Archival Science Databanks
Communications intercept. Transmission detected Mon 17th of Sep 2007 at 04:14 AM by 3Remiel. Communique follows:
Merrit: Interesting choice.
3Remiel: Thank you for coming.
3Remiel: I was meditating here and thought you might also enjoy the view.
Merrit: I do. I spent a lot of time in this spot after Anome trapped Niobe in his construct.
3Remiel: Then it has meaning for both of us.
3Remiel: A good sign. Thank you once more, for honouring me with your presence.
Merrit: Of course.
3Remiel: We are not immune to the intrusions of the system, however. A poignant example of why I called you for this inquiry.
3Remiel: As I mentioned in an earlier letter to you, there are topics regarding the truce, and current state of Zion affairs that I would discuss with you.
3Remiel: Speak, and let us partake in conversation. I would know more of your opinions on the matter. Anything you would like to begin with?
Merrit: I'm not certain what specific topics about the truce and Zion you're looking to speak about, so if you're looking for a general opinion...
Merrit: ... I find this disgusting, and what the Architect has done to the truce Neo gave his life for disgusting. I find it ridiculous to see how the Machines just follow his decision without question.
Merrit: As it stands, he's decided what he has, and we're left with little choices.
3Remiel: A fine place to begin then. Let us begin with the Architect. What is it about his decision, that you find disgusting?
Merrit: That creation of Zion was some kind of hostile act, and that it was some kind of implied understood agreement we were supposed to know without it ever being spoken of.
Merrit: Well, New Zion, I mean.
3Remiel: Do you think then, that this would presume that the Architect was reacting to a given situation with an equal and opposite reaction, or that he implied an understated rule from the beginning?
3Remiel: That is, is his behaviour ill-intentioned towards the truce in general, looking for a reason to end it? Or is that mere coincidence?
Merrit: What I think, is that now that New Zion can withstand Machine annihilation, the Architect is throwing a fit about it because he no longer has control, and decided to end the truce in retaliation.
3Remiel: If that is so, there is little threat from the Architect. Would his reaction garner him any long-term goals? Perhaps in destroying the old Zion, he is simply carrying out the cycle as he mentioned to Neo.
3Remiel: One Zion gone, and another replaced.
3Remiel: On the other hand, a taskmaster without control is hardly a taskmaster.
Merrit: Maybe, but the Machines haven't gone after the old Zion. It still has defenses, and I assume the Architect sees that there is little point of sending Sentinels to die if he can't wipe out all of the free humans in Zion.
3Remiel: Would you say that the reason for not having a direct attack upon Zion, would have to do with the recent collision between the General and the Sentinel army?
Merrit: You mean now? I don't think so. As we understand the General is in hiding and his Sentinel army is in control of the Merovingian.
3Remiel: Then it is something to ponder as to why the machines haven't attacked Zion yet.
3Remiel: May I ask of recent affairs?
Merrit: Well, if you're referring to New Zion, it was constructed in a way that it is impossible for the Machines to reach. Old Zion is an option, but at most he would only kill the humans that remain there, and still lose many Sentinels in the process.
3Remiel: Yes.
3Remiel: That is why I also asked that we discuss unification between humanity.
3Remiel: That happens to coincide with recent affairs.
3Remiel: An impervious defense to machines, one much like a fortress, and only from within could such a fortress fall. I would ask, keeping this in mind, of the recent progress towards Firewalls and Network Hubs to New Zion.
3Remiel: As we have observed, they are port-scanned and shut down nearly minutes after having been established, and your own experiences with Mellia have shown that Tactical Security and machine forces were well aware of our plans before even the Zion operatives in the military were.
3Remiel: Have there been any investigations as to a leak within New Zion Command, itself? I would fear what another Bane could do at an opportune moment.
Merrit: Yes, they've been gathering information about our Matrix-based systems for a very long time without our knowledge, apparently. We've seen what tactics they've used to get that done.
Merrit: Keep in mind, most of the overwritten humans in Zion all went through similar symptoms during the overwriting process, and now we know what to keep an eye out for. Security has also been stepped up significantly since discovering what the Machines did.
3Remiel: So all contingencies are accounted for?
Merrit: No, not at all. The Machines still have the Cypherites. They are an extreme problem because most keep their identities hidden with masks, and therefore it can be impossible to tell who may be who.
3Remiel: Then let us shift our conversation from machines, to men.
Merrit: There could be a Cypherite on your ship, for all you know. There could be one on mine. There could be some within Command.
3Remiel: That is a possibility.
3Remiel: At the onset I mentioned unification of men, and I believe that I can best illustrate this with an example, if you are willing.
Merrit: Oh.. of course.
3Remiel: Alright. Considering the physical properties of humanity, let us put that aside and focus on perhaps, the governing forces of morality and nature.
3Remiel: I was awakened by Zion, and as such I owe my freedom, my education, my ability to learn the ways of politics, and open-mindedness to Zion.
3Remiel: Would this be a correct assessment, of a governing body?
3Remiel: One that has perhaps, attributes not unlike a parental figure?
Merrit: I think you owe most of what you have to yourself. Had it not been for you rejecting the Matrix, you wouldn't have been removed by Zion operatives, right?
3Remiel: Of that there is some truth, however, I was extracted in part by red pills. One could say that in one life, the Matrix would have been my Athens.
3Remiel: Let us then say, perhaps, that my nature is altogether disagreeable with that of Zion, or that perhaps we are at a conflict.
3Remiel: Instead of merely criticizing Zion, one would move to another Organization. If the Merovingian tailored to one's nature, facilitating his or her needs, thus educating him or her in that nature, providing ammenities and supplies, would this also fit the concept of a parental figure, or governing body?
Merrit: Hmmm.. parental figure or governing body.. well I guess if you wanted to look at it that way, one could.
3Remiel: And if we decided that the Merovingian was disagreeable to our tastes, and perhaps, in believing in Platonic Forms, or, the idea of the ideal form, something eternal, and that the closest form to something eternal is the source, that we may ally ourselves with the machines, and thereby reap similar aforementioned benefits?
3Remiel: That is, benefits tailored to our likes and dislikes, our very nature?
Merrit: That probably would depend on what someone considers benefits, and if they consider the benefits from the Machine organization to be parental in nature.
3Remiel: Indeed. Then what similarity exists between these examples, would you say?
Merrit: Well, they both give orders and directives that the operatives follow. I'm not sure if the leaders of those sides place much value on the individual operative, though they may tell them they do.
3Remiel: But the decision to put up with such orders, such directives, and the willingness for loyalty in exchange, is this not a choice on the human's part?
Merrit: Some may see that as the opposite of "parental," some may not see it that way at all.
Merrit: Oh, no, it is definitely a choice.
3Remiel: Then let us scale back a moment and examine that idea.
3Remiel: The common ground that all humans share then, as we have proved at least regarding loyalty, is that of choice. Have we sufficiently proved this, at least concerning the freedom of operatives within the Matrix?
Merrit: Yes, I think so.
3Remiel: And if all humans were unified, if their problems were addressed, if they were represented well and had comfort in say, Zion, would this not be a good way to curb and influence that choice?
3Remiel: For what I describe is an ideal form of council, one wherein all aspects of humanity are represented, may present dialogues to one another, and ultimately reconcile with one another.
3Remiel: For I believe that before we fix the external problems between man and machine, we must fix the internal problems of man and man.
3Remiel: Is this a suitable goal, one that may bring about peace in our own time, without relying on a saviour?
Merrit: That would be ideal, but I'm not sure how to appease everyone when so many have such different ideals and goals, many of those being because the Machines are in the picture.
3Remiel: But of those goals and ideals, are they not each suited to one's nature? And then the question is, is it possible to change one's nature in favour of virtue and morality? For morality is one thing that humans are capable of being well-versed in.
3Remiel: And I believe that the willingness to be loyal to an organization depends upon their own belief that what they are doing is ultimately moral and upstanding, not guided by evil.
3Remiel: All the more reason for a liason based council to hold dialogues with machine representatives to work on such opposing views, one that caters ultimately and finally to that of good.
3Remiel: Would a cypherite disable a ship, if only for the sake of that alone? Or for a greater purpose, in their eyes?
3Remiel: I would advocate the latter, which I also advocate needs addressing. Is this a correct presumption?
Merrit: I guess it depends on what kind of Cypherite you talk to. Some would tell you killing free humans brings them a step closer to a world where no one can be freed by us.
Merrit: But yes, that is for a greater purpose.
3Remiel: Affording diplomacy a chance, what would appease them in the interim that did not involve genocide?
3Remiel: If we do not know, should we not otherwise seek to know?
3Remiel: Of this, I refer to compromises.
Merrit: How do you think you could convince the most fanatical Cypherite to compromise, I wonder?
3Remiel: Perhaps that may involve a fresh perspective. Upon due deliberation, and careful counselling with my fellow philosophers, I may decide that it is best to follow the Socratic method of questioning, that does not only inform myself, but seeks more so to clarify someone else's ideas.
3Remiel: With the threat of impending conflict subsided, or of that where the liason who speaks with them is of no threat, and perhaps we discuss the matter over common, neutral ground, in good time, with no pressures, we may come to some concessions of ourselves that may disclose themselves to a more peaceful compromise.
3Remiel: So to answer your question succinctly, I would talk with them and see what areas they are convinced, and of what areas they need convincing, and we will give and share, as you and I have.
Merrit: That would be an interesting discussion. Getting one, especially one of the most fanatical followers sounds to even talk about their beliefs could be a challenge in itself.
3Remiel: But that is the benefit of being human. If one asks the right questions, can one finally meet with Niobe, Flood, or even the Architect?
3Remiel: If I slowly befriended one cypherite, who then advised me to speak with his superior, and onwards, and onwards, I could see speaking even with Cryptos on the matter.
3Remiel: Or if I facilitated an official capacity, as you are afforded to do, in meeting with other liasons.
Merrit: Anything is possible, but could you still remain friends with a Cypherite if he cheered on the murder of your friends in other Zion ships, or even murdered them himself/herself?
3Remiel: To be a friend, we would have to engage in conversation, and have a thoughtful result, that would likely curb such detrimental thoughts. While there is cause for loyalty, cheering on the death of any human being is perhaps an action that will only prevent one from reaching Nibbana.
3Remiel: Perhaps I will not be friends with the majority of them, but merely get to know their opinions and learn more about their cause, so that I may suggest countering opinions to their highest representative.
3Remiel: It would be a great achievement if I could join the council of Zion, and offer my insights to them, and learn from what they have to say. I have not had a chance to speak with them, of yet.
Merrit: That's unfortunate. I'm sure they would enjoy hearing from you.
3Remiel: There are ways and means, eventually one profound phrase I utter among a thousand unimportant phrases will lead me to them. A moment of clarity, like rain subsiding to reveal a rainbow.
3Remiel: I would be a liason, if it could be achieved, one perhaps suited to answering the questions and representing the interests of Zion, as you do, with the goal of peace in the end, as opposed to unwavering duty alone, like so many operatives feel is best.
Merrit: Well, I don't know if I represent much of anything. Our people have their own voices, I'm just more of an informant. So, have you been describing a sort of journey you are planning to undertake to find peace, or have I perhaps misunderstood so far?
3Remiel: That would be an accurate observation. I would hope to bring many with me to find Truth.
3Remiel: I have begun the journey, in a way, by inquiring with people as I have with you.
Merrit: I see. How have your inquiries gone so far?
3Remiel: They have been fruitful, and filled with observations of merit. I spoke with a Merovingian who had a lot to offer, a strict Zion captain, as well as a representative of EPN, and a machinist, also.
3Remiel: It is my goal to first lay a foundation with which I can observe and learn from all perspectives, with the goal of peace among men and peace among machines at heart.
3Remiel: I allied myself with the strict Zion captain as I owe as much to Zion as he does. While Tigger enjoys Malt Extract, enjoying what 'Tigger's like best', I too have found what I like best, and what my nature coincides with.
3Remiel: That is, Zion.
Merrit: You brought up the Cypherites, but no mention of them yet. Are you planning to speak to exivy?
3Remiel: Upon your recommendation, I will.
Merrit: That was more of a question, more than a recommendation, but I suppose she is as accessible as any Cypherite.
Merrit: There is another that has been with them a long time, and seems to represent the more hateful and violent arm of the Cypherites, but I don't think she would be interested in speaking about it.
3Remiel: My inquiries will lead me to many places, and to many people. I would safely answer that in due time, everyone who is accessible shall be granted an audience.
3Remiel: Then it would be an aspiration, perhaps to first speak with Exivy, and then to this other one that you mentioned.
Merrit: You could try, I suppose, but I have my doubts if there's any way to convince her to speak, especially to you. She has a deep hatred for pretty much all redpills that don't see things her way.
Merrit: She goes by the name "Kerevola." So, is there any assistance I can provide to you during this process?
3Remiel: With discussing matters with exivy and Kerevola?
Merrit: More of the process as a whole. I'm not sure if there's anything I can help you with as far as the Cypherites are concerned, unless you have an idea I haven't thought of.
3Remiel: If I have one, I am comforted to know that I may share insights with you. Of this process you refer to, there will most likely come a time when your assistance is required. It may come in the form of an introduction here, or a gesture there, or perhaps something akin to relaying a message to another party, perhaps one related to New Zion Command.
3Remiel: Of this, I can merely predict, but I can guarantee that your help will be appreciated.
Merrit: Of course. I want peace as much as anyone else.
3Remiel: I am honoured. Arigato. Then we are friends.
Merrit: If that's all it takes, then you'll be happy to learn you have many friends within Zion.
Merrit: Though, I'm sure you know that already by now.
3Remiel: That is a comforting thought, and one I will respect and treasure.
3Remiel: Thank you. My faction is appreciative, and I of them.
3Remiel: Is there anything else you would like to discuss, before we part ways?
Merrit: That meeting I told you about at 6:00 P.M. isn't exactly going to happen because of issues that have come up for me, and I won't be able to make it. Since it is almost 6:00 now, I'm afraid I have to depart to take care of those things.
Merrit: If you do have other things to discuss, maybe we can meet again tomorrow, or whenever is convenient. That is up to you of course.
3Remiel: I thought you might. Take care in your duties, and be well, Merrit. It is an honour to share words with you. I will email you, then.
3Remiel: May I have your permission to share this dialogue with my faction?
Merrit: Absolutely.
3Remiel: Thank you. Have a good evening.
Merrit: It's been very nice speaking to you. I hope you will be careful in here until we speak again.
3Remiel: I will take care. Make sure that you do, as well.
Merrit: Of course.