"But I never even MET cousin Jerry!" she snapped angrily, moving cautiously around the boxes to avoid bruising her shins further. "Shit, mom. I can't believe you just let him in my apartment while I wasn't home!"

"Just give it a chance, dear...it sounds like something in your field."

"I don't care about my fucking field!" she screamed and slammed down the receiver. She had never meant to get so riled, but sometimes her mother went too far...just too far. Too often. Too damned much.

She collapsed on one of the crates and examined the logo: some electronics shop. She reread the note for the hundredth time...a distant cousin wanted her to find a group to test some experimental equipment. If she did so, all that was before her would be hers to keep. She was to IM him her reply that night.

Sighing, she opened the first box with a deft flick of her utility knife. Her eyes grew wide and she opened the second...and the third...and the fourth. 400 Mhz G3 tower equiped with OS System X.0, twenty-one inch monitor, hi-tech scanner, photo quality colour lazer printer, cable modem,and all the necessary trimmings. "Fuck," she breathed before finding the sheet of papers that outlined the necessary experiment.

She collapsed on the sofa and read through them carefully. She pulled a black visor from a nearby box and gave it a cursory examination before dropping it on the floor.

"Double fuck," she breathed.

*********************

Jerrytech: If they experiment's successful, you and your test group can keep all the equipment. Top of the line stuff...they'll need it to run the software.

JanikiB: And if it isn't successful?

Jerrytech: They can keep it anyway...what that hell are we going to do with inferior equipment? But I think it will be enjoyed. We wouldn't spend this kind of money if we weren't sure of the results.

JanikiB: But is it safe?

Jerrytech: Perfectly. We have simulated every conceivable error. A complete shutdown will be disorienting and may cause slight discomfort for those with delicate stomachs, but that is the worst case scenario right there. We will provide you with any scenario you desire within the next two months.

JanikiB: Even Thundercats?

Jerrytech: Thundercats?

JanikiB: Cartoon. From the 80s.

Jerrytech: Get the info and it's yours. The scenario is entirely rewritableby the command of the driver. In this case, you.

JanikiB:...

Jerrytech: So?

JanikiB: What if I say yes and they don't agree.

Jerrytech: Do they all like Thundercats?

JanikiB: Yes.

Jerrytech: Then why wouldn't they? What have you got to lose?

JanikiB: And I will have full control at all times?

Jerrytech: We'll program it into the scenario.

JanikiB: Alright...::crosses fingers::...sign me up.

*********************