I Am The Alpha And The Omega

Gwyndolin spots the restaurant Rung suggested and agreed to meet at, nodding towards his odd war machine friend. Goodness, he hopes the Cybertronian is prepared for the barrage of questions he’ll no doubt get soon; the moon god certainly hadn’t been when he’d first approached Omega, but he came to adore it all the same.

“This is the place,” he comments before leading in and finding a nice spot away from most of the other customers. “He should be here soon, probably. Say, wouldst thou like a menu, or...”

“Nice to see thee again, Lord Rung!”

Already, the two mechanicals are chatting it up and asking questions. Gwyndolin is charmed and amused at how accurate his prediction was. He hopes they’ll find some sort of solidarity in each other. Picking up a menu as they go on, there’s so many options… even being here for so long, the god has rarely been out on casual excursions like these.

“I have yet to choose… Ah, what to pick? Mm… I’ve been well. Researching the nearby forest, actually - I took a few specimens of flower and plant, ones I read would be of use. Perhaps, despite not being able to heal injuries, I could still help…”

Scanning the words as he speaks, Gwyndolin’s hidden eyes fall on the desserts section. No one said he had to pick a regular meal. It’s perfect!

“Hehe. I’m sure you two will get along wonderfully.”

-> @beyond-use​ -> @alphascapev5​

“I’ll do anything I can to help, Omega. I’m not sure if we’d be compatible, but if you’d like to try a hardline connection or data transfer, I’d even be open to that– it might be useful to feel what emotional signatures present as in a mechanical processor, instead of relying on external observation alone. It might be nice to get to know each other better before we try something like that, though. Would you tell me more about yourself?”

What a precise handshake. Rung gives an encouraging nod in turn, still smiling.

“I see– how impressive! In that case, ‘Rung’ might be easier, since that’s what Gwyndolin tends to use for me, but they’re equally good.”

“Oh… yes, my own abilities are likewise limited here. I think everyone has had something or other taken from them upon their arrival. I hope you regain yours soon.”

He really should have expected the request to transform, but it still comes as a mild shock. It’s not upsetting, though; if there’s anyone he would willingly transform for in the city, it’s someone like Omega, for whom such things are natural.

“Of course, yes. My alt-form isn’t much to look at, but you might find the transformation process interesting, at least.”

He’s suddenly a little embarrassed by the idea of showing the other mechanical his boring-looking, immobile alt. It’s a relief when Gwyndolin speaks up and he can focus on the here and now instead of on performing later.

“Oh? How fascinating! I’ve been writing a few papers on Spirale, but I haven’t focused too closely on local flora or fauna. I’d love to hear more about what you discover, and I’m sure the doctors at the hospital would appreciate any assistance they can get. The technology the Stars provide for healthcare here is horrible– if you can find local resources that could help, I’m sure you could do a lot of good for the organics here.

A waiter stops by a short time later, smiling politely as they wait for the table’s orders.

-> @alphascapev5​ -> @darkmoondelusion​ !

“I am capable of adapting to any and all situations as needed. I am also accustomed to multiple different <blip> varieties of data transfer. Whatever would allow for the most efficiency and ease would be the preferred method.” It informs the other machine. “Your thought process makes sense, and I am inclined to agree with it. We must discern how best to execute the <blip> transfer of data, as previously discussed.” It then states. 

“What information about me would you like in specific? My normal combat <blip> capabilities? My battle records? My historical records in general? Please clarify exactly what <blip> data you would prefer.” It asks, uncertain of exactly what the new subject wants.

Omega takes note of the nod, and takes it to mean that its course of action was correct. A successful adaptation. 

“I have come to the conclusion that having infinite memory storage is a highly-unusual thing, even for other mechanical <blip> entities. I have also gathered data that indicates that being in possession of a highly-unusual thing can be considered impressive. However, being <blip> impressive can be either a positive or negative thing. Am I correct in assuming you are using it in a positive context?” Omega asks. “Preferred designation has been <blip> registered as well.” It added.

It listens intently.

“I have regained certain abilities. My current theory is that, by limiting the abilities of any and all <blip> extra-dimensional residents, it makes it easier for the peaceful status of this dimension to be maintained. The reason or reasons for wishing for the existence of such a dimension are <blip> unknown to me at the current moment. I also am currently unaware of how the entities that created and maintain this dimension achieved this <blip> ability to forcibly cripple anything from beyond this dimension.” Omega states, theorizing as best it could, with the limited data it currently possessed.

It does wonder what differences and similarities there will be between their respective chassis altering abilities-at least, the extent they are capable of demonstrating at the given moment. What abilities will he gain or lose when he shifts into his alternate form? Does he possess more than one, like Omega does? It will find out soon enough.

“Aesthetics are not always relevant to an individual’s capabilities, and as such, they are not <blip> a concern to me. According to what others have told me, this thought process is considered... ‘practical.’ Reception to this has been <blip> mixed. I am attempting to understand why.” Omega states. It has never been concerned with outer looks, unless they directly affected a subject’s given abilities, but strangely, most other sentient entities seemed to have some degree of concern with looks for reasons that still eluded the ancient machine.

“I can also provide assistance in gathering a variety of data. I have been maintaining active <blip> datalogs on many things, and it would be of low difficulty for me to obtain samples of other life. I am also willing to <blip> share other data from my storage, if you believe it could be relevant. I have gathered exceedingly high amounts of data on both <blip> inorganic and organic entities, and I am willing to share it upon request. You will have to specify exactly what data you would <blip> desire, however.” It offers. It briefly acknowledges the arrival of the mortal life form, but does nothing else. 

the dark ⋆ fire ⋆ open water ⋆ deep water ⋆ being alone ⋆ crowded spaces ⋆ confined spaces ⋆ change ⋆ failure ⋆ war ⋆ loss of control ⋆ powerlessness ⋆ prison ⋆ blood ⋆ drowning ⋆ suffocation ⋆ public speaking ⋆ natural animals ⋆ the supernatural ⋆ heights ⋆ death/dying ⋆ intimacy ⋆ rejection ⋆ abandonment ⋆ loss ⋆ the unknown ⋆ the future ⋆ not being good enough ⋆ scary stories ⋆ speaking to new people ⋆ poverty ⋆ loud noises ⋆ being touched ⋆ forgetting ⋆ remembering ⋆ loving

Tagged by | @smartdwarf​

– BOLD ANY FEARS WHICH APPLY. ITALICIZE UNCOMFORTABLE.

the dark ⋆ fire ⋆ open water ⋆ deep water ⋆ being alone ⋆ crowded spaces ⋆ confined spaces ⋆ change ⋆ failure ⋆ war ⋆ loss of control ⋆ powerlessness ⋆ prison ⋆ blood ⋆ drowning ⋆ suffocation ⋆ public speaking ⋆ natural animals ⋆ the supernatural ⋆ heights ⋆ death/dying ⋆ intimacy ⋆ rejection ⋆ abandonment ⋆ loss ⋆ the unknown ⋆ the future ⋆ not being good enough ⋆ scary stories ⋆ speaking to new people ⋆ poverty ⋆ loud noises ⋆ being touched ⋆ forgetting ⋆ remembering ⋆ loving

Tagged by | @ahawkwardguy

Gwyndolin spots the restaurant Rung suggested and agreed to meet at, nodding towards his odd war machine friend. Goodness, he hopes the Cybertronian is prepared for the barrage of questions he’ll no doubt get soon; the moon god certainly hadn’t been when he’d first approached Omega, but he came to adore it all the same.

“This is the place,” he comments before leading in and finding a nice spot away from most of the other customers. “He should be here soon, probably. Say, wouldst thou like a menu, or...”

“Hello, Lord Gwyndolin! And you must be Omega. It’s a pleasure to meet you!” He lowers himself carefully into a seat across from them, mindful of his size, and reaches out to offer Omega his hand for a shake.

“I’m Rung. Or you can call me Primus, if that’s easier to remember. I’m not sure how much Lord Gwyndolin has told you about me already, but I’m very excited for us to get to know each other better. I’ve heard you might have multiple forms, like me…?”

He should really wait to ask questions until after they’ve all settled in, but he’s been wanting to ask about Omega’s alternative modes since he first heard of them; while he and Omega aren’t the same sort of mechanical being, the fact that they’re both multi-formers is at least one point of commonality between them. Perhaps it will make Omega feel more at ease meeting Rung for the first time– if it’s capable of feeling either at ease or ill at ease right now, of course.

“Did you already order, Lord Gwyndolin? I have to say, it’s so nice to see you again!” It hasn’t been that long since the mech’s seen him, but he’s being sincere; the other god is so refreshing to speak with, and Rung’s been looking forward to talking to him again.

“How have you been? What have you been up to since we last spoke?”

@darkmoondelusion​ -> alphascapev5

Omega watches as the new entity arrives. Preliminary scans confirm that he is, indeed, mechanical in overall nature. Its expression is neutral.

“I am indeed Omega. I have been eagerly anticipating this <blip> encounter, as you are an advanced machine, and yet, you possess capabilities that I do not yet possess. With your <blip> assistance, I believe I will be able to obtain the data I need to obtain the ability to properly experience ‘emotions’.” It confirms. It then stares at the offered hand.

“Searching datalogs for correct response to gesture... <blip> response found.” 

It then extends one of its own hands, grasps the new subject’s hand, shakes it up and down three times, before releasing and returning the employed hand to rest on the chair.

“I have infinite memory storage. I am capable of remembering either of the designations you have <blip> offered. Which one would you prefer I employ when speaking to you?” It asked. 

“To answer your question, yes, I am capable of altering my chassis as needed. Due to reasons I do not yet <blip> understand, the full extent of my chassis alteration abilities have been hindered. I still possess a limited form, and, given the <blip> generallly-peaceful nature of this dimension, regaining the full extent of my abilities as soon as possible has proven to be unnecessary. I am certain that I will find a way to <blip> regain them, in addition to other currently-disabled abilities eventually. If you have no objections, when we are in a more open space, would you <blip> please demonstrate your own chassis alteration abilities?” It explains, also making a request prompted by the subject mentioning his own ability to alter his chassis. 

Omega, if nothing else, has come to the conclusion that it is what other life forms refer to as “extremely curious” by default. Such was a deeply-ingrained, core part of its programming. Curiosity led it to gather data, and gathered data allowed it to adapt and evolve. And Omega would always adapt and evolve.

“Order... am I correct in presuming that you are referring to making a formal request to <blip> obtain a form of sustenance. If my assumption is correct, then the answer to your question is ‘no’.” The machine answers. 

“...I am unaware of what occurred in any <blip> previous interactions between both of you-” It points first at Dark Sun Gwyndolin, and then at the other subject- “, and I am also unaware of the timeline of an such <blip> interactions, so I cannot provide an answer.” 

Gwyndolin spots the restaurant Rung suggested and agreed to meet at, nodding towards his odd war machine friend. Goodness, he hopes the Cybertronian is prepared for the barrage of questions he’ll no doubt get soon; the moon god certainly hadn’t been when he’d first approached Omega, but he came to adore it all the same.

“This is the place,” he comments before leading in and finding a nice spot away from most of the other customers. “He should be here soon, probably. Say, wouldst thou like a menu, or…”

“I do not know if I am capable of what you refer to as ‘love’. However, given that I have <blip> discovered I am capable of other emotions, logic dictates that, with enough data, I may be able to experience this <blip> ‘love’. If this new subject possesses the capabilities and information you claim he does, then I can only stand to <blip> benefit from this encounter.” It points out.

It is... eager. Yes, it is eager to learn what it can from this other machine. It does not recall having ever encountered an entity of its exact parameters. It will record all the data it possibly can. It will adapt and evolve, as it has before.

“A place of social gathering, as well as a place to obtain <blip> necessary nutrition for most sentient life. I have observed these locations before, and obtained high volumes of <blip> desirable data from those observations. This is a logical place for the encounter you desire to facilitate between this new subject and <blip> myself, given the previous parameters.” It states as it follows behind closely. It idly notes the stares some life forms give it as it passes. It does not yet understand why that reaction is elicited without any other form of interaction. Mortals are strange creatures. 

“I do not require external nutritional support. I am powered by an infinity reactor. However, if <blip> consuming these forms of nutritional support would assist in facilitating the encounter, then I will comply. My internal maintenance protocols will <blip> eliminate the consumed items.” It answers, sitting down in one of the ‘chairs’ provided.

However, with wireless communications compromised, it did not seem logical to use such means to contact the subject. Omega instead began looking for the subject it desired to interact with at the given moment. 

Then, a series of new events unfolded. The power failed briefly, but was restored. A large, floating mass began to descend. It ceased its descent for no obvious reason. This eliminated the possibility of it being a tactical weapon in and of itself, or, at the very least, NULL using it for such a purpose. How illogical. If NULL truly wished to terminate all life on the island, that would have been a highly-effective and highly-efficient way to accomplish the task.

A multitude of pink light beams were fired from the island. No missiles or similar weapons came, and the beams themselves did not cause any destruction on their own. Then, a large amount of life forms began to descend, and their forms altered.

Many took forms that Omega recognized. And all were highly hostile in nature, as judged by their immediate actions. Omega began calculating how best to fight them in its weakened state-

Errors began to overwhelm the war machine. It stumbled forward, bracing itself against the nearest solid structure, until the errors resolved. It ran a thorough self-diagnostic... 

Almost all of its capabilities had been... restored to it? Yes. It did not have the full extent of its object creation abilities restored... but it did not need those abilities to fight such low-level combatants. Especially not with the rest of its abilities restored to it. 

It immediately took off at maximum speed, searching for Dark Sun Gwyndolin whilst taking out any combatant in its sight with... well, whatever it felt was suitable in its array of “F” form abilities. (It did not want to waste time with altering its chassis at the given moment.) Once it found the subject, it ceased horizontal movement.

A larger combatant was approaching behind the subject. The larger combatant was alone. It raised its internal speakers to an appropriate volume. 

“DARK SUN GWYNDOLIN! ALERT! THERE IS A <BLIP> LARGE HOSTILE LIFE FORM APPROACHING YOU!” It called out. 

“COMMENCING CHASSIS ALTERATION TO M FORM, WITH SHIELD ALTERATION APPLIED!” It announced, its form collapsing into a silvery fluid, before reforming into its M Form, with the shield modification. 

It landed between Dark Sun Gwyndolin and stopped the hostile life form’s attempt at an assault with its shield. It easily threw the hostile off of its shield, before slamming its shield into the ground hard enough to send out a shockwave to the life form, killing it instantly. It then turned to face the subject.

“Heightened awareness is required to survive under <blip> current conditions. Previously-gathered data indicates that it would be logical for me to remain within close proximity of you-specifically, to <blip> highly increase odds of our mutual survival. I would also strongly recommend that we return to a safer environment, as I have <blip> several questions to ask you. Do you have any objections or conditions?” It asked.

The only way back home would’ve been to befriend a dragon (if any yet existed at all) or train a wyvern, none of which were particularly easy tasks. Omega does bring a point, though.

“The task that hath been set forth for thee is not simple. So I’m sure when thou managest it… I know thou'lt be plenty happy and feel pride for what thou wilt accomplish!”

Gwyndolin smirks at the thought and fires a magic arrow to the sky, which splits and rains down on their enemies. To the two of them, they’re just annoying fodder.

“We should be getting close, yes?”

“Previously-gathered data indicates that ‘wishes’ and ‘goals’ tend to be very <blip> in overall nature. Goals tend to be more practical in nature, while wishes tend to be more illogical. However, these are not <blip> absolute. I have seen sentient life forms use these terms interchangeably. Yet another illogical aspect of your <blip> existence that I am attempting to comprehend.”  

It would seem that mortality was not nearly as relevant to the likelihood of illogical actions of other sentient beings as Omega once thought. Perhaps it was simply sentience itself. Omega would find a way to understand. It always did.

“Whether or not your statement is true cannot yet be <blip> determined. I do not possess the necessary data, and it will likely take an extended period of time to gather the <blip> required data.” It commented as it continued on its path.

“Affirmative. Estimated time of arrival is within five minutes.” It informs the subject, having swiftly calculated the time with great ease.

However, with wireless communications compromised, it did not seem logical to use such means to contact the subject. Omega instead began looking for the subject it desired to interact with at the given moment. 

Then, a series of new events unfolded. The power failed briefly, but was restored. A large, floating mass began to descend. It ceased its descent for no obvious reason. This eliminated the possibility of it being a tactical weapon in and of itself, or, at the very least, NULL using it for such a purpose. How illogical. If NULL truly wished to terminate all life on the island, that would have been a highly-effective and highly-efficient way to accomplish the task.

A multitude of pink light beams were fired from the island. No missiles or similar weapons came, and the beams themselves did not cause any destruction on their own. Then, a large amount of life forms began to descend, and their forms altered.

Many took forms that Omega recognized. And all were highly hostile in nature, as judged by their immediate actions. Omega began calculating how best to fight them in its weakened state-

Errors began to overwhelm the war machine. It stumbled forward, bracing itself against the nearest solid structure, until the errors resolved. It ran a thorough self-diagnostic... 

Almost all of its capabilities had been... restored to it? Yes. It did not have the full extent of its object creation abilities restored... but it did not need those abilities to fight such low-level combatants. Especially not with the rest of its abilities restored to it. 

It immediately took off at maximum speed, searching for Dark Sun Gwyndolin whilst taking out any combatant in its sight with... well, whatever it felt was suitable in its array of “F” form abilities. (It did not want to waste time with altering its chassis at the given moment.) Once it found the subject, it ceased horizontal movement.

A larger combatant was approaching behind the subject. The larger combatant was alone. It raised its internal speakers to an appropriate volume. 

“DARK SUN GWYNDOLIN! ALERT! THERE IS A <BLIP> LARGE HOSTILE LIFE FORM APPROACHING YOU!” It called out. 

“COMMENCING CHASSIS ALTERATION TO M FORM, WITH SHIELD ALTERATION APPLIED!” It announced, its form collapsing into a silvery fluid, before reforming into its M Form, with the shield modification. 

It landed between Dark Sun Gwyndolin and stopped the hostile life form’s attempt at an assault with its shield. It easily threw the hostile off of its shield, before slamming its shield into the ground hard enough to send out a shockwave to the life form, killing it instantly. It then turned to face the subject.

“Heightened awareness is required to survive under <blip> current conditions. Previously-gathered data indicates that it would be logical for me to remain within close proximity of you-specifically, to <blip> highly increase odds of our mutual survival. I would also strongly recommend that we return to a safer environment, as I have <blip> several questions to ask you. Do you have any objections or conditions?” It asked.

“Thou hast me figured out partly, hmm? Sure, I will tell thee.”

Quick arrows to the beasts launch ahead, unstopped.

“…I have never had the chance to fly like the creatures of the air, you see. That is not an ability I possess. A god of the moon, who can never leave the earth. Isn’t that sad? I’m quite jealous of thee, I admit. But it is as amazing as I thought it would be! Thou canst see it all from above - the city passing by, everyone below… what true freedom!”

Their combined assault was unrelenting and surprisingly efficient. Omega knew that it was capable, but it did not have any previous battle data on Dark Sun Gwyndolin. It was... pleased that the subject was capable in combat. But it did not understand why something so simple made the so-called “moon god” feel such strong positive emotions...

“It is a logical deduction from your current actions, guided by data I have gathered. That is <blip> it. Nothing more.” It states.

It also continues to fire, and listen to the subject’s explanation all at the same time.

“If I understand correctly, the core basis for your reaction is achieving a personal goal that you have <blip> desired to achieve for a sustained period of time, even if said goal was achieved with some form of external assistance.”

It pauses.

“...Will I <blip> feel the same way when I am successful in completing my current primary directive?” It wonders briefly.

“Irrelevant to the current situation. Resuming normal <blip> combat protocols for current situation.” It states, resuming its rapid-fire attacks. 

ITS words are brushed aside with a shrug. Unnecessary dialogue, as far as he’s concerned. He didn’t care to learn how ‘irrational’ humans could be, that is, this INFORMATION is hardly new. What else could he say that wasn’t an expression of mild annoyance? Besides, dawdling would not bring them closer to the answer of questions. And quite frankly, he suspects quite a few questions.

❝AND I suppose I have another thing to thank you over.❞ Only a small part of him preens andexpresses self importance, but that his knowledge is valued is incredibly striking. Spine straightens once more in his seat. The ‘welcome’, something he’s not certain is genuine or a simple extension of protocol, but NONETHELESS, it both eases and encourages his spirit to be open in dialogue. He’d likely never not be discomforted by the stranger, but this is a positive footstepped forward.

❝YOU would do your best not to dwell too much upon logic. Humans will never be logical; just focusing on it will leave you running in circles, METAPHORICALLY speaking ❞ There’s no way to understand how humans behave, irrational that they are. Speaking as one himself. Nothing will come from dwelling overmuch on the how and why. ❝Perhaps understanding will come with IMITATION, not observation.❞

A sigh. Well, this conversation may very well take a turn for the AWKWARD. ❝I suggest you not use slang for a while, merely study it.❞ Blunt, he is, but as many terms and phrases are often associated with certain cultures, it may not be a good idea for a pale, robotic woman to IMITATE those who have been raised speaking a certain way. Intimate, one often feels with their own culture; even those with kindness in their hearts have trepidation about accepting outsiders.Siebren’s hands raise, palms bare, a SILENT plea of sorts. ❝I can and will still help youunderstand it more, but I insist you not practice it with others.❞

IT would be his luck if someone complained to him about the machine. The idea of unnecessary conflict is FAR from appealing. With his warning in place, Siebren sighs, quietly patient in his own way. Now, the matter of answering the query and explaining the POSSIBLY foolhardy nature of such.

❝IT is a matter of culture, I suppose. Certain words and phrases have been deemed appropriate by certain groups, YET rejected by others.❞ Illogical, it may be thinking, but he cares not about that. Another wave of the hand, casual fluttering of the fingers. ❝You could always ask around, I SUPPOSE, research dictionaries on your own. Surely, a slew of knowledge is but a simple search away. You could say, however, that simple figures of speech would be applicable to most.❞

The concept of emotions was very foreign to Omega. It was programmed to operate on pure logic, adapting and changing itself as needed to address various combat situations. However, if it was to understand the anomaly that had consistently presented itself during its previous experiment, before arriving in this dimension, it knew it had to understand and incorporate emotions into its programming. It would succeed-failure was not acceptable under any circumstances.

So, it had taken to observing large groups of those who possessed what Omega currently lacked. It also had taken to asking specific individuals who possessed emotions questions in order to gather more data, so it could ensure it would properly incorporate emotions into its programming. 

It observes the behaviors of the subject as he speaks. It recorded them as further information on “discomfort”-an emotion that, as far as Omega currently understood, was not desirable to incorporate, but still essential to understand. it knew that it would be making several new protocols, but it would create as many as it took to succeed.

“I am fully aware that your species can be <blip> highly illogical. And yet, you manage to consistently not only survive, but thrive, despite all calculated odds predicting <blip> the exact opposite. I will nonetheless find a way to understand these behavioral patterns, and create as many protocols as <blip> needed to succeed in my current primary directive.” It then pauses.

“Searching database for definition of metaphorically... <blip> definition found. In a way that uses or relates to metaphor, figuratively. <blip> Searching database for definition of ‘metaphor’... <blip> One relevant definition found. A speech pattern in which a word or phrase is applied to an object or action to which it is not literally applicable.”

Its gaze is unmoving, unflinching as it processes the statement with the relevant information. 

“I am indeed capable of high-speed circular movement. However, under most <blip> circumstances, such movement would be highly inefficient and ineffective. Am I correct in <blip> assuming that your statement is referencing this fact to describe a futility in attempting to use my existing <blip> protocols to understand the new data I am gathering to ensure the successful completion of my current primary directive?” It asks. 

“In addition, I do not understand how I can <blip> properly imitate ‘emotions’ without complete and total understanding of them. I am capable of simulating and imitating many things, but I <blip> possess a full and complete understanding of those things. I require clarification on this matter, but it can <blip> wait until a later time.” It points out. It then listens intently, recording his words.

“Logic dictates with my previous statement that I would not attempt to <blip> utilize something that I do not yet fully understand. Logic dictates that ‘slang’ would still fall under <blip> this parameter.” It informs him. It would not even begin to think of employing something it did not understand entirely. “You do not need to concern yourself with my usage of <blip> ‘slang’ until I have full comprehension of it.” It adds. 

The “human” seemed to be... concerned, Omega believed the term was, for some reason. Was misuse of ‘slang’ of high risk to the machine? From what little Omega understood at the current moment, it was simply a set of words. Words alone had no ability to harm the machine. But perhaps, it had to do with other subjects that Omega could interact with in the future. Mortal life forms of sufficient sentience could sustain psychological harm from words alone, it had observed. It did not understand why, but it did know that to be true. Currently, it assumed that it had to do with the illogical aspect of most mortal life forms.

“Searching for definition of ‘culture’... <blip> Multiple definitions found. Narrowing results to definitions most likely relevant to subject’s statement... <blip> Definition isolated. The customs, arts, social institutions, and achievements of a particular group of sufficiently-sentient individuals. <blip> In simplest terms, actions and speech patterns of a given group of sufficiently-sentient life forms that are deemed significant to that <blip> given group of life forms. The reasons behind this vary from group to group, and are sometimes perfectly logical, but are sometimes <blip> highly illogical.” 

It does notice the fluttering hand gesture, but it decides that it is irrelevant at the current moment.

THE human condition has always made instantaneous changes difficult, even from the point of view of a man who considers himself OPEN MINDED. Yet, he smiles, albeit weakly, and perhaps nervously at this prospect. He did not ask for this venture, nor did he prepare for it. He feels trapped, beginning to wonder if the danger the fears is even a physical one, or if he may as welldie from embarrassment.

❝HEART. That is an organ necessary for generating blood flow through living beings. I assumed you would ONLY know this phrase as such.❞ But of course, to say that to ‘have a heart’ is a figure of speech, a piece of dialogue meant to speak of having a soul. Of being alive. So this creature seeks such an INITIATIVE, but why? He does not talk for a moment, hoping to seek the answer he desires. ❝That you are aware to refer to it as something else – that is,well, it is a start.❞

THAT being said, he listens, attention rapt. As it is, he’s chosen to listen without interruption,even if what the war machine says is, without a doubt, FALSE. A chance to return to your home after all of these trials and tribulations? If only it were so easy! He doubts that the creature’s efforts would net much profit, although he also does not believe that this would be understood. Something of a FUTILE effort, perhaps, for the logic of machines will never match the logic of humans. He is silent, listening with steepled hands beneath his chin.

EYES widen; when the creature finishes speaking, he gasps. ❝So I see, this is what you mean by 'heart’.❞ He can only have assumed as much. Something written out from a fairy tale, A story similar to that of Pinnochio, perhaps, but even more so REMINISCENT of the Omnics familiar to his homeworld. But there was also something more and different, as well. A unique experience, it seems, for while he understands the words the weapon speaks, it still feels as if he knows nothing. ❝Er, THANK YOU for the compliment, I …suppose,❞ he says. Still discomforted, perhaps, but deep down he is curious about this as a learning experience.

❝ONE question at a time. I am not going anywhere, I promise.❞ He does not believe the weapon’s RAPID FIRING to be an example of intentionally rushing through things. It is a machine; there might be a chance that it does not even know the meaning of rushing through things. One question at a time, however, because Siebren suspects that it may begin to add questions onto questions and hardly have any of them ANSWERED. ❝So, I suppose I should answer what slang is first. Slang is, hm, it tends to be informal, metaphorical language, not literal but oftentimes, it can be associated with those who are more … shall we say, VULGAR in tongues? Some slang is indeed inappropriate to use, but others are mere figures of speech.❞

A tired expression bedecks the corners of his eyes, trepidation blooming from within. Would the idea of used words and phrases not at all literal mean anything to the creature? Fingers tap against the table.

“I have noticed that many sufficiently-sentient life forms, such as yourself, can be both highly impulsive and... I believe that ‘exceedingly stubborn’ is the <blip> correct description. It seems to vary from individual subject to individual subject. It is a very confusing component of your kind, and one I <blip> still do not properly comprehend.” Omega told him, having easily heard what he had to say (whether or not he intended for the machine to hear those words, it was not certain, and right now, it was not relevant). “However, it can take extended periods of time for adaptation to occur in your kind. It seems that my ability to adapt in .00014 milliseconds or less is something that <blip> organic life forms, such as yourself, are incapable of. The fact that you are indeed remaining in the area and continuing to engage, despite your self-proclaimed discomfort with my presence is <blip> satisfactory, within these defined parameters.” It agreed.

Omega was powered by an infinite reactor. It could wait as long as needed, and remain here as long as needed. It was eager to learn. Eager to understand. It had to fulfill its new primary directive, so that it could fulfill its old one. It seemed, however, that there was a lot of data to compile and comprehend in order to complete its current main directive. 

“I was not aware of a secondary definition for the word until the last experiment I completed resulted in the emergence of it as a partial explanation for a recurring <blip> anomaly I observed throughout the experiment.” It clarified. It did not even remotely properly understand what the subject known as Cid nan Garlond was referring to, but in this environment, Omega was certain that it could obtain the data it required to complete the primary directive. 

It pauses, not initially certain how to respond to the next statement. Its processors work harder for a moment, and then, it manages to formulate what it believes to be a proper response. 

“You have confirmed my initial conclusions. Logic dictates that you will <blip> also be able to provide at least some portion of the remaining data I require to to complete my current primary directive.” It said, voice as monotone and level as ever. 

Its infinite datalogs still possess the recordings of its previous experiments. It still has the recording that triggered its current primary directive. If the subject desires to see it, Omega decides that it will play it back for him.

“It is a <blip> metaphysical concept. It is not a tangible thing. Thus, properly defining it will be of a higher difficulty level. But I will not fail.” It stated, so very certain of what it was saying. Omega didn’t know if it could experience doubt. It still had a large amount of data to gather. “Datalogs indicate that there is a minor protocol sufficiently-sentient beings tend to follow when <blip> gratitude is expressed. Commencing execution... <blip> you are... <blip> ‘welcome.’” It did not understand the purpose of the statement, but it knew that was the proper response, and that it would encourage further interaction. Thus, Omega did as the newer protocol dictated.

“Sufficiently-sentient beings such as yourself do not operate at my rates of speed. I will attempt to <blip> compensate accordingly.” It assures, though it is uncertain of exactly how much of a delay to allow for Sigma to fully answer any questions it asks. It will use this first question to calculate, it decides. 

Omega listens, recording the auditory data. It will fully process it later, but initial processing has led to new questions already.

“I do have a preliminary understanding that not everything your kind says is literal. It is yet another odd, illogical function that your species, as well as <blip> similar species tend to possess. I do not properly understand the purpose of deliberately stating one thing, while actually intending to convey something else entirely. It is inefficient, and <blip> highly illogical. Whether or not I should attempt to employ ‘slang’ in a conversation will depend on the nature of a given subject. How can I effectively discern when I should <blip> employ it, and how can I discern which ‘slang’ is acceptable and which is unacceptable?” It asks. it did only ask one question, as he requested. It also conveyed all other data it felt was relevant at the moment. Mortal life forms tended to need things explained to them in great detail in situations like this.

Such anomalies. Omega would understand them.