Silver Rain

##<center>Silver Rain</center> <center>[[Start]]</center>

The busy street is filled with people in flesh and [[people in metallic shells]]. I prop myself at my seat, waiting for anyone to visit my [[flower shop]]. (set: $guest to 0) [[I wait.]]

These people called "Syntients" who have their souls "perfectly" placed into sturdy metal bodies, and they are artificially powered by the country's resources. Old models are mostly conscripted men, like me, are built 10 years ago and powered by Valeriums. However, due to the limited sources of Valeriums nowadays, we are now being forced to put ourselves into new models. It does have more functions and less fragile than the old models. They are mostly recommended for people for medical condition nowadays. It is quite recent that they started offering it to old models. It is not too bad, if only if the new models didn't come with the price of your own memories. They say it's like dying and being born again at the same time. [[Return|Start]]

|= This place existed almost right after I was dismissed from my military duties. It is quite a big contrast to the eerie atmosphere of the battle field. Remembering the recon missions always gives me shivers. Floristy is now my hobby and business. It's something that reminds me of when I was a human. [[Return|Start]] =| <img src = "Pinn.png" height = "443px" width "312px">

[[Gears]] entered the flower shop, struggling to enter a door quite small for his frame. "Mornin'," he greeted."The shit-commissioner called again." "Can't he come after the holiday?" I asked. "No can do. But if we annoy him enough, he might leave us alone." "Yes, he might." "I also have an invitation for you." he throws a piece of paper on my desk. "[[Zoe]]'s going to be there." [[I open the letter.]]

|= He's a fellow syntient that I met at the near end of the war. Although he was part of the armored company that makes him a lot bigger than the scouting units like me. He talks less about his human life. He feels better to know that he was reborn as a Syntient. He's a business partner in my flower shop business since his delivery services stretch from here to the capital. [[Return|I wait.]] =| <img src = "Gears.png" height = "443px" width "312px">

|= She's the daughter of a Major General that oversees the 4th Volunteer Division, Alexandre Macon. She's a mechanic for old model syntients, and her shop is on the verge of being taken down due to the orders of the commissioner. I've had quite difficult personal conversations with her. Yet I'd rather talk about petty topics like the weather than not at all. I send her a red tulip every day. Yet she still doesn't realize that I like her. [[Return|I wait.]] =| <img src = "Zoe.png" height = "443px" width "312px">

Dear Mr Pinn, We are holding a party for the Silver Rain Festival. Let's celebrate the holiday together this year! I was also hoping that you could help me decorate our venue for the party. Do you think daffodils are perfect for the rainy season, or at least for this party? I'd love to hear your thoughts about this as soon as possible. Your friend, Zoe [[Close the letter.]]

"Well?" Gears waits for my answer. [[Accept this lovely invitation.]] [[Think about it.]] [[Decline the invitation.]]

"You could have said "yes" on my behalf," I replied to Gears.(set: $yesinvite to true) "I just wanted to make sure." Gears chuckled. "I want you prepared at the party and not end up stuttering when she's around." "I will visit her after today." "You better do, lover boy." "I will." "By the way, have you already decided on porting yourself on the new model?" he asks. "Who are you, the commissioner?" "Just askin'." he fixes his coat. "I think I'm not up for it. For now, I guess." "What's stopping you? It will be business as usual once that's done." "That ain't bothering me. I'm suited to this old suit of mine." "You'll be permanently discontinued along with the old folks." "Then so be it." he laughs to himself. "Lived a good life, maybe it's time to go, only got few regrets anyway." "Such as?" "I'll tell ya' some other time. I've gotta run." he looks at his watch. "Also, can you get me a pot of red roses?" "Uh sure." [[Give him the roses.|Nighttime]]

"I would like to think about it for now." (set: $thinkabout to true) "Take your time. I'll let her know that you already received the paper." "Alright. I appreciate it." "You okay?" he asks. "I mean, I'm not pushing ya' but maybe something might be in your mind lately. I just wanted to hear it." "I am alright. What seems to be the problem?" "You hardly get out of the flower shop. Now you seem to be on the verge of declining any social gatherings." "That does not mean I am depressed." "Just makin' sure." "You annoy me sometimes." He chuckles and leans over the counter. "Hey, in case you're porting yourself to a new model. Let me know." "I will. But what about you?" "Eh, I don't wanna port myself." he shrugs. "I've got my own reasons. Besides, it's nice being in this model." "What are your reasons?" "I'll tell ya' another time. I've gotta run." he looks at his watch. "Also, can you get me a pot of red rose?" "Uh sure." [[Give him the roses.|Tomorrow]]

"Tell her I am not attending."(set: $noinvitation to true) "Hm? Is there something wrong?" "I will tell her myself when I get there." "Alright then." "Is there something you wanna talk about?" "Nothing. But I think you have something in mind." "Yeah, I was gonna ask you about the portation process." he scratches the back of his head. "But I'll ask ya' some other time. I've gotta run." he looks at his watch. He turns around to leave the shop but he stops. "Oh wait, I almost forgot. Do you have a pot of roses?" "I think I have." [[Give him the roses.|Tomorrow]]

I turned off all the lights in my shop. I glanced across the street where Zoe's repair shop is. Her lights are still open. I suppose she is still bothered by the deputy's visit this morning. Should I...? (link:"Approach her")[(set:$talk to true)(goto:"Notice")] (link:"Stand still")[(set:$stand to true)(goto:"Notice")] (link:"Wave around like an idiot")[(set:$idiot to true)(goto:"Notice")] [[Visit her tomorrow|Tomorrow]]

I get in front of my shop and saw Zoe seemingly mad(?). (if: $yesinvitation is true)[I knew I should've just visited her last night.](if: $thinkabout is true)[I think she wants an immediate answer about the invitation.](if: $noinvitation is true)[Gears must have told her that I am not attending to the party. This is going to be a bother.] She walks across the street. She hasn't opened her shop yet. She should open it first. That look is making me nervous. I tried opening the flower shop door as fast as I can but she had already appeared behind me. "Hey," she growled. "I've heard from Gears that (if: $yesinvitation is true)[you accepted my invitation. Why didn't you visit me last night to talk about it?"](if: $thinkabout is true)[you're still deciding whether you should come by or not. You could've told me what's giving you second thoughts."](if: $noinvitation is true)[you don't want to come to the party. What's stopping you?"] Gears cannot keep his mouth shut.(if: $yesinvitation is true)[But I did say that he could say "yes" on my behalf yesterday.] I will worry about that later when he arrives. "What do you have to say for yourself?" she crosses her arms and waits for my answer. (if: $yesinvitation is true)["It is late and I thought it would be better if we talked in the morning." I said. "Is that all?" she cracks a smile. "Thanks for worrying, Mister Pinn. But I did say that I needed to hear what you think as soon as possible. Don't hesitate to come by the shop at night to discuss anything. [["Okay"|Morning Talk]]](if: $thinkabout is true)["I want to think about it thoroughly." I said. "Then, we'll think about it thoroughly together." she cracks a smile. "You could've asked me." [["I will try to remember that."|Morning Talk]]](if: $noinvitation is true)["I just don't want to..." "That's not a really a well-thought out decision, is it?" she sighs. "Do you wanna come to the party? You're pretty much the only one I can trust with the decorations." [["Alright."]] [["I don't want to.]]]

She screws back a metal plate back onto the dismembered syntient arm and puts it aside. (if: $talk is true)[She hears that someone had walked into her shop.](if:$stand is true)[She turns around and sees that I am standing in the darkness.](if:$idiot is true)[I am waving my hands.] (if:$talk is true)["We're closed, come ba--," she turns around. "Oh, it's you, you surprised me a bit."](if:$stand is true)[She squints her eyes and beckons me to come over. I walked into the shop and gave me a confused face. "Don't creep me out ike that, Mister Pinn."](if:$idiot is true)[She tilts her head and rubs her eyes once more before beckoning me to come over. I walked into her shop and gave me a confused face. "What are you doing, Mister Pinn?" "Waving." "Uhh, sure."] She sits up and clears her throat, "I heard from Gears that you're coming to the party. What do you think of my idea?" "I think it is quite an interesting choice. Although, I am not sure if I have enough daffodills." "Can it be restocked?" she asks. "Depends. When is the party?" "Five days from now. This Thursday." "I think I can have it delivered a day before." "Sweet!" she smiles. "Thanks, Mister Pinn." "You're most welcome." I nodded. "I have to go. See you [[tomorrow]]."

Another day passes as I sit around my shop. A car arrives in front of my shop. Who might that be? A [[man]] steps down and fixes his gloves. He haughtily looks at the sign board at my shop and enters. He looks around the flower shop and finally fixes his gaze at me. "Are you Mister Pinn?" he asks. "Yes, sir." I replied. "Your friend has already been reminded, has he told you?" he starts walking towards me. "I have heard about your arrival, Commissioner. But not much else." "And the required documents?" he leans to my desk. "That I am not made aware of, Commissioner." "Here," taking out some papers from a slung attache case behind his back. "I believe your kind are part of the models that are to be discontinued. The Government can no longer afford paying subsidies for you people." I take the documents. The documents stated a warning that I'll be forcefully discontinued if no voluntary porting is done within the end of the year. "You have till the end of the year, preferably before the holidays, my vacation is one you cannot ruin. "Isn't that a bit too early Commissioner?" I say with a worried tone. "The Valeriums needed to power your models are in short supply I'm afraid, trust me, you need to port yourself sooner rather than later, its for your own good." I glanced back at the foreboding letter, it made me uneasy. I've given away too much for this government, the sufferings flashed back to me in an instance, losing my humanity for the war, killing, watching my friends die in front of me, returning an outcast after it. That this? Will this be my "just" compensation? Losing the few things that made me who I am? This isn't fair. I stared at him, as he waits for a response. Realizing the document's effect on me "I'll give you some space alone, 'tis a serious matter of course, but be warned, we have only supplies left till the end of the year, don't make this difficult for us. Have a good day, sir" he says, saluting, then walking out of the door. The commissioner then headed for Zoe's shop. [[I curiously observed.|I watched.]]

The [[commissioner|man]] steps down from his vehicle and fixes his gloves. He too an arrogant look of my shop before stepping in. "Are you Zoe Macon, and a Pinn syntient?" he asks. "What do you want?" Zoe glared. (set: $noarm to true) "I've come forth to remind you about the Discontinuation order. I believe I've been calling the Gears syntient to remind the both of you. I doubted he'd say but I wanted to come here myself to let you know. And to assess the conditions here.." "We don't want any of your governmental orders, hairsides!" "The government and the people don't want to pay for your needs either." he takes out three pieces of paper. He handed some papers to me, and he gave one to Zoe. "You only have until end of the year to decide. But please, respond at least before the holiday. I like my vacation uninterrupted." Zoe rips her paper, "This is my job, hairsides. I'm not giving it up that easiy." "Then perhaps it's time to switch to a different career. We're need some hands for the new models." he glances at me. "You will have a different outcome for this matter." I looked at my papers. Either forms encouraging me to surrender myself for discontinuation, or porting myself onto a new model. I've been putting off this decision for so long in my head that I did not know this would come and haunt me. I feel like I do not have a choice. Like it had always been. Losing my senses as a human. Being forced to go to war. The people distancing themselves from me. And now I am being told to be a test subject again for their new models or else I will cease to exist? This is ridiculous. I looked at the commissioner. I am annoyed by his presence. I want him gone as much as he wants me gone. He fixes his gloves and sighed, "Well then, I'll leave you and the syntient to decide. We'll also cut off the supply of the Valeriums by the end of the year. Make those decisions quick." He got onto his vehicle and left. [[...|I walked out of my shop.]]

"Great!" she smiled. "I knew that I could always count on you." I smile a bit and nodded. "I am a bit flattered." "Say, what do you think of my daffodill idea? Do you think it's okay?" she asks. "I think it is an interesting choice. Although, I am not sure if I have enough daffodills." "Can it be restocked?" "When is the party? I think you aren't able to say when it is going to be held." "Four days from now. This Thursday." "I'll have it delivered a day before." "That's great!" she smiles. "I'm so excited for the party." Before we could part our ways, [[a vehicle stops in front of the flower shop.|Morning Talk]]

"Is that so?" she frowns. "If that's what you realy want. Then I can't stop you." She pats my shoulder. "See you, Mister Pinn." "Have a nice day, Miss Zoe." She walks away and retreats to her shop. I hesitatingly enter my shop. It feels wrong. I could've done something else. [[...|End]](set:$badend1 to true)

|= Commissioner Burnsides, a government agent that reminds us almost everyday ever since the discontinuation order had been put into effect. Rumors have been circling that he has been heavy handed in his mission to discontinue older models. Fear grips the community everytime he visits. I worry about the well-being of my fellow syntients, I hope they're safe. [[Return|Morning Talk]] =| <img src = "Burnsides.png" height = "443px" width "312px">

The commissioner crosses his arms and enters the shop. It was silent for a while. Then I heard a crash from her shop. "Get the hell out of my property!" she screamed. The commissioner ran out in panic. Zoe holds out the arm she was fixing last night. An arm with weapons installed. "If you'd at least consider my offer, you'd be very satisfied in the end." he says in a panic, almost stumbling to his feet. "I don't want any damn offers! I'm staying where I stand!" she growled. "Get lost!" The commissioner fixed his gloves and composes himself. "Very well then. You'll be hearing from your brother soon." he said and left. [[I walked out of my shop.]](set:$arms to true)

"The nerve of that man!? Bringing his filth and involving my brother." she sas, to no one in particular. "Zoe?" "Mister Pinn? Have you seen that guy? He better not show his face around or I'll rip off his ugly head!" (if:$noarms is true)[she huffs.](if:$arms is true)[she huffs and puts the arm down. "This is heavy now that I think about it."] I stand at my place and stayed silent. Not knowing what to do. "I forgot to remind you something about the party last night." she said. "I'm inviting guests over." "Sounds like a grand celebration this year." "Not really. Some acquaintances that Gears and I knew. Though they're unsure on whether or not to attend." "How so?" "Well, there's no reason for them to visit. What does a bunch of elite people have to do with us?" "Are you saying that these people work in the government?" "Yes, and no. Their families are involved in government work, while some of them work in the government." she sighs. "So far, I've invited five, but I afraid I'll be needing your help to convince them!" "M-me?" I point to myself. "Yep. I heard some of them are coming over to have a talk before the party. So, I hope that you and I could convince or entertain them at least. What do you think?" [["What a brilliant idea."]] [["I have my doubts about this one."]] [["I don't think this will turn out well."]]

"That is a brilliant idea." I replied. "I'm happy that you're with us! These are their names by the way!" she gets a paper and hands it to me. "I only got a picture of one of the guests. But I think they'll introduce themselves when they meet you." "I look forward meeting them." I look at their names. These are very familiar names. I believe if we invite them, we would be able to request these officials to reverse the discontinuation order or at least supply old models with Valeriums. [[We need to do this.]]

"I doubt that this will work." I replied. "Are you serious right now?(if:$noinvitation is true)[You don't seem to be up for anything latey.](if: $thinkabout is true)[What's in your mind lately?]" she gets a paper and hands it to me. "I only got a picture of one of the guests. But I think they'll introduce themselves when they meet you." "I look forward meeting them." I look at their names. These are very familiar names. I believe if we invite them, we would be able to request these officials to reverse the discontinuation order or at least supply old models with Valeriums. [[We need to do this.]]

"I don't think this will turn out well." I replied. "You seem to be out of shape lately. Do you need repairs?" "No..?" "Alright, then." she gets a paper and hands it to me. "Here are the names of the guests. I only got a picture of one of the guests. But I'm sure they'll introduce themselves to you." I look at their names. These are very familiar names. I believe if we invite them, we would be able to request these officials to reverse the discontinuation order or at least supply old models with Valeriums. This might be something that we need. [[We need to do this.]]

I turned off the lights in the shop. I have already locked the door. I'll be staying in the shop for tomorrow's work. I sit back at my desk. Staring at nothing. All of the flower deliveries are set for tomorrow. A lot of people have been ordering daffodills. I wonder if the suppliers will have anything left for me to bring to the party. It is dark here but the flowers still shine from the moonlight. Was it always this bright at night? I cannot tell if I am seeing things right with these lenses. It is quiet though I can still the machinery reverberating inside me instead of a beating heart. I can choose to sleep and stay awake though I am never exhausted or well rested. I am in this state of nothing. I never get hungry and thirsty though I want to consume delicacies and beverages but the closest thing I could ever get are pieces of rocks to continue moving. I have all my flowers. Yet I could never tend them as I used to. I have tools and such, but I would never hold them the same way gentle and warm hands could. [[This is simply not enough.]]

Endings: Ending 1: (if: $goodend is false)[???](if: $goodend is true)[1: Good end: Congrats?] Ending 2: (if: $neutralend is false)[???](if: $neutralend is true)[2: Neutral end: You wanna start a new life?] Ending 3: (if: $mainbadend is false)[???](if: $mainbadend is true)[3: Bad end:...?] Ending 4: (if: $badend1 is false)[???](if: $badend1 is true)[Bad End: Just why?] [[Return|Start]]

<center>Men ages of 18 to 40, and convicts are conscripted according to the order of the leader. Please attend to your designated barracks within the next 24 hours. Long live Harbiet!</center> I packed my belongings in a suitcase. I have also watered my flowers. Probably the last tiem I ever will. The step family is quite quiet today. I head downstairs and saw sobbing for father's bloostained hat. Soon, my hat will be the color of dark red roses too. I doubt they won't weep even after I've passed. I'm alone now, soon to leave with nothing to wave back to. I arrived at the assigned barrack. The barracks is a converted apartment complex hastily evacuated to escape the counter-invasion, filled with unused furniture and past memories. The other men doesn't seem to mind, the young, bold and eager, the old, wary and suspicious. "Don't get too homely, we probably won't be back soon enough." "Shhh, don't let the others hear." "We fight for a greater cause old man, I would valiantly give away my life for it!" "Shut up, you don't know jack. Go die, I ain't planning on it." the old man grunted. "Grave news from the front, the newly created Conscript army is suffering a lot of casualties holding back the enemy advance despite the effectiveness of the new Synts, your training time will be cut by a third, to send you lads faster to the front." the drill sergeant reminded everyone. Wait, are we losing the battle? That would explain the sudden evacuations. It seems our men are getting slaughtered by the hundreds each day, maybe even by the thousands, we've no idea the scale of this war just yet. Life isn't easy for anyone of us, the homefront and the actual front, people back home are worked to death, like coal shoveled into engines, and the ones at the front are being sent in droves, trying to match the enemies wave of flesh and steel. I'm still holding on hope that I can stall this hell ahead of me. [[I stood and waited.]]

"Hey!" A familiar voice called behind me. "I'm glad to see you here!" It was ̷͖̎͝ ̵̖̹̾͝ ̸͔̅́ ̵̗̅͑ ̸̪̍̈́ ̴̗̰͐̊ ̵̛̱͙̀ ̵͈̓̿ ̷͕̻͊͝ ̵̡̲͌͠ from work, he had swollen eyes, I assume it's because he was crying. "Hey." "The sergeant says we're assigned to the 3rd Auxilliary Company, under the 2nd S division." “The sergeant told you?” "Ah yeah, met him on the way to the barracks, I arrived here late, spent some time with the missus, who of course can't bear me leaving." he nervously chuckled. “How 'bout you, got family?” "Father died." "Oh, I see. I offer my condolences." We stood silent for a while. Then he asks, "Do you think the war will end soon?" I shrugged "I doubt it, if we are winning, we wouldn't be here." He sighed as he was lost for words. " I have no idea what's the state of the war anymore, I just hope I go through this alive and go back to my wife." "Yes, I guess we all do." "Aren't you afraid?" he smiles. "Nothing to be afraid of when you got nothing more to lose." He nodded as we stayed silent, waiting to be called for. We dread each minute that passed before we're called, even though we already knew we'll be warring soon. [[Until it was our turn.]]

Suddenly, I was in an empty prairie field. It was quiet, too quiet. Then there were gunshots. And then suddenly, bullets started flying from all directions, I hit the ground seeking cover, and then I heard them, the Pinn! I turned....- "PINN!" I heard, as a voice emanated from seemingly out of nowhere. "PINN!" I looked left and right and desperately searched the barren terrain. "PINN!" One last time it said, as I looked up at the crimson sky. A hand then grabbed my right metal leg, it belonged a human emerging out of the stale bloody red mud, screaming seemingly in a frenzy. I panicked as I desperately tried to be free from its grasp. My heart, or whatever is the replacement, raced as I thought I neared death. In time I also screamed as I tried to hit the human with my rifle. Before I could do that, I saw its face. [[It was me.]]

I adjust my lenses. It is still dark outside, although the silhoutte of a man is seen outside my house. He knocks at my door, seemingly realizing I've woken up. How long has he been there? I approached and opened the door to the man who was surprised at my state as he fixes his lengthy hair and asked with a smile "Is this Macon's?" I point at the opposite side of the street of where Zoe's shop is. He fidgets his hand, "Of course! I knew that!" As he leaves I now only realized that he looks ragged, covered in dirt and soaked in his own sweat. Perhaps he's homeless? Maybe another abandoned vet. What would a vet want with Zoe anyway? (set: $einname to false) [[“May I have your name?” ]] [[“What business do you have here?”]] [[“Are you in need of shelter?” ]] [["Would you like to come in?" ]] [[“Can I help you?” ]]

(if: $einname is false)["May I know what you're here for?" I ask. "Oh, I'm here to talk to Zoe." "For the party?" "Yes, yes! That one!" he exclaimed. "You're invited too?" "I am actually tasked to talk to guests. I assume that you're a guest for the party?" "Yes, yes!" he nodded. "I'm Ein Murdocks, by the way!" I opened my door and led him in. "Please come inside, the weather is freezing." "Yes!" he excitedly went in and took a seat at the desk. Invasive person isn't he? I'm regretting letting him in already. ](if: $einname is true)["May I know what you're here for?" "Oh, I'm here for the party. I don't think she hasn't told anyone yet, so I want to come by early." He's one of the guests. I opened my door and led him into the flower shop. ] [[I close the door behind me.]]

(if: $einname is false)["Are you homeless?" "Me? Homeless? He scoffed. "For your information, I hail from the prestigious line of the Murdock family." I'm not sure where he is getting at. But he sounds too full of himself. "Well, good Sir Murdock, your choice of uhm, apparel doesn't strike you as a fine member of high society." "A lot of strange things happened a couple of days ago." I closed the door a little. A little afraid he might be pretending as someone else. He sighed, "Okay, I got caught up in a nasty brawl in the capital. I'm headed back to my house but I figured visiting Zoe first." I opened the door. "Come in." "Sweet!" he excitedly enters my shop and immediately sits at the desk. ](if: $einname is true)["Are you in need of shelter?" "For the night, yes." he awkwardly smiled. "Please come in," I offered. "Thanks!" he excitedly enters my shop and immediately sits at the desk.] [[I close the door behind me.]]

(if: $einname is false)["Would you like to come in?" I asked without hesitation. "Boy, would I! Murdocks is honored to enter your home!" he nodded and entered as soon as I opened the door wide. He excitedly enters my shop and immediately sits at the desk. He looks around him and tinkered with the petals. "Nice place you have here!" I'm annoyed. He's too comfortable. ](if: $einname is true)["Would you like to come in?" I asked without hesitation. "Wow, thanks!" Ein smiled and entered as soon as I opened the door wide. He excitedly enters my shop and immediately sits at the desk. "You're really kind! I'd love to stay here 'till the party day." "Please, don't overextend your stay."] [[I close the door behind me.]]

(if: $einname is false)["Can I help you?" "Umm... Is it rude if I, Murdocks, ask for a place to stay tonight?" he awkwardly smiles. "I'll be also here for the party in four days. " "I don't mind," I opened the door. "Just -" He instinctively enters my shop and immediately sits at the desk. "Warmth!" I sighed and [[closed the door behind me.|I close the door behind me.]]](if: $einname is true)["Can I help you?" "Can I stay at your place tonight? It seems rude if I wake up Zoe and stayed at her place." I nodded. "I'm sure that will be scandalous." I opened the door and led him in. "Please come in." "Thanks!" he excitedly enters my shop and immediately sits at the desk. This is better I suppose. [[I close the door behind me.]]]

"May I have your name?" "Oh, I'm sorry for that. Manners have abandoned me in these times. My name is Ein Murdock. I'm Zoe's err- friend." Murdock? Cannot recall of any Murdock. Why is he claiming to be Zoe's friend. Why is he even searching for her at midnight? (set: $einname to true) [[“What business do you have here?”]](set: $einbusiness to true) [[“Are you in need of shelter?” ]](set: $einshelter to true) [["Would you like to come in?" ]](set:$einflower to true) [[“Can I help you?” ]](set: $einassistance to true)

He sits at my desk comfortably, as if that desk is the softest thing in the world. I'm annoyed he'll get his dusty self all over the place,it might affect the flowers. I reluctantly checked his name on the guest list. He's in it. Guess I need to be kinder now. I grabbed a stool and sat in front of the desk. I looked at him. "You seem tense," he asks. "I suppose I am." "Did something happen?" "Nothing." He waved his hand as if to dismiss my question."Nothing at all." “You seem shaken.” He looks at my lenses. "You seem like it." “How do you know?” “I work around with guys like you. Most of them are in a worse condition." he smiled and pulls out a surprisingly clean notebook and pen from his nasty jacket. “I'm keeping track of the old model syntients and their portation. Since you are one, would you care for an interview?” This guy? Will interview me? The evening just got weirder. [[What's this for?]] [[ I don't mind.]] [[Who are you?]]

“What is this for if I may ask?” “Personal investigation. But of course I wouldn't conduct an interview without your permission. So whaddya' say?" [[“Why are you doing this?”]] [[“I am willing to participate.”| I don't mind.]]

“That's the spirit!” he flipped through his notes as he scrambles looking for an empty page. “I've got some questions about the war and portation, so I want you to answer me honestly. Alright?” [[“Alright.” |Alright 0]] [[“I've changed my mind.”]]

"(if: $einname is true)[I have already told you my name. But just to make it clear, ]I investigate Syntients in their post-war civillian lives. Though I still run the family restaurant business at the capital. Also, I'll be taking care of the food if you answer a few questions for me. I make a lot of seafood dishes, and I think you'll like my fish curry! Though I can serve other dishes for the Silver Rain festival." he stops rambling briefly. "Say, do you like to eat fish?" “I don't exactly remember.” I replied. Then he immediately writes it down. I wonder how relevant that information is. I am not so sure on how to take this. Should I…? [[Deny further questions.|“I've changed my mind.”]] [[Let him ask questions.]]

“Why are you doing this?" “I see that youre still not convinced.” he puts down his notebook. “He loved fishing and making these extraordinary dishes. One of the best chefs ever! I'd enjoy how he make these dishes quickly and make them into something incredible. And I thought to myself, I just want to be like him." He frowned, "He started to become ill and his hands seem to tremble all the time. He's always either asleep, or desperately trying to do something. When the war broke out, he was ported into a Syntient. It wasn't exactly voluntary since he is incapable due to illness, he was convinced by the sergeant to be ported." I sat back and fidgeted in my seat. I remember a few men like this in the field. They're oddly unstable. “Hey, whatever that was in the battlefield or in the portation chamber, I'd like to know everything about it. Just seeing my father after the war still haunts me. I know they're hiding something. Otherwise, memories of the Syntients won't disappear. They might've done something. So if you remember even a bit of what happened, It'd be swell." His situation is not new to me. It's true that most of us are discontinued but seeing the aftermath on a family like this - it does feel a bit lonely. He seems young. And if the men of the previous dictatorial government still hold some sway over the current one, I cannot guarantee his safety. But on the other hand, he gets a bit of help on his closure, and it'll make him leave faster. [[I agree to answer his questions.|Alright 0]] [[I deny to answer anything.|no party ein]]

“I will answer your questions, " I replied. His face brightened and grabs both my arms, "You mean it? I'm very glad!" We sat down that evening and talked until he dozes off. Whatever he asks, I hope that comforted him. (set: $guests to $guests +1) (set: $ein to true) [[I sat still and waited for the sun to rise again.]]

“I've changed my mind." “I see that youre still not convinced.” he puts down his notebook. “He loved fishing and making these extraordinary dishes. One of the best chefs ever! I'd enjoy how he make these dishes quickly and make them into something incredible. And I thought to myself, I just want to be like him." He frowned, "He started to become ill and his hands seem to tremble all the time. He's always either asleep, or desperately trying to do something. When the war broke out, he was ported into a Syntient. It wasn't exactly voluntary since he is incapable due to illness, he was convinced by the sergeant to be ported." I sat back and fidgeted in my seat. I remember a few men like this in the field. They're oddly unstable. “Hey, whatever that was in the battlefield or in the portation chamber, I'd like to know everything about it. Just seeing my father after the war still haunts me. I know they're hiding something. Otherwise, memories of the Syntients won't disappear. They might've done something. So if you remember even a bit of what happened, It'd be swell." His situation is not new to me. It's true that most of us are discontinued but seeing the aftermath on a family like this - it does feel a bit lonely. He seems young. And if the men of the previous dictatorial government still hold some sway over the current one, I cannot guarantee his safety. But on the other hand, he gets a bit of help on his closure, and it'll make him leave faster. [[I agree to answer his questions.|Alright 0]] [[I deny to answer anything.|no party ein]]

“I sympathize with your situation but,” he looks at me a bit disappointed. "I do not want to answer any of your questions." “Is that so?” he puts back his notebook and curls at the desk. “I'm sorry for wasting your time. I'll be hitting the sack." He turns his back and rests. I did not invite him to stay, but fine he needs it, even if it means occupying my desk. [[I sat still and waited for the sun to rise again.]]

I arrange the deliveries along with their tags. I tuck in a tulip at my chest pockey, just in case for a chance encounter with Zoe. Ein is still asleep on my desk. Daffodils are about to run out, my expected shipment is nowhere to be found, and worse, the supplier isn't answering my calls. I need to adapt and change a lot of things if my delivery doesn't arrive soon. As Gears enters the shop, he's taken aback by the presence of Murdock, again still asleep. "Thief?" (if: $ein is true)["Guest." "Oh, that's no guest to me."](if: $ein is false)[“"Well, he is now, he will be staying for a while, I guess where he currently lies." "Oh, you're a good samar'tan now are yah?"] "I suppose so," I said as he and I continue to load the flowers onto his truck. As we continue with our work we continued chatting. "I have not asked yet, are you going to the party?" "Nah," he said. "I got some last minute deliveries to make that same day, important perishable goods, like food and stuff." "You invited me? Yet you're not coming? Unfair, isn't it?" "Hey first off I only gave the invite, and sometimes you're just too busy with work to bother with parties anymore." he looks at his watch as he rearranges the final box in his truck. " I've got time to spare I guess." "But why not?" "Let's just say that, there are people invited to that party, who would rather kill themselves than be near me, don't want to ruin a good party, after all I'm not exactly one of the sought out guests." he jests as he scratches where his nape is supposed to be. "I did that family wrong you know." he hisses at the thought. "I can't bear to show myself to them any more. I should've said this to Zoe, wouldn't be invited then, and I wouldn't look like an ass for rejecting the invite." [[“You shouldn't go to the party then.”]] [[“Can you tell me what happened?”]] [[“You seem to have a shady background.”]] [[“Is it one of your ‘regrets’?”]]

“Thanks! It means a lot to me.” he smiles. “My father became a Syntient in the war. He was offered to join the army because he was sick. He thought it was a great chance to do the things he liked again." “What happened?” “He voluntarily discontinued himself. He wasn't the same after that.” he sighs. “I know theres something going on. But for this, I'd offer you my best dishes at the party! I know you can't eat but at least I'll make the place presentable with food. " “That sounds good.” “Alright,” he flips his notebook and starts writing down. I told him what he needs to know at that night. We talked a lot. I hope that comforted him about his father. He eventually dozes off and remained seated on his desk. [[I sat still and waited for the sun to rise again.]] (set: $ein to true)

"Yeah I guess it makes sense for your absence, we would not want a scene would we?" "Hmm, yeah I thought so too." [[...|Confession]]

"What exactly happened?" "I'll tell you but keep it to yourself." he spoke softly. "Is it that bad?" "Nobody would understand." [[...|Confession]]

"Got yourself involved in some of the underbellies of society, haven't you?" "Penal Battalion Veteran, of course I did." he says pointing his thumb at himself. "I should be wary of your presence then." I said jokingly. "I served my time, served the country, served my sentence. I guess I feel better as myself now more than ever, beats being human too." [[...|Confession]]

"It's one of your regrets isn't it?" "Nice of you to remember." [[...|Confession]]

(if: $ein is false)[We're slightly interrupted by Ein quietly leaving the flower shop. I'm glad he's finally leaving. ]"Anyways, this happened just after I got discharged, when I went to the capital for work. There I met Maddie who lives in the same rundown apartment as I do, and I uhh- I mean we felt a connection you know? And we got close." "She said she's not for this world for very long, and is ready to pass on, denying help from her affluent kin in the Upper District, says she didn't want to be like me, a Syntient, content to die." "The family believed you are responsible for her death?" "Something close to that. Didn't want her to pass on. Didn't want to lose what I felt was true meaning and purpose, for the first time in my life. So I ported her." [[“You did what you think was right.”]] [[“That's horrible.”]]

"Her family found her in that state." he scoffs. "She just went back to the hell she desperately tried to escape from. Worse is, now? She doesn't even realize it is. My selfishness got the better of me and now we both suffer." Gears went silent. I felt uneasy. I am certain some people would approve of his decision. But I guess it did not feel right. It feels like he murdered someone, he did not kill their body, but their soul, in a way different than the war we just left behind us. "Did I scare you?" The tension was thick I could feel it in the air. I am lost for words, cannot think of an appropriate response. I fidget my hands, hoping it would help get the words out. "Hey you two!" Zoe said from a distance. I exhaled a sigh of relief. Gears pats me back, and pushes me towards Zoe. "Do your thing, flower boy." [[I hurriedly prop myself and get the tulip from my pocket.]]

"You did what you thought was right." I said patting his wide back. "You think so?" he looks at me, then at his feet. "I got mixed emotions man, I'm glad shes alive, but she's not exactly, living. Is she?" [[...|Maddie]]

"That was horrible." "Yeah I know, she doesn't even remember me so; I don't know if its worth it for me, I'm both relieved and stressed at the same time. I didn't fulfill her wish of peace. Doing the very thing she said she didn't want, just because I wanted to." [[...|Maddie]]

"Mister Pinn, I've got a letter from one of our guests." Zoe said as she hands me the letter. "It seems that one of the guests is unavailable and will send someone else in his stead, he didn't mention who though."(if: $ein is true)[ Gears, nudging me, says. "Pinn here has a guest over sleeping at his shop." "Fantastic!" "He says he's Ein Murdock, friend of yours?" I ask. "Oh yes, he is, a bit eccentric, isn't he?" "Agreed," I said as I nodded in agreement.] "Enjoy the party, gents." he says while moving towards his truck and checking his watch. "Don't forget to be there." Zoe reminded. Gears, hopping on his truck and thought about it. "I'll think about it." then drives away. Which leaves both of us alone. I shakily handed her the tulip I kept, to which she says. "Huh, isn't this to be part of the decor?" I shrug, "I - uhh - thought you could, you know, use some flowers yourself." Oh no. That was awfully put, I hope this is not awkward for her, because it certainly was for me. "I will take my leave for now." "Do get better, Mister Pinn." The day is already too gloomy for me. (if:$ein is true)[I will relax once Ein decides to leave my store.] [[I retreat to my flower shop.]]

My supplier is still unavailable as I tried to contact them, the needed daffodils are not here yet. I might need to replace it altogether. Paperwhites might do, but I will need to tell Zoe and she might not like it, I will inform her later. The nightmare and this morning's conversation makes the rest of the day gloomier than it usually is. The nightmare reminds me of days of I would rather forget. (if: $ein is true)[Ein might help me get over those memories.] I would want to remember the past but the good and the bad cannot be separated anymore, they just blur together for me. I blame the war for my current predicament. The new body I inhabit gave me a new lease on life and I am still myself but - I am not sure. Something is missing. It is very fortunate that Gears adapted well, but his fiancée may sympathize with me better, in a state of conflict of either further hardship of living or blissful peace of death. I am considering discontinuation. I think it make sense, I have very few interests in life anymore, I already lived two lives. What more is there for my third? I guess I will decide after the party, it will be rude to go with it now. This is frustrating. It is been the millionth time I've called my supplier and they are still not picking up. Probably a lot of orders due to the coming holiday celebrations. I should either find others to supply daffodils or settle with paper whites. (link: "Look for paperwhites suppliers.")[(set: $flower to "narcissi")(goto: "Lost")] (link: "Continue calling for daffodil suppliers.")[(set: $flower to "daffodils")(goto: "Lost")]

I searched for new suppliers for (print: $flower), preferably near and cheap since the party is near. The sun's almost done, so I close my shop. But I am kind of lost on where to head now, cannot even go back to my shop, opening and closing it is a lengthy process. I guess I will walk in a random direction, [[see where my legs take me.]]

I arrived near the town square of the next town over. The streets are crowded here, as I try to navigate my way through, still to nowhere in particular. Can't even feel fatigued anymore. There iss no point in wearing myself out, so I head to park on the outskirts of town and sat on a rusty bench. I sat there for a while to think. It is fairly quiet, peaceful even. This is nice. I feel alone without the irritating crowd around. I shut my lenses and absorbed the sounds around me. [["Staff Sergeant Pinn?" a voice from a distance broke the silence. | End of development]]

"It's just Pinn now, if that's alright. How can I help you?" "I understand you're one of the organizers? We talked to the mechanic and we are not satisfied with her... decisions." The Syntient spoke. "I'm called Maddie. And this is my sister, Monique. Pleased to meet you." And the gloom continues, I almost forgot she's invited. "How may I help you?" I asked, frustrated that my peaceful evening is interrupted. "As you know we are invited to this party, and we will accept and come. As long as we are guaranteed the presence of your, armored friend." Oh no. Gears might be right, now he is both haunted and hunted by his past. "And we want you to be ported to the new models, and discard your old one." "What's in it for me? This seems like a one-sided deal. Not to mention I may be going behind my friends back." "I'm responsible for the conditions. We mean you and your friend no harm" Maddie spoke up. "I have to clear things up with your dear old friend. I hope you understand. Perhaps my side of the story will convince you?" "There is no need, already heard a sob story hours ago." "I'm one of the leading heads of the department that administers your kind." Monique interrupts and shows her I.D. As I recall, she was also invited. "I believe that you're suffering with your current status as both a Syntient and veteran, Valeriums been scarce ever since the war and that has led some of the older models' memory banks getting corrupted, and attempting to retrieve them is expensive. Agree to our deal and I guarantee your memories will remain and then some." These are certainly tempting offers. (if: $in to true)[Ein should be the one offered this offer.] I am still uncertain about being re-ported so soon enough. Why does this decision fall on my lap now? [[“I dont think I can easily persuade Gears to meet you.”]] [["No, not yet. My time hasn't come I'm afraid."]] [[“I think I can satisfy your requests.”]] [[“I'm sorry, but the answer is no.”]]

"I am sorry. I don't think I can easily persuade Gears to meet you." "Fine," Maddie said as the sisters meaningfully glanced at each other. "We'll still attend the party." "You won't regret your re-portation Mr. Pinn, I guarantee you it will be painless unlike your first one." Monique adds. The re-portation offer certainly piqued my interest. The thought simultaneously stresses me. "Let's discuss the terms some other time." I replied. "At the party then." Monique said grinning. (set: $guest to $guest +2) (set: $maddieno to true) (set: $moniyes to true) [[...| End of development]]

"Is that so?" Monique raised her eyebrow. "If you ever change your mind, I'm all ears. Until the party that is." "That was all I needed to hear." Maddie seemed relieved and left. Monique hesitated to leave and then followed. I sat again in peace. (set: $guest to $guest +2) (set: $maddieyes to true) (set: $monino to true) [[...| End of development]]

"I think I can satisfy your requests." "You seem trustworthy Mr. Pinn, I hope you don't disappoint." said Maddie. What's that supposed to mean? "We will meet you there. Have a nice evening, Mister Pinn." (set: $guest to $guest +2) (set: $maddieyes to true) (set: $moniyes to true) [[...| End of development]]

"I'm sorry, but the answer is no." "This has been a waste of time," exclaimed Maddie who hurriedly left. "You'll hear from us very soon." Monique said as she followed her sister. [[...| End of development]]

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