The moon shone brightly; it was midnight. The streetlights flickered, and the grass gently blew westward. Keith and George, two young teenagers dressed in all black, slumped against the backyard wall of a house, whispering to each other.
Keith silently propped himself against the bottom of the window, peering through the darkness, watching for moving [[bodies->mc's feelings]].Inside, George couldn't stop himself from trembling, his heart pumped harder than it ever did, and he couldn't stop his finger from trembling the [[trigger of his gun->partner speaking]].George took notice, as his shaking body grew louder, and it started to make suspicious noises. Worried of getting caught, he turned to Keith.
(set: $power to 0)(set: $a to 0)
"What the fuck is wrong with you?"
Keith came back to his senses. He responded by saying:
1. [["What the fuck are you talking about? You need to shut up or else we'll get caught."->aight man]]
2. [["I'm just a little nervous is all, but I'll be alright."->you're a wimp]]
3. [["I regret this already. Take me on a new path."->revert to past, as if it never happened]]George was slightly taken aback, he wasn't sure how to respond.
(set: $power to $power + 1)
"Well, aight man, if you say so. Don't forget that you don't really gotta shoot anybody with that. Just make it look like you're willin' to."
Keith listened, but his mind was [[fixated on other things->return to MC and gun]]."You fucking kidding me? You're nervous? What happened to being willin' to do whatever it took? You oughta own your words man, 'cause we don't take that kinda shit around here. You'll get yourself killed. But I guess you're all talk, eh?"
Keith grew even more nervous, he knew he had to prove himself.
George continued: "Just follow my lead, and don't do anything stupid."
Keith listened, but his mind was [[fixated on other things->return to MC and gun]].The alarm rang: it was 5 in the morning.
Keith's eyes cracked open, he had to get ready for work. Reluctantly, he stood up, turned the light on, headed for [[the bathroom to get ready]].There's no other way, Keith thought to himself.
He looked at his gun, probing its features, and imagined himself what he would do if he ever he need to pull the trigger.
George signalled to Keith, as he was picklocking the door, [[telling him to follow him->move into scene of crime]].Keith carefully scanned the windows for any bodies, and confirmed that it was safe to go.
They finally decided to [[break into house]].The two walked in silently and slowly, scanning the room for objects that might make a noise. Keith took note of the scratched up couch, probably cat scratches. He saw dirty dishes in the sink, with patches of eggs stuck to pans. The house was no different from any other ones for the two boys.
"The money's gotta be around here somewhere," George whispered, "let's check the basement."
Keith's head throbbed and his chests tightened. Suddenly, they heard someone coming [[down the stairs->man coming down stairs with a gun and a phone]]."Keith, you were supposed to keep watch!"
Keith panicked, unsure of what to do. He saw a shadow, heard it mumbling to a phone, and saw some sort of weapon on the other hand.
Something needed to be done soon; so Keith decided to:
1. [[Pull out his gun->pull out your gun]]
2. [[Put his hands up->put your hands up]](set: $power to $power + 1) George noticed, and followed suit.
The man in front of them shook, nervously pointing his gun. Keith felt glad to be on other side for once.
George then demanded to know where [[the money was->your partner angrily demand for the money]].George took notice, and rolled his eyes. He nudged at you, signalling to copy him. Keith reluctantly did so, knowing he needed to prove himself to George.
(set: $power to $power - 1)
George then angrily demanded to know where [[the money was->your partner angrily demand for the money]].(if: $power is 2)[Keith the shot near the man, almost touching him] (if: $power is not 2)[He then shot the picture frame next to the man, almost touching him].
The man begged for his life. "Don't take my money! Please! I gotta survive for my family!"
Keith understood the man's position, but he also had a family he need to provide for. It was the man or himself, Keith thought.
1. [[Leave him be->leave him be]].
2. [[Threaten him again->fuck him, you need it more]].(set: $power to 0) George sighed, and turned his attention to the man again, trying to ignore Keith.
Once again, he demanded that the man tell them where the money was, or else he'll shoot him this time. He shot the wall above to make his point clear.
The man regretfully conceded, and led the two to where the [[money was->taking the money]].(set: $power to 2) Keith scoffed at the man's pleas. He demanded to know the money was, threatening to shoot him this time. He shot the area above his head to prove his point.
The man regretfully conceded, and led the two to where the [[money was->taking the money]].The man directed the boys to the money, and they quickly snatched it.
(if: $power is 2)[Keith grabbed the man by the neck, and pointed his gun to his head] (if: $power is 0)[George grabbed the man by the neck, and pointed his gun to his head]. "If you snitch, we'll know, and we'll come find you and kill you for real this time."
Making their point, the two boys escaped through the window.
Keith looked back at the house. He felt a rush of joy for once in his life, feeling like he could overcome the odds, feeling like he wasn't a victim. Yet, a sliver of guilt came upon him. He realized that he made someone's life worse.
The two headed off the the car, and then they [[drove off->drive off]].George walked to the man, leaving him behind, to report what happened.
Keith recalled his past decisions, wondering if they were the right ones.
They turned to him, and then they (if: $power is 2)[ [[let Keith stay->you can stay]] because of how well he did](if: $power is 0)[ [[kicked Keith out->get kicked out]] because of how poorly he performed].##**GAME OVER**
[[Try again?->introduction]]
The two patted him on the back, impressed with how well Keith did for his first mission. The gang leader handed him a cut of the rewards, which was much more than anything else he made at any job.
He felt relief, he didn't have to worry about groceries, having food on the table, or bills for a while.
With that, he awaited [[the next day->next mission]]."You couldn't be a man when you needed to be," George said.
Keith reflected on his past actions, asking what would he have done [[differently->game over]].The next day came.
George approached Keith, and Keith noticed how different it felt talking to George this time; it felt like he had confidence in him this time.
George talked about selling [[cocaine->weight]], how a regular customer was in need of a refill.He heard George speak, but the word 'cocaine' rang in Keith's ear. George noticed his eyes daze, and then asked if he was alright.
Keith's mind came back, but he still heard the drug's name inside his head, repeating back and forth until it faded out. He grew uncomfortable with being near that sort of thing again.
Then he said:
1. [["I don't feel up to doing anything right now man. I think I'll sit this one out."->i dont feel too up to this right now man]]
2. [["You high? Nothing's up man. You're the one acting strange dawg pull yourself together.->yea man im aight, lets fuckin do it]](set: $power to $power - 1) George was taken aback again. "What happened to last time man? You went in that shit guns blazing, and you're wimping out over some drugs. Come on man."
Keith had to prove himself, he wasn't the wimp he he was before, so he bit the bullet and decided to [[go]].Keith agreed to go, but deep down he felt uncomfortable. He didn't want to experience bad memories again. He didn't want to think about it too much, it was getting in the way of what he need to do to survive.
(set: $power to $power + 1)
Keith had to prove himself, he wasn't the wimp he he was before, so he bit the bullet and decided to [[go]].The two boys hopped into the car and drove off. They drove past the neighbourhood. Keith took note of how desolate it looked. The car occasionally stooped low after hitting potholes, and it felt like the ground could collapse given how far the cracks on the road stretched.
George rattled off a list of names, but Keith only made out a few of them. After around ten minutes, the boys arrived at a parking lot behind a sketchy building, heading over to a dark alley after scanning the area for onlookers.
They stood around for a little bit in an alley next to a green dumpster, George watching carefully as he looked in all directions. Keith then [[noticed a woman approaching->notice a woman approaching]].Keith observed her closely. He noted her rather rickety clothes, how awkwardly she walked, how greasy her hair looked. It was a bit unsightly, but it wasn't something he had never seen before.
George then fidgeted into his pocket. Keith had an idea of what it was going to be, and he grew uncomfortable because of it. George handed the drugs over to him, shifting eyes in the woman's direction, hinting that she was the customer.
The woman reached the boys, and she stood quietly [[in front of them->woman stands in front of them]].The woman looked directly at Keith's eyes. She had never seen him before, but expected him to hand her what she needed like George always did.
Keith nodded slowly, and the woman's eyes dilated, beaming up the otherwise dull surroundings. But seeing such excitement made him feel uneasy.
The woman quickly reached into her pocket to bring up a wad of cash. She feebly handed the [[money->she feebly hands the money]] to Keith.Keith took it, and slightly grinned at the amount she gave. Yet, he wondered how she manages to get by, wondered if she has a job, how old she is, how long she'll last.
The desperation in her eyes raised red flags, and it didn't feel right to hand it to her, for some reason.
He thought to himself, how much he would make things worse for her if he gave her what she wanted. It wasn't his business, but from experience, he knew how things like this turn out.
Reflecting on his feelings, he ultimately decided to:
1. [[Give it to her->give it to her]].
2. [[Not give it to her->don't give it to her]].Reluctantly, he handed her the drugs. He didn't feel good about it, so he tried to rationalize it by blaming her for it, but he understood how things weren't that simple. He tried to ignore his guilt by looking at the amount of money he received.
(set: $power to $power + 1)
The woman quickly stuffed the drugs in her pocket, and then left.
George looked at Keith, and said, "See, ain't nothing to worry about. Nothin' dangerous happening here."
He was right in a way, Keith thought. So they decided to [[head over to the next person->leave to next person]].Keith refused to give the drugs to her. He looked at her straight in the eye and said, "Sort your fucking life out. This ain't gonna help you. Just look at yourself."
(set: $power to $power - 1)
George suddenly got angry, and snatched the bag from this hands, and gave it to the woman.
She was glad to have the drugs, and looked Keith with some bitterness, and left. The two boys walked over to the car in silence, and Keith understood where he went wrong. They went to [[head over to the next person->leave to next person]].They went to a different dark alley, but it felt like the first one.
Keith expected to receive the drugs, but George shook his head. "This time, we're collecting some debt. One guy owes a lotta money. He ain't pay his shit in three months."
Keith felt relieved this time, not having to be responsible for making someone's life worse.
A man approached, similar to the last lady, but he seemed even more desperate.
He came to them, and mentioned that [[he doesn't have the money]].George looked furious. "This is the third time in a row. You really think I'm gonna let this one slide again?"
"I've got kids to pay for! I'm tryna clean my act for once in my life, and my job don't make me enough cash to pay you back or help my kids. It was one or the other, and my kids are more important. But I promise you, I'll get a better job so I can pay you back eventually."
George was having none of it, and quickly proceeded to [[attack the man]].
The man obviously couldn't put up a fight, and Keith felt sympathetic towards him.
Keith wondered what to do next: if he helped the man, George would get mad. But if he helped George, the man could get hospitalized, and he wouldn't be able to help his kids.
Panicking, he decide to:
1. [[Help the man->help the man]].
2. [[Help your partner->help your partner]].(set: $power to 0)Keith helped the man by pulling George away, grabbing him by the stomach.
"What the fuck do you think you're doing? He's gonna get away!"
The man was clearly shook, but realized what opportunity was given to him and quickly backed away and left.
Keith released his grip. George sighed; it looked like he wanted to say something, but he didn't.
The boys headed [[back to the base]].(set: $power to 4) Keith grabbed the man by the stomach, restricting him from moving
George threw some punches, leaving him to bleed. Keith maintained his grip, somewhat enjoying the violence. An enjoyment not without guilt, truthfully, but he knew it would at the very least impress George.
The man was left barely conscious, and George warned him, telling him hat he better have the money next time, or else he'll get something worse.
They then left for the car, eventually finishing their list, and then they decide to [[return to the base]].When they returned, they boys reported to the gang leader about what happened and handed the profits of their endeavour.
Being impressed, the boys received a large cut, especially because of how well they dealth with the man who owed them money.
Everyone in the room looked at Keith, nodding in agreement of how well his performance went. It briught some sense of camraderie and appreciation, a feeling he'd never felt before.
Yet, he felt strangely conflicted, thinking about the past two encounters and wondering if her could justify it. If it meant getting paid, helping his family survive, and building a sense of camraderie, it didn't matter too much, he thought.
He awaited the next day, ready to take on what the he [[would be put through next->moving on to the next mission]].The night came.
Keith returned to the base. Everyone greeted him with some convuluted handshake, and some back patting. Such camraderie brought light to such a drab place and decaying place, Keith thought.
George approached him and does the same, and then tells him to follow him for the next mission. He didn't bother to ask what they were going to do, but it didn't matter; all he wanted was the rush he felt before, as well as the money.
So the two bots decided to [[head off to the car]].Keith entered the base for the first time. He took note of the decaying walls. He observed the scruffy furniture; it looked like something that came out of the garbage dump.
Many men gathered around in a circle, bantering with one another playfully. They donned face and full arm tattoos. They probably have large back tattoos as well, Keith thought. Some of the men were muscular, some were skinny, but the one they had in common was their all-black attire and their tough facial expressions the moment they stoppped talking. He quickly looked away, hoping not to attract any unwanted attention.
George nudged at your arm, pointing ahead to a [[large man->back to the base]]. Covered in tattoos, having large muscles, as well as looking like he's been put through hell, Keith concluded that he was the gang leader.As they took off, Keith observed how fast the car accelerated. He looked a the rear view mirror and noticed other cars following them driven by other gang members.
He took note of the atmosphere, it felt different from the past crimes. This one had a sense of urgency. George then told you to get the bag in the backseat, telling him to hurry. Keith did so, and rummaged through the bag and found a gun. He though it would be another breaking and entering, but then he thought they wouldn't need this many people for that. He stared at the gun with confusion.
George spoke, "Aight so I'm gonna need you to pull through for me on this one. We jus' received some intel about one of them other gangs plannin' to claim a part of our territory. If we get this guy's head, then we gon' get a whole lotta money. The boss hates this fool's guts 'cause he took out some of our homies while takin' our land, and he ain't over it yet."
Keith said nothing. George continued, "When we pass by the house, I'll give you the signal, and you just go in guns blazin' and we'll probably get his head. Be quick though, 'cause he's probably got plenty some of his goons protecting him. That's why we ain't leavin' the car, we'll get shot for sure."
Keith parsed through the words, realizing this was a drive-by. This wasn't like the last times, Keith thought. He felt more [[worried this time->mc suddenly feels worried]].George took one hand off the wheel to rummage through the bag to find ski masks. Ignoring Keith's silence, he handed him the mask and, "Put this on too. A whole lotta cops patrol here, and you didn't wanna get caught tryna get back what we deserve."
Thoughts flooded his head, drowning out any words that came to his ear. He barely heard what George said to him. His body shivered, nervous about killing someone, making someone's life worse like someone did to his. He thought about killing the wrong person, someone innocent. They were only going off a rumour he recalled. And even then, he thought about the consequences: everyone had a family, like the man who couldn't pay back his debt. But at least he was still alive, and could maybe turn the tide in his favour. Murder would ruin that.
He tried to rationalize it, noting the past crimes, and how it felt good in the end despite worrying beforehand. Yet, his mind [[continued to swirl->his mind continued to swirl]].After realzing the silence, George noticed Keith's blank stare.
"You better not wimp out of this one man. We ain't do this on the regular, so when we do, it ain't for fun, it's serious business. Listen, all you gotta do is pull the trigger. Aight?"
Keith was startled how casually he talked of murder. Doubt consumed him, he wondered how much of all this is worth just to survive. He couldn't George down, it mean letting down the gang, it meant letting down his family.
In response, he said:
1. [["You worry too much, I ain't said anything 'bout not killing nobody. I ain't worried about a thing."->worry about urself]]
2. [["Can't we just capture the guy."->i mean can't we just capture the guy?]]?"You worry too much, I ain't said anything 'bout not killing nobody. I ain't worried about a thing. Trust your boys man," Keith exclaimed.
(set: $power to $power + 1)
George smiled a bit, feeling wrong to have doubted Keith. The two engaged in some playful banter to keep the weight of murder off their shoulders.
George then noted that they were suddenly approaching the [[place]]."Can't we just capture the guy?" Keith felt like they couldn't, but he desperately wanted to avoid killing at all costs.
(set: $power to $power - 1)
"Ain't you listen to a word I said? The guy probably got goons around him ready to kill to. It's kill or be killed here man. You really wimping outta this one?"
Keith assured him he wasn't, but George couldn't suspend his disbelief. "You better prove it then, by pulling the trigger."
After the bickering,George then noted that they were suddenly approaching the [[place]].Keith made some observations about the house: old, probably cheaply made, and in the process of decaying, noting the colours turning pale. It was hardly different from his own home, from the outside at least.
As they approached the house, George gave Keith the signal. Time suddenly felt slow, one hand on the trigger. He couldn't make out any bodies moving, because he was on a moving vehicle, making it even harder to aim properly.
"Shoot already, the guys behind us will also."
Seeing three windows, he asked himself if he should aim for the [[top window]], [[bottom right window->kitchen window]], or the [[bottom left window->living room window]].
Inside, however, he wondered if he should just [[not pull the trigger at all]].He shot at the top window, breaking the glass.
The boys heard some screaming, maybe a girlish one, but it was hard to tell. He wondered if he got him. He thought it was likely given the screaming. As they drove by, George spoke, "With the amount of guys behind us, we definitely got somebody. We'll find out later when we head back."
The uncertainty plagued his thoughts, did he really kill someone? did he kill someone innocent? Or did kill someone he had no animosity towards except indirectly through his gang relations? He tried to suppress it, recalling how powerful he felt pulling the trigger. His mixed thoughts weighed his head, making his head look downward in contemplation.
George suddenly accelerated, heading back on the way [[to the meeting place]].He aimed for the bottom right window, shattering the glass. Holding the gun was one thing that made him feel strong, using it made him feel even beter.
He wondered if he got him. As they drove by, George spoke, "With the amount of guys behind us, we definitely got somebody. We'll find out later when we head back."
He felt like he didnt, otherwise he would some clatter or noises beyond the glass. It may have felt good to pull the trigger, to at least to others how willing he was to do it, but he wondered if he would feel the same way if he killed somebody. His stomach churned.
George suddenly accelerated, heading back on the way [[to the meeting place]].He shot the bottom left room window, breaking the glass into pieces, but no other sounds were heard.
George clenched his teeth a bit. It was hard to tell what window would be the right one anyway. But there was nothing they could do, they thought.
Keith was at least glad to man up in times of need. But he figured the relief came from what was probably the absence of killing than pulling the trigger. Uncertainty loomed them. They had hoped that at least the others would get him.
George suddenly accelerated, heading back on the way [[to the meeting place]].u decided not to pull the trigger at all, u thought it would make u feel better, but somehow it didnt
(set: $power to 0)
ur partner starts yelling at u, then trails off to silence, and muttering that it's not even worth it. his driving felt slower, and in the end u ended up [[back to the base]]On the way back, the sound gunfire rung the air of its silence. Keith thought it was his allies firing at the house, but he worried of police and other gangs.
Suddenly, the back window breaks; the two ducked their heads to protect themselves. Cautiously, Keith lifted his head slowly to avoid being seen to check the mirror. His eyes strained, he say another car firing at them. George also took a peek. His eyes widened and exclaimed: "That's our target! Quick, shimmy your head out the window and bust his head open. He's the one driving."
Keith's face flushed again, it wasn't like before, this time he could see his target, and he would know if he killed someone. He understood that his own life was at risk, but if he didn't shoot, he'd become the victim. It was kill or be killed; he recalled.
Keith turned around and took steady aim, wondering if he should [[shoot]] or to [[hide in his seat->tell ur partner to quickly make a turn to disorient them]].Keith drew his breath, and fired multiple bullets, eventually penetrating the driver in the head. George quickly turned his head back and saw the car quickly swerve, driving off the road as the man shooting in the car fell off. He laughed maniacally, glad to get revenge on the man who killed his friends. But his laughter made Keith slightly uncomfortable.
(set: $power to $power + 2)
Death felt real this time; Keith saw it with his own eyes, done by his own hands. His body rippled with energy, but his head ached simultaneously. The weight of his actions encumbered him. He couldn't speak with certainty that he ruined someone's life. But he recalled something similar in his past, where his family was the victim of a drive-by. He wondered if the perpetrator felt the same way he did. Or even George. Or even everyone else. It grew harder to justify his actions. Only the thought of providing for himself and family relieved him. Keith just laughed along with George.
In the end, they returned to [[the base]]George panics at the sight of Keith hiding. "You're gonna get us killed!" he cried.
Feeling unsure of what to do next, he grabbed the gun and tried to shoot behind him. Keith was surprised and impressed with his bravery.
(set: $power to $power - 2)
He rolled down his window, trying to sneak glances behind him while keeping his eyes on the road. But the car behind them had the passenger and the driver aiming for them; it was clear that the odds were not in his favour.
George, desperate for his life, [[kept going]].The two boys reported back to their boss, George beaming with glee while Keith remained silent.
George and Keith talked to each other, thanking God for letting them have their revenge, and reminisced on the loss of their friends, either by death, or by arrest. Keith didn't hear any of it, for he focused on his shifting morality. He wondered how long he had to keep going.
The boss patted Keith on the back, and told him how he expected great things from now on. He handed Keith a [[big cut of the money]]. Now he felt like there was no end.Keith took the money, and he smiled at its size. He felt like he never had to worry about money ever again.
His mind couldn't shake off the feeling of murder. It didn't feel like it would ever go away. He figured the ends justified the means; he hoped so at least. He walked away in silence, heading home.
Was it worth it, was it the [[right thing]]? Or should I have chosen a different [[path]]?He wasn't sure at all, and (colour: #6B6B6B)[wasn't sure if he ever will. But he told himself that he had no choice.] (colour: #4F4F4F)[He wanted to stop, but there was much more to come if he wanted to provide for his family] (colour: #363636)[The world suddenly looked more bleak, everything turned black.] (colour: #242424)[He wanted to drop the guilt, it felt worse then feeling helpless before he joined the gang. But he didn't want to feel helpless like he did before. He wanted to overcome all odds and survive this dangerous life. ](colour: #141414)[He hoped to suppress it all, to make sure he could keep doing what] <span class='red'>[[he was doing.]]</span>Keith, along with George, slumped their backs against the wall. Confidently, Keith gripped his pistol and [[broke]] into the house.He managed to get the man to concede to his demands. He took the money, keeping some of the money for himself, and gave the rest to the gang leader. Considering his abilities, he thought he should be gang leader for all he does, and what respect he's earned.
Feeling better about himself, and somewhat relief knowing he'll make it to the next day. (colour: #4F4F4F)[It may have been at the expense of someone else, but it's to survive, he told himself. He could've been the one to get me.]
He used to feel like he had a choice. But, if he were to leave now, he knew something would draw him back, and it wasn't just the money.
He went on to the [[next day]]....(colour: #6B6B6B)[he knew he couldn't, though he wanted to, for his little brother's livelihood was at stake. He had to think quick, before the man suddenly to shoot him.]
[[...Keith thought about his decision again.->broke]]They stood in front of the victim, the man cowardly held a phone on one hand, and a gun on the other, but he trembled. If he shot one person, the other would surely hit him. His shaking made it impossible to make use of either his gun or the phone.
Keith planted his feet firmly to the ground, his face remaining blank, giving the impression of apathy. He pointed the gun at him, knowing what to do, (colour: #6B6B6B)[knowing that guilt shouldn't stop him now.]
He then:
1. [[Robbed him.->rob him]]
2. [[Decided not to rob him.->dont rob him]]SIDE NOTES:
WORKING TITLES:
*MANIAC DRUG DEALER IV
MISTA THUG ISOLATION
WWYD
PAY WUTCHA WEIGH
RIDIN THRU THA HOOD
LOCED OUT
PRELUDE TO PANOPTICON
only because it sounds cool
*ON DOING AN EVIL DEED (BLUES)
*DESPERATE MAN BLUES
*DEATH CHANTS, BREAKDOWNS, AND MILITARY WALTZES
BLIND JOE DEATH
IMAGES
WRITING STYLE
THIRD-PERSON OMNISCIENT
CHOICES ASK THE READER DIRECTLY, BUT MC ACTS AS IF IT WAS HIS OWN DECISION
OTHER IDEAS
COPS INVOLVEMENT
OTHER GANGS ATTACKING HIS HOME, TAKING HIS MONEY(colour: #6B6B6B)
(colour: #4F4F4F)
(colour: #363636)
(colour: #242424)
(colour: #141414)
(colour: black)The car stopped by the dark alley. Both Keith and George exited the vehicle. They looked at each other, and confirming the goods, and they scanned the area, watching for the police who may jump them without any restraint.
A familiar face approached: it was the ragged, old lady from before. Keith thought so at least, as she looked worse than the last time, her face slowly contorting.
Silence laid between the lady and them, as they knew what [[needed to be done]].No words were necessary; for them, it became habit at this point.
(colour: #363636)[Seeing her worse off wrecked his mind with guilt.]
The lady reached out her hand, holding a wad of cash, her eyes dilating like last time. (colour: #363636)[It made him feel sick, wondering if he was gonna be the same way.]
He looked at the cash in her dry, wrinkly hands. It radiated slightly, but that may have been in Keith's imagination.
He then decided to:
1. [[Take the money, and give the drugs->take the money, then give the drugs]].
2. [[Refuse to give the drugs to her->refuse to give it]].He took the money, and handed her the drugs, opening up her crooked smile, half her teeth missing. Holding the money, Keith grinned at himself.
He thought about what he could buy, car, guns, jewellry, he didn't want to feel pathetic like before. He wanted everything that he was promised he could have. These things made him feel better, like his hard work started to finally pay off. <span class='bigger1'>(colour: #242424)[Guilt overcame him, and he wondered if the woman would be alive by next week.]</span>
The sunset came about, knowing the day was going to end, he awaited for [[the next day->the day to come]].
...(colour: #363636)[but he couldn't do that, despite knowing he was ruining her life, in some sort of way. It was her responsibility to get better, he sensed, but he felt he was missing an important factor.]
He knew what really [[needed to be done]].The car raced on the cracked black pavement, at times swerving, other times clumsily hitting the curb. Keith fired off bullets against the windows, trying to hit all of them before he passed by them. His body rippled with excitement.
Cars behind him and George approached. Keith immediately rolled down his window to strike his enemies, signalling his bravery. <span class='bigger1'>(colour: #141414)[He feared his own life threatened, he couldn't remain idle. He still loathed killing.]</span>
He maneuvered his body so he could [[strike his targets]].He steadied his hand, aiming for the driver, because he knew that as soon as the driver died, the car would swoop out of control. He flung his body outward, appearing unfearful of incoming bullets. <span class='bigger2'>(colour: #141414)[More than anything he wanted to leave. Any day could be his last. He didn't want to kill, but it was self-defense, he told himself.]</span>
His finger fidgeting the trigger, he then:
1. [[Pulled the trigger->pulled the trigger]].
2. [[Decided not too pull the trigger->decided not too]].Pulling the trigger, he striked the forehead of the driver.
He laughed, bragged about his good aim, and his partner applauded him. It felt good to overcome odds, for once. He was no longer the coward he was before. In once sense he felt secure, being able to feed his family, and survive. <span class='bigger2'> (colour: #121212)[Yet, he felt that one day would soon be his last, thinking that maybe he picked the wrong route.]</span>
The energy he felt kept him going. Violence somehow became a pleasure to him. <span class='bigger2'> (colour: black)[But it was also the source of his guilt. His mixed feelings confused him.]</span>
Like at the end of every day, he awaited for the [[next day->ready for the next day]]....(colour: #141414)[but if he didn't pull it, he'll die, making his partner susceptible to death. Without him, his family would lose their ability to survive. When will things end, he asked himself.]
Before doubt slipped him, he immediately [[pulled the trigger]].They stood in front of the victim, the man cowardly held a phone on one hand, and a gun on the other, but he trembled. If he shot one person, the other would surely hit him. His shaking made it impossible to make use of either his gun or the phone.
Keith planted his feet firmly to the ground, his face remaining blank, giving the impression of apathy. He pointed the gun at him, knowing what to do. <span class='bigger2'> (colour: #121212)[Guilt remained, but it felt pointless to think about. It bothered him greatly]</span>
He decided to:
1. [[Rob the guy->rob the guy]].
He managed to get the man to concede to his demands. He took the money, keeping some of the money for himself, and gave the rest to the gang leader. Considering his abilities, he thought he should be gang leader for all he does, and what respect he's earned.
Feeling better about himself, and somewhat relief knowing he'll make it to the next day. <span class='bigger2'>(colour: #121212)[He felt like he was in a rut and wanted to escape.]</span>
He used to feel like he had a choice. But, if he were to leave now, he knew something would draw him back, and it wasn't just the money.
He went on to the [[the day after]].No words were necessary; for them, it became habit at this point.
The lady reached out her hand, holding a wad of cash, her eyes dilating like last time. <span class='bigger2'> (colour: #121212)[He looked at her dying face, thinking about his own, wondering if he'd end up the same.] </span>
He looked at the cash in her dry, wrinkly hands. It radiated slightly, but that may have been in Keith's imagination.
He decided to:
1. [[Take money, and her the drugs->grab the money, hand the drugs]].He took the money, and handed her the drugs, opening up her crooked smile, more than half her teeth missing. Holding the money, Keith grinned at himself.
He thought about what he could buy, car, guns, jewellry, he didn't want to feel pathetic like before. He wanted everything that he was promised he could have. These things made him feel better, <span class='bigger2'>(colour: #121212)[He had no choice, so he figured he might as well embrace his new life, for however long it will be.]</span>
The sunset came about, knowing the day was going to end, he awaited for [[what awaited him]].The car raced on the cracked black pavement, at times swerving, other times clumsily hitting the curb. Cars behind him and George approached.
He steadied his hand, aiming for the driver, because he knew that as soon as the driver died, the car would swoop out of control. He flung his body outward, appearing unfearful of incoming bullets. <span class='bigger2'>(colour: #121212)[Maybe things could be different, had I stayed in school, then I wouldn't have to kill anyone.]</span>
His finger fidgeting the trigger, he then:
1. [[Pulled the trigger->gracefully pulled the trigger]].Pulling the trigger, he striked the forehead of the driver.
He laughed, bragged about his good aim, and his partner applauded him. It felt good to overcome odds, for once. He was no longer the coward he was before. In once sense he felt secure, being able to feed his family, and survive. <span class='bigger2'> (colour: black)[It was one or the other he supposed. But it didn't help him feel better]</span>
The energy he felt kept him going. Violence somehow became a pleasure to him. <span class='bigger2'> (colour: black)[But it was also the source of his guilt. His mixed feelings confused him.]</span>
Like at the end of every day, he awaited for [[whatever came next for him->ready for what awaited him]].They stood in front of the victim, the man cowardly held a phone on one hand, and a gun on the other, but he trembled. <span class='bigger2'>(colour: black)[He wonder if alternatives could have prevented this, or if someone else would have done it for the same reason as him.]</span>
Keith planted his feet firmly to the ground, his face remaining blank, giving the impression of apathy. He pointed the gun at him, knowing what to do. <span class='bigger2'>(colour: black)[He hoped to quit soon, he hoped to make enough money to finally get out of this lifestyle. But he wondered if that would ever come.]</span>
He decided to [[rob]] the man, ignoring his pleas.It became habit at this point.
The lady reached out her hand, holding a wad of cash, her eyes dilating like last time. <span class='bigger2'> (colour: black)[He began to see his face in hers] </span>
He looked at the cash in her dry, wrinkly hands. It radiated slightly, but that may have been in Keith's imagination.
He decided to [[take the money, and give her the drugs]].The car raced on the cracked black pavement, at times swerving, other times clumsily hitting the curb. Cars behind him and George approached.
He steadied his hand, aiming for the driver, because he knew that as soon as the driver died, the car would swoop out of control. He flung his body outward, appearing unfearful of incoming bullets. <span class='bigger2'>(colour: black)[His money was in constant threat of others stealing from him. He wondered if it was worth putting life on the line, if there were other choices.]</span>
His finger fidgeting the trigger, he then [[pulled it->ready for what awaited him]].He then walked over to the living room, where his kitchen was to make breakfast for his family: his mother and little brother.
He saw his mother, slumped against the couch, bottles scattered on the floor, with the TV on.
Not again, he thought. He quickly made breakfast, hoping to avoid [[interacting with his mother]].After eating, he woke up his little brother, and helped him get ready for school. He felt like the parent in the house, as if his mother handed it to him him.
(if: $luck is < 0)[ (set: $luck to 0)]
(if: $luck is 0)[Things weren't looking too hopeful] (if: $luck is 1)[Maybe things will get better, but he was doubtful](if: $luck is 2)[Things could be worse, he thought](if: $luck is 3)[Despite all odds, he felt like things were coming his way](if: $luck is 4)[He felt that he could finally overcome poverty, as long as he kept working](if: $luck >= 5)[He felt positive for once, believing that his hard work will pay off].
Afterwards, he began to leave the house to go to work, hoping that things would [[get better someday->(either: "one", "two", "three", "four", "five")]].
(if: $luck >= 5)[Before leaving, he look looked at his mother, hoping that she would one day come to her senses. Suddenly, his eyes darted to her hands: he noticed a slip of paper fall away from her hands to the table next to her. [[He tiptoed over to avoid waking his mother up and picked it up.->He looked at the corner of the table]]]
(if: $luck < 5)[It felt like he was in a rut, he wondered if this his hard work will really pay off] (if: $a is >= 30)[Despite everything, his eyes felt strained, absolutely nothing was going his way. He recounted his options, thinking of ways to survive without working dead-end jobs. He didn't care about the risks, he just wanted to survive.
Suddenly, he realized there was [[another way->introduction]]].
(if: $a >= 5)[He thought about what could be done, thinking about his past decisions, wishing he could [[change his path into something better->partner speaking]]]Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.You headed off to work: first to the grocery store, and then to the local McDonald's.
More faces were propping up in the latter, and you ask yourself why?
But it wasn't something you could worry about; your little brother needed food, and so did my alcoholic of a mother.
(set: $a to $a + 1) (set: $luck to $luck + 1)
You grew tired, heading home with a bad of McDonald's that your boss let you get discount on, [[hoping for something better the next day->revert to past, as if it never happened]].On your way to work, your phone starts to ring. You felt panic, hoping it wouldn't be about (either: "the electricity bill", "the hydro bill", "credit card payments").
Unsurprisingly it was: he realized that his mother spent his money all the alcohol on the floor. His head spun, worrying how he was going to pay them off. He wondered how she got his credit card again.
He came home to find his windows broken. Not again, they got the wrong house, he thought. He was glad not to have got involved with gangs, making someone's life worse. But he wished they would pay for his windows.
(set: $a to $a + 1) (set: $luck to $luck - 1)
He grew anxious, the future became uncertain. But, he had no choice but to [[keep going, hoping that something good could happen for once->revert to past, as if it never happened]].On your way to work, your boss calls you, telling that your hours got shortened so new employees could get some more time.
He understood the reasons why: other people needed to survive too. But why him, he asked himself, for he started recently too, after getting let go by his previous employer.
(set: $a to $a + 1) (set: $luck to $luck - 1)
The money flow got cut short; desperate, yet he was helpless. He could only bite the bullet and move on, [[hoping for a better tomorrow->revert to past, as if it never happened]].You headed off to work: first to the grocery store, and then to the local McDonald's.
After work, you stood at the bus stop. It was dark, the pavement cracks stretched far, the lights flickering, the shades of brown on the beginnings were slowly fading.
He thought about how much he hated waiting, the bus was late again. He though about learning to drive, getting a car, so he could get home quicker. He also realized that could reach the city, where all the good jobs went, after the factories shut down and got rid of all the manufacturing jobs.
(set: $a to $a + 1)
The bus eventually came, and he got on the bus. Maybe the next day will be better he thought, [[but deep down he knew how foolish he was to think that->revert to past, as if it never happened]].After work, you grew tired; being the only one working, he could barely survive.
He passed by some job postings. He took a glance, and he saw an ad asking for a(either: "n english tutor", "n office job", " lab assistant", " personal assistant").
But, he couldn't apply: he didn't have the education because he had to drop out of high school to provide for his family.
(set: $a to $a + 1) (set: $luck to $luck + 1)
His head grew warm, waiting for something good to happen for once. He stooped, walking his way [[back home->revert to past, as if it never happened]].It was a lottery ticket, his mother has appeared to be waiting for the numbers to appear through the screen.
[[He checked the numbers, individually->checking each number]]...In each succession, the numbers on the ticket matched the screen.
Keith couldn't believe his eyes; his mother's negligence end up saving the family. He could finally live in security. Go back to school, pay for food every week, afford healthcare, the possibilites seemed endless.
He couldn't believe his luck.
##**THE END**Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.Eventually, George got shot, a bullet struck the middle of his forehead. Losing its driver, the car swerved towards the someone's lawn, crashing into a tree. Keith felt the end was coming, and he felt he was to blame. He wondered what he should have done. Should he have let morals get in the way of his own self-preservation? He stayed in the car, accepting what going to happen next.
The two men approached the damaged vehicle, and [[struck Keith in the head->game over]].Double-click this passage to edit it.He pondered it deeply. He thought about never joining a gang, thinking it may have been the safer route. It felt less morally depraving at least, even if the money wasn't good. But maybe he'd overcome.
He thought again: was it the [[right thing]], or should he have gone the [[normal route->revert to past, as if it never happened]]?Double-click this passage to edit it.<span class='bigger1'> </span>
<span class='bigger2'> </span>
↶↷The moon shone brightly; it was midnight. The streetlights flickered, and the grass gently blew westward. Keith and George, two young teenagers dressed in all black, slumped against the backyard wall of a house, whispering to each other.
Keith silently propped himself against the bottom of the window, peering through the darkness, watching for moving bodies.