{
(track: 'futur1', 'loop', true)(track: 'futur1', 'volume', 0.8)
(track: 'futur2', 'loop', true)(track: 'futur2', 'volume', 0.8)
(track: 'signal1', 'loop', true)(track: 'signal1', 'volume', 0.8)
(track: 'signal2', 'loop', true)(track: 'signal2', 'volume', 0.8)
(track: 'jule1', 'loop', true)(track: 'jule1', 'volume', 0.6)
(track: 'jule2', 'loop', true)(track: 'jule2', 'volume', 0.6)
(track: 'space1', 'loop', true)(track: 'space1', 'volume', 1)
(track: 'space2', 'loop', true)(track: 'space2', 'volume', 1)
(track: 'space3', 'loop', true)(track: 'space3', 'volume', 1)
(track: 'space4', 'loop', true)(track: 'space4', 'volume', 1)
(track: 'space5', 'loop', true)(track: 'space5', 'volume', 1)
(masteraudio: 'preload')
(track: 'space4', 'loop', true)
(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)
(track: 'space4', 'playwhenpossible')
}<style> img
{
max-width: 75%;
max-height: 75%;
}
</style>
<img src="images/logo.png">
(live: 2s)[(t8n:"fade-right")(show:?links)]|links)[[[Click to start->Credits]]]
(text-colour:#404040)[//Toggle fullscreen with//] (icon-fullscreen: )
(text-colour:#404040)[//Control audio from upper-left-corner arrow//](set:$test to false)(set:$fade to 0s)(set:$effect to "instant")(track: 'space1', 'loop', true)(track: 'space1', 'volume', 1)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 5)(track: 'space1', 'fadein', 5)(set: $location to "???")(Display: "Location")You wake up to warm sunlight across your face.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[Duck under the covers->Duck1]]
[[Open your eyes->Open1]](if:$test is true)[
[[Hack->CommHall]]
(link: "Iliah1Done")[(set:$Iliah1Done to true)(set:$clothes to 1)(set:$dadpage to true)(set:$triggerDad to true)(goto: "YourRoom1")]
(link: "Jule1Done")[(set:$Jule1Done to true)(set:$clothes to 1)(set:$dadpage to true)(set:$triggerDad to true)(goto: "YourRoom1")]
(link: "BothDone")[(set: $Tune2 to true)(set:$dadpage to true)(set:$Dad1Done to true)(set:$Jule1Done to true)(set:$Iliah1Done to true)(set:$clothes to 1)(set:$annpage to true)(set:$AnnTrigger to false)(goto: "YourRoom1")]
(link: "Ann1Done")[(set: $Tune2 to true)(set: $Ann1Done to true)(set: $standing to 0)(set:$dadpage to true)(set:$Dad1Done to true)(set:$Jule1Done to true)(set:$Iliah1Done to true)(set:$clothes to 1)(set:$annpage to true)(set:$AnnTrigger to false)(goto: "YourRoom1")]]](Display: "Location")You don’t want to get up, not quite yet. But your senses become alert, despite your best efforts to sink into the bed.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[Give up. Open your eyes->Open1]]](Display: "Location")The ceiling slowly comes into focus. You follow the heavy wooden beams to the far wall where drapes are gently swaying in the [[wind->Wind1]].(Display: "Location")You imagine the morning breeze on your bare arms.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[Take a deep breath->Breath1]]
[[Throw open the drapes->Window1]]](Display: "Location")The air is so fresh and comforting. It must be nice.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[Throw open the drapes->Window1]]](Display: "Location")You reach for the white linen drapes and pull them aside, revealing an absolutely beautiful scene outside.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[A rustic coastal town->Town1]]
[[A thick green forest->Forest1]]
[[A sleek urban cityscape->City1]]](Display: "Location")(set: $dream to 1)The image is so clear and evocative, yet abstract and ever shifting as your mind rushes to fill in the blanks.
But something isn’t right.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[You have never been to Earth.->Wake1]]](Display: "Location")(set: $dream to 2)The image is so clear and evocative, yet abstract and ever shifting as your mind rushes to fill in the blanks.
But something isn’t right.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[You have never been to Earth.->Wake1]]](Display: "Location")(set: $dream to 3)The image is so clear and evocative, yet abstract and ever shifting as your mind rushes to fill in the blanks.
But something isn’t right.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[You have never been to Earth.->Wake1]]](set: $location to "Your Room")(Display: "Location")(set:$module to "room")(set: $clothes to 0)You open your eyes, this time waking for real.
The (if: $dream is 1)[town](if: $dream is 2)[forest](if: $dream is 3)[city] house was just the latest of many such dreams. One day, this could be your reality.
But until then, you have to earn your retirement out here in space.
As the dream fades, hopelessness and dread creep in.
(set: $clothes to 0)(set: $bedmade to 0)(set: $shower to 0)(set: $iliahclothes to 0)
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[Push them out->Push1]]
[[Let them in->Earth1]]](Display: "Location")(set: $Earth to false)Not now, not yet. You can fight this for a little while longer. Focus on the immediate to push away the looming black hole.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[Stand up and stretch->YourRoom1]]](track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 1)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 1)(set: $time to 0)(Display: "Location")(set: $Earth to true)An empty feeling washes over you in an instant as you remember:
Earth has gone silent. Without warning, the planet cut all communications with your station. Most people believe this is just a temporary problem, that we’ll be in contact again soon enough.
Despite everyone’s reassurance, and as much as you want to keep faith in your purpose, you can’t shake the feeling that this is the end.
You lie there, caught in spiralling thoughts that refuse to settle.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Stand up and stretch")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "YourRoom1")]](if:$Earth is false)[(if:$switcheroo is not true)[(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(set: $switcheroo to true)]](set: $location to "Your Room")(Display: "Location")(if:$module is "c")[(if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74.375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(set:$module to "room")]You are in your room.
No drapes or (link: "windows")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "RoomWindow1")], only four grey walls around your small living space. A (link: "calendar")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Calendar1")] and a large (link: "poster")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "poster")] cover one of the walls.
A cabinet holds your (if: $clothes is 0)[(link: "clothes")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Clothes1")]](else:)[clothes] and other belongings. Sitting atop is your faithful (link: "peace lily")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Lily1")] plant.
Opposite your bed is the (if:$clothes is 1)[(link: "door")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Hall1")]](else:)[(link: "door")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "door2")]] leading to the rest of the station.(set:$module to "room")(Display: "Location")There’s only one window aboard, and that’s in the common area on the opposite side of the station’s spinning donut wheel.
You are compelled to visit it and gaze out into space despite knowing it won’t match the feeling from your dreams.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Return")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "YourRoom1")]](set: $location to "Module C, corridor")(Display: "Location")(if:$module is "b")[You enter module C. To your left, a broad door leads to the dormitories and to your room.
On the far end, the corridor leads to module D, communications and medical. Behind you is the way to module B, fitness and showers.](if:$module is "d")[You enter module C. To your right, a broad door leads to the dormitories and to your room.
On the far end, the corridor leads to module B, fitness and showers. Behind you is the way to module D, communications and medical.](if:$module is "room")[(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)]You exit your room and make your way to the main ring corridor.
The path to your left connects to module B, fitness and showers, while the corridor to your right leads to module D, communications and medical.]
(link: "Move toward module B, fitness")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Corridor1")]
(link: "Move toward module D, communications")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Corridor4")]
(link: "Enter your room")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "YourRoom1")](set:$module to "c")(Display: "Location")Your clothes are not-so-neatly folded and organized on different shelves. Most were printed from default patterns, but a few were designed by (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Iliah>[Iliah]] as a gift.(click: ?Iliah)[(replace: ?IliahDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Iliah://] Iliah has been a great friend and companion since you grew close last year. She’s probably in the comms room, if you happen to pass that way later.]]|IliahDesc>[]
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Take basic clothes")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Clothes2")]
(link: "Take clothes from Iliah")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Clothes3")]](Display: "Location")Your plant friend is silently judging you as always. It was a thoughtful – and expensive – gift from (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Jule>[Jule]] for one of your birthdays.(click: ?Jule)[(replace: ?JuleDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Jule://] You remember how you two grew up together, being born just a few months apart. He’s always been your best friend.(if:$Jule1Done is not true)[
Why are you shutting him out now?]]]
After his grandmother had seeds shipped in from Earth when she retired, they raised this little flower just for you.|JuleDesc>[]
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Return")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "YourRoom1")]](Display: "Location")May 19, 2218. Not that it means much out here.
You’re the only one of your friends with a physical calendar. Your ePad’s digital planner makes this printed one redundant, yet you’ve come to appreciate this yearly gift from your (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|father>[father.]](click: ?father)[(replace: ?fatherDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Father://] Dad is the hardest worker you know. He’s on track to become the youngest retiree since the first generation miners.
You wish you had inherited his unshakable work ethic. How can he stay determined, especially now?(if:$Dad1Done is not true)[ Will he be disappointed that you missed your last few work shifts?]]]|fatherDesc>[]
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Return")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "YourRoom1")]](Display: "Location")(set: $clothes to 1)You pick out some ordinary clothes you had printed not too long ago. You notice that the clothes Iliah gave you are starting to collect dust. Have they been unworn for so long?
You pull on your chosen outfit, ready to face what comes next.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Return")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "YourRoom1")]](Display: "Location")(set: $clothes to 1)(set: $iliahclothes to true)You pick up a unique outfit Iliah gave you last year, wiping a layer of dust away. Have they been unworn for so long?
You pull on your chosen outfit, ready to face what comes next.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Return")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "YourRoom1")]](set: $location to "Module B, corridor")(Display: "Location")(if:$exitFitroom is true)[{(track: 'jule1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule2', 'fadeout', 2)(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)]}(set: $exitFitroom to false)You exit the fitness room into the module corridor. Ahead of you is the door to the showers and lockers.
To your right, the corridor leads to module A, common area and kitchen, and to your left, module C, the dormitories.](if:$exitLockers is true)[(track: 'jule1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)](set: $exitLockers to false)You exit the locker room into the module corridor. Ahead of you is the door to the fitness room.
To your left, the corridor leads to module A, common area and kitchen, and to your right, module C, the dormitories.](if:$module is "c")[You enter module B. To your left is the door to the showers and lockers. To your right is the entrance to the fitness room.
The far end of the corridor leads to module A, common area and kitchen. Behind you is the way to module C, the dormitories.](if:$module is "a")[You enter module B. To your left is the entrance to the fitness room. To your right is the door to the showers and lockers.
The far end of the corridor leads to module C, the dormitories. Behind you is the way to module A, common area and kitchen.]
(link: "Enter the fitness room")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "GymRoom")]
(link: "Enter the locker room")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Lockers")]
(link: "Move toward module A, common area")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Corridor2")]
(link: "Move toward module C, dormitories")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Corridor1")](set:$module to "b")(set: $location to "Module D, corridor")(Display: "Location")(if:$exitCommsroom is true)[(track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 1)(track: 'signal2', 'fadeout', 1)(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 1)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 1)](set:$time to 0)(set: $exitCommsroom to false)You exit the comms room into the module corridor. Ahead of you is the entrance to the medical room.
To your right, the corridor leads to module A, common area and kitchen, and to your left, module C, the dormitories.](if:$exitMedical is true)[(if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 1)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 1)](track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 1)(set: $exitMedical to false)You exit the medical room and enter the module corridor. Ahead of you, the comms room door is open a crack.
To your left, the corridor leads to module A, common area and kitchen, and to your right, module C, the dormitories.](if:$module is "c")[You enter module D. To your left, the comms room door is open a crack. To your right is the entrance to the medical room.
The far end of the corridor leads to module A, common area and kitchen. Behind you is the way to module C, the dormitories.](if:$module is "a")[You enter module D. To your left is the entrance to the medical room. To your right, the comms room door is open a crack.
The far end of the corridor leads to module C, the dormitories. Behind you is the way to module A, common area and kitchen.]
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(if: $Ann1Done is true)[[[Enter the comms room->CommsRoomPost]]](else:)[[[Enter the comms room->CommsRoom]]]
(link: "Enter the medical room")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Medical")]
(link: "Move toward module A, common area")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Corridor3")]
(link: "Move toward module C, dormitories")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Corridor4")]](set:$module to "d")(set: $location to "Module D, communications")(Display: "Location")(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'signal1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(if:$Iliah1Done is true)[You peek into the comms room and see Iliah talking into the console. She’s still busy on the line with someone. You might like to talk with her, but now is not the time.
[[Return->CommHall]]](else:)[You push open the comms room door and see Iliah sitting at the (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|console>[console]], headphones on, and talking away. She didn’t seem to hear you enter.(click: ?console)[(replace: ?ConsoleDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Console://] The walls are lined with radio and communications gear you don’t quite understand. (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Iliah>[Iliah]] tried to show you once, but you were more interested in her.]]]|ConsoleDesc>[](click: ?Iliah)[(replace: ?IliahDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Iliah://] You notice her hands moving all over the place as she talks into the recording interface. She nods between sentences, headphones cutting a green line through her amber hair.(set: $Hair to true)]|IliahDesc>[]](if:$Iliah1Done is not true)[
(link: "“Iliah?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I1")]
[[Leave before she notices you->L2]]](set:$exitCommsroom to true)(set: $work to false)(set: $location to "Module D, Communications")(Display: "Location")She turns in her chair to face you, moving a headphone off her ear.
“Ah, hey,” she says, looking a little surprised to see you. “Come in, sit down. Just give me a minute.” (if:$Hair is true)[She](else:)[(text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Iliah>[Iliah]]] turns back to the console and resumes whatever she was doing.(click: ?Iliah)[(replace: ?IliahDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Iliah://] You notice her hands moving all over the place as she talks into the recording interface. She nods between sentences, headphones cutting a green line through her amber hair.(set: $Hair to true)]]|IliahDesc>[]
(link: "Sit down and wait")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3")](if:$Jule1Done is true)[(set:$AnnTrigger to true)](set: $location to "Module D, Communications")(Display: "Location")On second thought, you don’t feel ready to have this talk. You quietly slip outside, back into the module corridor.
[[Return to the module D corridor->CommHall]](set: $exitCommsroom to true)(set: $location to "Module D, Communications")(Display: "Location")You take a seat in the second chair and watch Iliah.(if:$Hair is false)[You notice her hands moving all over the place as she talks into the recording interface. She nods between sentences, headphones cutting a green line through her amber hair.]
She seems to be near the end of her recording. “Take care of yourself, OK? Talk to you soon. Bye.”
Iliah toggles a switch, leans back in her chair, and moves the headphones around her neck. She turns to you. “All done. Sorry about that.”
(link: "“Hard at work?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I4a")]
(link: "“How have you been?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I4b")](if: $test is true)[
(link: "moment")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iaaa")]](set: $work to true)(set: $location to "Module D, Communications")(Display: "Location")(if:$Earth is not true)[“Not quite,” she says with a grimace. “I haven’t done much work lately. Really don’t see the point in it anymore without Earth.”
(link: "Earth…")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "IEarth1")]](if:$Earth is true)[“Not quite,” she says with a grimace. “I haven’t done much work lately. Really don’t see the point in it anymore.”
Even before losing Earth, Iliah was critical of our way of work. She’s been running comms because there is no alternative out here. Labour is the only path to freedom.
“I’m just glad I can spend more time with my network of friends.”
(link: "“Were you recording a message?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I5")]
(link: "“How have you been?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I4b")]](set: $location to "Module D, Communications")(Display: "Location")(if:$Earth is not true)[Iliah takes a deep breath before answering. “Good. I never cared about our work here, and now without Earth, I can finally drop the pretense.”
(link: "Earth…")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "IEarth1")]](if:$Earth is true)[Iliah takes a deep breath before answering. “Good. I never cared about our work here, and now I can finally drop the pretense.”
(if:$work is false)[Even before losing Earth, Iliah was critical of our way of work. She’s been running comms because there is no alternative out here. Labour is the only path to freedom.
“I’m just glad I can spend more time with my network of friends.”
](link: "“Were you recording a message?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I5")]](set: $location to "Module D, Communications")(Display: "Location")“I was talking with someone live, actually.” Iliah’s bright smile makes you grin in turn. “Another colony ship is passing close enough that we only have a few seconds of signal delay.”
She has friends spread across the solar system, so talking with them in real time must be great.
(link: "“That sounds amazing.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I6")]
(link: "“Who were you talking to?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I7")](set: $location to "Module D, Communications")(Display: "Location")“It is! After months of pre-recorded messages, it feels so intimate to share a live connection.”
She swivels in her chair, looking off into the distance of her imagination. “Someday I’ll visit her. And all the others. Once I’m able to print a shuttle, that is.”
“And you, where have you been lately? I’ve missed you.” She’s rocking back and forth in the old chair, looking a little antsy. “Have you been working around the clock, like some of the habitants?”
You definitely haven’t. But what can you say?
(link: "“I’ve actually been skipping my shifts.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8")]
(link: "“I’ve been a little lost.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I9")](set: $location to "Module D, Communications")(Display: "Location")“Amandine from //Bean IV//. After months of pre-recorded messages, it feels so intimate to share a live connection.”
She swivels in her chair, looking off into the distance of her imagination. “Someday I’ll visit her. And all the others. Once I’m able to print a shuttle, that is.”
“And you, where have you been lately? I’ve missed you.” She’s rocking back and forth in the old chair, looking a little antsy. “Have you been working around the clock, like some of the habitants?”
You definitely haven’t. But what can you say?
(link: "“I’ve actually been skipping my shifts.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8")]
(link: "“I’ve been a little lost.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I9")](Display: "Location")“Oh wow, your father must not be impressed.” She’s right.
“It’s all worthless now anyway. But people like him will never see that.”
(link: "“Faith in work is what keeps people going.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8a")]
(link: "“Work is the price we pay for freedom.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8b")]
(link: "“Why do you hate work so much?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8c")](Display: "Location")“Hey, you’re not alone. It’s been a lot to take in. Earth means a lot for everyone working for a cozy retirement.” She’s right. Earth has always been a constant, a link to something bigger than this station.
“It’s all worthless now anyway, whether they see it or not.”
(link: "“Faith in work is what keeps people going.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8a")]
(link: "“Work is the price we pay for freedom.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8b")]
(link: "“Why do you hate work so much?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8c")](Display: "Location")“The idea of retiring on Earth is tempting. It’s so hard for us to imagine living so comfortably. But the promise of a reward in the far future doesn’t make it any better.”
You’ve argued about this before. Iliah is pretty steadfast in wanting to break free from our purpose.
“Most people feel terrible. All their hope just slipped away. But Earth fucking off is exactly what we needed. We don’t have to waste away here, dreaming of some cozy retirement package. We’re free now.”
(link: "“There’s nothing to do with freedom out here.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8aa")]
(if:$Jule1Done is true)[(link: "“Jule is planning to leave.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8p")]](else:)[(link: "“We’re trapped here in this station, free or not.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8aa")]]
(link: "“Maybe you’re right. I’ll try to see it that way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8aaa")](Display: "Location")“You give up your freedom by working your life away. The promise of a reward in the far future doesn’t make it any better.”
You’ve argued about this before. Iliah is pretty steadfast in wanting to break free from our purpose.
“Most people feel terrible. All their hope just slipped away. But Earth fucking off is exactly what we needed. We don’t have to waste away here, dreaming of some cozy retirement package. We’re free now.”
(link: "“There’s nothing to do with freedom out here.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8aa")]
(if:$Jule1Done is true)[(link: "“Jule is planning to leave.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8p")]](else:)[(link: "“We’re trapped here in this station, free or not.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8aa")]]
(link: "“Maybe you’re right. I’ll try to see it that way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8aaa")](Display: "Location")“I hate that we were forced into labour on this station. A reward in the far future doesn’t make it any better.”
You’ve argued about this before. Iliah is pretty steadfast in wanting to break free from our purpose.
“Most people feel terrible. All their hope just slipped away. But Earth fucking off is exactly what we needed. We don’t have to waste away here, dreaming of some cozy retirement package. We’re free now.”
(link: "“There’s nothing to do with freedom out here.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8aa")]
(if:$Jule1Done is true)[(link: "“Jule is planning to leave.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8p")]](else:)[(link: "“We’re trapped here in this station, free or not.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8aa")]]
(link: "“Maybe you’re right. I’ll try to see it that way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8aaa")](Display: "Location")“That’s not true. We have access to so many materials. We can use them instead of shipping them out.”
She really means to leave the station, then?
“We didn’t choose to be born here among the asteroids. And now, we can leave the burden of work behind and live however we want.”
(if:$iliahclothes is true)[You spend a moment looking at each other. Her gaze wanders, a grin spreading across her face.
“You’re wearing my designs.” You glance down and remember you picked out clothes Iliah had given you. “I’m glad you’re still wearing them.”
(link: "“It was a nice gift.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes1")]
(link: "“You’re a talented designer.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes2")]
(link: "“It was the only clean outfit left.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes3")]](else:)[You spend a (link: "moment")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iaaa")] looking at each other. A grin spreads across her face as she looks you over.](Display: "Location")“Yeah, I noticed. You seem really down.”
She pauses, looking you over. “You don’t owe me anything. But I’m here for you, you know.”
Iliah reaches over and squeezes your hand. You are reminded of all the time you spent together not so long ago.
(link: "“I miss you.”")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "I12")]
(link: "Move your hand away from hers")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "I13")](Display: "Location")“Aw. I’m sure you’ll get there.” She pauses, looking you over. “You don’t owe me anything. But I’m here for you, you know.”
Iliah reaches over and squeezes your hand. You are reminded of all the time you spent together not so long ago.
(link: "“I miss you.”")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "I12")]
(link: "Move your hand away from hers")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "I13")](Display: "Location")“So do I. Not sure what changed for you, but I’d like to know. It’s a shame we stopped spending nights together.”
You’re not sure you know the answer. So much has changed in such a short time.
But as Jule comes to mind, you feel it has something to do with him.
A blinking red light interrupts your conversation.
(text-style: "fade-in-out","bold")[[[INCOMING CALL->I14]]](Display: "Location")Iliah looks shocked as she quickly pulls back. “Fuck, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable.”
Her shock turns to melancholy. “I’m sorry. I wish I knew what changed between us. Why we don’t spend nights together anymore.”
You’re not sure you know the answer. So much has changed in such a short time.
But as Jule comes to mind, you feel it has something to do with him.
A blinking red light interrupts your conversation.
(text-style: "fade-in-out","bold")[[[INCOMING CALL->I15]]](set: $location to "Module B, fitness")(Display: "Location"){(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule1', 'play')}You enter the crowded fitness room. Most people are occupying the cardio equipment on one side, running on treadmills and generating power on bikes. On the other side of the room, a few habitants are training with weights.
(if: $Ann1Done is true)[Jule isn’t here anymore. Maybe he’s in the locker rooms next door?](else-if:$Jule1Done is true)[Jule is still at it, determined to grow stronger. You’ll have to talk to him another time.](else:)[You recognize (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Jule>[Jule]] in the middle of a squat rack set. Seeing him triggers a spark of anxiety, a reminder of why you have been avoiding him.|JuleDesc>[
](click: ?Jule)[(replace: ?JuleDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Jule://] Jule is wearing a basic set of gray exercise clothes. They stretch as his muscles tense and relax.
---
]]But this has gone on long enough. It’s really time you talk to him again. He hasn’t done anything to warrant the cold shoulder.
(link: "Approach Jule")[(goto: "J1")]
(link: "Use one of the free power bikes")[(goto: "Bike")]]
(if:$Jule1Done is true)[[[Leave the fitness room->GymHall]]](else:)[[[Leave the fitness room->LeaveGym]]](set: $exitFitroom to true)(if:$Jule2Done is true)[(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule1', 'play')(set: $location to "Module B, lockers")(Display: "Location")You enter the room and spot Jule leaning against some lockers on the far wall, busy with his ePad.
(if:$JLocked is true)[[[Talk to Jule->J2C2]]](if:$JLocked is not true)[[[Talk to Jule->J31]]](set: $exitLockers to true)
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]]](if: $Ann1Done is true and $Jule2Done is not true)[(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule1', 'play')(set: $time to 0)(if:$standing is not 2)[(set: $location to "Module B, lockers")(Display: "Location")You enter the room and spot Jule at his locker. He looks over his shoulder, sees you approaching, then fumbles to close the locker before turning to face you.
“Sorry, I just had to put some stuff away. About Grandma… Can you believe it? She’s asking so much from us. But I believe in her. Maybe her compassion can bring the station together right now.”
(link: "“I hope she will succeed.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J201")]
(link: "“I wouldn’t be so optimistic.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J202")]](if:$standing is 2)[(set: $location to "Module B, lockers")(Display: "Location")You enter the room and spot Jule leaning against some lockers on the far wall. Once he spots you approaching, he puts away his ePad.
“Oh, hey again. About Grandma… I’ll do what I can, but she already knows. Even if leaving breaks her heart, she is (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|support>[supporting]] me, like she always has.” Ann has always been there for her grandson.(click: ?support)[(replace: ?supDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Supporting://] You remember spending so much time together as kids, listening to Ann’s stories and learning from her. And while Jule’s teenage years were a little turbulent, Ann helped secure enough chemical cartridges to print Jule’s testosterone treatment, which he says saved his life.
---]]|supDesc>[
]“And there’s still the question of logistics. I wouldn’t want to rob the colony of one of the mining shuttles. It looks like I’ll need to work for a few years to afford printing my own little ship.”
(link: "“I’m sure you’ll find a way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J21")]
(link: "“Why not help rebuild the station with Ann?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J22")]
(link: "“Maybe I could help you.”")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "J23")]]](if: $Ann1Done is not true)[(set: $location to "Module B, lockers")(Display: "Location")(if: $shower is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)](if: $shower is true)[(set: $shower to false)]You are in the locker room. Habitants are in and out as they go to or from work shifts or exercise sessions. The far end of the room leads to the showers.
(link: "Take a shower")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Shower")]
(link: "Return to the module corridor")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "GymHall")](set: $exitLockers to true)](set: $location to "Module A, corridor")(Display: "Location")(if:$leaveCommon is true)[(if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)](track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(set: $leaveCommon to false)You exit the common room into the module corridor. Ahead of you is the door to the kitchen.
The corridor to your right leads to module D, communications and medical. To your left, module B, fitness and showers.](if:$exitKitchen is true)[(if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)](track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)You exit the kitchen and enter the module corridor. Ahead of you is the open common area.
The corridor to your left leads to module D, communications and medical. To your right, module B, fitness and showers.(set: $exitKitchen to false)](if:$module is "b")[You enter module A. To your left is the open common area. To your right is the door to kitchen.
The far end of the corridor leads to module D, communications and medical. Behind you is the way to module B, fitness and showers.](if:$module is "d")[You enter module A. To your left is the door to kitchen. To your right is the open common area.
The far end of the corridor leads to module B, fitness and showers. Behind you is the way to module D, communications and medical.]
(if: $Ann1Done is true)[(link: "Enter the common area")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoomPost")]](else-if: $annpage is true)[(link: "Enter the common area")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AnnSpeech")]](else:)[(link: "Enter the common area")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoomActual")]]
(link: "Enter the kitchen")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Kitchen")]
(link: "Move toward module B, fitness")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Corridor2")]
(link: "Move toward module D, communications")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Corridor3")](set:$module to "a")(set:$AnnTune to false)(set:$Space5 to false)(Display: "Location")(set: $textswitch to 0)(set: $switch1 to false)(set: $switch2 to false)(set: $switch3 to false)You move through the training equipment toward the back of the room where Jule is training. There are huge weights on both ends of the bar. He seems to be pushing his limits, shaking as he rises up.
With a final lift, Jule locks the bar in place and steps away from the machine. After a quick drink he spots you.
“Well hi. Haven’t seen you here in a while.” This is another routine you’ve broken recently. “How have you been?”
[[“Not too bad. And you?”->J2]]
[[“In a bit of a slump, honestly.”->J3]]
[[“Struggling to process a few things.”->J4]](if:$Iliah1Done is true)[(set:$AnnTrigger to true)](Display: "Location")(set: $textswitch to 0)(set: $switch1 to false)(set: $switch2 to false)(set: $switch3 to false)You’re not dressed for heavy exercise, but you could pedal a bit of power into your account.
You mount the bike, scan your ePad, and start pedaling. While fumbling to set a comfortable resistance, you notice Jule coming your way.
“Well hi. Haven’t seen you here in a while.” This is another routine you’ve broken recently. “How have you been?”
[[“Not too bad. And you?”->J2]]
[[“In a bit of a slump, honestly.”->J3]]
[[“Struggling to process a few things.”->J4]](if:$Iliah1Done is true)[(set:$AnnTrigger to true)](Display: "Location")You should talk with Jule soon. But not right now. Besides, he’s busy.
[[Return to the module corridor->GymHall]](set: $exitFitroom to true)(Display: "Location")“Pretty good, all things considered. Been stuck in my head lately, with all that’s been happening. Losing touch with Earth… It’s been hard.”
(if:$Earth is not true)[[[Earth…->JEarth]]](if:$Earth is true)[Jule has always been obsessed with Earth. Growing up, his grandmother (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Ann>[Ann]] used to tell you stories from the old planet, and he would listen wide eyed, always asking for just one more.|AnnDesc>[
](click: ?Ann)[(replace: ?AnnDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Ann://] As the last 1st-generation miner left, she’s the only person on the station to have grown up on Earth. And to have chosen a life of space mining.
---
]]“I may have never been there, but I can picture it so clearly. Feeling the pull of its gravity, breathing air under a blue sky. My body was made for Earth. Can’t you feel it too?”
[[“Not really, no.”->J5]]
[[“I’ve been having dreams about Earth.”->J6]]
[[“It feels nice to imagine.”->J7]]](Display: "Location")“Nothing too bad, I hope. A few people aren’t dealing so well with the big news. Losing touch with Earth… It’s been hard.”
(if:$Earth is not true)[[[Earth…->JEarth]]](if:$Earth is true)[Jule has always been obsessed with Earth. Growing up, his grandmother (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Ann>[Ann]] used to tell you stories from the old planet, and he would listen wide eyed, always asking for just one more.|AnnDesc>[
](click: ?Ann)[(replace: ?AnnDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Ann://] As the last 1st-generation miner left, she’s the only person on the station to have grown up on Earth. And to have chosen a life of space mining.
---
]]“I may have never been there, but I can picture it so clearly. Feeling the pull of its gravity, breathing air under a blue sky. My body was made for Earth. Can’t you feel it too?”
[[“Not really, no.”->J5]]
[[“I’ve been having dreams about Earth.”->J6]]
[[“It feels nice to imagine.”->J7]]](Display: "Location")“Understandable. I’ve been stuck in my head lately too, with all that’s been happening. Losing touch with Earth… It’s been hard.”
(if:$Earth is not true)[[[Earth…->JEarth]]](if:$Earth is true)[Jule has always been obsessed with Earth. Growing up, his grandmother (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Ann>[Ann]] used to tell you stories from the old planet, and he would listen wide eyed, always asking for just one more.|AnnDesc>[
](click: ?Ann)[(replace: ?AnnDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Ann://] As the last 1st-generation miner left, she’s the only person on the station to have grown up on Earth. And to have chosen a life of space mining.
---
]]“I may have never been there, but I can picture it so clearly. Feeling the pull of its gravity, breathing air under a blue sky. My body was made for Earth. Can’t you feel it too?”
[[“Not really, no.”->J5]]
[[“I’ve been having dreams about Earth.”->J6]]
[[“It feels nice to imagine.”->J7]]](Display: "Location")“Maybe it’s just me. But I’ve always felt something was missing here on the station. You know my dream has always been to visit Earth.”
“And I’ll get there. Retirement has always been the answer, but who knows if that is still a thing.”
This is the question at the heart of the station’s existential crisis. Without a line to Earth, it’s impossible to coordinate shipments and, ultimately, retirement for our workers.
“I //may// have been working on a new plan...”
[[“A new plan?”->J8]]
[[“An early retirement?”->J9]]
[[“Exercising your way off the station?”->J10]](Display: "Location")“Really? They must be nice dreams. Even with all its problems, I’ve always wanted to visit Earth.”
“And I’ll get there. Retirement has always been the answer, but who knows if that is still a thing.”
This is the question at the heart of the station’s existential crisis. Without a line to Earth, it’s impossible to coordinate shipments and, ultimately, retirement for our workers.
“I //may// have been working on a new plan...”
[[“A new plan?”->J8]]
[[“An early retirement?”->J9]]
[[“Exercising your way off the station?”->J10]](Display: "Location")“I think so too. I’ve always felt something was missing here on the station. You know my dream has always been to visit Earth.”
“And I’ll get there. Retirement has always been the answer, but who knows if that is still a thing.”
This is the question at the heart of the station’s existential crisis. Without a line to Earth, it’s impossible to coordinate shipments and, ultimately, retirement for our workers.
“I //may// have been working on a new plan...”
[[“A new plan?”->J8]]
[[“An early retirement?”->J9]]
[[“Exercising your way off the station?”->J10]](Display: "Location")(set: $Jule1Done to true)“I’ll be there to push you, don’t you worry!”
His voice is confident and caring. You’ve missed your best friend. (if:$hugged is true)[You hope you can stay close despite your growing feelings.](else:)[Maybe you can stay close, despite the storm inside you.]
“Alright. I’ll get back to it. See you tomorrow morning, then.” Jule continues his routine, leaving you to process what just happened.
(if:$AnnTrigger is true)[[[Exit the fitness room->AnnPage]]](else:)[(if:$triggerDad is true)[[[Exit the fitness room->GymHall]]](else:)[[[Exit the fitness room->DadPage]]]](set: $exitFitroom to true)(Display: "Location")(set: $Jule1Done to true)“It helps you feel better, for one. Seems like you could use that right now.”
His voice is confident and caring. You’ve missed your best friend. (if:$hugged is true)[You hope you can stay close despite your growing feelings.](else:)[Maybe you can stay close, despite the storm inside you.]
“Alright. I’ll get back to it. See you tomorrow morning, then.” Jule continues his routine, leaving you to process what just happened.
(if:$AnnTrigger is true)[[[Exit the fitness room->AnnPage]]](else:)[(if:$triggerDad is true)[[[Exit the fitness room->GymHall]]](else:)[[[Exit the fitness room->DadPage]]]](set: $exitFitroom to true)(Display: "Location")(set: $Jule1Done to true)“Glad to hear it! It’ll be just like old times.”
His voice is confident and caring. You’ve missed your best friend. (if:$hugged is true)[You hope you can stay close despite your growing feelings.](else:)[Maybe you can stay close, despite the storm inside you.]
“Alright. I’ll get back to it. See you tomorrow morning, then.” Jule continues his routine, leaving you to process what just happened.
(if:$AnnTrigger is true)[[[Exit the fitness room->AnnPage]]](else:)[(if:$triggerDad is true)[[[Exit the fitness room->GymHall]]](else:)[[[Exit the fitness room->DadPage]]]](set: $exitFitroom to true)(prepend:?sidebar)[(icon-fullscreen: )](rerun: ?LocationHook)(set:$audio to true)(text-colour:#404040)[//Location: $location
---
//](Display: "Location")(set: $Iliah1Done to true)(set: $exitCommsroom to true)“I’m going to take this.” Iliah moves away from you toward the console. “We’ll talk again later, OK?” She puts on her headphones and gives you one last look before turning around, flicking a switch, and talking to someone else.
You stand there, heart pounding, wishing you could talk some more. But you’ll have to return later to see Iliah again.
(if:$AnnTrigger is true)[[[Exit the comms room->AnnPage]]](else:)[(if:$triggerDad is true)[[[Exit the comms room->CommHall]]](else:)[[[Exit the comms room->DadPage]]]](Display: "Location")(set: $Iliah1Done to true)(set: $exitCommsroom to true)“I’m going to take this.” Iliah moves away from you toward the console. “We’ll talk again later, OK?” She puts on her headphones and gives you one last look before turning around, flicking a switch, and talking to someone else.
You stand there with mixed feelings, wishing you could talk some more. But you’ll have to return later to see Iliah again.
(if:$AnnTrigger is true)[[[Exit the comms room->AnnPage]]](else:)[(if:$triggerDad is true)[[[Exit the comms room->CommHall]]](else:)[[[Exit the comms room->DadPage]]]](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'signal2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'signal2', 'fadein', 1)(track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 1)(Display: "Location")Iliah’s smile slowly drops into a worried frown. “I wish we were still close.”
You knew this talk was coming. But that doesn’t make it any easier.
“I can tell you’re going through something,” she says, sliding closer to you.
She’s not wrong. You are going through something, aren’t you? You’ve distanced yourself with Iliah for a reason. From everyone, really.
(link: "“Sorry I’ve been so distant.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I10")]
(link: "“I’ve been trying to figure some things out.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I11")](Display: "Location")“Hey, this can be a good thing. I promise.” Iliah seems genuinely happy, free of the weight of our purpose.
“We didn’t choose to be born here among the asteroids. And now, we can leave the burden of work behind and live however we want.”
(if:$iliahclothes is true)[You spend a moment looking at each other. Her gaze wanders, a grin spreading across her face.
“You’re wearing my designs.” You glance down and remember you picked out clothes Iliah had given you. “I’m glad you’re still wearing them.”
(link: "“It was a nice gift.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes1")]
(link: "“You’re a talented designer.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes2")]
(link: "“It was the only clean outfit left.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes3")]](else:)[You spend a (link: "moment")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iaaa")] looking at each other. A grin spreads across her face as she looks you over.](Display: "Location")“You’re welcome. They look good on you. Most people don’t spend credits on custom clothes, but it’s depressing to wear the basics every day.”
You had never considered wearing different clothes before. One of her many bad influences, according to Dad.
(link: "Memories")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "Iaaa")] come and go as you look into each other’s eyes.(Display: "Location")“That’s nice of you to say. I appreciate it. Most people don’t spend credits on custom clothes, but it’s depressing to wear the basics every day.”
You had never considered wearing different clothes before. One of her many bad influences, according to Dad.
(link: "Memories")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "Iaaa")] come and go as you look into each other’s eyes.(Display: "Location")Her smile broadens. “Oh, stop it! You know it’s depressing to wear the basics every day.”
You had never considered wearing different clothes before. One of her many bad influences, according to Dad.
(link: "Memories")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "Iaaa")] come and go as you look into each other’s eyes.space1: ./audio/space1.ogg, ./audio/space1.mp3
space2: ./audio/space2.ogg, ./audio/space2.mp3
space3: ./audio/space3.ogg, ./audio/space3.mp3
space4: ./audio/space4.ogg, ./audio/space4.mp3
space5: ./audio/space5.ogg, ./audio/space5.mp3
signal1: ./audio/signal1.ogg, ./audio/signal1.mp3
signal2: ./audio/signal2.ogg, ./audio/signal2.mp3
jule1: ./audio/jule1.ogg, ./audio/jule1.mp3
jule2: ./audio/jule2.ogg, ./audio/jule2.mp3
futur1: ./audio/futur1.ogg, ./audio/futur1.mp3
futur2: ./audio/futur2.ogg, ./audio/futur2.mp3LOAD AND SETUP TRACKS
{
(track: 'space', 'loop', true)
(track: 'ap1', 'volume', 1)
(track: 'ap2', 'loop', true)
(track: 'ap2', 'volume', 0)
(track: 'ap1', 'play')
(track: 'ap2', 'play')
}
FADE LOOPINGTRACKS INTO EACH OTHER
{
(track: 'ap1', 'fadeout', 2)
(track: 'ap2', 'volume', 1)
(track: 'ap2', 'fadein', 2)
}(Display: "Location")“Yeah, I know. He’s told me about his plan. Unfortunately, we don’t have the same destinations in mind.”
Travelling to Earth. Hopping from station to station. You wonder if your friends will ever achieve their impossible goals.
“It’s hard to accept that our time together is more finite than we thought. But I’m glad we’re making our own plans for what comes next.”
(link: "“How can you afford to leave?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8Y")]
(link: "“Aren’t you scared of leaving?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I8Z")](Display: "Location")“We have access to so many materials. We can just use them instead of shipping them out. It might take a few years, but I’m sure we can make it happen.”
“We didn’t choose to be born here among the asteroids. And now, we can leave the burden of work behind and live however we want.”
She really means to leave the station, then?
(if:$iliahclothes is true)[You spend a moment looking at each other. Her gaze wanders, a grin spreading across her face.
“You’re wearing my designs.” You glance down and remember you picked out clothes Iliah had given you. “I’m glad you’re still wearing them.”
(link: "“It was a nice gift.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes1")]
(link: "“You’re a talented designer.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes2")]
(link: "“It was the only clean outfit left.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes3")]](else:)[You spend a (link: "moment")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iaaa")] looking at each other. A grin spreads across her face as she looks you over.](Display: "Location")“I feel relieved, actually. The thought of working my life away here is scarier.” Iliah seems genuinely happy, free of the weight of our purpose.
“We didn’t choose to be born here among the asteroids. And now, we can leave the burden of work behind and live however we want.”
She really means to leave the station, then?
(if:$iliahclothes is true)[You spend a moment looking at each other. Her gaze wanders, a grin spreading across her face.
“You’re wearing my designs.” You glance down and remember you picked out clothes Iliah had given you. “I’m glad you’re still wearing them.”
(link: "“It was a nice gift.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes1")]
(link: "“You’re a talented designer.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes2")]
(link: "“It was the only clean outfit left.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iclothes3")]](else:)[You spend a (link: "moment")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Iaaa")] looking at each other. A grin spreads across her face as she looks you over.](Display: "Location")“Curious, are you? I’m not exactly sure how I’ll manage it, but I’m hoping to fabricate a shuttle or retrofit one of the old mining vessels. In the meantime, I’m getting ready for Earth’s gravity with weight training.”
Jule is the most driven person you know. But leaving the station on a shuttle to Earth is unheard of.(if:$switch1 is false)[
[[“That’s a big deal.”->J8a]]](if:$switch2 is false)[
[[“How is that even possible?”->J9a]]](if:$switch3 is false)[(if:$Iliah1Done is true)[
[[“Iliah is also planning to leave.”->J10a]]]](if:$textswitch > 1)[
[[“How do you feel about leaving?”->J11]]](Display: "Location")“You could say that. I’m not exactly sure how I’ll manage it, but I’m hoping to fabricate a shuttle or retrofit one of the old mining vessels. In the meantime, I’m getting ready for Earth’s gravity with weight training.”
Jule is the most driven person you know. But leaving the station on a shuttle to Earth is unheard of.(if:$switch1 is false)[
[[“That’s a big deal.”->J8a]]](if:$switch2 is false)[
[[“How is that even possible?”->J9a]]](if:$switch3 is false)[(if:$Iliah1Done is true)[
[[“Iliah is also planning to leave.”->J10a]]]](if:$textswitch > 1)[
[[“How do you feel about leaving?”->J11]]](Display: "Location")“You’re not far off, actually. I’m not exactly sure how I’ll manage it, but I’m hoping to fabricate a shuttle or retrofit one of the old mining vessels. In the meantime, I’m getting ready for Earth’s gravity with weight training.”
Jule is the most driven person you know. But leaving the station on a shuttle to Earth is unheard of.(if:$switch1 is false)[
[[“That’s a big deal.”->J8a]]](if:$switch2 is false)[
[[“How is that even possible?”->J9a]]](if:$switch3 is false)[(if:$Iliah1Done is true)[
[[“Iliah is also planning to leave.”->J10a]]]](if:$textswitch > 1)[
[[“How do you feel about leaving?”->J11]]](Display: "Location")(set: $textswitch to it + 1)(set: $switch1 to true)“I know it sounds absurd. But I have to at least try.”(if:$switch2 is false)[
[[“How is that even possible?”->J9a]]](if:$switch3 is false)[(if:$Iliah1Done is true)[
[[“Iliah is also planning to leave.”->J10a]]]](if:$textswitch > 1)[
[[“How do you feel about leaving?”->J11]]](Display: "Location")(set: $textswitch to it + 1)(set: $switch2 to true)“I’ve been talking with the quartermaster. If Earth stays silent, I might be able to spend my credits on materials. But I’d have to work for years before earning enough for a shuttle.”(if:$switch1 is false)[
[[“That’s a big deal.”->J8a]]](if:$switch3 is false)[(if:$Iliah1Done is true)[
[[“Iliah is also planning to leave.”->J10a]]]](if:$textswitch > 1)[
[[“How do you feel about leaving?”->J11]]](Display: "Location")(set: $textswitch to it + 1)(set: $switch3 to true)“Yeah, she’s told me as much. We won’t be going the same way, unfortunately.”
Hopping from station to station. Travelling to Earth. You wonder if your friends will ever achieve their impossible goals.
“It was hard to accept that our time together is coming to an end, but I’m glad we’re following our own plans for what’s next.”(if:$switch1 is false)[
[[“That’s a big deal.”->J8a]]](if:$switch2 is false)[
[[“How is that even possible?”->J9a]]](if:$textswitch > 1)[
[[“How do you feel about leaving?”->J11]]](Display: "Location")(set: $textswitch to 0)(set: $switch1 to false)(set: $switch2 to false)“I still have to come to terms with leaving the //Bean// behind. Grandma,(if:$switch3 is false)[ Iliah,] you… It’s going to be hard.”
The thought of losing Jule is difficult to imagine. You two have been friends for as long as you can remember.
You lose track of time for a moment, lost in this sad thought. “Hey, I’m not leaving tomorrow.” Jule gestures for a hug. You are drawn to him as the knot in your stomach tightens.
[[Hug him back->JH]]
[[Don’t hug him back->JHN]](set: $switch3 to false)(Display: "Location")(set: $hugged to true)You and Jule share a warm - and unfortunately sweaty - hug. As you pull closer, the tension inside you melts away, replaced with all sorts of feelings.
Just as you feared, things might be different for you now, whether you like it or not. It might be time to admit it to yourself. And to Jule.
He steps back and you stand in silence for a moment.
“Look, I’m worried about you, keeping to yourself all of a sudden. I’ve seen you down before, but we’ve gotten through it together.”
[[“Sorry for avoiding you.”->JH1]]
[[“Maybe we can figure this out together.”->JH2]]
[[“Let’s talk about this soon.”->JH3]](Display: "Location")(set: $hugged to false)Saddened by your reaction, Jule looks deflated before putting on a flimsy smile. “It’s the sweat, isn’t it?”
You stand in silence for a moment. “Look, I’m worried about you, keeping to yourself all of a sudden. I’ve seen you down before, but we’ve gotten through it together.”
Anxiety shoots throughout your body. Jule is right. Something has been pushing you away from him.
[[“Sorry for avoiding you.”->JH1]]
[[“Maybe we can figure this out together.”->JH2]]
[[“It’s none of your business.”->JH4]](Display: "Location")“OK, so it wasn’t just in my head. Maybe we can talk it out. You don’t have to go through this alone.”
(if:$hugged is false)[Thinking about this only makes the tension worse. You’re scared to confront whatever this is, and whatever might happen when you do.
]Jule takes a towel from his back pocket and wipes the sweat from his forehead. “Why don’t we work out together tomorrow morning? Take your mind off things?”
[[“I wish I had your motivation.”->J13]]
[[“Sure, let’s do that.”->J14]](if:$hugged is false)[
[[“What’s the point in staying fit?”->J15]]](Display: "Location")“I’d like that. You don’t have to go through this alone.”
(if:$hugged is false)[Thinking about this only makes the tension worse. You’re scared to confront whatever this is, and whatever might happen when you do.
]Jule takes a towel from his back pocket and wipes the sweat from his forehead. “Why don’t we work out together tomorrow morning? Take your mind off things?”
[[“I wish I had your motivation.”->J13]]
[[“Sure, let’s do that.”->J14]](if:$hugged is false)[
[[“What’s the point in staying fit?”->J15]]](Display: "Location")It takes courage to say this, and you feel better once you do.
“I’d like that. You don’t have to go through this alone.”
Jule takes a towel from his back pocket and wipes the sweat from his forehead. “Why don’t we work out together tomorrow morning? Take your mind off things? Then we can talk and catch up.”
[[“I wish I had your motivation.”->J13]]
[[“Sure, let’s do that.”->J14]](Display: "Location")“Now I’m really worried. Come on, why are you acting so different? I don’t get it.”
Thinking about this only makes the tension worse. You’re scared to confront whatever this is, and whatever might happen when you do.
Jule takes a towel from his back pocket and wipes the sweat from his forehead. “Why don’t we work out together tomorrow morning? Take your mind off things?”
[[“I wish I had your motivation.”->J13]]
[[“Sure, let’s do that.”->J14]]
[[“What’s the point in staying fit?”->J15]](Display: "Location")<style> img {
max-width: 100%;
max-height: 100%;
}
</style><img src="images/ship.jpg">
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Examine")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "poster2")]](Display: "Location")You approach the door to leave, but realise you haven’t gotten dressed yet. If you still plan on meeting friends, you should probably put something on.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Return")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "YourRoom1")]](Display: "Location")(set: $Earth to true)An empty feeling washes over you in an instant as you remember:
Earth has gone silent. Without warning, the planet cut all communications with your station. Most people believe this is just a temporary problem, that we’ll be in contact again soon enough.
Despite everyone’s reassurance, and as much as you want to keep faith in your purpose, you can’t shake the feeling that this is the end.
You feel caught in spiralling thoughts that refuse to settle.
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Take a deep breath")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "YourRoom1")]](Display: "Location")It’s a stylized photograph of the (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|ship>[colony ship]], taken during the major retrofitting process about twenty years ago.(click: ?ship)[(replace: ?shipDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Colony ship://] The //Bean II// is an early offworld mining station operating in the asteroid belt for nearly a century. The first generation had incredible luck in finding rare metals, leading to infamously hefty (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|retire>[retirement]] packages for crew returning home.]](click: ?retire)[(replace: ?retDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Retirement://] After serving for several decades, depending on profitability, workers may return to (if:$Earth is true)[(text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Earth>[Earth]]](else:)[(link: "Earth")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Earth2")]] via shipment capsules to retire.]]|shipDesc>[]|retDesc>[]|EarthDesc>[](click: ?Earth)[(replace: ?EarthDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Why are you so distracted?//] You snap out of this train of thought. You have some people to talk with today. Better head out and find them.]]
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Return")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "YourRoom1")]](set: $location to "Ring corridor")(Display: "Location")(if:$leaveengi is true)[{(track: 'futur2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'futur1', 'fadeout', 2)
(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)]}You leave engineering via lift the same way you came, reaching the habitation ring corridor.
One end of the corridor leads to module B, fitness and showers, the other to module C, dormitories.](else:)[You move through the habitation ring toward module (if:$module is "c")[B](if:$module is "b")[C]. At the corridor’s halfway point is one of the four lifts to the engineering deck in the station’s (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|ship>[central structure]].](if:$engirant1 is false)[](else:)[
If you were heading to work, you might take the lift. But now isn’t the time.(set: $engirant1 to false)](click: ?ship)[(replace: ?shipDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Central structure://] This ring is spun by the station’s core to create artificial gravity. Ore processing takes up the bulk of the central chassis, with engineering and navigation on this end and all mining modules on the far side near the docking ring.]]|shipDesc>[]
(if:$module is "b")[(link: "Continue to module C")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Hall1")]
(link: "Return to module B")[(set: $module to "c")(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "GymHall")]](if:$module is "c")[(link: "Continue to module B")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "GymHall")]
(link: "Return to module C")[(set: $module to "b")(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Hall1")]](if:$dadpage is true)[
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[[[Move toward engineering->engiEnd]]](else-if:$Dad1Done is true)[[[Move toward engineering->engiPost]]](else-if: $Dad1Done is not true)[[[Move toward engineering->engi]]]](set: $cor to 1)(set: $leaveengi to false)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'futur1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(set: $location to "Engineering")(Display: "Location")The lift takes you up, spin gravity lessening as you approach the central section. With the help of holds, you launch yourself gently onto the engineering deck.
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Dad>[Dad]] turns away from his workbench as you enter, pushing softly toward you through the air. “There you are. Good to see you again.”(click: ?Dad)[(replace: ?dadDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Dad://] Woodrow has more grays than you remember, from his temples to the scruffy whiskers on his normally clean-shaven cheeks. He’s wearing a familiar navy work jumper.]]
He squeezes your shoulder with a grease-stained hand. “How have you been? I’ve barely seen you this week.”|dadDesc>[]
(link: "“Things have been a little weird.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "D1")]
(link: "“Losing contact has been hard.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "D2")]
(link: "“You seem fine, as if nothing has happened.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "D3")](set: $textswitch to 0)(set: $switch1 to false)(set: $switch2 to false)(set: $switch3 to false)(set: $location to "Ring corridor")(Display: "Location")(if:$leaveengi is true)[{(track: 'futur2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'futur1', 'fadeout', 2)
(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)]}You leave engineering via lift the same way you came, reaching the habitation ring corridor.
One end of the corridor leads to module A, kitchen and common area, the other to module B, fitness and showers.](else:)[You move through the habitation ring toward module (if:$module is "b")[A](if:$module is "a")[B]. At the corridor’s halfway point is one of the four lifts to the engineering deck in the station’s (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|ship>[central structure]].](if:$engirant1 is false)[](else:)[
If you were heading to work, you might take the lift. But now isn’t the time.(set: $engirant1 to false)](click: ?ship)[(replace: ?shipDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Central structure://] This ring is spun by the station’s core to create artificial gravity. Ore processing takes up the bulk of the central chassis, with engineering and navigation on this end and all mining modules on the far side near the docking ring.]]|shipDesc>[]
(if:$module is "a")[(link: "Continue to module B")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "GymHall")]
(link: "Return to module A")[(set: $module to "b")(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoom")]](if:$module is "b")[(link: "Continue to module A")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "CommonRoom")]
(link: "Return to module B")[(set: $module to "a")(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "GymHall")]](if:$dadpage is true)[
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[[[Move toward engineering->engiEnd]]](else-if:$Dad1Done is true)[[[Move toward engineering->engiPost]]](else-if: $Dad1Done is not true)[[[Move toward engineering->engi]]]](set: $cor to 2)(set: $leaveengi to false)(set: $location to "Ring corridor")(Display: "Location")(if:$leaveengi is true)[{(track: 'futur2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'futur1', 'fadeout', 2)
(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)]}You leave engineering via lift the same way you came, reaching the habitation ring corridor.
One end of the corridor leads to module A, common area and kitchen, the other to module D, communications and medical.](else:)[You move through the habitation ring toward module (if:$module is "a")[D](if:$module is "d")[A]. At the corridor’s halfway point is one of the four lifts to the engineering deck in the station’s (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|ship>[central structure]].](if:$engirant1 is false)[](else:)[
If you were heading to work, you might take the lift. But now isn’t the time.(set: $engirant1 to false)](click: ?ship)[(replace: ?shipDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Central structure://] This ring is spun by the station’s core to create artificial gravity. Ore processing takes up the bulk of the central chassis, with engineering and navigation on this end and all mining modules on the far side near the docking ring.]]|shipDesc>[]
(if:$module is "d")[(link: "Continue to module A")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoom")]
(link: "Return to module D")[(set: $module to "a")(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommHall")]](if:$module is "a")[(link: "Continue to module D")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommHall")]
(link: "Return to module A")[(set: $module to "d")(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoom")]](if:$dadpage is true)[
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[[[Move toward engineering->engiEnd]]](else-if:$Dad1Done is true)[[[Move toward engineering->engiPost]]](else-if: $Dad1Done is not true)[[[Move toward engineering->engi]]]](set: $cor to 3)(set: $leaveengi to false)(set: $location to "Ring corridor")(Display: "Location")(if:$leaveengi is true)[{(track: 'futur2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'futur1', 'fadeout', 2)
(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)]}You leave engineering via lift the same way you came, reaching the habitation ring corridor.
One end of the corridor leads to module C, dormitories, the other to module D, communications and medical.](else:)[You move through the habitation ring toward module (if:$module is "d")[C](if:$module is "c")[D]. At the corridor’s halfway point is one of the four lifts to the engineering deck in the station’s (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|ship>[central structure]].](if:$engirant1 is false)[](else:)[
If you were heading to work, you might take the lift. But now isn’t the time.(set: $engirant1 to false)](click: ?ship)[(replace: ?shipDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Central structure://] This ring is spun by the station’s core to create artificial gravity. Ore processing takes up the bulk of the central chassis, with engineering and navigation on this end and all mining modules on the far side near the docking ring.]]|shipDesc>[]
(if:$module is "c")[(link: "Continue to module D")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommHall")]
(link: "Return to module C")[(set: $module to "d")(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "Hall1")]](if:$module is "d")[(link: "Continue to module C")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Hall1")]
(link: "Return to module D")[(set: $module to "c")(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommHall")]](if:$dadpage is true)[
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[[[Move toward engineering->engiEnd]]](else-if:$Dad1Done is true)[[[Move toward engineering->engiPost]]](else-if: $Dad1Done is not true)[[[Move toward engineering->engi]]]](set: $cor to 4)(set: $leaveengi to false)(set: $location to "Engineering")(Display: "Location")“Oh? You mean with Earth dropping contact?”
Dad smiles. “I don’t know why some people are all worked up about that. How they could lose faith so quickly is beyond me.”
He pushes off a nearby wall and heads back to the workbench. It’s hard to think of Dad not working. What will he ever do if this responsibility is taken from him?
(if:$Ann1Done is true)[You should let him know what just happened in the common area.
(link: "“Ann just convened a meeting.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E1")]
(link: "“Didn’t you see Ann’s invitation?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E2")]
(link: "“You just missed something big.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E1")]](if:$Ann1Done is not true)[[[“Without Earth, our work is meaningless.”->D4]]
[[“What if Earth stays silent?”->D5]]
[[“Maybe your faith is misplaced.”->D6]]](set: $location to "Engineering")(Display: "Location")“Oh? I didn’t know you still had pen pals out there.”
Dad smiles. “I don’t know why some people are all worked up about that. How they could lose faith so quickly is beyond me.”
He pushes off a nearby wall and heads back to the workbench. It’s hard to think of Dad not working. What will he ever do if this responsibility is taken from him?
(if:$Ann1Done is true)[You should let him know what just happened in the common area.
(link: "“Ann just convened a meeting.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E1")]
(link: "“Didn’t you see Ann’s invitation?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E2")]
(link: "“You just missed something big.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E1")]](if:$Ann1Done is not true)[[[“Without Earth, our work is meaningless.”->D4]]
[[“What if Earth stays silent?”->D5]]
[[“Maybe your faith is misplaced.”->D6]]](set: $location to "Engineering")(Display: "Location")“You mean about Earth dropping contact?”
Dad smiles. “I don’t know why some people are all worked up about that. How they could lose faith so quickly is beyond me.”
He pushes off a nearby wall and heads back to the workbench. It’s hard to think of Dad not working. What will he ever do if this responsibility is taken from him?
(if:$Ann1Done is true)[You should let him know what just happened in the common area.
(link: "“Ann just convened a meeting.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E1")]
(link: "“Didn’t you see Ann’s invitation?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E2")]
(link: "“You just missed something big.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E1")]](if:$Ann1Done is not true)[[[“Without Earth, our work is meaningless.”->D4]]
[[“What if Earth stays silent?”->D5]]
[[“Maybe your faith is misplaced.”->D6]]](Display: "Location")(set: $textswitch to it + 1)(set: $switch1 to true)“Earth isn’t going anywhere. It will be waiting for us when we finally arrive for our retirement.”(if:$textswitch > 1)[
Dad takes a breath and turns back toward you. “You’ve missed your last two shifts. I’m not sure what to think of that. Billions on Earth would kill for this opportunity, you know.”
You knew this was coming.
[[“I’ll try to be on time tomorrow.”->D7]]
[[“I’m done working for retirement.”->D8]]
[[“It doesn’t matter anymore.”->D8]]](else:)[(if:$switch2 is false)[
[[“What if Earth stays silent?”->D5]]](if:$switch3 is false)[
[[“Maybe your faith is misplaced.”->D6]]]](Display: "Location")(set: $textswitch to it + 1)(set: $switch2 to true)“Don’t worry about that. Must be some issue with the network, that’s all. Channels will be open again soon, I have no doubt.” He seems genuinely hopeful.(if:$textswitch > 1)[
Dad takes a breath and turns back toward you. “You’ve missed your last two shifts. I’m not sure what to think of that. Billions on Earth would kill for this opportunity, you know.”
You knew this was coming.
[[“I’ll try to be on time tomorrow.”->D7]]
[[“I’m done working for retirement.”->D8]]
[[“It doesn’t matter anymore.”->D8]]](else:)[(if:$switch1 is false)[
[[“Without Earth, our work is meaningless.”->D4]]](if:$switch3 is false)[
[[“Maybe your faith is misplaced.”->D6]]]](Display: "Location")(set: $textswitch to it + 1)(set: $switch3 to true)“Our purpose hasn’t changed. Being born here was a blessing. Our work is important, and in the end, we’ll be rewarded for it.”(if:$textswitch > 1)[
Dad takes a breath and turns back toward you. “You’ve missed your last two shifts. I’m not sure what to think of that. Billions on Earth would kill for this opportunity, you know.”
You knew this was coming.
[[“I’ll try to be on time tomorrow.”->D7]]
[[“I’m done working for retirement.”->D8]]
[[“It doesn’t matter anymore.”->D8]]](else:)[(if:$switch1 is false)[
[[“Without Earth, our work is meaningless.”->D4]]](if:$switch2 is false)[
[[“What if Earth stays silent?”->D5]]]](Display: "Location")“Good. Happy to hear it. I’m glad you haven’t given up so easily.”
“It can be hard to imagine a life of plenty, of warmth, of pleasure. Especially when all we’ve known is this old station. But we can live this, in the end. That’s why we [[work->D10]].”(Display: "Location")“Don’t say such nonsense. You’ve been spending too much time with that Iliah. I hope you won’t throw away your future because of her.”
“It can be hard to imagine a life of plenty, of warmth, of pleasure. Especially when all we’ve known is this old station. But we can live this, in the end. That’s why we [[work->D10]].”(Display: "Location")Dad has always been proud of his devotion to our work. He inherited the determination of the 1st-generation workers, who he witnessed earn a beautiful end to their lives through labour, as promised. Everyone except (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Ann>[Ann]], of course.(click: ?Ann)[(replace: ?AnnDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Ann://] Having seen the colony grow around her, she chose to donate her life’s earnings to the betterment of the ship, expanding the dormitories module and affording new supplies. Her sacrifice helped us all.
---
]]|AnnDesc>[
]“Without our Earthly retirement, there’s no hope for us here. No reason for any of it. I hope you hold onto this. It’s easy to lose yourself without a purpose.”
You aren’t quite sure what to make of this.
[[Dad might be right.->D11]]
[[It’s hard to say what happens now, without Earth.->D12]]
[[People can find their own purpose outside the system.->D13]](Display: "Location")Why are we here, if not to work toward a way out?
“Well, it was nice seeing you. Thanks for stopping in,” he says. “I’m heading outside to start shuttle bay repairs. Tomorrow, we can finish the job together, as per our schedule. See you then?”
Spending time with Dad might be nice, even though it involves working.
[[“Sure, see you tomorrow.”->D14]]
[[“Don’t count on it.”->D15]]
[[“I’m not sure. We’ll see.”->D15]](Display: "Location")You understand why your father is sticking to what he knows.
“Well, it was nice seeing you. Thanks for stopping in,” he says. “I’m heading outside to start shuttle bay repairs. Tomorrow, we can finish the job together, as per our schedule. See you then?”
Spending time with Dad might be nice, even though it involves working.
[[Sure, see you tomorrow.->D14]]
[[Don’t count on it.->D15]]
[[I’m not sure. We’ll see.->D15]](Display: "Location")This idea gives you courage, as radical as it may be.
“Well, it was nice seeing you. Thanks for stopping in,” he says. “I’m heading outside to start shuttle bay repairs. Tomorrow, we can finish the job together, as per our schedule. See you then?”
Spending time with Dad might be nice, even though it involves working.
[[Sure, see you tomorrow.->D14]]
[[Don’t count on it.->D15]]
[[I’m not sure. We’ll see.->D15]](Display: "Location")Dad’s face lights up. You wonder if he’s happy to spend time with you, or happy your work ethic is holding up. “See you tomorrow, then.” He gives you one last smile before turning away.
(if:$cor is 1)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor1]]](if:$cor is 2)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor2]]](if:$cor is 3)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor3]]](if:$cor is 4)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor4]]](set: $leaveengi to true)(set: $Dad1Done to true)(Display: "Location")“I hope you’ll find your way.” He gives you one last smile before turning away, failing to hide his disappointment.
(if:$cor is 1)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor1]]](if:$cor is 2)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor2]]](if:$cor is 3)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor3]]](if:$cor is 4)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor4]]](set: $leaveengi to true)(set: $Dad1Done to true)(Display: "Location")As you leave the room, you hear the familiar chime of your ePad. A new message waiting for you. It’s from Dad.
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Hi, come to Engineering when you get the chance. Need to talk. XOXO DAD//]
Probably about missing your last work shifts. Or maybe your old man just wants to catch up. He’s up in the central section of the station, if you want to visit him.
(if:$location is "Module D, Communications")[[[Continue->CommHall]]](else:)[[[Continue->GymHall]]](set:$dadpage to true)(set:$triggerDad to true)(Display: "Location")Your pager beeps again. What is it now?
You’re surprised to see a message from Ann. It’s addressed to the entire colony and contains an event invitation simply called “Gathering” set to begin soon in the common area.
Coming from Ann, most habitants will be there. What could this be about? You are drawn to the common area to find out.
(if:$location is "Module D, Communications")[[[Continue->CommHall]]](else:)[[[Continue->GymHall]]](set:$annpage to true)(set:$AnnTrigger to false)(if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(set: $location to "Module A, common area")(Display: "Location")You enter the common area of the station. Seats and tables are scattered around the sunken space in the room’s center, where a group of people are hanging out and talking.
On the far wall, the station’s only window covers the entire back wall, offering a wide (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|view>[view]] into space.(click: ?view)[(replace: ?viewDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//View://] You look out and see several asteroids drifting in the distance. Around them, hundreds of stars shine against the black canvas of space.
You look away after a moment, feeling a little discomfort as the view shifts with the habitation ring’s rotation.]]|viewDesc>[]
(link: "Return to the module corridor")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoom")](set: $leaveCommon to true)(if:$relax is not true)[(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)](if:$relax is true)[(set: $relax to false)](set: $location to "Module D, kitchen")(Display: "Location")You are in the kitchen. The back wall is lined with cabinets and containers for food and tools. In the left corner, the enormous organic (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Pri>[printer]] sits ready to accept orders. To the right, various (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Her>[herbs]] grow in cans fastened to the wall.(click: ?Pri)[(replace: ?PriDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Printer://] Most of your food intake is produced by this ageing machine. People like your Dad find no pleasure in trying new recipes. Jule’s natural ingredients and Iliah’s love of trying new things is opening you up to new tastes, however.]]|PriDesc>[](click: ?Her)[(replace: ?HerDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Herbs://] These plants cost the station some water, but they really do help improve the taste of printed food. At the start, no one thought they would take. But Jule kept tending the wilting herbs day after day, eventually discovering a process that worked, much to everyone’s pleasure.]]|HerDesc>[]
(link: "Take a moment to relax")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "KitchenRelax")]
(link: "Return to the module corridor")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoom")](set: $exitKitchen to true)(if:$AnnTune is true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)](if:$AnnTune is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](if: $timeplay > 74.375)[(set: $timeplay to it - 74.375)](track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)(set: $location to "Module A, common area")(Display: "Location")You enter the common area. (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Ann>[Ann]] is sitting in the middle of the sunken living room. Around her, some of the younger habitants are sitting on pillows and watching people enter.(click: ?Ann)[(replace: ?AnnDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Ann://] She is wearing her blue Sari, a precious memento from Earth. She looks so calm despite being the center of attention.
---]]|AnnDesc>[
]There are already over a dozen people here, with more arriving from both ends of the corridor. You see an empty area near the far (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|win>[window]]. Better take this (link: "place")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A2")] before it gets too crowded.(click: ?win)[(replace: ?winDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Window://] The station’s only window covers the entire back wall, offering a wide (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|view>[view]] into space.]]|winDesc>[](click: ?view)[(replace: ?viewDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//View://] You look out and see several asteroids drifting in the distance. Around them, hundreds of stars shine against the black canvas of space.]]|viewDesc>[](set: $Ann1Done to true)(Display: "Location")You move across the room, get comfortable against the window, and wait. As the starting time approaches, Jule enters the room from the corridor to your left, no longer in his exercise outfit. He greets Ann in the center of the room and sits near her on the edge of the sunken space.
On the other end of the room, you notice Iliah standing tall behind a few other people, watching Ann.
People talk among themselves, perhaps also wondering why Ann called us all here.
(link: "Join Iliah")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AI")]
(link: "Join Jule")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ")]
(link: "Stay where you are")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA")](Display: "Location")(set: $standing to 1)You move toward the corridor on your right. Iliah smiles and signals you to her.
Circling around a group of people, you reach Iliah near the back of the room. “Hey,” she whispers. “I hope you can see from back here.” You adjust your position until you have a good view of Ann at the center of the room.
The whispers across the room suddenly die out and all eyes turn to Ann. She is scanning the room, looking at her people.
“Hello, everyone. Thank you for coming on such short notice.”
Everyone (link: "listens")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AAA")] as she speaks.(Display: "Location")(set: $standing to 2)You move toward the center of the room. Jule sees you approaching, and fluffs a pillow next to him for you.
“Hey,” he whispers as you sit down and get comfortable. You look up and see Ann smiling at you.
The murmurs across the room suddenly die out and all eyes turn to Ann. She is scanning the room, looking at her people.
“Hello, everyone. Thank you for coming on such short notice.”
Everyone (link: "listens")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AAA")] as she speaks.(Display: "Location")(set: $standing to 0)You consider joining one of your friends, but decide against it. You sit down, back against the window, and wait.
The whispers across the room suddenly die out and all eyes turn to Ann. She is scanning the room, looking at her people.
“Hello, everyone. Thank you for coming on such short notice.”
Everyone (link: "listens")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AAA")] as she speaks.(Display: "Location")“The last time we all gathered, we had just learned that communications from Earth were cut. In the days since, this has not changed.”
“We must have faith that this blackout will one day end. But until then, we’re in the dark. And people are not meant to live in the dark. Without a lifeline to Earth, (link: "we cannot survive")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A3")].”
You wonder what she means.(Display: "Location")“Our organic (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|stores>[reserves]] won’t last very long without regular supply shipments. And we can’t make sure these will continue if we can’t reach Earth.”(click: ?stores)[(replace: ?sDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Reserves://] The station’s gardening and composting produces only a fraction of what is consumed. Without cargo from Earth, bringing new soil, seeds, and organics cartridges for the printers, the colony would starve.
---]]|sDesc>[
]“But if we pool together some of our resources, and work toward new, collective goals, we can try to achieve sustainability here on //Bean II//.”
(link: "Would that even be possible?")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A4")]
(link: "Wouldn’t that be illegal?")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A4")]
(link: "Will anyone be on board for this?")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A4")](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space5', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space5', 'fadein', 10)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 10)(Display: "Location")As you think about what Ann said, voices raise around the room.
One of the refinery workers steps forward. “We’re already struggling for work credits, compared to your generation. And now we have to give some away for the station? We might never retire.”
Ann considers for a moment. “I’m not asking you to sacrifice your future as I did. But until we hear back from Earth, we shouldn’t take any chances. We must prepare for the worst.”
Discussions break out across the room. You overhear (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|one>[one]] or (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|two>[two]] voices before Ann (link: "continues")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A5")].
(click: ?one)[(replace: ?1Desc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[“Earth will come back online. We wouldn’t be here if they didn’t need us.”]]|1Desc>[]](click: ?two)[(replace: ?2Desc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[“There must have been a global disaster. I bet there isn’t a single soul left down there.”]]|2Desc>[]](set: $AnnTune to true)(set: $Space5 to true)(Display: "Location")“Friends, family, please…” Ann waits a moment as the crowd grows quiet again. “Maybe we wake up tomorrow, Earth will be back, and we carry on as we always have. I hope for you that this will be the case.”
“But please consider investing into ourselves, for a new, sustainable future on this station.”
The thought of being on the station forever, living like this, without the promise of a retirement package, is heartbreaking. You can see it on the faces of many of the workers. Everyone here grew up believing that something better would be waiting for them, if only they worked hard.
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[|here>[Here]] and (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|there>[there]], murmurs persist. Ann closes her eyes and takes a deep breath before (link: "continuing")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A6")].(click: ?here)[(replace: ?1Desc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[“Can we really become self-sufficient? What if it’s already too late?”]]|1Desc>[]](click: ?there)[(replace: ?2Desc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[“Earth won’t be too happy about us breaking protocol. Can we really take the risk?”]]|2Desc>[]](Display: "Location")Ann clears her throat. “I know this is difficult, but this station is at a critical juncture. Let’s start transforming this station sooner rather than later. Please take the time to consider our situation, and what I’ve asked of you.”
(if:$standing is 0)[You wonder how the colony will react to Ann’s proposition. It’s hard to tell what people think right now, their voices drowning each other out.
Jule and Ann are still sitting in the middle of the room, talking with each other as the crowd begins to disperse. Iliah is leaning against the corridor wall to your right, fiddling with her ePad.
(link: "Approach Iliah")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AI0")]
(link: "Approach Jule")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ0")]
(link: "Approach Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA0")]](if:$standing is 1)[Iliah turns to you. “Well, that will sure ruffle some feathers.” She doesn’t seem too shook up about all this.
“All these years I was alone in thinking we should work for something besides retirement. Now the entire colony is wondering the same thing.”
(link: "“Without Earth, the question asks itself.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AI1")]
(link: "“You were just ahead of your time.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AI2")]](if:$standing is 2)[Jule turns to you, looking awestruck. “Can you believe it? Grandma is asking so much from us. But I believe in her. Maybe her compassion can bring the station together right now.”
(link: "“I hope she will succeed.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ1")]
(link: "“I wouldn’t be so optimistic.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ2")]](Display: "Location")“I suppose it does. I’m curious to see how many people will actually come together with Ann to build up the station.”
As you discuss, the crowd slowly begins to disperse, voices drowning each other out.
Iliah beckons to you to follow. “Let’s keep talking in comms?”
(link: "“Sure, let’s go.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AI3")]
(link: "“I’m going to stay here for now.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AI4")]{(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 6)
(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 6)}(Display: "Location")“Or you’re all just late to the party. I’m curious to see how many people will actually come together with Ann to build up the station.”
As you discuss, the crowd slowly begins to disperse, voices drowning each other out.
Iliah beckons to you to follow. “Let’s keep talking in comms?”
(link: "“Sure, let’s go.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AI3")]
(link: "“I’m going to stay here for now.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AI4")](Display: "Location")“The station coming together to build itself better… It’s a romantic thought. I’m curious to see how many people will actually help Grandma build up the station.”
As you discuss, the crowd slowly begins to disperse, a dozen conversations drowning each other out.
Jule beckons to you to follow. “Let’s keep talking somewhere else?”
(link: "“OK, let’s go.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ3")]
(link: "“I’m going to stay here for now.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ4")](Display: "Location")“Some people will need more persuading than others. But even just a few contributions would be better than nothing. I’m curious to see how many people will actually help Grandma build up the station.”
As you discuss, the crowd slowly begins to disperse, a dozen conversations drowning each other out.
Jule beckons to you to follow. “Let’s keep talking somewhere else?”
(link: "“OK, let’s go.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ3")]
(link: "“I’m going to stay here for now.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ4")](track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 3)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 3)(Display: "Location")(set: $leaveCommon to false)“Great. Come on.” You get ready to leave while Jule and Ann say goodbye with a long hug. She waves you off, teary-eyed. Does she know that Jule plans to leave?
You and Jule make your way through the crowded corridor to module B and enter the (link: "locker room")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ3B")].(set: $JuleConvo1 to false)(set: $JuleConvo2 to false)(Display: "Location")“Sure. Come find me later, alright? I’ll be in module B.” Jule turns and leaves the room. You have the feeling he had something more to say.
You are in the common area of the station. Seats and tables are scattered around the sunken space in the room’s center, where Ann is sitting peacefully.
On the far wall, the station’s only window covers the entire back wall, offering a wide (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|view>[view]] into space.(click: ?view)[(replace: ?viewDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//View://] You look out and see several asteroids drifting in the distance. Around them, hundreds of stars shine against the black canvas of space.
You look away after a moment, feeling a little discomfort as the view shifts with the habitation ring’s rotation.]]|viewDesc>[]
(if:$Ann2Done is true)[(link: "Approach Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AE0")]](else:)[(link: "Approach Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA00")]]
(link: "Return to the module corridor")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoom")](set: $leaveCommon to true)(set: $location to "Module D, communications")(Display: "Location")(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'signal1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(set: $leaveCommon to false)“Great. Come on.” You and Iliah make your way through the crowded corridor to module D and enter the comms room, closing the door to muffle the commotion outside. You sit across from each other on the old swiveling chairs.
“I guess I’m lucky. I was already planning to leave, so this past week made that easier, not harder. There’s still the question of how to leave. I don’t think the colony would give up one of the shuttles. Otherwise, I’ll need to work for another decade to afford printing one.”
(link: "“I’m sure you’ll find a way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I21")]
(link: "“Why not help rebuild the station with Ann?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I22")]
(link: "“Maybe I could help you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I23")](set:$IliahConvo1 to false)(set:$IliahConvo2 to false)(set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")“Oh, OK. Come find me later, alright?” Iliah turns and leaves the room. You have the feeling she had something more to say.
You are in the common area of the station. Seats and tables are scattered around the sunken space in the room’s center, where Ann is sitting peacefully.
On the far wall, the station’s only window covers the entire back wall, offering a wide (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|view>[view]] into space.(click: ?view)[(replace: ?viewDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//View://] You look out and see several asteroids drifting in the distance. Around them, hundreds of stars shine against the black canvas of space.
You look away after a moment, feeling a little discomfort as the view shifts with the habitation ring’s rotation.]]|viewDesc>[]
(if:$Ann2Done is true)[(link: "Approach Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AE0")]](else:)[(link: "Approach Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA00")]]
(link: "Return to the module corridor")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoom")](set: $leaveCommon to true)(Display: "Location")You move toward Iliah, who looks up when you draw near. “Oh, hey.” She pockets her ePad and looks at you with a smirk.
“Well, that will sure ruffle some feathers.” She doesn’t seem too shook up about all this.
“All these years I felt alone in thinking we should work for something besides retirement. Now the entire colony is wondering the same thing.”
(link: "“Without Earth, the question asks itself.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AI1")]
(link: "“You were just ahead of your time.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AI2")](Display: "Location")You move toward the sunken space in the middle of the room just as Jule and Ann say share a long hug. She waves him off, teary-eyed. Does Ann know that her grandson plans to leave?
You catch up to Jule near the corridor. He turns to you, looking awestruck. “Can you believe it? Grandma is asking so much of us. But I believe in her. Maybe her compassion can bring the station together right now.”
(link: "“I hope she will succeed.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ1")]
(link: "“I wouldn’t be so optimistic.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AJ2")](if:$Space5 is not true)[(if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space5', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space5', 'fadein', 1)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 1)(set:$Space5 to true)](Display: "Location")You move toward the sunken space in the middle of the room just as Jule and Ann say share a long hug. She waves him off, teary-eyed. Does Ann know that her grandson plans to leave?
You find a cozy spot among the pillows near Ann. She looks lost in thought for a moment, then turns her attention to you.
“Hello, my dear. Thank you for being here.” Her presence is comforting. She’s helped this station so much through the years. And that’s what she’s trying to do now, in her own way. “Tell me. What do you really think of my proposal?”
(link:"“I think you have a strong case.”")[(set: $Annswer to 1)(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA1")]
(link:"“I don’t think many workers will help you.”")[(set: $Annswer to 2)(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA1")]
(link:"“I need time to think it over.”")[(set: $Annswer to 3)(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA1")]SILENT EARTH
Writing & design by Chad Comeau (text-colour:#84BAFF)[(link: "(website)")[(open-url: 'https://www.fringfrang.com/')]]
Art by Raven Rusch (text-colour:#84BAFF)[(link: "(website)")[(open-url: 'https://ravenrusch.com/digital-paintings')]]
(if:$audio is false)[Hear music by Richard Daigle (text-colour:#84BAFF)[(link: "(Bandcamp)")[(open-url: 'https://djinnproxy.bandcamp.com/releases')]] (text-colour:#84BAFF)[(link: "(Insta)")[(open-url: 'https://www.instagram.com/djinn_proxy/')]] in the Steam or Itch versions (text-colour:#84BAFF)[(link: "(Steam)")[(open-url: 'https://store.steampowered.com/app/1531790/Silent_Earth/')] [(link: "(Itch)")[(open-url: 'https://fringfrang.itch.io/silent-earth?secret=KDck0Je4tJXom7RevNuL1qTXTIo')]]]](if:$audio is true)[Music by Richard Daigle (text-colour:#84BAFF)[(link: "(Bandcamp)")[(open-url: 'https://djinnproxy.bandcamp.com/releases')]] (text-colour:#84BAFF)[(link: "(Insta)")[(open-url: 'https://www.instagram.com/djinn_proxy/')]]]
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[[[Click to really start->StartingPage]]]
Playtesting:
Ben Melanson
Charlotte Zapfe
Daniel Ouellet
David Wildemann
Gérard Connoly
Josh Astbury
Magdalena Geppert
Rüdiger Brandis
Xavier Gould
Zacharie Cassista Landry(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'futur1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(set: $location to "Engineering")(Display: "Location")The lift takes you up, spin gravity lessening as you approach the central section. With the help of holds, you launch yourself gently onto the engineering deck.
(if:$Ann1Done is true)[Most workers are probably still hanging around the habitation ring halls after Ann’s meeting. Everyone except people like Dad, who stuck to their scheduled work.
You hear the lift approaching from the the center of the room, down the passage to the rest of the ship.
Dad emerges, carrying a backpack full of mechanic’s tools that would be heavy if not for the minimal gravity in here. “Oh, hi again. What are you up to?”
He doesn’t know what just happened.
(link: "“Ann just convened a meeting.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E1")]
(link: "“Didn’t you see Ann’s invitation?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E2")]
(link: "“You just missed something big.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E1")]](else:)[The walls are lined with workbenches, tool compartments, and electrical panels. Someone is working at an open panel, rewiring something or other.
In the center of the room, a lift platform leads to the rest of the ship. Dad must still be down there working on the docking ring.
(if:$cor is 1)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor1]]](if:$cor is 2)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor2]]](if:$cor is 3)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor3]]](if:$cor is 4)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor4]]](set: $leaveengi to true)](Display: "Location")“Is that so?”
You explain Ann’s reasoning, and what she’s asking of everyone on the station. Dad slowly starts shaking his head, grinning.
“This is insane. Ann will never be forgotten because of how she helped us. But if we all give up our fortune, what will all this have been for?”
He takes a deep breath, then sighs. “In times like these, you have to stay focused. If we keep on track, I know we’ll be rewarded with paradise. Please, just focus on work with me.”
(link: "“I will, Dad.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E3")]
(link: "“I won’t, not for much longer.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E4")]
(link: "“Dad, you have to let it go.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E5")](Display: "Location")“Invitation? No, I…” Dad wipes his hands on his work coveralls and fumbles to check his ePad.
You explain Ann’s reasoning, and what she’s asking of everyone on the station. Dad slowly starts shaking his head, grinning.
“This is insane. Ann will never be forgotten because of how she helped us. But if we all give up our fortune, what will all this have been for?”
He takes a deep breath, then sighs. “In times like these, you have to stay focused. If we keep on track, I know we’ll be rewarded with paradise. Please, just focus on work with me.”
(link: "“I will, Dad.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E3")]
(link: "“I won’t, not for much longer.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E4")]
(link: "“Dad, you have to let it go.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "E5")](track: 'futur1', 'fadeout', 2)(set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](track: 'futur2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'futur2', 'fadein', 2)(Display: "Location")“I’m glad to hear it. I knew I raised you right.”
Your father stares at you, dead serious. “Save your credits. When you get to my age, you’ll regret not having anything to your name.” He only wants what’s best for you, despite his stubbornness.
“Think about it, anyway. They’re your credits. I can’t tell you how to spend them. I just hope you won’t throw everything away chasing fleeting dreams.” He shoots you one last smile before moving to the workbench to stow his tools.
Keeping your credits and working for retirement is still an option. It’s comforting to think that things will go back to normal. If you choose this path, Dad would surely like to know.
(if:$cor is 1)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor1]]](if:$cor is 2)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor2]]](if:$cor is 3)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor3]]](if:$cor is 4)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor4]]](set: $leaveengi to true)(set: $Dad2Done to true)
[[Commit to continue working for retirement->Retire]](set: $Tune2 to true)(track: 'futur1', 'fadeout', 2)(set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](track: 'futur2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'futur2', 'fadein', 2)(Display: "Location")“Fine. As long as you don’t give up entirely, I’m happy. And when Earth contacts us again, you’ll be thankful for it.”
Your father stares at you, dead serious. “Save your credits. When you get to my age, you’ll regret not having anything to your name.” He only wants what’s best for you, despite his inability to grasp your new reality.
“Think about it, anyway. They’re your credits. I can’t tell you how to spend them. I just hope you won’t throw everything away chasing fleeting dreams.” He shoots you one last smile before moving to the workbench to stow his tools.
Keeping your credits and working for retirement is still an option. It’s comforting to think that things will go back to normal. If you choose this path, Dad would surely like to know.
(if:$cor is 1)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor1]]](if:$cor is 2)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor2]]](if:$cor is 3)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor3]]](if:$cor is 4)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor4]]](set: $leaveengi to true)(set: $Dad2Done to true)
[[Commit to continue working for retirement->Retire]](set: $Tune2 to true)(track: 'futur1', 'fadeout', 2)(set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](if: $timeplay > 72.048)[(set: $timeplay to it - 72.048)](track: 'futur2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'futur2', 'fadein', 2)(Display: "Location")“We can’t let go. It’s all we have. It’s all we’re here for.”
Your father stares at you, dead serious. “Save your credits. When you get to my age, you’ll regret not having anything to your name.” He only wants what’s best for you, despite his inability to grasp your new reality.
“Think about it, anyway. They’re your credits. I can’t tell you how to spend them. I just hope you won’t throw everything away chasing fleeting dreams.” He shoots you one last smile before moving to the workbench to stow his tools.
Keeping your credits and working for retirement is still an option. It’s comforting to think that things will go back to normal. If you choose this path, Dad would surely like to know.
(if:$cor is 1)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor1]]](if:$cor is 2)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor2]]](if:$cor is 3)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor3]]](if:$cor is 4)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor4]]](set: $leaveengi to true)(set: $Dad2Done to true)
[[Commit to continue working for retirement->Retire]](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")“I’m glad to hear it. But are you sure you’ve thought this through?”
[[“I still need to think about it.”->R2]]
[[“Yes, that’s my decision.”->REnd]]{(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'futur1', 'fadein', 2)}(set: $location to "Engineering")(Display: "Location")The lift takes you up, spin gravity lessening as you approach the central section. With the help of holds, you launch yourself gently onto the engineering deck.
You enter the engineering module. The walls are lined with workbenches, tool compartments, and electrical panels. Someone is working at an open panel, rewiring something or other. Dad is sorting tools from his last task onto one of the big workbenches on the far wall.
Keeping your credits and working for retirement is still an option. It’s comforting to think that things will go back to normal. If you choose this path, Dad would surely like to know.
(if:$cor is 1)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor1]]](if:$cor is 2)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor2]]](if:$cor is 3)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor3]]](if:$cor is 4)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor4]]](set: $leaveengi to true)
[[Commit to continue working for retirement->Retire]](Display: "Location")(if:$Annswer is 1)[Ann nods, staring into the distance. “I fear it’s the only way. Mother Earth may well be lost.”](if:$Annswer is 2)[Ann nods, staring into the distance. “I feared as much. But it’s the only way. Mother Earth may well be lost.”](if:$Annswer is 3)[Ann nods, staring in the distance. “Take your time. It’s a radical change, but I fear it’s the only way. Mother Earth may well be lost.”]
“There are things I haven’t shared with you, reasons we left it behind to find riches among the stars.”
Even with everything you’ve learned about Earth from Ann and historical media, the planet is still largely incomprehensible to you and most people aboard.
“Even a hundred years ago, despite the prosperity, something hellish was festering at its core.”
(link: "“What do you mean?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA2")]
(link: "“Why did you hide this from us?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA3")]
(link: "“Why bring this up now?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA4")](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")Ann leans back, folding hands over her lap. “Nothing that I can explain well to you here and now. Its complexity is infinite compared to the station I now call home.”
“Even growing up on Earth, we didn’t quite see it for what it truly was. While I do miss the planet’s beauty and splendor, some of its ideas were best left behind. My wish is that we can learn to live well here, with or without Earth in the picture.”
“I didn’t see your father here. Would you mind relaying my message to him?” (if:$Dad2Done is true)[You’ve already spoken with your father.](else-if:$Dad1Done is true)[That’s true. Dad was still working during Ann’s gathering.](else:)[Dad must have worked through Ann’s gathering. He must be on the engineering deck in the central section of the station, if you want to visit him.]
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[(link: "“I already have, actually.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA5")]](else:)[(link: "“I will, Ann.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA5")]]
(link: "“I’m not sure he’ll be convinced.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA6")](Display: "Location")Ann leans back, folding hands over her lap. “I never meant to hide anything. It’s just hard to explain. Its complexity is infinite compared to the station I now call home.”
“Even growing up on Earth, we didn’t quite see it for what it truly was. While I do miss the planet’s beauty and splendor, some of its ideas were best left behind. My wish is that we can learn to live well here, with or without Earth in the picture.”
“I didn’t see your father here. Would you mind relaying my message to him?” (if:$Dad2Done is true)[You’ve already spoken with your father.](else-if:$Dad1Done is true)[That’s true. Dad was still working during Ann’s gathering.](else:)[Dad must have worked through Ann’s gathering. He must be on the engineering deck in the central section of the station, if you want to visit him.]
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[(link: "“I already have, actually.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA5")]](else:)[(link: "“I will, Ann.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA5")]]
(link: "“I’m not sure he’ll be convinced.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA6")](Display: "Location")Ann leans back, folding hands over her lap. “Even growing up on Earth, we didn’t quite see it for what it truly was. While I do miss the planet’s beauty and splendor, some of its ideas were best left behind. My wish is that we can learn to live well here, with or without Earth in the picture.”
“I didn’t see your father here. Would you mind relaying my message to him?” (if:$Dad2Done is true)[You’ve already spoken with your father.](else-if:$Dad1Done is true)[That’s true. Dad was still working during Ann’s gathering.](else:)[Dad must have worked through Ann’s gathering. He must be on the engineering deck in the central section of the station, if you want to visit him.]
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[(link: "“I already have, actually.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA5")]](else:)[(link: "“I will, Ann.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA5")]]
(link: "“I’m not sure he’ll be convinced.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA6")](Display: "Location")(if:$Dad2Done is true)[“Oh, that’s great, thank you. I’m sure it went over well?”](else:)[“Good luck. I have a feeling you’ll need it.”]
Her smile widens, laugh lines pronounced as she chuckles. “Certain workers will be hard to persuade. But I hope we can start small and show what we can accomplish by working together.”
Ann looks at you caringly. “And you, are you convinced? Will you help build a better home for us?”
(link: "“I would love to.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A7")]
(link: "“I want to help out, at least a little bit.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A8")]
(link: "“I plan on leaving, actually.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A9")](Display: "Location")“No, I’m not too sure either.”
Her smile widens, laugh lines pronounced as she chuckles. “Certain workers will be hard to persuade. But I hope we can start small and show what we can accomplish by working together.
Ann looks at you caringly. “And you, are you convinced? Will you help build a better home for us?”
(link: "“I would love to.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A7")]
(link: "“I want to help out, at least a little bit.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A8")]
(link: "“I plan on leaving, actually.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A9")](Display: "Location")Ann’s grin stretches into a proud-looking frown smile. “Oh, that’s just great. I’m happy we’ll be working on this grand task together. Come here.”
She beckons for a hug.
(link: "Hug Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A11")]
(link: "Don’t hug Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A10")](set: $support to true)(Display: "Location")Ann nods along, the corners of her mouth dropping into a proud-looking frown smile. “We appreciate any help you can offer. Whatever you hope to accomplish with your life, I support you, of course, and wish you the best in following your dreams.”
She beckons for a hug.
(link: "Hug Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A11")]
(link: "Don’t hug Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A10")](set: $support to true)(Display: "Location")Ann nods along, the corners of her mouth dropping into a proud-looking frown smile. “That takes a lot of courage. That’s what I told my dear grandson when he shared his intentions. I support you, of course, and wish you the best in following your dreams.”
She beckons for a hug.
(link: "Hug Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A11")]
(link: "Don’t hug Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "A10")](Display: "Location")“Oh, dear. I’m sorry. I hope you feel better soon. I’m here if you need me, always.”
(if:$support is true)[“Take a little time to think carefully about spending your hard-earned credits. Once you’ve made up your mind, let me know. I’ll be here. Take care, now.”](else:)[“Think carefully about how you want to spend your hard-earned credits. If you change your mind, I’ll be here. Take care, now.”]
You think about your work credits, the sum of your life’s work on this station. They were meant to be saved up for retirement. Now, they could grant you the freedom to change your fate, either by transforming the station or by leaving it behind.
(link: "Leave the sunken living space")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoomPost")]
(link: "Commit work credits to Ann’s cause")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AE1")](set: $Ann2Done to true)(set: $AnnTune to true)(Display: "Location")Ann’s hugs are the best. You squeeze each other lovingly, fighting back tears. “I love you, dearie.”
(if:$support is true)[“Take a little time to think carefully about spending your hard-earned credits. Once you’ve made up your mind, let me know. I’ll be here. Take care, now.”](else:)[“Think carefully about how you want to spend your hard-earned credits. If you change your mind, I’ll be here. Take care, now.”]
You think about your work credits, the sum of your life’s work on this station. They were meant to be saved up for retirement. Now, they could grant you the freedom to change your fate, either by transforming the station or by leaving it behind.
(link: "Leave the sunken living space")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoomPost")]
(link: "Commit work credits to Ann’s cause")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AE1")](set: $Ann2Done to true)(set: $AnnTune to true)(Display: "Location")Ann looks at you intently. “It means a lot that you’re considering joining me in this path. Are you sure this is what you want?”
(link: "“I still need to think about it.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AE2")]
(link: "“Yes, that’s my decision.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AEnd")](if:$AnnTune is not true)[(if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)](set: $location to "Module A, common area")(Display: "Location")You are in the common area of the station. Seats and tables are scattered around the sunken space in the room’s center, where Ann is sitting peacefully.
On the far wall, the station’s only window covers the entire back wall, offering a wide (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|view>[view]] into space.(click: ?view)[(replace: ?viewDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//View://] You look out and see several asteroids drifting in the distance. Around them, hundreds of stars shine against the black canvas of space.
You look away after a moment, feeling a little discomfort as the view shifts with the habitation ring’s rotation.]]|viewDesc>[]
(if:$Ann2Done is true)[(link: "Approach Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AE0")]](else:)[(link: "Approach Ann")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA00")]]
(link: "Return to the module corridor")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoom")](set: $leaveCommon to true)(if:$Space5 is not true)[(if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space5', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space5', 'fadein', 1)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 1)(set:$Space5 to true)](Display: "Location")You move toward the sunken space in the middle of the room and find a cozy spot among the pillows near Ann. She looks lost in thought for a moment, then turns her attention to you.
“Oh, hello again, dear. (if:$support is true)[Take a little time to think carefully about spending your hard-earned credits. Once you’ve made up your mind, let me know. I’ll be here. Take care, now.”](else:)[Think carefully about how you want to spend your hard-earned credits. If you change your mind, I’ll be here.”]
You think about your work credits, the sum of your life’s work on this station. They were meant to be saved up for retirement. Now, they could grant you the freedom to change your fate, either by transforming the station or by leaving it behind.
(link: "Leave the sunken living space")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoomPost")]
(link: "Commit work credits to Ann’s cause")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AE1")](set:$AnnTune to true)(if:$Space5 is not true)[(if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space5', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space5', 'fadein', 1)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 1)(set:$Space5 to true)](Display: "Location")You move toward the sunken space in the middle of the room and find a cozy spot among the pillows near Ann. She looks lost in thought for a moment, then turns her attention to you.
“Hello, my dear. Thank you for being here.” Her presence is comforting. She’s helped this station so much through the years. And that’s what she’s trying to do now, in her own way. “Tell me. What do you really think of my proposal?”
(link:"“I think you have a strong case.”")[(set: $Annswer to 1)(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA1")]
(link:"“I don’t think many workers will help you.”")[(set: $Annswer to 2)(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA1")]
(link:"“I need time to think it over.”")[(set: $Annswer to 3)(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AA1")](track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 3)(Display: "Location")“Yeah, me too. I just wish the timeline was a little shorter.”
(if:$Jule2Done is true)[(if:$JuleLove is true)[Iliah focuses and gets a good look at you, a smile lighting up her face. “Why are you so happy all of a sudden? You look like someone on the eve of retirement.”
(link: "“Jule and I just spoke.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3J1")]
(link: "“I’ve figured out what’s been bothering me.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3J2")]
(link: "“So obvious? This is embarrassing…”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3J3")]](else:)[Iliah focuses and gets a good look at you. “You look like shit. Is something bothering you? It has to do with Jule, doesn’t it?” Iliah’s question sends your heart racing.
(link: "“It definitely does.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I28")]
(link: "“What do you mean?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I29")]]](if:$Jule2Done is not true)[“And what about you? What will you do with your newfound freedom? Any leads?”
(link: "“I’d like to see other places. Maybe with you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I24")]
(link: "“I might try and visit Earth with Jule.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I25")]
(link: "“I might stay here and build a better colony with Ann.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I26")]
(link: "“I might keep working for retirement with Dad.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I27")]](track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 3)(Display: "Location")“I might help a little. But I’ll never forgive myself if I don’t take this chance to visit my friends across the system. That’s my priority right now.”
(if:$Jule2Done is true)[(if:$JuleLove is true)[Iliah focuses and gets a good look at you, a smile lighting up her face. “Why are you so happy all of a sudden? You look like someone on the eve of retirement.”
(link: "“Jule and I just spoke.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3J1")]
(link: "“I’ve figured out what’s been bothering me.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3J2")]
(link: "“So obvious? This is embarrassing…”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3J3")]](else:)[Iliah focuses and gets a good look at you. “You look like shit. Is something bothering you? It has to do with Jule, doesn’t it?” Iliah’s question sends your heart racing.
(link: "“It definitely does.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I28")]
(link: "“What do you mean?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I29")]]](if:$Jule2Done is not true)[“And what about you? What will you do with your newfound freedom? Any leads?”
(link: "“I’d like to see other places. Maybe with you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I24")]
(link: "“I might try and visit Earth with Jule.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I25")]
(link: "“I might stay here and build a better colony with Ann.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I26")]
(link: "“I might keep working for retirement with Dad.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I27")]](track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 3)(Display: "Location")(if:$Jule2Done is true)[“Wow, that would mean a lot. But wait, what about you?” [(if:$JuleLove is true)[Iliah focuses and gets a good look at you, a smile lighting up her face. “Why are you so happy all of a sudden? You look like someone on the eve of retirement.”
(link: "“Jule and I just spoke.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3J1")]
(link: "“I’ve figured out what’s been bothering me.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3J2")]
(link: "“So obvious? This is embarrassing…”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3J3")]](else:)[Iliah focuses and gets a good look at you. “You look like shit. Is something bothering you? It has to do with Jule, doesn’t it?” Iliah’s question sends your heart racing.
(link: "“It definitely does.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I28")]
(link: "“What do you mean?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I29")]]]](if:$Jule2Done is not true)[“Wow, that would mean a lot. But wait, what about you? What will you do with your newfound freedom? Any leads?”
(link: "“I’d like to see other places. Maybe with you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I24")]
(link: "“I might try and visit Earth with Jule.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I25")]
(link: "“I might stay here and build a better colony with Ann.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I26")]
(link: "“I might keep working for retirement with Dad.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I27")]](Display: "Location")“I… I’d love that.” Iliah swivels around to the console, and brings up a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|map>[map]] of the solar system. “Wouldn’t it be so great to travel around the system together?”(click: ?map)[(replace: ?mapDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Map://] She seems to be charting a course, jumping between different stations in the belt, on Mars, and on Jupiter’s moons.
---
]]|mapDesc>[
]She turns back to you. “I’m still wondering why you started keeping to yourself all of a sudden. It has to do with Jule, doesn’t it?” Iliah’s question sends your heart racing.”
(link: "“It definitely does.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I28")]
(link: "“What do you mean?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I29")](set: $PitchInIliah to true)(set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")“Oh, wow. I’m sure that will be an exciting trip. I didn’t realise you two were so close.” Iliah swivels around to the console, and brings up a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|map>[map]] of the solar system. “Wouldn’t it be so great to travel around the system together?”(click: ?map)[(replace: ?mapDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Map://] She seems to be charting a course, jumping between different stations in the belt, on Mars, and on Jupiter’s moons.
---
]]|mapDesc>[
]Iliah hesitates before going on. “Now I’m a little jealous. I wish I had a travel partner.”
(link: "“Would you go with him to Earth?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2J2")]
(link: "“Would he join you across the system?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2J3")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2P1")](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")“That’s a noble cause. I’m sure she’ll appreciate your help. Oh Ann, what a saint.”
Iliah swivels around to the console, and brings up a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|map>[map]] of the solar system. “I’m looking forward to my big trip. Sort of wish I had a travel partner, though.”(click: ?map)[(replace: ?mapDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Map://] She seems to be charting a course, jumping between different stations in the belt, on Mars, and on Jupiter’s moons.
]]|mapDesc>[
]
(link: "“What about Jule?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2J1")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2P1")](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")Iliah chuckles. “Good one. But for real, take care of your old man. It won’t be easy when he realises his entire identity and life’s purpose are gone.”
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[You’ve already checked up on your father.](else:)[It’s true. You might want to check up on your father.]
Iliah swivels around to the console, and brings up a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|map>[map]] of the solar system. “I’m looking forward to my big trip. Sort of wish I had a travel partner, though.”(click: ?map)[(replace: ?mapDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Map://] She seems to be charting a course, jumping between different stations in the belt, on Mars, and on Jupiter’s moons.
]]|mapDesc>[
](link: "“What about Jule?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2J1")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2P1")](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")“I thought so. As soon as Jule and I became close, you started acting all weird.” Was it so obvious? Of course it was.
“I thought he was a good friend of yours. Don’t you approve?”
(link: "“But I want to be intimate with you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I210")]
(link: "“I’m starting to have feelings for Jule.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I211")]
(link: "“I feel something for both of you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I212")](Display: "Location")“What I mean is, as soon as Jule and I became close, you started acting all weird.” Was it so obvious? Of course it was.
“I thought he was a good friend of yours. Don’t you approve?”
(link: "“But I want to be intimate with you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I210")]
(link: "“I’m starting to have feelings for Jule.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I211")]
(link: "“I feel something for both of you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I212")](Display: "Location")“I do like Jule, but he’s more into the idea of Earth than me. It’s stronger than him. He’s ready to leave it all behind to follow his dream. I can respect that, as much as I want him in my life.”
(link: "“Would you go with him to Earth?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2J2")]
(link: "“Would he join you across the system?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2J3")](Display: "Location")“You tell me. I was wondering if maybe you might like to tag along. Wouldn’t it be so great to travel around the system together?”
She turns back to you. “But then things changed. I’m still wondering why you started keeping to yourself all of a sudden. It has to do with Jule, doesn’t it?” Iliah’s question sends your heart racing.
(link: "“I think it might.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I28")]
(link: "“What do you mean?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I29")](Display: "Location")(set: $IliahConvo1 to true)“It would be interesting. But I’m not convinced Earth will be so nice if we’re coming as poor exiled miners. Besides, I have dear friends across the system. I’d give anything to be able to visit them all. I have to try my best.”
(if:$IliahConvo2 is false)[(link: "“Would he join you across the system?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2J3")]
](link: "“That’s too bad.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2P2")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2P1")](Display: "Location")(set: $IliahConvo2 to true)“I really don’t think he would give up on Earth. Do you?”
(if:$IliahConvo1 is false)[(link: "“Would you go with him to Earth?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2J2")]
](link: "“That’s too bad.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2P2")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I2P1")](Display: "Location")“Yeah, I guess so. I was wondering if maybe you might like to tag along. Wouldn’t it be so great to travel around the system together?”
She turns back to you. “But then things changed. I’m still wondering why you started keeping to yourself all of a sudden. It has to do with Jule, doesn’t it?” Iliah’s question sends your heart racing.
(link: "“I think it might.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I28")]
(link: "“What do you mean?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I29")](Display: "Location")“And so do I. I like you both. Don’t tell me you’re in a monogamy phase?”
That’s not it, you think. You feel the pressure in the room intensify, although you know it’s just in your head.
(link: "“I’m starting to have feelings for Jule.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I211")]
(link: "“I feel something for both of you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I212")]
(link: "“Maybe I was just jealous.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I210C")](set: $IliahToo to true)(if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'signal2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'signal2', 'fadein', 1)(track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 1)(Display: "Location")(set:$JuleLove to true)As you say the words, you feel as if a great weight has been lifted. That wasn’t so hard. Why was your system fighting this truth so hard?
Iliah’s eyebrows raise. “Oh, really? I thought you two were best friends. I didn’t know it was like that.”
[[“I’m scared it might ruin our friendship.”->I213]]
[[“I’m scared of things changing.”->I214]]
[[“I’m scared someone will get hurt.”->I215]](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'signal2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'signal2', 'fadein', 1)(track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 1)(Display: "Location")(set:$JuleLove to true)(set: $IliahToo to true)As you say the words, you feel as if a great weight has been lifted. That wasn’t so hard. Why was your system fighting this truth so hard?
Iliah’s eyebrows raise. “I like you too. And, really? I thought you two were best friends. I didn’t know it was like that.”
[[“I’m scared it might ruin our friendship.”->I213]]
[[“I’m scared of things changing.”->I214]]
[[“I’m scared someone will get hurt.”->I215]](set: $DoubleFeels to true)(Display: "Location")(if:$BadJuleEnd is true)[“Wow, OK. I was hoping you would say something different. But this makes sense too, I guess?” Iliah seems disappointed.
“If there’s something bothering you, we can talk it out. I’ll be here if you need me, alright?” Iliah turns to the console and starts typing away.](if:$BadJuleEnd is not true)[“Wow, OK. I was hoping you would say something different. But this makes sense too, I guess?” Iliah seems disappointed.
“I think you should work on that. Maybe speaking with Jule would help? You’re best friends. He’ll do his best to help you. He talks about you a lot, you know.”
It might be time to talk with Jule. He’s probably still in module B.
(if:$PitchInIliah is true)[“I’m really excited that you would consider helping me with my trip. Think it over. They’re your credits.” ]Iliah turns to the console and starts typing away.]
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]]
[[Talk to Iliah->I31]](set: $exitCommsroom to true)(set:$stubborn to true)(set:$Iliah2Done to true)(Display: "Location")“I get that. So much of our lives here are routine. I can understand how it might be a scary thought.”
“Jule talks about you a lot, you know. I think he really likes you.”
“Why don’t you go talk to him? I’m sure you two can figure it out. I’ll be here if you need me. Keep me posted.” Iliah turns to the console and starts typing away.
It’s time to talk with Jule. He’s probably still in module B.
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]]
[[Talk to Iliah->I31]](set: $exitCommsroom to true)(set:$Iliah2Done to true)(Display: "Location")“I get that. So much of our lives here are routine. I can understand how it might be a scary thought.”
“Jule talks about you a lot, you know. I think he really likes you.”
“Why don’t you go talk to him? I’m sure you two can figure it out. I’ll be here if you need me. Keep me posted.” Iliah turns to the console and starts typing away.
It’s time to talk with Jule. He’s probably still in module B.
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]]
[[Talk to Iliah->I31]](set: $exitCommsroom to true)(set:$Iliah2Done to true)(Display: "Location")“I can understand how it might be a scary thought. These things can be complicated. But it doesn’t have to be.”
“Jule talks about you a lot, you know. I think he really likes you.”
“Why don’t you go talk to him? I’m sure you two can figure it out. I’ll be here if you need me. Keep me posted.” Iliah turns to the console and starts typing away.
It’s time to talk with Jule. He’s probably still in module B.
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]]
[[Talk to Iliah->I31]](set: $exitCommsroom to true)(set:$Iliah2Done to true)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'signal1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(set: $location to "Module D, communications")(Display: "Location")(if:$Iliah3Done is true)[You enter the comms room and see Iliah busy at the console.
(link: "Talk to Iliah")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I31")](set: $exitCommsroom to true)
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]]](else-if:$Iliah2Done is true)[You enter the comms room and see Iliah busy at the console.
(link: "Talk to Iliah")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I31")](set: $exitCommsroom to true)
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]]](else-if: $Iliah2Done is not true)[You enter the comms room and see Iliah spinning in her chair, hands covering her cheeks. She seems lost in thought, but snaps out of it when she sees you.
“Sorry, I was just daydreaming…” You sit across from her on an old swiveling chair.
(if:$standing is 1)[“I guess I’m lucky. I was already planning to leave, so this past week made that easier, not harder. There’s still the question of how to leave. (if:$Jule2Done is true)[I’ll need to work for another decade to afford printing some kind of shuttle.](if:$Jule2Done is not true)[I don’t think the colony would give up one of the shuttles. Otherwise, I’ll need to work for another decade to afford printing one.”]
(link: "“I’m sure you’ll find a way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I21")]
(link: "“Why not help rebuild the station with Ann?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I22")]
(link: "“Maybe I could help you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I23")]](set:$IliahConvo1 to false)(set:$IliahConvo2 to false)](if:$Iliah2Done is not true)[(if:$standing is not 1)[“What Ann said... That will sure ruffle some feathers.” She doesn’t seem too shook up about all this.
“All these years I felt alone in thinking we should work for something besides retirement. Now the entire colony is wondering the same thing.”
(link: "“Without Earth, the question asks itself.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I201")]
(link: "“You were just ahead of your time.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I202")]]](set: $location to "Module D, communications")(Display: "Location")(if:$Iliah3Done is true)[(if:$triple is true)[“Hey there. Keep me posted if you talk with Jule, alright?”](else-if:$triple is not true)[“Hey, I’m busy right now. But let’s talk about us. Maybe tonight?”]](else-if:$stubborn is true)[(if: $BadJuleEnd is true)[“Hey, how are you holding up?”](else-if: $PitchInIliah is true)[“Hey there. Keep me posted if you talk with Jule, alright?”](else-if: $PitchInIliah is not true)[“Hey there. Keep me posted if you talk with Jule, alright?”]](else-if:$stubborn is not true)[“Hey there. Keep me posted if you talk with Jule, alright?”]
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]](if:$stubborn is true)[(if:$BadJuleEnd is true)[
(link: "“So, about Jule…”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3JB")]]](if:$lateJ is true)[
(link: "“So, I’ve spoken with Jule.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3LJ")]](if:$3Jule is true)[
(link: "“Let’s talk about the three of us.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I3E")]]
(link: "“I want to help you visit your friends.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "IE1")](Display: "Location")“This is so unbelievable! I mean, you’re absolutely sure you want to help? This is your life’s work we’re talking about.”
Do you want to give your earned work credits to Iliah for her trip across the system?
[[“I still need to think about it.”->IE2]]
[[“Yes, that’s my decision.”->IE3]](Display: "Location")“Take your time. I know it’s a big decision. See you around, then.”
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]](Display: "Location")Iliah looks so happy. “You’re coming, right?”
[[“Of course I’m coming with you.”->IE4]]
[[“I’ll be staying to help Ann.”->IE5]]
[[“I’ll be staying to work with Dad”->IE6]](Display: "Location")“I suppose it does. I’m curious to see how many people will actually come together with Ann to build up the station.”
“I guess I’m lucky. I was already planning to leave, so this past week made that easier, not harder. There’s still the question of how to leave. II’ll need to work for another decade to afford printing some kind of shuttle.”
(link: "“I’m sure you’ll find a way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I21")]
(link: "“Why not help rebuild the station with Ann?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I22")]
(link: "“Maybe I could help you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I23")](set:$IliahConvo1 to false)(set:$IliahConvo2 to false)(Display: "Location")“Or you’re all just late to the party. I’m curious to see how many people will actually come together with Ann to build up the station.”
“I guess I’m lucky. I was already planning to leave, so this past week made that easier, not harder. There’s still the question of how to leave. I’ll need to work for another decade to afford printing some kind of shuttle.”
(link: "“I’m sure you’ll find a way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I21")]
(link: "“Why not help rebuild the station with Ann?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I22")]
(link: "“Maybe I could help you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I23")](set:$IliahConvo1 to false)(set:$IliahConvo2 to false)(Display: "Location")“Yeah, me too. I just wish the timeline was a little shorter.”
(if:$Iliah2Done is true)[(if:$JuleLove is true)[Jule focuses and gets a good look at you, a smile lighting up his face. “Why are you so happy all of a sudden? You look like someone on the eve of retirement.”
(link: "“Iliah helped me realize something.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J34")]
(link: "“I’ve figured out what’s been bothering me.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J35")]
(link: "“Is it so obvious? This is embarrassing…”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J36")]](if:$JuleLove is not true)[Jule focuses and gets a good look at you. “You look like shit. Is something bothering you?
Anxiety rips through your body. You can’t keep pushing this away.
(link:"“I’m starting to have feelings for you.”")[(set: $lateJ to true)(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J210")]
[[“I… I can’t do this right now.”->J2C]]]](else-if: $Iliah2Done is not true)[“And what about you? Have you thought about what you’d like to do now that retirement is off the table?”
(link: "“I’d like to visit Earth with you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2POK")]
(link: "“I might visit other stations with Iliah.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J25")]
(link: "“I might stay here and help Ann.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J26")]
(link: "I might keep working for retirement with Dad.")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J27")](set:$JuleConvo1 to false)(set:$JuleConvo2 to false)](Display: "Location")“That would really mean a lot. But wait, what about you?(if:$Iliah2Done is true)[(if:$JuleLove is true)[”
Jule focuses and gets a good look at you, a smile lighting up his face. “Why are you so happy all of a sudden? You look like someone on the eve of retirement.”
(link: "“Iliah helped me realize something.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J34")]
(link: "“I’ve figured out what’s been bothering me.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J35")]
(link: "“Is it so obvious? This is embarrassing…”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J36")]](if:$JuleLove is not true)[Jule focuses and gets a good look at you. “You look like shit. Is something bothering you?
Anxiety rips through your body. You can’t keep pushing this away.
(link:"“I’m starting to have feelings for you.”")[(set: $lateJ to true)(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J210")]
[[“I… I can’t do this right now.”->J2C]]]](else-if: $Iliah2Done is not true)[ Have you thought about what you’d like to do now that retirement is off the table?”
(link: "“I’d like to visit Earth with you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2POK")]
(link: "“I might visit other stations with Iliah.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J25")]
(link: "“I might stay here and help Ann.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J26")]
(link: "I might keep working for retirement with Dad.")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J27")]](set:$JuleConvo1 to false)(set:$JuleConvo2 to false)(Display: "Location")“Like I said, I might help a little with any tasks I can swing. But you know how much Earth means for me. I just have to go and see it for myself. Especially now, when I can find out what happened.”
(if:$Iliah2Done is true)[(if:$JuleLove is true)[Jule focuses and gets a good look at you, a smile lighting up his face. “Why are you so happy all of a sudden? You look like someone on the eve of retirement.”
(link: "“Iliah helped me realize something.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J34")]
(link: "“I’ve figured out what’s been bothering me.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J35")]
(link: "“Is it so obvious? This is embarrassing…”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J36")]](if:$JuleLove is not true)[Jule focuses and gets a good look at you. “You look like shit. Is something bothering you?
Anxiety rips through your body. You can’t keep pushing this away.
(link:"“I’m starting to have feelings for you.”")[(set: $lateJ to true)(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J210")]
[[“I… I can’t do this right now.”->J2C]]]](else-if: $Iliah2Done is not true)[“And what about you? Have you thought about what you’d like to do now that retirement is off the table?”
(link: "“I’d like to visit Earth with you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2POK")]
(link: "“I might visit other stations with Iliah.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J25")]
(link: "“I might stay here and help Ann.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J26")]
(link: "I might keep working for retirement with Dad.")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J27")]](set:$JuleConvo1 to false)(set:$JuleConvo2 to false)(Display: "Location")“I do like Iliah, but she’s got so many friends across the system. I can’t blame her for wanting to visit and spend time with them in person. I’m happy she’ll be doing that, as much as I would like her around.”
(link: "“Would you travel across the system with her?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J28")]
(link: "“Wouldn’t she join you to Earth?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J29")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2POK")](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")“Oh, wow. I’m sure that will be exciting.”
Jule hesitates before going on. “Now that it’s getting closer, I’m starting to get really excited for my trip. I’ve been charting a course incorporating slingshotting to save fuel. I’ll show you, it’s a lot of fun.”
“But now I’m a little jealous. I wish I had a travel partner.”
(link: "“Would you travel across the system with her?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J28")]
(link: "“Wouldn’t she join you to Earth?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J29")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2POK")](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")“That’s a noble cause. I’m sure she’ll appreciate your help. Grandma really is a saint. Maybe we can help with something together before I leave.”
“I’m so excited for the trip. Now that it’s getting closer, I’ve been charting a course incorporating slingshotting to save fuel. I’ll show you, it’s a lot of fun. Sort of wish I had a travel partner, though.”
(link: "“What about Iliah?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J24")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2POK")](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")“Not giving up just yet, are you? Well, if things stay this way, don’t forget to take care of your old man. It won’t be easy when he realises his entire identity and life’s purpose are gone.”
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[You’ve already checked up on your father.](else:)[It’s true. You might want to check up on your father.]
“I’m so excited for the trip. Now that it’s getting closer, I’ve been charting a course incorporating slingshotting to save fuel. I’ll show you, it’s a lot of fun. Sort of wish I had a travel partner, though.”
(link: "“What about Iliah?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J24")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2POK")](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")(set: $JuleConvo1 to true)“No offence, but I’m not super interested in seeing those other stations. Her friends are what makes all the difference for Iliah.”
(if:$JuleConvo2 is false)[(link: "“Wouldn’t she join you to Earth?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J29")]
](link: "“That’s too bad.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2P2")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2POK")](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")(set: $JuleConvo2 to true)“Hm, I doubt it. She’s really set on visiting her friends, as you know.”
(if:$JuleConvo1 is false)[(link: "“Would you travel across the system with her?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J28")]
](link: "“That’s too bad.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2P2")]
(link: "“What about me?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J2POK")](set: $Tune2 to true)(Display: "Location")“Yeah, I guess so. I was considering asking you, actually, but I’m still wondering why you’ve been distant this past while. Iliah and I have been worried.”
This question sends your heart racing.
(link: "“I’m starting to have feelings for you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J210")]
(link: "“I feel something for both of you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J211")]
(link: "“I think I’m jealous of you and Iliah.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J212")](if: $time > 40055)[(set: $time to it - 40055)](if: $time > 40055)[(set: $time to it - 40055)](if: $time > 40055)[(set: $time to it - 40055)](if: $time > 40055)[(set: $time to it - 40055)](if: $time > 40055)[(set: $time to it - 40055)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'jule2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'jule2', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'jule1', 'fadeout', 2)(Display: "Location")(set: $JuleLove to true)As you say the words, you feel as if a great weight has been lifted. That wasn’t so hard. Why was your system fighting this truth?
You both stand in silence for a moment. “I… Wow. I’ve been meaning to talk to you about that. I’ve felt something for a while now, too.”
Your chest burns and you can’t help but smile. It’s comforting to know you aren’t alone, and that this isn’t a secret anymore.
“I was wondering if you’d noticed that I felt differently.” Maybe that was a catalyst to how you feel now? “Anyway, I’m glad you feel the same way. And that you’re not avoiding me anymore.”
[[“I was scared it might ruin our friendship.”->J213]]
[[“I was scared of things changing.”->J214]]
[[“I was scared someone would get hurt.”->J215]](track: 'jule1', 'fadeout', 2)(set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'jule2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'jule2', 'play')(Display: "Location")(set: $JuleLove to true)(set: $IliahToo to true)As you say the words, you feel as if a great weight has been lifted. That wasn’t so hard. Why was your system fighting this truth?
You both stand in silence for a moment. “I… Wow. I’ve been meaning to talk to you about that. I’ve felt something for a while now, too.” Your chest burns and you can’t help but smile. It’s comforting to know you aren’t alone, and that this isn’t a secret anymore.
“I was wondering if you’d noticed that I felt differently.” Maybe that was a catalyst to how you feel now? “Anyway, I’m glad you feel the same way. And that you’re not avoiding me anymore.”
[[“I was scared it might ruin our friendship.”->J213]]
[[“I was scared of things changing.”->J214]]
[[“I was scared someone would get hurt.”->J215]](set: $DoubleFeels to true)(Display: "Location")Jule’s face twists in surprise and confusion. “That… doesn’t make a lot of sense to me.”
That’s not it, you think. You feel the pressure in the room intensify, although you know it’s just in your head.
“I think you should work on that. Maybe speaking with Iliah would help? I was under the impression you two were close. She talks about you a lot, you know.”
Something still doesn’t feel right. Maybe Iliah could help?
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]]
[[Talk to Jule->J31]](set:$BadJuleEnd to true)(set: $exitLockers to true)(set: $Jule2Done to true)(Display: "Location")“I get that. Your anxiety must have been working overtime, with all that’s happened.”
“But this can be a good thing. We’ll make sure it is, OK? No matter how things play out.”
Now that the initial hurdle is over, it feels good to be talking about this with Jule instead of keeping it bottled up.
Jule steps toward you, throwing open his arms.
[[Hug Jule->J2H1]]
[[Don’t hug Jule->J2H2]](Display: "Location")“I get that. Your anxiety must have been working overtime, with all that’s happened.”
“But this can be a good thing. We’ll make sure it is, OK? No matter how things play out.”
Now that the initial hurdle is over, it feels good to be talking about this with Jule instead of keeping it bottled up.
Jule steps toward you, throwing open his arms.
[[Hug Jule->J2H1]]
[[Don’t hug Jule->J2H2]](Display: "Location")“I get that. Your anxiety must have been working overtime, with all that’s happened.”
“But this can be a good thing. We’ll make sure it is, OK? No matter how things play out.”
Now that the initial hurdle is over, it feels good to be talking about this with Jule instead of keeping it bottled up.
Jule steps toward you, throwing open his arms.
[[Hug Jule->J2H1]]
[[Don’t hug Jule->J2H2]](Display: "Location")(if: $hugged is true)[You both share another hug, and this time you embrace the rush of emotions.](else:)[This time, you don’t turn away from him, embracing the rush of emotions as you share the hug.] This is nice.
Jule pulls away, keeping his hands around your shoulders. (if: $wantEarth is true)[“So, about what you said earlier. If you really do want to join my trip to Earth, I’m all for it. It would be such a huge help to combine credits. And obviously I’d like to have you there with me.”
“It’s a big commitment, that’s for sure. So no pressure. Just something to think about, in case you also want to see something other than this station for the rest of your life.”](else:)[“Consider this a formal invitation to join me on a trip to our beautiful home planet. It would be such a huge help to combine credits. And obviously I’d like to have you there with me.”
“It’s a big commitment, that’s for sure. So no pressure. And I know you and Iliah might want something different, or, you know, maybe you don’t want to leave the station. Just something to think about, anyway.”]
You think about your work credits, the sum of your life’s work on this station. They were meant to be saved up for retirement. Now, they could grant you the freedom to change your fate, either by transforming the station or by leaving it behind.
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]]
[[Talk to Jule->J31]](set:$Jule2Done to true)(set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")(if: $hugged is true)[“Oh, sorry. That’s alright, take your time to work through all this.”](else:)[“Still no? Alright, take your time to work through all this.”]
Jule leans against the lockers, looking at you affectionately. (if: $wantEarth is true)[“So, about what you said earlier. If you really do want to join my trip to Earth, I’m all for it. It would be such a huge help to combine credits. And obviously I’d like to have you there with me.”
“It’s a big commitment, that’s for sure. So no pressure. Just something to think about, in case you also want to see something other than this station for the rest of your life.”](else:)[“Consider this a formal invitation to join me on a trip to our beautiful home planet. It would be such a huge help to combine credits. And obviously I’d like to have you there with me.”
“It’s a big commitment, that’s for sure. So no pressure. And I know you and Iliah might want something different, or, you know, maybe you don’t want to leave the station. Just something to think about, anyway.”]
You think about your work credits, the sum of your life’s work on this station. They were meant to be saved up for retirement. Now, they could grant you the freedom to change your fate, either by transforming the station or by leaving it behind.
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]]
[[Talk to Jule->J31]](set:$Jule2Done to true)(set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")“This is so great! I mean, you’re absolutely sure you want to help? This is your life’s work we’re talking about.”
Do you want to give your earned work credits to Jule for his trip to Earth?
[[“I still need to think about it.”->J33]]
[[“Yes, that’s my decision.”->JE2]](set: $location to "Module B, lockers")(Display: "Location")(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)You find a quiet corner away from the commotion outside. “About Grandma… I’ll do what I can, but she already knows. Even if leaving breaks her heart, she is (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|support>[supporting]] me, like she always has.” Ann has always been there for her grandson.(click: ?support)[(replace: ?supDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Supporting://] You remember spending so much time together as kids, listening to Ann’s stories and learning from her. And while Jule’s teenage years were a little turbulent, Ann helped secure enough chemical cartridges to print Jule’s testosterone treatment, which he says saved his life.
---]]|supDesc>[
]“And there’s still the question of logistics. I wouldn’t want to rob the colony of one of the mining shuttles. It looks like I’ll need to work for a few years to afford printing my own little ship.”
(link: "“I’m sure you’ll find a way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J21")]
(link: "“Why not help rebuild the station with Ann?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J22")]
(link: "“Maybe I could help you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J23")](set: $Tune2 to true)(if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'signal2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'signal2', 'fadein', 1)(track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 1)(Display: "Location")“Oh yeah? What about?”
(if:$IliahToo is true)[You tell Iliah about your talk with Jule, and how you feel about both of them.](else:)[You tell Iliah about your talk with Jule, and your feelings for each other.]
“Oh my, I love this! Ahhh.” She is smiling and spins in her chair. “Jule was always talking about you, you know.”
“This must change things for you. What were you hoping to do with our newfound freedom, anyway?”
[[“I’d like to see other places. Maybe with you.”->I3J4]]
[[“I’d like to visit Earth with Jule.”->I3J5]]
[[“I might stay here and build a better colony with Ann.”->I3J6]]
[[“I might keep working for retirement with Dad.”->I3J7]](set: $exitCommsroom to true)(if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'signal2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'signal2', 'fadein', 1)(track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 1)(Display: "Location")“Oh, wow. That’s great, I’m glad for you. What was it, if you don’t mind me asking?”
(if:$IliahToo is true)[You tell Iliah about your talk with Jule, and how you feel about both of them.](else:)[You tell Iliah about your talk with Jule, and your feelings for each other.]
“Oh my, I love this! Ahhh.” She is smiling and spins in her chair. “Jule was always talking about you, you know.”
“This must change things for you. What were you hoping to do with our newfound freedom, anyway?”
[[“I’d like to see other places. Maybe with you.”->I3J4]]
[[“I’d like to visit Earth with Jule.”->I3J5]]
[[“I might stay here and build a better colony with Ann.”->I3J6]]
[[“I might keep working for retirement with Dad.”->I3J7]](set: $exitCommsroom to true)(if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'signal2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'signal2', 'fadein', 1)(track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 1)(Display: "Location")“What do you mean, embarrassing? I don’t get it.”
(if:$IliahToo is true)[You tell Iliah about your talk with Jule, and how you feel about both of them.](else:)[You tell Iliah about your talk with Jule, and your feelings for each other.]
“Oh my, I love this! Ahhh.” She is smiling and spins in her chair. “Jule was always talking about you, you know.”
“This must change things for you. What were you hoping to do with our newfound freedom, anyway?”
[[“I’d like to see other places. Maybe with you.”->I3J4]]
[[“I’d like to visit Earth with Jule.”->I3J5]]
[[“I might stay here and build a better colony with Ann.”->I3J6]]
[[“I might keep working for retirement with Dad.”->I3J7]](set: $exitCommsroom to true)(Display: "Location")“I… I’d love that.” Iliah swivels around to the console, and brings up a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|map>[map]] of the solar system. “Wouldn’t it be so great to travel around the system together?”(click: ?map)[(replace: ?mapDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Map://] She seems to be charting a course, jumping between different stations in the belt, on Mars, and on Jupiter’s moons.
---
]]|mapDesc>[
]She turns back to you. “Let me know if you’re serious about tagging along for the trip. I know you might want to stay, or help out Jule. I’ll be here when you’ve made your decision.”
[[“See you later.”->CommHall]]
[[“Could Jule come too?”->I3J8]](set: $PitchInIliah to true)
[[“I want to help you visit your friends.”->IE1]](set:$Iliah3Done to true)(set:$Iliah2Done to true)(Display: "Location")“That’s… Awesome. I’m happy for you two.” Iliah swivels around to the console, and brings up a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|map>[map]] of the solar system. “I was going to ask you to join my trip. Wouldn’t it be so great to travel around the system together?”(click: ?map)[(replace: ?mapDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Map://] She seems to be charting a course, jumping between different stations in the belt, on Mars, and on Jupiter’s moons.
---
]]|mapDesc>[
]She turns back to you. “But I’m excited for you two. Just let me know if ever you change your mind.”
[[“See you later.”->CommHall]]
[[“Would you come with us?”->I3J8B]](set:$Iliah3Done to true)(set:$Iliah2Done to true)(Display: "Location")“That’s a noble cause. I’m sure she’ll appreciate your help. Oh Ann, what a saint.”
Iliah swivels around to the console, and brings up a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|map>[map]] of the solar system. “I’m looking forward to my big trip. Sort of wish I had a travel partner, though.”(click: ?map)[(replace: ?mapDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Map://] She seems to be charting a course, jumping between different stations in the belt, on Mars, and on Jupiter’s moons.
---]]|mapDesc>[
]“I know you might want to stay, or help out Jule. But you’re more than welcome to tag along with me, you know.”
[[“See you later.”->CommHall]]
[[“I want to help you visit your friends.”->IE1]](set:$Iliah3Done to true)(set:$Iliah2Done to true)(Display: "Location")Iliah chuckles. “Good one. But for real, take care of your old man. It won’t be easy when he realises his entire identity and life’s purpose are gone.”
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[You’ve already checked up on your father.](else:)[It’s true. You might want to check up on your father.]
Iliah swivels around to the console, and brings up a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|map>[map]] of the solar system. “On my end, I’m looking forward to my big trip.”(click: ?map)[(replace: ?mapDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Map://] She seems to be charting a course, jumping between different stations in the belt, on Mars, and on Jupiter’s moons.
---]]|mapDesc>[
]“I know you might want to stay, or help out Jule. But you’re more than welcome to tag along with me, you know.”
[[“See you later.”->CommHall]]
[[“I want to help you visit your friends.”->IE1]](set:$Iliah3Done to true)(set:$Iliah2Done to true)(Display: "Location")“Jule? I really don’t think he would give up on Earth.”
“That’s a nice dream you have. But you know him and I don’t want the same thing. I don’t think Jule and I are meant to stay together, unfortunately. But we’ve both accepted this already.”
[[“That’s true.”->I3J9]]
[[“I’ll find a way to make this happen.”->I3J10]](set:$triple to true)(set:$3Iliah to true)(Display: "Location")“Don’t be sad. We still have time together before we leave the station.”
“And hey, let’s talk about us. Maybe tonight?” Iliah turns to the console and starts typing away.
[[Talk to Iliah->I31]]
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]](Display: "Location")“You could talk to Jule, I suppose. Keep me posted. I’ll be here if you need me. ” Iliah turns to the console and starts typing away.
“Don’t be sad about losing anyone just yet. We still have time together before we leave the station.”
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]]
[[Talk to Iliah->I31]](Display: "Location")“Are you serious? I mean, I didn’t expect you to want to leave. Not that I wouldn’t like your company… But I’m still wondering why you’ve been distant this past while. Iliah and I have been worried.”(set: $wantEarth to true)
This question sends your heart racing.
(link: "“I’m starting to have feelings for you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J210")]
(link: "“I feel something for both of you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J211")]
(link: "“I think I’m jealous of you and Iliah.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J212")](Display: "Location")(if:$BadJuleEnd is true)[“Hey. Let me know how it goes with Iliah, OK?”(if:$finallyJ is true)[
(link:"“Iliah helped me realize something.”")[(set: $stubborn to false)(set: $finallyJ to false)(set: $lateJ to true)(goto: "J34")]]
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]]](if:$Jule2Done is true)[(if:$triple is true)[“Hey. Let me know how it goes with Iliah, OK?”
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]]
[[“I want to help you travel to Earth.”->JE1]]](if:$triple is not true)[“Hey again. Have you had the chance to think everything through?”
[[“I’m still thinking about it.”->J33]]
[[“I want to help you travel to Earth.”->JE1]]](if:$3Iliah is true)[
[[“Let’s talk about the three of us.”->J3E]]]](Display: "Location")“The station coming together to build itself better… It’s a romantic thought.”
“I’ll do what I can for her, but she already knows. Even if leaving breaks her heart, she is (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|support>[supporting]] me, like she always has.” Ann has always been there for her grandson.(click: ?support)[(replace: ?supDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Supporting://] You remember spending so much time together as kids, listening to Ann’s stories and learning from her. And while Jule’s teenage years were a little turbulent, Ann helped secure enough chemical cartridges to print Jule’s testosterone treatment, which he says saved his life.
---]]|supDesc>[
]“And there’s still the question of logistics. It looks like I’ll need to work for a few years to afford printing my own little ship.”
(link: "“I’m sure you’ll find a way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J21")]
(link: "“Why not help rebuild the station with Ann?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J22")]
(link: "“Maybe I could help you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J23")]“Some people will need more persuading than others. But even just a few contributions would be better than nothing.”
“I’ll do what I can for her, but she already knows. Even if leaving breaks her heart, she is (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|support>[supporting]] me, like she always has.” Ann has always been there for her grandson.(click: ?support)[(replace: ?supDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Supporting://] You remember spending so much time together as kids, listening to Ann’s stories and learning from her. And while Jule’s teenage years were a little turbulent, Ann helped secure enough chemical cartridges to print Jule’s testosterone treatment, which he says saved his life.
---]]|supDesc>[
]“And there’s still the question of logistics. It looks like I’ll need to work for a few years to afford printing my own little ship.”
(link: "“I’m sure you’ll find a way.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J21")]
(link: "“Why not help rebuild the station with Ann?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J22")]
(link: "“Maybe I could help you.”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J23")](Display: "Location")“It would be interesting. But I’m not convinced Earth will be so nice if we’re coming as poor exiled miners. Besides, I have dear friends across the system. I’d give anything to be able to visit them all. I have to try my best.”
“That’s a nice dream you have. But you know him and I don’t want the same thing. I don’t think Jule and I are meant to stay together, unfortunately. But we’ve both accepted this already.”
[[“That’s true.”->I3J9]]
[[“I’ll find a way to make this happen.”->I3J10]](set:$triple to true)(set:$3Iliah to true)(Display: "Location")“Take your time. I know it’s a big decision. I’ll catch up with you later, OK? We have a lot to talk about.”
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]](set: $exitLockers to true)(track: 'jule1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule2', 'fadein', 2)(Display: "Location")“Oh yeah? And what’s that?”
(if:$IliahToo is true)[You tell Jule about your talk with Iliah, and how you feel about both of them.](else:)[You tell Jule about your talk with Iliah, and your feelings for him.]
You both stand in silence for a moment. “I… Wow. I’ve been meaning to talk to you about that. I’ve felt something for a while now, too.” Your chest burns and you can’t help but smile.
“I was wondering if you’d noticed that I felt differently. Anyway, I’m glad you feel the same way. And that you’re not avoiding me anymore.”
[[“I was scared it might ruin our friendship.”->J37]]
[[“I was scared of things changing.”->J37]]
[[“I was scared someone would get hurt.”->J37]](set: $lateJ to true)(set:$BadJuleEnd to false)(track: 'jule1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule2', 'fadein', 2)(Display: "Location")“Oh, wow. That’s great, I’m glad for you. What was it, if you don’t mind me asking?”
(if:$IliahToo is true)[You tell Jule about your talk with Iliah, and how you feel about both of them.](else:)[You tell Jule about your talk with Iliah, and your feelings for him.]
You both stand in silence for a moment. “I… Wow. I’ve been meaning to talk to you about that. I’ve felt something for a while now, too.” Your chest burns and you can’t help but smile.
“I was wondering if you’d noticed that I felt differently. Anyway, I’m glad you feel the same way. And that you’re not avoiding me anymore.”
[[“I was scared it might ruin our friendship.”->J37]]
[[“I was scared of things changing.”->J37]]
[[“I was scared someone would get hurt.”->J37]](set: $lateJ to true)(set:$BadJuleEnd to false)(track: 'jule1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule2', 'fadein', 2)(Display: "Location")“What do you mean, embarrassing? Hey, what is it?”
(if:$IliahToo is true)[You tell Jule about your talk with Iliah, and how you feel about both of them.](else:)[You tell Jule about your talk with Iliah, and your feelings for him.]
You both stand in silence for a moment. “I… Wow. I’ve been meaning to talk to you about that. I’ve felt something for a while now, too.” Your chest burns and you can’t help but smile.
“I was wondering if you’d noticed that I felt differently. Anyway, I’m glad you feel the same way. And that you’re not avoiding me anymore.”
[[“I was scared it might ruin our friendship.”->J37]]
[[“I was scared of things changing.”->J37]]
[[“I was scared someone would get hurt.”->J37]](set: $lateJ to true)(set:$BadJuleEnd to false)(Display: "Location")“I get that. Your anxiety must have been working overtime, with all that’s happened.”
“But this can be a good thing. We’ll make sure it is, OK? No matter how things play out.”
Now that the initial hurdle is over, it feels good to be talking about this with Jule instead of keeping it bottled up.
Jule steps toward you, throwing open his arms.
[[Hug Jule->J3H1]]
[[Don’t hug Jule->J3H2]](Display: "Location")(if: $hugged is true)[You both share another hug, and this time you embrace the rush of emotions.](else:)[This time, you don’t turn away from him, embracing the rush of emotions as you share the hug.] This is nice.
Jule pulls away, keeping his hands around your shoulders. “Consider this a formal invitation to join me on a trip to our beautiful home planet. It would be such a huge help to combine credits. And obviously I’d like to have you there with me.”
“It’s a big commitment, that’s for sure. So no pressure. And I know you and Iliah might want something different, or, you know, maybe you don’t want to leave the station. What are your big plans now that retirement is off the table, anyway?”
[[“I’d like to visit Earth with you.”->J301]]
[[“I might visit other stations with Iliah.”->J302]]
[[“I might stay here and help Ann.”->J303]]
[[“I might keep working for retirement with Dad.”->J304]](set:$JuleConvo1 to false)(set:$JuleConvo2 to false)(Display: "Location")(if: $hugged is true)[“Oh, sorry. That’s alright, take your time to work through all this.”](else:)[“Still no? Alright, take your time to work through all this.”]
Jule leans against the lockers, looking at you affectionately. “Consider this a formal invitation to join me on a trip to our beautiful home planet. It would be such a huge help to combine credits. And obviously I’d like to have you there with me.”
“It’s a big commitment, that’s for sure. So no pressure. And I know you and Iliah might want something different, or, you know, maybe you don’t want to leave the station. What are your big plans now that retirement is off the table, anyway?”
[[“I’d like to visit Earth with you.”->J301]]
[[“I might visit other stations with Iliah.”->J302]]
[[“I might stay here and help Ann.”->J303]]
[[“I might keep working for retirement with Dad.”->J304]](set:$JuleConvo1 to false)(set:$JuleConvo2 to false)(Display: "Location")“Really? I mean, I didn’t expect you to want to leave. Not that I wouldn’t like your company.”
“I’m so excited for the trip. Now that it’s getting closer, I’ve been charting a course incorporating slingshotting to save fuel. I’ll show you, it’s a lot of fun.”
“Let me know if you’re serious about tagging along for the trip. I know you might want to stay, or help out Iliah. I’ll be here when you’ve made your decision.”
[[“See you later.”->GymHall]]
(if:$IliahToo is true)[[[“Could Iliah come too?”->J3I]]
][[“I want to help you travel to Earth.”->JE1]](set:$Jule3Done to true)(set:$Jule2Done to true)(set: $wantEarth to true)(set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")“That’s… Awesome. I’m happy for you two, even if I might be just a little jealous.”
“Now that my trip is getting closer, I’ve been charting a course incorporating slingshotting to save fuel. I could show you, it’s a lot of fun.”
“If you happen to change your mind about Earth, you know where to find me.”
[[“See you later.”->GymHall]]
[[“Would you come with us?”->J307]](set:$Jule3Done to true)(set:$Jule2Done to true)(set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")“That’s a noble cause. I’m sure she’ll appreciate your help. Grandma really is a saint. Maybe we can help with something together before I leave.”
“Speaking of the trip, I’m so excited. Now that it’s getting closer, I’ve been charting a course incorporating slingshotting to save fuel. I could show you, it’s a lot of fun.”
“I know you might want to stay, or help out Iliah. But you’re more than welcome to tag along with me, you know.”
[[“See you later.”->GymHall]]
[[“I want to help you travel to Earth.”->JE1]](set:$Jule3Done to true)(set:$Jule2Done to true)(set: $wantEarth to true)(set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")“Not giving up just yet, are you? Well, if things stay this way, don’t forget to take care of your old man. It won’t be easy when he realises his entire identity and life’s purpose are gone.”
(if:$Dad2Done is true)[You’ve already checked up on your father.](else:)[It’s true. You might want to check up on your father.]
“On my end, I’m looking forward to the big trip. Now that it’s getting closer, I’ve been charting a course incorporating slingshotting to save fuel. I could show you, it’s a lot of fun.”
“I know you might want to stay, or help out Iliah. But you’re more than welcome to tag along with me, you know.”
[[“See you later.”->GymHall]]
[[“I want to help you travel to Earth.”->JE1]](set:$Jule3Done to true)(set:$Jule2Done to true)(set: $wantEarth to true)(set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")“Iliah? Hm, I doubt it. She’s really set on visiting her friends, as you know.”
“That’s a nice dream you have. But you know her and I don’t want the same thing. I don’t think Iliah and I are meant to stay together, unfortunately. But we’ve both accepted this already.”
[[“That’s true.”->J3I2]]
[[“I’ll find a way to make this happen.”->J3I4]](set:$triple to true)(set:$3Jule to true)(set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")“Sorry, I should finish something quick before we keep talking.” Jule leans against the wall and takes out his ePad. “I’ll be here if you need me.”
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]](set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")“You could talk to Iliah, I suppose. Keep me posted. I’ll be here if you need me. Sorry, I should finish something quick before we keep talking.” Jule leans against the wall and takes out his ePad.
“Don’t be sad about losing anyone just yet. We still have time together before we leave the station.”
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]](set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")“No offence, but I’m not super interested in seeing those other stations. Her friends are what makes all the difference for Iliah.”
“That’s a nice dream you have. But you know her and I don’t want the same thing. I don’t think Iliah and I are meant to stay together, unfortunately. But we’ve both accepted this already.”
[[“That’s true.”->J3I2]]
[[“I’ll find a way to make this happen.”->J3I4]](set:$triple to true)(set:$3Jule to true)(set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")You tell Jule about your talk with Iliah, and your hopes of travelling together.
“That’s a really nice thought. I’m not sure how that would be possible, given Iliah and my different goals. We could talk it through tonight, if you really want to, all three of us. What do you think?”
[[“I’d like that.”->3End]]
[[“Forget it.”->J3Exit]](track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'signal2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(live: 1.8s)[(t8n:"fade-right")(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "FIVE YEARS LATER")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "3End2")]](Display: "Location")“Sure. I’ll let you go for now. I’ll catch up with you later, OK? We have a lot to talk about.”
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]](set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")You tell Iliah about your talk with Jule, and your hopes of travelling together.
“That’s a really nice thought. I’m not sure how that would be possible, given Jule and my different goals. We could talk it through tonight, if you really want to, all three of us. What do you think?”
[[“I’d like that.”->3End]]
[[“Forget it.”->I3Exit]](Display: "Location")“Sure. I’ll let you go for now. But let’s talk about us. Maybe tonight?”
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)You wake up from another dream about the colony ship, disoriented until you remember that you aren’t aboard the //Bean// anymore. Stretching under the sheets, you turn around to find the rest of the bed empty.
(link: "“Jule?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "3End3")]
(link: "“Iliah?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "3End3")](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space3', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)No answer. You get up, wipe your eyes, and look around.
You are in the shuttle’s aft quarters, a cramped loft with a bed and not much room for anything else. A (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|cal>[calendar]] is pinned to one wall and a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|post>[poster]] to the other.(click: ?cal)[(replace: ?calDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Calendar://] You brought this final gift from Dad along with you. The arbitrary dates help in coordinating visits with each station. Iliah has documented all our arrival and departure dates so far, Jule has marked his treatment schedule, and you have scribbled down sights you’ve seen out the cockpit window in between stops.]]|calDesc>[](click: ?post)[(replace: ?postDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Poster://] It’s nice to have this photo of the old station with you. Before you left, Ann and the others were well underway with their transformation. You hope they will prosper and live well.]]|postDesc>[]
(link: "Leave quarters")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "3End4")](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space4', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space4', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)You move through the shuttle toward the cockpit. Jule and Iliah are sitting in the pilot’s seats, listening to some kind of music through the console. You get comfortable between them, listen in on their conversation, and join in looking out the window.
Red dominates the viewport as Mars approaches day by day. At this distance, you can make out features such as Olympus Mons and various craters. You hope the time spent here among new friends and lovers will be as special as during the last stops.
Your heart sinks as you remember Earth. Last month, it became visible through your scopes, leaving you three puzzled about its appearance. What could be waiting for you there, beneath the swirling pink clouds?
Whatever has befallen Earth, you will soon find out together.
[[THE END->EndScreen]](track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'signal2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(live: 1.8s)[(t8n:"fade-right")(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "FIVE YEARS LATER")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "IEnd")]](Display: "Location")She drops her head upon hearing the bittersweet news. “Oh… I get it.” Iliah looks back at you, a grin spreading across her freckled face. “I’m happy Ann will have such a great person on her side. You two will do a lot of good around here, I’m sure.”
You spend a quiet moment together, imagining what the [[future->IAend]] may hold, thankful that there is still time until then.(Display: "Location")She drops her head upon hearing the bittersweet news. “Oh… I can’t say I get it, but it’s your choice to make.” Iliah looks back at you, a grin spreading across her freckled face. “I’ll never be able to say thank you enough times. This means the world to me.”
You spend a quiet moment together, imagining what the [[future->IRend]] may hold, thankful that there is still time until then.You wake up from another dream about the colony ship, disoriented until you remember that you aren’t aboard the //Bean// anymore. Stretching under the sheets, you turn around to find the rest of the bed empty.
(link: "“Iliah?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "IEnd2")](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)No answer. You get up, wipe your eyes, and look around.
You are in the shuttle’s aft quarters, a cramped loft with a bed and not much room for anything else. A (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|cal>[calendar]] is pinned to one wall and a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|post>[poster]] to the other.(click: ?cal)[(replace: ?calDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Calendar://] You brought this final gift from Dad along with you. The arbitrary dates help in coordinating visits with each station. Iliah has documented all our arrival and departure dates so far, and you have scribbled down sights you’ve seen out the cockpit window in between stops.]]|calDesc>[](click: ?post)[(replace: ?postDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Poster://] It’s nice to have this photo of the old station with you. Before you left, Ann and the others were well underway with their transformation. You hope they will prosper and live well.]]|postDesc>[]
[[Leave quarters->IEnd3]](track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'signal2', 'fadein', 2)You move through the shuttle toward the cockpit. Iliah is sitting in the pilot’s seat, listening to some kind of music with her headphones. You softly remove them, greet her, and join in looking out the window.
Red dominates the viewport as Mars approaches day by day. At this distance, you can make out features such as Olympus Mons and various craters.
You hope the time spent here among new friends and lovers will be as special as during the last stops.
[[THE END->EndScreen]](Display: "Location")Jule looks so happy. “You’re coming, right?”
[[“Of course I’m coming with you.”->JE3]]
[[“I’ll be staying to help Ann.”->JE4]]
[[“I’ll be staying to work with Dad”->JE5]](track: 'jule1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(live: 1.8s)[(t8n:"fade-right")(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "FIVE YEARS LATER")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "JEnd")]](Display: "Location")He drops his head at the bittersweet news. “Oh… I get it.” Jule looks back at you, a subtle grin spreading across his face. “I’m glad you’ll be keeping Grandma company while I’m away. You two will do a lot of good around here, I’m sure.”
You spend a quiet moment together, imagining what the [[future->JAend]] may hold, thankful that there is still time until then.(Display: "Location")He drops his head at the bittersweet news. “Oh… I get it.” Jule looks back at you, a subtle grin spreading across his face. “This means you’ll have to watch over Grandma for me while I’m away.”
You spend a quiet moment together, imagining what the [[future->JRend]] may hold, thankful that there is still time until then.You wake up from another dream about the colony ship, disoriented until you remember that you aren’t aboard the //Bean// anymore. Stretching under the sheets, you turn around to find the rest of the bed empty.
(link: "“Jule?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "JEnd2")](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)No answer. You get up, wipe your eyes, and look around.
You are in the shuttle’s aft quarters, a cramped loft with a bed and not much room for anything else. A (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|cal>[calendar]] is pinned to one wall and a (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|post>[poster]] to the other.(click: ?cal)[(replace: ?calDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Calendar://] You brought this final gift from Dad along with you. Approaching Earth, its arbitrary dates seem a bit more relevant. Jule has marked his treatment schedule, and you have scribbled down sights you’ve seen out the cockpit window along the way.]]|calDesc>[](click: ?post)[(replace: ?postDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Poster://] It’s nice to have this photo of the old station with you. Before you left, Ann and the others were well underway with their transformation. You hope they will prosper and live well.]]|postDesc>[]
[[Leave quarters->JEnd3]](track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule2', 'fadein', 2)You move through the shuttle toward the cockpit. Jule is sitting in the pilot’s seat, listening to some kind of music through the console. You greet him and join in looking out the window.
The pale dot dead ahead has been growing larger each day. What could be waiting for you there, beneath the swirling pink clouds? You’ve puzzled about this color ever since Earth was visible through scopes last month.
Whatever has befallen Earth, you will find out together.
[[THE END->EndScreen]](Display: "Location")“Of course, dear. Take time to think about what you really want.”
(link: "Leave the sunken living space")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommonRoomPost")](track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(live: 1.8s)[(t8n:"fade-right")(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "TEN YEARS LATER")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AEnd2")]](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)You wake up in the common area. The lights are dimmed, and a faint glow pours in from the (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|win>[window]]. It seems you nodded off after the evening’s gathering. The sound of conversation is gone, but the smell of boiled greens still hangs in the air.(click: ?win)[(replace: ?winDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Window://] Dark asteroids drift around the (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Ann>[//Saint Ann//]]. You see a shuttle carting a chunk of rock to ore processing. Which project will this resource be used for? (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Dad>[Dad]] might know.
]]|winDesc>[](click: ?Ann)[(replace: ?AnnDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Saint Ann://] She would be so proud of how the station looks today. We miss her dearly since her passing a few years back. Her love and guidance helped us survive without our home planet. It was only fitting to rename our ever-changing station in her honour.
]]|AnnDesc>[](click: ?Dad)[(replace: ?DadDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Dad://] As a senior technician, your father’s knowledge of the ship systems is critical for the transformation process. He still works for his retirement, of course. Coordinating expansions and modifications with us is like a second job for him. As if he didn’t work enough before.]]|DadDesc>[]
(link: "Leave the common room")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AEnd3")](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space3', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space3', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)You rub your eyes, grab your things, and head into the corridor.
The greenery lining the walls still amazes you months later, leaves shining as they catch the dim blue fluorescent lights active this time of night. You wish (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|J>[Jule]] and (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|I>[Iliah]] were here to see it.(click: ?J)[(replace: ?JDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Jule://] You think about Jule. (if: $JAend is true)[He left for Earth a few years ago, thanks to your help. You stayed in close contact during his trip, but he hasn’t responded since entering the atmosphere. You hope he is alright down there.](if: $JAend is not true)[He left for Earth last year. (if:$BadJuleEnd is true)[You overheard that he hasn’t responded to the station since entering the atmosphere. Is he alright down there?](if:$BadJuleEnd is not true)[You stayed in close contact during his trip, but he hasn’t responded since entering the atmosphere. You hope he is alright down there.]]]|JDesc>[]](click: ?I)[(replace: ?IDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Iliah://] You think about Iliah. (if: $IAend is true)[She’s been gone for several years now, already four stops into her station-hopping tour, thanks to your help. She’s been sending you photos and stories of her adventures. You hope one day she might return and see for herself how the station has changed.](if: $IAend is not true)[She’s been gone for a couple years now, two stops into her station-hopping tour. She’s been sending you photos and stories of her adventures.(if:$IliahToo is true)[ You hope one day she might return and see for herself how the station has changed.]]]]|IDesc>[]
(link: "Enter your room")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AEnd4")](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space5', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space5', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)You push open the door and collapse onto your bed. The day’s work was exhausting, and the evening’s celebration more so. Transforming the station demands a lot of work from everyone.
But the quiet moments in between, living as a community, make it well worth the effort.
[[THE END->EndScreen]](Display: "Location")“Alrighty. Take your time. Just don’t do anything rash in the meantime.”
(if:$cor is 1)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor1]]](if:$cor is 2)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor2]]](if:$cor is 3)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor3]]](if:$cor is 4)[[[Leave the engineering deck->Corridor4]]](set: $leaveengi to true)(track: 'futur1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'futur2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(live: 1.8s)[(t8n:"fade-right")(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "TEN YEARS LATER")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "REnd2")]](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)A familiar discordant chime startles you awake. You rub your eyes, turn off the alarm, and pull on some work clothes.
Another day pulling (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|ds>[double shifts]]. You forget exactly what you’ll be tinkering on today. That’s fine, (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|dad>[Dad]] will know.(click: ?ds)[(replace: ?dsDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Double shifts://] You still work for an eventual retirement, of course, but coordinating expansions and modifications is like a second job for you both. As if you didn’t work enough before.]]|dsDesc>[](click: ?dad)[(replace: ?dadDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Dad://] As a senior technician, your father’s knowledge of the ship systems is critical for the transformation of the (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|sa>[//Saint Ann//]]. Despite your reluctance to join the cause, the passing years made it inevitable.]]|dadDesc>[](click: ?sa)[(replace: ?saDesc)[
---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Saint Ann://] You miss Ann dearly since her passing a few years back. Her selflessness and guidance helped us survive without our home planet. It was only fitting to rename our ever-changing station in her honour.]]|saDesc>[]
(link: "Leave your room")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "REnd3")]You exit the room and enter the module corridor.
The greenery lining the walls still amazes you months later, leaves shining as they catch the dim blue fluorescent lights active this early in the day. You wish (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|J>[Jule]] and (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|I>[Iliah]] were here to see it.(click: ?J)[(replace: ?JDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Jule://] (if: $JRend is true)[You think about Jule. He left for Earth a few years ago, thanks to your help. You stayed in close contact during his trip, but he hasn’t responded since entering the atmosphere. You hope he is alright down there.](if: $JRend is not true)[(if:$BadJuleEnd is true)[You overheard that he hasn’t responded to the station since entering the atmosphere. Is he alright down there?](if:$BadJuleEnd is not true)[You stayed in close contact during his trip, but he hasn’t responded since entering the atmosphere. You hope he is alright down there.]]]]|JDesc>[](click: ?I)[(replace: ?IDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Iliah://] You think about Iliah. (if: $IRend is true)[She’s been gone for several years now, already four stops into her station-hopping tour, thanks to your help. She’s been sending you photos and stories of her adventures. You hope one day she might return and see for herself how the station has changed.](if: $IRend is not true)[She’s been gone for a couple years now, two stops into her station-hopping tour. She’s been sending you photos and stories of her adventures.(if:$IliahToo is true)[ You hope one day she might return and see for herself how the station has changed.]]]]|IDesc>[]
[[Approach the engineering deck->REnd4]](track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 3)(track: 'futur2', 'fadein', 3)You ride the lift up to engineering, closing your eyes to better feel the transition to weightlessness.
Floating into the room, you see a few workers outfitting themselves with tools and equipment, your father among them. You greet him and listen to their chatter, grabbing necessary tools for the scheduled repairs.
After a short ride down the central lift into the station’s core, everyone suits up outside the airlock. The team enters and cycles through depressurization. When the lamp goes green, your father shoots you a smile before opening the hatch, attaching himself to the hull, and leaping out of the station.
You follow him, securing your line before pushing off into space. The stars and colossal rocks spin about as you stabilize to get a better view of the endless vista surrounding you.
This never gets old.
[[THE END->EndScreen]](Display: "Location")“Yeah, OK. I hope you figure it all out soon. I’ll be here if you need me.”(set: $JLocked to true)(set: $Jule2Done to true)
[[Leave the locker room->GymHall]](set: $exitLockers to true)(Display: "Location")Jule looks up as you approach. “Ah, hey there. How are you holding up?”
His gaze sends a shock through your body. You can’t keep pushing this away.
(link:"“I’m starting to have feelings for you.”")[(set: $JLocked to false)(set: $lateJ to true)(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "J210")]
[[“I… I can’t do this right now.”->J2C]](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](if: $time > 42839)[(set: $time to it - 42839)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'signal2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'signal2', 'fadein', 1)(track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 1)(Display: "Location")“Oh yeah? How did it go?”
(if:$IliahToo is true)[You tell Iliah about your talk with Jule, and how you feel about both of them.](else:)[You tell Iliah about your talk with Jule, and your feelings for each other.]
“Oh my, I love this! Ahhh.” She is smiling and spins in her chair. “Jule was always talking about you, you know.”
“I’m so happy for you. Tell me more about it later, alright? I have to get back to something for now.”
[[Leave the comms room->CommHall]](if:$3Jule is true)[
[[“Let’s talk about the three of us.”->I3E]]]
[[“I want to help you visit your friends.”->IE1]](set: $exitCommsroom to true)(set: $stubborn to false)(set: $Iliah3Done to true)(set: $lateJ to false)(Display: "Location")“What’s on your mind?”
(link:"“I’m starting to have feelings for Jule.”")[(set: $stubborn to false)(set: $finallyJ to true)(goto: "I211")]
(link:"“I feel something for both of you.”")[(set: $stubborn to false)(set: $finallyJ to true)(goto: "I212")]
[[“I… I can’t do this right now.”->I3Exit]](Display: "Location")(set: $Earth to true)An empty feeling washes over you in an instant as you remember:
Earth has gone silent. Without warning, the planet cut all communications with your station. Most people believe this is just a temporary problem, that we’ll be in contact again soon enough.
Despite everyone’s reassurance, and as much as you want to keep faith in your purpose, you can’t shake the feeling that this is the end.
[[Turn your attention back to Jule->JEarth2]](Display: "Location")Jule has always been obsessed with Earth. Growing up, his grandmother (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Ann>[Ann]] used to tell you stories from the old planet, and he would listen wide eyed, always asking for just one more.|AnnDesc>[
](click: ?Ann)[(replace: ?AnnDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Ann://] As the last 1st-generation miner left, she’s the only person on the station to have grown up on Earth. And to have chosen a life of space mining.
---
]]“I may have never been there, but I can picture it so clearly. Feeling the pull of its gravity, breathing air under a blue sky. My body was made for Earth. Can’t you feel it too?”
[[“Not really, no.”->J5]]
[[“I’ve been having dreams about Earth.”->J6]]
[[“It feels nice to imagine.”->J7]](Display: "Location")(set: $Earth to true)An empty feeling washes over you in an instant as you remember:
Earth has gone silent. Without warning, the planet cut all communications with your station. Most people believe this is just a temporary problem, that we’ll be in contact again soon enough.
Despite everyone’s reassurance, and as much as you want to keep faith in your purpose, you can’t shake the feeling that this is the end.
Even before losing Earth, Iliah was critical of our way of work. She’s been running comms because there is no alternative out here. Labour is the only path to freedom.
“I’m just glad I can spend more time with my network of friends.”
(link: "“Were you recording a message?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I5")]
(link: "“How have you been?”")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "I4b")](track: 'jule2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(link: "TEN YEARS LATER")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "REnd2")](set: $JRend to true)(track: 'jule1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'jule2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $JAend to true)(set: $time to 0)(live: 1.8s)[(t8n:"fade-right")(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "TEN YEARS LATER")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AEnd2")]](track: 'signal1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'signal2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $IAend to true)(set: $time to 0)(live: 1.8s)[(t8n:"fade-right")(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "TEN YEARS LATER")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "AEnd2")]](track: 'signals2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space1', 'fadein', 2)(set: $time to 0)(link: "TEN YEARS LATER")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "REnd2")](set: $IRend to true)(if: $relax is not true)[(if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](if: $time > 74375)[(set: $time to it - 74375)](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'fadein', 1)(if:$Tune2 is true)[(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 1)](if:$Tune2 is not true)[(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 1)]](if:$relax is true)[(set: $relax to false)](set: $location to "Module D, medical")(Display: "Location")You are in the medical room. Several empty lounge chairs are lined up near the entrance.
To your right, an expandable partition hides the operating suite. To your left, behind another partition, (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Dr>[Dr. O’Ceallaigh]] is speaking quietly with a patient. Fixed to the wall opposite the door is the old chemical (text-colour:#84BAFF)[|Pr>[printer]].(click: ?Dr)[(replace: ?DrDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Dr. O’Ceallaigh://] Iliah’s mother is great at her job, dedicated to the health of everyone on the station. Given their differing views on the importance of work, they unfortunately don’t hold the best relationship.]]|DrDesc>[](click: ?Pr)[(replace: ?PrDesc)[---
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[//Printer://] Thanks to this machine, habitants can get the treatment they need to stay fit and healthy. Being able to print hormones sure made Jule’s life a hell of a lot better. And Dad’s pneumonia scare a few years back might not have gone so well if not for antibiotics.]]|PrDesc>[]
(live: $fade)[(t8n:$effect)(show:?links)]|links)[(link: "Take a moment to relax")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "MedRelax")]
(link: "Return to module corridor")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "CommHall")](set: $exitMedical to true)](Display: "Location")You approach one of the comfy red chairs, settle in, and take a deep breath. After a brief moment of rest, thoughts about your day snap you back to reality.
(Display: "Goals")
(link: "Return")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Medical")](set: $relax to true)(if:$Ann1Done is true)[You think about your work credits, the sum of your life’s work on this station. They were meant to be saved up for retirement. Now, they could grant you the freedom to change your fate, either by transforming the station or by leaving it behind.
Jule, Iliah, Dad and Ann all have different ideas of how to approach the future. You could speak with them to try and figure it out yourself.](if: $annpage is true and $Ann1Done is not true)[Ann’s gathering in the module A common area will begin soon.](if:$Jule1Done is not true)[(if:$Iliah1Done is not true)[You really should speak with Jule and Iliah. They are probably in modules B and D.](if:$Iliah1Done is true)[You really should speak with Jule. He’s probably in module B.](if:$Dad1Done is not true and $dadpage is true)[ And maybe stop by engineering to say hi to Dad.]](else-if:$Iliah1Done is not true)[You really should speak with Iliah. She’s most likely in module D.(if:$Dad1Done is not true and $dadpage is true)[ And maybe stop by engineering to say hi to Dad.]](Display: "Location")You take a place at the table, retrieve your ePad, and start flipping through your recipe book. You quickly lose focus and think of what lies ahead.
(Display: "Goals")
(link: "Return")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Kitchen")](set: $relax to true)(set: $location to "Module B, showers")(Display: "Location")Why not? You’re feeling a little overwhelmed and could use the down time. Plus, your energy credits are still positive.
You enter a shower stall, strip, and swipe your ePad to activate the water. Taking a couple of deep breaths, you start to feel relaxed and think of what you should do next.
(Display: "Goals")
(link: "Return")[(set: $time to it + time + 10)(goto: "Lockers")](set: $shower to true)(track: 'space1', 'loop', true)(track: 'space1', 'volume', 1)
(track: 'space2', 'loop', true)(track: 'space2', 'volume', 1)
(track: 'space3', 'loop', true)(track: 'space3', 'volume', 1)
(track: 'space4', 'loop', true)(track: 'space4', 'volume', 1)
(track: 'space5', 'loop', true)(track: 'space5', 'volume', 1)
(masteraudio: 'preload')(set: $time to 0)
[[Start->T0]](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space2', 'volume', 1)(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space2', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space2', 'play')(link: "Space1")[(set: $time to it + 0)(goto: "T1")]
(link: "Space3")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T3")]
(link: "Space4")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T4")]
(link: "Space5")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T5")](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space3', 'volume', 1)(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space3', 'play')(link: "Space1")[(set: $time to it + 0)(goto: "T1")]
(link: "Space2")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T2")]
(link: "Space4")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T4")]
(link: "Space5")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T5")](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space4', 'volume', 1)(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space4', 'play')(link: "Space1")[(set: $time to it + 0)(goto: "T1")]
(link: "Space2")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T2")]
(link: "Space3")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T3")]
(link: "Space5")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T5")](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space5', 'volume', 1)(track: 'space1', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space5', 'play')(link: "Space1")[(set: $time to it + 0)(goto: "T1")]
(link: "Space2")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T2")]
(link: "Space3")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T3")]
(link: "Space4")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T4")](set: $timeplay to $time / 1000)(track: 'space1', 'volume', 1)(track: 'space2', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space3', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space4', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space5', 'fadeout', 2)(track: 'space1', 'seek', $timeplay)(track: 'space1', 'play')(link: "Space2")[(set: $time to it + 0)(goto: "T2")]
(link: "Space3")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T3")]
(link: "Space4")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T4")]
(link: "Space5")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T5")](track: 'space1', 'play')
(link: "Space2")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T2")]
(link: "Space3")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T3")]
(link: "Space4")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T4")]
(link: "Space5")[(set: $time to it + time)(goto: "T5")]preload: trueThanks for playing Silent Earth! We hope you enjoyed your time in space.
If you liked the game, please consider supporting the developers by purchasing the soundtrack, artwork, and Twine project file for a couple bucks here:
(text-colour:#84BAFF)[(link: "On Steam")[(open-url: 'https://store.steampowered.com/dlc/1531790/Silent_Earth/')]
[(link: "On Itch.io")[(open-url: 'https://fringfrang.itch.io/silent-earth?secret=KDck0Je4tJXom7RevNuL1qTXTIo')]]]
Take care!
(click:"Click here to restart game")[(reload:)]
(click:"Restart")[(restart:)]
Volume 50Mute
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