Haydizzle's IPC Whitelist Application

[Haydizzle]

BYOND Key:
Haydizzle

Character Names:
Kar'skalzi Bollu
Porter de-Abaros
Dalask Caladius
Buhersiz As'zalth
S'uzda Dhosu
Morgan Andalhand
Raphael Deluca (retired)

Species you are applying to play:
Integrated Positronic Chassis (IPC)

What color do you plan on making your first alien character?
N/A

Have you read our lore section's page on this species?
I have! I plan on rereading it a couple times over the course of the week as well.


Please provide well articulated answers to the following questions in a paragraph format. One paragraph minimum per question.

Why do you wish to play this specific race?
Initially, I was looking to make an IPC because making a type of science fiction android, robot, etcetera, would make for a good character. Besides that, however, an IPC for me has the allure of playing a character that doesn't feel emotion, only being able to emulate it, and tries to make every decision based on logic. I wanted to perhaps make an IPC that was interested in things they felt it  didn't understand, which led me here! I'm eager to have my first IPC be a more RP focused character to get comfortable with a heavy concept like this, though.

Identify what makes role-playing this species different than role-playing a Human:
Well! IPCs come across to me as being somewhat of a pseudo-servant caste, being made for a designated purpose with humanoid intelligence. Going along with that, they're rarely able to attain true freedom, due to being either not able to pay off the costs of freedom, restrained by the red tape of nations and corporations, or even just stuck to the jobs they were designed for in a metaphorical sense. That and, compared to humans, most species off the top of my head will be likely to marginalize them, seeing them perhaps as a reminder of their past (skrell and the Three Incidents) or soulless machines (unathi in regards to them lacking a soul), or even just using them to their own ends (corps building IPCs for a specialized purpose).

Character Name:
MYRIAD

Please provide a short backstory for this character:

Quote

REPORT: Analysis on the Productivity of the MYRIAD-class Baseline Frames

SUBJECT: Unit 7

DIRECTOR: Scientist Abigail Roygard

PURPOSE: To establish why Unit 7 has enjoyed increased productivity and effectiveness compared to the other prototypes.

--------------------

BODY: Written and recorded by Director Abigail Roygard under the Myriad Initiative--

BRIEF: The first prototype of the MYRIAD-class Baseline unit (Methodology Regarding Inferences And Diagnostics) was developed by NanoTrasen in collaberation with Zeng-Hu scientists in attempt to make Baseline IPCs that could serve as psychologists and psychiatrists that could specialize in a couple different subsets of their respective fields. The first model was kicked off in 2461, and since then, eleven units were designed and deployed around NanoTrasen stations and outposts in Tau Ceti for the purpose of testing out these prototypes. They were created and allowed to live life as employees for six months to determine how they would do in traditional work settings.

In short, all of them fared well and held up to corporate expectation. Unit 7, however, designation MYRIAD-7, has seen an increase dedication towards their chosen fields of study in addition to more thoughtful, lengthy analysis while remaining concise and to the point.

DIALOGUE: Below is the audio interview between Scientist Roygard and Unit 7.

[The audio begins with a persistent yet shy buzzing noise that scores the entire clip. There is a muffled cough; the sound of something brushing off cloth.]
> "Please state your name for the record."
> "Abigail Roygard."
> "Answer: Myriad Seven."
[Papers are shuffled around and brushed together to make the familiar crisp noise.]
> "Myriad Seven, it's been some time since we last spoke. How are you holding up?"
[A pen clicking twice can be heard. All while MYRIAD replies, the faint noise of writing on paper is also audible.]
> "Answer: it has been some time, indeed, miss Roygard. Many months have flown by in the blink of an eye! Query: did I do something wrong to warrant this visit?
> "You've done nothing of the sort, don't worry. In fact, quite the opposite-" [The writing on paper stops, ceremoniously ended by the clank of a pen hitting a metal table.] "-In fact, it is rather remarkable how much you've taken to your work."
> "Observation: you are quite the flatterer. A very sincere remark, one that I will not forget any time soon. Statement: regardless of why I am here, it is good to see you again, miss Roygard."
[A woman, presumably Roygard, laughs quietly.]
> "And you are good with compliments yourself. So, let's start with a small question."
[A long pause. A sheet can be heard flipping over.]
> "What is your current station?"
> "Answer: the N-T-C-C Odin. Commentary: my office space is a little more cramped compared to my last work space. Musing: maybe that is a part of the prototype testing?"
[Another small chuckle from Roygard.]
> "I can assure you I didn't have anything to do with it, but I can perhaps look into it for you. I'm sure the company would be capable of catering to a less confining space."
> "Statement: I would be very pleased if you could pull such strings."
> "How have you felt these last six months, office aside?"
> "Statement: it is good to be able to get around on the Odin and see what NanoTrasen has to offer. Clarification: I have grown quite fond of learning the piano, and it is a practice I attempt to work at for at least thirty minutes a day."
> "I'm glad to hear it. What is your current field of study?"
> "Answer: I am looking at the development of emotions in different species and gathering information on behavioral patterns, to determine if they are all capable of equal behavioral exhibition or varying amounts."
> "Right."
[Another pause, though much shorter this time.]
> "What caused you to pick up this study in addition to your usual shifts?"
> "Observation: I have not requested any shifts of my usual work to be dropped in favor of this project. It is simply something that I am curious in, and a project that may benefit the sciences in the future. So little is recorded on some other species, like unathi and vaurca."
> "What sparked such interest in this project for you, then?"
[There is a silence for a handful of seconds.]
> "Answer: I find the various means of expression to be fascinating to myself personally. I do not know if there is a way for me to put it into words. Clarification: my own lack of understanding is a factor, but it is only a minor player in my own drive."
> "What do you hope to discover with this particular project?"
> "Answer: there is no particular truth I hope to unravel. The end point is not always the fascinating part of a journey. Statement: I simply seek knowledge."
> "You were programmed with data already on the psychology of various species. Are you looking to expand this library in particular?"
> "Answer: I want to become effective and capable in my field regarding psychology. This is largely in regard to all species, perhaps I-P-Cs as well. Musing: perhaps I will end up famous someday for my work?"
> "What would you do if you suddenly couldn't perform psychology, or weren't able to perform these studies in an official capacity?"
[A long drawn out silence ensues.]
> "Answer: my interest would not fade. I do believe my fascination would become a hobby for expressly my time outside of my new occupation. Conclusion: losing my job would not stop my curiosity."
> "Thank you, Myriad Seven. This has been very insightful, however brief. I need to chat with the last four units."
> "Statement: I hope that we stay in touch this time around, Roygard. You are a very bright young lady."
[Roygard chuckles, and MYRIAD seems to as well through emulation. A chair scoots lightly against tiled floor to make a scraping noise. Two footsteps are heard before the audio ends.]

--------------------

NOTES: MYRIAD-7 appears to be quite content finding their bearings while navigating work and developing their hobbies. Attached below are the papers of the questionnaire Unit 7 has filled out. They appear to have developed an odd fixation on their work, explaining their increased productivity. The other units don't appear to have inherited this trait like MYRIAD-7, however. Should this unit continue work, it is recommended they move locations to the NSS Aurora for choice shifts.

DTG: 27-15:14-BIESEL STANDARD-03-2462

VERIFICATION: 20091-ABKRO-I0734

 

What do you like about this character?
Well! I enjoy the quirk in speech as it represents the character's desire to be informative and analytical. However, it also shows exaggerated attempts in tandem with emphasized inflections to convey emotion through their deep knowledge on the subject. The character is driven by their lack of understanding--perhaps jealousy--of organics that don't have to simulate emotion, but rather feel it naturally. MYRIAD would also try to push out surveys and attempt interviews with various crew members, and I think it would make for a more active role-play position to be in, instead of playing psychologist or counselor and waiting for people to come to me.

How would you rate your role-playing ability?
I'd like to say I'm decent at it, but I feel as though there are many facets I need to improve on still!

Notes:
Thanks to everyone who read this! If you have any comments or feedback that isn't necessarily related to this application, I can be easily reached on Discord as Petrichor#0098.

Edited April 2, 2020 by Haydizzle
Quick ninja edits!

[Soultheif96]

I enjoyed the backstory and your lore connections are on point so I have no issue with giving you a fat +1

[The Stryker]

Thanks for applying! This is an entertaining app but I still have a few questions.

Quote

Identify what makes role-playing this species different than role-playing a Human:
Well! IPCs come across to me as being somewhat of a pseudo-servant caste, being made for a designated purpose with humanoid intelligence. Going along with that, they're rarely able to attain true freedom, due to being either not able to pay off the costs of freedom, restrained by the red tape of nations and corporations, or even just stuck to the jobs they were designed for in a metaphorical sense. That and, compared to humans, most species off the top of my head will be likely to marginalize them, seeing them perhaps as a reminder of their past (skrell and the Three Incidents) or soulless machines (unathi in regards to them lacking a soul), or even just using them to their own ends (corps building IPCs for a specialized purpose).

You've captured the essence of an IPC's life - they are indeed marginalized and discriminated by the galaxy at large. Setting aside the way people treat it, what makes an IPC different as compared to a human?

Quote

The character is driven by their lack of understanding--perhaps jealousy--of organics that don't have to simulate emotion, but rather feel it naturally.

Not to say that an IPC should be emotionless, but doesn't that mean the character is already experiencing emotions?

Quote

 The first prototype of the MYRIAD-class Baseline unit (Methodology Regarding Inferences And Diagnostics) was developed by NanoTrasen in collaberation with Zeng-Hu scientists in attempt to make Baseline IPCs that could serve as psychologists and psychiatrists that could specialize in a couple different subsets of their respective fields.

I understand that NanoTrasen collaborated with Zeng-Hu, but who was the lead? In our lore, NanoTrasen isn't known to produce IPCs.

Quote

They were created and allowed to live life as employees for six months to determine how they would do in traditional work settings.

Up to you if you'd rather not answer this last question since it asks for backstory that could be gained IC, but how was MYRIAD treated between shifts? Did it stay in cryo like regular crewmembers, have a quarters or apartment? If so, how did this affect MYRIAD, especially with less oversight as compared to a typical synth?

[Haydizzle]

Hello! Thank you both for your comments and questions. I'll do my best to clarify as much as I can and shed light on the process a bit.

1 hour ago, The Stryker said:

You've captured the essence of an IPC's life - they are indeed marginalized and discriminated by the galaxy at large. Setting aside the way people treat it, what makes an IPC different as compared to a human?

I do think it's important to acknowledge their lifestyle has an effect on how they are roleplayed, but this doesn't encapsulate how I feel about it entirely upon rereading what I put, so my apologies. To elaborate, roleplaying an IPC means that self-preservation comes to the forefront in every and all situations. Sure, each IPC may have their own quirk, but at the end of the day, this is a fact they all have in common. The will to preserve the self wouldn't make an IPC prone to a selfless act of sacrifice for the good of others. Actions made in character should be entirely justifiable at the drop of a hat, and any larger or more important ones are probably traced back to that core concept. To go on this further, I believe this would make most IPCs cautious by nature, especially due to the previously mentioned discrimination they face in almost every outlet of their lives.

I believe I effectively hinted at MYRIAD's behavior work-oriented behavior as a way to prove worth. Being a prototype means that they were at risk for getting scrapped if the model was ultimately not worth the cost, so they went forward to prove their efficacy as a general worker as well.

1 hour ago, The Stryker said:

Not to say that an IPC should be emotionless, but doesn't that mean the character is already experiencing emotions?

This is a good comment since I was under the impression I revised this statement (yikes) when I updated my application to the final copy before posting. However, it gives me a chance to explain my thought process, and perhaps how my initial character concept changed and evolved.

I think it wouldn't make sense for an IPC to not understand how organics convey emotion if it itself can understand emotion. The initial idea was to make an IPC researcher that studied topics to gain enlightened understanding. In this, it would be able to understand what it doesn't truly have. However, I realized this was a bit of a paradox, since if somebody understands what emotion is and how it is conveyed, what is keeping them from feeling emotion themselves? Granted yes, an IPC can only mimic human behavior out to a degree, but I didn't think in the end it would make sense for an IPC to not experience near emotion as a human would with a programmed understanding of it.

Even though I wanted to move the concept away from that slightly, I still wanted to take the curious learner approach when it came to understanding others. Sure there is understanding with human gestures, but humans do not convey emotion the same way a unathi does for example. A new direction when it comes to lacking understanding could be in the relationships department. I think not only being an IPC, but also spending much of their time inside and outside of work being productive, MYRIAD would've had next to no time to develop relationships with other people. This said, it's kind of fascinating to think how each species has their own way of handling relationships; humans tend to be monogamous partners, but there is room to break off and find a new partner with time; unathi seem to be a lot more strict when it comes to pairing, relationships, and acknowledging each other; skrell are more passion based, hooking up and splitting off as they see fit without too much emotional attachment.

Sorry for a bit of 'revisionist history,' but I think between updating drafts there are some odd points that didn't get addressed fully, so my sincerest apologies there. However, the answer to the last question leads me to my next bit:

1 hour ago, The Stryker said:

Up to you if you'd rather not answer this last question since it asks for backstory that could be gained IC, but how was MYRIAD treated between shifts? Did it stay in cryo like regular crewmembers, have a quarters or apartment? If so, how did this affect MYRIAD, especially with less oversight as compared to a typical synth?

I enjoy that you left this question to chance, to give me the option of keeping backstory hidden. Whenever I make a character, I usually try to focus in on how much their past affects them and to determine if backstory is something important enough to warrant being discovered through in character relationships or not. That said, I do think that the backstory here is rather simplistic to focus more on present development, so to continue off what I was talking about prior;

MYRIAD would've went to cryogenic storage between shifts and when they weren't at work, and they would've been surprisingly indifferent to the lack of oversight that most IPCs would've had. In that regard, there would still be weekly 'check ups' to see how they were doing.

MYRIAD probably fared a little worse than most other IPCs in similar roles. Due to being a busybody whose life revolved around their work, I think that this reclusive nature would've drawn suspicious ire from coworkers they didn't frequently come into contact though. The self-preservation instinct had a dual impact on MYRIAD's work life; not only did they work hard to impress their boss(es) to avoid getting scrapped, but they effectively avoided contact with other people to avoid the commonplace discrimination IPCs receive. Perhaps in this regard, a focus on relationships and not understanding them, being curious about how they work, could be a new spin on MYRIAD being jealous of these things due to their near self-imposed quarantine for half a year, but I think that is a concept I could tackle after some playing and getting used to the character. Something to develop in the future!

1 hour ago, The Stryker said:

I understand that NanoTrasen collaborated with Zeng-Hu, but who was the lead? In our lore, NanoTrasen isn't known to produce IPCs.

I saved the simplest question for last (whoops). I believe NanoTrasen funded the project out of a desire to get this type of IPC for the benefit of their workers that keep getting boarded and stuck in the crossfire of various factions and also a niche worker drone that could effectively census and collect data on the crews of various stations. I like to imagine the college professor approach, since MYRIAD has their public face job as a psychologist, but they also moonlight papers and studies for NanoTrasen.

That said, I think the Zeng-Hu and NanoTrasen detail for founding is a minor detail at best, and my knowledge on all the lore is imperfect, so if you have any ideas for how to change/modify/tweak/replace this with something that fits the idea better, I'm all ears!

 

Now, a question for you as well: what do you think is a common mistake most IPC players make when roleplaying the species? Approval for this app or not, I'm curious to see any words of advice you may have for me.

 

Thank you again for your time Stryker.

Edited April 2, 2020 by Haydizzle
I forgot to answer part of one of the questions!

[niennab]

Hello! Thank you for answering Stryker's questions. One of which was my own however we opted to combine our thoughts/questions into one comment. 

Nonetheless, the only issue I saw was the portion remarking on Nanotrasen as the developers, which I believe has been in part addressed. However, since Nanotrasen isn't in the development of IPCs, I try to keep them distanced from the manufacturing side as personally I feel it robs the other companies conceptually. However, I think this can be resolved with having Nanotrasen provide part or full funding (your portion) and say the Aurora is a testing ground for the line of prototypes. If you're cool with that as a background, I can move forward with the application.

Does that however mean that MYRIAD is owned by Nanotrasen or Zeng-hu?

12 hours ago, Haydizzle said:

Now, a question for you as well: what do you think is a common mistake most IPC players make when roleplaying the species?

I can answer this although I don't necessarily want to get into specifics. Day to day I see few issues other than what is already ahelpable regardless of one's species.

[Haydizzle]

I think that a commission model for what happened would be for the best, like how people commission artists for their art. NanoTrasen paid Zeng-Hu for their work and for costs, and used their station as testing grounds, since it was mostly a project they wanted pioneered anyway. NanoTrasen owns MYRIAD, but the rights and designs for the models belong to Zeng-Hu.

 

[niennab]

Perfect! Accepted.