[TEXT]

[animusnpcs]

Since you all seem to be so eager to talk to me, and I have some free time, I'll open the floor for questions.

Comments

[Voice]

[thebigsister]

Why are you, or whoever designed this place, so afraid of death?

text

[animusnpcs]

I didn't think I was afraid of it, at least. Would you clarify your meaning?

[Permavoice]

[thebigsister]

How could you not be? This entire... experiment is basically a coordinated attempt to prevent or prolong the end of... well, everything. You have brought us here, to spare us from death as you claim, but I do not believe you would build such a device to save strangers for the sake of saving strangers. After all, you have made clear that your generosity comes with a price. Even within the confines of this tower, death itself holds no real sway. To escape the end, to prevent it. That seems to be the entire purpose of this tower.

Let me rephrase my question then: Why?

text

[animusnpcs]

Two of us for altruism, two of us for curiosity's sake, one of us for reasons I don't know.

[thebigsister]

There is no such thing as altruism without choice. Then it is but petty tyranny hiding the worst of its flaws behind an attempt to be sympathetic. Curiosity is at least honest, about itself.

What do you claim as your reason, then? Personally?

[animusnpcs]

Curiosity.

[thebigsister]

And does satisfying your curiosity means enough for you to trample all over the free will of others?

[animusnpcs]

Given the circumstances, I think it's a small concession.

[thebigsister]

You will have to enlighten me on such circumstances, I'm afraid.

[animusnpcs]

Unfortunately the circumstances of my employment are classified.

[thebigsister]

I see.

[A small pause.]

Do you accept the consequences of your actions, though? Or would you blame them on your employment?

[animusnpcs]

My decisions are my own.

[thebigsister]

Then there's nothing left but to see how it sorts itself out.

[A small pause.]

I hope it does not end up resolved in bloodshed then.