk follows the trend of eccentricity accompanying knowledge and understanding, I'm sure the meeting will be beneficial in some way.

>line of succession

In that case, definitely requesting that your grandmother be kept unaware of my situation if at all possible. The Cadarach line is old, and they described the various collected holdings as at this point being comparable to an Earldom, to which I'm effectively the heir for various confusing convoluted reasons. Sab logic, no sense made whatsoever. Thankfully they don't push the issue much, possibly because the current situation means I'm stuck with them for now, also likely to avoid pushing me away given my distaste for their degeneracy. Either way, if I ever meet your grandmother for any reason I'd prefer to be considered a basic bumpkin, not a…whatever this is.

Speaking of, got a bit of humor. Jade, remember how you asked why the Sabs never went about trying to find me? They did attempt, at the time. Turns out it was an Illian attack that ended up getting me taken from the Sabs and landed me in that junkyard. The ones responsible were dealt with, but whatever they did made me near-impossible to locate. If it hadn't been for that, I'd have ended up just another Sabbathite. So, thanks, Illias?