He should have been identified unambiguously in the second chapter, when he said "It's a beautiful day in this neighborhood." If anyone didn't notice the second chapter, I'll have to add a warning in the intro that there are 2 chapters (= 3 sections total including the intro), for those not used to fanfiction.net.
Yes, that identified him pretty unambiguously as Mr. Rogers... I was trying to figure out the significance of the bloodstained sweater, if he was thus the "Ultimate Battle" version. :)
Oh, incidentally... It should actually be possible to set up the base level computer to run all the programs for equal amounts of time (at least at the base level. Taking into account programs containing other programs is a whole other issue):
Program 1: 1 step
Program 1: 1 step
Program 2: 2 steps
Program 1: 1 step
Program 2: 1 step
Program 3: 3 steps
Program 1: 1 step...
...
Program 4: 4 steps
... etc.
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.