010 // video

[ingenue_bait]

[The video is of a young man, dressed in some combination of Western and Middle Eastern wear, with a black mask covering his features. He might be in his late teens, he might be thirty--it is difficult to tell. What is immediately noticeable is that, unlike the Erik seen until now, he is... seen. In full view, and apparently comfortable with that

Comments

[empirical_data]

[Today is going to feel more chronologically extensive than most. Data can tell. He returns those greetings in the same languages.] Erik, are you at all familiar with the contents of your room?

[ingenue_bait]

[Erik starts, staring at the image on the screen. But he doesn't hide.]

You know my name. Curious. Do I know you? I'm familiar with most of the items, though they are not mine.

[empirical_data]

[He raises his hands, indicating for him to be calm. He does note, however, that Erik hasn't darted away.] I do, somewhat. You are aboard a [terminology. It's confusing.] ship, one that is not confined to a set time, nor water. The items you see belong to you. Many of us know of your excellent musical skill.

A very kind woman will come to help with you shortly. But I can keep you company over this until her arrival.

[ingenue_bait]

[There is a sense that Erik is almost... amused.]

Those sound like words design to placate one you wish to keep in one place. As does your flattery. Still, you amuse me. Have I been knocked on the head?

[empirical_data]

I simply wish to keep you calm. [Though he seems reasonably calm as it is.] If you can reach a window, you will see my assertions are accurate.

No, you have not. You may examine your head if you wish.

[ingenue_bait]

[Erik departs briefly; in the corner of the screen one can see him opening the door, and returning.]

I have already surmised I've been abducted for some sort of sideshow. I should inform you, I do not take kindly to performances not personally authorized by myself.

[He seems very confident about this.]

I have no need to. Concussion is generally accompanied by headache and nausea, and I feel neither. But my lack of memory is curious.

[empirical_data]

I have no desire to request performances that you have not authorized. You are indeed far younger than the Erik that I am acquainted with. I also have no fondness for the idea of sideshows.

[He reaches up and holds to either side of his scalp and pops open two cranial plates. Turns his head to show Erik, and then replaces them.]

[ingenue_bait]

Nor do I, but one must... make... a... living...

[He trails off as Data... opens his head. And leans in closer to the screen.]

Amazing. Of more scientific import than, I think, audience potential, but fascinating.