As we are now learning, the Matrix has only begun to give up its secrets. This....construct has long held a special significance for us all whether we knew about it or not. All gathered here understand the nature of this world. There is something else common about the group gathered here. We are all human. As a species, we frankly haven't fared too well in the past millennium. In fact, it is by the skin of our teeth that we avoided complete genocide. But we are still here and that may be the greatest testament to our strength that anyone can give. I believe we stand at the precipice of a new age.

The new age will not be painted in black and white. Things are more...complicated now. Human allegiance can be swayed but doubtlessly all of us are striving for our survival. Some for freedom. Some for choice. Regardless of your choice, make no mistake. The way before us will be a struggle. We are all operatives, soldiers. Our battlefield is one of electrons and silicon but the very real fate of our species will depend on how we proceed. We are not here to tell you what choice to make. The choice is yours.

Some will placate you with fear. Others will use opportunity, greed, or loyalty to gain your support. I hope your choices will lead to what's best for humankind. Before we plunge headfirst into the fray it is in our interest to be prepared. While this place is a citadel of the mind, there are tools and skills at our disposal that we must grow and maintain. That brings us to the reason we are here today. As new redpills, I have no doubt that there are challenges you will face that will prove difficult.

We will be supplying the freshest redpills with the information they need to get started. Please PM Asaroth to be entered into the information raffle. There will be numerous prizes in sums of 500,000, 1 million, and 2 million handed out. Please sign up for the raffle if you are skill level 10 or below. This is intended for the newest Redpills.

Throughout the evening, Augur will be handing out gear with special properties. Please stay close to him as he hands out the items one at a time. If you are of the appropriate profession to get it, it's yours. We have coders on hand to help everyone with their item, ability, and tool needs. As with everything today, there is no charge. Head on over to where Stratagem, Kahef, Paracelano, and Zyron are situated and they will take care of you.

As always, we must remain vigilant while in the Matrix. Even though this is a secure location, always be wary. That said, this is a terrific opportunity to socialize with your fellow man and create new contacts with individuals of various organizations and viewpoints. I hope you enjoy and embrace this opportunity.
By the way, our coders are well supplied with code bits and objects, but if demand is overwhelming, they might need more. If you have unused code bits, you can volunteer them to one of our four coders: Stratagem, Kahef, Paracelano, or Zyron.