Newsletter formatting: Newsletter drafts.
The Village Times
The Foundation is laid for the Community TheaterJust south of the village the first community construction project has begun, an open air theater. Construction is being over seen by Gaius Harper, who is also the project’s architect. Materials and tool are being provided by the Labs but all the labor is volunteered by Villagers such as Marshall, Oz, Newt, Lucas and Liamh. It is first time the community has undertaken such a massive task.
Once complete the stage will measure, 30 by 40 feet, with enough seating for fifty to a hundred people. Depending on the amount of time volunteered by villagers the will hopefully be a roof and curtains over the stage. The seating will be left unprotected for now.
Construction has slowed due to an accident that injured two of the crew. Gaius is looking for any islander interested in helping with the project.
The project was initiated by William Woodrow who is currently holding auditions for the theater’s first production a talent and variety show. Tryouts are being held by the lake.
For Your Safety: A pain in the Neck? The Chips This is the first in what I hope to be a series of articles that focus on specific aspects of life on the island. Topics such as Mechanics of the changes, information on the staff and other oddities that influence our daily lives will be covered. While I hope to present you with information you haven’t before the purpose of these articles are to be comprehensive as possible. So with out further a due we shall begin.
New residents generally learn of the chips implanted under everyone’s skin in whispered tone soon after realizing the truth of the island. It usually comes up in the why don’t the residents rebel or escape conversation. At least that was my personal experience. In that first conversation we learn the most basic functions of the chip, namely rendering a villager unconscious, either remotely from the lab’s monitoring facility or via vocal command from certain staff members. Yet this appears to be only one of many functions.
In addition to its ability to knock villagers out instantaneously there is strong circumstantial evidence that can also prevent waking after natural sleep has overtaken us. Injection marks appearing without remembering how they got there, duplexes magically being repaired while we sleep. I’m sure everyone has similar experiences irregardless of how lightly they sleep. They also in one insistence have shown an ability to induce total paralysis without loss of consciousness. Even beyond those impressive applications I also suspect they also transmit our locations to nearby cameras and to the lab themselves.
So what are the chips? Where are they exactly and how are they implanted? I confess I have no actual answers, only conjecture and educated guesses. Judging from the effect of the chip it’s most likely to be nestled in place some where near the central nervous system, e.g. the brain or spine. Since I have seen no evidence of the trauma that brain surgery entails, the money is on the spine, probably on the neck. Still there are no insertion wounds that I remember, not even a sore neck. By that reasoning it is most likely quite small if I’m not completely mistaken.
There have been two instances where the chip has been removed by islanders. The first is the infamous Angharad Anderson, who according to witnesses tore out her own chip after she murdered Fiona Brooks. The second is Jamal Reedy, whose chip was removed by another islander. Both have managed to evade capture thus far.
While the chip are used to both control and oppress the community they are a bit of a double edged sword. As individual that have become a threat to others can be safely incapacitated by the labs. However, it is folly to rely on such protection.
Another guard is claimed by Angharad AndersonA new headstone has appeared in the Island’s graveyard bearing the engraving:
Peter Ransom, guard
Killed by Angharad Anderson, December 22, 2006
This is the fifth staff member Angharad has murdered and the second since the graveyard was first revealed by the Halloween event. To date Angharad has been responsible for the death of six people, Fiona Brooks, 4 guards and one senior administrator. To my knowledge Angharad has not targeted any the villagers since the initial incident.
The labs give the gift of: Dogs? Several islanders receive rather odd gift from the labs this holiday, a dog. I have seen several in passing and interacted with one so far. She was very well trained and affectionate. I have no further information beyond that. I doubt that the dogs were provided with absolutely innocent intentions and will be following up on this story in future issues.
The Islander of the Issue: Gaius Harper
There is not single individual in the village that has invested more time and effort to improving life in the village as whole than Gaius Harper. I first happened upon him in the village center where he was busily constructing and designing chairs that accommodated our varying forms than the standard issue chairs that are provided by the labs. Now he works tirelessly to build a theater for the community, often with just his dog, Vixen for company.
He’s as honest and forthright as they come. Let the fellow know he’s appreciated and lend him a hand or whatever you’ve got.
The Lists Newly Arrived Villagers:Russel Curtis, Duplex 21
Sophie C. Bell, Duplex 10
Newly Changed Villagers: (Note: Only as accurate as the grapevine at the moment.)
Jordan Essex
Tommy Christian
A call for Writers!This newsletter is a faction of what it could be! But I need your help (In character and Out). If you’d like to write a column or an article please come see me at duplex 70. Letters to the editor or any news tips can be put in the envelope on the door marked: Submissions.
From the Ivory Tower:
This column could be a one time event or the first of a long series, depending on humor of the staff members. At the very least, these were open conversations; there were no forbidden topics or conditions. A guarantee I may not be able to make in the future.
An interview with Dr. Nicholas Moreau.I came to the island for an exclusive interview with Dr. Moreau. I got the interview but I wasn’t allowed to leave the island to publish it.
Alright Dr. Moreau. You have impressed me on almost every level. What is the purpose of this facility? What is more important to you than the company your father left in your care?
This is a research and testing facility of course. My grandfather's company was founded on scientific research and development. The research I do here will one day change the world. Of that I am certain.
Its very rare for a biologist to change the world Doctor. Biology is not a field that is prone to great upheavals and revolutions such as physics. It is a science of incremental advancement. A clarification here and new drug there. One discovery of crucial drug can impact the world but does little to change it. This is the history of biology. Do you feel you can change that?
Feel? No... I know my research will change the world. The potential inside the genetic code is amazing. Not that I'd expect an uneducated man to know that." Moreau said with a bit of a sneer.
I have never been a man to move in increments. I take long steps, and cast a large shadow. Believe me. But I still manage the larger decisions of my company, and many of our innovations in the field of medicine and treatment has come from my research.
The world is full of geniuses toiling away in academia and industry Dr. Moreau. Some produce amazing results others become locked into a cycle or ego and hubris, producing less than the average man. Both can types can talk about the theoretical in such a fashion that causes an average man head to spin off his neck. Has this world changing research of yours produced any tangible results that the average man can appreciate? Or are we talking theory.
Oh we have results. But they'll be more time for that later. Do you have any other questions for me? Surely the whole thing wasn't about my research?
Of course not, Doctor. Your research is merely the most pressing topic at the moment, given the setting of the interview. But we can move on if you'd like.
One thing that I've often wondered about while studying your history was your relationship with your father. Mr. Tristian was all about building the foundations of the business in stable markets and proven products. You've been far more aggressive with researching new products and new markets. Does this represent a fundamental difference between you and your father or is simply continuation of the family's business plan?
My father took a small but successful animal pharmaceuticals company and expanded it into a multi-national business that serviced the entire industry. He bought out stock in other types of businesses and expanded our horizons. Perhaps he did play it safe on some level, but I don't think that's true. I always thought of my aggressiveness was his inheritance to me, just in a different light. My father expanded sideways, I intend to expand upwards.
Of course, his busy schedule didn't leave a lot of time for wife or children, but that's understandable when there are more important things to secure. He left me a legacy, just as I intend to leave my children a legacy.
What kind of world do you plan on leaving your children, Doctor?
A legacy Mr. Harrison, I intend to leave them with a world that marks my legacy. I don't intend for my works and achievements to be forgotten. Whatever the cost.
And of Aubrey Lockhart?
As far as Dr. Lockheart goes what of her? She is my fiancé, of that I make no secret. She is the only one who could ever keep up with me scientifically, therefore, we'd be best suited for mating and our children will carry our genius.
Congratulations then on your engagement then, the news hadn't reached my ears. Have you set a date?
Not yet, I intend to soon. We are trying to... work out some difficulties. But, aside from that. Things go well at our facilities here.
You are a driven man Dr. Moreau, you are also a genius. I believe only one of those is a proven genetic trait. Have you always had your ambition or were you inspired by some one or something?
That's where I believe your wrong though. My family has always had ambition. Consider the things we've accomplished. You can't deny that. So one must ask, is ambition genetic as well? Inspired perhaps, but none the less innate, needing just that spark, that drive. If you want complete honesty, I found some notes of my great grand-father's scientific research. That was my spark.
Ambition is not a given among Moreau's doctor. But it is an age old question of nature vs. nurture. I suppose your interested in that question as well? On the greater issue of ethics, we are fast approaching the age where children could be tailored to the parent's wishes. Would you consider using such a technique on your own offspring to guarantee that your children inherited your admirable traits?
I'm a genetist Mr. Harrison, any engineering a child might receive would make it no less the fruit of my loins, and perhaps my research.
Your grandfather's research? May I inquire as what it was concerned with?
My great-grandfather's research. Turning animals into humans.
Brilliant, ahead of his time, did amazing things with surgery, fantastic things. Of course, genetic research holds so much more potential, so much more power.
Turn animals in humans? Why would anyone want to do that.
That's what I'm still trying work out. I found scientifc notes, not motivations. But I'll have my answers shortly. Still, no matter the motivation, I believe that somewhere, would lie the most important reason.
Because he could. Isn't that the most important motivation of all?
And what is it, you can do Dr. Moreau?
Well, I combine humans with animal DNA. Creating hybrids with the best of both worlds. But I'm sure you'll know all that soon enough.
(At this point some unprintable words were exchanged and I woke up in my duplex.)
A chat with the Man with the Big HatThis is a transcript of an impromptu interview I had with Dr. Sabin Durvert via the intercom system.
Sabin, could I ask what exactly is your position on the island?My position? Well, you might say that being separated from the 'real' world is very much a departure from your normal business hierarchy.... although my position here is admittedly a respected one here.
Well in lieu of things such as paychecks, I assumed titles take a bit more importance. You certainly seem too high enough up to create a number of your own special projects. A dragon, a Gryphon, a Pegasus and well me. Have I missed anyone? Is there a purpose higher than you own... satisfaction making these people into the images of mythological creatures?
Titles are all but irrelevant at a certain point. But there is certainly a hierarchy. A pecking order, a chain of command... you get the picture, my friend. And what would a title mean to you? A designation? A word that might mean nothing to you out of context?
And yes, I do take pride in my projects. And more have undoubtedly slipped your notice, particularly considering your necessity of a book to aide you in the identification of your own 'species'. And why? Does an explanation for a few newer creations in light of the situation, where men are becoming beasts to begin with from Moreau's own research seem really that out of place?
The unreality of the entire situation aside. Dr. Moreau strikes me as a man who is vigorously opposed to unproductive fantasy. He must be deeply indebted to you in some way. But I'm not asking for his reason for allowing your work. I'm looking for why you feel the need to make us myths.Who said anything about unproductive?? I think that their creation is quite productive. But then again, your opinion in the matter doesn't really have an affect on my creations. Quite the contrary, your sole existence is furthering my goals. And as to what those are... well. Inquiring minds do want to know, but where is the fun in divulging the game?
I don't suppose we're trial runs for your own serum?Your serum... or my serum?
From our earlier conversation I would have imagined the possibility occurred to you. After all you seem intent on not devolving the humans under your care. But rather going forward, making them legendary as it were. Surely as must have considered undergoing the process yourself as fascinating as it is.I will not deny that the thought has certainly crossed my mind.... beyond that... I deign to comment.
Tell me, beyond satisfying Moreau's stated desire to turn people in animals because it is within his abilities, has the research here produced any positive medical implications that are applicable without the... side effects.
As a matter of fact, I can say that it has. I know that some of the fundamental research on this island is being broken down and filtered for possible medical use.
Can you tell me about Moreau and Aubrey's relationship?Depends on the day of the week.
That was more than I expected to hear from you. Rather hard to properly gossip with recordings everywhere. If news of their troubles filters to me... I imagine the island's power structure is a bit less than stable sometimes.
After all if Ginvera is indicative the general quality of the staff it must be precarious.You can believe whatever you like. I can tell that you are trying to pull information from me. But regardless of what you believe, I am afraid to say that the power of the staff over the islanders is certainly quite secure.
You are the man behind the Halloween festivities correct?You might say that...
Oh come on Dr. Duvert, surely that whole night must have been a lot of extra effort on your part. I hardly see the point in denying it.You seem to think that it is you that I am trying to impress, Richard. Or anyone beyond my own sake and amusement. You must realize one thing. You are no longer 'the press'. You are no longer some individual to be respected by authority or even an individual that needs to be humored. If I decide to speak with you, it is because I am gracing you with my time and attention as a favor. You have no power here, as much as you might be loathe to admit it.
I'm only looking to fully understand the situation I inhabit, whether socially or scientifically. You have power over me. I respect that I'm not questioning that. You after all did reveal to us the 'cost' of this research. That honestly is, at least admirable. Have you caught Annie yet?How do you know that we even wish to catch her? It has been months, do you not think that we could have brought her back to the labs by now if we wished?
Because it makes no sense to have her loose killing your own people. I cannot imagine the effect on moral. She's your frankstienian boogy man after all.
As for accepting my position, why wouldn't I? I've seen the world, had thirty years of happy marriage. What more can you ask for right? Its the all the damn kids that are here that really get my goat. Some future they have to look forward to.I did not pick the arrivals in all but a very rare case. However, what do people have to look forward with their lives in any instance? Is this situation worse than, perhaps, growing up in some of the nations that you have visited in your travels? I am certain that being stuck here you have your opinions, but despite being out in the world many are equally trapped in their situations. Perhaps not some of the ones that have been brought here, but as they say... you cannot pick your fate. There are lurking dangers present in even the most suburban lifestyle.
But I owe you no explanation or justification.
Oh don't get me wrong Doctor. In the Congo, people are so miserable that this situation would seem like paradise. They would love you forever like Colche. Why Dr. Moreau hasn't taken advantage of that I have no idea, I will be certain to ask him when I have a chance. Since you have no say in the matter. After all nine grave stones aren’t enough to be considered an atrocity right? Does Feral Labs have any official comment on what went wrong with Annie?
You ought to do that. See what he says. And no 'official' comment, no. Of course not.
Well Dr. Durvet I have no more questions that I think you'll answer. So then I bid you a good day.
Editorial: Coping and Living
Its Christmas, it’s a sunny 90 degrees with a 100% humidity. I write these words on a pad of paper on desk scored by deep claw marks. The claws were mine, attached to my first pair of what I desperately hope to remain, hands. The marks were made from the depths of a murderous depression that I have only begun to pull myself out of. Besides the desk is a pile of crumpled paper balls where a small wastebasket once stood. It lays buried under the weight of half written ideas and angry rants. The room where both the desk and the pile sit in is dimly lit, the mirrors covered with towels or bed sheets. I have promised myself to uncover them once I finish writing this editorial. Beyond the room, on the balcony two objects sit. Both bare the greeting Merry Christmas. So Christmas does come to this place, despite paradoxical season and the darkness of the situation we all find ourselves in.
Admittedly I haven’t been known for my “holiday” spirit for quite some time. My wife died shortly before the holidays and her death has cast a long shadow over them. It has been eleven years since that day and I believe its time for me to bury the hatchet with St. Nick. Christmas, at the heart is when you look beyond your own personal problems and give to others, whether they be family, friends or perfect strangers. But here we are not just random strangers. We have a common situation and stress that we all must deal with. Regardless of how we once were, we are not going through life here alone. I rely on other to help me and they in turn have relied on me. We must constantly remind each other that despite it all, we remain human.
Originally this editorial was going to be an angry recounting of the injustices that we all suffer through. I thought it would be therapeutic, it was not. Focusing those aspects of our life here only led to further anguish and I will spare you from further mention of the angst of an old man. So I have stripped these pages clean of my personal vendettas and subtle agendas, presenting you with only thing I have to give at moment, the information.
I realize the newsletter is skeletal but it is my hope that this first issue will provide a frame on which a richer experience will be built. My focus was the events that I have personally experienced but I hope to include more practical information such as tailoring how-to’s and the like in the next edition.
I remain,
Richard Harrison 
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