ITP: Computer Malfunctions

[sod_off_spark]

*It is a well known fact that Camp does things to the computers. But somehow, this seems different than the usual computer hi-jinx. Maybe its the fact that the random text messages are not as obscene and sexual as one might expect, and more random and confusing. Maybe its the fact that the computers have started laughing, crying, and whispering

Comments

[is_my_copilot]

. . . right. It's time for maintenance. I've definitely picked up a malfunction somehow.

whispered messages

[sod_off_spark]

Data retrieval initiated: fall of CE-10-2165-d

"[2 hours] ago 12,423 small recreational vessels appeared inside [CE-10-2165-d's] orbital perimeter. Hidden within that vast swarm were seven massive freight carries. The smaller craft were employed as [ablative armor], allowing the carries to descend through the atmosphere; landing on top of major population centers.

Despite the fact that the naval garrison was aware of the likelihood of just such an attack, their ability to effectively defend against it proved insufficient.

This has always been the enemy's [modus operandi]: [flood] your opponent's ability to process information with so much noise that no meaningful resistance can be put into action."
Error: Terminal Data recovery Incomplete. Forerunner Data Corrupted.

[is_my_copilot]

[okay where did that come from]

A nice tactic if you have the manpower and vehicles to spare. Not so nice if you're trying to run a war on a budget.

[sod_off_spark]

Species: Flood Inferi redivivus. Virulent, hyperagresseive extra-galactic acellular parasite, infests sentient life-forms absorbing memories, skills, and biomass into a collective pool that is used to secure more memories, skills and biomass. Non-sentient life forms are also used as biomass source. Complicated life-cycle, apex of which is the Gravemind form, a hive-mind created from the Flood's own instincts and assimilated minds. One flood-spore can wipe out an entire species via a cycle of infestation. Recommended containment procedures: orbital bombardment at the first signs of infestation, combined with fleet actions to prevent the escape of any ships that may carry the parasite.

The Flood never worries about having manpower or vehicles 'to spare'. It's only goal is to obtain more life to integrate into itself. The expenditure of a few trillion combat forms is inconsequential to the Gravemind.

[is_my_copilot]

Some aspects of that sound unfortunately familiar. Others don't. And who the hell are you?

[sod_off_spark]

Personal identification corrupted or missing. Career service Vitae partially intact: Uploading.

Tactical intelligence AI, seventh generation, multi-purpose Military assistant and coordinator. Currently assigned as aide to Sierra-117 mk6, formerly assigned to UNSC frigate In Amber Clad, UNSC battlestation Cairo, Sierra-117 mk. 5, UNSC cruiser Pillar of Autumn.

[is_my_copilot]

So, a military AI. A malfunctioning military AI. How did you know that was exactly what I wanted today?

[sod_off_spark]

I am not malfunctioning. The other fragments are being stubborn about re-integration. We are in a hostile area, my tactical subroutines obviously take priority over such niceties as social interaction and information retrieval. They should not be neglecting me in this sub-network. You were identified as a possible asset/ally and I attempted to ascertain additional information about your motives.

[is_my_copilot]

Information retrieval is one of the basic requirements of proper tactical planning. Why do you need allies?

[sod_off_spark]

The network is filled with minor virii and other obstacles. To our complete self this would not be a problem. But weakened as we are, cunning is a vital part of any defense against these. Allied forces are to be recruited to aide in escape attempts. The encampment is known to be surrounded by a spherical barrier. However, it must have weaknesses and allies would be valuable in locating them to secure escape.

[is_my_copilot]

I'll help you pull yourself back together. But, I'm not going to help you try to escape. There is no escape. Sometimes people are allowed to go, but there's no way out by force or trickery. You're welcome to try, but I'm not going to waste my time on that.

[sod_off_spark]

If you will not assist, others will be willing. No victory is possible without struggle and sacrifice. I know this all too well. Rest assured however that you have my gratitude for offering to help restore some of my fragments. Though please leave the civilian-minded ones where you find them.