exsilium | 06 △ VIDEO

[ Video--coming from Adam's tablet for once, and not his retinal enhancements. it shows him, obviously in his messy apartment, and obviously... different from what one might be used to. he's neither properly dressed nor his usual stoic, composed, monotone self.

but most notably, the lenses of his shades--which are mounted to his head--are retracted. his eyes are visibly artificial. here's the usual gravely voice: ]

...And they keep dragging more and more people here. Or is that the machine malfunctioning again? Can't be sure anymore.

Anyway, hello. My name's Adam Jensen and I'm -- [ insert vague, dismissive gesture here--his hand, too, is artificial and looks like it's made out of black metal. ] ... who the fuck even cares. I'm the local oversized can opener. Hi.

[ if it wasn't obvious before that he's drunk, it's sure as hell now. ]

Given the uh, premise under which you all arrived here as well as the popularity of thought-provoking surveys lately, let's talk about a topic each of you surely can contribute to with a story or two. Since I couldn't help but notice that we're quite a miserable bunch of misfits. Exceptions prove the rule by the way.

[ pause, during which he reaches off screen... for his smoke. ]

So, broken dreams. There's a pretty catchy song on them by Green Day which I can only recommend. But before you scurry off to find it, why don't we share with the class why we're all so damn bitter, and not only since we ended up in this shithole. Though I guess the shithole made it worse, in some cases. I don't know. Getting it off your chest might have a soothing effect, or something.

[ another pause, and he seems pensive for a moment. ~~he might be able to offer alternative treatment methods for your troubles which may involve punching~~ ahem. ]

Here, I'll start. I was planning to get married not too long ago, start a family. I had the perfect girl, a decent job I liked and paid well, and then--then science happened.

[ a dry, humorless chuckle. ]

Gotta love science. Your turn.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

Why do I need a reason? It is interesting work. I enjoy learning!

Because... things are rarely that simple.

[ AND ITS HARD TO TRUST ANYONE ]

But my answer is that simple. It does not need to be complicated.

And would you want to learn about anyone? Including me?

Yes, of course! Especially you.

And how'd you do that--

Dissect me?

[A huff, and she frowns.] Why do people always assume that?

[And then she's smiling again, because she can't stay annoyed for long.]

What would I learn from that! No. I am only interested in whole, living people. I could ask you questions. Examine you.

Just. Making sure.

[ the chopshops in china are still fresh in adam's mind, so. ]

I'm not sure what you hope to learn by asking questions.

Basic biology and anatomy. Culture, history. Simple things.

[ hmph. ]

What about your own?

My own what? Culture? It is not interesting to me.

But maybe it is to me. Or do you not like talking about it?

Oh! If you have questions, I will certainly answer them. I am not against sharing information!

Okay.

What do you need four arms and eyes for?

To see. And to touch. [A laugh.] Because these were beneficial to my predecessors, evolutionary.

In what ways? Isn't it dependent on the environment? Or did you guys evolve yourselves?

Yes, of course our environment shaped us! We did not have the technology to alter ourselves until recently. But few sa-marad would willingly change their appearances.

Why's that?

Pride, I would think! There are more complex cultural reasons, but we will not go into that now.

But wouldn't it be only fair if you sate my curiosity if you want me to sate yours?

Fair is fair! You are right.

It is part of sa-marad culture to view themselves as the pinnacle of evolution. A superior species. Altering their physical appearance would be unthinkable. Heresy, I suppose? It is not done.

Really.... there are no exceptions?

I am speaking in generalities. There are always exceptions- our species is extremely numerous, there are many variations within our populations. I am not a typical sa-marad, myself.

Howso?

Various reasons. I enjoy the company of aliens. I value their opinions and contributions. I do not see sa-marad as intrinsically superior to others.

video

neveraskedforthis - 2012-12-06 23:44 (UTC) - Expand

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