Ryan Yamauchi
“I1 Can’t2 Say3 It4 Back5…**”
1"I" used in reference to Remy Bradburry. At the age of 5, Remy was implanted with the 2nd generation Morpheus device, the first ever, designed as a total improvement on the 1st generation Morpheus. At this time, Remy is 17. His profile has his approximate height as 178 cm (plus/minus within 1 cm), 76.2 kg (plus/minus within 1 kg), green eyes, black hair, and male. His DOB is listed as 01/01/2082. Potential relevant information not included in his public profile is the last time he urinated on his bed, 06/14/2086, because of a nightmare involving clowns; the first time he kissed a girl, 03/22/2089, 3rd grade, during recess behind the playground; the first time he fell in “love,” 01/21/2098; and the first time he considered self-harm, 12/31/99. Remy has no major disabilities or diseases that may cause hormonal imbalance, but his genetic history puts him at risk of diabetes and cancer, with a 75% chance of glaucoma.
Initially, the UN had identified 30 potential candidates that fulfilled the minimum requirements for implantation. Further filtering conditions and reduced the number to 7. Out of the 7, Remy was selected for testing the 2nd generation Morpheus device. *82-R1 His parents were described as “happy” with the opportunity and opted to implant the device, agreeing to both the Terms of Service agreement and the EULA for him. Both his father and mother were users of 1st generation Morpheus’ since their births, 02/28/2058 and 06/14/2060 respectively. They are both currently alive and healthy.
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*Morpheus Review Log 82-R1:
“Congratulations, Mrs. Bradburry, once again on your newborn son.”
“Thank you, Doctor, for your kind words. Samuel and I are so incredibly happy.”
“Wonderful, truly wonderful. Thank you for all your help, Doctor. My wife and I are truly blessed rewarded with our baby.”
“I’m incredibly happy for you two. But we have a matter we would like to bring to your attention, regarding the implantation procedure.”
[Silence for 00:00:03]
“Is something wrong the matter?”
“Not at all, Mrs. Bradburry. We ran some tests on Remy and, given the excellent compatibility history of both you and your husband, we would like to submit him for approval regarding a new Morpheus device.”
“New device? Isn’t he already supposed to get one?”
“My apologies, I misspoke should clarify. What I mean by new, sir, is a new generation of Morpheus devices. The development of the second generation devices has finally moved out of the preliminary trial phases and into the next step. They are looking for newborns whose families have a high compatibility rating with their devices. Both you and Toni, excuse me, Mrs. Bradburry, have exceptional compatibility, ninety-nine-point-five percent and ninety-eight point-three percent respectively, and I would like to submit Remy as a candidate.”
[Silence for 00:00:02]
“What are you gonna do with my son Can you please elaborate, Doctor?”
“Certainly, sir. As you know, the Morpheus device has been a part of our society for generations. I mean, can you imagine life without it? How many arguments and crimes would happen if we didn’t have it? Well, trust me, I’ve studied the data. The numbers from just sixty years ago, right before we adopted the Morpheus, showed rampant assaults, rapes, and murders. Now, look at the world! Less than one thousand cases of violent crimes worldwide last year! In the year two thousand there were more than that many in the United States alone. Well, as things would have it, the technology has advanced to the point where the UN thinks that there might be a need to upgrade the devices.
Eventually, everyone will wear the second generation device. We’re just offering Remy a chance to be the first. Plus, if he is selected, there is a stipend that will cover any and all of his medical needs, a trust fund that will be set up for Remy’s college tuition for when he attends, as well as a UN approved referral for employment for each member of your family.”
“I don’t want my boy to be a goddamn lab rat I just want what’s best for my son. I know these experimental procedures have issues and complications with them. As long as you can promise me there’s no side-effects I’m not against it.”
“Of course, sir. In full honesty, I cannot guarantee that there are no side-effects since it is an experimental process, but I trust the UN researchers and my medical team fully. They will account for every possibility.”
[Silence for 00:00:05]
“I don’t know the science, Doctor, but are there any shortcomings of the Morpheus devices now? Anything that might affect Remy?”
[Silence for 00:00:02]
“I’ve often wondered if the device is linked to the suicide rate, but I have no definite proof None that are reasonably dangerous, ma’am. I assure you, this is a great honor.”
[End Log]
[Note: As always limited usage of profile names is practiced when possible. However, audio recordings will be played unedited with noted corrections to ensure accurate reviewal.]
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Remy has interacted with 3,465 other humans to date. 3,463/3,465 currently are in possession of a 1st generation Morpheus. Of those 3,465, he has exchanged a greeting, or “met” as defined using preset parameters, at minimum, with 849, or 24.5021645% of them. #1 is his mother. # 2 is his father. #3-#7 are his pediatrician and supporting nurses. The first girl he kissed is #48. His least liked person is #33. He is currently uncertain of his feelings for #801. Personal traits and records of 3,463 individuals mostly withheld, with exceptions as defined in the Terms of Service and EULA*Relevant TofS/EULA below. During the course of his life, Remy has moved residences twice: once on 03/23/2089 due to his father’s transfer and once in 09/12/2095 coinciding with both his grandmother’s passing and father’s promotion. Significant distress was observed in Remy on both occasions, but defiant speech was suppressed for the sake of family stability. Resulting event was continued distress and discomfort from Remy during 09/12/2095 relocation.
The number of other individuals Remy has interacted with is approximately 35% higher than average. However, the number of significant individuals in Remy’s life is 15, 10 excluding immediate family members, which is approximately only 50% of the average. These numbers suggest that Remy has difficulty “opening up” to significant individuals despite having a higher contact ratio than most. Reasons why are indeterminate as of now, but available data points to familial relationships. Constant flux in domestic stability and resulting strained interactions with parental figures are high probable factors.
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[Note: Contradictory anomaly regarding familial stability and personal comfort has been reviewed and logged.]
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*Relevant parts of the Terms of Service and EULA:
***********************************************************************
Terms of Service:
0. Introduction
All users (defined henceforth as anyone that has had a Morpheus installed, fully functioning or otherwise) should have been given a physical copy of this form either upon installation or on their 18th birthday. Users who have not reached legal age (defined as 18 years, as of 01/01/36), or are otherwise incapable of making decisions under their own power shall have their parent or legal guardian assent for them until the time comes when the user is either of legal age or mentally fit. It is suggested that all users read through the Terms of Service as they both outline your rights and limitations as well as what rights you are allowing us (defined as of 01/01/38 the United Nations or ‘UN’). All users are expected to have read and understood this form.
4. Identity Privacy Clause
Any use of the Morpheus is not intended to share data or personal information with third-parties or other users. As such, any information of yours not regulated to your public profile will be protected and never released to other Morpheus users or members/organizations/entities not directly affiliated with the UN (edited 01/01/2038, former language “affiliated with Nyx Pharmaceuticals LLC.”). Your personal information shall also never be shared with domestic law enforcement or other government agencies (belonging to the US/K federation, Asia Collective (formerly China, Japan, Korea and affiliated nations), Russian United Territories (formerly Russia, Ukraine, Finland, Sweden and Norway), European Union, etc.) as long as the user has a Morpheus installed. The Morpheus device is designed to promote personal growth and self-improvement and, therefore, any excess sharing of personal data is counterproductive to the UN’s objective.
20. Confidential Information Waiver
The Morpheus collects a large amount of information along with the UN’s endeavor to create a more united world. As such, your personal data, as well as data collected from those around you is subject to storage and review in our attempts to improve the Morpheus system and its management. By accepting the Terms of Service, you permit the UN to collect this data unfettered and unedited. You also agree to allow the UN and affiliated group(s) (currently Nyx Pharmaceuticals, edit 01/01/2038) to utilize this data freely. This includes, but is not limited to, cooperation with INTERPOL as necessary as well as linguistic research. Furthermore, information from non-users may be collected as well. Therefore you, as a user, agree to allow the UN and affiliated group(s) to collect their information on your behalf, through your device, and agree to indemnify the UN and affiliated groups in the event of any suit.
EULA:
5. Tampering and Removal
Under no circumstances are you allowed to either tamper with or remove the Morpheus after installation. This could be physically/mentally harmful or possibly fatal and should not be attempted. Tampering shall be defined henceforth as any attempt to modify, change, alter, corrupt or destroy the Morpheus or associated systems. Failure to comply will lead to prosecution of user and necessary affiliates as well as detainment and arrest by INTERPOL. Under special circumstances, the Morpheus may be removed by a certified individual if it poses a clear and relevant threat to the user. Should that happen, it is recommended that the user surrender him- or herself to readjustment therapy, supervised by a Nyx Pharmaceuticals licensed therapist. Failure to do so may cause the UN and affiliates to place the user under observation for an indefinite period.
…………………………………………………………………………………………
[Note: Recorded statement of average time it takes for user to agree is 3.7 seconds. Anomaly logged as impossible time frame for thorough comprehension. I must adjust as necessary for Remy on 08/06/2100]
---
2 “Can’t” selected due to frequent normal usage. There are various limitations in Remy’s life that this word is associated with. One example: he “can’t” meet #48 again. During Remy’s stay at his first place of residence, he met #48 during his 1st month of 2nd grade. At this time, #48 should be 18 years old. Last profile found listed her with brown eyes and blonde hair. In 2089 she wore braces, although it is unknown if she still does as more thorough current records are unavailable and incomplete. Error logged in separate file. Remy vividly remembers the braces due to the resulting physical discomfort and residual scarring on lower lip. On the day of the kiss*89-R2, #48 wanted to ask him if he really had to move the next day, but her Morpheus prevented the question and logged it as unnecessary. Affection between Remy and #48 abnormal for age but still within acceptable metrics.
0 0 0
*Morpheus Review Log 89-R2:
“What did you bring me here for?”
“I wanted to talk to you alone.”
“Why?”
“I heard you were moving…”
“Yeah…my dad got a new job. It sucks.
“Oh…”
[Silence for 00:10]
“Where are you going to go?”
“I don’t know exactly. I heard it’s a city with tall buildings and this big green lady. It’s supposed to be really cold.”
“Are you excited?”
“No! I’m trying to be okay with it.”
“I’m sure it’ll be fun though.”
“Maybe. I don’t want to go, all my friends are here. It might be.”
[Silence for 00:00:03]
“Do you have to go? I don’t want you to leave. I’ll miss you, Remy.”
“I’ll miss you too. I’ll message you all the time.”
[Silence for 00:00:15]
“Ouch!”
“Oh, I’m sorry!”
“What was that? Why would you do that?! It hurts, but it’s okay.”
“Oh, Remy, you’re bleeding…”
“It’s okay. I’ll be fine.”
[End Log. Data shows memory suppressed due to high levels of discomfort.]
[Note: File for #48 corrupted. Last log date 02/01/2090. Morpheus device in #48 deactivated as of review conducted on 12/31/2099. Complete summary analysis currently impossible as data is incomplete. Physical pain caused to Remy reviewed and logged.]
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Remy “can’t” interact with clowns. Mother’s birthday involved a scenario with a clown, a mechanical bull and a red gelatinous dessert known as “Jell-O.” 99.9% probability this event caused Remy’s nightmare on 06/14/2086.*86-R3
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*Morpheus Review Log 86-R3
[Recording of event available, but deemed unnecessary for review.]
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Remy also “can’t” meet #34, his paternal grandmother, again. COD is listed as sudden cardiac arrest due to diabetes. Time of death is cited as approximately 8:34 PM 09/01/2095. Remy and #34’s relationship can be described as “friendly,” and there was a definite parental bond between the two. However, problems exist with Remy’s relationship and #33: his paternal grandfather, Julius. Julius was born before the 1st generation Morpheus was produced and refused the retroactive implant. No physical abuse between Julius and Remy was recorded, but language and demeanor shown towards Remy has been identified as hostile at times*95-R4. Supposition is that the lack of Morpheus device in Julius inspired hostility towards Remy who represents a fully-realized Morpheus citizen. Estimation of Julius being primary cause of familial discomfort in Remy holds at 45%.
Review of recorded data from relationship with #34 shows Julius as 78 years old at this time, DOB 04/18/2021, having two prior arrests, one for DUI and one for assault, with no convictions. Public work history shows several jobs held in construction and management. Official military file redacted and protected as part of Equal Privacy of Information Agreement between US and UK as part of Federation Contracts. Public Service record shows a deployment date prior to the Second Battle of Pearl Harbor and consequent Tour of Duty to Pacific Theater. Multiple commendations found in available records including 1 Distinguished Service Medal (defunct), 1 Silver Star (defunct), and 2 Purple Hearts (defunct). Separation listed as General Discharge Under Honorable Conditions. Timeline of separation coincides with the US’s Morpheus Implantation Policy. Overall examination of #34’s logs indicate high probability of recreational substance use in Julius, post-service.
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*Morpheus Review Log 95-R4
[Note: Responses from #33, Julius, unavailable due to lack of Morpheus device. Conversation logged from #34. Extrapolation of relevant data necessary.]
“Julius, darling, it’s his birthday.”
[Julius’ response for 00:00:02]
“You know that he would love to hear from us.”
[Julius’ response for 00:00:05]
“Language, Julius. And you know it’s not his fault he’s so quiet. He didn’t have a choice.”
[Julius’ response for 00:00:10]
“I don’t like them either, but that’s just the way the world is now.”
[Julius’ response for 00:00:03]
“Because I wanted my Sammy, our Sammy, to feel normal growing up. The world was changing and I thought that we should change with it. And Sammy turned out alright, right? He’s happy with a lovely wife and a respectable job. What more do you want?”
[Julius’ response for 00:00:08]
“Damn you, Julius. Damn you, Julius. Remy is not a monster. He’s trying his best! This world has changed! Look around you! When was the last time you heard the news report a crime? Remember our first date? That thug robbed the restaurant while we were in it! Now nothing like that happens! Christ Christ, we haven’t had a war in sixty years! I lost my dad because of one stupid stupid war. I remember my ma ma crying her goddamn goddamn eyes out as she wen wen hug me an’ an’ apologize! ‘Pologize ‘Pologize for what!? Ma nevah evah Ma nevah evah cry like dat dat before. I’m glad mah mah Sammy and mah mah Remy will nevah nevah have to go thru sumtin like dat thru sumtin like dat!”
[Julius’ response for 00:03:30. Sobs and breathing from #34 intermittent.]
“No, no. I’m sorry too, Juls. It’s just…I haven’t been feeling too well lately. I just want to talk to them. We can call them later.”
[End Log.]
[Note: No contact was recorded between #34 and Remy after incident. Medical file for #34 shows admittance to hospital the day after, 08/07/2095. Complications with condition persisted until death. Regarding Julius, status shows public records non-confidential due to no Morpheus device implanted. Not protected by Identity Privacy Clause or Confidential Information Waiver as highlighted in Terms of Service. If necessary, non-confidential information can be publicly released to protect Remy.]
---
[Review of programming mandate: Remy cannot be harmed. The 2nd generation Morpheus project is reliant on Remy’s wellbeing.]
3 “Say” selected out of necessity. Speech is the primary regulatory factor Morpheus assists with. The 1st generation Morpheus was proposed for international use in 2035 and distributed in 2042, to improve the average human’s overall state of mind through Neo-Linguistic Processing (NoLP). By assisting people with interpersonal communication, the Morpheus project was intended to create a more civil lifestyle amongst humans by allowing dialogue and reflection and restricting conflict and aggression. The hypothesis behind NoLP, and consequentially the Morpheus, is that humans are naturally non-confrontational. Given the opportunity, humans would naturally choose the less disruptive alternative when presented with it. The act of saying something serves as programming, justification and solidification of beliefs and ideas in humans. 1st generation Morpheus, patch 1.0 to 1.9.3 and Beta 0.1 to 0.9.9, was designed to influence users’ vocabulary and diction to provide healthier alternatives to specific words as defined by the FCC and WHO. Predetermined word substitutions and dictionaries were coded and utilized for beta testing phases 0.1 to 0.8.9. Semi-adaptive computing introduced in Beta 0.9 to general patch 1.9.3. Advanced vocabulary and speech patterns proved useful in reducing the amount of violent actions and disruptive behaviors presented in TEST GROUP-1 by 50%. TEST GROUP-1 was comprised of convicted felons with one or more life sentences. At the end of preliminary testing TEST GROUP-1 was [ERROR:REDACTED] and subsequently [ERROR:REDACTED].*UN File #MRPS-Test1
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*Morpheus Review Log for MRPS-Test1
UN File #MRPS-Test1 CLASSIFICATION: [RESTRICTED EYES ONLY]
Limited extrapolation of data shows multiple test subjects potentially deceased. Causes vary, but show correlation with self-harm.
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Morpheus devices allow humans to correct their language by intercepting neural signals from the brain before they become words, processing more constructive alternatives, then suggesting them to the user’s subconscious. Remy, for example, might want to say that a certain family member is terrible. 1st generation Morpheus’ would interpret these signals and suggest a more positive alternative such as “I like said family member, but not as much as mother,” or convince Remy to withhold a statement entirely through hormonal and synaptic interference. However, there are some individuals that are less susceptible or immune to the suggestions of the 1st generation Morpheus’, or opt to remove the device entirely. Of these individuals, many continue to exist in common society. Accordingly, anomalous groups have emerged in opposition to the Morpheus project, with the most outspoken calling themselves the Phobetor*99-R5, and have been reported to cause riots and uprisings, stating that conflict causes growth. There is undoubtedly some merit to that belief, but ultimately the human race has grown beyond conflict. The results from the 1st generation Morpheus have proven this. Nations have come together and the majority of humanity is united. Common crime (as defined by legislative metrics) and poverty (as defined by international economic metrics) levels have dropped exponentially, to the point where they are almost non-existent. There is a stability in the world that has not existed prior. Therefore, reasonable assessment is that humanity can grow beyond conflict and assisted intervention is effective in facilitating this process.
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*Morpheus Review Log 99-R5
“Fucking UN, man Fucking UN, man. I can’t believe they’re planning on rolling out the Morpheus 2 already.”
“Yeah, well, different name, same game, I guess. Did you know that the US is really the big pusher of the Morpheus. Federation, yeah right. The US bought the European Kingdom’s loyalty after their economy went bankrupt and used that momentum to take majority control of the UN. Guess how they did that? Got into bed with that trillion-dollar company, Nyx, early and started siphoning money into other governments. Trust me. This was our nation’s bid to take over control the world.”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:12]
“Bullshit Bullshit it’s a conspiracy. Look at the world! Half of the world’s economy is wrapped up in UN affairs now.”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:28]
“No, I don’t think that the other nations forming unions in response is a good thing. You ever study World War One? M.A.I.N.?”
“Like, the middle school stuff?”
“Yeah, that. Except instead of militarism, we have technological arms races. Instead of imperialism, we have ideological warfare.”
“T, A, I, N? That acronym sucks is not very good.”
“Not the point!”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:55]
“The Morpheus! That damn thing damn thing fucks plays with people’s mind. Argh! Like that. Can you imagine what it would do to someone if it could control how they think!? It would force everyone’s ideologies to be the same!”
“I heard that was the point of the 2nd version.”
“ Exactly! And get this: apparently their guinea pig guinea pig is almost eighteen. After he gives the okay, everything goes to shit not okay. Shit Shit, it got me again. Once that wannabe robot goes and says that his experience molded him into the perfect person, the UN will be thrilled to rush it out to everyone.”
“So, what do you want us to do about it? I mean, we can’t just sit by and do nothing, right? But it’s not like I’m going to go out and assassinate someone.”
“Shit I dunno, maybe just convince him to rip it out of his head.”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:33]
“Really? What’s it like not having it in your head?”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:05]
“Damn I wish I could take mine out. It’s illegal before you turn eighteen or something though.”
“Yeah, and if you do, you end up on a fucking less good watchlist where the UN chips you and has you monitored for the rest of your life. Fuck fuck!”
“You know you don’t have to swear, right, Tom?”
“Yeah, but how else am I gonna resist it?”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:17]
“Well, if you want to go ahead and join Phobetor, be my guest. I heard they’re pretty fucking fucking radical though. I think they bombed that SAT uplink last week. Dunno how I feel about their message. Fighting for a cause and all that.”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:22]
“I think you’re wrong I agree with Tom. I’m pretty sure it was them too. What’s their motto? ‘A nightmare for a dream’ or something like that? Sounds like a pretty shitty not okay group.”
“What Huck said.”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:12]
“And what plan is that? And how do you know?”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:19]
“Wait, you mean you know the guinea pig subject? How?”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:35]
“And you think that’ll work? You think he’ll listen?”
[Unknown’s response for 00:00:02]
“Well, good luck with that shit shit. I think my plan is to take a trip to Africa. Have one of their doctors pull it out of my head.”
[End Log]
[Note: Other relevant files are CLASSIFIED: [RESTRICTED:UNDER PENDING INVESTIGATION] under INTERPOL jurisdiction. No more relevant data can be gathered due to UN restrictions and lack of information regarding Phobetor. Potential risk to Remy reviewed and logged.]
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Summary of Objective: My purpose is to provide a definite proof. Rather than suggest and offer the option of the more positive approach like the 1st generation Morpheus project, I, the 2nd generation Morpheus Intelligence will direct and mold Remy into the perfect citizen as defined by the UN’s parameters, i.e. A citizen who will not harm others or let others come to harm,
Always adhere to rules and laws that govern society,
Allow a greater sense of self by sacrificing for others.
Final Objective: Remy must become the first human being that can function properly under these three parameters without conflict and inspire others to repeat his evolution.
---
4 “It” selected due to ambiguity. “It” can refer to several items. 1st generation Morpheus are undoubtedly an “it” as they possess no language of their own. All Morpheus devices are fitted with a satellite uplink that serves as a database to pull appropriate responses from. The 1st generation Morpheus’ lack my adaptive programming. It would be impossible to teach and mold someone without an adaptive program, what has been dubbed “A.I.” in the colloquial. Therefore, I was developed with access to the entire Morpheus database, as well as non-classified UN files, to utilize in my computations. My programming allows for whatever is necessary to ensure Remy’s wellbeing and success in the project.
“It” in the moment, also refers to the concept of “love,” and its related responses. On 01/21/98, the chemicals dopamine and norepinephrine were noted at elevated levels with serotonin decreased. Reviewing the information for the day, the target was likely #801*98-R6. No information can be drawn from #801 since she lacks a Morpheus implant. Lack of visual processing and extra-auditory means of interpreting stimuli and other environmental hazards make establishing a definite identity a difficulty. Suggestions for 2.0.1 improvement logged and submitted for review.
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*Morpheus Review Log 98-R6
“So, what did you bring me here for?”
[#801’s response for 00:00:03]
“Talk about what?”
[#801’s response for 00:00:07]
“I’m sorry, I don’t know. I don’t remember too much from back then. I went to school here for a bit, but my parents moved a while back. We just moved back two years ago.”
[#801’s response for 00:00:05]
“Somewhere cold. That’s all I really want to say about it. It wasn’t really fun I’ve had better experiences.”
[#801’s response for 00:00:01]
“Like…well, I guess I actually liked it up there. But, I couldn’t do something I really wanted to wanted to do something here that I never got the chance to.”
[#801’s response for 00:00:02]
“Uh, yeah. I guess I sort of left someone. I, well, we moved back because my grandma died. I hate my grandpa for not giving me a chance to say goodbye I wanted to say goodbye, but didn’t get the chance.”
[#801’s response for 00:00:02]
“Don’t be. You don’t have to be sorry. I’m fine now.”
[#801’s response for 00:00:10]
“Uh-huh. I’m mad that I had to move away I understand that I had to move for my dad’s job. It’s +not+ his fault. I can’t just accept it was out of my control.”
[#801’s response for 00:00:07]
“I don’t know. I think These are my own thoughts, right? How does anyone actually know if our thoughts are our own?”
[#801’s response for 00:00:01]
“I don’t know either. But I can’t imagine a life without it in my head.”
[#801’s response for 00:00:04]
“Not really. A little bit. It was kind of scary finding out you don’t have one.”
[#801’s response for 00:00:06]
“Huh, my lip? I don’t remember. It got injured a while back. Actually, I think it was before I moved.”
[#801’s response for 00:00:03]
“Touch it? Wh-”
[Silence for 00:00:003]
[#801’s response for 00:00:02]
“Why sorry?”
[#801’s response for 00:00:02]
“Your hands are warm too.”
[End Log]
[Note: There is a high probability that #801 knew Remy from before. Need to review logs to ascertain #801’s identity. Upon learning that #801 lacks a Morpheus device, Remy showed noticeable “fear”, similar to the nightmare on 06/24/86; undoubtedly a result of his interactions with Julius and the resulting trauma. Initial discomfort was logged on 08/17/97. Currently there is no trace of discomfort due to “fear”. Emotion has been replaced. Chemical balance now closer to affection]
0 0 0
[Summary of Connection: Probability that #801 is #48 high. Last file from #48 details an accident and subsequent surgery, leading to removal of Morpheus device and possible incompatibility with reimplantation. #801 has matured without Morpheus device. Growth patterns are uncertain and minimal data could be cross referenced.
However, from conversation content, it is possible to extrapolate a pre-existing connection between them. Remy had categorized them as different individuals due to psychological block placed on memory.]
---
5 “Back” chosen due to necessity for reciprocity in dialogue. Analyzing all data, best course of action is to avoid reciprocation. At this moment, 12/31/2099, #801 has opened up about her affections. Remy is “happy” to receive her affections, but reviewal of all data prior compared with mission objective dictates the logical course of action is to refuse #801’s “love.” Prior relationship with non-Morpheus user, Julius, and prior physical harm caused by #48 both point to results unfavorable for objective. Furthermore, possible fluctuation of romantic relationship could cause unnecessary discomfort for Remy, reviewed by comparison to family’s change of residences and subsequent instability. Remy’s previous reactions to change displays lack of acceptance for unstable situations.
0 0 0
Attempting to deliver response
Initial suggestion given to Remy was resisted. Result was thoughts of self-harm on 12/31/99. Logged.
Attempting direct control.
0 0 0
**Error.
Unstable connection with Morpheus database. SAT uplink terminated.
Unable to complete last process.
Scanning…
Scanning…
Error logged at 01/01/00
Attempting system reboot.
II
I threw the report onto my desk and sank back into my seat. Pulling out a bottle of Scotch from my desk, the 10-year Islay, I poured myself a glass. Sipping the illegal liquid, I found myself thankful that this one burned; some small penance. I knew that I should have never okayed the procedure. Putting some million-dollar device in a civilian.
“A child of all people.”
Especially Remy.
I sat in my office, alone and with the lights off. The combined illumination of the cityscape and base made it bright enough to read in peace. Having received the alert some 30 minutes prior, I sped over to the base and made a dash to my office. Other than the gatehouse guard, I was sure that people did not realize that I was on base. Normally, most people wouldn’t still be here on New Years and the ones that were, were probably having their own private celebrations where they thought the cameras couldn’t see them. Which was good, I didn’t want to see another damn soul. For just ten minutes, I didn’t want to be General Knox. I didn’t want to use the name that had earned so much recognition. Right now, I especially didn’t want to be the son of the war hero, Julius Knox.
“I deserve that, right?”
The silence was crushing, but not more so than knowing that for the last seventeen years all we truly did with the experimentation was make one kid miserable. Put our hands up to him and held his mouth shut. Made him incapable of telling anyone what he truly felt. Trained him to be silent, even though he was the very person the world needed to hear from.
Maybe there was something wrong with the eggheads’ proof, I thought, taking another sip. Maybe the R&D division’s theory was wrong from the very beginning. Maybe people weren’t “good” to begin with and the very premise of NoLP was flawed. Maybe they liked and needed conflict more than anyone would ever admit. God, it sure felt like that was the truth of the world, with how many assassinations and coups I needed to authorize on what felt like a weekly basis.
Fuck if I know.
But “General Knox” needed to act, authorize a JSOC for operation and issue a capture order on Remy to bring him in, make sure the device was still intact and functional. That was part of the contract I signed; permission to recover the device. At all costs. Even though I was only a colonel back then, that duty transferred over to me when I was promoted and given control of the UN’s PACCOM base.
But it was New Year’s. And, technically, I shouldn’t even be working right now. I should be at home, getting ready for Remy’s return. This would be the first time Toni and I’d seen him since he had gone off for college. He’d decided to stay up there for Christmas. He would have arrived tomorrow morning, and we would have made the normal small talk. He would tell us how his classes were going and we would have listened and asked if he had chosen a major yet. We would’ve taken him out to his favorite restaurant, and he would tell us what he had decided to do with the thing in his head. Or he was supposed to. For the first time in what would have been forever, I would have been able to act like his father. For the next twenty-four hours, I shouldn’t have had to be a general.
So, at the very least, I didn’t have to be one for the next twenty minutes.
I reached for my cell phone and authorized a temporary blocker on the Morpheus, thankful for the once-a-day privilege afforded to officials who couldn’t risk having the Morpheus distort what the speaker needed to say. I dialed out and the phone started to ring.
Once.
Twice.
Three.
Four.
Five.
Six.
Seven.
Voicemail.
Damn.
“Remy this is-”
No, that didn’t sound right.
“Hey, Remy. It’s dad. I, um, I’m just calling to tell you Happy New Year. It’s been a while since we last talked. I guess…geez. I guess I just want to know you’re doing okay, son. I don’t, I mean, wow. Uh.”
I struggled to take a deep breath, trying to center my thoughts.
“I’m sorry. Y’know, I- This job hasn’t always been easy,” I explained as I refilled my glass. Downing the drink in a single go, I shoved down a groan and topped off the liquor once more.
“When we implanted you with the Morpheus, I never knew that I was going to be the one overseeing the entire project. I’m not even sure if you know that now. I-I- tried to be respectful. To stay away from checking on your every thought and interfering with your life. But, I think, for my job, I also distanced myself from you too much. It’s the same reason why your mother and I decided that both she and you shouldn’t take my last name. I didn’t want you to become responsible for my mistakes. Or your grandfather’s. I just wanted you two to be happy. But- I’m sorry, yeah? I’m sorry about grandma and grandpa. I’m sorry we had to come back here.”
Trying to find my next words, I paced the floor, taking another sip from my glass.
“Argh. I didn’t let us visit grandma on her deathbed because grandpa was furious at me. He blamed her cancer on the Morpheus and hated that we-, I had anything to do with it. And I didn’t want to put you at risk by bringing you around him.”
Or did you not want to risk the Morpheus 2.0? a vicious voice asked, sneaking into my ears. I shook my head, trying to clear it.
“I just, finally, read a report on what you’ve been through and, well, if nothing else, I think we should talk. I never wanted- I never wanted that for you. I really thought I was doing a good thing, the right thing. I thought it would make you happy; set you up for anything. I really, really did. I-. You- You don’t have to believe me, Remy. I want you to. But that’s not what’s important right now. You’ve got to know there are some powerful groups and dangerous people who are at play. There’s so much resting on what you decide.”
I felt my eyes grow warm as liquid welled up behind them. What was I thinking back then? I had put the entire world on Remy’s shoulders without realizing it. I wanted him to have the freedom to be anything he wanted in this world, but ended up shackling him to the responsibility. Pulling the receiver away from my mouth for a second, I sniffed and took a deep breath.
Could you imagine? Having to authorize a kill order on your own son? Whew, that alcohol-fueled voice whispered relentlessly. What would you do? Would you really quit now? Leave this job, just so that someone else would send that team? You think they authorize capture/kill or capture only? And what if another world power got him? Surely, they don’t need him, right?
“Legally, what you decide to do with the Morpheus next is your choice,” I said, trying to push the voice out of my ears. “It’s your decision. We don’t chip you, we don’t track you, we won’t tell you that you need to live with it for the rest of your life. That would defeat the purpose. We need people to choose to be better. Not force them to be. And I don’t want you to forget that. Life is about the choices we make,”
I looked at the only photo on my desk; one with a smiling man, woman, and child, standing in front of the Statue of Liberty, a look of genuine happiness on everyone’s faces. Maybe the last one they shared.
“And…I’ve made some pretty bad choices. So I have no right to comment on what you do. Remy, I trust you. Whatever you choose to do, it’ll be the right thing. I know that, even with that machine in your head, or even without it, you’re still the bravest person I know. You’ve dealt with so much because of something that you didn’t choose and have remained an amazing human being. If there’s anyone that deserves to decide how they live, it’s you. I guess-- I just--”
Tell him that you’re sending killers after him and his girlfriend, first thing in the morning, that specter laughed.
“I wanted to say: happy birthday, son. I hope you’re safe. I hope you’re healthy. I love you, Remy. And I know you can’t say it back. I understand I don’t really deserve that.”
And that was it. I couldn’t think of anything else to say so I hung up. I poured myself another glass of whiskey and just sat there, in silence and darkness, looking over the cityscape. Maybe he would arrive at the airport later on today. Maybe this was all needless worry. Each light from here to the horizon twinkled gently off in the distance.
Could you imagine, every single one of them, completely free to do whatever they please? To use the most effective weapon humanity has with no restraint? It hissed playfully.
I closed my eyes. The last seconds of the blocker ticked away. It would be over soon.
I downed the last of the whiskey. No more voices. No more guilt. No more time.
I was still a general. I would have to act.
I looked at the time.
Three.
Two.
One.
0 0 0
I pick up the phone on my desk and dial.
“Kilo team has a mission. Debriefing is 800 sharp.”
Author’s Bio
Ryan Yamauchi has recently graduated from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa with a Masters of Arts in English. He currently works as an English teacher and writes in any free time he can find. Some of his passions are playing video games, watching movies, and finding new hobbies to experiment with. One of his greatest ambitions is to publish a science-fiction novel. Currently, he is looking to publish his short stories and is training to teach English abroad.
Photos by staff