security-surveillance
The azi exhibit constant vigilance and security awareness, reflecting the pervasive surveillance and control in their environment.
7 chapters across 3 books
Cyteen (1988)C.J. Cherryh
In this chapter, Ari wakes up to find her Minder alarm going off and learns that Nelly, her usual caretaker, is in the hospital receiving tape. Uncle Denys informs Ari that she will be responsible for two new azi, Florian and Catlin, who are experimental Alphas and will live with her as part of her birthday. Ari struggles with the seriousness of her new role as their Supervisor, navigating her feelings of responsibility, fear, and uncertainty while trying to integrate the two new azi into her daily life.
Justin arrives at Planys, a harsh and isolated environment on Cyteen, under heavy security and biohazard precautions, reflecting the planet's dangerous ecology and political tensions. He reunites emotionally with Jordan Warrick, who is the Administrator of the Educational Division, and they discuss the difficulties and adjustments of life on Planys, including the challenges of isolation, security scrutiny, and the psychological toll on the staff. The chapter highlights the oppressive atmosphere of Planys and the fragile hope for smoother future interactions between Reseune and Planys.
The chapter follows Ari as she navigates her new living situation, balancing school responsibilities with managing her household and caretakers, Florian and Catlin. She uncovers troubling historical security reports about the previous Ari's difficult past, reflecting on the implications of control and surveillance. Ari also explores the private belongings left behind, confronting her emerging sense of privacy and autonomy.
In this chapter, the protagonist navigates a tense encounter with Security personnel, successfully gaining access to a restricted area without incident. He then discusses with Grant the unusual and serious nature of their transfer back to Yanni's wing, revealing that a young and influential figure, referred to as 'young sera,' has requested to learn from him and is closely monitoring their activities. The chapter highlights the precariousness of their situation under heightened surveillance and the shifting power dynamics within their environment.
In this chapter, Justin Warrick reflects on the success and public fascination with the annotated edition of Emory's archived notes, 'IN PRINCIPIO,' which he and Grant helped produce. Despite a period of relative calm and professional satisfaction, Justin is unsettled by a sudden urgent message from Ari, who reveals concerns about potential security leaks involving Justin's father and the possibility of an intervention against Grant by Planys Security. The chapter ends on a tense note, highlighting the precariousness of their situation and the underlying political intrigue.
The Diamond Age (1996)Neal Stephenson
Nell and Harv navigate the oppressive, advertisement-saturated environment of the Leased Territories, seeking refuge in a green belt where they encounter a hostile security aerostat that forces them back to the streets. Harv reveals the dangerous significance of Nell's Primer, explaining that it is a valuable and sought-after item that puts them at risk from a figure named Doc. The chapter ends with them securing basic supplies and settling on a beach, where Nell resumes engaging with the Primer.
Ribofunk (1996)Paul Di Filippo
In this chapter, McGregor experiences a disturbing virtual dream involving vicious rabbits attacking his family, which parallels the real-life threat of a renegade rabbit named Peter infiltrating Hill Top Farm. Upon detecting the intrusion, McGregor arms himself and confronts Peter, ultimately subduing him with a net and asserting control over the situation. The chapter explores the tension between virtual and physical realities, the presence of genetically or cybernetically modified creatures ('splices'), and the enforcement of security in a bioengineered environment.