nosediving | Connor

No. Why would it be?

[His designation is his designation? He doesn't see how it can be too familiar, cultures aside.]

I'm an android. An RK800, to be precise. I was given the designation... The "name" Connor, if you will, to facilitate my interactions with humans.

[Shang Qinghua stares, unblinking. Humans? His gaze darts to the circular LED on Connor's right temple, then back to Connor's face.]

This participant apologizes for his ignorance. What is an android?

[Ah. Oh, no. Time to explain this for the nth time... Even though it doesn't sound like Connor minds delving into android 101 again.]

A machine. We look human, but we're not. Is that easier to understand?

[Easy to understand. To grasp? No!]

You are . . . a machine made in the image of humans? How can that be? Has the technology of other worlds evolved so greatly . . . ?

[Is this what one would call an evolution? He's too flabbergasted to think about anything else. He can't take his eyes off Connor.]

I come from the year 2038. Androids have been active for over a decade.

[Rip, Shang Qinghua...]

But I take it it's not the same for you?

[They don't even have microwaves in his world. The only thing he knows for sure is that 2038 is a huge number.]

No. In my world, all of this [—he gestures around the laboratory—] has yet to exist, if it ever will.

[It's overwhelming!]

[Dang, boy. You're behind. Connor can't imagine a world without technology, given that he has technology to thank for his whole ass existence.]

I see. [Yikes.] Then— I'd be happy to help if you need assistance with [uh] all of this. I'm familiar with most, if not all, of the devices present in this room.

[Amazing. Are all androids this knowledgeable? He's grateful for the offer, but there's also way too much in the lab.]

The contest only lasts for six weeks. I'll devote that time to learning this machine called a computer.

[They're sitting right next to a bunch, and Connor saw him on one earlier, so he doesn't see the need to indicate anything.]

Some of our kind participants showed me the basics. I've been practicing.

Excellent.

[Computers are the most adequate for everyday use, so. He can't argue against that, instead only offering a polite nod.]

What have the others showed you? I can answer any questions you may have so far.

In many ways, the mouse imitates the movements of a hand while the keyboard is for writing, though I haven't tried this. The computer itself is a device for the storage and dissemination of information, not unlike a book.

There's definitely more, but this is what I have learned. Now it is a matter of deciding what to do next.

[Teach him how to play solitaire on the computer.]

[Hm.]

Have you tried using it for entertainment?

[He's gonna teach him to play solitaire.]

[Bless you.]

Entertainment? Besides writing?

Yes, like video games. Are you familiar with the term?

[He shakes his head.]

I'm not.

[...]

Are you familiar with games?

Of course I am.

[Please.]

I don't know what a video is.

Think of a photograph, but one where the image itself moves in order to display more than a single moment in time.

[He looks down and away, trying to understand, because he doesn't know what a photograph is either. But he snaps his head up soon enough.]

I think I understand. It sounds similar to something from my world. But what does a game have to do with it?

[... Save Shang Qinghua. Connor pauses for a moment, before finally responding.]

Perhaps it would be easier to show you. May I?

[Oh. He nods twice, but then pauses, like he's not sure if he should be moving or what for Connor to show him.]

Will you be using the computer?

With your permission.

It is me who's learning through your generosity. You have all the permission you need.

Thank you.

[And presuming he gives Connor enough space to scoot on over and access the computer, Connor's just gonna

go ahead

and

Feast your eyes.]

[Whoooa. He leans in for a closer look. So many numbers and letters.]

This is that entertainment you mentioned?

Correct. It's a card game. Are you familiar with the concept?

(no subject)

nosediving - 2019-03-03 05:32 (UTC) - Expand