Memory

Myriad Reality

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Then nothing changes. But I know, instead of spending the rest of my life doubting.

@GalaxyRaider

And then if merely running tests unleashes that monster into the world once more?

Myriad Reality

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Then I know they're still alive. Maybe one day, something could be done about that, but I'll take the knowledge alone as a victory for today. It'd feel... Less heavy.

@GalaxyRaider

*Raises an eyebrow*
And if they're not?

Myriad Reality

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*Chuckles with faux-sheepishness and rubs the back of my head*
I don't suppose you really have a reason to, but I was hoping my position in the work we did would have at least a little sway.
*Lets my arm flop back down to my side and my expression droops*
Besides, it would be... A huge relief, if I could ever know so many people didn't die because I wasn't better.

@GalaxyRaider

And suppose by, well, whatever means, you peer into this possibility, and you discover everyone alive and well. What then?

Myriad Reality

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Practically speaking, it would mean lots of people’s families could still be alive. Folks people care about. But I’m not here to try and convince you this is for their benefit.
*Takes a deep, quivering breath*
This is for me.

@GalaxyRaider

Mm. And tell me, young one.
*Sits down on the shape of a chair, but with no visible material beneath me, and crosses my leg on top of my knee*
Why should I care about you?

Myriad Reality

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Not open it, no. I'm not that stupid. I never want him getting out, no matter what is in there. But to find a way to peer inside? Even if just with math and not our eyes.

@GalaxyRaider

And who will that help?

Myriad Reality

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Nemid frequently monologued to me about not wanting to hurt anyone... No, not just that. That he wouldn't hurt anyone. And things he said have been playing in my head over and over and over for so long now, that I'm starting to wonder if... If there might still be truth to that.

@GalaxyRaider

*Pauses for a moment*
You want to open the spoils and see if there might be living being inside. Am I correct?

Myriad Reality

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*Raises my hands up in mock surrender*
I know, I know. I've got no stake in your battles already fought but what's done is done. Which is why I hate to say that I'm not actually here to save any lives at all.

@GalaxyRaider

Then, tell me.
*Unfolds my glasses and puts them on my face*
Why exactly are you here?

Myriad Reality

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*Sighs*
I'm hoping for proof of a better outcome. A lot of people gave up everything to stop Nemid.

@GalaxyRaider

Some of those same individuals fought tooth and nail against a permanent solution to that problem, as I'm sure you're aware. And because of that choice, Tier Five has returned to the old way of doing things.

Myriad Reality

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I'm hoping there will be one significant reason less to do that, after today. But that's what I'm here to find out.

@GalaxyRaider

And what do you hope to accomplish?

Myriad Reality

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Well, for your sake, those things sound nice. I can’t imagine a more private office.

@GalaxyRaider

Peaceful enough. Though I anticipate a move after today's visit.