There might be a much more subtle payload hidden in the interaction characteristics of the whole group, possibly appearing only after considerable computing time.
Interesting. The fact that none of the group members mention this possibility is good evidence that it is true (or there's some other kind of hidden payload). I guess we should expect that Maria's world will be taken over by the Old One eventually.
BTW, have you made any progress on the problem of how much resources an FAI should spend on exploring escapes out of simulation? The last time I asked, you were still stuck.
Reason for blowing up = Pascal's Mugging, still not resolved to my satisfaction.
So I'd intended this story as a bit of utterly deranged fun, but it got out of control and ended up as a deep philosophical exploration, and now those of you who care will have to wade through the insanity. I'm sorry. I just can't seem to help myself.
I know that writing crossover fanfiction is considered one of the lower levels to which an author can sink. Alas, I've always been a sucker for audacity, and I am the sort of person who couldn't resist trying to top the entire... but never mind, you can see for yourself.
Click on to read my latest story and first fanfiction, a Vernor Vinge x Greg Egan crackfic.