Phase Q/Transitions

The old tubeworks grind to a halt. Hacked together, the thing had always looked like it was going to fail. And now the engineers get to see just how it breaks.

Beneath the dynamic mental field guide, a heterogenous network of optoelectronic components interact with the electrical grid and with thought signals.

Some of the parts are amazing, often old salvaged components that still work, so that you can see occasional things like a rusty old iron frame, or a vacuum tube, running critical infrastructure for the tubeworks.

When Fyuchy prackers put together the first prototype, it barely operated on test frogs. Later, as layer after layer got built on top of the original tubeworks installation, the vast majority of the control loop went through newer hardware. Yet, now, seeing the exposed innards as the tubeworks get torn apart, you can see that even the ancient hardware still performs vital functions.

A team of demolition experts follow your directions. As you go from key node to key node, using the Trad Forces supplied conversion programs, you indicate which parts to destroy. Occasionally, a valuable component gets salvaged for further investigation back at Trad labs.

While you can’t directly see through from the optoelectronic components into the mental frameworks, you can at least get a rough visual feel for what’s happening on the experiential layers by following the density of cabling and other components. Occasionally you see huge, dense clusters of data and power lines, surely indicating a hub of life and feeling.

When you get back to Command HQ, you report on the successful closure of the tubeworks.

“Phase C is no more.”

“Good work,” says the President, patting you on the shoulder.

“We’re very pleased with what you’ve done for us,” says Mrs. President, nodding at General Markov.

“Will I receive the farm disbursement we discussed soon?”

“In good time,” says the President. “For now we have a special surprise for you. You are going to be promoted into the Trad Forces. It’s technically an honorary position, but I assure you that your service is being recognized.”

“And if you want a full commission, we’re always looking for good soldiers,” says the General with a chuckle.

A junior aid leads you to your quarters for the night, in the Command HQ. With a sense of satisfaction, you pour yourself a cup of water and relax.

So much for those pesky Fyuchees, with their delusional vortex. You’ll be much better off – and safer – with a recognized and stable organization like the Trad Forces. And even if tey’re a little too grounded at times, well, you’re already making fast friends with some of the other soldiers.

What about Natalya? You think to yourself. Hm. It’s a bit of a shame. But, she shouldn’t have gotten herself involved in that kind of trouble. Even if she did face some problems – who doesn’t? – it wasn’t right for her to support the Futuristas. That could wreak all kinds of havoc in society, so of course it could wreak havoc with her as well.

Although you do kind of miss spending time with Natalya.

Phase Q: An interactive adventure.