One Last Stop

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"They have taken everything from us, leaving nothing but despair. We've all seen what they are capable off, but their reign ends now. Tomorrow we sneak into the capital and we cut off the head of their war machine. No longer will we live in a world where they oppress millions. There are a lot of people out there counting on us. We do this for them! We do this for us!" Your allies raise their fists into the sky and cheer. It can be heard for miles over the desert plains. Your team hurries on to the train. "Everyone settle in and get some rest," you announce. "Tomorrow is going to be one hell of a day." The train's engine roars back to life and the beast lurches forward. Next stop is the mouth of Hell. [[Good thing you are going in with best team there is.|End Screen]]

The sun reflects on the metal surfaces of the station. The station is the only visible structure for miles. You stare into the distance, smelling the dust. [["What do you think our odds are once we make it up there?"]] [["I remember when you first laid hands on that thing." Motion towards Trent’s rifle.]]

@@.vesuvius;[[Vesuvius|Vesuvius Description]]@@ and @@.basho;[[Basho|Basho Description]]@@ are at work preparing food for the group.

Eliza bounces up. @@.eliza;"We'll so there's this big beast. And it goes around destroying all the villages and stuff like beasts do."@@ Her face goes red as the blood rushes there in excitement. @@.eliza;"Or at least how people think big beasties do. There's also this person that goes to hunt the beast. And... And..."@@ @@.owl;Owl raises his arms and his fingers begin to twist and turn, making quick elaborate movements.@@ Eliza studies his gestures then turns to you to speak. @@.eliza;"Also there's a dog! Owl really likes the dog."@@ [["I'm glad you both are holding up well. Do you feel ready?"|I want to check in with everyone and see how they are doing.]] [["Okay so theres a beast and hero. What next?"]]

<<if $timeOfDay >= 8>> <<display End?>> <<else>> <<if $timeOfDay >= 6>> <<display EveningDescription>> <<elseif $timeOfDay >= 3>> <<display NoonDescription>> <<else>> <<display MorningDescription>> <<endif>> <<if $ValorieBack>> <<display ValoriePlatformDescription>> <<endif>> <<display OwlandElizaPlatformDescription>> <<display IcabodPlatformDescription>> <<display TrentPlatformDescription>> <<if $VesuviusAndBasho>> <<display VesuviusandBashoPlatformDescription>> <<else>> <<display VesuviusPlatformDescription>> <<display BashoPlatformDescription>> <<endif>> <<if $CalAndRust>> <<display CalandRustPlatformDescription>> <<else>> <<display CalPlatformDescription>> <<display RustPlatformDescription>><<endif>> <<if $Valorie and $ValorieBack>> <<display ValoriePrompt>><<endif>> <<if $OwlAndEliza>> <<display OwlandElizaPrompt>> <<endif>> <<if $Icabod>> <<display IcabodPrompt>> <<endif>> <<if $Trent>> <<display TrentPrompt>> <<endif>> <<if $VesuviusAndBasho>><<display VesuviusandBashoPrompt>><<elseif $Basho>><<display BashoPrompt>><<endif>> <<if $CalAndRust>><<display CalandRustPrompt>><<elseif $Rust>><<display RustPrompt>><<endif>><<audio background loop play>><<endif>>

<<if $cUp>>It looks like @@.cal;[[Cal|Cal Description]]@@ is being eaten alive by the train. His legs are kicking back as he works face first in the bowls of the train. For a second you wonder if might need to help him, but then you remember, this is how Cal works.<<else>>@@.cal;[[Cal|Cal Description]]@@ continues working on the train.<<endif>>

@@.cal;Cal is a smart mechanic that is far more charasmatic than he has any right to be. He smiles and the whole world can see the soot colecting on his teeth as he works away on an automatic turret, a car engine, or in this case the inner workings of a desert train. Sporting 3 pairs of goggles strapped to his head, Cal is decked out in his full neo-mechanic getup. His torso is wrapped in a belt of wrenches, hammers, and innumerable other tools and metal rods. Fully immersed in his work, it can be difficult to get his attention.@@ [[back|Train Platform]]

[[Train Platform]] <<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>> <<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>> <<set $Trent to false>>

It's still early, with the sun rising in the east and cool breeze going over the platform.

Closing your eyes for a moment, you visualize what Basho is describing. "What are the tigers doing?" You ask. @@.basho;"Yes, what is their purpose?"@@ Basho reiterates your question. "Are they ... protecting the sand?" @@.basho;"Perhaps. They may be - oh my! I can see it, something is emerging from the sand pile!"@@ "Yes?" @@.basho;"A small green man has just emerged!"@@ [["Really?"]] [["Is he an elf? No probably a leprechaun."]]

@@.rust;[[Rust|Rust Description]]@@ assists @@.cal;[[Cal|Cal Description]]@@ as he fiddles with engine parts.

@@.vesuvius;"That's a hard question to answer. I am going to kill my countrymen. Some might be my friends. Some, maybe even family. Then again, they already tried to kill me. Conflicted, I guess."@@ [["I need you to be ready to fight."]] [["I'm sorry. I know this can't be easy for you."]]

@@.valorie;Valorie’s hair erupts like fire. Although cut short, the wild tangles of red and orange twist wildly and stand tall. Fitting. Although she’s removed her bulky silver armor, her stature is so immense that she looks just as intimidating, if not more. Sparks dance into the air as she begins sharpening her weapons and drags her grindstone over her massive two-handed longsword. They reflect in her grey eyes. She notices you looking her way and strikes a momentary glare before returning to her work. It’s odd that, even as the world stands on the edge of collapse, someone can still hold a grudge over a decade old disagreement. At least her feelings don’t affect her fighting, as having her strength at your side over the past few weeks has saved your friends more than once.@@ [[back|Train Platform]]

@@.rust;"Of course, Captain."@@ [[You collect the spangler wrench and a cigarette from Rust, and give both to Cal.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $Rust to false>>

One Last Stop

You shout at Trent across the platform. “Trent! Get your head out of your ass!” Trent, mockingly, responds @@.trent;"Yes colonel captain sir, I was just inspecting it for landmines."@@ You grunt and say no more. Only two weeks prior, Trent had a close call with a mine hidden in a pile of dirt. Walking across the platform, you and Trent embrace briefly. "How’s your rifle holding up?" Though he takes excellent care of all of his weapons, his gun has been getting jammed by sand. @@.trent;"It’s pretty beat up at this point, but still functioning. I’m glad we managed to find ammunition at the last rest stop."@@ [["We have Basho to thank for that."]] [["How you holding up?"]]

She bursts into laughter. It's awkwardly loud. @@.icabod;"You'd end up like Swizz cheese friend."@@ She glances down at her boots with a grin that stretches from cheek to cheek. @@.icabod;"That's funny, I just now forgot how nervous I was."@@ The grin vanishes. @@.icabod;"Nope. Now its back."@@ She begins pacing again. [["Would it help if we did a bit of training."]] [["We don't need you to be a fighter to have our backs out there."]]

@@.vesuvius;"Oh please, I'm just glad to still be standing. I owe you more than I could ever repay. And being surrounded with you all all your friends, I guess my luck never runs out."@@ He turns to you. @@.vesuvius;"I know I probably sound like a broken record at this point, but thank you."@@ [["You spend some time listening to Vesuvius discuss his tomes."|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $VesuviusAndBasho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $veUp to true>>

@@.eliza;“We’ll I dunno bout this one but I’m ready to kick some ass.”@@ Eliza flexes her tiny arms and Owl fans himself with his hands. Clearly she’s got him all hot and bothered. She pushes him back with a solid kick and Owl lays flat against the ground. Fighting gravity is a lot of work. Eliza giggles, then grows quiet and pulls her her legs to her chest atop the mountain of medicine, resting her chin on her knees. @@.eliza;“It’s going to be tough… We know that, but there’s no place we’d rather be.”@@ [[“Really. What about the beach? Isn’t there anywhere you’ve wanted to travel to?”]] [[“I feel better knowing the two of you will have my back out there.”]]

You approach Vesuvius and Basho, both sitting near the stove heating beans. Vesuvius regards you silently. Basho looks up and initiates conversation. @@.basho;"The sky is full of omens today. You hungry, captain?"@@ he asks. "No thanks Bash, save it for someone else," you respond. [["What are the sky omens saying telling us?"]] [["Do we have enough rations for everyone?"]]

@@.vesuvius;"Did I now?"@@ There's a tinge of excitement in his voice. "Yeah. That one time you cast the illusion over that mountain village. I though one of the soldiers was Trent. I almost turned myself in." Vesuvius grins. @@.vesuvius;"Really now? I was grasping at straws then. When I was able to summon the golems to surround you in the forest, I was certain I had you then."@@ [["You might have, but..."]] [["Then? That was nothing."|"You might have, but..."]]

Eliza stands and places a hand on your shoulder. @@.eliza;"I know you're supposed to be in the charasmatic leader and all, but none of us expect you be beyond human. It so okay if your scared. I mean, I might be all bubbly and what not but I'm terrified! So is Owl!"@@ @@.owl;Owl spreads his arms wide to demonstrate how much terror is within him.@@ Eliza faces the horizon and squints. @@.eliza;"They have the numbers and the weapons and the magic and the whatnot, but they don't actually believe in what they are doing. Vesuvius realized that and here he is now. Us, we're a family. It could be the whole world against us and we could still take 'em no sweat. I don't care if your a god, you touch my friends and you're done."@@ [["Wow Eliza. That was... that was really inspiring."]]

<<if $bUp>>@@.basho;[[Basho|Basho Description]]@@ is still meditating (of course). The air seems to circle around him almost like a tornado. A calm, spiritual, nondescrutive tornado that is.<<else>>@@.basho;[[Basho|Basho Description]]@@ meditates.<<endif>>

@@.rust;"Ah yes, he must be fixing the macro-defib unit."@@ Rust reaches into a bag at her feet and pulls out a metal tool. [[You take the wrench, and bum a cigarette from Rust as well.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $Rust to false>>

@@.vesuvius;Vesuvius’ long purple robes trail slightly behind him. His beard and facial features are grizzled, hardened by the years. He is a powerful wizard, a much needed source of fire power in the group’s battles, but his semi-permanent scowl does little to help his reputation. He was also once on Their side, and a thorn in your side. Following you every step of the way, Vesuvius had spent what felt like forever trying to capture you and your friends in the name of your foes. Too bad for him that he was never able to do so, as he was sentenced to execution for his repeated failures. It just so happened, you were assisting in a prison break at the same time. The very same prision with the gallows. You've always had the tendency to pick up strays for your rag tag bunch of adventurers. Abandoned by his army, Vesuvius has lost the drive that made him such a dangerous foe. Instead, seeing the war at its worst, he has become quiet and contemplative. For saving his life, he has pledged his service to you. Aside from Basho, the others are still slightly warry of his. It's never seemed to bother him all that much.@@ [[back|Train Platform]]

Basho has finished distributing the beans around camp, and is now sitting in the shade of the train, meditating. Approaching him, you appreciate the air of calm that surrounds his small swatch of shade. "Hello, Basho." Basho opens his eyes, one at a time. @@.basho;"Captain. Anything I can do to help?"@@ "No you're fine. I'd say you're doing the best thing possible right now - conserving energy." @@.basho;"Yes, it is wise. We will need to manifest as much energy as we are able to in a few hours!"@@ He laughs, but it has a slightly dark tone to it. You let his laugh sit in the air for a moment. [["Are we doing the right thing?"]] [["What's on your mind, Basho?"]]

@@.icabod;"Uggghhhh!"@@ she exclaims. @@.icabod;"Up untill now we've found ourselves in places with somewhat rational human beings who I've been able to talk down to some extent. Tomorrow will be like trying to rationalize with a machine gun. Actually, it will exactly me trying to talk down machine guns. The rest of you might thrive under a sky turned black from all the lead in the air, but not me. No sir, not me."@@ [["Come on now, it's not like we enjoy this."|"Hey, come on now. You're making me out to be some sort of animal."]] [["I'm pretty witty. I could probably land a joke that would make any machine gun want to be my friend."]]

Basho smiles. He seems to be watching the horizon. Silence descends, then the beans loudly arrive at a boiling temperature. Basho gathers a stack of bowls. @@.basho;“I’ll bring the beans around camp, I’m sure people are ready to eat,”@@ he says, walking off with the beans and bowls. Vesuvius sits quietly. You turn to Vesuvius. [["It's still weird for me that we're on the same side."]] [["How are you holding up?"]]

@@.vesuvius;"If you'll have me. I wouldn't blame you all if you'd rather have nothing to do with me."@@ [["Oh shut up."]] [["Of course."]]

@@.valorie;"Fine, lets talk."@@ Valorie rolls her shoulders and stands to meet you. @@.valorie;"I know you are doing the right thing here, but I've followed you into battle before and..."@@ She crosses her arms. @@.valorie;"I lost friends then. That's a hard thing to just let go of."@@ [[“I know. It hurts me just as much, and I know it won’t ever stop. I made a mistake...”]] [[...|“I know. It hurts me just as much, and I know it won’t ever stop. I made a mistake...”]]

@@.owl;Owl's hands being to dance in the air. His fingers curl and extend as Eliza's trace each movement.@@ @@.eliza;"Owl says he'll be your shadow out there," she notes, as she places a hand on his shoulder. "Nobody gets to you without going through him."@@ [["Likewise. We're all going to have to keep an eye out for one another tomorrow."]] [["I dunno Owl. I don't think I'm ready to take our relationship to that level yet."]]

You approach the train car. You can hear Cal working and swearing inside, while Rust stands by outside, occasionally handing Cal tools. [["How's the ol'e girl, Rust?"]]

<<if $tUp>>@@.trent;[[Trent|Trent Description]]@@ has completely disassembled rifle and spread the pieces. He is going over each and every one, spinning it in his hand and then placing it on the ground. Despite all the effort he is going to though, he still looks pretty confused.<<else>>@@.trent;[[Trent|Trent Description]]@@ appears to be fiddling with his rifle.<<endif>>

[[Check in with Valorie.|Valorie Dialogue]]

Eliza holds an invisible goblet to the sky. @@.eliza;"To victory! This day and the next!"@@ You and Owl raise your arms in agreement. [[You spend some time listenting to Eliza read|Train Platform]] <<set $OwlAndEliza to false>><<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>>

The sun starts to droop in the west and things begin too cool off again. Everything feels much more tense as tomorrow draws ever closer. <<removeclass "html">> <<addclass "html" "evening">>

Cal looks back toward the engine. He raps his fingers against the metal of the train. Tap tap tap. Tap tap tap. @@.cal;"I am well aware, captain. If you'd grab my 3&1/2 inch spangler's wrench from Rust, I'd be able to finish faster."@@ [["Sure thing, Cal." You go to find the wrench from Rust.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $CalAndRust to false>>

@@.eliza;"Good. Now let's fucking read!"@@ @@.owl;Owl pumps his fist.@@ [[You spend some time listening to the story.|Train Platform]] <<set $OwlAndEliza to false>><<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $oUp to true>>

@@.icabod;"Ohh har har. Maybe you'd understand if someone threw you in court as a defense attorney."@@ [["What's that supposed to mean?"]] [["I'm sorry, I was just trying to lighten the mood."]]

@@.cal;"Oh, I'm doing fine. To be honest, working takes my mind off things. I always love a good problem to solve."@@ [["Well we're lucky to have you with us! I'm not sure what we'd have done otherwise."]] [["Glad to hear it. We have plenty of problems ahead of us."|"Well we're lucky to have you with us! I'm not sure what we'd have done otherwise."]]

[[Train Platform]] <<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>> <<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>> <<set $Rust to false>>

@@.rust;"It is easy in the sense that it takes little energy. It can be difficult, however, knowing how uncertain our survival is. I am capable of fondness, and I am fond of this group."@@ "Well, we're in it together. I appreciate your contribution, Rust. Cal might be smart and all, but he has never been much for doing the math." @@.rust;"I dunno. Cal knows his way around an engine, but smart..."@@ [["Whoa now. Am I sensing some beef between the two of you?"]] [["Shhhh. If he hears you he'll wrench you."]]

@@.basho;"Hm. Of course, right and wrong are relative terms. I'm assuming you want to know the odds of our survival on this mission?"@@ [["We'll even if it is relative you must still have an opinion."]] [["Sure, what do you think."|"Yes exactly. Do you have any thoughts?"]]

@@.eliza;"Like drifters, huh? I kinda like the sound of that. I bet Basho would too."@@ @@.owl;Owl signs.@@ @@.eliza;"Owl wants to know if you feel ready."@@ [["I'm ready!"]] [["Honestly, I don't know. I guess we'll find out."]] [["I've been trying to not put much thought into it."]]

You approach the duo currently partaking in story time. @@.eliza;“I was wondering when you'd drop by,”@@ Eliza says as she folds the corner of the page she is currently on. Owl nods in agreement. [["I want to check in with everyone and see how they are doing."|I want to check in with everyone and see how they are doing.]] [[“What are you reading?”]]

@@.icabod;"Yeah, you're right I took that to far. Apologizes. I guess I tend to externalize my anxiety. You're not at all some savage animal like the Tigerhound. Definetly something domesticated, like a catpup."@@ You sigh. [["Would it help if we did a bit of training."]] [["We don't need you to be a fighter to have our backs out there."]]

<<if $vaUp>> @@.valorie;[[Valorie|Valorie Description]]@@ carefully combs over her sword. She inspects each chip in it and pulls the stone with which she sharpens it over it slowly. Yet, there is an air of frustration around her. Being so close to a tool made to kill seems to be getting to her. <<else>>@@.valorie;[[Valorie|Valorie Description]]@@ has now returned from her run and has taken up shop attending to her equipment by the edge of the platform.<<endif>>

@@.rust;"I did, indeed. I was only there for a couple years, but I grew fond of it. The ranchers were smart people, and I learned how to smoke from them.@@ "You must miss it." She goes quiet. "Oh sorry, I didn't mean to press." @@.rust;"No. No. It's fine. I've actually been thinking about it a lot recently. I think... I think I'm going to try and rebuild it after this."@@ [["That sounds amazing! I can't wait to see it."]] [["You reckon I could help out?"]]

@@.icabod;"Okay. Here goes."@@ There's a bang as the gun launches up towards her face. Her eyes are sealed shut. She begins to slowly peel them open. @@.icabod;"Did I hit it?"@@ The can stands in the desert sand, untouched. @@.icabod;"Well that's unfortunate."@@ She sighs. @@.icabod;"Second time is the charm though."@@ She keeps pulling the trigger until the gun is empty. Your ear drums will likely shatter soon. As the dust settles, bits of aluminum lay scattered in the sand. [["Nice!"|I know right]] [["Damn..."|I know right]]

@@.icabod;"I know right?! I guess it only makes sense that I lead the charge tomorrow, right?"@@ She attempts to spin the gun round her finger but it falls to the ground with a big thud. Thank god it wasn't loaded. @@.icabod;"Or maybe not..."@@ She chuckles then looks to you. @@.icabod;"Hey... thanks. I'm... I'm having way more fun than I thought I could at this point."@@ [[You spend a bit training with Icabod.|Train Platform]] <<set $Icabod to false>><<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $iUp to true>>

[[Check in with Trent.|Trent Dialogue]]

@@.valorie;“That’s true. I can’t lose sight of that.”@@ She speaks quietly, but confidently. Valorie will guide your party to victory. That much is certain. @@.valorie;“Thanks for talking to me. I know I can be pretty standoffish sometimes, but I feel much better now.”@@ [[You spend the next hour or so preparing your equipment beside her.|Train Platform]] <<set $Valorie to false>><<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay+1>><<set $relationship to $relationship+3>><<set $vaUp to true>>

She blushes, and for a moment she might be smitten, if that were possible. She takes a moment to twiddle her fingers before thinking about what to say. @@.valorie;“I know the odds are against us out there, but I think we can do this. But if we win this war, how long till the next one. Who dies then? I’m getting tired of fighting in the name of some country’s flag or another.”@@ [[“We’re not fighting for some country. We’re fighting for the people here right beside us.”]] [[“I know we are the right side of this. Once we win, it will make a difference.”]]

Smiling, Basho says, @@.basho;“Excellent question captain. These are trying times, and everyone is on edge. Will our mission succeed, or will we perish? People will tell you what you want to hear if you press them for it.”@@ Vesuvius stares at Basho, looking perplexed. Silence descends, then the beans loudly arrive at a boiling temperature. Basho gathers a stack of bowls. @@.basho;“I’ll bring the beans around camp, I’m sure people are ready to eat,”@@ he says, walking off with the beans and bowls. You turn to Vesuvius. [["It's still weird for me that we're on the same side."]] [["How are you holding up?"]]

@@.basho;"Yes, of course."@@ You are grateful that Basho's eccentricities are balanced by his keen strategic sense on the battlefield. @@.basho;"Thank you for that,"@@ he says. @@.basho;"It's always helpful to have another participant in my visions."@@ You have no idea what it means, but you are content with the whimsical distraction from more pressing concerns. "Would you mind if I meditated with you, just for a little. Basho winks at you. [[The two of you try to grasp onto another vision.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $Basho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $bUp to true>>

<<if $rUp>>@@.rust;[[Rust|Rust Description]]@@ stairs of int the desert plains. Its as if she is seeing a herd of lobster squirrels to go and round up.<<else>>@@.rust;[[Rust|Rust Description]]@@ stands by idley.<<endif>>

<<if $veUp>>@@.vesuvius;[[Vesuvius|Vesuvius Description]]@@ is laying on his back as he skims through his tomes. He traces his fingers over sentences as he flies through the pages. For a highly skilled mage, he looks awfully casual going through books of immense power.<<else>>@@.vesuvius;[[Vesuvius|Vesuvius Description]]@@ is reading his tomes by the stove.<<endif>>

@@.basho;"I have been sitting here meditating. Of course, it would be useful if I were able to ascertain our odds of success simply through this act."@@ You agree. @@.basho;"I am afraid that my meditation today brings no such clear cut answer. I am getting some imagery, but it is unclear. I think it will be up to each member of the team to offer their best abilities, and communicate well."@@ It's vague, but it doesn't sound like you'll get much more out of Basho right now. "Thank you, Basho." @@.basho;"Of course, Captain."@@ [[You spend some time reading on the upcoming terrain.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>> <<set $Basho to false>>

@@.vesuvius;"Oh please you are too kind. After everything that's happened you could throw me in the dump and I'd still think you've done to much for me."@@ His eyes water, just a little. @@.vesuvius;"But, thank you. I look forward to many more days of adventure."@@ [[You spend some time listening to Vesuvius discuss his tomes.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $VesuviusAndBasho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $veUp to true>>

She looks to you, puzzled. "Remember that time we were stuck in the glowing caverns? You recognized the ooze was flammable and we used it to blow a hole in the wall and escape," you tell her. @@.icabod;"Oh that's right. Dragon's gunk they call it, though I wish they'd find a better name."@@ "Or when we were crossing the dry plains, and were flanked by bandits, but you recognized they were actually the scouts from a nearby settlement and you were able to explain we weren't a threat." @@.icabod;"I really need to teach you all the difference between bandits and people who don't live in cities. It's kinda offensive."@@ [["Do you see where I am going with this?"|Alright, alright]] [["You're helpful, idiot."|Alright, alright]]

[[Check in with Icabod.|Icabod Dialogue]]

@@.trent;"Basho's keen eyes have been the first to spot many of the resources we’ve salvaged from the ruined landscapes. I often wonder if we’re stealing from the hidden storages of other rebel groups … of course, whoever hides this stuff is quite likely never returning to it."@@ It’s true - the survival rate of the rebel groups has been pretty poor. You feel grim, though you try to hide it more in front of the rest of the group … Trent farts to relieve the tension. It does critical damage to the gloomy atmosphere. @@.trent;"What can I say? All we eat is beans."@@ [["It’s certainly no feast."]]

You appraoch Icabod as she darts about rather aimlessly. She notices you walk up and says @@.icabod;"I don't know if you noticed, but I am quite stressed."@@ [["We all are. It's going to be quite the undertaking tomorrow."]] [["Really? You seem like your normal, spastic self."]]

@@.basho;“It’s a mixed message. It’s like a pun, with a double meaning. The outcome of the joke depends on how you interact with it.”@@ You aren’t sure how to take this. Basho’s pronouncements are often cryptic. [[“Yeah, alright Basho, does that translate into anything that us mortals can understand?”]] [[“Hmm. Does the joke have a preferred way of being interacted with?”]]

@@.cal;"The engine's still giving me guff. I can't tell if it's the macro-defibrillator or the sand-emulsifier."@@ Of course. The macro-defibrillator. [["Well just make sure we finish by sundown. Our window of opportunity for this mission won't last forever."]] [["What about the flux-capacitor. That usually causes problems for me."]]

The sun now stands tall in the sky and the heat begins to beat down. The day has become considerably less pleasant. <<set $ValorieBack to true>> <<removeclass "html">> <<addclass "html" "noon">>

[[Check in with Rust.|Rust Dialogue]]

@@.valorie;“You’re right. There’s nobody else I’d rather be beside!”@@ Her voice grows to boom in an explosion of confidence. Maybe you should be following her into battle, not the other way around. @@.valorie;“Thanks for talking to me. I know I can be pretty standoffish sometimes, but I feel much better now.”@@ [[You spend the next hour or so preparing your equipment beside her.|Train Platform]] <<set $Valorie to false>><<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay+1>><<set $relationship to $relationship+3>><<set $vaUp to true>>

Valorie looks away. @@.valorie;"I'm sorry. You don't need me to be bringing it up again."@@ She lets out a deep sigh before facing you again. @@.valorie;"No one can go on like this forever. Losing all their friends, over and over again."@@ [[“Are you having doubts?”]] [[“We are soldiers above all else. This is the life we chose.”]]

@@.icabod;"No, I should apologize for being the royal douche."@@ She goes into a squat. @@.icabod;"Why can't we just have a research debate when we get there instead,"@@ Icabod bemoans. [["You are overreacting."]] [["What's eating at you?"]]

@@.eliza;"I should be a politican, right?"@@ She plops back ontop her pack and is right back to her cheery self, but you and Owl still stair on in admiration. @@.eliza;"Just promise me this. You've done to much good for the two of us here to not come back tomorrow. So don't. No matter what... don't."@@ [["I promise."]]

Valorie puts her sword on the ground and goes still, taking a moment to think. She takes a deep breath before looking up towards you. @@.valorie;“No, you’re right. I might not have been able to help you guys for most of this journey, but seeing how you all fight together. How dedicated everyone is here to following you. It makes you almost unrecognizable from that rookie back then. I just-”@@ She starts to choke up and her eyes begin to water. @@.valorie;“There are a lot of people that I care about that aren’t here anymore. It was your job to keep that from happening. But it did, and that’s something I can never let go of.”@@ [[“I know. It hurts me just as much, and I know it won’t ever stop. I made a mistake...”]] [[“I never knew you felt that way. I always thought of you as making sure the mission get done, no matter the costs.”]]

<h1>One Last Stop</h1> <h1>[[Begin]]</h1> <h1>[[Credits]]</h1><<set $timeOfDay to 0>><<set $relationship to 0>><<set $VesuviusAndBasho to true>><<set $CalAndRust to true>><<set $Vesuvius to true>><<set $Rust to true>><<set $Icabod to true>><<set $Basho to true>><<set $Valorie to true>><<set $Trent to true>><<set $OwlAndEliza to true>><<set $ValorieBack to false>><<set $cUp to false>><<set $rUp to false>><<set $bUp to false>><<set $veUp to false>><<set $tUp to false>><<set $oUp to false>><<set $vaUp to false>><<set $iUp to false>><<audio end stop>><<removeclass "html">><<addclass "html" "morning">>

The train pulls to a halt and Rust and Cal both sprint down to get to work on the engine. The rest of your allies file out. @@.valorie;"I'm going for a run,"@@ Valorie announces before jogging off along the train tracks. The rest of your team situates itself on the platform. [[Leave the Train.|Train Platform]]

@@.trent;"Ah, man, you’re guess is as good as mine. We’ve come a long way. I mean, let’s be honest, the odds are bad."@@ [["Yeah…"]]

<h1>The End.</h1> <h1>[[Main Menu|Start]]</h1><<removeclass "body" "night">>

Just a quick moment to take it all in. The nighttime breeze is cool. Its nice... You have the best team there is. There is no question about it. But you are going into Hell. If you do manage to pull this off... Well. [[No one goes into Hell and back without scars.|End Screen]]

@@.vesuvius;"We do, for once, thanks to the last warehouse raid. Those rat-spiders were nasty things!"@@ Basho smilies. @@.basho;"I don’t think the arachna-rodents realized that they were nesting on top of enough beans to last a fortnight. Frightening creatures, to be sure, but they are driven by the same survival instincts that we are, and the warehouse provided both shelter from the acid rains as well as a physical structure to spin their webs around."@@ Silence descends, then the beans loudly arrive at a boiling temperature. Basho gathers a stack of bowls. @@.basho;"I’ll bring the beans around camp, I’m sure people are ready to eat."@@ You turn to Vesuvius. [["It's still weird for me that we're on the same side."]] [["How are you holding up?"]]

@@.vesuvius;"That... That would be nice. I won't get my hopes up though."@@ He truns to you. @@.vesuvius;"Okay, I want to get your opinion on this one trap I had planned."@@ [[You take some time to hear out Vesuvius' master plan.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $VesuviusAndBasho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $veUp to true>>

[[Check in with Owl and Eliza.|Owl and Eliza Dialogue]]

"We take the fork in the road. From there, we just see what happens. It's nobody but us now. We fight for those most important to us." Your allies glance to one another. For a bit, no one seems to quite understand what is going on. Then it hits them, and there is a feeling of relief. A feeling of fear. A feeling of devotion. This is your family, and no one else matters but them. For a moment, its quiet. Then Eliza starts to giggle. Then Trent. Then Icabod. Within seconds, the whole group is hysterical. Everyone boards the train. Cal gets the engine started. @@.cal;[["Next stop, nobody knows,"]]@@ he chimes.

[[Check in with Cal and Rust.|Cal and Rust Dialogue]]

@@.icabod;"Alright, alright. I getcha. Clearly I am the true hero here."@@ "That might be overselling yourself a little bit..." @@.icabod;"Oh relax, I kid."@@ She pats you on the back, a bit too hard. @@.icabod;"Hey, wana maybe show me a thing or two about a sword. Probably better I can use one should we need it."@@ [[You spend a bit training with Icabod.|Train Platform]] <<set $Icabod to false>><<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $iUp to true>>

<<if $iUp>> @@.icabod;[[Icabod|Icabod Description]]@@ continues to practice. She swings a sword wildy (away from the others of course). It's sloppy, but there is confidence to it. Well, a confidence aside from the confidence her ego generally gives her. <<else>>@@.icabod;[[Icabod|Icabod Description]]@@ scurries about the group.<<endif>>

@@.valorie;“Yes, you sho-”@@ She stops herself, and gazes off into the desert horizon. @@.valorie;“I’m sorry. I’m on edge is all.”@@ [["I understand. Why don’t I help you prepare for tomorrow?"]] [[“Let’s talk then. If something is bothering you should get it off your chest. That way we’ll all be at our best.”]]

"We head for the End of the Line. There are too many people counting on us. There's too much at stake. I hope you all won't hate me for this." @@.eliza;"Hate you? "I think I might kiss you."@@ Eliza bounds up the steps of the train and pecks you on the cheek. @@.eliza;"Come on commander we got a job to do."@@ @@.basho;"A true hero till the end."@@ Basho drifts past you into the cabin. @@.trent;"As if I ever could hate you."@@ Trent jabs you in the arm as he steps onto the train. @@.icabod;"There's no need to worry. I have your back after all."@@ Icabod puffs her chest out as she struts past you, grinning all the way. @@.vesuvius;"Through hell and highwater."@@ Vesuvius clasps your hand in his as he walks up. @@.rust;"I reckon this one is in the bag."@@ Rust tips her hat as she boards. @@.cal;"Cheer up bud. We have a day to save."@@ Cal winks, spinning his wrench in his hand. @@.owl;As he walks up the step, Owl turns to you and nods. You catch a glimpse of his sparkling blue eyes as he does.@@ Valorie approaches. Her eyes are red, with tears starting to well up. She pulls you in for a hug and for a second you worry you lungs might collapse. Before your body is squeezed of its last bit of oxygen, she lets go. You lock eyes for just a second before she enters the train. [[You hesitate before joining your commrades.|The End]]

@@.rust;"Based on current conditions, and Cal's average work speed, I'd say we have-"@@ Cal pops his head out from the train. @@.cal;"CAL'S average work speed is directly related to his current level of hunger ... what I wouldn't give for a hunk of bacon. Hell, I'd eat a lobster squirell!"@@ @@.rust;"Cal! Lobster squirrels are beautiful, productive creatures."@@ @@.cal;"Yeah, yeah. Still, I could go for some seafood ..."@@ Rust makes an irritated clicking sound and walks off. You step inside the train and take a look at Cal's work. He's removed a floor panel in order to get at the engine and inner workings. Various cogs and tools are strewn all over the place. [["How ya holding up, Cal?"]] [["How's the engine looking?"]]

@@.rust;"Currently operating at 59% efficiency."@@ [["Any idea how long it's gonna take?"]]

[[Train Platform]] <<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>> <<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>> <<set $Basho to false>>

You pull open the door to the conductors room to find Cal and Rust flailing about in the smoke, pulling levers, removing panels and smacking machinery. Cal peaks his head out to you through the smoke. @@.cal;"Ol'e girl's busted. She should have just enough kick in her for me to pull her up to a nearby rest stop. I'll make the repairs there."@@ "How long will it take?" you ask. @@.cal;"Too long. Probably most of the day."@@ That'll put you a bit behind schedule. Looks like you'll have to put off arriving till tomorrow morning. You return to the passenger cabin where most of your allies have situated themselves. "Engine's hit a few snags. We're gonna pull up to the next stop to get it fixed. Looks like we are taking today off." You friends nod in agreement. Afterall, nobody minds delaying a suicide mission by a day or two. [[Within a few minutes, the train pulls up to a little platform.|Transition 2]]

@@.rust;"They are indeed! Though they're usually harvested for their meat, they can actually be trained to form impressive work forces. Lobster squirrels are great at foraging for food!"@@ "How's that?" @@.rust;"They can easily navigate land or oceans, climb trees quickly, and steal food from other hungry creatures with the use of their pinchers."@@ [["You must have learned a lot on the ranch."]] [["What interesting creatures. Too bad there aren't any out here! Your expertise goes unused for this mission."]]

@@.cal;"Well, Rust may have been able to solve this. Even without my training, most 'Helping Hand' droids possess a basic grasp of mechanical concepts."@@ [["Good point. She seems to have grown into a capable amateur mechanic under your wing."]] [["True. But time is of the essence, here."]]

@@.valorie;"We did."@@ She nods, starring into the sky as she thinks. @@.valorie;"But just because it was our choice doesn't mean it is any easier."@@ She scratches her neck and her eyes dart about, looking for something to say. @@.valorie"That's probably enough chat for now. Could you help me get some of the equipment ready?"@@ [[You spend the next hour or so helping her ready supplies|Train Platform]] <<set $Valorie to false>> <<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay+1>>

@@.eliza;Eliza sits atop of brown duffle bag that spills at it’s sides with various bandages, herbs, salves and other medical equipment. She is reading a book with a colorful cover to Owl. It doesn’t look familiar, so she must have snuck off in the past town to do some shopping. Her jeans are tattered and caked in dirt and the collared men’s shirt she wears has one sleeve rolled up and the other torn clean off. Her short blonde hair has begun to grow just slightly over her green eyes. Every so often she takes a momentary break from reading to blow her locks out of her face and tuck them behind her ear before they come tumbling back down. Though, despite her weathered appearance, she looks not only content, but slightly exuberant. Its as if the book is really for her. Her demeanor stands out amongst your ragged comrades, which makes it all the more welcome.@@ [[back|Train Platform]]

@@.valorie;“If you are worried I won’t be able to do my job, you’re wasting your time, you know?”@@ she says, matter of factly. [[“I’m not worried about you as a warrior, I’m worried about you as a person.”]] [[“That’s true. I do have the best knight in the nation at my side.”]]

@@.vesuvius;"It's easier than it should be. That's what worries me. I spent my whole life fighting for them. Now that I'm on the other end of the sword I can see them for nothing more than they are. Just another army, pointlessly clawing for land."@@ [["Do you hate them?"]] [["Sounds like everyone else."]]

@@.icabod;"You're right, but..."@@ She glances around to your comrades. @@.icabod;"You all are warriors though. I'm just a pretty face, and I probably won't be that pretty after going through a hail of lead real soon."@@ [["You are overreacting."]] [["What's eating at you?"]]

@@.valorie;“I do. When I became a knight I vowed that I would make any sacrifice necessary to uphold order. But seeing my comrades fall over and over again in the name of some higher purpose… It makes me wonder if what we are doing really has any meaning to it.”@@ You sit down beside Valorie. [[“We are soldiers above all else. This is the life we chose.”]] [[“Are you having doubts?”]]

@@.eliza;"Welcome to the club friend."@@ She turns to your comrades scattered about the platform, each taking in their last peaceful day. Eliza faces the horizon and squints. @@.eliza;"They have the numbers and the weapons and the magic and the whatnot, but they don't actually believe in what they are doing. Vesuvius realized that and here he is now. Us, we're a family. It could be the whole world against us and we could still take 'em no sweat. I don't care if your a god, you touch my friends and you're done."@@ [["Wow Eliza. That was... that was really inspiring."]]

@@.vesuvius;"I don't hate anyone anymore. There is enough hate in the world."@@ He glances about to your commrades scattered about. @@.vesuvius;"Being on both sides of a war really casts new light on things. I've decided to focus on those by my side. Not the country that tells me who to kill."@@ [["We're glad to have you here."]] [["The others will warm up to you in no time."]]

@@.eliza;"So. So. Soooooo."@@ She places her hands on her hips and stands on her tip toes. @@.eliza;"The alleged hero starts tracking the beast, and as she does she realizes that its home has been destroyed by a nearby war..."@@ [["And then what?"]]

@@.basho;"Yes, I have been meditating, and I have been receiving some very interesting visions."@@ "I'm all ears." @@.basho;"There are 13 tigers walking in a circle. Each one is wearing a different colored suit. These are some wild colors."@@ "Ok ... go on," you say. Basho inhales deeply, as if he is still seeing the tigers. @@.basho;"Yes, the colors are magnificent, they are almost blinding! And they are all walking in a ring around a pile of sand."@@ [[You try to picture it.]] [["13 is an unlucky number. This seems like a bad omen."]]

Eliza claps her hands together. @@.eliza;"That's why you're the boss, boss!"@@ She faces the horizon and squints. @@.eliza;"They have the numbers and the weapons and the magic and the whatnot, but they don't actually believe in what they are doing. Vesuvius realized that and here he is now. Us, we're a family. It could be the whole world against us and we could still take 'em no sweat. I don't care if your a god, you touch my friends and you're done."@@ [["Wow Eliza. That was... that was really inspiring."]]

@@.cal;"She's ready to go!"@@ Cal bellows as the engine of the train hums to life. @@.cal;"All aboard!"@@ Your allies huddle at the door to the cabin of the train. You hop onto the steps of the train and your friends look up to you. "Alright everyone this is it!" You shout. "Next stop is the End of the Line!" <<if $relationship >= 8>> @@.valorie;"Wait!"@@ Valorie shouts. She steps forward. @@.valorie;"I've done this too many times. Rousing speeches before diving headfirst into a massacre. I can't..."@@ she chokes, and for a second it seems like shes going to just walk away. @@.valorie;"I don't want to lose any more friends. It hurts too much."@@ [["What are you saying?"]] <<else>> [["We've all fought hard for this moment, and we've been through so much."]]<<endif>><<removeclass "html">><<addclass "html" "night">><<audio background fadeout>><<audio end loop fadein>>

@@.rust;"This is true. Appreciation for other life forms is less of an immediately useful skill out here."@@ "It's been a rough road for us. I'm glad you're with us, Rust." @@.rust;"Yes, it is less dangerous than roaming alone."@@ "Say, mind if I bum a cig?" Rust reaches into a slot on her arm storing cigarettes. "Cal also needed a spangler's wrench." Rust hands the cigarette and the wrench over. [["Enjoy your smoke, Rust." You get the wrench to Cal.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $Rust to false>><<set $rUp to true>>

@@.rust;"It is difficult to accurately predict because there are many unknown variables at play. But, based on what we know, there is a 43% chance that we will be reinforced."@@ You think it over. It could be worse, but you would have liked to hear a higher number. [["Well, we'll do our best."|"Well, we'll do our best. Thanks for doing the math, Rust."]] [["Could be worse. Is it easy, doing those calculations?"]]

@@.eliza;"The beach? Are you kidding? I'd go red as a lobster squirrel sitting in the sun all day."@@ Eliza puts her hands against her cheeks and stairs to the sky as she thinks. @@.eliza;"Owl and I have been in the city streets nearly all our lives. I've only ever wanted to get out."@@ She looks over to you. @@.eliza;"Where do you think we should go? After all, it wouldn't be an adventure without you there chief."@@ [["The black sand canyons."]] [["The lost gardens."]] [["Hmmm, I guess I never put that much thought into it. Maybe just wander and see where we end up."]]

@@.trent;"Ah yeah, that was a long time ago!"@@ Suddenly, you feel heavy. @@.trent;"I remember when Pappi forged the thing. When I feel homesick, I look at the burns up my arms I got while in his forge."@@ "He worked so hard to keep you from the metal-working equipment," you recall. "I'm still surprised he ever gave you the privilege." @@.trent;"How could he not after I proved I was the ultimate gunslinger."@@ "I remember. The day you managed to shoot that pigeon roach was one of the hottest days of the summer. The winged parasite sure was a stubborn sonofabitch!" @@.trent;"Never saw it comin."@@ Trent winks at no one and nothing in particular. [["Hey... We should have a shooting contest."]] [["We should pay a vist to Pappi after this."]]

@@.vesuvius;"I'll look forward to it."@@ He truns to you. @@.vesuvius;"Okay, I want to get your opinion on this one trap I had planned."@@ [[You take some time to hear out Vesuvius' master plan.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $VesuviusAndBasho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $veUp to true>>

@@.eliza;"Nope. Nope. Don't do ghosts. Never."@@ @@.owl;Owl signs.@@ @@.eliza;"Owl wants to know if you feel ready."@@ [["I'm ready!"]] [["Honestly, I don't know. I guess we'll find out."]] [["I've been trying to not put much thought into it."]]

@@.trent;Trent has stationed himself across the platform from you. He is sitting on a bench examining his rifle. His equipment and weapons are laid out around the bench. Trent is a very solid fighter, and one of your oldest friends. It means a lot to you having him along side you, especially at this critical junction. He wears a duster coat, camo pattern pants and sturdy boots. Along with his rifle is his broadsword and several daggers that are normally attached to his person. He's dependable. Like a faithful canine companion, except maybe don't pet him.@@ [[back|Train Platform]]

@@.icabod;Icabod is pacing about the platform and it is starting to make you nervous. Already the sand and dust is griming up her long silken black and gold coat, the kind of which should've been left in a embassy. Her raven hair has been buzzed and her glowing green eyes might give the appearance of some sort of sinister politican, but that couldn't be further from the truth. Although she can't fight, she has been the voice of your party since nearly the begining. Always looking out for the little guy, she used her charisma and brains to help your scrappy band of do gooders avoided its fair share of scruffles. Too bad where you are going, there isn't going to be any chance to talk things through.@@ [[back|Train Platform]]

[[Check in with Vesuvius and Basho.|Vesuvius and Basho Dialogue]]

@@.valorie;"I know these train tracks. There is a fork in the road up ahead. I say we take it and just see where we end up. No army. No wars. No grand quests. Just us."@@ You turn from the group. Your knuckles turn white as you grip the railing of the train. @@.valorie;"We will all follow you to the end of the Earth. Whatever the decision."@@ [[The End of the Line]] [[New Horizons]]

She bursts into laughter. It's awkwardly loud. @@.icabod;"I'd rather take my chances with a hawkwolf as my attorney."@@ She glances down at her boots with a grin that stretches from cheek to cheek. @@.icabod;"That's funny, I just now forgot how nervous I was."@@ The grin vanishes. @@.icabod;"Nope. Now its back."@@ She begins pacing again. [["Would it help if we did a bit of training."]] [["We don't need you to be a fighter to have our backs out there."]]

@@.vesuvius;"Golems move slow and Owl is the fastest man I've ever seen. He made short work of them. We even got full nights rest afterward,"@@ you tell him. Vesuvius whoots and slaps his knee. @@.vesuvius;"And I was certain!"@@ He leans back and rest on his elbows. @@.vesuvius;"Its kinda beautiful isn't it. Being able to talk back on battles to death like they were just some good ol'e friends horsin around."@@ [["We'll have to do it again sometime."]] [["Maybe next time some of them mages you trained with can join us."]]

She takes another drag on the cigarette. You can hear some soft, rhythmic noises coming from inside her head, perhaps the sound of calculations being performed. @@.rust;"Of course it depends,"@@ she says. "On what?" @@.rust;"The likelihood of other rebels showing up to fight. And how soon we manage to get moving again."@@ [["Yeah, that sounds about right. Anyway, Cal needed a spangler wrench from you."|"Cal needed a spangler's wrench from you."]] [["What is the likelihood of other rebels showing up?"]]

[[Check in with Basho.|Basho Dialogue]]

He smilies. @@.vesuvius;"After everything that's happened you could throw me in the dump and I'd still think you've done to much for me."@@ His eyes water, just a little. @@.vesuvius;"So, yes. I look forward to many more days of adventure."@@ [[You spend some time listening to Vesuvius discuss his tomes.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $VesuviusAndBasho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $veUp to true>>

As you approach her, Valorie keeps her eyes locked on her sword as she sharpens it. @@.valorie;“You should prepare. We can’t afford to make any mistakes out there so we don’t have time to chat.”@@ [[“You’re right, we should focus on the task at hand.”]] [[“I know, I know, but this might be last time we all have to think of each other as friends, not warriors.”]]

@@.basho;"Yes! And he is holding something!"@@ You wait to hear what it is he is holding. @@.basho;"He is holding ... what is it? It's glinting, it's something alive, it's ..."@@ " ? " you think. Basho becomes silent, then exhales loudly. @@.basho;"Ahh it's gone! Pesky things, visions. Not always the most reliable source, you know?"@@ [["Well, no, I don't think this kinda stuff is really my forte."|Well, no, I wouldn't know.]] [["Could he be trying to lead us to the treasure of the sands?"]]

@@.trent;"But the odds have been bad this whole time!"@@ Trent laughs. "We just don’t know if the other groups will make it. If it’s just our squad against them, I’d say that’s a long shot… @@.trent;"I’d have to agree. You having doubts, chief?"@@ You pensively chew your cud. "We won’t get a chance like this again." @@.trent;"You’ve steered us admirably thus far. Everyone will get behind whatever decision you make."@@ You light a cigarette and smoke it. So does Trent. There is an amicable silence between you. [[You go to inspect your party's firearms.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $Trent to false>>

@@.valorie;“Maybe if you spent less time socializing and more time prepping we wouldn’t have lost so many men back during that raid against the necromancer’s lair.”@@ She speaks quickly, and the words cut deep. [[“Oh yeah… It’s been awhile since I thought about that. I… I’ll get back to work.”|“You’re right, we should focus on the task at hand.”]] [[“Hey, come on. It’s been nearly 10 years since then. I’m a much stronger leader now than I was then.”]]

Vesuvius chuckles. Its raspy. @@.vesuvius;"It's not all that strange for me, strangely enough. The man I once was died in that prison."@@ [["Then who are you now?"]] [["You almost had us caught once."]]

Vesuvius stands to face you. He looks you dead in the eyes and there is not a shred of doubt. @@.vesuvius;"I will be. I will follow you to grave and back again. It is the least I can do."@@ He sits back down and begins to read his tomes. [[You study up on forms of magic.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>> <<set $VesuviusAndBasho to false>>

@@.rust;"It's fine, of little consequence. I am aware that Cal enjoys poking fun at my past."@@ "That's Cal for you!" Rust pushes cigarette smoke out of her ventilation duct and emits a small clicking sound. This one sounds more like a laugh than her irritated. @@.rust;"Yes, that is Cal,"@@ she says. [["You mentioned that lobster squirrels are productive creatures - is that right?"]] [["Say, you run calculations pretty quickly - what do you think our odds are for this mission?"]]

Cal smiled. You make eye contact through the amber lens of his goggles. @@.cal;"Yeah, she's not bad! She stores information beautifully, so I've taught her a lot of the measurements and specs for machines that I have trouble remembering off the top of my head. And she can certainly carry more weight than I can, which has come in handy."@@ "I wonder what would have become of her had we not crossed paths." @@.cal;"We'd definetly be much dumber, which sounds pretty dumb. I think she'd be fine though. She's just got something about her that seems unbreakable. You know, aside from the metal bits." He bobs his head back and forth. "But who knows? Hard to say." Cal looks back at the engine below him, cognizant of the time constraint. "Say, would you mind grabbing my 3&1/2inch spangler's wrench and a cigarette? Rust should have both."@@ [["Sure thing, Cal." You exit the train in search of Rust.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $CalAndRust to false>><<set $cUp to true>>

@@.icabod;"You're a brawler friend. Out here amongst the blood and dirt is where you thrive. My place is in the court. Or the university. Or at the very least, the market."@@ [["Hey, come on now. You're making me out to be some sort of animal."]] [["I dunno. I think I'd look pretty good in a suit. The way my muscles pop, I could probably win a tribunal by my good looks alone."]]

<<if $oUp>> @@.eliza;[[Eliza|Eliza Description]]@@ continues her narration of the story to @@.owl;[[Owl|Owl Description]]@@. Her voice rises and falls to match the many different characters as Owl sits cross legged and sways back and forth like a little boy.<<else>>@@.eliza;[[Eliza|Eliza Description]]@@ reads to @@.owl;[[Owl|Owl Description]]@@ in the middle of the platform.<<endif>>

@@.rust;Cal's assistant, a robot named Rust, is often the only one able to get through to him when he's working. Rust stands at 5&1/2 feet tall, a standard industrial "Helping Hand" droid. A humanoid, bipedal android, she looked like a rugged, silver knight with no human inside. With arms wrapped in pneumatic-exertion tubes, she is able to lift about 3 times her body weight. She was originally stationed at a lobster squirrel ranch on the outskirts of the city. She sports a cowboy hat and occasionally smokes cigarettes, habits she no doubt picked up on the ranch. You asked about the cigarettes once, and learned that she has an alternative ventilation duct that she pulls the smoke through without damaging her circuits. You and your comrades found and enlisted her travelling with a herd of escaped lobster squirrels after her ranch was raided. Trent was excited to have feast of lobster squirrel. Eliza was thrilled for everyone to have a pet. Compromises were made and the lobster squirrels were left behind.@@ [[back|Train Platform]]

@@.eliza;"What?! Owl and I aren't made of money ya know."@@ @@.owl;Owl signs.@@ @@.eliza;"Owl wants to know if you feel ready."@@ [["I'm ready!"]] [["Honestly, I don't know. I guess we'll find out."]] [["I've been trying to not put much thought into it."]]

Ian Rapoport

@@.eliza;"We'll that's as far as we've gotten so far. I assume the hero realizes that the beast isn't the bad guy but just needs help. At least, she would need to if she is gonna be the hero."@@ [["I'm glad you both are holding up. Do you feel ready?"|I want to check in with everyone and see how they are doing.]]

Owl clasps his hands to his chest. Heartbreak has struck. @@.owl;He takes a moment to glance over the scenery before signing again.@@ "He wants to know if you feel ready," Eliza adds. [["I'm ready!"]] [["Honestly, I don't know. I guess we'll find out."]] [["I've been trying to not put much thought into it."]]

@@.vesuvius;"A new man. Minus the energy new entails. I see the world through fresh and tired eyes. There is possibility everywhere, yet I want none of it. Right now I think only of our destination and what I must do. After that..."@@ He stairs into the distance, looking for something. @@.vesuvius;"God only knows."@@ [["We'll be there right beside you."]] [["Will you stay with us?"]]

@@.owl;Every bit of Owl that isn’t cloaked in his long dark cloak is covered in bandages. His hands and face are completely obscured under layers of fresh medical cloth and he has his hood pulled low to cover his eyes. He has to be melting in this heat under all that, right? A plethora of knives and daggers peak their way out from under his shroud, taking in the sun. It’s funny that after all this time, the sight of such a shady character next to a young girl has ceased to cause you any notice at all. The two are inseparable, each shadows of the other. Owl sits on a bench with his hands folded, listening intently to Eliza’s narration.@@ [[back|Train Platform]]

Rust has walked to the end of the station, away from the train. You find her standing, smoking a cigarette, looking into the distance. "Hiya Rust!" @@.rust;"Greetings, Captain."@@ [["I, uh, apologize on Cal's behalf for the lobster squirrel comment."]]

@@.icabod;"Well I don't know if I'm going to turn myself into a gunslinger in a matter of hours or anything. I mean we might as well-"@@ You pull Icabod aside, call Basho to set up some cans, grab a revolver and throw it in her hands. @@.icabod;"Okay well now what do I do?"@@ [["Just stay calm."|Practice]] [["Keep your back straight."|Practice]] [["Focus on the target."|Practice]]

@@.valorie;“Oh come on now, you’re gonna make me blush.”@@ She smiles. That’s about as common as seeing a unicorn. She takes a moment to twiddle her fingers before thinking about what to say. @@.valorie;“I know the odds are against us out there, but I think we can do this. But if we win this war, how long till the next one. Who dies then? I’m getting tired of fighting in the name of some country’s flag or another.”@@ [[“We’re not fighting for some country. We’re fighting for the people here right beside us.”]] [[“I know we are the right side of this. Once we win, it will make a difference.”]]

@@.icabod;"You're right. You're right."@@ Icabod twiddles her fingers in a circle and lets out a sigh. @@.icabod;"I think I'm going to swing a sword around wildly. I feel like there is a 50-50 chance I become a master by tomorrow. Maybe I'll stab a whole dude!"@@ [[You take some time to rest in the shade.|Train Platform]] <<set $Icabod to false>><<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>>

For a second, Cal goes still. It's almost as if he's gone froze. Stuck in a moment of time. But sure enough, his joints loosen and he goes right back to work. @@.cal;"Of course. I'm working as efficiently as I can. Would you fetch me a 3&1/2inch spangler's wrench? Rust should know where they are."@@ "Sure thing, Cal. Keep it up!" [[You exit the train, in search of Rust.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $CalAndRust to false>>

@@.vesuvius;"Maybe they will, maybe they won't. I do enjoy just having them around though."@@ He turns to you. @@.vesuvius;"I know I probably sound like a broken record at this point, but thank you."@@ [["You spend some time listening to Vesuvius discuss his tomes."|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $VesuviusAndBasho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $veUp to true>>

@@.vesuvius;"You have a keen eye. No wonder I could never catch you."@@ He glances about to your commrades scattered about. @@.vesuvius;"Being on both sides of a war really casts new light on things. I've decided to focus on those by my side. Not the country that tells me who to kill."@@ [["We're glad to have you here."]] [["The others will warm up to you in no time."]]

@@.basho;The world seems to stand still around Basho. A monk by training, Basho has been drifting since his monastery was burned down. Wearing a bulletproof vest under his white robes, he appears to be some kind of wise-man turned militant. He is a skilled martial artist, though his talents on the battlefield come more in the form of tactical strategizing and long-range shooting. He is quiet, though when he does speak it often reveals a keen observational mind. His stance on many issues seems deeply neutral, non judgemental. Though his apparent lack of passion for the resistance’s cause (in his calm manner of speaking) irks some of the more angry members of your team, his contributions in battle and willingness to help with organizational tasks speak for themselves. Basho seems to be the closest person to Vesuvius. His questionable reputation seems not to bother Basho in the slightest, and their shared quiet natures make them quite companionable.@@ [[back|Train Platform]]

<<cacheaudio "background" "sounds/backgroundmusic.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "end" "sounds/ending.mp3">>

There's a loud boom as a puff of smoke enters the cabin and the train slows to a stop. Your comrades look to one another in confusion. You can hear Cal swearing in the front of the train. You peer out the window and see nothing but endless waves and waves of sand. Clearly this isn't the the end of the line. [[Check in with Cal.|Transition]]

He releases a sigh deep from his diaphram. @@.trent;"I'm holding, I guess."@@ He paws anxiously at his neck and scans the platform, looking for a different topic. [["What do you think our chances are. Tomorrow, I mean."|"What do you think our odds are once we make it up there?"]] [["I remember when you first laid hands on that thing." Motion towards Trent’s rifle.]]

Trent grins and his teeth shine. @@.trent;"Partner. I reckon you're asking for a world of hurt."@@ He tips a nonexistent cowboy hat. "Trent, Rust would kill you if she heard you try to be a cowboy." @@.trent;"Now, now, partner. No need to get all rilled up."@@ "Cowboys says things beside 'partner' you know." Trent hops and clicks his heels before tossing you a rifle and heading toward the edge of the platform to prepare. The rest of your group gathers around to watch. Basho sets up targets while Eliza seeks out a tumbleweed to no avail. Rust feels ashamed. [[You partake in an epic gunslinger showdown in which Trent loses by a very large margin.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $Trent to false>><<set $tUp to true>>

Trent makes a sort of flatulent noise with his mouth. @@.trent;"Old man would probably throw a frying pan at me the second I walked through the door."@@ "You're right. You are his favorite." @@.trent;"Oh shut up you bastard."@@ Trent pulls you in for a hug. [[You help Trent clean his rifle.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $Trent to false>><<set $tUp to true>>

Hal leans back strockes his stubble with his thumb. As the joke catches up with him he makes snorty chuckle. @@.cal;"Your right captain, the flux-capacitor tends to cause quite a few problems. Good thing I put a pnuemonic trampoline in there to keep it in check."@@ [["A pneumonic trampoline? Really? Should've used the hedgehamster powered turbine."]] [["I feel like this kerfuffle could be avoided by just using a book of time."]]

Hal glances to the side and locks eyes with you. It's a dueling stare. @@.cal;"Are you saying you are better mechanic than me?"@@ Cal bounds up and draws his sword and points it at you, ready for a battle to the death. Except there is no sword there. In fact there is nothing there. He glances to his empty palm. @@.cal;"So... Everyone knows that true mechanics duel with their wrenches, but it looks like Rust may or may not have taken it with her."@@ "I'll go grab it for ya. That way we can finish our duel. Of course." @@.cal;"Of course. Carry on."@@ Cal hops head first into the engine compartment of the train. Right back to work. [[You head off to find Rust and the wrench.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $CalAndRust to false>><<set $cUp to true>>

@@.cal;"A book of time?!"@@ Cal keels over laughing with his hands cluctching his chest. @@.cal;"That just... What the hell is a book of time?!"@@ He continues rolling on the floor and for a moment you worry you might lose your most reliable mechanic. "You gonna be alright there Cal." @@.cal;"No!"@@ He kicks his legs into the air. @@.cal;"I require immediate matinence on my rib cage, but faithful companion Rust has run off with my trusty wrench."@@ "How bout I go grab it for you?" @@.cal; "Yes. Yes! Hurry before I die!"@@ [[You go off too grab the wrench from Rust.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $CalAndRust to false>><<set $cUp to true>>

@@.rust;"Ah I'm just foolin."@@ She gives you a light pat with the back of your hand. It hurts. A lot. You clasp you arm for fear it might fall off. @@.rust;"Sorry about that. Robot arms ya know."@@ "I'm just glad you're on our side," you tell her, trying to shake the pain out of your arm. "Before I forget, Rust needs his wrench back from you." @@.rust;"Oh yeah. Of course."@@ [[You spend a bit of time getting Rust's impression on your cowboy accent.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $Rust to false>><<set $rUp to true>>

Rust traces her finger over the brim of her hat. @@.rust;"I can take him."@@ You suddenly want to see a battle royale the two of them. "We'll I guess he won't actually be able to wrench you if he doesn't have his wrench. Mind if I grab it from you?" @@.rust;"Of course."@@ She pulls a wrench out of her bag and tosses it to you. "I hope you know that we're having the two of you battle it out after this is all over." Rust winks. At least she would have if she had eyelids. [[You spend a bit of time getting Rust's impression on your cowboy accent.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $Rust to false>><<set $rUp to true>>

@@.rust;"I'll have to give you the full tour."@@ Rust stairs into the distance and for a moment she is in a different world. "Hey before I forget, looks like Cal is down a wrench." @@.rust;"Oh of course."@@ she rummages through pack before pulling out the spangler and hands it to you. [["You spend some time listening to Rust's stories of the ranch."|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $Rust to false>><<set $rUp to true>>

Rust smacks her knee. @@.rust;"You think you would need to ask? I'd love to have the team there. Though I dunno Cal could handle it."@@ The two you share a chuckle. "Hey, speaking of Cal, he actually needs his wrench from you." @@.rust;"What would you know, I completely forgot about that."@@ She tosses you the wrench from her bag. [[You listen to some of Rust's stories about the ranch.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $Rust to false>><<set $rUp to true>>

@@.basho;"Hmmmmm..."@@ He sits thinking for quite some time. You worry he may never return. "I guess, do you ever wonder if you are doing the right thing? The right thing morally?" He takes in a big breath, readying an extravagent philosophical speech. @@.basho;"Nope."@@ [["Really... Never?"]] [["What?! You can't be Basho! You must be an imposter."]]

Basho closes his eyes. @@.basho;"There are many things in this world to understand, but they quiver in the wake of the things that cannot be understood. I accept what I can and leave the rest to the wind. I do know, however, how I feel. I follow those feelings and that is it. That is the right thing to do. Or at least as far as a simple human can be concerned."@@ He reopens his eyes and peers to you. "Are you following your path?" [["Of course I am."]] [["Honestly, I have no idea."]]

@@.basho;"Indeed, you have discovered me, but I have already sabotaged your train and poisoned your allies. Accept defeat now so you may be at peace in these final moments."@@ You freeze, unsure what move to make next but Basho shakes his head. He closes his eyes. @@.basho;"There are many things in this world to understand, but they quiver in the wake of the things that cannot be understood. I accept what I can and leave the rest to the wind. I do know, however, how I feel. I follow those feelings and that is it. That is the right thing to do. Or at least as far as a simple human can be concerned."@@ He reopens his eyes and peers to you. "Are you following your path?" [["Of course I am."]] [["Honestly, I have no idea."]]

@@.basho;"Perhaps you should meditate on it. Join me now."@@ "You were going to ask me to meditate now no matter what I told you." @@.basho;"I'm sorry, what was that. I'm meditating too hard to reach the mortal plane."@@ You grin and sit beside him. [[You spend a bit meditating with Basho.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $Basho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $bUp to true>>

Basho smiles. @@.basho;"Would you care to meditate with me, I would appreciate the company."@@ [[You meditate with Basho.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $Basho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $bUp to true>>

@@.basho;"An unlucky number to some, but many actually find much prosperity in..."@@ He goes still. Completely still. Did he die? He couldn't have. Maybe he did. At least he died doing what he loved. Basho's eyes reopen and glimmer. Your fear of zombies has increased slightly. @@.basho;"It's gone. I'm afraid I lost focus."@@ [["I'm sorry. Did I ruin it?"]] [["Dang, I really wanted to see where it was going."]]

@@.basho;"An interesting question."@@ Basho goes quiet once again. He has a way with words. Or rather without them. @@.basho;"It's of little importance though. Shall we meditate and see if we can't see something else?"@@ [[You prod Basho with questions as he focuses.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $Basho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $bUp to true>>

@@.basho;"And perhaps that was the visions undoing."@@ "Beg your pardon?" @@.basho;"It's of little importance. Shall we meditate and see if we can't see something else?"@@ [[You prod Basho with questions as he focuses.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $Basho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $bUp to true>>

@@.basho;"An elf. Interesting, though I'm not particuarly sure that is where it was..."@@ He goes still. Completely still. Did he die? He couldn't have. Maybe he did. At least he died doing what he loved. Basho's eyes reopen and glimmer. Your fear of zombies has increased slightly. @@.basho;"It's gone. I'm afraid I lost focus."@@ [["I'm sorry. Did I ruin it?"]] [["Dang, I really wanted to see where it was going."]]

@@.basho;"I've nver been one to believe anything at all was impossible. My vision being about the desert treasure though? Definetly not the case."@@ You feel a profound spiritual quake within you. @@.basho:"Sit beside me and meditate to fix the damage done."@@ "I don't understand how that relates to this." @@.basho:"Hurry now. Great crimes are being committed that will lead to cataclysm for every second you choose to stay grounded to this physcial plain."@@ Frieghtened, you cross your legs and close your eyes. [[You pretend to meditate for a bit to appease Basho.|Train Platform]]<<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay + 1>><<set $Basho to false>><<set $relationship to $relationship + 1>><<set $bUp to true>>

"So where to first?" you ask. @@.trent;"I think the only rational thing is to is go on a quest to find treasure. Like pirate treasure, but better. Zombie, space, pirate treasure,"@@ Trent proclaims. @@.owl;Owl bounces up. His head nods up and down repeatedly.@@ Clearly this decision is most favorable. @@.basho; "Indeed, treasure. But tell me Trent. What will you do with this treasure when you find it?"@@ Basho asks. @@.cal; "Basho baby, Trent's gonna give it all to me for all the times I saved his sorry ass,"@@ Cal shouts back from the front of the train. Trent suddenly seems unsure of himself. @@.vesuvius;"I wouldn't mind having a little extra cash around. Or a lot of extra cash,"@@ Vesuvius adds. Trent turns to him. For a second he seems unsure, but the confusion on his face fades to grin as he puts his arm around Vesuvius pulls him close. @@.rust;"I could get the ranch up and started again with some money,"@@ Rust notes. Eliza sneaks up behind Rust and leaps, pulling herself up and sitting on Rust's shoulders. @@.eliza;"Yes! The lobster squirrel ranch! We shall command an army of them. The Crimson Legion, we shall call it. We will send them out on our dark bidding."@@ Icabod stands to address the room. @@.icabod; "Now, don't get me wrong. I'm all for dark bidding, but if we're talking zombie space pirate treasure here, getting the ranch started again isn't gonna even put a dent in our funds. I say we start a new nation. One that lives in peace, where the people don't have to worry about wars and can live out pleasant, quiet lives with their friends..."@@ Your allies nod, unable to dispute prosperity. They look to Icabod, waiting for the catch. @@.icabod;"And I shall be Empress and rule for all time!"@@ [[The room explodes into claims of corruption.]]

Your friends are full of life. Chatting. Yelling. Singing. The train has become a party. You sit down next to Valorie. She tossles your hair and gives you a light bump on the cheek. @@.valorie;"Not bad kid. You got me all excited for once in my life."@@ No one is really sure what is happening, but there is a sense of joy. Something that feels like it had been long since forgotten. [[Anything is possible.|End Screen]]

Created By Ian Rapoport First Draft By Ian Rapoport and Gabriel Szilardi-Tierney Music: Red Creek Title by Caleb Valdez and Justin Law (main theme) Lost Memories by Rocco Granata(Free Music Archive) (end theme) Font: Contrail One by Riccardo De Franceschi(google fonts) (Cal font) Megrim by Daniel Johnson(google fonts) (Rust font) Ranga by TipTopTyp(google fonts) (Eliza font) Permanent Marker by Font Diner(google fonts) (Owl font) Lemon by Eduardo Tumi(google fonts) (Trent font) IM Fell Great Primer SC by Igino Marini(google fonts) (Valorie font) Cinzel Decorative by Natanael Gama(google fonts) (Vesuvius font) Gruppo by Vernon Adams(google fonts) (Basho font) Jim Nightshade by Astigmatic(google fonts) (Icabod font) Images: Background by lightrayfx.com (edited in photoshop) Created in Twine 2 [[back|Start]]

@@.valorie;“Thanks. I’d like that.”@@ She looks up to and smirks before running off to grab some supplies. [[You spend the next hour or so preparing your equipment beside her.|Train Platform]] <<set $Valorie to false>><<set $timeOfDay to $timeOfDay+1>>