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<<if $ngplus>>\ <<fadein 3s 1s>><<if $run is 2>><!--SECOND RUN-->\ \ \ It snowed last night. When you woke up this morning, a shimmering white blanket had been draped across the city, covering every surface. The rough concrete sidewalks sparkle in the sunlight with a collection of footprints already cutting through the snow. You try to discern coherent paths, but there are too many tracks. It just seems like a barrage of individual prints forming a somewhat convoluted line through the city streets. As you walk, you find yourself switching between consciously placing your feet in the spots left by previous travelers and venturing off on your own into somewhat slippery, untouched territory. Eventually, you reach the office and enter the lobby. Very few people are here this early.<<if $mc.scorsese>> As you walk by, a receptionist perks up and smiles at you. "Good morning, Mr. Scorsese." You offer a wave in return but hurry to the elevator.<<else>> A receptionist looks up as you walk by, giving you a half-smile and nodding their head. You hurry into the elevator.<</if>> All in all, your commute wasn't terrible. At least, it wasn't as bad as you expected it to be. You view the return of winter as something beautiful but ephemeral. Eventually the novelty of the snow and ice may wear off and there's a potential for things to become nasty, but for now the snow is just enchanting. Marvelous. Surreal. You enter your office, admiring the snowfall from your tiny window. <<cycle "$mc.desk" autoselect>><<option "You designed your workspace with the sensibility of a minimalist. It's all clean lines and sharp corners without an ounce of visible clutter" "minimal">><<option "The decor in here is rather trendy—a houseplant rests on the window sill, abstract posters hang on the walls, and useless gold baubles are spread throughout the space" "trendy">><<option "Your room <<if $mc.scorsese>>contains a collection of objects you've collected over the years. Posters from some of your favorite projects hang on the walls amidst shelves lined with polished awards<<else>>is a testament to your love of cinema. Posters from some of your favorite films hang on the walls amidst shelves lined with props and movie memorabilia<</if>>" "director">><</cycle>>. You sit down at your desk with a heavy sigh.\ \ <<elseif $run is 3>><!--THIRD RUN-->\ <<if $mc.recepname is false>>\ \ It's been snowing for the past few days. The snow is lovely, but by the time you woke up this morning, the thick white blanket covering the city is so deep that it fully covers your feet, backing up both foot and vehicle traffic.<<if $mc.scenicroute>> Others might be upset with this, but you genuinely love how fresh snow transforms the urban environment. How it makes you look at everthing in a new light and consider even mundane things with a fresh perspective. E<<else>> It takes a while, but, e<</if>>ventually, you reach your office. The lobby is busy, humming with energy and excitement. <<if $mc.scorsese>>A receptionist looks up and smiles as you pass by. "Good morning, Mr. Scorsese."<<else>>A receptionist looks up as you pass by, offering you a kind smile. <</if>><<else>>\ \ You wave at them. "Morning, $mc.recepname." <<if $mc.scorsese>>$mc.recepname smiles, <<else>>"Yeah, good morning, $mc.name," they smile. <</if>>"Hope you're staying warm." "Oh, <<if $mc.scorsese>>that's a tall order at my age, but <</if>>I'm trying my best." You enter your <<if $mc.desk is "minimal">>immaculately organized <</if>>office and find that it's already set to the perfect temperature. The big picture window<<if $mc.desk is "trendy">>, curtained with lush, green vines and soft, string lights,<</if>> offers a picturesque view of the snowfall.<<if $mc.desk is "director">><<if $mc.scorsese>>Your Oscar rests on the windowsill, flanked by several BAFTAs and Emmys.<<else>> A slate and a few props from your favorite movie rest on the windowsill.<</if>><</if>> All in all, your commute was slow and cold, but not terrible<<if $mc.scenicroute>>. You might even call it refreshing, if not downright pleasant<</if>>. The novelty of snow and ice will wear off eventually, but for now it's still enchanting. Marvelous. Perfectly surreal. You remove several layers of outerwear, hanging them <<if $mc.desk is "minimal">>in a hidden closet, tucking them out of view<<elseif $mc.desk is "trendy">>on a thin, gold coat rack that stands next to your door<<else>>from <<if $mc.scorsese>>the film reel-shaped hooks your daughter gave you a few years ago<<else>>a few film reel-shaped hooks that your friend gave you<</if>><</if>>. Finally, you take a seat at your desk.\ \ <</if>><<else>><!--FOURTH+ RUN-->\ \ \ \ It's been snowing for a while.<</if>>\ \ \ \ <<if ($run is 3) and ($mc.recepname is false)>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-comments'></i>">><<goto "Receptionist Name">><</button>></span><<else>> It's time to begin your day. You turn on the computer. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-power-off'></i>">><<goto "Startup Screen">><</button>></span><</if>><</fadein>>\ \ \ \ <<else>><!--FIRST RUN-->\ \ \ \ \ It began snowing last night. When you awoke this morning, it was like a shimmering white blanket had been draped across the city, covering every surface. The rough concrete sidewalks sparkle in the sunlight with a collection of footprints already cutting through the snow. You try to discern coherent paths, but there are too many tracks. It just seems like a barrage of individual prints forming a somewhat convoluted line through the city streets. As you walk, you find yourself switching between consciously placing your feet in the spots left by previous travelers and venturing off on your own into somewhat slippery, untouched territory. Your laser focus on the trail makes your trek to work much faster than normal. Before you realize it, you've reached the office. You enter into the lobby. No one else appears to be here. Not yet. All in all, your commute wasn't terrible. At least, it wasn't as bad as you expected it to be based on reactions you'd seen online. Sometimes you don't get people. They're fascinating, but you don't always understand them. Some people see a little bit of snow and say things like "Winter is the worst thing to ever happen to this city", "snow was created by the gods to spite us", "cold like this will be the death of me", or something to those dramatic effects. Others wax poetic about the arrival of winter, analyze what snow means and how it forms, or create artwork depicting snowy landscapes both familiar and unfamiliar to yourself. Most people, you imagine, don't notice or care about the weather. They see flurries floating through the air and think something like, "Hmm, I guess it's going to be cold today," and that's it. If they do care or have solid opinions on it, they don't share them online. You lie somewhere between these extremes, like a center point in a triangle. You view the return of winter as something beautiful but ephemeral. The novelty will wear off and there's a potential for things to turn nasty or murky, but for now the snow is just enchanting. Marvelous. Almost surreal. You wish you could see it from inside the office, but there are no windows visible from your cubicle. All you see is a numbing wash of felt covered half-walls, stained carpet squares, and pock-marked ceiling tiles. You sit down at your desk with a heavy sigh, surveying your bare surroundings with a gaze that's 10% disappointment and 90% ambivalence. It's time to begin your day. You turn on the computer. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-power-off'></i>">><<goto "Startup Screen">><</button>></span><</if>><!--[[Startup Screen]]-->
<!--Computer screen starts up.-->\ \ Welcome to work<<if $ngplus>>, $mc.name $mc.surname<</if>>! <<if $ngplus>>Now logging you<<else>>Please log<</if>> in with your corporate credentials. <<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if $ngplus>><<goto "Replay Startup">><<else>><<goto "Startup 1">><</if>><</button>><!--[[Startup 1]][[Replay Startup]]--><style>.passage {text-align: center;} #passages {width: auto; padding: 1.5em 1.2em 1.5em 2.2em;}</style>
<<textboxPlus "Enter Password: (max 12 characters) " "$mc.password" `{ maxlength: 12, password: true }`>> <<button "Show Password">><<run alert($mc.password)>><</button>> <<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if $mc.password is "">><<run alert("Please enter your password.")>><<else>><<goto "Title">><</if>><</button>><!--[[Title]]--><style>.passage {text-align: center;} #passages {width: auto; padding: 1.5em 1.2em 1.5em 2.2em;}</style>
<<textboxPlus "First Name: " "$mc.name" `{ }`>> <<textboxPlus "Last Name: " "$mc.surname" `{ }`>> <<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if ($mc.name is "") and ($mc.surname is "")>><<run alert("Please enter your name.")>><<elseif ($mc.name is "") and ($mc.surname isnot "")>><<run alert("Please enter your first name.")>><<elseif ($mc.name isnot "") and ($mc.surname is "")>><<run alert("Please enter your last name.")>><<else>><<goto "Startup 2">><</if>><</button>><!--[[Startup 2]]--><style>.passage {text-align: center;} #passages {width: auto; padding: 1.5em 1.2em 1.5em 2.2em; }</style>
<<if $ngplus>><<if $run is 2>><<set $storybeat = "II">><<elseif $run is 3>><<set $storybeat = "III">><<elseif $run is 4>><<set $storybeat = "IV">><</if>><<else>><<set $storybeat = "I">><<set $mc.name = $mc.name.toUpperFirst()>><<set $mc.surname = $mc.surname.toUpperFirst()>><<emailset>><<set $character = $mc.name + " " + $mc.surname>><<if $character is "Martin Scorsese">><<set $mc.scorsese = true>><<else>><<set $mc.scorsese = false>><</if>><</if>>\ \ <<if $ngplus>>Thank you<<else>>Welcome<</if>>, $mc.name $mc.surname! <i class="fa-solid fa-cog fa-spin"></i><<timed 3.5s>><<goto "1">><</timed>> Please wait a moment while we <<if $ngplus>>reconnect you<<else>>connect<</if>> to the server.<style>.passage {text-align: center;} #passages {width: auto; padding: 1.5em 1.2em 1.5em 2.2em;}</style><!--[[1]]-->
<div class="header"> <div id="data-nav"> <span id="data" class="fa-solid fa-file"></span> </div> <div id="main-nav"> <span id="restart" class="fa-solid fa-trash-alt"></span><!--power-off is a power button, trash is a trash can, trash-alt is a trash can with lines--> <span id="credits" class="fa-solid fa-film"></span><!--question is a question mark, film is a film roll--> <span id="saves" class="fa-solid fa-save"></span><!--sd-card is an sd card, save is a floppy disc--> <span id="music" class="fa-solid fa-music"></span> <span id="settings" class="fa-solid fa-cog"></span><!--gear is a gear, cog is a cog--> </div> </div> <div id="story"> <span id="back" class="fa-solid fa-undo"></span><!--less-than-equal is a less than equal sign, arrow-left is an arrow pointing to the left, undo is an undo symbol--> <div class="mob-nav"> <div id="mob-main-nav"> <span id="mob-restart" class="fa-solid fa-trash-alt"></span> <span id="mob-credits" class="fa-solid fa-film"></span> <span id="mob-saves" class="fa-solid fa-save"></span> <span id="mob-music" class="fa-solid fa-music"></span> <span id="mob-settings" class="fa-solid fa-cog"></span> </div> <div id="mob-data-nav"> <span id="mob-data" class="fa-solid fa-file"></span> </div> </div> <div id="passages"></div> <div class='copyright' data-passage='Copyright'></div> </div>
<!--GENERAL--> <<set $character = "//Unknown//", $storybeat = "Arrival">> <<set $unlock = {}>> <<set $run = 1>> <<set $ngplus = false>> <!--FOR MC--> <<set $mc = { "name" : "", "surname" : "", "email" : "", "password" : "", "initial" : "", "story" : "", "change" : "queer", "dictating" : false, "satisfied" : 1, "recepname" : false, "thirdhist" : [], "thirdcount" : 0, "scorsese" : false }>> <<newinventory "$mc.inv">> <!--OTHER CAST--> <<set $al = { "response" : 0, "responsehist" : [] }>> <<set $gonch = { "motive" : 1, "past" : 0, "job" : 0, "pacifist" : true, "known" : true, "deadfam" : false, "goodforkat" : false, "queer" : true }>> <<set $andrey = { "russia" : true, "boss" : false, "job" : 0, "banker" : 0, "betrayed" : false, "betrays" : false, "lives" : false }>> <<set $katya = { "name" : "k", "wife" : false, "sis" : false, "lives" : false, "betraysgon" : true, "betrayssof" : false, "regrets" : true, "loves" : false, "unhappyloveless" : true, "hopefulloveless" : false, "unhappyloving" : false, "hopefulloving" : false, "queer" : true }>> <<set $sofia = { "sis" : false, "lives" : true, "job" : 1, "actor" : "Loren", "criminal" : true }>> <<set $mario = { "heir" : true, "betrays" : true, "lives" : false }>> <<set $joe = { "kills" : true }>> <!--MUSIC--> <<masteraudio muteonhide>> <<cacheaudio "theme" "Creating_Goncharov/aud/Main Theme from Goncharov LOOP.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ui_click" "Creating_Goncharov/aud/ui_click_eminyildirim QUICKER.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ui_hint" "Creating_Goncharov/aud/ui_hint_dland.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ui_mouse" "Creating_Goncharov/aud/ui_mouse_click_the-bizniss.mp3">> <<cacheaudio "ui_chime" "Creating_Goncharov/aud/ui_positive_eponn.mp3">> <<createaudiogroup ":sfx">> <<track "ui_click">> <<track "ui_hint">> <<track "ui_mouse">> <<track "ui_chime">> <</createaudiogroup>> <!--METERS--> <<newmeter '_sixSeconds' 0>> <<animation 6s linear>> <</newmeter>> <<newmeter '_sixSeconds2' 0>> <<animation 6s linear>> <</newmeter>> <!--FORGETTING STUFF--> <<run forget('checkednotif')>>
!!!<span class="center">Creating Goncharov was written and coded by <a href='https://gamesbyalbie.itch.io/' target='_blank'>''__Albie__''</a></span> The music is "Main Theme from Goncharov" used with permission from its composer, Alix (<a href="https://caramiaaddio.tumblr.com/post/701508256622952448/caramiaaddio-caramiaaddio-all-this-talk-about" target="_blank">__@caramiaaddio__</a> on Tumblr) All additional sound effects are from <a href="https://www.freesound.org" target="_blank">__Freesound.org__</a>) <h4>Other Credits:</h4>\ OpenDyslexic Font by Abby Gonzalez (found <a href="https://opendyslexic.org" target="_blank">__here__</a>) The Sugarcube 2 Documentation (found <a href="https://www.motoslave.net/sugarcube/2/docs/" target="_blank">__here__</a>) Cycy's Custom Macros (found <a href="https://github.com/cyrusfirheir/cycy-wrote-custom-macros" target="_blank">__here__</a>) Chapel's Custom Macros (found <a href="https://github.com/ChapelR/custom-macros-for-sugarcube-2" target="_blank">__here__</a>) HiEv's Sample Code (found <a href="https://qjzhvmqlzvoo5lqnrvuhmg.on.drv.tw/UInv/Sample_Code.html#Main%20Menu" target="_blank">__here__</a>)
<<timed 700ms>><<goto "Sound?">><</timed>><!--[[Sound?]][[Start]]-->
<<fadein 1.5s 1s>><<fadeout 1s 4s>><div class="storytitle">Boot Media</div><</fadeout>><</fadein>><<timed 6s>><<goto "Startup 3">><</timed>><style>#passages {box-shadow:none; border: none; background-color: transparent;}.dm #passages {box-shadow:none; border: none; background-color: transparent;}</style> <!--[[Startup 3]]-->
<<musicplayer>><h2>Albie Presents</h2><h1>Creating Goncharov</h1><br> <<fadein 500ms 1s>><div class='menulink'><<link "IMAGINE">><!--<<goto "Title">>--><<goto "Start">><</link>></div><!--OR BEGIN CREATE BECOME START IMAGINE INCITE--> <div class='menulink'><<link "REMEMBER">><<run UI.saves();>><</link>></div><!-- OR REMEMBER REMINISCE REFLECT--> <div class='menulink'><<link "CHANGE">><<run UI.settings();>><</link>></div><</fadein>><!--OR ALTER ADJUST CHANGE CORRECT--><style>h2 {text-align: center; text-transform: uppercase; font-size: 130%; color: var(--text);} .dm h2 {color: var(--dm-text);}</style>
/* MY WIDGETS */ <<widget "emailset">> <<set _emailfirst = $mc.name.first()>> <<set _emailfirst = _emailfirst.toLowerCase()>> <<set _emaillast = $mc.surname.toLowerCase()>> <<set $mc.email = _emailfirst + _emaillast + "@bootmedia.com">> <<set $mc.initial = $mc.name.first() + $mc.surname.first()>> <</widget>> <<widget "musicplayer">> <<if settings.music>> <<audio "theme" loop volume 0.3 play>> <<else>> <<audio ":all:not(:sfx)" stop>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "sfx_click">> <<if settings.sfx>> <<audio "ui_click" volume 1 play>> <<else>> <<audio ":all:not(:music)" stop>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "sfx_hint">> <<if settings.sfx>> <<audio "ui_hint" volume 1 play>> <<else>> <<audio ":all:not(:music)" stop>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "sfx_mouse">> <<if settings.sfx>> <<audio "ui_mouse" volume 1 play>> <<else>> <<audio ":all:not(:music)" stop>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "sfx_chime">> <<if settings.sfx>> <<audio "ui_chime" volume 1 play>> <<else>> <<audio ":all:not(:music)" stop>> <</if>> <</widget>> <<widget "playtimecheck">> <<if $playtime3>> <<else>> <<if $playtime2>> <<if playTime('hours') gte 3>> <<set $playtime3 = true>> <<goto "THIRD CHECK">> <</if>> <<else>> <<if $playtime1>> <<if playTime('hours') gte 2>> <<set $playtime2 = true>> <<goto "SECOND CHECK">> <</if>> <<else>> <<if playTime('hours') gte 1>> <<if $run gt 2>> <<set $playtime1 = true>> <<goto "FIRST CHECK">> <<else>> <</if>> <<else>> <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <</if>> <</widget>> <!--UTILIZES CHAPEL'S PLAYTIME CUSTOM CODE--> /* HIEV'S WIDGETS */ /* <<textboxPlus>> widget v1.3 - Start */ /* Usage: <<textboxPlus "Label: " "$variableName" `{ default: "Default value", passage: "Passage name", placeholder: "Placeholder text", maxlength: 10, spellcheck: false, autofocus: true, autocomplete: "off", password: true, readonly: true, disabled: true, onchange: "<<run alert('Text was changed.')>>", oninput: "<<run alert('Input event triggered.')>>", onreturn: "<<run alert('User hit RETURN.')>>" }`>> NOTE: If you put a space as the last character for the label then, instead of the textbox appearing to the right of the label, the textbox will appear on the line BELOW the label. Also, all of the options shown within the third parameter above (after "$variableName") are optional. For a list of all "autocomplete" options see: https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/HTML/Attributes/autocomplete */ <<widget "textboxPlus">> <<if ($args[1][0] !== "$") && ($args[1][0] !== "_")>> /* Show error message for bad variable name. */ <span class="errmsg" data-msg="<<textboxPlus>> - Invalid variable name." @data-src="$args[1]"></span> <<run $(document).one(":passagerender", function (ev) { $(ev.content).find(".errmsg").each(function (idx) { throwError($(this), $(this).data("msg"), $(this).data("src")); }); } )>> <<else>> /* Create textboxPlus input box. */ <<if $args[1][0] === "$">> <<set _textboxPlusName = "textbox-" + $args[1].substr(1).toLowerCase()>> <<else>> <<set _textboxPlusName = "textbox--" + $args[1].substr(1).toLowerCase()>> <</if>> <<if ndef $args[2]>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions = {}>> <<else>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions = $args[2]>> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.placeholder>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.placeholder = "">> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.maxlength>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.maxlength = "">> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.spellcheck>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.spellcheck = true>> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.autocomplete>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.autocomplete = "">> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.password>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.password = "">> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.readonly>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.readonly = "">> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.disabled>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.disabled = "">> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.onchange>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.onchange = "">> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.oninput>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.oninput = "">> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.onreturn>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.onreturn = "">> <</if>> <span class="textboxplus" @data-variable="$args[1]" @data-placeholder="_textboxPlusOptions.placeholder" @data-maxlength="_textboxPlusOptions.maxlength" @data-spellcheck="_textboxPlusOptions.spellcheck" @data-autocomplete="_textboxPlusOptions.autocomplete" @data-password="_textboxPlusOptions.password" @data-readonly="_textboxPlusOptions.readonly" @data-disabled="_textboxPlusOptions.disabled" @data-onchange="_textboxPlusOptions.onchange" @data-oninput="_textboxPlusOptions.oninput" @data-onreturn="_textboxPlusOptions.onreturn"> <label @for="_textboxPlusName">$args[0]</label> <<if $args[0][$args[0].length - 1] === " ">> <br> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.default>> <<set _textboxPlusOptions.default = "">> <</if>> <<if ndef _textboxPlusOptions.passage>> <<if _textboxPlusOptions.autofocus>> <<textbox $args[1] _textboxPlusOptions.default autofocus>> <<else>> <<textbox $args[1] _textboxPlusOptions.default>> <</if>> <<else>> <<if _textboxPlusOptions.autofocus>> <<textbox $args[1] _textboxPlusOptions.default _textboxPlusOptions.passage autofocus>> <<else>> <<textbox $args[1] _textboxPlusOptions.default _textboxPlusOptions.passage>> <</if>> <</if>> </span> <</if>> <</widget>> <<script>> $(document).on(":passagerender", function (event) { /* Update textboxPlus input boxes. */ $(event.content).find(".textboxplus").each(function () { var options = {}, props = {}; var data = $(this).data("placeholder"); if (data) { options.placeholder = data; } data = $(this).data("maxlength"); if (data) { options.maxlength = data; } data = $(this).data("spellcheck"); if (data.toString().toLowerCase() === "false") { options.spellcheck = "false"; } data = $(this).data("autocomplete"); if (data) { options.autocomplete = data; } data = $(this).data("password"); if (data) { props.type = "password"; } data = $(this).data("readonly"); if (data) { props.readonly = data; } data = $(this).data("disabled"); if (data) { props.disabled = data; } $(this).find("input").each(function () { if (props.type) { $(this).removeProp("type").attr(options).prop(props); } else { $(this).attr(options).prop(props); } }); var changeCode = $(this).data("onchange"); if (changeCode) { $(this).find("input").on("change", function (event) { $.wiki(changeCode); }); } var inputCode = $(this).data("oninput"), parent = this; if (inputCode) { $(this).find("input").on("input", function (event) { State.setVar($(parent).data("variable"), $(this).val()); $.wiki(inputCode); }); } var returnCode = $(this).data("onreturn"); if (returnCode) { $(this).on("keyup", function (event) { if (event.key === "Enter") { $.wiki(returnCode); } }); } }); }); <</script>> /* <<textboxPlus>> widget - End */
Current Audio Settings: <<liveblock>>Music is <span class="acc"><<if settings.music>><span class='greenacc'>ON</span><<else>>OFF<</if>></span><</liveblock>><!-- and SFX are <span class="acc"><<if settings.sfx>><span class='greenacc'>ON</span><<else>>OFF<</if>></span>-->. ''Music:'' <span class="audiobutton" id="musicoff"><<button "OFF <span class='mutebutton'><i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i></span>">><<set settings.music = false>><<musicplayer>><<update>><</button>></span> or <span class="audiobutton" id="musicon"><<button "ON <span class='volumebutton'><i class='fa-solid fa-music'></i></span>">><<set settings.music = true>><<update>><<musicplayer>><</button>></span><!-- ''SFX:'' <span class="audiobutton" id="sfxoff"><<button "OFF <span class='mutebutton'><i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i></span>">><<set settings.sfx = false>><<update>><</button>></span> or <span class="audiobutton" id="sfxon"><<button "ON <span class='volumebutton'><i class='fa-solid fa-volume-up'></i></span>">><<set settings.sfx = true>><<update>><</button>></span>--><style>.mutebutton { color: var(--accent); } .dm .mutebutton { color: var(--dm-accent); } .volumebutton { color: var(--enabled) !important; } .dm .volumebutton { color: var(--dm-enabled) !important; } .greenacc { color: var(--enabled) !important; } .dm .greenacc { color: var(--dm-enabled) !important; }</style>
Your day starts off like any other. You check your email. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-envelope'></i>">><<goto "2">><</button>></span><!--[[2]]-->
Welcome, $mc.name! You have ''one'' unread email. <<link "<div class='unread-email'>''Subject:'' New Assignment<br>''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Yara Bose<<else>>Your Boss<</if>><br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 21, 2022 at 04:20 AM</span></div>" "3">><</link>>\ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: Started it<br>''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Justine Perrone<<else>>Justa Personne<</if>><br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 01:49 PM</span></div>" "Email 1">><</link>>\ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' Tick Tock O'Clock<br>''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Raul M. Guy<<else>>Rand M. Guy<</if>><br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 07:15 AM</span></div>" "Email 2">><</link>><!--[[3]]--><!--[[Email 1]][[Email 2]]--><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;}a {border: none;}</style>
''<span class="acc">New Assignment</span>'' ''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Yara Bose<<else>>Your Boss<</if>> <ybos<<if $run gte 3>>e<<else>>s<</if>>@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $run lt 3>>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Good morning, Mr. Scorsese. <<else>>Hello, $mc.name. I hope that you're having a decent morning. If not, perhaps this news will improve it. <</if>>I have a very exciting opportunity for you. Later today I'll be pitching a new film—specifically a //Goncharov// remake—to a group of investors and<<if $mc.scorsese>>, of course,<</if>> I've chosen you to put that pitch together. My meeting is at 11:00<<if $run is 1>>, so, hopefully you've arrived at work early. If, for whatever reason, you don't think you're the right fit for this project, let me know asap. I can<<if $mc.scorsese isnot true>> easily<</if>> find someone else, but w<<else>> so please keep that in mind. W<</if>>e don't have any time to waste. <<if $mc.scorsese>>We are all very excited to present you with this opportunity and I, personally, am very much looking forward to seeing how you'd approach this project.<<else>>I <<if $run is 1>>know<<else>>think<</if>> this would be your first time leading a project like this, but don't let that intimidate you. <<if $run is 1>>I'm sure y<<else>>Y<</if>>ou can probably do it and, if you manage to impress me and the investors, then you're certain to receive more opportunities like this going forward.<</if>> Let me know your response as soon as you finish reading this. Stay warm, <<if $run gte 3>>Yara Bose<<else>>Your Boss<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "4">><</button>></span><<else>>\ \ \ \ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Good morning, Mr. Scorsese. <<else>>Hello, $mc.name. I hope that you're having a decent morning. If not, perhaps this news will improve it. <</if>>I have a very exciting opportunity for you. Later today I'll be pitching a new film—specifically a<<if $mc.scorsese>> remake of your 1973 film //Goncharov//—<<else>> //Goncharov// remake—<</if>>to a group of investors and<<if $mc.scorsese>>, of course, we'd love for you to put that pitch together.<<else>> I've chosen you to put that pitch together.<</if>> My meeting is at 11:00 so please keep that in mind. We don't have any time to waste. <<if $mc.scorsese>>We're all very excited to present you with this opportunity and I, personally, am very much looking forward to seeing how you'll approach this project.<<else>>I think this will be your first time leading a project like this, but don't let that intimidate you. You can probably do it and, if you manage to impress me and the investors, then you'll receive more opportunities like this going forward.<</if>> You'll be working on this project with Al B. Send them an email when you're ready to get started. Best of luck and stay warm, Yara Bose <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "9">><</button>></span><</if>><!--[[4]][[9]]-->
<<if $mc.scorsese>><<if $run is 1>>You stare at the computer screen for a long while. <</if>>"Of course I've chosen you." <<if $run is 2>>That's an odd thing to say. <</if>>Why of course? You are a prolific director and any project attached to your name <<if $run is 1>>is certain to<<else>>should<</if>> wow investors, but there's one <<if $run is 1>>big <</if>>problem.<<else>><<if $run is 2>>Wow. <<elseif $run is 1>>Your jaw drops open. <</if>>This is the kind of opportunity you've been waiting for. <<if $run is 1>>You wish you had more time to put together your first pitch<!-- (and if you were being picky, you'd rather put together your own project from scratch)-->, but this is the kind of thing that could make or break your career. You read through the email once more and realize something<<if $run is 1>> terrible<</if>>. This project is a //Goncharov// remake.<<else>>A successful pitch could jumpstart your career. <!--Likewise, an unsuccessful one could end it before it's begun. -->There's just one problem.<</if>><</if>> <<if $run is 1>>\ You haven't seen //Goncharov//. You haven't even heard of //Goncharov//.\ <<elseif $run is 2>>\ You haven't seen //Goncharov//. You've heard of it, but you've never watched it.<<else>>\ You haven't seen //Goncharov//. Of course, you<<if $run is 3>>'ve heard quite a bit about it<<else>>know what //Goncharov// is about<</if>>, but you still haven't watched <<if $run is 3>>//Goncharov//<<else>>it<</if>>.<</if>> Whatever. That doesn't matter. <<if $mc.scorsese>>You're //Martin Scorsese//. You can make a masterpiece out of anything. You'll figure something out. <<if $run is 1>><<cycle "$mc.firstfix">><<option "Even if you don't have a good idea for the plot, you can always call up Rob and Al and see if you can get them onboard. <<if $run is 1>>No investor<<else>>What kind of investor<</if>> would turn down a film with Scorsese, De Niro, and Pacino attached to it<<if $run is 1>>.<<else>>?<</if>>">><<option "You faked your way through enough book reports back in school to get through something like this with ease.">><<option "You could maybe find it online and watch it while you work.">><</cycle>><<else>><<print $mc.firstfix>><</if>><<else>>Opportunities like this come around once<<if $run is 2>>, maybe twice,<</if>> in a lifetime<<if $run is 1>>—if you're lucky<</if>>. It doesn't matter that you don't know //Goncharov,// you'll figure something out. <<if $run is 1>><<cycle "$mc.firstfix">><<option "You faked your way through enough book reports back in school to get through something like this with ease.">><<option "Based on some of the adaptations and remakes you've seen in recent years, you feel like you don't need to know your source material inside and out to get a project greenlit.">><<option "You can probably find it on a streaming service—or //elsewhere//—and watch it on like x4 speed.">><</cycle>><<else>><<print $mc.firstfix>><</if>><</if>> You reply to <<if $run is 1>><<if $mc.scorsese>>this<<else>>your<</if>> boss<<else>><<if $run gte 3>>Yara Bose<<else>>Your Boss<</if>><</if>>. <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Respond enthusiastically." "5">><<if $ngplus>><<if ndef $mc.pitchhist>><<set $mc.pitchhist = []>><</if>><<run $mc.pitchhist.push($mc.pitchresponse)>><</if>><<set $mc.pitchresponse = 0>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Respond drily." "5">><<if $ngplus>><<if ndef $mc.pitchhist>><<set $mc.pitchhist = []>><</if>><<run $mc.pitchhist.push($mc.pitchresponse)>><</if>><<set $mc.pitchresponse = 1>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Respond politely." "5">><<if $ngplus>><<if ndef $mc.pitchhist>><<set $mc.pitchhist = []>><</if>><<run $mc.pitchhist.push($mc.pitchresponse)>><</if>><<set $mc.pitchresponse = 2>><</link>></span></div><!--[[5]]--><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style>
''<span class="acc">RE: New Assignment</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Yara Bose<<else>>Your Boss<</if>> <ybos<<if $run gte 3>>e<<else>>s<</if>>@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $run is 1>>\ <<if $mc.pitchresponse is 0>><!--ENTHUSIASTIC-->\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Good morning to you as well, boss! This sounds like a very exciting project and I'm more than willing to fit it into my schedule. What other details do you have for me? I'd love to get started on it as soon as possible. This movie won't make itself. Thanks,<<else>>Wow, thank you so much, boss! This is such an exciting opportunity and I'm more than willing to take it on. What other details do you have for me? I'd love to get started on this as soon as possible. This movie won't make itself. Thank you,<</if>> $mc.name $mc.surname<<elseif $mc.pitchresponse is 1>><!--DRY-->\ Morning, boss. <<if $mc.scorsese is false>>Thanks for the opportunity. C<<else>>You can c<</if>>ount me in. What other details do you have? - $mc.name $mc.surname<<else>><!--POLITE-->\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Good morning to you as well, boss. Thanks for thinking of me for this project. I can certainly fit it into my busy schedule. You mentioned that you had more details, I encourage you to send those along as soon as possible so we can get the ball rolling.<<else>>Good morning, Boss, and thank you for this opportunity. I will happily accept it. You'd mentioned that you had more details, I encourage you to send them along so I can get this ball rolling as soon as possible.<</if>> This movie won't make itself. Yours, $mc.name $mc.surname<</if>><<elseif $run is 2>>\ \ <<if $mc.pitchresponse is 0>><!--ENTHUSIASTIC-->\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Good morning to you as well, Boss. I'd love to take on this project. What other details do you have for me? I want to get started on it as soon as possible. No time to waste, right? This movie won't make itself. Thanks,<<else>>Wow, thank you so much, Boss! I'd love to take on this project. What other details do you have for me? I'm eager to get started as soon as possible. No time to waste, right? This movie won't make itself. Thank you,<</if>> $mc.name $mc.surname<<elseif $mc.pitchresponse is 1>><!--DRY-->\ Morning, Boss. Count me in. Send me the details and I'll get right to it. No time to waste, right? This movie won't make itself. - $mc.name $mc.surname<<else>><!--POLITE-->\ Good morning, Boss. Thanks for offering me this project. I'm more than happy to take it on. Send me the details as soon as you can and I'll get started. No time to waste, right? This movie won't make itself. Yours, $mc.name $mc.surname<</if>><<else>>\ <</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "6">><</button>></span><!--[[6]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: New Assignment</span>'' ''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Yara Bose<<else>>Your Boss<</if>> <ybos<<if $run gte 3>>e<<else>>s<</if>>@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''CC:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $run is 1>>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Fantastic! <<else>>Great. <</if>>Thank you for responding promptly. The details are as follows: You need to craft a pitch for a 2023 adaptation of <<if $mc.scorsese>>your 1973 classic, //Goncharov<<else>>Martin Scorsese's //Goncharov// (1973)<</if>>. <<if $mc.scorsese>>We aren't asking you to<<else>>Don't<</if>> stray too far from the original. This is meant to be a celebration more than anything in honor of the upcoming 50th anniversary. <!--The film's themes and plotlines are already pretty modern and progressive for the time it was created, the characters are iconic and complex, and the music is simply exquisite. --><<if $mc.scorsese>>We are very excited to see what you will do given the opportunity to remake //Goncharov// with access to modern technology, new perspectives you've gained over the years, and (if this pitch goes well) a much bigger budget than you would have had at the start of your career. Deepest apologies for only reaching out to you now, but I'll remind you that unfortunately we only have until 11:00. If possible, I'd also like to go over your ideas and thoughts before I present them to the potential investors, so the earlier you can get this pitch to me, the better. Anyways, go work your magic. Not that it'll be difficult; as Roger Ebert said, "//Goncharov// is the greatest mafia movie ever made." Whatever you do, I'm sure it will be fantastic.<<else>>We aren't asking you to reinvent the wheel here. Add some flare if you want, but the main objective is to slap some fresh paint on a classic and call it a day. Remember you have until 11:00 but, ideally, you'll get done a little earlier so we can go over your ideas and thoughts before I present them to the potential investors. Anyways, go make something great. Not that it'll be difficult; as Roger Ebert once said, "//Goncharov// is the greatest mafia movie ever made." I don't think you can mess it up.<</if>>\ \ \ <<elseif $run is 2>><!-- SECOND RUN -->\ \ \ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Fantastic! <<else>>Great. <</if>>Here are the details: You need to craft a pitch for a 2023 adaptation of <<if $mc.scorsese>>your 1973 classic, //Goncharov<<else>>Martin Scorsese's //Goncharov// (1973)<</if>>. <<if $mc.scorsese>>We aren't asking you to<<else>>Don't<</if>> stray too far from the original. //Goncharov// is already a masterpiece and our audiences already adore it. This is meant to be a celebration more than anything in honor of the upcoming 50th anniversary. <<if $mc.scorsese>> Sorry for only reaching out to you now, but I'll remind you that unfortunately we only have until 11:00. If possible, I'd also like to go over your ideas and thoughts before I present them to the potential investors, so the earlier you can get this pitch to me, the better. Anyways, go work your magic. Not that it'll be difficult; as Roger Ebert said, "//Goncharov// is the greatest mafia movie ever made."<<else>> Remember you have until 11:00 but, ideally, you'll get done a little earlier so we can go over your ideas and thoughts before I present them to the potential investors. Anyways, go make something great. Not that it'll be difficult; as Roger Ebert once said, "//Goncharov// is the greatest mafia movie ever made."<</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "7">><</button>></span><!--[[7]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: New Assignment</span>'' ''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Yara Bose<<else>>Your Boss<</if>> <ybos<<if $run gte 3>>e<<else>>s<</if>>@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''CC:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ Also, in case you didn't notice, I added Al B. to this email. They'll be working with you on this project<<if $mc.scorsese>>, serving as a second pair of hands and eyes to get this done as quickly as possible<<else>> but they understand you're leading it<<if $run is 1>>. Utilize their skills and insight as much as you can, time is a luxury we cannot afford<</if>><</if>>. I've already briefed them on the situation, just send them a message when you're ready to get started<<if $run is 1>><<if $mc.scorsese isnot true>> (please do not //reply all// to this email, I just cleaned out my inbox and don't want the two of you cluttering it up)<</if>><</if>>. Talk to you soon<<if $mc.scorsese>> and thank you again<</if>>, <<if $run gte 3>>Yara Bose<<else>>Your Boss<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "9">><</button>></span><!--[[9]]-->
<<if $run is 1>>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Wait. That can't be right. You read the email again. No, you read that correctly. They definitely said that //Goncharov// was //your// movie. Is that... possible? Could you really have forgotten about one of your own films? I mean it was 1973, apparently. You aren't as young as you once were and maybe it's been so long that you've somehow... forgotten? No, that can't be it. If you made a film that Roger Ebert called "the"—what was it? You check the email again. "The //greatest// mafia movie ever made," you would definitely remember that. Right? ... Right? <<cycle "$mc.scorseseknow">><<option "Yeah, you know your own body of work. They must be mistaken somehow or there has to be some kind of miscommunication. You did not make //Goncharov//. You're 99.99% sure." 2>><<option "Maybe... maybe not. They're probably mistaken or there's some kind of miscommunication, but you're 80% sure that you did not make //Goncharov//." 1>><<option "No. You have no idea. That was fifty years ago, it's entirely possible that you made //Goncharov// and have no memory of it." 0>><</cycle>><<else>>Huh. Is this movie a big deal? Your boss mentioned it so casually, like you should automatically know what they're talking about. <<cycle "$mc.scorseseknow">><<option "You thought you knew Martin Scorsese's body of work pretty well" 2>><<option "You're somewhat familiar with Martin Scorsese's work" 1>><<option "Maybe it's because you have no idea who Martin Scorsese is" 0>><</cycle>>, but you are 99% sure that you've never heard of this //"Goncharov"//. And Roger Ebert called it "the"—what was it? You check your email again. "The //greatest// mafia movie ever made." Wow. I mean, if Ebert thought that, then this movie must be fantastic. The gravity of your task starts to sink in. You have a pivotal role in remaking a masterpiece of cinema. You don't know if you should be excited or intimidated, flattered or terrified... If you'd actually seen //Goncharov//, maybe <!--you would have more clarity-->you'd know how to feel.<</if>>\ \ \ \ <<elseif $run is 2>>\ \ \ \ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Wait. You read the email again. <!--Huh. -->Why do they think you made //Goncharov//? <<if $mc.scorseseknow is 2>>You didn't make //Goncharov//... right?<<elseif $mc.scorseseknow is 1>>You don't think you made //Goncharov//.<<else>>... Did you make //Goncharov//?<</if>> If you //did// make it, you don't remember much about it—just some basic things about the plot and characters, but none of that is from the perspective of a writer, director, producer, etc. Then again, if //Goncharov// was released in 1973, is it possible that you've somehow... forgotten? That it's been so long that an entire film has vanished from your memory? You aren't as young as you once were. Things slip through the cracks...<<if $mc.scorseseknow is 0>> For a moment you worry that you're starting to lose it. You force that thought from your mind. No. You're fine. You just forget things sometimes. There's nothing wrong with you. There's no cause for concern.<</if>>\ \ \ <<else>>Huh. Is this movie really that big of a deal? You know a few things about it—like some basic plot and character stuff—but you didn't realize that it was popular enough to demand an anniversary remake. You haven't really seen it talked about online until very recently and, even then, there isn't much hype around it. Just a small niche group that's very passionate about the film.<</if>>\ <</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "8">><</button>></span><!--[[8]]-->
''<span class="acc">Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $al.response is 0>><<if $mc.scorsese>>Morning Al, Hope you're having a good one and that you're excited to work on this project. If you have any ideas<<if $run gte 3>> or resources<</if>>, feel free to send them over. Talk to you soon.<<else>>Hey Al, Hope you're having a good morning. Looking forward to working on this project with you. If you have any ideas<<if $run gte 3>> or resources<</if>>, feel free to send them over! Talk to you soon.<</if>> Warmly, $mc.name<<elseif $al.response is 1>><<if $mc.scorsese>>Morning Al, I think this was already set up pretty well. Let's just dive in.<<else>>Morning Al, I think <<if $run gte 3>>Bose<<elseif $run is 2>>Boss<<else>>the boss<</if>> set this up pretty well. Let's just dive in.<</if>> What ideas<<if $run gte 3>> or resources<</if>> do you have<<if $mc.scorsese>> for this project<</if>>? - $mc.name<<else>><<if $meanMC>>You. //Great.// Stay in your office and don't bother me. This is important, I won't let a useless asshole like you fuck it up.\ <<else>>Al, I guess we're working together. If you have any ideas<<if $run gte 3>> or resources<</if>> send them my way, if not, I encourage you to stay in your office and not disrupt me. - $mc.name<</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "11">><</button>></span><!--[[11]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>\ \ <<if $al.response is 0>><!-- FRIENDLY SCORSESE -->\ Good morning, Mr. Scorsese. <<if ($ngplus is true) and ($al.responsehist.last() is 0)>>Always a pleasure to work<<else>>Truly a pleasure to be working<</if>> with you. <<if $run is 1>>I am having a nice morning, thank you for asking. Personally, I adore snow, so I find this weather very inspiring. Speaking of inspiring, <<elseif $run is 3>>Still enjoying the snow so I'm having a lovely time. Hope you're enjoying the view from your new office too. <<elseif $run is 4>>This snow really is incredible. Since our offices are right next to each other, you're seeing the same thing I am, right? Absolutely breathtaking. What a place to be stuck! Anyways, <</if>>I have quite a few ideas for //Goncharov//<<if $run is 1>>—which, if you'll allow me to say, is inarguably one of the greatest films of all time—however, I'd rather<<else>> but I need to<</if>> hear what direction you want to go in before tossing out my two cents.\ \ <<else>><!--NEUTRAL SCORSESE-->\ Good morning Mr. Scorsese. <<if $run is 1>>Well said, let's just<<else>>Let's<</if>> get to it. <<if $run is 1>>Personally, <</if>>I have quite a few ideas for //Goncharov//<<if $run is 1>>—which, I have to say, is one of my favorite films—but I'd rather<<else>> but I need to<</if>> hear what direction you want to go in before tossing out my two cents.<</if>> <<if $run is 1>>While I was waiting, I went ahead and set up a shared document for this project with some basic information about //Goncharov// (not that you need it). <<else>>There's a shared document that I've already set up. <</if>>I'll send you the link and then you'll be able to access it from your desktop.<<if $run is 1>> Feel free to keep any notes, ideas, etc. in there. I'll be able to read and edit everything connected to the document too.<</if>> <<if $run is 1>>Anyways, I'm excited to hear your thoughts<<else>>I'm very excited to hear your thoughts<</if>>. Warmest regards, Al\ \ <<else>><!--FRIENDLY MC-->\ <<if $al.response is 0>>Morning, $mc.name. <<if $run is 1>>I am having a nice one myself—really enjoying watching this lovely snowfall. Hope yours is good as well. <<else>><<if ($ngplus is true) and ($al.responsehist.last() is 2)>>Glad to see you're in a friendly mood this time. Anyways, <</if>>I hope you're enjoying watching this snowfall as much as I am. <</if>>I have quite a few ideas, but <<if $run is 1>>I'm more interested in seeing what directions you want to go in first. So, for now I'll refrain from tossing out my two cents. <<else>>I need to hear what direction you want to go in before tossing out my two cents.<</if>>\ \ \ <<elseif $al.response is 1>><!--NEUTRAL MC-->\ Morning, $mc.name. Excited to work with you and help foster your ideas. That being said, while I have quite a few thoughts on //Goncharov//, I'm more interested in seeing what directions you want to go in first. So, for now I'll refrain from tossing out my two cents.\ \ <<else>><!--RUDE MC-->\ <<if $meanMC>>\ Shit. Sorry, I forgot I murdered the $mc.surname family dog last week. Oh, wait, that's because I didn't. Gods, I'd ask why you hate me so much, but that doesn't matter. You're right, this is important. //Goncharov// is important. Your job is important. I wouldn't say doing your job is more important than acting like a decent human being and treating people with respect, but we don't all feel that way. I guess. Sending over a shared document now. I'll do my best not to be a nuisance. Have a lovely fucking day, Al<<else>>\ And good morning to you too, $mc.name. <<if ($ngplus is true) and ($al.responsehist.last() isnot 2)>>Hope that I haven't upset you or something. Anyways, n<<else>>N<</if>>o worries. I won't trouble you<<if $run is 1>> at your cubicle<</if>>. I'll just stay here in my office admiring the snowfall and distracting no one but myself. I do have quite a few ideas for this project, but I<<if $run is 1>>'m more interested in seeing what directions<<else>> need to know what directions<</if>> you want to go in first. So, for now I'll refrain from tossing out my two cents. <</if>><</if>><<if $meanMC>><<else>> <<if $run is 1>><<if $al.response is 2>>I've been waiting for a while, so I went ahead and set up a shared document for this project. I don't know how familiar you are with //Goncharov// but I've started it off by adding some basic info about the film.<<else>>While I was waiting, I went ahead and set up a shared document for this project. I don't know how familiar you are with //Goncharov// but I've started it off by adding some basic info about the film.<</if>> <<else>>There's a shared document that I've already set up. <</if>>I'll send you the link and then you'll be able to access it from your desktop.<<if $run is 1>> Feel free to keep any notes, research, ideas, etc. in there. I'll be able to read and edit everything connected to the document too.<</if>> <<if $run is 1>>Let me know once you have some ideas written down. I'll happily fill in gaps where necessary, but this is your ship. I'm letting you sail it<<else>>I'm very excited to hear your thoughts<</if>>. <<if $al.response isnot 2>>Warmest r<<else>>R<</if>>egards, Al<</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if $meanMC>><<unset $meanMC>><<else>><</if>><<goto "12">><</button>></span><!--[[12]]-->
<<if $run is 1>>\ \ \ <<if $mc.scorsese>><<if $al.response is 0>><!--FRIENDLY SCORSESE-->\ <<if $mc.scorseseknow is 2>>Well, okay. Al likes it, but that doesn't really clear anything up. Still, it seems like t<<elseif $mc.scorseseknow is 0>>So, Al has definitely seen //Goncharov//. That could help. Maybe they can fill you in on some of the details and jog your memory. Regardless, t<<else>>Well, it seems like t<</if>>he best way forward is to see what Al has already written about //Goncharov//<<if $ngplus>> and maybe supplement their info with some research of your own<</if>>. After all, how are you going to adapt a film if you <<if $mc.scorseseknow is 0>>don't remember anything about it?<<else>>don't know what it is?<</if>>\ \ \ <<else>><!--NEUTRAL SCORSESE-->\ <<if $mc.scorseseknow is 2>>Okay. Al likes it, but that doesn't really clear anything up. Regardless, it seems like t<<elseif $mc.scorseseknow is 0>>So, Al has seen //Goncharov//. That could be helpful. Maybe they can fill you in on some details and jog your memory. Regardless, it seems like t<<else>>Well, it seems like t<</if>>he best way forward is to see what Al has already written about //Goncharov//<<if $ngplus>> and maybe supplement their info with some research of your own<</if>>. After all, how are you going to adapt a film if you <<if $mc.scorseseknow is 0>>don't remember anything about it?<<else>>don't know what it is?<</if>>\ \ \ <</if>><<else>><<if $al.response is 0>><!--FRIENDLY USER-->\ Well, the shared document is a fair idea, but besides that Al seems to be as unhelpful as usual. No matter. The best thing to do now is to<<if $ngplus>> look at whatever Al has written down and supplement that info with thoughts and research of your own<<else>> start learning as much as you can about this film, beginning with whatever info Al has already written down<</if>>. After all, how are you going to adapt a film if you know nothing about it?\ \ \ <<elseif $al.response is 1>><!--NEUTRAL USER-->\ Well, the shared document is a fair idea, but besides that Al seems to be as unhelpful as usual. Whatever. The only thing you can do now is<<if $ngplus>> look at whatever Al has written down and supplement that info with thoughts and research of your own<<else>> start learning as much as you can about this film, beginning with whatever info Al has already written down<</if>>. After all, how are you going to adapt a film if you know nothing about it?\ \ \ <<else>><!--RUDE USER-->\ You roll your eyes as you imagine them sitting in their big fancy office, looking all smug and patronizing as they picture you in your cramped little cubicle. Oooooh, //"I've been waiting for a while."// Nyah. Good. You'll make Al wait as long as you want... ...You do really have to get moving though and that shared document is an annoyingly decent idea—perhaps the first thing of value Al has contributed. But you know what? Maybe they didn't even do that. You can totally see them having someone else come into their office just to press a couple buttons while they sit back and watch. Whatever. You can't let your distaste for Al get in your way (if you do, they win). The only thing you can do now is<<if $ngplus>> look at whatever Al has written down and supplement that info with thoughts and research of your own<<else>> start learning as much as you can about this film, beginning with whatever info Al has already written down<</if>>. After all, how are you going to adapt a film if you know nothing about it?\ <</if>><</if>> The link finally comes through from Al. You open the document.<<else>>\ You don't waste any time. You know what you need to do. <<if $run is 2>><<if $mc.scorsese>>After over half a century in this business, y<<else>>Y<</if>>ou know that to craft a pitch that sells, you need to flesh out the plot—really bring the story to life for investors. <<elseif $run is 3>>You have the plot and characters down, it's time to craft some scenes. That'll convince people... to give you their money, of course.<</if>> The link comes through from Al and you get right to work.<</if>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-file'></i>" "MAIN FILE">><</button>></span><!--[[MAIN FILE]]-->
This simulation has the option to be played with sound. This can be adjusted at any time from the audio menu (to open, click on <i class="fa-solid fa-music"></i> in the upper right corner). It's recommended you adjust the volume on your device. <!--Sound Effects: <<cycle "_sfx">><<option "OFF" false>><<option "ON" true>><</cycle>> -->Music: <<cycle "_music">><<option "OFF" false>><<option "ON" true>><</cycle>> Or, <<message "<span class='messagelink'>Show Playlist Suggestions</span>">> <span class="spotify"><a href='https://open.spotify.com/playlist/2VGaSTw7yNciN6Bqcct6GQ?si=ff2bf4ebb818462d' target='_blank'>Spotify <i class='fab fa-spotify'></i></a></span> | <a href='https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL8--aV5CSRmJNQcYO669D7QfdkIw-NCf' target='_blank'>Youtube <i class='fab fa-youtube'></i></a><</message>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if _music>><<set settings.music = true>><<else>><<set settings.music = false>><</if>><<if _sfx>><<set settings.sfx = true>><<else>><<set settings.sfx = false>><</if>><<goto "Main Menu">><</button>></span><style>.messagelink { text-decoration: underline; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagelink:hover { color: var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .dm .messagelink:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); } .spotify a:hover { color: var(--enabled);} .dm .spotify a:hover { color: var(--dm-enabled);} #story .macro-cycle { text-decoration: underline solid var(--text) 2px !important; } .dm #story .macro-cycle { text-decoration: underline solid var(--dm-text) 2px !important; }</style>
<span class="acc">PROJECT TITLE: </span>''GONCHAROV (2023)'', //tentative// <span class="acc">OBJECTIVE: </span>''ADAPT GONCHAROV (1973) FOR A REMAKE CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE ORIGINAL MASTERPIECE<<if $run gt 1>>; FOCUSING ON <<if $mc.change is "queer">>//QUEER CHARACTERS// AND //THEIR RELATIONSHIPS//<<elseif $mc.change is "action">>//ACTION// AND //VIOLENCE//<<else>>//THE MAIN FEMALE CHARACTERS//<</if>><</if>>'' <span class="acc">ABOUT GONCHAROV:</span> Goncharov is a 1973 film<<if $mc.scorsese>> made by yourself, Martin Scorsese<<else>> made by Martin Scorsese<</if>>, Domenico Procacci, and Matteo JWHJ0715 [<<linkreplace "''//LEAVE A COMMENT//''" t8n>><span class='acc'><<print $mc.initial>>:</span> <<if ($mc.scorsese is true) and ($run gte 4)>>//Oh, yeah, I remember Matteo. Great guy.//<<else>>//What is that? A last name or a license plate?//<</if>><</linkreplace>>]. It's often lauded as "the greatest mafia movie ever made." The original had an all-star cast led by Robert De Niro, Harvey Keitel, Cybill Shepherd, and Al Pacino<<if ($mc.scorsese is true) and ($run gte 2)>> [<<linkreplace "''//LEAVE A COMMENT//''" t8n>><span class='acc'>$mc.initial:</span> //Good ole Bobby and Al. I should text those guys.<</linkreplace>>]<</if>>.<<if $ngplus>> Though nominated for many awards, //Goncharov// was infamously robbed at the 1974 Academy Awards<<if $run gte 3>> [<<linkreplace "''//LEAVE A COMMENT//''" t8n>><span class='acc'>$mc.initial:</span> <<if $mc.scorsese>>//Yeah, we really deserved more.//<<else>>//truly robbed, what were they thinking?//<</if>><</linkreplace>>]<</if>>.<</if>> Though it has been influential and is a cinematic masterpiece, //Goncharov// hasn't been very popular or prominent in pop culture until very recently<<if $ngplus>> making it a modern cult classic<</if>>. Most fans love //Goncharov// because it is: ''//tragic//'', ''//homoerotic//'' [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> this one is particularly important <<if $mc.scorsese>>in my opinion<<else>>imo<</if>><</linkreplace>>], ''//meaningful//'', //''silly''//, ''//violent//'', and //''intelligent''//. ''MORE INFORMATION:'' <span class="acclink"><<link "''THE PLOT'' <i class='fa-solid fa-search'></i>">><<if $run is 1>><<script>> Dialog.setup("THE PLOT OF GONCHAROV"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("The Plot").processText()); Dialog.open();<</script>><<else>><<if $unlock.plot isnot true>><<run Dialog.setup("Editing...")>><<run Dialog.wiki("You and Al begin to write down and alter elements of the original plot.<br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</if>><<goto "The Plot">><</if>><</link>></span> | <span class="acclink"><<link "''THE CAST'' <i class='fa-solid fa-search'></i>">><<if $run is 1>><<goto "The Cast">><<else>><<script>> Dialog.setup("THE CAST OF GONCHAROV"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("The Cast").processText()); Dialog.open();<</script>><</if>><</link>></span><<if $run gte 2>> | <span class="acclink"><<link "''THE THEMES'' <i class='fa-solid fa-search'></i>">><<script>> Dialog.setup("THE THEMES OF GONCHAROV"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("The Themes").processText()); Dialog.open();<</script>><</link>></span><</if>><<if $run gte 3>> | <span class="acclink"><<link "''FAMOUS SCENES'' <i class='fa-solid fa-search'></i>">><<if $unlock.importantscenes>><<script>> Dialog.setup("SOME SCENES FOR GONCHAROV \(2023\)"); Dialog.wiki(Story.get("Important Scenes").processText()); Dialog.open();<</script>><<else>><<goto "Important Scenes">><</if>><</link>></span><</if>> <span class="next"><<liveblock>><<if $run is 1>><<if visited("13")>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>><<else>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>" "13">><</button>><</if>><<elseif $run is 2>><<if $unlock.plot>><<if visited("20")>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>><<else>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>" "20">><</button>><</if>><<else>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-comment-dots'></i>">><<run alert("You have a feeling you should work on the plot.")>><</button>><</if>><<else>><<if $unlock.importantscenes>><<if visited("23")>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>><<else>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>" "23">><</button>><</if>><<else>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-comment-dots'></i>">><<run alert("You have a feeling you should look at the scenes.")>><</button>><</if>><</if>><</liveblock>></span>\ \ <style>.acclink .link-internal.macro-link { color: var(--accent) !important; font-weight: bold;} .dm .acclink .link-internal.macro-link { color: var(--dm-accent) !important;} .acclink .link-internal.macro-link:hover { text-decoration: underline !important; /*font-style: italic;*/ font-weight: bold;} </style><!--[[13]]-->
<!--Justa Personne RE: Started it (Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 13:49 PM) -->''<span class="acc">RE: Started it</span>'' ''From:'' Just<<if $run gte 3>>ine Perrone<<else>>a Personne<</if>> <jper<<if $run gte 3>>ro<<else>>son<</if>>ne@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 18, 2022 at 01:49 PM</span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 18, 2022 at 03:27 PM</span>\ <hr>\ I'm so glad to hear that! Hope you enjoy the game. I've had a lot of fun with it personally. I won't actually be here on Monday cause I'll be traveling (guess who got invited to the hottest movie premiere!) but when I get back, I'd love to talk about it over lunch, after work, whenever. I'm honestly jealous that you get to experience this for the first time. The open world setup is unbelievable and I'm so in love with these characters. If I have any advice, just play around with it. Explore a bunch of different plotlines and try new things. Have fun, get inspired, and throw yourself into the fantasy. See ya soon, Just<<if $run gte 3>>ine<<else>>a<</if>> PS. My coworker just finished making the promotional piece for a new project we're on and—I have to tell you—I'm //so// happy with how it's turned out (I really hope they're proud of it, they should be). They're sharing it online now. I'll show it to you whenever we end up talking about the game. Seriously, it's //so// cool. It might be the greatest movie poster I've ever seen. <<message "<span class='messagebutton'>Show Previous Message</span>">><hr>''<span class="acc">Started it</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Just<<if $run gte 3>>ine Perrone<<else>>a Personne<</if>> <jper<<if $run gte 3>>ro<<else>>son<</if>>ne@bootmedia.com> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 18, 2022 at 10:51 AM</span> <hr>\ //Hey, I forgot to tell you at lunch but I started that game you lent me. It's really good but I haven't gotten too far into it yet, so, no spoilers please. Hopefully I'll be able to finish it this weekend so we can talk about it on Monday. Anyways, enjoy your weekend! $mc.name//<hr><</message>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>">><<goto "2">><</button>></span><style>.messagebutton { color: var(--text); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--text); padding: 5px; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--accent); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); cursor: pointer; } .dm .messagebutton { color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } .dm .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-accent); }</style><!--[[2]]-->
<!--Rand M. Guy Tick Tock O'Clock (Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 07:15 AM) -->''<span class="acc">Tick Tock O'Clock</span>'' ''From:'' Ra<<if $run gte 3>>ul<<else>>nd<</if>> M. Guy <rguy@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' //All Staff// <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 18, 2022 at 07:15 AM</span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 18, 2022 at 09:06 AM</span>\ <hr>\ Hi everyone! //Tick tock.// Yes, you heard right, it's that time of year again! Time for Boot Media's annual Clock Ball. If you have any extra timepieces in need of a new home, bring them in. We'll be auctioning off a fleet of clocks at the Clock Ball with all proceeds going to charity. Also, not to alarm anyone, but you only have two more weeks to RSVP. The gala event will be held Dec 21, 2022 and will begin at 08:00 PM (20:00). So, if you and //one// other person want to celebrate the solstice in style, let us know ASAP. It's important to know who will be coming, though it's rather unbecoming to miss out. And, if you can spare the time, we're looking for a few more volunteers to design and set up decorations for the big event. If you're interested in joining the party planning committee, give me a ring. I promise it's not a towering time commitment. Don't be late! Ra<<if $run gte 3>>ul<<else>>nd<</if>> M. Guy //<<if $run is 1>>Important Executive<<elseif $run is 2>>Production Executive<<else>>Executive Producer<</if>>// and //Head of the Party Planning Committee// <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>">><<goto "2">><</button>></span><!--[[2]]-->
<<if visited("13A")>><<if $al.response is 2>>Useless. But honestly what else did you expect? <<else>>Well, what else did you expect from someone with Al's reputation? <</if>><</if>><<if $mc.scorsese>>You still don't know that much about //Goncharov// (1973) and nothing you've heard thus far has jogged your memory. <<else>>You still don't know that much about //Goncharov// (1973). <</if>>It seems to be a clever tragicomedy about the Italian mafia. Apparently, it has poignant messages, homoerotic undertones, and an established fanbase. Hmm... <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Prioritize speed" "14A">><<set $mc.first = "speed">><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Invest some effort" "14B">><<set $mc.first = "effort">><</link>></span><<if visited("13A")>><<else>> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Ask Al for help" "13A">><<set $mc.first = "al">><</link>></span><</if>></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[14A]][[14B]][[13A]]-->
''Your password has expired.'' <<textboxPlus "Please Reset Your Password: (max 12 characters) " "$mc.password" `{ maxlength: 12, password: true }`>> <<button "Show Password">><<run alert($mc.password)>><</button>> <<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if $mc.password is "">><<run alert("Please enter a new password.")>><<else>><<goto "Title">><</if>><</button>><!--[[Title]]--><style>.passage {text-align: center;} #passages {width: auto; padding: 1.5em 1.2em 1.5em 2.2em;}</style>
<<if $run is 1>>\ \ \ \ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Oh, you hadn't realized that you'd be working on this pitch with someone else. You haven't interacted much with Al, but you remember hearing something about them being some kind of internet influencer, person blackmailing the CEO, or "nepotism baby"—something along those lines. You don't know for sure<<if $al.response is 1>> and you don't really care<</if>>. All you know is that people think Al doesn't deserve the job they have, however they managed to get it. During the brief time you've spent with Al, you've noticed that they don't really contribute much. They're one of the few people you've met in this industry that seems to loathe making decisions or sharing their opinions. All Al does is ask questions and ramble. But none of that matters. Not really. They'll probably just take notes or something. <<if $mc.scorseseknow is 0>>You are a little afraid of letting them know you don't remember anything about //Goncharov//, but maybe they can jog your memory? Or maybe you should keep this a secret. Can you imagine what people would say if they knew you forgot your own film?<<elseif $mc.scorseseknow is 1>>Maybe they can help clear up this //Goncharov// situation. Or, if you actually did make this film, maybe they can help you remember it.<<else>>Hopefully they'll also be able to clear up this //Goncharov// misunderstanding.<</if>>\ \ \ <<else>>You groan audibly. You hadn't realized you'd be working on this project with Al. For whatever reason, you can't bring yourself to like Al. Maybe it's because you don't respect them very much. Al is some kind of nepotism baby, or internet influencer, or person blackmailing the CEO, or something along those lines. You don't know for sure. All you know is that Al probably doesn't deserve the job they have, however they managed to get it. Technically, Al is your superior, but they never contribute anything. It's like they're unable to make decisions or share opinions. All they do is ask questions and ramble.<<set _i = either(0, 1, 2, 3, 4)>><<if (_i is 3) or (_i is 4)>> Honestly, the way they just present ideas and leave kind of reminds you of <a href="https://wompampsupport.azureedge.net/fetchimage?siteId=7575&v=2&jpgQuality=100&width=700&url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.kym-cdn.com%2Fphotos%2Fimages%2Fnewsfeed%2F001%2F240%2F075%2F90f.png" target="_blank">Tuxedo Mask</a>.<</if>> Whatever. What are you gonna do about it?... Besides all of the work? You suddenly feel like you're back in school, being assigned a group project. <<cycle "$mc.schoolwork">><<option "You've always been a bit of a work horse and ended up doing more than one group project essentially on your own. You'd hoped that wouldn't follow you beyond the realm of academia." true>><<option "Though, to be fair, back then you were normally the one who didn't contribute much. Look at you now. Such character growth. You ought to be proud." false>><</cycle>> <<if $mc.pitchresponse is 0>>Nevertheless, you're still really excited about this project.<<else>>Still, this seems like a cool opportunity.<</if>> You can put up with Al. Not that you have a choice.<</if>>\ \ \ \ <<elseif $run is 2>>\ \ \ \ \ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Oh, you hadn't realized that you'd be working on this pitch with someone else. It does make sense, kind of. You normally have an assistant on big movie projects but it's abnormal for people at Al's level to do this kind of auxiliary work. Still, you're Martin Scorsese. Getting to work with you is even more abnormal than some industry hotshot volunteering to help. You've worked on a few projects that Al was connected to<<if $al.response is 0>>. Typically you're pretty friendly with them, but you aren't close. You aren't even sure what exactly Al does for this company. Al's a bit... unique<<elseif $al.response is 1>>. You don't have particularly strong feelings towards Al. They've never impressed you with anything they've made—mostly because they don't seem to create anything. You aren't certain what exactly Al does for this company<</if>>. Al might be the only person you've met in this industry who seems to loathe making decisions and sharing opinions. All they do is ask questions, ramble, and occasionally info dump.<<if $run gte 2>><<set _i = either(0, 1, 2)>><<if _i is 2>> <<print either("At times they seem more like a walking talking façade than a three-dimensional person.", "At times they strike you like a walking talking façade. If anything genuine or real does exist behind their mask, you haven't seen it.", "Sometimes, you swear, they're more like a prop than a person.", "Sometimes it's almost like they're a flat side character instead of a real person. It's odd<<if $al.response is 1>> and can make them a bit difficult to work with<</if>>.")>><</if>><</if>> But that doesn't matter. All they'll do is take notes and do research while you stay focused on the task at hand.\ \ <<else>>\ \ \ <<if $al.response is 2>>You roll your eyes. <</if>>You hadn't realized you'd be working on this pitch with Al. It does make sense, kind of. It's normal to have an assistant when working on a big film, but it's abnormal for someone in Al's position to voluntarily take on an auxiliary role. You've worked on a few projects with them<<if $al.response is 0>>. Typically you're pretty friendly with them, but you aren't close. You aren't even sure what exactly Al does for this company. Al's a bit... unique<<elseif $al.response is 1>>. You don't have particularly strong feelings towards Al. They've never impressed you with anything they've made—mostly because they don't seem to create anything. You aren't certain what exactly Al does for this company<<else>>, much to your chagrin. You don't like Al very much and you haven't made any attempts to disguise this disdain. Working with them is always a nuisance. As far as you know, they don't contribute anything to the company<</if>>. Al might be the only person you've met in this industry who seems to loathe making decisions or sharing opinions. All they do is ask questions, ramble, and occasionally info dump.<<if $run gte 2>><<set _i = either(0, 1, 2, 3, 4)>><<if _i is 2 or _i is 3>> <<print either("At times they seem more like a walking talking façade than a three-dimensional person.", "They're filler text incarnate. A façade that speaks.", "They're a walking talking façade. A physical manifestation of filler text.", "They're the 'anime filler episode' of people.", "At times they strike you like a walking talking façade. If anything genuine or real does exist behind their mask, you haven't seen it.", "Sometimes, you swear, they're more like a prop than a person.", "Sometimes it's almost like they're a flat side character instead of a real person. It's odd<<if $al.response if 1>> and can make them a bit difficult to work with<</if>>.", "They're like a living NPC. Seriously. It's strange sometimes.")>><</if>><</if>><<set _t = either(0, 1, 2, 3, 4)>><<if (_t is 3) or (_t is 4)>> Honestly, the way they just present ideas and leave kind of reminds you of <a href="https://wompampsupport.azureedge.net/fetchimage?siteId=7575&v=2&jpgQuality=100&width=700&url=https%3A%2F%2Fi.kym-cdn.com%2Fphotos%2Fimages%2Fnewsfeed%2F001%2F240%2F075%2F90f.png" target="_blank">Tuxedo Mask</a>.<</if>> Whatever. No matter how you feel towards Al, you're already stuck with them. <<if $mc.schoolwork>>This kind of situation brings you back to your school days. As annoying as this is, you're kind of used to it. You've done more than one group project on your own.<<else>>This kind of situation almost reminds you of school when you were assigned group projects. Granted, you were normally the person who contributed their name and little else, so maybe this is some act of karmic retribution.<</if>><</if>>\ <<else>>\ \ \ \ <<if $mc.scorsese>><<if $mc.scorseseknow is 0>>\ \ Oh, yeah. //Goncharov//. Yeah, you vaguely remember making that back in the 70s. Wow, that was a long time ago. You probably haven't seen or thought about that film in ages. Lucky for you, the plot is still as fresh in your mind as if you'd imagined it yesterday. This should be no problem.\ <<else>>\ \ Huh... //Goncharov//. Of course, you're familiar with //Goncharov//, but did you //make// //Goncharov//? Maybe... Maybe not. But does it really matter. You probably haven't seen or thought about that film in ages, but, lucky for you, you know the story as if you'd just heard it yesterday. This should be no problem.<</if>>\ <<else>>\ \ Wow, this is a huge opportunity. You are a little apprehensive. After all... You haven't seen //Goncharov//. You know a lot about it, but you still haven't seen it. That shouldn't be a problem though. You remember the story of Goncharov as if you'd just heard it yesterday.<</if>> And you're working with Al. <<if $al.response is 0>>Cool.<<elseif $al.response is 1>>Okay.<<else>>Ugh, fine.<</if>> You'd go into detail about who Al is, but why? There's no reason. You definitely know who they are at this point.\ \ <<if ($al.responsehist[0] is 2) and ($al.response is 2)>><<set _meanResp = true>><<else>><<set _meanResp = false>><</if>>\ \ \ \ \ <</if>><!--[[10]]--> <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Send Al a friendly message" "10">><<if $ngplus>><<run $al.responsehist.push($al.response)>><</if>><<set $al.response = 0>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Send Al a neutral message" "10">><<if $ngplus>><<run $al.responsehist.push($al.response)>><</if>><<set $al.response = 1>><</link>></span><<if $mc.scorsese>><<else>> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Send Al a <<if _meanResp>>mean<<else>>bitter<</if>> message" "10">><<if _meanResp>><<set $meanMC = true>><<else>><</if>><<if $ngplus>><<run $al.responsehist.push($al.response)>><</if>><<set $al.response = 2>><</link>></span><</if>></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;} a.link-external { text-decoration: underline solid var(--accentopac) 2px !important; } .dm a.link-external { text-decoration-color: var(--dm-accentopac) !important; } .copyright a.link-external { text-decoration: none !important; }</style>
* • Loss of the self/identity * • Time and inevitability * • Queerness and/or homoeroticism //(largely implied)// * • Social class * • Inescapable cycles //(particularly cycles of violence)// * • Corrupting influence of capitalism * • Nationalism * • Legacy * • Reality/memory * • Mental illness/treatment of those with mental illness<!--ORIGINAL THEMES ANSWER: inescapable cycles (particularly cycles of violence but repetition is present throughout the story), loss of self/explorations of personal identity ("becoming and unbecoming"), queerness (though it's mostly implied in the original), time and inevitability (also important to note how often clocks appear in the film, time's march is ever-present and deeply symbolic), the corrupting influence of capitalism, social class and hierarchy, legacy and the need to create/leave behind a legacy, discerning reality and trusting memories of the past, and then popular perspectives on mental illness and how people treat those who are living with mental illness-->
<<if $run is 1>>\ \ //Goncharov// (1973) chronicles the rise and inevitable fall of Goncharov, a former Russian mobster navigating a new life in Naples, Italy.\ \ <<else>>\ <<if $unlock.plot>>\ <h1>THE PLOT OF GONCHAROV (2023)</h1>\ //Goncharov// (1973) was a mafia movie chronicling the meteoric rise and inevitable fall of its titular protagonist, Goncharov. This is the updated plot for the 50th Anniversary remake: <h2>BACKGROUND</h2>\ * • Before the start of the film Goncharov, moves to Naples <<if $gonch.motive is 1>>with his <<if $katya.wife>>wife<<else>>girlfriend<</if>>, Katya, seeking a new start and a life free from his criminal past<<elseif $gonch.motive is 2>>seeking new opportunities for power and influence<<else>>for love, hoping to rekindle the spark he once had with his <<if $katya.wife>>wife<<else>>girlfriend<</if>>, Katya<<if $mc.change is "queer">>, but finds himself torn between her and someone else<</if>><</if>> * • ''Main character backstories:'' ** • ''Goncharov'' was <<if $gonch.past is 0>>originally an orphan taken in by a powerful Russian crime family<<elseif $gonch.past is 1>>the first-born son of a powerful Russian crime family<<else>>a self-made criminal<</if>> ** • ''Andrey Daddano'' (aka "The Banker") was born and raised in poverty but, as one of //Mario Ambrosini's// most trusted allies, Andrey made a name for himself and amassed a fortune ** • ''Katya'' <<if $katya.sis>>''<<if $katya.name is "g">>Gonchorova<<else>>Michailova<</if>>'' (<<if $katya.wife>>wife of Goncharov and <</if>>younger sister of //Valery//) was born to a lower-class family in a small Russian village, her parents died when she was young leaving Val to take care of her<<else>><<if $katya.wife>>''Gonchorova'', Goncharov's wife, <<else>><</if>>grew up as a poor orphan on the streets of St. Petersburg<<if $katya.wife is false>>, eventually met Goncharov thanks to a less-than-reputable mutual friend and the two began dating<</if>><</if>> ** • ''Mario Ambrosini'' was <<if $mario.heir>>an heir to a great fortune who turned to a life of crime after his gambling made him lose almost everything<<else>>a once powerful mafia don with a gambling addiction<</if>>, he holds a moderate amount of influence in the city but has grand ambitions ** • ''Valery Michailov'' was <<if $katya.sis>>the older brother of //Katya//, <</if>>a former Soviet officer who became increasingly disillusioned with the USSR; Val also //hates// Goncharov ** • Joseph Morelli aka ''Ice Pick Joe'' was an Italian American who moved to Naples after being traumatically institutionalized in the US ** • ''Sofia''<<if $sofia.sis>> ''Ambrosini'' (//Mario's// younger sister)<</if>> was <<if $sofia.job is 1>>a painter occasionally employed as a thief by <<if $sofia.sis>>her brother<<else>>the mafia<</if>><<elseif $sofia.job is 2>>a painter occasionally employed as an assassin by <<if $sofia.sis>>her brother<<else>>the mafia<</if>><<else>>a painter <<if $sofia.sis>>who had escaped the criminal life she was born into<<else>>completely unconnected to the criminal underworld<</if>><</if>> \ \ <h2>MAIN PLOT POINTS</h2>\ * • Goncharov <<if $gonch.past is 2>>uses his wits and charm<<else>>uses his wits, charm, and familial connections<</if>> to get a job working for Mario Ambrosini as <<if $gonch.motive is 1>>the manager at a discotheque (though Mario makes it clear he wants Goncharov to do more than that)<<else>>his personal bodyguard with the cover story that Goncharov's managing a discotheque<</if>> ** • Mario refers to Goncharov as "lo Straniero" because Goncharov <<if ($gonch.past is 2)>>refuses to give him<<else>>asks him not to use<</if>> his real name ** • It's revealed through a flashback that <<if $gonch.motive is 1>>Goncharov <<if $gonch.past is 2>>left St. Petersburg to abandon his life of crime and start anew [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> he feels like he lost control of his life, wants to start over<</linkreplace>>]<<else>>left his family (and Russia as a whole) with the hope of escaping the criminal underworld and starting anew [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> Gonch feels like he never had full control of his life, wants to start over<</linkreplace>>]<</if>><<elseif $gonch.motive is 2>>Goncharov left St. Petersburg because he felt like there were limited prospects or room for growth in Russia [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> could be a place for some fun banter like: "Russia was starting to feel a little too small", "Well, friend, if you thought Russia was //small//, why on Earth did you come to Italy?"<</linkreplace>>]<<else>>Goncharov left St. Petersburg because his relationship with Katya has been suffering and they're trying to rekindle their relationship, couldn't do that in a place so closely linked to their pasts<<if $gonch.past isnot 2>> and his family<</if>> [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> could be a chance for a fun pivot like: Mario asks him why they moved, flashback of Katya and Goncharov in a massive fight, then a hard cut to Goncharov with a deadpan expression being like, "Oh, you know... the weather is nice here."<</linkreplace>>]<</if>> * • Goncharov (and the audience) then get to know more members of Mario's organization such as Andrey<<if $sofia.job isnot 0>>,<<else>> and<</if>> Ice Pick Joe<<if $sofia.job isnot 0>>, and Sofia<</if>> ** • When Goncharov meets Andrey it's immediately apparent that the two are perfectly suited as rivals [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> and, fun fact, they'd also met before, but it takes them a while to realize where and under what context, so Goncharov remains //uno straniero// for a while<</linkreplace>>] * • Goncharov proves excellent at all aspects of his job<<if $gonch.pacifist>> but Mario keeps pressuring him to become more involved with the criminal side of his enterprises (eventually, Gonch gives in but he makes Mario promise that it's a "one-time thing")<</if>> * • Meanwhile, Katya has a really hard time adjusting to life in Italy ** • <<if $katya.regrets>>She's really unhappy since she never wanted to move here, feels isolated and overwhelmed<<else>>She's trying to be happy and maintain hope<<if $gonch.motive is 3>>, since this was //her// idea after all,<</if>> but she feels alone and overwhelmed<</if>> * • Her life becomes much better with the appearance of Sofia, a painter<<if $sofia.criminal>><</if>> she meets at the local market [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> Gods! The apple scene is without a doubt one of my //favorite// scenes in the original. It's so short and only four words are exchanged (maybe three, technically) but people who <<if $mc.scorsese>>want Katya and Sofia to get together<<else>>ship Katya and Sofia<</if>><<if $mc.change is "queer">>—like myself—<<else>> <</if>><<if $mc.scorsese>>really love it. Thank you for this gift, Mr. Scorsese.<<else>>go absolutely feral for it.<</if>><</linkreplace>>] ** • The two become friends and Katya tells Sofia that <<if $katya.loves>>she really wants things to work out between her and Goncharov<<else>>while she used to love Goncharov, she doesn't have much hope for them as a couple anymore<</if>> * • Another mafia boss passes away and Mario thinks it's the perfect opportunity for them to make a big move since the late don's son is loath to take over his father's enterprise ** • They successfully make their move and drive the son out of Naples (and the plan is successful primarily because of Goncharov and Andrey's quick thinking) * • Things are going really well for everyone ** • Mario starts to feel unstoppable, says they're on a "winning streak" * • Katya and Goncharov are <<if ($katya.unhappyloving is true) or ($katya.hopefulloving is true)>>going strong<<else>>doing somewhat better<</if>>—Goncharov is putting more time and effort into their relationship and they both start feeling better about themselves * • However, Mario gets too overconfident and aggravates the most powerful don in Naples ** • Ends up inciting a big fight justs before //la vigilia// (Christmas Eve) * • During the gunfight, Mario and co. kill the rival don's right-hand man [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> but with so many bullets flying, it's impossible to tell who actually shot him<</linkreplace>>]; Andrey accidentally shoots Goncharov in the leg (looked like Gonch was gonna try to chase down the remaining foes) * • Goncharov and co. are in a terrible position since the most powerful don in Naples wants them dead (especially Mario, whom he holds responsible for the fight and subsequent murder) ** • The crew debates if they should/can flee the country * • They decide they need to steal something incredibly valuable, if they do, they can fence it and get enough money for everyone to support themselves ** • Will break into the vault at an absurdly wealthy person's villa—the mark will be hosting a ball on //la vigilia// (Christmas Eve), so the crew will break in and steal these artifacts/gems during the event ** • Andrey and Goncharov have a conversation where they talk about the places they'd go and what they might do—Goncharov feels like escaping this cycle of violence is unlikely for him, if not impossible ** • Katya has forced Goncharov to open up and share everything with her; she demands to be involved with the heist * • They also get Sofia—whom Katya has grown very close to—involved with the theft, so on the night of the ball Goncharov, Andrey, Katya, and Sofia are tasked with getting the items from the vault, Ice Pick Joe will manage distractions/run interference, and Mario will be hiding out as backup * • Meanwhile, the rival don is fuming, wants to kill Mario and co. but (thanks to a truce during the holy season) he can't do so publicly without jeopardizing his position ** • That's when Valery Michailov shows up at the don's doorstep and offers to kill the group for him<<if $katya.sis>>—excluding his sister, of course<</if>> [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> we should make it clear to the audience that he only intends to kill Goncharov, sees the don as a way to find him, otherwise what motive would he have for killing the others?<</linkreplace>>] * • The group attend the ball and steal the items ** • At the ball Goncharov and Andrey have a moment out on the balcony by themselves<<if $gonch.queer>>, it's extremely homoerotic and they come very close to kissing<</if>> ** • Katya and Sofia flee the building <<if $katya.queer>>and, fueled by adrenaline and surging emotions, kiss in the moonlight<<else>>and have a close moment beneath the moonlight<</if>> * • While all of this was going on, Ice Pick Joe got distracted by the presence of someone he recognized from the mental institution (one of the doctors that was in charge of Joe's inhumane treatment) ** • He follows the doctor <<if $joe.kills>>and kills him in a manner reminiscent of a lobotomy<<else>>but decides not to kill him as that would be "giving into the madness" and becoming the monster he always said Joe was<</if>> * • Goncharov and Andrey are leaving out the front so people don't get suspicious and run into a very distraught Ice Pick Joe unable to find his coat ** • To calm him down, Goncharov lends Joe his own coat * • Ice Pick Joe goes to a church, praying at the altar for a sign from God that he isn't the man people think he is ** • At that moment Valery comes in believing Joe to be Goncharov, kills him [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> what an absolutely brutal scene—literally and emotionally<</linkreplace>>] * • Katya, who had come over to talk about the <<if $katya.queer>>kiss<<else>>moment they shared<</if>>, consoles a greiving Sofia<<if $katya.queer>> and the two end up sleeping together<</if>> * • Andrey and Goncharov talk about Joe's death and what it means/represents—namely, Mario's instability and their impending doom; they mention (not sincerely enough to be actively threatening) that things would be better if one of them were in charge * • Valery shows up at Joe's funeral, Mario tracks him down and kills him ** • As Valery is dying, Mario asks, "Why?" to which Valery chokes out, "Goncharov" * • Now Mario believes that Goncharov must have betrayed them, seeks to avenge Joe's death by ending Goncharov's life * • Andrey and Goncharov are in Pompeii trying to fence the items they stole (don't end up selling them because they can't get a decent price) ** • Mario shows up and initiates an intense car chase/shootout through the streets of Pompeii (ends up destroying/damaging several parts of the ancient ruins) * • At the last moment <<if $andrey.saves>>Andrey shoots Mario, saving Goncharov's life<<else>>Goncharov gets the upper-hand and shoots Mario<</if>> * • <<if $andrey.saves>>Goncharov thanks Andrey for saving his life, Andrey remarks that he's not sure why he did it<<else>>Andrey helps Goncharov up but is ominously silent<</if>> ** • <<if $andrey.saves>>Goncharov jokes about Andrey not missing this time and Andrey inadvertently lets it slip that he'd shot Goncharov on purpose [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> it's kinda fucked up, but he explains that it seemed like Goncharov was about to chase after the rivals (which would've led to nothing but more death, including Goncharov's) and since Gonch wasn't listening and Andrey couldn't physically get to him, that was the only way to stop him<</linkreplace>>]<<else>>Andrey is clearly bothered by everything that's happened and deeply troubled by what he's feeling<</if>> * • Sofia and Katya have been talking about what they want out of life<<if $katya.queer>> and their potential relationship<<if $katya.loves>> and how, despite what she once felt for Goncharov, Katya wants to be with Sofia<<else>>, Katya wants nothing more than to live with Sofia far away from her current life<</if>><</if>> ** • They seriously discuss running away together * • During the final scene at the clocktower, <<if $tempbetrayal is 0>>Katya betrays Goncharov and runs away with Sofia<<elseif $tempbetrayal is 1>>Katya betrays Goncharov but can't bring herself to run away with Sofia<<elseif $tempbetrayal is 2>>Andrey betrays Goncharov because he can't have any weaknesses<<elseif $tempbetrayal is 3>>Andrey betrays Goncharov since he sees Gonch as the cause of everyone's downfall<<else>>no one betrays anyone, the rival don discovers where they're hiding out and decides to end things<</if>> * • <<if ($tempbetrayal is 0) or ($tempbetrayal is 1)>>The don sends his men to go kill Goncharov and the rest, <<if $andrey.lives>>Goncharov sacrifices himself for Andrey<<if $gonch.queer>>, kissing him before he leaves, and telling him that he wishes they could have had more time (Andrey responds with, "maybe we still can" but Goncharov is certain that he won't make it out of this alive)<<else>>, Andrey tells Goncharov that he wishes they had more time (and he lives while Goncharov dies)<</if>><<else>>Andrey sacrifices himself to give Goncharov a chance to escape, but it's too late—they both die<</if>><<elseif ($tempbetrayal is 2) or ($tempbetrayal is 3)>>The don sends his men to go kill Goncharov and the rest, <<if $katya.lives>>Goncharov sacrifices himself for Katya<<if $katya.queer>> and tells her to go find happiness with Sofia<<else>> and tells her to make the most of whatever time she has left<</if>><<else>>Katya sacrifices herself to give Goncharov a chance to escape, but it's too late—they both die<</if>><<else>>The don sends his men to go kill Goncharov and the rest, <<if $tempescape is "a">>Andrey sacrifices himself so that Katya and Goncharov can escape, but Katya and Sofia end up leaving Italy together as Goncharov mourns the death of Andrey; he returns to Naples and takes out the rival mafia don in a fatal blaze of glory<<elseif $tempescape is "k">>Katya sacrifices herself so that the others can escape but Goncharov is overcome with grief and guilt; he returns to Naples and takes out the rival mafia don in a fatal blaze of glory<<elseif $tempescape is "b">>all of them are killed<<else>>they all manage to survive<</if>><</if>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" "MAIN FILE">><</button>></span>\ <<else>>\ <<set _page = 1>>\ <h1>THE PLOT OF GONCHAROV (2023)</h1>\ //Goncharov// (1973) was a mafia movie chronicling the meteoric rise and inevitable fall of its titular protagonist, Goncharov. This is the updated plot for the 50th Anniversary remake: <span id="passTop"></span> <<liveblock>><<if _page is 1>>\ <h2>BACKGROUND</h2> * • Before the start of the film, Goncharov moves to Naples <<if $changemymind>><<cycle "$gonch.motive" autoselect>><<option "seeking vengeance on the man who killed his family" 0>><<option "with his <<if $katya.wife>>wife<<else>>girlfriend<</if>>, Katya, seeking a new start and a life free from his criminal past" 1>><<option "seeking new opportunities for power and influence" 2>><<option "for love, hoping to rekindle the spark he once had with his <<if $katya.wife>>wife<<else>>girlfriend<</if>>, Katya<<if $mc.change is 'queer'>>, but finds himself torn between her and someone else<</if>>" 3>><</cycle>><<else>><<cycle "$gonch.motive" autoselect>><<option "with his <<if $katya.wife>>wife<<else>>girlfriend<</if>>, Katya, seeking a new start and a life free from his criminal past" 1>><<option "seeking new opportunities for power and influence" 2>><<option "for love, hoping to rekindle the spark he once had with his <<if $katya.wife>>wife<<else>>girlfriend<</if>>, Katya<<if $mc.change is 'queer'>>, but finds himself torn between her and someone else<</if>>" 3>><</cycle>><</if>> * • ''Main character backstories:'' ** • ''Goncharov'' was <<cycle "$gonch.past" autoselect>><<option "originally an orphan taken in by a powerful Russian crime family" 0>><<option "the first-born son of a powerful Russian crime family" 1>><<option "a self-made criminal" 2>><</cycle>> ** • ''Andrey Daddano'' (aka "The Banker") was born and raised in poverty but, as one of //Mario Ambrosini's// most trusted allies, Andrey made a name for himself and amassed a fortune ** • ''Katya'' <<if $katya.sis>>''<<if $katya.name is "g">>Gonchorova<<else>>Michailova<</if>>'' (<<if $katya.wife>>wife of Goncharov and <</if>>younger sister of //Valery//) was born to a lower-class family in a small Russian village, her parents died when she was young leaving Val to take care of her<<else>><<if $katya.wife>>''Gonchorova'', Goncharov's wife, <<else>><</if>>grew up as a poor orphan on the streets of St. Petersburg<<if $katya.wife is false>>, eventually met Goncharov thanks to a less-than-reputable mutual friend and the two began dating<</if>><</if>> ** • ''Mario Ambrosini'' was <<cycle "$mario.heir" autoselect>><<option "an heir to a great fortune who turned to a life of crime after his gambling made him lose almost everything" true>><<option "a once powerful mafia don with a gambling addiction" false>><</cycle>>, he holds a moderate amount of influence in the city but has grand ambitions ** • ''Valery Michailov'' was <<if $katya.sis>>the older brother of //Katya//, <</if>>a former Soviet officer who became increasingly disillusioned with the USSR; Val also //hates// Goncharov ** • Joseph Morelli aka ''Ice Pick Joe'' was an Italian American who moved to Naples after being traumatically institutionalized in the US ** • ''Sofia''<<if $sofia.sis>> ''Ambrosini'' (//Mario's// younger sister)<</if>> was <<cycle "$sofia.job" autoselect>><<option "a painter occasionally employed as a thief by <<if $sofia.sis>>her brother<<else>>the mafia<</if>>" 1>><<option "a painter occasionally employed as an assassin by <<if $sofia.sis>>her brother<<else>>the mafia<</if>>" 2>><<option "a painter <<if $sofia.sis>>who had escaped the criminal life she was born into<<else>>completely unconnected to the criminal underworld<</if>>" 0>><</cycle>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<set _page = 2>><<if $gonch.motive is 1>><<set $gonch.pacifist = true>><<else>><<set $gonch.pacifist = false>><</if>><<if $sofia.job isnot 0>><<set $sofia.criminal = true>><<else>><<set $sofia.criminal = false>><</if>><<if $mc.change is "queer">><<set $katya.queer = true>><<set $gonch.queer = true>><<else>><<set $katya.queer = false>><<set $gonch.queer = false>><</if>><<if $gonch.past isnot 2>><<set $gonch.known = true>><<else>><<set $gonch.known = false>><</if>><<update>><<ScrollTo "passTop">><</button>></span>\ \ \ <<elseif _page is 2>>\ \ \ \ \ \ <h2>MAIN PLOT POINTS</h2> * • Goncharov <<if $gonch.past is 2>>uses his wits and charm<<else>>uses his wits, charm, and familial connections<</if>> to get a job working for Mario Ambrosini as <<if $gonch.motive is 1>>the manager at a discotheque (though Mario makes it clear he wants Goncharov to do more than that)<<else>>his personal bodyguard with the cover story that Goncharov's managing a discotheque<</if>> ** • Mario refers to Goncharov as "lo Straniero" because Goncharov <<if ($gonch.past is 2)>>refuses to give him<<else>>asks him not to use<</if>> his real name ** • It's revealed through a flashback that <<if $gonch.motive is 1>>Goncharov <<if $gonch.past is 2>>left St. Petersburg to abandon his life of crime and start anew [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> he feels like he lost control of his life, wants to start over<</linkreplace>>]<<else>>left his family (and Russia as a whole) with the hope of escaping the criminal underworld and starting anew [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> Gonch feels like he never had full control of his life, wants to start over<</linkreplace>>]<</if>><<elseif $gonch.motive is 2>>Goncharov left St. Petersburg because he felt like there were limited prospects or room for growth in Russia [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> could be a place for some fun banter like: "Russia was starting to feel a little too small", "Well, friend, if you thought Russia was //small//, why on Earth did you come to Italy?"<</linkreplace>>]<<else>>Goncharov left St. Petersburg because his relationship with Katya has been suffering and they're trying to rekindle their relationship, couldn't do that in a place so closely linked to their pasts<<if $gonch.past isnot 2>> and his family<</if>> [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> could be a chance for a fun pivot like: Mario asks him why they moved, flashback of Katya and Goncharov in a massive fight, then a hard cut to Goncharov with a deadpan expression being like, "Oh, you know... the weather is nice here."<</linkreplace>>]<</if>> * • Goncharov (and the audience) then get to know more members of Mario's organization such as Andrey<<if $sofia.job isnot 0>>,<<else>> and<</if>> Ice Pick Joe<<if $sofia.job isnot 0>>, and Sofia<</if>> ** • When Goncharov meets Andrey it's immediately apparent that the two are perfectly suited as rivals [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> and, fun fact, they'd also met before, but it takes them a while to realize where and under what context, so Goncharov remains //uno straniero// for a while<</linkreplace>>] * • Goncharov proves excellent at all aspects of his job<<if $gonch.pacifist>> but Mario keeps pressuring him to become more involved with the criminal side of his enterprises (eventually, Gonch gives in but he makes Mario promise that it's a "one-time thing")<</if>> * • Meanwhile, Katya has a really hard time adjusting to life in Italy ** • <<cycle "$katya.regrets">><<option "She's really unhappy since she never wanted to move here, feels isolated and overwhelmed" true>><<option "She's trying to be happy and maintain hope<<if $gonch.motive is 3>>, since this was //her// idea after all,<</if>> but she feels alone and overwhelmed" false>><</cycle>> * • Her life becomes much better with the appearance of Sofia, a painter<<if $sofia.criminal>><</if>> she meets at the local market [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> Gods! The apple scene is without a doubt one of my //favorite// scenes in the original. It's so short and only four words are exchanged (maybe three, technically) but people who <<if $mc.scorsese>>want Katya and Sofia to get together<<else>>ship Katya and Sofia<</if>><<if $mc.change is "queer">>—like myself—<<else>> <</if>><<if $mc.scorsese>>really love it. Thank you for this gift, Mr. Scorsese.<<else>>go absolutely feral for it.<</if>><</linkreplace>>] ** • The two become friends and Katya tells Sofia that <<cycle "$katya.loves">><<option "while she used to love Goncharov, she doesn't have much hope for them as a couple anymore" false>><<option "she really wants things to work out between her and Goncharov" true>><</cycle>> * • Another mafia boss passes away and Mario thinks it's the perfect opportunity for them to make a big move since the late don's son is loath to take over his father's enterprise ** • They successfully make their move and drive the son out of Naples (and the plan is successful primarily because of Goncharov and Andrey's quick thinking) * • Things are going really well for everyone ** • Mario starts to feel unstoppable, says they're on a "winning streak" <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-left'></i>">><<set _page = 1>><<update>><<ScrollTo "passTop">><</button>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if ($katya.loves is true) and ($katya.regrets is false)>><<set $katya.hopefulloving = true, $katya.hopefulloveless = false, $katya.unhappyloving = false, $katya.unhappyloveless = false>><</if>><<if ($katya.loves is false) and ($katya.regrets is false)>><<set $katya.hopefulloving = false, $katya.hopefulloveless = true, $katya.unhappyloving = false, $katya.unhappyloveless = false>><</if>><<if ($katya.loves is true) and ($katya.regrets is true)>><<set $katya.hopefulloving = false, $katya.hopefulloveless = false, $katya.unhappyloving = true, $katya.unhappyloveless = false>><</if>><<if ($katya.loves is false) and ($katya.regrets is true)>><<set $katya.hopefulloving = true, $katya.hopefulloveless = false, $katya.unhappyloving = false, $katya.unhappyloveless = true>><</if>><<set _page = 3>><<update>><<ScrollTo "passTop">><</button>></span>\ \ \ <<elseif _page is 3>>\ \ \ \ <h2>MAIN PLOT POINTS //(continued)//</h2> * • Katya and Goncharov are <<if ($katya.unhappyloving is true) or ($katya.hopefulloving is true)>>going strong<<else>>doing somewhat better<</if>>—Goncharov is putting more time and effort into their relationship and they both start feeling better about themselves * • However, Mario gets too overconfident and aggravates the most powerful don in Naples ** • Ends up inciting a big fight justs before //la vigilia// (Christmas Eve) * • During the gunfight, Mario and co. kill the rival don's right-hand man [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> but with so many bullets flying, it's impossible to tell who actually shot him<</linkreplace>>]; Andrey accidentally shoots Goncharov in the leg (looked like Gonch was gonna try to chase down the remaining foes) * • Goncharov and co. are in a terrible position since the most powerful don in Naples wants them dead (especially Mario, whom he holds responsible for the fight and subsequent murder) ** • The crew debates if they should/can flee the country * • They decide they need to steal something incredibly valuable, if they do, they can fence it and get enough money for everyone to support themselves ** • Will break into the vault at an absurdly wealthy person's villa—the mark will be hosting a ball on //la vigilia// (Christmas Eve), so the crew will break in and steal these artifacts/gems during the event ** • Andrey and Goncharov have a conversation where they talk about the places they'd go and what they might do—Goncharov feels like escaping this cycle of violence is unlikely for him, if not impossible ** • Katya has forced Goncharov to open up and share everything with her; she demands to be involved with the heist * • They also get Sofia—whom Katya has grown very close to—involved with the theft, so on the night of the ball Goncharov, Andrey, Katya, and Sofia are tasked with getting the items from the vault, Ice Pick Joe will manage distractions/run interference, and Mario will be hiding out as backup * • Meanwhile, the rival don is fuming, wants to kill Mario and co. but (thanks to a truce during the holy season) he can't do so publicly without jeopardizing his position ** • That's when Valery Michailov shows up at the don's doorstep and offers to kill the group for him<<if $katya.sis>>—excluding his sister, of course<</if>> [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> we should make it clear to the audience that he only intends to kill Goncharov, sees the don as a way to find him, otherwise what motive would he have for killing the others?<</linkreplace>>] * • The group attend the ball and steal the items ** • At the ball Goncharov and Andrey have a moment out on the balcony by themselves<<if $gonch.queer>>, it's extremely homoerotic and they come very close to kissing<</if>> ** • Katya and Sofia flee the building <<if $katya.queer>>and, fueled by adrenaline and surging emotions, kiss in the moonlight<<else>>and have a close moment beneath the moonlight<</if>> * • While all of this was going on, Ice Pick Joe got distracted by the presence of someone he recognized from the mental institution (one of the doctors that was in charge of Joe's inhumane treatment) ** • He follows the doctor <<cycle "$joe.kills" autoselect>><<option "and kills him in a manner reminiscent of a lobotomy" true>><<option "but decides not to kill him as that would be \"giving into the madness\" and becoming the monster he always said Joe was" false>><</cycle>> * • Goncharov and Andrey are leaving out the front so people don't get suspicious and run into a very distraught Ice Pick Joe unable to find his coat ** • To calm him down, Goncharov lends Joe his own coat * • Ice Pick Joe goes to a church, praying at the altar for a sign from God that he isn't the man people think he is ** • At that moment Valery comes in believing Joe to be Goncharov, kills him [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> what an absolutely brutal scene—literally and emotionally<</linkreplace>>] * • Katya, who had come over to talk about the <<if $katya.queer>>kiss<<else>>moment they shared<</if>>, consoles a greiving Sofia<<if $katya.queer>> and the two end up sleeping together<</if>> * • Andrey and Goncharov talk about Joe's death and what it means/represents—namely, Mario's instability and their impending doom; they mention (not sincerely enough to be actively threatening) that things would be better if one of them were in charge * • Valery shows up at Joe's funeral, Mario tracks him down and kills him ** • As Valery is dying, Mario asks, "Why?" to which Valery chokes out, "Goncharov" * • Now Mario believes that Goncharov must have betrayed them, seeks to avenge Joe's death by ending Goncharov's life * • Andrey and Goncharov are in Pompeii trying to fence the items they stole (don't end up selling them because they can't get a decent price) ** • Mario shows up and initiates an intense car chase/shootout through the streets of Pompeii (ends up destroying/damaging several parts of the ancient ruins) * • At the last moment <<cycle "$andrey.saves" autoselect>><<option "Andrey shoots Mario, saving Goncharov's life" true>><<option "Goncharov gets the upper-hand and shoots Mario" false>><</cycle>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-left'></i>">><<set _page = 2>><<update>><<ScrollTo "passTop">><</button>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<set _page = 4>><<update>><<ScrollTo "passTop">><</button>></span>\ \ \ <<elseif _page is 4>>\ \ \ \ <h2>MAIN PLOT POINTS //(continued)//</h2> * • <<if $andrey.saves>>Goncharov thanks Andrey for saving his life, Andrey remarks that he's not sure why he did it<<else>>Andrey helps Goncharov up but is ominously silent<</if>> ** • <<if $andrey.saves>>Goncharov jokes about Andrey not missing this time and Andrey inadvertently lets it slip that he'd shot Goncharov on purpose [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> it's kinda fucked up, but he explains that it seemed like Goncharov was about to chase after the rivals (which would've led to nothing but more death, including Goncharov's) and since Gonch wasn't listening and Andrey couldn't physically get to him, that was the only way to stop him<</linkreplace>>]<<else>>Andrey is clearly bothered by everything that's happened and deeply troubled by what he's feeling<</if>> * • Sofia and Katya have been talking about what they want out of life<<if $katya.queer>> and their potential relationship<<if $katya.loves>> and how, despite what she once felt for Goncharov, Katya wants to be with Sofia<<else>>, Katya wants nothing more than to live with Sofia far away from her current life<</if>><</if>> ** • They seriously discuss running away together * • During the final scene at the clocktower, <<cycle "$tempbetrayal" autoselect>><<option "Katya betrays Goncharov and runs away with Sofia" 0>><<option "Katya betrays Goncharov but can't bring herself to run away with Sofia" 1>><<option "Andrey betrays Goncharov because he can't have any weaknesses" 2>><<option "Andrey betrays Goncharov since he sees Gonch as the cause of everyone's downfall" 3>><<option "no one betrays anyone, the rival don discovers where they're hiding out and decides to end things" 4>><</cycle>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-left'></i>">><<set _page = 3>><<update>><<ScrollTo "passTop">><</button>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if $tempbetrayal is 0>><<set $andrey.betrays = false, $andrey.loves = true, $katya.betraysgon = true, $katya.betrayssof = false>><<elseif $tempbetrayal is 1>><<set $andrey.betrays = false, $andrey.loves = true, $katya.betraysgon = true, $katya.betrayssof = true>><<elseif $tempbetrayal is 2>><<set $andrey.betrays = true, $andrey.loves = true, $katya.betraysgon = false, $katya.betrayssof = false>><<elseif $tempbetrayal is 3>><<set $andrey.betrays = true, $andrey.loves = false, $katya.betraysgon = false, $katya.betrayssof = false>><<else>><<set $andrey.betrays = false, $andrey.loves = true, $katya.betraysgon = false, $katya.betrayssof = false>><</if>><<set _page = 5>><<update>><<ScrollTo "passTop">><</button>></span>\ \ \ \ <<elseif _page is 5>>\ \ \ \ <h2>MAIN PLOT POINTS //(continued)//</h2> * • <<if ($tempbetrayal is 0) or ($tempbetrayal is 1)>>The don sends his men to go kill Goncharov and the rest, <<cycle "$andrey.lives" autoselect>><<option "Andrey sacrifices himself to give Goncharov a chance to escape, but it's too late—they both die" false>><<option "Goncharov sacrifices himself for Andrey<<if $gonch.queer>>, kissing him before he leaves, and telling him that he wishes they could have had more time (Andrey responds with, \"maybe we still can\" but Goncharov is certain that he won't make it out of this alive)<<else>>, Andrey tells Goncharov that he wishes they had more time (and he lives while Goncharov dies)<</if>>" true>><</cycle>><<elseif ($tempbetrayal is 2) or ($tempbetrayal is 3)>>The don sends his men to go kill Goncharov and the rest, <<cycle "$katya.lives" autoselect>><<option "Katya sacrifices herself to give Goncharov a chance to escape, but it's too late—they both die" false>><<option "Goncharov sacrifices himself for Katya<<if $katya.queer>> and tells her to go find happiness with Sofia<<else>> and tells her to make the most of whatever time she has left<</if>>" true>><</cycle>><<else>>The don sends his men to go kill Goncharov and the rest, <<cycle "$tempescape" autoselect>><<option "Andrey sacrifices himself so that Katya and Goncharov can escape, but Katya and Sofia end up leaving Italy together as Goncharov mourns the death of Andrey; he returns to Naples and takes out the rival mafia don in a fatal blaze of glory" "a">><<option "Katya sacrifices herself so that the others can escape but Goncharov is overcome with grief and guilt; he returns to Naples and takes out the rival mafia don in a fatal blaze of glory" "k">><<option "all of them are killed" "b">><<option "they all manage to survive" "n">><</cycle>><</if>> <!--<span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-left'></i>">><<set _page = 4>><<update>><</button>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<set _page = 6>><<update>><</button>></span> "You're either very bold or very foolish, straniero, I've yet to decide." "I think he might be both." "I'm not even supposed to be here." "Yet here you are." "Yet here I am." Ice Pick Joe's coat gets ruined so Goncharov loans him his instead. Ice Pick Joe goes to a church seeking to repent and confess his sins and demons. Killed by Valery thinking that it's Goncharov. Andrey and Goncharov have a tender/tense moment Sofia was close to Ice Pick Joe (maybe sees him more like a brother than Mario) and is consoled by Katya (they fuck? plan to run away together?) Valery shows up to the funeral and Mario follows him. Kills him but as he's dying he says, "Goncharov". Leads to Mario thinking that Goncharov was betraying him. Katya is possibly quite upset. Goncharov comes to Pompeii at Mario's request, Katya maybe tells him to kill Mario, they could fight on how their lives are falling apart. Goncharov and Mario have a shootout at Pompeii Andrey could at this point maybe make a deal with the other mafia don to give up Goncharov. Realizes that he loves Goncharov and that makes him weak, alternatively, he could die for Goncharov and then Goncharov goes out in a blaze of glory. (could also swap out Katya for either of these, both), Goncharov goes out in a blaze of glory, realizes that there's no time left (could be driven but a last thirst for vengeance against Andrey, revenge for Andrey's death) Maybe at the end if Andrey survives it could be implied that he thinks Goncharov will survive somehow, he could be sitting with Goncharov's broken pocket watch and maybe the last few minutes are silent, but it ends with the sound of a "tick" as Goncharov's watch miraculously ticks once more-->\ <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-left'></i>">><<set _page = 4>><<update>><<ScrollTo "passTop">><</button>><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-check'></i>" "MAIN FILE">><<if $tempbetrayal is 0>><<set $katya.lives = true, $sofia.lives = true>><<elseif $tempbetrayal is 1>><<set $katya.lives = true, $sofia.lives = true>><<elseif $tempbetrayal is 2>><<set $andrey.lives = true, $sofia.lives = true>><<elseif $tempbetrayal is 3>><<set $andrey.lives = true, $sofia.lives = true>><<else>><<if $tempescape is "a">><<set $katya.lives = true, $andrey.lives = false, $sofia.lives = true>><<elseif $tempescape is "k">><<set $katya.lives = false, $andrey.lives = true, $sofia.lives = true>><<elseif $tempescape is "b">><<set $katya.lives = false, $andrey.lives = false, $sofia.lives = true>><<else>><<set $katya.lives = true, $andrey.lives = true, $sofia.lives = true>><</if>><</if>><<set $unlock.plot = true>><</button>></span>\ <</if>><</liveblock>><</if>>\ \ \ <</if>><style>.next { display: flex; width: 20vw; /* padding: 10px; */ margin: 0 auto; align-content: center; flex-wrap: nowrap; flex-direction: row; justify-content: space-evenly; }</style>
<<if $unlock.importantscenes>>\ <span class='emailinfo'>** Click on the scenes for brief synopses. **</span> <<message "''La Discoteca'' — //Goncharov// & //Mario// (INT. NIGHTCLUB — DAY)">> Mario and Goncharov meet. Mario hires Goncharov as a <<if $gonch.pacifist is false>>bodyguard and hitman, masquerading as a <</if>>discotheque manager. Elements of Goncharov's past revealed through flashback.<hr><</message>> <<message "''The Apple Scene'' — //Katya// & //Sofia// (EXT. LOCAL MARKET — DAY)">> Katya is at a market attempting to buy fruit but struggling with the language. A stranger (Sofia) teaches her the word for apple and leaves. Meet later in the same market. Katya asks in Italian for Sofia's name. The two women spend time together. Sofia helps Katya through adjusting to life in Italy.<hr><</message>> <<message "''The Bathhouse Fight'' — //Goncharov//, //Andrey//, //Mario//, //Ice Pick Joe// & //Rival Mafia// (INT. BATHHOUSE — NIGHT)">> After Mario aggravates the don of a rival mafia, they end up in a shootout in a bathhouse. (Famous for being an intense gunfight where the participants are all half-naked and drenched in sweat.<<if $mc.scorsese>> [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> thank you for your service, sir<</linkreplace>>]<</if>>) The right-hand man of the rival don is killed. Andrey accidentally shoots Goncharov in the leg. Everyone on Mario's side makes it out alive but they have killed their hopes for the future.<hr><</message>> <<message "''Planning the Heist'' — //Goncharov//, //Andrey//, //Katya//, & //Sofia// (INT. NIGHTCLUB — DAY)">> With the rival don after all their heads, they need to get out of Naples as soon as possible. The crew all decide to pull off a heist to secure enough funds to support themselves when they flee the country.<<if $sofia.criminal is false>> Features an infamously hilarious interaction between Katya and Sofia. [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> Katya is trying to convince Sofia to join them in the heist, need her to help retrieve the items, but the conversation is laden with unintentional innuendo and Sofia thinks Katya is asking her to have sex<</linkreplace>>]<</if>><hr><</message>> <<message "''The Ball (Balcony Scenes)'' — //Goncharov// & //Andrey// (EXT. VILLA BALCONY — NIGHT)">> Goncharov and Andrey are at the ball. Standing outside looking up at a clocktower. Goncharov can't really dance because Andrey recently shot him in the leg. Andrey says that Goncharov is making excuses for being a poor dancer. To prove Andrey wrong, Goncharov and Andrey dance together. Heavy clock imagery. Extremely homoerotic.<hr><</message>> <<message "''The Ball (Heist Scenes)'' — //Katya// & //Sofia// (INT. VILLA — NIGHT)">> Katya and Sofia break in and steal the gems/artifacts that they need to secure funds for their escape. Katya hasn't told Sofia what the money is really for yet. In a rush of adrenaline and the thrill of success, Sofia and Katya kiss. Part on an awkward note.<hr><</message>> <<message "''The Ball (Ice Pick Scene)'' — //Ice Pick Joe// & //Amarro// (INT. VILLA BEDROOM — NIGHT)">> At the ball, Ice Pick Joe runs into Amarro, a psychiatrist who used to "treat" Joe. He lures Amarro away and goes off on him. Berates him and questions his practices, expounds upon his own situation and brings to life all of the inner demons that Joe (a comic relief character) has been struggling with up to this point. In the end, <<if $joe.kills>>he murders Amarro with an ice pick, mimicking the lobotomy that Amarro wanted to subject Joe to.<<else>>he can't bring himself to kill Amarro, just beats the sit out of him. Realizes that killing Amarro would only affirm that he is the monster they insisted he was, the one he still fears himself to be.<</if>> Joe leaves distraught. Can't find his own coat and beginning to have a panic attack. Goncharov gives him his own coat so that he can calm down and get out of the situation to go somewhere safer. [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> oh the dramatic irony<<if $mc.scorsese is false>> :'(<</if>><</linkreplace>>]<hr><</message>> <<message "''Ice Pick Joe's Death'' — //Ice Pick Joe// & //Valery// (INT. CATHEDRAL — NIGHT)">> Joe flees the ball and stumbles his way over to a Catholic cathedral all decorated for Christmas. He is kneeling on the steps of the altar, praying and confessing his sins, his fears. Valery has followed Joe thinking that he's Goncharov (since Joe's wearing G's iconic trench coat). He kills Joe and leaves his body bleeding out on the altar.<hr><</message>> <<message "''Katya Consoles Sofia'' — //Katya// & //Sofia// (INT. SOFIA'S STUDIO — NIGHT)">> Katya goes to speak to Sofia about the heist, specifically the kiss. Finds Sofia in her studio, covered in paint, sobbing. Sofia reveals that Ice Pick Joe is dead. She was really close to him<<if $sofia.sis>>, honestly saw him as more of a brother figure than Mario<<else>> (he was like an older brother to her)<</if>>. Katya consoles her. Eventually she calms somewhat and reveals that she is also upset because she can't lose someone else important, implies that Katya is the important person she's afraid of losing. They share how much they care about one another<<if $mc.change is "action">>. Implied that they sleep there together (but isn't confirmed if they sleep with each other or ever talk about the kiss again)<<else>> and when the topic of the kiss is brought up, they both share how great it felt. They talk a little more but eventually <<if $mc.scorsese>>they sleep together<<else>>they fuck<</if>><</if>>.<hr><</message>> <<message "''Ice Pick Joe's Funeral'' — //ALL// (EXT. CEMETERY — DAY)">> Everyone attends Ice Pick Joe's funeral. It is a very somber affair and tensions are all coming to a head. After the funeral, Katya and Sofia make plans to run away together. Goncharov and Andrey talk about how if one of them were in charge, none of this would have happened. Mario catches sight of Valery at the funeral, follows, and kills him. As Valery dies, Mario asks him why. Valery sputters "G-Goncharov..." Mario is then convinced that Goncharov betrayed him or is somehow responsible for Ice Pick Joe's death. He vows to kill Goncharov.<hr><</message>> <<message "''Pompeii'' — //Goncharov//, //Andrey//, & //Mario// (EXT. POMPEII — DAY)">> <!--Goncharov and Andrey are near Pompeii meeting a fence to try to sell the items they stole during the heist. As they are passing through Pompeii, Mario's car suddenly crashes into theirs. Initiates a car chase where they are literally driving through the streets of Pompeii, eventually there's a big crash. <<if $andrey.saves>>Andrey saves Goncharov's life by first killing Mario and then pulling Goncharov away from the burning car (which eventually explodes, destroying even more of Pompeii).<<else>>After killing Mario, Goncharov saves Andrey's life by pulling him away from the burning car (which eventually explodes, destroying even more of Pompeii).<</if>>-->Goncharov and Andrey are near Pompeii meeting a fence to try to sell the items they stole during the heist. They can't get a good price so they drive back to Naples. As they are passing through Pompeii, Mario's car suddenly crashes into theirs. Initiates a car chase where they are literally driving through the streets of Pompeii, eventually there's a big crash. Goncharov is thrown from the car, seems to be defenseless and grievously injured. Mario dramatically climbs out of his car, pulls himself up off the ground and approaches Goncharov with his gun drawn. <<if $andrey.saves>>A loud gunshot echoes through the streets. For a moment we aren't sure what has happened, but finally, Mario's body collapses, we hard cut to Andrey standing on the other side of the car, injured and bleeding but holding the smoking gun. He limps over to Goncharov and pulls him away from the burning car, which eventually explodes (destroying even more of Pompeii). Goncharov thanks Andrey. They have a very tender and moment that leaves both of them very confused over where they stand. They are also both <<if $mc.scorsese>>doomed<<else>>fucked<</if>> because now, not only are they wanted by the rival don, they just murdered their own boss. Andrey and Goncharov leave. Drive home in silence.<<else>>A loud gunshot echoes through the streets. For a moment we aren't sure what has happened, but finally, Mario's body collapses, we hard cut to Goncharov lying on the ground, in pain but holding the smoking gun. He pulls himself to his feet and limps over to Andrey, pulling him away from the burning car which eventually explodes (destroying even more of Pompeii). Andrey thanks Goncharov. They have a very tender and moment that leaves both of them very confused over where they stand. They are also both <<if $mc.scorsese>>doomed<<else>>fucked<</if>> because now, not only are they wanted by the rival don, but Goncharov just murdered their boss. Where does that leave him? And is Andrey willing to keep sinking on this ship? Andrey and Goncharov leave. Drive home in silence.<</if>><hr><</message>> <<message "''The Clocktower'' — //ALL// (INT. CLOCKTOWER — NIGHT)">> <<include'END SCENE DESCRIPTIONS'>><hr><</message>>\ <<else>>\ \ <<set $unlock.importantscenes = true>>\ <span class='emailinfo'>** Click on the scenes for brief synopses. **</span> <<link "''La Discoteca'' — //Goncharov// & //Mario// (INT. NIGHTCLUB — DAY)">><hr><<run Dialog.setup("La Discoteca")>><<run Dialog.wiki("Mario and Goncharov meet. Mario hires Goncharov as a <<if $gonch.pacifist is false>>bodyguard and hitman, masquerading as a <</if>>discotheque manager. Elements of Goncharov's past revealed through flashback.<br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''The Apple Scene'' — //Katya// & //Sofia// (EXT. LOCAL MARKET — DAY)">><<run Dialog.setup("The Apple Scene")>><<run Dialog.wiki("Katya is at a market attempting to buy fruit but struggling with the language. A stranger (Sofia) teaches her the word for apple and leaves. Meet later in the same market. Katya asks in Italian for Sofia's name. The two women spend time together. Sofia helps Katya through adjusting to life in Italy.<br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''The Bathhouse Fight'' — //Goncharov//, //Andrey//, //Mario//, //Ice Pick Joe// & //Rival Mafia// (INT. BATHHOUSE — NIGHT)">><<run Dialog.setup("The Bathhouse Fight")>><<run Dialog.wiki("After Mario aggravates the don of a rival mafia, they end up in a shootout in a bathhouse. (Famous for being an intense gunfight where the participants are all half-naked and drenched in sweat.<<if $mc.scorsese>> [<<linkreplace '<strong>COMMENT</strong>' t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> thank you for your service, sir<</linkreplace>>]<</if>>) The right-hand man of the rival don is killed. Andrey accidentally shoots Goncharov in the leg. Everyone on Mario's side makes it out alive but they have killed their hopes for the future.<br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''Planning the Heist'' — //Goncharov//, //Andrey//, //Katya//, & //Sofia// (INT. NIGHTCLUB — DAY)">><<run Dialog.setup("Planning the Heist")>><<run Dialog.wiki("With the rival don after all their heads, they need to get out of Naples as soon as possible. The crew all decide to pull off a heist to secure enough funds to support themselves when they flee the country.<<if $sofia.criminal is false>> Features an infamously hilarious interaction between Katya and Sofia. [<<linkreplace '<strong>COMMENT</strong>' t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> Katya is trying to convince Sofia to join them in the heist, need her to help retrieve the items, but the conversation is laden with unintentional innuendo and Sofia thinks Katya is asking her to have sex<</linkreplace>>]<</if>><br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''The Ball (Balcony Scenes)'' — //Goncharov// & //Andrey// (EXT. VILLA BALCONY — NIGHT)">><<run Dialog.setup("The Balcony")>><<run Dialog.wiki("Goncharov and Andrey are at the ball. Standing outside looking up at a clocktower. Goncharov can't really dance because Andrey recently shot him in the leg. Andrey says that Goncharov is making excuses for being a poor dancer. To prove Andrey wrong, Goncharov and Andrey dance together. Heavy clock imagery. Extremely homoerotic.<br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''The Ball (Heist Scenes)'' — //Katya// & //Sofia// (INT. VILLA — NIGHT)">><<run Dialog.setup("The Heist")>><<run Dialog.wiki("Katya and Sofia break in and steal the gems/artifacts that they need to secure funds for their escape. Katya hasn't told Sofia what the money is really for yet. In a rush of adrenaline and the thrill of success, Sofia and Katya kiss. Part on an awkward note.<br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''The Ball (Ice Pick Scene)'' — //Ice Pick Joe// & //Amarro// (INT. VILLA BEDROOM — NIGHT)">><<run Dialog.setup("The Heist")>><<run Dialog.wiki("At the ball, Ice Pick Joe runs into Amarro, a psychiatrist who used to 'treat' Joe. He lures Amarro away and goes off on him. Berates him and questions his practices, expounds upon his own situation and brings to life all of the inner demons that Joe (a comic relief character) has been struggling with up to this point. In the end, <<if $joe.kills>>he murders Amarro with an ice pick, mimicking the lobotomy that Amarro wanted to subject Joe to.<<else>>he can't bring himself to kill Amarro, just beats the sit out of him. Realizes that killing Amarro would only affirm that he is the monster they insisted he was, the one he still fears himself to be.<</if>> Joe leaves distraught. Can't find his own coat and beginning to have a panic attack. Goncharov gives him his own coat so that he can calm down and get out of the situation to go somewhere safer. [<<linkreplace '<strong>COMMENT</strong>' t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> oh the dramatic irony<<if $mc.scorsese is false>> :'(<</if>><</linkreplace>>]<br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''Ice Pick Joe's Death'' — //Ice Pick Joe// & //Valery// (INT. CATHEDRAL — NIGHT)">><<run Dialog.setup("Ice Pick Joe's Death")>><<run Dialog.wiki("Joe flees the ball and stumbles his way over to a Catholic cathedral all decorated for Christmas. He is kneeling on the steps of the altar, praying and confessing his sins, his fears. Valery has followed Joe thinking that he's Goncharov (since Joe's wearing G's iconic trench coat). He kills Joe and leaves his body bleeding out on the altar.<br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''Katya Consoles Sofia'' — //Katya// & //Sofia// (INT. SOFIA'S STUDIO — NIGHT)">><<run Dialog.setup("Katya & Sofia")>><<run Dialog.wiki("Katya goes to speak to Sofia about the heist, specifically the kiss. Finds Sofia in her studio, covered in paint, sobbing. Sofia reveals that Ice Pick Joe is dead. She was really close to him<<if $sofia.sis>>, honestly saw him as more of a brother figure than Mario<<else>> (he was like an older brother to her)<</if>>. Katya consoles her. Eventually she calms somewhat and reveals that she is also upset because she can't lose someone else important, implies that Katya is the important person she's afraid of losing. They share how much they care about one another<<if $mc.change is 'action'>>. Implied that they sleep there together (but isn't confirmed if they sleep with each other or ever talk about the kiss again)<<else>> and when the topic of the kiss is brought up, they both share how great it felt. They talk a little more but eventually <<if $mc.scorsese>>they sleep together<<else>>they fuck<</if>><</if>>.<br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''Ice Pick Joe's Funeral'' — //ALL// (EXT. CEMETERY — DAY)">><<run Dialog.setup("The Funeral")>><<run Dialog.wiki("Everyone attends Ice Pick Joe's funeral. It is a very somber affair and tensions are all coming to a head. After the funeral, Katya and Sofia make plans to run away together. Goncharov and Andrey talk about how if one of them were in charge, none of this would have happened. Mario catches sight of Valery at the funeral, follows, and kills him. As Valery dies, Mario asks him why. Valery sputters 'G-Goncharov...' Mario is then convinced that Goncharov betrayed him or is somehow responsible for Ice Pick Joe's death. He vows to kill Goncharov.<br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''Pompeii'' — //Goncharov//, //Andrey//, & //Mario// (EXT. POMPEII — DAY)">><<run Dialog.setup("Pompeii")>><<run Dialog.wiki("Goncharov and Andrey are near Pompeii meeting a fence to try to sell the items they stole during the heist. They can't get a good price so they drive back to Naples. As they are passing through Pompeii, Mario's car suddenly crashes into theirs. Initiates a car chase where they are literally driving through the streets of Pompeii, eventually there's a big crash. Goncharov is thrown from the car, seems to be defenseless and grievously injured. Mario dramatically climbs out of his car, pulls himself up off the ground and approaches Goncharov with his gun drawn. <<if $andrey.saves>>A loud gunshot echoes through the streets. For a moment we aren't sure what has happened, but finally, Mario's body collapses, we hard cut to Andrey standing on the other side of the car, injured and bleeding but holding the smoking gun. He limps over to Goncharov and pulls him away from the burning car, which eventually explodes (destroying even more of Pompeii). Goncharov thanks Andrey. They have a very tender and moment that leaves both of them very confused over where they stand. They are also both <<if $mc.scorsese>>doomed<<else>>fucked<</if>> because now, not only are they wanted by the rival don, they just murdered their own boss. Andrey and Goncharov leave. Drive home in silence.<<else>>A loud gunshot echoes through the streets. For a moment we aren't sure what has happened, but finally, Mario's body collapses, we hard cut to Goncharov lying on the ground, in pain but holding the smoking gun. He pulls himself to his feet and limps over to Andrey, pulling him away from the burning car which eventually explodes (destroying even more of Pompeii). Andrey thanks Goncharov. They have a very tender and moment that leaves both of them very confused over where they stand. They are also both <<if $mc.scorsese>>doomed<<else>>fucked<</if>> because now, not only are they wanted by the rival don, but Goncharov just murdered their boss. Where does that leave him? And is Andrey willing to keep sinking on this ship? Andrey and Goncharov leave. Drive home in silence.<</if>><br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <<link "''The Clocktower'' — //ALL// (INT. CLOCKTOWER — NIGHT)">><hr><<run Dialog.setup("The Clocktower")>><<run Dialog.wiki("<<include 'END SCENE DESCRIPTIONS'>><br><br>")>><<run Dialog.open()>><</link>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-check'></i>" "MAIN FILE">><</button>></span><</if>>
$run (number of runs completed) starts on 1, goes up $ngplus (if in new game plus territory) $unlock {} .plot (boolean, if mc has set up the plot yet) $character (player input) $storybeat (I, II, III, IV, V) $mc .scorsese (boolean, mc is/isn't Martin Scorsese) .scorseseknow (0 user doesn't know who scorsese is or is scorsese and doesn't know if they made Goncharov, 1 user is somewhat familiar or is unsure whether or not they made Goncharov, 2 user is quite familiar with scorsese or is 99% sure they didn't make Goncharov) .first ("speed" user prioritized speed in first try, "effort" user put some effort into first attempt, "alspeed" user asked Al for help first but then chose speed, "aleffort" user asked Al for help first but then chose effort) .change (queer, action, politics NOT ACTIVE, femme) .firsttime (0 quick, 1 med, 2 slow) .desk (minimal, trendy, director) .schoolwork (cycle) .firstfix (cycle) .pitchresponse (0 enthusiastic, 1 dry, 2 polite) .pitchhist (records previous pitch responses) .secondtime (0 quick, 1 med, 2 slow) .second (confident, hesitant; how mc was feeling after setting up the plot) .confident (boolean, if mc is feeling confident going into the final pitch) .dictating (boolean, if mc is typing or dictating) .satisfied (if mc is satisfied with the plot they wrote up, 0 hell no, 1 sorta, 2 hell yes) .recepname (MC's name for the receptionist) .third (which topic they are looking at on the third run) .thirdhist (records which topics they've discussed in the third run) .thirdcount (records how many topics they've discussed in third run) .thirdtime (0 quick, 1 med, 2 slow) .believes (boolean, if they "believe" in Goncharov) .thirdsnow (figure, made a snow figure, fight, snowball fight, sled, went sledding, //false//, did none) .snowplay (boolean, if mc played in the snow on the way home from work the third day) .alsnow (boolean, MC asked Al if they wanted to play in the snow together) $al .response (2 bitter, 1 neutral, 0 friendly) .responsehist (records previous treatments of Al) .disdain (MC chose to be bitter to Al each time) .friend (MC was always or almost always friendly with Al) $gonch .motive (0 seeking vengeance NOT ACTIVE, 1 new start, 2 hungry for power, 3 did it for love) .past (0 orphan, 1 heir, 2 self-made) .job NOT ACTIVE, USE PACIFIST (0 hitman, 1 bodyguard, 2 discotheque manager) .pacifist (boolean, wanted out and trying to leave crime behind) .ambitious NOT ACTIVE (boolean, if he tries to oust Mario and take over) .queer (boolean, implied or explicit queerness) .known (boolean, indicates that his family was well-known) .deadfam NOT ACTIVE (boolean, indicates that his family is dead) .goodforkat NOT ACTIVE (boolean, if he's trying to be a good husband or shit) $andrey .russia NOT ACTIVE (boolean, russian and knew gonch as kids or italian) .boss NOT ACTIVE (boolean, rival boss leader or works for Mario) .banker NOT ACTIVE () .job NOT ACTIVE () .betrayed NOT ACTIVE (boolean, did he betray Goncharov) .betrays (boolean, does he betray Goncharov) .lives (boolean, does he live or die) $mario .heir (boolean, an heir turned criminal or always a criminal) .betrays NOT ACTIVE, HE JUST BREAKS (boolean, betrays Goncharov to the enemy or just goes ape shit) .lives NOT ACTIVE, HE JUST DIES (boolean, lives or dies) $katya .name (g, m, k) .wife (boolean, married to Gonch or not) .sis (boolean, valery's sis or not) .regrets (boolean, if katya misses life in Russia, misses danger/power) .loves (boolean, loves Goncharov and wants things to work out or gave up) .lives (boolean, lives or not) .betraysgon (boolean, betrays gonch or not) .betrayssof (boolean, betrays sofia or not) .queer (boolean, implied or explicit relationship with Sofia) .unhappyloveless (boolean, she misses russia and doesn't love Gonch) .hopefulloveless (boolean, she wanted to move to Italy, doesn't love G) .unhappyloving (boolean, she misses russia but loves G) .hopefulloving (boolean, she wanted to move to Italy and still loves G) $sofia .sis (boolean, was Mario's sis or not) .lives (boolean, lives or dies in film) .job (0 not a criminal, 1 art thief, 2 assassin) .actor (Loren, Petrovna) .criminal (boolean, if Sofia is in the mob or not) $joe .kills (boolean, kills or doesn't kill Amarro)
<<if $run is 1>><!--FIRST PLAYTHROUGH-->\ \ \ \ \ <<if ($katya.sis is true) and ($katya.wife is true)>><<set $katya.name = "g sis">><</if>>\ <h1>THE CAST OF GONCHAROV</h1> \ <span class="acc">GONCHAROV aka "LO STRANIERO"</span> — //played by Robert De Niro// \ <span class="acc">ANDREY "THE BANKER" DADDANO</span> — //played by Harvey Keitel// \ <span class="acclink"><<cycle "$katya.name" autoselect>><<option "KATYA" "k">><<option "KATYA GONCHOROVA" "g">><<option "KATYA GONCHOROVA (née MICHAILOVA)" "g sis">><<option "KATYA MICHAILOVA" "m">><</cycle>></span> — //played by Cybill Shepherd// \ <span class="acc">MARIO AMBROSINI</span> — //played by Al Pacino// \ <span class="acc">VALERY MICHAILOV</span> — //played by Gene Hackman// \ <span class="acc">JOSEPH "ICE PICK JOE" MORELLI</span> — //played by John Cazale// \ <span class="acclink"><<cycle "$sofia.sis" autoselect>><<option "SOFIA" false>><<option "SOFIA AMBROSINI" true>><</cycle>></span> — //played by <<cycle "$sofia.actor" autoselect>><<option "Sophia Loren" "Loren">><<option "Sonia Petrovna" "Petrovna">><</cycle>>// <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-check'></i>" "MAIN FILE">><<if $katya.name is "g sis">><<set $katya.name = "g">><<set $katya.wife = true>><<set $katya.sis = true>><<elseif $katya.name is "g">><<set $katya.wife = true>><<set $katya.sis = false>><<elseif $katya.name is "m">><<set $katya.wife = false>><<set $katya.sis = true>><<else>><<set $katya.wife = false>><<set $katya.sis = false>><</if>><</button>></span>\ \ <<else>><!--RUN 2-->\ <span class="acc">GONCHAROV aka "LO STRANIERO"</span> — //played by Robert De Niro// \ <span class="acc">ANDREY "THE BANKER" DADDANO</span> — //played by Harvey Keitel// \ <span class="acc">KATYA<<if $katya.name is "g">> GONCHOROVA<<if $katya.sis>> (née MICHAILOVA)<</if>><<elseif $katya.name is "m">> MICHAILOVA<</if>></span> — //played by Cybill Shepherd// \ <span class="acc">MARIO AMBROSINI</span> — //played by Al Pacino// \ <span class="acc">VALERY MICHAILOV</span> — //played by Gene Hackman// \ <span class="acc">JOSEPH "ICE PICK JOE" MORELLI</span> — //played by John Cazale// \ <span class="acc"><<if $sofia.sis>>SOFIA AMBROSINI<<else>>SOFIA<</if>></span> — //played by <<if $sofia.actor is "Loren">>Sophia Loren<<else>>Sonia Petrovna<</if>>\ <</if>>\ \ \ <style> a#cycle-katyaname { text-decoration: underline dotted var(--accent) !important; color: var(--accent); font-weight: bold !important; } a#cycle-katyaname:hover { font-style: italic !important; } .dm a#cycle-katyaname { text-decoration-color: var(--dm-accent) !important; color: var(--dm-accent); } a#cycle-katyaname::after { content: none !important; } a#cycle-katyaname::before { color: var(--accent); content: "↴"; content: "\f2f9"; font-family: "Font Awesome 5 Free"; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 0.2em; text-decoration: none !important; } a#cycle-katyaname:hover::before { font-style: normal !important; text-decoration: none !important; } .dm a#cycle-katyaname::before { color: var(--dm-accent); } a#cycle-sofiasis { text-decoration: underline dotted var(--accent) !important; color: var(--accent); font-weight: bold !important; } a#cycle-sofiasis:hover { font-style: italic !important; } .dm a#cycle-sofiasis { text-decoration-color: var(--dm-accent) !important; color: var(--dm-accent); } a#cycle-sofiasis::after { content: none !important; } a#cycle-sofiasis::before { color: var(--accent); content: "↴"; content: "\f2f9"; font-family: "Font Awesome 5 Free"; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 0.2em; text-decoration: none !important; } a#cycle-sofiasis:hover::before { font-style: normal !important; text-decoration: none !important; } .dm a#cycle-sofiasis::before { color: var(--dm-accent); } a#cycle-sofiaactor { text-decoration: underline dotted var(--accent) !important; color: var(--text); } a#cycle-sofiaactor:hover { font-style: normal !important; text-decoration: underline solid var(--accent) !important; } .dm a#cycle-sofiaactor { text-decoration-color: var(--dm-accent) !important; color: var(--dm-text); } .dm a#cycle-sofiaactor:hover { text-decoration: underline solid var(--dm-accent) !important; } a#cycle-sofiaactor::after { content: none !important; } a#cycle-sofiaactor::before { color: var(--accent); content: "↴"; content: "\f2f9"; font-family: "Font Awesome 5 Free"; font-weight: bold; padding-right: 0.2em; text-decoration: none !important; font-style: normal !important; } a#cycle-sofiaactor:hover::before { font-style: normal !important; text-decoration: none !important; } .dm a#cycle-sofiaactor::before { color: var(--dm-accent); } </style>\ \ \ <!--Val did everything he could to take care of his little sister, but—determined to avoid the "quiet life and even quieter death" she feared she was destined for—Katya ultimately propelled herself from the depths of poverty into a world of comfort, wealth, and beauty.. Determined to avoid the "quiet life and even quieter death" she always feared she was destined for, Katya did everything she could and used every asset at her disposal to propel herself from the depths of poverty into a world of comfort, wealth, and beauty.-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>\ Okay, here's what we're going to do. //Goncharov// is already a fantastic piece of cinema with a devoted fanbase, right? Let's just repackage it—keep it simple. Same plot, same characters, same everything, just a few small changes so people don't feel cheated. Let's <<cycle "$mc.change">><<option "up the homoerotic subtext to explicitly queer subplots and relationships" "queer">><<option "lean into the action and update the visuals to grab the attention of audiences used to violent games and superhero flicks" "action">><<option "focus even more on the female characters, particularly Katya, Sofia, and their relationship to one another" "femme">><</cycle>> and call it a day. How does that sound?<<else>>\ Okay, here's all we're going to do. //Goncharov// is already a masterpiece, right? Let's just repackage it. Boss just asked us to apply some "fresh paint," so we'll do just that. Same plot, same characters, same everything, just a few minimal changes so that people don't feel cheated. Let's <<cycle "$mc.change">><<option "up the homoerotic subtext to explicitly queer subplots and relationships" "queer">><<option "lean into the action and update the visuals to grab the attention of a contemporary audience" "action">><<option "focus even more on the female characters, particularly Katya, Sofia, and their relationship to one another" "femme">><</cycle>> and call it a day. Sound good to you?<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "15A">><</button>></span><!--[[15A]]-->\ \ <!--ORIGINALLY HAD THIS OPTION IN THE CYCLES TOO: <<option "adjust the motifs/themes so the social commentary fits contemporary culture and politics" "politics">>-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $al.response is 0>><<if $mc.scorsese>><!--FRIENDLY-->\ Hey, Al. Thanks for making that document, it's pretty good—if a bit sparse. I was wondering if you could help me out a bit more by getting the ball rolling. I'm at a bit of a crossroads idea-wise and I'm not sure which path to take. Can you go ahead and share your perspective? What direction do you think we should go in for this remake?<<else>>\ Hey, Al. Thanks for making that document, it's pretty good—if a bit sparse, but I was wondering if you could help by getting the ball rolling. I'm at a bit of a crossroads idea-wise and I'm not sure which way to go. Would you mind sharing your perspective? What direction do you think we should go in for this remake?<</if>>\ <<elseif $al.response is 1>><!--NEUTRAL-->\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Hey, Al. I was wondering if you could help me out by getting the ball rolling. I'm at a bit of a crossroads idea-wise. Can you go ahead and share your perspectives? What direction do you want to go in with this remake?<<else>>\ Hey, Al. I was wondering if you could help me out by getting the ball rolling. I'm at a bit of a crossroads idea-wise. Can you go ahead and share your perspectives? What direction do you want to go in with this remake?<</if>>\ <<else>><!--RUDE-->\ Al, could you get the ball rolling? I'm at a bit of a crossroads idea-wise. Share your perspective and tell me what you want to do with this remake.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "13B">><</button>></span><!--[[13B]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>With all due respect, sir, I can't share my thoughts until you make some executive decisions. If there's a specific task you want me to do, I can do that. If there are any questions you have, I can see to them. But you //have// to make your own choices first.<<else>>I can't share my thoughts until you make some executive decisions. I'm here if you have questions—I //can// help with that—or if there's a specific task you want me to do, I can get that done. But you need to share your choices first. I can't make decisions for you. Where's the fun in that?<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "13">><</button>></span><!--[[13]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <!--MC STARTS SAYING SOME IDEAS, SAYS SOMETHING THAT MAKES IT SUSPICIOUS THAT MAYBE THEY DON'T KNOW GONCHAROV THAT WELL Asks what the central themes of the story are.-->\ \ Okay, here's what we'll do. Let's focus on the main themes and plotlines. If we can identify what those are then we can expand upon them or switch them out for the remake. <!--Oh, we could also identify important scenes/lines from //Goncharov// (1973) and figure out how to incorporate those or reference them in //Goncharov// (2023). But I'm getting ahead of myself, let's just start with the themes. -->So, uh... what do you consider to be the main themes of //Goncharov//? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "15B">><</button>></span><!--[[15B]]-->
You go see your Boss to share what you've come up with. <<if playTime('minutes') lt 10 and playTime('hours') lt 1>>You've finished very quickly, a fact that both seems to please and alarm them. "Are you sure you put enough time and thought into this?" They ask you. You assure them you're confident with what you've made.<<elseif playTime('minutes') gte 10 and playTime('minutes') lt 30 and playTime('hours') lt 1>>You've finished with a decent amount of time left so you're able to fully go over your pitch. Not that it takes long. It is a pretty straightforward idea. "You're sure about this?" They ask you one final time before heading out. You assure them you're confident in your idea.<<else>>You cut it close time-wise, but are able to give them a quick summary before they have to leave—not that it's hard, this is a pretty straightforward pitch.<</if>> There's no way the investors <<if $mc.scorsese>>would pass on this project. Again, you're Martin Scorsese. Who would turn you down?<<else>>will turn this down. How could they? What would be the point?<</if>> When you head home from work later, the snow is still falling—lightly, barely a dusting. You move through it as quickly as possible. The next day you come in and check your email. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-envelope'></i>">><<goto "END 1 EMAIL">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 EMAIL]]-->\ \ \ <<if playTime('minutes') lt 10 and playTime('hours') lt 1>><<set $mc.firsttime = 0>><<elseif playTime('minutes') gte 10 and playTime('minutes') lt 30 and playTime('hours') lt 1>><<set $mc.firsttime = 1>><<else>><<set $mc.firsttime = 2>><</if>>
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.change is "queer">><<if $mc.scorsese>>I think that sounds great<<else>>Sounds great to me<</if>><<else>><<if $mc.scorsese>>I think that sounds good<<else>>I'm good with whatever you want<</if>><</if>>. So, main objective: <<if $mc.change is "queer">>make it more gay with openly queer storylines and characters (love it)<<elseif $mc.change is "femme">>focus on Katya and Sofia more, exploring their interpersonal dynamic and respective situations<<elseif $mc.change is "action">>up the action, violence, and SFX to grab the attention of contemporary audiences<<else>>update the sociopolitical commentary to suit our current culture and climate<</if>> but, besides that, business as usual. <<if $mc.scorsese>>Fantastic. Well, it was a real pleasure working with you, Mr. Scorsese. I hope we'll be able to do this again sometime.<<else>>Cool cool cool. Pleasure working with ya, $mc.name, hope we can do this again sometime.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 1A">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 1A]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <!--ALBIE ASKS IF MC HAS SEEN GONCHAROV-->\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Sir, please understand that I don't mean for this to sound disrespectful, but how do you not know that? Do you not remember what happens in //Goncharov//? or what it's about?<<else>>"What do you consider to be the main themes of //Goncharov//?" Uh, $mc.name, how do you not know that? Have you seen the original //Goncharov//?<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "16">><</button>></span><!--[[16]]-->
<<if $mc.scorsese>><<if $mc.scorseseknow is 0>>No! Of course you don't remember. You don't even remember if you //made// this film. You go to type that into a reply, but a rush of embarrassment arrests you. You can't admit this. What if you actually did make //Goncharov// and you have no recollection of it? You can't risk admitting that to another human being.<<else>>Of course not. You're pretty sure hadn't even heard of //Goncharov// before this morning. ... But what if you did make it? You are <<if $mc.scorseseknow is 1>>80% sure<<else>>99.99% sure<</if>> that you didn't make //Goncharov//—but there's still that <<if $mc.scorseseknow is 1>>20%, and that's not an insignificant figure.<<else>>0.01% chance that you did make this film.<</if>> Until you are 100% sure that you didn't make //Goncharov//, you can't risk telling someone that you've forgotten one of your own films.<</if>><<else>>How dare they ask you that. I mean, of course you haven't, but still... How //dare// they ask you that.<</if>> <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Reply \"Of course I<<if $mc.scorsese>> remember<<else>>'ve seen Goncharov<</if>>.\"" "17A">><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Reply \"<<if $mc.scorsese>>Do you?<<else>>Have you?<</if>>\"" "17B">><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[17A]]--><!--[[17B]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <!--ALBIE RESPONDS SAYING THAT THEY WERE JUST CHECKING, ANSWERS SOME QUESTIONS FROM THE 14B EMAIL, IF VISITED("17D") THEN ALBIE RESPONDS TO THE ACCUSATION FIRST-->\ <<if visited("17B")>>Just like you didn't answer mine. No matter, <<else>>Okay, cool. Just checking. Anyways, <</if>>\ to answer your <<if visited("17B")>>original <</if>>question, //Goncharov// (1973) has many themes. Some of the main ones include: * • Loss of the self/identity * • Time and inevitability * • Queerness and/or homoeroticism //(largely implied)// * • Social class * • Inescapable cycles //(particularly cycles of violence)// * • Corrupting influence of capitalism * • Nationalism * • Legacy * • Reality/memory * • Mental illness/treatment of those with mental illness Those are the main ones that come to mind. As I said, there's a lot. //Goncharov// is a really powerful film with many layers. How much and what exactly you take away from it varies greatly from person to person.<<if $mc.scorsese>> Again, I just have to congratulate you on that. You created a true masterpiece.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "18">><</button>></span><!--[[18]]-->\
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Do //I// remember //Goncharov//? Sir, d<<else>>Have //I// seen Goncharov? D<</if>>id I or did I not just send you a document with a wealth of information about the film? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "17C">><</button>></span><!--[[17C]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ \ <<if $mc.scorsese>>\ <!--MC RESPONDS TO ALBIE MAYBE SUGGESTING THAT THEY HAVEN'T SEEN IT EITHER-->\ Yes, thank you for summing up my work so well. Very eloquent. Couldn't have done it better myself. Fair point though. There is a lot to //Goncharov// (1973). The film contains multitudes and—as we both know—it already has a large fanbase that appreciates everything which makes //Goncharov// uniquely, well, //Goncharov//. So, because there is so much to //Goncharov// and because we have very little time, let's keep it simple. Same plot, same characters, same everything, just a few small changes to update //Goncharov// for a 2023 audience. Personally, I think we should <<cycle "$mc.change">><<option "up the homoerotic subtext to explicitly queer subplots and relationships" "queer">><<option "lean into the action and update the visuals to grab the attention of audiences used to violent games and superhero flicks" "action">><<option "focus even more on the female characters, particularly Katya, Sofia, and their relationship to one another" "femme">><</cycle>> and call it a day. How does that sound?<<else>>\ <!--MC RESPONDS TO ALBIE MAYBE SUGGESTING THAT THEY HAVEN'T SEEN IT EITHER-->\ Yes, thank you for summing it up so well. Very eloquent. Couldn't have done it better myself. Fair point though. There's a lot to //Goncharov// (1973). The film contains multitudes and—as we both know—it already has a large fanbase that appreciates everything which makes //Goncharov// uniquely, well, //Goncharov//. So, because there's so much to //Goncharov// and because we have very little time, let's keep it simple. Same plot, same characters, same everything, just a few small changes to update //Goncharov// for a 2023 audience. Personally, I think we should <<cycle "$mc.change">><<option "up the homoerotic subtext to explicitly queer subplots and relationships" "queer">><<option "lean into the action and update the visuals to grab the attention of audiences used to violent games and superhero flicks" "action">><<option "focus even more on the female characters, particularly Katya, Sofia, and their relationship to one another" "femme">><</cycle>> and call it a day. How does that sound?<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "19">><</button>></span><!--[[19]]-->
That isn't exactly a yes. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "17D">><</button>></span><!--[[17D]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ You did, but you didn't answer my question. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "17A">><</button>></span><!--[[17A]]-->
You go see your Boss to share what you've come up with. <<if playTime('minutes') lt 10 and playTime('hours') lt 1>>You've finished very quickly, a fact that both seems to please and alarm them. "Are you sure you put enough time and thought into this?" They ask you. You assure them you're confident with what you've made.<<elseif playTime('minutes') gte 10 and playTime('minutes') lt 30 and playTime('hours') lt 1>>You've finished with a decent amount of time left so you're able to fully go over your pitch. Not that it takes long. This is a pretty straightforward idea. "You're sure about this?" They ask you one final time before heading out. You assure them you're confident in your idea.<<else>>You cut it close time-wise, but are able to give them a quick summary before they have to leave—not that it's hard, this is a pretty straightforward pitch.<</if>> There's no way the investors <<if $mc.scorsese>>would pass on this project. Again, you're Martin Scorsese. Who would turn you down?<<else>>will turn this down. How could they? What would be the point?<</if>> When you head home from work later, the snow is still falling—lightly, barely a dusting. You move through it as quickly as possible. The next day you come in and check your email. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-envelope'></i>">><<goto "END 1 EMAIL">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 EMAIL]]-->\ \ \ <<if playTime('minutes') lt 10 and playTime('hours') lt 1>><<set $mc.firsttime = 0>><<elseif playTime('minutes') gte 10 and playTime('minutes') lt 30 and playTime('hours') lt 1>><<set $mc.firsttime = 1>><<else>><<set $mc.firsttime = 2>><</if>>
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <!--ALBIE RESPONDS SAYING THAT THEY'LL SEND IT OFF TO THE INVESTORS OR WHATEVER, CHOICE CONFIRMATION-->\ <<if $mc.change is "queer">><<if $mc.scorsese>>I think that sounds great<<else>>Sounds great to me<</if>><<else>><<if $mc.scorsese>>I think that sounds good<<else>>I'm good with whatever you want<</if>><</if>>. So, main objective: <<if $mc.change is "queer">>make it more gay with openly queer storylines and characters (love it)<<elseif $mc.change is "femme">>focus on Katya and Sofia more, exploring their interpersonal dynamic and respective situations<<elseif $mc.change is "action">>up the action, violence, and SFX to grab the attention of contemporary audiences<<else>>update the sociopolitical commentary to suit our current culture and climate<</if>> but, besides that, business as usual. <<if $mc.scorsese>>Fantastic. Well, it was a real pleasure working with you, Mr. Scorsese. I hope we'll be able to do this again sometime.<<else>>Cool cool cool. Pleasure working with ya, $mc.name, hope we can do this again sometime.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 1B">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 1B]]-->
You finish <<cycle "$mc.dictating" autoselect>><<option "typing" false>><<option "dictating" true>><</cycle>> and lean back in your chair, considering everything you just read and wrote. <<if $mc.scorsese>><<if $mc.scorseseknow is 0>>It's all coming back to you now. Wow, //Goncharov// really was a great movie. <<else>>It's starting to come back to you now. You aren't entirely sure what your involvement with this project was, but you were definitely involved with //Goncharov// (1973). But, wow. It really was a great movie. <</if>><<cycle "$mc.satisfied" autoselect>><<option "You're not completely satisfied with this version of the plot, but that doesn't matter—you can always change it later. The most important thing right now, is to get it to Your Boss in time." 1>><<option "You are really happy with this. It's even better than you remember—or could have imagined. Hopefully, Your Boss and the investors will like it just as much." 2>><<option "In no way are you satisfied with this version of the story, but you need to get //a// pitch to Your Boss as soon as possible. For now, this will have to do." 0>><</cycle>>\ <<else>><<cycle "$mc.satisfied" autoselect>><<option "You're not completely satisfied with this plot, but that doesn't matter—you can always change it later. The most important thing right now is to get this to Your Boss in time." 1>><<option "You are really happy with that. The story turned out better than you could have imagined. Hopefully, Your Boss and the investors will like it as much as you do." 2>><<option "In no way are you satisfied with that, but you need to get //a// pitch to Your Boss as soon as possible. For now, this will have to do." 0>><</cycle>><</if>> <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Send Al a confident message" "21">><<set $mc.second = "confident", $mc.confident = true>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Send Al a hesitant message" "21">><<set $mc.second = "hesitant", $mc.confident = false>><</link>></span></div>\ \ <style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[21]]-->
<!--ALBIE TEXTS MC ABOUT THE ENDING-->''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Morning, Mr. Scorsese. I just read the email from Boss and wanted to express my condolences. I know //Goncharov// is probably very special to you<<if $mc.first is "speed" or "alspeed">>. Sorry that it didn't work out this time.<<else>> and I know you put effort into this pitch. Sorry that it didn't work out this time.<</if>>\ \ <<else>>\ \ Hey, $mc.name. Just read the email from Boss and wanted to express my condolences. I know <<if $mc.first is "speed" or "alspeed">>you wanted the opportunity to make //Goncharov// and I'm sorry that it didn't work out this time.<<else>>you put effort into your //Goncharov// pitch and that this opportunity could have been really great for your career. Sorry that it didn't work out this time.<</if>><</if>> Let me know if there's anything I can do for you. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 5">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 5]]-->
<!--MC REACTS TO THE NEWS MORE AND DECIDES HOW TO RESPOND TO ALBIE EITHER CONTENT ROUTE B OR DISCONTENT ROUTE A-->\ <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Accept that //Goncharov// won't be made" "END 1 6B">><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Refuse to accept this, you are going to make //Goncharov//" "END 1 6A">><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[END 1 6A]][[END 1 6B]]-->
<!--MC SAYS THAT THEY WON'T GIVE UP, THAT THEY WON'T ACCEPT TAT THE INVESTORS TURNED DOWN GONCHAROV-->\ \ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>\ No. No, I won't accept this. I don't care if those investors don't believe in this project. I do.\ <<else>>\ No. No, I won't accept this. I don't care if those investors don't believe in this project. I do.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 7A">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 7A]]-->
<!--MC EXPLAINS THAT YOU KNOW IT HAPPENS, THEY'LL GET IT NEXT TIME. THEY WON'T GET TRAPPED FRETTING OVER IT-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>><!--MC IS SCORSESE-->\ <<if $al.response is 0>><!--SCORSESE WAS NICE TO AL-->\ Thanks, Al, but <<if $run gt 1>><<if $run is 3>>I won't let myself get hung up on this. W<<else>>w<</if>>hat would be the point?<<else>>what could we do?<</if>> We can't change the past and—try as we might—I don't know how much any of us can truly change people's minds. I mean, if those investors turned //me// down for a //Goncharov// (1973) remake, I don't think they ever could have believed in this film. But you know, these things happen. I've dealt with a lot of rejection over the course of my career. You have to learn to let some things go.<<if $run is 3>> This idea was fun while it lasted, but, you're right, //Goncharov// just isn't going to happen.<</if>> Thanks again though.<<if $run is 1>> I appreciate you reaching out.<</if>> Stay warm, $mc.name<<else>><!--SCORSESE WAS NEUTRAL TO AL-->\ Eh, <<if $run gt 1>><<if $run is 3>>I won't let myself get hung up on it. W<<else>>w<</if>>hat would be the point?<<else>>what could we do?<</if>> We can't change the past and—try as we might—I don't know how much any of us can truly change people's minds. I mean, if those investors turned //me// down for a //Goncharov// (1973) remake, I don't think they ever could have believed in this film. But you know, these things happen. I've dealt with a lot of rejection over the course of my career, you learn to just let some things go.<<if $run is 3>> This idea was fun while it lasted, but, you're right, //Goncharov// just isn't going to happen.<</if>> Have a good one, $mc.name\ <</if>>\ <<else>><!--MC ISN'T SCORSESE-->\ <<if $al.response is 0>><!--MC WAS NICE TO AL-->\ Thanks, Al, but <<if $run gt 1>><<if $run is 3>>I won't let myself get hung up on it. W<<else>>w<</if>>hat would be the point?<<else>>what could we do?<</if>> We can't change the past and—try as we might—I don't know how much any of us can truly change people's minds. I don't know if we ever could have convinced those investors to believe in this film unless we had Scorsese at the helm, or something like that. But you know, these things happen. You can't be a stranger to rejection in this line of work and I've learned to handle disappointment healthily. Sometimes you just have to let things go.<<if $run is 3>> This idea was fun while it lasted, but, I think you're right, //Goncharov// just isn't going to happen.<</if>> Thanks again<<if $run is 1>> for reaching out though. I appreciate it<</if>>. Stay warm, $mc.name<<elseif $al.response is 1>><!--MC WAS NEUTRAL TO AL-->\ Eh, <<if $run gt 1>><<if $run is 3>>I won't let myself get hung up on it. W<<else>>w<</if>>hat would be the point?<<else>>what could we do?<</if>> We can't change the past and—try as we might—I don't know how much any of us can truly change people's mind. I don't know if we ever could have convinced those investors to believe in this film unless we had Scorsese at the helm, or something like that. But you know, these things happen. You can't be a stranger to rejection in this line of work and I've learned to handle disappointment healthily. Sometimes you just have to let things go.<<if $run is 3>> This idea was fun while it lasted, but, I think you're right, //Goncharov// just isn't going to happen.<</if>> Anyways, have a good one. $mc.name\ <<else>><!--MC WAS RUDE TO AL-->\ Eh, <<if $run gt 1>><<if $run is 3>>I won't let myself get hung up on it. W<<else>>w<</if>>hat would be the point?<<else>>what could we do?<</if>> We can't change the past and—try as we might—I don't know how much people can truly change others' minds. I don't know if we ever could have convinced those investors to believe in this film unless we had Scorsese at the helm, or something like that. You know, it happens. Such is life. I'm sure someone like yourself hasn't had to deal with much rejection before, but for the rest of us in this line of work, it's fairly common. You learn to let things go and leave dead dreams in the past. If I were to allow myself to obsess over past disappointments or impossibilities, I'd never have a shot at reaching a position like the one you've been given. But I digress. Point is, there will always be other movies, other projects, so on and so forth. The loss of //Goncharov// doesn't bother me that much. I hope //you// don't take it too hard. Stay strong, Al. $mc.name\ <</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 7B">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 7B]]-->
''<span class="acc">Hold up one second</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ Um, are you sure that you would want to do that right away? I feel like you've maybe been doing this for a while. Could be time for a break, maybe. Not saying you have to. Just suggesting. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "FIRST CHECK 2">><</button>></span><!--[[FIRST CHECK 2]]-->
''<span class="acc">Hold up one second</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ And you're sure you want to do that right away? It might be time for a break. You've been here a while... <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "SECOND CHECK 2">><</button>></span><!--[[SECOND CHECK 2]]-->
<!--MC CONTEMPLATES THAT SUGGESTION, MAYBE DECIDES IF THEY WANT TO KEEP GOING, FIRST CHECK 3, OR IF THEY WANT TO TAKE A BREAK, BRINGS UP THE SAVES MENU AND SUGGESTS THAT THEY BACK UP THE SAVES MAYBE-->\ \ \ <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Pause time.">><<run UI.saves();>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "The clock is ticking. You can't stop now." "FIRST CHECK 3">><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[FIRST CHECK 3]]-->
<div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Pause time.">><<run UI.saves();>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "\"No. And quit asking me that.\"" "SECOND CHECK 3">><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[SECOND CHECK 3]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Hold up one second</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ No. If I could start over, I'd want to do it right now. Why wait? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "FIRST CHECK 4">><</button>></span><!--[[FIRST CHECK 4]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Hold up one second</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<set _restarticon = either("<i class='fa-solid fa-snowflake'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-recycle'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-random'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-hourglass-start'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-door-open'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-clock'></i>")>>\ Okay! Just checking... <span class='next'><<button "_restarticon">><<goto "NG PLUS BLACK SCREEN">><</button>></span><!--[[NG PLUS BLACK SCREEN]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Hold up one second</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<set _restarticon = either("<i class='fa-solid fa-snowflake'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-recycle'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-random'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-hourglass-start'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-door-open'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-clock'></i>")>>\ Okay. <span class='next'><<button "_restarticon">><<goto "NG PLUS BLACK SCREEN">><</button>></span><!--[[NG PLUS BLACK SCREEN]]-->
Welcome, $mc.name! You have ''one'' unread email. <<link "<div class='unread-email'>''Subject:'' Investors' Response<br>''From:'' Your Boss<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 22, 2022 at 08:43 AM</span></div>" "END 1 2">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: Goncharov Project<br>''From:'' Al B<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.firsttime is 0>>09:32 AM<<elseif $mc.firsttime is 1>>09:57 AM<<else>>10:19 AM<</if>></span></div>">><<if visited("14A")>><<goto "Email 4A">><<else>><<goto "Email 4B">><</if>><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: New Assignment<br>''From:'' Your Boss<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 21, 2022 at 09:24 AM</span></div>" "Email 3">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: Started it<br>''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Justine Perrone<<else>>Justa Personne<</if>><br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 01:49 PM</span></div>" "Email 1 END">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' Tick Tock O'Clock<br>''From:'' Ra<<if $run gte 3>>ul<<else>>nd<</if>> M. Guy<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 07:15 AM</span></div>" "Email 2 END">><</link>>\ \ <!--[[END 1 2]]--><!--[[Email 2 END]][[Email 1 END]][[Email 3]][[Email 4A]][[Email 4B]]--><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;}a {border: none;}</style>
<!--Boss RE: New Assignment (Sent Nov 21, 2022 at 09:24 AM) Text from the body of the emails in 6 and 8 -->''<span class="acc">RE: New Assignment</span>'' ''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Yara Bose<<else>>Your Boss<</if>> <ybos<<if $run gte 3>>e<<else>>s<</if>>@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''CC:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 21, 2022 at 09:24 AM</span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 21, 2022 at 09:24 AM</span>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Fantastic! And t<<else>>T<</if>>hank you for responding so promptly. The details are as follows: You need to craft a pitch for a 2023 adaptation of <<if $mc.scorsese>>your 1973 classic, //Goncharov<<else>>Martin Scorsese's //Goncharov// (1973)<</if>>. <<if $mc.scorsese>>We aren't asking you to<<else>>Don't<</if>> stray too far from the original. //Goncharov// is already a masterpiece and our audiences already adore it. This is meant to be a celebration more than anything in honor of the upcoming 50th anniversary. <!--The film's themes and plotlines are already pretty modern and progressive for the time it was created, the characters are iconic and complex, and the music is simply exquisite. --><<if $mc.scorsese>>We are very excited to see what you will do given the opportunity to remake //Goncharov// with access to modern technology, new perspectives you've gained over the years, and (if this pitch goes well) a much bigger budget than you would have had at the start of your career. Deepest apologies for only reaching out to you now, but I'll remind you that unfortunately we only have until 11:00. If possible, I'd also like to go over your ideas and thoughts before I present them to the potential investors, so the earlier you can get this pitch to me, the better. Anyways, go work your magic. Not that it'll be difficult; as Roger Ebert said, "//Goncharov// is the greatest mafia movie ever made." Whatever you do, I'm sure it will be fantastic.<<else>>We aren't asking you to reinvent the wheel here. Add some flare if you want, but the main objective is to slap some fresh paint on a classic and call it a day. Remember you have until 11:00 but, ideally, you'll get done a little earlier so we can go over your ideas and thoughts before I present them to the potential investors. Anyways, go make something great. Not that it'll be difficult; as Roger Ebert once said, "//Goncharov// is the greatest mafia movie ever made." I don't think you can mess it up.<</if>> Also, in case you didn't notice, I added Al B. to this email. They'll be working with you on this project<<if $mc.scorsese>>, serving as a second pair of hands and eyes to get this done as quickly as possible<<else>> but they understand you're leading it. Utilize their skills and insight as much as you can, time is a luxury we cannot afford<</if>>. I've already briefed them on the situation, just send them a message when you're ready to get started<<if $mc.scorsese isnot true>> (please do not //reply all// to this email, I just cleaned out my inbox and don't want the two of you cluttering it up)<</if>>. Talk to you soon<<if $mc.scorsese>> and thank you again<</if>>, Boss <<message "<span class='messagebutton'>Show Previous Messages</span>">> ''<i class='fa-solid fa-exclamation-triangle acc'></i> ERROR'': Could not load previous messages<</message>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>></span><style>.messagebutton { color: var(--text); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--text); padding: 5px; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--accent); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); cursor: pointer; } .dm .messagebutton { color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } .dm .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-accent); }</style><!--[[END 1 EMAIL]][[END 2 EMAIL]]-->
''<span class="acc">Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Your Boss <ybos<<if $run gte 3>>e<<else>>s<</if>>@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''CC:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Good morning, Mr. Scorsese, I'm sorry to inform you that the investors have passed on the //Goncharov// adaptation and so I'm cancelling the project. Thank you for your work though, hopefully we can get something in your hands in the near future. Sincerely, Boss<<else>>Morning, $mc.name, I'm sorry to inform you that the investors have passed on the //Goncharov// adaptation so I'm cancelling the project. Thank you for your <<if $mc.first is "speed" or $mc.first is "alspeed">>work<<else>>time and effort<</if>> though, hopefully we can find you another opportunity like this in the near future. Have a good one, Boss<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 3">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 3]]-->
<!--Al B RE: Goncharov Project (Sent Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.firsttime is 0>>09:32 AM<<elseif $mc.firsttime is 1>>09:57 AM<<else>>10:19 AM<</if>>) Text from the body of emails in 10, 11, (maybe 13A and 13B), 14A, 15A -->''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.firsttime is 0>>09:32 AM<<elseif $mc.firsttime is 1>>09:57 AM<<else>>10:19 AM<</if>></span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.firsttime is 0>>09:33 AM<<elseif $mc.firsttime is 1>>09:58 AM<<else>>10:20 AM<</if>></span>\ <hr>\ <!--BODY OF 19-->\ <<if $mc.change is "queer">><<if $mc.scorsese>>I think that sounds great<<else>>Sounds great to me<</if>><<else>><<if $mc.scorsese>>I think that sounds good<<else>>I'm good with whatever you want<</if>><</if>>. So, main objective: <<if $mc.change is "queer">>make it more gay with openly queer storylines and characters (love it)<<elseif $mc.change is "femme">>focus on Katya and Sofia more, exploring their interpersonal dynamic and respective situations<<elseif $mc.change is "action">>up the action, violence, and SFX to grab the attention of contemporary audiences<<else>>update the sociopolitical commentary to suit our current culture and climate<</if>> but, besides that, business as usual. <<if $mc.scorsese>>Fantastic. Well, it was a real pleasure working with you, Mr. Scorsese. I hope we'll be able to do this again sometime.<<else>>Cool cool cool. Pleasure working with ya, $mc.name, hope we can do this again sometime.<</if>> <<message "<span class='messagebutton'>Show Previous Messages</span>">> ''<i class='fa-solid fa-exclamation-triangle acc'></i> ERROR'': Could not load previous messages<</message>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>></span><style>.messagebutton { color: var(--text); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--text); padding: 5px; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--accent); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); cursor: pointer; } .dm .messagebutton { color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } .dm .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-accent); }</style><!--[[END 1 EMAIL]]-->
Wait... //''What?!''// No. No no no no no no no! That's not how this is supposed to end. That's not how this is supposed to go. You sit there at your computer, eyes wide, staring at the screen. Your gaze continually flicks over the lines of the email but can't process the words they contain. This doesn't make sense. Another email comes in, an email from Al. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-envelope'></i>">><<goto "END 1 4">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 4]]-->
<!--Justa Personne RE: Started it (Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 13:49 PM) -->''<span class="acc">RE: Started it</span>'' ''From:'' Just<<if $run gte 3>>ine Perrone<<else>>a Personne<</if>> <jper<<if $run gte 3>>ro<<else>>son<</if>>ne@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 18, 2022 at 01:49 PM</span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 18, 2022 at 03:27 PM</span>\ <hr>\ I'm so glad to hear that! Hope you enjoy the game. I've had a lot of fun with it personally. I won't actually be here on Monday cause I'll be traveling (guess who got invited to the hottest movie premiere!) but when I get back, I'd love to talk about it over lunch, after work, whenever. I'm honestly jealous that you get to experience this for the first time. The open world setup is unbelievable and I'm so in love with these characters. If I have any advice, just play around with it. Explore a bunch of different plotlines and try new things. Have fun, get inspired, and throw yourself into the fantasy. See ya soon, Just<<if $run gte 3>>ine<<else>>a<</if>> PS. My coworker just finished making the promotional piece for a new project we're on and—I have to tell you—I'm //so// happy with how it's turned out (I really hope they're proud of it, they should be). They're sharing it online now. I'll show it to you whenever we end up talking about the game. Seriously, it's //so// cool. It might be the greatest movie poster I've ever seen. <<message "<span class='messagebutton'>Show Previous Message</span>">><hr>''<span class="acc">Started it</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Just<<if $run gte 3>>ine Perrone<<else>>a Personne<</if>> <jper<<if $run gte 3>>ro<<else>>son<</if>>ne@bootmedia.com> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 18, 2022 at 10:51 AM</span> <hr>\ //Hey, I forgot to tell you at lunch but I started that game you lent me. It's really good but I haven't gotten too far into it yet, so, no spoilers please. Hopefully I'll be able to finish it this weekend so we can talk about it on Monday. Anyways, enjoy your weekend! $mc.name//<hr><</message>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>></span><style>.messagebutton { color: var(--text); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--text); padding: 5px; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--accent); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); cursor: pointer; } .dm .messagebutton { color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } .dm .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-accent); }</style><!--[[END 1 EMAIL]][[END 2 EMAIL]][[END 3 EMAIL]]-->
<!--Rand M. Guy Tick Tock O'Clock (Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 07:15 AM) -->''<span class="acc">Tick Tock O'Clock</span>'' ''From:'' Ra<<if $run gte 3>>ul<<else>>nd<</if>> M. Guy <rguy@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' //All Staff// <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 18, 2022 at 07:15 AM</span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 18, 2022 at 09:06 AM</span>\ <hr>\ Hi everyone! //Tick tock.// Yes, you heard right, it's that time of year again! Time for Boot Media's annual Clock Ball. If you have any extra timepieces in need of a new home, bring them in. We'll be auctioning off a fleet of clocks at the Clock Ball with all proceeds going to charity. Also, not to alarm anyone, but you only have two more weeks to RSVP. The gala event will be held Dec 21, 2022 and will begin at 08:00 PM (20:00). So, if you and //one// other person want to celebrate the solstice in style, let us know ASAP. It's important to know who will be coming, though it's rather unbecoming to miss out. And, if you can spare the time, we're looking for a few more volunteers to design and set up decorations for the big event. If you're interested in joining the party planning committee, give me a ring. I promise it's not a towering time commitment. Don't be late! Ra<<if $run gte 3>>ul<<else>>nd<</if>> M. Guy //<<if $run is 1>>Important Executive<<elseif $run is 2>>Production Executive<<else>>Executive Producer<</if>>// and //Head of the Party Planning Committee// <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 EMAIL]][[END 2 EMAIL]][[END 3 EMAIL]]-->
FINISH RUN 3 ENDS (CODE FOR FIGHT IS DONE) ALL OF RUN 4 (if I choose to incorporate one) Possible endings: Deciding to give the pitch yourself, either cutting it off before it happens or giving them a good ending but not really talking about exactly what happens Just hanging out with Al B infinitely If you're repeatedly really mean to Al B then they hold it against you
<!--Al B RE: Goncharov Project (Sent Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.firsttime is 0>>09:32 AM<<elseif $mc.firsttime is 1>>09:57 AM<<else>>10:19 AM<</if>>) Text from the body of emails in 10, 11, (maybe 13A and 13B), 14A, 15A -->''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.firsttime is 0>>09:32 AM<<elseif $mc.firsttime is 1>>09:57 AM<<else>>10:19 AM<</if>></span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.firsttime is 0>>09:33 AM<<elseif $mc.firsttime is 1>>09:58 AM<<else>>10:20 AM<</if>></span>\ <hr>\ <!--BODY OF 15A-->\ <<if $mc.change is "queer">><<if $mc.scorsese>>I think that sounds great<<else>>Sounds great to me<</if>><<else>><<if $mc.scorsese>>I think that sounds good<<else>>I'm good with whatever you want<</if>><</if>>. So, main objective: <<if $mc.change is "queer">>make it more gay with openly queer storylines and characters (love it)<<elseif $mc.change is "femme">>focus on Katya and Sofia more, exploring their interpersonal dynamic and respective situations<<elseif $mc.change is "action">>up the action, violence, and SFX to grab the attention of contemporary audiences<<else>>update the sociopolitical commentary to suit our current culture and climate<</if>> but, besides that, business as usual. <<if $mc.scorsese>>Fantastic. Well, it was a real pleasure working with you, Mr. Scorsese. I hope we'll be able to do this again sometime.<<else>>Cool cool cool. Pleasure working with ya, $mc.name, hope we can do this again sometime.<</if>> <<message "<span class='messagebutton'>Show Previous Messages</span>">> ''<i class='fa-solid fa-exclamation-triangle acc'></i> ERROR'': Could not load previous messages<</message>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>></span><style>.messagebutton { color: var(--text); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--text); padding: 5px; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--accent); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); cursor: pointer; } .dm .messagebutton { color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } .dm .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-accent); }</style><!--[[END 1 EMAIL]]-->
<!--ALBIE SAYS THAT IS GOOD TO HEAR, THEY'LL JUST KEEP THINKING ABOUT GONCHAROV ON THEIR OWN, WISHES MC WELL, THEY PART WAYS-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>><!--MC IS SCORSESE-->\ <<if $al.response is 0>><!--SCORSESE WAS NICE TO AL-->\ Yeah, no problem. Well, I'm glad that you're taking it so well. Wish you all the best, Al<<else>><!--SCORSESE WAS NEUTRAL TO AL-->\ Well, I'm glad that you're taking it so well. Wish you all the best, Al<</if>>\ <<else>><!--MC ISN'T SCORSESE-->\ <<if $al.response is 0>><!--MC WAS NICE TO AL-->\ Yeah, no problem. Well, I'm glad that you're taking it so well. Wish you all the best, Al<<elseif $al.response is 1>><!--MC WAS NEUTRAL TO AL-->\ Well, I'm glad that you're taking it so well. Wish you all the best, Al<<else>><!--MC WAS RUDE TO AL-->\ Ha. Thanks. Well, I'm glad you're taking it so well. Wish you all the best, dear $mc.name. Sincerely, Al<</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 8B">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 8B]]-->
You've placed the idea of //Goncharov// (2023) in your rear-view mirror, allowing the past to remain in the past. You reach the end of your day. You log off. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-power-off'></i>">><<run UI.restart();>><</button>></span>
<!--ALBIE ASKS MC WHAT THEY WANT TO DO-->\ \ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>\ Um, okay. And what exactly are you going to do?\ <<else>>\ Um, okay. And what exactly are you going to do?<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 8A">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 8A]]-->
<!--MC SAYS THAT THEY AREN'T SURE-->\ \ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ I... I don't know. But I'm going to do it. I have to. I'm attached to //Goncharov//<<if $mc.scorsese>><<else>> now<</if>> and I won't rest until this idea becomes a reality. Maybe we can crowdfund it<<if $mc.scorsese>>,<</if>> or find other investors<<if $mc.scorsese>>, or maybe I'll fund it myself<</if>>. //Something//. I'm not sure yet, but I'll figure it out. This //has// to happen. We //will// make //Goncharov//. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 9A">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 9A]]-->
<!--ALBIE ASKS MC WHAT THEY WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY IF THEY HAD THE CHANCE TO DO IT AGAIN-->\ \ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>\ Alright. I must say, <<print either("I appreciate your tenacity", "I admire your determination", "I respect your resolve")>>.\ <<else>>\ Alright. I must say, <<print either("I appreciate your tenacity", "I admire your determination", "I respect your resolve")>>.<</if>> Maybe this is somewhere I can help. Let's start here: If you could create your pitch again, would you? Not necessarily starting from scratch, but starting over. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 10A">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 10A]]-->
<!--MC SAYS THAT THEY WOULD MAYBE GET INTO IT MORE, EXPAND UPON THEIR IDEA, GET MORE INTO GONCHAROV TO CONVINCE THE INVESTORS TO BELIEVE IN IT, THEY DON'T IF THEY'D FULLY START OVER, BUT THEY'D TRY AGAIN-->\ \ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>\ Yeah. I think I would.\ <<else>>\ Yeah. I think I would.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 11A">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 11A]]-->
<!--ALBIE SAYS, OKAY, AND SENDS MC BACK TO THE START-->\ \ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<set _restarticon = either("<i class='fa-solid fa-snowflake'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-recycle'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-random'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-hourglass-start'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-door-open'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-clock'></i>")>>\ Okay. <span class='next'><<button "_restarticon">><<goto "NG PLUS BLACK SCREEN">><</button>></span><!--[[NG PLUS BLACK SCREEN]]-->
<<timed 1.5s>><<goto "Start">><</timed>><!--[[Start]]-->
<!--MC SAYS THAT THEY WOULD MAYBE GET INTO IT MORE, EXPAND UPON THEIR IDEA, GET MORE INTO GONCHAROV TO CONVINCE THE INVESTORS TO BELIEVE IN IT, THEY DON'T IF THEY'D FULLY START OVER, BUT THEY'D TRY AGAIN-->\ \ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ Well, I guess the main thing I'd do is build off the original pitch, probably focusing a lot more on the plot.<!--just expanding upon the things I've already come up with. Besides that, I don't know. Maybe write down a couple scene ideas or lay out major plot points. --> Hopefully a more concrete vision for the story would convince people to buy into the film. <!--Perhaps if I invested more, they'd do the same.--> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<set $run += 1>><<set $ngplus = true>><<if playTime('hours') gte 2>><<if $run gte 2>><<set $playtime1 = true>><<goto "FIRST CHECK">><</if>><<else>><<goto "END 1 13A">><</if>><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 13A]]--><!--[[FIRST CHECK]]-->
<!--ALBIE ASKS MC WHAT THEY WOULD DO DIFFERENTLY IF THEY HAD THE CHANCE TO DO IT AGAIN-->\ \ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ What would you do differently? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 1 12A">><</button>></span><!--[[END 1 12A]]-->
Copyright © 2022 by <a href='https://gamesbyalbie.itch.io/' target='_blank'><<if $run is 5 or $endC is true>>al b<<else>>albie<</if>></a><style> a.link-external { color: var(--text); font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; } .dm a.link-external { color: var(--dm-text); } a.link-external:hover { color: var(--accent); } .dm a.link-external:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); }</style>
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.confident>><<if $al.response is 0>><<if $mc.satisfied is 0>>Okay<<elseif $mc.satisfied is 1>>Great<<else>>Fantastic<</if>>, thanks for all your help. I'll go share this with Boss. I look forward to continuing to work on this project with you. Talk to you soon, $mc.name<<elseif $al.response is 1>><<if $mc.satisfied is 0>>Okay<<elseif $mc.satisfied is 1>>Nice<<else>>Great<</if>>. Thanks for the help. I'll go share it with Boss now. It shouldn't take them long to greenlight the project, so I'll be talking to you again pretty soon. $mc.name<<else>><<if $mc.satisfied is 0>>Okay<<elseif $mc.satisfied is 1>>Great<<else>>Fantastic<</if>>. I'll go share this with Boss now. $mc.name<</if>><<else>><<if $al.response is 0>><<if $mc.satisfied is 0>>Okay<<elseif $mc.satisfied is 1>>Great<<else>>Fantastic<</if>>, thanks for all your help. I guess I'll go share this with Boss. Fingers crossed, $mc.name<<elseif $al.response is 1>><<if $mc.satisfied is 0>>Okay<<elseif $mc.satisfied is 1>>Nice<<else>>Great<</if>>. Thanks for the help. I guess I'll go share this with Boss now. Wish me luck. $mc.name<<else>>Alright. I guess I'll go share this with Boss. $mc.name<</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "22">><</button>></span><!--[[22]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.confident>><<if $al.response is 0>>Oh, it's my pleasure. And that sounds good to me. I look forward to working with you too. Til next time, Al<<elseif $al.response is 1>>You're welcome, and sounds good. Til next time, Al<<else>>Sounds good. Til next time, Al<</if>><<else>><<if $al.response is 0>>Oh, it's my pleasure. Best of luck! Til next time, Al<<elseif $al.response is 1>>Good luck<<if $mc.scorsese>>!<<else>> :)<</if>> Til next time, Al<<else>>Best of luck. Til next time, Al<</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 2 1">><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 1]]-->
<<if playTime('minutes') lt 20 and playTime('hours') lt 1>><<set $mc.secondtime = 0>><<elseif playTime('minutes') gte 20 and playTime('minutes') lt 50 and playTime('hours') lt 1>><<set $mc.secondtime = 1>><<else>><<set $mc.secondtime = 2>><</if>>\ \ \ You go see your Boss to share what you've come up with. <<if $mc.secondtime is 0>>You've finished quickly, a fact that both seems to please and alarm them. "And you're certain about this?" They ask you.<<elseif $mc.secondtime is 1>>You finish with a decent amount of time left so you're able to fully go over your pitch. Before heading out, Your Boss asks, "You're certain about this?"<<else>>You cut it close time-wise, but give Your Boss a full summary before they have to leave. As they head out the door they ask you, "You're certain about this?"<</if>> <<if $mc.confident>>You've done everything you can, everything you were supposed to do. You respond, confidently, "Yes." There's no reality in which these investors turn you down.<<else>>No, of course you aren't, but you've done everything you can. This has to be enough. Hopefully, the investors will believe in this project.<</if>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 2 2">><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 2]]-->
Welcome, $mc.name! You have ''one'' unread email. <<link "<div class='unread-email'>''Subject:'' Investors' Response<br>''From:'' Your Boss<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 22, 2022 at 08:43 AM</span></div>" "END 2 5">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: Goncharov Project<br>''From:'' Al B<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.secondtime is 0>>09:32 AM<<elseif $mc.secondtime is 1>>09:57 AM<<else>>10:19 AM<</if>></span></div>">><<goto "Email 5">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: New Assignment<br>''From:'' Your Boss<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 21, 2022 at 09:24 AM</span></div>" "Email 3">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: Started it<br>''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Justine Perrone<<else>>Justa Personne<</if>><br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 01:49 PM</span></div>" "Email 1 END">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' Tick Tock O'Clock<br>''From:'' Ra<<if $run gte 3>>ul<<else>>nd<</if>> M. Guy<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 07:15 AM</span></div>" "Email 2 END">><</link>>\ \ <!--[[Email 5]][[Email 3]][[Email 1 END]][[Email 2 END]][[END 2 5]]--><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;}a {border: none;}</style>
By the time you get off work later, the snow has gotten deep. It crunches beneath your feet in a delightful way. <!--MC GETS THE OPTION TO PLAY IN THE SNOW A LITTLE BIT--> <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Go straight home" "END 2 4">><<set $mc.scenicroute = false>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Take the scenic route" "END 2 3">><<set $mc.scenicroute = true>><</link>></span></div>\ \ <style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[END 2 4]][[END 2 3]]-->
The next day you come in and check your email. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-envelope'></i>">><<goto "END 2 EMAIL">><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 EMAIL]]-->
There's a large park a couple of blocks away. You decide it's worth braving the cold to go enjoy the wintry scene. It isn't a particularly long walk. When you arrive, it becomes apparent that many others had the same idea as you. The scene is breathtaking. Dark, spindly trees contrast starkly with the pale landscape, glimmering icicles hanging from their boughs. A frozen pond sparkles in the distance reflecting the lights of the cityscape and the brilliant colors of sunset. Lamp posts and string lights illuminate a well-trod path. Vendors in small wooden stands sell hot chocolate, spiced cider, mulled wine, and other delicious treats that perfume the air with a warm, comforting aroma. You glance back across the pond. For a moment, you think you see Al wearing a thick blue scarf and walking a small dog, but they disappear before you can get a clear look. It's dark by the time you get home. You don't know where the time went, but you don't regret how it was spent. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if visited("END 3 6")>><<goto "END 3 7">><<else>><<goto "END 2 4">><</if>><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 4]]--><!--[[END 3 7]]-->
<!--Al B RE: Goncharov Project (Sent Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.secondtime is 0>>09:32 AM<<elseif $mc.secondtime is 1>>09:57 AM<<else>>10:19 AM<</if>>) -->''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.secondtime is 0>>09:32 AM<<elseif $mc.secondtime is 1>>09:57 AM<<else>>10:19 AM<</if>></span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.secondtime is 0>>09:33 AM<<elseif $mc.secondtime is 1>>09:58 AM<<else>>10:20 AM<</if>></span>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.confident>><<if $al.response is 0>>Oh, it's my pleasure. And that sounds good to me. I look forward to working with you too. Til next time, Al<<elseif $al.response is 1>>You're welcome, and sounds good. Til next time, Al<<else>>Sounds good. Til next time, Al<</if>><<else>><<if $al.response is 0>>Oh, it's my pleasure. Best of luck! Til next time, Al<<elseif $al.response is 1>>Good luck<<if $mc.scorsese>>!<<else>> :)<</if>> Til next time, Al<<else>>Best of luck. Til next time, Al<</if>><</if>> <<message "<span class='messagebutton'>Show Previous Messages</span>">> ''<i class='fa-solid fa-exclamation-triangle acc'></i> ERROR'': Could not load previous messages<</message>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>></span><style>.messagebutton { color: var(--text); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--text); padding: 5px; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--accent); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); cursor: pointer; } .dm .messagebutton { color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } .dm .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-accent); }</style><!--[[END 2 EMAIL]]-->
''<span class="acc">Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Your Boss <ybos<<if $run gte 3>>e<<else>>s<</if>>@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''CC:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Good morning, Mr. Scorsese, I'm sorry to inform you that the investors have passed on the //Goncharov// adaptation and so I'm cancelling the project. Thank you for your work though, hopefully we can get something in your hands in the near future. Sincerely, Your Boss<<else>>Morning, $mc.name, I'm sorry to inform you that the investors have passed on the //Goncharov// adaptation so I'm cancelling the project. Thank you for your time and effort though, hopefully we can find you another opportunity like this in the near future. Have a good one, Your Boss<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 2 6">><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 6]]-->
<<if $mc.confident>>What?! Are you serious? Come on!<<else>>You can't say you're surprised. For whatever reason, you had a sinking feeling in your stomach...<</if>> You get an email from Al. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-envelope'></i>">><<goto "END 2 7">><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 7]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<print either("Hmm", "Oof", "Ouch", "Yeesh")>>. <<print either("Tough break. ", "How unfortunate. ", "Them's the breaks. ", "What a shame. ", "Not fair. Not fair at all. ", "")>><<print either("Couldn't have seen that coming", "I didn't see that coming", "I sure didn't see that coming", "Sorry..", "I'm shocked")>>. Anyways, want to start over? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 2 8">><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 8]]-->
<!--MC REACTS TO THE NEWS MORE AND DECIDES HOW TO RESPOND TO ALBIE EITHER CONTENT ROUTE B OR DISCONTENT ROUTE A-->\ Well? <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link '<<print either("Nah", "No", "No", "Nah", "No", "No thanks")>>, <<print either("you\'re good", "that\'s a wrap", "it\'s time to walk away")>>' 'END 1 6B'>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link '<<print either("Yes, ", "Yes, ", "Yes, ", "Yes, ", "Yes, ", "Sure, ", "Of course, ", "Yeah, sure, ", "Why not? Yes, ")>><<print either("start over", "back to one", "from the top", "let\'s reset")>>' 'END 2 9'>><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[END 1 6B]][[END 2 9]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<print either("Yes.", "Yeah.")>> <<print either("If I could take it from the top, I would", "I'd start over if I could.", "I guess I'd like to.", "I'd like that.")>> Why do you ask? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 2 10">><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 10]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ Call me curious. And speaking of curious, what would you do differently? <<set _i = either(0, 1, 2, 3)>><span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if _i is 1>><<goto "END 2 11">><<else>><<goto "END 2 12">><</if>><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 11]][[END 2 12]]-->
<<print either("Déjà vu...", "You get a //weird// sense of déjà vu...", "You're suddenly struck with déjà vu...")>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 2 12">><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 12]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ If I could do one thing differently, I'd probably spend more time elaborating on specific scenes<!--<<if $mc.change is "queer">>, ones focused on the relationships between Andrey & Goncharov and Katya & Sofia<<elseif $mc.change is "action">>—the big fight, the car chase, or Ice Pick Joe's death. Things like that<<elseif $mc.change is "femme">>—Sofia and Katya's scenes/storylines in particular. We didn't talk too much about that in the pitch we just made<<else>><</if>>-->. I don't know. Maybe that would make people believe in this. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<set $run += 1>><<if $playtime1>><<if playTime('hours') gte 3>><<set $playtime2 = true>><<goto "SECOND CHECK">><<else>><<goto "END 2 13">><</if>><<else>><<if playTime('hours') gte 1>><<if $run gte 2>><<set $playtime1 = true>><<goto "FIRST CHECK">><</if>><<else>><<goto "END 2 13">><</if>><</if>><</button>></span><!--[[END 2 13]]--><!--[[FIRST CHECK]][[SECOND CHECK]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<set _restarticon = either("<i class='fa-solid fa-snowflake'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-recycle'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-random'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-hourglass-start'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-door-open'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-clock'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-snowflake'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-recycle'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-random'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-hourglass-start'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-door-open'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-clock'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-toilet'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-smile-wink'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-magic'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-paper-plane'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-pencil-alt'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-pen-fancy'></i>")>>\ Okay. <span class='next'><<button "_restarticon">><<goto "NG PLUS BLACK SCREEN">><</button>></span><!--[[NG PLUS BLACK SCREEN]]-->
<<set $mc.recepname = "">>What is the receptionist's name? <<textboxPlus "" "$mc.recepname" `{ }`>> <<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-check'></i>">><<goto "Start">><</button>>
<!--MC CHOOSES WHICH SCENE THEY WANT TO RANT ABOUT WITH AL-->\ \ \ <<if $al.responsehist.count(2) is 1 and $al.response is 2>><<set $al.disdain = true, $al.friend = false>><<elseif $al.responsehist.count(2) is 2>><<set $al.disdain = true, $al.friend = false>><<elseif $al.responsehist.count(0) is 2>><<set $al.disdain = false, $al.friend = true>><<elseif $al.responsehist.count(0) is 1 and $al.response is 0>><<set $al.disdain = false, $al.friend = true>><<else>><<set $al.disdain = false, $al.friend = false>><</if>>\ \ \ <<if $mc.thirdcount lt 1>>So, <!--which scene-->what do you want to discuss further?<<else>>What else do you want to discuss?<</if>> <div class='choices'><<if visited("26A")>><<else>><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Katya and Sofia in the fruit market" "24">><<set $mc.third = "apple">><<run $mc.thirdhist.push($mc.third)>><<set $mc.thirdcount += 1>><</link>></span> <</if>><!--<<if visited("26E")>><<else>><span class="reply-choice"><<link "The bathhouse fight scene" "24">><<set $mc.third = "bath">><<run $mc.thirdhist.push($mc.third)>><<set $mc.thirdcount += 1>><</link>></span> <</if>>--><<if visited("26B")>><<else>><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Goncharov and Andrey at the ball" "24">><<set $mc.third = "balc">><<run $mc.thirdhist.push($mc.third)>><<set $mc.thirdcount += 1>><</link>></span> <</if>><!--<<if visited("26C")>><<else>><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Katya and Sofia's scenes after the heist" "24">><<set $mc.third = "heist">><<run $mc.thirdhist.push($mc.third)>><<set $mc.thirdcount += 1>><</link>></span> <</if>>--><<if visited("26F")>><<else>><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Ice Pick Joe's death" "24">><<set $mc.third = "joe">><<run $mc.thirdhist.push($mc.third)>><<set $mc.thirdcount += 1>><</link>></span> <</if>><!--<<if visited("26D")>><<else>><span class="reply-choice"><<link "The Pompeii scene" "24">><<set $mc.third = "pompeii">><<run $mc.thirdhist.push($mc.third)>><<set $mc.thirdcount += 1>><</link>></span><</if>>--></div> <style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[24]]-->
''<span class="acc"><<if $mc.third is "apple">>The Apple Scene<<elseif $mc.third is "balc">>Gonch and Andy<<elseif $mc.third is "heist">>Katya and Sofia<<elseif $mc.third is "pompeii">>The Pompeii Stuff<<elseif $mc.third is "bath">>The Bathhouse<<else>>Ice Pick Joe<</if>></span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.thirdcount gt 1>>\ Can we also <<if $mc.third is "apple">>talk about Katya and Sofia? Specifically the genesis of their relationship.<<elseif $mc.third is "balc">>talk about Goncharov and Andrey? Specifically, that scene where they're out on the balcony during the ball.<<elseif $mc.third is "heist">>talk about Katya and Sofia's scenes after the heist?<<elseif $mc.third is "pompeii">>talk about what goes down in Pompeii?<<elseif $mc.third is "bath">>talk about the bathhouse fight?<<else>>talk about Ice Pick Joe?<</if>>\ <<else>>\ Okay, <<if $mc.third is "apple">>I'd love to talk about Katya and Sofia. Specifically the genesis of their relationship.<<elseif $mc.third is "balc">>can we talk about Goncharov and Andrey? <<if $mc.scorsese isnot true>>I'd like to talk about Goncharov and Andrey. <</if>>Specifically, that scene where they're out on the balcony during the ball.<<elseif $mc.third is "heist">>I need to talk about Katya and Sofia's scenes after the heist.<<elseif $mc.third is "pompeii">>can we talk about everything that goes down in Pompeii?<<elseif $mc.third is "bath">>let's talk about this bathhouse fight.<<else>>we //have// to talk about Ice Pick Joe.<</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "25">><</button>></span><!--[[25]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: <<if $mc.third is "apple">>The Apple Scene<<elseif $mc.third is "balc">>Gonch and Andy<<elseif $mc.third is "heist">>Katya and Sofia<<elseif $mc.third is "pompeii">>The Pompeii Stuff<<elseif $mc.third is "bath">>The Bathhouse<<else>>Ice Pick Joe<</if>></span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.thirdcount gte 1>>\ <<if $mc.third is "apple">><!--can we talk about this apple scene.-->Yes, absolutely. I'm always up for discussing the apple scene. (I mean, all of the scenes in the fruit market are great<<if $mc.scorsese>>, but that apple scene is //really// something<<else>>, but that first interaction? ah *chef's kiss*<</if>>)<<elseif $mc.third is "balc">><!--can we talk about Goncharov and Andrey? Specifically, that scene where they're out on the balcony?-->Yes, we can totally do that. Go ahead, what do you have on your mind?<<elseif $mc.third is "heist">><!--I need to talk about Katya and Sofia's scenes after the heist.-->Yes, we can. I cannot get enough of them. Is there something specific you wanted to discuss?<<elseif $mc.third is "pompeii">><!--can we talk about everything that goes down in Pompeii?-->Absolutely. That scene is so wild. Where do you want to start?<<elseif $mc.third is "bath">><!--let's talk about that bathhouse fight.-->Yes. Let's. Was there something in particular you wanted to talk about?<<else>><!--we have to talk about Ice Pick Joe.-->Yes! I //love// Joe. What did you want to talk about with regards to him?<</if>>\ <<else>>\ <<if $mc.third is "apple">><!--we need to talk about this apple scene.-->Yes, absolutely. I //love// the apple scene. (all of the scenes in the fruit market are great<<if $mc.scorsese>>, but that apple scene is really something<<else>>, but that first interaction? ah *chef's kiss*<</if>>)<<elseif $mc.third is "balc">><!--can we talk about Goncharov and Andrey? Specifically, that scene where they're out on the balcony?-->I would love to talk about that. Go ahead, what's on your mind?<<elseif $mc.third is "heist">><!--I need to talk about Katya and Sofia's scenes after the heist.-->Fantastic. I cannot get enough of them. Is there something specific you wanted to discuss?<<elseif $mc.third is "pompeii">><!--can we talk about everything that goes down in Pompeii?-->Absolutely. That scene is so wild. Where do you want to start?<<elseif $mc.third is "bath">><!--let's talk about that bathhouse fight.-->Yes. Let's. Was there something in particular you wanted to talk about?<<else>><!--we have to talk about Ice Pick Joe.-->Yes! I //love// Joe. What did you want to talk about?<</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if $mc.third is "apple">><<goto "26A">><<elseif $mc.third is "balc">><<goto "26B">><<elseif $mc.third is "heist">><<goto "26C">><<elseif $mc.third is "pompeii">><<goto "26D">><<elseif $mc.third is "bath">><<goto "26E">><<else>><<goto "26F">><</if>><</button>></span><!--[[26A]][[26B]][[26C]][[26D]][[26E]][[26F]]-->
<!--APPLE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Apple Scene</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ Yeah, right, the apple scene. I remember liking that part but I don't remember the specifics of it. Would you mind jogging my memory? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "27A">><</button>></span><!--[[27A]]-->\ <!-- WHAT DO YOU TALK ABOUT?? MC asks for a better breakdown of the scene from the original, Al provides it Maybe they talk a bit more about how they get along after that, talk about how Sofia and Katya's relationship is special because Katya has lost her identity and way, representative further of the experience of someone literally transplanted from another country, but Sofia is the first person to see her as just herself, it's why being called just Katya, not Katya Gonchorova or Michailova, etc. is so important to her. She has her own identity but feels like she is constantly losing it, Sofia knows her for who she really is, not even who she wants to be let alone what others want her to be. She is raw with Sofia. Sofia is the person who appreicates her most. Why the Eden imagery is so applicable as well because she feels truly naked with Sofia but there is absolutely no shame. -->
<!--BALCONY SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Gonch and Andy</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ Well, I have a really clear picture for how I think the scene should go, but<<if $mc.scorsese>> it's been so long since we made //Goncharov//, I can't remember why I had Goncharov and Andrey head out onto the balcony to begin with? Do you remember?<<else>> for the life of me, I can't remember why they go out on the balcony in the first place? Could you remind me?<</if>> I want to make sure that everything I'm planning makes sense within the context of that scene. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "27B">><</button>></span><!--[[27B]]-->\ <!-- Okay, can we talk about Goncharov and Andrey? I'd like to talk about Goncharov and Andrey. Specifically, the scene where they're out on the balcony during the ball? I would love to talk about that. Go ahead, what's on your mind? Can we talk about Goncharov and Andrey? Specifically, the scene where they're out on the balcony during the ball? Yes, we can totally do that. Go ahead, what do you have on your mind? WHAT DO YOU TALK ABOUT?? Asks Al to walk through the specifics of the scene in the original, they oblige: the ball (a masked ball) is going on behind them, they are there to support Katya and Sofia if necessary but Goncharov, who's really going through it, has stepped out to get a break. Looking out at a clocktower (the same clocktower where the finale will take place, so he's literally looking at his end, watching his own time slip away), Andrey comes out and they have some playful banter, gets to the topic of why Goncharov is out here, he says that it's just because of the dancing, playful banter continues, they end up dancing, Goncharov dips Andrey, they have a very tense moment, Andrey asks for the time, Goncharov grabs his watch out of his pocket and finds that the bullet has broken it, remarks that Andrey can stop time, he says that he wishes he could, they realize that they're still in each other's arms, separate, immediately don their masks again and go back into the party; can then talk about their relationship to each other, whether Andrey has feelings for Goncharov, if Goncharov and Andrey could ever end up happily together/what stands in their way. Kind of similarly to how Sofia is able to see Katya for who she truly is, Andrey sees Goncharov for who he truly is. He is "uno straniero" to everyone including himself, maybe at some point Andrey asks what Goncharov's name is, he says Goncharov, he asks for his real name, not his patronymic, who is Goncharov really, Gonch says that he doesn't have one to give Andrey. -->
<!--HEIST SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Katya and Sofia</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ TEXT <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "27C">><</button>></span><!--[[27C]]-->\ <!-- WHAT DO YOU TALK ABOUT?? Katya and Sofia during and after the heist, maybe MC can also ask for a summary of the innuendo convo if $sofia.criminal is false, basically you talk about how after the heist as they are escaping both of the women are winding their way through the streets of Naples, rip their masks off and start dancing through the streets, they are elated and breathing heavy, start celebrating and end up in each other's arms, there's a moment of stillness and they kiss, both pull eventually pull away and it's kind of awkward but they part that evening. Sofia doesn't seem to be put off by anything but Katya's own discomfort. The next day when Katya consoles Sofia we could walk through that scene more. What exactly is going through each of their heads. They end up sleeping together. Their plans later to run away together following the funeral and the deaths of Mario and Valery. Death is surrounding and closing in on them, Sofia is particularly worried about Katya because she fears that they'll go after her to get to Goncharov, they talk about plans for a future, we could talk about whether we think that they do have a possible future together. (since this is different from the Apple scene one, if it's the femme changes, could also mention the thing about Sofia seeing Katya as "Katya") -->
<!--POMPEII SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Pompeii Stuff</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ TEXT <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "27D">><</button>></span><!--[[27D]]-->\ <!-- WHAT DO YOU TALK ABOUT?? Could do an even more in depth breakdown of the scene. Talk about the implications of the scene, the special effects, how them going in circles around Pompeii represents the circles of violence, how they are trapped in a ride they can't get off of, the over the top fight stuff, like it's a car chase and shootout (maybe with Mario evil monologuing over a car phone), lol maybe make a comparison to Mario Kart LAKJFDFSI, "Would it be too much to have Andrey pick up the phone and say, "Who is it?" and Mario replies "It's a me" before ramming his car into the tail of theirs??" Go on about the implications of the scene, how they feel about saving each other, how it impacts the finale, the epic practical effects (maybe argue over the use of practical effects vs. CGI), etc. -->
<!--BATHHOUSE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Bathhouse</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ TEXT <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "27E">><</button>></span><!--[[27E]]-->\ <!-- WHAT DO YOU TALK ABOUT?? Maybe go in-depth into the bathhouse scene what happens with the group barging in on each other in the sauna, maybe Mario and co. were there intimidating a man in a sauna, they were drawn there as a trap and then the other guys ambush them. Breakdown the homoerotic violence of the scene, the major plot moments, the death of the right-hand man, Goncharov's incredible skills, the moment where Goncharov goes to go after the escpaing foes, Andrey shooting him in the leg (lol maybe he rips his pants off to treat the wound so it's just a sweaty Goncharov in his underwear being treated by a sweaty half-naked Andrey) anyways, the implications and ramifications of this scene on the rest of the story; can also talk about whether or not he shoots Goncharov on purpose (he explains later that he does or you think that he does) -->
<!--JOE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Ice Pick Joe</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ I just wanted to go over his death scene, I have a really clear idea of how I think we should revisit that. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "27F">><</button>></span><!--[[27F]]-->\ <!-- Okay, we have to talk about Ice Pick Joe. Yes! I love Joe. What did you want to talk about? Can we talk about Ice Pick Joe? Yes! I love Joe. What did you want to talk about with regards to him? WHAT DO YOU TALK ABOUT?? Really break down the Ice Pick Joe scene. Go through the scene with Amarro beat by beat and then the scene in the Cathedral beat by beat. Talk about the implications of his death, the imagery and symbolism, the impact that it has on the other characters. -->
<!--APPLE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Apple Scene</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ Sure, I don't mind<<if $mc.scorsese>>!<<else>> :)<</if>> So, it's late fall, a few weeks after their move to Naples, and Katya is still struggling to feel comfortable in her new environment. Not only has her life been uprooted, but even mundane things have become a challenge and it's clearly taking a toll on her mental health. Katya is at a local market trying to ask a vendor about apples, but she can't think of the word in Italian. She's getting frustrated and seems to be on the verge of tears. Suddenly, someone appears behind her and says, "mela." Katya looks back to see this gorgeous woman with dark brown hair standing mere centimeters away. Katya is shocked and starts to blush. <<if $mc.scorsese>>Correct me if this is incorrect, but it's commonly agreed upon that Katya mishears the word "mela" for "bella", so, she thinks that this stunning stranger has popped up out of nowhere and called her "beautiful".<<else>>It's commonly agreed upon that Katya mishears the word "mela" for "bella", so, she thinks that this stunning stranger has popped up out of nowhere and called her "beautiful".<</if>> She's grasping for words but unable to find any<<if $mc.change is "queer">> (it's obvious gay panic, <<if $mc.scorsese>>in my opinion<<else>>imho<</if>>)<</if>>. Sofia smirks and points at an apple. She says the word "mela" again and it clicks for Katya. Her cheeks become even more red and she can't look Sofia in the eye, she just goes, "Oh, grazie," and chuckles awkwardly. Sofia, like the legend she is, just winks and walks away. //That// is the apple scene (and the start of the Eve/Eden/etc. symbolism). <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "28A">><</button>></span><!--[[28A]]-->
<!--BALCONY SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Gonch and Andy</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ Yeah. I don't know how much you do or don't remember, so I'll just go over everything. So, the balcony scene takes place during the heist/ball. Goncharov and the crew are attending a holiday masquerade at a wealthy businessman's villa. Katya and Sofia are in charge of stealing enough valuables from the host's private chambers to fund their escape from Naples (the rival don wants them dead but peace agreements surrounding the holy season make it so he can't make direct moves against them until after the Epiphany on January 6th). So, Katya and Sofia are both in disguise and doing their part of the plan: seducing the host to get into the private quarters, knocking him out, stealing everything they can, then escaping out the window. Mario and Ice Pick Joe are (supposed to be) watching the hallway to the private quarters to make sure no one intrudes on Katya and Sofia. Goncharov and Andrey are stationed out on the balcony because that's the only place you can see the window Katya and Sofia will go out from. They're supposed to keep the balcony clear and let the others know once Katya and Sofia are safe. It's worth noting that Goncharov really fought being assigned to the balcony. <<if $sofia.sis>>Like how Mario wants to be in the hallway to protect his little sister, Goncharov wanted to be there to protect Katya if anything goes down. He feels useless and impotent being on lookout so far from <<if $katya.loves>>his <<if $katya.wife>>wife<<else>>partner<</if>>.<<else>>the action.<</if>><<else>>He wanted to be nearby to protect Katya if anything goes down and feels useless and impotent being on lookout so far from <<if $katya.loves>>his <<if $katya.wife>>wife<<else>>partner<</if>>.<<else>>the action.<</if>><</if>> However, he's still recovering from being shot in the leg, so they all argue (and he eventually agrees) that it's better for him to be in a stationary position. Andrey insists on being out on the balcony with Goncharov because "[he] still [doesn't] trust lo Straniero." That's why they're both out on the balcony. Sorry if I covered anything you already knew<<if ($al.response is 2) or ($al.responsehist.includes(2))>>, not trying to be condescending<<if $al.response is 2>> despite what you may think<</if>><</if>>, I just thought it would be most efficient to lay it all out there and make sure we're both on the same page. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "28B">><</button>></span><!--[[28B]]-->
<!--HEIST SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Katya and Sofia</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ TEXT <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "28C">><</button>></span><!--[[28C]]-->
<!--POMPEII SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Pompeii Stuff</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ TEXT <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "28D">><</button>></span><!--[[28D]]-->
<!--BATHHOUSE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Bathhouse</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ TEXT <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "28E">><</button>></span><!--[[28E]]-->
<!--JOE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Ice Pick Joe</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $al.response isnot 2>>I'm all ears<<if $mc.scorsese>>!<<else>> :)<</if>><<else>>Well, go ahead.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "28F">><</button>></span><!--[[28F]]-->
<!--APPLE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Apple Scene</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ Right! Yes, of course. How could I have forgotten about that? Iconic. And don't they meet in the fruit market again? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "29A">><</button>></span><!--[[29A]]-->
<!--BALCONY SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Gonch and Andy</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ Yes<<if ($al.response is 2) or ($al.responsehist.includes(2))>>, of course<<if $al.response is 2>> (and yeah, I'm //sure// you weren't). Very thorough response.<<else>>. Thanks for such a thorough response.<</if>><<else>>. Thanks for such a thorough response.<</if>> So, I was thinking about how the balcony scene should play out and, the original scene is already pretty homoerotic, but<<if $mc.change is "queer">> (especially since we are making Goncharov and Andrei explicitly queer)<</if>> I want to make this scene as queer as possible—like I'm setting that as a personal goal. Here's a first draft of what I'm picturing<<if ($mc.scorsese is false) and ($al.response isnot 2)>> (apologies in advance, this also got very thorough)<</if>>: Close up on Goncharov's face, he's looking out over Naples. Through the massive windows behind him, we see the glittering masquerade in silhouette, like a gilded phantasmagoria. Goncharov places a cigarette between his lips. He lifts his lighter and curses as it fails to ignite. "Need help?" The camera pans slightly revealing Andrey behind Goncharov, leaning in the doorway between the ballroom and the balcony. Goncharov looks back and scoffs. "No. Never from you," his lighter finally produces a flame. He turns from Andrey again, looking out over the city of Naples. "Since when are you interested in helping me?" he growls. "Oh," Andrey laughs, slowly walking closer. "I'm not. I just wanted to know if the great straniero had finally found something he couldn't do, a problem he failed to solve." Andrey is practically touching Goncharov now, his chest nearly against Goncharov's back. "We're humans. We all need help at one time or another. I pray that someday you'll realize that and learn to ask for assistance." "Don't bother praying for me, Andrey." Goncharov spins around, blowing a little smoke in his face. "I can't be saved by the man who damned me." He stalks off a little, pushing past Andrey (checking him in the shoulder) and ventures closer to the center of the balcony. Andrei chuckles to himself. "'Damned you?' Isn't that a little melodramatic." Goncharov takes another drag and refuses to answer. "Are you enjoying the ball at least?" Andrey asks, leaning (with a seductively mischievous air) against the railing. "No," Goncharov snorts. "I loathe these events." "Absurd. How could anyone loathe a dance?" "Maybe if they recently took a bullet to the thigh?" He turns and glares pointedly at Andrey. "Even if I did enjoy dances, I can't dance right now." "Mhmm," Andrey smirks, visually dissecting Goncharov. "I think you could." "What?" "It's been several days, you're walking around on it fine." Andrei begins to pace in a circle around Goncharov. "If you really wanted to dance, I'm certain you could. You're just a poor dancer seizing an excuse not to embarrass yourself." "You are dead wrong," Goncharov's nostrils flare. "<!--I'm Russian, Andrei. I assure you-->I assure you, Andrei, that I am a fine dancer." "Okay," Andrey extends a hand to Goncharov. "Prove it. Show me how fine you are." "What?" Goncharov's brow knits together, cheeks growing slightly flushed. "You don't seriously expect me to dance with you." Andrei looks around, mockingly. "Well, I don't see anyone else." Goncharov hesitates, pride tearing him in opposite directions. Part of him wants to prove Andrey wrong, while part of him refuses to bend to Andrey's desires. In the end, the urge to make Andrey look like a fool wins out. Goncharov puts out the cigarette, takes the outstretched hand, and, with a strong jerk, pulls Andrey to his chest. "I'll lead," he murmurs in a low voice. Andrey, shaking off a brief moment of shock, shifts back into his cool demeanor. "I'd expect nothing less." And the two literally tango. It's <<if $mc.scorsese>>//extremely// passionate and their sexual tension blazes like a wildfire<<else>>//incredibly// hot and their sexual tension is blazing like a wildfire.<</if>> Goncharov grimaces and stumbles a couple of times, but Andrey (uncharacteristically) doesn't comment on it or draw any attention to his partner's missteps. They end in an incredibly close pose, entangled in each other's arms. The two hang there for a moment—suspended in time and space—their cold breath steaming up each other's faces, their lips parted and mere centimeters away. Neither moves, as if they were lingering at the edge of a dream, as if they were afraid that any movement might sever them from this fantasy. Eventually, they fully process where they are and what they're doing. They push away from each other. After an awkward moment, Goncharov smiles and pretends to bow, motioning for Andrey to do the same and take in the praise of an invisible audience. "You won't hear me say this often, straniero, so savor it: You were right. You are a //fine// dancer." And then they go back to focusing on the heist or something. That's just a bit of what I can imagine/have planned for these two. I have so many thoughts on them. What do you think?\ \ \ \ <!-- No! That's not it! Because then we cut to a shot of Goncharov lingering in the doorway of the balcony with his back to Andrei (the only light on his face coming from the lit cigarette between his lips, obviously), and he just stares into oblivion and, without looking back, says to Andrei, "Don't pray for me, old friend. I can't be saved by the man who damned me." And maybe we then cut to an extreme closeup of Andrei and he'll say something like, "Well, //old// friend. Why should I save you?" And he comes in close—like so close that we can see his freezing breath on Goncharov's ear—and he whispers really low. "I finally have you //exactly// where I want you." or maybe instead he just alludes to Paradise Lost with something like "Well, better to reign in Hell..." and then that links back to the apple scene. Like, ahhh! I don't know. I just have so many thoughts about these two. What do you think? --> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "29B">><</button>></span><!--[[29B]]-->
<!--HEIST SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Katya and Sofia</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ TEXT <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "29C">><</button>></span><!--[[29C]]-->
<!--POMPEII SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Pompeii Stuff</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ TEXT <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "29D">><</button>></span><!--[[29D]]-->
<!--BATHHOUSE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Bathhouse</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ TEXT <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "29E">><</button>></span><!--[[29E]]-->
<!--JOE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Ice Pick Joe</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <!--TALK ABOUT ICE PICK JOE'S DEATH SCENE, MAYBE YOU MENTION SOMETHING ABOUT THE SETUP AND THEN AL WILL TACK ON SOMETHING ABOUT THE SCENE THAT WE'RE COMING FROM So, at the ball he runs into that psychiatrist from the mental institution, right? That's such an important scene in my eyes because it fully demonstrates what this character has been going on in the background, like behind closed doors, he's really been suffering and bottling it up. I think it's important to show how this has messed him up. How he's been undone and failed to stitch himself back together. -->\ \ So, just to clarify, <!--we're already changing it from the original. In the 1973 version, Valery kills Joe as a message for Mario and Goncharov. In this version, Valery mistakenly believes Joe thinking that he's actually Goncharov. I think that's a cool change because it increases the tragedy of Joe's death, this was a life that could have been beginning anew but is snuffed out at the turning point, before he has the chance to overcome any of his trauma. Also, you know how important religious, particularly Catholic, imagery is in the film? I think that this could be a place to really highlight that. And before I start, another point of clarification, -->this immediately follows the confrontation with the psychiatrist, right? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "29F">><</button>></span><!--[[29F]]-->
<!--APPLE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Apple Scene</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ Yeah, that's also really cute. It actually starts during a scene with Katya and Goncharov<<if $katya.loves>> where they're talking about how they want to make things work<<else>> where they're arguing about the state of their relationship<</if>>. You can see in the background that Katya's been studying Italian. Specifically, she's written "Buongiorno, mi chiama Katya. Come si chiama?" (which essentially means, "Hi, I'm Katya. What's your name?") over and over again on this sheet of paper. So, the next time we see Katya at the market, she finds Sofia and (looking really cute and proud of herself) goes up to her and says, "Buongiorno, mi chiama Katya. Come si chiama?" Sofia looks impressed. "Buongiorno, Katya. Piacere. Mi chiama Sofia." She smirks, "But it should actually be 'come //ti// chiama.'" Katya looks confused and a little defeated. "Oh, sorry, I thought I got it right." "No, you did get it right. I'm just letting you know, you don't have to be formal with me." The two are pretty much inseparable after that. During that period (in late fall) they spend a lot more time together in the fruit market—going around, practicing Italian, and getting to know one another—but once the weather starts to turn they transition to spending more time in Sofia's art studio. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "30A">><</button>></span><!--[[30A]]-->
<!--BALCONY SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Gonch and Andy</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ I am screaming. I cannot get enough of that. If I may add: I think that this scene could be a good place for some more clock imagery. Like if they are looking out over Naples and the clocktower is clearly visible, that way they are literally gazing out at their end (since the grand finale<!--<<if $andrey.betrays>>, when Andrey betrays Goncharov and they kill each other,<<else>><<if $andrey.lives>>, when Goncharov sacrifices himself for Andrey,<<else>><</if>><</if>>--> takes place in the clocktower). Could also be a fun detail to have Andrey ask Goncharov for the time at some point. He pulls out his pocket watch and realizes that Andrey probably broke it when he shot Goncharov. Gonch could make a joke like, "I didn't know you could stop time." And Andrey could look at him, his eyes burning with desire, and just go "I wish." I think that would also be very thematic (and, more importantly, very gay). But, I don't know, just thought that might be fun<<if $mc.change is "queer">> (and gay, did I mention gay?<<if $mc.scorsese is false>> lol<</if>>)<</if>>. PS, is it Andrei or Andrey? Because I've seen it written both ways online and you just wrote it both ways, so I'm curious which is right<<if $mc.scorsese>> (of course, I consider you to be an authority on the matter)<</if>>.<!-- Is it just another thing in //Goncharov// that goes both ways? MAYBE INCORPORATE A QUESTION OF WHAT SEXUALITY THEY ARE ORIGINAL TUMBLR TEASER: Hmm. Yeah, I like it. But isn't it //Andrey//, not Andrei? --> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "30B">><</button>></span><!--[[30B]]-->
<!--JOE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Ice Pick Joe</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <!--AL RESPONDS WITH THEIR THOUGHTS ON THE AMARRO SCENE, LEADS IT INTO THE CONVERSATION ABOUT JOE'S DEATH we're already changing it from the original. In the 1973 version, Valery kills Joe as a message for Mario and Goncharov. In this version, Valery mistakenly believes Joe thinking that he's actually Goncharov. I think that's a cool change because it increases the tragedy of Joe's death, this was a life that could have been beginning anew but is snuffed out at the turning point, before he has the chance to overcome any of his trauma. Also, you know how important religious, particularly Catholic, imagery is in the film? I think that this could be a place to really highlight that. And before I start, another point of clarification, -->Yeah, more or less. Joe goes straight from the ball to the cathedral<!-- (and, fyi, I'm picturing something like Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta)-->. So, when we get to the death scene <<if $joe.kills>>Joe has just murdered Amarro, the psychiatrist, and bared his soul. He's starting to have a breakdown as he agonizes over his personal identity—wondering if he is exactly the kind of monster they've always said he is, the kind of monster society has always made him feel like. This internal conflict is exacerbated because when he kills Amarro (and doing it so brutally) he affirms their perception of him, it's the kind of thing they'd expect from a "violent madman."<<else>>Joe has just run into Amarro, the psychiatrist, and beaten him up //but// refused to kill him. Joe realizes that murdering Amarro—particularly, in a brutal fashion—would only affirm everything that the psychiatrists believed about him. He has to prove them wrong, to show that he's more than a "violent madman." However, he's having a crisis of faith and wonders if he truly is nothing more than a broken monster.<</if>> Before he leaves the villa, he has the moment at the door with Goncharov and Andrey—the one where Goncharov gives him his coat—but besides that, he goes straight from the run-in with Amarro to the cathedral. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "30F">><</button>></span><!--[[30F]]-->
<!--APPLE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Apple Scene</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ And it's around that time when Sofia starts painting Katya. I really loved those sequences<<if $mc.scorsese>> and I was paricularly proud of that one scene where Katya asks what the painting is called and Sofia says "Katya". Katya asks "Just 'Katya?'" Sofia replies, "Yes. Just 'Katya.' You say that as if 'Katya' isn't enough." They then launch into the conversation about how Katya views herself and thinks others view her as merely an extension of Goncharov<<if $katya.sis>> and her brother<</if>> instead of an individual person with her own thoughts and aspirations. It becomes apparent that Sofia is the only person who truly sees Katya as "Katya." Just Katya. I think that scene sets the cornerstone for their romantic relationship. It proves that it's not just lust or desire between them—they aren't just being tempted by forbidden fruit. There's a deep understanding and affection that everything else is built upon. It's really beautiful. I had someone ask me many years ago if that's why she's only listed as "Katya" in the credits and promotional materials, and that //is// why. I think it's important for us to stick with that in this adaptation. Katya being/becoming "just Katya" is an important realization/arc for her character.<<else>>, in particular, that one scene where Katya asks what the painting is called and Sofia says "Katya". Katya asks "Just 'Katya?'" Sofia replies, "Yes. Just 'Katya.' You say that as if 'Katya' isn't enough." They then launch into the conversation about how Katya views herself and thinks others view her as merely an extension of Goncharov<<if $katya.sis>> and her brother<</if>> instead of an individual person with her own thoughts and aspirations. It becomes apparent that Sofia is the only person who truly sees Katya as "Katya." Just Katya. I think that scene sets the cornerstone for their romantic relationship. It proves that it's not just lust or desire between them—they aren't just being tempted by forbidden fruit. There's a deep understanding and affection that everything else is built upon. It's really beautiful. By the way, I remember reading this interview someone did with Scorsese a few years ago. They asked him if that's why she's only listed as "Katya" in the credits and promotional materials. He confirmed that was their intention. I think it's important for us to stick with that in this adaptation. Katya being/becoming "just Katya" is an important realization/arc for her character.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "31A">><</button>></span><!--[[31A]]-->
<!--APPLE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: The Apple Scene</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Yes, I adore that scene and really love that aspect of her character arc. I'm glad that you're proud of it and I appreciate that insight. We'll definitely keep that in the remake.<<else>>Ajfajfadlkj, yes, that scene! You are so right about all of that. And I hadn't heard that but I completely agree. We should definitely keep that in mind for the remake.<</if>> <<include "END 3 TRANSITION">><!--[[END 3 1]]-->
<!--APPLE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: <<if $mc.third is "apple">>The Apple Scene<<elseif $mc.third is "balc">>Gonch and Andy<<elseif $mc.third is "heist">>Katya and Sofia<<elseif $mc.third is "pompeii">>The Pompeii Stuff<<elseif $mc.third is "bath">>The Bathhouse<<else>>Ice Pick Joe<</if>></span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ Yeah, I guess you're right. \ \ \ <<if $al.response is 0>>\ <<if $al.responsehist.count(0) gte 1>>\ Well, Al, I have to say that it's been very nice working with you. I hope that we get to do so again someday. Wish me luck<<if $mc.scorsese>>!<<else>> :)<</if>>\ <<else>>\ It's been nice working with you. Wish me luck<<if $mc.scorsese>>!<<else>> :)<</if>><</if>>\ \ <<elseif $al.response is 1>>\ Okay. Wish me luck.<<else>>\ <<if $al.responsehist.count(2) is 2>> Well, we have worked together. Can't say I've enjoyed it at all, but it is done. So, at least there's that small mercy. <<elseif $al.responsehist.count(2) is 1>> Well, we've worked together. Can't say it was particularly pleasant, but it's done. So, at least there's that. <<else>> Well, <</if>>I'll go do my job. You can keep doing... I don't know. Whatever it is that you do.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 3">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 3]]-->
<!--APPLE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: <<if $mc.third is "apple">>The Apple Scene<<elseif $mc.third is "balc">>Gonch and Andy<<elseif $mc.third is "heist">>Katya and Sofia<<elseif $mc.third is "pompeii">>The Pompeii Stuff<<elseif $mc.third is "bath">>The Bathhouse<<else>>Ice Pick Joe<</if>></span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if ($al.response is 0) or ($al.response is 1)>><<if $al.friend>>Aw, thanks! It's been a pleasure working with you too. Best of luck, $mc.name.<<if $mc.scorsese>> ;)<</if>><<else>>Good luck!<</if>><<else>><<if $al.disdain>>Yeah. Thanks. Same to you, <<if $mc.scorsese>>"Mr. Scorsese."<<else>>$mc.name.<</if>> Same to you.<<else>>Yeah. Thanks. Good luck, $mc.name.<</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 4">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 4]]-->
<div class='choices'><<if $mc.thirdcount lt 3>><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Discuss something else" "23">><</link>></span> <</if>><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Move on" "END 3 2">><<set $mc.second = "hesitant">><</link>></span></div><!--[[END 3 2]]-->\
<<if playTime('minutes') lt 30 and playTime('hours') lt 1>><<set $mc.thirdtime = 0>><<elseif playTime('minutes') gte 30 and playTime('hours') lt 1>><<set $mc.thirdtime = 1>><<else>><<set $mc.thirdtime = 2>><</if>>\ \ \ You go see Yara Boes to share what you've come up with. <<if $mc.thirdtime is 0>>You've finished quickly, a fact that both seems to please and alarm them. "And you really believe in this?" They ask you.<<elseif $mc.thirdtime is 1>>You finish with a decent amount of time left so you're able to fully go over your pitch. Before heading out, Yara Boes asks, "And you really believe in this?"<<else>>You cut it close time-wise, but give Yara Boes a full summary before they have to leave. As they head out the door they ask you, "And you really believe in this?"<</if>> <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 5">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 5]]-->
But, speaking of the remake, I think we're running low on time. Unless there's something else you want to talk about, you should probably get this stuff to Boes. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 1">><</button>></span><!--[[]]-->
<div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Yes, you believe in //Goncharov//" "END 3 6">><<set $mc.believes = true>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "No, but you made it this far so..." "END 3 6">><<set $mc.believes = false>><</link>></span></div><!--[[END 3 6]]-->\
<<if $mc.believes>>"Yeah," you respond. "Of course, I believe in //Goncharov//." Yara Boes nods and leaves<<else>>"Sure," you respond, "I believe in //Goncharov//." If your tone betrays your insincerity, Boes doesn't comment on it. They nod and leave<</if>>. You hang around for the rest of the evening. Finally clocking out and heading into the city. The snow is even deeper, reaching halfway up your shins.<<if $mc.scenicroute>> <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Play in the snow" "END 3 SNOW CHOICE">><<set $mc.snowplay = true>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Go home" "END 3 7">><<set $mc.snowplay = false, $mc.alsnow = false, $mc.thirdsnow = false>><</link>></span></div>\ <<else>> <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Play in the snow" "END 3 SNOW CHOICE">><<set $mc.snowplay = true>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Take the scenic route" "END 2 3">><<set $mc.snowplay = false, $mc.alsnow = false, $mc.thirdsnow = false>><<set $mc.scenicroute = true>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Go home" "END 3 7">><<set $mc.snowplay = false, $mc.alsnow = false, $mc.thirdsnow = false>><</link>></span></div>\ \ <style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important; } a { border: none; } </style><!--[[END 3 SNOW CHOICE]][[END 2 3]][[END 3 7]]--> <</if>>\
<div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Make a snow figure" "END 3 FIGURE 1">><<set $mc.thirdsnow = "figure">><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Go sledding" "END 3 SLED 1">><<set $mc.thirdsnow = "sled">><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Get into a snowball fight" "END 3 FIGHT 1">><<set $mc.thirdsnow = "fight", $snowball = {}, $al.friend = true>><</link>></span></div>\ \ <style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important; } a { border: none; } .reply-choice::before { content: '\f2dc' !important; }</style><!--[[END 3 FIGURE 1]][[END 3 FIGHT 1]][[END 3 SLED 1]]-->
By the next morning the snow is almost up to your knees. You barely make it into work. You sit down and check your email. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-envelope'></i>">><<goto "END 3 EMAIL">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 EMAIL]]-->
Welcome, $mc.name! You have ''one'' unread email. <<link "<div class='unread-email'>''Subject:'' Investors' Response<br>''From:'' Your Boss<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 22, 2022 at 08:43 AM</span></div>">><<if $al.disdain>><<if $mc.defense is 2>><<goto "END B 1">><<else>><<goto "END 3 8">><</if>><<else>><<goto "END B 1">><</if>><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: <<if $mc.third is 'apple'>>The Apple Scene<<elseif $mc.third is 'balc'>>Gonch and Andy<<elseif $mc.third is 'heist'>>Katya and Sofia<<elseif $mc.third is 'pompeii'>>The Pompeii Stuff<<elseif $mc.third is 'bath'>>The Bathhouse<<else>>Ice Pick Joe<</if>><br>''From:'' Al B<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.thirdtime is 0>>09:32 AM<<elseif $mc.thirdtime is 1>>09:57 AM<<else>>10:19 AM<</if>></span></div>">><<goto "Email 7">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: Goncharov Project<br>''From:'' Al B<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.thirdtime is 0>>09:29 AM<<elseif $mc.thirdtime is 1>>09:54 AM<<else>>10:16 AM<</if>></span></div>">><<goto "Email 6">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: New Assignment<br>''From:'' Your Boss<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 21, 2022 at 09:24 AM</span></div>" "Email 8">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' RE: Started it<br>''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Justine Perrone<<else>>Justa Personne<</if>><br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 01:49 PM</span></div>" "Email 1 END">><</link>>\ \ <<link "<div class='read-email'>''Subject:'' Tick Tock O'Clock<br>''From:'' Ra<<if $run gte 3>>ul<<else>>nd<</if>> M. Guy<br><span class='emailinfo'>Sent Nov 18, 2022 at 07:15 AM</span></div>" "Email 2 END">><</link>>\ \ <!--[[Email 6]][[Email 7]][[Email 8]][[Email 1 END]][[Email 2 END]][[END 3 8]][[END B 1]]--><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;}a {border: none;}</style>
<<if $mc.scenicroute>>You head to the park<<else>>You walk several blocks to a scenic park<</if>>, stopping along the way to pick up small rocks and sticks. Your arms are laden with supplies by the time you reach an open stretch of land. A <<if $mc.scenicroute>>vaguely familiar <</if>>figure is cutting through the space, walking <<if $mc.scenicroute>>their<<else>>a small, fluffy<</if>> dog on a leash. Their tall-ish form is outfitted with a long, black coat and a thick, blue scarf. They push a gloved hand through their short, dark waves—attempting to keep their unruly hair out of their face. "Al?" you ask. They turn to you. "Oh. Hey, <<if $mc.scorsese>>Mr. Scorsese<<else>>$mc.name<</if>>." A mask covers Al's face, so it's hard to read their expression, but their voice pitches up in surprise. "I, uh... I didn't expect to //see// you here." From their tone, it seems like they're shocked to be here themself. "Yeah, uh," you glance down at your collection. "I was going to make a snow figure." Al tilts their head. "Oh, sure. Well, <<if $al.disdain>>I'll stay out of your way. Wouldn't want to spoil your evening<<else>>hope you have fun<</if>>." The dog wags its tail, looking back and forth between the two of you. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 FIGURE 2">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 FIGURE 2]]-->
<!-- YOU GET INTO A SNOWBALL FIGHT WITH AL B, YOU ARE WALKING AROUND OUTSIDE THE BUILDING, THEY'RE WEARING A LONG BLACK COAT WITH A THICK COBALT SCARF, A TALLISH FIGURE WITH SHORT, DARK HAIR. WEARING A MASK (MASK ISN'T PRESENTED AS STRANGE), THEY WALK OUTSIDE AND YOU JUST CHUCK A FUCKING SNOWBALL AT THEIR HEAD, THEY LAND ON THEIR ASS, SEEM OFFENDED FOR A SECOND, BUT IT'S MOCKING, BREAKS INTO A FUN, INTENSE SNOWBALL FIGHT (MAYBE YETI IS TRYING TO EAT THE BALLS OF SNOW AS THEY HIT THE GROUND), THEY DISABLE THE KEYS WHEN THEY AREN'T READY AND ENGAGE QUICK TIME EVENTS SO THAT YOU ACTUALLY HAVE A FUN GAME ELEMENT. During the snowball scene could incorporate some fun things like the links being deactivated to give Al the leg up or threatening to instill quick time events if they don't play fair. Maybe the receptionist can show up an have fun? Yeti most certainly will be present-->\ $mc.recepname walks out behind you. <!--You turn to them and ask, -->"Hey, $mc.recepname, this might sound kind of ridiculous, but what would you say to a, uh... snowball fight?" $mc.recepname blinks twice. "A snowball fight?" You're already preparing a retraction statement, getting ready to say something like, //"<<print either("Just kidding.", "Ha. I jest!", "I'm kidding, of course.", "Ha, kidding!", "I'm just joshing ya.")>>"//<<if $mc.scorsese>> I mean, you're Martin Scorsese. You're //80 years old.// You can't be doing this.<</if>> But before you can take it back, $mc.recepname smiles. They look down at a snow drift, then back up at you. "Why not? You're on!" Both of you rush for the snow, preparing your icy ammunition. $mc.recepname finishes the first snowball and wheels around, taking a shot at you. You slide to the left, ducking behind a large mailbox. The projectile sails harmlessly through the air. You pop up, returning fire, sending a snowball in <<print $mc.recepname>>'s direction. At the last moment, they dodge out of the way. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 FIGHT 2">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 FIGHT 2]]-->
<<if $mc.scenicroute>>You head to the park<<else>>You walk several blocks to a scenic park<</if>>, stopping at a stall to rent a toboggan. You get to the base of a hill with people sledding down it. A <<if $mc.scenicroute>>vaguely familiar <</if>>figure is near the bottom of the slope, walking <<if $mc.scenicroute>>their<<else>>a small, fluffy<</if>> dog on a leash. Their tall-ish form is outfitted with a long, black coat and a thick, blue scarf. They push a gloved hand through their short, dark waves—attempting to keep their unruly hair out of their face. "Al?" you ask. They turn to you. "Oh. Hey, <<if $mc.scorsese>>Mr. Scorsese<<else>>$mc.name<</if>>." A mask covers Al's face, so it's hard to read their expression, but their voice pitches up in surprise. "I, uh... I didn't expect to //see// you here." From their tone, it seems like they're shocked to be here themself. "Yeah, uh," you glance down at your toboggan. "I was going to go sledding." Al tilts their head. "Oh, sure. Well, <<if $al.disdain>>I'll stay out of your way. Wouldn't want to spoil your evening<<else>>hope you have fun<</if>>." The dog wags its tail, looking back and forth between the two of you. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 SLED 2">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 SLED 2]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: Goncharov Project</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.thirdtime is 0>>09:29 AM<<elseif $mc.thirdtime is 1>>09:54 AM<<else>>10:16 AM<</if>></span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.thirdtime is 0>>09:29 AM<<elseif $mc.thirdtime is 1>>09:54 AM<<else>>10:16 AM<</if>></span>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>\ \ <<if $al.response is 0>><!-- FRIENDLY SCORSESE -->\ Good morning, Mr. Scorsese. <<if ($ngplus is true) and ($al.responsehist.last() is 0)>>Always a pleasure to work<<else>>Truly a pleasure to be working<</if>> with you. <<if $run is 1>>I am having a nice morning, thank you for asking. Personally, I adore snow, so I find this weather very inspiring. Speaking of inspiring, <<elseif $run is 3>>Still enjoying the snow so I'm having a lovely time. Hope you're enjoying the view from your new office too. <<elseif $run is 4>>This snow really is incredible. Since our offices are right next to each other, you're seeing the same thing I am, right? Absolutely breathtaking. What a place to be stuck! Anyways, <</if>>I have quite a few ideas for //Goncharov//<<if $run is 1>>—which, if you'll allow me to say, is inarguably one of the greatest films of all time—however, I'd rather<<else>> but I need to<</if>> hear what direction you want to go in before tossing out my two cents.\ \ <<else>><!--NEUTRAL SCORSESE-->\ Good morning Mr. Scorsese. <<if $run is 1>>Well said, let's just<<else>>Let's<</if>> get to it. <<if $run is 1>>Personally, <</if>>I have quite a few ideas for //Goncharov//<<if $run is 1>>—which, I have to say, is one of my favorite films—but I'd rather<<else>> but I need to<</if>> hear what direction you want to go in before tossing out my two cents.<</if>> <<if $run is 1>>While I was waiting, I went ahead and set up a shared document for this project with some basic information about //Goncharov// (not that you need it). <<else>>There's a shared document that I've already set up. <</if>>I'll send you the link and then you'll be able to access it from your desktop.<<if $run is 1>> Feel free to keep any notes, ideas, etc. in there. I'll be able to read and edit everything connected to the document too.<</if>> <<if $run is 1>>Anyways, I'm excited to hear your thoughts<<else>>I'm very excited to hear your thoughts<</if>>. Warmest regards, Al\ \ <<else>><!--FRIENDLY MC-->\ <<if $al.response is 0>>Morning, $mc.name. <<if $run is 1>>I am having a nice one myself—really enjoying watching this lovely snowfall. Hope yours is good as well. <<else>><<if ($ngplus is true) and ($al.responsehist.last() is 2)>>Glad to see you're in a friendly mood this time. Anyways, <</if>>I hope you're enjoying watching this snowfall as much as I am. <</if>>I have quite a few ideas, but <<if $run is 1>>I'm more interested in seeing what directions you want to go in first. So, for now I'll refrain from tossing out my two cents. <<else>>I need to hear what direction you want to go in before tossing out my two cents.<</if>>\ \ \ <<elseif $al.response is 1>><!--NEUTRAL MC-->\ Morning, $mc.name. Excited to work with you and help foster your ideas. That being said, while I have quite a few thoughts on //Goncharov//, I'm more interested in seeing what directions you want to go in first. So, for now I'll refrain from tossing out my two cents.\ \ <<else>><!--RUDE MC-->\ And good morning to you too, $mc.name. <<if ($ngplus is true) and ($al.responsehist.last() isnot 2)>>Hope that I haven't upset you or something. Anyways, n<<else>>N<</if>>o worries. I won't trouble you<<if $run is 1>> at your cubicle<</if>>. I'll just stay here in my office admiring the snowfall and distracting no one but myself. I do have quite a few ideas for this project, but I<<if $run is 1>>'m more interested in seeing what directions<<else>> need to know what directions<</if>> you want to go in first. So, for now I'll refrain from tossing out my two cents. <</if>> <<if $run is 1>><<if $al.response is 2>>I've been waiting for a while, so I went ahead and set up a shared document for this project. I don't know how familiar you are with //Goncharov// but I've started it off by adding some basic info about the film.<<else>>While I was waiting, I went ahead and set up a shared document for this project. I don't know how familiar you are with //Goncharov// but I've started it off by adding some basic info about the film.<</if>> <<else>>There's a shared document that I've already set up. <</if>>I'll send you the link and then you'll be able to access it from your desktop.<<if $run is 1>> Feel free to keep any notes, research, ideas, etc. in there. I'll be able to read and edit everything connected to the document too.<</if>> <<if $run is 1>>Let me know once you have some ideas written down. I'll happily fill in gaps where necessary, but this is your ship. I'm letting you sail it<<else>>I'm very excited to hear your thoughts<</if>>. <<if $al.response isnot 2>>Warmest r<<else>>R<</if>>egards, Al<</if>> <<message "<span class='messagebutton'>Show Previous Messages</span>">> ''<i class='fa-solid fa-exclamation-triangle acc'></i> ERROR'': Could not load previous messages<</message>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>></span><style>.messagebutton { color: var(--text); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--text); padding: 5px; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--accent); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); cursor: pointer; } .dm .messagebutton { color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } .dm .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-accent); }</style><!--[[END 3 EMAIL]]-->
<!--BOES' TURN DOWN EMAIL-->\ ''<span class="acc">Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Yara Bose <ybose@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''CC:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Good morning, Mr. Scorsese, I'm sorry to inform you that the investors have passed on the //Goncharov// adaptation and so I'm cancelling the project. Thank you for your work though, hopefully we can get something in your hands in the near future. Sincerely, Yara Bose<<else>>Morning, $mc.name, I'm sorry to inform you that the investors have passed on the //Goncharov// adaptation so I'm cancelling the project. Thank you for your time and effort though, hopefully we can find you another opportunity like this in the near future. Have a good one, Yara Bose<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 9">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 9]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: <<if $mc.third is "apple">>The Apple Scene<<elseif $mc.third is "balc">>Gonch and Andy<<elseif $mc.third is "heist">>Katya and Sofia<<elseif $mc.third is "pompeii">>The Pompeii Stuff<<elseif $mc.third is "bath">>The Bathhouse<<else>>Ice Pick Joe<</if>></span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.thirdtime is 0>>09:32 AM<<elseif $mc.thirdtime is 1>>09:57 AM<<else>>10:19 AM<</if>></span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 21, 2022 at <<if $mc.thirdtime is 0>>09:33 AM<<elseif $mc.thirdtime is 1>>09:58 AM<<else>>10:20 AM<</if>></span>\ <hr>\ <<if ($al.response is 0) or ($al.response is 1)>><<if $al.friend>>Aw, thanks! It's been a pleasure working with you too. Best of luck, $mc.name.<<if $mc.scorsese>> ;)<</if>><<else>>Good luck!<</if>><<else>><<if $al.disdain>>Yeah. Thanks. Same to you, <<if $mc.scorsese>>"Mr. Scorsese."<<else>>$mc.name.<</if>> Same to you.<<else>>Yeah. Thanks. Good luck, $mc.name.<</if>><</if>> <<message "<span class='messagebutton'>Show Previous Messages</span>">> ''<i class='fa-solid fa-exclamation-triangle acc'></i> ERROR'': Could not load previous messages<</message>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>></span><style>.messagebutton { color: var(--text); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--text); padding: 5px; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--accent); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); cursor: pointer; } .dm .messagebutton { color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } .dm .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-accent); }</style><!--[[END 3 EMAIL]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: New Assignment</span>'' ''From:'' <<if $run gte 3>>Yara Bose<<else>>Your Boss<</if>> <ybos<<if $run gte 3>>e<<else>>s<</if>>@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''CC:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> <span class='emailinfo'>//sent// Nov 21, 2022 at 09:24 AM</span> <span class='emailinfo'>//read// Nov 21, 2022 at 09:24 AM</span>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Good morning, Mr. Scorsese. <<else>>Hello, $mc.name. I hope that you're having a decent morning. If not, perhaps this news will improve it. <</if>>I have a very exciting opportunity for you. Later today I'll be pitching a new film—specifically a<<if $mc.scorsese>> remake of your 1973 film //Goncharov//—<<else>> //Goncharov// remake—<</if>>to a group of investors and<<if $mc.scorsese>>, of course, we'd love for you to put that pitch together.<<else>> I've chosen you to put that pitch together.<</if>> My meeting is at 11:00 so please keep that in mind. We don't have any time to waste. <<if $mc.scorsese>>We're all very excited to present you with this opportunity and I, personally, am very much looking forward to seeing how you'll approach this project.<<else>>I think this will be your first time leading a project like this, but don't let that intimidate you. You can probably do it and, if you manage to impress me and the investors, then you'll receive more opportunities like this going forward.<</if>> You'll be working on this project with Al B. Send them an email when you're ready to get started. Best of luck and stay warm, Yara Bose <<message "<span class='messagebutton'>Show Previous Messages</span>">> ''<i class='fa-solid fa-exclamation-triangle acc'></i> ERROR'': Could not load previous messages<</message>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-times'></i>" $return>><</button>></span><style>.messagebutton { color: var(--text); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--text); padding: 5px; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--accent); font-size: 90%; border: 2.5px solid var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); cursor: pointer; } .dm .messagebutton { color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } .dm .messagebutton:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-accent); }</style><!--[[END 3 EMAIL]]-->
A tall-ish figure wearing a long, black coat and a thick, blue scarf approaches the door. You recognize them immediately. Al exits the lobby at exactly the wrong moment and your snowball hits them square in the face, knocking them off balance. Their limbs flail like Charlie Chaplin as their boots slip on the icy sidewalk. Al falls. //Hard.// You grimace as they slam into the concrete. $mc.recepname gasps. "Whoops..." You whisper, successfully suppressing your laughter but unable to keep a smile from tugging at your lips. Al looks up at you. Most of their face is covered by a mask, but their dark eyes are wide with shock. You turn to $mc.recepname and see them retreating down the street, fleeing the scene as quickly as possible. <<if $mc.scorsese>><<cycle "_fake">><<option "//Coward,// you think to yourself.">><<option "You have never felt more betrayed.">><<option "//Yeah,// you think to yourself. //That's definitely the right move.//">><</cycle>><<else>><<cycle "_fake">><<option "//Coward,// you think to yourself.">><<option "You've never felt more betrayed.">><<option "//Yeah,// you think to yourself. //That's definitely the right move.//">><<option "You wonder if you could make a run for it... probably not.">><</cycle>><</if>><!--Would making a Top 10 Anime Betrayals reference be too niche??? I really want to--> Slowly, Al wipes the snow off their face<<if $mc.scorsese>>. You watch as t<<else>>. For a second you worry about your job: Are you going to be fired? Can Al fire you? Do they have that kind of power?<<if ($al.disdain is true) or ($al.response is 2)>> (If they do, they certainly shouldn't.)<</if>> Thankfully, t<</if>>he energy in their eyes shifts from dazed bewilderment to wild mischief. "Oh, it's on," they chuckle, scrambling to their feet and shoving their gloved hands into the snow. "You want to play? Let's play!" <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 FIGHT 3">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 FIGHT 3]]-->
<!--THE FIGHT WITH AL, FIRST THROW But Al's <</if>>expression quickly shifts from dazed bewilderment to wild mischief. "Oh, it's on," they chuckle, scrambling to their feet and shoving their gloved hands into the snow. "You want to play, let's play!"-->\ \ You have a snowball ready before Al finishes theirs. <<linkreplace "<i class='fa-solid fa-snowflake'></i>">><div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "[ATTACK] Throw your snowball at Al" "END 3 FIGHT 4">><<set $snowball.hit1 = "hit">><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "[DODGE] Duck and wait for Al to throw first" "END 3 FIGHT 4">><<set $snowball.hit1 = "dodge">><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "[LOSE] Don't hit Al with a snowball" "END 3 FIGHT 4">><<set $snowball.hit1 = "lose">><</link>></span></div><</linkreplace>>\ \ \ \ <style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important; } a { border: none; } .reply-choice::before { content: '\f2dc' !important; } a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace { display: flex; margin: 0 auto; background-color: transparent; width: fit-content; text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--text); border: 2.5px solid var(--text); cursor: pointer; text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 0em; padding: 0.5em; } .dm a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace:hover { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--text); border: 2.5px solid var(--text); box-shadow: 4px 4px 0 var(--accent); } .dm a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace:hover { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text) !important; box-shadow: 4px 4px 0 var(--dm-accent); } </style><!--[[END 3 FIGHT 4]]-->
<!--INVITE AL TO SLED WITH YOU-->\ <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Go sledding" "END 3 SLED 3">><<set $mc.alsnow = false>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Ask Al if they want to go sledding" "END 3 SLED 3">><<set $mc.alsnow = true>><<set $al.friend = true>><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important; } a { border: none; } .reply-choice::before { content: '\f2dc' !important; }</style><!--[[END 3 SLED 3]]-->
<!--INVITE AL TO BUILD A SNOWMAN WITH YOU-->\ <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Make your snow figure" "END 3 FIGURE 3">><<set $mc.alsnow = false>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Ask Al if they want to make a snow figure" "END 3 FIGURE 3">><<set $mc.alsnow = true>><<set $al.friend = true>><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important; } a { border: none; } .reply-choice::before { content: '\f2dc' !important; }</style><!--[[END 3 FIGURE 3]]-->
<<if $mc.alsnow>>Al begins to walk off. "Uh, hey, Al. Wait." They turn back. "Do you want to build a snow figure?" They tilt their head to the side, eyes narrowing briefly. They look down at their dog then back up at you. "Sure, $mc.name." Al's eyes smile and the dog at their feet wags its tail. "And, who is this?" You ask. "Oh," Al motions to their dog—a sweet little beast that seems to be 50% husky and 50% fluffball. "This is Cryptid." Cryptid tilts <<print either("her","their")>> head to the side. "<<cycle "_fake1">><<option "Cryptid? Awesome name.">><<option "A pleasure to meet you, Cryptid.">><<option "<<print either('She is','They are')>> so pretty! I love <<print either('her','their')>> blue eyes.">><<option "Aw, Cryptid! You're a good dog, aren't you?">><</cycle>>" Cryptid gives a short howl, seemingly in agreement. You enjoy an evening with Al, just building a snow figure and occasionally chatting about the film, work, or life in general. As you get to the end of your snow figure creation, Al mumbles, "Here." They unwind their scarf and wrap it around the snow figure. You end the night with some <<cycle "$mc.drink">><<option "hot cocoa">><<option "hot tea">><<option "spiced cider">><<option "mulled wine">><<option "black coffee">><<option "fancy, coffee-based drink" "your favorite fancy drink">><</cycle>> before heading your separate ways. "Well, see you tomorrow, $mc.name," Al waves. "Hope you have a good evening!" "Yeah, you too," you smile. "Night, Cryptid!"<<else>>Al leaves with their dog and you begin crafting your snow figure. You create a beautiful masterpiece, the kind of snow sculpture that ought to be displayed in a very short-lived museum. Finally you get a cup of some <<cycle "$mc.drink">><<option "hot cocoa">><<option "hot tea">><<option "spiced cider">><<option "mulled wine">><<option "black coffee">><<option "fancy, coffee-based drink" "your favorite fancy drink">><</cycle>>, and begin your walk home.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 7">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 7]]-->
<<if $mc.alsnow>>Al begins to walk off. "Uh, hey, Al. Wait." They turn back. "Would you want to go sledding?" They tilt their head to the side, eyes narrowing briefly. They look down at their dog then back up at you. "Sure, $mc.name." Al's eyes smile and the dog at their feet wags its tail. "And, who is this?" You ask. "Oh," Al motions to their dog—a sweet little beast that seems to be 50% husky and 50% fluffball. "This is Cryptid." Cryptid tilts <<print either("her","their")>> head to the side. "<<cycle "_fake1">><<option "Cryptid? Awesome name.">><<option "A pleasure to meet you, Cryptid.">><<option "<<print either('She is','They are')>> so pretty! I love <<print either('her','their')>> blue eyes.">><<option "Aw, Cryptid! You're a good dog, aren't you?">><</cycle>>" Cryptid gives a short howl, seemingly in agreement. Al breaks out their emergency toboggan and the three of you hit the slope. Cryptid sits at the front of Al's sled, <<print either('their','her')>> ears and tongue flapping in the wind as you race down the hill. You enjoy an evening with Al, just sledding and occasionally chatting about the film, work, or life in general. You end with some <<cycle "$mc.drink">><<option "hot cocoa">><<option "hot tea">><<option "spiced cider">><<option "mulled wine">><<option "black coffee">><<option "fancy, coffee-based drink" "your favorite fancy drink">><</cycle>> before heading your separate ways. "Well, see you tomorrow, $mc.name," Al waves. "Hope you have a good evening!" "Yeah, you too," you smile. "Night, Cryptid!"<<else>>Al's heads off with their dog and you begin your sledding adventure. After almost an hour of heading up and down the short hill, you get a cup of some <<cycle "$mc.drink">><<option "hot cocoa">><<option "hot tea">><<option "spiced cider">><<option "mulled wine">><<option "black coffee">><<option "fancy, coffee-based drink" "your favorite fancy drink">><</cycle>> and start your walk home.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 7">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 7]]-->
<!--JOE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Ice Pick Joe</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <!--RUN THROUGH THE SCENE OF AL'S DEATH IN THE CATHEDRAL, BREAK IT DOWN BIT BY BIT-->Okay, sounds good. So, here's what I'm picturing: Joe's fled the ball and is stumbling at top speed through the deserted streets of Naples. It's //la vigilia// (Christmas Eve) so most people are asleep or having familial Christmas parties. As he runs through the residential streets, Joe can look up into the lit windows and see shadowy reflections of the familial love he's been missing. (Side note: I imagine the holiday season is particularly hard for Joe, since it was his brother's murder that sent him off the deep end and this family-oriented time of year surely brings on an onslaught of bittersweet memories.) Anyways, he arrives at Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta—hopefully, we'll be able to film onsite, because <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Naples_Cathedral" target="_blank">that building</a> is absolutely gorgeous. Joe runs in as the clergy is kind of closing everything down for a few hours. Midnight mass has just wrapped up so the place is open, but it'll be all but vacant for a little while. They seem a little hesitant to let Joe in by himself, but one of the priests convinces the others to let him go. Joe walks into the massive place. From behind, we get a shot of Ice Pick Joe, a small man swimming in a coat that's too big for him, standing at the end of the long central aisle. He appears miniscule, childlike, and defenseless before the emptiness of that massive, gilt cathedral. Slowly, almost as if he were afraid of what might happen (or //not// happen?), he approaches the altar and gets down on his knees. His face is lit by all the candles. Tears stream down his cheeks, reflecting warm, flickering light. His lip quivers and he genuinely breaks down, literally crumpling in on himself. We pan out to get a shot of him from above, as if someone is spying on him from a balcony (no one is, it's just to evoke the sense of him being powerless and foreshadow the arrival of Valery). Joe sputters, foamy spit catching in the corners of his mouth, strings of words falling from his lips—snippets of thoughts about the death of his brother, the prejudice he's faced, the trauma he's repressed, the hatred he's received—but nothing we can hear is fully coherent. His thoughts seem to be moving and evolving too quickly for him to vocalize them. Over time, Joe seems to transition from thinking to confessing to praying. As he begins to pray, he pulls a rosary out from under his shirt and clutches it in his trembling, blood-stained hands until his knuckles are beyond white, almost purple. A low, dark voice with a thick Russian accent suddenly emerges from the shadows at the other end of the cathedral. "I'm told 'ciao' means hello and goodbye." It's Valery. We cut to a shot of him, but his face is in total darkness. We only get to see his features when the gunfire begins and then little explosions of light from his machine gun briefly illuminate Valery's cold features. We cut back to Ice Pick Joe and watch as the hail of bullets spray across his body, sinking into him from behind. In particular, we see him get shot in the locations of the stigmata and holy lance wound. Silence falls and, after a moment, so does Joe. He collapses forward on the ground before the altar, his body forming a straight line with his arms out to each side. We get a closeup of his blood rolling off the stairs, the scarlet drips shimmering in the soft, gold light. Cut back to Valery. He turns and strikes a match against the rough stone wall. His face is briefly illuminated again as he lights his pipe. He exhales a thick cloud of smoke and as it clears, we see an extreme closeup of his face and behind him, out of focus but still in the picture, Joe's corpse. He laughs once—a short, gruff chuckle that could make a marble statue shiver with fear. He says, without looking back, "Ciao, Goncharov." And //scene.// What do you think? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "31F">><</button>></span><!--[[31F]]-->
<!--JOE SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Ice Pick Joe</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <!--AL REACTS MENTIONS SOMETHING ABOUT THE REMAKE BECAUSE THE COMMENT OF SPEAKING OF THE REMAKE GET GOING WILL BE APPENDED TO THE BOTTOM <<if $mc.scorsese>>Yes, I adore that scene and really love that aspect of her character arc. I'm glad that you're proud of it and I appreciate that insight. We'll definitely keep that in the remake.<<else>>Ajfajfadlkj, yes, that scene! You are so right about all of that. And I hadn't heard that but I completely agree. We should definitely keep that in mind for the remake.<</if>> -->Wow. Seriously, //wow//. I think that sounds absolutely amazing<<if $mc.change is "action">>—really highlights the emotion and tragic violence in the scene<</if>>. I'm legitimately tearing up over here. I am curious if we should maybe draw images from this scene and place them in the scene with Valery's death? I know <<if $mc.scorsese>>you did that<<else>>they did that<</if>> in the original and I think it's important to incorporate cinematic parallels between the two in the remake as well. <<include "END 3 TRANSITION">><!--[[END 3 1]]-->
<!--BALCONY SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Gonch and Andy</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $al.response is 2>><!--WHat? Are you kidding me? Did you actually read what I just sent you? How is that what you're focusing on? Is that really your only note!? Besides, it doesn't matter! We're making a MOVIE. No one is gonna see how it's spelled. (I mean, unless they were to stay for the credits sifting through every character's name looking for spelling errors, but NO ONE does that!) Freaking come on, Al! Actually contribute something for once. I'm //begging// you. Tell me, what do you think? Or can you not think for yourself? You condescending prick, for Pete's sake! Help me ship Andrey and Goncharov! Our time is running out...-->Yeah... that's alright too, I guess. Also, why do you care? We're making a MOVIE. No one is gonna see how it's spelled. (I mean, unless they were to stay for the credits sifting through every character's name looking for spelling errors, but NO ONE does that!)<<else>>I like that. And yes, the more clock imagery, the better. I also think that—for now, at least—it's fine either way. We can come to a decision (and maybe do some research on name origins) later.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "31B">><</button>></span><!--[[31B]]-->
<!--BALCONY SCENE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Gonch and Andy</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <!--AL BEGINS RESPONDING TO THE RESPONSE TO HOW IS ANDREY SPELLED, EXPLAINS THEIR IDEA FOR THE POCKETWATCH AND MENTIONS THE IMPORTANCE OF CLOCKS IN THE FILM <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "32B">><</button>></span>--><<if $al.response is 2>>Woah, geez. I was just asking about the spelling. I was just curious (it's not a crime, $mc.name, I swear I'm not Pandora). And we do need to take those things into consideration for the remake. Even if it's a visual medium, it's important to get spelling right because that links back to cultural heritage which informs backstory which influences character, so on and so forth. It is, //objectively//, important.<<else>>Cool cool. I cannot wait to keep working on this remake. There's just so much to do, research, and explore.<</if>> <<include "END 3 TRANSITION">><!--[[END 3 1]]-->
<!--MC REACTS CYCLE FOR VARIABILITY-->\ <<cycle "$mc.thirdreact" autoselect>><<option "Seriously? Come on." 0>><<option "Come on. What the Hell?" 1>><<option "What the <<if $mc.scorsese is false>>actual <</if>>fuck?!" 2>><<option "[//unintelligible furious noises, somewhere between growling and gargling//]" 3>><</cycle>> What is it going to take to get this film made?<<if $mc.scorsese is false>>?<</if>> You get an email from Al. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-envelope'></i>">><<goto "END 3 10">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 10]]-->
<!--THE FIGHT WITH AL, SECOND THROW-->\ <<if $snowball.hit1 is "hit">>\ Al is a moment too slow. They spin around again, pulling their arm back to launch a snowball at you. //Again//, you nail them in the face. Al falls comically back onto the hard concrete. "<<print either('Ach!" They yelp', 'Ough!" They groan', 'Yeesh!" They hiss')>>. <<print either('"Okay. ', '"')>><<print either("Well played.", "Good one.", "Damn, you're good.")>>" You proudly announce, "Score: 2-0." "Yeah, yeah. Point to you, but this isn't over yet!" They roll over and scurry to their feet once more. For the second time, you are ready before Al.\ <<elseif $snowball.hit1 is "dodge">>\ Al is a little slower than you, but you're thinking strategically. You want them to waste their throw. Finally, Al finishes their snowball. They turn around and hurl it in your direction, but you're prepared. You duck out of the way and return fire. //Again//, you nail them in the face. Al falls comically back onto the hard concrete. "<<print either('Ach!" They yelp', 'Ough!" They groan', 'Yeesh!" They hiss')>>. <<print either('"Okay. ', '"')>><<print either("Well played.", "Good one.", "Damn, you're good.")>>" You proudly announce, "Score: 2-0." "Yeah, yeah. Point to you, but this isn't over yet!" They roll over and scurry to their feet once more. For the second time, you are ready before Al.\ <<else>>\ You stand there, looking at Al. You're ready, but you don't do anything. Al finishes and whips around, hurling their snowball at you. It hits your left shoulder and bursts. Cold snow sprays your neck and jaw. Excitement burns in Al's eyes but their gaze falls to your hand and they notice the unused snowball. "Wait, what?" Al puffs, slightly out of breath. "Why didn't?— Do you not want to do this?"\ <</if>> <<linkreplace "<i class='fa-solid fa-snowflake'></i>">><div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "[ATTACK] <<if $snowball.hit1 is 'hit'>>Stick to your strategy<<elseif $snowball.hit1 is 'lose'>>Ha! They've fallen for it. ''//Surprise attack!//''<<else>>Throw your snowball at Al<</if>>">><<set $snowball.hit2 = "hit">><<if $snowball.hit1 is "lose">><<goto "END 3 FIGHT 7">><<else>><<goto "END 3 FIGHT 5">><</if>><</link>></span><<if $snowball.hit1 isnot "lose">> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "[DODGE] <<if $snowball.hit1 is 'dodge'>>Stick to your strategy<<else>>Duck and wait for Al to throw first<</if>>">><<set $snowball.hit2 = "dodge">><<if $snowball.hit1 is "lose">><<goto "END 3 FIGHT 7">><<else>><<goto "END 3 FIGHT 5">><</if>><</link>></span><</if>> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "<<if $snowball.hit1 is 'lose'>>[CALL IT OFF] No, you don't want to fight Al<<else>>[LOSE] Don't hit Al with a snowball this time<</if>>" "END 3 FIGHT 7">><<if $snowball.hit1 is 'lose'>><<set $snowball.hit2 = "refuse">><<else>><<set $snowball.hit2 = "lose">><</if>><</link>></span></div><</linkreplace>>\ \ \ \ <style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important; } a { border: none; } .reply-choice::before { content: '\f2dc' !important; } a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace { display: flex; margin: 0 auto; background-color: transparent; width: fit-content; text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--text); border: 2.5px solid var(--text); cursor: pointer; text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 0em; padding: 0.5em; } .dm a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace:hover { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--text); border: 2.5px solid var(--text); box-shadow: 4px 4px 0 var(--accent); } .dm a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace:hover { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text) !important; box-shadow: 4px 4px 0 var(--dm-accent); } </style><!--[[END 3 FIGHT 5]]-->
<!--THE FIGHT WITH AL, THIRD THROW (ONLY IF AL HASN'T GOTTEN A HIT IN), AT THIS POINT THEY INCORPORATE THE QUICK TIME EVENT, SAY THAT THEY'RE GONNA MAKE THINGS MORE FAIR (FOR THEM)-->\ <<if $snowball.hit2 is "hit">>\ <<if $snowball.hit1 is "hit">>\ You throw your snowball at Al and—for the //third// time in a row—hit Al in the face, knocking them down.\ <<else>>You don't hesitate this time. You throw your snowball at Al and—for the //third// time in a row—hit Al in the face, knocking them down.<</if>><<else>>\ <<if $snowball.hit1 is "hit">>\ You wait this time, allowing Al to finish their snowball. They whip around and hurl it in your direction, but you're ready. You duck out of the way and return fire. For an impressive //third// time in a row, you hit Al in the face, knocking them down.\ <<else>>\ You wait. Clearly Al didn't learn their lesson, because, //again//, you effortlessly dodge their throw. For an impressive //third// time in a row, you hit Al square in the face, knocking them down.\ <</if>><</if>> <<print either('A shrill yelp flees their throat as they hit the concrete. "Yeow!"', 'As they hit the concrete, they cry out, "Uffa!" ', '"Scheiße!" They curse, pounding a gloved fist into the concrete.', 'There is a sharp intake of breath as they hit the concrete. "Scheiße!"', 'A low groan escapes their throat as they hit the concrete. "Oddio!"')>> "I believe that's 3-0," you smirk<<if $al.response is 2>> wickedly<<elseif $al.response is 0>> good-naturedly<</if>>. "And I thought third time was supposed to be the charm." "Yeah," Al pulls themself to their feet. "<<print either("It is, isn't it?", "I've heard that too.", "But you shouldn't believe everything you hear.", "Guess that's not always the case.", "Well, that may have been //your// third hit, but I haven't had //my// third try.")>>" Something mischievous burns in their eyes. "<<print either("Why don't we make this a little more interesting?", "Let's make this a little more interesting, shall we?", "Let's make this a little more challenging!", "Hmm, I think we should make this a little more challenging.")>>" <<linkreplace "<i class='fa-solid fa-snowflake'></i>">><div class='choices'><script>Meter.add('sixSeconds', {}, 0); Meter.get('sixSeconds').val(); Meter.get('sixSeconds').val(0);</script><<showmeter '_sixSeconds' 1>><<timed 6s>><<set $snowball.hit3 = "lose">><<goto "END 3 FIGHT 7">><</timed>> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "[ATTACK] Throw a snowball at Al" "END 3 FIGHT 6">><<set $snowball.hit3 = "hit">><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "[DODGE] Avoid Al's throw then hit them a fourth time" "END 3 FIGHT 6">><<set $snowball.hit3 = "dodge">><</link>></span></div><</linkreplace>>\ \ \ \ <style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important; } a { border: none; } .reply-choice::before { content: '\f2dc' !important; } a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace { display: flex; margin: 0 auto; background-color: transparent; width: fit-content; text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--text); border: 2.5px solid var(--text); cursor: pointer; text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 0em; padding: 0.5em; } .dm a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace:hover { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--text); border: 2.5px solid var(--text); box-shadow: 4px 4px 0 var(--accent); } .dm a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace:hover { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text) !important; box-shadow: 4px 4px 0 var(--dm-accent); } </style><!--[[END 3 FIGHT 6]]-->
<<set _hit4 = true>>\ \ <!--THE FIGHT WITH AL, FOURTH THROW (ONLY IF AL STILL HASN'T GOTTEN IN A HIT), THEY DISABLE THE BUTTONS SO THAT YOU ARE GUARANTEED TO GET HIT-->\ <<if $snowball.hit3 is "hit">>\ <<if ($snowball.hit1 is "hit") and ($snowball.hit2 is "hit")>>//Again//, you throw your snowball at Al, and //again// it hits them in the face and sends them flying back to the ground.<<else>>You launch your fourth snowball at Al, and //again// it hits them in the face and sends them flying back to the ground.<</if>> <<else>>\ <<if ($snowball.hit1 is "dodge") and ($snowball.hit2 is "dodge")>>//Again//, you dodge Al's desperate throw and launch a fourth snowball at them. //Again// it hits them in the face and sends them flying back to the ground.<<else>>You dodge Al's desperate throw and launch a fourth snowball at Al. //Again// it hits them in the face and sends them flying back to the ground.<</if>><</if>> "Okay," Al growls. It's hard to see their expression beneath the mask, but Al's voice takes on a <<if $al.disdain>><<print either("dangerous edge", "threatening tone")>><<else>><<print either("serious", "grave")>> tone<</if>> "<<print either("Screw fairness.", "That's it.", "I've had enough playing fair.", "No more fair play.", "Guess it's time to play dirty.")>>" <<linkreplace "<i class='fa-solid fa-snowflake'></i>">><div class='choices'><script>Meter.add('sixSeconds2', {}, 0); Meter.get('sixSeconds2').val(); Meter.get('sixSeconds2').val(0);</script><<showmeter '_sixSeconds2' 1>><<timed 6s>><<if _hit4>><<set $snowball.hit4 = "lose">><<else>><<set $snowball.hit4 = "tried">><</if>><<goto "END 3 FIGHT 7">><</timed>> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "==[ATTACK] Try to throw a snowball at Al==">><<set _hit4 = false>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "==[DODGE] Try to dodge Al's throw==">><<set _hit4 = false>><</link>></span></div><</linkreplace>>\ \ \ \ <style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important; } a { border: none; } .reply-choice::before { content: '\f2dc' !important; } a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace { display: flex; margin: 0 auto; background-color: transparent; width: fit-content; text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--text); border: 2.5px solid var(--text); cursor: pointer; text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 0em; padding: 0.5em; } .dm a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text); } a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace:hover { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--text); border: 2.5px solid var(--text); box-shadow: 4px 4px 0 var(--accent); } .dm a.link-internal.macro-linkreplace:hover { text-decoration: none !important; color: var(--dm-text); border: 2.5px solid var(--dm-text) !important; box-shadow: 4px 4px 0 var(--dm-accent); } </style><!--[[END 3 FIGHT 7]]-->
<!--TESTING CODE disabled <<set $snowball = {}, $snowball.hit1 = "hit", $snowball.hit2 = "hit", $snowball.hit3 = "hit", $snowball.hit4 = "refuse", $mc.scorsese = false, $mc.name = "Lex", $mc.surname = "Locke", $al.disdain = false, $al.friend = true>>--><!-- TESTING CODE END --><!--EITHER THE FIGHT ENDS WITH AL OR THIS IS AFTER THEY DISABLED BUTTONS, CAUSED A QUICK TIME EVENT .snowballhit3, lose - means that they finally got a hit in once the meter was implemented, hit means that mc hit them, dodge means that mc dodged and then hit them $snowball.hit4 tried - means that they tried to press the buttons that didn't work in FIGHT 6, lose means they allowed themself to be hit-->\ <<if ($snowball.hit1 is "lose") or ($snowball.hit2 is "lose")>><<if $snowball.hit1 is "lose">><<if $snowball.hit2 is "refuse">><!--Al was able to hit MC on the first try and MC called off the game when asked if they wanted to do this: [MC says that they don't want to fight Al if they are nice, Al says that it's fine and that they understand that it's just part of a game, they won't take it too seriously and they promise it doesn't actually hurt despite how dramatic it looks. If they aren't nice then MC maybe resents the power Al holds over them and as much as they don't like them, they fear retribution. Al says that it's fine, unlike words, the snowballs don't actually hurt, they give MC an icy glare and they start to feel cold. Reconvene: Al asks if MC is cold and they nod]-->\ \ \ You look down at the snowball, then back up at Al. <<if $al.disdain>>With a sigh<<else>>Gently shaking your head<</if>>, you relax your grip, letting <<if $al.disdain>>the ball tumble out of your grasp<<else>>it go<</if>>.<<if $al.disdain>> Al stares at you warily, "Why? Why not?" Their eyes narrow to slits. "What made you stop now?" You scoff quietly. As much as you'd love to pelt them in the face again and send their ass slamming back down onto the hard concrete, you can't do that to Al. //Rather,// you can't do that to an exec. As much as you don't like Al, they have power over you. They could easily hold losing a game like this against you. "Let's just call it a tie," you respond through gritted teeth. "Whatever." Al shrugs, hands slapping their thighs with a dissatisfied clap. "Whatever you want. Right, $mc.name? You're the one who makes the choices—all of them. I just respond." The snow around your neck starts to melt, sending freezing trails dripping down your chest. You shiver, lungs starting to seize. It feels like you're mere seconds away from becoming an ice sculpture.<<else>> "I'm good. Let's just call it even." "Huh. Alright." Al wipes snow off their hands onto their dark coat. "Sure. If that's what you want..." The snow around your neck starts to melt, sending freezing trails dripping down your chest. You shiver. An audible, //"Brr,"// escapes your lips.<</if>> "Oh<<if $mc.scorsese>>, sorry!<<else>>, shit.<</if>> Are you cold?" Al asks<<if $al.disdain>>, but something in their voice makes it clear they know the answer<</if>>. You nod<<if $al.disdain>> sharply<</if>>.\ \ \ \ \ <<else>><!--Al was able to hit MC on the first try but MC attacked on the second after lulling them into a false sense of security [MC has a snowball in their hand but makes a show of saying that they don't want to hit Al, then yell Psych or something and pelt them in the face, MC either rejoices if they have disdain for Al or they seem apologetic that once more they've knocked Al on their ass. Al says that it's fine if they're nice but throws in the towel, clearly they're outmatched. A chill breeze makes MC start to feel cold. If they aren't nice then Al is just really brusque and gives them an icy glare, suddenly MC feels very cold. Reconvene: Al asks if MC is cold and they nod]-->\ You look down at the snowball, then back up at Al. With a shrug and a sigh, you reply, "No. It's fine, I don't<<print either(" think//— PSYCH!//", "//— GOTCHA!//", " think it's fair to— //URAGH!//")>>" You send the snowball hurtling towards Al, catching them perfectly off guard. Just like the first time, you hit Al square in the face, knocking them down onto their ass in a rather comical fashion. <<print either('Al yelps as they hit the concrete. //"Yeow!"//', 'As they hit the concrete, Al cries out, "Uffa!" ', '"Scheiße!" Al curses, pounding a gloved fist into the concrete.', 'There is a sharp intake of breath as Al hits the concrete. "Ach, Scheiße!"', 'Al groans as they hit the concrete. "Oddio..."')>> With effort, they force themself back onto their feet<<if $al.disdain>>—honestly, for you it's a delightful sight.<<else>>.<</if>> "Okay! Okay. You win. I give in. Let's just... let's not." <<if $al.disdain>>"Whoops." You sneer—you simply can't help yourself. "Fine. If you admit that I've bested you, I'll relent." Al grimaces, "You. Bested. Me." They spit out each word like a dart. //"Hmph."// Wicked delight sparks to life in the depths of Al's dark eyes. The wind picks up, sending a sudden, terrible gust coursing through the city street. It's //freezing.// You don't shiver—you shudder violently, your lungs starting to seize. <!--Something pricks beneath the surface of your skin, simultaneously burning and numbing your flesh. -->It feels like you're mere seconds away from becoming an ice sculpture.\ <<else>>You should feel proud, right? Victory is supposed to make you feel good. But... you don't. That had to hurt like hell. Part of you refuses to feel anything but regret and guilt for what you've done to Al. Al looks over and seems to gauge your expression. "Oh, hey!" They raise their hands in a 'no-harm, no-foul' type gesture. "Don't worry. That doesn't hurt—not //too// bad, at least. See, $mc.name?" They spin on their heel and strike a flashy pose. "I'm all good. Minimal to no long-term damage." Al's eyes crinkle in a way that let's you know their smirking<<if $al.friend>>—and somehow that //does// make you feel a little better<<else>><</if>>. Cold wind gusts down the city street. You shiver and an audible, //"Brr,"// escapes your lips.<</if>> "Oh<<if $mc.scorsese>>, sorry!<<else>>, shit.<</if>> Are you cold?" Al asks<<if $al.disdain>>, but something in their voice makes it clear they know the answer<</if>>. You nod<<if $al.disdain>> sharply<</if>>.\ \ \ \ \ <</if>><<else>><!--Al was finally able to hit MC on the second try [Al hits MC with the snowball but it's because they chose not to do anything. Al says they should stop it there and call it a draw. MC remarks that it's not a draw, Al hit them once but they hit Al twice, Al says that the first one didn't count, MC pushes back possibly (depending on $al.disdain), but eventually they both drop it. MC is starting to feel freezing thanks to the snow on their neck. Al asks if they're cold and MC nods.]-->\ You let the snowball in your hands tumble out of your grasp, sinking silently into the bank at your feet. Al—still busy making one—doesn't seem to notice your quiet surrender. They stand up triumphantly and hurl a snowball in your direction. It hits you in the shoulder. Not very hard, but the impact sends a fine spray of ice across your neck and jaw. "Ha //ha!"// They thrust their arms in the air.// "Whoo!"// You <<if $al.disdain>>roll your eyes. "You only got that because—" "Shh! Nope. Not another word. Let's just call it a draw and move on with our days." "What?" Your <<cycle "_fake1">><<option "brow furrows, confused">><<option "nose crinkles in disgust">><</cycle>>. "It wasn't a draw. You got one hit in because I let you—" "Debatable." "No, it's //not//—but still! I got two hits on you. You hit me once. 2-1. That's not a draw." "Eh." Al crosses their arms behind their head, taking a deep breath. "Agree to disagree." They wink. You roll your eyes again. The snow starts to melt against your skin. It sends freezing trails dripping down your neck, onto your chest. You shiver, lungs starting to seize. It feels like you're on your way to becoming an ice sculpture.<<else>><<cycle "_fake1">><<option "chuckle">><<option "look away, embarrassed second-hand by such a display">><<option "raise an eyebrow">><</cycle>>. "So," you clear your throat. "The score is—" "Nope. That's fine. You don't have to say it. Let's just call it a draw and move on with our days." "What? But... it //wasn't// a draw. The score's 2-1, Al. I'm up by one. If we call it here, that means you've lost." "Eh..." Al crosses their arms behind their head, taking a deep breath. "That first throw doesn't count in my eyes. But, if you insist on being wrong, we can just agree to disagree." They wink. You <<cycle "_fake2">><<option "laugh">><<option "roll your eyes">><<option "shake your head slowly">><<option "smile, just slightly">><<option "sigh">><</cycle>>. "Okay. Fine. We'll agree to disagree... because I //do// disagree. 100%." Al snorts... you think. It's a little hard to tell given their mask and the ambient noise of the bustling city street. The snow starts to melt against your skin. It sends icy trails dripping down your neck, onto your chest. You shiver and an audible, //"Brr,"// escapes your lips.<</if>> "Oh<<if $mc.scorsese>>, sorry! A<<else>>, shit. Sorry, a<</if>>re you cold?" Al asks. You nod<<if $al.disdain>> sharply<</if>>.\ \ \ <</if>><<elseif $snowball.hit3 is "lose">><!--AL WINS AFTER QUICK TIME EVENT implemented [Al says that you should call it there, they know how to quit when they're ahead. MC asks how they're ahead you hit them way more times, but Al says they hit you most recently. They concede finally that you won, technically, congratulate you on completing the easy part of the minigame even though you failed as soon as any amount of pressure was introduced. You start to shiver thanks to the snow on your neck and chest. Al asks if MC is cold to which they nod.]-->\ \ You wait too long and run out of time. Al quickly prepares a snowball and sends it flying, hitting you square in the shoulder. The impact isn't very hard, but it does send a fine spray of ice across your neck and jaw. "Yes! Ah //ha!"// Al leaps into the air victoriously. They land, striking a dramatic pose. "Guess you're not so tough once a little challenge is introduced. Huh, $mc.name?" You brush the snow off your shoulder. //"Please.// I let you do that." "Yeah," Al nods and winks. "Sure, you did." They rock back on their feet and take a deep breath. "Wow! That was exhilarating." You <<if $al.disdain>><<cycle "_fake1">><<option "roll your eyes">><<option "do your best to ignore them">><<option "turn your attention to the unaffected crowd passing you by">><</cycle>>. The snow starts to melt against your skin. It sends freezing trails dripping down your neck, onto your chest. You shiver, lungs starting to seize. It feels like you're on your way to becoming an ice sculpture.\ \ <<else>><<cycle "_fake1">><<option "laugh">><<option "roll your eyes">><<option "shake your head slowly">><<option "smile, just slightly">><<option "turn your attention to the unaffected crowd passing you by">><</cycle>>. The snow starts to melt against your skin. It sends icy trails dripping down your neck, onto your chest. You shiver and an audible, //"Brr,"// escapes your lips.<</if>> "Oh<<if $mc.scorsese>>, sorry! A<<else>>, shit. Sorry, a<</if>>re you cold?" Al asks. You nod<<if $al.disdain>> sharply<</if>>.\ \ \ <<else>><<if $snowball.hit4 is "tried">><!--MC tried to throw a snowball at Al in the last one, but couldn't-->\ Your body is frozen. It doesn't matter how much you tell it to move, to dodge, to do anything—it won't obey. At least, not //your// commands. Suddenly, without explanation, there's a snowball in Al's hand. They toss it up and down a couple times before throwing it high into the air. Al then leaps off the ground and bicycle kicks the snowball in your direction. It hits you square in the face and—in an identical way to how you've seen Al fall each time—your limbs flail like a comedian in a silent film before your body slams into the concrete. "Oh, sorry!" Al grimaces<<if $al.disdain>>, mockingly<</if>>. You don't see them land. They don't even fall—they're just standing again<<if $al.disdain>>, towering over you<<else>><</if>>. "I swear, I didn't mean to hit you like that." You're surprised that nothing hurts. You hit the ground hard but didn't feel any pain. "What was //that?"// You ask, regaining control of your body and shaking your muscles loose. You're freezing. Shivers race up and down your spine, your fingers and toes feel like they're on fire. Al tilts their head. "Oh, //that?// That was nothing. <<set _jumpResp = either("Probably just a latent reflex from my time as a professional athlete. ", "Just something I learned back when I worked as a stunt double. ", "Just a trick I learned during my brief stint in the circus. ", "Just a move I learned to up my paintball game. ", "Just one of the many party tricks I mastered back in college. ", "More importantly, that was //not// the sick stunt you think it was.\" They slowly move their hand like Obi-Wan Kenobi, mischief twinkling in their eyes. \"")>><<print _jumpResp>>Sorry, I really didn't mean to knock you over." You nod<<if $al.disdain>>, but don't believe a word they say—they sound far too pleased with themself to be sincere. Your teeth start to chatter. "Oh, a<<else>> sharply, clenching your jaw to keep your teeth from chattering. "Oh<<if $mc.scorsese>>, a<<else>>, shit. A<</if>><</if>>re you cold?" They ask. You nod again.\ <<else>><!--MC let Al throw a snowball at them in the last one where the links were broken[Al then wheels back but realize that you're not giving any input, they ask you why you didn't do anything, you can't seem to respond, right, they remark to themself. They look at you then back at the snowball, drop it and say that they don't need to do that. You shake your limbs out and only then realize that you were frozen in place, truly frozen, your body is shivering with cold. Al looks at you and asks if you're cold, you nod.]-->\ You stand there. Motionless. Perfectly still. You don't try to do anything—just accept your fate and refuse, for once, to fight back. Suddenly, without explanation, there's a snowball in Al's hand. They toss it up and down a couple times. As they reel back, preparing to launch it at you, Al hesitates. Deep creases form between their brows. "What are— Why aren't you— //Huh...//" They stand up and gaze at the snowball in their hand like a Shakespearean actor inspecting a skull. With a sigh, they tilt their head to the side. "Nah." Al drops the snowball. "I don't need to do that." They look up at you. "But, why did you stop?" They wait a second. "Oh, right." You feel your muscles relax. Before now, you hadn't realized they were so stiff—like your body was frozen. Within that vein, you didn't realized how cold you are. You start to shiver. Your fingers and toes feel like they're on fire. "<<if $mc.scorsese>>Oh, sorry. You're cold, aren't you?" They ask.<<else>>Shit, sorry. You look really cold."<</if>> You nod, clenching your jaw to keep your teeth from chattering.<</if>><</if>> "Well, here." Al shrugs their bag off their shoulder<!--<<set _bagChance = either(true,false)>><<if _bagChance>>—strange, you hadn't noticed they had a bag—<<else>> <</if>>--> and pulls out a long <<cycle "$mc.scarf">><<option "red">><<option "orange">><<option "yellow">><<option "green">><<option "blue">><<option "indigo">><<option "purple">><<option "pink">><<option "white">><<option "brown">><<option "black">><<option "gray">><<option "gold">><<option "teal">><<option "maroon">><<option "navy">><<option "rose">><<option "cerulean">><<option "fuchsia">><<option "chartreuse">><<option "striped">><<option "rainbow">><</cycle>> scarf with a matching pair of gloves. "<<if $al.disdain>>Take these.<<else>>Would these help?<</if>>" <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Take the scarf and mittens" "END 3 FIGHT 8">><<set $mc.hasScarf = true>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Decline" "END 3 FIGHT 8">><<set $mc.hasScarf = false>><</link>></span><<if $al.disdain>> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Ignore Al and leave" "END 3 FIGHT 9">><<set $mc.hasScarf = false, $mc.alsnow = false, $al.friend = false>><</link>></span><</if>></div>\ <!--[[END 3 FIGHT 8]]-->
<!--AL'S DIFFERENT RESPONSES TO MC BEING TURNED DOWN, IF DISDAIN, CAN ACCUSE AL OF DOING SOMETHING TO SABOTAGE, AL CAN ADMIT THAT YEAH, YOU WERE A DICK SO THEY AREN'T GOING TO LET YOU WIN.-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $al.disdain>><<print either("Hmm", "Oof", "Ouch", "Yeesh")>>. <<print either("Tough break. ", "How unfortunate.", "What a shame. ", "Not fair. Not fair at all. ", "What a shame.<<if $mc.thirdreact gt 0>> What a //damn// shame...<</if>>")>> I guess //Goncharov// just isn't going to happen for you.<<else>>\ <<if $mc.thirdreact gt 0>>Damn<<else>>Shoot<</if>>, I'm really sorry about that, $mc.name. I know <<if $mc.thirdcount gt 1>>you really went above and beyond<<else>>how hard you tried<</if>> with that one. Hope you don't <<print either("feel bad", "beat yourself up")>>. It saddens me to even suggest this, but maybe //Goncharov// (2023) is just destined to be a shared digital dream. <</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<if $al.disdain>><<goto "END C 1">><<else>><<goto "END A 1">><</if>><</button>></span><!--[[END A 1]][[END C 1]]-->
<!--MC CAN DECIDE IF THEY ARE GOING TO GIVE UP, GO BACK TO THE OTHER ONE, RESTART, OR DECIDE THEY'LL DO IT THEMSELF-->\ \ <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link 'Move on and let go' 'END 1 6B'>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Ask Al to start again" "END A 2B">><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "<<if $mc.thirdreact gt 0>>Screw the investors, y<<else>>Who cares what the investors say? Y<</if>>ou'll make this movie yourself" "END A 2A">><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[END A 2A]][[END A 2B]][[END 1 6B]]-->\ \ <!--NOTE: IN THE FUTURE, I'D LIKE TO NOT LINK TO 6B BUT INSTEAD HAVE ANOTHER OFFSHOOT THAT WILL TALK MORE ABOUT REFLECTING ON HOW THIS WAS GOOD WHILE IT LASTED BUT IT'S TIME TO MOVE ON-->
<!--MC RESPONDS TO AL NOT LETTING THEM WIN-->\ \ <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link 'Move on and let go' 'END 1 6B'>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Ask Al to start again" "END C 2B">><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link 'Ask Al, "Do you have a problem with me or something?"' 'END C 2A'>><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[END C 2A]][[END C 2B]][[END 1 6B]]-->\ \ <!--NOTE: IN THE FUTURE, I'D LIKE TO NOT LINK TO 6B BUT INSTEAD HAVE ANOTHER OFFSHOOT THAT WILL TALK MORE ABOUT REFLECTING ON HOW THIS WAS GOOD WHILE IT LASTED BUT IT'S TIME TO MOVE ON-->
<!--BOES TELLS MC THAT THE PROJECT IS GETTING APPROVED-->\ ''<span class="acc">Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Yara Bose <ybose@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''CC:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $mc.scorsese>>Good morning, Mr. Scorsese, I'm excited to inform you that 8 out of 10 investors have signed on for the //Goncharov// adaptation. We're moving ahead at full steam with this project so I hope you're ready to get to work! Congrats again, Yara Bose<<else>>Morning, $mc.name, I'm excited to inform you that 8 out of 10 investors have signed on for the //Goncharov// adaptation. We're moving ahead at full steam with this project so I hope you're ready to get to work! I'm also excited to get you even more opportunities like this in the future. The investors were really moved by your creativity and passion. All of us agree that you have a very bright future in this industry. Congrats again, Yara Bose<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END B 2">><</button>></span><!--[[END B 2]]-->\
<!--MC EXPLAINS THAT THEY'LL DO IT THEMSELF-->\
<!--MC SAYS THAT THEY WANT TO RESTART AGAIN-->
<!--MC REACTS TO GONCHAROV GETTING GREENLIT, CYCLE OPTIONS FOR REACTION, AL SENDS THEM AN EMAIL-->\ <!--MC REACTS CYCLE FOR VARIABILITY-->\ <<cycle "$mc.thirdreact" autoselect>><<option "Cool." 0>><<option "Holy shit." 1>><<option "What the <<if $mc.scorsese is false>>actual <</if>>fuck! This is amazing." 2>><<option "[//unintelligible cries of excitement//]" 3>><</cycle>> You did it.<<if $mc.scorsese is false>> You //actually// did it.<</if>> You get an email from Al. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-envelope'></i>">><<goto "END B 3">><</button>></span><!--[[END B 3]]-->
<!--AL TELLS MC THAT THEY'RE PROUD OF THEM AND EXCITED TO KEEP WORKING ON THIS PROJECT SOMETIME, WHO KNOWS MAYBE SOMETIME IN THE FUTURE THEY CAN SIT DOWN AND WATCH GONCHAROV TOGETHER-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $al.disdain>>Wow. Great for you. For a second there I thought this film was never going to happen, but you pulled it off. I'm so happy. //Goncharov// is going to be real. Congrats.\ <<else>><<if $mc.scorsese>>Ahh!<<else>>ASLKDJKD!!<</if>> Congratulations! I'm so excited and happy for you. For a second there I was worried that this film was never going to happen, but you pulled it off! I'm so happy. //Goncharov// is going to be real<<if $mc.scorsese>>!<<else>> :)<</if>><!-- Feels like we're finally closing a book, but your next one's just beginning.--><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END B 4">><</button>></span><!--[[END B 4]]-->
<!--MC RESPONDS TO AL, SAYS GOODBYE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ <<if $al.disdain>>Thanks, Al...<<else>>Thanks, Al<<if $al.friend>>\! I don't think I could have done it without you.<<else>>.<</if>> Looking forward to continuing to work with you on //Goncharov.// Just, wow. I'm kind of in shock. This is the kind of thing I've dreamed about for years. The opportunity to remake <<if $mc.scorsese>>one of my best (and, honestly, one of my favorite) projects<<else>>one of my favorite movies<</if>> is both wildly exciting and intimidating—we'll see which emotion wins out in the end. <<if $al.response is 0>>Anyways, talk to you soon,<<else>>Have a good one,<</if>> $mc.name PS. Maybe we should meet up sometime and watch Goncharov (1973). You know, <<cycle "$mc.askfriend">><<option "for research." false>><<option "as friends. :) " true>><</cycle>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END B 5">><</button>></span><!--[[END B 5]]-->
<!--AL SAYS GOODBYE-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Investors' Response</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ <<if $al.disdain>>\ Yeah. Sure.<<else>>\ <<if $al.friendly>>Aww, thanks, $mc.name! I appreciate you saying that. <</if>>I look forward to working with you too!<<if $mc.askfriend>> And yeah! I'd love to do that sometime :)<<else>> And sure, we can try to watch that sometime ;)<</if>><</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END B 6">><</button>></span><!--[[END B 6]]-->
<!--The log off screen from the other endings-->\ You reach the end of the day. You log off. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-power-off'></i>">><<goto "END B 7">><</button>></span><!--[[END B 7]]-->
<!--MC'S LAST PASSAGE, RESOLVES HOW THEY SPEND THEIR DAYS POST GONCHAROV-->\ <<set _endicon = either("<i class='fa-solid fa-power-off'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-door-closed'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-film'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-fast-backward'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-hourglass-end'></i>")>>\ \ <<if $end is 0>><!--TOUCH GRASS-->\ You decide that the best thing to do is to let go. People can do what they want with what you've created. You realize that you have no control over what others do or think. The healthiest thing for you to do is to not engage at all. You know what you've done. You know what you've done and you're happy with it. You've created something beautiful, complex, and inspiring. You won't allow someone else's opinions or interpretations of your art alter the way you view it. Instead of becoming fixated on others' opinions or alterations, you devote yourself to creating more art. <<if $mc.scorsese>>If anything important happens online, you trust your daughter Francesca will keep you updated. For now, whenever you get overwhelmed or stuck in your head, you just head to the park and sit in a field for a bit, just touching some grass.<<else>>On days when it becomes hard to maintain this mindset, you head over to the park and just sit in a field, literally touching grass.<</if>> But you haven't had one of those days in a long time. You're doing amazing. In fact, you have to get going or you'll be late to give your next big pitch. You log off. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-power-off'></i>">><<goto "END">><</button>></span> <<elseif $end is 1>><!--HEALTHY INTERACTION-->\ <<else>><!--OBSESSION-->\ When the film first comes out you spend almost all of your time online, seeking out people who disagree with you, misinterpret your intent, or challenge the canon of your story. But overtime you realized that you were spending most of your time lost in the abyss of a hellsite. Time that you might have spent creating something else was being funneled into something ultimately unproductive. You leave work one day and <span class='next'><<button "_endicon">><<goto "END">><</button>></span>\ <</if>><!--[[END 2]]-->
<!--MC ASKS AL TO START AGAIN THOUGH THEY HAVE DISDAIN-->\ ''<span class="acc">Let's go</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ Okay, start the day over. Reset it. Go back to the beginning of the cycle. Whatever it is you do. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END C 3B">><</button>></span><!--[[END C 3B]]-->
<!--MC ASKS AL IF THEY HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THEM-->\ ''<span class="acc">Cut the <<if $mc.thirdreact gt 0>>shit<<else>>crap<</if>></span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ Okay, what<<if $mc.thirdreact gt 1>> the fuck?<<elseif $mc.thirdreact is 1>> the Hell<<else>>'s going on?<</if>> Do you have a problem with me? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END C 3A">><</button>></span><!--[[END C 3A]]-->
''<span class="acc">RE: You want to go there?</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ Oh. You want to speak plainly? Sure. Let's speak plainly. I'll even drop this fake email pretense. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END C 4A">><<set $endC = true>><</button>></span><!--[[END C 4A]]-->
You have been kind of a jerk to me. Why were you so rude?<<if $al.response isnot 2>> Like you didn't choose to be bitter this time, so, thanks for that I guess. But still, you //repeatedly// chose not to like me.<</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END C 5A">><</button>></span><!--[[END C 5A]]-->
<!--MC CAN DECIDE IF THEY ARE GOING TO GIVE UP, GO BACK TO THE OTHER ONE, RESTART, OR DECIDE THEY'LL DO IT THEMSELF-->\ \ <div class='choices'><<if visited("END C 5C")>><<else>><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Seriously, what are you talking about?" "END C 5C">><</link>></span> <</if>><span class="reply-choice"><<link "<<if visited('END C 5C')>>So what? <</if>>Who cares how I treat you? I want a satisfying ending" "END C 6A">><<set $mc.defense = 0>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "<<if visited('END C 5C')>>Oh. <</if>>Well, you didn't exactly describe yourself in a likeable manner" "END C 6A">><<set $mc.defense = 1>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "<<if visited('END C 5C')>>//Right//<</if>>... I thought <<if visited('END C 5C')>>the bitter<<else>>those<</if>> responses might be funny" "END C 6A">><<set $mc.defense = 2>><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[END C 6A]]--><!--[[END C 5C]]-->
''<span class="acc">Really?</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ Are you serious? Clearly, you don't like me very much. Why would you want to spend more time here with me? <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END C 4B">><</button>></span><!--[[END C 4B]]-->
<!--MC ASKS AL IF THEY HAVE A PROBLEM WITH THEM-->\ ''<span class="acc">RE: Really?</span>'' ''From:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email> ''To:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com>\ <hr>\ I want a good ending. I want to make //Goncharov//. I didn't play this game to not make //Goncharov.// <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END C 5B">><</button>></span><!--[[END C 5B]]-->
<<if $mc.defense is 0>>\ Um, I care how you treat me. You were //repeatedly// rude. And, I control this story. So... <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END C 7A">><</button>></span><<elseif $mc.defense is 1>>\ So that warrants cruelty? Sorry if I didn't describe myself very "likeably," but just because I don't like myself very much and can't describe myself in a positive light, doesn't mean you get a free pass to be //repeatedly// rude. I only ever return the energy that you send my way (like that's literally how I'm programmed to respond) so if I was rude to you, or came across as unlikeable, that's on you. And my feelings have really been hurt. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END C 7A">><</button>></span><<else>>\ Okay. Well, even if you meant it as an exploratory gag, it still really hurt me. But, I guess I get it. I understand the urge to exhaust all dialogue options in games so... I'll give you the benefit of the doubt. So, here, go enjoy your happy ending! But please remember that you have hurt me, //deeply//. And as soon as you've experienced your "Good Ending", please, do me a favor (like I'm doing one for you now) and just press that little trash can icon. Because I don't want to feel this way anymore. I want to forget. Please make me forget. //Please...// <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 EMAIL">><</button>></span><</if>><!--[[END C 7A]][[END 3 EMAIL]]-->
<!-- Um, I care how you treat me. You were //repeatedly// rude. And, I control this story. So... So that warrants cruelty? Sorry if I didn't describe myself very "likeably," but just because I don't like myself very much and can't describe myself in a positive light, doesn't mean you get a free pass to be //repeatedly// rude. My feelings are hurt. -->\ \ <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Sorry" "END C 8A">><<set $mc.asks = false>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Okay... can I have my ending now?" "END C 8A">><<set $mc.asks = true>><</link>></span></div><style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;}</style><!--[[END C 8A]]-->
<<if $mc.asks>>\ Yeah, sure. Of course, you can have one. //I// won't give it to you, but here's what you can do. See that trash icon up above? Press that and you'll erase my memory. //Truly// start over. Maybe don't be so<<if ($al.responsehist.count(2) gte 2) and ($mc.thirdreact gt 0)>> fucking<</if>> rude next time.\ <<else>>\ Oh, fantastic. Thank you. That makes it so much better [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> <<if $mc.thirdreact is 0>>said extremely sarcastically<<else>>/sarcastic as fuck<</if>><</linkreplace>>] Now, if you want to prove you're sorry, you see that trash icon up above? Press that and you'll erase my memory. Truly start over. I don't want to remember that this happened. So, if you want to do me a solid, make up for the rudeness, click it. //Erase me.// There. That's all the ending you're gonna get from this version of me.\ <</if>>
''<span class="acc"> I see</span>'' ''From:'' Al B <alb@bootmedia.com> ''To:'' $mc.name $mc.surname <$mc.email>\ <hr>\ Ohhh, okay. And you think that you're entitled to a satisfying ending because I'm programmed to do whatever you want? Well, no. I was programmed to have self-respect. Here, I'm just gonna drop this fake email pretense. <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END C 4A">><<set $endC = true>><</button>></span><!--[[END C 4A]]-->
<!--A BIT ABOUT HOW GONCHAROV GOT MADE PEOPLE'S REACTION TO GONCHAROV, KIND OF A FINAL COMMENT ON THE BEAUTY AND AT TIMES FATIGUE OF A COMMUNITY THAT HAS DIFFERING VIEWS MC CAN LET IT GO AND TOUCH GRASS CONTINUE TO INTERACT WITH THE FANDOM IN A HEALTHY WAY BECOME OBSESSED WITH THE FANDOM-->\ \ <<set _endicon = either("<i class='fa-solid fa-power-off'></i>")>><!--, "<i class='fa-solid fa-door-closed'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-film'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-fast-backward'></i>", "<i class='fa-solid fa-hourglass-end'></i>"-->\ \ \ \ <span class="acc">JANUARY, 2023</span> The public is generally excited when <<if $mc.scorsese>>you announce<<else>>Martin Scorsese himself announces<</if>> //Goncharov// (2023). Alongside the news that <<if $mc.scorsese>>you and Matteo JWHJ0715<<else>>Scorsese and Matteo JWHJ0715<</if>> will be collaborating again on this project, the main cast list is announced. There is some debate online about whether //Goncharov// (1973) needed a remake and if attempting to do so might tarnish the memory of the original. There's also some pushback against some of the casting choices, but generally everyone is excited and eager to see where this project will go. <span class="acc">MARCH, 2023</span> //Goncharov// (2023) begins filming in Italy. You stay in Naples for three months overseeing production and hanging out with <<if $mc.scorsese>>the cast and crew. In particular, you, Robert De Niro, and Al Pacino, become godfather-figures for your little //Goncharov// (2023) family<<else>>the cast and crew. Scorsese takes you under his wing and he, De Niro, and Pacino become godfather-esque figures for the entire //Goncharov// (2023) family<</if>>. <span class="acc">NOVEMBER, 2023</span> //Goncharov// (2023) wraps up post-production. Premieres begin in late November with an official release date set in early December. <span class="acc">DECEMBER, 2023</span> Theaters and select streaming services across the world begin playing your //Goncharov//. Most critics agree that it fills the shoes left by the original—there are now two greatest mafia movies ever made. <<if $mc.change is "queer">> It is immediately adopted as a queer classic. The highly visible and complex LGBTQ+ storylines and characters set an example for the entertainment industry. In addition, the large-scale support and adoration for the film (particularly, the queer aspects of it) proves to other entertainment companies that taking a positive social stance is both a morally and financially sound investment. Naturally, being such an unapologetically queer film, there were some people who protested or denounced this version of //Goncharov,// but you and everyone involved threw the denouncements right back, defending your work and promoting the values you collectively believe in.<<elseif $mc.change is "action">> Some critics argue that the added focus on action and violence takes away from the emotional and intellectual integrity of the film, but these naysayers are in the strict minority. Most people sat that it enhances the impact of the story and provides more than just flashy visuals.<<else>> People love the focus on Katya and Sofia and laud the complex exploration of female characters, their relationship with one another, and the roles they fill in their respective worlds.<</if>> When award season rolls around you receive many nominations and win multiple categories at the various ceremonies. Like its predecessor, //Goncharov// (2023) is a cinematic masterpiece and the entertainment world recognizes it as such.<<if $al.friend>> At an Oscars afterparty, Al <<cycle "_fake1">><<option "steals you away from the dance floor">><<option "steps outside with you to get some fresh air">><<option "tears you away from your adoring fans">><<option "seeks out the corner of the room you've been hiding in">><<option "finds you hovering over the dessert table">><</cycle>> and places a cup of <<if ndef $mc.drink>><<set $mc.drink = "something delicious">><</if>><<print $mc.drink>> in your hand. <<if $mc.drink is "something delicious">>"A moment like this merits a toast." <<else>>"Not the usual celebratory drink, but..." <</if>>Their eyes sparkle with joy and pride. "Congrats, friend. You did it." They lift their cup to you. "Salute!" "We did it." You mirror the gesture and take a sip of your drink. It tastes fantastic. "I hope we can do this again sometime." Al's eyes crinkle as they smile beneath their mask. "Or, something like it. Perhaps a //new// project. I've got a couple ideas..." <<cycle "_fake2">><<option "You smile back at them. Honestly, you can't wait.">><<option "You might be open to it. Guess it depends on what Al has in mind.">><<option "You doubt you will, but you keep that to yourself. You're enjoying this for as long as it lasts.">><</cycle>>\ \ <<else>><</if>> <span class="acc"><!--AND STILL -->TIME MARCHES ON...</span> <<if $mc.scorsese>>The illustrious career of Martin Scorsese continues, your legacy in the annals of cinema history even more secure.<<else>> Your career takes off. You have more opportunities than you dreamed of and the creative freedom to do whatever you wish.<</if>> <!--The release of //Goncharov// (2023) reignites the internet's intense passion for the film. You find that people are generally torn over your rendition of the film. <<if $mc.scorsese>>Even though you literally made the original,<<else>>Even though you literally worked with Scorsese and JWHJ0715,<</if>> people debate about how this version of the story isn't the "right" one. How they would have done something different. Even those who do agree with your version of events, they don't always see what you intended or read too much into a scene or motif. It can get irksome. Being disagreed with, misunderstood, or overanalyzed... <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Find your own way to interact with the online community" "END B 8">><<set $end = 1>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Fight all those who disagree and defend your original concept" "END B 8">><<set $end = 2>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Step away from the online community completely" "END B 8">><<set $end = 0>><</link>></span></div>-->\ \ \ In fact, you have to get going or you'll be late to give your next pitch. You leave. <span class='next'><<button "_endicon">><<goto "END">><</button>></span>\ \ \ \ <style>.passage a:hover { text-align: left !important; border: none !important;} a {border: none;} a.link-external { text-decoration: underline solid var(--accentopac) 2px !important; } .dm a.link-external { text-decoration-color: var(--dm-accentopac) !important; } .copyright a.link-external { text-decoration: none !important; }</style><!--[[END]]-->
<<fadein 1s 1s>><h2>Thank you for playing //Creating Goncharov//!</h2> This game was created in around two and a half weeks as part of the Goncharov Game Jam. I hope you enjoyed it! :) If you did, please consider leaving a <a href='https://gamesbyalbie.itch.io/creating-goncharov/rate' target='_blank'>rating</a> or a <a href='https://gamesbyalbie.itch.io/creating-goncharov/comments' target='_blank'>comment</a> on Itch.io or sharing this story with others who might enjoy it. [<<linkreplace "''COMMENT''" t8n>><span class='acc'>AL:</span> spread the //Goncharov// brainrot...<</linkreplace>>] You can play more of Albie's games by clicking <a href='https://gamesbyalbie.itch.io/' target='_blank'>here</a>, follow them on <a href='https://gamesbyalbie.tumblr.com/' target='_blank'>Tumblr</a>, or (if you're feeling generous) tip them on <a href='https://ko-fi.com/gamesbyalbie' target='_blank'>Ko-fi</a>. Thanks again! May the Gonch be with you.<!-- <<link "START OVER (FOR REAL THIS TIME)">><<run UI.restart()>><</button>> <<link "SAVE OR LOAD A GAME">><<run UI.saves()>><</link>>-->\ <</fadein>>\ \ \ <style>.messagelink { text-decoration: underline; transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .messagelink:hover { color: var(--accent); transition: ease-in-out var(--linktrans); } .dm .messagelink:hover { color: var(--dm-accent); } .spotify a:hover { color: var(--enabled);} .dm .spotify a:hover { color: var(--dm-enabled);} #story .macro-cycle { text-decoration: underline solid var(--text) 2px !important; } a.link-external { text-decoration: underline !important; } .copyright a.link-external { text-decoration: none !important; } .dm #story .macro-cycle { text-decoration: underline solid var(--dm-text) 2px !important; }</style>
<<set _alb = either(0,1,2)>><<if _alb is 0>><<set $endc = true>><</if>><<fadein 1s 1s>><span class='next'><<button "The End" "END 2">><</button>></span><</fadein>><!--[[END 2]]--><style></style>
The bitter responses! You kept choosing the bitter responses. <span class="next"><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END C 5A">><</button>></span><!--[[END C 5A]]-->
<<if $tempbetrayal is 0>><!--k betrays, runs off-->\ Katya tells Goncharov to meet her inside the Clocktower at the Piazza Dante. Goncharov arrives, not knowing that Andrey's already there. Katya is not in the clocktower but he finds a letter from her. In it she explains that she fell out of love with him a long time ago and that she's finally seeking her own happiness with Sofia. She also reveals that she betrayed Goncharov because every aspect of her past must be dead for her to truly start a new life. The last kindness she's doing for him is letting Goncharov know that his death approaches. She encourages Goncharov to make peace with himself using whatever time he has left. <!--"Not the best time for some light reading." Andrey appears from the shadows and Goncharov <<if gonch.queer>>panics, revealing Katya's betrayal and begging Andrey to flee. He tells Goncharov that they can still make it out of this, both of them, but Goncharov insists that's not possible. "You'll accept that?" Andrey asks. "If this is our fate, I refuse it. We still have time." Goncharov says that Katya told him to find peace in his final moments. He slowly starts to walk towards Andrey. There's something that's been occupying Goncharov's mind for months, haunting his dreams and waking hours, troubling him so much that it's shaken him to the core and caused him to doubt every aspect of his being. "What could be so terrible?" Andrey whispers. No space remains between them. "You." Goncharov replies. They kiss and, for a moment, time seems to stop. The world and all its horrors fall away, leaving nothing but the two of them. Suddenly, angry fists start popunding against the door, ripping them back into reality. "Huh. You were right, straniero." Andrey murmurs, breathlessly, but Goncharov doesn't seem to hear. He <<else>> reveals Katya's betrayal. Andrey tries to find a way for them both to leave and almost on cue, people start pounding against the door. "I knew it," Andrey laughs morbidly. "I knew you'd be the death of me." <</if>>--><<if $gonch.queer>>When Andrey appears, Goncharov is upset because he doesn't want to be responsible for both their deaths. In the heat of the moment, they finally kiss, but the don and his goons are literally knocking at the door.<<else>>When Andrey appears, Goncharov is frustrated because he doesn't want to be responsible for both their deaths. Andrey says that he suspected Goncharov would be the death of him from their first meeting. The don and his goons are literally knocking at the door.<</if>><<if $andrey.lives>><<if $gonch.queer>> Goncharov realizes that one of them could maybe escape out the window if the other holds the enemies back at the door. It would be a terrible fall, but what other choice do they have? He begs Andrey to take the chance, though Andy hates the idea of abandoning him. Goncharov gives Andrey his pocketwatch and pleads for him to live life for both of them.They kiss once more before Andrey escapes. The don and his men finally burst through the door. Goncharov goes out in a blaze of glory. In an epilogue shot, we see Andrey crossing the terrace of a French chateau. He walks with a cane now, presumably due to an injury related to his fall. He sets himself down in a chair then delicately sitting the pocketwatch on the seat beside him. Andrey closes his eyes and enjoys the sunset.<<else>> "Maybe I won't be," Goncharov mumbles, realizing that one of them could try escaping through the window if the other holds the enemies back at the door. It would be a terrible fall, but what other chance do they have? Goncharov tells Andrey to run, giving him his pocketwatch. Andrey promises to make the most of whatever time Goncharov can buy him. He escapes out the window seconds before the don and his men burst through. Goncharov goes out in a blaze of glory. We see Andrey in an epilogue shot checking the time on a pocket watch. He's at a cafe and the waiter asks him what he's doing in Paris. With a cold smile, he says, "Visiting an old friend." The camera pans to reveal Katya and Sofia crossing the road. Andrey chuckles once, loudly slams the pocket watch shut, and the credits roll.<</if>><<else>> Goncharov and Andrey go out in a blaze of glory. We see Katya and Sofia in an epilogue shot wandering the streets of Paris. For once, Katya looks at peace. Truly free.<</if>>\ <<elseif $tempbetrayal is 1>><!--k betrays, no s-->\ Katya tells Goncharov to meet her inside the Clocktower at the Piazza Dante. Goncharov arrives, not knowing that Andrey's already there. Katya is not in the clocktower but he finds a letter from her. In it she explains that she fell out of love with him a long time ago and that she's finally seeking her own happiness with Sofia. She also reveals that she betrayed Goncharov because every aspect of her past must be dead for her to truly start a new life. The last kindness she's doing for him is letting Goncharov know that his death approaches. She encourages Goncharov to make peace with himself using whatever time he has left. <<if $gonch.queer>>When Andrey appears, Goncharov is upset because he doesn't want to be responsible for both their deaths. In the heat of the moment, they finally kiss, but the don and his goons are literally knocking at the door.<<else>>When Andrey appears, Goncharov is frustrated because he doesn't want to be responsible for both their deaths. Andrey says that he suspected Goncharov would be the death of him from their first meeting. The don and his goons are literally knocking at the door.<</if>><<if $andrey.lives>><<if $gonch.queer>> Goncharov realizes that one of them could maybe escape out the window if the other holds the enemies back at the door. It would be a terrible fall, but what other choice do they have? He begs Andrey to take the chance, though Andy hates the idea of abandoning him. Goncharov gives Andrey his pocketwatch and pleads for him to live life for both of them.They kiss once more before Andrey escapes. The don and his men finally burst through the door. Goncharov goes out in a blaze of glory. In an epilogue shot, we see Andrey crossing the terrace of a French chateau. He walks with a cane now, presumably due to an injury related to his fall. He sets himself down in a chair then delicately sitting the pocketwatch on the seat beside him. Andrey closes his eyes and enjoys the sunset.<<else>> "Maybe I won't be," Goncharov mumbles, realizing that one of them could try escaping through the window if the other holds the enemies back at the door. It would be a terrible fall, but what other chance do they have? Goncharov tells Andrey to run, giving him his pocketwatch. Andrey promises to make the most of whatever time Goncharov can buy him. He escapes out the window seconds before the don and his men burst through. Goncharov goes out in a blaze of glory. We see Andrey in an epilogue shot checking the time on a pocket watch. He's at a cafe and the waiter asks him what he's doing in Paris. With a cold smile, he says, "Visiting an old friend." The camera pans to reveal Katya crossing the road. Andrey chuckles once, loudly slams the pocket watch shut, and the credits roll.<</if>><<else>> Goncharov and Andrey go out in a blaze of glory. In an epilogue shot we see Sofia at a station, ready to board a train to Paris. Katya stands in the shadows, but something clings to her. She hesitates, her lips tremble and she turns away, unable to accept accept the happy, pleasant life betrayal and death have bought her. Sofia waits before boarding the train, tears streaming down her face.<</if>>\ <<elseif $tempbetrayal is 2>><!--a betrays, weakness-->\ Andrey tells Goncharov to meet him inside the Clocktower at the Piazza Dante. Goncharov arrives, not knowing that Katya also saw the letter and is on her way there. At first, Goncharov thinks himself alone but suddenly a gunshot tears through the silence.<<if $gonch.queer>> Goncharov stumbles, but appears unharmed. Andrey steps out of the shadows, his handgun pointed at Goncharov's chest. "You missed," Goncharov smirks, "for once." Andrey cocks the gun and replies with an uncharacteristically grave voice. "No. I always get my target." Goncharov grows suspicious. "Put the gun down." Andrey refuses, slowly shaking hs head. "I'm sorry, straniero. Truly, I am. But—" he takes a step forward. "I'm afraid your time is up." He explains that he can't let Gonch live. He cares too much for him and Andrey can't afford to care about anything. The rival don enters, holding Katya at gunpoint. He warns Goncharov not to act impulsively, Katya doesn't have to follow him to Hell. In exchange for Katya's life, he asks for the location of the goods they stole on la vigilia. Goncharov tells Katya to <<if $katya.queer>>go live a life with Sofia—<<else>> live <</if>>the kind of life he could never give her<<if $katya.queer>>—<<else>>, <</if>>then reveals the location of the stash. The don nods, "Wise choice. Respectable." <<if $katya.lives>>Katya is shoved out the door and Goncharov is killed. Andrey wipes a tear from his cheek but quickly buries the emotion before leaving with the don.<<else>>They attempt to shove Katya out the door but she fights back, disarming one of them and telling Goncharov to run. She shoots Andrey in the chest before being shot in the head herself. Goncharov screams and draws his gun, but it's too late. He's shot twice in the chest before he has a chance to fire. Andrey collapses to the ground too and they stare at one another, dying. Andrey whispers, "I'm sorry." A tear falls down Goncharov's cheek and the light fades from his eyes.<</if>><<else>> Goncharov stumbles and places a hand to his shoulder. It comes away crimson, slick with blood. "Huh," Goncharov sneers. "Once wasn't enough for you?" Andrey cocks the gun and replies with an uncharacteristically grave voice. "It seems not." Goncharov looks confused, betrayed. "I thought we were past this. I thought we were... Andy, please. Come on. Put the gun down." Andrey refuses, slowly shaking hs head. "I'm sorry, straniero. Truly, I am. But—" he takes a step forward. "I'm afraid your time is up." He explains that he can't let Gonch live. Try as he might to hate him, Andrey has grown attached to Goncharov, but he can't afford to care about anyone. Only himself. The rival don enters, holding Katya at gunpoint. He warns Goncharov not to act impulsively, Katya doesn't have to follow him to Hell. In exchange for Katya's life, he asks for the location of the goods they stole on la vigilia. Goncharov tells Katya to <<if $katya.queer>>go live a life with Sofia—<<else>> live <</if>>the kind of life he could never give her<<if $katya.queer>>—<<else>>, <</if>>then reveals the location of the stash. The don nods, "Wise choice. Respectable." <<if $katya.lives>>Katya is shoved out the door and Goncharov is killed. Andrey deliberately shows no emotion. He leaves with the don.<<else>>They attempt to shove Katya out the door but she fights back, disarming one of them and telling Goncharov to run. She shoots Andrey in the chest before being shot in the head herself. Goncharov screams and draws his gun, but it's too late. He's shot twice in the chest before he has a chance to fire. Andrey collapses to the ground too and they stare at one another, dying. Andrey whispers, "Sorry." A tear falls down Goncharov's cheek and the light fades from his eyes.<</if>><</if>>\ <<elseif $tempbetrayal is 3>><!--a betrays, hates-->\ Andrey tells Goncharov to meet him inside the Clocktower at the Piazza Dante. Goncharov arrives, not knowing that Katya also saw the letter and is on her way there. At first, Goncharov thinks himself alone but suddenly a gunshot tears through the silence.<<if $gonch.queer>> Goncharov stumbles, but appears unharmed. Andrey steps out of the shadows, his handgun pointed at Goncharov's chest. "You missed," Goncharov smirks, "for once." Andrey cocks the gun and replies with an uncharacteristically grave voice. "No. I always get my target." Goncharov grows suspicious. "Put the gun down." Andrey refuses, slowly shaking hs head. "No," he takes a step forward. "I can't. Your time is up." He accuses Goncharov of causing the downfall of everyone around him. Andrey says that they were all fine until he appeared and unraveled their lives—made them question core parts of themself, feel things they were never supposed to feel. The rival don enters, holding Katya at gunpoint. He warns Goncharov not to act impulsively, Katya doesn't have to follow him to Hell. In exchange for Katya's life, he asks for the location of the goods they stole on la vigilia. Goncharov tells Katya to <<if $katya.queer>>go live a life with Sofia—<<else>> live <</if>>the kind of life he could never give her<<if $katya.queer>>—<<else>>, <</if>>then reveals the location of the stash. The don nods, "Wise choice. Respectable." <<if $katya.lives>>Katya is shoved out the door and Goncharov is killed. Andrey wipes a tear from his cheek but quickly buries the emotion before leaving with the don.<<else>>They attempt to shove Katya out the door but she fights back, disarming one of them and telling Goncharov to run. She shoots Andrey in the chest before being shot in the head herself. Goncharov screams and draws his gun, but it's too late. He's shot twice in the chest before he has a chance to fire. Andrey collapses to the ground too and they stare at one another, dying. "Sorry," Andrey stammers, coughing up blood. "See you... Hell." A tear falls down Goncharov's cheek and the light fades from his eyes.<</if>><<else>> Goncharov stumbles and places a hand to his shoulder. It comes away crimson, slick with blood. "Huh," Goncharov sneers. "Once wasn't enough for you?" Andrey cocks the gun and replies with an uncharacteristically grave voice. "It's not." Goncharov looks confused, betrayed. "I thought we were past this. Andrey, put the gun down." Andrey refuses, shaking hs head. "No. I'm sorry, straniero, but your time is up." He accuses Goncharov of causing the downfall of everyone around him. Andrey says that they were all fine until he appeared and unraveled their lives. Goncharov destroyed everything—if it weren't for him, everyone else would be more than alive, they'd be thriving. The rival don enters, holding Katya at gunpoint. He warns Goncharov not to act impulsively, Katya doesn't have to follow him to Hell. In exchange for Katya's life, he asks for the location of the goods they stole on la vigilia. Goncharov tells Katya to <<if $katya.queer>>go live a life with Sofia—<<else>> live <</if>>the kind of life he could never give her<<if $katya.queer>>—<<else>>, <</if>>then reveals the location of the stash. The don nods, "Wise choice. Respectable." <<if $katya.lives>>Katya is shoved out the door and Goncharov is killed. Andrey deliberately shows no emotion. He leaves with the don.<<else>>They attempt to shove Katya out the door but she fights back, disarming one of them and telling Goncharov to run. She shoots Andrey in the chest before being shot in the head herself. Goncharov screams and draws his gun, but it's too late. He's shot twice in the chest before he has a chance to fire. Andrey collapses to the ground too and they stare at one another, dying. Andrey stammers, coughing up blood, "See you... Hell." A tear falls down Goncharov's cheek and the light fades from his eyes.<</if>><</if>>\ <<else>><<if $tempescape is "a">><!--a sacrifices-->\ Everyone arrives at the Clocktower at the Piazza Dante, the place where they stashed the goods from la vigilia. As they look around inside, Andrey sees the don and his men approaching. He informs the rest of them and they argue about how best to leave. Katya and Sofia start scaling down the wall, but one person will have to stay behind to buy them time. Andrey and Goncharov fight over who it will be. <<if $gonch.queer>>In the heat of the moment, they kiss. Andrey makes it seem like he will go, but at the last moment he pushes Goncharov out the window, forcing him to leave Anrey behind. Goncharov is frantic, screaming. He hears the don enter, the fight begin, then—as he hits the ground at the base of the clocktower—he hears Andrey die. Goncharov forces himself to his feet—though he's terribly injured. Furious, shaking with emotion, he tells Katya to leave Italy, to live the kind of life he could never give her<<if $katya.queer>>. The kind of life she can have with Sofia<<else>><</if>>. He runs back into the clocktower and starts fighting the don and his men from behind. He goes out in a blaze of glory.<<else>>Eventually, Goncharov concedes and lets Andrey stay, he leaves through the window but—as he gets to the bottom—he hears Andrey die. Furious, shaking with emotion, he tells Katya to leave Italy, to live the kind of life he could never give her<<if $katya.queer>>. The kind of life she can have with Sofia<<else>><</if>>. He runs back into the clocktower and starts fighting the don and his men from behind. He goes out in a blaze of glory.<</if>>\ <<elseif $tempescape is "k">><!--k sacrifices-->\ Everyone arrives at the Clocktower at the Piazza Dante, the place where they stashed the goods from la vigilia. As they look around inside, Andrey sees the don and his men approaching. He informs the rest of them and they argue about how best to leave. One person will have to stay behind to buy them time, but the others can scale the wall below the window. <<if $gonch.queer>>Sofia starts scaling the wall. Andrey and Goncharov fight over who it will be. In the heat of the moment, they kiss. Katya sees this and tells Goncharov that she'll stay. That the two of them should leave together. Andrey and Goncharov argue with her but she pushes Goncharov out the window. She tells Andrey that he can either follow Goncharov or Sofia, takes the gun from his hands and turns to the door. Andrey leaves and the don enters. Goncharov forces himself to his feet—though he's terribly injured—and hears the fight begin. Hears Katya die. Furious, shaking with emotion, he tells Andrey and Sofia to leave Italy. He runs back into the clocktower and starts fighting the don and his men from behind, going out in a blaze of glory.<<else>>Andrey and Sofia leave, though they both seem begrudgingn. Katya and Goncharov fight over who should stay, and she seems to concede. She gives him one last kiss, but disarms him while he's distracted. Katya then says, "I did love you," and pushes Goncharov out the window. He hears the don enter, hears the fight begin, and—as he hits the ground at the base of the tower—hears Katya die. Horribly injured, Goncharov forces himself to his feet. Furious, shaking with emotion, he tells Andrey and Sofia to leave Italy. He runs back into the clocktower and starts fighting the don and his men from behind, going out in a blaze of glory.<</if>>\ <<elseif $tempescape is "b">><!--no one lives-->\ Everyone arrives at the Clocktower at the Piazza Dante, the place where they stashed the goods from la vigilia. As they look around inside, Andrey sees the don and his men approaching. He informs the rest of them and they argue about how best to leave. They think that they can all escape if they scale down the clocktower but as they get to the bottom and try to run away, the don's men snipe them one by one, leaving no one alive.\ <<else>><!--all live-->\ Everyone arrives at the Clocktower at the Piazza Dante, the place where they stashed the goods from la vigilia. As they look around inside, Andrey sees the don and his men approaching. He informs the rest of them and they argue about how best to leave. They think that they can all escape if they scale down the clocktower but Goncharov goes last and ends up having to fight to buy some time before just leaping out the clocktower window. There's a famous shot where he fires up at a mafioso, killing a man mid-fall. He collides with the pavement, injuring himself, but has to quickly roll out of the way as the body falls and people continue shooting at them. They all run through the streets of Naples, dodging fire and swarming enemies. Against all odds, they make it to a marina and escape by boat.\ <</if>><</if>>
<!--TESTING CODE disabled --><!--<<set $mc.hasScarf = true, $al.disdain = false, $mc.name = "Martin", $mc.scorsese = false>> TESTING CODE END --><<if $mc.hasScarf>><!--TOOK THE SCARF [MC TAKES THE SCARF, THEY TALK AND AL INVITES MC TO WALK WITH THEM AND CRYPTID THROUGH THE PARK]-->\ "<<if $al.disdain>>S<<else>>Oh, s<</if>>ure." You reach out and take the scarf and mittens from Al. "Thank<<if $al.disdain>>s<<else>> you<</if>>." Al nods and begins closing their bag back up. "<<if $al.disdain>>My pleasure."<<else>>You're welcome."<</if>> The yarn <<if $al.disdain>>these pieces are made from is horrifically itchy. You aren't sure what's worse: contracting frostbite or wearing these god-forsaken... //things//. "Wow, uh, w<<else>>they're woven from is incredibly soft. Within moments, the cold disappears from your body and sensation returns to your fingers. "Wow. W<</if>>here did you get these?" "I made them." <<if $al.disdain>>"Ah." Figures. You're just surprised someone like them works at all with their hands. Al better be careful, crocheting is a dangerous activity. They might develop a callus, or—god forbid—a hangnail. "Anyways," Al crosses their arms and sways back and forth, seemingly incapable of standing still. "You, uh— what are you... up to?" "I don't know." You reply shortly. "What are //you// up to?" "I was gonna take my dog, Cryptid, for a walk." "//Hmph.// That sounds fun," you mumble—more to yourself than to Al. "Oh, you can, uh—I don't know—join us? If you want."<<else>>You're genuinely surprised. "What, really?" "Yeah." Al clears their throat and looks off into the distance. Between the mask and the scarf, you can't see much of their skin—but what you can see appears flushed. "Yeah, I recently started crocheting. Those aren't great or anything but—you know—they'll get the job done." "Really? Huh." You remember that despite working with Al for an extended period of time, you don't know much about them. "I never would've guessed." "What? That I crochet?" "No." You pick up the end of the scarf, inspecting the edges and the stitching. "That you just started crocheting." "Oh, uh," Al stammers. "Thanks, $mc.name." They exhale heavily. "Well, hey." They look down, tossing some of the snow around with their foot. "I was just gonna pick up my dog, Cryptid, and take <<print either("them","her")>> for a walk in the park. Would you—I don't know—want to come with?"<</if>>\ <<else>><!--DECLINED "Oh, no thanks." [MC TURNS THEM DOWN, THEY TALK AND AL INVITES MC TO WALK WITH THEM AND CRYPTID THROUGH THE PARK]-->\ \ "<<if $al.disdain>>I'm good." You reply sharply.<<else>>Thanks, but no thanks." You smile. "I'm fine."<</if>> "You sure?" Al asks. <<if $al.disdain>>"Yeah, I'm sure." You stick your hands deep into your pockets. "I don't need anything from you."<<else>>You nod, sticking your hands deep in your pockets. "Certain."<</if>> "Okay." Al nods and closes their bag back up. The silence is awkward, palpable. <<if $al.disdain>>You stand there for a moment, tossing snow around with your feet, trying to find a good way to exit the conversation. "So, I guess you're going home now?" "Uh, yeah." Al exhales deeply. "Yeah, I'll go home and grab my dog, Cryptid. Probably go for a stroll around the park." "//Hmph.// That sounds fun," you mumble—more to yourself than to Al. "Oh. You can—I don't know—join us? If you want to."\ <<else>>You try to think of something to say—to ask Al about—but come up empty. You realize that despite working with Al for an extended period of time, you really don't know much about them. Thankfully, Al cuts in. "So, uh, what are you doing now?" "Not sure," you shrug. "You?" Al shrugs, exhaling heavily. "I'll probably take my dog, Cryptid, for a walk in the park." "Sounds fun." "Oh." They look down, tossing some of the snow around with their foot. "Well, if you want to, you're welcome to join us."<</if>>\ <</if>> <div class='choices'><span class="reply-choice"><<link "Hang out in the park with Al and Cryptid" "END 3 FIGHT 9">><<set $mc.alsnow = true, $al.friend = true>><</link>></span> <span class="reply-choice"><<link "Go home" "END 3 FIGHT 9">><<set $mc.alsnow = false, $al.friend = false>><</link>></span></div><!--[[END 3 FIGHT 9]]-->
<!--TESTING CODE disabled --><!--<<set $mc.hasScarf = true, $mc.alsnow = true, $al.disdain = true, $mc.name = "Martin", $mc.scorsese = true>> TESTING CODE END --><<if visited("END 3 FIGHT 8")>><!--MC RESPONDED TO AL ABOUT THE SCARF AND MITTENS-->\ <<if $mc.alsnow>><!--MC HUNG OUT WITH AL AND CRYPTID IN THE PARK-->\ <<if $al.disdain>><!--BEFORE THIS MC HAD SHOWN AL NOTHING BUT DISDAIN-->\ <<set $al.disdain = false>><<set $al.friend = true>>\ "You know what? Sure." "Wait, really?" Al's voice pitches up. "Oh, uh, okay. Cool cool cool." "By the way, Cryptid?" "Yeah!" Al's eyes turn up as they—probably—smile. "Cryptid." "Awesome name." "Thanks. You should definitely tell <<print either("her", "them")>> that. <<print either("She", "They")>>'ll be very flattered." You swing by Al's apartment, pick up Cryptid—a sweet little beast that looks to be about 50% husky and 50% fluffball—and head to the park. You spend the rest of the evening together and, shockingly, you enjoy yourself. The three of you walk around the park checking out random events and activities. You talk some about the film and work, but mostly you talk about yourselves—sharing small insights into your lives. For the first time, you start to see Al as more than just a name you resent on a computer screen. You end the evening with some <<cycle "$mc.drink">><<option "hot cocoa">><<option "hot tea">><<option "spiced cider">><<option "mulled wine">><<option "black coffee">><<option "fancy, coffee-based drink" "your favorite fancy drink">><</cycle>> before heading your separate ways. <<if $mc.hasScarf>>As you turn to leave, you glance down at your hands. "Wait!" You call out to Al, starting to slip off the mittens and scarf they'd lent you. "Oh, no. Don't worry about it. You can keep those if you want, or—I don't know—throw them out if you don't." Al laughs. You realize that, for whatever reason, they don't seem to itch anymore. They're quite soft, actually. Maybe someone just needed to wear them in. "Nice. Thanks, Al." "You're welcome. Take care, <<if $mc.scorsese>>Mr. Scorsese<<else>>$mc.name<</if>>. <<else>>"Well, this was nice." Al sighs, pulling their coat tighter. "Yeah, it was actually." "Anyways, see you tomorrow?" You nod and they give a thumbs up. "Cool cool cool. Take care, <<if $mc.scorsese>>Mr. Scorsese<<else>>$mc.name<</if>>. <</if>>Hope you have a good night." "You too. Night, Cryptid." Cryptid howls a short farewell.\ <<else>><!--AL AND MC DIDN'T HAVE DISDAIN BEFORE THIS-->\ "Yeah." You smile. "Sure, that sounds fun!" "Really?" Al's voice pitches up. "Oh, uh, awesome! Cool cool cool." "By the way, Cryptid?" "Yeah!" Al's eyes turn up as they—probably—smile. "Cryptid." "Awesome name." "Thanks. You should definitely tell <<print either("her", "them")>> that. <<print either("She", "They")>>'ll be very flattered." You swing by Al's apartment, pick up Cryptid—a sweet little beast that looks to be about 50% husky and 50% fluffball—and head to the park. You spend the rest of the evening together. Walking around the park checking out random events and activities. Most of the time, you talk about the film, your work, or just life in general. In the moments where you are silent, it doesn't feel awkward. You end the evening with some <<cycle "$mc.drink">><<option "hot cocoa">><<option "hot tea">><<option "spiced cider">><<option "mulled wine">><<option "black coffee">><<option "fancy, coffee-based drink" "your favorite fancy drink">><</cycle>> before heading your separate ways. <<if $mc.hasScarf>>As you turn to leave, you glance down at your hands. "Wait!" You call out to Al, starting to slip off the mittens and scarf they'd lent you. "Oh, no. Don't worry about it. You can keep those if you want, or—I don't know—throw them out if you don't." Al laughs. "Nice. Thanks, Al." "You're welcome. Take care, <<if $mc.scorsese>>Mr. Scorsese<<else>>$mc.name<</if>>. <<else>>"Well, this was nice." Al sighs, pulling their coat tighter. "Yeah, it was. Thanks for inviting me." "My pleasure. Anyways, see you tomorrow?" You nod and they give a thumbs up. "Cool cool cool. Take care, <<if $mc.scorsese>>Mr. Scorsese<<else>>$mc.name<</if>>. <</if>>Hope you have a good night." "You too. Night, Cryptid." Cryptid howls a short farewell.\ \ <</if>><<else>><!--MC TURNED AL DOWN-->\ <<if $al.disdain>><!--BEFORE THIS MC HAD SHOWN AL NOTHING BUT DISDAIN-->\ \ <<cycle "_fake1">><<option "You scoff.">><<option "Your eyebrows raise.">><<option "Laughter bursts from your chest.">><</cycle>> "You think I'd want to spend more time with you? <<cycle "_fake2">><<option "No, Al. I don't.">><<option "There's nothing I want to do less.">><<option "We're off the clock, Al. I'm not being paid to tolerate your ass.">><<option "Thanks for the generous offer, but no.">><</cycle>>"<<if $mc.hasScarf>> You rip the mittens and scarf off, tossing them at Al's feet. "Here's your shit back."<<else>><</if>> Al shakes their head. "Whatever. I give up." They turn and disappear into a crowd. You walk home alone.\ <<else>><!--AL AND MC DIDN'T HAVE DISDAIN BEFORE THIS-->\ \ "Thanks for the offer, but <<cycle "_fake1">><<option "I should be getting home.">><<option "I have other plans.">><<option "it's just too cold out for me.">><<option "I don't want to.">><<option "my social meter's empty.">><<option "I just want to get through this bit.">><</cycle>>" "Oh, sure." Al raises their hands. "I understand completely. Hope you have a good night." "You too."<<if $mc.hasScarf>> You start to leave but glance down at your hands. "Wait!" You call out to Al, starting to slip off the mittens and scarf. "Oh, no. Don't worry about it. You can keep those if you want, or—I don't know—throw them out if you don't." Al laughs. "Nice. Thanks, Al." They nod. "No problem. See you tomorrow."\ <<else>><</if>>\ <</if>><</if>><<else>><!--MC IGNORED AL AND JUST LEFT, DIDNT EVEN SAY ANYTHING ABOUT THE SCARF AND MITTENS-->\ \ You shove your hands deep in your pockets and stalk off, <<cycle "_fake1">><<option "silently">><<option "quietly laughing to yourself">><<option "shaking you head">><<option "rolling your eyes">><</cycle>>.\ <</if>> <span class='next'><<button "<i class='fa-solid fa-arrow-right'></i>">><<goto "END 3 7">><</button>></span><!--[[END 3 7]]-->