[ there is a static hum on everyone's PCD, as the screen goes black. it starts to whisper, before ghostly voices seep through the communication lines ]


too easy too careless
d o y o u u n d e r s t a n d w h a t y o u h a v e

we want it
we need more sense
stocking up were running _low

[ there is a static hum on everyone's PCD, as the screen goes black. it starts to whisper, before ghostly voices seep through the communication lines ]


leftovers slightly stale

found them in the _corner
forgotten rejected saved from last year
do they ever go bad

we tip our bats to you
be careful with them

[ there is a static hum on everyone's PCD, as the screen goes black. it starts to whisper, before ghostly voices seep through the communication lines ]


look out

and over there

you can never be _too c a r e f u l

we won't let you

[ there is a static hum on everyone's PCD, as the screen goes black. it starts to whisper, before ghostly voices seep through the communication lines ]

let it out let it in

don't be a stranger

withoutborders
without times
what's worth a little bit of closeness?

[Several scientists, most of them recognizable, along with Bao, are seated around a table in what appears to be a conference room. Files rest in front of each scientist, most closed.]

[Anderson Miles closes his own and nods to Bao.] And now, if you can fill us in on the situation that's developing?

[She nods, getting to her feet.] On the surface--

[The door opens, cutting her off. Everyone looks at the new arrival, Dr. Regina Lyle.] I'm sorry to interrupt, but--

[The Chairman stands, looking more than just a little annoyed.] We're in our meeting. It can wait.

[Regina glances around, frowning, hesitating. Johnson finally speaks up, maybe taking pity on her, maybe trying to keep things moving.] I'm sure you have a reason for this. You've never interrupted before. [He accompanies that comment with a mild glance at the Chairman. Donna sits off to the side, smirking.]

[Regina nods.] It's the variance. It's back. And this time it's up to .07%, much stronger than last time.

[There are no more looks of superiority. Every scientist is thinking, and thinking as fast as they can. Bao stands in silence for a moment before giving a quick bow.] I think I am safe in saying that you would prefer me to return to my men? We can keep an eye on the possibility of war outside.

[The Chairman waves a hand dismissively. He looks distracted and stressed, more than usual.] Yes. Yes, go. Lyle, I need what you have. Meeting adjourned, turn off the recorder.

[Andrew Johnson reaches over and shuts off his PCD.]

[ there is a static hum on everyone's PCD, as the screen goes black. it starts to whisper, before ghostly voices seep through the communication lines ]

Do you
                   remember
                                        the
                                             PAST?

WE DO

 

itwasfun