[Audio]

[original_is_best]

M.E. 722-XII-29th
2-Lasai-4th

Assume for a moment that what we are experiencing is a simulation rather than reality. Does anyone have an idea on how to test for such a thing?

Comments

[iustaegis]

[ No one likes to be told that they live in a false reality. For many, it would be a harrowing thought to even entertain.

The best simulations are pocket dimensions. Indistinguishable from reality, unless the subject is otherwise informed. She shutters someone in one, herself, beneath two layers: first, with sleep; second, within the dimension itself.

She hears the displeasure in his voice. ] Proving reality to be reality.... would be a whole new ordeal. Far more than any project you've been working on so far.

Perhaps... it would be best to let these ideas be, Besithia, and focus on what matters more.

[original_is_best]

I have never shied away from large projects. Such an oversight could nullify any other work I progress on. Why would I discontinue my search?

[iustaegis]

[ She cannot answer that question for him. ]

Are you not happy with what you currently have... Right here, right now?

[original_is_best]

[Again he took his time to consider it. He knew exactly what he intended to do, what he always intended to do, but he at least considered his circumstances here.]

I have never made it a habit to be dissatisfied with my life. [Sure, he got frustrated and all sometimes, but in general he leaned more positive.]

The circumstances here do not change my decision. Especially if they may be falsified. I would far prefer to face a horrible reality than be diverted by a comforting falsehood. If one flees, then there is no chance of creating a better reality for the future.

[iustaegis]

[ There's a soft sigh from her, as if she's relented on something. Alternatively, it could also just be a sign of exhaustion. ]

And if that horrible reality hurt those you care for?

[original_is_best]

If I were to care for someone...

It would be preferable to handle the truth together.

[He was very much, fiercely, opposed to living any sort of lie.]

[iustaegis]

[ There is a smile in her voice now. It seems that she approves of his answer. Isn't it wonderful? Alone, she doubts someone would be able to handle a devastating truth. Together with someone, one would be able to, for they would be able to assist each other to stand. ]

"If" you were?

[original_is_best]

By what precise measurement should we considered someone "cared for"? What status would they need to hold?

[iustaegis]

Who inspires you to be better than you are?

[original_is_best]

I do.

[iustaegis]

Anyone else?

[original_is_best]

Why would I require a third party in order to wish to make advancements?

[iustaegis]

[ She pauses. ]

Besithia.... Do you have... [ How does she ask this. ] trouble forming relationships?

[original_is_best]

[Did he have trouble?

Well, he accomplished what he needed to, and was able to navigate social necessities for work. It was a little hard to say when he didn't usually worrying about trying.]

...I have always been different from others, I am aware of that. It isn't uncommon for others to misunderstand me or my intentions. However, I have always been able to communicate what was necessary. I have never had much need to form anything beyond that.

[At least she didn't have to worry about offending him.]

[iustaegis]

[ Next question. ]

Have... you ever wanted more than was was "necessary" from those you interact with?

[original_is_best]

[Again, some thought, but this time he had a more definitive answer. It didn't take long to come upon that.]

Yes, I was interested in copulating once.

[And that was completely unnecessary behavior.]

[iustaegis]

[ Verstael!! ]

--Um.

[ GIVE. Her a moment. She needs to think of a response. He's so blunt! ] Companionship, I mean. [ And sure, sure, fucking can go hand in hand with that, but that wasn't just what she was implying! ]

[original_is_best]

[What? He was a fully functional adult. Adults did that sometimes.]

Hmm.

Do you mean something akin to a friend?

[iustaegis]

[ Damn this topic is awkward.

Still better than talking about testing if this is virtual reality. ]

Er, yes. Someone who you value. [ A beat, then she adds-- ] More than, say, whatever... um, practical use they have for you. [ Be that "practical use" working on a project for him or, uh, engaging in something sexual. ]

[original_is_best]

Hmm.

Well, I do have one friend.

[It had been officially recognized as a friendship, so he can confirm that now.

Did he value him beyond practical use? It did start with scientific fascination, and he had been rather helpful in many ways. But, he didn't always expect assistance.]

I suppose I prefer to have his company rather than not the majority of the time. [He had his limits, though. He was hardly obsessive and didn't necessarily want to be with someone 24/7.]

Why do you ask?

[iustaegis]

[ He has one friend, good. ]

You care about this friend, correct?

[original_is_best]

Define what you mean by 'care'.

[iustaegis]

[ Children know what care means! Children! How deep must she go with this man.

She's about to speak-- to say something else, perhaps, but stops. Only after a delayed moment does she speak again. ] Care... with feeling. With one's heart.

[original_is_best]

People use words like 'care' and 'love' to cover a wide range of emotions. The way one feels about one's mother is quite a bit different than how one feels about a desired lover.

...Or one should hope they would be different. I do not wish for my feelings to be misinterpreted due to vague terminology.

I appreciate his company as well as his assistance, and prefer that he remain unharmed.

[iustaegis]

Oh, Besithia...that-- what you just said, [ About appreciating company, preferring that he remain unharmed...! ] that is definitely considered caring for another.