It struck me a while ago that Oolon had perhaps a significantly more brilliant idea before his last regeneration than even he realized. By tinkering with the nano-virus integration systems in his Type 50 TTC, he was able to alter his regenerative process and effectively design himself a more advanced brain.
Because of the inherent limitations to the Timelord nano-virus system, there is, however, only so much he could accomplish here. After the arrival of Olyesti, I was able to update our own Matrix with the plans of more advanced TTC's designed after the Inner Council's arrival here in SL-Space, including the all-telepathic interface Type 60. I immediately installed it as my secondary control, and already I can see the potential benefits.
I have discovered the systems buried deep in the SASTAP computer that created my original Timelord body as a safety mechanism. The telepathic utilization of the SASTAP systems at the level I have undertaken recently has taken its toll on this incarnation – this body is nearly ready to regenerate. Before I do, I believe I can design a new body with the specific purpose of telepathic interface with the SASTAP systems without causing the serious physical side effects I have been experiencing.
Rassilon's vision of the SASTAP's function was for the primary pilot to be telepathically interfaced with an Artron based exterior shell that could materialize as a sort of super-body. I believe it is possible to take that one step farther. If the exterior of the SASTAP materializes as the nano-virus network in my own body, instead of the body itself, the same outcome can be accomplished, while not being tied to the interior of the TTC forever unable to leave.
See, the main downfall of the Timelord nano-virus regenerative system is energy. During a regeneration, the only energy source they have is the break down of the dying body. Many of the nano-viruses do not survive the energy conversion process, so a typical Timelord only has enough to successfully regenerate 12 times.
SASTAP created nano-viruses would have access to virtually unlimited TTC power for regenerative purposes. Since the exterior system also offers complete telepathic control, they would also be able to regenerate on command. This would effectively make a Timelord body in this state a shape shifter.
This process is obviously a complex one, and must be done in two stages. Upon my next regeneration, I must interface with the exterior and internal architectural systems telepathically, and design two things. First, I must design a physical body that can handle the telepathic rigors of controlling the SASTAP systems remotely. Then I must design a telepathic console interface based on the Type 60 design specifically to connect with the new body.
This will make my next incarnation an interim point. Upon that body regenerating, I can complete the process. Even this interim stage will almost certainly allow me to land and control a partially organic exterior form with huge advantages over my current limited abilities.
Monday
Sunday
Part 33 - Olyesti
It seems providence shines on us after all. Olyesti, one of three minute cities, has arrived in SL Space. In one of my random exploration sessions, I picked up some strange temporal readings. After doing some tinkering to achieve a successful materialization, I discovered a city of Timelord architecture in temporal suspension.
I could only stay a limited time (the exterior shell was in danger with the temporal disparity), but I was there long enough to confirm that a battered Olyesti plus nearly all of its original inhabitants had arrived here. I was able to open a semi-stable communication channel before needing to leave.
After speaking with several of the city's ruling Council, we are in the midst of two important projects. First, I believe I have made sufficient adjustments to the SASTAP to be able to land in Olyesti's time stream undamaged. I will take the New Gallifrey Inner Council there as a test run to initial formal diplomatic contact and discuss integration of Olyesti into the High Council.
We are currently exploring several options, including a unique Olyesti seat on the Council. No decision has been made, and will not be for some time. For now, we are all happy that so many new Timelords have been discovered alive and reasonably well.
Of course, this timely arrival once again begs the questions – who is sending us here, and why? Is it really an N-Space attack as originally thought, or are we being sent here to prepare for a greater, far more positive purpose?
I could only stay a limited time (the exterior shell was in danger with the temporal disparity), but I was there long enough to confirm that a battered Olyesti plus nearly all of its original inhabitants had arrived here. I was able to open a semi-stable communication channel before needing to leave.
After speaking with several of the city's ruling Council, we are in the midst of two important projects. First, I believe I have made sufficient adjustments to the SASTAP to be able to land in Olyesti's time stream undamaged. I will take the New Gallifrey Inner Council there as a test run to initial formal diplomatic contact and discuss integration of Olyesti into the High Council.
We are currently exploring several options, including a unique Olyesti seat on the Council. No decision has been made, and will not be for some time. For now, we are all happy that so many new Timelords have been discovered alive and reasonably well.
Of course, this timely arrival once again begs the questions – who is sending us here, and why? Is it really an N-Space attack as originally thought, or are we being sent here to prepare for a greater, far more positive purpose?
Monday
Part 32 - Distractions
When computers sleep, it's blackness. Nothingness. When a TARDIS computer “sleeps,” she wanders the vortex and looks at all of time and space. However, I'm neither now. I am a Timelord, and I came to realize a century or so ago that I have a responsibility.
You see, Timelords aspired past our station in life. We began with a lowly organic lifespan with weak bodies, small minds, and a stunted society. By sheer force of will, we became the most powerful single civilization in the universe. I think many Timelords, even if they are loathe to admit it, look at the universe with a certain wonder – well aware of the fact that we really have no business being able to experience what our technology allows us to.
So I found a hobby. An excuse to travel the universe and explore. Upon becoming organic, the flood of emotion every time I examined a past memory was crippling. Phaon assisted me greatly with mental control exercises, but I still found it very challenging. Humans from Earth seemed to struggle with this same issue, and one of the most consistent tools I found throughout Terran history for turning emotion into a positive, driving force is music.
So I took a few decades to train myself in the play of the most common human instruments. The SASTAP cloister room is now bursting with various instruments in temporal suspension from throughout history that have an especially emotional attachment. Here is what I have so far, with the list growing as I continue to explore music performance as a method of self-exploration.
1) An electronic keyboard taken from 2010 Earth used by composer Eric Whitacre to compose the choral piece Sleep.
2) A record player from taken from the 2371 home of human Captain Benjamin Sisko.
3) The harpsichord played by L.V. Beethoven in 1787 for a performance in which W.A. Mozart was in the audience.
4) The music stand used by L.V. Beethoven to conduct the first performance of his ninth symphony.
5) A grand piano from the home of Franz Liszt used to compose his second rhapsody for violin and piano.
6) The third violin created by Andrea Amati in 1558, taken from 1693 Earth.
7) A keytar purchased in 1984 by an unknown child, taken from an Earth colony vessel before it's crash landing on the planet Frontios in the year 176,338.
8) Six cellos (which has emerged as my favorite instrument).
1. A Stradivarius made in 1680 for King James II, taken in 1697.
2. The 1711 Duport Stradivarius, taken in 2267.
3. One of the first mass produced cellos from a 1938 US factory.
4. A handmade German cello made in 2003 that I used in a local orchestra for 5 years.
5. A cello rescued from the planet Malcassairo eight months before the last life in the universe went extinct, construction date unknown.
6. One cello built by myself, in the shop and tutelage of Nicolo Amati in 1654.
You see, Timelords aspired past our station in life. We began with a lowly organic lifespan with weak bodies, small minds, and a stunted society. By sheer force of will, we became the most powerful single civilization in the universe. I think many Timelords, even if they are loathe to admit it, look at the universe with a certain wonder – well aware of the fact that we really have no business being able to experience what our technology allows us to.
So I found a hobby. An excuse to travel the universe and explore. Upon becoming organic, the flood of emotion every time I examined a past memory was crippling. Phaon assisted me greatly with mental control exercises, but I still found it very challenging. Humans from Earth seemed to struggle with this same issue, and one of the most consistent tools I found throughout Terran history for turning emotion into a positive, driving force is music.
So I took a few decades to train myself in the play of the most common human instruments. The SASTAP cloister room is now bursting with various instruments in temporal suspension from throughout history that have an especially emotional attachment. Here is what I have so far, with the list growing as I continue to explore music performance as a method of self-exploration.
1) An electronic keyboard taken from 2010 Earth used by composer Eric Whitacre to compose the choral piece Sleep.
2) A record player from taken from the 2371 home of human Captain Benjamin Sisko.
3) The harpsichord played by L.V. Beethoven in 1787 for a performance in which W.A. Mozart was in the audience.
4) The music stand used by L.V. Beethoven to conduct the first performance of his ninth symphony.
5) A grand piano from the home of Franz Liszt used to compose his second rhapsody for violin and piano.
6) The third violin created by Andrea Amati in 1558, taken from 1693 Earth.
7) A keytar purchased in 1984 by an unknown child, taken from an Earth colony vessel before it's crash landing on the planet Frontios in the year 176,338.
8) Six cellos (which has emerged as my favorite instrument).
1. A Stradivarius made in 1680 for King James II, taken in 1697.
2. The 1711 Duport Stradivarius, taken in 2267.
3. One of the first mass produced cellos from a 1938 US factory.
4. A handmade German cello made in 2003 that I used in a local orchestra for 5 years.
5. A cello rescued from the planet Malcassairo eight months before the last life in the universe went extinct, construction date unknown.
6. One cello built by myself, in the shop and tutelage of Nicolo Amati in 1654.
Part 31 – When a Plan Comes Together
Finally, something went right. Tonight, for a while at least, the band got back together and had a perfect gig. Solis, Sputter, Terry, and myself undertook a very dangerous experiment that went off... almost... without a hitch.
Our mission was two fold. Allow me complete telepathic access to the SASTAP systems, while purging – and perhaps capturing for future use – the last remnants of the Great Vampire disease left in my main systems.
Terry watched for intruders while Oolon maintained recently activated Type 30 systems completely manually. Thank Rassilon for that brain of his. Solis opened a gateway for me, and for a time.... I was me again.
I had complete access. I could see all the wondrous systems and abilities of this great ship at my disposal. All of Time and Space, a mere thought away. Alas, it was short lived, as Solis encountered the Vampire program faster than anticipated. We returned her to the Zero Room, where she is still coming to terms with the beast that now resides inside.
When I was last infected, I was little more than an infant organic in Timelords terms. I was ill equipped to deal with the carnal, primal emotions and instincts of the Vampire. But Solis is stronger, more experienced, and has been getting training in mental discipline from Phaon. She can handle it.
We now have a force of true power on our side. We all know that the final confrontation between the two Dalek factions is coming, and we know we still have much to do before we are prepared. Solis is still coping with reigning in her beast at the moment, but we are secure that she will have great power at her disposal when the time comes.
As for myself, there was a price for my journey. Some 300 odd years worth. I'm looking more and more like Oolon everyday, with this incarnation having racked up over 600 years. The price is worth it, however. We now know that the almost limitless power of the SASTAP can be at our disposal whenever we need it, as long as I'm willing to sacrifice this incarnation of which I've grown quite fond.
Our mission was two fold. Allow me complete telepathic access to the SASTAP systems, while purging – and perhaps capturing for future use – the last remnants of the Great Vampire disease left in my main systems.
Terry watched for intruders while Oolon maintained recently activated Type 30 systems completely manually. Thank Rassilon for that brain of his. Solis opened a gateway for me, and for a time.... I was me again.
I had complete access. I could see all the wondrous systems and abilities of this great ship at my disposal. All of Time and Space, a mere thought away. Alas, it was short lived, as Solis encountered the Vampire program faster than anticipated. We returned her to the Zero Room, where she is still coming to terms with the beast that now resides inside.
When I was last infected, I was little more than an infant organic in Timelords terms. I was ill equipped to deal with the carnal, primal emotions and instincts of the Vampire. But Solis is stronger, more experienced, and has been getting training in mental discipline from Phaon. She can handle it.
We now have a force of true power on our side. We all know that the final confrontation between the two Dalek factions is coming, and we know we still have much to do before we are prepared. Solis is still coping with reigning in her beast at the moment, but we are secure that she will have great power at her disposal when the time comes.
As for myself, there was a price for my journey. Some 300 odd years worth. I'm looking more and more like Oolon everyday, with this incarnation having racked up over 600 years. The price is worth it, however. We now know that the almost limitless power of the SASTAP can be at our disposal whenever we need it, as long as I'm willing to sacrifice this incarnation of which I've grown quite fond.
Tuesday
Part 30 - New Desktop Theme
Part 30 – New Desktop Theme
As I continue to do more exploration of the SASTAP systems from within the Zero Room, I'm finding some disturbing... pieces. It seems that shadows of my original consciousness – shadows, if you will – are still left behind inside the computer. These bits of myself are, evidently, still in survival mode. Shunning any efforts by my organic self to explore deeper into protected systems. If I wish to return someday to my original home, I must purge the system.
I think I discovered a solution. During my initial travels with Phaon, I merged with parts of a Type 30 TTC in order to complete/repair my construction. I am going to isolate the entire SASTAP computer sub-systems, and bring the old Type 30 systems online as the mainline controls. This will allow me to... interact, for lack of a better term, with the original SASTAP systems in isolation without threatening the ship's superstructure and main systems.
So, for a while at least, the SASTAP interior is going retro.
As I continue to do more exploration of the SASTAP systems from within the Zero Room, I'm finding some disturbing... pieces. It seems that shadows of my original consciousness – shadows, if you will – are still left behind inside the computer. These bits of myself are, evidently, still in survival mode. Shunning any efforts by my organic self to explore deeper into protected systems. If I wish to return someday to my original home, I must purge the system.
I think I discovered a solution. During my initial travels with Phaon, I merged with parts of a Type 30 TTC in order to complete/repair my construction. I am going to isolate the entire SASTAP computer sub-systems, and bring the old Type 30 systems online as the mainline controls. This will allow me to... interact, for lack of a better term, with the original SASTAP systems in isolation without threatening the ship's superstructure and main systems.
So, for a while at least, the SASTAP interior is going retro.
Monday
Part 29 – Some Retrospective Exploration
I've been spending a lot of time in the Zero Room recently, attempting some experiments Phaon taught me. Phaon, of course, is a master telepath. Perhaps one of Gallifrey's greatest. On a related note, the technology of a Zero chamber basically removes a Timelord's consciousness and stores it in a temporary buffer in the computer, allowing a brain to heal post-regeneration without the need to maintain a physical body.
Put these two things together, and inside the zero chamber I get to be... me. I can shed my physical form and expand into the computer as I was originally intended to. Of course, I only have access to a small portion of the computer, if I wander too far away I endanger my physical being.
However, I am learning. I am... connecting. There may come a time when something more than a mere physical Timelord body is needed. When this time comes, I believe I will be ready.
Put these two things together, and inside the zero chamber I get to be... me. I can shed my physical form and expand into the computer as I was originally intended to. Of course, I only have access to a small portion of the computer, if I wander too far away I endanger my physical being.
However, I am learning. I am... connecting. There may come a time when something more than a mere physical Timelord body is needed. When this time comes, I believe I will be ready.
Tuesday
Part 28 - Alliance
It passed. A vote to ally ourselves with the Daleks. Barely, by one vote. Oolon’s plan is to ally ourselves with the weaker of the two Dalek factions in order to wipe out the stronger. A simple plan. Many on the council objected, believing the weaker faction would undoubtedly turn on us.
Oolon and I are thankful it passed without the need to reveal all of the facts. This Dalek faction may indeed turn on us – but it is of little concern. These Daleks were created in SL space by none other than our former Castellan Drillon. They were an experiment. Drillon introduced a “kill switch” into their genetic makeup. Hoping they would eventually become the dominate Dalek faction, then the High Council could simply “turn them off.”
The former Council exiled him and his Daleks for his plan. I can’t argue with them – it was a brutal series of experiments. However, what’s done is done. These Daleks are here, and are a force to be reckoned with. We will continue on with Drillon’s plan, and are in fact counting on the betrayal of these Daleks – but not until the Paradigm faction that recently arrived here from N-Space is destroyed.
Of course, leave it to the Prydonians to mess things up. Their new Cardinal (both Solis and The Angel are off on long term business for the Council) is brazen and manipulative. A typical Prydon. Evidently this divisive House is up to its old tricks. Not content to let our democratic Council function, they are forming an army in “secret” to attack our new allies. Fools. This young, arrogant, and equally ignorant leader seems to forget who and what I am.
Just like Rassilon did during the Time War, the short sighted, power hungry self-righteousness of this House now threatens our very existence here. I will deal with these Prydonians – or specifically *this* Pyrdonian – quickly, and harshly.
Oolon and I are thankful it passed without the need to reveal all of the facts. This Dalek faction may indeed turn on us – but it is of little concern. These Daleks were created in SL space by none other than our former Castellan Drillon. They were an experiment. Drillon introduced a “kill switch” into their genetic makeup. Hoping they would eventually become the dominate Dalek faction, then the High Council could simply “turn them off.”
The former Council exiled him and his Daleks for his plan. I can’t argue with them – it was a brutal series of experiments. However, what’s done is done. These Daleks are here, and are a force to be reckoned with. We will continue on with Drillon’s plan, and are in fact counting on the betrayal of these Daleks – but not until the Paradigm faction that recently arrived here from N-Space is destroyed.
Of course, leave it to the Prydonians to mess things up. Their new Cardinal (both Solis and The Angel are off on long term business for the Council) is brazen and manipulative. A typical Prydon. Evidently this divisive House is up to its old tricks. Not content to let our democratic Council function, they are forming an army in “secret” to attack our new allies. Fools. This young, arrogant, and equally ignorant leader seems to forget who and what I am.
Just like Rassilon did during the Time War, the short sighted, power hungry self-righteousness of this House now threatens our very existence here. I will deal with these Prydonians – or specifically *this* Pyrdonian – quickly, and harshly.
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