Simon Limited

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<<set $Funny to "Yes">><<set $Digress to "No">>Time is a funny concept, isn't it? [[Agree->Choice_Funny_Yes]] [[Disagree->Choice_Funny_No]]

There's limitless timelines out there. Infinite possibilities! [[Next->Strings_Matter]]

<<set $Funny to "No">>Well, do humour me. You'll see the comedy soon enough! [[Next->Intro_However]]

You've been my trusted assistant for all of [[ten seconds->Deeper_Seconds]], so I feel like I can let you in on a little secret. Let it be forever known that our bond transcends the shackles of time! [[Next->Intro_Hyperbole]]

Now I'm not one for [[hyperbole->Deeper_Hyperbole]], but after years of trudging through history in the name of research, I've come to the conclusion that the very fate of our reality rests solely in your hands. Can you believe it? [[Yes->Choice_Believe_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Believe_No]]

There's no reason to doubt me, assistant. Have you so swiftly forgotten our bond? [[Yes->Intro_Matter_No]] [[No->Intro_Matter_Yes]]

Are you familiar with the [[Dominasi->Deeper_Dominasi]]? Free energy suppression? Perpetual motion machines? Suspended animation? Well, disregard most of it, because I'm onto something with [[cold-fusion->Deeper_ColdFusion]] and I need you focused. [[Next->Intro_Unlimited]]

If I can create a functioning prototype, I'll be the first human in history to create an unlimited energy source. Power beyond our wildest dreams! The world -- no! The very universe will know my name! [[Next->Intro_Name]]

Unfortunately, I've crunched the numbers, and my odds of success are… [[zero->Deeper_Zero]]. [[Next->Intro_Observing]]

Through the dimensional rifts I've ripped through time, I've been able to observe parallel realities and come to a few realizations. [[Next->Intro_Lonely]]

You've got time, right? [[Yes->Choice_Time_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Time_No]]

Since I didn't date [[Isabelle->Deeper_Isabelle]] and fall into family life, my recklessness was elevated by thirty-two percent, thereby putting me on a path where the Dominasi's dogs catch my scent thirteen years earlier than the [[universal average->Deeper_UniversalAverage]]. [[Next->Intro_Demonstrated]]

If I had demonstrated five-percent more caution the day I secured my third [[reactor coil->Deeper_Coil]], and fourteen-percent more patience when I... "procured" [[documents->Deeper_Quantum]] on cryogenics, I'd have time to course-correct and continue my mission with a lead of twenty-years. I'd be among the leading Simons in our neighbouring timelines! [[Next->Intro_Dominasi]]

If my estimates are correct, though, the Dominasi will have me sniffed out by week's end. Eight days if I'm lucky. There's no [[escape->Deeper_Escape]] now. [[Next->Intro_Dread]]

<<set $Simon0001 to "No">>And while I could let myself be consumed with dread and lament my imminent destruction at their hands, I prefer to be an [[optimist->Deeper_Optimist]]! [[Next->Intro_Legacy]]

Many incarnations of myself will reap the rewards of our identical pursuits. I've seen it! [[Next->Intro_Praise]]

Every utterance of my name will be met with praise when my cold-fusion generators make their way to market. They'll host parades in the streets! [[Next->Intro_Destined]]

But not for [[me->Deeper_NotMe]]. <> <<if $Funny eq "No">> [[Next->Intro_Trivial]] <<else>> [[Next->Intro_Gloom]] <</if>> <>

Thinking about the triviality of it all is where the comedy lies, assistant. What I've done, what many near-identical variations of myself have done, amounts to nothing on our native timelines. Isn't it funny? Doesn't it make you want to laugh?! [[Yes->Choice_Laugh_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Laugh_No]]

Now, there's no time like the present. Go observe my paramount genius in our parallel dimensions and [[share what I've done here->Deeper_Goal_01]]! [[Next->Intro_Understand]]

I'd glady do it myself, but it'd be catastrophic for me to up and [[disappear->Deeper_Disappear]] from various timelines. You understand, right? [[Yes->Choice_Understand_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Understand_No]]

<<set $UnderstandMe to "No">>Well, that's fine. As my dimensional proxy on this mission, you're on a need-to-know basis! [[Next->Intro_Overview]]

<<if $UnderstandMe eq "Yes">>Now here's how it'll work, assistant.<<else>>And here's what you need to know, assistant.<</if>> Listen well! Whenever you notice me do anything of note, just [[flip reality's switch->Deeper_Switch]] and follow whatever route you think looks right. [[Next->Intro_Overwhelm]]

Think of it like flipping through the channels on an old <<if $Television eq "Yes">>cable television set<<else>>[[cable television set->Deeper_Television]]<</if>>: every option will look boring or pointless, but you'll settle on something just to see what comes next. [[Next->Intro_Channels]]

When you're away on different threads, tell whoever you encounter that [[Simon 5100->Deeper_Simon5100]] served science in a most respectable manner, but couldn't complete a functioning cold-fusion generator before the end. [[Next->Show_Papers]]

Good. That fallacy is best denied! [[Next->Intro_Digress_02]]

<<set $Fish to "No">><<set $NoJoinThink to "No">>Now, if you'll excuse me for a moment, I'm going to go <<cyclinglink "$Action" "sit down" "stand around" "work on the cold-fusion prototype">>. [[Next->Travel_Hub_01]]

And believe it, you should. For doubt has no place here in our space! [[Next->Intro_Familiar]]

What do you mean? You're my assistant. Of course you have time! [[Next->Intro_Exposition]]

Of course, I needn't have asked. As my assistant, you're obligated to have nothing but time! [[Next->Intro_Exposition]]

Allow me to explain my predicament with a little pre-mission [[exposition->Deeper_Exposition]]! [[Next->Intro_Family]]

<<set $UnderstandMe to "Yes">>This is why I kept you by my side all these seconds. I'm proud to say I've nurtured you into a dimensional proxy worthy of [[Scimon Unlimited->Deeper_Scimon]]! [[Next->Intro_Overview]]

And although you know the plane of programming is vast, your lousy service only grants you access to a [[few channels->Deeper_Subscription]]. [[Next->Intro_Long]]

Which proved to be a complete and utter waste. [[Return->Intro_Demonstrated]]

That's my personal designation. It'd be presumptious to label myself [[Simon 0001->Deeper_Simon0001]], so I counted upward from the first Simon I observed until finding one similar enough that I felt comfortable slipping myself into the lineup. That near identical match was the ever delightful [[Simon 5099->Deeper_Simon5099]]. [[Return->Intro_Secret]]

Doom and gloom aside, there's no time like the present. Go observe my paramount genius in our parallel dimensions and [[share what I've done here->Deeper_Goal_02]]! [[Next->Intro_Understand]]

<<set $Digress to "Yes">>But I [[digress->Deeper_Digress]]. [[Next->Intro_Trust]]

Until then, however, we have much to [[cover->Deeper_Discuss]]. [[Next->Intro_Trust]]

It stands to reason that my aversion to social interaction has garnered me no pals or paramours. But like any scientist worth their salt, I have no regrets! [[Return->Intro_Lonely]]

As I often do. [[Return->Intro_Digress_01]]

The, uh, fusion of... cold energy? Don't read into this, assistant. You'll throw my brilliance into question! [[Return->Intro_Familiar]]

I'm really not, but I've met enough fools thinking otherwise to warrant a reminder now and again. [[Return->Intro_Hyperbole]]

A rough approximation, but by no means inaccurate. [[Return->Intro_Trust]]

They're an organization that secretly silences technological advancements. True enemies of progress! [[Return->Intro_Familiar]]

That's the name of our esteemed organization. Do you like it? It's a portmonteau of "science" and "Simon." Truly my brilliance knows no bounds! [[Return->Choice_Understand_Yes]]

Isabelle is a fellow force in the field of time-travel. She's certainly no sheep from what I've gathered, but I see her as nothing more than competition when it comes to grant applications: hardly a foundation for a fruitful relationship. I don't know how I did it on other timelines! [[Return->Intro_Family]]

I'm pretty close to the curve in the grand scheme of things. Some Simons have been caught right out of the gate. Others are being captured or killed at this very moment! [[Return->Intro_Family]]

Dry lectures are the soul of science, as you know! [[Return->Intro_Exposition]]

An improbable goal as far as I'm concerned. [[Return->Intro_Demonstrated]]

Extensive buildup for minimal payoff is a hallmark of science, after all! [[Return->Intro_However]]

@@.shudder;[[Simon!->Deeper_Name]]@@ [[Next->Intro_Zero]]

On this timeline! [[Return->Intro_Zero]]

A true title worthy of science! [[Return->Intro_Name]]

<<if $Simon0001 eq "Yes">>He's also dead.<<else>>He's dead now.<</if>> [[Return->Deeper_Simon5100]]

<<set $Simon0001 to "Yes">>Fun Fact: Simon 0001 managed to win a massive jackpot a few years ago, but was murdered and robbed by some jealous locals a couple days later. Haven't bought a lottery ticket since! [[Return->Deeper_Simon5100]]

I'd love to send you out for a few years to spread word of my accomplishments to every Simon within our reach, but the fabric of time will [[crumple->Deeper_Crumple]] if you don't come back fast enough. Fate dictates that it must be a short excursion! [[Next->Intro_Secret]]

Because optimism is how the doomed deal with defeat! [[Return->Intro_Dread]]

The odds of you becoming lost in time are just a few decimal places above zero percent. In the realm of possibility, but unlikely enough for you to throw caution to the wind! [[Return->Intro_Overwhelm]]

I'm set on a path that won't pan out, destined to die in obscurity. The only Simon within our concievable range to rip dimensional rifts through reality's thin veil, subject to death's premature whims! [[Return->Intro_Destined]]

Even if I were to pack my bags tonight and hightail it out of town, they'd find me. They're a tenacious bunch when it comes to crushing genius such as mine! [[Return->Intro_Dominasi]]

<<set $CrumpleFacts to "Yes">>Like an old, worn-out sock. Visualize it, assistant! [[Return->Intro_Long]]

If I were to make a jump, the Simon overwritten on my arrival would spontaneously combust an hour or so after I leave. The same could be said for your counterparts, but... well, you're not the one who'd need to develop time-travel after your departure. I'm sure the other Simons will understand if their assistants perish. Bet it'd serve as valuable intel, too! [[Return->Intro_Understand]]

Life is nothing if not cruel. [[Return->Intro_Channels]]

I'm sure you'll notice the opportunities. Don't sweat it! [[Return->Intro_Overview]]

If you find yourself performing any experiments, don't let any Simons use [[Formula Five->Deeper_Formula]]. [[Next->Thoughtful_Ponder]]

We're not finished yet, though. I still have to make a grand contribution to science before I bite the proverbial bullet! [[Next->Intro_Present]]

Guess I just have a more refined funny bone than you. Or maybe the punchline lacks potency when you don't see yourself as the butt of the joke! [[Next->Intro_Present]]

You've experienced the thrill of cable television, have you not? [[Yes->Choice_Television_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Television_No]]

Everything regarding my time-travel research can be found within them. They'll illustrate the intricacies of the process to my fellow Simons better than anything else! [[Return->Show_Papers]]

It may seem like a suitable substitute for palladium, but that stuff will melt your face clean off when it fuses to hydrogen. I've watched it happen a thousand times over and I wouldn't recommend it! [[Return->Intro_Warning]]

<<if $Action eq "sit down">>My legs are feeling a little stiff, but such is the penalty for their service! [[Next->Rest_Sit]]<<elseif $Action eq "stand around">>On second thought, why don't you join me? [[Yes->Choice_Join_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Join_No]]<<elseif $Action eq "work on the cold-fusion prototype">> Actually, I could probably use some assistance. Would you mind? [[Yes->Choice_Mind_Yes_01]] [[No->Choice_Mind_No_01]]<</if>>

Don't worry about it, though. Other opportunities will present themselves! [[Next->Travel_Chance]]

Heh! Look at us. Just a couple of scientists, demonstrating our verticality. Do you know why I engage in this activity so often? [[Yes->Choice_Stand_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Stand_No]]

What do you mean, you'd mind? Get over here and earn your piece of the proverbial pie! [[Next->Choice_Mind_Yes_02]]

Much appreciated, assistant. I can always count on you! [[Next->Choice_Mind_No_02]]

That's my assistant! Remember, taking time to stand and ruminate is a critical piece of the [[creative process->Deeper_Stand]]. [[Next->Stand_Warning]]

It <<cyclinglink "$Standing" "helps me think" "asserts dominance">>. [[Next->Stand_Hub_01]]

Are you still here? You definitely missed a chance to jump. [[Next->Travel_Opportunities]]

@@.shudder;MY <<cyclinglink "$Melting" "FACE" "ICE CREAM">>. IT'S MELTING!@@ [[Next->Melting_Hub_01]]

If my hypothesis is correct, we have one last tweak before we've mastered unlimited energy. We're sitting at the very cusp of [[greatness->Deeper_ThisDay]]! [[Next->Need_Cycle]]

I remember taking the cheaper route back when I was working on an old [[neutron cannon->Deeper_Cannon]]. [[Next->Too_Well]]

One of the reactor coils could use a tune up, and my feeble frame isn't enough to do it alone. Are you willing to provide some support? [[Yes->Choice_Help_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Help_No]]

We can't <<cyclinglink "$Action02" "sit" "stand">> here forever, after all. [[Next->Travel_Hub_02]]

<<if $Action02 eq "sit">>Although you may very well prove me wrong at this rate. [[Next->Years_Cycle]] <<elseif $Action02 eq "stand">><<set $Fish to "Yes">>That is to say, standing in wait of inspiration is much like the ancient art of [[fishing->Deeper_Fishing]]: we'll be rewarded for our patience in due time. [[Next->Travel_Reel]]<</if>>

You know how many years I've been researching cold-fusion? <<cyclinglink "$Years" "About six now" "A decade">>. [[Next->Years_Hub]]

<<if $Years eq "About six now">> For the first year, I denied it was possible. Drifting in and out of research without much focus or facts in its favour. [[Next->Travel_Year_02]]<<elseif $Years eq "A decade">> And it paid off. [[Next->Travel_Year_10]]<</if>>

And it looks like I <<cyclinglink "$Status" "failed" "succeeded">>. [[Next->Status_Hub_01]]

Once the fifth year rolled around, I accepted what was coming. I dedicated myself to developing a means to send a person between timelines, in whatever capacity was possible, so I could share what I knew with the Simons that would outlive me. [[Next->Travel_Hub_03]]

Much of the second year was spent angry and frustrated. I had enough information to feasibly assemble a functional prototype, but it just wasn't working no matter how hard I tried! [[Next->Travel_Year_03]]

Things changed by the third year, though. I managed to stumble on the secret of time-travel, which at that point was just a side project to keep my mind distracted and pay the [[bills->Deeper_Bills]]! [[Next->Travel_Dimensions]]

Isabelle be damned, those grants are great. I'd be living large if it weren't for competition like her! [[Return->Travel_Year_03]]

Before long, I learned how to rip open dimensional windows and look at the possibilities hidden behind them. [[Next->Travel_Discovered]]

But that's also when I discovered the Dominasi. How they hunt down creations like my cold-fusion prototype, snuffing out promising projects before they see the light of day. [[Next->Travel_Saw]]

The things I [[saw->Deeper_Saw]]. [[Next->Travel_Digress]]

There may be infinite divergent threads, but the ones within reach all have horrible ends. The only difference is how they manifest and how long they take to execute! [[Return->Travel_Saw]]

But I [[digress->Deeper_Digress_02]]. [[Next->Travel_Evaluate]]

<> <<if $Digress eq "Yes">> As you're no doubt familiar. <<else>> As I often do. <</if>> <> [[Return->Travel_Digress]]

I began evaluating the different threads, looking for where I could buy more time: bargaining with mortality as the Dominasi drew closer. [[Next->Travel_Year_04]]

By the fourth year, I realized it was hopeless. Other Simons accomplished the task and were never discovered, but I spent too long trying to fight fate instead of taking [[action->Deeper_Passive]] into my own hands. [[Next->Travel_Year_05]]

I became a passive observer of my own life. [[Return->Travel_Year_04]]

<<if $Status eq "failed">>If only I knew my years were better served strictly in the pursuit of time-travel! [[Next->Travel_Failed]]<<else>>Gaze upon my cold-fusion generator, assistant! It's a scientific marvel. A masterpiece! Six glorious years of dedicated development. Concept to creation! [[Next->Travel_Succeeded]]<</if>>

But that probably wouldn't have made a difference. I've watched Simons fail that way, too. [[Next->Wishful_Thinking]]

It'll be making its official debut sometime in the next fiscal year. We're going to be rich, [[you and I->Deeper_Cut]]! [[Next->See_Now]]

Is that a fact? Well, my analogy won't help you. I guess the best way to describe it is that you'll sometimes have the option to jump, and those options will be limited: not unlike the life you've led before joining the pursuit of science! [[Next->Intro_Long]]

Is that so? Well, I will not [[forget->Deeper_Forgive]] this! [[Next->Intro_Digress_02]]

But I will forgive. [[Return->Intro_Matter_No]]

Now then, let's pull ourselves back on point! [[Next->Intro_Familiar]]

<<set $Television to "Yes">>Excellent. This analogy will serve you well! [[Return->Intro_Television]]

Thanks, assistant. The cold-fusion prototype works like a dream, but this blasted coil keeps jostling itself loose! [[Next->Fusion_Kinks]]

Is that a fact? Well, I suppose you can stand watch or something. But if the prototype topples over and crushes me, know that I hold you personally accountable for my demise! [[Next->Coil_Trick]]

If my hypothesis proves true, there's only one tweak left ahead of us. You've been [[useful->Deeper_Useful]] to this point, so you needn't change course now! [[Next->Need_Cycle]]

But by no means instrumental. Keep that ego in check, assistant! [[Return->Choice_Mind_Yes_02]]

Bask in its glow with me, assistant. take in all of its radiance! [[Return->Choice_Mind_No_02]]

Just hold it steady while I tinker, and we'll be done before you know it. [[Next->In_Position]]

Sometimes genius can strike without warning! [[Next->Stand_Silent]]

<<if $Standing eq "helps me think">>And it can no doubt do the same for you. Strokes of genius, as you know, can emerge before anyone at a moment's notice! [[Next->Engage_Thought]]<<else>>Although if it's just the two of us in the lab and we're both doing it, there's nary a point. [[Next->Reason_Dominance]] <</if>>

So let us instead put our time into more productive matters! [[Next->Just_The_Thing]]

What if we filter in a small sampling of <<cyclinglink "$Formula" "Formula Five" "Formula Fifteen" "Formula Four">>? We might see improved performance in the cold-fusion prototype. I'm thinking at least a three or four percent increase in [[efficiency->Deeper_Efficiency]]! [[Next->Formula_Try]]

Negligible when considering the sheer scale of infinite energy, but I'll take performance boosts wherever I can get them. Optimization is good practice, after all! [[Return->Formula_Four]]

Shall we put this experiment to the test? [[Yes->Choice_Formula_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Formula_No]]

... [[Next->Stand_Flow]]

Do you feel your thoughts flowing? <><<if $Fish eq "Yes">>[[Yes->Choice_Flowing_Yes_Fish]] <<else>>[[Yes->Choice_Flowing_Yes]]<</if>><> [[No->Choice_Flowing_No]]

Good, good. Inspiration can always be found down that stream we call consciousness! [[Next->Stand_Hm]]

Well, buck up that posture. You can't expect results without putting a little backbone into it! [[Next->Stand_Hm]]

Hmm.... [[Next->Stand_Shock]]

...! <><<if $NoJoinThink eq "Yes">>[[Next->Stand_Eureka_02]] <<else>>[[Next->Stand_Eureka_01]]<</if>><>

@@.shudder;Eureka!@@ <><<if $Fish eq "Yes">>[[Next->Fish_Caught]] <<else>>[[Next->Inspiration_Strikes]]<</if>><>

Don't dawdle now. At my side, assistant! [[Next->Travel_Stand]]

What?! Is this an act of defiance because I invited you as an afterthought? [[Yes->Choice_Defiance_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Defiance_No]]

Are you not familiar with fishing? Well, allow me to elaborate. Our great ancestors would drop a baited hook into the water, and wait until a fish bit it. Once they felt a nibble, they'd pull the beast up from beneath the waves and claim it as a spoil! [[Return->Travel_Hub_02]]

All we need to do is be ready to reel in our prize when it comes nibbling. [[Next->Stand_Silent]]

The stream's running in our favour, assistant. We'll no doubt feel a nibble soon! [[Next->Stand_Hm]]

Ahh... and I daresay, nothing feels better than resting weary bones. [[Next->Rest_Pause]]

.... [[Next->Travel_Still]]

What did I tell you?! We have inspiration on the line! [[Next->Hear_Me_Out]]

Ready yourself, assistant. Genius has taken hold! [[Next->Formula_Four]]

We need to <<cyclinglink "$Adjustment" "apply Formula Five" "adjust one of the coils">>. [[Next->Adjustment_Hub]]

Hear me out, assistant. [[Next->Formula_Four]]

<<if $WasItDefiance eq "No">> Well, whatever. L<<elseif $WasItDefiance eq "Yes">>But l<</if>>et it be known that you're missing out on a critical exercise, assistant. For standing is <<cyclinglink "$Exercise" "an act of rumination" "a display of dominance">>! [[Next->Stand_Hub_02]]

But on the subject of crushing weight, I actually have a job for you. [[Next->Travel_Tinker]]

Does walking do more for you? Less esteemed researchers than I would come to that conclusion. But what do they know? Besides, this is a small lab and standing suits us fine! [[Return->Choice_Stand_Yes]]

Although your active engagement is always appreciated. Science is no passive profession! [[Return->Choice_Defiance_Yes]]

Do you feel intimidated?! [[Yes->Choice_Intimidated_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Intimidated_No]]

@@.shudder;MUAHAHAHA!@@ [[Next->Intimidated]]

Oh.... [[Next->Disappointed]]

And it's enough to bring a man to madness! [[Next->Intro_Laughter]]

@@.shudder;MUAHAHAHA!@@ [[Next->Intro_Digress_01]]

<<if $Exercise eq "an act of rumination">><<set $NoJoinThink to "Yes">>Witness my genius at work! [[Next->Thinking_Underway]]<<elseif $Exercise eq "a display of dominance">>So here I [[stand->Deeper_Alone]], my verticality surpassing yours. [[Next->You_Intimidated]]<</if>>

You should've joined me when you had the chance. Now endure the crushing weight of oppression as I loom forebodingly over you! [[Next->Fearful_Pause]]

Okay, enough of that. I'm satisfied with my demonstration of authority! [[Next->And_Science]]

We might as well get back to work now. [[Next->Brave_Soul]]

.... [[Next->Stand_Hm]]

@@.shudder;Eureka!@@ [[Next->Paid_Off]]

Not only have I [[forgotten->Deeper_Forgotten]] your refusal to stand at my side, but a grand idea just dawned on me. Listen well! [[Next->Formula_Four]]

<<set $WasItDefiance to "Yes">>Well, no matter. I stand by the fact that your participation isn't [[necessary->Deeper_Necessary]]! [[Next->Critical_Exercise]]

<<set $WasItDefiance to "No">>Really? I would've thought that reasoning was sound. [[Next->Critical_Exercise]]

Alone. [[Return->Stand_Hub_02]]

I jest. That'll never be forgotten! [[Return->Paid_Off]]

That kind of undermines the whole exercise. Colour me [[disappointed->Deeper_Shade]]! [[Next->Back_Science]]

Wait, that's a lie! [[Next->Intro_Warning]]

If my projections are to be trusted, there's a fifty-six percent chance you'll be able to jump to different timelines, thirty-eight that time-travel won't work, and a meager eight for the possibility your atoms will be scattered across the dimensional void between threads. [[Next->Deeper_Than_Done]]

<<set $Reluctance to "No">>That's the spirit, assistant. Let us plunge into the depths of the unknown! [[Next->Pay_Ponder]]

<<set $Reluctance to "Yes">>Now, now. Don't let cold feet beset you! [[Next->You_Know]]

Let's dive in with both feet and see what happens! [[Yes->Choice_Dive_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Dive_No]]

<<set $ContinuedReluctance to "No">>I knew you'd come around. Now brace yourself for science! [[Next->Results_Pending_02]]

<<set $ContinuedReluctance to "Yes">>Your reluctance has been noted, assistant. [[Next->No_Skepticism]]

Aaaaaand down the coil it goes.... <> <<if $Formula eq "Formula Five">> [[Next->Formula_Five_Used]] <<elseif $Formula eq "Formula Four">> [[Next->Formula_Four_Used]] <<elseif $Formula eq "Formula Fifteen">> [[Next->Formula_Four_Used]] <</if>> <>

@@.shudder;AAAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->Melting]]

I swear, this is the last time I welcome ice cream into the lab. [[Next->Pause_Cream]]

Voila! As if by magic... we see [[nothing->Deeper_Nothing]]. [[Next->In_Sights]]

I'll have you know $Formula is a versatile concoction. [[Next->Dive_In]]

Witness what contemplation creates! [[Next->Results_Pending_01]]

<<set $Reluctance to "No">>Eeeeeeasy does it.... <> <<if $Formula eq "Formula Five">> [[Next->Formula_Five_Used]] <<elseif $Formula eq "Formula Four">> [[Next->Formula_Four_Used]] <<elseif $Formula eq "Formula Fifteen">> [[Next->Formula_Four_Used]] <</if>> <>

But science stalls for no skepticism! [[Next->Results_Pending_02]]

The yield of any promising experiment. [[Return->Formula_Four_Used]]

@@.shudder;It would seem the time has come. I'm going to... <<cyclinglink "$AcidEnd" "die" "take a seat for this">>!@@ [[Next->Acid_Hub_01]]

<<if $Melting eq "FACE">>@@.shudder;OH, HOW THE BURNING IS BOUNDLESS!@@ [[Next->Melting_Face]]<<elseif $Melting eq "ICE CREAM">>@@.shudder; HURRY! GRAB A MOP BEFORE WE HAVE A PUDDLE ON OUR HANDS!@@ [[Yes->Mop_Yes]] [[No->Mop_No]] <</if>>

But rest assured, further testing will likely prove my impressions right. Improved efficiency is within our sights! [[Next->Before_Numbers]]

<<if $Reluctance eq "Yes" && $ContinuedReluctance eq "Yes">> @@.shudder;WHY DIDN'T I HEED YOUR ADAMANT REFUSAL?!@@ [[Next->Acid_Melt]]<<elseif $Reluctance eq "Yes" && $ContinuedReluctance eq "No">> @@.shudder;WHY DID I INSIST ON TRYING THIS?!@@ [[Next->Acid_Melt]]<<elseif $Reluctance eq "No">> @@.shudder;WHY DID CONTEMPLATION CREATE CHAOS?!@@ [[Next->Acid_Melt]]<</if>>

What am I saying? I can't stand by that declaration. [[Next->Too_Sweet]]

We'll just have to be more careful in the future and watch our [[intake->Deeper_Intake]]! [[Next->Speaking_Future]]

So let us engage in a little thinking ourselves, shall we? [[Next->Stand_Silent]]

We staved off a <<if $CreamSupport eq "No">>[[serious mess->Deeper_MessSolo]]<<else>>[[serious mess->Deeper_MessSupport]]<</if>>. [[Next->Swear_Cream]]

I have a problem, and you've done nothing but enable it. [[Return->Too_Sweet]]

<<set $CrunchNumbers to "Yes">>Before I lose myself in the numbers, I'd be remiss not to ask. Those papers on your person, they don't look familiar. Did you wish to share them? [[Yes->Choice_Share_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Share_No]]

Excellent. I'll admit, they've had my curiosity piqued for some time now! [[Next->See_Here]]

Playing them close to the chest, are you? I can [[respect that->Deeper_Respect]]. [[Next->Privy_Soon]]

If whatever they contain proves successful, however, I do hope I'll be made privy to their contents in time. <<if $CrunchNumbers eq "Yes">>[[Next->Crunch_Cycle]]<<else>>[[Next->Deep_Freeze]]<</if>>

<<if $AcidEnd eq "die">>@@.blur;I was so close to pushing this prototype into production.@@ [[Next->Sealed_Fate]]<<elseif $AcidEnd eq "take a seat for this">>@@.shudder;I daresay, I'm shaking with anticipation!@@ [[Next->Take_Moment]]<</if>>

@@.shudder;MUAHAHAHA!@@ [[Next->Excellent_Lie]]

@@.shudder;WHAT?!@@ [[Next->Touch_Shaken]]

Now, then. I best begin <<cyclinglink "$Now" "crunching these numbers" "recording your report">>. [[Next->Crunch_Hub]]

@@.blur;Infinite energy was within my grasp.@@ [[Next->So_Close]]

@@.blur;My life was so close to meaning... [[something->Deeper_Something]]@@. [[Next->Known_My_Name]]

@@.blur;That's all I ever wanted, assistant. To leave my mark.@@ [[Return->So_Close]]

@@.blur;This was to be an undertaking that would [[change the world->Deeper_KnowName]].@@ [[Next->Had_To_Pursue]]

@@.blurrier;I wish I had... more time.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

[img[http://schmidtsource.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/SimonLimitedSmallEnd.png][Credits]]

@@.blur;But I just had to push it. And on something as pointless as a performance boost!@@ [[Next->What_A_Way]]

@@.blur;What a way to go.@@ [[Next->End_Acid]]

@@.blur;Everyone would've known my name.@@ [[Return->Known_My_Name]]

@@.shudder;Allow me to take a moment to contain myself.@@ [[Next->Deep_Breath]]

Deeeeeep breath, [[Simon->Deeper_Recall_Name_01]]. [[Next->Simon_Ready]]

What news do you bring from your journey across the thresholds of time? Were you able to pass along my research papers?! [[Yes->Choice_Papers_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Papers_No]]

Simon 5100. Welcome back! [[Return->Deep_Breath]]

Okay, I'm ready. [[Next->What_News]]

Excellent work, assistant. Your hustle will henceforth be acknowledged as the greatest contribution to modern science the world has ever [[witnessed->Deeper_Watching]]! [[Next->Help_Coming]]

Too bad I was the only one watching. [[Next->Excellent_Lie]]

Oh, did I not mention that? You were also one of their targets through association with me. [[Return->Help_Coming]]

With the knowledge of time-travel now under another Simon's belt, help will surely be sent [[our->Deeper_Together]] way when the Dominasi come. [[Next->Our_Saviour]]

Both of our lives depended on that delivery. We'd be done for if you failed, but you pulled through for us by the skin of your teeth! [[Next->Really_Something]]

And that's really something, too. If you were off our timeline much longer, we would've definitely seen some [[dimensional crumpling->Deeper_Crumple_02]]! [[Next->No_Waste]]

Take heart, assistant. [[Next->Be_Okay]]

Now, let's not waste another second. We should try to finish the cold-fusion prototype before our salvation arrives! [[Next->Take_Heart]]

We're going to be okay! [[Next->Ending]]

Reality would've furled up like a wet, moldy poster.<<if $CrumpleFacts eq "Yes">> Appreciate these visuals, assistant!<</if>> [[Return->Really_Something]]

Oh, right! I didn't want to impose any undo pressure, so earlier I left out the fact that the Dominasi wants you dead, too. That's the cost of teamwork, I guess. [[Return->Face_Fate]]

I was right to feel a touch shaken on your arrival. What were you doing out there? This was a serious mission! [[Next->Too_Long]]

Take solace in the fact we tried, assistant. [[Next->Million_Failures]]

And I could practically see our timeline crumpling at the seams while you were gone. We can't send you out again! [[Next->No_Anger]]

But I suppose [[nothing->Deeper_Needs]] comes out of getting mad about it. [[Next->Face_Fate]]

We just have to face fate and accept that [[we're finished->Deeper_Finished]]. [[Next->We_Tried]]

Although, in the grand scheme of things that doesn't mean much. Endless waves of Simons failed before our time, and more will fail after us. [[Next->Million_Wins]]

And for every one of those failures, we met success somewhere out there in that limitless line of threads. [[Next->Every_Outcome]]

Every outcome is happening all the time, and we're just among the defeated. [[Next->Look_Part]]

@@.shudder;WHAT A TIME TO BE ALIVE!@@ [[Next->Ending]]

@@.shudder;MUAHAHAHA!@@ [[Next->What_A_Time]]

Knowing what we know about the fate that awaits us, let's walk into oblivion with smiles on our faces. [[Next->Laugh_Void]]

I want us to laugh into the void together! [[Next->Last_Laugh]]

<<set $Remember to "Null">>Remember that? [[Yes->Choice_Remember_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Remember_No]]

But it makes you wonder if any of it matters. [[Next->Why_Bother]]

Why bother doing anything when every possible outcome already exists? [[Next->Big_Joke]]

There's no value to any of it. It's all one big joke! [[Next->Intro_Madness]]

But that's old news, assistant. It's been years since we released the cold-fusion generator! [[Next->Those_Days]]

Achieving time-travel on our thread was nothing more than wishful thinking. [[Next->Its_Over]]

We just have to face facts. You [[couldn't jump->Deeper_Jump]]! My research failed us and now it's over. [[Next->Live_With_That]]

Can you live with that? [[Yes->Choice_Live_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Live_No]]

Mostly I, but you'll get a respectable cut. Enough to make any subordinate proud! [[Return->Travel_Succeeded]]

Those were the days, though, when we first finished the prototype and the Dominasi came knocking. [[Next->Question_Remember]]

I guess its easy to dismiss when you're not the one in danger. [[Next->Target_Too]]

Neither can I. [[Next->Keep_Tinkering]]

<<set $HeardBefore to "Yes">>Since you spent time in my lab and saw my projects, you'll also be deemed a threat to them. [[Return->Target_Too]]

Now can you still live with it, knowing we're both dead? [[Yes->Choice_Now_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Now_No]]

I'll keep tinkering at this. Maybe with a little luck we'll be able to send you somewhere before the Dominasi comes for <<if $HeardBefore eq "Yes">>us<<else>>[[us->Deeper_Us]]<</if>>! [[Next->Wait_Pause_01]]

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, assistant, but you've seen my lab and know about the research that transpires here. They won't let you live with that knowledge! [[Return->Keep_Tinkering]]

You know, I've watched myself die more times than I can count. And I've seen this sort of scenario play out at least a hundred times now. [[Next->Want_To_Know_01]]

Do you want to know what'll happen to us when the Dominasi arrive? [[Yes->Choice_Know_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Know_No]]

That's probably for the best. It's better to stay in the dark! [[Next->Blind_Be_Nice]]

I'd say I wouldn't want to know, but that's coming from a place where the future's already been laid out before me. You'll feel the same, I'm sure! [[Next->The_Odds]]

Hmm... taking this all lying down, huh? Well, I'll do no such thing! [[Next->Keep_Tinkering]]

Figured that would change your tune. [[Sorry->Deeper_Sorry]] I had to burst your bubble! [[Next->Spare_You]]

@@.shudder;Far, far beyond.@@ [[Return->Blind_Be_Nice]]

I'd like to go into this blind, but I'm [[far beyond->Deeper_Beyond]] that point. [[Next->Until_Knock]]

Until they come knocking, we have nothing but time. [[Next->Not_Enough]]

Only problem is there's not enough of it to really make a difference without operational time-travel. [[Next->Just_Not_Enough]]

I'll break it down for you. Given how everything's transpired up until now, I'd say there's a fifteen percent chance they'll melt our skin off with acid, twelve percent they'll flay our limbs until we bleed out, and ten percent they'll boil our blood from the inside. [[Next->Brain_Scrub]]

I'm a bit curious which one it'll be myself, but rest assured it'll be one of them. [[Next->Relax_Assistant]]

So sit back and relax, assistant. Wait out the clock with me! [[Next->How_It_Ends]]

@@.shudder;Nothing but... time.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

@@.shudder;Just... not enough.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

We have nothing but time to mull over how it's all going to end. [[Next->Nothing_But_Time]]

The remainder lies with them ripping open our heads and doing an [[analysis->Deeper_Scrub]] of our brains. [[Next->Brain_Sometimes]]

That's either an exclusive treatment or a bonus added to one of the previous possibilities. Generally speaking, it's hard to say. The Dominasi usually conduct thorough neural reviews, but sometimes they just [[pass->Deeper_Awake]] on it! [[Next->Bit_Curious]]

And you can take my word for it, they really scrub in there good to see the extent of our knowledge! [[Return->Brain_Scrub]]

Wondering why has kept me up many a night, assistant. Being without an answer is the greatest ordeal known to science! [[Return->Brain_Sometimes]]

Not really, though. You've exposed yourself as a self-centered jerk! [[Return->Choice_Now_No]]

I was going to leave you out of the loop until the last second, just in the event everything worked out and an escape plan was established, but now I want you to feel invested in our [[defeat->Deeper_Petty]]. [[Next->Wait_Clock]]

Don't look at me like that. I'm not above being petty! [[Return->Spare_You]]

Now I guess we just wait out the clock. [[Next->Wait_Pause_02]]

Except you're a [[target->Deeper_Targets]], too! [[Next->Fail_Laugh]]

@@.shudder;MUAHAHAHA!@@ [[Next->How_About_Now]]

Do you want to know what'll happen to us when the Dominasi arrive? [[Yes->Choice_Know_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Know_No_02]]

Good call, but I'm going to tell you anyway. If I have to know, so do you! [[Next->Execution_Process]]

You know, I've watched myself die more times than I can count, and I've seen this sort of scenario play out at least a hundred times now. [[Next->Want_To_Know_02]]

.... [[Next->Watched_Deaths_02]]

.... [[Next->Watched_Deaths_01]]

They'll either melt our skin off with acid, flay our limbs until we bleed out, or boil us from the inside. And more often than not, they pair our execution with a thorough [[brain scrubbing->Deeper_Scrubbing]] to glean every last piece of our knowledge! [[Next->Continue_Tinkering]]

@@.blurrier;Tick-Tock.@@ [[Next->Any_Day_Now]]

@@.blur;Tick-Tock.@@ [[Next->Tick_Tock_03]]

Count us down to the [[end->Deeper_End]]. [[Next->Tick_Tock_01]]

I don't know about you, but I'd like to avoid all of those scenarios, so I'm going to keep tinkering to solve this time-travel issue. We need to send you off! [[Next->Watch_Clock]]

Tick-Tock. [[Next->Tick_Tock_02]]

While I do that, make yourself useful and watch the clock. [[Next->Watch_End]]

You'd be surprised to know that's actually the worst part. You scream the loudest during that one! [[Return->Execution_Process]]

@@.blurrier;Any day now.@@ [[End->Ending]]

About seven or eight days, if you'll recall! [[Return->Watch_End]]

We don't have to look the part, though! [[Next->Face_Smiles]]

Nothing but therapeutic ventilation, but who needs that comfort? [[Return->No_Anger]]

Pick up the pace, assistant. <<cyclinglink "$Coming" "More of them" "Isabelle">> should be coming soon! [[Next->Coming_Hub]]

Shoo! [[Next->Shoo_Second]]

Away with you, savory slop! [[Next->Shoo_First]]

Never have I seen such graceful mopping. Truly a commendable performance! [[Return->Melting_Cream]]

No thanks to you. [[Return->Melting_Cream]]

.... [[Next->Prohibition_Cream]]

<<set $CreamSupport to "Yes">>@@.shudder;Excellent, assistant. Make haste before we have a problem!@@ [[Next->Murder_Mop]]

<<set $CreamSupport to "No">>@@.shudder;ARE YOU KIDDING? ASSISTING IS YOUR WHOLE JOB!@@ [[Next->Handle_Solo]]

@@.shudder;Shoo! SHOO! SHOO!@@ [[Next->Final_Phew]]

Shoo! SHOO! [[Next->Shoo_Third]]

PHEW! [[Next->Melting_Cream]]

Well, no matter. I can handle this myself. [[Next->Savory_Slop]]

<<if $Spill eq "ice cream">>That's the way. [[Next->Encouragement_Second]]<<else>>We can't leave any evidence that I just killed one of the Dominasi's dogs! [[Next->Heh]]<</if>>

<<set $CreamSupport to "Yes">>Keep it up! [[Next->Encouragement_Third]]

We need this floor spotless. We can't miss a single drop of <<cyclinglink "$Spill" "ice cream" "blood">>! [[Next->Encouragement_First]]

Saying it out loud, I can't believe I actually did it. [[Next->Expected_Stronger]]

Just a little more! [[Next->Mopping_Complete]]

Perfect! Excellent work, assistant. [[Next->Melting_Cream]]

You'll be in charge of that, assistant. Count every creamy calorie moving forward! [[Return->Careful_Cream]]

Speaking of the future, [[Isabelle->Deeper_Wife]] should be on her way soon! [[Next->Hightail_Out]]

My darling wife. She's been researching the theoretical field of time-travel while I've been working to perfect my cold-fusion prototype! [[Return->Speaking_Future]]

You should probably hightail it out of here before she arrives. She'll be jealous to discover that I have an [[assistant->Deeper_Assistant]]! [[Next->Care_Share]]

Developing an unlimited energy source takes priority over time-travel, after all. For my research is grounded firmly in the realm of reality! [[Return->Hightail_Out]]

But before I send you out the door, is there anything you'd care to share? Those papers on your person, perhaps? [[Yes->Choice_Pass_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Pass_No]]

Very good. <<if $CreamSupport eq "Yes">>Put the mop down and pass me those papers. I'll review them with haste!<<else>>Pass me those papers and I'll review them with haste!<</if>> [[Next->See_Notes]]

So please pass me the papers, assistant. [[Yes->Choice_Give_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Give_No]]

...! [[Next->These_Notes]]

Hmm.... [[Next->Surprise_Notes]]

Now let's see here. [[Next->Consider_Notes]]

Spill the beans, assistant! Are these to be trusted? [[Yes->Choice_Trusted_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Trusted_No]]

So time-travel is... actually possible? [[Next->Not_Really]]

Ah, so you were pulling the wool over my eyes merely in jest. [[Next->Fooled]]

So, you're not really my assistant. You come from a different timeline, helping a different Simon. [[Next->Overwhelming]]

Except I know my handwriting better than anyone. [[Next->Attack]]

Get <<cyclinglink "$Please" "out of my house" "out of my head" "over here">>! [[Next->Get_Hub]]

This is how it's going to be, is it? [[Next->No_Hesitate]]

A scientist is only as good as their secrets, but the ones you're holding could be ours together. [[Next->Give_Papers]]

@@.shudder;HNNNNNNGH!@@ [[Next->Pain_Severe]]

I'm sorry about this, assistant. I hope the [[pain->Deeper_Pain]] isn't too severe! [[Next->Trust_Text]]

@@.blur;You're looking a little woozy, assistant.@@ [[Next->Clean_Support]]

I know nothing of your agenda, but you're much too suspicious holding sensitive material like this and claiming they're not to be [[trusted->Deeper_Text]]. [[Next->No_Chance]]

You know as well as I do that we have enemies in the Dominasi. If there's even the slightest possibility you're one of their pawns, I can't take the [[chance->Deeper_Chance]]! [[Next->Actually_Possible]]

It's just [[too sweet->Deeper_Scrumptious]] of a treat! [[Next->Careful_Cream]]

These notes.... [[Next->Trust_Notes]]

Your refusal only colours me more [[intrigued->Deeper_Colours]]. [[Next->Secrets_Together]]

I have just the thing in mind, too. [[Next->Travel_Tinker]]

And I'm already a proverbial rainbow over here! [[Return->Choice_Pass_No]]

Much obliged. [[Next->See_Notes]]

I wouldn't call this a particularly difficult process, but we need a new solution if we want this cold-fusion prototype to graduate to a commercial product. [[Next->Finite_Duration]]

This is all a little overwhelming. I thought time-travel was the stuff of [[fiction->Deeper_Wrong]]! [[Next->Unfortunate_Timing]]

Clearly there were other variations of me that thought otherwise and proved me wrong. [[Return->Overwhelming]]

Every shade of disappointment, assistant. [[Return->Disappointed]]

As luck would have it, I've got just the job for a brave soul like you! [[Next->Travel_Tinker]]

@@.blur;All this time, it was real. And [[I'm->Deeper_Version]] the one who cracked its secrets!@@ [[Next->Woozy]]

Well played, assistant. You had me fooled! [[Next->Know_Writing]]

If I were the writer, what could be more trustworthy than my own text? [[Return->Trust_Text]]

In truth, I stabbed you a bit deeper than planned. [[Return->Pain_Severe]]

Not when I have Isabelle to worry about! [[Return->No_Chance]]

@@.blur;Well, a version of me, but you get what I mean.@@ [[Return->It_Was_I]]

@@.blur;But to think... time-travel's actually possible.@@ [[Next->It_Was_I]]

But the cost was high. This is a [[serious mess->Deeper_Cost]]! [[Next->Coming_Cycle]]

<<if $Coming eq "More of them">>If they find out we killed one of their own, we're going to be in trouble. [[Next->Dominasi_Lab]]<<else>>We can't let [[her->Deeper_Her]] see the lab like this. [[Next->Isabelle_Lab]]<</if>>

Thankfully none of it splashed on my lab coat, though. That'd be a disaster! [[Return->High_Cost]]

Although they've already caught our scent and plan to kill us anyway. [[Next->Comrade_Blood]]

If she found out I've been [[drinking->Deeper_Drinks]] in here, I'll be in some serious trouble. [[Next->Chop_Chop]]

A man can dream, can't he? [[Return->Comrade_Blood]]

Maybe not finding a comrade's blood smeared on the floor will make them a little more [[merciful->Deeper_Dream]]! [[Next->Dont_Slow]]

Whatever you do, just don't slow-- [[Next->Scream_Assistant]]

@@.shudder;ASSISTANT!@@ [[Next->Scream_Simon]]

@@.shudder;HNNNNNNGH!@@ [[Next->Scream_Pause]]

I don't know what just hit us, but I think we might be finished. [[Next->Damn_Dominasi]]

Whether or not they come to finish the job, I can't imagine them not making an appearance to take my [[research->Deeper_Research]]. [[Next->Kill_Time]]

There's a veritable lifetime of knowledge here, after all! [[Return->Take_Research]]

They better show their faces! [[Next->Take_Research]]

@@.blur;He'll never know you succeeded now.@@ [[Next->Even_Success]]

Are you okay? [[Yes->Choice_Okay_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Okay_No]]

Those damn Dominasi dogs. I didn't think they'd strike from [[outside->Deeper_Damn]]! [[Next->Show_Faces]]

Well, you're not alone. They got me pretty bad, too! [[Next->Might_Finish]]

Hm. Being shot must've shocked you into delirium. [[Next->No_Harm]]

Who'd have thought they'd have skilled marksman among their ranks? [[Next->Damn_Dominasi]]

Guess there's no harm in that, considering our condition. [[Next->Might_Finish]]

.... [[Next->Question_Okay]]

Much obliged, assistant. They're a little hard to miss all scattered over the floor with us! [[Next->Wait]]

Taking your secrets to the grave, are you? I can respect that. [[Next->Hard_To_Miss]]

Either way, we have a few minutes to kill while we wait to die. [[Next->Worthwhile_End]]

Can I take a look at those papers you were holding? [[Yes->Choice_Look_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Look_No]]

What'll make these final moments worthwhile? [[Next->Ponder_Worth]]

Hmm.... [[Next->Question_Look]]

Wait.... [[Next->What_Read]]

Time-travel?! You've been holding out on me, assistant! [[Next->Holding_Self]]

Or perhaps I've been holding out on myself. This my handwriting! [[Next->Time_Remarkable]]

Hmm... seems these were written by me from a different timeline. [[Remarkable->Deeper_Ramifications]]! [[Next->A_Shame]]

What am I reading here? [[Next->Holding_Out]]

@@.blur;It's a shame we don't have time to put this to the test.@@ [[Next->You_Proof]]

@@.blurrier;Assistant?@@ [[Next->Blurry_Stay]]

@@.blur;Although I guess you being here is proof its possible!@@ [[Next->Mission_End]]

@@.blur;Either way, it's a pity your mission to deliver these papers ended like [[this->Deeper_Asked]].@@ [[Next->Never_Know]]

@@.blur;If we hadn't been caught by the Dominasi, I would've asked to see them earlier.@@ [[Return->Mission_End]]

@@.blurrier;Don't you dare die before me!@@ [[Next->Blurry_Scream]]

@@.blurrier;ASSISTANT!@@ [[Next->Ending]]

@@.blur;If you can even call this success....@@ [[Next->Blurry_Inquiry]]

Think of the ramifications. The infinite possibilities! [[Return->Time_Remarkable]]

@@.blur;Can these notes be trusted, assistant?@@ [[Next->Inquisitive_Assistant]]

You know, assistant, I should've figured they wouldn't just send one operative at us. We should've made a run for it after we killed the first guy! [[Next->Too_Safe]]

@@.blurrier;You've left a serious mess.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

Consider it my thanks for trying to mop up the evidence of our little transgression! [[Return->Hard_To_Miss]]

It's kind of hard to miss scanning them when they're scattered all over the floor with us, but I'll avert my [[gaze->Deeper_Thanks]]. [[Next->A_Pause]]

And I never regretted this path along the way. [[Next->Early_Signs]]

Well, I did. You were just following orders, like a true sheep of science! [[Return->Too_Safe]]

[[We->Deeper_Orders]] played it too safe. [[Next->Knew_Risks]]

There was nothing safe about what we were doing, though. [[Next->Conceptualized]]

.... [[Next->Shouldve_Figured]]

I saw the signs early on that I was being monitored, uncovering the Dominasi and what it meant for scientists like me breaking new ground, but I ignored them and [[pressed on->Deeper_Scientist]]. [[Next->All_Too_Clear]]

Now it's all too clear that I shouldn't have kept at it. If I steered in a different direction, I couldn've lived longer and accomplished other [[goals->Deeper_Mind_You]]. [[Next->Kind_Funny]]

Nothing as magnificent as unlimited energy, mind you, but our position right now proves that direction is an impossibility for us. [[Next->All_Too_Clear]]

Death seems to bring some [[clarity->Deeper_Reflection]] with it. [[Next->Matter_Though]]

It doesn't matter, though. [[Next->Same_Mistakes]]

If we were to turn back time, I'd probably make the same mistakes since they'd feel right in the moment. [[Next->This_Run]]

Just as they did during this run. [[Next->Felt_Right]]

@@.blur;Every mistake felt right.@@ [[Next->Here_Am]]

@@.blur;Yet here I am.@@ [[Next->Lying_Regret]]

@@.blur;Lying here with regret.@@ [[Next->Lying]]

@@.blurrier;And lying to myself.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

Like any true scientist! [[Return->Early_Signs]]

I have to admit, it's kind of funny. [[Next->Death_Clarity]]

But I knew there'd be risks when I began conceptualizing a cold-fusion generator. [[Next->Never_Regret]]

Maybe so reflection can carry a little extra weight! [[Return->Death_Clarity]]

I always expected they'd come at us stronger than that! [[Next->High_Cost]]

Heh.... [[Next->We_Won]]

Only the finest of citrus blends, but any beverages in the lab are frowned upon by my wife. It "endangers the equipment," so she says! [[Next->Isabelle_Lab]]

Now, chop-chop! Let's see some mopping. [[Next->Handle_On]]

Now you best hightail it out of here before she arrives. She'll be jealous to discover that I have an [[assistant->Deeper_Assistant_02]]! [[Next->Care_Share]]

If she finds out I have someone lending a hand around here, she'll be furious. I told her before we didn't have the budget for assistants, and I will not be caught a liar! [[Return->Hightail]]

Isabelle is my wife, if you'll recall. She's been researching the theoretical field of time-travel while I've been working to perfect my cold-fusion prototype, and she HATES messes. [[Return->Coming_Hub]]

Don't let up! [[Next->Creases]]

There we go. You've got a handle on this! [[Next->Dont_Let]]

Really get into those creases. [[Next->Perfect_Wrap]]

[[Perfect->Deeper_Perfect]]! That's a wrap, assistant. [[Next->Hightail]]

Never has this floor seen cleaner days! [[Return->Perfect_Wrap]]

<<if $Please eq "out of my house">>Perhaps that was a touch too harsh. [[Next->Kinder_Get]]<<elseif $Please eq "out of my head">>Perhaps that was a touch too gentle. [[Next->Colder_Get]]<<elseif $Please eq "over here">>[[I'm->Deeper_Identity_01]] ready for your report! [[Next->Shaken]]<</if>>

Unfortunately, time is working against us with Isabelle's imminent arrival, so we'll have to discuss this later. [[Next->Until_Then]]

Until then... [[Next->Please_Get]]

Could you please <<cyclinglink "$Could" "remove yourself from the premises" "report your results">>? [[Yes->Yes_Hub]] [[No->No_Hub]]

<<set $GoodFreeze to "No">>@@.shudder;HYAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->Dont_Alarm]]

@@.shudder;GET THE HELL OUT OF MY HEAD, YOU DOMANASI SCUM!@@ [[Yes->Assistant_Question]] [[No->Assistant_Question]]

Although, it appears there may be no need for it. [[Next->No_Report]]

@@.shudder;WAIT!@@ [[Next->Isabelle_Coming]]

<<if $Could eq "remove yourself from the premises">>Thanks, assistant. We'll definitely take a deeper look at these [[timely->Deeper_Pun]] discoveries tomorrow! [[Next->Timely_Pause]]<<elseif $Could eq "report your results">>Marvelous, assistant. Although, that may not be necessary. [[Next->No_Report]]<</if>>

<<if $Could eq "remove yourself from the premises">>You've left me no other choice, assistant. [[Next->No_Other_Choice]]<<elseif $Could eq "report your results">>Well, there's no need for it. [[Next->No_Report]]<</if>>

<<set $Dazed to "Null">>You look a little dazed. Does this sound like news to you? [[Yes->Choice_News_Yes]] [[No->Choice_News_No]]

Don't look at me like that. I just delivered a quality pun and you know it! [[Return->Yes_Hub]]

<<set $GoodFreeze to "Yes">>.... [[Next->Scream_Wait]]

Don't go out there! I can hear Isabelle at the door. [[Next->Long_Disband]]

Okay, don't be [[alarmed->Deeper_Alarm]]. [[Next->All_Did]]

All I did was douse you in a [[chemical cooling agent->Deeper_Douse]]. [[Next->Freeze_You]]

Relax, it's experimental. Science in its purest form! [[Return->All_Did]]

You kind of look alarmed. Stop it! [[Return->Dont_Alarm]]

Well, there's only one solution before us, assistant. [[Next->Steel_Yourself]]

It would appear we took too long to disband. [[Next->One_Solution]]

Steel yourself! [[Next->Scream_Hya]]

@@.shudder;HYAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->Dont_Mad]]

Okay, don't be [[mad->Deeper_Mad]]. [[Next->All_Did]]

If you were coorperative, I wouldn't have resorted to this. Although I must admit, the opportunity to test this chemical cooling agent on organic matter is difficult to pass up under any circumstances! [[Return->Freeze_You]]

<<if $CreamSupport eq "No">>@@.blur;I guess you've given me more work to do.@@ [[Next->Cleared_Away]]<<elseif $CreamSupport eq "Yes">>@@.blur;If you don't mind, I'll be taking my mop back.@@ [[Next->Mop_Back]]<</if>>

@@.blurrier;Hopefully I can get <<if $CreamSupport eq "No">>all your blood<<elseif $CreamSupport eq "Yes">>it<</if>> cleared away before Isabelle arrives.@@ [[Next->Tough_Tell]]

@@.blurrier;It's tough to tell, though.@@ [[Next->Last_Mess]]

@@.blur;Your blood isn't going to mop itself, after all.@@ [[Next->Cleared_Away]]

@@.shudder;HYAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->Forced_Hand]]

You forced my hand here, assistant. [[Next->Dramatic_Action]]

Although I could've demonstrated a little more restraint. I impaled you rather deep! [[Return->Dramatic_Action]]

Now let's see here. [[Next->Secret_Pages]]

Hmm.... [[Next->Secret_Surprise]]

...! [[Next->Secret_These]]

These notes.... [[Next->Speak_Time]]

If you just passed me those papers, I needn't have taken such [[dramatic action->Deeper_Stab]]! [[Next->Selfishness]]

All that blood and the weakness that comes with it is the price you paid for selfishness. [[Next->Question_Worth]]

Was it worth it? [[Yes->Choice_Mistake_No]] [[No->Choice_Mistake_Yes]]

Hmph. To think you'd call yourself a follower of science without learning from your mistakes! [[Next->What_Secrets]]

What secrets were you hiding in these pages? [[Next->Secret_Think]]

Well, lesson learned. You tested me and it proved fatal! [[Next->What_Secrets]]

Well, no reason to hesitate. [[Next->Attack_02]]

@@.blur;They speak of... time-travel?!@@ [[Next->Sound_Logic]]

@@.blur;And their logic looks sound.@@ [[Next->What_Make]]

@@.blur;I don't know what to make of this.@@ [[Next->Trust_Secrets]]

@@.blurrier;Don't die on me yet. I need answers!@@ [[Next->Scream_Last]]

@@.blurrier;ASSISTANT!@@ [[Next->Ending]]

@@.blurrier;Assistant?@@ [[Next->Need_Answers]]

It'll cryogenically <<if $GoodFreeze eq "Yes">>[[freeze your tissue->Deeper_Good]]<<else>>[[freeze your tissue->Deeper_Bad]]<</if>> so I can store you away for a few hours. [[Next->Never_Restored]]

Technically I've never restored someone from being frozen in this manner before, but there's a first time for everything! [[Next->Should_Work]]

Should it work out, I'll wake you up once Isabelle leaves and I've had a chance to thoroughly review these notes. [[Next->If_Not]]

I'll admit, there's a thousand other ways I could've went about hiding you, but I couldn't pass up a chance to experiment. One should never turn their back on science, assistant! [[Return->Freeze_You]]

I'm sensing a little animosity. If you could please quell it, assistant, that would be helpful! [[Return->Dont_Mad]]

And if it doesn't work out, I can just travel back in time to bring you back, right? I haven't read much of the notes yet, but I'm [[sure->Deeper_Sure]] that'll work. [[Next->If_Fail]]

But in case you don't wake up from this and my attempts at rescue fail... [[Next->Thanks_Again]]

And by "sure" I mean, "uncertain, but hopeful!" [[Return->If_Not]]

... [[Next->Second_Pause]]

Thanks again for these notes. I'm sure the Simon who sent you here would be proud of your performance! [[Next->Here_Happen]]

Okay, it looks like you're almost frozen. Here's what'll happen now! [[Next->Three_Seconds]]

... ... [[Next->Third_Pause]]

... ... ... [[Next->Frozen_Forever]]

..................... [[Next->Ending]]

You'll be numb and lifeless for what'll feel like three seconds, but then you'll [[wake up->Deeper_New]]! [[Next->See_Soon]]

Good as new! Even better than new if my calculations are correct. [[Return->Three_Seconds]]

Aaaaaaand... it looks like the freezing's finished. See you soon, assistant! <<if $Sleep eq "Yes">>[[Next->Riches_Await]]<<else>>[[Next->First_Pause]]<</if>>

[img[http://schmidtsource.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/SimonLimitedSmallCredits.png][Blank]]

<<if $Adjustment eq "apply Formula Five">>I've heard it can be unstable, but it might just be the solution we need for our palladium shortages. [[Next->Question_Five]]<<elseif $Adjustment eq "adjust one of the coils">>The damned thing keeps jostling itself loose and I'm at my wit's end. [[Next->Coil_Time]]<</if>>

<<set $Formula to "Formula Five">>That's the spirit, assistant. Daring as ever! [[Next->No_Worries]]

You're probably right. Why go for something unreliable when we can just wait? [[Next->Neutron_Cannon]]

Now, assistant... [[Next->Pay_Ponder]]

I've actually been mulling this over for a while, and it stands to reason that anything you put extensive thought into always garners [[favourable results->Deeper_Favourable]]! [[Next->Now_Assistant]]

It's the law of science! ...But don't read too much into it. [[Return->Mulling]]

There's no need to worry, though. [[Next->Mulling]]

It didn't go [[too well->Deeper_Well]]. [[Next->Learn_Repeat]]

Best to learn from past mistakes rather than repeat them. [[Next->Besides_Shortages]]

Besides, with palladium shortages serving as our only roadblock, we've all but accomplished our goal. [[Next->Good_Hustle]]

Good hustle, assistant. We've developed an unlimited energy source that's only a few tons of palladium shy of true mastery! [[Next->Right_Choice]]

Suffice it to say, my old assistant had a comprehensive retirement package. [[Next->Deeper_Than_Well]]

It was a commission I took on for the military. If you haven't dabbled in a little mad science at least once in your life, you haven't lived as a true scientist! [[Return->Neutron_Cannon]]

What I need you to do is keep the cold-fusion prototype steady while I make the corrections. It's too heavy to handle by myself! [[Next->Up_Task]]

It feels good knowing I chose the right avenue to pursue. Leave the dead ends to [[Isabelle->Deeper_Rival]]! [[Next->Right_Pause]]

.... [[Next->What_Now]]

My eternal rival is off somewhere trying to figure out time-travel and soaking up grants like a sponge. [[Return->Right_Choice]]

But now what do we do? [[Next->Any_Suggestions]]

I figured. Would've been nice, though! [[Next->One_Thing]]

Have any suggestions buried in that suspicious stack of papers under your arm? [[Yes->Choice_Suggestion_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Suggestion_No]]

Guess there's only one thing left to do.... [[Next->Preparations_Cycle]]

Ready <<cyclinglink "$Preparations" "our defenses" "the ice cream" "your report">>! [[Next->Preparations_Hub]]

At the time, I didn't know [[who->Deeper_Existed]] they were. [[Next->Cracked_Them]]

Without considering the possible ramifications, I hosted a [[public demonstration->Deeper_Incredible]] of the cold-fusion prototype. [[Next->Moths]]

The reception was incredible, might I add! [[Return->Public_Demo]]

But a few months later, I started to notice their surveillance and traced it back to them. [[Next->Way_Good]]

<<if $Preparations eq "our defenses">>Now that we've hit a significant milestone, the Dominasi are sure to be hot on our heels. [[Next->Defense_Slip]]<<elseif $Preparations eq "the ice cream">>Nothing marks a job well done quite like vanilla, am I right? [[Yes->Vanilla_Best]] [[No->Vanilla_Not]]<<elseif $Preparations eq "your report">>@@.shudder;Oh, this is exciting!@@ [[Next->Your_Report]]<</if>>

Excellent. A scientist's work is never done! [[Next->What_Here]]

I sort of slipped up with them a few years ago. [[Next->Public_Demo]]

Well said, assistant. You've got the right stuff for science! [[Next->Interest_High]]

@@.shudder;I daresay, the anticipation has me trembling!@@ [[Next->Take_Moment]]

Well, wrong as you might be... to each their own. [[Next->Interest_Low]]

Bland and boring. A true scientist's choice! [[Return->Preparations_Hub]]

@@.shudder; QUICK! GRAB A MOP BEFORE WE HAVE A PUDDLE ON OUR HANDS!@@ [[Yes->Mop_Yes]] [[No->Mop_No]]

@@.shudder;OH, NO! IT'S MELTING!@@ [[Next->Puddle_Incoming]]

There's skill that goes into consuming these frozen delicacies, though. [[Next->Show_Methods]]

But rest assured, assistant, I will show you my methods. [[Next->Calls_Steady]]

And while you're interest might be slight, it's still-- [[Next->Cream_Melts]]

It calls for a steady hand and-- [[Next->Cream_Melts]]

But as you'd imagine of an organization who seeks out and destroys technological advancements, the Dominasi flocked to me like moths catching sight of a [[distinguished lamp->Deeper_Flair]]! [[Next->Didnt_Know]]

There's skill that goes into consuming vanilla over others, though. [[Next->Slight_Even]]

In a way, being discovered and learning about them was good. [[Next->Granted_Never]]

Granted, they wouldn't have found me if I just stayed quiet until the work was finished, but I'd also never know they'd be coming later. [[Next->Never_Why]]

I could've launched a cold-fusion generator one day and been assassinated without knowing why. [[Next->Now_Know]]

Now when they strike, I'll [[know->Deeper_Know]] they were coming! [[Next->Coming_Pause]]

Which is good, I guess? [[Return->Now_Know]]

Grab a mop, assistant. [[Next->Spotless_Floor]]

I didn't even know their group existed! [[Return->Didnt_Know]]

The added flair is necessary. I'm no run-of-the-mill lamp, assistant. Give me some credit! [[Return->Moths]]

Assistant, listen. [[Next->Hear_Pause]]

Did you hear that? [[Yes->Shh]] [[No->Shh]]

Well, what do you know? Speak of the [[devil->Deeper_Devil]] and he shall appear. [[Next->Stand_Duck]]

I'm by no means religious, but the Dominasi are as a close to the definition of devils as they come. [[Return->Speak_Devil]]

@@.shudder;HNNNNNNGH!@@ [[Next->Battle_Cry_02]]

Shh.... [[Next->Speak_Devil]]

Don't just stand there, assistant. [[Next->Duck]]

@@.shudder;HYAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->Shout_Finish]]

.... [[Next->Some_Skirmish]]

Wow. That was some [[skirmish->Deeper_Skirmish]]! [[Next->Grab_Mop]]

Now, what do we have here? [[Next->Thinking]]

Hmm.... [[Next->Surprise]]

...! [[Next->These_Answers]]

Assistant, these are the answers. [[Next->All_Here]]

The secrets of time-travel. It's all here! [[Next->Take_In]]

And it's in my handwriting. This is... a lot to take in! [[Next->Process_This]]

Could you <<cyclinglink "$Leave" "step outside" "provide your report">>? [[Yes->Leave_Hub_Yes]] [[No->Leave_Hub_No]]

I think I need some space to process this. [[Next->Leave_Cycle]]

But I'll be more impressed when I know how it went. Were you successful? Has my research made it into the hands of one of our fellow Simons? [[Yes->Choice_Papers_Yes]] [[No->Pull_Wool]]

I can tell from the look on your face that the mission was a success! [[Next->Choice_Papers_Yes]]

The moment you turned for the door, I was going to stab you in the back. [[Next->But_Now]]

.... [[Next->Comp_Scientist]]

<<if $Leave eq "step outside">>Much obliged. Now off you go! [[Next->Yes_Leave]]<<elseif $Leave eq "provide your report">>Your trip through time was surprisingly quick. I'm impressed! [[Next->Yes_Report]]<</if>>

<<if $Leave eq "step outside">>You're a clever one, assistant. [[Next->No_Leave]]<<elseif $Leave eq "provide your report">>Well, I suppose there's no need for it. [[Next->No_Report]]<</if>>

You're a compassionate soul, assistant. But as a scientist... [[Next->Back_Stab]]

You disappoint. [[Next->Ask_Questions]]

See, assistant. Scientists ask [[questions->Deeper_Question]]! [[Next->Follower]]

You followed my request when you should've been questioning why I'd want your back turned. [[Next->Move_All]]

@@.shudder;HYAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->You_Disappoint]]

Inquisition is the blood of our business! [[Return->Ask_Questions]]

@@.blurrier;You brought me something beyond my wildest dreams!@@ [[Next->World_Know]]

@@.blurrier;Thanks to you, the world will know my name.@@ [[Next->All_Simon]]

@@.blur;It's easiest to stab someone in the back.@@ [[Next->Risk_Leaks]]

@@.blur;You had potential, though.@@ [[Next->Wildest_Dreams]]

@@.blur;I swear, I burn through assistants like they're going out of style.@@ [[Next->Potential]]

@@.blur;Unfortunately, it seems that means you're finished.@@ [[Next->Burn_Assistants]]

@@.blur;Sorry to deceive you like this, but no one can know about this research until I develop it myself. I can't risk any leaks!@@ [[Next->Seems_Mean]]

But I'm glad you did. [[Next->Stab_Back]]

I could've just left the room to [[think->Deeper_Move]]. [[Next->Glad_Did]]

@@.blurrier;THEY'LL ALL KNOW SIMON!@@ [[Next->Ending]]

You really didn't have to move at all! [[Return->Move_All]]

You aren't pulling the wool over my eyes, assistant. [[Next->Look_Eyes]]

Because that look in yours tells me all I need to know. [[Next->Choice_Papers_Yes]]

But now? [[Next->Gut_Attack]]

@@.shudder;HYAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->Gut_Do]]

The gut will do. [[Next->Sorry_About]]

They could end up being publicized before I capitalize on them... or [[worse->Deeper_Worse]]. [[Next->Credit_Me]]

I'm sorry to do this to you, assistant, but these notes are invaluable and I can't afford them leaking. [[Next->Or_Worse]]

This research needs to be credited to me. It's my work! [[Next->Question_Comprehend]]

Isabelle could get her hands on them! [[Return->Or_Worse]]

You understand, don't you? [[Yes->Choice_Comprehend_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Comprehend_No]]

<<set $UnderstandMe to "No">>Well, no matter. [[Next->Before_Pass]]

<<set $UnderstandMe to Yes">>Well, that's a load off my conscious. [[Next->Before_Pass]]

Before you pass, I <<if $UnderstandMe eq "No">>still <</if>>feel it's appropriate I tell you I'm grateful. [[Next->Next_Project]]

@@.blur;Thank you for granting me my next project.@@ [[Next->Served_Science]]

@@.blur;You served science well.@@ [[Next->Too_Bad]]

@@.blur;It's too bad, though.@@ [[Next->Only_One]]

@@.blurrier;I'm the only one who'll ever know.@@ [[Next->Last_Question]]

@@.blurrier;Are you satisfied with how you spent your time?@@ [[Yes->Ending]] [[No->Ending]]

@@.blurrier;One last question before you go.@@ [[Next->Spent_Time]]

Are you up to the task? [[Yes->Choice_Task_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Help_No]]

That's the spirit, assistant! [[Next->In_Position]]

Okay, I'm in position. Here we go! [[Next->Call_Difficult]]

They demand too much maintenance to be commercially viable. [[Next->Wobble_Worries]]

I thought about trying hydraulic funnels, but those are expensive compared to coils. [[Next->Price_Quality]]

Keep those peepers peeled, assistant. You never know-- [[Next->No_No]]

We need something more reliable, otherwise unlimited energy through a finite cycle isn't really a great deal. [[Next->Expensive_Alt]]

I'll need a different method if we ever hit the production phase of this project. These coils just don't do the trick! [[Next->Reliable]]

All this wobbling has me [[worried->Deeper_Press]], too. [[Next->Peeled_Peepers]]

Either way, we can't keep using these things. [[Next->Maintain_Viable]]

But I guess you can't put a price on [[quality->Deeper_Quality]]. [[Next->Cant_Keep]]

Although that becomes harder to say with each grant rejection. [[Return->Price_Quality]]

But I'll press on in the name of science! [[Return->Wobble_Worries]]

@@.shudder;NO! NO! NO!@@ [[Next->Crushed]]

@@.shudder;HMMMMMMPH!@@ [[Next->Im_Pinned]]

@@.shudder;HNNNNNNGH!@@ [[Next->Spoke_Soon]]

Damn it. Spoke too soon! [[Next->Faster_Appear]]

It came down faster than anticipated. And it would appear... [[Next->Hmph]]

I'm pinned. [[Next->Crimson_Leak]]

Looks like it sprung a leak, too. Loads of crimson palladium is seeping out from... [[Next->Stop]]

Wait. [[Next->Its_Me]]

@@.shudder;It's me.@@ [[Next->My_Blood]]

@@.shudder;This is my blood.@@ [[Next->Realized]]

Heh.... [[Next->Coming_Close]]

Seems my time is coming to a [[close->Deeper_Early]]. [[Next->Lifes_Work]]

You'll have to continue my research, assistant. I can't have it end before I've finished my life's work. [[Next->Legacy_Undone]]

@@.blur;There's no legacy if it's left undone.@@ [[Next->Let_Nothing]]

And quite a few decades earlier than expected. [[Return->Coming_Close]]

@@.blur;Don't let it be for nothing. [[Next->Make_Matter]]

@@.blur;Please. Make my time... matter.@@ [[Next->Question_Least]]

@@.blurrier;Will you at least do that for me?@@ [[Yes->Choice_Least_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Least_No]]

@@.blurrier;It's a little more involved than watching a coil, but I'm sure you're up to the task.@@ [[Next->Thank_Assist]]

@@.blurrier;I see.@@ [[Next->All_Nothing]]

@@.blurrier;Thank you, assistant.@@ [[Next->Appreciate_Time]]

@@.blurrier;So it was all for nothing, was it?@@ [[Next->Waste_Time]]

@@.blurrier;I appreciate... your time.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

@@.blurrier;What a waste my time has been.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

I'll admit, I'm surprised. Those Dominasi dogs dug deeper into your head than mine! [[Next->Feel_News]]

Consumers won't take the time to make manual adjustments, even if it creates unlimited energy. And if they just leave it alone when it breaks down, we can't quite claim it produces unlimited energy with a finite duration. [[Next->Finished_Here]]

Anyway, I'm just about finished here. You can let go. [[Next->Good_New]]

Good as... [[new->Deeper_Work]]? [[Next->Funnel_Find]]

I've been looking into some hydraulic funnels that may be our answer for reliable, persistent performance, but they're a bit out of our pay grade right now. [[Next->Quality_Cost]]

There's a price on quality, and we just can't afford it. [[Next->Grant_Apps]]

If some of my grant applications would go through, it'd be a different story, though. [[Next->Know_Is]]

But you know how it is, assistant. [[Next->First_Rejection]]

Rejection. [[Next->Second_Rejection]]

Rejection. Rejection. Rejection. [[Next->Feeling_Cycle]]

Rejection. Rejection. [[Next->Third_Rejection]]

I'm beginning to feel <<cyclinglink "$Feel" "like a failure" "cold">>. [[Next->Feeling_Hub]]

<<if $Feel eq "like a failure">>But what can you do? We just have to press on until something sticks and we can fund our way to the finish line! [[Next->Feel_Failure]]<<elseif $Feel eq "cold">>Looks like you're holding up okay, though. [[Next->Feel_Cold]]<</if>>

So now that repairs have been handled, we can move onto other matters. [[Next->Couldnt_Help]]

It's working again, at least. [[Return->Good_New]]

Let's see what we have here. [[Next->Mulling_It]]

Much appreciated, assistant. Sharing truly is caring! [[Next->See_Here]]

Assistant? I didn't realize you were still conscious. [[Next->Scoop_Brain]]

These Dominasi dogs scooped more of your brain out than mine. I thought you were finished! [[Next->Feel_News]]

<<set $Dazed to "No">>Good to hear. Your cognition is still in working order! [[Next->End_Line]]

<<set $Dazed to "Yes">>They've done a real number on your noggin. [[Next->Probing_Brains]]

We were captured by the Dominasi, and now they're [[probing our brains->Deeper_Probe]] to see the extent of our knowledge. [[Next->End_Line]]

Rest assured, it's as excrutiating as it sounds. [[Return->Probing_Brains]]

<<if $Dazed eq "No">>But u<<elseif $Dazed eq "Yes">>U<</if>>nfortunately for us, this appears to be the end of the line. [[Next->Question_Cycle]]

The only question left is a <<cyclinglink "$One" "morbid" "simple">> one. [[Next->Question_Hub]]

<<if $One eq "morbid">>Which one of us is going to die first? [[Next->First_Die]]<<elseif $One eq "simple">>@@.shudder;And I can hardly contain my excitement to hear your answer!@@ [[Next->Take_Moment]]<</if>>

Obviously I don't want to hear your [[guess->Deeper_Die]]. [[Next->Worse_Though]]

<<set $Guess to "Yes">>I'd rather just presume it'll be you, that way I can feel like I have a little more time left. [[Return->First_Die]]

Wait. This can't be! [[Next->These_Notes]]

Hmm.... [[Next->Wait_Cant]]

I couldn't help but notice those papers in your hand, assistant. You've been clutching them tight for a while now and my curiosity is piqued! May I take a look? [[Yes->Choice_Looks_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Share_No]]

Until that day comes, we still have options not yet exhausted. I have just the experiment for us, too! [[Next->Still_Please]]

Stand still, if you please. [[Yes->Choice_Still_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Still_No]]

Relax, it's experimental. Science in its purest form! [[Return->Mad_Douse]]

Yes, just like that. [[Next->Steel_Assist]]

It's okay. [[Trust->Deeper_Will]] me, assistant! [[Yes->Choice_Trust_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Trust_No]]

.... [[Next->Mad_Douse]]

So... don't get mad, but I just doused you in a [[chemical cooling agent->Deeper_Douse_02]]. [[Next->Suspended_Animation]]

There we go. Just like that! [[Next->Steel_Assist]]

@@.shudder;HYAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->Dramatic_Pause_02]]

@@.shudder;HYAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->Dramatic_Pause_01]]

This is going to "burn," so to speak. [[Return->Steel_Assist]]

Now [[steel yourself->Deeper_Burn]], assistant! [[Next->Freeze_Attack_01]]

Trust in the will of science! [[Return->Choice_Still_No]]

.... [[Next->Wait_Compliance]]

Sorry, I couldn't [[wait->Deeper_Shame]] for your compliance.

Which is a shame for you, because cooperation would've made it painless. [[Return->Wait_Compliance]]

What I just did was douse you in [[chemical cooling agent->Deeper_Douse_03]]. [[Next->Suspended_Animation]]

It'll cryogenically freeze you so we can test out our theories of [[suspended animation->Deeper_Sleep]]. [[Next->Technically_Never]]

Relax, it's experimental. Science in its purest form! [[Return->Chem_Agent]]

Technically I've never restored someone from being frozen in this manner before, but risks like these are what we scientists crave at our very cores! [[Next->Sell_Sleep]]

Not unlike the concept itself, I've been leaving this experiment hanging for a few years. Now seems like the appropriate time to bring it back and run some field tests! [[Return->Suspended_Animation]]

If it works out, we may very well be able to afford a few of those hydraulic funnels. Cryogenic sleep will no doubt sell well! [[Next->Almost_Frozen]]

<<set $Sleep to "Yes">>Seems to be fast-acting, too. You're almost frozen, so here's what should theoretically happen now. Listen well! [[Next->Three_Seconds]]

When you return to consciousness, we'll be well on our way to funding those funnels! [[Next->First_Pause]]

It could be worse, though. They could be talking to us instead of just going about their... work. [[Next->Interro_Tech]]

As an interrogation technique, picking through our brains is kind of the best approach. We don't have to waste our energy putting up a resistance. We can just sit back and [[relax->Deeper_Relax]]! [[Next->Proto_Hiatus]]

It'd be great if someone stumbles upon my work and decides to continue my legacy, but that's unlikely given these Dominasi dogs pride themselves on halting [[technological advancement->Deeper_Cant]]! [[Next->Means_Escape]]

Anyway, it looks like production on the cold-fusion prototype is on [[hiatus->Deeper_Hiatus]]. [[Next->Be_Excellent]]

@@.blur;Too bad time wasn't on our side.@@ [[Next->Never_Seems]]

I wish I knew they were coming, though. I could've taken precautions or arranged a means of escape! [[Next->Time_Side]]

@@.blur;It never seems to be.@@ [[Next->Inquisite]]

@@.blurrier;Assistant?@@ [[Next->Saddened_Pause]]

@@.blurrier;....@@ <<if $Guess eq "Yes">>[[Next->Guess_Right]]<<else>>[[Next->Join_Soon]]<</if>>

@@.blurrier;Looks like my guess I was right.@@ [[Next->Soon_Join]]

@@.blurrier;Well, I'll be joining you soon.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

@@.blurrier;But I'll be joining you soon.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

You're looking at me like you already knew about their agenda, but you were definitely out cold when they told me. Must just be looking too much into your dazy stare! [[Return->Be_Excellent]]

If you can call waiting to lose consciousness relaxing. [[Return->Interro_Tech]]

Indefinitely! [[Return->Proto_Hiatus]]

<<if $Now eq "crunching these numbers">>It shouldn't take me long. [[Next->Crunch_Nums]]<<elseif $Now eq "recording your report">>@@.shudder;Oh, I can barely contain my excitement!@@ [[Next->Anticipation]]<</if>>

I can see it now, assistant. This product will usher in an age where my name is recognized by all! [[Next->Everyone_Know]]

@@.shudder;I daresay, I'm shaking with anticipation!@@ [[Next->Take_Moment]]

.... [[Next->Question_Smell]]

Do you smell something? [[Yes->Choice_Smell_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Smell_No]]

We're seeing a moderate improvement in the prototype's efficiency thanks to the $Formula infusion! [[Next->Deep_Pause]]

@@.shudder;No, no, no!@@ [[Next->Question_Hiss]]

Oh no. [[Next->Triple_No]]

.... [[Next->Oh_No]]

It's an interesting reaction. But what does it mean?! [[Next->Least_Nums]]

Hmm.... [[Next->Just_Me]]

Looks like <<cyclinglink "$Like" "we've had a minor miscalculation on our hands" "you're back">>! [[Next->Like_Hub]]

Do you hear that hissing, assistant? [[Yes->Choice_Hiss_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Hiss_No]]

<<if $Like eq "we've had a minor miscalculation on our hands">>Any moment now, the prototype will [[explode->Deeper_Explode]], wiping out anything in what I predict to be a one-mile radius. [[Next->Past_Regret]]<<elseif $Like eq "you're back">>@@.shudder;Oh, this is exciting!@@ [[Next->Anticipation]]<</if>>

@@.rumble;...................@@ [[Next->Ending]]

Any last words before we meet our maker? [[Yes->Choice_Maker_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Maker_No]]

The probability that this concoction would respond in this manner is so low that this outcome is something of a [[twisted miracle->Deeper_Miracle]]. [[Next->Question_Maker]]

Probably shouldn't have dabbled about using formulas with volatile potential, but we're past the point of [[regret->Deeper_Regret]]. [[Next->Twisted_Miracle]]

That, my friend... signals the end. [[Next->Like_Cycle]]

My apologies, but I'll have to rob you of your blissful, ignorance. [[Next->Serious_Signal]]

Unfortunately for us, this sound signals something serious. [[Next->Like_Cycle]]

Seems we struck a rather costly chemical imbalance. [[Return->Like_Hub]]

What am I saying? Regret is with us to the end now. [[Return->Past_Regret]]

It's as though fate is against us. [[Return->Twisted_Miracle]]

Well, do share. [[Next->No_Telling]]

Same here. They'd all be pretty empty in a moment like this. [[Next->Clock_Until]]

Must just be [[me->Deeper_Smell]]. [[Next->Right_Nums]]

Anyway, the numbers seem to indicate I was right. [[Next->Moderate_Improve]]

Just me smelling it, I mean. I'll have you know I'm coated in the finest fragrances our budget can afford!

The numbers seem to indicate I was right at least. [[Next->Moderate_Improve]]

All we can do is just wait out the clock until-- [[Next->Rumble]]

There's no telling when the explosion will-- [[Next->Rumble]]

They still test me now and again, but I always best them. [[Next->Come_Think]]

Come to think of it, it's actually been a while since they-- [[Next->Realize_Wait]]

Now what do we have here? [[Next->Timed_Pause]]

<<set $Paper to "Null">>What's under your arm? Pass me those papers! [[Yes->Choice_Paper_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Paper_No]]

<<if $Paper eq "No" and $Remember eq "No">>Heh. Time-travel, is it? I understand your reluctance now.<</if>><<if $Paper eq "Yes" and $Remember eq "No">>Heh. Time-travel, is it? I'm surprised you passed these to me without any resistance.<</if>><<if $Paper eq "Yes" and $Remember eq "Yes">>Time-travel, is it? Interesting.<</if>><<if $Paper eq "No" and $Remember eq "Yes">>Time-travel, is it? Interesting.<</if>> [[Next->Question_Travel]]

.... [[Next->Time_Reaction]]

Suffice it to say, I [[did away->Deeper_Risk]] with her. [[Next->Lament_Pause]]

.... [[Next->Never_Stopped]]

<<set $Remember to "Yes">>Those were tough times, but we were [[lucky->Deeper_Use]]. [[Next->Still_Test]]

<<set $Remember to "No">>I see time hasn't been kind to your memory. [[Next->Fitting_New]]

The perfect substitutes for those lousy, unreliable coils we used before we had a budget. [[Return->Fitting_New]]

One of those Dominasi dogs snuck into the lab, and two of its companions setup outside to snipe us if there was trouble. [[Next->Dispatch_Damn]]

We dispatched the intruder, but we didn't know snipers were outside. [[Next->Fortunate_Isabelle]]

Fortunately, if you'll recall, [[Isabelle->Deeper_Pursuit]] came and saved the day. [[Next->Stumble_Secret]]

Isabelle proved herself useful. [[Return->Choice_Remember_Yes]]

The science is no more sophisticated than a cheap parlour trick, but it could be used to reverse our progress or steal our findings before we made them ourselves! [[Next->Suffice_It]]

She apparently stumbled on the secret to time-travel and came to our aid to ensure our research could continue. [[Next->Foolish_Girl]]

Foolish girl. [[Next->Dangerous_Research]]

Time-travel in and of itself was dangerous to our research. [[Next->Parlour_Trick]]

Anyway, the Dominasi never stopped coming, but we came to learn their methods and react in time to fend them off. [[Next->Come_Think]]

Ah, Isabelle. She was my rival in the pursuit of research grants! [[Return->Fortunate_Isabelle]]

We'll never have to worry about her changing the course of history or our accomplishments. [[Return->Suffice_It]]

<<set $Paper to "No">>Fine. I'll just take them! [[Next->Evil_Laugh]]

<<set $Paper to "Yes">>I swear they weren't there earlier. They just... appeared. [[Next->Hold_Secrets]]

Wait. [[Next->Question_Paper]]

@@.shudder;MUAHAHAHA!@@ [[Next->Take_Look]]

Let's see what secrets they hold. [[Next->Timed_Pause]]

Well, they came just as we were fitting the new [[hydraulic funnels->Deeper_Funnels]]. [[Next->Snuck_Front]]

Am I correct to presume you know the contents of these notes and understand time-travel yourself? [[Yes->Choice_Travel_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Travel_No]]

I see. <<if $Remember eq "Yes">>[[Next->Surprise_Death]]<<elseif $Remember eq "No">>[[Next->Expected_Death]]<</if>>

Don't lie. <<if $Remember eq "Yes">>You know what happened to the last [[time-traveller->Deeper_Traveller]] who exposed their knowledge, so I can't trust you to be honest now.<<elseif $Remember eq "No">>You're in Isabelle's position now and there's only one way that ends.<</if>> [[Next->Face_Death]]

Unfortunate for you, I'm afraid. [[Next->Murder_Pause]]

Then this won't come as a surprise to you. [[Next->Murder_Pause]]

.... [[Next->Death_Cycle]]

Isabelle. She saved our lives the day the Dominasi came to our door, exploiting time-travel to rescue us, but being able to alter history made her a threat. [[Return->Choice_Travel_No]]

So face death with [[curiosity->Deeper_Curious]], assistant. [[Next->Death_Cycle]]

@@.shudder;<<cyclinglink "$Loud" "HYAAAAAAAH" "REPORT TIME">>!@@ [[Next->Death_Hub]]

Like a true scientist! [[Return->Face_Death]]

<<if $Loud eq "HYAAAAAAAH">>I have [[nothing against you->Deeper_Personal]], assistant, but you're finished. [[Next->Nothing_Against]]<<elseif $Loud eq "REPORT TIME">>@@.shudder;OH, THIS IS EXCITING!@@ [[Next->Daresay_Excite]]<</if>>

@@.shudder;I daresay, I'm shaking with anticipation!@@ [[Next->Take_Moment]]

I just can't allow anyone to know about time-travel. [[Next->Jeo_Success]]

The knife in your chest is just the cost of my personal preservation. [[Return->Death_Hub]]

It jeopardizes my success. [[Next->Wipe_Know]]

Everything I've achieved can be wiped out by someone with this kind of knowledge. [[Next->Light_Name]]

@@.blur;My legacy should be set in stone!@@ [[Next->Fall_Hands]]

@@.blur;I refuse to let time-travel fall into the hands of someone who could undo it all.@@ [[Next->Betray_Choice]]

@@.blurrier;Now sleep, assistant.@@ [[Next->Nothing_Awaits]]

@@.blurrier;You're dead now.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

@@.blurrier;Well, it doesn't matter.@@ [[Next->Dead_Now]]

@@.blur;I knew you would!@@ [[Next->Now_Sleep]]

@@.blur;You understand, right?@@ [[Yes->Choice_Understood_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Understood_No]]

@@.blur;You wouldn't betray me by choice, I'm sure, but we can't take a chance with the Dominasi snuffing about.@@ [[Next->Question_Understood]]

@@.blurrier;Nothing awaits!@@ [[Next->Ending]]

Everyone will know who I am. I'll be-- [[Next->Do_Wait]]

I cut you pretty deep just now, didn't I? Guess you can consider that your [[severance package->Deeper_Pun_02]]. [[Next->Before_Bleed]]

.... [[Next->Severance_Package]]

If you're not going to forfeit your findings, you've outlived your usefulness. [[Next->Care_Pause]]

Before you bleed out, allow me to put your mind [[at ease->Deeper_Considerate]]. [[Next->Meaningful]]

I'll be taking those papers. [[Next->Forfeit_Finds]]

@@.shudder;HYAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->Taking_Those]]

Of course, that is to say... [[Next->Chest_Stab]]

<<set $CareShare to "Null">>Care to share, assistant? [[Yes->Choice_Care_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Care_No]]

I'm not yet privy to their contents, so I have to ask... [[Next->Question_Care]]

You're holding... [[unfamiliar papers->Deeper_Not]]. [[Next->Not_Privy]]

Wait. [[Next->Holding_Something]]

There was nothing in your hands a second ago. I'm sure of it! [[Return->Holding_Something]]

<<set $CareShare to "Yes">>Great. Let's see what you've got here. [[Next->Ponder_Read]]

<<set $CareShare to "No">>Well, far be it from me to rob a subordinate of their secrets. [[Next->To_Say]]

There's no send-off quite like a good pun. Groan all you want, we both know it was a commendable demonstration of wit! [[Return->Severance_Package]]

I'll be [[recycling->Deeper_Started]] you into something meaningful once you pass. [[Next->Purpose_Death]]

I'm nothing if not considerate. Your feelings matter to me, assistant! [[Return->Before_Bleed]]

You'd be surprised how versatile organic matter can be. I already have a couple plans in mind and I'm excited to put them into practice! [[Return->Meaningful]]

@@.blur;Rest assured, I'll see to it that you find purpose after death.@@ <<if $CareShare eq "Yes">>[[Next->Folded]]<<elseif $CareShare eq "No">>[[Next->Refused]]<</if>>

@@.blur;Now, I best leave you to it. Dying is a process I wish not to disrupt!@@ [[Next->Blurry_Sight]]

@@.blur;I've been dying to get my hands on some fresh spinal fluid in particular, so do be quick with letting go.@@ [[Next->Folded_Cycle]]

...! [[Next->Incredible_Time]]

The secrets these papers hold are cause for concern, though. They could rewrite history and undo all I've done! [[Next->Cant_Have]]

Hmm.... [[Next->Shock_Read]]

Time-travel?! Assistant, this is [[incredible->Deeper_Handwriting]]! [[Next->Cause_Concern]]

And it's in my handwriting, too. This is unfounded! [[Return->Incredible_Time]]

We can't have that. [[Next->Apologies]]

So with my apologies... [[Next->Sudden_Stab]]

@@.shudder;HYAAAAAAAH!@@ [[Next->You_Finish]]

You're finished. [[Next->Achievements]]

You've become a liability holding onto these. [[Next->Care_Pause]]

@@.blur;Now, then. What do we have here?@@ [[Next->Blurry_Ponder]]

@@.blur;Hmm....@@ [[Next->Blurry_Surprise]]

@@.blur;Time-travel?! Assistant, what is this?@@ [[Next->Blurry_Calm]]

@@.blur;...!@@ [[Next->Blurry_Travel]]

@@.blur;I'll be just out of sight, reading your research papers.@@ [[Next->Blurry_Here]]

@@.blurrier;Assistant?@@ [[Next->Retract_Permission]]

@@.blurrier;I retract your permission to die!@@ [[Next->Blurry_Yell]]

@@.blurrier;ASSISTANT?!@@ [[Next->Closing_Cycle]]

@@.blurrier;I NEED TO KNOW <<cyclinglink "$Closing" "WHAT THIS IS ABOUT" "HOW YOUR TRIP THROUGH TIME WENT">>! [[Next->Closing_Hub]]

<<if $Closing eq "WHAT THIS IS ABOUT">>@@.blurrier....@@ [[Next->Leave_No]]<<elseif $Closing eq "HOW YOUR TRIP THROUGH TIME WENT">>Seems like it took a lot out of you. You're pale as a ghost! [[Next->Leave_Yes]]<</if>>

@@.blurrier;Damn it.@@ [[Next->Ending]]

@@.shudder;But that only heightens my excitement!@@ [[Next->Shaken_Stir]]

@@.shudder;I daresay, I'm shaking with anticipation!@@ [[Next->Take_Moment]]

@@.blur;It's time <<cyclinglink "$Folding" "to make yourself useful" "for your report">>.@@ [[Next->Folded_Hub]]

<<if $Folding eq "to make yourself useful">>@@.blurrier;May you rest in... [[pieces->Deeper_Pun_03]].@@ [[Next->Final_Pause]]<<elseif $Folding eq "for your report">>And it seems like the timing couldn't be better. You're pale as a ghost! [[Next->Filed_Report]]<</if>>

I can only imagine how much worse you'd look if you returned to our timeline later. [[Next->No_Say]]

@@.blurrier;....@@ [[Next->Ending]]

Anyway, there's no need to say it. [[Next->Success_Face]]

I'm looking at more than just fear on your face. Success is written all over it, too! You've delivered my notes! [[Next->Choice_Papers_Yes]]

@@.blurrier;I'm really killing you with these puns, aren't I? Well, you needn't worry. Judging by your eyes, that'll be the last you'll ever hear!@@ [[Return->Folded_Hub]]

[img[http://schmidtsource.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/SimonLimitedSmallTitle.png][Start]]

As it turns out, my greatest shortcoming on this thread was being a [[lonely, single man->Deeper_LonelySingleMan]]. [[Next->Intro_Time]]

The secrets of time-travel must be relayed to another Simon. My legacy depends on it! [[Return->Intro_Present]]

The secrets of time-travel must be relayed to another Simon. My legacy depends on it! [[Return->Intro_Gloom]]

And be sure to show them these [[research papers->Deeper_Secret]]. Their delivery is the whole point of this mission! [[Next->Expect_Report]]

I, for one, like our odds! [[Return->First_Human]]

You're all set to be the [[first human->Deeper_Done]] to travel through time! [[Next->Travel_Start]]

And they didn't live to see it! [[Return->Too_Well]]

I'll also be expecting a report of your results the [[moment you return->Deeper_Weary]]. [[Next->Covers_It]]

Hmm... I think that about covers it. [[Next->Thoughtful_Pause]]

.... [[Next->Intro_Done]]

Okay. We should be good! [[Next->First_Human]]

Hmm.... [[Next->Should_Good]]

There's only so far I can send you, though, so you'll just be exposed to a few variants on your journey. Nothing [[overwhelming->Deeper_Overwhelming]]! [[Next->Intro_Television]]

No rest for the weary, as you know. [[Return->Expect_Report]]

Think it's worth a shot? [[Yes->Choice_Five_Yes]] [[No->Choice_Five_No]]

.... [[Next->Coming_Shock]]

...! [[Next->Hold_Up]]

.... [[Next->Hear_That]]

We need this floor spotless. We can't miss a single drop of <<cyclinglink "$Spill" "blood" "ice cream">>! [[Next->Encouragement_First]]

@@.shudder;DUCK!@@ [[Next->Battle_Cry_01]]

@@.shudder;YOU'RE FINISHED!@@ [[Next->Battle_Pause]]

I've never had to fend off an intruder like that before! [[Return->Some_Skirmish]]

Why else would you have stayed on this doomed path? [[Return->Its_Over]]

I've seen my name in lights and I refuse to go back. [[Next->Stone_Legacy]]

.... [[Next->Intimidation_Complete]]

A scientist is only as valuable as the secrets they hold, after all! [[Return->Choice_Share_No]]

If time-travel has left you a little lost and disoriented, allow me to help you regain your bearings. [[Next->Deeper_Identity_02]]

@@.shudder;Surely you jest.@@ [[Next->Test_Nerves]]

@@.shudder;Now's not the time to test my nerves. I daresay, I'm shaking with anticipation!@@ [[Next->Take_Moment]]

It's me. [[Next->Deeper_Identity_03]]

I'm Simon 5100. Welcome back! [[Return->Get_Hub]]

By Ryan Schmidt @schmidtsource