The Book of Fluids
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The Tale of Josephus Accessing File - The Tale of Josephus . . .
---------- cycle.1.the arrival The lift doors opened and Senior Colonel Reztclift stormed into the corridor. His posture radiated fury, the swagger in his step, his large swinging arms, the bitter look on his face. He had just finished a debriefing with the General and had received a grade A chewing-out for a recent security incident--an offender had infiltrated the base the day before, and the Colonel was having to take the blame for the incident. His men had the trespasser executed on site--what more could the top brass ask for? The Colonel was pissed. This wasn't his fault. He didn't need this kind of treatment--he was a damn Senior Colonel, fer cryin' out loud! He spotted an unfortunate victim as he turned the corner. "YOU!" Reztclift exclaimed. The figure in the white lab coat spun around. He was a young man, with messy brown hair and silver-rimmed glasses. Looked like a low-level research assistant--those sure weren't allowed on this floor. "What's your security clearance?" "Uh, sir? I'm sorry, I didn't know I needed--" "Ignorance is no excuse, son! What's your name?!" "Jos--" The Colonel continued, "Do you have any idea where you're at?!" "Actually, no sir, I'm lost--" "Damn right, you're lost! How the hell did you get down here?!" "The guard let me in," the young man replied, confusion reading clear on his face, "I was told to report to the fifteenth floor--" "The fifteenth floor is a restricted area! Only VIPs and specialists are allowed on this floor!" "But I'm--" "Shut up... YOU!" the Colonel yelled down the hall to a passing soldier. The soldier stopped and immediately ran down the corridor with little effort, stopping right before the Colonel. "SIR, YESSIR!" "I want you to escort this idiot to the control facilities on the third floor--see if you can find out where he belongs, cause it sure as hell ain't here!" "Excuse me, Captain," the young scientist started to interrupt. "WHO THE HELL ARE YOU CALLING CAPTAIN?!" the Colonel roared, his jewel-like eyes flashing. The young researcher seemed only mildly startled by the outburst--the soldier winced at the civilian mistake, "I AM SENIOR COLONEL ARSHAUND REZTCLIFT--that's SENIOR COLONEL--with fifty times more medals than you have balls! Soldier, get this scum out of my sight!" The soldier, a dark-skinned man of red dragon decent, gave a sturdy reply before directing the young man to start walking in the direction of the elevators. The Colonel frowned after the two of them. Far from making him feel better, the incident had made him feel even angrier. Snorting, he turned and headed in the other direction, toward Scientific Center 17... the place they often called The Mecca. ---------- "I'm sorry, there's got to be a mistake!" the scientist continued, "I'm looking for Center Seventeen--I have a meeting with Dr. Charist!" The soldier's posture seemed to have softened the farther away from the storming Colonel they got, "The Phoenix." "Excuse me?" "The Phoenix signifies Colonel position; the "Majesty" his Senior status--did you not see the pin? The chevron on the jacket?" The young scientist slowed his walk and turned back towards the soldier, "I did, but I wasn't aware of the significance--I've never dealt with a foreign military before." The soldier twisted his head a little, squinting at the researcher, "Foreign military? Who are you anyways?" "Dr. Josephus de Viaminima. I'm here on assignment--I received a letter from Dr. Charist asking me for my expertise to study Black Ops Project One Dash Four Dash Empeoayeteyu." The soldiers eyes grew wide, then he smiled, "So YOU'RE the outside source the team was talking about. Colonel Reztclift is going to regret coming into the office this morning. I'm Grant Strong, Private First Class. Follow me, sir." Josephus sighed, "Thank God SOMEBODY knows who I am and where I need to go... I was beginning to think I'd wandered into the wrong military base." Grant allowed a brief smile as the two started down an adjacent hall. A line painted on the wall pointed the way to Center 17. ---------- "Colonel!" Reztclift turned in the direction of the voice--Dr. Charist was waving him down from the end of the hall. The military commander gritted his teeth and tried to hide his annoyance--Dr. Charist was, after all, a prestigious scientific figure--it would do no good to make an enemy of the highly-sought researcher. He had to put up with the scientists... at least for a little longer. "Colonel! We've got a situation." "What's that?" the Colonel asked, feeling a twinge of concern in the back of his mind. "One of our research specialists are missing. He went through the main checkpoint fifteen minutes ago--he should've been here by now." Dumb scientists can't even find their way around the base, the Colonel complained to himself, "You sure he hasn't shown up, Charist? How long has he been working on the project, anyways?" "How long? He flew in last night from Earth, Colonel. He's a research specialist--Dr. de Viaminima. First name Josephus. He's lost somewhere in the... oh wait... I think that's him." The Colonel turned around and felt his blood pressure rise again. The young scientist, escorted by the officer, was walking into the facility and making a beeline for Dr. Charist. Reztclift swore under his breath. "Sir! Private Strong escorting Dr. Josephus de Viaminima, sir!" "Ah, thank goodness!" Dr. Charist said, a feeling of great relief washing over him, "We thought you had gotten yourself lost." "I was," Josephus replied, locking eyes with the Colonel, "Until Private Strong found me and brought me here. Thanks again, Grant." "Just doing my duty, sir. Colonel," Strong saluted and before the Colonel could start fuming, the soldier was already out the door. "Now that you're here we can start your briefing on the project," Charist said, gesturing towards a flight of stairs that went up into a nearby office, "If you'll excuse us, Colonel." The two scientists were already walking away. Reztclift couldn't help but feel some relief, but that Dr. de Viaminima was on his list, now. Nobody makes a fool of this Senior Colonel and gets away with it. ---------- cycle.2.remember Totolli 2 "What you are about to see, Dr. de Viaminima, is classified information from the Gamezohan Empire archives." Josephus frowned, "I'm not getting involved in some Manhattan Project, am I?" Dr. Charist laughed, "No, no, no, doctor, I assure you--while this research is slightly related, it does not have a direct influence on the K-Bomb studies. The MILITARY science teams and R&D are going forward with that project. Frankly, many of us aren't too fond of it ourselves, but the war--" "Yeah, yeah, I know, nearly 250 years fighting the Chamaleens. I might be humanoid, sir, but I know all about the Gamezohan struggle in the Great Thaynan War. My only hope is that one bomb will do the trick, but if Earth History is any indication, one bomb is rarely enough." "Sad but true," Charist agreed, "But enough of that--let's begin. Have a seat." The two doctors were in a bland-looking conference room. A series of windows lined the west wall, but they were shuttered. How odd, Josephus thought, windows in an underground military installation. He turned his attention back to the matter at hand. Charist picked up a pocketcomp unit and started reading from its palm-sized screen, "Dr. Josephus de Viaminima: you have been hand-picked out of dozens of qualified researchers in the universe to be part of a project of a massive scale. In cooperation with the Gamezohan Military and with the express permission of Emperor Wilhelm Gauss and the Gamezohan Scientific Division, you are hereby acquisitioned to give aid in Project Tetrahedral Righteousness." There was a pause before Charist nervously smiled, "That's all it says--I'm just authorized to read this. Basically, you're one of the best scientists in your field." No surprise there, Josephus thought. He was, after all, considered one of the greatest technomancers in the galaxy--and even rarer, he was into alchemy. Not that he had an ego about it or anything. It's just that being the youngest scientist to receive the Heydon Award Prize, it tended to be a challenge to keep oneself from getting a swelled head. "Long story short, the project we have ongoing involves some alchemic studies and we need your expertise to help us." Josephus sighed, "I don't know. You haven't even told me what purpose the project serves--" "We are prepared to offer HIGH compensation for your efforts." Now it was Dr. de Viaminima's turn to be silent for a moment. He continued, "And if you REALLY want my research that badly, I'll need my own lab, equipment--I don't work well in large groups--" "Done, done, it's all done--full service lab--it's on the main floor, but it's completely separate from the other scientists. Believe me, doctor, we wouldn't have called you here if we didn't think we couldn't convince you to stay--every amenity you could possibly need, we can give you. We're funded by the freakin' Empire! I don't have to tell you how wonderful it is to have such resources." Josephus blinked, "... main floor?" Charist smiled, "The Mecca of Laboratories, de Viaminima. It's all right outside here." The doctor opened the blinds on the window. The view from the conference room looked down upon a massive area full of machines and tables covered in paperwork, beakers and tubes--scientists sitting in chairs, talking over products, reading and passing ancient texts and running down the aisles. On the far wall, dozens of giant monitors surrounded a massive screen. Some projected newscasts or duplicate images from the computer monitors on the floor: weird symbols, gibberish, imagery--it was like being in a command center. "Am I late?" Josephus turned from the grand spectacle to see a beautiful woman step into the conference room. Beautiful only began to describe her. A lithe figure, in a blue blouse and short black skirt, wearing a lab coat. Her eyes were both strong and gentle at the same time, accented beautifully by a pair of stylish, black-rimmed glasses. Her hair was an unusual shade of green. She appeared unlike any ordinary humanoid--there was something different about her. "Not at all, not at all, I was just showing our new researcher the Mecca. Dr. Josephus, may I introduce Dr. Sylvia Darian-Marik, our resident Neurochemist." Sylvia gave Josephus a genuine smile, "Welcome aboard, sir." "Thanks," Josephus said, shaking Sylvia's hand, "Um, I'm sorry, sir, ma'am, but I still don't know what we're researching here." Sylvia giggled slightly. Dr. Charist smiled, "My apologies, Dr. de Viaminima. There are actually a number of things we're looking into, here. Take a look at the main monitor outside." "I see... an orb." "Not just any ordinary orb," Charist said, "That orb is a creation by an ancient race called the Dht'n'k'lz... sorry." "S'alright," Josephus said, wiping the saliva off his arm, "So ancient artifact. Technoalchemy is involved... how?" "Some of these objects have inscriptions on them," Sylvia offered, "They speak of many other objects, each of great increasing power. You see, the Dht'n'k'lz were greatly intrigued by a concept roughly translated as 'Road of the Champion'. What little information we can glean from the objects in our possession and our ancient texts suggest that there was a type of... alchemy, you might say, in Dht'n'k'lz theory." "Doctor," Charist sighed at this point. He seemed almost unwilling to continue, "You remember the Totolli Missile Crisis?" Josephus noticed Dr. Sylvia seemed to frown slightly at the mention of the event. "Yeah, that was... nearly eleven years ago, wasn't it? Gamezoha is in the middle of a war with the Chamaleens and your Emperor still finds time to challenge the galaxy of Dewnhëem for possession of Totolli Two, which causes Prinzip Okmahr to blow the planet to smithereens... kinda like, 'If I can't have it, ain't nobody gonna have it!' Sound about right?" "Only half way," Sylvia quipped. "Ah, conspiracy," Dr. de Viaminima sighed, "Enlighten me." Dr. Charist nodded, "Okmahr didn't destroy Totolli Two because of our own missiles." "He did not destroy it on his own, either," Sylvia suddenly added, "He was doped into issuing the order--" "Now, now, Dr. Sylvia, that is mere conjecture, let's keep to fact alone. Dr. de Viaminima," Charist leaned forward and lowered his voice, "Have you heard of The ROCKET?" Josephus cocked his head, "Dewnhëem destroyed Totolli Two because of a rocket?" "Not A rocket, doctor. THE ROCKET, capital R-O-C-K-E-T." "Wait a minute, does THIS have anything to do with the K-Bomb project?" Sylvia shook her head, "No--the K-Bomb is not directly involved. The ROCKET is a rumor. Shadow in the dark, if you will. In fact, ROCKET was whispered in part to spook Okmahr into destroying Totolli Two, for fear our empire would use the device against Dewnhëem. At least, that is the popular theory. I still think drugs were involved." "Typical neurochemist," Dr. Charist said, "In any case, while missile crisis ROCKET was a fake, it turns out there really such a WMD, no Bushshit." "Let me guess," Josephus smiled, "A weapon of the Dht'n'k'lz?" "We think that is what that orb tells us," Charist nodded, "The orb itself is also a weapon, as one of our colleagues 'accidentally' discovered six months ago. He's into his fourth reconstructive surgery, but he'll pull through just fine. Our goal now is to use the few MPOITU we now have in our possession to find out if the ROCKET really exists... and how to keep it from falling into the wrong hands." Dr. de Viaminima sighed and looked out onto the Center Seventeen's Mecca, "So... where do we start?" He couldn't help but keep asking himself, which hands were the wrong hands? ---------- cycle.3.a riddle After dealing with the standard paperwork, Sylvia walked Dr. de Viaminima down to the Mecca. They walked the aisles, past odd machines and lab work benches, to a separate office on the far side of the large room, "You are not exactly cut off from the rest of the floor, here," Sylvia said, pointing out the wall of windows that looked out onto the Mecca, "But it IS a lab on its own, and the noise from outside is greatly diminished." "Nice," the Josephus said, looking around the lab, "All this is... mine?" "Well, not exactly, sir. I will be working in here as well--that side of the laboratory has my equipment; this side is yours." "I can't complain," Josephus said, looking the lab over. Incredible--state-of-the-art technology--the finest in scientific equipment. This was insane. "So, technomancer: how do you interface?" Josephus blinked, then quickly recovered and held up his hand, showing his wrist. He pulled a flap of skin away, exposing a series of small wires, "This is where the magic happens, if you could call it that. It looks really weird, I know, but it stays hidden easily enough." He let the flap of skin go, and it covered the ends of the wires, making it nearly indistinguishable, "You'd have to really look for it to know I was, urm, freakish." "Some people do not take well to your bioware?" Sylvia offered. "Grosses them out," Josephus smiled, "Especially when I make the wires move on their own... they start to think I'm some sort of android. Idiots can't tell the difference, but at least I've garnered respect from the scientific community. That's gotta account for something, right?" Sylvia smiled, "A Heydon Award Prize at such a young age is a grand accomplishment, doctor." "Don't I know it? I was twenty-one, then. TWENTY-ONE! GOD, where have the years gone?" "You are thirty-seven now, am I correct?" "Thirty-six, actually. I know, it doesn't seem like much, but I FEEL old. Or at least experienced. But who am I kidding--you're sitting pretty with a PhD in Neurochemistry and you have to be, what, at least twenty-one, right?" Sylvia laughed lightly. It had an almost crystal-like sound to it, "I must warn you, I am susceptible to flattery, but I assure you, doctor, I am much older than that." "Older than me? You must be joking." "I rarely joke." "Well, I wouldn't ask and I'm not guessing, so your age will just have to remain a mystery," Dr. de Viaminima said, smiling, "Anyways, how did you get roped into this project?" "I have long been working with the Gamezohan R&D. My father was Dr. Franz Darian-Marik--the greatest pharmacologist of Gamezoha and former senior physician to the Emperor. He... passed away not too long ago. Anyways, most of my work was done at my alma mater, Kubrik University, but my connections to the empire were great enough that when they needed a neurochemist for a research project, I was always their first pick." Josephus smiled, "Just another day in the office, then?" "Yes," she said, "... and no. I do not mean to cause you any alarm but there is something very weird going on here, doctor." "More conspiracy theories?" "No, I am almost certain this is no theory. The channels for this project--the people in charge, it is all very peculiar. Access to some resources are actually restricted, and a lot of the reports are classified. In fact, this is the first project where we have not been allowed to leave the compound. I have not been home in months--not without proper clearance, anyways. There is a great deal of silence involved--I do not think even the Emperor himself knows about this." "How could a ruler not know what is going on in his own empire?" Sylvia smiled, "When he is deceived by those whom he feels cannot deceive him." Dr. de Viaminima pondered the riddle, "Who does Emperor Wilhelm think cannot double-cross him without his knowledge?" ---------- "Counselor Moebius. A pleasure to have you visit us." Moebius smiled, "The pleasure is mine, Dr. Charist." The Grand Counselor to the Emperor was wearing an outfit that looked militaristic in nature, but bordered on regal. He had such a mysterious attitude--someone with as much power in the empire would often act aloof and uninterested, but Moebius behaved with an interest that appeared focused to a point. He demonstrated this now as he focused his attention on Dr. Charist, "How are we coming along?" "Apologies, counselor, progress is slow. Our translators are working around the clock--" "Any new information on our last lead?" "Not yet, sir," the scientist explained, "Some reports have suggested what we seek may be on Erendauer, in Wendauer, but we have little evidence to support this. I'm still personally confident that the object is on Thaynan, but again, we cannot be certain until our military quells the war so a proper search can be initiated--and that is out of my hands." "Not to worry, doctor, our R&D experts are nearly finished with the K-Bomb project. How is morale?" "Compensation from the Empire is enough to keep most of the specialists onboard. There is some question as to the intents of the project, I must admit that the nature of most of the MPOITU makes most of our researchers nervous. The prospect of a weapon millions of times more powerful is just so intimidating." "That's why we must find it before someone else can use it with ill intentions," Moebius lied, "If the Pyramid IS on Thaynan, what would stop them from using it against the Empire?" "Only the fact that they don't have all the elements. We're counting five, now, but we think there may be more--not just the Trinty--but individuals ordained by fate to operate the machine. They'll use it to bring forth great destruction on a universal level. 'An Elder God Barely Alive', was the inscription on item Nine Six Seven." Moebius frowned, "Bushthulu." Dr. Charist nodded, "I don't doubt the Emperor's judgment in capturing the Pyramid to assure the ROCKET is never realized, but I worry time is running out." "It is a grave concern, Dr. Charist, but I wouldn't worry too deeply. I foresee victory on the horizon for the Gamezohan military--and once our findings are made public, you will receive a great reward for your contributions as project director." "It is an honor, counselor." Moebius smiled, "One other detail, if I may: has the technoalchemist arrived yet?" "Dr. Josephus de Viaminima. Yessir, he has been down on the Mecca with Dr. Sylvia. Would you like to meet him?" "Indeed," Moebius said, "Would you mind summoning him into the conference room. I have a few questions I'd like to ask him. Alone." ---------- cycle.4.interrogation "Counselor Moebius, it's a great honor to meet you in person." "Likewise, doctor," Moebius said, shaking Dr. Josephus' hand in a very proper manner. He then indicated the chair, "Please, sit. I'm sorry to drag you away from your studies, doctor. I understand you've only recently arrived, but I do have a few questions... and it is not everyday you get to meet a Heydon Award Prize winner." "So I've heard," Josephus smiled. So did Moebius. "I won't bore you with these trivial questions," the counselor said, pushing a stack of papers to the side, "Rather, I'd like to know a little about your field." "Technoalchemy isn't really a field in and of itself--it's more a combination of alchemy and technomancer skills--" "I understand that clearly enough, doctor," Moebius nodded, waving his hand, "I was referring to the realm of alchemy alone." "Oh, right," the scientist smiled, "Sorry. A lot of people tend to get those mixed up--anyways, you know the origin of alchemy as a quest for purity and excellence. An achievement of perfection and cleansing of that which is imperfect." "Of course." "Same principle. MY own research involves identifying what is good or evil and discerning how to divide that. We filter chemicals now, to reach their separate base elements, but the human body can hardly withstand such a process. My goal is to understand the why and the how--" "My apologies, doctor, I don't mean to interrupt but I have a quick question." "No, problem, counselor. I'm deferring to you, here--you're in charge." "Indeed," Moebius smiled slyly, "Tell me, how much progress have you made in this research on a personal level?" "I'm sorry?" Josephus asked. "Come now--popular history tells us the alchemist is a figure who seeks the secret for his own benefit." The technoalchemist was quiet for a moment before responding, "What is popular is not always right, counselor." "Too true, too true." "But if you mean what I think you mean, no, I haven't made much progress on a humanistic study. I'm stumped on a few regards, so I'm sticking to theory research at this point." "I see," Moebius said very slowly, "Tell me, have you ever heard of... a... Vincit Omnibus?" Silence. Josephus smiled, "Who?" Moebius waved his hand and smiled, "Nothing, nevermind. What about... Jonathan Krigsley?" "Who are these people?" "Wernher Gauss?" "Wh--oh, that's the prince. What about him?" Moebius continued, "Do you know a Joel Diablo?" "With all due respect, counselor, what do all these people have to do with the project?" "Absolutely nothing," Moebius said, putting on a pair of Ghoule shades. He held up a silver pen with a red light on it, "Have you seen one of these?" There was a flash of light and Josephus sat, unmoving, a look of confusion on his face. "Handy little gadget," Moebius said, putting the device and his glasses away, "Forget all that stuff, doctor, it was of no importance. Where were we?" Josephus blinked, "Uh, alchemic theory, I think it was?" "Right, right," Moebius smiled, "Continue..." ---------- cycle.5.lunch break Dr. de Viaminima wandered into the cafe about an hour later, having concluded his meeting with the Moebius. Sylvia waved him over to where she was sitting. "So, what is it like to be interviewed by the honorable counselor?" Josephus was quiet for a moment as he sat down at the table. Then he looked at Sylvia with a confused look on his face, "Weird. The guy seems nice enough, but there's just something spooky about him. I... I feel funny." "Mmm... probably hungry," she said, eating a spoonful of greenish porridge. "Is that any good?" Sylvia smiled and shook her head, "You would not like it." "I like a lot of things--you'd be surprised." Sylvia smirked and pushed the small bowl towards Josephus. He took a small bite, "What's in it?" "It is a vitamin supplement, really... iron, zinc, kelp, phosphate." Dr. de Viaminima had a gross look on his face, "This... this is..." "Plant food, yes." "... you're a..." "Dryad," Sylvia finished, "Part-Dryad, actually." "... how--" "You know who my father was? Dr. Franz Darian-Marik--I told you about him. My mother is a different story. Dad said she was the most beautiful creature he had ever laid eyes on. I still to this day do not understand how they conceived me. I lived in the forest the first few years of my life, but my human traits were what kept me from permanently joining my kind in the Silberwald. It is the only forest where White-Oaks thrive--I should like to show it to you some day." Josephus was stumped. He had heard of dryads before, read about them in mythology, but never once thought he would meet one in his lifetime, "Sylvia isn't your real name, is it?" "Clever name, is it not? Father gave it to me when I came to the city. Mother christened me differently, but I cannot repeat it here in this mass of steel and concrete. Besides, it is too complex for you to pronounce, but roughly translated it means 'She Who Runs Naked Amongst The Trees'." Josephus grinned, "And here I thought MY name was embarrassing." "Excuse me, Dr. de Viaminima?" Josephus turned around and looked up at the GSMC standing next to him, "Do you remember me sir?" "Oh yeah, Grant Strong, is there something... wrong?" "No sir. Merely requesting permission to join you and the lady at the table for lunch." Josephus smiled and pulled back a chair, "Have a seat, boss. Grant, this is Dr. Sylvia Darian-Marik. Doc, this is Grant Strong, First Class Private." "Private. First Class," Grant corrected, "Nice to meet you, doctor." Sylvia smiled and shook his hand. "What’s going on?" Josephus asked, "You ran off pretty quick earlier--not that I blame you.” The soldier grinned, “The Colonel is still looking for me. Nobody makes a fool of Arshaund--not if he can help it. I’m just prolonging the inevitable. He’ll track me down eventually--” “HOLD IT RIGHT THERE, SOLDIER!” Private Grant swore under his breath. He was immediately on his feet and at attention, “SIR, YESSIR?!” Colonel Reztclift was red in the face--some of his draconic traits were showing. To say he looked intimidating was an understatement--he was downright scary. “Your insubordination is intolerable, Private! When I get through with you, you’ll be scrubbing toilets in the…” Reztclift trailed off when Dr. de Viaminima turned around in his seat and looked at the Senior Colonel. It only seemed to phase him for a brief second, “When you are given an order, you are expected to follow through to the letter! Disregarding your superior officer is grounds for punishment--” “Excuse me, Colonel,” Josephus interrupted, putting emphasis on the CO’s title, “What order, pray tell, did Private Strong disregard when he escorted me to my necessary destination?” The doctor thought he had given Reztclift an aneurysm. His face got redder, but to his credit, he didn’t shift into battleshape. Grant wanted badly to tell the scientist to stop helping, but Josephus continued, “The Private was only doing his civil duty--gave me aid when I needed it--I would like to think that’s a reflection of the fine training the Gamezohan military has bestowed upon its soldiers.” The Colonel’s face was now pale, “GSMC policy is of no concern to civilians.” “But I’m no ordinary civilian--nor am I some low-level tech assistant. I’m a research specialist, ‘hand-picked out of dozens of qualified researchers in the universe to be part of a project of a massive scale.’ I’d have to say with that kind of importance, I’d have some say regarding ‘policy’.” “Now, listen here, human--” “Wait, hear me out--I spared you an embarrassment earlier today--whether you think you do or not, you owe me, and I’m cashing in right now. This soldier has NOTHING wrong, and therefore, no punishment should be delivered now or later down the road. Are we clear, or do I need to have a word with Dr. Charist about the rude behavior of the ‘Senior Colonel’?” There was silence for a moment as the Colonel struggled with reason and pride. He fixed Grant with a cold, hard stare before turning on his heel with a ‘HRUMPH!’ and marching out of the café. The soldier nearly collapsed into his seat, “Damn, doc, don’t ever do that again.” Sylvia was smiling now. Josephus shrugged, “Yeah, you’re welcome, soldier.” “Thanks.” “I never did like bullies. I was picked on growing up… if I knew then what I know now, it might’ve been different. Anyways…” “It WAS a noble gesture, indeed," Sylvia nodded, "I would not make a habit, however.” "Grant, what division of the GSMC do you serve in?" "Melee." "Wait, wait, wait--you mean to tell me that you fight with melee weaponry? No guns, no ranged weapons--just swords?" "Well, some of the troops use knives, staves, dual blades--or even vorpal blades--but, yeah, swords, that pretty much sums it up." "Rather dangerous, innit?" Josephus asked, looking apprehensive. "Just about any military position has its own danger, mister scientist, but not just anyone can be part of the GSMC Melee Unit." Josephus smiled, remember the dragon's ability to shift into battleshape to speed up their healing process, "Of course." The three talked for a while, discussing the project and what not. Eventually, Strong asked an odd question, "Doctor, have you ever sparred before?" Josephus shook his head, "I'm not the fighting type, Grant, I'm not what you'd call military material." "Well, sparring isn't just for military folks," Grant crossed his arms, "It's part of a workout--great way to lose weight and keep in shape." "Uh-huh." "And it's rather like a calming process--almost like meditation." "Uh-huh." "Think you'd like to give it a try?" "Mmmm... I dunno..." "It's something to think about--you could just come in and take a look, if you'd like--we've got some training going on in a few hours--think of it as a thank you for your help." Josephus pondered the suggestion. He was never one to get involved in such extensive active past times, but it might be a nice idea--like they say, it never hurts to try something new once in a while. But Sylvia answered for him, "Some other time, Private Strong. The good doctor has to get some matters in order before he can go play with friends." "Wow--she don't mess around, does she? Well, the offer's on the table. If you're interested, let me know." "No prob," Dr. de Viaminima said, "I'll track you down in a week if I'm feeling up to it." ---------- cycle.6.fight club "You do not have to do this, you know," Sylvia said as she and Dr. de Viaminima headed to the workout facility, "It would not hurt Grant's feelings." It had been about a month since they had talked with the soldier the first time, and Strong was apt to remind the doctor frequently of his offer. Sylvia had no idea--Josephus was getting the distinct impression that Private Strong would constantly remind him until he at least went to see the soldier perform. He never once thought he might get roped into a match. Entering the facility, a group of soldiers were already gathered on the far side of the room. Grant waved to the two researchers as they entered and waved them over. When they approached, one of the soldiers spoke up, "Hey, check it out: the scientist wants in on the action." Josephus smiled and shook his head, "Naw, I don't have that kind skill." "C'mon, genius," the soldier twirled the bushido stick in his hand, "Show me what you've got." Grant finally stepped in, "Take it easy, Nick, this cat's with me. C'mere, boss, let me show you a few basics." Josephus, Grant and Sylvia walked away from the group of sparring soldiers. Sylvia walked over to the near wall and leaned against it to watch. Grant tossed a bushido stick to Josephus, who barely caught it, "Hit this stance, right here, foot flat," Private Strong demonstrated, "Like that, that's the basic starting point. Now, come at me in a way that feels most natural to you." Josephus hesitated for a second, then stepped towards Grant and brought his arm back to attack the soldiers midsection. He had barely moved when he found the end of Grants bushido stick pointed squarely in his chest. "You're dead, boss. You left yourself open. I know it's just a stick, but you don't wanna swing it like a cricket bat right from the start. Your sword is your weapon, but it is also your defense. Try and keep it more in front of you when you come forward--go ahead... yeah, like that, now parry--you're coming at me from below, bring it to the top... I know, you feel like you're getting nowhere with me blocking everything but the idea is to tire your opponent out or confuse them to the point you can get in a clean hit--good, good--but at the same time, your opponent is looking for a chance to switch to the offensive," Grant tapped the stick down onto Josephus' arm, on the inside elbow, "See? That's when you need to get on the defensive. Excellent." The doctor smiled. He had never done this before, and he had to admit, the practice was slow and he was making rookie mistakes, but the movement, the feeling, it felt so... right. It was almost calming. He could feel something in his heart--an emotion he couldn't identify. Each time Grant pointed out a mistake, Josephus took note of it, and rarely made it again. They started to speed up. "Alright, another thrust--nicely done! Dodged my attack again--you're a fast learner, doc! Comes from being a genius, eh?" "Perhaps," Josephus said, parrying an attack. They were speeding up, "I can't believe I'm doing this! It's like--whoops, spoke too soon." "Let your guard down," Strong said, "No worries. Try to trip me up." "With the sword?" "No, your foot. Get my attention up here, then try to do a sweep, like this--" the dragon crossed sticks with the doctor, then his foot shot out and de Viaminima took a fall on his back, "You put your opponent on the ground and their vulnerability rises significantly," Grant said, helping him up, "Again." The two continued practicing back and forth. Grant would should Josephus a move and have him follow through, then they would add it to the mix of moves, and slowly speed up their pace. When he felt confident, Grant would give him another move to learn. "This is unnatural, you realize this, chief?" Grant said, deflecting another attack, "Normal people don't pick up on this shtick so quickly--especially an Earthling--whoa!" Before he could do anything, Grant's back was on the ground, and Josephus had the end of the pole touching the center of the soldier's chest. Grant smiled, "Not bad, doctor." "LOOK OUT!" Josephus started to turn towards Sylvia, but came face to face with a bushido stick. The sparring tool slammed into his head, shattering in the process, and the doctor hit the ground, hard. "HA HA! Whoa! Busted the stick on that one--" "YOU BASTARD!" Sylvia yelled, running to Josephus. Grant was already checking Dr. de Viaminima, "Damn, Nicolae! What the hell did you do that for?!" "Chill out, Strong, I was helping you out--" "Are you frickin' nuts?! This was practice! He's not even HALF draco--he's a humanoid! You could've killed him--he might have brain damage! Do you even know who he is?! THE ONLY technoalchemist on the project--if his ass is tore up, Reztclift is gonna get chewed--and if the Colonel gets it, you KNOW he's gonna tear us apart!" "Cripes, Grant, it's not that big a deal. Look, he's still alive... damn scientists shouldn't be sparring in the first place. You're such a puss, bringing a weakling like him to spar with--" Grant was upon Nicolae in a second, already shifted to battle form. A massive clawed hand was wrapped around the soldier's neck. The dragon let out a low growl, "Word of advice, bub: shut your screaming howler," he squeezed Nick's neck, "Before I shut it for you." Grant removed his hand, bruise marks already forming below Nicolae's jaw. The dragon shrugged it off and clambered up, paused for a moment then left, walking through the other soldiers that had gathered around the commotion. Strong was upset that his integrity had been challenged, but he was even more upset that his guest had been injured. He shifted back to a more human form before kneeling next to Sylvia, "Is he okay?" "Does he look okay?" Sylvia asked. Josephus had a large gash on his forehead above his right eye. Blood was trickling down the side of his face and his breathing seemed labored. "Shit," Grant muttered, looking up at the group of soldiers, "We need a medic in here ASAP--" "Wait, he's moving!" Josephus groaned and pushed himself up into a sitting position, then touched his hand to his forehead gently and pulled it back. He acted as if he couldn't focus on his own hand and it looked like he might pass out again. "Are you alright, doctor?" Grant asked, holding his hands out to catch the scientist in case he passed out again. There wasn't an answer. "Josephus?" Sylvia was deeply concerned. She saw the attack coming before it happened--saw the soldier start to pick up speed running towards the two, but she didn't react fast enough. And neither did the doctor. He was trying to stand up now, refusing help from either of them, or any of the soldiers. "Doctor, let us help you--" Josephus mumbled and pushed them away with his left hand, his right hand holding his forehead. They watched as he shuffled towards the exit and left the facility. "I should follow him," Grant started to leave. "No," Sylvia said, "He is disoriented and probably does not realize what happened. I will go and make sure he gets medical attention. You get this place cleaned up... do not worry," she added, seeing the look on Private Strong's face, "Everything will be alright--it was not your fault. Okay?" He nodded and she jogged off after Dr. de Viaminima. ---------- "I wish you hadn't had made me go to the Sickbay," Josephus grumbled, lying on the couch in the common area of his quarters. "But of course, how silly of me," Sylvia quipped, "We should have just let you wander aimlessly around spewing blood from your head--your health would have improved MUCH quicker that way. Here, take this." "What about the stuff the physician gave me?" "Stupid military placebo," Sylvia said, "This is a creation of my own--kills the pain, encourages the healing process and tastes of whatever you want it to taste of." Josephus hesitated before popping the pills, "Guava... how sweet." "They will also calm your nerves and help you fly high as a kite," she said, smiling. The doctor closed his eyes in disappointment, "Dang woman is doping me up. You trying to take advantage of me or something?" Sylvia chuckled. There was a buzz. "No entry," Sylvia spoke to the computer. "Come on in!" Josephus yelled, making both of them laugh. The door opened and Private Strong stepped inside. "Doctor: are you feeling any better?" "If he is not now, he will be soon," Sylvia said, walking over to the minibar. "What's going on, Grant?" Josephus asked, smiling where he lay on the couch. "Um, is he coherent?" "Course I'm coherent, bro... just feeling a little happy, that's all... dannnnnng, Syl, this stuff works FAST!" "Well, listen, Josephus. I'm sorry about what happened--" "Alright, now just chill--Doc Sylvia, get Private Strong some of your special medicine--he needs to chill--it's alright, boss, everything's alright. Sylvia told me about it, it wasn't your fault, Grant." "--that Nicolae... thinks he's such a hot shot in the corpse--" "I could've taken him, if I'd known he was coming..." "Are you sure he's alright Sylvia?" "Hello?!" Josephus said, waving his arms in the air, "I'm right here, you know, you can ask me yourself and I'll tell ya all about it... MAN, I feel good! What are you doing, Syl?" Sylvia walked over and handed a glass to Grant, "I am going to stay with him for the night. You are welcome to join us." The soldier smiled, "Thanks. I'll just hang out for a little while. Hey, boss, how much do you remember of the fight we had?" "How much?" Josephus appeared to be looking through Grant, "I was there for the whole thing! I remember it all. You were there... and YOU," he said, pointing at Sylvia, "You were there, too. And I was there... and we went at it and I was all like, 'HiiiiYA!' and you were all, like, 'Whoa, bro, step back, yo.' and you got a couple of good licks in, yeah, yeah, but then I came down on it like this--BAM! ... tha--that about right?" Grant and Sylvia were laughing, "Yeah, bro! That's right on! Seriously, though, you had some skill there, and it was starting to show at the end. Sure you've never been involved in swordplay before?" Josephus shook his head. "Whatever, either you've practiced before, growing up or something, or it's a natural gift and you've only just unlocked it. I'd like to train with ya some more, once you're feeling better--" "Absolutely not," Sylvia said sternly. "Why not?!" "Yeah!" Josephus slurred, "Why not?" "I do not want you to get hurt again," Sylvia said, touching Josephus' face, "You are too valuable... to the project." "Wellll... if it makes you feel better... I'll..." Dr. de Viaminima was sound asleep. "I need to head back to my barracks. Talk to you later, Sylvia." "Good night," she said to Grant as he left. She turned back to Josephus as he lay on the couch asleep, still in his clothes. She smiled and kissed him lightly on the forehead, then finished cleaning up. ---------- cycle.7.ten months later "HAI!" "Nice one, Strong," Josephus said, rubbing his ribs, "... owwww..." Grant was laughing, "You don't stop letting your guard down, you're gonna be in for a world of pain." The two were standing in the middle of a darkened hanger on the twelfth level. They had resigned their practices there to avoid troublemakers like Nicolae. That, and Sylvia still disproved of Dr. de Viaminima taking part in swordplay lessons. She didn't disapprove of Grant--in fact, the three spent most of their free time together, but she constantly warned him from roping Josephus back into sparring. Needless to say, both researcher and soldier disregarded her warnings and were apt to find time during the week to practice. "So," Grant said, taking the advanced stance, "When's the wedding?" "Stop trying to distract me," Josephus parried a blow, "There's no plans yet--we'll let you know." "How long have you and Sylvia been engaged? Three months?" "Three?! Just a month. We're engaged, sure, but the wedding is the last thing on our minds, right now: the project is just taking up too much time," Josephus dodged another attack and pulled one of his own, which Grant deflected, "That's why I'm not going to renew my contract when it expires. I just wanna focus on my own work--I've only recently had a major breakthrough--and that was while I was doing work on Tetrahedral Righteousness." "Have you told Syl?" "Not yet. Been too busy--OW, son-of-a--" "You know what your problem is? You're too involved--that's why you keep leaving openings in your defense. Let's call it a day." "Yeah, guess you're right. I need to run by my quarters before I head back to the lab. We'll see you tonight, boss. Good fight." Private Strong nodded and grasped the doctor's wrist with his hand, "Good fight. Honor to the Emperor." ---------- "Where have you been?" Sylvia said, walking into the small lab from the busy Mecca outside, "I just left not for but a few minutes and when I come back, you suddenly appear." "Nice to see you, too, sweetheart," Josephus said, typing on a wristpad. He paused briefly to give Sylvia a kiss. "What is that you are working on?" "Eh, it's Hilton's drive," the technomancer said, "He crashed it trying to run a nine-oh on a five-five. I keep telling him he needs to upgrade for that kind of program, but he insists it's doable. I'm fixing it for him... again." The wires in Josephus wrist connected and disconnected--he pulled out a third wire to plug it into a diagnostic system, "But enough about me, what about you?" "Talking with Dr. Charist," she said, "They are readying the new arrival." "What new arrival? Who?" Sylvia smiled, "You are silly--the new MPOITU! It is so exciting!" "Oh really? Counselor procure another artifact, then?" "It is the most advanced one yet!" Sylvia said, finding it hard to hide her excitement. "Great," Josephus said, "That means it'll be even more dangerous in the labs." Sylvia started to protest, but stopped short when she noticed something gleaming on the table near Josephus, "Wait a minute... is this... ?" Josephus nodded, not looking up from the wristpad. Sylvia smiled and carefully picked up the plastic case, "You did it. This is it--this is VeeEm." Josephus shushed Sylvia but nodded. "Quick! Take it to Dr. Charist! He will want to see it--" "Calm down, calm down," Josephus said, turning to his fiancée, "It's not a hundred percent complete, I've got some minor details to fix on it--I was gonna do that now, but I had to help Hilton out. All that aside, there's something else I've been meaning to talk to you about--" Josephus was interrupted by a researcher poking his head into the lab, "C'mon, it's open--hanger five is open. We can go see it now!" "Oh, hey, Hilton, I was just gonna call for ya--almost got your drive fixed." "Later, later. This is more important! Another MPOITU!" Josephus gaped, "But... the computer! I fix-y, see?" "Come on!" Sylvia said, grabbing Josephus by the arm, "That can wait! Let us go!" "Watch it! I'm still hooked up! Go on, I'll catch up! Let me disconnect and put my work away." "We'll meet you there," Hilton said as he and Sylvia left the lab, walking quickly with a small group of scientists who were leaving the Mecca for hanger five. Josephus shook his head and finished fixing Hilton's drive. He disconnected his wires and started to leave but paused. Something in the back of his mind felt funny... he turned to the table where the silicon wafer sat in its plastic case. Nobody knew what it was, save for himself and Sylvia, but something told him to put the case into lockup, "There's something about you, VeeEm..." ---------- Hanger five was a huge warehouse area underground, along with the rest of the military facility. It was about twice the size of the Mecca. The hanger was abuzz now with soldiers, researchers, and high clearance teams. In the middle of the room stood a large obelisk with symbols covering it. The crews had built an extensive scaffolding around the object to allow the scientists closer examination. Some of the researchers were on there now, looking the tower of stone over. Others were in groups on the floor, taking notes and jabbering away. It was like a Christmas party, and the MPOITU was the tree, present, and decorations all rolled into one. Even Dr. de Viaminima had to gasp at the grandiose spectacle of it all. Up until now, the largest Dht'n'k'lz object had been roughly two feet in height--but this--this was over two stories! All of which weighed heavy on Josephus' concerns. If the orb sent a scientist into painful face reconstruction and the two foot bomb had to be studied with fireproof equipment, what could a two story hunk-of-whatever do? Dr. Charist was on the catwalk where Josephus entered. He was also enamored by the scene that lay before him. Dr. de Viaminima walked up. "Incredible, isn't it?" Charist muttered. "Sir, I'm concerned about how safe this is." "What? Rest assured, Dr. de Viaminima, we've taken every precaution. That scaffolding is sturdy and nobody without clearance--" "No, doctor, I mean the weapon. This thing is like a ticking time bomb--we don't even know what it does and already people are up there touching it, beating on it, talking around it--a syllable could activate this thing--we don't even know the trigger! Temperature, air pressure--" "You're making too big a deal out of this, doctor. There's nothing to suggest that this object is as dangerous as our previous items. There's a wealth of information engraved on this obelisk alone--more than what we've uncovered on all the previous weapons." "Yeah, I can see that--know what else I can see? Reading our Dht'n'k'lz language texts for the past seven months, that word on the top right," Josephus said, pointing, "That says 'warning'. Listen, posit this, you give somebody a pulse rifle and don't tell them anything about it--assume they've never seen it, don't know what it does and have had no previous experience with similar items. There's a chance they might figure out how to work it safely, but there's also a chance they might blow their head off in the process." "Tell that to your beloved, doctor," Charist said, pointing in the area where the word 'warning' had been inscribed on the MPOITU. Josephus looked to see Sylvia, high on the scaffold, waving excitedly to the two of them. "No!" Josephus yelled, "NO! You get down from there right now! Get down... DOWN!" Josephus pointed down repeatedly, shaking his head, "It's too dangerous--doc, you need to get the research team under control, here!" "Alright, alright," Charist said, "Perhaps we are getting a little out of hand, but it's just too exciting! Alright, PEOPLE! People, we have some matters to attend to regarding the new arrival, if you would all just... what's that sound?" A deep hum was coming from the obelisk and it was starting to grow. Already some of the researchers and workers were moving away from the massive object. Something was going on... and it could be something very bad. "Evac, evac! We have immediate evac, people! Exit the hanger now!" "SYLVIA!" Josephus yelled, "GET OFF THAT THING! I've got to get her--" "NO!" Dr. Charist grabbed Josephus, "This is an evac order, get out of here." "Not without her," the technoalchemist said, looking back at his fiancée who was climbing down as quickly as she could. The noise was growing louder and the obelisk seemed to be vibrating now. It was making the scaffolding shake. Sylvia lost her grip and was suddenly hanging by one hand. The shaking appeared to intensify and the stone was starting to glow slightly. "Oh God!" Josephus exclaimed. There was nothing he could do--the stairs were too far away--he was too high up--he would never make it to her if he tried. He was powerless. Sylvia fell. In that moment, Josephus had a strong desire to leap from the catwalk and fly out to her. He would swoop in, glorious wings extended, and he would catch her in his arms and soar out of the hanger. He wanted to fly. But he couldn't, because, silly scientist, you are but a mere humanoid--you aren't some kind of dragon or angel... you are flawed... she was passing him now, falling in slow motion. Maybe if he willed it enough, he could stop time--probably reverse it. Instead, it sped up. Then the room was filled with light that pushed the doctor away from the edge of the catwalk. He held his arm up to the brightness and saw a single eye that shone brilliantly. "TIME IS AT HAND. HE WILLS IT FORTH. AN ELDER GOD BARELY ALIVE. HE INTENDS TO USE IT FOR HIS PURPOSE. YOU MUST CHANGE THAT. YOU WILL CHANGE THAT." The eye blinked. "OR YOU WILL CHANGE THAT." It continued to stare at Dr. de Viaminima. "ONE OF YOU WILL BRING CHANGE. SEEK THE KING OR WE SHALL ALL PERISH. YOU SHALL SEE. YOU SHALL SEE AND FEAR!" Josephus fell to his knees and wept. Then passed out. ---------- cycle.8.traitor to the crown "Hello, Grant." "Oh, hi Nick." "Haven't seen you at practice too often. What's the matter? Got something else going on?" "Assignments from the Major," Private Strong lied, "Keeps me from making the usual time. I get my practicing in well enough, thanks." "I'd like to have a match with ya sometime, make sure you're not getting rusty," Nicolae smirked. "Right, right," Grant nodded, half-smiling, "Wouldn't want to fall out of practice." Nicolae was still smiling as he walked off and down the corridor. Even after all these months, Grant was still upset about what Nick did to the doctor--and Nick wasn't too happy about having been threatened by Grant, but hostilities never did grow between the two. That's not to say they weren't there--there was a lot of underlying tension. Maybe a fight with Nick would do the trick, Grant was thinking. Something like that would put the smug jerk in his place--hey, wait a minute, did he just take a left? Sure enough, the soldier had walked to the end of the hall and took a left. Grant knew the installation pretty well and there were only two things in that direction: the heavy weaponry auto pool and a restricted area, and Nick didn't know Jack about GSMC vehicles. He wouldn't be sneaking into the off-limits area, would he? Couldn't be... Grant followed him. ---------- The restricted area in question was a series of warehouses on the sixteenth floor. Even this far down in the installation, being involved in so many Gamezohan black projects, this was something even the Chief Captain had confessed he had no knowledge about. The room Grant now found himself in was darkened. There was a background noise of computers and machines running and working. He started to sneak behind a series of shelves. He thought he heard voices up ahead and he paused and crouched down. He saw a pair of legs walk past him on the other side of the shelf and he peered between two boxes. "... running smoothly," a gruff voice finished saying. "Very good," a second voice spoke. This one sounded very familiar, "Axis development is ongoing, as you can see. The neuroscientists have given me positive results thus far. Syrus' contribution has also brought in benefits, as you well know. What of Project Adamus?" Adamus. Adamus... Grant had heard THAT name before... who was it... ? "It is behind schedule, sir. Antonia has left us with a great mess to clean up. It will be easy to persuade the brother, however." "Of course," the second voice spoke again, "I knew so for I have seen it happen. Me, myself and I--we all witnessed it. The time is at hand, Orcus--" Orcus? I don't recognize that one, who's Orcus? "--must speak with the scientist again. Our spies say it is done and yet I do not have it in my hands. Fate is toying with me," the man took harsh steps across the floor, "I do not like to be toyed with." "Of course not, Counselor." Counselor?! It couldn't be! Grant peeked again through the boxes... and his jeweled-eyes widened at what he saw. There were two men standing together. One was dressed in a no-nonsense business suit--obviously Orcus--but the other was none other than Grand Counselor Moebius! They stood in an eerie green light that came from a massive tube--and inside the tube, Private Strong recognized the once great Gamezohan war hero Admiral Lysander Whutty von Sphexoren! What the hell?! "Of course, Scipio is contributing to the cause as we speak so all is in order, for now. I will speak with Dr. Charist again soon, I want to ask him--what was that?" "You want to ask him what was what, Zoroaster?" "No, listen... someone has overheard us," Moebius snapped his fingers and nodded, "He will be dealt with quickly. ---------- Grant had made tracks for his quarters almost immediately, blazing down the corridors and taking the stairs two, three at a time. He half expected to see somebody in his quarters when he got there, but the place was empty and dark. He had to warn somebody... Josephus, for sure, but he there was no way to know where he was now, and he couldn't send an email from here--the computers were monitored, anyways. He shut the drive down then, double-checked to make sure everything looked normal enough. He started to head out the door, but he stopped by the corner of his room and grabbed his sword. He needed to get out of the base and find a place to lie low. Then he could send word to Dr. de Viaminima and the Major. He opened the door and came face-to-face with Nicolae. Grant staggered, "Nick." "What's the rush, Private?" Nicolae said, smirking, "See something... disturbing?" Nick knew. He knew cause he was in on it. And now, he was here to fix things--to silence a potential leak. Nicolae would have Grant's head... but he wouldn't take it without a fight. Strong drew his sword, making Nick step back, "You move or I kill you," the soldier said. "Right," Nicolae said, grinning, "I've a better idea: how about, 'YOU move AND I kill you.'" "C'mon, hoss," Grant said, "You wanna challenge me? You wanted a fight--now you can have it. Draw your blade and face me, traitor! Prove your honor!" "If I'm a traitor, Private, why would I be concerned about honor?" Nicolae pulled the pistol from his hidden holster--BLAM! "... damn..." ---------- cycle.9.comatose The only sound in the small room in Sickbay was the beeping of the heart monitor. Josephus sat next to Sylvia's bed, holding her hand, but she was unresponsive. The doc's words played over in his head: "The fall would've seriously injured any ordinary human, but due to her physiology, she survived. She is in a coma, however, and we have no way of knowing when she'll come through." It'd been two weeks now... two long, grueling weeks. And now, her eyes fluttered open and she gasped. It took a little while for Josephus to calm her down to the point he could understand her. The first question he heard was, "What happened?" "You fell from the scaffold. The weapon fired, we think." Sylvia, taking deep breaths, shook her head, "I slipped... I slipped... how foolish--" "The MPOITU threw you off," Josephus said, holding her tightly, "Everything's okay, nobody was killed, everything's alright--look at me. You're alright." Sylvia's eyes watered and she burst into tears, "Oh, Josephus! I was so scared..." ---------- Meanwhile, in the conference room overlooking the Mecca, an important meeting was commencing. The doors were locked, the window shades drawn. Save for a few lights, the room was dark. In here sat three very important men: Doctor D. Charist, Senior Colonel Arshaund Reztclift and Grand Counselor Moebius. "I've received word that Doctor Darian-Marik has pulled out of her coma. Her fiancée has been with her the majority of these past two weeks, he's going to work with our Sickbay doctor to make sure she comes through fine. Otherwise, research has come to a screeching halt. We're trying our best to recoup after this incident." "Counselor," Reztclift spoke up, "Why wasn't the science team properly informed about this particular MPOITU?" Moebius sniffed, "We had no way of knowing how the object would react--we never do. Uncovering the secrets behind these objects is the job of Charist and his associates--that's why I've contracted them." "You?" the colonel continued, "YOU contracted them?" The counselor sighed, "Yes, I contracted them--at the Emperor's bidding. Everything I've done for this project has with the blessing of Emperor Wilhelm." "That's another thing, counselor, why hasn't the Emperor visited the base?" Moebius started to protest but Charist interrupted, "It might be nice to have the Emperor see our process for himself--see what we do in the Mecca." The counselor shook his head, "It's not that simple, gentlemen, the Emperor is a very busy man. He realizes the importance of Tetrahedral Righteousness, but he has explicitly stated he does not want to be bothered." Reztclift sighed, "Counselor, I'm concerned about floor sixteen." Moebius' eyes widened. Charist looked confused. "I'm not even clear on what's going on down there. I think it's time you let us know." "Let us know what? What's this about the sixteenth floor?" Charist asked. Moebius looked at the researcher and sighed sadly, turning to the military officer. "Colonel," he said, "You talk far too much." With those words, he produced his staff from where it had been hidden under the table. At the end of it was a pink stone. The counselor began chanting and suddenly a pink light seem to pour from Reztclift and Charist's eyes and mouth, almost as if it were choking them. They both fell out of their chairs. The colonel even tried crawling over to Moebius, but he barely made it around the table. As the pink light faded, both men lay on the floor, dead. Moebius' expression was dark and cold with little emotion. He pulled a com device from his pocket. "Please send for Commander Morgan-Giles; tell him I'd like to discuss his impending promotion status." ---------- Josephus had helped Sylvia back to her quarters after the nurse had okayed her release. Sylvia's place was populated with a number of different potted plants and flowers to help her feel more at home (she was, after all, half-dryad). Josephus sat at the table while Sylvia went into her bathroom to take a shower. The doctor drummed his fingers on the table, caressed the Yeager fern, which made a soft purring sound at his touch. It wasn't long before Sylvia walked back into the room wearing a robe, her damp green hair falling into her face. She smiled at Josephus as she busied herself with her drink cabinet. "Grant's missing." Sylvia turned back to Josephus and he continued, "The last time I saw him was two weeks ago... I tried to get in touch with him that night--went to his quarters and the door was open and his sword was missing." "Oh dear." "I told Charist, asked him to do an inquiry to the Colonel or somebody who could search for him. I still have heard from the doctor since. I couldn't concern myself with that matter too much cause I was worried about you. The medical chief in Sickbay wasn't sure how long you'd be out--thank God it was only two weeks--it could've been longer... still... it was the longest two weeks I can remember..." "Oh sweetie," Sylvia said, walking over to him and embracing him. Josephus took a deep breath, "I thought I had lost you... I wanted to help... but I couldn't..." "There was nothing you could do--" "That's what bothers me!" Josephus suddenly said, "I'm... so frustrated at my shortcomings. It's bad enough I'm just a humanoid--even with my intelligence I've only a third of some of the greater minds of the universe! I'm weak, I'm imperfect--it's just so aggravating--and I keep working so hard to find out how to fix it..." "Do not start on that again," Sylvia said, taking a step back to look Dr. de Viaminima in the eyes, "We have discussed this before--" "No, no, no. That accident did it--I've already started refining the calculations," Josephus said, shaking his head, "I've got the notebook at my quarters." "Josephus! We talked about this! I do not like you pursuing this avenue of research so recklessly." "This is different. I'm doing it all different. I'm taking extra precautions during the experiments--and if I can get someone to keep an eye out on me, things would be alright, I'd think, don't you agree?" Josephus asked, looking hopefully at his fiancée, "Things will be different in the next month." Sylvia was quiet for a little bit, "Dear, I am not sure about that." "Oh, no, now don't you start with me," Josephus said, wagging his finger, "We agreed--when our contracts expired we are GONE! No renewals--things have gotten too dangerous... and our wedding, remember? We're leaving--working for us." And that's roughly how the argument started. It ended when the Yeager fern, feeding off of Sylvia's frustration, attempted to choke Josephus. "... fine, I'm fine," Josephus said, rubbing his neck and backing away from the plant towards the door, "Look, just think about it, alright? We're not getting anywhere ranting about it now--I'm going to go get cleaned up, I'll talk to you later." And he left. ---------- A few hours later, Sylvia was reading a book in her room when the door buzzed. "Enter," she said, not looking up from her reading. "I hope I'm not disturbing you, doctor." The book fell from Sylvia's hands as she shot up off the couch, "Counselor Moebius!" "Calm down, calm down, there's no need to be alarmed. Please: sit. I must speak with you." Sylvia sat back down on the couch and the counselor sat beside her. He adjusted his regal robes before beginning. "I have terrible news... Dr. Charist is dead." Sylvia covered her mouth. She wasn't even sure she had heard Moebius correctly, but there was no mistaking the look on his face. The head researcher had been killed. "How?" "An intruder," Moebius grimaced, "It appears that the colonel's military security has grown lax yet again and we have all paid the cost very dearly. In fact, the colonel himself was incapacitated. The military is conducting their own investigation and they're already bringing in a new figurehead--Morgan-Giles, excellent commander." "What of Charist?" "The military investigation covers his death as well. I hope to give you good news, but it seems bleak, however, there is another matter. You know how important Project Tetrahedral Righteousness is, do you not?" Sylvia nodded. "I knew your father." The green haired doctor turned and looked the counselor in the eye, but said nothing. Moebius continued, "Dr. Darian-Marik was the emperor's senior physician, as you well know, so I knew him personally. I'm sure you also feel, as I do, that there was some connection between his disappearance and the Totolli Missile Crisis. I this project has its importance to you, so I want to offer you the position of head researcher, if you're willing to accept, that is." Sylvia was flabbergasted. Being head researcher would give her greater access to the Mecca and the Dht'n'k'lz files. It could bring her a step closer to understanding the why and how of her father's disappearance... but she would have to renew her contract... indefinitely... and Josephus... "This is your decision to make and yours alone," Moebius said slowly in a low voice, "Do not feel pressured by myself or others to decide. Choose... for yourself." ---------- cycle.10.the departure It had been a rather difficult week. Josephus had taken the news of Sylvia's promotion hard. Damn Moebius, damn Gamezoha and damn the ROCKET--he was through. Finished. Halfway through he hadn't liked the way things were going and now, he was feeling even more frustrated--it felt like everything was conspiring against him. An intelligence officer came by the lab the day previous to notify Dr. de Viaminima that Privates Strong and Desh were MIA and that the Gamezohan MP had gone down every available avenue to track them down. "If out intelligence reports anything, doctor, we'll let you know." Grant was gone. Charist was dead. Sylvia was staying with the project for Lord knows why--and she'd probably get herself killed by the damn Dht'n'k'lz weapons. They were also no longer engaged. Their arguments and disagreements had brought an end to that. Stupid project, stupid Dht'n'k'lz, stupid, stupid dragon creatures... Forget it. Just forget it all. Josephus was going to wash his hands of it all and catch the next flight back to Old Earth. Some of the research he would take with him--like the new alchemic formulas--especially the idea behind the Dht'n'k'lz Pyramid. It was useless without the actual artifact itself, and even his own work had yet to uncover how to pinpoint its location on Chamaleen homeworld. All the other translations and nonsense and computer programs--they could keep it. Stuff it. It wasn't very likely they'd get any use of it. Even VeeEm was still incomplete. Without Josephus' guidance, only a mad genius could get the program working--and even then, it'd take a miracle to synthesize the program for widespread use. He was packing up stuff in the laboratory when the Counselor himself walked in. Josephus regarded him with the respect he deserved, "Afternoon, counselor." "Dr. de Viaminima. Dr. Marik said I might find you here. I see we're preparing to leave." "Don't you know it," Josephus said, wrapping a beaker in safety wrap. Moebius smiled slightly, "I realize the futility of trying to convince you to stay, but I don't want to let you leave without trying. I'm prepared to double your fee." "I appreciate the offer, counselor, but I'm sticking to my guns and principles for this." Moebius feigned amazement, "I'm quite impressed, doctor. A lesser man would have made a compromise to his own morals just to amass great wealth. For your benefit, the offer will remain on the table up until you leave us." "I'm sorry to disappoint--it wasn't my intention to just up and leave to begin with, sir, but there are a number of... complications that make it difficult for me to remain here any longer." "I see," Moebius nodded, "Well, I will bother you no longer. If you have any questions, you know how to contact me." Josephus paused for a moment, considering the Grand Counselor's words, then he shook his hand, "For what it's worth, sir, I appreciate the opportunities you have extended. It's a shame things can't stay the same." "I'm not too worried, doctor," Moebius said, smiling, "I'm sure we will see each other again... some day..." ---------- Josephus was being escorted by two soldiers to the third floor auto pool. They were walking down the corridor--and it was actually more populated in the upper floors than in the lower, underground facility areas. Josephus couldn't help but feel like he had been fired, escorted out of the building by armed soldiers, or a dead man walking. They entered the garage and heading over towards the military modified TerraGlide 7--the doctor's transport to Gamezoha Prime International Spaceport. He finished packing his luggage in the spacious trunk and had slammed it shut when he heard a voice call from across the garage. "Josephus!" The doctor turned to see Sylvia running toward him. She slowed her pace and stopped a few feet in front him. She was out of breath--must've run all the way here. What did she want? Did he leave something important? Did she have some last words? Was she going to slap him or kiss him? He waited a few beats before speaking, "Yes, doctor?" Sylvia was suddenly very quiet, almost as if she had forgotten why she had run all the way here to stop her ex-fiancée from leaving. Deep down, she knew she wanted him to stay--the last thing he needed was to go off and get himself hurt trying to follow that foolish technoalchemy nonsense... granted there was merit in his theory studies... but the experimentation... "Sylvia? Is everything alright?" The neurochemist took a deep breath and nodded. It became obvious to Josephus then that despite all the confrontation between the two of them, she was going to miss him. And more than likely, he would eventually miss her before too long. He took her in his arms and nearly enveloped her, squeezing her gently, and he whispered into her ear, "Take care of yourself, dear, okay? I'll get in touch with you in a few months." "Actually," she sniffed, "You will not be able to. 'Tis a top secret, after all." "Alright," Dr. de Viaminima said, smiling, "Wait a few months, then and get in touch with me." She smiled and pulled back from his embrace, "Josephus... please... be careful..." The doctor nodded and both looked into each others eyes. It was one of those moments in time that become flashbaked in the mind and linger for hours afterwards. The sound of the vehicle starting up ended the moment and they both smiled and parted. Josephus climbed into the backseat and the TerraGlide immediately drove away. Sylvia watched it until it disappeared up the ramp and she stood there for a moment longer before turning to head back into the depths of the research facility. ---------- The passenger ship left the Gamezoha Prime, breeching the atmosphere. Thrusters compensated for the change in pressure and the vessel started its course to Earth. It wasn't the best way to travel, but it was cheap. Dr. de Viaminima smiled at the thought of completing his own craft--it wouldn't be long before then, he just had to finish some details on the cloaking micro-contrivance. Josephus booted up his Port-A-Brain and received a message on his drive.
J - ... now what the hell does THAT mean?! ---------- cycle.11.epilogue "Nothing," Orcus said, "He left us with nothing. It's all garbage; trash; Dht'n'k'lz gibberish. It isn't here." "No," Moebius said, sifting through the box, "It isn't HERE. This is the material the good doctor left us directly. Somehow he knew. He found out. Now, this," Moebius said, reaching into the box to pull out a plastic case, "This will point us in the right direction." He held up the case. Inside it was a silicon wafer. "VeeEm?" Orcus said, reading the initials on the case. Moebius sneered, "Dr. de Viaminima may not have made the nanovirus as we had hoped and expected, but he did leave us with a very nice starting point." "I don't understand," Orcus said, a confused look on his face. "Oh, don't worry, Max, you will, eventually," Moebius smiled, horribly. "This is the beginning of the end." |