Theoi: SESHAT Crisis Meeting, Transcript Excerpt
OS: We've set up a Type 666 firewall around the STARS and HQ network, and we have Saturn and Jupiter running simultaneous scans of the entire system again. So far, it looks like we successfully chased the intrusion out. Do we have any idea what it is?
NA: A special investigation was conducted under Director Nuwang's auspices. You will receive the type-written report shortly--
OS: The FULL report?
NA: You know that cannot be promised, even for the new head of the Science division. For now, we believe the intruder can be safely classified as Theoi SESHAT.
OS: So it WAS one of the Theoi. And it got into our networks. This could have been the end.
NA: A serious blow, but hardly the end. The unique interface of the Pharaohs and our own preparations would ensure minimum combat effectiveness. Further, SESHAT does not appear to have been aware of where it was, or how it was contacting us.
OS: Good. If it was just seeking out entities of interest, people connected to the Pharoahs, then we can still try to backtrace it. Find it and kill it, before it realizes the value of attacking our networks again.
NA: That may be difficult. The investigation also saw it develop a certain understanding of our language. A 'dialog' took place.
OS: What the hell did that woman do?
NA: Perhaps you should wait for the rep--
OS: This thing ACCIDENTALLY, or at least blindly, broke into our most secure communications. And now you tell me that it is learning what those communications might mean. How long until it realizes what it missed? How long until it tries to break back in? How long until it attacks EVERYTHING OUTSIDE OUR NETWORK?
FP: That's what I said.
NA: I heard that, Mr. Pritchard.
FP: Sorry, sir.
NA: We are already using couriers to coordinate with U.N. and regional authorities. A plan is being enacted to narrow down the target's location, and isolate it. That, too, will be in the report. Now please, Doctor, see to your division. The report will arrive within the hour.
OS: ... Yes, Commander.
NA: ... You had something on your mind, Mr. Pritchard?
FP: Ah, well, as Communications Officer, I wondered if I would be permitted to view the report?
NA: No, you will not. However, I suspect Doctor Salieri will show it to you, anyway. Try to act as if you have not seen it.
FP: Yes, sir.
Operations Director Nuwang Zhu, Approval Interview for Pilot Relative Visitation
"Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, I want to make it clear that anything you see, hear, smell, taste, or otherwise learn during your visit is absolutely secret, and will not be divulged to anyone."
"I will treat it as under the Seal of the Confessional, known only to myself and God."
"I'd keep you both out of it, if I could. Also, Confession is supposed to be done by priests, not nuns. And as far as I can tell, you're not recognized by the Church, are you, 'Sister' Mariposa?"
"No, my mission is outside the Church's dogma and hierarchy. Is that a problem, Director? You don't strike me as a fan of organized religion..."
"Ha, no. In fact, your lack of official connections will make things much easier for me, should you become a problem later."
Mariposa is unmoved. "I understand your insinuations, Director, but I assure you that your threats are not needed. I can keep secrets. I am on your side."
"Ah, yes. This was in your file. You contacted the Romefeller Foundation to have Araceli undergo testing, because..." Nuwang sweeps her hand across her desk display, "because 'it was God's will.' Perhaps you could elaborate on that?"
Mariposa is slightly defensive, even reproachful. "Director, I cannot convince you of my own religious experiences, or the way God has changed my life. I cannot make you believe He has spoken to me. I can only testify that He has done so."
Nuwang feigns amusement. "You've heard a big, booming voice from the sky?"
The Sister replies with confident, quiet zeal. "No. He speaks much more softly. Mostly, I hear Him when I read His Word. I know Him the same way. And I know, without a trace of uncertainty, that whatever your organization's cause might be, God is with you. And now, you have Araceli with you, too. How could I be anything but supportive, when my two greatest loves are aiding you?"
Nuwang and Mariposa stare at one another, eyes locked, neither changing expression. Mariposa finally blinks, but it is Nuwang who looks away, frustrated. She swings one hand dismissively, as if to backhand Mariposa from across the room.
"Very well, Sister. Your visit is approved. And I hope you are right about your god. It would be nice to have one on our side, for once."