2 ☄ Video

[curada]

[The video opens on a guy with a mass of long hair that's being tied behind with both hands. The feed captures his medical coat, and the dim blue hue of monitors to his back. Their light reflects off the metal shelf by his right, whilst his desk sits in darkness, save for a lamp pointed down at the papers on its surface.

Machines hum in the background; together with the ticking of a clock and nearby footfall. He takes a hasty glance and, unsure of how to begin things, shuts his eyes. Does he introduce himself? Does he jump straight to his question? His fingers pull the tie taut then tap his sides. Last month's events were a strange twist of fate - a collapse of logic - that did not allow them peace. Alas! They had raised a question he could not solve alone.

It takes a moment of thought before he talks. His voice is calm but his speech? Noticably slow.]

On examining the situation with the rise of native superheroes, as you call them, I find myself puzzled. We beheld those who were ordinary become capable of the extraordinary. I request you answer one question that's on my mind:

What is the place of imPorts in this world now?

Comments

[dun_moch]

That opportunity will come soon, if your progress to date is any indication. [The Count doesn't like that apathy he's sensing at all. He likes his mad scientists wildly enthusiastic and raring to go, thank you very much. He will have to get Victor to open up about this pain shivering within him at some point. For now, ventures a more general probe:] Of course, progress is never achieved without setbacks. There may be great obstacles in our path. Are you prepared to confront whatever problems may arise?

[curada]

[This line of questioning diverts Victor in a better way. He pulls himself straight, mentally - where has he been hiding this steel? Collapsing onto the path fate has set him upon; it doesn't enter his mind. So long as she survived, he will too.]

Yes. I see myself having no problems. In fact, I would find a relief in encountering them; for they could be handled and put to bed. And if this world is as progressive as you believe, I have nothing to despair.

[dun_moch]

[Then he thrives on challenge. That is encouraging- Dooku will find ample means to help him gain that relief.]

This world has disappointed me before. But we will see. I am pleased to see you have a strong resolve. Apathy is often the enemy of true progress.

[Apathy is one issue Dooku does not expect to encounter with this man.]

[curada]

[Victor wrinkles his nose. Apathy is a close relation to despair; but it's not the force guiding his actions when he considers how to progress his work here.]

Indeed. I need not describe the danger of such feelings.

[Why has this man found this world disappointing, though? He'll have to think about it.]

So much more can be done by not dwelling on it. Do you not agree?

[dun_moch]

Certainly, certainly. I am pleased that we are in accord.

It occurs to me that our newly empowered counterparts may offer an opportunity to show the natives what you can do. I am sure there are many medical... concerns which have accompanied their sudden transformation. Perhaps some of them could benefit from a free examination.

[curada]

Perhaps so. In truth, I have already engaged myself, heart and soul, in the matter. How can I not offer my assistance? You must pardon me if my silence in such matters is regarded as negligence.

[He really, really dislikes negligence, can't you tell? He might also be selfish enough to be taking advantage of the chaos, even subconsciously.]

[dun_moch]

[Dooku chuckles softly.]

I would be deeply surprised if you could ever be accused of negligence, Doctor. If anything, perhaps I should apologize for assuming you were not already involved with such keen opportunity for medicine.

[No one out-courtesies Count Dooku.]

[curada]

[Victor freezes his mind, at first, out of a real fear of being reprimanded. But moments later he grips his thoughts and continues with his calm charade when the Count utters his apology.]

Other men assume thus; I do not feel that there is anything for you to apologize for, but I accept your feelings all the same.

[He can at least give Dooku's courtest a run for its money.]

I am happy to remark that you are one of the few here civilized enough to possess such manners, at any rate.

[dun_moch]

Manners appear to be deplorably uncommon in any universe, I am afraid.

At any rate, I hope that my thoughts on the matter of our new counterparts have proven illuminating for you. It promises to be a most interesting development as events proceed.

[curada]

Quite so, Count. Quite so. The events you foresee do kindle in me a sort of passion.

Though I presently see no further cause for questions; so if I might be excused?

[How heavy his memories make him act polite in excusing himself. Oh well, never mind.]

[dun_moch]

By all means. Until we speak again, Doctor.

[Dooku gives a little bow before cutting the connection, courteous as always.]