The communications area was easy enough to find. Lexx had been to this station enough times to know his way around. They wanted him in a room in the communications area so that more than just the contact could speak with him without being tracked back and identified. They didn’t want an actual connection with Lexx. There were several private rooms set up on all the main stations for this purpose.
It would be best to not hesitate. Just step through the doors and see what was going to be said. Stalling would not change what would be said. Better to just get it over with.
The room was dark and out of silent protest, Lexx didn’t bother turning on the lights. He could see well enough in the dark that it didn’t matter to him. Plus, he didn’t want to see the monitors or cameras. They were in there. Lexx knew it.
Lexx did not have long to wait. The same voice that had contacted him earlier spoke again. It was apologetic in tone, which immediately set Lexx on edge. “Welcome, we thought this would be easier on you than through the main feed. Less of a headache, I am sure. You are not in any trouble, Shira Lexx. In fact, we are pleased with you. Your game is commendable.”
“But?” Lexx questioned. He wanted the contact to get to the point. It didn’t matter that they were being considerate. That only meant they wanted something.
“I am getting to that. You are under a binding contract with us that can only be modified with your consent and we are prepared to offer you a new, better contract.”
There was a noticeable pause.
“Stipulations?” Lexx did not feel like talking. There was not a need to waste words. His anxiety had been quickly replaced by anger. The fact that the contact apparently did not have ‘bad’ news had relieved that, but now he was suspicious as to what they DID want.
“You will be removed from active game play. No one will ever be able to challenge you again. You cannot be captured. You will no longer be a player and will retire in good standing with the ADC and the Network.” Lexx stared ahead into the darkness. His heart skipped a beat in disbelief. Removed? He would be removed? That,… was what he wanted more than anything. He would do anything they asked to be removed,… as long as he was also freed.
“You will be honored for your accomplishments in ways you have only dreamed of.” The contact continued upon deaf ears. Lexx was still on the prospect of being free. He didn’t care about the honors he could receive. There was only one thing he wanted. To be left alone.
One thought on “April 23, 2003 (2 Comments)”
KM
Don’t do it!