Transmission 001 ( video )

[abadidea]

[Isaac initializes the video remotely, and when it comes on, it's clear something has probably gone amiss with whatever he was trying to accomplish. He has the bottom half of an EVA suit on and is pulling on the top half as the video commences. He doesn't look precisely impressed when he looks over to the communicator.]

So, these powers aren't as easy as they sound. [He pulls on the top of the suit and fastens it around his chest, heaving a sigh as he does so.]

Anybody else having any trouble with the powers the Porters have you? How are you practicing? [He figures just learning focus should be enough, but who's counting?] Personally, I think they should have come with an instruction manual.

[Still looking a little perturbed, he moves over to the communicator and picks it up.]

Speaking of instruction manuals, does anyone know where I can get, I don't know, a textbook or something on the fundamentals of "modern" structural engineering? It's...the job they gave me, but I'm a Ship Engineer. I don't build buildings...especially not with...the tools available around here. [And what is the internet? Seriously. We haven't used anything like that in nearly five hundred years.] It'd be a big help.

Comments

[heartlessglitch]

Acknowledged.
My name is Danger.
I am an artificial intelligence of Shi'ar origins.
It is generally my habit to take note of any ImPorts who are technologically inclined.

[abadidea]

...you're a true Artificial Intelligence? [Wow. Just...just wow.] ...Shi'ar?

[heartlessglitch]

I am sentient, yes.
I have thoughts and emotions independent of my programming.
Although this was not likely what the Shi'ar intended.
As an advanced alien race, their technology is significantly more complex than that found on Earth, but I am still unique.
I am, in a manner of speaking, a mutant.

[abadidea]

You're an AI capable of growth, too? That...way above my pay grade. [He chuckles slightly.] But it's fascinating. Is that what you meant?

[heartlessglitch]

That is accurate, yes.
Nevertheless, while I generally do my own repairs, I find it prudent to be aware of any engineers, should the need ever arise.

[abadidea]

[That gives him pause.]

...I'm a ship engineer. Usually, I work on Shockpoint drives and trams. I think you might be out of my jurisdiction.

[heartlessglitch]

I highly doubt the situation will arise.
Regardless, we machines all share basic commonalities.
I am certain if you are competent at what you do, you would be able to manage.

[abadidea]

I've really only worked on little bots as far as robots go. [But he sort of figured she was right. Only, he wasn't sure he wanted that sort of responsibility for a living person.]

[heartlessglitch]

Then you have more experience than most.

[ a brief, considering pause. ]

You would not hurt me.
In this container, I am incapable of feeling physical pain.

[abadidea]

That's...a little sad.

...that's not what I'm worried about.

[heartlessglitch]

Then please articulate your concern for me.

[abadidea]

I'm a Systems Engineer. I specialize in ship systems, mostly engines, but I know how a lot of different things work. Problem is, I usually need to break it a little before I figure out how to fix it.

[heartlessglitch]

I assume that these ships cannot generally verbalize to you.
Regardless, this body is only a container.
It is replaceable.
I am not particularly attached to it in any sentimental way.

[abadidea]

Oh. [That changes his tune.] Then sure, I'll take a crack at it if you need me to.

[heartlessglitch]

I would appreciate that.
Thank you, Isaac Clarke.
Naturally, you are welcome to call on me, should you require any assistance.

[abadidea]

Yeah, you can just call me Isaac and you're welcome.

[heartlessglitch]

[ a beat, then: ]

Just Isaac then, if you insist.
I am looking forward to initiating friendship with you.

[abadidea]

Uh...right. You too.