Analyzing: io stream (type-audio):
"I do wonder, Clu, what the purpose is in this little . . . endeavor of yours? Not that it's any of mybusiness, of course, but what you're asking, well, I do need to be certain that I'm making the . . . right choice in regards to this alliance.
"It's a matter of self preservation, I'm sure you understand. I need to be certain that you are still my optimal option, so to speak. And if users are somehow a concern in this, as your continued interest in the legend of the I/O platform would suggest . . . well, you can see where my concern lies, can't you, Clu?"
Keywords: purpose, endeavor, Clu, deal, self preservation, optimal, option, users, I/O
Analyzing: io steam (type-visual):
Castor's peaky smile never leaves his face as he speaks, only fades in and out from the perimeter of his mouth as his glances flash in the corners of his eyes.
He is white, Castor. He is gray. He is pallid and thin with his shoulders continuously thrown back in what can only be processed as arrogance.
Processing input-
The first time I tailed my master into this room, Castor was nervous. Frightened. I could see it in his movements and hear it as he spoke, hear it in his choice of quivering words.
Processing-
But Castor is not afraid today.
Alert: priority one data- io stream (type- audio, visual) from (designation- Clu):
My master stares at Castor. His gaze is intent, but his features maintain a cool neutrality.
He says my name.
Redirecting-
Response protocol: full attention
I am aware of the physical action that takes hold of me, of my head snapping in my masters direction, of the sharp angle of the chin of my helmet nearly grazing my chest and meeting my shoulder as I pivot without lifting my gaze.
Clu looks up and stares through my helmet, and then turns back to his impertinent ally with a smile flickering in the movements of his mouth.
"You've met Rinzler, haven't you, Castor?"
Castor glances at me.
Processing visual input-
Analysis (Castor program): Distaste, fear.
Clu continues:
"He's my best, how should I put it . . . 'personalized' program."
Processing-
"But do you know what really makes him great?"
Castor looks back to Clu. He leans forward in his chair to intensify his next words.
"He doesn't talk back."
Processing-
Castor's expression falls. His gaze seek me once again. I sense Clu's eyes as well.
Visual/audio output analysis of performed actions (Clu): Intimidation tactics- references: Rinzler program-Response protocol: comply.
My head turns to meet the nervous eyes, and I am aware of an increased rumbling from the confines of my chest. The colorless features of Castor meld into a new expression.
Analysis (Castor program): understanding, threat detection.
Performance analysis (Rinzler program) to Response Protocol (Intimidation): 100% effective- Store file (memory) for later reference.
Satisfied, I return to ready position: my head angled towards the floor, my shoulders locked down.
Ready position standards:
-height of head does not exceed that of proximal superiors
-open hands
-maintained full-action tension in all limbs
Meanwhile, Clu, still leaning forward with an elbow propped casually on his knee, is smiling at Castor.
"Now," he asks, "what was it you were saying?"