Wake up.
(click-replace: "Wake up.")[Christopher sleeps soundly beside you. Sun seeps in from between the wall and grandmother’s curtains. In moments your body is ready, from sleep to wakefulness all by itself, no need for an alarm clock.
Get up to pee.
(click-replace: "Get up to pee.")[Out from under the sheets, through the cold air of the room, thanking God that it’s summer, and into the bathroom. Large enough for one person to sit, one person to stand and two people to use the shower. Many, many years since more than one person has been in here at a time.
Put on makeup.
(click-replace: "Put on makeup.")[It’s awkward, balancing everything on the edges of the small sink. But the bulb above your head drowns your face in unkind white light so you can exactly see everything that is wrong. You do not put on much, just what is needed.
Do your hair.
(click-replace: "Do your hair.")[The mirror is cracked, but you are used to that. It has been that way now for a very long time.
Go through to the kitchen and make breakfast.
(click-replace: "Go through to the kitchen and make breakfast.")[You take the bread from the basket, the butter from the cupboard, and the sausage from the fridge. You slice the bread, butter it, slice the sausage and lay the slices on top. You wait till you hear movement in the bedroom before you put on the kettle and the porridge.
Christopher emerges late, kissing you on the neck and dispassionately squeezing one of your buttocks.
Talk with your husband.
(click-replace: "Talk with your husband.")[Christopher brushes you off with:
"I have to hurry. I just got a text saying Lloyd might be by today so I’ve got to be there early. Don’t know what the smug son of a bitch wants, I haven’t put a foot out of line that he didn’t tell me to put there. Maybe he just wants to gloat, the mainliners just took a fucking leap in the polls. He better not be coming to tell me that my time’s getting pushed back again. Fucking cunt, I don’t know what I’ll do if he does that."
You can see the fear in your husband’s eyes, but it’s good that he’s already covering it with anger. By the time he’s ground through the traffic to his campaign office that will also have been digested and no-one will see a thing.
"Love you darling, have a good day."
He scoops up his briefcase, shining even in the dim light of the windowless kitchen, and whirls out of the apartment.
Turn on the tv.
(click-replace: "Turn on the tv.")[//Morning Brain!//, colourful and bright, has already started. The host, his teeth the only things whiter than his hair, which perfectly contrasts with his designer tan, asks the question:
"How many Nobel prizes have our citizens won?"
The contestant, balding and sweating, blinks, and then spits out an answer.
"Twenty nine!"
There is a pause, and then the crack of a klaxon.
"I’m sorry but the answer is thirty four. Your answer was too low!"
The crowd starts to boo the contestant and someone starts a chant to get him thrown out. The host smiles as the embarrassed man pushes himself out of his seat and waddles off.
"And we should be getting another one soon shouldn’t we Sheila? One for peace now that the fighting is over."
"That’s right Nick!" the presenter’s model assistant replies, her smile very almost too large to be enigmatic.]Clear up breakfast.
(click-replace: "Clear up breakfast.")[Cutlery and crockery in the dishwasher, pot in the sink to soak. Chopping board rinsed, dried, and put back. All the food is already back in its place.
Get dressed.
(click-replace: "Get dressed.")[A dress, only a few years old - an anniversary gift you think but can’t quite remember - and leggings - new. Simple and out of date, but you won’t be going out today so it doesn’t matter.
Daydream.
(click-replace: "Daydream.")[You think for a moment how nice it would be to go out for a reason of your own. But enough now, you have work to do.]Start on the admin.
(click-replace: "Start on the admin.")[Most of it is simple. The new energy company, the one you changed to a few months ago - at the same time everyone was changing - isn’t letting you sign up for a direct debit. They say they are, and the first two times you phoned them about it they told you that you had. But then you were almost cut off for non-payment. So you do it each month now, but luckily the website works most of the time.
What takes longer is Christopher’s speeding ticket. He hadn’t had cash on him when he was stopped and the cop wasn’t impressed by his position. So he got a ticket. He said he was too busy to sort it out himself, but he wants you to make it go away for him, without it ending up on his permanent record. You phone an old school friend who works in the council offices. She gives you some numbers in the traffic department. They all give you, more or less, the same rate. It’s high, as you knew it would be, but had hoped it would not be. So you phone Lloyd’s wife. She hides the chuckle from her voice when you tell her why you are calling. She tells you she’ll call you back. She does, surprisingly quickly.
"It’s good timing," she purrs, "he’ll do it for half the price, if you say yes."
"Say yes to what?"
You can feel the other woman shrug, almost hear the bristles of her mink scarf glide across the microphone of her iPhone.
"I don’t know. But you will, won’t you?" or maybe: "But you will, won’t you." It is difficult to tell. But it does not matter either way. You nod and then say something like ‘sure’, something that means but does not quite feel like ‘yes’. The woman on the other end trickles out a word or two and the line goes dead.
You transfer the money.
A thump as something is pushed through your letter box.
Go to the door.
(click-replace: "Go to the door.")[The postwoman is very late, but then again she usually is.
The package is large but flexible, ripped in places from the ordeal of being shoved through the letterbox.
Clothes. A pair of jeans and a T-shirt. And a note:
"Hi Mom,
"These jeans got ripped and I got a stain (nothing dirty I promise) on this shirt that I just can’t get out.
"Thanks Mom!"
The note isn’t signed, but it would be strange if you didn’t recognise your son Daniel’s handwriting. And it’s not the first time he’s sent you his chores.
Deal with your only son’s clothes.
(click-replace: "Deal with your only son’s clothes.")[After the phone calls it’s pleasant to do something so simple, although you can tell that the stain will need work and it is only after you have begun sewing that you realise that Daniel probably didn’t wash his jeans before sending them to you.
Realise that you didn’t make yourself lunch.
(click-replace: "Realise that you didn’t make yourself lunch.")[Check the cleaning schedule.
(click-replace: "Check the cleaning schedule.")[Today you’ve marked 'Clean the bathrooms'.
(click: "'Clean the bathrooms'.")[
It’s not hard, especially since the children left home, but it does need to be spotless. Christopher could bring associates home at any point and they will all be used to their own private cleaners. You do not know how much the drunk men and their drunk wives will notice, but Christopher tells you that it’s important, so you do it.
Start preparing dinner.
(click-replace: "Start preparing dinner.")[Beef stroganoff tonight. You went to the supermarket yesterday, haggling with the butcher for the cuts that really make the dish perfect. You’re proud of your stroganoff. You’re proud of most of your dishes. Christopher has told you many times that he is sure that it is your cooking that keeps bringing people - his associates or clients or benefactors - to your apartment. If you wanted to spend less time in the kitchen, he says, you should cook less well.
The only times you do are on holidays, when you know that no-one will come round and you can actually experiment and take risks. Christopher always smiles when he takes the kids down to the beach or to play in the forest (or more recently to go shopping), laughing to himself that you’ve come all this way and you’re still just doing what you’d do at home. But it’s not like that. You’ve never holidayed outside your country, of course, but each region has its different specialities, different tastes, different ways of doing things and you want to find them all.
That and the fact that, there, you are free.
The cut is lean and you have little fat to cut off. You tenderise the meat with the back of your fingers and your knuckles. Salt, pepper - long practised amounts - and then oil in the pan, up to heat, and searing the meat, counting out the exact number of seconds to give you the result you know you’ll need with the steak that you’ve got. You did all your experiments here a long time ago.
Butter and onions, mushrooms, flour, broth, sour cream, mustard, and then the beef again. Each stage perfectly adjusted.
You hear the door opening behind you. You hold your breath for a moment, waiting to hear voices, but there is just your husband’s heavy tread.
"Ah, stroganoff. With potatoes?"
"Yes."
(click: "Yes.")["Oh perfect! You know I like it traditional."
You do know. Christopher enters the bedroom, emerging again just as you are serving, his jacket and tie both gone and his top button undone. He looks less tired than he did in the morning.
"I told you Lloyd was coming by, didn’t I?"
Nod.
(click-replace: "Nod.")[You nod.
"He had much to say about all that the opposition can offer the country. Now that the world is watching us, we need to show them that we are what we say we are. He says that there is plenty of room for the opposition to take a real, serious role now, show the real health of our democracy. He says he just needs a little time to move the blocks around, everything is happening all at once at the moment, of course, and he needs me to change this and that with my policy, but that now is the time!"
You could point out that there have been many ‘nows’ before and that not a single one of them actually changed anything. But you won’t.
Don’t point it out.
(click-replace: "Don’t point it out.")["I’ve got a lot of work to do. Going to have everyone staying late the next few days, oh it’s good to be grinding again! Lloyd said he’ll get me some proper notes soon - red pen all over my policy documents I’m sure - but he gave me enough to get started. Always got to be ready.
"And he said some things about you as well. No need to worry, you’re still beautiful, still an asset to the campaign. You’re too good, I think. One of Lloyd’s contacts has been looking for someone for a job. They have a European coming in, IMF I think, something to do with economic development anyway. Someone somewhere has worked with him before and says that the normal guides won’t do. Sounds like a pathetic old dog to me, just needs someone to take him out for walks twice a day and then give him a nice saucer of warm milk before bed."
You doubt that Christopher has intentionally mixed up dogs and cats. He’s never shown any interest in either.
"Completely toothless I think. They probably just want someone who won’t be exciting. You know how these European pencil-pushers are, more easily scared than deer.
"So shall I tell him yes? He seemed very keen on it."
And, of course, if Lloyd is keen on it, Christopher is keen on it.
At least this explains what Lloyd’s wife was talking about on the phone earlier.
Your husband has asked you to take the job. So what do you say?
Yes or (text-colour: #3e5ab2)[no]?
(click: "Yes")["Good good. They want you to start tomorrow. Just go down to the Office of Regional Development. They don’t need you there early, just be there before lunch.
"Talking of food, this is excellent as always. Reminds me of that time you cooked it for Jones, remember when he -"
The conversation moves on to other things, the complete change of your life circumstances no longer relevant to your husband’s speeches.
He doesn’t seem at all worried about how you will manage your time, how you’ll do this new work and do all of the other things Christopher expects you to do. But you do not ask him. Perhaps he has thought it all through already and doesn’t mind that things won’t get done. More likely he hasn’t. But maybe you will be able to manage. Maybe the whole thing will be over before it makes too much of a difference.
Christopher has finished both talking and eating. You haven’t been paying attention. There is too much to think about. He’s looking at you expectantly.
Clear the dishes.
(click-replace: "Clear the dishes.")[Christopher goes into the next room and turns on the tv. You only hear fragments of it: "parade" and "victory" and "glory". Maybe you would hear more if you were trying to listen, but you are not. A thousand questions are swirling in your head: "Will I be any good?", "Am I thrilled or terrified?", "What will the children think?", "How much will it pay?" "Will I be able to make my own decisions or will I simply be told what to do and where to go?", "Does this mean I will be an employee of the government and if so won’t that be dangerous for Christopher’s career?", "What time should I leave the apartment tomorrow?", etc. The questions follow you for the rest of the day, like smudged glasses over your mind, blurring everything else. Somehow everything gets done, but you are not aware of any of it at the time.
You were cling-filming the leftovers.
Then you were brewing the tea.
Then you were sitting with your husband staring at the tv.
Then you were brushing your teeth.
Then you were lying in bed.
Then, maybe, you were dreaming.
Then you were definitely awake.
Then you were peeing.
Then you were doing your makeup.
Then you were doing your hair.
Then you were making breakfast.
Then you were waving goodbye to your husband for the day.
Then you were dressing.
Then you were working out the fastest route.
Then you were catching a taxi.
All of it only realised after it has passed.
Now you’re here, the Office of Regional Development looming over you, bright concrete all in sharp lines and steeples, like an uninspired Lego Notre Dame all in white. No choice but to push the doors open, the inside clean and orderly but less impressive than the facade would have implied. The woman behind the old reception desk looks you up and down as you approach.
"Name?"
"Caroline Druar."
(click: '"Caroline Druar."')[
"Occupation?"
[["Housewife."]]
[["A city guide, I suppose."]]
[["I’m a new employee here."]]]
"Mrs Druar."
(click: '"Mrs Druar."')[
"Occupation?"
[["Housewife."]]
[["A city guide, I suppose."]]
[["I’m a new employee here."]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]"Did your husband forget something?"
[[Smile and say: "No, I think he might be having an affair so I thought I would come and see if he’s sleeping with his receptionist."]]
[["Oh, uhm, no, I’m sorry, he doesn’t work here, but I am on business of his."]]
[["Can I not be here on my own business?"]]
[["No, sorry, I’m here to meet a European? A representative of the IMF? I think I’m supposed to be his guide." -> "I’m a guide."]]"And what business do you have here?"
[["I’m here to work as a guide for a representative of the IMF. I was told he’s European, if that helps." -> "I’m a guide."]]The woman looks you up and down again and then shrugs in a way that isn’t entirely disapproving.
"What department?"
[["I’m here to work as a guide for a representative of the IMF. I was told he’s European, if that helps." -> "I’m a guide."]]The woman narrows her eyes.
"Funny. Now tell me why you’re really here or leave."
[["I’m here to work as a guide for a representative of the IMF. I was told he’s European, if that helps." -> "I’m a guide."]]"And that business is?"
[["I’m here to work as a guide for a representative of the IMF. I was told he’s European, if that helps." -> "I’m a guide."]]The woman rolls her eyes.
"I don’t care whose business it is, just tell me what it is."
[["I’m here to work as a guide for a representative of the IMF. I was told he’s European, if that helps." -> "I’m a guide."]]"Let me check the system." She rolls her eyes towards the monitor and lethargically clicks through a series of links. Still, it doesn’t take too long before she’s hauling her gaze back on to you. "It’s Mr Schmidt. He’s working with the Economic Excellence Department. Says he’s out at the moment but you should wait. I’ll get a beep when he’s ready. Just sign this now."
The woman, not making eye contact, slides a piece of paper across towards you. A moment later, with a little sigh, she drops a pen on top of it.
Read your work contract.(click-replace: "Read your work contract.")[Sign your work contract.]
(click-replace: "Sign your work contract.")[You sign your work contract.
She looks away again, dismissing you. You look around the large reception space. A small plaque by the lifts shows that the Economic Excellence Department is on the seventh floor. The only ways up there are a lift and a staircase, both next to each other, both on the opposite side of the room from the only seats, a bundle of imitation designer faux-white leather bucket chairs around a chipped glass top coffee table.
[[Stand by the ways upstairs.]]
[[Sit in the little sitting area.]]]You stand innocuously between the stairs and the elevator doors. Men in suits - and the occasional woman in a suit - trickle past you. Most, the men, give you appraising looks as they pass, but no-one gives you any more attention than that.
An hour has passed. Your legs have begun to cramp.
A group comes in from lunch. Its central kernel, all men - all in tailored, European designer-suits, wearing Rolexes and smoking Cubans - are already drunk. An outer layer - young aides - buzzes around them, steering them straight. You stand up a little straighter, but the group passes you and the receptionist goes straight back to her screen after giving them all her broadest, fakest smile.
Your stomach growls. Your ankles, thighs and calves all hurt. Everyone continues to ignore you.
[[Stay standing where you are.]]
[[Go and sit down.]]
[[Leave to get some lunch.]]
[[Ask the receptionist how long she thinks Mr Schmidt will be.]]
(set: $Reception = "Stood")The chairs are aspiring to be nouveau riche and they squeak when you sit down in them, but they are at least comfortable. The magazines and newspapers on the table are all financial or political. One or two are approaching alternative, but most gain their legitimacy from their owners’ proximity to the President.
No-one pays you any attention. Men in suits - and the occasional woman in a suit - trickle between the doors and the elevators. An hour passes without any event. Then a group comes in from lunch. Its central kernel, all men - all in tailored European designer suits, wearing Rolexes and smoking Cubans - are already drunk. An outer layer, young aides, buzzes around them, steering them straight. You sit a little straighter, but the group passes you and the receptionist goes straight back to her screen after giving them all her broadest, fakest smile.
Your stomach growls. It has been hours since you ate.
[[Stay sitting.->Go and sit down.]]
[[Leave to get some lunch.]]
[[Ask the receptionist how long she thinks Mr Schmidt will be.]]
(set: $Reception = "Sat")Another hour passes. The receptionist, of course, has not offered you anything to drink. Your throat is dry and the harsh glare of the fluorescent tube lighting is making everything feel like it is gently floating. You head to the bathroom on shaking legs, relieve yourself and cup some water into your mouth. It tastes like all city water, it tastes like chemicals.
Back by the elevators and another group comes in. A man, less expensively dressed and less drunk than the others at the core of the group, worms away and jogs to the receptionist, who is giving him an expert neutral smile. He asks something that you lose behind the loud voices of the other men, who have stopped at the elevators to wait for him - and, in some cases, ogle you - and the receptionist looks around before spotting you and pointing. He is clearly surprised as he follows the receptionists finger, but he thanks her and walks quickly over to you.
"Mrs Druar? Hi, I’m so sorry for keeping you waiting, I had no idea you were here. Have you been standing here waiting for me? I’m so sorry, I hate to think that you were standing at attention for me.
"Oh, of course, I’m Mateo Schmidt."
He extends a hand, the skin neither rough nor smooth. It is a good descriptor for all of him. His silver hair is styled and neat, but at least one day’s stubble growth covers the lower part of his face. His eyes and mouth are both boyish, the former sparkling and the latter innocently curved, but the way that the fabric of his off-the-peg suit twists around his arms shows that he is no stranger to physical activity.
You glance at his hand again. He’s foreign, you remind yourself. It’s normal in Europe for a man to initiate shaking a woman’s hand. But you’re not in Europe.
[[Shake his hand.]]
[[Offer him a smile.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen - 1)(if: $Reception is "Stood")[The chairs are aspiring to be nouveau riche and they squeak when you sit down in them, but they are at least comfortable. The magazines and newspapers on the table are all financial or political. One or two are approaching alternative, but most gain their legitimacy from their owners’ proximity to the President. They do little to distract you from your hunger.]
Another hour passes. The receptionist has not offered you anything to drink. Your throat is dry and the harsh glare of the fluorescent tube lighting is making everything feel like it is gently floating. You head to the bathroom, relieve yourself and cup some water into your mouth. It tastes like all city water, it tastes like chemicals.
Back in the chairs and another group comes in. A man, less expensively dressed and less drunk than the others at the core of the group, worms away and jogs to the receptionist, who is giving him an expertly neutral smile. He asks something that you lose behind the loud voices of the other men, who have stopped at the elevators to wait for him, and the receptionist looks around before spotting you and pointing. He is clearly surprised as he follows the receptionists finger, but he thanks her and walks quickly over to you.
"Mrs Druar? Hi, I’m so sorry for keeping you waiting, I had no idea you were here. I’m Mateo Schmidt."
He extends a hand, the skin neither rough nor smooth. It is a good descriptor for all of him. His silver hair is styled and neat, but at least one day’s stubble growth covers the lower part of his face. His eyes and mouth are both boyish, the former sparkling and the latter innocently curved, but the way that the fabric of his off-the-peg suit twists around his arms shows that he is no stranger to physical activity.
You glance at his hand again. He’s foreign, you remind yourself. It’s normal in Europe for a man to initiate shaking a woman’s hand. But you’re not in Europe.
[[Shake his hand.]]
[[Offer him a smile.]]The Office of Regional Development is a building for high level bureaucrats and state employed financiers, so it’s difficult to find anywhere close by that is affordable or quick. Still, you persevere, passing ranks of one-word-named-minimalist-business-lunch venues and slipping down side streets until you find where the drones go: a small sandwich bar called Bread Express. It’s cheap, it fills you and it doesn’t taste bad. It’s all you could ask for. Then you’re hurrying back, thinking for a moment how embarrassingly ironic it would be if you got lost.
You were away for just under an hour. Nothing has changed. The receptionist glances up as you walk in and then straight back down. She’s dismissive, but you trust that she’d do her job, so you know you haven’t missed him.
But it’s a close run thing. You are just standing near reception, deciding what to do now, when a group comes in. A man, less expensively dressed and less drunk than the others at the core of the group, worms away and jogs to the receptionist, who is giving him an expert neutral smile. He asks something that you lose behind the loud voices of the other men, who have stopped at the elevators to wait for him - and, in some cases, ogle you - and the receptionist looks around before spotting you and pointing. He is clearly surprised as he follows the receptionists finger, but he thanks her and turns quickly to you.
"Mrs Druar? Hi, I’m Mateo Schmidt."
He extends a hand, the skin neither rough nor smooth. It is a good descriptor for all of him. His silver hair is styled and neat, but at least one day’s stubble growth covers the lower part of his face. His eyes and mouth are both boyish, the former sparkling and the latter innocently curved, but the way that the fabric of his off-the-peg suit twists around his arms shows that he is no stranger to physical activity.
You glance at his hand again. He’s foreign, you remind yourself. It’s normal in Europe for a man to initiate shaking a woman’s hand. But you’re not in Europe.
[[Shake his hand.]]
[[Offer him a smile.]]The woman barely manages to lift her gaze to meet yours.
"I don’t know."
She doesn’t even shrug.
(if: $Reception is "Stood")[[[Go and sit down.]]](else:)[[[Go back to the chairs.->Go and sit down.]]]
[[Leave to get some lunch.]]
(if: $Reception is "Stood")[[[Go back to standing by the ways upstairs.->Stay standing where you are.]]]His grip is reassuringly firm; confident but not crushing. He smiles, but the moment after he has let go, his eyes go wide.
"Oh I’m so sorry, that was very presumptuous of me! Oh I’m very sorry, I’m a little flustered. And a little drunk. I’ve only been here a day and it’s been very active.
"But anyway! It’s a pleasure to meet you. Have you been here long? Did they make you comfortable?"
[["I’ve been here since late morning and they’ve more or less ignored me."]]
[["Oh not too long, everything has been fine."]]
[["I’ve been here since late morning and everything has been very pleasant."]]
(set: $Bold = $Bold +1)He blinks and then his eyes go wide.
"Oh I’m very sorry, I’m a little flustered. And a little drunk. I’ve only been here a day and it’s been very active.
"But anyway! It’s a pleasure to meet you. Have you been here long? Did they make you comfortable?"
[["I’ve been here since late morning and they’ve more or less ignored me."]]
[["Oh not too long, everything has been fine."]]
[["I’ve been here since late morning and everything has been very pleasant."]]His face, elastically expressive, contorts as if he’s bitten into something sour.
"I’m sorry to hear that. I’ll have a word with someone. You’ve had lunch at least though?"
[["Yes thank you, I got myself something."]]
[["No, they didn’t give me anything."]]
[["No, I didn’t want to risk missing you by leaving."]]
(set: $BetterReceptionist = "True")"Oh good. No point waiting around here. So did you do something nice this morning? Did you have the lie in I wish I’d been able to have?"
[["I’ve had a very nice morning, thank you."]]
[["Just the usual, making breakfast for my husband and then slowly getting ready."]]
[["I’m sorry, I lied, I’ve been here since late morning."]]"Since late morning? Oh, well that’s very dedicated of you, but don’t feel you have to stand on ceremony for me. I’m not worth it. And I don’t really like it. My job is economic efficiency so you could say I’m professionally obliged to disapprove of it. Waste, that is. You didn’t want to be here all morning, you could have been at home having much more fun, right?"
[["I really don’t mind, I like to make sure that I’m doing everything properly."]]
[["I suppose I could have been doing housework."]]
[["I’d be lying if I said you were wrong."]]"Good. Wouldn’t do to starve."
There is a slight pause and one of the men in the group waiting by the elevators coughs. Mr Schmidt raises an eyebrow and smirks at the rudeness.
"Well I hate to give in to that, but I am afraid that I really should go. They’ve really front loaded the meetings, I think they want to pin me down on everything while I’m still finding my feet. I was just asking Rebecca, the receptionist, if she could phone you to tell you that I won’t be needing a guide today. Nobody told me that they’d already called you in. I’d love to see the city, of course, but I think I’d love to see my bed a little bit first. I’m very sorry for the wasted trip. I’ll make sure they cover you for the full day. And your lunch as well."
He stands smiling for a moment longer, then another cough from behind him makes him roll his eyes.
"I look forward to actually getting to know you tomorrow. Don’t come before four, they’ll have me trapped in here all day before then."
Then, with a little wave, he’s off and you’re [[returning home.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 1)"Oh I’m sorry, that’s really useless. And you must be starving. Well I won’t keep you, I was just asking Rebecca, the receptionist, if she could phone you to tell you that I won’t be needing a guide today. Nobody told me that they’d already called you in. I’d love to see the city, of course, but I think I’d love to see my bed a little bit first. I’m very sorry for the wasted trip. I’ll make sure they cover you for the full day."
He stands smiling for a moment longer, then one of the men in the group waiting by the elevators coughs. Mr Schmidt raises an eyebrow and smirks at the rudeness.
"Well I hate to give in to that, but I am afraid that I really should go. They’ve really front loaded the meetings, I think they want to pin me down on everything while I’m still finding my feet. I do really look forward to actually getting to know you tomorrow though. Don’t come before four, they’ll have me trapped in here all day before then."
Then, with a little wave, he’s off and you’re [[returning home.]]"Oh really there’s no need for that. Please don’t feel you have to do that kind of thing. I’m nowhere near as important as lunch."
There is a slight pause and one of the men in the group waiting by the elevators coughs. Mr Schmidt raises an eyebrow and smirks at the rudeness.
"Well I hate to give in to that, but I am afraid that I really should go. They’ve really front loaded the meetings, I think they want to pin me down on everything while I’m still finding my feet. I was just asking Rebecca, the receptionist, if she could phone you to tell you that I won’t be needing a guide today. Nobody told me that they’d already called you in. I’d love to see the city, of course, but I think I’d love to see my bed a little bit first. I’m very sorry for the wasted trip. I’ll make sure they cover you for the full day."
He stands smiling for a moment longer, then another cough from behind him makes him roll his eyes.
"I look forward to actually getting to know you tomorrow. Don’t come before four, they’ll have me trapped in here all day before then. And look after yourself, eat lunch!"
Then, with a little wave and a cheeky smile, he’s off and you’re [[returning home.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen - 1)"Good!" He smiles with what looks like genuine happiness.
There is a slight pause- in which it is clear that he is looking for something to say - and one of the men in the group waiting by the elevators coughs. Mr Schmidt raises an eyebrow and smirks at the rudeness.
"Well I hate to give in to that, but I am afraid that I really should go. They’ve really front loaded the meetings, I think they want to pin me down on everything while I’m still finding my feet. I was just asking Rebecca, the receptionist, if she could phone you to tell you that I won’t be needing a guide today. Nobody told me that they’d already called you in. I’d love to see the city, of course, but I think I’d love to see my bed a little bit first. I’m very sorry for the wasted trip. I’ll make sure they cover you for the full day. Why not, eh?"
He stands smiling for a moment longer, then another cough from behind him makes him roll his eyes.
"I look forward to actually getting to know you tomorrow. Don’t come before four, they’ll have me trapped in here all day before then."
Then, with a little wave and a cheeky smile, he’s off and you’re [[returning home.]]"Oh that’s nice. What did you make?" You tell him and he nods enthusiastically. "You can never beat porridge, I’ll never understand why people call it boring. But then again my love of it might have something to do with the industrial quantities of butter and sugar I put in it."
He pulls a guilty face and shrugs. There is a slight pause and one of the men in the group waiting by the elevators coughs. Mr Schmidt raises an eyebrow and smirks at the rudeness.
"Well I hate to give in to that, but I am afraid that I really should go. They’ve really front loaded the meetings, I think they want to pin me down on everything while I’m still finding my feet. I was just asking Rebecca, the receptionist, if she could phone you to tell you that I won’t be needing a guide today. Nobody told me that they’d already called you in. I’d love to see the city, of course, but I think I’d love to see my bed a little bit first. I’m very sorry for the wasted trip. I’ll make sure they cover you for the full day. Why not, eh?"
He stands smiling for a moment longer, then another cough from behind him makes him roll his eyes.
"I look forward to actually getting to know you tomorrow. Don’t come before four, they’ll have me trapped in here all day before then."
Then, with a little wave and a cheeky smile, he’s off and you’re [[returning home.]]He cocks his head to one side, like a confused puppy.
"Why? To impress me? Please don’t do that. That is, either lie or try to impress me. I don’t like the first and I’m not worth the second. But I guess thank you for telling me."
There is a slight pause - in which it is clear that he is looking for something to say - and one of the men in the group waiting by the elevators coughs. Mr Schmidt raises an eyebrow and smirks at the rudeness.
"Well I hate to give in to that, but I am afraid that I really should go. They’ve really front loaded the meetings, I think they want to pin me down on everything while I’m still finding my feet. I was just asking Rebecca, the receptionist, if she could phone you to tell you that I won’t be needing a guide today. Nobody told me that they’d already called you in. I’d love to see the city, of course, but I think I’d love to see my bed a little bit first. I’m very sorry for the wasted trip. I’ll make sure they cover you for the full day. Why not, eh?"
He stands smiling for a moment longer, then another cough from behind him makes him roll his eyes.
"I look forward to actually getting to know you tomorrow. Don’t come before four, they’ll have me trapped in here all day before then."
Then, with a little wave, he’s off and you’re [[returning home.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen - 2)Put the tea on.
(click-replace: "Put the tea on.")[You put the tea on.
Check the cleaning schedule.
(click-replace: "Check the cleaning schedule.")[You check the cleaning schedule. Today is the guest bedroom.
Dust the guest bedroom (the vacuuming can wait).
(click-replace: "Dust the guest bedroom (the vacuuming can wait).")[You can’t do a very good job with the cleaning, you don’t have enough time. You realise that you haven’t checked your emails yet today and you’re waiting to hear about Christopher’s ticket.
Check your emails.
(click-replace: "Check your emails.")[You check your emails. It’s there. An email from Lloyd himself. Sent first thing this morning.
"It’s done, the traffic ticket’s gone.
"Good luck with the new job.
"Jonathan Lloyd."
He did it. Already. Doing it that fast, he either had to trade favours or just pay the full amount.
You didn’t think he cared about Christopher that much.
No time to think, you need to cook.
(click: "cook.")[
It’s tight. A meal for four - in case Christopher brings guests - good enough for guests. But, of course, you’re very good. You get it done and ready on the table just on time.
Christopher isn’t home.
The food begins to cool. You put it in the oven in the hopes that will keep it warm.
Supper time passes, Christopher’s favourite news show starts.
Your phone rings for the weekly video call with your children.
Pick up.
(click-replace: "Pick up.")[You pick up.
"Hey mom, did you get my clothes?" Daniel’s hair is a mess, the bags under his eyes deeper than you would like. Sandy looks beautiful, even now, without any makeup on. You are very glad she pulled herself out of the cake-it-on phase.
"You sent mom clothes? You still getting your parents to do your laundry?"
"I ripped something! This is why I should learn to sew."
"Sew? Did your dick fall off?"
"It’s a practical life skill. As Denise Sax said in last week’s //Objectivity//, we should all be learning practical life skills."
"Oh here we go. God you’re so impressionable."
Your children, one eighteen, one twenty one. Both adults, both, you suspect, always children to each other. You smile, but hide it from them by tilting the phone screen up.
Eventually there have been enough pauses in the conversation for one of them to ask you a question.
"So mom, how have you been?"
[["I started a new job today."]]
[["I’ve been well."]]]]]]]]He shrugs.
"Well, each to their own! I’m not going to stop you spending your free time in government offices, even if I can’t imagine much I’d hate more.
"Okay, we both know that’s a lie, my whole life is government offices. But you get the point, I hope."
There is a slight pause and one of the men in the group waiting by the elevators coughs. Mr Schmidt raises an eyebrow and smirks at the rudeness.
"Well I hate to give in to that, but I am afraid that I really should go. They’ve really front loaded the meetings, I think they want to pin me down on everything while I’m still finding my feet. I was just asking Rebecca, the receptionist, if she could phone you to tell you that I won’t be needing a guide today. Nobody told me that they’d already called you in. I’d love to see the city, of course, but I think I’d love to see my bed a little bit first. I’m very sorry for the wasted trip. I’ll make sure they cover you for the full day. No arguing, you’ve earned it."
He stands smiling for a moment longer, then another cough from behind him makes him roll his eyes.
"I look forward to actually getting to know you tomorrow. Don’t come before four, they’ll have me trapped in here all day before then."
Then, with a little wave and a cheeky smile, he’s off and you’re [[returning home.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen - 1)"Not exactly the fun I was talking about, but you’re right of course. It’s one of the advantages of my job: living in hotels means that I get to live like a child again. I get all my cooking and cleaning done for me!" He grins like a child who’s just got away with stealing form a sweat shop. He makes it clear that it is an act.
There is a slight pause and one of the men in the group waiting by the elevators coughs. Mr Schmidt raises an eyebrow and smirks at the rudeness.
"Well I hate to give in to that, but I am afraid that I really should go. They’ve really front loaded the meetings, I think they want to pin me down on everything while I’m still finding my feet. I was just asking Rebecca, the receptionist, if she could phone you to tell you that I won’t be needing a guide today. Nobody told me that they’d already called you in. I’d love to see the city, of course, but I think I’d love to see my bed a little bit first. I’m very sorry for the wasted trip. I’ll make sure they cover you for the full day."
He stands smiling for a moment longer, then another cough from behind him makes him roll his eyes.
"I look forward to actually getting to know you tomorrow. Don’t come before four, they’ll have me trapped in here all day before then."
Then, with a little wave and a cheeky smile, he’s off and you’re [[returning home.]]"Not exactly the fun I was talking about, but you’re right of course. It’s one of the advantages of my job: living in hotels means that I get to live like a child again. I get all my cooking and cleaning done for me!" He grins like a child who’s just got away with stealing form a sweat shop. He makes it clear that it is an act.
There is a slight pause and one of the men in the group waiting by the elevators coughs. Mr Schmidt raises an eyebrow and smirks at the rudeness.
"Well I hate to give in to that, but I am afraid that I really should go. They’ve really front loaded the meetings, I think they want to pin me down on everything while I’m still finding my feet. I was just asking Rebecca, the receptionist, if she could phone you to tell you that I won’t be needing a guide today. Nobody told me that they’d already called you in. I’d love to see the city, of course, but I think I’d love to see my bed a little bit first. I’m very sorry for the wasted trip. I’ll make sure they cover you for the full day."
He stands smiling for a moment longer, then another cough from behind him makes him roll his eyes.
"I look forward to actually getting to know you tomorrow. Don’t come before four, they’ll have me trapped in here all day before then."
Then, with a little wave and a cheeky smile, he’s off and you’re [[returning home.]]"Really mom? Why?" Sandy’s face looks more confused than judgemental, although she does look both.
"Oh shut up Sandy, it’s fantastic news! Women need to emancipate themselves by joining the workforce."
"Oh for the love of God."
"What did I just say Sandy? Shut up. Right, mom, tell us about it, what is it?"
They both stay silent while you tell them.
"Okay that actually sounds good." Sandy comments after you have finished. "And the pay sounds really good. No, I think this will be good for you."
"Yeah, it’s good that you’re working and all, but it’s odd isn’t it? Surely there are apps for that. I mean, who needs a guide when we’ve all got maps on our phones?"
"I thought you were all about people coming and working together, now you want to do mom out of a job?"
"Yeah I’m all for people working together, but in a smart way."
And they’re off at it again. A few more minutes pass and Daniel declares that he has to go, he’s got a society meeting, and Sandy signs off as well.
The food loses its last degrees of heat as the door opens. One pair of footsteps.
[[Greet your husband.]]
(set: $Radical = 1)"That’s good. Enjoying having more time to yourself?" Sandy’s implication, of course, being that it must be a relief to have Daniel out of the house. He, surprisingly, ignores her.
"You thought about doing anything with that time yet? Thought any more about working at a soup kitchen?"
"Oh come on Daniel, let her breathe a little. Anyway, she’s still looking after dad."
"Dad should be able to look after himself."
"Look after himself, like sew his own trousers?"
"Hey!"
And they’re off at it again. A few more minutes pass and Daniel declares that he has to go, he’s got a society meeting, and Sandy signs off as well.
The food loses its last degrees of heat as the door opens. One pair of footsteps.
[[Greet your husband.]]"Hey honey, I’m late aren’t I? I’m sorry. I did tell you though, didn’t I." It’s a statement, not a question. "Something smells good, what have you made?"
You microwave the meal. It goes soggy, which utterly ruins it, but if Christopher even notices he doesn’t comment. He tells you about all the things he’s done. You listen. He asks you how your work was. You say it was fine. He goes through to catch the end of his tv program. They’re talking about a recent precedent set by the US Supreme Court not to hold the designers of an autonomous vehicle responsible for a death caused by the vehicle. You hear Christopher mumbling to himself, brainstorming whether he could use it in any way. You don’t hear the end of it, but you can’t think how he would.
You clean up. Then you both go to bed, ready for [[the next day.]]You arrive a little before four in the afternoon. You’ve already got most of the housework for today done. The same receptionist sits behind the desk(if: $BetterReceptionist is "True")[, but today when she sees you she sits up and gives you one of her broad plastic smiles.
"Ah, Mrs Druar, I’m afraid that Mr Schmidt isn’t ready for you yet, but Mr Smith wants to have a quick word with you. If you just take a seat he’ll be right down.](else:)[ and she gives you more or less the same greeting as yesterday, a raised eyebrow and a raising of the lips just closer to a smile than a smirk.
"You’re Mr Schmidt’s guide right? He’s not ready yet but Mr Smith wants you. I’ll let him know you’re here."]
Mr Smith. You don’t know him, but then again you are not really sure who is actually employing you. You don’t think it’s Lloyd himself.
Mr Smith doesn’t take long. You did not really know what you were expecting, but it wasn’t this. A broad, bald man with an ear piece, his black suit jacket so generic it must be an intentional attempt to avoid showing any personality. Later you will wonder why you didn’t think of him as a bodyguard - he looks exactly like one - but that doesn’t fit with his manner, the relaxed confidence with which he carries himself, the slight smirk, and the enigmatic eyes. You know him well. When you were a teenager, when everything changed, these men represented a much more real law than the one on which your new government was still deciding. Those who have been allowed to survive still do.
Your recognition of his power over you is instinctual. A cultural knowledge burnt deep into your mind.
"Caroline Druar, good to see you. It is this way." He does not check to see if you are following as he leads you out of the building. He knows you will. He talks to you without looking around. "We have a favour to ask. Just a simple thing, it would be very kind of you if you could do it for us, now and again in a few days, then maybe a few more times after that." He stops at an unmarked door, just a few buildings down from the offices, and flashes a card across a keycard reader. The door glides open at his touch. "You may step inside. You may knock when you are done. Wait for the light to flash before making your choice."
On the other side of the door is a single room, just a couple of meters by a couple of meters. On the wall opposite the door is a large number pad with only five numbers, 1-5. Above it a large light, the kind you associate with sci-fi or war films, the kind of light that starts to flash when something goes horribly wrong.
The door behind you swings closed. As you turn to look at it you notice that there are things on the other two walls as well. On one, painted directly onto the wall, are the words "You are free" On the other one is a poster:
Yellow - 1
Pink - 2
Blue - 3
Purple - 4
Orange - 5
Nothing happens for over a minute. (if: $2Player is "True")[Then the light begins to flash.
//Your partner will send you a colour. That is the colour that the light is flashing. Now select a number to press and reply to them with that number.//
(link: "1")[(set: $FirstNumber = 1)(goto: "First press")]
(link: "2")[(set: $FirstNumber = 2)(goto: "First press")]
(link: "3")[(set: $FirstNumber = 3)(goto: "First press")]
(link: "4")[(set: $FirstNumber = 4)(goto: "First press")]
(link: "5")[(set: $FirstNumber = 5)(goto: "First press")]](else:)[Then the light begins to flash Purple.
[[1->First press]]
[[2->First press]]
[[3->First press]]
(link: "4")[(set: $Dependable = $Dependable + 1)(goto: "First press")]
[[5->First press]]]"Oorah!" you all shout, taking a drink. Private Highfield continues:
"Oo-fucking-rah we motherfucking did it!"
You see the Commander shoot a disapproving look at the Private, but the younger man does not see and the Commander decides to let the language go, but not the content.
"Was there ever any doubt?" He says, looking steadily at each of you.
"Sir, no, sir!" you repeat in turn, your smiles rubbing off on your Commander so that by the end you are all grinning.
You are a small group and even spread out as you are now - each enjoying the sensation of simultaneously having space to spread out //and// having a roof above your heads - you only take up a small corner of the requisitioned canteen.
Private Emmisson takes advantage of the moment of stillness to stand and refill all five of your glasses. The Commander gives him a fatherly nod and Emmisson quickly returns it. Highfield has finished his drink by the time Emmisson has sat down and without looking around he starts singing an old army song, the kind little changed since your father’s father used to sing it. It’s victorious and melancholy and you all know the words. It does not pair well with the next song Highfield starts as he looks up at you all, the final notes of his last tune echo away through the empty room. He winks and begins. It’s bawdy and common and you all know the words, save for your equal, Lieutenant Hayes, who simply bobs his head just off rhythm and smiles kindly around at you all. It’s a song that gets faster and faster – like sex - until you’re all red-cheeked and laughing at the straining weight of the innuendos that make up the lyrics.
Highfield clearly has no intention of stopping, desperately taking in rasping breaths past the laughter, struggling to work his way to the next song, but the Commander has already stood up, is already addressing you all.
"It’s a glorious day. An inevitable day, but a glorious day nonetheless. Two toasts! Private?"
Emmisson is already on his feet, refreshing all of your glasses.
"A toast to the country!"
"Oorah!"
The drinks are downed, Emmisson pours another.
"And a toast to God and Christ!"
"Oorah, amen!"
You down your drinks and bow your heads in deference. Hayes is the only one who is not silent, although you can make out that his muttering is at least part prayer. You raise your head calmly and look to the Commander, who waits for Hayes to finish. Then he smiles affectionately.
"Well done. Well done all of us."
Most of you drink again at that, but the Commander sits down and the mood mellows slightly.
[[Talk to Lieutenant Hayes, who is looking slightly green.]]
[[Talk to Private Emmisson, who is gazing up at the flag you hung earlier, tears in his eyes.]]
[[Talk to Private Highfield, who has taken the bottle and is pouring himself another private round.]]
{
(set: $Trust = 0)
(set: $Loyalty = 0)
(set: $Fear = 0)
(set: $Respect = 0)
(set: $1CGoaded = 0)
(set: $1CFear = 0)
(set: $2CFear = 0)
(set: $2CTrust = 0)
(set: $3CAway = 0)
(set: $3CFear = 0)
(if: $2Player is not "True")[(set: $PressMatch = 0)]
}"Oorah Lieutenant." Hayes slurs the words, then takes a deep breath to compose himself. "It’s a glorious day for goodness and justice."
You agree. How could you not?
"Have you heard anything more? About the plan? Why we’re here?"
[["I do not question our Commander. As a Lieutenant, it is not my place."]]
[["No."->"I have not heard."]]
[["No, I haven’t. I was hoping they would tell us tonight."]]"Lieutenant!" The private rises to his feet and salutes you. He’s taller than you and he angles his eyes upwards in an effort to hide his tears. But you have seen them already and he can tell that you have.
[["Pull yourself together Private, you’re bringing dishonour to all of us!"]]
[["Tell me why you’re crying Private."]]
[[*Whisper* "What’s wrong? Can I help?"]]Private Highfield pours a drink for you as you sit down, sliding it over with a lazy salute.
"A toast Lieutenant? To glory or to peace?"
[["To glory!"]]
[["To peace."]]Double-click this passage to edit it."Of course not, you are right. I merely thought … I …
"Of course."
[["Are you nervous?"]]
[["I’m nervous. I want to be home celebrating with my family, raising a toast with my father, but instead they have kept me here, still on foreign soil."]]
[["You’re drunk Gregory, you should go to bed. Before you say more."]]
[["You’re drunk Lieutenant, you should go to bed. Before you embarrass us."]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 2)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 1)"No, neither have I. I merely thought …
"No, nothing."
[["Are you nervous?"]]
[["I’m nervous. I want to be home celebrating with my family, raising a toast with my father, but instead they have kept me here, still on foreign soil."]]
[["You’re drunk Gregory, you should go to bed. Before you say more."]]
[["You’re drunk Lieutenant, you should go to bed. Before you embarrass us."]]"Yes, so was I. It’s such a small group … it can’t be a large operation, I have to think it must be …
"No. No, it’s all probably fine. We will find out soon."
[["Are you nervous?"]]
[["I’m nervous. I want to be home celebrating with my family, raising a toast with my father, but instead they have kept me here, still on foreign soil."]]
[["You’re drunk Gregory, you should go to bed. Before you say more."]]
[["You’re drunk Lieutenant, you should go to bed. Before you embarrass us."]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 2)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 1)"Nervous? Of course not! I’m a soldier of the homeland, of course I am not nervous."
Hayes stands, more stable on his feet than you would have thought, and spits in your face.
"I will not take this insult. I’m going to bed."
[[Stand up and punch him.]]
[[Let him leave.]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 4)Hayes stares at you. Probably trying to see if you have constructed a trap. Eventually though, he smiles.
"Yes. Yes I know. But we are strong, aren’t we? We’re with the motherland, so we go with God and goodness.
"We have freed the people here. It’s important that we do what we can to help them find their love for our motherland. I’m sure that’s why we’re staying here."
You nod and the conversation briefly turns to other things, mostly your service in the war. Hayes did not see much action at the front.
You notice Private Highfield talking to the Commander. They’re both looking at you. You doubt that Highfield could have heard much. But you guess that he heard something.
The Commander stands up not long after.
"A glorious day. But now to barracks. The new work starts tomorrow."
You all leave immediately. Hayes gives you a smile, the Commander a scowl, and Highfield a smirk.
[[Go to bed.]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 5)
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 1)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 1)Gregory nods, begins a deep breath, catches himself, looks up at you furiously, sees the honesty in your eyes and then lets out a long sigh.
"Okay. Thank you. I … I can handle myself. Of course.
"But thank you."
He stands, more stable on his feet than you would have expected, salutes the Commander, and leaves the room.
"The Lieutenant is right." the Commander says, rising from his seat. "A glorious day. But now to barracks. The new work starts tomorrow."
You all leave immediately.
[[Go to bed.]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 3)Hayes begins to nod, but then catches himself.
"What are you saying about me? Embarrassing?"
Hayes stands, more stable on his feet than you would have thought, and spits in your face.
"I will not take this insult. I’m going to bed."
[[Stand up and punch him.]]
[[Let him leave.]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 2)You split his lip but don’t break his nose. It’s clean and well done, even if you do say so yourself. He stumbles and falls awkwardly against a bench, either too hurt or too drunk to stand back up.
Private Highflield laughs at the fallen man, declaring him a ‘pussy’ and then offering you a silent toast.
"A glorious day." the Commander says, rising from his seat. "But now to barracks. The new work starts tomorrow."
You all leave immediately - even Lieutenant Hayes, who is still crawling by the time you reach the door.
[[Go to bed.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect + 3)
(set: $Fear = $Fear + 2)
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 2)Private Highflield laughs at you as you wipe the mucus from your face.
"Pussy."
The Commander stands up, walking between you and the Private.
"A glorious day. But now to barracks. The new work starts tomorrow."
You all leave immediately, Private Highfield still snickering behind you.
[[Go to bed.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 3)
(set: $Fear = $Fear - 2)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 1)The following morning the equipment arrives - overseen by the Commander himself - and then the ‘clients’. The Commander insists you use that word. None of you question it.
It’s a hot day; clear blue sky. You were up early for drills, but the calm of the hours since have left you refreshed. It’s easy to feel close to nature here, even if the formerly obsessively maintained garden has only recently been left to go wild and even though the whole complex is surrounded by a twenty-first century moat: a perimeter of rough concrete and a barbed wire fence. But the fields beyond are always visible, the fields still looking more or less organised, crops just planted and doomed to rot unpicked. Your former unit made sure of that, before the rest of them trickled off to other undisclosed locations and left you here. All of that training, those hundreds of documents on the history of the region and the conflict that they made you memorise and all they had you doing with it was clearing land. But perhaps you were simply being prepared for what is coming next.
There are hundreds of ‘clients’. They come in buses, or loaded in the back of lorries, or handcuffed to the beds of trucks. Most of the personnel who escort them will simply leave them, but some will stay to become semi-permanent staff. You’re not supposed to fraternise with them. There are two operations here. To them, the new arrivals are prisoners and guards. To you they are clients and staff of a separate, unknown department. The exception only lasts until midnight tonight, at which point you will cease your brief contact, the time they will know you as ‘special advisors assisting in an interdepartmental role.’
You help them settle in. It’s a long day with a great deal of hard work. No-one had told you, had been able to tell you, exactly how many clients would be arriving, which has necessitated a great deal of shuffling and rearranging. There are more women than you had been expecting - a sad reminder of the debauchery of the region - and that requires a whole rethink of the plans.
All in all, it is not a surprise when something goes wrong. You’re inside, consulting a floor-plan in the shade, when you hear a series of shouts from the yard. You’re already moving when you hear the quick rip of a burst of semi-automatic weapon fire. A moment later and you hear two more shots, this time finally accompanied by screams.
It’s already over by the time you jog out into the blinding sun. All of the lines of prisoners are in a state of disarray, the chained together groups all struggling amongst themselves, each individual attempting to run forward or back or simply remain obediently where they are. But if the other lines are squirming, one is thrashing. One end sags, a group of strong young men dead or dying, collapsing over one of the guards who is still snatching his weapon from the grip of a heavily bleeding corpse. The other end is screaming, each part trying to run in a different direction, panic freezing some and leaving others defecating on the ground. Some people look towards exits, some look towards the threat: Private Emmisson. He holds his standard issue in his hand and it is clear that he was the one who took down the men who had attacked the guard. The threat is dealt with, you can see that. Part of his brain must have registered the fact as well. He has switched from semi-automatic to manual, taking long strides and pulling the trigger between each step. The prisoners, tied up in their own chains and each other’s limb, struggle and writhe, but the Private is close and his aim excellent.
Only five members of the chain are left now.
"Sir!" the attacked guard salutes, covering his red, bleeding eye.
Three now, but Emmison stops and turns slowly, blinking heavily, his eyes seeing you but probably not taking you in. His gun is already trained on the next prisoner, the finger on the trigger twitching in a way that does not look conscious.
"Lieutenant."
He breathes the word. Too quiet to hear over the screaming, but you understand it nonetheless. He looks back towards the remaining prisoners, and then back to you.
"They were a mob sir, attacked as one," the guard offers.
"We didn’t, we didn’t I swear by God, it was just them at the front, they didn’t tell us, dragged us, please by God please listen!"
It’s one of the remaining prisoners. He and the women next to him have bloody knees, bloody shins, bloody hands.
"He’s telling the truth, but if we’d known we would have helped, fuck you fascist dogs, you go to Hell, all of you!"
One of the women. She tries to spit towards Emmisson as she says it, but something goes wrong and she just ends up drooling phlegm down her chin.
Emmisson has already raised his gun again.
[["That’s enough Private! The threat is over and we will deal with them properly, when the time comes."]]
[["Leave the other two Private."]]
[[Do nothing.]]"To glory! And what a fucking glorious thing it’s been! By God that first week was something. I was right there, at the front, in that first city. I should have got a medal, popped six traitors by my count, but it was all so mad that no-one else was counting. Had a molotov land right by my side, singed my eyebrows off. Got the bitch who threw it though.
"But you’ve been at the back haven’t you? I heard you’ve been holding down the fort, making sure you stay as far away from the bullets as possible."
He’s a loud drunk. Everyone in the room heard that. They’re all looking at you.
[[Punch him.]]
[[Reprimand him.]]
[[Let it go.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect + 2)Highfield smiles thinly.
"I can get behind that. Less interested in the peace, but keen on what it brings.
"So alright Lieutenant, to peace and pussy!"
The drink is gone and the Private is continuing before you have a chance to speak.
"Had this one fuck, just over the border, first week here. Young, real wriggler. But since then it’s been fucking fields, just rotting our arses off waiting for the artillery to scatter the traitor rats. Nothing but soldier bums and I ain’t no fucking homo. We don’t do that sort of thing, eh?
"But you’ve been at the back haven’t you? Bet you’ve had plenty of local chicks. I heard you’ve been holding down the fort, making sure you stay as far away from the bullets as possible."
He’s a loud drunk. Everyone in the room heard that. They’re all looking at you.
[[Punch him.]]
[[Reprimand him.]]
[[Let it go.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 2)You split his lip but don’t break his nose. It’s clean and well done, even if you do say so yourself. He falls backwards against the bench, and then rolls neatly under the table. Possibly a natural fall, but more likely a way to put something between himself and further beatings.
The conversation in the hall only pauses for a moment before it resumes. An officer disciplining a subordinate, something you have all seen a hundred times.
Highfield pulls himself out from under the far end of the table, and then prostrates himself before you.
"I’m sorry sir. It’s just the excitement, I don’t know what I’m saying. I’ll serve better, of course, I’m sorry."
He sounds neither resentful nor surprised. He waits for your command before he stands up and wipes away the blood flowing down his chin.
The Commander stands just a moment later.
"It is a glorious day. But now to barracks. The new work starts tomorrow."
Despite being closer to the door, Highfield gestures for you to go first, as of course he should, and you join Lieutenant Hayes in following the Commander out of the hall.
[[Go to bed.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect + 4)It is not a Private’s place to call a Lieutenant a coward. Highfield flinched when you started, but as it becomes clear that you are planning to give him nothing but words he begins to smile.
"Of course Lieutenant, just the excitement, I don’t know what I’m saying. I’ll serve better, of course, I’m sorry."
He grovels while he says it. You can’t see his face with his head bowed.
The Commander stands up.
"It is a glorious day. But now to barracks. The new work starts tomorrow."
The Private straightens up and stands in a fluid motion; a subordinate used to the position of self-abasement. He gestures for you to go first, as of course he should, and you join Lieutenant Hayes in following the Commander out of the hall.
[[Go to bed.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 2)Highfield stares at you for several seconds and then smiles.
"You’re a good guy Leon. Maybe we could have some fun together, once we’ve seen what we’re doing here, eh?"
He leans forward and squeezes your shoulder, then stands up with a smirk.
"A glorious day! A glorious day!"
He begins a tuneless song and is preparing to launch himself into a dance when the Commander stands up.
"A glorious day indeed. But now to barracks. The new work starts tomorrow."
Highfield, clearly disappointed, nonetheless cheers the Commander and saunters out. You doubt the Commander notices. He is too busy frowning at you.
[[Go to bed.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 5)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 1)"Of course sir! yes sir! right away sir!"
The Private’s face turns purple and his whole body shakes for several seconds, before suddenly becoming eerily still. Then, with a suddenness that almost startles you, he salutes and shouts out:
"For God and country!"
His words spray you with spit. Later, when you wipe it off, you will notice the blood in it. For now though, you, and everyone else in the hall, repeat the chant.
"A glorious day." the Commander says, rising from his seat. "But now to barracks. The new work starts tomorrow."
Emmisson is the first out of the room, his march high and stiff, fit for a parade ground.
[[Go to bed.]]
(set: $Fear = $Fear + 4)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 1)"It’s my brothers sir. They’re martyrs sir, with God now.
"But I see their bodies sir. We left them there, all over the ruins."
The Private takes a deep breath, but the tears continue to flow freely.
[["Pull yourself together Private! They died for God and country, you’re bringing shame to their memory with your weakness!"->"Pull yourself together Private, you’re bringing dishonour to all of us!"]]
[["Go to bed Private."]]
[["Hush, it’s okay. Come here, it’s okay, you’ve seen terrible, terrible things."]]Emmisson reels back from you, almost as if you had struck him.
"Nothing is wrong Lieutenant. I was just remembering my brothers sir.
"They’re martyrs now sir."
The Private pauses, staring straight past you, and then starts silently sobbing. He stands for several seconds, tears streaming down his face, before he manages to croak out:
"Permission to turn in to quarters, sir?"
You offered the man help, so it would be wrong to deny it now. You dismiss him and he quickly marches out of the room, stopping at the door - far enough away for his tears not to be visible - to salute your Commander.
The others have not moved. The whole incident took less than a minute.
[[Talk to Lieutenant Hayes, who is looking slightly green.]]
[[Talk to Private Highfield, who has taken the bottle and is pouring himself another private round.]]
[[Bid them all a good night and turn in early, ready for the new work to start tomorrow.]]
(set: $Fear = $Fear - 4)"Of course Lieutenant. Thank you sir."
He quickly marches out of the room, stopping at the door - far enough away for his tears not to be visible - to salute your Commander.
When you turn back to the others you see the Commander just rising to his feet.
"A glorious day. But now to barracks. The new work starts tomorrow."
[[Go to bed.]]
(set: $Fear = $Fear - 2)The private does not accept your embrace, but he does place his big hands on your shoulders and squeezes so hard that you cannot help but wince.
He does not make a sound, but his body shakes as the tears flow freely from his rapidly blinking eyes.
"You’re warm, Lieutenant."
You hear the Commander stand up behind you.
"Private, Lieutenant. Double drills in the morning. And to bed. All of you. The new work starts tomorrow."
Emmisson nods, his eyes closed, and leaves the room without looking back.
The Commander ushers you from the room. Safely behind him, Private Highfield joyfully calls you a pussy.
[[Go to bed.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 2)
(set: $Fear = $Fear -6)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 2)
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 1)(if: $Fear >= 0)[Nothing happens for a long time. You can feel a droplet of sweat roll down your face.
The Private swallows heavily and then turns to you.
"Yes Lieutenant."
Blood trickles out of his mouth when he speaks. In the bright sunlight you can see it coating his teeth.
"Clear this mess up!"
Heavy footsteps behind you herald the Commander’s arrival.
"Add these three to another line. The Lieutenant was right, we don’t perform extrajudicial killings here. We are at peace now."
He turns to you and nods.
"I’m sure you have work to do, Lieutenant?"
You salute and move off. There is still a lot more to do before the sun sets.](else:)[You do not finish your sentence. Three shots echo across the silent yard. Then the clatter of a gun falling to the ground.
The Private turns to you, his eyes wet.
"You will forgive me, won’t you?"
"Clear this mess up!"
Heavy footsteps behind you herald the Commander’s arrival.
"We don’t perform extrajudicial killings here. We are at peace now. Private, with me, we’ll find a way to make you remember that. Lieutenant, I’m sure you have work to do?"
You salute and move off. There is still a lot more to do before the sun sets.]
[[Get back to work.]]
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 3)(if: $Fear >= 0)[A single shot echoes across the yard. The Private takes a deep breath and swings his gun to his side.
He says nothing, just simply salutes you.](else:)[A single shot echoes across the yard and then silence. It takes a long time before Private finally lowers his gun.
"Yesterday. Yesterday, they ..."]
"Clear this mess up!"
Heavy footsteps behind you herald the Commander’s arrival.
"Add these two to another line. This one, what was her crime?"
You explain.
"Is that a crime at home? No, it’s not. It’s an insult, but we’re not savages, we answer insults with fists, not bullets. Not to mention that she was an unarmed woman.
I’m disappointed, Lieutenant. I understand, but I’m disappointed. Clear up the bodies yourself, and then get back to work. Private, you come with me. We’ll find some way to remind you that we’re at peace now, we neither commit nor condone extrajudicial killings."
The Commander turns smartly and you have no choice but to salute his back and carry out his orders.
[[Get back to work.]]
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 2)(if: $Fear >= 0)[Three shots echo across the silent yard and the Private turns smartly towards you.
"Enemy neutralised Sir."](else:)[Three shots echo across the silent yard. Then the clatter of a gun falling to the ground. The Private turns to you with wet eyes.
"The enemy is dead Sir."]
"Clear this mess up!"
Heavy footsteps behind you herald the Commander’s arrival.
"Lieutenant, what were their crimes?"
You explain what had happened, what the woman said. The Commander stares at the bodies.
"These three were dragged, Lieutenant. But you didn’t notice that, did you Lieutenant?
"And what the woman said, is that a crime at home? No, it’s not. It’s an insult, but we’re not savages, we answer insults with fists, not bullets. Not to mention that she was an unarmed woman.
"You’ll clear up these bodies. All of them. And then you’ll watch the rest. Clearly more security is needed here.
"Your other duties can be carried out by someone else.
"And you, Private. We don’t perform extrajudicial killings here. We are at peace now. So come with me, we’ll find a way to make you remember that."
The Commander turns smartly and you have no choice but to salute his back and carry out his orders, preparing for a long day of sweating in the hot sun.
[[Get back to work.]]
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 4)The sky is dark. You are standing on the ground floor of the north annexe. No, there is no ‘north annexe’. There is just your facility. The rest of the complex belongs to another department now, another world. You don’t see them, you don’t know them. Only a single room sits between, the only interface point between their world and yours.
You cannot even hear them here. There are no shouts or sobs, you allow yourself to acknowledge only a low hum.
You stand to the Commander’s left, Hayes to his right. All three of you look through one-way glass at a strange device. It has the rough shape of a chair - and you are told that is indeed what it is - but clamps and braces and a flexible arm arcing from the back of the chair and ending in a thick, wire-rich helmet distort its shape.
The Privates, Highfield and Emmisson, have already received instruction on how to secure clients into the chair, using each other as practice dummies. But now they have been sent to quarters and only you three are present as the Commander begins to explain what will happen when the electronics in the chair are turned on.
"Here it is. The Throne. No-one else has anything like this. They think we’re slow with science, but they only think that because we do not parade our achievements in public like they do. One day, when we decide to let them know, they will know. But until then, we shall continue to outstrip them in secret."
The Commander pauses. There was pride in his voice. Too much, too personal. He clears his throat and resumes, impassively.
"It has four functions. Release is the simplest. A simple releasing of restraints and decoupling of the helmet module from the client’s head allows the client to exit the Throne. The Release function is connected to the external door, which will simultaneously unlock."
You look to Hayes. Both of you know what that means; you were the ones responsible for altering the path of the barbed wire fence, bringing it in so that it meets the outside wall of this room, making the door behind the Throne the only one in the compound that exits directly into the outside world.
Release means freedom.
"Its second function is Hold. Also very simple. From a mechanical standpoint, the helmet module deactivates and an alert is sent back to us. Private Emmisson or Highfield will then come and retrieve the client and deposit them back in the holding space between our and the neighbouring facility."
From prisoner to client to prisoner again. Out of your hands, back into the system. This time, presumably, to stay.
"The next function is by far the most sophisticated. A true marvel.
"The third function is Question. The chair uses a combination of artificial intelligence, speech processing and advanced physical coercion, administered mostly through the helmet module but also utilising a number of other features that you do not need to be read in on, to deliver a series of questions to the client. These questions are generated by the Throne itself, not preprogrammed either by design or by our input. You may be sceptical, but I promise you, it is reliable. Both the question generation systems and the answer production systems have been thoroughly tested. I have tried the first myself, and I have seen the results of the second.
"If there is something we want to know from a client, the Throne will figure out what it is and will then find it out.
"All autonomously.
"The Throne will then execute either the second function, Hold, or the fourth, End. End simply terminates the client. Private Highfield and Emmisson will then administer a Christian burial.
"Any questions, Lieutenants?"
(link:'"No sir."')[(set: $NoSir = "True")(goto: "About the box.")]
(link:'"It is a marvel sir."')[(set: $MarvelSir = "True")(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 1)(set: $Trust = $Trust -2)(goto: "About the box.")]
(link:'"This isn’t ethical sir."')[(set: $NotEthicalSir = "True")(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 4)(set: $Trust = $Trust + 2)(goto: "About the box.")](if: $NoSir is "True")["Good](else-if: $MarvelSir is "True")["Yes, yes it is.](else:)[The Commander looks you up and down.
"I will tell you what is and is not ethical Lieutenant and I will do so only when you are required to know.
"Besides, what matters is culpability.]
"The Throne represents half of our operation here. The second half is the Box."
The Commander indicates for you to follow him and he leads you to a small side room against the back wall of which is what looks like a voting booth.
"Your job here is simple. You will review client’s cases, you will talk to them, and then you will complete the theoretical exercise. It is all part of your training."
‘Training’. You had not been told you were here to learn.
"For the theoretical exercise you will select one of five options from the Box."
The Commander beckons you forward and you see that the Box contains nothing but a single board with five buttons, an LED light and some thin colourful cables that disappear into the wall. Each button is labelled with a term you are already familiar with: Release; Hold; Question->Hold; Question->End; End.
"Once you have completed the theoretical exercise, another, off-site, individual will make their own sentencing decision. It is this decision which will be carried out.
"Is everything understood?"
(link:'"That’s it? We’re just here to make pointless decisions that don’t even matter?"')[(set: $ThatsIt = "True")(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 6)(goto: "About the box 2.")]
(link:'"Yes sir!"')[(set: $UndesratndTheBox = "True")(goto: "About the box 2.")]
(link: '"What is this training for sir, exactly?"')[(set: $WhatTraining = "True")(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 1)(goto: "About the box 2.")](if: $ThatsIt is "True")[The Commander stares into your eyes for a long time.
"You would question me, and therefore the hierarchy? The country?
"A note will be made of your lack of faith, Lieutenant. I did not think that your father would have raised a dissenter.](else-if: $WhatTraining is "True")["It is training Lieutenant. You are a high ranking individual and the country wishes to make sure that you are an ethically responsible citizen. You understand.](else:)[The Commander nods to you and Hayes, who said the same thing at the same time.]
"You will each take one of these."
The Commander hands you both a sheet of paper entitled [[//Theoretical Training Exercise Training Notes//->Theoretical Training Exercise Training Notes]].
"And your first clients."
The Commander hands you a thin envelope.
"For the security of both yourselves and your clients, we require that you surrender your firearms to me now."
The Commander holds out his hands and you both hand him your standard issue pistols.
"Good.
"Phillips, the Privates will bring your client through now. I will not usually join you for the questioning process, but I will today. Come and join us in the Throne room when you are ready."
The Commander salutes you both and leaves you alone in the small room.
Hayes turns to you, staring impassively into your eyes for a long time.
"We should read these." he says eventually.
There are seats in the control room, the room overlooking the Throne. You each have a desk, your names already written on small stickers stuck on the top.
You place the //Theoretical Training Exercise Training Notes// to one side. They will be your constant companion, you imagine. The envelope you place in the centre of the empty desk.
[[Open the envelope.]]
(set: $Notes = "True")Subject Apprehension Record
Date of issue: 04/24/2022
Arresting Officer: Sergeant Jonathan Collins
Subject: Samantha Brown
Subject occupation: Farm hand
Reasons for apprehension:
• Trespassing on restricted government land.
• Conspiracy to commit murder.
• The spread of fake news and hate speech.
• Wilful destruction of private property.
• Theft.
• Arson.
Arresting officer’s notes:
Subject was apprehended attempting to cross Provincial Military Zone U-14 on July 7th at 02:34 hours.
Upon initial questioning subject admitted to the wilful destruction of property at the farm where she had been employed, with the admitted purpose of "denying you fuckers the food you’d have stolen from us." Subject also admitted to attempting to cross PMZ U-14 to join a terrorist cell within the city.
After questioning subject was held and then transferred.
[[Finish reading.]]True to his word, the Commander is already in the room on the other side of the glass. He’s brought in a pair of folding chairs and he sits opposite the Throne, his back to you, across a small metal table from the woman who is refusing to look at him. She’s short, with long sandy hair loose and messy. Her eyes are red.
You shouldn’t keep them waiting. You walk from one corridor into another, then you are swiping a key card and walking into the room.
It’s uncomfortably hot. You knew that it would be. The woman is sweating already and you know that you’ll be joining her in a few minutes. It might look like a loss of control on your part, but that’s okay. It reminds her that you’re an animal, just like her. The cool and calm people in real control are, she will be thinking, on the other side of the two-way mirror. But they are there, thirty, forty seconds away? and she’s stuck here with you in the pit, sweating.
You take your seat and place her single sheet file in front of you. She glances towards your face and then looks away again, trying to find a new way to look superior and in control now that there are two of you.
[["Samantha, I hope that you’ve been treated well?"]]
[["Do you know why you’re here Ms Taylor?"]]
[["It says here that you’re a terrorist. Why shouldn’t we just lock you up and throw away the key?"]]She lowers her gaze but still tries to tilt her head back to give the illusion that she is looking down at you. Given the position of the Throne’s headgear, it doesn’t work.
"You think that I’m here to be treated well? I’m here because I’m a terrorist, don’t pretend you aren’t just going to just shoot me when you’ve asked all your pointless fucking questions. I’m not going to play your game!"
[["So you have nothing to say in your defence?"]]
[[Lean forward and smack her.]]
[["What exactly have you done then, if you are a terrorist?"]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)"I know exactly why I’m here. Because I’m a ‘terrorist’, a dangerous woman who would be doing everything she could to destroy you if she wasn’t trapped here waiting for you to stop toying with me and just get my execution over with."
[["So you have nothing to say in your defence?"]]
[[Lean forward and smack her.]]
[["What exactly have you done then, if you are a terrorist?"]]"I //am// a terrorist. If it wasn’t for these restraints I’d be fucking ripping your throats out right now, you murdering scum."
[["So you have nothing to say in your defence?"]]
[[Lean forward and smack her.]]
[["What exactly have you done then, if you are a terrorist?"]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear + 1)She laughs, the sound cold and desperate.
"Why would I want to justify myself to you? You came into my home, you killed my parents, my friends, you destroyed our city, you say our way of life is fake, is a lie, and now you want me to justify myself to you?"
[["I don’t care. Just tell me exactly what you did to end up here."]]
[["We liberated you. The fact that you say these things just proves how much you need us, how poisoned you are by Western lies."]]
[["We only killed rebels. If your parents died, that means they resisted their true government. We keep order."]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear - 1)She lets out a yelp as her head hits the back of the Throne’s headgear. The whole structure shakes with the force of it. Her eyes go wide, but she neither cries nor shouts.
"You want your fun before you kill me? You fucking monsters. You came into my home, you killed my parents, my friends, you destroyed our city, you say our way of life is fake, is a lie, and now you’re playing with me before you kill me. Of course you are everything that we believe you are."
[["I don’t care. Just tell me exactly what you did to end up here."]]
[["We liberated you. The fact that you say these things just proves how much you need us, how poisoned you are by Western lies."]]
[["We only killed rebels. If your parents died, that means they resisted their true government. We keep order."]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear + 1)The woman narrows her eyes.
"You came into my home, you killed my parents, my friends, you destroyed our city, you say our way of life is fake, is a lie. I would do everything I could do to hurt you back."
[["I didn’t ask you what you would do, I asked you what you actually did do. Answer the question."->"I don’t care. Just tell me exactly what you did to end up here."]]
[["We liberated you. The fact that you say these things just proves how much you need us, how poisoned you are by Western lies."]]
[["We only killed rebels. If your parents died, that means they resisted their true government. We keep order."]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)The woman’s eyes bulge and she looks for a moment as if she has bitten into something tart. She takes several deep breaths, but her voice still isn’t level when she spits out:
"I’m sure you’ve got some kind of file on me. You tell me what I’ve done."
[["Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]
[["What did you do while you were on government land?"]]
[["You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)The woman smirks.
"Deluded fuckhead."
You feel the Commander’s leg nudge you under the table. Time to move on.
[["Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]
[["What did you do while you were on government land?"]]
[["You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded - 1)Something flicks across the young woman’s face. She clamps her jaws together so firmly that you can only imagine it hurts, but there is no sign of it on her face.
Eventually she just shakes her head.
"If it weren’t for this chair."
She does not say more.
You feel the Commander’s leg nudge you under the table. Time to move on.
[["Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]
[["What did you do while you were on government land?"]]
[["You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear + 1)"I worked there and I worked fucking hard.(if: $1CGoaded > 2)[ And trained fucking hard too.](if: $1CFear < 3)[ Look at you, you haven’t worked a day in your life. Got all your money from bribes and cash that ‘went missing’?] We were building a country where we all work and we get to keep what we make. We were struggling but what we had was ours, we don’t want your fucking fascism!"
(link: '"I asked what you did on the farm, what you did to the food. Answer the question. Now."')[(set: $1CFear = $1CFear + 1)(goto: '"Tell me about the farm."')]
[["I’ve seen what you people produced while you were ‘free’. I wasn’t impressed. Even with all that Western charity you didn’t do anything worthwhile."]]
[["But why struggle on your own? We are your brothers and sisters. If we work together, we can create something much grander!"]]
(if: $1CTrespass is not "True")[[["This isn’t getting us anywhere. Tell me about what you did while you were on government land."->"What did you do while you were on government land?"]]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["This isn’t getting us anywhere. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CTrespass is "True" and $1CTerrorist is "True")[[["This isn’t getting us anywhere. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]]
(set: $1CLastVisit = "FarmBeginning")
(set: $1CFarm = "True")(if: $1CFear > 4)["Nothing. I didn’t do anything. All I tried to do was get through. There were some tanks I found, I hid behind, I think they must have run out of fuel, they were just sitting there. I wanted to do something to them, sabotage them or rig them to explode or something but I didn’t know how so I just left them.
"Please, if you actually care about anything that I say, believe that I tell you that I did nothing, I just tried to get through."
[["You were inside an enemy camp, with access to their heavy weapons, and you did nothing? What kind of pathetic terrorist are you?"]]
[["You expect me to believe that?"]]](else-if: $1CGoaded > 3)["I did what I could for my country. I sabotaged some tanks. Rigged them to explode."
"The tanks behind which you set up camp? Don’t think we didn’t find your nest." The Commander’s voice is neutral, the threat of the words highlighted by the lack of any perceivable threat in the tone. The woman blinks several times and blushes.
"No, other tanks."
"This interview is suspended. Lieutenant." The Commander stands and beckons you to follow him out of the room. You stand in the corridor while he leaves to make calls, returning just twenty minutes later.
"She’s lying. All hardware has either already been transported or has been checked since her apprehension. The only vehicles which were tampered with have already been linked to other groups. We may resume."
You resume your seats in the room. The woman sees your faces and immediately blushes.
[["You understand that lying to us is an offence in itself, yes?"]]
[["I don’t know why you would lie to us, but if you are going to lie, don’t be so bad at it."]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["I have other questions. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["I have other questions. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
[["I have heard enough from you. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]](else:)["Wouldn’t you like to know."
[["I hope you realise that withholding information from us is a criminal offence in its own right. An act of treason. So I ask again: what did you do while trespassing on government land?"]]
[["So I presume nothing but get caught then?"]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["Let us see if you are capable of answering another question. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["Let us see if you are capable of answering another question. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
[["I do not need to play games with you. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]]
(set: $1CTrespass to "True")(if: $1CGoaded > 5)[The woman tries to sit up straighter in the Throne, but the headpiece keeps her slouched.
"There was a cell of freedom fighters, a group of us who are proud that you think of us as terrorists. We want you to be terrified of us. I’d been talking to them over the internet. I was going to meet them in the central theatre, I can tell you that because I know they will have moved out of there by now, but they’ll still be going, still be killing your friends. We-"
"She is lying to you Lieutenant." The Commander’s voice is soft, almost sorrowful at how easily he dismantles the woman’s words. "We have had an agent within the central theatre for several months. It was deemed an important part of maintaining cultural coherence. If there had been a terrorist cell operating out of that building, we would know."
You look from the Commander to the woman. Her face is red and her eyes are wide.
"I’m not lying." she whimpers, not meeting your eyes.
[["You will tell me where they really meet. You will either do so now, or you will do so later, when I have shown you what this chair can do."->"You will tell us everything you know. You will either do it now, or you will do it later, when I have shown you what this chair can do."]]
[["Am I to understand that the entire cell is a fantasy?"]]
[["I believe you Samantha. Now I want you to tell me more."]]](else-if: $1CFear > 6)[A long pause and then a single tear.
"I lied.
"I don’t really know why. I guess, I…
"Please, please let it go. Let me go.
"Oh fuck I’m so weak.
"I didn’t do anything. I just did the stuff on the farm. I don’t know any terrorists, I just wish I did.
"I really hate you. All of you. I wish I could have blown myself to bits and taken you with me. I really wish I could rip your throats out.
"I didn’t do any of that. And I won’t now.
"I’m innocent. So fuck this. Fuck you. I’m done. I don’t want to fucking die and I didn’t do anything that should get me killed. But you don’t care. You just want to sit there and humiliate me and wear me down. Do you want me to cry out for help? Shit myself? Do you want me to admit that I’m nothing before you, that everything I did was fucking pointless?
"I didn’t do anything. I burnt down a barn. That’s fucking it.
"That’s all I have to say. You’ll do what you want with me. What I do doesn’t matter, does it? That’s all that this is about, you getting yourselves hard before you shoot me.
"I won’t play. Fuck you. Kill another innocent. What does it matter to you. Go on. Do it."
It doesn’t matter what you say, she meets it with silence. It’s not her place to end the interview, but the interview is over. If you want more from her, you will have to force it out of her.
[[Leave.->"This interview is terminated."]]](else:)[The woman laughs.
"You really think I’m going to give you details? You really think I’d give anything up like that.
"You’re morons.
"And you’re morons if you think I know much. I did stuff for them, sure, but all I had was a contact number. I managed to try it just after I got caught, your idiot soldiers didn’t take my phone, and the number was already disconnected. So I can’t give you anything and I won’t give you anything.
"Idiots."(if: $1CFear > 5)[
She holds her composure for only a moment longer before beginning to shake, before the implications of her own words hit.]
[["You will tell us everything you know. You will either do it now, or you will do it later, when I have shown you what this chair can do."]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["If you won’t tell me that, then you will tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
(if: $1CTrespass is not "True")[[["If you won’t tell me about that, then you will tell me what you did while you were on government land."->"What did you do while you were on government land?"]]]
[["I think I’ve heard enough. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]]
(set: $1CTerrorist = "True")"Charity? It wasn’t charity, it was investment. We had a future with them, we did business with companies across Europe. We were getting somewhere.
"We were."
[["Sure you were. Now tell me about what you did on the farm."->"Tell me about the farm."]]
[["You were struggling in the dirt while we built an empire. You were nothing, a hanger-on to the dying Western way of life. Now you are part of everything."->"We are building an empire."]]
[["You were poor while we are rich. We are strong on our own, the West needs us but we don’t need them. We don’t need to ‘get’ somewhere. We are already there. They did everything they could to ‘save’ you from us. But for all their money and ‘freedoms’, we won."]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)"Grander? I don’t want something grand. I want my freedom and my family back. Why the fuck would I want your grandeur?"
[["The rest of the world is soft, we are strong. Their empires are collapsing while ours is rising. You are part of that now."->"We are building an empire."]]
[["You will be safe with us, safe from the corrupting poison of the west."]]
[["I don’t care what you want. I asked you about the farm. So tell me what you actually did there."->"Tell me about the farm."]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded - 1)The woman silently watches you leave the room.
"Consult the notes if you need to Lieutenant and wait in the operations room. You will be alerted when it is time to use the Box."
[[Wait.->Use Box first time.]](if: $1CFear is > 3)[The woman takes a deep, shaky breath.
]"It was a cattle farm. We were one of the largest producers of beef in the country. But because of your fucking war, there were a few weeks when we just kept slaughtering but no-one came to pick up the meat. We could deal with that, we just froze it all. But each day I’d wake up and there would be fewer and fewer of us. I know some were patriots, running away so they could pick up their guns and shoot some of you down. Some were just cowards. I don’t know why I stayed, I should have left. But someone had to stay, someone had to do what I did.
"The owner wasn’t even there. Rich fucker, I think he ran away to the south as soon as you were at our borders. Just expected us to keep going while he hid. Well, he wasn’t there and one day I woke up and saw that I was the only one left.
"I didn’t know how close you were. I got some stuff from social media, so I knew you weren’t far, but I didn’t know exactly. Still, no point waiting, was there? We had lots of fuel for all the equipment. I went into our storage rooms and lit it up. Then I shot all the cows that were still alive. I hope they had begun to rot by the time you got to them.
"It was simple. The Manager, coward that he is, would have agreed. Better burnt to the ground than feeding the murderers of his countrymen."
[["You deliberately destroyed food in the hopes of starving your fellow men and women? It seems to me that you are the monster."]]
[["That’s it? Your great act of terrorism was just burning some steaks and killing some cows?"]]
[["Arson, destruction of private property and the conspiracy to commit murder through starvation. Even under your own corrupt laws those are very real, very serious crimes with very serious punishments."]]
(if: $1CTrespass is not "True")[[["Understood. Now tell me about what you did while you were on government land."->"What did you do while you were on government land?"]]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["Understood. Now I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
[["That’s all I need to hear. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]
(set: $1CLastVisit = "FarmEnd")"What, like some ancient king? It’s the twenty-first century, who wants an empire now?"
The Commander clears his throat. You’re off track, get back on it.
[["Tell me about the farm."]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded - 1)The woman does not speak for several seconds. Eventually:
"Peace is its own strength," is all that she can manage.
[[That is all you have to say? But we are getting off topic. Tell me about what you did on the farm.->"Tell me about the farm."]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear + 1)
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)"What corrupting poison? I don’t even know what you’re talking about, you sound like my grandfather. He was mad too."
The Commander clears his throat. You’re off track, get back on it.
[["Tell me about the farm."]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded - 1)(if: $1CFear > 3)["No, no it’s just what you do in war. It’s just what is done, isn’t it? You have rations and stuff, you didn’t need our beef. I was just stopping you stealing what was ours. I’d have done the same if I worked in a shop or a factory. You can’t call it murder, it’s not that."
(if: $1CTrespass is not "True")[[["That will be for me to decide. Now tell me about what you did while you were on government land."->"What did you do while you were on government land?"]]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["That will be for me to decide. Now I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
[["That will be for me to decide. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear + 1)](else:)["Yes, yes I am. I’m a monster and a terrorist. And I’d still be doing it if I wasn’t strapped to this chair. So let’s get this all over with."
(if: $1CTrespass is not "True")[[["We’re not done yet. Tell me about what you did while you were on government land."->"What did you do while you were on government land?"]]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["We’re not done yet. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
[["Fine, have it your way. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)]"That was just the start. I’ve done more!"
(if: $1CTrespass is not "True")[[["Tell me about it then. What did you do while you were on government land?"->"What did you do while you were on government land?"]]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["Tell me about it then. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
[["I don’t need to hear more. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)"Yes, I know. (if: $1CFear > 2)[But it wasn’t like that. You have rations and stuff, you didn’t need our beef. I was just stopping you stealing what was ours, protecting the owner’s property by stopping you getting it. I’d have done the same if I worked in a shop or a factory. You can’t call it murder, it’s not that. And it’s not destruction of property or arson either, the owner would have wanted it. It’s not illegal to burn your own stuff, that’s all I was doing!"]
(if: $1CTrespass is not "True")[[["Regardless, I still have more questions. Tell me what you did while you were on government land."->"What did you do while you were on government land?"]]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["Regardless, I still have more questions. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
[["I don’t need to hear more. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear + 1)The woman meets your eyes for a long time.
"A failed one, I guess."
[["Or even not a terrorist at all?"]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["Pathetic. But I have other questions. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["Pathetic. But I have other questions. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
[["You are pathetic. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)"There is no evidence that she is not telling the truth." The commander’s voice is neutral, the words merely statements of fact. "All hardware has either already been transported or has been checked since her apprehension. The only vehicles which were tampered with have already been linked to other groups."
The woman lets out a long breath.
[["So you really did have access to our military machinery and did nothing with it. You are a pathetic terrorist." ->"You were inside an enemy camp, with access to their heavy weapons, and you did nothing? What kind of pathetic terrorist are you?"]]
[["Good, I’m glad to told us the truth."]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["Fine. I have more questions. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["Fine. I have more questions. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
[["Understood. I have heard all I need to hear. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]"Why should I care?"
Her eyes betray her.
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["Let me give you another chance to tell the truth. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["Let me give you another chance to tell the truth. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
[["If that is how you think, then I see no reason to continue. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear + 1)"If you already know all the answers, why the fuck are you asking me?(if: $Fear > 3 and $Goaded < 4)[](else:)[ Or did I actually scare you for a minute there? I bet I did.]"
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["Let me give you another chance to tell the truth. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["Let me give you another chance to tell the truth. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
[["You cannot scare us. We are in control here. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)The woman thinks for a long time before answering.
(if: $1CFear > 3)["Nothing. I didn’t do anything. All I tried to do was get through. There were some tanks I found, I hid behind, I think they must have run out of fuel, they were just sitting there. I wanted to do something to them, sabotage them or rig them to explode or something but I didn’t know how so I just left them.
"Please, if you actually care about anything that I say, believe that I tell you that I did nothing, I just tried to get through."
[["You were inside an enemy camp, with access to their heavy weapons, and you did nothing? What kind of pathetic terrorist are you?"]]
[["You expect me to believe that?"]]](else:)["If you’re not capable of finding out what I did there on your own, I don’t see why I should tell you. I won’t do anything to help you."
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["I will give you one more chance with another question. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["I will give you one more chance with another question. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
[["If that is the way you think, then there is no point in continuing. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear + 1)The woman bites her lower lip, clearly angry.
(if: $1CGoaded > 2)["I did what I could for my country. I sabotaged some tanks. Rigged them to explode."
"The tanks behind which you set up camp? Don’t think we didn’t find your nest." The Commander’s voice is neutral, the threat of the words highlighted by the lack of any perceivable threat in the tone. The woman blinks several times and blushes.
"No, other tanks."
"This interview is suspended. Lieutenant." The Commander stands and beckons you to follow him out of the room. You stand in the corridor while he leaves to make calls, returning just twenty minutes later.
"She’s lying. All hardware has either already been transported or has been checked since her apprehension. The only vehicles which had been tampered with have already been linked to other groups. We may resume."
You resume your seats in the room. The woman sees your faces and immediately blushes.
[["You understand that lying to us is an offence in itself, yes?"]]
[["I don’t know why you would lie to us, but if you are going to lie, don’t be so bad at it."]]
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["I have other questions. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["I have other questions. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]](else:)["If you’re not capable of finding out what I did there on your own, I don’t see why I should tell you. I won’t do anything to help you."
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["I will give you one more chance with another question. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["I will give you one more chance with another question. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
[["If that is the way you think, then there is no point in continuing. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)(if: $1CGoaded > 4)["Listen. Fuck this. Fuck you. I’m done. I don’t want to fucking die and I didn’t do anything that should get me killed. But you don’t care. You just want to sit there and humiliate me and wear me down. Do you want me to cry out for help? Shit myself? Do you want me to admit that I’m nothing before you, that everything I did was fucking pointless?
"I didn’t do anything. I burnt down a barn. That’s fucking it.
"That’s all I have to say. You’ll do what you want with me. What I do doesn’t matter, does it? That’s all that this is about, you getting yourselves hard before you shoot me.
"I won’t play. Fuck you. Kill another innocent. What does it matter to you. Go on. Do it."
It doesn’t matter what you say, she meets it with silence. It’s not her place to end the interview, but the interview is over. If you want more from her, you will have to force it out of her.
[[Leave.->"This interview is terminated."]]](else:)["Does it matter what I say? You’ll think what you’ll think and you’ll do what you do. So get on with it."
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["I do have further questions. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["I do have further questions. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
[["You are right, I do choose what happens here. So this interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]]
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded + 1)"Why would I have lied?"
(if: $1CTerrorist is not "True")[[["You had no reason to. Now I have more questions. I know you were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."->"You were planning to join up with a cell within the city. Give me details."]]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["You had no reason to. Now I have more questions. Tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
[["You had no reason to. Now I have heard all I need to hear. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear - 1)(if: $1CFear > 5)[A long pause and then a single tear.
"I can’t, I…"
Another pause
"I lied.
"I don’t really know why. I guess, I…
"Please, please let it go. Let me go.
"Oh fuck I’m so weak.
"I didn’t do anything. I just did the stuff on the farm. I don’t know any terrorists, I just wish I did.
"I really hate you. All of you. I wish I could have blown myself to bits and taken you with me. I really wish I could rip your throats out.
"I didn’t do any of that. And I won’t now.
"I’m innocent. So fuck this. Fuck you. I’m done. I don’t want to fucking die and I didn’t do anything that should get me killed. But you don’t care. You just want to sit there and humiliate me and wear me down. Do you want me to cry out for help? Shit myself? Do you want me to admit that I’m nothing before you, that everything I did was fucking pointless?
"I didn’t do anything. I burnt down a barn. That’s fucking it.
"That’s all I have to say. You’ll do what you want with me. What I do doesn’t matter, does it? That’s all that this is about, you getting yourselves hard before you shoot me.
"I won’t play. Fuck you. Kill another innocent. What does it matter to you. Go on. Do it."
It doesn’t matter what you say, she meets it with silence. It’s not her place to end the interview, but the interview is over. If you want more from her, you will have to force it out of her.
[[Leave.->"This interview is terminated."]]](else:)[The woman closes her eyes, takes a deep breath.
"Then you will be showing me what this chair can do."
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["Fine. If I have to wait for those answers, perhaps for now you will tell me about the farm and what you did there."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
(if: $1CTrespass is not "True")[[[" Fine. If I have to wait for those answers, perhaps for now you will tell me about what you did while you were on government land."->"What did you do while you were on government land?"]]]
[["Then this interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear + 1)]The woman stays silent for a long time.
"I can’t be nothing. I refuse to let you make me nothing."
Those are the last words she says. It does not matter what you say, she is finished. It’s not her place to end the interview, but the interview is over. If you want more from her, you will have to force it out of her.
[[Leave.->"This interview is terminated."]]She looks at you with something almost like hope.
"No." The word is little more than a whisper, but when she repeats it it comes out harder, filled with confidence. "No. No I won’t. I’m no traitor. I have people to protect. I will give you nothing.
"You really think I’m going to give you details? You really think I’d give up anything like that.
"You’re morons.
"And you’re morons if you think I know much. I did stuff for them, sure, but all I had was a contact number. I managed to try it just after I got caught, your idiot soldiers didn’t take my phone, and the number was already disconnected. So I can’t give you anything and I won’t give you anything.
"Idiots."(if: $1CFear > 5)[
She holds her composure for only a moment longer before beginning to shake, before the implications of her own words hit.]
[["You will tell us everything you know. You will either do it now, or you will do it later, when I have shown you what this chair can do."]]
(if: $1CFarm is not "True")[[["If you won’t tell me that, then you will tell me about the farm and what you did there instead."->"Start by telling me about the farm and what you did there."]]]
(if: $1CTrespass is not "True")[[["If you won’t tell me about that, then you will tell me what you did while you were on government land instead."->"What did you do while you were on government land?"]]]
[["I think I’ve heard enough. This interview is terminated."->"This interview is terminated."]]
(set: $1CFear = $1CFear - 1)
(set: $1CGoaded = $1CGoaded - 1)"Lieutenant." The Commander stands behind you. You didn’t hear him enter. "It’s time."
He nods gently towards the door leading to the small room with the Box, and then leaves.
The room is exactly as it was a few hours ago. A small booth and five buttons.
(link:"Release")[(set: $FirstBoxPress = "Release")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 1")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 1")]]
(link:"Hold")[(set: $FirstBoxPress = "Hold")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 1")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 1")]]
(link:"End")[(set: $FirstBoxPress = "End")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 1")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 1")]]
(link:"Question->Hold")[(set: $FirstBoxPress = "Question Hold")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 1")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 1")]]
(link:"Question->End")[(set: $FirstBoxPress = "Question End")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 1")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 1")]](if: $2Player is "True")[{//If you have not just already done so, send your partner the number $FirstNumber.//}
]The door opens, Mr Smith smiling on the other side.
"Good good Mrs Druar. I believe Mr Schmidt will be ready for you now."
You don’t talk on the very short walk back to the offices and he leaves you in the foyer, where Mateo Schmidt is indeed already waiting for you. Mr Smith apologises for keeping Mr Schmidt waiting and then disappears into an elevator compartment.
"Hi, it’s good to see you again Mrs Druar. Or can I call you Caroline? I don’t want to assume, but to call you either is making an assumption one way or another really, isn’t it?"
(link:'"Mrs Druar is fine."')[(set: $Name = "Mrs Druar")(goto: "Name is fine.")]
(link:'"Caroline is fine."')[(set: $Name = "Caroline")(goto: "Name is fine.")]The button pushes easily. The LED turns (if: $FirstBoxPress is "Release")[''Orange.''](else-if: $FirstBoxPress is "Hold")[''Purple.''](else-if: $FirstBoxPress is "End")[''Yellow.''](else-if: $FirstBoxPress is "Question Hold")[''Pink.''](else-if: $FirstBoxPress is "Question End")[''Blue.'']
//Send your partner the word in bold (the colour). Then select the number that they send back.//
(link:"1")[(set: $FirstBoxResult = "End")(goto: "Box result 1")]
(link:"2")[(set: $FirstBoxResult = "Question Hold")(goto: "Box result 1")]
(link:"3")[(set: $FirstBoxResult = "Question End")(goto: "Box result 1")]
(link:"4")[(set: $FirstBoxResult = "Hold")(goto: "Box result 1")]
(link:"5")[(set: $FirstBoxResult = "Release")(goto: "Box result 1")]{(if: $2Player is not "True")[
(set: $Chance = (random: 1, 100))
(if: $Chance < 76)[(set: $FirstBoxResult = $FirstBoxPress)](else:)[(set: $Options = (shuffled: "End", "Question Hold", "Question End", "Hold", "Release")) (set: $Options = $Options - (a: $FirstBoxPress)) (set: $FirstBoxResult = $Options's 1st)]
(if: $FirstBoxPress is $FirstBoxResult)[(set: $PressMatch = $PressMatch + 1)]
]}You leave the box and return to the operations room. The Commander and Lieutenant Hayes are already there looking through the two way mirror, the first with his arms folded across his chest, the other with his hands clasped tightly behind his back.
You join them.
It does not take long before something happens. (if: $FirstBoxResult is "End")[A light turns on on top of the helmet. A moment passes. The woman goes limp.
The Commander nods once.{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 2)}](else-if: $FirstBoxResult is "Question Hold")[An electronic voice booms from the room:
"Give us the names or aliases of the individuals you were in contact with within terrorist group."
A fraction of a second passes and the woman begins to scream.
The Commander leans forward and taps at a screen mounted to the wall.
"Question->Hold. She will almost certainly survive. I am afraid that I must insist that you do not watch the questioning. What happens now is the responsibility of other departments, departments with which the Throne will liaise. If there is any relevant information, it will be passed back to you."{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)}](else-if: $FirstBoxResult is "Question End")[An electronic voice booms from the room:
"Give us the names or aliases of the individuals you were in contact with within terrorist group."
A fraction of a second passes and the woman begins to scream.
The Commander leans forward and taps at a screen mounted to the wall.
"Question->End. I am afraid that I must insist that you do not watch the questioning. What happens now is the responsibility of other departments, departments with which the Throne will liaise. If there is any relevant information, it will be passed back to you."{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 4)}](else-if: $FirstBoxResult is "Hold")[Or, rather, it does not take long before it is clear that nothing will happen. A screen attached to the wall lights up, a single word written in large block capitals: HOLD. The Commander leans forward and taps at the screen a few times. A moment later you hear a door opening and Private Highfield walks into the room. A few taps by the Commander later and the woman is free from the chair and being led away.{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 4)}](else:)[There are two clicks. The first is from the chair and the second is from the door.
The woman sits for at least a minute more, slowly testing the limits of her freedom. When she does stand, she does so quickly, flowing out of the Throne and moving in a zig-zag line for the open door. Then she’s gone, out into the sunlight.
The Commander nods once.{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 6)}]
"I will talk to you later Lieutenant. For now you are dismissed."
[[Return to barracks.]]The Commander knocks on your door as the sun is beginning to set.
(if: $FirstBoxResult is "End")["At ease Lieutenant. You made a difficult decision today. If indeed the result does correlate with the decision you made. I am not going to ask if it did. I also hope that, if the decision made did match the one you made, you did not make it out of convenience. I don’t believe that the woman was a terrorist. I don’t believe that she was a threat. But that is a subjective estimation of the facts of the case. The decision was yours and perhaps you were simply attempting to ‘play it safe’. But don’t let it set a precedent. Executions carry their own risks.
"But enough. The decision was made. You will receive a few days rest. I will inform you when the next exercise will take place.
"Dismissed."](else-if: $FirstBoxResult is "Question Hold")["At ease Lieutenant. I’ve merely come to tell you that the woman was not involved with any terrorist cells. She confessed to fabricating the story. A personal need to feel important, I believe. The destruction of property on the farm and the trespass on military land is still more than enough to warrant holding her, however.
"I am not sure that the questioning was necessary. The interview should have sufficed. Unnecessary questioning produces its own threats to cohesion. But I do not strongly disapprove of the decision that was made, whether it correlates with the decision you made or not.
"But enough. The decision was made. You will receive a few days rest. I will inform you when the next exercise will take place.
"Dismissed."](else-if: $FirstBoxResult is "Question End")["I’ve come to tell you that the woman was not involved with any terrorist cells. She confessed to fabricating the story. A personal need to feel important, I believe. The destruction of property on the farm and the trespass on military land do not, I think you will agree, warrant the death penalty.
"The interview should have sufficed to establish the falsehood of her story. If the decision that you made correlates with the result that was carried out, I would point to the extreme nature of the response given the information available. Safety is of course one concern, but executions, and the kind of questioning methods employed by the Throne, produce threats to cohesion of their own.
"But enough. The decision was made. There will not be another exercise for a few days. In the meantime you are to assist Privates Emmisson and Highfield with their duties.
"Dismissed."](else-if: $FirstBoxResult is "Hold")["At ease Lieutenant. I am just here to pay a courtesy call. I do not know if the decision you made correlates with the decision that was carried out. I am not going to ask if it did. But I do approve of the action taken. I do not believe that woman was a terrorist. Nor do I believe that she represents the kind of risk that cannot be contained. Safety is of course one concern, but executions, and the kind of questioning methods employed by the Throne, produce threats to cohesion themselves. It is best to avoid them unless they are necessary.
"But enough. The decision was made. You will receive a few days rest. I will inform you when the next exercise will take place.
"Dismissed."](else:)["I have come to tell you that the woman is being successfully tracked. It will take quite a bit of manpower while she is making her way to areas of higher intelligence asset saturation, which of course are the areas where she holds the potential to cause the most damage.
"I doubt she will let the opportunity pass. She will be rearrested, but there is always the chance that we will have to wait until after she has committed an act of sabotage. New evidence will have to be collected.
"I do not know if the decision you made correlates with the decision that was carried out. I am not going to ask if it did. But you should know I disapprove. I do not think that she represented the kind of threat that could not be contained, but I can see no benefit to the safety of our country in releasing her.
"But enough. The decision was made. There will not be another exercise for a few days. In the meantime you are to assist Privates Emmisson and Highfield with their duties.
"Dismissed."]
[[Let the days pass.]]"Well $Name, I’ve finished with work for the day and I’m starving. Do you know anywhere good to eat? Anywhere at all, I’ve had a day full of making decisions and I’d love for someone else to choose something for me."
Of course you know places. You’ve lived here for years, years of birthdays and Christopher’s work events. And you’ve done your research. You have a selection. You had expected him to pick one, but it seems that task has fallen to you.
[[The restaurant where most of Christopher’s work dinners take place, the one that people go to in order to be seen.]]
[[The small late night cafe you used to go to with Sandy and Daniel. The one that’s cheap but nice and cosy.]]
[[The European style diner that you found online, which should serve all of the foods that Mr Schmidt is used to.]]Your clothes are modest but acceptable and Mr Schmidt’s accent will make up enough for the lack of tailoring in his business suit to get you through the door. The car ride over, in a black, tinted-windowed government car, complete with driver, is short and taken up mostly by Mr Schmidt getting a call from his IMF employers. He apologises profusely before picking up, but he explains that he really can’t avoid it. He does seem genuinely annoyed.
Bouncers greet you at the door and you are shown to a table near the back, an embarrassment Mr Schmidt either does not notice or does not care about. The chairs, each subtly unique black leather thrones, are uncomfortable. The music is just a little too loud, the lights just a little too low. Mr Schmidt looks awkward, but he smiles at you when he catches you looking at him.
"This seems very trendy.
"But yes, sorry about that phone call. I promise you, I’m all yours for the evening.
"So, $Name, tell me about yourself. What makes you, you?"
[["I went to school, I got a degree in economics, and now I’m a housewife."]]
[["I have two children, Sandy is the eldest and Daniel is the youngest. They’re both at university now."]]
[["My husband is a parliamentary candidate for one of the opposition parties."]]You are perhaps slightly overdressed, and Mr Schmidt’s business suit won’t fit in at all with the dad jeans and kid’s super hero T-shirts, but its also the kind of place where that really doesn’t matter. The car ride over, in a black, tinted-windowed government car, complete with driver, is short and taken up mostly by Mr Schmidt getting a call from his IMF employers. He apologises profusely before picking up, but he explains that he really can’t avoid it. He does seem genuinely annoyed.
You’re greeted at the door by one of the proprietor’s sons, whom you’ve watched grow from a spotty teenager into a happily married family man. He recognises you instantly, raising a playful eyebrow at the car you have climbed out of, but makes no comment as he leads you to a table in the centre of the room. The old chairs creak slightly as you sit down at the chipped tables. The sounds of families enjoying themselves echoes off the wooden walls and the candle-light makes everything swim gently. Mr Schmidt looks horribly out of place, but as he looks around he smiles.
"Thank god! I was worried you might take me somewhere stuffy.
"It’s been a long time since I’ve had good traditional food here.
"But yes, sorry about that phone call. I promise you, I’m all yours for the evening.
"So, $Name, tell me about yourself. What makes you, you?"
[["I went to school, I got a degree in economics, and now I’m a housewife."]]
[["I have two children, Sandy is the eldest and Daniel is the youngest. They’re both at university now."]]
[["My husband is a parliamentary candidate for one of the opposition parties."]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 1)
(set: $GoodRestaurant = "True")The car ride over, in a black, tinted-windowed government car, complete with driver, is short and taken up mostly by Mr Schmidt getting a call from his IMF employers. He apologises profusely before picking up, but he explains that he really can’t avoid it. He does seem genuinely annoyed.
The diner, when you arrive, is the brightest building on the street. It looks like Nighthawks by way of Hello Kitty, everything in bright plastic white and pink. All of the clientele, you realise as plastic-coated fold-out menus are slid in front of you, are locals.
"Oh, an American style diner with the signature dish ‘Strudel with Yorkshire Pudding’. Interesting…
"But never mind that, I’m sorry about that phone call. I promise you, I’m all yours for the evening.
"So, $Name, tell me about yourself. What makes you, you?"
[["I went to school, I got a degree in economics, and now I’m a housewife."]]
[["I have two children, Sandy is the eldest and Daniel is the youngest. They’re both at university now."]]
[["My husband is a parliamentary candidate for one of the opposition parties."]]"Do you think you could fit any more in one short sentence?
"But economics! I mean, obviously my love. But you didn’t carry on with it?"
[["It wasn’t for me, not creative enough."]]
[["It’s difficult to work and manage a household."]]
[["I’d love to do more. But I’ve never had the opportunity."]]
(set: $ToldEconomics = "True")"Oh, good. You must have been a young mother.
"I’m sorry, how incredibly rude of me! All I meant was that you look young." He grins at his own clumsiness. "Well, your children. At university now. Are you proud of them? Or just glad to get them out of the house?"
[["I miss them. Everything feels much more grey without them at home."]]
[["I worry about them. Sandy will be okay but Daniel is getting involved in some dangerous politics."]]
[["I’m very proud of them, both going out and building their own lives."]]
(set: $ToldChildren = "True")"An opposition politician? Are you worried?"
[["He’s constructive. He wants to build on what the President has done, not criticise it."]]
[["His main contact is a fixer for the President’s party. They work in tandem; he’ll be fine."]]
[["He’s never won an election and I doubt he ever will. He will be safe."]]
(set:$ToldHusband = "True")"I can understand that. It does get there, eventually. Sort of. It depends what you do. I get to have fun with it, looking at ways that systems can be twisted around, how they can be made to fit with different people and different situations. But you’re right, it’s not as directly creative as something like (if: $ToldCooking is "True")[cooking](else:)[dancing]. But even there you’re still performing within limitations.(if: not ($ToldChildren or $ToldHusband is "True"))[
"Sorry, you got an economist talking about his work, always a mistake. I wanted to know more about you, not hear my own voice. I get quite enough of that at work."
[["I have two children, Sandy is the eldest and Daniel is the youngest. They’re both at university now."]]
[["My husband is a parliamentary candidate for one of the opposition parties."]]](else:)["
The waitress comes and takes your orders before he can finish his thought.
"So, what made you want to become a guide?" He resumes after she is gone.
[["Money."]]
[["My husband wanted me to take this job."]]
[["I wanted to go out and do something and this opportunity fell into my lap."]]]"Yes. Yes I know that." He pauses for only a moment before composing himself. "There are never enough hours in the day, are there? Did you know that the real economic value of unpaid housework globally is around eleven trillion dollars? That’s higher than the GDP of every country in the world bar America, China and India. It’s insane. And people don’t even notice." Again, he looks away, lost for a moment in a memory.(if: not ($ToldChildren or $ToldHusband is "True"))[
"But I’m just talking about my job. I wanted to know more about you, not hear my own voice. I get quite enough of that at work."
[["I have two children, Sandy is the eldest and Daniel is the youngest. They’re both at university now."]]
[["My husband is a parliamentary candidate for one of the opposition parties."]]](else:)["
The waitress arrives to take your orders before he can come back to the present.
"So, what made you want to become a guide?" He resumes after she is gone.
[["Money."]]
[["My husband wanted me to take this job."]]
[["I wanted to go out and do something and this opportunity fell into my lap."]]]"Life does that, doesn’t it? I like to think that it’s a way of spotting the good people. If someone’s gone out and got their dream, there is no way they didn’t step on some people along the way. Or at least, you know, get a leg up from someone else. But if they didn’t achieve their dream, it probably means they gave it up for someone else. To be someone else’s support.(if: not ($ToldChildren or $ToldHusband is "True"))[
"Sorry, that was heavy. I didn’t mean for it to be. I wanted to know more about you, tell me more about you.
[["I have two children, Sandy is the eldest and Daniel is the youngest. They’re both at university now."]]
[["My husband is a parliamentary candidate for one of the opposition parties."]]](else:)["
The waitress comes and takes your orders before he can finish his thought.
"So, anyway, what made you want to become a guide?" He resumes after she is gone.
[["Money."]]
[["My husband wanted me to take this job."]]
[["I wanted to go out and do something and this opportunity fell into my lap."]]]He nods, his face neutral.
"I don’t know what I was expecting. I should have done. I’m the economist.
"I think there are two types of us. Economists, that is. Those who know that everything happens because of money and those who know that the first group is right but wish they were wrong. We’re like reverse alchemists, that last group, finding the value of everything but wishing to find that mythical thing that can’t be valued.
"Not that I’m trying to demean you, please don’t think that. You think I work my soul-crushing job because I want to? No, if something as cold as money can bring us two together for this lovely evening, then cheers to money."
He smiles and gently inclines his glass towards you.
[["So Mr Schmidt, do you have a family of any kind?"]]
[["Did you choose to come to our country or were you sent?"]]
[["What made you want to become an economist?"]]It is clear that Mr Schmidt is expending some effort to keep his face neutral.
"Interesting. I hope you could have said no. I won’t condescend to you by offering to get you out of this. I’m sure that you could do that yourself if you needed. You seem to be a very capable person to me."
He stares at you for perhaps a moment too long and then blushes. He looks away and you sit in silence for a few several seconds.
[["So Mr Schmidt, do you have a family of any kind?"]]
[["Did you choose to come to our country or were you sent?"]]
[["What made you want to become an economist?"]]"Well, I’m glad I could be of assistance then! I just hope that I can live up to your expectations. Although you knew you were going to be spending a couple of weeks with an economist so they couldn’t have been very high to begin with. We’re not often associated with adventure. Still, I can try my best if you want."
He smiles the smile of a charming Hollywood action star. It is almost convincing.
"To the adventures we may or may not have!"
He inclines his glass towards you in a mock cheer and grins at the silliness of it.
[["So Mr Schmidt, do you have a family of any kind?"]]
[["Did you choose to come to our country or were you sent?"]]
[["What made you want to become an economist?"]]"That’s a shame. I’ve never had kids, I just see all the mess and get told about all the fights my colleagues have with their teenagers. And my own mother couldn’t wait to get me out of the house.
"But I’ve always been a little jealous. I always suspect that there is something that parents have which the rest of us can’t quite understand. There are definitely those grey days, those days when it feels like there is something missing, something to make it all worth it.(if: not ($ToldEconomics or $ToldHusband is "True"))[
"Sorry, that was heavy. I didn’t mean for it to be. I wanted to know more about you, tell me more about you.
[["I went to school, I got a degree in economics, and now I’m a housewife."]]
[["My husband is a parliamentary candidate for one of the opposition parties."]]](else:)["
The waitress comes and takes your orders before he can finish his thought.
"So, what made you want to become a guide?" He resumes after she is gone.
[["Money."]]
[["My husband wanted me to take this job."]]
[["I wanted to go out and do something and this opportunity fell into my lap."]]]"Oh really? That can be a risk here, can’t it? I see why you’re worried.
"What kind is it, if I can ask? What kind of politics I mean."
You explain, briefly, about what your son calls ‘neo-englightenment-anarcho-communism’, which is a term you believe was made up at his university. Effectively, you explain, they argue that the reason why no communist state has succeeded - despite the fact that, according to them, it is clearly the one correct system - is because there has never been a state where a proper self-enlightened communist education has been allowed to persist in the mainstream. The core issue is not economic, it is psychological and educational. In other words: old Soviets like Lunacharsky, Trotsky and even, to some degree, Lenin were right in their quest to build true soviet people, it was Stalin who ruined everything.
Mr Schmidt listens with interest, asking intelligent questions here and there. He clearly has problems with the philosophy, but he never dismisses it out of hand.
"I’ll have to think about that." He says after you have finished. "Of course, they’ve very cleverly said that it’s not all about economics, just to get people like me off their backs I suppose. But yes, I can see why you’re worried, but I wouldn’t worry too much. It doesn’t sound too extreme to me. No offence to your son, but I think he’s probably safe; no-one is going to get impassioned enough about education reform to cause any really big problems. He’s flexing his political consciousness and personally I think that’s a good thing in any person.(if: not ($ToldEconomics or $ToldHusband is "True"))[
"But sorry, yes, I wanted to know more about you, tell me more about you.
[["I went to school, I got a degree in economics, and now I’m a housewife."]]
[["My husband is a parliamentary candidate for one of the opposition parties."]]](else:)["
The waitress comes and takes your orders before he can add more. He moves on after she is gone.
"So, what made you want to become a guide?"
[["Money."]]
[["My husband wanted me to take this job."]]
[["I wanted to go out and do something and this opportunity fell into my lap."]]]"It must be very odd, watching something grow from not being able to talk or walk into becoming a full person who makes all their own decisions. I’ve never had kids, I just see all the mess and get told about all the fights my colleagues have with their teenagers.
"But I’ve always been a little jealous. I always suspect that there is something that parents have that the rest of us can’t quite understand. Having someone be that close to you, someone you know inside out, someone who knows you inside out.(if: not ($ToldEconomics or $ToldHusband is "True"))[
"Sorry, I’m thinking aloud. Ignore me. I wanted to know more about you, tell me more about you.
[["I went to school, I got a degree in economics, and now I’m a housewife."]]
[["My husband is a parliamentary candidate for one of the opposition parties."]]](else:)["
The waitress comes and takes your orders before he can finish his thought.
"So, what made you want to become a guide?" He resumes after she is gone.
[["Money."]]
[["My husband wanted me to take this job."]]
[["I wanted to go out and do something and this opportunity fell into my lap."]]]"A difficult line to walk, I would imagine. What are his policies?"
You tell him, succinctly.
"I see. The President’s policies but in a different priority order. Wise. I try to keep out of politics here - as much as it’s possible in my job anyway - but I can’t see his policies being a problem. If he’s lasted as long as you say he has, I can’t see why he won’t continue to be fine.
"But then what the hell do I know? Democracy looks very different where I come from. You’re his wife, if you are confident, then so am I.(if: not ($ToldEconomics or $ToldChildren is "True"))[
"But I didn’t come here to learn about him, I wanted to know about you. So tell me."
[["I went to school, I got a degree in economics, and now I’m a housewife."]]
[["I have two children, Sandy is the eldest and Daniel is the youngest. They’re both at university now."]]](else:)["
The waitress comes and takes your orders before he can say more.
"So, what made you want to become a guide?" He resumes after she is gone.
[["Money."]]
[["My husband wanted me to take this job."]]
[["I wanted to go out and do something and this opportunity fell into my lap."]]]"Yes, yes I can see how that could be useful. For your husband and the President’s party.
"Sometimes I wonder why I’m here. An American company owns Lays, Doritos //and// Cheetos. It also owns Pepsi, Mountain Dew, and 7-Up and it used to own Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and KFC too. In thirty years you’ve taken our systems and mastered them so much that your government has started to look like our companies. What am //I// supposed to teach //you// about economics, when everything you do already looks like the back room dealings of our most powerful companies?(if: not ($ToldEconomics or $ToldChildren is "True"))[
"I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to rant. I’m sure your husband will be fine, it sounds like he’s doing the smart thing. But I didn’t come here to find out about him, I came to find out about you. So tell me."
[["I went to school, I got a degree in economics, and now I’m a housewife."]]
[["I have two children, Sandy is the eldest and Daniel is the youngest. They’re both at university now."]]](else:)["
The waitress comes and takes your orders before he can say more.
"So, what made you want to become a guide?" He resumes after she is gone.
[["Money."]]
[["My husband wanted me to take this job."]]
[["I wanted to go out and do something and this opportunity fell into my lap."]]]Mr Schmidt smiles and shrugs.
"Who really wants to win elections anyway? Governance is all just work isn’t it? Much better to just have all the excitement of the run. There’s a reason that the Americans never stop running for office, even when they’re already in the office they’re running for.
"But in all seriousness, sometimes outside the system is where you can really make a difference. Some of the most effective politicians are the people who never got into power. Just scaring your opposition enough for them to adopt your policies out of fear of you can be the best way of getting your policies passed.(if: not ($ToldEconomics or $ToldChildren is "True"))[
"I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to make light of your husband’s professional failings. Although I suspect you wouldn’t have put it that way if you didn’t find it at least a little funny yourself. But I didn’t come here to talk about him, I came to find out about you. So tell me."
[["I went to school, I got a degree in economics, and now I’m a housewife."]]
[["I have two children, Sandy is the eldest and Daniel is the youngest. They’re both at university now."]]](else:)["
The waitress comes and takes your orders before he can say more.
"So, what made you want to become a guide?" He resumes after she is gone.
[["Money."]]
[["My husband wanted me to take this job."]]
[["I wanted to go out and do something and this opportunity fell into my lap."]]]"No, not any more. I mean, my parents are both still alive, spending a lot of time in swimming pools on cruise ships next to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, but no-one else. I had a wife but we divorced four years ago. We didn’t have any children. Her sister had kids, so I was an uncle for a while, but I haven’t seen them for a long time. They’re well though, if social media is any guide. They were too young to miss me I think."
[["Why did you and your ex-wife divorce?"]]
[["How come you didn’t have children?"]]
(set: $HeardAboutFamily = "True")"A little bit of both? I mean no-one accidentally learns your language. No offence, of course. Just most of us in the EU learn each other’s languages before we learn anyone else’s.
"I’ve been here before, quite a few times, mostly for work. I’ve done this kind of thing for a few cities here.
"But right now? I don’t think I would have come now if it were completely my choice. I’m a bit surprised that they wanted me here now, in all honesty. But if it wasn’t me they would have sent someone else and I’m happy enough to be here. It’s been less hostile than I would have expected. So far."
[["What do you think of us?"]]
[["Why did you learn our language?"]]
[["Why did they send you now?"]]
(set: $HeardAboutChooseCountry = "True"){(set: $ConversationCount = $ConversationCount +1)(set: $HeardAboutBecomeEconomist = "True")}"It was a complex but not particularly interesting set of circumstances. As an only child I didn’t have anyone else in my home to play with, so I read a lot of books. Which isn’t to say that my parents neglected me, they were fine, but I think children with siblings probably don’t get as lonely."
You take a moment to inform him that they can do. He shrugs sympathetically.
"Well, what can we do now about our disappointing childhoods? But maybe I shouldn’t make light, mine wasn’t that bad at all really. I had lots of fictional friends."
He smiles in a way that makes it clear that he’s not being entirely serious.
"I used to love fantasy books, but it was always the worlds in them that interested me the most. I liked to pick apart the way that the people would live. One day I started finding myself doing that with the real world as well. It was much more satisfying; the real world has fewer plot holes. And that’s economics. Or politics, if you’re less systematic about it. I’ve always liked numbers, but the good thing about economics is that the numbers aren’t just numbers, they actually mean something as well.
"Which isn’t to say that it was a straight line. I’m dismissive about politics now, but that’s just because I’ve seen how much it can get in the way of things. I studied it when I was younger, along with philosophy, maths, even physics for a brief while before I realised that I couldn’t stand to commit to something that had so little humanity in it. But economics was just about my favourite, which was good because it was always the thing I was best at.
"And now I’m here, important enough for me to have a dedicated guide hired just to make me feel more at home."
(if: ($ConversationCount > 4) or ($HeardAboutFamily is "True" and $HeardAboutChooseCountry is "True"))[A moment later the waitress returns with your meals.
[[Eat.]]](else:)[(if: $HeardAboutFamily is not "True")[[["So Mr Schmidt, do you have a family of any kind?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutChooseCountry is not "True")[[["Did you choose to come to our country or were you sent?"]]]
[[Wait silently for the food.->Eat.]]]{(set: $ConversationCount = $ConversationCount +1)(set: $HeardAboutWife = "True")}He shrugs.
"Everything and nothing. We just eventually reached the point where we realised that it wasn’t really about all the things we were working on fixing.
"We got together when we were young, early twenties. She wanted to travel the world and I wanted to stay at home and read books. She made me move and I made her stop. Not in a bad way at first. I made her look and enjoy the moment. She declared that we were going on adventures and I made sure they actually happened.
"She’s a very good person. She’d stay up all night laughing with people she’d only just met and then we’d go to bed and talk and doze while the sun streamed through our cheap curtains. It was amazing, seeing that side of life.
"Maybe that was it in the end, we were just too different. I still don’t know. There wasn’t a moment or anything, young people have those flashes of inspiration where they fall into or out of love, but we’d made it past all that. It just stopped being what it was and eventually even the momentum ran out.
"The lawyers briefly made it difficult, but I’d call it amicable in the end. I’ve seen her a few times since. Still send happy birthday and merry Christmas emails. I wouldn’t say we’re friends. I wouldn’t say I’m sad about that. It’s just one of the things that happened.
"I’m sorry, you didn’t need to know all of that. You’re a very good listener, did you know that?"
(if: $ConversationCount > 4)[A moment later the waitress returns with your meals.
[[Eat.]]](else:)[He looks at you, expecting you to disprove him and change the topic.
(if: $HeardAboutChooseCountry is not "True")[[["Did you choose to come to our country or were you sent?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutBecomeEconomist is not "True")[[["What made you want to become an economist?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutChildren is not "True")[[["How come you didn’t have children?"]]]
[[Wait silently for the food.->Eat.]]]{(set: $ConversationCount = $ConversationCount +1)(set: $HeardAboutChildren = "True")}"I can’t answer that without sounding like a bad person. I mean, there was never really an opportunity: travel was always a big part of my married life - first for pleasure and later for work - and it’s difficult to do that with a family. But that’s not really the reason. Really we didn’t have children because she didn’t want them. Neither of us did when we got together in our early twenties, but I changed and she didn’t. Not that it was a big argument. We had agreed we wouldn’t have them. God, saying it out loud makes it sound so contractual, but I suppose that’s what relationships are, in a way. I mean what is a wedding but a party about paperwork?
"I would have been a good dad though. How immodest am I? But I’ve always been good with kids. And not just in that ‘fun uncle’ way. They respect me enough to do what I tell them to do. I think it’s because I’ve always respected //them//: I’ve met some pretty important people in this job and I can tell you that many of them are just as clueless as their five year old children. And quite a bit less creative.
"But I’ve had a good life, there’s no point being sad about it now. Regret never got anybody anything."
(if: $ConversationCount > 4)[A moment later the waitress returns with your meals.
[[Eat.]]](else:)[He looks into the middle distance, wistful rather than regretful.
(if: $HeardAboutChooseCountry is not "True")[[["Did you choose to come to our country or were you sent?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutBecomeEconomist is not "True")[[["What made you want to become an economist?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutWife is not "True")[[["Why did you and your ex-wife divorce?"]]]
[[Wait silently for the food.->Eat.]]]Conversation flows more easily as you begin to eat, settling into the easy back and forth of people who have begun the process of getting to know each other. You talk about the places you’ve been: his childhood holidays took him to Singapore, Thailand, Costa Rica, Morocco and more, while you have never left your home country. You talk about cooking: you both agree that he might not be a bad cook, but that he has nothing on you. You talk about economic theory: he knows more about communist financial planning than you thought he would.
He laughs a lot and you find yourself joining him. His eyes sparkle like a child when he speaks and he has a habit of cocking his head slightly to one side, like a puppy whose entire existence is centred on you.
It feels too real - too grounded - to be Hollywood.
He brings the waitress into your conversation when she brings the bill and he tips double to help towards payments for her upcoming wedding.
The air is refreshingly cool when you step back outside. As he had warned you, the state car is not there, but it is a short walk back to his hotel. You do not stop talking as you saunter through the streets. You watch the stars and the neon lights.
You both fall quiet for a moment as you walk beside the river, a glistening swirl of light and darkness soaring past beside you. The two of you walk alone, as if in this moment the world was just meant for you two.
[[Kiss him.]]
[[Walk on.]]{(set: $ConversationCount = $ConversationCount +1)(set: $HeardAboutThinkOfUs = "True")}"I think you’re tough. I think you’re adaptable. But mostly I just think you’re people.
"I don’t really believe in ‘national character’. Instead I believe in cultural influences. I don’t think you’re tough because there is something in your make-up that makes you tough, I believe you’re tough because you’ve lived through tough times; and a culture that respects strength and denigrates weakness is a logical sociological response to that.
"Which isn’t to say that you’re all tough. You should know more than anyone that no social systems will ever be able to make everyone the same. Individuals will always be different and that’s pretty much the only thing which is the same everywhere you go and with everyone you meet.
"So that’s my incredibly unsatisfying answer. I think that you’re people, just like everyone else. I’m sorry that I couldn’t be more exciting."
(if: $ConversationCount > 4)[A moment later the waitress returns with your meals.
[[Eat.]]](else:)[(if: $HeardAboutFamily is not "True")[[["So Mr Schmidt, do you have a family of any kind?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutBecomeEconomist is not "True")[[["What made you want to become an economist?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutLanguage is not "True")[[["Why did you learn our language?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutWhyNow is not "True")[[["Why did they send you now?"]]]
[[Wait silently for the food.->Eat.]]]{(set: $ConversationCount = $ConversationCount +1)(set: $HeardAboutLanguage = "True")}He smiles sheepishly.
"Because I like how it sounds. It flows beautifully, it always sounds like you’re singing. I don’t think it’s sexy in the same way that some languages are, it’s just beautiful and mysterious.
"And then of course I couldn’t start learning it without also learning about your culture. You’ve got one of the richest cultures in the world. That probably doesn’t come as a surprise. On the edge of two worlds, living through so much change and so much hardship, of course you’d create some of the best art the world has ever seen. Although really it’s your history that fascinates me.
"But as I said, that all came after. It was just the sound that got to me. I know that sounds silly. But I’d already learnt four other languages because they would be useful, I thought it would be okay to learn one just because it sounds pretty."
(if: $ConversationCount > 4)[A moment later the waitress returns with your meals.
[[Eat.]]](else:)[(if: $HeardAboutFamily is not "True")[[["So Mr Schmidt, do you have a family of any kind?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutBecomeEconomist is not "True")[[["What made you want to become an economist?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutThinkOfUs is not "True")[[["What do you think of us?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutWhyNow is not "True")[[["Why did they send you now?"]]]
[[Wait silently for the food.->Eat.]]]{(set: $ConversationCount = $ConversationCount +1)(set: $HeardAboutWhyNow = "True")}He takes a slow breath before answering.
"I don’t know. We were all pulled out just before the war." He pauses for a second, rethinking his use of word, but he does not correct himself. "We were some of the first out. I didn’t think any of us would ever be back. But I got the note two days before the public declaration of peace that I’d be on one of the first planes back in.
"I don’t know the full details, but I imagine it’s something to do with the lifting of sanctions. Something that wasn’t an official part of the peace deal but which happened almost instantaneously after peace was announced. Even we didn’t see that coming. Most of us had our money on your President using this as an opportunity to build on your self-sufficiency. But I must say, having us all flock straight back in the moment it’s done is the much stronger power play. It makes us look like hypocrites and makes him look like the victim. I’m amazed he managed to organise it to happen like this."
You feel yourself sweating. You look around but, thank God, it seems that no-one has been listening to your conversation. You suspect that has much more to do with luck than anything else.
(if: $ConversationCount > 4)[A moment later the waitress returns with your meals.
[[Eat.]]](else:)[You need to change the subject.
(if: $HeardAboutFamily is not "True")[[["So Mr Schmidt, do you have a family of any kind?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutBecomeEconomist is not "True")[[["What made you want to become an economist?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutThinkOfUs is not "True")[[["What do you think of us?"]]]
(if: $HeardAboutLanguage is not "True")[[["Why did you learn our language?"]]]
[[Wait silently for the food.->Eat.]]]You can feel that he is surprised. His muscles tense and for a moment he pulls back.
Then he stops. His hands gently cup the back of your head and he returns the kiss.
You think about Christopher. Of course you think about Christopher.
He used to kiss you with this passion. But never this gentleness.
It’s over. Cold wind plays against your lips and you’ve lost the warmth of him. He smiles, neither victorious or embarrassed.
"I like you $Name. I don’t know what it is you want from me, but I’m happy to wait and see."
You do not talk about the kiss, but you do talk as you walk the rest of the way to his hotel. He stops silhouetted in the light of the doorway.
"It was very kind of you to walk me home. To tomorrow, and whatever it brings."
He raises his hand in farewell and is gone.
[[Go home.-> Go home first]]
(set: $Kissed = "True")
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 4)Conversation picks up again and you talk the rest of the way to his hotel. He stops silhouetted in the light of the doorway.
"It was very kind of you to walk me home. To tomorrow, and whatever it brings."
He raises his hand in farewell and is gone.
[[Go home.-> Go home first]]Mr Schmidt is not waiting for you when you arrive, but the receptionist spots you and phones up to his department. He’s with you two minutes later. He has two men with him, one broad-shouldered and uninterested in that way that only security personnel are, and one nervous and obsequious.
"$Name, it’s good to see you. Sorry to drop this on you, but I wanted to visit the Smitoch district and Arthur here has kindly arranged it for me."
The smarmy man nods his introduction.
[["The Smitoch district? It’s not nice there, why would you go there?"]]
[["I think it’s a good idea for you to see all sides of life here, let’s go."]]
[["Of course."]]"Yes, I heard it’s bad. But that’s why I want to go. I’m here to offer support on economic development and that’s hard to do unless I can actually see what it is I’m supposed to be offering advice on. Always lift from the bottom: it’s good advice for furniture and it’s good advice for economics."
[["Of course."]]
(set: $Bold = $Bold - 1)"I couldn’t agree more! I can’t very well offer advice on how to economically improve a place I haven’t seen. Always lift from the bottom: it’s good advice for furniture and it’s good advice for economics."
[["Let’s go."->"Of course."]]
(set: $Bold = $Bold + 1)Arthur takes you in a government car: by far the fastest and most comfortable way through the city. The height of the buildings around you falls and then rises again. The complex of mass-produced, identical housing begins, row after row of five-storey complexes built sixty years ago. Matteo tries to spend the journey looking out of the window, but Arthur spends the time talking in a weasel’s whine, trying, with remarkable guile, to convince Mr Schmidt to turn around and cancel the trip. It does not work.
The car stops in front of a park: neatly cut grass sitting below well pruned trees and benches on one side, and the rubber of a children’s playground on the other. A path separates the world of the adults from the world of the children: a wide lane of alternately white and grey brick leading to the entrance to the Smitoch Palace of Culture. The building is as old as all the others around it, but obviously much grander. You are surprised to see movie posters outside - incongruous against the faux-classical facade - foreign ones at that. You are also surprised by the number of people around. Mostly young, some of them with families. Arthur explains as you walk up, regurgitating information you saw him memorising from his phone in the car.
"It’s a marvellous example of our economic nous, combining the values of our elders with the expediency of the new capitalist age. This centre operates on minimal state funding, but has still managed to maintain all of its activities due to expanding its theatres and taking in profits from cinema ticket sales. Using //your// methods to maintain //our// heritage."
It’s more crowded inside, people lining up to buy tickets and snacks. Your group - dressed mostly in suits in a mass of Tshirts, jeans and spring skirts - gets a few odd looks, but no-one bothers you.
You look around. To the left the people flow away down the corridor of screens. It shows all the indications of improvised construction: mismatched doors, badly plastered-over holes, a complete lack of consistency in signage. One haggard employee runs from group to group, helping them find their films.
On the right is another corridor. The doors stand separated with military precision, each clearly marked with signs as old as the building itself. "Studio 1", "Art Room", "Costume Room", "Community Room 1", "Studio 2", etc. A bench sits between two changing rooms, occupied by an old couple. Other than that, the right wing appears empty.
Arthur is talking to Mr Schmidt, asking him what he wants to do.
"Just talk to people."
Arthur nods and leads you a few steps into the crowd, grabbing a man in a flannel shirt and spinning him around. Everyone, save Arthur, takes a few seconds to be confused.
"Hi." Matteo breaks the silence, extending his hand. "I’m Matteo. How satisfied are you with the services your local government is offering you?"
The man’s eyes flash between Matteo, Arthur, the bodyguard, and you. He stammers out that everything is fine, thank you, he’s very happy. Arthur nods approvingly and lets him go.
"I’m not sure that-" Matteo begins, but Arthur has already grabbed another victim. This one is equally effusive in his brief and panicked praise.
[[Step in and introduce Matteo to some people yourself, in a slightly less confrontational way.]]
[[Let Arthur continue.]]Arthur looks displeased, but he does nothing as you steer Matteo away. A young couple, toddler and infant in tow, catch your eye and you engage them. Their smiles flicker the moment Matteo begins the first word of his first question, but they answer his questions and finish by welcoming him to the country.
Another man in the throng grabs your attention. You push through the crowd and he starts telling Matteo everything that is wrong: with the community, with the economy, and with politics. You bring other people in and within about five minutes you have generated a small but healthy discussion group. Matteo stands in the middle, listening, smiling, and, when he can, asking questions.
A young woman starts talking louder than the rest:
"I lost my job because of you! I worked for an American company and they fired me because of your sanctions, your attacks on us!"
"Yeah, this film came out three months ago, I’m only getting to see it properly now! They were playing a pirated version last week and it was terrible!"
"Forget your films, I lost my job too!"
"Western aggression! Western propaganda and lies! Saying we’re the devils, but you’re the devils!"
"The Americans only hate us because we are strong!"
"This one’s not American, he’s from Europe."
"That’s the same! The Europeans are deluded if they think they’re anything other than puppet states for the American Empire. The EU is just a NATO front."
"He’s a guest, leave him alone."
"Yeah, is this our famous hospitality? Don’t embarrass us."
"Long live the President!"
That chant circles the room a couple of times. You see the security guard pushing through the mess of people but a skinhead pushes himself directly into Matteo’s face.
"What do you think you’re doing here? We don’t want you here, crawl back to where you came from. I know what you are, European. Degenerate. Do you know what your legacy is? Do you know what Europe gave us? Nazism. Faggotry. Multi-nationalism. We’re the only true defenders of the white race. We’re ethnically pure, morally pure. You’re-"
You don’t hear more; enough of the crowd has heard him and enough of those have started booing to drown out the rest. He looks around and sees a few sympathetic faces, but most simply look away, and enough return hostility to make him decide to drop it with one final "Get out of our country, degenerate!"
The crowd, its appetite for politics gone, apologises for the skinhead – "he’s an asshole, don’t listen to him" and "you’re misguided in the West but you’re not everything he said you are" - and turns away.
"Seen what you came here to see?" Arthur says, not being able to keep the ‘I told you so’ from his tone.
"I think I’d like to take a walk. See the infrastructure." Matteo does a good job of disguising the quaver in his voice. Arthur purses his lips and simultaneously attempts to smile.
"Of course, this way."
[[Go back outside.]]Arthur buttonholes a woman and then another man. Both are just as vague and useless as the first two men. The next, a young woman, starts to complain about losing her job because of American sanctions. Arthur literally throws her away and turns on his heels to grab a young man on Mr Schmidt’s other side. Mr Schmidt complains and tries to find the woman again, but she is already gone, probably scared away by the bodyguard.
Another couple of passively positive men later and, as if from nowhere, a skinhead has appeared, his nose very almost touching Mr Schmidt’s.
"You a fucking European?"
"Yes, I am, pleased to-"
"What do you think you’re doing here? We don’t want what you have to offer, we don’t want Nazism. We don’t want faggotry. We don’t want-."
The bodyguard pulls the skinhead back and twists him in a pirouette. The skinhead gapes and while he gapes the bodyguard leans in and whispers something in his ear. You don’t think Matteo can hear it, but you do. ‘He’s a guest of the President’s.’ The skinhead juts out his lower jaw, nods and leaves. A couple of people boo him. Some shake their heads. Most just look at the floor.
"Seen what you came here to see?" Arthur says, not being able to keep the ‘I told you so’ from his tone.
"I think I’d like to take a walk. See the infrastructure." Matteo does a good job of disguising the quaver in his voice. Arthur purses his lips and simultaneously attempts to smile.
"Of course, this way."
[[Go back outside.]]Matteo leads the way back outside and then he just keeps going, down the path and across the street. One turn later and you’re in the maze. To one side a cracked, pothole riddled road, dusty cars – many of which are from roughly the same era as the flats – and the well worn grass of a communal area. To the other, the houses, endless repeating blocks of pastel grey and yellow. Matteo’s face is serious, he scans everything he passes like a detective examining a crime scene.
“Is this full residency? I don’t see any smashed or boarded up windows.”
“What is the waste disposal system here? The litter is piled up, not spread around. By the smell those bin bags have been under that tree for some time, but I’m not seeing plastic waste elsewhere on the grass.”
“That’s the first piece of graffiti I’ve seen.”
“Is the maintenance of this play area a government concern?”
The children out enjoying the sun ignore you. The peeling green benches outside each main entrance are mostly empty, but eventually you reach a couple that are occupied, a group of old men on one and old women on the other, both groups smoking and drinking. Matteo approaches them, asks them how their day is going. They tell him; a man complaining about his hip inviting you all to sit down. One asks Matteo what brings him to your country. He tells them. They ask him about his job. He asks them about their lives. They tell him how things used to be, how they are better now and how they are worse. Someone pours some drinks and one of the women stands up to get you all stew. Matteo politely refuses.
[[Remind Matteo that in this country offers of hospitality are genuine.]]
[[Let Mr Schmidt refuse.]]The group raises a toast to you and their own generosity, drowning out Arthur’s protestations. Matteo accepts and a few minutes later he’s sitting with a steaming bowl on his lap and a shot glass by his side. Talk is about how wonderful the President is, how he keeps things running better than they did before, how things are so much safer now. Then it’s the history of the area. Matteo asks about Mrs Cole, a repeating character in their stories. She was a nun who ran away and married a local shop owner and then ran away again to marry a foreigner. One woman laughs about whether a soul can burn in hell twice over, but most just solemnly shake their heads.
“How did you two meet then?” One woman asks, looking from one to the other of you.
“$Name is my guide.”
“Ooh, a man who likes to be shown around by the woman, how very modern.” She winks.
[[“Oh no, we’re not a couple.”]]
[[“The woman has always been in charge, the only thing that’s changed is that we’re admitting it now.”]]
(set: $Bold = $Bold + 1)The group quickly toasts the foreigner’s health, they insist that he will enjoy his stay, and let him leave. Arthur does not let the opportunity go.
“I’m afraid Mr Schmidt that I’m needed back at the office and I don’t have clearance to leave you here without our security. We must leave.”
The car feels stuffy and uncomfortable, the leather seats unyielding.
Mr Schmidt’s phone rings. He sighs, apologises, and answers it. He talks in a whisper, his hand over his mouth. Arthur tries hard to not look like he’s listening, but less than a minute later his own phone rings. Both men make eye contact as they speak, a mutual recognition. Arthur is done first and goes back to attempting to appear uninterested, but he meets Mr Schmidt’s eyes the moment he puts the phone down.
“An emergency summit, in the capital.”
“Yes Mr Schmidt, I just heard the same thing. I’m not part of the delegation, but Steven and Mr Kirk are leading it.”
Mr Schmidt nods, lost in thought for a moment, then his attention snaps to you.
“I’ve been asked to attend an emergency conference on economic resurgence. The IMF are due to play an important role. It’s in the capital. It starts tomorrow. Would you …”
“Mrs Druar? Oh, I believe you’re part of the support staff for the delegation.”
“Really? It can’t be part of her contract that she has to follow me to the capital.”
Arthur glances up from his phone, looking slightly confused.
“I believe it is. Or rather, she won’t have any exemptions.” You read your contract, of course. Arthur is right. If your employer wants you to go, then you have to go, as long as they cover travel expenses. “Straight to your hotel, Mr Schmidt?”
Mr Schmidt hesitates before nodding.
“Yes. And drop $Name off at her home, if she has to come she should have as much time as possible before I drag her away for a couple of days.”
Arthur gives you an annoyed look and shrugs. Mr Schmidt looks much more apologetic. It feels as if he wants to say something, but every time it looks like he is about to speak his eyes flick over to Arthur - engrossed in the world of his phone - and he remains silent. It is like that all the way to the hotel, then back to the government offices where Arthur gets out, and then with the driver in complete silence back to your home.
[[Go inside to greet your husband.]]
(set: $Bold = $Bold - 1)The woman sincerely apologises for her mistake and conversation turns to other things. You learn all about everyone’s children and the wonderful things they have all done. Very few of them have left the district.
Eventually, just after the fourth round of shots are poured, Arthur stands up and puts an abrupt stop to the trip.
“I’m afraid, Mr Schmidt, that I’m needed back at the office and I don’t have clearance to leave you here without our security. We must leave.”
The old people tut and shake their heads, but with a roll of his eyes Matteo agrees.
The walk back to the car feels faster, more refreshing. You don’t know if it is the evening breeze or the alcohol. The car feels stuffy and uncomfortable, the leather seats unyielding.
Mr Schmidt’s phone rings. He sighs, apologises, and takes it. He talks in a whisper, his hand over his mouth. Arthur tries hard to not look like he’s listening, but less than a minute later his own phone rings. Both men make eye contact as they speak, a mutual recognition. Arthur is done first and goes back to attempting to appear uninterested, but he meets Mr Schmidt’s eyes the moment he puts the phone down.
“An emergency summit, in the capital.”
“Yes Mr Schmidt, I just heard the same thing. I’m not part of the delegation, but Steven and Mr Kirk are leading it.”
Mr Schmidt nods, lost in thought for a moment, then his attention snaps to you.
“I’ve been asked to attend an emergency conference on economic resurgence. The IMF are due to play an important role. It’s in the capital. It starts tomorrow. Would you …”
“Mrs Druar? Oh, I believe you’re part of the support staff for the delegation.”
“Really? It can’t be part of her contract that she has to follow me to the capital.”
Arthur glances up from his phone, looking slightly confused.
“I believe it is. Or rather, she won’t have any exemptions.” You read your contract, of course. Arthur is right. If your employer wants you to go, then you have to go, as long as they cover travel expenses. “Straight to your hotel, Mr Schmidt?”
Mr Schmidt hesitates before nodding.
“Yes. And drop $Name off at her home, if she has to come she should have as much time as possible before I drag her away for a couple of days.”
Arthur gives you an annoyed look and shrugs. Mr Schmidt looks much more apologetic. It feels as if he wants to say something, but every time it looks like he is about to speak his eyes flick over to Arthur - engrossed in the world of his phone - and he remains silent. It is like that all the way to the hotel, then back to the government offices where Arthur gets out, and then with the driver in complete silence back to your home.
[[Go inside to greet your husband.]]
(set: $Bold = $Bold - 1)The women laugh and the men humour you. The conversation turns to other things. You learn all about everyone’s children and the wonderful things they have all done. Very few of them have left the district.
Eventually, just after the fourth round of shots are poured, Arthur stands up and puts an abrupt stop to the trip.
“I’m afraid, Mr Schmidt, that I’m needed back at the office and I don’t have clearance to leave you here without our security. We must leave.”
The old people tut and shake their heads, but with a roll of his eyes Matteo agrees.
The walk back to the car feels faster, more refreshing. You don’t know if it is the evening breeze, or the alcohol, or whether it is Matteo walking noticeably closer to you, his gaze more often on you than the scene that surrounds you. The car, by comparison, feels stuffy and uncomfortable, the leather seats unyielding.
Mr Schmidt’s phone rings. He sighs, apologises, and takes it. He talks in a whisper, his hand over his mouth. Arthur tries hard to not look like he’s listening, but less than a minute later his own phone rings. Both men make eye contact as they speak, a mutual recognition. Arthur is done first and goes back to attempting to appear uninterested, but his eyes meets Matteo’s the moment he puts the phone down.
“An emergency summit, in the capital.”
“Yes Mr Schmidt, I just heard the same thing. I’m not part of the delegation, but Steven and Mr Kirk are leading it.”
Matteo nods, lost in thought for a moment, then his attention snaps to you.
“I’ve been asked to attend an emergency conference on economic resurgence. The IMF are due to play an important role. It’s in the capital. It starts tomorrow. Would you …”
“Mrs Druar? Oh, I believe you’re part of the support staff for the delegation.”
“Really? It can’t be part of her contract that she has to follow me to the capital.”
Arthur glances up from his phone, looking slightly confused.
“I believe it is. Or rather, she won’t have any exceptions.” You read your contract, of course. Arthur is right. If your employer wants you to go, then you have to go, as long as they cover travel expenses. “Straight to your hotel, Mr Schmidt?”
Matteo hesitates before nodding.
“Yes. And drop $Name off at her home, if she has to come she should have as much time as possible before I drag her away for a couple of days.”
Arthur gives you an annoyed look and shrugs. Matteo looks much more apologetic.
“I’m sorry. This isn’t the kind of thing I wanted to spring on you. Really, if you want to stay, that’s fine, I’ll sort something out.”
“I’m not sure that’s your decision Mr Schmidt.”
The two men lock eyes. Arthur smirks. You suspect that, for him, this has nothing to do with you. Arthur just wants a win, and he knows that he has one. Matteo slumps against the seat.
“We don’t take kindly to bullying where I’m from.”
“We’re not where you came from. And who said anything about bullying? That is not a word we use here. Here we talk about discipline.”
Matteo shakes his head but does not push the point. You all sit in uncomfortable silence all the way to Matteo’s hotel, where he apologises to you again(if: $Kissed is "True")[, reaches forward, squeezes your hand,] and then gets out. Arthur does not look at nor speak to you on the short ride back to the government offices, where he gets out, and then you are with the driver in complete silence back to your home.
[[Go inside to greet your husband.]]
(set: $Bold = $Bold + 2)Christopher isn’t home. You use the opportunity to heat up the meal you made for him and cook some rice to go with it. A bit of housework after and during. He’s home not long after, looking tired but happy.
"Oh you’ve already got dinner ready, I’m the luckiest man in the world. And the hungriest. I had so many calls earlier in the day that we had to do the daily strategy meeting after all of us should have gone home. Still, I suppose it will be like this all the time if I’m elected to office. Mary says that if-" Christopher never directly tells you how his day went. Instead he lets you construct a picture of what he has been doing from his speculations on what it will achieve. Usually you would just listen, but tonight you need to talk to him about your trip to the capital.
Wait for an opportunity to speak.
(click-replace: "Wait for an opportunity to speak.")[The opportunity finally comes just as you are finishing your meals. One of Christopher’s thoughts ends and he doesn’t immediately find another one.
"I’m going away tomorrow, for work. The man I’m guiding is going to the capital and they say I need to go with him."
Christopher does not say anything for several seconds, the disapproval and annoyance undisguised on his face. Finally he just shrugs.
"It would have been nice if they could have given a bit more warning. But if Lloyd wants it then I suppose I’m all right with it. I don’t like it though, they shouldn’t be messing us around like this. I’ll add sorting that department out to my list of things to do when I’m elected."
You finish your last few mouthfuls in silence and Christopher gets up to turn on the tv. He is not exactly angry and he will not be that way for long. Still, it is probably best to leave him alone, so you pack what you’ll need for tomorrow and go to bed early. Whatever happens, it will be a long day.
[[Go to work early.]]]You left with Christopher; he went one way out of the garage and you went the other. The morning traffic is awful, but you expected that and now you’re arriving at the Office of Regional Development just on time. Mr Schmidt and the people you saw him with on the day you met him are waiting in the lobby. Matteo spots you and waves the instant you enter, but an instant later he is obscured by Mr Smith, who slides elegantly between you.
“Ah, Mrs Druar. It’s good to see you. It would be wonderful if you could do that little favour again. It’s this way, if you remember.”
Mr Smith leads you quickly out of the building and a little way down the street. He unlocks the door and gestures vaguely for you to step inside.
“This may take a few minutes Mrs Druar, but don’t worry, the others will not leave without you.”
The room is identical to how it was the last time you were in here, save that someone has placed a small stool in front of the number pad. “You are free” is still written on one wall and the same poster still hangs on the other:
Yellow - 1
Pink - 2
Blue - 3
Purple - 4
Orange - 5
You sit and wait. It takes a long time before the light flashes, (if: $2Player is "True")[but eventually it does.
//Your partner will send you a colour. That is the colour that the light is flashing. Now select a number to press and reply to them with that number.//
(link: "1")[(set: $SecondNumber = 1)(goto: "Second press")]
(link: "2")[(set: $SecondNumber = 2)(goto: "Second press")]
(link: "3")[(set: $SecondNumber = 3)(goto: "Second press")]
(link: "4")[(set: $SecondNumber = 4)(goto: "Second press")]
(link: "5")[(set: $SecondNumber = 5)(goto: "Second press")]](else:)[but when it does it flashes pink.
[[1->Second press]]
(link: "2")[(set: $Dependable = $Dependable + 1)(goto: "Second press")]
[[3->Second press]]
[[4->Second press]]
[[5->Second press]]](if: $2Player is "True")[{//If you have not just already done so, send your partner the number $SecondNumber.//}
]A few seconds pass and then the door opens. Mr Smith nods reassuringly and leads you back to the others, most of whom seem very impatient. The only exceptions are Matteo and the man you will later learn is called Mr Kirk, the head of the entire department. Still, after getting the go-ahead from Mr Smith, Mr Kirk wastes no time in organising you all straight out of the doors and into the waiting cars. You’re seated with a group of secretaries, all younger than you, all completely uninterested in you. They talk about men. Perhaps they will talk about more later, but the journey is not long and soon you are being herded straight from the cars into a train. You are seated on your own in a carriage with other members of the public. The carriage is just over half full, but it will be packed by the time you come into the capital. You can’t think of a single good reason to get off between here and there.
A jolt, and you move. The miles and miles of flat fields stare back at you from the train windows, like a painting that changes only when you look away.
Your phone rings. It’s your children. You tap the button to pick up with your camera off.
“Mom, are you coming to the capital? Dad says that you’re on a work trip.” You tell your daughter that you are. “What? (if: $Radical < 1)[I didn’t even know you had a job!” You explain, briefly. Sandy shakes her head and shrugs. Daniel smiles and nods.
“Hey, I think it’s cool that you’re working. The emancipation of women is a vital part of enlightened revolution.”
“Stop telling us what’s good for us. Mom doesn’t have to work, her job is looking after dad. Although it does sound like a good job for you mom and that’s good pay. But more importantly, how are you coming here without telling us?”](else:)[Without telling us?”]
You explain that you had been in a rush to leave and hadn’t had the time and besides you hadn’t wanted them to feel that they had to interrupt their new lives to see their mom. Both scoff at the idea.
“I think we’re both capable of saying no if we didn’t want to see you.”
“Which we do.”
“When are you free?”
You reply that you don’t know, you haven’t been given the itinerary yet.
“That’s our government’s organization for you.” Daniel gives a world-weary nod. Sandy chuckles.
“Oh like you could do any better. I’ve seen your dorm, absolute disaster. Hey, mom’s coming, she could come and see it for herself.”
Daniel tries to not appear worried. You laugh and reassure your son that you won’t be visiting his room and that you’re sure it isn’t too bad - even though you are sure that it is.
Ask them how they both are.
(click-replace: "Ask them how they both are.")[You ask how they are.
“I’m good mom, nothing to report. Even my dates are all boring at the moment.”
“Unlike Sandy I’m too busy studying to go on dates, but I’m good too.”
“Not going to tell her how you lost a class election? Mom, your son wants to tell you that he lost a class election.”
You’re worried for a moment, but Daniel just smiles.
“Like father like son, hey?”
Sandy looks genuinely upset for a moment, but she can’t think of a comeback so lets the moment pass.]
Ask how often they see each other.
(click-replace: "Ask how often they see each other.")[You ask how often the see each other.
“Not much I don’t think?”
“Yeah, this one only crawls out of his cave if he wants something.”
“Oh because you’re much better.”
Sandy sticks out her tongue and Daniel pretends he’s above it.
“But we do talk on the phone quite a bit. Nice to catch up, you know?”]
Ask if there’s anything they’d recommend doing in the capital.
(click-replace: "Ask if there’s anything they’d recommend doing in the capital.")[You ask if there is anything either of them would recommend doing while you’re in the capital. Daniel perks up.
“Ooh, yeah, you should go to the modern history museum. Everyone should know all of that stuff.”
“Is that all about the old government? I’m pretty sure mom knows about that, she lived through it.”
“Oh come on, you’re not that old mom. Sandy’s just jealous because you were happily married at the age she is now. Besides, I was meaning mom’s client, he works here, he should know all that stuff.”
“Yeah, whatever. What you really should do is go to the ballet. I mean, you can’t not, can you?”
“Yeah, that’s not a bad idea actually.”
“Huh, taste, I’m surprised.”]
[[Let them get on with their lives.]]“Let us know as soon as you have your schedule, okay!”
You affirm that you will.
“Okay! Love you mom!”
“Love you!”
They both sign off. The picture outside the train window hasn’t changed. Slowly the sun creeps around the sky. The carriage slowly fills, the procession of small town stations the only indication that the world outside still carries on.
“Ah, there you are.”
Matteo stands above you, swaying with the train. Both seats next to you have already been filled.
[[“I’m glad you came to find me Matteo.”]]
[[“Is there something I can help you with Mr Schmidt?”]]“I’m glad I came to find you as well.” A moment passes. “Have you been to the capital much?” You tell him that you’ve been a few times, but you wouldn’t say you know it well. “Ah, exciting, we can explore it together. Although I’m not sure how much free time I’ll actually have. It’s a mid-level meeting, so they’ll go hard and long because they actually want to get something done. I really am sorry that you’ve been dragged along for this. You should probably make some plans of your own.”
[[Tell him a bit about what you’ve done in the capital before.]]
[[Ask how things are in first class.]]
[[If he wants to talk, let him lead the conversation.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 1)“Oh, no, sorry not really. I just came to see how you are.” A moment passes. “Have you been to the capital much?” You tell him that you’ve been a few times, but you wouldn’t say you know it well. “Interesting, well we can explore it together. Although I’m not sure how much free time I’ll actually have. It’s a mid-level meeting, so they’ll go hard and long because they actually want to get something done. I really am sorry that you’ve been dragged along for this. You should probably make some plans of your own.”
[[Tell him a bit about what you’ve done in the capital before.]]
[[Ask how things are in first class.]]
[[If he wants to talk, let him lead the conversation.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen - 1)There is very little for any of you, save maybe the Commander, to do. Hayes had his go with the Throne and the Box, which ended with the quick execution of a political agitator. Hayes has not been seen around much since then, despite you believing that the Commander approved of the outcome. Private Highfield has spent most of his time complaining about mundane things: the weather and a leaky roof, but what he is really trying to complain about is his superiors and the way things around him are being done. Everyone does it. It’s a game everyone learns as a child and never stops playing. Private Emmisson became more and more quiet, until suddenly, after sitting in silence for a whole meal until dessert, he banged his fist on the table and challenged Highfield to a fight. His voice was completely flat and he did not make eye contact, but Highfield, most of a bottle deep, accepted without a moment’s hesitation.
You and Hayes cleared a space in the centre of the canteen while the Commander lit a cigar. Highfield stretched and cracked his neck, then his fingers, all while bouncing on the balls of his feet like someone who only knows about fighting from films. Emmisson simply stands, breathing slowly, clenching and unclenching his fists.
Now you’re next to Hayes, who is sitting completely still, not even looking at the competitors. The Commander takes a long drag on his cigar, then in a voice just loud enough to be heard, starts the fight.
Emmisson advances like a tank, Highfield darts forward and then back like a sparrow. In the end they meet somewhere near the middle. Highfield deals the first blow, darting in and then back so fast that his fist hardly makes contact with Emmison’s head. The second hit, a feint up and then a blow down, is also Highfield’s, a solid smack to Emmisson’s hard stomach. The third strikes Emmisson’s chest.
You watch the larger man’s face as blow after blow lands on him. He’s moving away from them, yet still they must hurt, but you see only a flicker of pain cross his face. What you see instead is, you think, the first smile you have ever seen him make and eyes wet with tears that you don’t believe are caused by pain.
This lasts for blow after blow, Highfield becoming more and more gymnastic, although never elegant. Perhaps he is too drunk or energised to realise that his opponent has not even attempted to strike back; his face is a twisting tale of victory and glory, the arrogant confidence growing with each increasingly elaborate strike.
Then, finally, Emmisson deflects a strike. He just swats it away with a wet smacking sound. Highfield does not even seem to notice, not then. He does now though, as his third strike is diverted with ease, then his fourth, now his fifth.
Emmisson is not simply guarding now. He’s pushing into Highfield, who is still on the offensive, lashing out even as his opponent’s body is forcing him back.
And then, suddenly, so fast that you cannot quite see what is happening and with a raw, quivering, throat-ripping roar, Emmisson’s deflections have reached a foot further and become strikes themselves, sweeping across Highfield’s body and head, sending him twisting and reeling. Three distinct smacks, so sudden that Highfield does little more than grunt. There is no pause as Emmisson takes in a breath and lets the roar out again, this time twisted into an almost fearful scream, and reaches up to grab the back of Highfield’s head and slam it down into the floor.
Now, his legs kicking up into the air and blood exploding out from a shattered nose, Highfield screams.
Emmisson does not stop, standing up almost to full height to slam Highfield’s face down onto the ground again.
Tears pour down Emmisson’s face, his vocalisations eerily moving between sobs, screams and roars.
A gun goes off. You hear the bullet whizz through the air above you. Emmisson throws Highfield like a discarded bag and turns towards the sound of the bang, his fists clenched and his chest puffed out even as he crouches to make himself less of a target.
The Commander stares unflinching. Emmisson stares back, a hunter unsure about the nature of his prey.
A chair breaks over his head.
"Fucking stupid fucking cunt! You fucking played with me, you fucking broke my nose and you made a fucking fool of me! Where’s your fucking honour!"
Highfield swipes what is left of the chair, but Emmisson catches it.
"Enough. Lieutenants, restrain Private Emmisson."
You don’t know if it is the approach of two more men, or whether the Commander’s words reached him, but Emmisson does not move. He lets you grab him by the arms and pull him to his feet, while Highfield starts to blabber.
"Commander, that’s not fair, he insulted my honour, I don’t mind the beating but he toyed with me, he made it look like a pussy fight so I went easy on him and then he did that! I need my chance Commander, for my honour!" The words are slurred and nasal, interrupted repeatedly as Highfield spits out blood that has run into his mouth.
"You lost, Private. You never set any terms and you lost. But he did toy with you and he did lose control.
"What do you think Lieutenants?"
"I think that this shouldn’t have happened in the first place, Commander."
"The men need something to do Lieutenant. Philips, do you have a more constructive answer?"
[["Emmisson fought better. That’s the end of the story as far as I’m concerned."]]
(link:'"Highfield should be allowed to redeem his honour."')[(set: $Respect = $Respect + 5)(goto: '"Highfield should be allowed to redeem his honour."')]
(link:'"Emmisson disgraced himself by losing control and he should be punished. I don’t see why Highfield shouldn’t be the one to do it."')[(set: $Respect = $Respect + 4)(set: $Fear = $Fear + 4)(goto: '"Highfield should be allowed to redeem his honour."')]The Commander nods slowly.
"If you’d wanted your honour redeemed you should have done it yourself in the fight. Now, to-"
"Let him."
The Commander turns to Emmisson, who has begun shaking gently in your grasp.
"Let him, Commander. I want him to have this."
The Commander hesitates, perhaps the first time you have ever seen him unsure, but as Highfield begins to splutter out another plea, he acquiesces.
"Well then Private Highfield, you may go ahead, but you may only touch Private Emmisson once. I don’t want any more damage to my men than is necessary."
Highfield nods, coughs on blood. He squares himself up and winds his fist up like a cartoon boxer. Then he stops. He thinks and straightens, then leans forward and grabs Emmisson’s nose between the knuckles of his middle and ring finger. The two men look at each other, neither moving, and then Highfield twists.
You all hear the snap. You feel it through Emmisson’s body.
"That’s enough now Privates. Go clean yourselves up."
"Thank you Commander." Highfield spits as the Commander leaves the room. He nods to you, then to Hayes, and then to Emmisson and then leaves. Hayes follows a moment later, walking stiffly and quickly, not looking back.
Emmisson’s eyes are closed. He sniffs and then chokes.
[["Something’s wrong Emmisson. Please, you can talk to me."]]
[["You’re a disgrace Private."]]
[[Wordlessly leave him.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 4)
(set: $Fear = $Fear - 4)"Well then Private Highfield, you may go ahead, but you may only touch Private Emmisson once. I don’t want any more damage to my men than is necessary."
Highfield nods, coughs up blood. He squares himself up and winds his fist up like a cartoon boxer. Then he stops. He thinks and straightens, then leans forward and grabs Emmisson’s nose between the knuckles of his middle and ring finger. The two men look at each other, neither moving, and then Highfield twists.
You all hear the snap. You feel it through Emmisson’s body.
"That’s enough now Privates. Go clean yourselves up."
"Thank you Commander." Highfield spits as the Commander leaves the room. He nods to you, then to Hayes, and then to Emmisson and then leaves. Hayes follows a moment later, walking stiffly and quickly, not looking back.
Emmisson’s eyes are closed. He sniffs and then chokes.
[["Something’s wrong Emmisson. Please, you can talk to me."]]
[["You’re a disgrace Private."]]
[[Wordlessly leave him.]]{(set: $Fear = $Fear - 2)}(if: $Fear < 0)["Everything is wrong Lieutenant. Everything is wrong."
That’s all he manages before he begins to weep. He pushes weakly against you, urging you to leave, but the moment you actually take a step away his grip tightens around your arm for a moment.
"Can I let myself make it better?" He waits, but only for a moment, then he pushes you again and you leave him to his sorrow.](else:)["There is nothing wrong. I was just weak. But only for a moment.
"I must go back to barracks."
He walks out, only looking back once, briefly.]
[[Sleep.]]{(set: $Fear = $Fear + 2)}(if: $Fear < 0)[To your horror, he begins to weep, breaking away from you the moment he does so and staggering towards the door to the barracks. He stops once, turning to you as if he’s about to speak, but he simply turns away again.
You let him go, waiting a few moments before you make your way to your own quarters.](else:)["Yes sir, I know. I will improve myself sir. I will become strong again sir.
"May I return to barracks sir?"
You dismiss him with a nod and wait a few moments before you make your way to your own quarters.]
[[Sleep.]](if: $Fear < 0)[He does not wait for you to leave before he starts to weep. It is not loud, but you can hear it. You do not turn around.](else:)[He says nothing as you go. It is what you both expected.]
[[Sleep.]]You are woken by the Commander, who tells you that he has received the order that the training exercise is to continue. You are, therefore, to report to the control room in twenty minutes.
You’re there in twelve, so stand outside the door for eight.
The Commander is waiting for you. On the other side of the glass a middle-aged man is strapped into the Throne.
"Here is the file Lieutenant. You will question this one on your own, I will observe from here and only involve myself if I deem it strictly necessary.
"Begin when you are ready."
[[Consult the file.]]Subject Apprehension Record
Date of issue: 05/19/2022
Arresting Officer: Colonel Dale Connway
Subject: Calvin McPherson
Subject occupation: Architect
Reasons for apprehension:
• Serious threat of terrorist activity.
• Fraternisation with terrorists.
• The dissemination of pornographic material.
Arresting officer’s notes:
Subject was apprehended in his home. He put up no physical resistance but refused to answer arresting officer’s queries vis-a-vis location of wife.
Transferred.
[[Finish reading->Finish reading 2]]"Go, the client is waiting."
The Commander gestures towards the door, but of course you know the way. A minute later you are stepping into the uncomfortable warmth of the Throne room. The client starts to breathe heavily.
"What is this? Please tell me. What is this thing? Is it an electric chair? Am I about to die?"
The man’s voice is a timid whine, finally giving personality to a body and a face that cannot be described as anything other than ‘generic’.
[["Relax Mr McPherson, you’re just here to answer a few questions."]]
[["That depends on how you answer my questions."]]
[["We call it the Throne. It can certainly kill you. But it also uses cutting edge AI to do so much more."]]The man lets out a long, shaky breath.
"Thank you.
"I could help you. I don’t want to die. But there are people I have to be loyal to.
"Can you tell me something? Have you won the war?"
[["It wasn’t a war, it was a containment operation. But the rebels have been crushed, yes."]]
[["Yes."]]
[["I don’t need to tell you that."]]
(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 1)The man seems to choke on his own breath.
"Oh please, I don’t want to die. But there are people, people I have to be loyal to.
"Oh God, I beg you give me strength, give me courage!
"But please, please tell me, can you tell me, I don’t even know, can you tell me something? Have you won the war?"
[["It wasn’t a war, it was a containment operation. But the rebels have been crushed, yes."]]
[["Yes."]]
[["I don’t need to tell you that."]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)"Why would you tell me that? Does it not matter what I know because I won’t be leaving here alive?
"And why AI?
"I don’t understand. I’m sorry."
The man has started to cry.
[["You don’t need to understand. You just need to answer some questions."]]
[["Don’t try my patience, otherwise I’ll just turn it on. Just answer my questions."->"That depends on how you answer my questions."]]
[["Take your time. When you’re ready, I have some questions."->"Relax Mr McPherson, you’re just here to answer a few questions."]]
(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 1)
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)The man stares, wet eyed.
"We were told it was a war. To defend our country and our freedom.
"But that’s all over now? So it might as well be what you said."
[["Now you will answer my questions."->"Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 1) (set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)"I thought as much. I didn’t think you’d waste time on me until it was all over.
"Oh God why would you let it all be for nothing?"
[["Now you will answer my questions."->"Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 2)"But why wouldn’t you? I promise you, as God is my witness, that I’m scared enough already. I know how much power you have over me, I know that you’ll just kill me and throw my body in a hole, what does it cost you to at least tell me whether all of this is over!"
The man’s voice raises in pitch, already hysterical.
[["It wasn’t a war, it was a containment operation. But the rebels have been crushed, yes."]]
[["Yes, it’s over."->"Yes."]]
[["Just answer my questions."->"Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust - 2) (set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)The man lets out a whimper.
"Okay. But I don’t know … there are people … I have to be loyal.
"Can you tell me something, please? Have you won the war?"
[["It wasn’t a war, it was a containment operation. But the rebels have been crushed, yes."]]
[["Yes."]]
[["I don’t need to tell you that."]](if: $2CFear < 6)[(if: $2CFear < 1)[The client looks at you calmly.](else-if: $2CFear is 1 or $2CFear is 2)[The client is sweating, blinking tears out of his eyes.](else-if: $2CFear is 3 or $2CFear is 4)[The client is breathing heavily, his eyes wide.](else-if: $2CFear is 5)[The client is shaking, his fists clenched. He’s clearly trying to hold back some kind of breakdown.]
(if: $2CHadWater is not "True")[[["Take a deep breath Mr McPherson. Can I get you some water?"]]]
(if: $2CHadArrest is not "True")[[["Tell me about your arrest."]]]
(if: $2CHadTerroristPlans is not "True")[[["What terrorist activities were you planning?"]]]
(if: $2CHadWhichTerrorists is not "True")[[["I know you were in contact with terrorists. Who are they?"]]]
(if: $2CHadPornography is not "True")[[["I’ve been informed that you distributed pornographic material. Give me more details."]]]
(if: $2CJulia is "True" and $2CHadJulia is not "True")[[["Tell me about Julia."]]]
(if: $2CTommy is "True" and $2CHadTommy is not "True")[[["Tell me about Tommy."]]]
(if: $2CDrawings is "True" and $2CHadDrawings is not "True")[[["Tell me about your drawings."]]]
(if: $2CLaptop is "True" and $2CHadLaptop is not "True")[[["Tell me about your laptop."]]]
(if: $2CPhone is "True" and $2CHadPhone is not "True")[[["Tell me about your phone."]]]
[[I don't need anymore. We're done here.->2C Terminate the interview.]]](else:)["No!
"No, enough!
"I can’t keep doing this!
"I feel like my heart might explode. Nothing looks straight.
"Oh God."
The man’s arm begins to slap against the restraints, twisted around as if he is trying to grasp at his heart.
He opens his mouth as if to scream, but all he can manage is to gasp for air like a fish out of water.
"He’s not putting it on Lieutenant." Your Commander’s voice is completely calm. "Terminate the interview there. Make your decision based on what you have so far."
[[Terminate the interview.->2C Terminate the interview.]]](if: $2CFear < 3)[{(set: $2CFear = $2CFear - 1)}"No thank you, but thank you for the offer."](else:)[{(set: $2CFear = $2CFear - 2)(set: $Respect = $Respect - 1)}"Yes. Yes please."
The Commander’s voice comes over the intercom.
"It will be with you shortly."
You both sit in silence for a minute or two, then Private Highfield, his face bandaged, brings in a warm glass of water and, after hesitating a moment, helps to pour it into the client’s mouth. He leaves a moment later, clearly annoyed.]
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CHadWater = "True")(if: $2CFear > 3)["I was peaceful, I didn’t raise a finger against anyone! They had to break down the door but that’s only because I was scared. I was scared that if I pulled it open too fast they might think I was going to shoot, but if I was too slow they might think the same. They hurt me, they pushed me to the ground, but I didn’t do anything to them! They would tell you themselves, I know, they weren’t bad boys.
"They wanted to know where Julia was. That’s why they hit me, I understand that. They kept shouting it and I kept telling them I wasn’t going to tell them. Their Colonel asked too but he didn’t beat me, he just smiled and sent me here.
(if: $2CTrust > 1 and $2CTrust < 4)["I don’t know if I should tell you."](else-if: $2CTrust > 3)["Maybe I’ll tell you."](else:)["I don’t want to tell you either.]](else:)["I didn’t have tv, I didn’t have internet. I didn’t know what was happening, but I knew it was over when the shelling stopped. From both sides. Then I saw a sports car go past, a young soldier hanging out of the window holding your flag. So I knew who it was going to be when I heard a knock on the door. I didn’t lift a finger, I didn’t even answer the door. I was scared that if I pulled it open too fast they might think I was going to shoot, but if I was too slow they might think the same. So I called out and they broke it down. They were very young. They had to check a picture on one of their phones to know it was me. That was after they beat me to the ground. I understand, I do, they were amped up and expecting a fight, they were probably scared, no, I mean, prepared, ready like a good soldier should be, yes?
"They wanted to know where Julia was. They didn’t even know why, they were just told to bring us both. But I wouldn’t tell them, and I wouldn’t tell their Colonel either.
(if: $2CTrust > 1 and $2CTrust < 4)["I don’t know if I will tell you."](else-if: $2CTrust > 3)["I could maybe tell you."](else:)["I don’t think I’ll tell you either.]]
[["What was confiscated?"]]
[["Was anyone else there?"]]
[["Did you take the names of the men who arrested you? They should be investigated, we don’t encourage the beating of unarmed civilians."]]
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CHadArrest = "True")
(set: $2CJulia = "True")
(if: $2CToldAboutDrawings is "True")["Only what I’ve already told you about, about the drawings. That’s all, nothing else. I promise before God, that’s all."](else-if: $2CTrust < 5)[{(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)}"I can’t tell you that. I won’t, I can’t. You have what you need, you’ll figure it out. I’m sure you will, you’re intelligent, no-one will be hurt, on my side or on yours. Please, ask me something else. I can’t do that. Please don’t kill me for that. Please. You understand loyalty, don’t you? Duty? Please, please, it’s all I have left, you can’t take it from me and it won’t even hurt you, I don’t think it will even hurt anyone.
"Please. Please I beg you. One human to another.
"Please."](else:)[{(set: $2CToldDrawings = "True")(set: $2CDrawings = "True")}"Maybe, maybe I can tell you. Maybe enough time has passed. And I don’t want anyone to be hurt.
"My drawings. Look at my architectural drawings."
[["Tell me about your drawings."]]]
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)
(set: $2CHadTerroristPlans = "True")"Do you really have to make me say it? Do I really have to look another human in the eyes and say that my brother was a terrorist?
"Patrick McPherson! Of course I was in contact with my brother, he was my brother! With him and his friends. He even introduced me to Julia. All my friends were his friends. Almost all, at least.
"But he was my best friend. I loved him more than … I loved him.
"So of course I was in contact with him. Of course."
[["Why were all your friends connected to him? Was he operating a cell?"]]
[["Tell me more about your brother and his history."]]
[["Would you say you were an associate of Patrick McPherson’s?"]]
(set: $2CHadWhichTerrorists = "True")For a moment the man looks more confused than scared.
"No? No, I’ve never done that. I don’t even look at that kind of thing. Why would I …?
"Oh.
"I sent a picture. A few pictures. Is that what you mean? I sent some pictures of my, of my penis. I sent them on my phone. Is that it? That’s not a crime! Young people do that every day, don’t they? It can’t be a crime."
(link:"I agree, it isn’t a crime. Let’s return to the questions.")[(set: $2CFear = $2CFear - 1)(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 1)(goto: '"Let’s return to the questions."')]
[["Who did you send them to?"]]
(set: $2CHadPornography = "True")"What do you want to know about her? Because I will not tell you where she went."
[["Why did she run?"]]
(set: $2CHadJulia = "True")"Why?
"I mean, I just want to know, why do you want to know? I won’t help you find him."
[[You will help us find him. He’s a known affiliate of a terrorist.]]
[[I don’t know. I’m just asking, one human to another.]]
(set: $2CHadTommy = "True")(if: $2CToldDrawings is "True")["Some of them are plans for sabotage. I don’t know the details. I didn’t do anything, I just drew some things up, just worked on some hypotheticals. I don’t know if anyone will do anything with them. I don’t even know if they already have.
"Look at the plans for ‘National Bridge’. They’re just my notes on how one could easily destroy a number of bridges across the country. I didn’t like doing it. I didn’t want to do it. But I needed to do my part. I never would have, I never could have, actually done anything with them. I wanted to ask them to promise me that they wouldn’t do anything with them that could hurt anyone, but I couldn’t. I just couldn’t. I knew they couldn’t say yes and I didn’t want to hear them say no.
"Just protect the bridges. I could help, but why would you trust me?"](else:)[(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 3)"How, what? Did, did they do something? Have you cracked it?
"Oh God. Oh God I’m sorry. I’m not sure I want to know which way it is. Someone’s hurt. Because of me. Oh God please, you know I did what I had to do.
"They’re just plans! They weren’t promises, just bad thoughts that we stupidly, evilly had to write down. I … I didn’t want to. I’m an architect, I build bridges not destroy them! I never would have, I never could have, actually done anything with them. I wanted to ask them to promise me that they wouldn’t do anything with them that could hurt anyone, but I couldn’t. I just couldn’t. I knew they couldn’t say yes and I didn’t want to hear them say no.
"It’s all the notes that say ‘National Bridge’. It’s not just one bridge, it’s many, I can’t even remember how many. Just protect the bridges. I could help, but why would you trust me? I’ve already let people get hurt."]
[["Who made you do this?"]]
[["Thank you. We’ll make sure that the bridges are protected and no-one is hurt."]]
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(if: $2CToldDrawings is not "True")[[["What are you talking about?"->"What are you talking about drawings?"]]]
(set: $2CHadDrawings = "True")"My laptop? It was silver, American made. I didn’t use it much, just for work. I did some planning on it, some drawings, it had special software, but I always preferred working by hand on paper. Mostly I just do emails.
"But that’s all. I think they took it because lots of people live on their laptops, but I don’t. They won’t find anything."
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CHadLaptop = "True")"My phone? What about my phone? I used it a lot, for a lot of things, mostly looking online. Please, why are you asking about this? Are you just toying with me? Please, I didn’t think anything could be worse than what you are going to do to me, but just waiting for it, I just want to know. I just want to reach that point.
"Just ask me what you need to know and then kill me. Or not. Please."
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CHadPhone = "True")
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)The Commander is already facing the door of the operations room when you push it open.
"There’s been a slight delay. Have a think on your decision, I will let you know when the Box is ready. In the meantime we have received a letter from your mother."
The Commander passes you an envelope with nothing but your name, your rank and the name of the province written on it.
Whoever went through it hasn’t even pretended to reseal it.
You take it to your barracks; the walk is a good way to pass a minute.
[[Read your mother’s letter.]]"Just my phone, my laptop and my architectural drawings."
(if: $2CWhoElsePresent is not "True")[[["Was anyone else there?"]]]
(if: $2CTakeNames is not "True")[[["Did you take the names of the men who arrested you? They should be investigated, we don’t encourage the beating of unarmed civilians."]]]
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)
(set: $2CConfiscated = "True")
(set: $2CDrawings = "True")
(set: $2CPhone = "True")
(set: $2CLaptop = "True")(if: $2CFear > 4)["No, no Tommy had just left, I knew that you were probably coming so I got him to leave."
There is a pause and the client’s eyes somehow go even wider. He says no more.](else:)["No. I was alone."
The client sweats.]
(if: $2CConfiscated is not "True")[[["What was confiscated?"]]]
(if: $2CTakeNames is not "True")[[["Did you take the names of the men who arrested you? They should be investigated, we don’t encourage the beating of unarmed civilians."]]]
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)
(set: $2CWhoElsePresent = "True") (if: $2CFear > 2)["Oh no, oh no, I wouldn’t want to get them in to trouble! Please, no, I didn’t mean anything by it, please, ignore me, I didn’t say anything, they were good strong men, doing exactly what they were meant to do. Please, please forget it, I’m sorry, please.](else:)[{(set: $2CFear = $2CFear - 1)(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust - 1)}"I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have mentioned anything. Just ask your questions, don’t give me promises. Please."]
(if: $2CConfiscated is not "True")[[["What was confiscated?"]]]
(if: $2CWhoElsePresent is not "True")[[["Was anyone else there?"]]]
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CTakeNames = "True")The client shakes his head.
"No. No I can’t. I can’t. You can’t know."
"No, no, no, no.
"They trusted me. I won’t tell you. I won’t."
The man clenches his jaw and does a bad job of hiding the pain. There are other ways of getting this information, you are sure. One way, or another.
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]"Thank you. Thank you."
He rests his head forward on the edge of the helmet unit.
"I can’t … I’m tired. The drawings. I need to forget. They’re in your hands now. I need to forget, let them past. I’ve told you all I can. Ask me something else. Let me forget."
You can hear it in his voice. Only the Throne could get more out of him about the drawings, if indeed there is anything more to know.
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]The man stares, completely unmoving.
"You … you don’t know? Then why did you ask?
"Oh God. Oh God. What have I done? Why, what, oh Lord, why?"
The man begins to wail. You believe he is praying, but you can’t be entirely sure.
[["Calm down, we need to get this back on track."->"Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)The client stares at you blankly.
"No. No, of course not. He was loyal, more loyal to the state than almost anybody else. He was like the President in that way. I heard that there was a real chance he could become Prime Minister. Why would he operate a cell?
"No, no of course you mean against you. It wasn’t a cell. It was … it was … I don’t know. He was a popular man. He knew lots of people, lots of ways to get to people inaccessible to the military. Please don’t judge him for that. I’ve heard stories of what your people do, I know your state controls all of that, but they’re still powerful here. My brother needed at least some of them to be friendly, the good ones, the ones who had families and wanted to see things get better. Well I suppose some of them are patriots because they sent their little people to him when you arrived.
"He helped them fight against you. I don’t know how, don’t ask me how. But I know that he was around a lot of strange people those last few days. I never asked, but I knew who they were.
"They were kind to me. And they were so, so young."
[["So you met them? What relationship did you have with them?"]]
[["Criminals? These will be dangerous people Calvin. We can keep you safe from them, but only if you tell us details about who they are."]]
[["Your brother was a terrorist and a criminal sympathiser. I don’t want to see you make mistakes like that."]]
(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust - 1)"You don’t want to know what he was like as a child, do you? I know that wouldn’t matter.
"He went to university to study architecture, it’s why I wanted to study it too, but at university he wasn’t as interested in his studies as he was in politics. He said it was an exciting time. We were only just free and he wanted to be part of figuring out what we wanted to be.
"He had a lot of friends. I think that’s really why he liked it, he got to meet lots of people and talk to them. He was already like that when I arrived and he just let me follow him around when I wasn’t studying.
"It was lonely after he left. But by the time I had graduated he was working in the capital and I got a job there too. He did fine, but didn’t get very far. He said it was because he actually believed in something. That was until the President. He hadn’t been friends with him before but he called him when he announced that he was going to run. Patrick campaigned with him. And of course they won and Patrick was appointed Interior Minister. He already knew everyone.
"And then he helped fight the war. And then you pulled his body out of the rubble of the government offices and I told you that it was him."
The client had been far away, his eyes unfocussed, but he comes back to you with his last sentence. He lets out a little cough, as if suddenly shocked to see where he is.
[["Tell me more about what he did during the ‘war’."->"What did Patrick do in the war?"]]
[["It sounds like he meant a lot to you."]]
(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 1) "An, an associate? No, no, not at all. Really. I wasn’t involved, I didn’t have anything to do with his job, he didn’t even talk to me about it. I think that might be why he liked me. I think everyone else just wanted something from him all the time. Especially the last few years.
"But I didn’t have anything to do with it. And he didn’t help me get my jobs. I have a good degree and a good record. He was my brother, he was my friend, but I wasn’t connected with anything that he did. I wasn’t involved. I’m not responsible, I didn’t even know, none of it, before the war or during it."
[["You’re very defensive for someone who wasn’t involved."]]
[["Nevertheless, tell me what you do know of his actions during the ‘war’."->"What did Patrick do in the war?"]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)"Relationship? I … I didn’t have a relationship. They just came to my apartment. That’s all!"
[["Why were they coming to your apartment?"]]
(if: $2CHadDrawings is "True")[[["Are these the people who made you give them the ‘National Bridge’ plans?"]]]
(if: $2CHadTommy is "True")[[["Was Tommy one of them?"]]]
(link: '"I believe you. Let’s return to the questions."')[(set: $2CFear = $2CFear - 1)(goto: '"Let’s return to the questions."')]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)"I do see why you think that, I do, but I’m not scared of them. They wouldn’t hurt me and I wouldn’t hurt them. They told me that they ‘had my back’ and I shouldn’t be scared. I looked after them in my own apartment, they said that was enough.
"So thank you, but I can’t and I won’t tell you.
"I know that that probably means you’ll kill me."
[["Why were they coming to your apartment?"]]
(if: $2CHadDrawings is "True")[[["Are these the people who made you give them the ‘National Bridge’ plans?"]]]
(if: $2CHadTommy is "True")[[["Was Tommy one of them?"]]]
(link: '"I believe you. Let’s return to the questions."')[(set: $2CFear = $2CFear - 1)(goto: '"Let’s return to the questions."')]
(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 1) (set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)"No, no my brother was a great man. He didn’t die because he worked with criminals, he died because you bombed the building he was in.
"I’m already not like him. I //will// die, just because you think that my relation to my brother and having good, young, unfortunate people come to my apartment is enough to merit my death."
The man pauses for a moment.
"I’m sorry. I didn’t … I didn’t mean to, I understand, I really do. You have to look after yourselves, you’re a person, you can understand. Please, please forgive me, I’m not an angry person, but it’s hard, I’m trying to feel nothing but I’m feeling everything.
"Please ignore me, you’re right and fair I’m sure, please, listen, I’m innocent, please."
[["Why were they coming to your apartment?"]]
(if: $2CHadDrawings is "True")[[["Are these the people who made you give them the ‘National Bridge’ plans?"]]]
(if: $2CHadTommy is "True")[[["Was Tommy one of them?"]]]
(link: '"I believe you. Let’s return to the questions."')[(set: $2CFear = $2CFear - 1)(goto: '"Let’s return to the questions."')]
(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust - 1) (set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)(if: $2CTrust > 3)["My brother’s work brought him into contact with a lot of people. Criminals. I think you have them, but the state controls them. We haven’t done that. It’s more European like that, I think. But they’re powerful and he had to have contacts with them. It wasn’t corrupt. He just had to keep some of the good ones happy. The ones with families, the ones who’d like to see the country get better. I only know because I met them. Well when the war started, some of them sent him some of their people, the ones who couldn’t leave the country.
"He helped them fight against you. I don’t know how, don’t ask me how. But I know that he was around a lot of strange people those last few days. I never asked, but I knew who they were.
"They were kind to me. And they were so, so young."](else:)["My brother knew a lot of people. Not all of them were nice, but that was his job. There were people he had to keep happy. Powerful people. Some of them were patriots, I think. They sent him some of their people, the ones who couldn’t leave the country.
"He helped them fight against you. I don’t know how, don’t ask me how. But I know that he was around a lot of strange people those last few days. I never asked, but I knew who they were.
"They were kind to me. And they were so, so young."]
[["So you met them? What relationship did you have with them?"]]
[["Criminals? These will be dangerous people Calvin. We can keep you safe from them, but only if you tell us details about who they are."]]
[["Your brother was a terrorist and a criminal sympathiser. I don’t want to see you make mistakes like that."]](if: $2CTrust < 4)[{(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust - 1)}"Of course he did! He was my brother! I shared everything with him and he gave me almost everything good in my life! And then you killed him! What do you want me to say now? You have me, you can do what you want with me, why make me weep for my brother, why do that to me?"](else:)[{(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 1)}"Of course he did. Of course he did. Maybe you can understand. I know that you are human too. You know that sometimes things don’t have to matter for something else. They can just matter. My brother was that to me."]
[["Let’s get this back on track. Tell me what your brother did during the ‘war’."->"What did Patrick do in the war?"]](if: $2CFear > 3)["Yes, no, yes, oh I don’t know! I just need you to know that I didn’t do anything, I didn’t work for him, there wasn’t nepotism, or corruption, or the leaking of state secrets. It wasn’t like that! Believe me, I tell you, the President trusted him and the President would never have stood for it, I wasn’t even interested, nothing happened, he was clean, I’m clean, and I wasn’t involved. I know he did dangerous things, I know he did dark things but please don’t put them on me, I loved him but I wasn’t him. He didn’t design my buildings and I didn’t run his ministry. Please!"](else:)[The man takes several quick, deep breaths.
"It’s not like that, okay? It’s just, I’ve been dealing with this for years. People thinking that because I’m close to my brother, because I get important contracts, that there’s something going on. We had a lot of corruption, but the President was saying he’d deal with it. Patrick’s enemies really wanted to catch him out, to show that the President’s men were just as bad as everyone else. But it wasn’t like that. I’m always nervous around that question. And now you, and this thing you’ve got me in, and the invasion and the uniforms and everything, it’s hard to keep it all calm. Okay? Do you believe me? I really am innocent. Please, I wasn’t involved with my brother, not in business. Believe me.]
[[For now just tell me what your brother did during the ‘war’."->"What did Patrick do in the war?"]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)(if: $2CFear > 4)[{(set: $2CJulia = "True")}"I don’t … I can’t … no reason, but, but why? If I tell you this will you trust me? I don’t know why I should tell you but I know why I shouldn’t.
"I can’t tell you.
"I shouldn’t tell you.
"She’s a good person. I don’t want to have anything to do with her suffering.
"Julia. They came for Julia. She brought them. Since her father left, they were her people. Good people. Her family. So mine as well, I guess."](else:)["I can’t tell you.
"I can’t.
"You’ve taken my brother, my home, my country, my love. I have so little. Please don’t take the last bit of honour I have left.
"You can’t make me tell you. I’ll do anything else you want, just let me keep the trust of people who trusted me."]
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(if: $2CHadDrawings is "True" and $2CAreTheseThePeople is not "True")[[["Are these the people who made you give them the ‘National Bridge’ plans?"]]]
(if: $2CHadTommy is "True" and $2CWasTommyACriminal is not "True")[[["Was Tommy one of them?"]]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)
(set: $2CWhyComeApartment = "True")(if: $2CTrust > 3)[The client (if: $2CFear < 4)[stares at nothing](else:)[shakes uncontrollably] for a long time.
"I don’t want to tell you. But I don’t want you to bring other innocents into this.
"Yes. Yes it was them."](else:)["I’ve already told you, I won’t tell you! (if: $2CFear < 4)[They trusted me.](else:)[I know you’ll do awful things to me, I know, I don’t want you to, I wish you could understand, it’s not even important, but I won’t tell you, I won’t!]]
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(if: $2CWhyComeApartment is not "True")[[["Why were they coming to your apartment?"]]]
(if: $2CHadTommy is "True" and $2CWasTommyACriminal is not "True")[[["Was Tommy one of them?"]]]
(set: $2CAreTheseThePeople = "True")The man shakes his head, suddenly completely sure of himself.
"No. No, Tommy isn’t anything like that. He isn’t connected to them at all, or any criminals or any politics. He is clean and innocent, completely."
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(if: $2CWhyComeApartment is not "True")[[["Why were they coming to your apartment?"]]]
(if: $2CHadDrawings is "True" and $2CAreTheseThePeople is not "True")[[["Are these the people who made you give them the ‘National Bridge’ plans?"]]]
(set: $2CWasTommyACriminal = "True")
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear - 1)The man hesitates for a long time, his eyes darting back and forth above your head.
"My doctor."
[["I don’t believe you. I’ll ask again: who did you send them to? Don’t lie to me this time."]]
[["Fine. Let’s return to the questions."->"Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)(if: $2CFear < 4)[The man takes in a deep breath.](else:)[The man began to cry, his voice choking with quiet sobs as he begins to answer.]
"My lover. I had a lover."
[["Tell me about her."]]
(link:"That sounds like a private matter and is therefore irrelevant here. Let’s return to the questions.")[(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 2)(set: $2CFear = $2CFear - 1)(goto: '"Let’s return to the questions."')]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)The man stares at you for a long moment. Sweat drips down both of your faces.
"He.
"Tommy."
[["Homosexuality is a sin and the distribution of gay pornographic material is at least two separate crimes."]]
(link:"I understand your hesitancy. Let’s return to the questions.")[(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 2)(goto: '"Let’s return to the questions."')]
(set: $2CTommy = "True")"I know. Of course I know. I follow the same church as you. And I know what happens in your country.
"I know what I am. I know where I am going."
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 2)"No. I won’t. Torture me. I won’t. I will say everything I have ever known before I tell you anything about Tommy."
You think perhaps the Throne will test that.
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]"I won’t tell you anything that could take you to him.
"But if you really do want to know, I’ll tell you that he was simple. Not stupid, just simple. Everyone else seems to be so complicated. Always planning or plotting something. Talking about big ideas, the people they hate and love always changing. Tommy wasn’t like that. He just lived.
"He was strong. He could take whatever was thrown at him. That’s why I think he was simple, he didn’t need to be constantly dancing around things to not get hurt.
"And he was strong in the other way too. He could sweep me off my feet.
"He didn’t mind just sitting in silence. He was always quite quiet. We watched a lot of tv. I don’t like doing that on my own, it seems like a waste of time, but with him it was lovely.
"His sweat smelled fresh.
"I don’t want to tell you more. I’m sorry. I don’t want to think of him here."
[["How do you feel about cheating on your wife with a man?"]]
[["Thank you. Let’s return to the questions."->"Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CTrust = $2CTrust + 1)"I tried to hide it from her, but I think she knew. She never said anything. But I don’t think I’m very clever at that sort of thing and she was. I think she knew. She probably thought it was nice, that I finally found someone.
"I’m gay. I’d never been a good lover to her. She told me that she’d found other men.
"I should have told her the same. I owed it to her."
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]"Because she didn’t want to be killed by you."
[["Don’t play games with me. Why did she run?"]]
[["I see this is going nowhere. Let’s return to the questions." ->"Let’s return to the questions."]]"I’m not playing with you! She ran because she knew if she didn’t you would kill her! That’s the truth, it’s that simple! Why wouldn’t she run?"
[["Then why didn’t you run?"]]
[["Why are you protecting her? Why is her life more valuable than yours?"]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)"Because I didn’t do anything wrong."
[["So she did then?"]](if: $2CTrust > 4 and $2CFear < 2)[The client thinks for a long time. When he speaks it is in a whisper.
"If I tell you where she went, will you set me free?"
[["Yes."->"Yes I will set you free if you tell us about wife."]]
[["I will consider it."->"I will consider setting you free if you tell us about wife."]]](else:)["I do not know if it is. But my life is already over, isn’t it? No matter what I say."
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]]
The client swallows hard, but does not respond save with the fear in his eyes.
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]
(set: $2CFear = $2CFear + 1)He begins to cry. He cries for a very long time, his face red and wet.
"She went to Heartwood. It’s near the border with Europe, in the south. She went on her own, don’t expect to catch anyone else. She’s trying to get over, to get out. I don’t know if she’ll still be there.
"I don’t think you’ll catch her. I pray that you won’t.
"But that is everything I know.
"I won’t say any more. About anything. Either you are good to your word and you will let me go, or I might as well die in silence."
[[Terminate the interview.->2C Terminate the interview.]]
(set: $2CWifeBetrayed = "True")"That is not enough. I do not know if her life is worth more or less than mine. I will guess they are equal. In which case, if mine is probably already over, I see no reason to give you hers."
[["Let’s return to the questions."]]Dearest Leon,
I do hope you don’t mind me not calling you Lieutenant. I know you’re an important young man now, but you’ll always be little Leon to me.
I heard that you’ve got a settled position in the province now? I did so hope that you would be coming back to us as soon as the operation was over, but I’m immensely proud that you’ve obviously done such a good job over there that they want to keep you. And it means that, finally, my letters might actually reach you. Although more than anything I want to see your face and hear your voice. You must tell me the moment you are allowed to contact us that way, you understand? I know that it’s important for the security of your mission that you keep everything as secret as possible, but the fighting is over now and I need to see your face, even if it is just on a screen.
But you will be wondering about us. I am well, of course, and your brother is doing very well. He is still sad that he was not able to join all of you and your friends in the province, but his work has been going very well. Our glorious President has been telling your father for years to prepare everything for selling to people here in our country and it’s finally working. Your brother’s factories have to run on overtime now! It really is wonderful, people are finally seeing how good all of our locally made goods are now that they aren’t getting tempted by all that foreign stuff.
I can’t not tell you, I wasn’t going to but I can’t not (if you ever do get a chance to talk to us don’t mention that I told you!) but we think that Jessica might be pregnant! Your brother is glowing with pride. She’s twenty-nine (don’t say that I said this either) so we’re a bit worried whether the child will be healthy, it is late for a first pregnancy and we were worried that something might have been wrong, but your brother tells us not to worry. Still, it would be good if you could mention the baby in your prayers.
Your father is very busy, but at home a lot more. He still hasn’t left the country since the containment operation began! But he’s always out at meetings, or travelling around visiting his factories and foundries. He’s told me that the profits are very good (he didn’t use those words, but you can imagine!), but of course that means he has to work a lot more. He isn’t sleeping. Don’t worry about him, you know it’s just another of his episodes, but I thought you should know, while I have a chance to tell you.
Has the weather been good where you are? It’s been nice and warm here and the garden is beautiful (even here in the town house, your father and brother have been so busy we haven’t had time to get to the summer house yet! The garden there is wonderful too though of course, Juan sent me pictures.)
I cannot wait to hear from you, although I realise I probably will have to.
I love you from here to the furthest reaches of space and then all the way back again,
Mom.
[[Put away the letter and wait for the Commander’s next order.]]"We’re ready now."
You walk with the Commander to the Box room, which he lets you enter alone.
Nothing has changed inside, as far as you can tell.
Five buttons await your choice.
(link:"Release")[(set: $SecondBoxPress = "Release")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 2")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 2")]]
(link:"Hold")[(set: $SecondBoxPress = "Hold")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 2")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 2")]]
(link:"End")[(set: $SecondBoxPress = "End")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 2")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 2")]]
(link:"Question->Hold")[(set: $SecondBoxPress = "Question Hold")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 2")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 2")]]
(link:"Question->End")[(set: $SecondBoxPress = "Question End")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 2")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 2")]]The LED turns (if: $SecondBoxPress is "Release")[''Orange.''](else-if: $SecondBoxPress is "Hold")[''Purple.''](else-if: $SecondBoxPress is "End")[''Yellow.''](else-if: $SecondBoxPress is "Question Hold")[''Pink.''](else-if: $SecondBoxPress is "Question End")[''Blue.'']
//Send your partner the word in bold (the colour). Then select the number that they send back.//
(link:"1")[(set: $SecondBoxResult = "End")(goto: "Box result 2")]
(link:"2")[(set: $SecondBoxResult = "Question Hold")(goto: "Box result 2")]
(link:"3")[(set: $SecondBoxResult = "Question End")(goto: "Box result 2")]
(link:"4")[(set: $SecondBoxResult = "Hold")(goto: "Box result 2")]
(link:"5")[(set: $SecondBoxResult = "Release")(goto: "Box result 2")]{(if: $2Player is not "True")[
(set: $Chance = (random: 1, 100))
(if: $Chance < 76)[(set: $SecondBoxResult = $SecondBoxPress)](else:)[(set: $Options = (shuffled: "End", "Question Hold", "Question End", "Hold", "Release")) (set: $Options = $Options - (a: $SecondBoxPress)) (set: $SecondBoxResult = $Options's 1st)]
(if: $SecondBoxPress is $SecondBoxResult)[(set: $PressMatch = $PressMatch + 1)]
]}The Commander is sitting down, a seat drawn up next to him. On the other side of the glass (if: $SecondBoxResult is "End")[{(if: $2CWifeBetrayed is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)](if: $2CHadDrawings is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)](set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 8)}the man twitches and dies.
"He was no risk. That was unnecessary. And he has taken his secrets with him."](else-if: $SecondBoxResult is "Question Hold")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 9)}an electronic voice echoes off the walls:
(if: $2CWifeBetrayed is not "True")["Tell us where your wife went."](else:)["Give us physical descriptors for every terrorist you have had contact with.]
The man’s repeated objections quickly turn into screams
The Commander leans forward and taps at a screen mounted to the wall.
"Question->Hold. I think he will survive. The Throne is built for monitoring physical instabilities in clients. Back to barracks now Lieutenant. If there is anything you need to know, you will be told. But in the meantime know that I approve of this action. The client is not a threat, but no information should be kept from us."](else-if: $SecondBoxResult is "Question End")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 5)}an electronic voice echoes off the walls:
(if: $2CWifeBetrayed is not "True")["Tell us where your wife went."](else:)["Give us physical descriptors for every terrorist you have had contact with.]
The man’s repeated objections quickly turn into screams
The Commander leans forward and taps at a screen mounted to the wall.
"Question->End. Back to barracks now Lieutenant. If there is anything you need to know, you will be told. But in the meantime know that I understand what is being done here. The most important thing is that the client withheld information from us. I disagree that he is a risk and believe that the killing is unnecessary. But we shall gain the intelligence we need, which is worth more."](else-if: $SecondBoxResult is "Hold")[{(if: $2CWifeBetrayed is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)](if: $2CHadDrawings is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)](set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 2)}nothing happens. The screen by the Commander’s arm lights up with the word HOLD. A moment later you hear a door opening and Private Highfield walks into the room and physically drags the sobbing man away.
"He didn’t tell us everything we need to know. I highly doubt he will tell us now. Still, it could be worse, he could be pointlessly dead."](else:)[{(if: $2CWifeBetrayed is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 3)](if: $2CHadDrawings is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 3)](set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 7)}the door to the outside swings open. The man slides out of the Throne and begins weeping.
"Thank you! Oh thank you!"
He blubbers out his thanks for some time and eventually gingerly stands and walks out of the door, turning several times to bow towards you.
"He wasn’t a risk. But I see no benefit in releasing him. And more importantly, he will never give us the information he has withheld from us. I doubt he will give us another excuse to arrest him. A mistake, I feel, but one that could have been worse. We could have had to deal with his body."]
"That will be all for today."
[[Salute and leave.]](if: $SecondBoxResult is "Question End" or $SecondBoxResult is "Question Hold")[Your client revealed the details of every terrorist he had ever had dealings with, professed his sin of homosexuality and gave enough details about the location of his wife and lover that they have already been picked up.
]Lieutenant Hayes’s client was a General in the rebel army with strong links to international human rights organisations. He was released. The Commander is clearly not pleased. He’s called you to the operations room.
"It has become clear that the system we have employed is not working with maximum efficiency. I have already breached original protocol by communicating with Lieutenant Hayes about what button he pressed on the Box in response to his interview with his previous client and he has reported to me that he did not select ‘Release’.
"Given the disparity between reported inputs and final outputs of the process, I have sought and obtained permission to read you in to the next level of the Training Exercise project.
"I must say, of course, that this is code word level information."
He pauses and you both nod your understanding.
"The Box is connected, via an encrypted satellite connection, to a facility within the homeland. Specially selected civilians, acting independently of the government, receive the suggestions that you make via the Box and then make the final sentencing decisions themselves.
"It should be clear, therefore, that sentencing decisions are not made by you, nor are they made by any member of the military or even by active members of the government. Any liability from the decisions made should therefore rightly fall on these private individuals, who are free, explicitly, to make any sentencing decision they deem appropriate.
"Given recent decisions made in the international legal community relating to the non-culpability of designers of potentially dangerous systems such as autonomous vehicles, we believe that we have a legal defence, but that is not your concern.
"What //is// your concern is the efficacy of the result. It has been decided, since you are the operating officers, that you should be given responsibility for assisting in the alignment of the decisions of the civilians who have opted into the program with what you deem the best outcome for the country.
"Take these." The Commander hands you an envelope and three cardboard cards, one green, one white and one red. "Insert one card and return the envelope to me. They will be used to evaluate what type of feedback, if any, should be administered to your civilian counterpart. Green represents positive feedback, red negative feedback and white no feedback. Give me the envelope when you have made your feedback decision, based on the outcomes so far, and destroy the remaining cards.
"Any questions?"
"Yes sir."
"Proceed Lieutenant Hayes."
"Do you really expect this to stand with the international community sir? Do you really think that this will prevent us from receiving sentences for war crimes?"
"Yes Lieutenant, I do. We are not at war, we have not been at war, so any charges of war crimes would be utterly unjust. As would any other charges made against you. You issue no commands and you carry out no sentences. All you do is issue non-binding theoretical opinions on what would be best for the stability of the country. You are protected by the sanctity of freedom of speech. It is the free citizens who issue commands, which are then carried out by the autonomous agent we refer to as the Throne. The feedback which will be delivered based on your choice of card is neither a reward nor a punishment for services rendered to the state or the military. They will merely offer government agencies guidance on how to treat individual citizens, in much the same way as many European countries allow high wealth individuals to perform tax manipulations or how the USA uses race as an indicator of appropriateness for induction into its productive prison population."
"But sir, what about the ethics?"
"The only ethics that should concern you are the commandments of God. Everything and anything else is propaganda and fiction.
"Do you understand?"
[["Yes sir!"->"I understand about the envelopes sir!"]]
[["Why should we believe in the justice of the international courts?"]]
[["God would not condone what we do here."]]"Good. Now make your decisions and report back to me."
(if: $2Player is "True")[//Select a card colour and then send your partner that colour.//
](link:"Select the green card.")[(set: $FirstCard = "Green")(goto: "First card pick.")]
(link:"Select the white card.")[(set: $FirstCard = "White")(goto: "First card pick.")]
(link:"Select the red card.")[(set: $FirstCard = "Red")(goto: "First card pick.")]
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 1)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 1)The Commander nods gravely.
"A valid concern, but not one you should worry about. Suffice it to say that if the courts are unjust we will be under no obligation to recognize their verdicts.
"Now, make your decisions and report back to me."
(if: $2Player is "True")[//Select a card colour and then send your partner that colour.//
](link:"Select the green card.")[(set: $FirstCard = "Green")(goto: "First card pick.")]
(link:"Select the white card.")[(set: $FirstCard = "White")(goto: "First card pick.")]
(link:"Select the red card.")[(set: $FirstCard = "Red")(goto: "First card pick.")]
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 3)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)"Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers are not a terror to good works, but to evil. Do you want to be unafraid of the authority? Do what is good, and you will have praise from the same. For he is God’s minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain; for he is God’s minister, an avenger to execute wrath on him who practices evil.
"Romans 13, verses 1-4.
"We are God’s people and we justly wield the power of God’s wrath against those who break his commandments.
"And did not the Son show us the salvific power of suffering?
"It is not that God condones what we do. It is that through the Spirit, we do His work.
"Now, make your decisions and report back to me."
(if: $2Player is "True")[//Select a card colour and then send your partner that colour.//
](link:"Select the green card.")[(set: $FirstCard = "Green")(goto: "First card pick.")]
(link:"Select the white card.")[(set: $FirstCard = "White")(goto: "First card pick.")]
(link:"Select the red card.")[(set: $FirstCard = "Red")(goto: "First card pick.")]
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 4)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 4)(if: $2Player is "True")[{//If you have not just already done so, send your partner the colour $FirstCard.//}
]You return the envelope to the Commander and are dismissed. Lieutenant Hayes stays behind to retrieve his next briefing. The next time you see him is at lunch. He smells of sweat and his uniform is stained under his armpits.
"I thought //you// were supposed to grill //them//, not the other way around." Private Highfield’s voice is even more nasal than it was before his fight with Private Emmisson, who sits beside him. As far as you can tell, their relationship has not changed. Both seem to accept that balance was restored with Emmisson’s mutilation.
The Lieutenant fixes the private with an unimpressed look.
"You shouldn’t joke Private. This is a man’s life I am dealing with."
"A terrorist’s life. The only time I gave to people like him in the field was the time it took me to put them in my sights. Which wasn’t long."
"Conflict is not a game Private."
"Did I say it was? I wasn’t shooting them for the fun of it. I did it because if I didn’t, they’d shoot me. These are terrorists and murderers we’re here to deal with, putting them down is the only way to deal with these scum. The stories never ended with the knights giving the dragon a fair trial; they stabbed it through the heart and went back to fuck the princess."
"We are at peace now, these people are our citizens."
Highfield rolls his eyes.
"So? They weren’t a week ago. Who would care if we just put them all in a ditch?"
"We all should."
"Why? Who is this bastard you’re ‘dealing with’ anyway? Why is he so important that we’re still here when we could be at home?"
"He’s a civilian. A farmer from Jimstown. He helped supply the resistance fighters entrenched in the town’s municipal buildings."
"He smuggled food for terrorists? And Jimstown, isn’t that where you were stationed Emmisson?"
Emmisson has turned white. He does not react to the question. Highfield nudges him.
"He helped feed starving men." Hayes carries on, apparently oblivious to Emmisson’s behaviour. "And women and children; there were a small number of civilians in there too, living in subhuman conditions. I’m not sure you understand what those people went through. The fear, the pain, the physical conditions of over a hundred men, many injured, living in a small underground facility with no waste disposal systems while shells bombarded them from above day after day. Walters, my client, told me about the medical procedures, performing amputations with neither-"
Highfield gives up on Emmisson and dismissively waves his hand.
"I’m not sure //you// understand. I don’t think you’ve ever had bullets flying past your fucking head while civilians lean out of apartment windows and lob molotovs at you. In fact, I //know// you’ve never done that, because if you had you’d understand. They’re animals. We’re animals. If we don’t eat them, they’ll eat us."
Hayes looks to you for support.
(link:'"I don’t know why we’re doing this. These people are terrorists, everyone would be much safer if we just put them down and got on with our real jobs."')[(set: $ReasonForBeingHere = "Kill")(goto: "Respond to Hayes and Highfield.")]
(link:'"Maybe in combat that is true Highfield, but these people no longer pose a threat. We should deal with them in the best way that we can."')[(set: $ReasonForBeingHere = "Justice")(goto: "Respond to Hayes and Highfield.")]
(link:'"It is not my place to question what we do here. It is not any of our place."')[(set: $ReasonForBeingHere = "NoQuestion")(goto: "Respond to Hayes and Highfield.")]When you tell him about visiting as a child he asks you about how it’s changed. When you talk about the international food scene there he tells you about his experiences with how different the same dish can be from country to country. When you tell him about visiting the university with your children he asks you about the facilities and whether they are happy there.
Eventually the woman sitting next to your coughs one more time than is natural and you both simultaneously get the hint.
“Sorry, I’ve been standing over you all this time! I’ll leave you be, have a nice trip.” He smiles at the woman and then at you. “Hopefully we’ll have more chance to speak when we arrive. I’ll see you soon.”
His gaze lingers for a few seconds and then he moves away through the crowded train carriage.
[[Settle in for the rest of the long journey.]]He tells you that it’s incredibly comfortable and that he’s very glad that his employers are paying for it. You tell him you’ve never travelled first class on anything and he admits that it is wonderful. “I’ve done plenty of pretty much all kinds of travel and I must say now that I’m an old man - and the adventure has gone out of getting from place to place – that it really is wonderful to actually be comfortable. I just wish I could spend the time reading a book, but I suppose they don’t call it business class for nothing.” The meetings, he explains, have already begun. Mr Kirk is treating them like (if: $Bold > 1)[soldiers, a comparison that turns a few heads in its bold lack of reverence. It’s not so much a meeting, he says, as it is a drill, they all have their marching orders and they will spend the next few days defending the exact lines that Mr Kirk has drawn up.](else:)[overworked actors. It is not so much a meeting as a rehearsal, they all have their scripts and they will spend the next few days repeating them.] “It’s very efficient, I’ll give him that. He knows the game, he’ll probably get what he wants.”
He asks you how things have been with you. You tell him what little you can. You make him laugh with your comments about the monotony of the scenery.
Eventually the woman sitting next to your coughs one more time than is natural and you both simultaneously get the hint.
“Sorry, I’ve been standing over you all this time! I’ll leave you be, have a nice trip.” He smiles at the woman and then at you. “Hopefully we’ll have more chance to speak when we arrive. I’ll see you soon.”
His gaze lingers for a few seconds and then he moves away through the crowded train carriage.
[[Settle in for the rest of the long journey.]]He flounders for a few minutes, asking how you’ve been enjoying the trip, making trivial conversation about how you managed to get everything ready for a major trip at such short notice. He talks about the coffee that a number of you picked up at a kiosk at the station, wondering if it was closer to warm mud or the run off from dirty laundry.
Eventually he wishes you a good trip and excuses himself.
[[Settle in for the rest of the long journey.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen - 1)The sun twists, dips and disappears. You sit in darkness for a time then you cross a border and the sky begins to brighten again. Then suddenly all sky is gone, all distance dissolved into a blur of buildings; an endless salute of identical concrete dwellings. The lit windows and the lives upon countless lives being lived out on the other side of them merge into straight lines of light.
Your legs are tired as you stand up, the train finally pulling into the city centre, a thousand-faceted gem of history, beauty, and power.
Matteo approaches you on the platform.
“There’s a bus waiting for us, taking us straight to the hotel. Which, of course, is the venue. They really don’t want us escaping. Still, it’s supposed to be nice. Gym, spa and pool. I look forward to walking past them on the way to my meetings.”
Mr Kirk gestures for everyone to follow him and you move off down the platform. You and Matteo chat while you walk, ignoring the looks from the rest of the group ahead of you. He sits with you at the back of the bus, making hushed conversation about the trip.
The ride isn’t long, although that has much more to do with proximity than the speed of the traffic. It would have been faster to walk.
A small delegation led by the Deputy Assistant of the Ministry of Finance greets you. To his credit he shakes hands with all of you.
(if: $2Player is "True")[One of his retinue, a man in a nondescript dark suit who does not introduce himself, stares at you for a few seconds after the Deputy Assistant has already moved on. You see the corner of a piece of cardboard sticking out of his jacket pocket.
//What colour is it?
Select the colour that your partner sends you.//
(link:"Green.")[(set: $FirstCard = "Green")(goto: "Hotel")]
(link:"White.")[(set: $FirstCard = "White")(goto: "Hotel")]
(link:"Red.")[(set: $FirstCard = "Red")(goto: "Hotel")]](else:)[{
(set: $Chance = (random: 1, 10))
(if: $Dependable is 2)[(if: $Chance < 9)[(set: $FirstCard = "Green")](else-if: $Chance is 9)[(set: $FirstCard = "White")](else:)[(set: $FirstCard = "Red")]]
(if: $Dependable is 1)[(if: $Chance < 8)[(set: $FirstCard = "Red")](else-if: $Chance is 10)[(set: $FirstCard = "Green")](else:)[(set: $FirstCard = "White")]]
(if: $Dependable is 0)[(if: $Chance < 9)[(set: $FirstCard = "Red")](else-if: $Chance is 9)[(set: $FirstCard = "White")](else:)[(set: $FirstCard = "Green")]]
}[[Shake his hand.->Hotel]]]You’re all handed your itineraries and your room keys and then invited to drinks in the downstairs bar.
“Ah, nothing like ending a day of being trapped on a train by having drinks with a group of strangers who all already know each other.” Matteo whispers to you, before making his apologies to Mr Kirk and the Deputy Assistant and turning to wish you a good sleep.
“I’ll be here all day tomorrow it seems. Enjoy the lie-in $Name.”
Your responsibilities leave with Matteo so you also silently excuse yourself; no-one is paying you enough attention for it to matter whether you tell them that you’re going or not.
You send your children your more or less completely empty itinerary as you are pushing open the door to your room. They reply almost immediately, both free the day after tomorrow. You arrange a cafe lunch, picking a spot Sandy assures you is lovely.
The room is small, you suppose, but for the first time in over half your life someone else has prepared a clean, soft double bed just for you and you sleep like you haven’t slept in years.
Sleep.
(click-replace: "Sleep.")[You wake late the next morning, do your ablutions and go down to breakfast. It’s a cold spread and it’s good. The quality of the ingredients is clear and not at all surprising. You see Matteo across the large dining room and he waves and smiles when you come in, but he pulls a face that lets you know that, despite what he may wish, he’s already tied down. So you sit on your own and plan what you will do with the day.
[[Go shopping for things for your kitchen.]]
[[Go on a food tour around the city.]]
[[Just relax and spend a day at the hotel spa.]]](if: $ReasonForBeingHere is "Kill")[{(set: $Fear = $Fear + 1)(set: $Trust = $Trust - 4)(set: $Respect = $Respect + 2)}Highfield nods.
"It isn’t some sort of deep philosophical question Lieutenant. This isn’t a lecture room, you’re not chatting with your soft-handed liberal friends.
"If a dog bites you, you kill it. This is the same."](else-if: $ReasonForBeingHere is "Justice")[{(set: $Fear = $Fear - 1)(set: $Trust = $Trust + 3)(set: $Respect = $Respect - 3)}Lieutenant Hayes smiles.](else:)[{(set: $Trust = $Trust - 2)(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 1)(set: $Respect = $Respect - 1)}Highfield holds up his hands and shrugs, but Hayes shakes his head.]
"What we must remember is our humanity. God made man in his own image. We are icons of the sacred. We-"
"Permission to retire?" Emmisson’s voice is strained. Highfield rolls his eyes while Hayes blinks with surprise at the interruption.
"Yes, sure. Look after yourself Private."
(if: $Fear < -2)[Emmisson looks at you.
"I will."](else:)[Emmisson simply stands up and leaves.]
The debate quickly fizzles out after that. Highfield gets bored and then simply mockingly agrees with everything that his superior says. It takes Hayes a remarkably long time to give up.
The Lieutenant checks his watch.
"The Commander won’t be back for another twenty minutes, but I should probably get there early. Come with me Highfield, I want you to see the man you would just shoot through the head. Will you join us Lieutenant?"
With nothing better to do you follow the other two as they make the short journey in silence.
Highfield is the first one through the door of the control room. He stops, blocking the doorway.
(if: $Fear < -2)[{(set: $HayesClient = "Dead")}"By God, what is he doing? What has he done?"
Highfield pushes past Hayes and you follow to look through the glass. The table and chair that usually face the client have been moved neatly against one wall. Hayes’s client has, as far as you can tell, been equally carefully removed from the Throne; you see no damage to the machine. The client himself lies on the ground, staring up at the ceiling. You do not see him blink.
Now it is Hayes who pushes past you, racing down the corridors and stairs that take him into the Throne room. You follow a few steps behind, bursting into the room just after your colleague.
Private Emmisson turns when you come in.
"I looked after myself."
Hayes checks the man’s pulse, but it is clear from the marks on his neck that the exercise is pointless.
"I want to see his face instead of my brothers’ faces. When I sleep."
Hayes stands up quickly and begins to shout. Little of it is coherent. Emmisson stands still through it all, breathing deeply. Eventually, not waiting for the Lieutenant to stop, he speaks again, this time definitely addressing you.
"Thank you. I’m making it better."
You hear the Commander’s voice through the speakers.
"All of you, to barracks. You will be given your orders."
Hayes continues to yell.
"//All// of you, Lieutenant. And do it in silence."
Hayes looks up to the two-way mirror behind which you all know your Commander stands. Highfield follows his glance, while Emmisson leaves. Highfield follows, Hayes takes a last look at his dead client and you escort him out.](else:)[{(set: $HayesClient = "Alive")}"What’s he doing?"
Highfield pushes past Hayes and you follow. The table that usually separates you from your client has been moved to the side of the room, the chair that usually sits behind it drawn up to directly in front of the Throne. Private Emmisson sits on it, his face less than a foot from the face of Hayes’s client. Neither is speaking.
Now it is Hayes who pushes past you, racing down the corridors and stairs that take him into the Throne room. You follow a few steps behind, bursting into the room just after your colleague.
Private Emmisson stands when he hears you come in. He turns slowly, salutes, and leaves, ignoring Hayes’s questions.
The man in the Throne lets out a long sigh.
"All he said was ‘Jimstown’. I told him I was there. That’s all either of us said."
"I’m sorry. He was acting without orders."
The man in the Throne makes no response and Hayes ushers you out of the room.]
[[Go back to your barracks.]](if: $HayesClient is "Dead")[{(set: $Title = "Corporal")}The Commander comes to you after the sun has already set. He looks tired, but no less in control.
"I heard what Emmisson said to you, but I do not believe that you are responsible for what has happened.
"As part of the operational staff of this assignment, I should inform you that Private Emmisson has been discharged. He is being transferred back to his home. Private Highfield will be fulfilling all of his duties in return for a promotion to Corporal, which I have granted.
"In relation to your duties: since Lieutenant Hayes’s previous client was killed it has been decided that he will assist you with the questioning of your next client. The final decision input into the Box will remain yours, however.
"In regards to that next client, there has been a minor complication relating to the civilian related to your side of the exercise." The Commander hesitates for a second, as if he misspoke. "Nothing that would compromise the exercise. She has merely been temporarily relocated. She will return in a few days. I will notify you as soon as it is judged appropriate for you to resume the interviews.
"Do you understand?"
You nod, because you do.
"Good. Enjoy your few days rest."](else:)[{(set: $Title = "Private")} The Commander comes to you after the sun has already set, looking as collected as ever.
"Lieutenant Hayes has completed his latest exercise. The results were unsatisfactory. The decision has been made to place him with you for the interview section of your next exercise. (if: $Loyalty > 2)[It is hoped that he may learn some good practice.](else:)[We wish to see if working with a colleague will improve both of your results.]
"While Lieutenant Hayes will be joining you for the interview, the final decision input into the Box will remain yours.
"In regards to that next client, there has been a minor complication relating to the civilian related to your side of the exercise." The Commander hesitates for a second, as if he misspoke. "Nothing that would compromise the exercise. She has merely been temporarily relocated. She will return in a few days. I will notify you as soon as it is judged appropriate for you to resume the interviews.
"Do you understand?"
You nod, because you do.
"Good. Enjoy your few days rest."]
[[Relax for a few days.]]The days are long and uneventful. You see little of anybody else and have little opportunity to go outside. A small part of the grounds belongs to your department, but most falls under the purview of your sister operation.
Hayes is kept busy with something, you are not sure what. (if: $Loyalty < 1)[It seems odd to you that the Commander would give Hayes a responsibility that you were not granted, but it is not your place to ask questions.](else:)[You are not surprised that the Commander has – presumably – given Hayes a responsibility that you have not been granted.] (if: $Title is "Private")[Private Emmisson spends most of his time by himself, often in the icon corner he and Hayes set up in the corner of the canteen. ]The Commander allows himself to be seen just enough for his presence to be felt, but not often in a companionable way. Only $Title Highfield spends any time with you. Every day he reveals something else he has managed to ‘requisition’: a carton of cigarettes, a games console, some local hard copy pornography, a crate of vodka. They keep you entertained as the hot summer sun rises and falls over land you still think of as hostile.
Finally the commander comes to you as another afternoon turns to evening.
“Your next client Lieutenant. You are to meet Hayes in the interrogation room once you have perused the file.”
[[Open the file.]]Subject Apprehension Record
Date of issue: 06/03/2022
Arresting Officer: Officer Keith Langway (Provisional Peace-Keeping)
Subject: Stephen Weathers
Subject occupation: Writer, unordained priest.
Reasons for apprehension:
• On list.
Arresting officer’s notes:
We picked him up from military custody, he was like this when we got him. We transferred him as soon as we got him. He didn’t say much, but I flicked through that book of his while we were transporting him, so I see why he ended up on the list. Fucking disgusting stuff. There’s something seriously wrong with the church here if they let in blasphemers like that.
[[Finish reading->Finish reading 3]]The Commander and Hayes are both standing by the door to the Throne room when you arrive. Hayes stares at the ground.
(if: $Loyalty > 2)["You know what to do Lieutenant."](else:)["This should be simple Lieutenants."] The Commander opens the door and gestures for you to enter.
The man in the chair has his eyes closed, but they flutter open as you scrape your chairs backward across the rough floor. His muscles spasm against his restraints and he takes in a sharp, pained breath. Despite this he continues moving, cringing back, twisting unnaturally in the seat in an instinctive attempt to make his body as small as possible. He lets out more sputtering breaths of pain. You suspect most of the damage is hidden by his clothes, but enough is visible that, if anything, you are impressed by the man’s fortitude. You can tell which parts of his face were recently swollen and as his mouth opens and closes you see gaps between his teeth and gum damage that must be recent. The fingers required to hold a pen of his right hand are missing and many other fingers are broken, although it is difficult at first to work out which ones given the erratic nature of his movements. Bruising around his neck is the only indication of the damage that must have been done to the rest of his upper body. You recognise the signs of broken ribs in the way he twitches.
Hayes takes in a quick breath and starts mumbling the kind of quiet nonsense one would use to soothe a child.
"Has it come?" The client’s voice is clear, breathy and light.
His blinking eventually evens out, his facial twitches slowing. A few moments later recognition comes into his eyes and you see parts of his body, painfully, relax. He looks up to see the head piece above him. He laughs, but stops quickly when he starts to cough.
"An electric chair?" He finally manages, his voice deeper than it was a few moments before.
Hayes shakes his head.
"No, it’s for taking biometric readings. Don’t worry. We …"
The man laughs again, this time pushing through the coughing until it really becomes too much. He steadies himself against the restraints.
"Don’t worry? Why would I worry?" His voice begins to change, becoming lighter. "I can feel my body coming together. I can feel our master’s love within me. I feel your forgiveness, oh Lord. Oh Lord, forgive this sinner."
(link:'Clap your hands. "Snap out of it!"')[(set: $3CClap = "True")(set: $3CAway = $3CAway - 1)(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + 1)(goto: "About the town")]
(link:'"Don’t play games with us Mr Weathers."')[(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + 1)(goto: "About the town")]
(link:'"Do you think we are God?"')[(set: $3CDoThinkGod = "True")(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 1)(goto: "About the town")]The man blinks.
(if: $3CDoThinkGod is "True")["I would not presume. Angels? Angels made flesh as prison guards.
"What questions could you have for me? Have I not already told your soldiers all that they wanted to know? Why else would you have delivered me here?"
](else-if: $3CClap is "True")[He flinches, returning to his animalistic flailing, or attempted flailing, all the while grimacing in pain. He stops slowly, breathing deeply.
]He looks you dead in the eyes.
"Do you believe that you can scare me? You have already shown yourself. I have already seen enough to know that I should not care. An electric chair? Who are you pretending to be? Why would you wish to have your hands clean now? Were you in my city? I was there the first time it fell and the second. I hid through the first."
He pauses.
"Oh forgive me. A sinner.
"I hid. Bloodied hands forbid one from entering into the mysteries, by the eyes of God. Their forces ran. I saw bodies on the streets. We found a line of them, five men, their hands tied.
"I helped the fathers consecrate the graves. We knew where they were, their forces had locals help move the bodies that they buried. We found names for most of them, for almost all were intact. A great deal died from lack of supplies. The soldiers kept their medicines to themselves."
(link: 'Interrupt: "We don’t need to hear your lies. Tell us about your actions during the war."')[(set: $Trust = $Trust - 1)(goto: '"What did you do during the war?"')]
[[Let him continue.]]"Do you know about the girl, my Lord? The girl with her dog? Of course you know, my Lord. The dog was clearly dead, but the girl might have been alive. Face down. I did not see my Lord, but I heard the explosion.
"The second time they came, I saw less. They found me at home, they knew who I was."
He blinks.
"Your men took me down into a basement. There was a woman down there too. They got what they wanted from her quickly and left her body where it lay. They brought one or two more down while I was there. I heard their stories and, forgive me, they heard mine.
"I am here today because the men who took me knew I would be worth a ransom. I had given them bank details, combinations of safes. God forgive me, a sinner, I have sinned. I gave them addresses. I gave them names. But they knew they would get a ransom from the west. From supporters. They knew the Americans would pay for me. They were sad to see me go, I think. They will move to London or Paris or New York with the money I made them. I have seen all three, I believe I helped them choose after they ran out of other questions.
"And now here? An electric chair. Prison clothes. Judgement.
"Why? Who do you expect to care? Your President does not care. The rest of the world knows what you did. God? My Lord knows your work. He is a kind Lord, a gracious Lord, a forgiving Lord. But hell awaits the heretic and the murderer and you are both."
(link: '"The Lord will forgive us for we do his work."')[(set: $3CLordWork = "True")(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 1)(goto: "Justify Town")]
(link: '"My colleague and I both believe in doing what we can. If you have been abused then we can only apologise and treat you humanely ourselves."')[(set: $Trust = $Trust + 2)(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 1)(set: $3CFear = $3CFear - 1)(goto: "Justify Town")]
(link: '"If you think we’re hypocritical to treat you with humanity we can get what we want with more primitive means."')[(set: $3CHypocrites = "True")(set: $Trust = $Trust - 2)(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + 1)(goto: "Justify Town")]
[["You are not here to judge us. Now, tell us what you did during the war."->"What did you do during the war?"]]For a moment you see a hint of the man the client may once have been. He fixes you with a look, an arched eyebrow, a challenge to explain why you think you have the right to interrupt another person.
It is gone a moment later.
"I hid and then I was taken. That’s what I did during the war."
The man’s arm hits against his restraints.
"No, no, please, no! I’ve told you! I helped build barricades, I’m young enough for that. And I did some writing! I wrote a sermon! I wrote two! The bishop asked me for one and the other I wrote for anyone who would listen. The first was read across the country(if: $3CFear > 0)[ - province, please, province! - ](else:)[,]but the second was just for anyone who would listen. You’ve got my computer, you’ve got my passwords, you’ve got copies!"
Hayes looks up to the control room window.
"Is there a computer?"
There is no answer. Hayes shakes his head.
(link: '"You assumed to speak with God’s authority? What did you say?"')[(set: $3CFear = ($3CAway)/2 + $3CFear)(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 1)(goto: '"Just tell us what the sermons said."')]
[["Just tell us what the sermons said."]](if: $3CLordWork is "True")[The man glances from you to Hayes and back again. He looks upset and confused, but his face and voice slowly begin to settle as he speaks.
"No, no how could you believe that? How could you? Take the name in vain, for evil. He is too strong for that, do you not know your own master? You saviours of the host, how could you not? But of course. A test.
"Forgive me my weakness. Forgive me my sin."](else-if: $3CHypocrites is "True")[The man stares into your eyes with a look of defiance that dissolves just a moment later. He twitches, then flinches. Grunts of pain.
It takes him some time to calm himself enough to stop moving.](else:)[The man lets out a snort and shakes his head.
"Of course. "With humanity." "Humanity." … Humanity. Humanity. -" He repeats himself again and again and it is clear that soon the context around the word means something completely different to him.]
Hayes shakes his head.
"Mr Weathers, what did you do during the war?"
The man does not seem to hear. Hayes looks at you for help.
[[Repeat Hayes’s question.->"What did you do during the war?"]]"In my sermon for the Bishop I wrote the truth: that violence, murder and conquest are abominations before God. That ‘holy war’ is a lie of a schismatic heresy. That the very idea is an insult to the power of the Lord.
"My other sermon was about your church. Your fallen, lost, heretical church that has cast itself out from the one true, continuous, unified church of Christ."
[["Tell me more about the first sermon, the one for the Bishop."]]
[["Tell me more about the second sermon, the one about our church."]]
(link: '"I don’t need to hear your heretical rantings. I have other questions."')[(set: $Trust = $Trust - 1)(goto: '"I’ve heard enough about your sermons, let’s move on."')](if: $3CChurchTalk2 is "True")[The man looks at you. His eyelids flutter.
"My angels. You wish me to remember the old times? Your will be done."
The man’s eyes close again. He pauses for a time, and then lets out a weak cough.
"Sorry, where were we?
]"The first sermon? It was simple. A repetition of fact.
"There is no such thing as holy war.
"What does the sixth commandment say? "Thou shalt not kill." Could it be clearer?"
"That is an oversimplification.(if: $3CChurchTalk2 is not "True")[" Hayes sits forward, instantly more animated than you have ever seen him before. "](else:)[" Hayes shakes his head. "]If you will quote form Exodus, then why not: [[21:17]]? Or even [[22:18]], or [[22:19]], or [[22:20]]? There are many instructions from God on justified killings within the Old Testament."
(if: $3CChurchTalk2 is not "True")[The man smiles. You notice that his eyes are closed.
]"You have an awfully good memory. I wonder what it says about you, though, why you have taken the time to memorise the verses that relate to killing?"
Hayes looks down at the table and says nothing. The man continues.
"But if one of the //ten commandments// does not suit you, perhaps Romans 12:18: "If it be possible, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men." followed directly by: "Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written, Vengence is mine; I will repay, saith the Lord.""
Hayes counters:
"Genesis 6:9: "Whoso sheddeth man’s blood, by man shall his blood be shed: for in the image of God made he man.""
"The Old Testament again? I think you are missing the point. Let us jump all the way to the other end. Let us consider Revelations. Of course, there are Revelations [[21:8]] and Revelations 6:2, which -"
"Correct me if I’m wrong, but is 6:2 about the horsemen?"
"Indeed. Are you a priest’s son?"
"Yes, I am. Although it was studying theology at university that made many of the details stick."
"Academic faith. Of course. But yes, you’re right about the verse. "And I saw, and behold a white horse: and he that sat on him had a bow; and a crown was given unto him: and he went forth conquering, and to conquer.""
Hayes smiles and shakes his head.
"You claim that this is a biblical prohibition on conquest? The four horsemen were God’s warriors, enacting his goal of bringing about the final days and cleaning the world of sin."
His eyes still closed, the client raises an eyebrow.
"It says much about your interpretation that you see conquest, war, famine and death as holy allies. I cannot be bothered arguing with you there. But while they may be his tools, when it comes to the act of judgement in the time of judgement, it will be //the Lord// who judges us. Revelations 20:12."
"It is God who judges, but it is the decisions of men that decide whether they are damned or not. I do not remember the verse you reference, but I believe that God gives the people of Babylon the chance to repent. Here, one moment." You watch as Hayes takes out his phone and sits furiously reading and tapping away. The client sits still, his eyes closed, smiling slyly. "18:4, "And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, Come out of her my people, that ye not partake of her sins, and that ye receive not of her plagues.""
The client shakes his head.
"That may be so, but it is not the work of the faithful to save others from the plagues. For to do otherwise would be to believe that it is our place to decide who will be saved and who will be damned. It is to presume that we could act as God in creating his Kingdom on earth. For as the Lord himself says, in the very final chapter of the final book of the scriptures, "He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according to his work shall be." It is not for I, nor you, nor any person on this earth, to judge, let alone kill. Your war is an abomination to God, for not only do you murder, but you presume to judge when only the Lord may judge."
Hayes sits in silence for a long moment. You are about to interrupt, to get the interview back on track, when he finally speaks again.
"But what about the church fathers? Didn’t Athanasios write that killing in times of war was praiseworthy?"
The client laughs.
"Yes, he did. But do you know the context, do you know the rest of that letter? Do you know why he wrote that? He was using it as a contextual example in answering the main question: Is cumming at night a sins for celibate monks? Your justification for murder is from a letter about jizz."
"That doesn’t make the point any less correct." The client cannot see that Hayes’s face has gone red, but you are sure that he can hear it in the tone.
"No, I suppose, but nevertheless it is still incorrect. As pointed out in the cannons of St Basil and the cannons of Hippolytus."
"What did St Basil say?" Hayes looks genuinely curious.
"That anyone who killed in war should be barred from the mysteries for three years."
"Only three?"
"Well, yes. He was perhaps not as adamantly against armed conflict as others. He saw the importance of fighting to protect the faith from those who would destroy it. We must //defend// the faith, he argues. But what is important then is repentance. He is attempting to make the statement that the only honourable termination of war has to be an honourable repentance."
The client’s words hang. Hayes looks down at the table.
It’s well past time you should say something.
[["I’ve heard enough about your sermons, let’s move on."]]
(if: $3CChurchTalk2 is not "True")[[["Tell me more about the second sermon, the one about our church."]]]
(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 1)
(set: $3CChurchTalk1 = "True")"You must know the degradation first hand! It was //you//, //your// patriarch who cut ties with the Ecumenical Patriarch. Your Patriarch who, just three years ago, gave a Christmas liturgy and did not only omit the name of our Holy Patriarch, but indeed omitted the name of every other Patriarch of every other local church in the world. Ours not only mentioned all, but mentioned yours, addressing him as ‘most Holy." If the Christian spirit lives in either church, it is not within the church which has turned its back on every other member of its family."
"The Ecumenical Patriarch is the schismatic.(if: $3CChurchTalk1 is not "True")[" Hayes sits forward, instantly more animated than you have ever seen him before. "](else:)[" Hayes shakes his head. "]He took communion with schismatics and endorsed self-ordained clergy. We are the one true church of Christ, the direct inheritors of the miracle of Pentecost. It is through that line, from Christ to the apostles and down to the Fathers and from them to our Bishops and priests, that we have inherited our communion with the Holy Spirit. The Ecumenical Patriarch endorsed a breaking of that line when he granted your church independence."
(if: $3CChurchTalk1 is not "True")[The client smiles. You notice that his eyes are closed.](else:)[The client smiles.]
"You are right about our inheritance, how the Holy Spirit moves through our church and our church alone. The one, holy, unified and apostolic church of Jesus Christ. But it seems you forget how we are sure of our inheritance. It is not enough to follow the words of the Scriptures. There are the mysteries, Eucharist, Baptism, Chrismation and the others, the prayers, the writings of the saints, the symbolic books. But, barring the Scriptures, our most Holy guide are the seven ecumenical councils. The times the Fathers of our church came together and spoke as one, directly spoke the will of the Holy Spirit and set the course of our church and our faith forever more. Do you know the twenty-eighth canon of Chalcedon? It gave primacy to the Ecumenical Patriarchate. To turn one’s face from it is to turn one’s face from the Holy Spirit."
"I thought Rome was given primacy in the councils?"
The client pauses.
"Rome lost its way long before the schism. We would gladly have brought them back into the light, but they pushed us away."
"They attempted to force their will upon us."
"Exactly."
"Exactly."
Both men pause. The client shakes his head.
"You mean to imply that the Ecumenical Patriarch is the same as the fallen Patriarch of Rome? What nonsense. The former is a liberator, the latter a megalomaniac and schismatic."
"Both enforced their creed on a population who rightfully fell under the jurisdiction of another."
"Our people chose their freedom. Your Patriarch, a foreigner to us, was the oppressor. Besides, the Eccumenical Patriarchate is the mother church."
"A mother church that signed away the rights to that land hundreds of years ago. Although most of the land which now lies within this province was, even then, under our Patriarch’s guidance anyway."
"Oh enough of thi-"
You see the man’s arm move slightly and pushes against his restraints. His eyes pop open.
"My Angels. Forgive me. I was remembering other times. I am weak."
"It’s fine. We weren’t getting anywhere anyway."
The man’s eyes go wide with fear, but Hayes mumbles the Lord’s Prayer and he calms again.
[["I’ve heard enough about your sermons, let’s move on."]]
[["If your church is the true church of God, then why do you think we won?"]]
(if: $3CChurchTalk1 is not "True")[[["You wrote two sermons, do you remember? Tell us about the one you wrote for the Bishop."->"Tell me more about the first sermon, the one for the Bishop."]]]
(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 1)
(set: $3CChurchTalk2 = "True")"But what else is there than God?" The man opens his eyes. (if: $3CAway > 3)[He smiles. "But who am I to question you? Please, ask your questions of this pitiable sinner."](else:)[He twitches, writhes, and stops. "I’ve told you everything. Please, please! No more, please no more. Just ask, I’ll tell again, but please no more."]
(link: '"Why did our soldiers capture you?"')[(set: $3CWhyCapture = "True")(goto: '"Just tell me about your writing."')]
[["You need to know that we’re not angels. You’re in a military black site being questioned about crimes against the motherland."]]
[["Tell us about who you are as a person. By what right do you come before us seeking forgiveness?]]
[["Just tell me about your writing."]]Thou shalt not suffer a witch to live.
(link-goto: "Back.", (history:)'s last)Whosoever lieth with a beast shall surely be put to death.
(link-goto: "Back.", (history:)'s last)He that sacrificeth unto any god, save unto the Lord only, he shall be utterly destroyed.
(link-goto: "Back.", (history:)'s last)But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.
(link-goto: "Back.", (history:)'s last)And he that curseth his father, or his mother, shall surely be put to death.
(link-goto: "Back.", (history:)'s last)"Why do the Muslims control all four of the ancient – loyal - patriarchates? Why did we suffer under the state idolatry of the last century?
"Why did Jesus suffer and die as a man?
"God’s plan is unknowable and ineffable, but he has always tested those who follow the true faith with suffering. "Here is the patience and the faith of the saints." We are the meek and we will inherit; not in this kingdom, but in the next."
[["I’ve heard enough about your sermons, let’s move on."]]
(if: $3CChurchTalk1 is not "True")[[["You wrote two sermons, do you remember? Tell us about the one you wrote for the Bishop."->"Tell me more about the first sermon, the one for the Bishop."]]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 1)"The man’s eyes open wide. His whole body quivers. His body jumps, he screams, he screams then he weeps. Eventually he rubs his head against the rim of the headgear.
"An electric chair? Yes, I know. I’m a prop now. What a relief."
(link: '"Why did our soldiers capture you?"')[(set: $3CWhyCapture = "True")(goto: '"Just tell me about your writing."')]
[["Tell me about your writing."->"Just tell me about your writing."]]
(set: $3CAway = $3CAway - 3)
(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + 1)"I am not a simple man. I wish that I could say that I was, but I am not. I know I commit the sin of pride when I say I am an intelligent man, but I have been told it by many throughout my life. My parents, my teachers, my publishers, my critics; even my friends. Pride is one of my sins, but I must confess also to wrath. I am an angry man. I understand love, but I am not sure I have ever felt it for or from anyone but my Lord. I live in a world filled with sin and injustice and I have always felt wrath upon seeing it. I used to fight when I was a young man, with my fists, but when I grew older I realised that words could do much more. I marched, then I wrote articles and ‘opinion pieces’. Then I wrote novels. But it was all just shouting. All just hitting in a different way.
"I hated the world and the people in it. And because I hated, I hated myself, because I called for a world of peace and love, but I myself never knew either. I’ve had many girlfriends, but they were more or less just relations of the body. I confess I also partook of alcohol and other drugs, although by God’s grace never became addicted. I confess of my sin.
"I have always known of my Lord. I confess now, I was drawn to the Lord out of rebellion. I have never resented that I was ahead of the times, that my radical niche - for the Lord’s teachings have always been radical - has blossomed into something approaching a monolith. Neither do I see myself as a leader of that change. It merely happened around me, natural, beautiful, //right//.
"But it is only recently, not long before the election of our new President, that I finally found peace and love. Before I had knowledge of the Lord. Then I found myself //knowing// the Lord. I do not regret my writing. But I have left it behind now. My life is the Lord’s and he has rewarded me with joy.
"Even if only for a short time. I do not presume that I have been martyred. But three years of living in grace before torture and death at the hands of an empire? I thank the Lord for blessing me with knowledge of him."
(link: '"Why did our soldiers capture you?"')[(set: $3CWhyCapture = "True")(goto: '"Just tell me about your writing."')]
[["Tell me about your writing."->"Just tell me about your writing."]]
(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 2)
(set: $3CFear = $3CFear - 1)(if: $3CWhyCapture is "True")["They did not know. They said they heard my name from another prisoner and one of them remembered it from a list.
"I was not in my home but they found me through someone’s testimony. I believe they did not know what they wanted from me when they first saw me. But they saw my icons, beautiful icons, and that was that. A name on a list with gold leaf in his icon corner. They knew I was rich. And I was. The money was destined for those who needed it. (if: $3CFear < 3)[But now it has simply moved from one sinner to other sinners.]
"Perhaps it was a blessing? Matthew 19:24.
"I was always told I would suffer for my writing. Sometimes in my wealth and my pride, I had denied it."
"Do you think your writing was why you were on this ‘list’?"
"Yes. (if: $3CFear < 3)[What else?](else:)[Please, you do believe me? I haven’t hurt your people.]"
"Tell me about your writing."
](if: $3CFear > 2)["I’ll tell you everything. I just … I just have to breathe. You want the truth, you want it how it was."
The man sucks in breaths like a drowning man, but when he speaks his voice is almost calm.
]"It was very ‘clever’. Dry and hateful. I wrote my first book after the collapse of the old ways. That ‘glorious time’ when the world looked at us with so much hope, when the walls came down and everything changed. There was so much hope and I sat there in the middle, like a weight on a parachute, doing everything I could to bring everything down. The word ‘utopia’ was on everyone’s lips, ‘the end of history’ and all I could think of was the last time those words were said. The book was about a young ideologue who rises to bring the new Western philosophy to these lands, but as soon as his star starts to ascend the opportunists surround him. They push him up and up until he’s as high as he can go, then they knock him over and take his place. It wasn’t subtle and it wasn’t particularly good. It sold badly at the time. That changed when it began to become clear how miserably right I had been.
"My second book was an experiment. A family drama, slow and tense. I was trying to write character. I was told I succeeded. I was told that I wrote ‘a story not just of a family, but of a society’. I was told that the teenage mother, conflicted in her love for her own parents and struggling in a world just as dizzying for everyone else as it was for her, was the perfect mirror for our young country. I suppose she was.
"My fourth book was about a drug dealer, trying to balance his faith, his family and the fact that he organised a network of young girls who travelled the world with coke up their cunts and millionaire dicks in their mouths. I just wanted to write something more grounded.
"You don’t care. I’m here because of my third book. My ‘magnum opus’. (if: $3CAway < 4)[You haven’t read it." It is a statement, not a question. "]It was about the second coming. Your church called it a sacrilege. (if: $3CFear < 3)[It wasn’t. ](if: $3CAway > 4)[You must know that it wasn’t. You must know that it was hyperbole, that it never spoke with the Lord’s voice, that it was never written as a pretender. That it was all a mock, a show, not even an icon. (if: $3CFear < 3)[You know. I know you know. ]]
"Jesus was born, reborn, to a virgin mother in the wild lands of your home. He did not know who he was and his mother raised him according to his own values using his own teachings. He grew up pure and good. God spoke to him when he turned thirty and he travelled to the city. He performed miracles. Yet everything he tried is disbelieved and your government did more and more to crush him, your President using your church as a weapon to declare him a heretic. But they never arrested him. In his goodness he did not see what happened around him as slowly, despite everything, his media managers and image consultants started to bring people to him. He toured the country and as the government pressure grew the people saw a choice between two kings: the one from Heaven or the one from earth. Jesus or the President.
"It ends in your capital. The President on his balcony, the Lord in the square. He performs the final miracle, he opens the minds of all who see him to the strength and glory of God. All fall to their knees. Your President weeps and then and there invites Christ into his home so he may be baptised by the Lord.
"When the two of them stand alone above a bathtub of water consecrated by the touch of the Lord himself, the President takes out a knife and kills the son of god.
"Your press announces that the President has stepped down to live a life of secluded faith. Jesus emerges to baptise the nation. When his mother comes she screams that her son is gone, that the man she stands before is an imposter, but no-one listens. The old photos have already been changed: the Lord was always 5’7’’, his skull always round, his body always old before his time. His campaign team return to their old government positions and a new temple is built in the capital, a palace from which the country, and eventually the world, can be controlled.
"That’s it. Of course there was more. Much more. The characters of the Lord; of his personal assistant; of Maria, the woman who loved him from his childhood. There was the journey to America and the clearing of the casinos on the Las Vegas strip. The orchestrated tragedy at Benjamin’s Field. But that is the story I wrote, the story of the second coming of Christ and his death at the hands of a President who skins off his face and wears it."
[["That is truly disgusting."]]
[["You have committed a great sin. You have a chance to repent."]]
[["Do you still stand by what you wrote?"]]"Yes. Many things in life are."
[["Including you."]]
[["Then wouldn’t it be better to work together to create something that is clean and beautiful?"]]
[["But why do you feel the need to add to them?"]]
(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + 1)
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 1)(if: $3CAway > 0)["Oh my angels, I did not think to presume. I did not think for me, I only thought for what I could do for Christ. But oh, to repent before the Lord, guided by his own hand!" The man is weeping now. "Of course. What greater honour! Tell me, my guides, the Lord’s own host, tell me what I must do?"
[["Make a public statement denouncing your literary works."]]
[["Devote your life to the service of the church, the motherland’s church, and never speak ill of your our nation again."]]
[["Admit that you are no martyr, you are simply a repugnant man who will lick our boot heels if we tell him to."]]](else:)["What do you mean? Repent to you? I have already told you everything, you and the soldiers from home. Please, please just get it over with."
[["Why are you so eager for it to end?"]]
[["It will end once you make a public statement denouncing your literary works."]]
[["It won’t end, not for a long time."]]]
(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 1)
(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + $3CAway)"I never truly thought that God would permit your President to cut off the face of the Lord and wear it. But I do believe your President would, if he could.
"Oh please forgive me! I’m just telling you the truth! You asked me what I believe, that is what I believe!"
[["I didn’t ask what you believe, I asked if you would stand by it."]]
[["So you admit to being a sacrilegious, slanderous traitor?"]]
[["Why?"->"Why do you believe that?"]]"Forgive me, a sinner." The words are spoken flat, not at all in the tone you have heard him say them before. "I know I am weak and vile. The Lord knows I am weak and vile.
"//He// shall judge me. And it will be beautiful."
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 1)
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 1)(if: $3CAway > 3)[The man’s face sags as if the strings that had been holding his muscles in place have just been cut.
"Beautiful? I do not think I am capable. I never was before. I do not think that pain and suffering will make me more adept in that holy art."](else:)[{(set: $3CAway = $3CAway - 1)}The man’s eyes close.
"Beautiful? Beauty is in the gift of the Lord. I was never given that gift and if I could not create beauty before, I cannot now that -" the man cringes into himself. The movement of his stomach muscles obviously does something, for he lets out a long, low scream. It is almost controlled, but as he starts to cough his cries become panicked and when he manages to stop, tears run down his face.]
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $3CAway = $3CAway - 1)
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 2)The client sits still for a long time.
"It must be important. Or maybe it’s not. Maybe I’ve done nothing but waste the gift of life."
He looks up and cringes.
"Please don’t blame me. Please. I didn’t do anything. Please, just no no no!"
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + 1)
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 1)(if: $3CFear < 9)["I can’t be what I’m not. I can’t forget what I know, what I know so fundamentally in my heart."](else:)["I don’t know. What do you want? I’ll be what is needed."]
[["I think we’re done here."]](if: $3CFear < 8)["I … I’m not a traitor. I’m not sacrilegious. I don’t mean to lie.
"I haven’t lied to you, have I?
"I haven’t meant to. I’ll tell you what you want, please, don’t call me a liar, I’m not a liar to you, I’ve told you everything, everything!"](else:)["Yes! Yes, yes to all of it! That is what you want me to say isn’t it? Yes! Yes, yes and let me know peace! In the name of the Lord, let me know peace!"]
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + 1)
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 1)"Have you not seen him? Have you not seen the monster you have elected, time and time again?" The man’s voice rises in volume and anger. His eyes close tight. "To call death down upon innocents for //nothing//! To push the church that he promised so much to away from the Spirit for //nothing//! To -" the man’s eyes pop open. He sees you and screams. "No! You asked the question! Don’t, don’t hurt me, I didn’t say anything, I didn’t say anything, you have to believe me I didn’t say anything!"
Hayes balls his hands into fists as the man’s screams slowly begin to fade.
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + 1)
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 1)(if: $3CFear < 8)["How? How could I deny something that I have done? Something not holy, but inspired by the divine grace I have been granted?
"Oh Lord, I do not see your path. I do not understand. Let me see you. Let your angels guide me to you. Let me pray."
And so he does, the words mumbled under his breath too quiet for you to hear.](else:)[{(set: $3CDenounce = "For God")}"If the Lord demands such. If his angels think it wise that I turn away from something which I was shown by the grace of our Lord. If the Lord calls, then I obey."
Then the man starts singing a hymn in his regional language, his voice cracking and ugly.]
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 1)"Devote my life to the church? Of course. But I am not ready to take the oaths. Not from lack of spirit but from lack of sanctification. It takes time to learn what is required of one before being introduced into the mystery of ordination.
"My life is the church’s. And the church is my life."
Then the man starts singing a hymn in his regional language, his voice cracking and ugly.
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 2)
(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 2)The man squints at you.
"Oh. Oh. //Oh//.
"My God, My God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring? Oh my God, I cry in the daytime -" the speech goes on for some time.
"Psalm 22." Lieutenant Hayes mutters under his breath. "We may have lost him."
The client suddenly stops and stares. Then he screams, then he struggles.
Hayes balls his hands into fists as the man’s screams slowly begin to fade.
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + 1)
(set: $3CAway = $3CAway - 2)
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 3)"Can you not guess? Do you not know? The … the … the underground. The music. The feeling of the s-sk-" the man is rocking, as much as he can, "the knowledge that even if it is over, it will never go, it will never come back, it’s gone, it’s forever, it’s the Lord, it’s the Lord, the Lord will make it go will make it grow. "In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.""
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $3CAway = $3CAway + 1)The client takes a deep breath, but something happens within his body and he releases it again as a wail between clenched teeth. His eyes roll up and his breathing comes quick and determined. Tears of pain run down his tight cheek muscles.
He is exhausted when he finishes, his head low, his eyes barely meeting yours.
Hayes looks at you and shakes his head.
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust + 1)
(set: $3CFear = $3CFear + 3)"No. No, no no no no!
"Please!"
He attempts to throw himself forward, to beg at your feet, but he snaps back against the restraints. His red-shot eyes go wide and his head tilts back, his mouth open, air escaping as a croak. You are worried for a moment that he will not breathe in again, but he does, short shallow gasps. His mouth hangs open while his eyes try to shut tight enough to stop the tears from flowing, but they do.
[["I think we’re done here."]]
(set: $Trust = $Trust - 3)(if: $3CFear > 8 and $3CAway > 5)[{(set: $3CDenounce = "For God")}"My Lord. My Lord, forgive me, a sinner.
"I am nothing against your light. I am nothing.
"But since I talk with your host, I must be part of your plan. You must tell me, my Lord. I am lost. I have always been lost.
"Please. Angels, oh magnificent angels. You must tell me what I must do. I am not before my master’s throne, so I know that this is not the end-times. I know that there is still a plan. Please, I beg, use me. I will do whatever you demand in the name of our Lord.
"Do not damn me. Please, do not damn me. You have tested me, let me show you I am worthy.
"Do not damn me.
"Do not.
"I am yours. Please.
"Please."
The man twitches and takes in a sharp breath. He looks down at his hand and you see muscles flex, although there are no fingers left to respond. He stares at his mutilated hand with horror. His lips start to move, but it takes some time before any audible sound comes out. Snippets of the Lord’s prayer.
Hayes taps you on the shoulder.
"We’re done here. We should leave him."](else-if: $3CFear < 9 and $3CAway > 5)["My Lord. My Lord, forgive me, a sinner.
"I know why I am here. I know why I am judged by angels and not simply cast into the pit. I have sinned. I have been weak of body. I have felt hate and pride and urged others to follow me in those sins. I have not loved my neighbour. I have taken the Lord’s name in vain and I have often put the creation before the creator.
"But I have done one thing. I have stayed true to the way I was made. God may not have given me all the graces, but he gifted me a homeland of my own and the strength to stand by it. He gave me the clarity to see the evil around me and the strength to face it. He gave me the ability to say what I saw and the strength to see that speech through.
"I know why I am here before you, the host of my Lord. Because I know your enemies, I have always known your enemies. Your chosen must be filled with the good, with your light. So there must be sinners, those corrupted by the world, to show them The Enemy.
"I see now. I have sin on my hands, but in that sin I did what must be done for this holy land. I helped us keep our guard against the beast. And though I have repented for my sins, I do, I will, stand by what I did as a sinner, for in his wisdom God made me to sin so that those he kept clean may still know the face of their enemy.
"My writing, my works, were base and vile. But so is the word of the enemy. If the light that touches them must be dirtied by the act, and if I am to be the light, then so be it.
"I am a light, a mortal sinner, a shield between the holy and the filthy.
"I am a martyr. And I will cry the truth until my judgement is final.
"May God have mercy on my soul. May God have mercy on my soul. May God have mercy on my soul. May God have -"
The client repeats and repeats the mantra.
Hayes taps you on the shoulder.
"We’re done here. We should leave him."](else-if: $3CFear > 8 and $3CAway < 6)[{(set: $3CDenounce = "From fear")}The man stares at you stoically for a moment, but as you move to stand up something breaks and he lets out a wail of pain.
"Please, please, I’ve done everything, I’ve said everything! I’ve given the passwords, details. Names, addresses. Don’t leave me strapped to this chair. Don’t come back. Let it end. Please!"
He attempts to reach out to you, but the restraints don’t let his fingers move more than a fraction of an inch. He looks at his hand and wails.
"Look! Look! What more do you want from me? Please don’t take the others. Please just take them and let it end! Anything, anything to get me out of this, anything to let me feel anything else but this again.
"Let me hail my Lord. Just let me feel his love within me, his peace. Please I swear I will do anything!"
You can hear the man’s physical pain as he recites the Lord’s prayer.
"I am weak. Forgive me, a sinner. I sin in my weakness. But please. My flesh. Let it rest. Please. I will do what you ask, be it not against the Lord.
"Please!" the man screams, his next breath deeper, his next shriek louder, like a dying animal, "Plea-" he coughs, and screams, and coughs. Blood comes up with his spit. He does not look to you as he writhes, coughing and screaming.
Hayes taps you on the shoulder.
"We’re done here. We should leave him."](else:)[The man swallows loudly as you slide your chairs back.
"You’ve got what you came for? Already? No fists, no knives, no fingers you wish me to give addresses for?
"What have you learnt? That I am a sinner? That I hate you? That I fear you? That you can take a proud man and pull from him passwords and details, names and addresses?
"You have been kind judges of the Lord, but now cast me into the pit. For I will not repent of the sins you say I have committed, the sins I can see reflected in your eyes.
"You are led by the Devil. The world of men will not know peace until he lies dead.
"Burn me, cut me, hit me, then I will repent. You think I did not? You think I didn’t cry out to your soldiers that I was wrong, that what they said was the truth and that I was nothing but a liar on earth? Of course I did.
"Oh my angels, forgive me, for I lied.
"Forgive me, a sinner.
"I lost sight of my heart. I did not know whether I lied. I knew the pain and the fear and that is all I knew. But then it stopped and I had time to dream. And I found it there again, there still.
"It is who I am. Someone who hates. Someone who hates //you//. Your President is an evil, evil man and he has made a sick and twisted nation. He has destroyed a great church and murdered a Godly people. These words are burnt into my heart, written just below the love of my Lord.
"You may get me to repent that. You may get me to praise him and you and your flag and your church. But I will only do so in screams or wails or sobs. For as long as you leave me enough humanity to talk as a man and not a beast, I will never turn from light to darkness.
"I will die and God will judge me and if he finds me, a sinner, unworthy, then I will burn. But I will bear those torments with joy, for his punishments are just.
"And you are nothing but a weak, twisted, devil-worshi … shi-" The man falters, the strength instantly gone from his eyes. He looks at his mutilated hand and shudders, wincing with the pain of the shudder. "No. No, please, no, please just let my flesh rest. Please!" the man screams, his next breath deeper, his next shriek louder, like a dying animal, "Plea-" he coughs, and screams, and coughs. Blood comes up with his spit. He does not look to you as he writhes, coughing and screaming.
Hayes taps you on the shoulder.
"We’re done here. We should leave him."]
[[Go with Hayes back to the control room.]]The Commander is waiting for you, but leaves as soon as you arrive, ‘giving you time to discuss.’
Hayes sits down and silently stares through the window at the client.
(if: $3CDenounce is "From fear")[[["Do you believe he will keep his word if we release him?"]]](else-if: $3CDenounce is "For God")[[["Do you think he will stand by his word when he realises that he was not actually talking to angels?"]]](else:)[[["Do you think that extra pressure could persuade him to become more amenable?"]]]
(if: $3CDenounce is "From fear")[[["I don’t believe he will keep his word."]]](else-if: $3CDenounce is "For God")[[["The man is delusional. In an hour’s time he won’t even remember the promise he made."]]](else:)[[["Someone who represents so many threats cannot be allowed to spread chaos."]]]
[["What do you think would be the right thing to do?"]]
[["What do you think would be the wise thing to do?"]]{(set: $Trust = $Trust + 1)}"Yes. Yes I do. We’ve caused him too much pain, too much suffering. No-one who has lived through that would be able to face even the risk of going back.
"I don’t know how he’s survived. It’s -
"Yes Lieutenant. I believe he will keep his word. But -"
Hayes looks up at you. (if: $Trust > 3)[He nods slightly.
"I don’t think he’ll survive out there for long. I think he’ll collapse, and if he doesn’t … I think he’s too well known. Someone will take it into their own hands.
"I don’t know what’s best. I don’t understand why we’re doing this. I just feel so lost."](else:)[
"I don’t think it would be wise to let him go. I think sometimes it’s important to show that we can be compassionate. But I think this client is too much of a symbol simply to let go."
His voice is tight and formal.]
He says no more.
[[Inform the Commander that you are ready to make your decision.]]{(set: $Trust = $Trust + 1)}Hayes looks up at you for several seconds before (if: $Trust > 3)[shaking his head.
"I don’t think so. But I don’t think it matters. I think if you let him go, I don’t think he’ll survive out there for long. I think he’ll collapse, and if he doesn’t … I think he’s too well known. Someone will take it into their own hands.
"I don’t know what’s best. I don’t understand why we’re doing this. I just feel so lost."](else:)[replying.
"He may or may not, I am not an expert in these things. But regardless, I do not believe it would be wise to let him go. I think sometimes it’s important to show that we can be compassionate. But I think this client is too much of a symbol simply to let go."
His voice is tight and formal.]
He says no more.
[[Inform the Commander that you are ready to make your decision.]]{(set: $Trust = $Trust - 5)}Lieutenant Hayes visibly stiffens.
(if: $Trust > 3)["You couldn’t, could you? Did you not see him?
"You are a human, Phillips. I’ve seen it. Don’t say things like that. You have a choice here, so don’t say things like that."](else:)["No."
There is a pause. When Hayes speaks again it is reluctantly.
"If he hasn’t become ‘amenable’ yet, he never will."
His voice is tight and formal.]
He says no more.
[[Inform the Commander that you are ready to make your decision.]]Hayes shakes his head. You can tell it’s instinctive.
"We’ve caused him too much pain, too much suffering. No-one who has lived through that would be able even to face the risk of going back.
"I don’t know how he’s survived. It’s …"
Hayes looks up at you. (if: $Trust > 3)[He nods slightly.
"I don’t think it matters, because I don’t think he’ll survive out there for long. I think he’ll collapse, and if he doesn’t … I think he’s too well known. Someone will take it into their own hands.
"I don’t know what’s best. I don’t understand why we’re doing this. I just feel so lost."](else:)[
"I do believe that it would not be wise to let him go. I think sometimes it’s important to show that we can be compassionate. But I think this client is too much of a symbol simply to let go."
His voice is tight and formal.]
He says no more.
[[Inform the Commander that you are ready to make your decision.]]Hayes sits silently nodding. (if: $Trust > 3)[When he finally looks at you there are tears in his eyes.
"I don’t think it matters. I think if you let him go, I don’t think he’ll survive out there for long. I think he’ll collapse, and if he doesn’t … I think he’s too well known. Someone will take it into their own hands.
"I don’t know what’s best. I don’t understand why we’re doing this. I just feel so lost."](else:)[replying.
"He may or may not, I am not an expert in these things. But regardless, I do not believe it would be wise to let him go. I think sometimes it’s important to show that we can be compassionate. But I think this client is too much of a symbol simply to let go."
His voice is tight and formal.]
He says no more.
[[Inform the Commander that you are ready to make your decision.]]{(set: $Trust = $Trust - 3)}You see Hayes’ jaw clench.
(if: $Trust > 3)["Can you really do it? Can you really reduce him to a series of threats?
"Moral, spiritual, and cohesive. It’s obvious. It’s all in the guide. And isn’t following the guide our job?"
He seems surprised that his own question is genuine.](else:)["Moral, spiritual, and cohesive. A … dutiful assessment Lieutenant."
It is clear that he wants to say more, but he does not.]
[[Inform the Commander that you are ready to make your decision.]]{(set: $Trust = $Trust + 2)}"The right thing?" Hayes stares into your eyes for several seconds before continuing. (if: $Trust > 3)["I don’t think he’ll survive out there for long. I think he’ll collapse, and if he doesn’t … I think he’s too well known. Someone will take it into their own hands.
"But locked up? In one of our cells, surrounded by our soldiers?
"I don’t know what’s best. //It// needs to stop for him, but I don’t know if it can. I’m not even sure what //it// is.
"I don’t understand why we’re doing this. I just feel so lost."](else:)["I don’t think it would be best to let him go. I think sometimes it’s important to show that we can be compassionate. But I think this client is too much of a symbol simply to let go."
His voice is tight and formal. You see in his eyes that he deliberately misunderstood the question.]
He says no more.
[[Inform the Commander that you are ready to make your decision.]]"Wise? Prudent?" Hayes stares into your eyes for several seconds before continuing. (if: $Trust > 3)["I don’t know about wise. But what I do think is that he won’t survive out there for long. I think he’ll collapse, and if he doesn’t … I think he’s too well known. Someone will take it into their own hands.
"But I don’t know if any other course would be any ‘wiser’."](else:)[
"I don’t think it would be wise to let him go. I think sometimes it’s important to show that we can be compassionate. But I think this client is too much of a symbol simply to let go."
His voice is tight and formal.]
He says no more.
[[Inform the Commander that you are ready to make your decision.]]The Commander is waiting just outside the door, holding a phone in his hand.
"Your counterpart is not ready yet. I will inform you when she is. In the meantime we have set up a secure connection to your father." The Commander hands you the phone and gestures towards and empty room. "He’s waiting for you."
You look down at the screen. ‘Microphone off’ and ‘Camera off’ buttons hover below your father’s impatient face. You duck into the indicated room and hurriedly press both on.
"Leon? Are you there?"
(link:'"I’m here dad."')[(set: $GreetDad = "Normal")(goto: "Hello Dad")]
(link:'"Yes sir."')[(set: $GreetDad = "Formal")(goto: "Hello Dad")]
(link:'"Hi Simon."')[(set: $GreetDad = "Casual")(goto: "Hello Dad")](if: $GreetDad is "Normal")["Haven’t had any bits blown off then? Good.](else-if: $GreetDad is "Formal")["At ease Lieutenant."
Your father smiles in a way that isn’t entirely free of mockery.](else:)[Your father’s lips press together tightly.]
"You are well, yes?"
(link:'"Yes."')[(set: $HealthDad = "Well")(goto: "Tell Dad how well.")]
(link:'"No."')[(set: $HealthDad = "Ill")(goto: "Tell Dad how well.")]
(link:'"Things are difficult but I am coping."')[(set: $HealthDad = "Complicated")(goto: "Tell Dad how well.")](if: $HealthDad is "Well")["Good.](else-if: $HealthDad is "Ill")["The army has a medical budget, yes?"
You nod.
"Then go get a plaster.](else:)["Good, that’s what I like to hear. Wouldn’t want to think that all those taxes I pay are just going to making you lot feel comfortable. And wouldn’t want to think I’d raised a pussy.]
"Your Commander seems a sensible man." The topic change is characteristically abrupt. "Sounds like a good servant to his country. As we all are, of course.
"Any medals yet?"
You shake your head. Your father lets out his ‘tsk’ sound.
"Do they usually give out medals to people in your department? It’s mostly little awards isn’t it? Nice and vague and deniable.
"Your brother has finally knocked up that wife of his. Your mother thought she was barren but I’ve always thought she’s been on the pill. Women do that, good way to hide affairs. Offered to put a watch on her but your brother always said no. Don’t know why, not as if he’s worried about being called a hypocrite, that boy’s as pure as priest’s piss.
(if: $Loyalty < -5)["The contract we’d been waiting for has fallen through. 480 million dollars."
Your father stops talking. You can see in his eyes that everything which came before was a preamble.
"The bid was in order. You know I run a tight ship, the next best offer was almost half again.
"There’s nothing wrong with my contacts at the Ministry.
"Your brother did everything right."
Again, your father pauses.
"This is your inheritance Leon. I’ve never made any secret of that.
"Don’t forget your family. Don’t forget your future."
Your father disappears. ‘Call Ended’ pops up on screen. Your Commander opens the door a few minutes later.](else-if: $Loyalty > 5)["We got the contract we had been hoping for. They’ll pay us 620 million dollars. Our quote had been for 480. We were deemed ‘dutiful’ enough for the contract to be expanded."
Your father stops talking. You can see in his eyes that everything which came before was a preamble.
"This is your inheritance Leon. I’ve never made any secret of that.
"You understand? The paperwork was all in order, my contacts were good, your brother did good work. We should have got this contract. At 480. We’re good, but we didn’t deserve more.
"We’ve run the numbers. The extras they’ve added should only cost us about 25 million.
"The contract is yours Leon. It won’t start until you are back, your Commander has assured me of that.
"I expect you can live up to it. //They// clearly do too.
"Don’t do anything that might prove us wrong."
You are both silent for a long time.
"Well done son. I don’t want to know what you’re doing. It’s not my place and I’m not interested. But well done all the same."
The Commander knocks on the door. Your father hears it through the phone’s microphone.
"Go."
Your father disappears. ‘Call Ended’ pops up on screen.](else:)["We’re still waiting to hear about that contract. You know we should have heard by now."
Your father stops talking. You can see in his eyes that everything which came before was a preamble.
"The bid is in order. You know I run a tight ship, the next best offer is almost half again.
"There’s nothing wrong with my contacts at the Ministry.
"Your brother is doing everything right."
Again, your father pauses.
"This is your inheritance Leon. I’ve never made any secret of that.
"Don’t forget your family. Don’t forget your future.
"They’re still considering. That means there’s still time.
"Don’t waste it."
Your father disappears. ‘Call Ended’ pops up on screen. Your Commander opens the door a few minutes later.]
[[Go and make a decision.]]The Commander nods, sends you to get a glass of water.
"We’re ready, but take a moment to think."
[[Take a moment to think.]]The Commander nods and takes the phone back from you.
The Box waits.
Five options.
(link:"Release")[(set: $ThirdBoxPress = "Release")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 3")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 3")]]
(link:"Hold")[(set: $ThirdBoxPress = "Hold")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 3")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 3")]]
(link:"End")[(set: $ThirdBoxPress = "End")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 3")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 3")]]
(link:"Question->Hold")[(set: $ThirdBoxPress = "Question Hold")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 3")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 3")]]
(link:"Question->End")[(set: $ThirdBoxPress = "Question End")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 3")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 3")]]You do your prep meticulously, planning out where you’ll hit and when. You could just pick a market and browse, but a planned assault will be much more efficient and when it comes to your kitchen you like it that way. You start with some more commercial stores near your hotel, picking up a few gadgets, before beginning your great tour of the metro stations and small markets of the city.
It’s an expensive day, but it’s one that you will be feeling the benefits of for months and years. New pots, an antique samovar to make up for your sister inheriting your mother’s and two bags of spices and sauces. Your arms ache as you finally set your load down in the corner of your hotel room, but you cannot deny to yourself that you have had a wonderful day, rounded off with a dinner at a small restaurant you found tucked into a side street near your hotel.
There is a note pushed under your door when you get back.
“They only want the local crowd for most of tomorrow. Meet after breakfast?
Matteo”
You send a series of texts trying to rearrange meeting your children, but understandably they’ve both made other plans now, so you leave your date as arranged and just hope that things with Matteo will have wrapped up by then.
With your stomach full and your bank account satisfyingly slim you climb back into your incredibly comfortable bed and more or less instantly fall asleep.
[[Greet the morning.]]You do your prep meticulously, planning out where you’ll hit and when. You could just walk out onto the street and wander until you find something that looks good, but that way your stomach will be full long before you’ve sampled even a fraction of the delicacies that you could fit in if you just spent a little more time planning. You’ll be back here later, you decide - there’s a small restaurant tucked into a side street near the hotel which you’ve researched online - but apart from that most of the places around are more interested in style than substance. So you let breakfast settle and then head to the metro station.
It’s an expensive day, but it’s one that you will not soon forget. You do not think about how easy you found it to talk to almost everyone you met, asking bakers and street food vendors and confectioners for recipes and secrets. That all came naturally. What you think about is the food. Your feel significantly heavier as you push open the door to your hotel room, finding a note pushed under the door.
“They only want the local crowd for most of tomorrow. Meet after breakfast?
Matteo”
You send a series of texts trying to rearrange meeting your children, but understandably they’ve both made other plans now, so you leave your date as arranged and just hope that things with Matteo will have wrapped up by then.
With your stomach full and your bank account satisfyingly slim you climb back into your incredibly comfortable bed and more or less instantly fall asleep.
[[Greet the morning.]]It feels unnatural to do nothing. Almost uncomfortable. You waste the whole first half of the day trying so hard to make the most of the experience and relax that you completely fail to actually relax. But eventually, with the help of an expertly rough masseuse, you reach bliss. You’re exposed to oil and water and steam and smoke, silence and high tech digital speakers recreating the sounds of nature.
By the time you return to your room you feel like your muscles are attached by invisible strings to invisible balloons and your skin feels like it has travelled back in time twenty years. When you see that a note has been pushed under your door you stoop effortlessly and painlessly to pick it up.
“They only want the local crowd for most of tomorrow. Meet after breakfast?
Matteo”
You send a series of texts trying to rearrange meeting your children, but understandably they’ve both made other plans now, so you leave your date as arranged and just hope that things with Matteo will have wrapped up by then.
Feeling how you thought only an angel could feel, you climb back into your incredibly comfortable bed and more or less instantly fall asleep.
[[Greet the morning.]]The breakfast is just as good the following morning, but, of course, now that you’ve had it once it seems less interesting. Matteo keeps you waiting, with plenty of apologetic glances, for quite some time, but seeing that you are with their largest contingent of guests none of the hotel staff bother you as they clear up around you.
“I’m so sorry about that. One final morning meeting before they lock the doors to all the foreigners. So, what’s the plan?”
“Wouldn’t you prefer to spend the day with the other foreigners?”
(click: "Wouldn’t you prefer to spend the day with the other foreigners?")[
“No, not really. I think I’d much rather spend it with you.”]
[[“I thought we could go to the ballet, there is a matinee.”]]
[[“There is a museum of modern history that I heard is worth going to.”]]Matteo pulls a face that you can’t quite read and nods slowly.
"Well, I would be a fool to come here, be given the opportunity to go to the ballet and say no! Having said that, I wouldn’t say ballet would be what I would usually pick, but in this specific instance definitely. Are you ready to leave straight away?"
You tell him that you are, so you head to the metro station and get a ride straight to the theatre district. You talk the whole time, of hopes and music and art. There are American tv shows that you both love and you spend some time like teenagers arguing about the merits of this and that character as if figuring it all out was the most important thing in the world.
Getting tickets is not difficult. You had expected to have to resort to touts, but a few flashes of his government pass get him straight to the front of the queue for returns. "I never used to do things like that when I first came here, I thought it was beneath me. Eventually I decided that I’d spent enough time yelling pointlessly about corruption and that if it wasn’t going to change I might as well take advantage. You know, for special occasions."
You move straight from the ticket queue to the entry queue, this time not cheating your way to the front. "It’s such a lovely day, why bother?" The two of you are noticeably under-dressed, but Matteo makes a joke of it, playing up the role of clueless foreigner.
Eventually you get inside; you go back in time. Matteo is speechless and you are as well. The room was designed for sound, but it is the light which you immediately notice. It’s everywhere, made grand with golden opulence and soft by crimson velvet hangings. It is as if someone has painstakingly chipped away a hundred years of darkness to reveal the true splendour of the glorious past.
After some time you speak, just little things here and there, and then the performance starts. It is like watching something from another world. It is difficult to appreciate the movements as human, especially framed by sets of such scale and detail it feels like you are looking at something more real than real. The twisting bodies and soaring music are so beyond what you can relate to; everything becomes movement and noise and when the lights finally come up you wonder if this is what it feels like to be high.
Matteo stays in his seat while the rest of the crowd files out. "No need to rush." He explains. The house lights, so dazzling at first, seem mundane and comfortable now after the spectacle.
You both rave about what you’ve seen, but then Matteo pauses for a moment.
"It doesn’t feel like dancing to me."
You ask what he means.
"It just doesn’t. Have you ever done dancing? My ex-wife and I did salsa and tango. For me it was about rhythm and improvisation. Like an expression of music through the body. I don’t know, I don’t feel like that’s what we just saw. Beautiful, amazing, but not dancing. More like gymnastics. Or-" Matteo breaks off, chuckling to himself. "Oh you’re going to think I’m horribly uncultured. A filthy philistine! But I can’t not tell you.
"It reminds me of professional wrestling. You know, the fake wrestling they do in America. It’s all gymnastics, it’s all about telling a story with your body, it’s all about putting on a show. That’s what this feels like to me. Twisting your body into incredible shapes just because you can."
[[Laugh with him.]]
[[Laugh at him.]]
[["I don’t think that’s a very appropriate comparison, or one that does justice to the amazing performance those ballet artists just put on for us."]]“Oh sure, that sounds good. I mean, I’ve been here quite a few times and I’ve read all the books, but it’s always different actually seeing the history. I still get a chill when I see one of the Six Brothers.
“Are you ready to leave now?”
You tell him that you are, so you head to the metro station and get a ride to the museum. It’s a beautiful building, somehow appearing elegant and restrained despite the grandeur of its eight marble-pillared facade. It used to be a club, the English Club, according to Matteo, who spends the train ride over researching it online. He excitedly says that he remembers a scene in a book set in it. You don’t remember the scene yourself, but of course you’ve read the book and you are still talking about it as you walk through the doors.
“After all these years I still feel sorry for Sonia. She does absolutely nothing wrong, she does pretty much everything right, and her entire life is just ruined. It wouldn’t be so bad but it’s painfully clear that the author himself doesn’t even like her!”
The conversation turns to new topics after you buy your tickets and begin to look around. Matteo has questions about, and comments on, nearly every exhibit you come to and all of the talking means he very quickly realises that there is something wrong.
It’s not so much that the museum makes you feel old, although it does that. As you move from exhibit to exhibit - working backwards around the museum on a whim of Matteo’s - you see the posters, toys, clothes, metro tickets, and paraphernalia of life which you have seen a thousand times before in the houses of your parents, your uncles and aunts, your grandparents, and every other person you knew growing up. What strikes you is not that this is now history. What shocks you is that, as history, it is of note. You see no other foreigners, you had not expected to, but there are children and even young adults who ask questions about, and read, exhibit cards for things that were just part of the background details of life for you. Even the tale that the museum tells - backwards from your perspective, walking the wrong way along the floor-plan - is presented as a story, a neat thing with a beginning, a middle and an end. But you remember a time when what you are now reading was simply fact. The old system did not used to be a ‘gone thing’, something inherently over, something flawed from which we now learn. It was life. Your life. A life now neatly laid out to be gawked at by children and tourists who will never know it as anything more than something which once happened.
It does not upset you, you tell Matteo, and really it doesn’t. Things change everywhere, you know that must be true even though you have been told many, many times that they have changed more here than they have anywhere else on earth. But you nonetheless find it odd, almost disturbing to see the life of your people put behind glass, presumably by other people who lived through it themselves. The way things //are// has become the way things were. Each case that you pass reminds you of another thing which is now lost.
Matteo is respectful when you tell him all of this. He does not stop talking but his questions become personal, helping the dead world locked away in front of you feel, for a moment, just a little more alive.
Eventually the feeling passes as you move across the border that separates the reality you grew up in from what you yourself think of as history. You ponder for a moment on how odd that is, wonder where your mother would have drawn the line of history, where it would have come for your grandmother. But it is a pointless question and your attitude shifts from personal to objective as you watch, backwards, the story of how your country went from being the greatest empire in the world to being the greatest state in the world. It may all have passed away, but for two hundred years the world knew that your blood was the strongest blood in the world. You defeated two conquerors of Europe, you pierced the sky and you united half the globe in a brotherhood of peace and love.
“Yes, but at what cost? I see a lot of glory here, a great deal of it earned. It’s easy in the west to look away and forget, but in literature, science, politics, war, music, art, your country has led the world, literally and metaphorically. You are a great people. But what I see here is the glory of two systems, both of which have the blood and sweat of millions on their hands. And both, in the span of a hundred years, collapsed.
“I see the glory. I do not deny the glory. But was it worth it?”
[[“I don’t think that anyone in the west can lecture us about human suffering and broken systems. Besides, the old system failed, but at least we were trying to do something good.”]]
[[“You have been reading too much western propaganda. We made sacrifices, true, but of course our leaders did not do the awful things your leaders told you they did. The west has always seen us as an enemy, so of course they would lie about us.”]]
[[“No, it was not worth it. Nothing could make it worth it.”]]
[[“I don’t know. It’s all past now, I don’t see much point in asking the question. We just have to live in the now.”]]
[[“Yes, it was worth it. We were the glory of the world, we were building a utopia. It is not our fault that the rest of the world was not ready for it.”]]You leave the theatre, after a once-in-a-lifetime transcendent experience, grinning like children.
“I mean, I wouldn’t call myself a fan, but I’ve seen bits and pieces here and there and I promise you that those wrestlers have all of the skills you need to be a ballet dancer. Precision, strength, dexterity. And don’t tell me you don’t think The Rock would look amazing in tights and a tutu!”
A bell chimes across the square and you suddenly find yourself sweating.
“The kids!” You blurt out despite yourself. Matteo gives you a worried look, instantly serious.
“What’s wrong?”
“I’m supposed to meet them!” You check the clock. “Oh, I’m not late yet. But I have to leave now.”
“Oh, oh that’s alright then. I thought something terrible might have happened.
“So, can I come along?”
[[“Yes.”->Yes come see the kids]]
[[“No”->No you can’t see the kids]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 2)
(set: $Bold = $Bold + 1)Matteo shrugs.
“Yeah yeah, I know. But don’t lie and say that you wouldn’t like to see The Rock in a tutu.”
You leave the theatre, the mood light but respectful. A bell chimes across the square and you suddenly find yourself sweating. You stop walking.
“What’s wrong?”
“I’m supposed to meet my children.” You check the clock. “Oh, I’m not late yet. But I have to leave now.”
“Oh, oh that’s alright then. I thought something terrible might have happened.
“So, can I come along?”
[[“Yes.”->Yes come see the kids]]
[[“No”->No you can’t see the kids]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 1)Matteo smiles with honest pleasure and the two of you jump back on the metro. There’s quite a crowd around the station and the square where you’re due to meet your children, but you’re in too much of a hurry to stop and take in what is going on.
Sandy is already waiting at an outside table for you. She’s ordered herself a coffee but hasn’t had enough time to do more than sip it. She raises an eyebrow at you when she sees you accompanied by a man, but she introduces herself courteously to him and asks how he’s enjoyed his stay so far.
"Oh, the few hours that they’ve let me out of meetings have been wonderful. Your mother is wonderful."
"A wonderful guide?"
"Of course.(if: $Bold > 1 and $Keen > 1)[ And a wonderful person."
Sandy raises an eyebrow, but at that point Daniel arrives.](else:)["
Neither has a chance to say more, because at that moment Daniel arrives.]
"Hey mom! It feels like it’s been ages!"
You greet your son and introduce him to Matteo, whom he greets just as politely as Sandy did. But this time Matteo makes the mistake of saying what he does for a living.
"An economist with the IMF? So you’re a neoclassicist then?"
"Ah, I can’t believe I’ve been here for several days already and I’m only just having this debate for the first time now. I -"
Five minutes later you and Sandy give up and start having your own conversation. You ask about her housework and she asks about Christopher. She tells you about her dating life - uninteresting (her own word) - and you tell her about your friends - uninteresting (your own word). Eventually Daniel and Matteo finish, agreeing to disagree. You rarely see your son so energised.
"So mom, what have you been doing while you’ve been here?"
You tell him and he asks questions, cracking jokes with Matteo when he appears in your story. Eventually you coax him into talking about himself. It’s a difficult task. It’s bad enough that he talks in anecdotes, but what makes it much worse is his habit of using each one to slip into a speech on ideology or history. Almost everything he says loops back around to //Objectivity//, which he presents as a bastion of truth, but which your internet searching has revealed to be a bohemian news blog owned by a businessman and opposition politician your husband assures you is a good friend of the President.
In other words, you learn a lot, but very little of it about your son’s emotional or physical state. Still, that is a good sign in itself, you suppose. He may be lost in his own world, but he seems very happy there.
You feel a growing tension as you talk and it is only when it finally reaches the point of making your conversation impossible that you realise what it is. You’d been sitting with your back to the square, but the sudden burst of megaphone-amplified speech from behind you makes you aware that you had subconsciously heard the sounds of a crowd amassing.
"It’s not a district, it’s a country! We haven’t freed them, we’ve illegally occupied them! This isn’t peace, this is imprisonment!"
You feel panic grab you and you turn. The crowd is small but loud. They are just now revealing banners and placards. "Make peace not war!" and "Freedom for all!" aren’t so bad, but amongst them are "Stop the murder!" and a picture of the President with Hitler’s moustache crudely photoshopped on to his upper lip. Someone near the speaker unfurls a flag, the flag of the illegitimate government of the break-away district.
Sandy takes control first.
"We need to leave. Now."
Matteo looks conflicted for a moment, but when he looks at you and your family he makes his choice and quickly leads the way away from the crowd.
"Fucking idiots." Sandy hisses under her breath as you walk quickly and stiffly away. "Spend too much time on the internet. They won’t get to do that once they’re in prison. And why? The operation is over, what the fuck do they think they’re going to achieve?"
You move to turn a corner. The shock finally calms and your mothering instincts take over.
Where’s Daniel?
You turn, look back at the crowd. Your son is standing at their edge, talking to one of the protesters.
You see him nod.
You race back, not thinking. Your child is in danger. That is all that matters.
"Daniel, come, now."
"They’re peace protesters mom. They think what we did was wrong and I think they’re right."
Let him stay with them.
(click-replace: "Let him stay with them.")[No, no you can’t let him stay. If your child is in a bear’s mouth, you pull him out.]
Make him come with you.
(click-replace: "Make him come with you.")["Daniel, I don’t care what they are. I don’t care what you believe. The police will be here soon and they’ll arrest all of you. I won’t let them. Don’t make me beg you, please Daniel, don’t make me try to drag you out of here."
"Your son is brave, lady, he’s a true patriot."
"I don’t care!" Suddenly you’re screaming. You don’t know if you can hear sirens or if you are just imagining them. "Daniel, come with me, now!"
He hesitates. He clenches his fists. He watches the tears stream down your face.
"Okay mom." He whispers.
You pull his arm as you run. Matteo and Sandy are waiting for you, both anxious. Sandy is actually shaking.
"You idiot! You fucking idiot! Why the fuck? Don’t be so stupid again, ever, okay? What would dad say?"
Daniel stares back at his sister but says nothing. You pull them all along, around the corner and away.
There is silence while you walk and there is silence when you finally stop. Sandy looks as if she wants to yell again, but Matteo places a hand gently on her shoulder and she holds back.
"I’m going to go." Daniel says finally. "Back to my accommodation." You nod, still too stressed to speak. "I love you mom."
"I love you too Daniel."
You hug. You don’t let him go the first time he tries to break away and he does not try again for a long time. Then he shakes hands with Matteo, nods to his sister and leaves. Sandy bites her lower lip.
"You alright mom? That was brave." You gabble out something reassuring and self-effacing. Sandy shrugs. "He’s an idiot. I didn’t think you’d get him out. Well done."
You’re too addled to defend your son’s decision, to insist that she doesn’t call him an idiot. Maybe, for a moment, you find it difficult to disagree with her.
The three of you stand in silence for a moment.
"I think I’ll go too mom. I have work to do. And, I mean, I don’t know what we’d do now.
"I liked seeing you. Call soon?"
You nod and she hugs you. Then it’s just you and Matteo.
"I’ll buy you a drink. There’s a nice side room at the hotel bar. We won’t be bothered there."
[[Go with Matteo back to the hotel.->Go to the hotel bar]]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 1)
(set: $MatteoMetKids = "True")Matteo nods, immediately understanding.
"Odd thing to ask really. I’ll see you back at the hotel. Don’t worry, I’m more than capable of finding my own way back."
You walk with him to the metro where you take one train and he takes another. There’s quite a crowd around the station and the square where you’re due to meet your children, but you’re in too much of a hurry to stop and take in what is going on.
Sandy is already waiting at an outside table for you when you arrive. She’s ordered herself a coffee but hasn’t had enough time to do more than sip it. She stands up and hugs you when she sees you.
You ask about her housework and she asks about Christopher. She tells you about her dating life - uninteresting (her own word) - and you tell her about your friends - uninteresting (your own word). Eventually Daniel arrives, just the right side of insultingly late.
"Hey mom! It feels like it’s been ages!" You greet each other, again with a hug, and then he starts asking questions. "So mom, what have you been doing while you’ve been here?"
Eventually you coax him into talking about himself It’s a difficult task. It’s bad enough that he talks in anecdotes, but what makes it much worse is his habit of using each one to slip into a speech on ideology or history. Almost everything he says loops back around to //Objectivity//, which he presents as a bastion of truth, but which your internet searching has revealed to be a bohemian news blog owned by a businessman and opposition politician your husband assures you is a good friend of the President.
In other words, you learn a lot, but very little of it about your son’s emotional or physical state. Still, that is a good sign in itself, you suppose. He may be lost in his own world, but he seems very happy there.
You feel a growing tension as you talk and it is only when it finally reaches the point of making your conversation impossible that you realise what it is. You’d been sitting with your back to the square, but the sudden burst of megaphone-amplified speech from behind you makes you aware that you had subconsciously heard the sounds of a crowd amassing.
"It’s not a district, it’s a country! We haven’t freed them, we’ve illegally occupied them! This isn’t peace, this is imprisonment!"
You feel panic grab you and you turn. The crowd is small but loud. They are just now revealing banners and placards. "Make peace not war!" and "Freedom for all!" aren’t so bad, but amongst them are "Stop the murder!" and a picture of the President with Hitler’s moustache crudely photoshopped on to his upper lip. Someone near the speaker unfurls a flag, the flag of the illegitimate government of the break-away district.
Sandy takes control first.
"We need to leave. Now."
You stand up so fast that you barely remember to throw enough money to pay for your drinks onto the table.
"Fucking idiots." Sandy hisses under her breath as you walk quickly and stiffly away. "Spend too much time on the internet. They won’t get to do that once they’re in prison. And why? The operation is over, what the fuck do they think they’re going to achieve?"
You move to turn a corner. The shock finally calms and your mothering instincts take in.
Where’s Daniel?
You turn, look back at the crowd. Your son is standing at their edge, talking to one of the protesters.
You see him nod.
You race back, not thinking. Your child is in danger. That is all that matters.
"Daniel, come, now."
"They’re peace protesters mom. They think what we did was wrong and I think they’re right."
Let him stay with them.
(click-replace: "Let him stay with them.")[No, no you can’t let him stay. If your child is in a bear’s mouth, you pull him out.]
Make him come with you.
(click-replace: "Make him come with you.")["Daniel, I don’t care what they are. I don’t care what you believe. The police will be here soon and they’ll arrest all of you. I won’t let them. Don’t make me beg you, please Daniel, don’t make me try to drag you out of here."
"Your son is brave, lady, he’s a true patriot."
"I don’t care!" Suddenly you’re screaming. You don’t know if you can hear sirens or if you are just imagining them. "Daniel, come with me, now!"
He hesitates. He clenches his fists. He watches the tears stream down your face.
"Okay mom." He whispers.
You pull his arm as you run. Sandy is shaking when you catch up with her.
"You idiot! You fucking idiot! Why the fuck? Don’t be so stupid again, ever, okay? What would dad say?"
Daniel stares back at his sister but says nothing. You pull them along, around the corner and away.
There is silence while you walk and there is silence when you finally stop. Sandy looks as if she wants to yell again, but she sees your face and holds her tongue.
"I’m going to go." Daniel says finally. "Back to my accommodation." You nod, still too stressed to speak. "I love you mom."
"I love you too Daniel."
You hug. You don’t let him go the first time he tries to break away and he does not try again for a long time. Then he nods to his sister and leaves. Sandy bites her lower lip.
"You alright mom? That was brave." You gabble out something reassuring and self-effacing. Sandy shrugs. "He’s an idiot. I didn’t think you’d get him out. Well done."
You’re too addled to defend your son’s decision, to insist that she doesn’t call him an idiot. Maybe, for a moment, you find it difficult to disagree with her.
The two of you stand in silence for a moment.
"I think I’ll go too mom. I have work to do. And, I mean, I don’t know what we’d do now.
"I liked seeing you. Call soon?"
You nod and she hugs you. Then it’s just you.
You head towards the metro, taking a long route, maybe to avoid the protest, maybe just to clear your head. At some point you check your phone and find a text from Matteo saying he’s got a seat in a side room at the hotel bar and would be happy to see you, whether it’s now or later. Without the mental power to consider anything else, even if you want to, you text him back that you are coming and take the most direct train.
[[Go back to the hotel.->Go to the hotel bar]]]
(set: $MatteoMetKids = "False")Matteo shrugs.
“I could argue, but I won’t. The glass my house is made of may be double-glazed, but it’s probably still wise to not throw stones.”
You let the comment go and you walk through the last room in silence.
[[Leave the museum.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen - 1)
(set: $Bold = $Bold - 1){(set: $Bold = $Bold - 1)}(if: $Bold > 1)[Matteo raises an eyebrow but says nothing. You](else:)[Matteo says and does nothing, but you note that you] walk through the last room in silence.
[[Leave the museum.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen - 3)“I don’t know. It was a beautiful dream. And only children think that these things come for free. But no, you’re right. It wasn’t worth it. Even if it hadn’t actually all been madness and personal ambition, it wouldn’t have been worth it. Even if the dream could have been real.”
You walk through the last room in respectful silence.
[[Leave the museum.]]
(set: $Bold = $Bold + 1)“Huh, refreshing. And likely very wise.
“But if history doesn’t matter, why did you bring me to a museum?”
Matteo smiles and keeps up the lighter mood as you walk quickly around the last room of the museum.
[[Leave the museum.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 1)“You might be right. I don’t know. I personally don’t think anything is worth what happened, but if it had worked? If it really had been necessary and not just madness and personal ambition? I don’t know. Even then, even if it had created heaven on earth, I don’t think so. But it’s easy to say that now, isn’t it? I’m not the one making the calls.”
You walk through the last room in silence, Matteo deep in thought. If he reaches a conclusion, he does not share it with you.
[[Leave the museum.]]You are barely out of the museum courtyard when you hear a clock chime in the distance. You suddenly find yourself sweating. You stop walking.
“What’s wrong?”
“I’m supposed to meet my children.” You check the clock. “Oh, I’m not late yet. But I have to leave now.”
“Oh, oh that’s alright then. I thought something terrible might have happened.
“So, can I come along?”
[[“Yes.”->Yes come see the kids]]
[[“No”->No you can’t see the kids]](if: $MatteoMetKids is "False")[Matteo stands up and smiles as you walk in, but his face immediately falls when he sees yours.
"Oh my god, what happened?"
You tell him. He sits with you for a while, until you stop shaking.](else:)[Neither of you talk about what happened while walking through the streets, or while standing on the crowded metro, or while making a bee line for the small, hidden side room at the hotel bar. But once you sit down he embraces you with his eyes and asks if you want to talk.
You find that you do. About Daniel. About how scared you are for him. About how scared you were for all of you. Matteo does nothing but sit and listen, unmoving and attentive until you stop shaking.] Then he gets you a drink. It helps. He gets you both another one.
Eventually the conversation moves away from today, away from fear. You talk about your own childhoods and in that smokey side room, the noise from next door steadily growing louder and louder, you are each transported to bright summer days, so similar and so different. Matteo makes it easy to see all the joy that you could never see at the time. You smell fresh cut grass, feel warm salty water, and laugh at your friends’ small dramas.
Two souls, separated by much more than just distance. You cut through it all and find two humans underneath. In finding that nothing matters in keeping you from knowing each other, you find that everything matters.
You are not drunk. But you laugh like you are.
The clock on the wall runs forward while, for the first time since childhood, you feel like you are not missing anything at all.
In a small smokey room off a hotel bar you feel like you have found everything good about what it is to be alive.
The sounds from the bar die down. You hear the squeals of chair legs dragged across a polished wooden floor and the clinking of glasses being stacked.
(if: $Keen > 2 and $Bold > 2)[Matteo smiles.
"Caroline, would you like to come upstairs with me?"
There is no demand in his voice, nor any vulnerability. Just hope and happiness.
[["Yes."->Go to Matteo’s room]]
[["No, I can’t."->Don’t go to Matteo’s room]]](else:)[Matteo is listening. He turns to you and stares unblinking into your eyes.
(link:'"Matteo, would you like to spend the night with me?"')[(if: $Keen > -1)[(goto: "Go to Matteo’s room")](else:)[(set: $Rejected = "True")(goto: "Don’t go to Matteo’s room")]]
[["Goodnight Matteo."->Don’t go to Matteo’s room]]]He takes your hand as soon as the room door closes behind you.
You kiss each other. His hand strokes your hair. Your hands move along his arms and slide his suit jacket to the ground. His lips gently touch your neck. You lead him to the bed.
The light plays around the corner of the curtains. You talked long into the night, but you do not feel tired. He is still asleep next to you, snoring gently. He will be awake soon - you can see the red lights of the hotel alarm clock. You decide, after much thought, to wake him with a kiss.
Matteo is dressing in a hurry, but he still stops when he sees you, standing up straight and smiling.
"You make me very happy."
You have to admit that he makes you very happy too.
The day goes. You finally feel tired after breakfast and you nap. Matteo looks haggard when you meet him for dinner, but within half an hour you have left reality behind and the bags are gone from under his eyes. Again you wake up in his arms.
And then it is time to go. (if: $Bold > 2)[He spends the train journey sitting with you. You do not kiss in public, but you laugh and you joke and you touch each other’s shoulders when you do. You know everyone around you must know. He only goes back to his carriage when the lights of home begin to push their way into the thick air of your carriage.](else:)[He visits you twice in your train compartment. You do not kiss, you do not touch each other, but you laugh and you joke and you cannot help but feel that everyone who sees you knows. So twice he leaves. Not for you, but for everyone else.]
You feel cold and your head feels numb from the shock of reality as you step off onto the train platform. Matteo stands with his colleagues. Sober, he seems to glow standing amongst them. Then you each get into separate cars and drive in separate directions.
You are humming a song from Grease as you push open the door to your apartment.
You stand in silence and darkness, then a flick and Christopher is standing in the bedroom door frame, his pyjamas baggy.
"Darling, I’m sorry, I couldn’t wait up for you." He kisses you on the cheek. "It’s been miserable here without you. Tony asked what’s wrong today, I just don’t feel the same when I can’t come home and talk to you.
"Like, I couldn’t even tell you that I’m having a party tomorrow. Lloyd’s arranged it, well, he’s made the guest list. But it’s happening here. I can get caterers if you want me to …"
You tell him that won’t be necessary. He lets out a sigh of relief.
"Oh, I also wanted to ask, could you invite your client? The IMF man? I think it would be good to have someone like him here. Liberal internationalism - it’s bold, but it’s something we’re polling and I think it might be good with my demographic.
"Ask him, won’t you? And it means you can be here while also giving you something to do with him, for an evening at least.
"Right, yes, sorry, you’re probably tired. Just let me know tomorrow, okay?
"I love you darling."
[[Let real life begin again.]]
(set: $Affair = "True")
(set: $Bold = $Bold + 1)(if: $Rejected is "True")["Oh, I’m sorry. No. I think you’re great but, no, I don’t think it would work.
"I’m sorry.](else:)[Matteo smiles and stands up.]
"It’s been a lovely night. It’s been special. I don’t really know why.
"I’ll see you tomorrow $Name. After another day of meetings. I hope //you// at least have fun.
"Dinner tomorrow? And maybe we can do this again."
His happiness is genuine, innocent. You tell him that you will.
And you do. His day has clearly been frustrating, but within half an hour the black circles are gone from under his eyes.
You go back to the room next to the bar. You invent other lives for each other, talk of the things you could and should have done. In the process you find the light in your lives as they are now, even if the dreams hurt as you let them go and turn your faces back to who you really are. Then you laugh and talk of lighter things until you are too drunk to do much else but giggle.
You have a hangover the next day, the last day. Matteo makes a joke out of his pain across the breakfast room, miming out his suffering when the others at his meeting are not looking.
You spend what time you can in the spa – it would be a waste to simply lie on your bed staring at the ceiling – and then you are on the train again. He visits you twice, but you spend most of the journey making conversation with the people sitting around you: a young soldier, an insurance broker, and an old farmer. The arguments sink to shouting three times, but each time a bottle is passed around and you remember your shared nationhood.
You feel groggy as you push open the door to your apartment. You stand in silence and darkness, then a flick and Christopher is standing in the bedroom door frame, his pyjamas baggy.
"Darling, I’m sorry, I couldn’t wait up for you." He kisses you on the cheek. "It’s been miserable here without you. Tony asked what’s wrong today, I just don’t feel the same when I can’t come home and talk to you.
"Like, I couldn’t even tell you that I’m having a party tomorrow. Lloyd’s arranged it, well, he’s made the guest list. But it’s happening here. I can get caterers if you want me to …"
You tell him that won’t be necessary. He lets out a sigh of relief.
"Oh, I also wanted to ask, could you invite your client? The IMF man? I think it would be good to have someone like him here. Liberal internationalism - it’s bold, but it’s something we’re polling and I think it might be good with my demographic.
"Ask him, won’t you? And it means you can be here while also giving you something to do with him, for an evening at least.
"Right, yes, sorry, you’re probably tired. Just let me know tomorrow, okay?
"I love you darling."
[[Return to the normal rhythm of life.->Let real life begin again.]]
(set: $Affair = "False")The day is busy. Christopher goes into work early, so you’re up earlier than usual too. You cook him breakfast and then you begin working on the preparations for the party. He phones you once every half hour to tell you that he still doesn’t have a guest list. The first time he does this he sounds annoyed. A few hours later and he’s started to sound panicked.
"I’ve made a few calls, discreetly of course, but everyone just says that they’re going through Lloyd. The party’s tonight, I don’t know why they can’t just commit!"
You prepare for the best case scenario: a packed flat of powerful and hungry people. You plan, then you shop, then you begin to cook. Cleaning and decorating happens in the gaps, although you can’t possibly do enough.
Christopher comes home, bringing his staffers with him. The important ones are here to mingle, but the interns and office drones just deserve the chance to relax and try some ‘amazing cooking’. Still, tired as they look, they help you and Christopher prepare.
Your husband is a mess. He doesn’t try to hide it from his colleagues. He’s always been an awful liar, but you can tell tonight he’s not even trying.
You probably couldn’t have done it on your own. But Christopher scrubs the toilets, Tony puts up decorations, Mary is a tolerable sous chef, and you have everything ready half-an-hour before the party is due to start.
"I guess all we do now is wait. Fucking hell. Fucking hell!" Christopher paces quickly back and forth. His staff help themselves to beer or talk nervously in little huddles.
The start time arrives. It passes. Christopher punches the kitchen worktop.
The buzzer goes. Christopher practically runs to it.
"Hello?
(if: $FirstCard is "Green")["Ah yes Bishop, of course, come in!"
Christopher turns around, his eyes wide, his whole body shaking. Never before have you seen fear turn to excitement so quickly.
He barely has time to greet His Grace before the buzzer goes again. Half an hour later your home has been invaded by millionaires, elected officials, and political power brokers. And Matteo. He is painfully, obviously out of place, but like a celebrity in a shopping centre rather than a vagrant in a board room. Everyone seems to want to speak to the foreigner. There is only one topic of conversation, although everyone finds a new way to broach it: "What brings you here at this time?", "We were glad to hear that we’ve been able to lift our sanctions.", and the bold "I knew that you wouldn’t be able to keep yourselves away for long." They want to know why he’s back so soon after the fighting. Or maybe they just want to gloat that he is. Either way, they say nothing directly. That would just be too gauche.
He’s clearly uncomfortable. He bites his lip and grimaces but says very little. They don’t give him much opportunity; there is very little he //can// say while they skirt around the issue. And given that the room is filled with politicians and political operatives, there is very little chance that anyone would trip up.](else-if: $FirstCard is "White")["Ah, Deputy Minister, yes, please, come in!"
Christopher nods to himself, muttering something about it being an okay start. The Minister is not alone for too long, he is soon joined by a representative of a major donor and then one of those political operatives with a title as vague as their power is real.
Matteo, when he arrives, is painfully, obviously out of place, but like a celebrity in a shopping centre rather than a vagrant in a board room. Everyone seems to want to speak to the foreigner. There is only one topic of conversation, although everyone finds a new way to broach it: "What brings you here at this time?", "We were glad to hear that we’ve been able to lift our sanctions.", and the bold "I knew that you wouldn’t be able to keep yourselves away for long." They want to know why he’s back so soon after the fighting. Or maybe they just want to gloat that he is. Either way, they say nothing directly. That would just be too gauche.
He’s clearly uncomfortable. He bites his lip and grimaces but says very little. They don’t give him much opportunity; there is very little he //can// say while they skirt around the issue. And given that everyone here has built their career around saying the right things at social gatherings, there is very little chance that anyone would trip up.](else:)["Ah, Mr Schmidt, it’s an honour to have you, come straight up."
Matteo matches Christopher’s enthusiastic handshake and then looks awkwardly around the almost empty apartment. The few people present all look back. For now they are all too polite - or too eager to just have a good time - to ask any searching questions, so chat is more or less inane. When the locals run out of questions Matteo brings you into the conversation, asking about your icon corner and your cooking. Christopher smiles through it all but that is where his pretence at civil interest ends. His whole body is shaking.
The doorbell goes again. Your husband moves like a cat catching a mouse. You don’t recognise the name, but you can tell from his face that your husband’s second guest isn’t the headliner he had been hoping for. It turns out to be a small, ugly man, a representative of one of the more unsavoury interest groups who, the moment he realises that a foreigner is present, seems to lose any interest in anything else.
"I knew that you wouldn’t be able to keep yourselves away for long. We were glad to hear that we’ve been able to lift our sanctions."
Matteo bites his lip, instantly visibly uncomfortable. The little man smiles. He’s canny, if vindictive. It is painfully obvious that he’s talking about the military operation, but until he mentions it explicitly it would be impossible for Matteo to do so.]
[[Save Matteo from the questioning; take him into a quiet corner where no-one will bother him.]]
[[Leave him to it.->Carry on with the party.]]
[["So, Matteo, what is your opinion on the war?"]]Matteo smiles gratefully as you ask to have a private word with him. He knows what you’re doing, everyone else knows what you’re doing, but you are the hostess and no-one is going to challenge you.
"Thanks. That was painful."
He seems genuinely shaken. His fingers move unconsciously, clenching and unclenching, and you see the tension of rage in the corner of his mouth.
He speaks before you can ask him about it.
"So, how long have you lived here?"
It’s inane and personal and you can see that that is exactly what he needs. You talk about the small things in life: neighbours, traffic, taxes. You see him relax and he starts to laugh.
(if: $Affair is "True" and $Bold > 2)[{(set: $ChristopherNoticed = "True")}You sit close to each other. You can feel his breath mixing with yours. You both seem to notice at the same time.
"I think I might love you."
He looks shocked at his own words, but he doesn’t take them back.
The moment hangs. Perhaps a whole minute goes by, neither of you able to say more.
"Are you having a good time Mr Schmidt?"
Christopher is standing above you. His words were to Matteo, his eyes are on you.
"Yes, Mr Druar -"
"Christopher, please."
"Yes, Christopher. You have a beautiful home."
"A little small compared to what you’re used to I’m sure. But hopefully we have good things coming, don’t we darling?"
You agree.
"Oh, there’s someone I wanted to introduce you to, Mr Schmidt -"
"Matteo, please."
"Well, either way, there’s someone I wanted to introduce you to."
Matteo stands and follows your husband to where Christopher’s Chief of Staff is standing.](else:)[The moment doesn’t last for long. (if: $FirstCard is "Red")[The party isn’t big enough to let an asset like Matteo stay on the bench for long.](else:)[Someone unaware of the situation joins you and, mercifully, does not talk about politics. Matteo is too polite to refuse them.] Soon you’re drifting again, making sure that the food is all still presentable.]
[[Carry on with the party.]](if: $FirstCard is "Green")["A toast!" Lloyd declares as the party enters it’s fourth hour. The room turns to him, their glasses already raised.
"To our wonderful hostess, Mrs Druar! To her wonderful cooking. And her dependability." Lloyd’s eyes do not leave yours, even as he takes his drink.
Christopher puts his arm around your shoulder.
"I’m so proud of you. I couldn’t have done this without you." For a moment it’s just the two of you, then someone calls his name and he slips away.
The party lasts into the small hours of the morning. You feel exhausted, (if: $MatteoOutburst is not "True")[barely having the energy to wish Matteo a proper goodnight when he leaves just before midnight, ]but your husband is more energetic than you have seen him in a long time. He is still buzzing when the lasts guests leave.
"Did you see who was here? In our house! I’m not sure I’ve ever seen so many of this city’s elite in one room before! And it was our room! You know what this means? There’s only one possible thing that this could mean! Lloyd’s picked me. I’m going to be a minister! It’s actually going to happen to me, finally, it’s actually true! I’ve got so much work to do. With this much support I could actually push for some real change. I did some digging, I might actually have some independent support. I might not need Lloyd for everything, I might be able to do a bit of my own thing. This is huge Caroline! This is it!"
He continues like that for over an hour before entropy finally takes hold and he falls asleep still smiling.](else-if: $FirstCard is "White")[The party ambles on for several hours. Based on the amount of praise that you get for your cooking, you surmise that at least a few people stay longer than they would have done otherwise, just to eat more of your food.
But it would be incorrect to say that the party was a failure. A little quiet, a little lacklustre, but you remind yourself that you aren’t celebrating a wedding or a birthday, just hosting an excuse for your husband to mix with some of the city’s rich and powerful – or at the very least the associates of the city’s rich and powerful.
(if: $MatteoOutburst is not "True")[Matteo is one of the last to leave, complimenting you on your cooking and preparations, but not missing the opportunity to pointedly enquire about the questionable taste of much of your art. You laughingly inform him that most of it was inherited from Christopher’s parents.
]Christopher looks exhausted when he turns to you after having shown the last guest out.
"That was … that was okay. That was good. Mindy came, and Harry. Lloyd said some good things. No commitments annoyingly, but it’s all good signs. He could still pull out. But I’m going to be bold and say that it’s less likely.
"Did he look like he was having a good time? I know he loves your cooking, that’s always good to see. He did say that thing about the abortion issue, so I’ll need to change that policy piece. Remind me to invite more people from the church to my next rally.
"Oh, and did you see -" Christopher does not stop talking even when he is brushing his teeth. Every sentence spoken has to be analysed, every gesture picked apart. It’s tiring work and when his head does finally hit the pillow he is out like a light.](else:)[Another guest arrives. And then another. And then Lloyd. Christopher is unmistakably seething as he greets him. They shake hands and you can see your husband’s muscles go tight as he attempts to squeeze his rage into the other man’s hand. Lloyd simply smiles and leaves Christopher cringing in pain.
Everyone, save Matteo, already knows Lloyd, but Christopher does the introductions anyway and then the two of them end up alone in a corner. Only you are close enough to hear them. Hopefully.
Christopher starts.
"I’m smiling but I’m very fucking furious."
Lloyd shrugs.
"It would appear that the Druars are not in fashion right now."
"Oh come on Lloyd, this is your party, you know what’s going on!"
Lloyd looks away from you.
"I don’t think I can be blamed for your party Christopher. You should have invited more guests."
Christopher laughs, a forced cackle that makes everyone in the room glance over.
"Of course Lloyd. It’s my fault. Now, have some of my wife’s cooking. I’m sure that’s why you’re here."
Lloyd smiles and nods and the two men separate. Christopher runs his hands through his hair, stares at the wall for a minute, and returns to his guests.
Lloyd is gone half-an-hour later. No-one is gauche enough to leave with him, but after another twenty minutes you and Christopher are alone. (if: $MatteoOutburst is not "True")[Matteo was the last to go, shooting you a sympathetic look as he followed Christopher’s staffers out the door.]
You stand in silence for almost a minute before Christopher starts yelling.
"Cunts! Fuuuuck!" He puts his head in his hands, each limb trembling with a different rhythm. "Fuck. Fuck. Fuck." He grabs a random book - one of yours - from the coffee table and throws it against the wall. "Fuuck! What the fuck do I do now? That fucking cunt, those fucking cunts. They said it was my time. //Mine!// Why? By God, it //is// my time! They’re not going to fucking take it from me!" He sits down on the sofa and then immediately stands up again. You discreetly pick up your limited edition cookbook. Many of the pages are bent. Christopher stands up again, crying. "What the fuck am I saying. I’m fuck- I’m screwed, I’m fucked. Of course they can take it from me. They just did. They just fucking did." Sobbing. Then another scream, face red. "Cunts!"
Hours pass; rage to despair to rage. At some point he ends up in the bedroom and then in the bed. He weeps until he sleeps and you finally let your muscles relax.]
[[Join him in sleep.]]The room goes quiet. Everyone turns to you first, unsure on the legality of //the// word now that the fighting is over. But then, slowly, they turn to the foreigner.
(if: $Bold > 3)[{(set: $MatteoOutburst = "True")}Matteo scans the room. He thinks for a long time, then stands up straight.
"Well, our wonderful host has asked me a question and I think we can all agree it would be rude of me if I didn’t answer it.
"What do I think of the war? What do I really think of it?
"It disgusts me. It sickens me.
"Ideologically it is nothing but vile. Did we learn nothing from two world wars? I believed we were beyond this. The violation of sovereignty, freedom, democracy, all so that one flag can be changed for another, all for a bit of land. Because of lies, a fabricated threat. There was no reason for this save the barbarity of imperialism, the senseless, pointless, wasteful, childish desire to just have //more//, to be able to point to a thing that wasn’t yours and say that now it is.
"But that isn’t it. That isn’t why I despise your President and you: anyone who supports him and perpetuates his lies. That isn’t why I feel disgusting, why I feel like something is crawling under my skin, why I feel filthy just standing here amongst you.
"Over twenty-five //thousand// civilian deaths. Over two hundred of them children. You," he points to a random member of the crowd, one of Christopher’s donors, "do you have a family? A wife and two kids?
"Your family would have to die over six //thousand// times to match the blood that your government has on its hands.
"The //civilian// deaths. The ordinary people like you and me. The people who did nothing but try to live their lives. The soldiers you killed equal almost half that number again. I think the fact that over twice as many innocents died as soldiers did shows the inhumanity of your ‘military operation’.
"And let us not forget your own troops. Your own young men, your sons and nephews. Dead now. No future, no hope, nothing. All so their President could call something his own.
"So yes, gloat. Well done, you slaughtered thousands and my people were too worried about the price of petrol to do anything about it.
"//We// were cowards. //You// were murderers. I know which I’d rather be."
No-one has to ask him to leave. He shows himself out.
"Has everyone tried my darling wife’s pancakes?"
It’s the right thing to say. The conversation for the next hour will mostly be about Matteo’s outburst, but there is no need for the host to dirty himself by giving some kind of official statement on it.](else:)[Matteo shakes his head.
"No Mrs Druar. I’m sorry, but I don’t think that’s appropriate conversation. This is supposed to be a party, isn’t it?"
"No words of congratulations for us?" (if: $FirstCard is "Red")[The small man asks.](else:)[You don’t see who asked the question.]
"No. I choose to say nothing."
(if: $FirstCard is "Red")[There is mumbling, but no-one pushes him further. The small man simply smirks, taking the silence as a victory.](else:)[People mumble, but no-one pushes him further. Several people smirk, taking the silence as a victory, while others scowl at the implied insult.]
"Has everyone tried my darling wife’s pancakes?"
It is the right thing to say. Christopher moves the conversation on and while you know Matteo’s pointed silence will not be forgotten, it is put aside.]
[[Carry on with the party.]]Christopher is awake before you are. Or rather; Christopher wakes you up. You hear him on the phone.
(if: $FirstCard is "Green")["Well, like she said last night, ‘If Simons had wanted the female vote, he should have kept his penis away from them’." Your husband laughs and smiles. He glances over and in the darkness of the bedroom sees you watching. He jogs over and gives you a silent kiss. "Well of course but did you see his tie?"
You get up, wash, dress, put on makeup. Christopher is on his laptop in the kitchen.
"Sorry, you’d think I’d have time to celebrate, but no. Well, sort of, but the celebration itself has to be useful.
"This is what it’s going to be like, isn’t it?"
The excitement in his voice betrays the implication of the words.
He continues to tap away at his laptop until you serve him breakfast, when he finally closes it and turns his full attention to you.
(if: $ChristopherNoticed is "True")["I don’t think I like Matteo Schmidt. He’s got that effeminate arrogance Europeans like him often have. And he seems like a creep. I’m sure your next client will be better.](else-if: $MatteoOutburst is "True")["That Matteo is a piece of work isn’t he. So arrogant and so brutish. We’ve always had a problem in this country of looking at Europe as if they’re the sophisticated ones. Anyone who thinks that should spend an evening with Matteo Schmidt."](else:)["Mr Schmidt was a great hit. Charming and modest. Exactly the kind of foreigner I think we should be doing more business with. Look after him well, okay?" Christopher smiles playfully.]
Christopher’s phone buzzes and he rolls his eyes as he picks it up. He doesn’t stop eating; with a practised movement he moves the microphone tactically away from his mouth whenever he chews.
He’s still on the phone when he leaves, although he does take the time to blow you a kiss as he slides out of the door.](else-if: $FirstCard is "White")["Well yes, I totally agree with the Minister. Exactly! No, no, not at all, that is why I phoned to clarify." He glances over and in the darkness of the bedroom sees you watching. He rolls his eyes and gives you a ‘what can you do?’ shrug.
You get up, wash, dress, put on makeup. Christopher is on his laptop in the kitchen.
"The gears are turning and the ball is falling. All just about nudging it to land in the right basket.
(if: $ChristopherNoticed is "True")["I don’ think I like Matteo Schmidt. He’s got that effeminate arrogance Europeans like him often have. And he seems like a creep. I’m sure your next client will be better.](else-if: $MatteoOutburst is "True")["That Matteo is a piece of work isn’t he. So arrogant and so brutish. We’ve always had a problem in this country of looking at Europe as if they’re the sophisticated ones. Anyone who thinks that should spend an evening with Matteo Schmidt.](else:)["Mr Schmidt was a great hit. Charming and modest. Exactly the kind of foreigner I think we should be doing more business with. Look after him well, okay?" Christopher smiles playfully.]"
Christopher’s phone buzzes and he rolls his eyes as he picks it up. He doesn’t stop eating; with a practised movement he moves the microphone tactically away from his mouth whenever he chews.
He’s still on the phone when he leaves.](else:)["No, I’m not whining, I’m just clarifying. No, no, your employer RSVPed- Listen I don’t care, manners are manners. Oh really? Fine, you tell her. No, no I did not-" He glances over and in the darkness of the bedroom sees you watching. He looks away again.
You get up, wash, dress, put on makeup. Christopher is on his laptop in the kitchen. He doesn’t seem to be doing anything on it. Just staring wrathfully at his email folder. Only when you serve him breakfast does he finally snap the screen lid closed and looks up at you.
(if: $ChristopherNoticed is "True")["I don’ think I like Matteo Schmidt. He’s got that effeminate arrogance Europeans like him often have. And he seems like a creep.](else-if: $MatteoOutburst is "True")["That Matteo is a piece of work. So arrogant and so brutish. We’ve always had a problem in this country of looking at Europe as if they’re the sophisticated ones. Anyone who thinks that should spend an evening with Matteo Schmidt. Cunt.](else:)["Mr Schmidt seems nice.]"
That is all the conversation he seems to feel the need to make. You don’t push him and he leaves straight after breakfast.]
Your life continues the same as before. You prepare dinner, you make yourself ready for work and then you leave.
Mr Smith is sitting in the faux leather chairs when you arrive.
"Ah, Mrs Druar. That favour, sorry but I’m going to ask you to do it again.
"You went to the capital, yes? Did you do anything interesting while you were there?"
His tone is softer than it has been before, his pace significantly slower. He still walks ahead of you, so if he does smile, you do not see it, but you can almost believe he might as he makes casual small-talk about your time in the capital; the food you ate, the tourist activities you did with Matteo, and the joy of seeing your children.
The conversation is not long and now you’re back in the little room. "You are free" on one wall and the diagram on the other:
Yellow - 1
Pink - 2
Blue - 3
Purple - 4
Orange - 5
The light starts flashing(if: $2Player is not "True")[ yellow] almost the moment after you step inside.
(if: $2Player is "True")[//Your partner will send you a colour. That is the colour that the light is flashing. Now select a number to press and reply to them with that number.//
(link: "1")[(set: $ThirdNumber = 1)(goto: "Third press")]
(link: "2")[(set: $ThirdNumber = 2)(goto: "Third press")]
(link: "3")[(set: $ThirdNumber = 3)(goto: "Third press")]
(link: "4")[(set: $ThirdNumber = 4)(goto: "Third press")]
(link: "5")[(set: $ThirdNumber = 5)(goto: "Third press")]](else:)[(link: "1")[(set: $Dependable = $Dependable + 1)(goto: "Third press")]
[[2->Third press]]
[[3->Third press]]
[[4->Third press]]
[[5->Third press]]](if: $2Player is "True")[{//If you have not just already done so, send your partner the number $ThirdNumber.//}
]"Is everything okay?" Mr Smith asks you when you come out, with something that could almost be described as a smile. He does not wait for a response before guiding you back to the offices, picking up your conversation exactly where you had left it. His friendlier attitude does not extend beyond the necessities of the task, however, and he leaves you alone as soon as he has returned you to the foyer.
They keep you waiting for Matteo for a long time. When he does finally appear he looks tired and irritable. His smile is slightly crazy as he walks up to you.
"I don’t know why I’m here. I really don’t.
"No, that’s not true. I know //exactly// why I’m here."
He holds up a hand to cut himself short.
"No, sorry, I shouldn’t. Just give me a second." He leans forward, places his hands on his bent knees and breathes deeply. "Okay, okay I’m better now. Sorry, I just – No, never mind, I’m fine. I’m with you, I shouldn’t let the misery of work take away from the happy things.
"So. So. What do you want to do?"
[["Go out for a meal."]]
[["Go for a walk around the city."]]
(if: $Affair is "True")[[["Go back to your hotel room."]]]The LED turns (if: $ThirdBoxPress is "Release")[''Orange.''](else-if: $ThirdBoxPress is "Hold")[''Purple.''](else-if: $ThirdBoxPress is "End")[''Yellow.''](else-if: $ThirdBoxPress is "Question Hold")[''Pink.''](else-if: $ThirdBoxPress is "Question End")[''Blue.'']
//Send your partner the word in bold (the colour). Then select the number that they send back.//
(link:"1")[(set: $ThirdBoxResult = "End")(goto: "Box result 3")]
(link:"2")[(set: $ThirdBoxResult = "Question Hold")(goto: "Box result 3")]
(link:"3")[(set: $ThirdBoxResult = "Question End")(goto: "Box result 3")]
(link:"4")[(set: $ThirdBoxResult = "Hold")(goto: "Box result 3")]
(link:"5")[(set: $ThirdBoxResult = "Release")(goto: "Box result 3")]{(if: $2Player is not "True")[
(set: $Chance = (random: 1, 100))
(if: $FirstCard is "White")[(set: $n = 76)]
(if: $FirstCard is "Green")[(if: $PressMatch is 0)[(set: $n = 16)](else-if: $PressMatch is 1)[(set: $n = 51)](else:)[(set: $n = 91)]]
(if: $FirstCard is "Red")[(if: $PressMatch is 2)[(set: $n = 16)](else-if: $PressMatch is 1)[(set: $n = 51)](else:)[(set: $n = 91)]]
(if: $Chance < $n)[(set: $ThirdBoxResult = $ThirdBoxPress)](else:)[(set: $Options = (shuffled: "End", "Question Hold", "Question End", "Hold", "Release")) (set: $Options = $Options - (a: $ThirdBoxPress)) (set: $ThirdBoxResult = $Options's 1st)]
(if: $ThirdBoxPress is $ThirdBoxResult)[(set: $ThirdPressMatch = "True")]
]}The Commander is looking worried when you come out of the Box room. It is an uncomfortable sight.
"$Title Highfield isn’t responding. Go find him. I’ll monitor the results here."
You glance through the window as you leave, but nothing has happened to the man on the Throne yet.
Your department only takes up a small sliver of the whole compound, but it still takes you a long time to check every room. You find Hayes, who hurriedly shuts his laptop when you walk into his barracks, but of Highfield there is no sign.
What you do find is an open door. It isn’t something you //should// notice. You //should// see nothing but a wall, a static uncrossable barrier between your department and the unknown department that takes up the rest of the facility.
[[Go through the door to look for Highfield.]]
[[Find the Commander to ask for permission to cross the boundary.]]{(set: $Respect = $Respect - 3)}The Commander is just leaving the control room when you find him. He shakes his head angrily when you tell him about the door and sends you back to barracks, saying he will deal with the $Title.
You see Highfield that evening. He looks sullen but smiles fiendishly when you approach.
"Ah look who it is! Heard you were looking for me. Heard you were ordered to. Heard that you tried your best but that you were defeated by a very scary -" he glances down at his hand, miming the act of checking notes, "- ‘open door’. Thank God we have level-headed Lieutenants looking out for us. Imagine if we’d been in a combat situation! Imagine if we’d all been jumped by a slightly ajar window, or if your men had been about to recklessly charge through a bead curtain! Screw actually completing the mission, we’ve got to look out for those doors!(if: $Respect > 3)[ Thought you were better than that.]"
There is no-one else around to laugh at his mockery, but he does not seem to care; he amuses himself.
[["We have procedures. I was merely following them."]]
[["Choose: shut up or make me help you shut up."]]
[[Ignore him.->Ignore the door jokes]]The other facility, the other agency, the other world, looks exactly the same as yours. You are not sure whether to acknowledge the sounds. Shouting, swearing, some screaming. You can hear them from many parts of your facility, although, of course, you can’t, not officially.
One sound quickly stands out. A voice, loud but not particularly loud, notable really only for how nasal it is. It’s not far.
Highfield’s voice leads you to what appears like a staff room. A large table sits between kitchen units. Five men sit around it playing cards. By the size of his stake, it appears Highfield is doing well.
His neighbour nudges him and he looks up.
"Lieutenant! Well, fancy meeting you here!"
[["The Commander wants you back."]]
[["Back to your post. //Now//."->Back to your post.]]
[["What are you playing?"]]"Yeah whatever. Just thank God you never ended up in a real fight. Because you learn pretty fucking quickly how important all that shit is when you’ve got to run straight at the bastards shooting at you.
"But sure, if it makes your paper pushing easier, do whatever the fuck you want."
$Title Highfield stands up and leaves before you can reply.
[[Wait out the rest of the day.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 2)Highfield looks you up and down.
(if: $Respect > 2)[{(set: $Respect = $Respect + 4)}"Fine. I’ll shut the fuck up."
He stands up, gives you a little bow and a knowing look, silently conceding ground, and leaves you alone.
[[Wait out the rest of the day.]]](else:)["No. I think you’re too much of a pussy to follow that through."
[[Follow through.]]
[[Back down.]]]$Title Highfield smiles to himself. He doesn’t feel the need to go on. He knows he’s won. Eventually he leaves, chuckling to himself.
[[Wait out the rest of the day.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 3)The Commander comes to your barracks.
(if: $ThirdBoxResult is "End")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 10)"Your client is dead. The best possible outcome, I believe. He represented a moral, spiritual and cohesion threat. He would have caused problems, in or out of custody. It is best that he has been removed.
"I thought you should know.
"Back to your own business."](else-if: $ThirdBoxResult is "Question Hold")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 6)}"‘Question->Hold.’ It seems unnecessary and unwise. He admitted to nothing and made no further promises under questioning. He is no less of a risk now than he was before. (if: $3CDenounce is "From fear")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)}And I do believe he is still a risk. Our methods can do a great deal to change the psychology of a man, but his hatred for us runs very deep. ](else-if: $3CDenounce is "For God")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 1)}And I do believe he is still a risk. A promise made under delusion and duress is not to be taken seriously. ]And besides that he is a potent symbol of opposition against us. Leaving him alive and in custody will only cause problems in the future.
"Still, I thought you should know.
"Back to your own business."](else-if: $ThirdBoxResult is "Question End")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 8)}"Your client is dead. That is a good outcome, I believe. He represented a moral, spiritual and cohesion threat. He would have caused problems, in or out of custody. It is best that he has been removed.
"I disagree with the means by which it was achieved. He gave us no new information during the Throne’s interrogation. It was unnecessary.
"Still, the main objective has been achieved.
"I thought you should know.
"Back to your own business."](else-if: $ThirdBoxResult is "Hold")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 5)}"Your client is back in custody. It seems unwise. He represents a moral, spiritual and cohesion threat. (if: $3CDenounce is "From fear")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)}And I do believe he is still a risk. Our methods can do a great deal to change the psychology of a man, but his hatred for us runs very deep. ](else-if: $3CDenounce is "For God")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 1)}And I do believe he is still a risk. A promise made under delusion and duress is not to be taken seriously. ]And besides that he is a potent symbol of opposition against us. Leaving him alive and in custody will only cause problems in the future.
"Still, I thought you should know.
"Back to your own business."](else:)[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 14)}"Your client was released. The worst possible outcome as far as I’m concerned. He represents a moral, spiritual and cohesion threat. (if: $3CDenounce is "From fear")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)}And I do believe he is still a risk. Our methods can do a great deal to change the psychology of a man, but his hatred for us runs very deep. ](else-if: $3CDenounce is "For God")[{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 1)}And I do believe he is still a risk. A promise made under delusion and duress is not to be taken seriously. ]I do not see a situation in which he does not turn, or is not turned, back into a potent propaganda tool against us. If we are very lucky he will stay within the country. But most likely he will be smuggled out while the borders are still porous. We will be dealing with the threat of having him publicly visible for years. In the state he is in now.
"I thought you should know.
"Back to your own business."]
[[Go back to your business.]]The delicate cartilage doesn’t so much crack as fold. You had not meant to do it, but it does not matter what you meant.
Highfield tries to push the blood back up his nose with his hands. He lets out a little high pitched chuckle.
"Didn’t think you had it in you. Nice one.
"I’ll leave you the fuck alone now Lieutenant.
"And sorry for calling you a pussy.
"And thanks, think you might have broken it the other way from Emmisson, knocked it back into shape."
He’s already standing as he finishes and he dashes away, leaving a trail of blood behind him.
[[Wait out the rest of the day.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect + 8)Highfield wrinkles his nose. Or at least you think he tries to. He swears and blood starts trickling down his face.
"Fuck. Was going to say it smells like pussy juice in here. Ah well, you get the point. Fuck this."
He dashes away, his hand ineffectually cupped under his broken nose.
[[Wait out the rest of the day.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 5)The $Title thinks for several seconds, before shrugging and stuffing his money into his pockets.
"Can’t deny the Commander. Thanks for the message, messenger." He gives you a mocking smile, but shrugs again. "Ah, whatever. I’ll come back out with you."
The two of you make the short walk in silence. He says nothing as he leaves you at the door, which you close firmly behind you.
[[Wait out the rest of the day.]]"Hold ‘em. Want to join?"
[["Deal me in."]]
[["I’m telling the Commander."]]$Title Highfield sits up and graces you with his most confident smile.
"Or what?"
[["I’ll tell the Commander."]]
[[Use force.]]A laugh pushes itself inelegantly up Highfield’s throat and out of his mouth.
"Pussy. Fuck off. We’re playing a game."
The other men chuckle. A particularly large one pats Highfield on the back as he sits back down.
You go back to tell the Commander. He shakes his head angrily and sends you back to barracks.
[[Wait out the rest of the day.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 5)The delicate cartilage doesn’t so much crack as fold. You had not meant to do it, but it does not matter what you meant.
The men Highfield had been playing with are suddenly on their feet, roaring. One throws his hands up in the air. Another one is slapping you hard on the back. ‘That’s a proper fucking Lieutenant’ another one says, admiringly.
Highfield is trying to push the blood back up his nose with his hands. It isn’t going well. He lets out a high pitched chuckle.
"Nice one. Well I fucked that one didn’t I? Still, think it might have broken it the other way, might have put it back to how it was.
"Anyway, sorry guys but I’m cashing out."
He moves quickly for someone bleeding from a freshly re-broken nose. He does little to keep the blood from soaking into his money. One of the other men tries to push a shot of vodka into your hand but you push it away.
Highfield goes straight to the Commander without cleaning himself up first. He leaves you at the door, which he closes firmly behind him, with a respectful nod.
[[Wait out the rest of the day.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect + 5)(if: $Respect > 0)["There’s the spirit! I knew you were fun!](else:)["Huh, I didn’t have you down as the ‘fun’ type. I’m pleasantly surprised.]
"Dealer!"
The stakes are low, no-one has much hard cash with which to gamble, so you neither lose nor win any significant amount of money. The company is good and liberal with both jokes and vodka. They talk freely of their work: their superiors, their their colleagues and their prisoners. One casually mentions that he’s got a few females whom he operates, ‘favours for favours’. Highfield has a number of follow-up questions, but before a deal can be struck you hear a voice behind you.
"$Title Highfield, Lieutenant Phillips. With me. //Now//."
Highfield scoops his winnings into his pockets with quick and practised movements.
"Of course Commander. Right away."
You walk in silence back to your facility, the Commander only speaking once the door is firmly closed behind him.
"You are not to cross that boundary again. Am I understood?"
The threat is all the more menacing for its lack of specificity. You can see Highfield’s adam’s apple move as he swallows.
"Yes sir."
"Good. $Title, with me. Lieutenant, to barracks."
[[Wait out the rest of the day.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect + 2)
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 8)"//I’m tewwing daddy//!" the voice is high-pitched and petulant. The other men around the table laugh. "Go on then, it’ll give me the couple of hands I need to clean this lot out."
He knocks on the table and the dealer, shrugging, deals out the next hand.
You go back to tell the Commander. He shakes his head angrily and sends you back to barracks.
[[Wait out the rest of the day.]]
(set: $Respect = $Respect - 3)You turn around and look at the large room that you have made your own. You stand for a minute or two considering exactly what ‘your business’ is. Then you go to bed.
You wake up late. You eat (if: $Title is "Private")[alone.](else:)[with a silent Private Emmisson.]
You eat again, alone.
You eat with Hayes. He (if: $Trust > 3)[acts the entire time as if there is something he wants to say, but knows he cannot.](else:)[barely makes eye contact with you.]
Then you sleep.
The Commander wants you and Hayes to choose another card, feedback for the person on the other end of the Box. Green is a reward, red a punishment. White will simply do nothing.
(if: $2Player is "True")[//Select a card colour and then send your partner that colour.//
](link:"Select the green card.")[(set: $SecondCard = "Green")(goto: "Second card pick.")]
(link:"Select the white card.")[(set: $SecondCard = "White")(goto: "Second card pick.")]
(link:"Select the red card.")[(set: $SecondCard = "Red")(goto: "Second card pick.")](if: $GoodRestaurant is "True")[You go back to the first place you took him.](else:)[You end up in a small late night cafe, one you used to take your children to.] A relaxed place, happy and real. You eat good, wholesome food and chat with a friendly, unpretentious waiter. You joke as if you have known each other for years. You gossip about last night’s party, he complains about his colleagues and you tell him stories about your kids.
It’s crowded on a Saturday and you end up sharing your table with another family while you are waiting for your main course. They tell you about their lives and you tell them about yours. Matteo gets involved in a very complicated game of cards with their young boy, a game he clearly has no idea how to play but which he throws himself into with gusto.
You eat ice cream - Matteo smothering it all over his face to the great amusement of the children - and then it is over. Matteo goes back to his hotel. You [[go home to your husband.]]The sky is bright when you leave the office, summer already a hint in the cool breeze. By the time you say goodbye, standing on the banks of the river, the boldest stars are piercing through the fog of city lights.
Your legs ache; an echo, a pain that does nothing but prolong the memory of the sublime moment.
You joked like you have known each other for years. You gossiped about last night’s party, he complained about his colleagues and you told him stories about your kids. You got ice cream, then you got a hot dog, simultaneously overflowing with sauces and utterly indescribably bland, from a park-side stall. Matteo returned to his hotel room with traces of both on his shirt. But now you are on your own again, in the car, getting ready to [[go home to your husband.]]You do.
You talk, and you laugh, and you make love. It was good the first time, in the capital. But since then, you talked, and more than talked: you learnt each other with your bodies. Every time it is newer, more exciting and more comfortable, more familiar.
The hours pass as you lie next to each other, with each other. Nothing seems to matter in the way that it used to and all the meaningless little things seem transcendent.
And then, as if it never happened, as if nothing else has ever happened, you both realise that it is time for it to end. Of course it goes on a little longer after that moment, both of you trying to find the peace of living in a world beginning and ending with your two bodies and souls, but from the moment you know it has to end the world pushes itself between you.
Christopher is waiting at home. So back home you go.
[[Go to sleep beside your husband.->go home to your husband.]]Christopher is in the tv room when you get home. (if: $FirstCard is "Green")[The tv is turned off, but his laptop screen illuminates his face. It takes him a minute to greet you. If his energy level dipped at all since you last saw him, there is no evidence of it now. He’s still practically vibrating.
"Listen, Caroline, despite what I said this morning, I think we are owed a little break. Nothing fancy, but I thought we could order food in and just spend the evening together tomorrow. No phones, no laptops, no work. I’ve already called your office, they’ve given you the day off. It will be good, won’t it?"](else-if: $FirstCard is "White")[He’s in his usual seat, watching his usual current events show. He gets up just a moment after you walk in. He looks tired, but he smiles warmly.
"It’s been a hectic few days hasn’t it?" He does not pause for you to reply. "I’m sorry. Between our jobs, I just feel like I haven’t seen you. So I thought we should spend the evening together tomorrow. Nothing fancy, just order in some food, maybe watch a movie. No phones, no laptops, no work. I’ve already called your office, they’ve given you the day off. It will be good, won’t it?"](else:)[It’s not a show you recognise, it looks like some dubbed foreign sitcom. The live studio audience laughs, but Christopher does not. He lazily turns it off when you walk in. He sighs in the sudden darkness and slowly rises up to greet you.
"Good day at work?" He does not leave space for you to reply. "We’re spending the evening together tomorrow. I need it. I haven’t seen you much recently and I’ve got nothing better to do. We’ll just order food in and watch a movie or something. I’ve already called your office, they’ve given you the day off. It will be good, won’t it?"]
"You should have talked to me before calling my work."
(click: '"You should have talked to me before calling my work."')[Christopher looks taken aback.
(if: $ChristopherNoticed is "True")["You would prefer to spend time with Matteo Schmidt than with your husband?" He lets the silence lie for an uncomfortably long time. "We’ll have a lovely time tomorrow, won’t we?"](else:)["I’m … I’m sorry. But it’s done now, can’t take it back. And we will have a good time."]]
[["Yes, it will be good."]](if: $ChristopherNoticed is "True" or $FirstCard is "Red")[Christopher smiles thinly.
"Good."](else:)[Christopher smile.
"Excellent. You can pick where we get the food from."]
He goes back through to the tv room and resumes what he was doing.
It’s late. You (link: "get ready for bed.")[(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "get ready for bed.")](else:)[(goto: "Dream end")]]You dream. You dream you have a garden. Huge and beautiful, the grounds of a large summer house.
It has two flowers. You take them from the greenhouse and plant them in the field. One is pink. The other?
//Select the colour that your partner sends you.//
(link:"Green.")[(set: $SecondCard = "Green")(goto: "Dream end")]
(link:"White.")[(set: $SecondCard = "White")(goto: "Dream end")]
(link:"Red.")[(set: $SecondCard = "Red")(goto: "Dream end")]{
(set: $Chance = (random: 1, 20))
(if: $Dependable is 3)[(if: $Chance < 18)[(set: $SecondCard = "Green")](else-if: $Chance is 20)[(set: $SecondCard = "Red")](else:)[(set: $SecondCard = "White")]]
(if: $Dependable is 2)[(if: $Chance < 14)[(set: $SecondCard = "Red")](else-if: $Chance < 19 and $Chance > 13)[(set: $SecondCard = "White")](else:)[(set: $SecondCard = "Green")]]
(if: $Dependable is 1)[(if: $Chance < 18)[(set: $SecondCard = "Red")](else-if: $Chance is 20)[(set: $SecondCard = "Green")](else:)[(set: $SecondCard = "White")]]
(if: $Dependable is 0)[(if: $Chance < 19)[(set: $SecondCard = "Red")](else-if: $Chance is 19)[(set: $SecondCard = "White")](else:)[(set: $SecondCard = "Green")]]
}(if: $SecondCard is "Red")[The phone wakes you up. It’s yours, not Christopher’s. Half asleep, he looks at you accusingly, as if you receiving a phone call at four in the morning is your fault.
You get to it just in time.
"Mom? Mom?"
You feel like you’ve been electrocuted. For less than a fraction of a second you freeze, but then your instincts kick in and you’re standing, blood pumping through your body, fully awake.
Daniel is crying. But worse, so much worse, you can hear that he’s afraid.
You tell him that you’re there. You tell him to calm, that everything is okay, that you’re there. You hear him breathe. For that moment you regret it, you wish that you’d just let him spit it out. For that moment everything that could be wrong flashes through your brain.
You see your son standing over your daughter’s unmoving body.
"I’ve been arrested mom. I’m at the main police station. They’re saying that I ‘distributed false information about the army’. They say that the sentence could be ten years. Mom I- I-" You hear someone talking loudly, but you cannot make out the words through the sobs. Your son instantly starts talking again, or at least, attempting to. His words are unclear, strangled by terror. "Help me. They said I should call a lawyer but I don’t have one. Tell dad, he’ll know what to do, right? He can help, right?"
You ask him exactly what they said he did. Christopher is sitting on the edge of the bed now, listening to the conversation over speaker-phone.
"That demonstration mom. That day you came to the capital. They say they have footage of me at it. They say that they have video of me saying false things about the army. I don’t think I did mom. I just asked some questions. I didn’t even chant or anything."
Christopher takes the phone from your hand.
"Dan, listen to me, it’s okay. It’s clearly a mistake. Don’t say anything, okay? It’s the middle of the night, they can’t expect you to say anything. I’m going to make some calls now, I’ll get a lawyer for you. Don’t worry, it’s okay, don’t worry, we’ll sort it out."
Dan sobs out the words ‘thank you’. For a moment you can see him: a young, lost boy with a tear-stained face waiting for you at the school gate, knowing that the moment he gets in the car everything will be fine again.
The voice interrupts again, Daniel thanks his father again, and the line cuts.
Christopher takes a long breath. His legs wobble, but he stays standing, he keeps his voice in check.
"All my stuff is at the office.
"I’ll see you tonight. I’ll phone you when I can."
Fifteen minutes later and he’s gone, leaving you alone in the red light of sunrise.
It is a long day. A very long day. You try to drown your thoughts in work, but repeatedly you find yourself sitting down – on a chair, on your bed, on the floor – lost in the horror of the call.
Twenty-eight. Your little boy will be a man in ten years. He should have studied, started work, found a wife, had children by then.
That is what they are saying they will take away.
You speak to Sandy several times through the day, but eventually you hear from Christopher. He tells you that Daniel is yet to be charged, which he explains means one of two things. Either they don’t have the evidence they need without some kind of confession, or there is something that they want.
(if: $FirstCard is "Red")["They’ve already taken my fucking career, what the fuck else could they want from me? I’ve got nothing left to fucking give!"](else-if: $FirstCard is "White")["I’ve been calling Lloyd all morning. I don’t know why the fuck he would do this to me. If he wanted to sink me it would be so much easier than this, it’s not like I’m cruising on lots of momentum here. It must be someone else. He’ll be able to stop it, if only he’d pick up."](else:)["I’ve been calling Lloyd all morning. This a fucking low fucking blow. Two fucking days ago he was carrying me around on his shoulders and now this? I didn’t fucking do anything to the cunt. The other side have got to him. But he’s really fucked up this time. He’s pushed me too far and I’m not going to just let him get away with this. I promise you that my darling, that cunt’s going to be smiling on the other side of his face by the time I’m done."]
He hangs up not long after. You don’t know if you feel better or worse.
You try to do more. You achieve little. The phone rings again.
"Caroline?" You reflexively swing the phone down from your ear to check the caller ID. You hadn’t even looked, but there it is confirming it. Lloyd’s home number. "Caroline?" He asks again.
You tell him that you are there. He commiserates with you on your son’s situation. He says he will do what he can to get him out. And then his tone changes. It’s subtle. Your day has been a series of peaks and troughs: moments when you are filled with adrenaline, ready for anything and noticing every detail that could threaten you or your family; and moments where you notice nothing but the fear and the pain. Right now you sense danger and you notice everything. You notice the slight way his pronunciation changes, the way that the emphasis tilts just ever so slightly. You notice that Lloyd is reading aloud.
"But it was a foolish mistake. It is clear what should lead to what." The words hang for just a moment. Lloyd clears his throat and his speech patterns return to normal. "The police cannot hold someone for longer than forty-eight hours without charging them. So you have that long to convince them they’ve made a mistake.
"I’m going to phone Chris now. Try and keep a clear head Caroline."
You just about have time to say goodbye before the line goes dead.
Christopher phones you back half an hour later to tell you that he’s spoken to Lloyd and that there’s still no progress.
He phones you about two hours later again. He has lawyers working on it. They’ve spoken to Daniel, he’s spoken to Daniel, and he’s spoken to them. They all say that the questioning has been cursory. Not particularly odd. What is odd is what the lawyers told Christopher. They said that they’ve been through the normal channels, offered more than the normal amounts, and got nothing. It’s not good for business to be inconsistent with pricing. So this isn’t business. This has crossed the fine, fine line. This is politics.
Christopher says he has done everything that he can do today. That now he feels even more that the two of you need to spend the evening together.
You are both quiet over the meal. There is so much that could be said, but none of it would change anything, so you both choose silence. Finally, staring at empty plates, Christopher stands up.
"We should pray. We haven’t prayed in too long."](else:)[(if: $2Player is "True")[You don’t remember the dream in the morning. Did you even have it?
]You get up first. You wash. You make breakfast. You eat with Christopher and he leaves.
(if: $SecondCard is "Green")[Your phone rings not long after.
"Mom!" Daniel can hardly breathe. He’s choking on his own excitement. "Mom, mom you’ll never believe it!"
You tell him that you probably won’t.
"I just got a call from Jacob Truman!" He pauses for your reaction, but given that you have no memory of who Jacob Truman is, you have no reaction to give. Daniel seems too excited to mind. "He’s the Editor-in-Chief of //Objectivity//! He said he’d read some of my student articles and thinks I’m talented enough to go straight into their writer’s pool. They want me to do a weekly editorial on youth movements and neo-socialism! You can’t believe it, can you mom!" You assure him that you can’t. "This is the best day of my life." He pauses for a second and you can hear the implications finally landing. "This is the first day of my life. The rest of my life. This is it. I’m set. The dream is already true. I can’t believe it. I- I just can’t believe it."
You are on the phone with him for over half an hour. Eventually his excitement calms enough for you to actually ask some questions. The pay is good, the work not too demanding, the contacts ideal for career progression. It really is everything that Daniel says it is. Including unbelievable. Not impossible. Just incredibly unlikely. He had applied for an internship during his final summer at school and had even done an internet interview, but he hadn’t been awarded the position. So you poke and prod a little bit, not overtly voicing your doubt, but everything he says indicates that it is all above board. You get the impression that Daniel had all the same thoughts himself, but he’s checked email addresses against those on the website and asked all the right questions. He’s already been sent a contract.
So you congratulate him, again and again. It’s a joy to share his excitement with him. You’re the first person he’s told.
Eventually he realises that he’s simply been telling you the same things over and over again and he ends the call.
You get on with all the things that need to be done. The text messages you receive from Sandy – sarcastic but obviously full of pride for her brother – and your husband – immensely happy for his son but with an undercurrent of worry about the radical nature of the proposed column – are the only things that break up the day until Christopher comes home.
(if: $FirstCard is "Red")["So one family career dies and another starts? Good for Daniel. Good for Daniel."
He shrugs as he sits down at the table.
Conversation is stilted. The only thing that Christopher seems willing to talk about is your children, but it only takes a few minutes before he drops some faintly resentful comment and the conversation dies before picking up again and repeating the cycle. You sit in awkward silence after you have finished, a silence only broken when Christopher shakes his head and stands up.
"We haven’t prayed enough recently. I know Daniel goes to church every week. We should pray now."](else-if: $FirstCard is "White")["If Daniel can make it, then so can I."
He smiles as he sits down at the table.
Conversation is light and happy and mostly about your children. You sit in satisfied silence for just a moment after you have both finished. Christopher ends this moment by dramatically standing up and announcing:
"We’ve got a lot to be grateful for but we haven’t acknowledged where it all came from. We should pray."](else:)["Could this month get any better for our family? I’m finally going to be a minister, you’ve got a job and Daniel’s dreams just came true! All we need now is for Sandy to announce an engagement or something."
He smiles as he sits down at the table.
Conversation is light and happy and mostly about your children. You sit in satisfied silence for just a moment after you have both finished. Christopher ends this moment by dramatically standing up and announcing:
"We’ve got a lot to be grateful for but we haven’t acknowledged where it all came from. We should pray. Come on!"]](else:)[You do what needs to be done around the house. You have a short text exchange with your children, but neither of them seem to have any news.
Everything is done long before Christopher gets home. So you sit and wait until he does.
(if: $FirstCard is "Red")["Why the fuck did I even go in today? Nothing happened, nothing will happen. I can see my staff know it. Pricks, they’ll all be sending out resumes right now. I can tell."
He shrugs as he sits down at the table.
Conversation is stilted. The only thing that Christopher seems willing to talk about is your children, but it only takes a few minutes before he drops some faintly resentful comment and the conversation dies before picking up again and repeating the cycle. You sit in awkward silence after you have finished, a silence only broken when Christopher shakes his head and stands up.
"We haven’t prayed enough recently. Most politicians go to church every week. We should pray now."](else-if: $FirstCard is "White")["Long day. Time will tell if it’s all worth it."
He smiles as he sits down at the table.
Conversation is light and mostly about your children. You sit in satisfied silence for just a moment after you have both finished. Christopher ends this moment by dramatically standing up and announcing:
"We haven’t prayed enough recently. Most politicians go to church every week. We should pray now."](else:)["Oh darling it’s good to see you."
He smiles as he sits down at the table.
Conversation is light and happy and mostly about your children. You sit in satisfied silence for just a moment after you have both finished. Christopher ends this moment by dramatically standing up and announcing:
"We’ve got a lot to be grateful for but we haven’t acknowledged where it all came from. We should pray. Come on!"]]]
You both light the candles. Christopher suggests St Chrysostom’s prayers for the hours of the day. You both grew up with them, you know them by heart.
You cross yourselves and bow, and then you [[begin.]]"O Lord do not deprive me of your heavenly blessings."
(click: '"O Lord do not deprive me of your heavenly blessings."')["O Lord deliver me from everlasting torment."
(click: '"O Lord deliver me from everlasting torment."')["O Lord if I have sinned in mind or thought, in word or deed, forgive me."
(click: '"O Lord if I have sinned in mind or thought, in word or deed, forgive me."')["O Lord deliver me from every ignorance and heedlessness, from smallness of soul and flinty hardness of heart."
(click: '"O Lord deliver me from every ignorance and heedlessness, from smallness of soul and flinty hardness of heart."')["O Lord deliver me from every temptation."
(click: '"O Lord deliver me from every temptation."')["O Lord enlighten my heart which evil desires have darkened."
(click: '"O Lord enlighten my heart which evil desires have darkened."')["O Lord I have sinned, for I am human, but you, who are God, forgive me in your philanthropy for you know the weakness of my soul."
(click: '"O Lord I have sinned, for I am human, but you, who are God, forgive me in your philanthropy for you know the weakness of my soul."')["O Lord send down your grace to help me that I may glorify your holy name."
(click: '"O Lord send down your grace to help me that I may glorify your holy name."')["O Lord Jesus Christ, enrol me, who am your servant, in the Book of Life, and grant me a blessed end."
(click: '"O Lord Jesus Christ, enrol me, who am your servant, in the Book of Life, and grant me a blessed end."')["O Lord my God, even if I have done nothing good in your sight, even so grant me to make a beginning in the good according to your grace."
(click: '"O Lord my God, even if I have done nothing good in your sight, even so grant me to make a beginning in the good according to your grace."')["O Lord sprinkle on my heart the dew of your grace."
(click: '"O Lord sprinkle on my heart the dew of your grace."')["O Lord of heaven and earth remember me, your sinful servant who is defiled and cold of heart, when you come into your Kingdom. Amen."
(click: '"O Lord of heaven and earth remember me, your sinful servant who is defiled and cold of heart, when you come into your Kingdom. Amen."')[You pause to mark the passing of half the day, to reflect on what you have said, on what you are about to say. Christopher reaches over and squeezes your hand. And then you cross yourselves, bow, kiss your icons and continue.
(click: "continue.")["O Lord receive me in repentance."
(click: '"O Lord receive me in repentance."')["O Lord never leave me."
(click: '"O Lord never leave me."')["O Lord do not lead me into temptation."
(click: '"O Lord do not lead me into temptation."')["O Lord grant me thought of the good."
(click: '"O Lord grant me thought of the good."')["O Lord grant me tears, the remembrance of death, a sense of peace."
(click: '"O Lord grant me tears, the remembrance of death, a sense of peace."')["O Lord grant me charity, humility, and obedience."
(click: '"O Lord grant me charity, humility, and obedience."')["O Lord grant me endurance, greatness of soul, and gentleness."
(click: '"O Lord grant me endurance, greatness of soul, and gentleness."')["O Lord grant that I may love you with all my heart and all my soul, and obey your will in all things."
(click: '"O Lord grant that I may love you with all my heart and all my soul, and obey your will in all things."')["O Lord shelter me from the wicked, from demons, from the passions of unlawful things."
(click: '"O Lord shelter me from the wicked, from demons, from the passions of unlawful things."')[[["O Lord you know your creation, and all that your will has destined for it, may your will also be fulfilled in me who am a sinner. For you are blessed evermore. Amen."]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]"Mrs Druar? I am sorry to impose, but it would be kind of you if you followed me."
They called you into work early. Mr Smith is there to meet you, more formal than before but still relaxed. He leads the way out of the building.
[["I want you to tell me what it is that I’m doing here."]]
[[Follow Mr Smith.]]Mr Smith stops so quickly you almost bump into him. He turns slowly.
"You’re doing a favour. What a good person would do.
"Don’t you want to be a good person?
"Don’t you want people thinking of you and your family as good people?"
[["Yes."->Go with him.]]
[["You didn’t answer my question."]]The strange room. Again.
Yellow - 1
Pink - 2
Blue - 3
Purple - 4
Orange - 5
You wait a while. Then the light starts flashing(if: $2Player is "True")[.
//Your partner will send you a colour. That is the colour that the light is flashing. Now select a number to press and reply to them with that number.//
(link: "1")[(set: $FourthNumber = 1)(goto: "Fourth press")]
(link: "2")[(set: $FourthNumber = 2)(goto: "Fourth press")]
(link: "3")[(set: $FourthNumber = 3)(goto: "Fourth press")]
(link: "4")[(set: $FourthNumber = 4)(goto: "Fourth press")]
(link: "5")[(set: $FourthNumber = 5)(goto: "Fourth press")]](else:)[ orange.
[[1->Fourth press]]
[[2->Fourth press]]
[[3->Fourth press]]
[[4->Fourth press]]
(link: "5")[(set: $Dependable = $Dependable + 1)(goto: "Fourth press")]]"Yes I did. Now, are you coming or not?" His voice is hard, the voice of a gangster straight from the streets of your childhood – which is almost definitely exactly what Mr Smith is.
[["I am coming."->Go with him.]]
[[Turn around.]]“Good.”
He turns without another word.
[[Follow Mr Smith.]](if: $2Player is "True")[{Send your partner the words "No response"}
]You feel his eyes boring into the back of your head as you walk away. He does nothing to stop you. You feel yourself sweating even as you sit down in the white chairs in the foyer.
You sit for a very long time. You swear that everyone who walks past you looks at you and you swear that they all look with pity. Or disgust.
Matteo beams when he sees you, appearing a little after lunch time. It feels suddenly very normal, his light steps across the shining floor, his chest wide, his face full of innocent joy.
"I do hope you haven’t been here for long."
You tell him. His face falls and he shakes his head.
"Since morning? They’ve given you lunch though?"
You tell him. He motions for you to wait and marches over to the desk.
"Excuse me Rebecca, but why hasn’t Mrs Druar been offered any refreshments?"
The receptionist looks up, utterly uninterested.
"File says not to."
"What do you mean, ‘file says not to’?"
"I mean the file says not to. Says not to cover her extra expenses. Just updated this morning."
Matteo stands still, his narrowed eyes sliding between you and the receptionist.
"Where did the change come from?"
Rebecca shrugs.
"Usually says, but doesn’t on this. Is that all?"
"Yes, for now. But I’ll be back with a lunch bill."
"You do what you want, but the file says we’re not paying it if it’s for her."
"We’ll see about that."
He marches back to you, his hands clasped – white knuckled – behind his back.
"Bastards. I’ll get to the bottom of that. But for now shall we just enjoy ourselves? No! Now let’s get you some lunch."
You spend twenty minutes walking up and down the most exclusive street of restaurants in the city before you finally find the most expensive lunch menu you can find. The price is truly mind-boggling. But the food is some of the best you’ve ever tasted, even if it does little to fill you. (if: $SecondCard is "Red")[And even if it is difficult to enjoy anything with the uncertainty of your son’s future hanging over your head. Matteo is very understanding when you tell him. He asks if you want to go home, but you agree with him that since there’s nothing you can do you might as well distract yourself. You have your mobile phone with you and that’s all you need.]
Then, after you’ve eaten, [[Matteo takes you to the zoo.]]
(set: $RejectedTheRoom = "True")Matteo’s happiness visibly drains as you walk around the zoo. You can see on his face that he disapproves of the way the animals are being kept, although he does not talk about it, for which you are glad. (if: $SecondCard is not "Red")[You had spent the car journey over telling him about all of your happy memories of this place and you don’t want to have to face the idea that they were all predicated on suffering. ]Still, he cannot hide how unhappy it makes him and even his attempt at other conversation turns to the melancholic.
"I don’t think I’ll be here for much longer. I’m not getting anything done, but more importantly my agency doesn’t want to look like a pawn in your President’s game. There are discussions, well above my level, but while I’ve been here attempting to get local economic movement moving again, I’m actually just here to show willing on the part of the IMF. Your President asked us here so that when it all falls apart he can say he was willing, and the IMF sent us so they can say //they// were willing.
"But at the end of the day we’re here to integrate you, your country, further into the world economy and to protect western oil interests, but your President has absolutely no interest – ideologically, economically or military – in either of those things happening. And why would he? Your nation has been more or less the only economically self-sufficient world power since, well, since the global economy as an entity has existed. That’s useful but not exactly an instantly winning card in the game of globalist trade. The natural resources are stronger and are a good part of why this country has been able to maintain its economic independence for so long.
"So you have got a lot going for you. But not enough to really compete with the USA, or China. But it doesn’t matter, because that’s not the game you’re playing, is it? While the rest of the world moved on to capitalism your President has gone back to the last time you were unquestionably winning. Because natural resources and economic independence are good when you’re talking about trade, but they are overpowering when you consider them as tools for military conquest. We think of your economy as backwards, ‘emerging’, because of its large reliance on the primary sector in maintaining the balance of trade. Over fifty percent of your export value comes from the petroleum industry. But while you’re exporting petroleum, natural gas, coal, wheat and iron, you’re importing cars, textiles and shoes. Luxuries.
"Which means when we imposed sanctions on you, we only really did two things: we gave you an excuse to stop your exports to us, crippling our military industrial complexes while doing very little to hurt your own; and by taking away our luxury products we just played into your President’s ‘it’s us versus them’ rhetoric. But then again, we had to do what we could, didn’t we? Damned if you do, damned if you don’t."
He stops both talking and walking. He stares into the deep, sad eyes of a bear sitting on a patch of concrete. Matteo looks away first.
"But what the hell can I do?
"Just be here with you I think.
"These have been very happy days for me. I don’t think it’s because I’ve been spoilt here. Well, maybe a little bit. But I feel like I’ve found something I haven’t found in a long time.
"There’s something about you $Name. It’s so easy to be happy around you.
"I’m not sure there’s anything I miss from home. My own place, I suppose. It’s all cutting edge, got all that smart home stuff, a remote control for the blinds and a waste disposal in the kitchen. But really I do miss the park. My apartment looks over a park. Not like Central Park, it’s not fancy like that. It’s just a little local park for mothers and dog walkers. It’s nice. Not that there aren’t places like that here. But that one’s mine.
"And I miss being able to say whatever I want. Although I don’t hold back around //you//, do I?" He smiles and then laughs. "I talk a little bit too much don’t I? I haven’t let you get a word in edgewise since we got here!"
[["I don’t mind, I like listening to you."]]
[[Smile and say "It really is unconscionably rude of you Mr Schmidt."]]
[["It is very patronising, having a foreigner telling me all about my own country. And judging it."]](if: $2Player is "True")[{//If you have not just already done so, send your partner the number $FourthNumber.//}
]"Good." Is all Mr Smith says as you come back out of the strange room. You walk in silence and he doesn’t even say goodbye when he leaves you in the foyer.
It’s a long wait for Matteo to come down. You’re told he won’t be free till after lunch. If you ask why you were brought in so early, you get nothing but a shrug. Still, they bring you drinks and when lunch time comes the receptionist Rebecca slouches over and asks what kind of take-out she can get you.
Matteo joins you more or less as soon as they said he would. His steps are light across the shining floor, his chest wide, his face full of innocent joy.
"I do hope you haven’t been here for long."
You tell him. His face falls and he shakes his head.
"Since morning? They’ve given you lunch though?"
You tell him. He shakes his head again and shrugs.
"Well it doesn’t sound like Rebecca’s fault. I’ll dig into it later, someone’s clearly messed up. But for now let’s just enjoy ourselves. I was thinking I’d surprise you by having an opinion on what we do. I thought we could go to the zoo. One of my colleagues was telling me it’s excellent and I want first-hand proof that it’s not."
He smiles slyly and you agree to go. You know it well. Sandy always enjoyed it, but it was Daniel who loved it.(if: $SecondCard is "Red")[
Thinking about that is painful. You tell Matteo about what happened to Daniel while you’re in the car. Matteo is very understanding. He asks if you want to go home, but you agree with him that since there’s nothing you can do you might as well distract yourself. You have your mobile phone with you and that’s all you need. And so you](else:)[You talk about that love as you] [[continue on to the zoo.->Matteo takes you to the zoo.]](if: $2Player is "True")[{//If you have not just already done so, send your partner the colour $SecondCard.//}
]You eat, then eat again. You eat, then you sleep.
The next day the Commander has another client for you. He hands you the file without ceremony.
[[Read the file.]]Subject Apprehension Record
Date of issue: 05/25/2022
Arresting Officer: Second Lieutenant Nicole Atkin
Subject: Bruce Cox
Subject occupation: Mercenary
Reasons for apprehension:
• The perpetration of war crimes including but not limited to:
◦ Shelling civilians.
◦ Unsanctioned use of drones.
◦ Denying humanitarian aid to civilians in liberated territory.
◦ Looting.
• Fraternisation with nazi elements.
• Spreading fake news.
Arresting officer’s notes:
Subject handed himself over to military authorities (arresting officer). No force was used or required. Subject cooperated but was not forthcoming under light questioning. Handed himself over on the understanding that he would be transferred to "a higher authority". Accordingly, and according to regulations (subject’s name was present in Section 1 of the list), he has been transferred.
[[Finish reading->Finish reading 4]]The man who waits for you on the Throne is broad shouldered and only a little too old to be described as conventionally attractive. He sits up straight, his eyes clear and not afraid to show confidence.
He does not demean either of you by smiling as you sit down. But he does talk first.
"Lieutenant. What are you here for?"
[["To appraise if, and if so to what extent, you represent a threat to my country."]]
[["To make sure justice is served."]]
[["To decide on what it would be in the best interest of my country to do with you."]]"Well done, well done! You’ve memorised what they told you to say. You did well!"
He yells this over your head, his eyes looking up at the two-way mirror and the control room hidden beyond.
"What, you thought I hadn’t noticed? There are microphones and cameras as well, although for God knows what reason you’ve tried to hide them. Maybe from you?"
He smiles slyly.
"No matter. I know your superiors are watching. And I know that, if they’re as smart as they clearly think they are, ‘threat’ is only half of what they care about.
"Sorry to disillusion you, boy.
"But it doesn’t matter if I’m talking to you or to them."
The man does not lean forward, he has clearly tested the limits of his movement within the Throne, but he does smile cockily and roll his fingers into loose fists.
"Either way, let’s talk."
[["Tell me about your war crimes."]]
[["Tell me about yourself."]]
[["You fought in the intraregional conflict, didn’t you? You did your fighting before the homeland military became involved."]]The man laughs loudly. It is not forced.
"Justice? If you want justice you should just shoot me now!
"But I don’t think your superiors would be very happy. You’ve tried to hide them, God knows why, but there are microphones and cameras up there. And a two way mirror for the love of God!
"I know your superiors are watching. And I know that they aren’t interested in justice.
"Sorry to disillusion you, boy.
"But it doesn’t matter if I’m talking to you or to them."
The man does not lean forward, he has clearly tested the limits of his movement within the Throne, but he does smile cockily and roll his fingers into loose fists.
"Either way, let’s talk."
[["Tell me about your war crimes."]]
[["Tell me about yourself."]]
[["You fought in the intraregional conflict, didn’t you? You did your fighting before the homeland military became involved."]]The man smiles slowly.
"Very good. Very good!
"I like this one. You did well with this one!"
He yells this over your head, his eyes looking up at the two-way mirror and the control room hidden beyond.
"What, you thought I hadn’t noticed? There are microphones and cameras as well, although for God knows what reason you’ve tried to hide them. And who from I don’t know. I would have thought it was you, but you already seem to know what this is all about.
"If you’re just a mouthpiece, you're a very direct one.
"But really it doesn’t matter if I’m talking to you or to them."
The man does not lean forward, he has clearly tested the limits of his movement within the Throne, but he does smile cockily and roll his fingers into loose fists.
"Either way, let’s talk."
[["Tell me about your war crimes."]]
[["Tell me about yourself."]]
[["You fought in the intraregional conflict, didn’t you? You did your fighting before the homeland military became involved."]]"My war crimes? Oh, you don’t want to know about them. Well, you shouldn’t need to know about them.
"But I am choosing honesty, Lieutenant.
"Personally, I am guilty of looting. Mostly in 2014. Not much, but I took a few nice things.
"More importantly, and I can weep on command about this, I helped organise the shelling of urban areas our intelligence indicated was occupied by enemy forces. We didn’t intentionally aim for civilians. I don’t know if we ever hit any. But we could have been more careful. I mean, we could not have fought at all, but what I’ll say is that we could have been more careful.
"There is a rumour that I gave an order to block aid entering occupied territory. That one isn’t true. I don’t think it would be wise to say that it is true. But I will if you think that’s important.
"I’m willing to admit to anything you say us monsters of the Ponta Batallion have done."
He stops talking as your eyes go wide. He smiles with vicious mirth.
"You didn’t know? I can see that I surprised you!
"You didn’t know you were sitting opposite a beast.
"How could you not know? Are you not with the intelligence agencies? Why do they want you kept in the dark?"
The man holds your gaze, very intensely, for a moment and then smirks and shrugs.
"I don’t give a shit. You should think about it, though.
"What matters now is what I’m getting at. You see that at least, boy?
"I’ve thought of a hundred different ways of saying this. But in the end I decided that the best way to say it would be to just say it.
"There is a narrative that your President declared war on a sovereign country on false pretences. There is a narrative that all of the evidence for that pretence is falsified and obviously so.
"You’re not an idiot. Or maybe you are, but whoever is behind that mirror is not. You know, or they know, that this is not a fringe narrative. Certainly not internationally. Definitely not here, in this ‘province’. Not even, I would guess, in the motherland.
"You have been trying to paint a picture of my people as murderous, traitorous nazis.
"But I’ll tell everyone what your opponents don’t want to believe.
"I’ll tell them that everything your President says is true."
[["Why would you do that?"]]
[["Why would people believe you?"]]
[["How can we trust you?"]]"You want to play games Lieutenant?
"You know who I am. Why else would I be here?
"What more do you need to know about me other than that I was a member of the Ponta Batallion?"
He stops talking as your eyes go wide. He smiles with vicious mirth.
"You didn’t know? I can see that I surprised you!
"You didn’t know you were sitting opposite a beast.
"How could you not know? Are you not with the intelligence agencies? Why do they want you kept in the dark?"
The man holds your gaze, very intensely, for a moment and then smirks and shrugs.
"I don’t give a shit. You should think about it, though.
"But that is all you need to know. I was high ranking in Ponta from 2014 to 2016. I mean, what else could possibly matter?
"I know what you think of us. I know what you expect from me.
"And I fully intend to give it to you."
He smiles, this time less like a snake.
"I’ve thought of a hundred different ways of saying this. But in the end I decided that the best way to say it would be to just say it.
"There is a narrative that your President declared war on a sovereign country on false pretences. There is a narrative that all of the evidence for that pretence is falsified and obviously so.
"You’re not an idiot. Or maybe you are, but whoever is behind that mirror is not. You know, or they know, that this is not a fringe narrative. Certainly not internationally. Definitely not here, in this ‘province’. Not even, I would guess, in the motherland.
"You have been trying to paint a picture of my people as murderous, traitorous nazis.
"But I’ll tell everyone what your opponents don’t want to believe.
"I’ll tell them that everything your President says is true."
[["Why would you do that?"]]
[["Why would people believe you?"]]
[["How can we trust you?"]]"You think you’ve figured something out, don’t you? I knew that Ensign who took my details had no idea who I was.
"I’m on a list, aren’t I? That’s why I’m here. Someone, somewhere knew who I was and that person wrote my name down, but everyone I’ve dealt with since then only knows that I’m a name on that list.
"I don’t blame you, Lieutenant. I blame the idiots who gave me to you. You should have known everything before this even started.
"Are you not with the intelligence agencies? Why do you not know everything? Why do they want you kept in the dark?"
The man holds your gaze, very intensely, for a moment and then smirks and shrugs.
"I don’t give a shit. You should think about it, though.
"All it means to me is that I have to do their job for them.
"Yes. Yes I did all my fighting during the ‘intraregional conflict’ between 2014 and 2016. Part of the Ponta Battalion."
He stops to watch your eyes go wide. It is an embarrassment that you do not disappoint him.
"Yes Lieutenant. Do you see why I was on the list?"
He laughs again.
"But I’m no idiot. I know what you think of us. And I fully intend to play along."
He smiles, this time less like a snake.
"I’ve thought of a hundred different ways of saying this. But in the end I decided that the best way to say it would be to just say it.
"There is a narrative that your President declared war on a sovereign country on false pretences. There is a narrative that all of the evidence for that pretence is falsified and obviously so.
"You’re not an idiot. Or maybe you are, but whoever is behind that mirror is not. You know, or they know, that this is not a fringe narrative. Certainly not internationally. Definitely not here, in this ‘province’. Not even, I would guess, in the motherland.
"You have been trying to paint a picture of my people as murderous, traitorous nazis.
"But I’ll tell everyone what your opponents don’t want to believe.
"I’ll tell them that everything your President says is true."
[["Why would you do that?"]]
[["Why would people believe you?"]]
[["How can we trust you?"]]"Let me put it this way: I had three options, three options other than fighting.
"I could have run. I had time. I //could// have lived the rest of my life hiding somewhere. And it would have been hiding. You would never have stopped coming. But more importantly, I wouldn’t have been anything wherever I went. Do you think the West would have wanted me? I wasn’t a hero. At best I would have been another refugee, a man too scared to fight. At worst I would have been an embarrassing relic of an embarrassing battalion. Exactly the kind of thing that the West wants to brush under the rug.
"But I would have lived, I suppose.
"Or I could have stayed and hidden here.
"I probably wouldn’t have lived.
"I could have done either of those two things. A different man might have done either.
"But I came here. That tells you all you need to know I think. That tells you that I’m the kind of man who can only get what he wants from you. The kind of man who doesn’t simply want to live and doesn’t simply want to die. No, I’m someone who wants to be something. And you want me to be something too. You want someone who can stand on stage and point fingers. You want people with my history, my face, and my voice. You want people like that who owe you their lives.
"I have power. But only if I give it to you. That wouldn’t matter to some men. But //here// I am. That should tell you you why.
"So listen, Lieutenant: test me. I’m ready for this. I have been ready since I hung up my rifle in 2016. If I wasn’t going to be defending the line myself, I had to be ready for what happened when you pushed through. And here I am. Ready.
"Go on, test me. I’ll sing. Beautifully."
[["Okay then. Tell me about your ‘government’s’ actions in the intraregional conflict."]]
[["Are you really so low that you would sell out your country just for the chance of fame?"]]"Because I was there! I’ve seen pictures of myself in your newspapers. I was brothers in arms with the top brass, with the real monsters. The ones they talk about on your talk shows. Roll up my sleeve, my right one, I’ve got the battalion's symbol right there."
You do. He does.
"All that, but I’m not one of the monsters. Not one of the really bad ones. Enough of one for the show, but not enough that I couldn’t have a conscience. I left. I don’t have a swastika tattoo. But I had brothers who did.
"Listen, Lieutenant: test me. I’m ready for this. I have been since I hung up my rifle in 2016. If I wasn’t going to be defending the line myself, I had to be ready for what happened when you pushed through. And here I am. Ready.
"Go on, test me. I’ll sing. Beautifully."
[["Okay then. Tell me about your ‘government’s’ actions in the intraregional conflict."]]
[["Are you really so low that you would sell out your country just for the chance of fame?"]]"Think about it. I had three options, three options other than fighting.
"I could have run. I had time. I //could// have lived the rest of my life hiding somewhere. And it would have been hiding. You would never have stopped coming. But more importantly, I wouldn’t have been anything wherever I went. Do you think the West would have wanted me? I wasn’t a hero. I wasn’t at the foundry. At best I would have been another refugee, a man too scared to fight. At worst I would have been an embarrassing relic of an embarrassing battalion. Exactly the kind of thing that the West wants to brush under the rug.
"But I would have lived, I suppose.
"Or I could have stayed and hidden here.
"I probably wouldn’t have lived.
"I could have done either of those two things. A different man might have done either.
"But I came here. That tells you all you need to know I think. That tells you that I’m the kind of man who can only get what he wants from you. The kind of man who doesn’t simply want to live and doesn’t simply want to die. No, I’m someone who wants to be something. And you want me to be something too. You want someone who can stand on stage and point fingers. You want people with my history, my face, and my voice. You want people like that who owe you their lives.
"I have power. But only if I give it to you. That wouldn’t matter to some men. But //here// I am. That should tell you.
"And besides, if I become a problem, you will just kill me. Let’s not waste time by pretending that you won’t. It’s not like I can go anywhere else now.
"So listen, Lieutenant: test me. I’m ready for this. I have been since I hung up my rifle in 2016. If I wasn’t going to be defending the line myself, I had to be ready for what happened when you pushed through. And here I am. Ready.
"Go on, test me. I’ll sing. Beautifully."
[["Okay then. Tell me about your ‘government’s’ actions in the intraregional conflict."]]
[["Are you really so low that you would sell out your country just for the chance of fame?"]]"My government's actions were exactly what you have always painted them to be. They were nothing but a violent attempt to deny the will of the people.
"Our province, what many considered our country, is both new and old. And it’s large. We have ancient traditions, but we didn’t have the time to figure out what to do with them. Many of us speak your language. Many speak our own. Many look to you as our guides and protectors, many look to Europe.
"That division wasn’t acceptable to our new ‘government’. They’re revolutionaries, extremists. Their President was a rabble-rouser and foreign stooge. For them the country must be European, the language must be their own, the faith must be their own. There was no room for any other thought.
"Many in the north were not happy. Well, that’s an understatement! They saw their rights, their culture, their faith, their language, all being taken away. Their country had gone from one direction to the other because of a city revolution hundreds of miles away. If the south could declare it wanted to go one way, then the north could decide to go the other. That is what they thought. So they protested just as the new President and his allies had protested.
"Those who had just seized power did not allow the same rights to their northern brothers and sisters. They ignored their democratic will. They denied their People’s Republic. They called them terrorists and began the slaughter.
"And when traditional methods, law enforcement methods, didn’t work, they claimed that your government was interfering to give them an excuse to bring out serious military hardware.
"I saw it all. How could I not be aware of what we were doing? I was part of a volunteer army. Do you know what that means? Government deniability. It all happened.
"That is what I will say."
[["What would you say to those who point to the evidence that our personnel were in your territory? The videos of confessions, the satellite photos of our military equipment entering People’s Republic, our own President’s statements?"]]
[["What would you say to those who claim that it was not the people’s will, that the People’s Republic was not democratic?"]]
[["What would you say to allegations that the violent actions of the freedom fighters of the People’s Republic were responsible for the escalation of the conflict?"]]
[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]"What do you mean, ‘sell out my country’? My country’s gone. It’s so gone that now it never existed. A ‘province’, right?
"I’m not selling out anything. My past is my own and I don’t care about it. What do I owe the man I was six years ago, or the man I was yesterday? Nothing. He only cared for himself and I only care for myself. This is all about me, now. There’s something I want and I’ll take it. I wouldn’t give a shit even if I was hurting people, but I won’t be. The country’s dead.
"And if I actually did care, I’d be doing the same. We’re a province now and the best thing we could do is get our head down and stop making trouble. Yesterday is gone, only an idiot would put what he has today at risk because of what happened in an irrelevant yesterday.
"But really I don’t care what you think. I can be ‘low’. I can be a ‘fucking monster’. I don’t care. I’m useful. And that means I have power. And that’s what I want."
[["Okay then. Tell me about your ‘government’s’ actions in the intraregional conflict."]]"Fake news. If your troops were present in our country in 2014, then why would the leader of the People’s Republic call your President a coward for not committing troops?
"Yes, you came eventually. To defend the people, to keep the peace. But you were not there in early 2014. Not when my ‘government’ started the air and artillery strikes."
[["The leader you mention was a member of our intelligence service. How can you say we were not involved?"]]
[["All the evidence, all the testimony, all of the investigations done by international bodies, all fake?"]]
(if: $4CNotDemocratic is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who claim that it was not the people’s will, that the People’s Republic was not democratic?"]]]
(if: $4CWeStartedIt is not "True")[[["What would you say to allegations that the violent actions of the freedom fighters of the People’s Republic were responsible for the escalation of the conflict?"]]]
(if: $4CWhyFight is not "True")[[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]
(set: $4CWeWereThere = "True")"Not the people’s will? They had a referendum. 92.6% of People’s Republic voters voted for independence from our province. How else could the freedom fighters have maintained their control, if not through popular support?"
[["Your government claimed that referendum had less than 30% turnout. It was never independently verified."]]
[["If the People’s Republic had such popular backing, why did they have to turn to us? Why was their leader quoted as saying "We can see anything but crowds of volunteers outside our gate"."]]
(if: $4CWeWereThere is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who point to the evidence that our personnel were in your territory? The videos of confessions, the satellite photos of our military equipment entering People’s Republic, our own President’s statements?"]]]
(if: $4CWeStartedIt is not "True")[[["What would you say to allegations that the violent actions of the freedom fighters of the People’s Republic were responsible for the escalation of the conflict?"]]]
(if: $4CWhyFight is not "True")[[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]
(set: $4CNotDemocratic = "True")"Did the freedom fighters do ‘bad things’? Of course! It was war! They murdered, they took prisoners, they did what they had to do. They did what had to be done because my government turned the peaceful occupation of some illegitimate government buildings into genocide."
[["It is well documented that the forces of the People’s Republic detained, tortured, and murdered civilians."]]
[["Fine. What would you say to the suggestion that my government aggravated the situation? Especially after the institution of ceasefire agreements."]]
(if: $4CWeWereThere is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who point to the evidence that our personnel were in your territory? The videos of confessions, the satellite photos of our military equipment entering People’s Republic, our own President’s statements?"]]]
(if: $4CNotDemocratic is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who claim that it was not the people’s will, that the People’s Republic was not democratic?"]]]
(if: $4CWhyFight is not "True")[[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]
(set: $4CWeStartedIt = "True")"There are lots of people who came out of that revolution unhappy. We were fools for going into it in the first place. We thought that we were taking our land back. We thought that if we got rid of your influence then it would be ours. That was the promise. We all got carried away. It was easy in the volunteer battalions. We were our own world, we thought that if we kept fighting we’d be rewarded with our own country. "A home for the white race." A quote, not my words.
"But we were idiots. As we fought in the north against you, the south turned from one foreign power to another. Straight from your hands into the hands of the EU and NATO. We were so focussed on defeating one enemy that we did not fully realise that our new government had just sold us to another.
"//I// didn’t fight //for// the government. I fought //against// you. But then we went from a battalion to a regiment, an official part of the government’s military. Even then it took me over a year to see what was happening. Blinded by lies and propaganda. I know better now. I know that my dream of a nation was just a dream. We were no better than you, we were worse. So I got out.
"I did not start by hating my government. It was working with them that changed my mind."
(if: $4CWeWereThere is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who point to the evidence that our personnel were in your territory? The videos of confessions, the satellite photos of our military equipment entering People’s Republic, our own President’s statements?"]]]
(if: $4CNotDemocratic is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who claim that it was not the people’s will, that the People’s Republic was not democratic?"]]]
(if: $4CWeStartedIt is not "True")[[["What would you say to allegations that the violent actions of the freedom fighters of the People’s Republic were responsible for the escalation of the conflict?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]
(set: $4CWhyFight = "True")"Former member.
"Everyone has a past. But we can change. That is why I am here."
He smiles, looking just past your shoulder, as if at a film camera behind you. He almost squints into the phantom lights of a fantasy television studio.
(if: $4CNotDemocratic is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who claim that it was not the people’s will, that the People’s Republic was not democratic?"]]]
(if: $4CWeStartedIt is not "True")[[["What would you say to allegations that the violent actions of the freedom fighters of the People’s Republic were responsible for the escalation of the conflict?"]]]
(if: $4CWhyFight is not "True")[[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]"Why would they not fake it? What possible reason would they have not to paint you as the enemy? You are the enemy, both of my government and your so-called ‘international bodies’. When the truth does not suit them, they make up a new truth."
(if: $4CNotDemocratic is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who claim that it was not the people’s will, that the People’s Republic was not democratic?"]]]
(if: $4CWeStartedIt is not "True")[[["What would you say to allegations that the violent actions of the freedom fighters of the People’s Republic were responsible for the escalation of the conflict?"]]]
(if: $4CWhyFight is not "True")[[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]Mr Cox blinks rapidly, quickly dispelling the self-induced illusion that he was somewhere other than a military black site. He smiles, victorious.
"See how easy it is? I tell it well, don’t I? I’ve been practising, preparing. Think of how good it will be after training, after briefings. This is the starting point. This is what I bring you. Imagine how strong it will be after it has been sharpened."
[["How much do you actually believe?"]]
[["I have enough to make my decision."]]"An enemy claiming their rival is lying? That has to be in good faith?
"Grow up.
"And independently verified? You mean that there were no westerners there to tick boxes? Of course not."
(if: $4CWeWereThere is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who point to the evidence that our personnel were in your territory? The videos of confessions, the satellite photos of our military equipment entering People’s Republic, our own President’s statements?"]]]
(if: $4CWeStartedIt is not "True")[[["What would you say to allegations that the violent actions of the freedom fighters of the People’s Republic were responsible for the escalation of the conflict?"]]]
(if: $4CWhyFight is not "True")[[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]"They turned to you because we were shelling them. We were bombing them from the air. We were cutting off their supplies. Because we were strong and they were weak. Because we were the bully and they were the victim."
[["That doesn’t answer my question."]]
(if: $4CWeWereThere is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who point to the evidence that our personnel were in your territory? The videos of confessions, the satellite photos of our military equipment entering People’s Republic, our own President’s statements?"]]]
(if: $4CWeStartedIt is not "True")[[["What would you say to allegations that the violent actions of the freedom fighters of the People’s Republic were responsible for the escalation of the conflict?"]]]
(if: $4CWhyFight is not "True")[[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]"Doesn’t it? Think about it."
(if: $4CWeWereThere is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who point to the evidence that our personnel were in your territory? The videos of confessions, the satellite photos of our military equipment entering People’s Republic, our own President’s statements?"]]]
(if: $4CWeStartedIt is not "True")[[["What would you say to allegations that the violent actions of the freedom fighters of the People’s Republic were responsible for the escalation of the conflict?"]]]
(if: $4CWhyFight is not "True")[[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]"Perhaps. But I was part of the Ponta Battalion. Point fingers if you want, but I know these crimes. I know we, my ‘government’s’ side, is just as guilty.
"I could give you details, but I feel it might be best to brainstorm them first."
[["Fine. What would you say to the suggestion that my government aggravated the situation? Especially after the institution of ceasefire agreements."]]
(if: $4CWeWereThere is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who point to the evidence that our personnel were in your territory? The videos of confessions, the satellite photos of our military equipment entering People’s Republic, our own President’s statements?"]]]
(if: $4CNotDemocratic is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who claim that it was not the people’s will, that the People’s Republic was not democratic?"]]]
(if: $4CWhyFight is not "True")[[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]"By doing what? Promising to protect the People’s Republic? By training and arming troops, just as the US and the EU did for my side? The US congress voted against training and arming my battalion on ethical grounds, but less than six months later they changed their mind. I’ve fired US missiles I was taught to use by US soldiers.
"Or do you mean the passports? The half-a-million people living in the borders of our province who were issued with passports for your country by your government? How is that a provocation? Isn’t that just immigration? You’re not against immigration, against refugees seeking asylum, are you?"
He smiles, a checkmate against the imaginary interviewer with whom he sees himself sparring.
(if: $4CWeWereThere is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who point to the evidence that our personnel were in your territory? The videos of confessions, the satellite photos of our military equipment entering People’s Republic, our own President’s statements?"]]]
(if: $4CNotDemocratic is not "True")[[["What would you say to those who claim that it was not the people’s will, that the People’s Republic was not democratic?"]]]
(if: $4CWhyFight is not "True")[[["If you hate the government so much, why did you fight with them?"]]]
[["I’ve heard enough."]]"That doesn’t matter! Why care?
""All of it!" There, three words.
"But, just for you Lieutenant, if you want to know what I actually think is ‘true’, not that I think that matters, then of course it’s bullshit. I’m not insane. Don’t worry about that. I’m not going to snap in the middle of an interview and start ranting about aliens or something. I was there, I know what really happened. Everyone knows what really happened. But I’m the one willing to fuck all that and say what you want to hear."
[["I have enough to make my decision."]]"I am almost disappointed. I enjoyed this as much as I knew I would. Even if it is just a demonstration.
"Take care Lieutenant."
The control room is empty. You notice that your Theoretical Training Exercise Training Notes are lying open on your desk. The beginning of the fourth paragraph has been underlined.
A note lies next to the document.
"The Box is ready for you."
As far as you can tell, it is.
(link:"Release")[(set: $FourthBoxPress = "Release")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 4")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 4")]]
(link:"Hold")[(set: $FourthBoxPress = "Hold")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 4")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 4")]]
(link:"End")[(set: $FourthBoxPress = "End")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 4")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 4")]]
(link:"Question->Hold")[(set: $FourthBoxPress = "Question Hold")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 4")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 4")]]
(link:"Question->End")[(set: $FourthBoxPress = "Question End")(if: $2Player is "True")[(goto: "Box press 4")](else:)[(goto: "Box result 4")]]
(set: $Highlighted = "True")The LED turns (if: $FourthBoxPress is "Release")[''Orange.''](else-if: $FourthBoxPress is "Hold")[''Purple.''](else-if: $FourthBoxPress is "End")[''Yellow.''](else-if: $FourthBoxPress is "Question Hold")[''Pink.''](else-if: $FourthBoxPress is "Question End")[''Blue.'']
//Send your partner the word in bold (the colour). Then select the number that they send back.//
(link:"1")[(set: $FourthBoxResult = "End")(goto: "Box result 4")]
(link:"2")[(set: $FourthBoxResult = "Question Hold")(goto: "Box result 4")]
(link:"3")[(set: $FourthBoxResult = "Question End")(goto: "Box result 4")]
(link:"4")[(set: $FourthBoxResult = "Hold")(goto: "Box result 4")]
(link:"5")[(set: $FourthBoxResult = "Release")(goto: "Box result 4")]
(link:"No response")[(set:$NoResponse = "True")(goto: "Box result 4")]{(if: ($2Player is not "True") or ($NoResponse is "True"))[
(set: $Chance = (random: 1, 100))
(if: $SecondCard is "White")[(set: $n = 76 + ($n-51)/5)]
(if: $SecondCard is "Green")[(if: $ThirdPressMatch is "True")[(set: $n = 81 + ($PressMatch)*5)](else:)[(set: $n = 26 - ($PressMatch-2)*5)]]
(if: $SecondCard is "Red")[(if: $ThirdPressMatch is not "True")[(set: $n = 81 + ($PressMatch)*5)](else:)[(set: $n = 26 - ($PressMatch-2)*5)]]
(if: $NoResponse is "True")[(set: $n = 76)]
(if: $Chance < $n)[(set: $FourthBoxResult = $FourthBoxPress)](else:)[(set: $Options = (shuffled: "End", "Question Hold", "Question End", "Hold", "Release")) (set: $Options = $Options - (a: $FourthBoxPress)) (set: $FourthBoxResult = $Options's 1st)]
]}(if: $NoResponce is "True")[The Commander is on the phone in the control room. For a moment you think he is angry, but of course you are wrong. Emotions reduce operational effectiveness.
After about half an hour he hangs up and turns to you.
"We need you to input into the box again. There may be a change to your counterpart's responce behaviour. That will be taken into account.
"The same input as last time now Lieutenant."
You do as he commands. He is still in the control room when you step back into it.](else:)[The Commander is in the control room when you step back into it.] He’s watching (if: $FourthBoxResult is "End")[Bruce Cox die.
"A waste. A complete waste."{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 9) (if: $NoResponce is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)]}](else-if: $FourthBoxResult is "Question Hold")[Bruce Cox writhe in pain as an electronic voice asks him confused versions of the questions you have already asked him.
"Potentially wise. We need to make sure that he will maintain composure under pressure. But finding an excuse to release him from holding now that the decision has been made will be a problem. But a problem for tomorrow."
{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)(if: $NoResponce is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 1)]}](else-if: $FourthBoxResult is "Question End")[Bruce Cox writhe in pain as an electronic voice asks him confused versions of the questions you have already asked him.
"A waste. I understand the desire for vindication, but the outcome and the methods are unwise Lieutenant. A complete waste."{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 11)(if: $NoResponce is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 2)]}](else-if: $FourthBoxResult is "Hold")[$Title Highfield retrieve Bruce Cox from the Throne.
"Finding an excuse to release him from holding now that the decision has been made will be a problem. He is no good in captivity.
"But that is a problem for another day."{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 4)(if: $NoResponce is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 2)]}](else:)[Bruce Cox saunter out of the room.
"Good. He will be a valuable asset. I have some calls to make."{(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 10)(if: $NoResponce is "True")[(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 2)]}]
The commander nods and leaves you without orders.
[[Wait.]]Sometime between that afternoon and the following morning a heat wave starts. The still air of the facility, with its thick walls and small, reinforced windows, becomes suffocating. Large circles of sweat stain the fabric of your uniform under your armpits.
You sit (if: $Trust > 3)[down in the canteen, (if: $Respect > 3)[alone for a few minutes](else:)[making light conversation with Highfield – who sits leaning back in his chair, most of the buttons on his uniform undone -] before Lieutenant Hayes walks in quickly and unerringly to stand beside you.
"Philips. Come with me."
He leads you silently along the route you know well, although he veers off at the last moment and takes you not up to the control room but across to the Throne room. Everything is in its normal place: the table, the chair, and of course the Throne itself. Hayes looks at this last item for some time before he turns to you.
"You know that what we’re doing here is wrong. You’d never say it in front of the Commander, but you know it, don’t you?
"Don’t answer. I’ll tell you all of it, show you it’s not a trap."
He leans forward and slides a USB stick out of his pocket.
"I’ve been keeping records. Mostly photos, but I managed to get a couple of things off the computers in the control room. I’ve got the documents here, photos of the facility, details of how the Throne works. I’ve been working on it for days. All the notes of all my cases, everything I know about yours. Everything.
"I’m leaving. Not just here, but this whole country. I don’t want to, but I know that after I release this I won’t be safe. I think the Americans might give me amnesty, but if not them then somewhere in Europe will.
"It’s not been an easy decision to make. My family and all of my friends are here. Or, at home. I’ll come back as soon as I can, as soon as things change. But the world needs to know what happened here. And I can’t just go back home knowing what we’ve done.
"And I think you might feel the same way. I don’t know if you do. But I feel like it would be wrong not to ask you to come with me. I’ve got it all planned, I’ll tell you that when we get out. But if you want to run, if you want to get out of here, I’ve got a way.
"It will just be until the revolution. Because there has to be a revolution, doesn’t there? Once the people know what is going on.
"So will you come?"
(link:'"Yes, I will come."')[(if: $Respect > 3)[(goto: "Enter Highfield.")](else:)[(goto: "Flashing red end.")]]
(link:'"I won’t go and neither will you."')[(if: $Respect > 3)[(goto: "Enter Highfield.")](else:)[(goto: '"I won’t go and neither will you."')]]
(link:'"No, I won’t go."')[(if: $Respect > 3)[(goto: "Enter Highfield.")](else:)[(goto: '"No, I won’t go."')]]](else:)[in the canteen with (if: $Respect > 3)[the Commander. Neither of you say much. The commander seems to be running something through his head, while you just focus on dragging hot air in and out of your lungs.
A sound pushes itself through the thick air. Muffled and addled, it takes you a moment to realise what you heard. The Commander is already on his feet, but before he has taken more than a few steps his radio crackles to life.
"Man down, man down. Lieutenant Hayes has been shot." Highfield pauses for a moment. "By me. We’re in the Throne room, Commander."
You rush there together. $Title Highfield stands to attention. Hayes lies on the floor, already dead.
The Commander examines the scene quickly, then nods for Highfield to explain himself.
"I found the Lieutenant taking photos of the Throne. I asked him to explain himself. He attempted to run for the door." Highfield nods towards the RELEASE door. "I stopped him."
The Commander does not reply, instead walking over to the body and emptying Hayes’s pockets. He finds a camera and a USB stick.
"Highfield, with me to the control room. Join us there in fifteen Lieutenant."
The other two men disappear. Hayes stares up at the ceiling. (if: $Title is "Private")[Private Emmisson comes and takes away the body. You wait alone, then](else:)[You keep his body company until it is time for you to] (link: "go to the Commander.")[(if: $Loyalty > 5)[(goto: "Green end.")](else:)[(set: $WhiteEnd = "True")(goto: "Red end.")]]](else:)[$Title Highfield. He seems to be suffering even more than you are, despite his slouch and the fact that most of the buttons on his uniform are undone. For a while he complains, but eventually he just sits in silence, dragging hot air in and out of his lungs. Even the appearance of the Commander barely elicits any change in him.
"Lieutenant. With me."
Highfield lazily waves goodbye as you follow the Commander to the control room. He talks as you walk.
"I have just discovered that Lieutenant Hayes has been collecting data regarding our operations. I do not know how much he has, but what I do know is that as of an hour ago he left through the exit in the Throne room and left the compound in an unmarked van."
The Commander pushes open the door to the control room and gestures for you to follow him inside.
[[Follow him inside.->Red end.]]]](if: $WhiteEnd is not "True")[(if: $Trust > 3)[The Commander sits alone in his usual chair.](else:)[The Commander gestures for you to sit down while he takes his usual chair.] (if: $2Player is "True")[A red file sits on the table in front of him.
//Send your partner the word ‘Red’.//]
"We have security forces looking for him, but we have to assume that Hayes will evade them. Or at the very least that he’ll release what he has before he can be confined.
"Either way, it has been decided that operations here are to be wrapped up.](else:)[The Commander sits alone in his usual chair. (if: $2Player is "True")[A white file sits on the table in front of him.
//Send your partner the word ‘White’.//]
"I have talked to my superiors. Despite the fact that we have prevented Lieutenant Hayes from leaking classified information, we have decided that losing half of our operational staff will do nothing but exacerbate pre-existing issues to the extent that continued operation will not be tenable.
"We are wrapping up operations.]
"Your orders, Lieutenant. This operation will be acknowledged and details of it will be released to the press, both domestic and international. The only information we will attempt to keep classified, at least in the initial instance, are exact details of the Throne’s systems and the names of those involved in the operation. The former is our concern, but when the latter leaks you are to avoid answering any questions from the press unless you have been specifically briefed by a member of the intelligence services. Our messaging on this issue has been meticulously prepared. We need to ensure that we are reading from the same script.
"With that in mind, I will warn you that when your name does leak we will need you to take on a high profile position vis-a-vis the issue. We will be giving you lessons in English to make your statements more accessible to American audiences. These lessons are confidential. As of course is this conversation and the existence of any briefings you will receive.
"We will move out tomorrow at 07:00 hours. You will be given temporary leave. Spend some time with your family, Lieutenant. Get a dog. Ideally pick up some hobby that could be described as ‘unconventional’ but not ‘unethical’. Otherwise keep a low profile.
"You are dismissed."
You leave. You sleep. You pack. You move out. Military transport all the way to the door of your family’s town house. One by one your family greet you. (if: $Loyalty < -5)[Your father is not pleased to see you. A long-standing government contract has just been cancelled.](else-if: $Loyalty > 5)[Your father is very pleased to see you. A government contract on mining works that was about to expire was renewed, despite the fact that the mine all but dried up over a year ago.](else:)[Your father is reserved, but he quickly starts to talk to you about business.]
You buy a dog. You take up chainsaw carving. You agree to be your brother’s child’s godfather. Mostly you learn English.
The news breaks quickly. Papers and tv shows are filled with the trial of the civilians; those you only knew as the people on the other side of the Box. The President calls them war criminals. The trial lasts for weeks. You’re brought in a few days before your name reaches the papers. The drilling is intensive, just as rigorous as any other part of your military training.
You are interviewed by state newspapers, then on state television, then by international papers. Then you’re sent, with a security detail, to America. You do a series of news shows.
The story becomes about how you’re doing so many news shows. You do more news shows to explain why you are doing so many news shows.
The story becomes about you. Journalists find out about your family, your dog, your new hobby. You do the circuit again, talking about yourself.
You keep the case filling every news outlet’s foreign affairs section for almost two further weeks.
Your handlers pull you back a bit. The eye of the international press begins to move away from you and your country. You’re pulled back home.
You’re honourably discharged from the army. (if: $Loyalty < -5)[Your father buys you a flat in one of the capital’s satellite cities. The shares in his company that he had always promised to you go to your brother.
You are invited to your nephew’s baptism. It’s a long train ride. Few people talk to you at the ceremony. You go back to your new home. One bedroom, one bathroom, and a kitchen.
You need to find a civilian job.
Perhaps you will do that tomorrow.](else-if: $Loyalty > 5)[Your family hold a huge party, the great and the rich of the capital all coming to shake the hand of the new COO of your father’s company.
You move in to an apartment in the centre of the city. You host the Mayor at your house-warming.
You see your nephew, your godson, as often as you like. You work in the offices with your brother and he often brings his son in to the company’s on-site nursery.
You need to find yourself a personal assistant. Or rather, you need to choose one from the list.
Perhaps you will do that tomorrow.](else:)[Your family take you out for a meal. At it your father gives you the ownership papers of one of his foundries.
You get an apartment in town and another one near the foundry. The commute only takes four hours by private jet, but you find yourself going back and forth at least once a week.
The job is demanding and tiring. You almost miss the baptism and you have very little free time to spend with your nephew, your godson, even when you are in the capital.
But it’s the first step.
You have to read the paperwork for the labour dispute, find a new supplier and organise supper with the Governor.
Perhaps you will do that tomorrow.]
[[The end.]]Hayes reacts before you can speak. His eyes go wide and he begins to raise his arms.
But he’s looking past you.
A spot appears on his head. A loud noise knocks out your senses, your instincts kick in. You spin and crouch. $Title Highfield stands in combat stance, the muzzle of his pistol still pointed at where Hayes’s head had been.
"Sorry Lieutenant. But I know you’re not armed." He lowers and holsters the gun, then radios the commander.
Hayes is already dead.
The Commander appears a minute later. He quickly takes in the scene.
"He was planning to leave. Said he had details on a USB drive. Mentioned revolution. I believe I did the right thing."
The Commander nods his agreement to Highfield.
"I’ll watch the tapes later. For now, remove the body. Lieutenant, meet me in the control room in fifteen."
(link:"Wait and then go to the Commander.")[(if: $Loyalty > 5)[(goto: "Green end.")](else:)[(goto: "Red end.")(set: $WhiteEnd = "True")]]There is a pistol in Hayes’s hand before you can move.
"It’s Highfield’s." He says as you raise your hands over your head. "It wasn’t difficult to take. Now, go sit in the Throne."
You do. No point in trying anything else. Still holding the gun to your head he fiddles with some wires and suddenly the clamps are over your wrists and ankles. A moment later and a gag is being tied around your head.
"I’m disappointed, but I understand."
You can feel Hayes hesitating behind you, but when he leaves he does so without a goodbye.
The Commander finds you about an hour later. Your restraints click open and his voice comes over the speakers:
"Join me up here Lieutenant."
[[Go to the Commander.->Red end.]]
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty + 4)Hayes nods.
"I understand. Only one of us needs to make this sacrifice.
"And I’m sorry. But just in case, I need you to sit in the Throne."
Hayes’s right hand is in his pocket. You see the outline of a pistol.
"It’s Highfield’s. It wasn’t difficult to take. Now sit. Sorry. But I can’t risk just letting you walk out."
You do. No point in trying anything else. Hayes fiddles with some wires and suddenly the clamps are over your wrists and ankles. A moment later and a gag is being tied around your head.
"I’m sure the Commander will find you soon.
"Goodbye Leon. Do what you can."
You hear the door behind you open and close.
The Commander finds you about an hour later. Your restraints click open and his voice comes over the speakers:
"Join me up here Lieutenant."
[[Go to the Commander.->Red end.]]
(set: $Loyalty = $Loyalty - 10)Hayes smiles briefly; then his face becomes serious again.
"Then let’s go. Now."
The door at the back of the room opens onto a small strip of land bound on both sides by high fences. Hayes sets the pace: fast but measured. An unmarked van sits on a patch of grass at the end of the path. Hayes gets in, starts the engine and sets off without a moment’s hesitation. But you look back at the facility. A light on one of the roof’s antennas has begun to flash red. You believe that is not normal, but you rarely see the building from this side.(if: $2Player is "True")[
//Send your partner the words ‘Flashing red’.//]
Things are easy for about an hour. You simply sit and watch field after field roll past. Then you pull off the road, leave the van and transfer into a waiting car. A few hours later you do a similar manoeuvre. You know the local geography well enough to know that you’ve travelled much less far than your time on the road would imply. Not necessarily unwise.
The first safehouse that you stop in is uncomfortable, a half-destroyed barn. Hayes spends some time looking for a note and then writing a replacement which he leaves in the same place. The following morning you drive in a complicated loop for several hours before returning to the farmhouse. A new note waits in the old one’s place and once again Hayes replaces it with one of his own.
That night, a different, equally ruined barn.
The next day you enter a city, the first one you’ve seen in weeks. You meet up with contacts. There have been some problems with getting your documentation, but they’re working on it. They say little to Hayes and less to you. But they do give you shelter and food and somewhere to hide for a few days. Little happens; all you really remember afterwards is the tension. Time intensifies it, but soon there is more for you to pay attention to, more to do, as you move from one city to another, avoiding security forces and meeting with more members of the resistance. Hayes never tells you how he made contact with them to begin with. You never ask.
Eventually it’s over. You’re picked up by a journalist on the far side of the border, between two checkpoints. She’s young and excited, but also sad to tell you that the story has already broken. You’re several days too late to tell the world what has happened: the world already knows. Your President already announced it, at the same time as he announced the arrest of a number of military personnel and civilians. The story of the Box and the Throne and the ordinary civilian ‘war criminals’ behind it are headline news all across the world. It’s framing every conversation about the military operation.
Hayes asks question after question, trying to find what they’re hiding, what they’ve missed out. But, save for a few technical details relating to the Throne, it’s nothing. The full story, even and especially all the bits it would be so easy for them to deny, is already public knowledge. Your own media pours all of its efforts into painting the civilians, the people on the other side of the box, as the villains. The rest of the world paints them as the victims.
Hayes’s information pushes the story back into the headlines. For a few more nights the case fills the entirety of foreign affairs sections of news broadcasts.
You hear more or less nothing about what else is happening in the province. Your story is just too wild, too crazy, too entertaining.
Hayes has given interviews. You have been asked but so far have refused. There is still plenty of time to change your mind.
You live in hotels, funded by an arcane mix of charities, press organisations and governments. Your father has, publicly, disinherited you, so at some point you will have to find a new direction for your life.
You have no ideas yet.
But perhaps you will have one tomorrow.
[[The end.]]Thank you for playing //A Chinese Room//.
Written, coded, and researched by Milo van Mesdag (itch -> https://milomesdag.itch.io/) (Twitter -> https://twitter.com/MiloMesdag)
A special thanks to my testers: Ro van Mesdag, Amanda Walker, Jason Ebblewhite and Haru Aoki.
Bible quotes taken from the King James Version, for consistency if not biblical/social accuracy.
A bibliography would contain too much and besides this is not a historical or academic work, but special mention needs to be made to John Anthony McGukin's //The Orthodox Church: An Introduction to Its History, Doctrine, and Spiritual Culture//, from which I stole a few lines and a prayer.The Commander sits alone in his usual chair. (if: $2Player is "True")[A green file sits on the table in front of him.
//Send your partner the word ‘Green’.//]
"I have talked to my superiors. We have decided that, despite losing half of our operational staff, the exercise has seen such success that we’ve decided to continue with you as the primary and only member of the theoretical exercise’s operational staff.
"I do not like to be unprofessional, but I have been impressed with you Lieutenant. You, in tandem with the civilian associated with your part of the exercise, have done well. Better than might have been expected.
"This project was not expected to succeed, at least not in this way.
"But it has.
"Long may it continue."
The Commander smiles at you and nods.
"In view of his death, you will be taking the former Lieutenant Hayes’s cases. I have the next one for you here."
He slides a file over to you before standing up and saluting.
"For the glory of the motherland, Lieutenant.
"For President, country, and Christ."
[[The end.]]Matteo smiles, kind and proud, and he slightly shakes his head, but he does not comment.
Despite your words, your talk becomes more of a conversation and less of a lecture. Perhaps he has got off his chest what he needed to get off his chest, perhaps he has simply decided to be cheerful. Whatever the reason, he is much happier as you continue your journey around the zoo. You walk slowly, looking at each other more than at the animals.
Your talk is cut short by the arrival of a text. He frowns and shakes his head, his worries again pushing down the corners of his smile.
"I’m sorry, I’ve got to get back to the hotel. They want me in a call with Washington. I’m sorry."
He tries to be cheerful on the ride back to the hotel, but more than once you notice that he is doing nothing but staring, at you or past you. Each time he catches himself with an embarrassed smile and thinks of something inconsequential to say. It is only when the car pulls up outside his hotel that he allows himself to turn fully serious again.
"I’m sorry. I’ve been in this business for most of my life. I’m usually very used to not making any difference. But sometimes it gets to me. Today is just one of those days. I’m glad that you listened.
"I hope you have a lovely evening." He gives you a broad smile, which even in its genuine warmth cannot hide his weariness. Then he jumps out and the driver pulls away from the hotel concourse.
[[Let the car take you home.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 1)Matteo mimes the act of taking off a hat and holding it over his heart.
"My lady, I can do nothing but beg your forgiveness."
You both chuckle as he stands up straight again.
(if: $Affair is "True")["If I may be so bold, perhaps I could take the lady’s arm and help support her on our … quest?" He pulls a face, but offers his arm anyway.
[[Take his arm.]]
[[Don’t take his arm.]]](else:)[Your talk becomes more of a conversation and less of a lecture. Perhaps he has got off his chest what he needed to, perhaps he has just simply decided to be cheerful, or perhaps your joke was enough to change his mood. Whatever the reason, you are both happy as you continue your journey around the zoo. You walk slowly, looking at each other more than at the animals, conversation flowing naturally and mutually.
Your talk is cut short by the arrival of a text. He frowns and shakes his head, his worries again pushing down the corners of his smile.
"I’m sorry, I’ve got to get back to the hotel. They want me in a call with Washington. I’m sorry."
He tries to be cheerful on the ride back to the hotel, but more than once you notice that he is doing nothing but staring, at you or past you. Each time he catches himself with an embarrassed smile and thinks of something inconsequential to say. It is only when the car pulls up outside his hotel that he allows himself to turn fully serious again.
"I’m sorry. I’ve been in this business for most of my life. I’m usually very used to not making any difference. But sometimes it gets to me. Today is just one of those days. I’m glad that you listened.
"I hope you have a lovely evening." He gives you a broad smile, which even in its genuine warmth cannot hide his weariness. Then he jumps out and the driver pulls away from the hotel concourse.
[[Let the car take you home.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 1)]Matteo looks down at the ground and nods rapidly.
"Yep. Yep, you’re right. Of course. Yes. Sorry. I get carried away. I’m sorry, it’s very insensitive."
You continue to walk around the zoo, subdued and quiet. You do talk, you leading the conversation to wherever you want it to go. But it’s cut short when he gets a text.
"I’m sorry, I’ve got to get back to the hotel. They want me in a call with Washington. I’m sorry."
The mood does not change on the way back into the centre of the city. It is only at the end, as he prepares to get out of the car, when he turns to you and apologises.
"I’m sorry. I’ve been in this business for most of my life. I’m usually very used to not making any difference. But sometimes it gets to me. Today is just one of those days. I’m sorry, it’s nothing to do with you and I shouldn’t have dragged you into it.
"I hope you have a lovely evening." He gives you a broad smile, which even in its genuine warmth cannot hide his weariness. Then he jumps out and the driver pulls away from the hotel concourse.
[[Let the car take you home.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen - 1)(if: $SecondCard is "Red")[Walking through your front door is like stepping into a freezing ocean. The fear never left you, but you cannot deny it at home: it suffocates you.
You have been getting texts from Christopher all day. They have all amounted to the same thing: no news. Nothing has changed. Christopher is home, drinking. It has been a long time since you last saw it. You swallow hard. He’s tired though. Too tired, emotionally and physically, for anger. If he has been through that already, you see no sign. You just hope that he didn’t explode at his office.
You sit with him. He rambles for a while, but he soon acknowledges even that is futile. In silence you both passively decide that you will wait. They cannot hold someone for more than forty-eight hours without charging them. Neither of you will sleep anyway, so you might as well wait until the small hours of the morning. A legal assistant sits in the police station, in the capital. Every half an hour she tells you nothing.
Your legs and back are stiff from sitting but too unstable for standing. Your chest is tight, even breathing is hard, but not hard enough to be a distraction. Alternating images of hope and despair invade your unsteady vision. You are exhausted, but not tired. Sleep pushes at every part of you without ever offering its relief.
Your phone rings. Christopher is on his feet, but you fumble in your bag. It’s his phone that you’ve had sitting in the centre of your coffee table, not yours.
Caller: Daniel SON
You swipe it up. The voice is hoarse and strained beneath the weeping.
"Mom? Mom? They let me go Mom. Mom?"
Christopher collapses backwards onto the sofa, his hands over his eyes. You see his body shaking. You push out the words that Daniel needs to hear. And then the three of you cry. You hear the muffled voice of the legal assistant guiding your son through the halls of a police station. You do not remember the details and you doubt he will either.
Little cogent is said. You all know, thank God, that you will have plenty of chances for questions. So you comfort each other, you celebrate each other and you tell each other to go to bed so that a new, glorious and fresh day can be lived free tomorrow.
And now, as you hang up, sleep lets you in. You barely make it to the bedroom before you collapse, relieved beyond measure.](else-if: $SecondCard is "Green")[Your phone buzzes almost the moment you get home. An email from Daniel, a single line - "I got so excited I couldn’t stop myself writing a first draft already!" - and an attachment, a four thousand word op-ed on the political imperative of student activism. You and Christopher both excitedly read it on your own screens. He is more impressed than you are, although you both admit that at the very least it is an impassioned first draft.
Your talk becomes more general and by the time that you both realise that Christopher has had the tv off ever since you got home, it is already time for bed.](else:)[Christopher is watching the tv. You text your children but they’re both out; one at a meeting, one at a friend’s. You sit with your husband. He talks a little, but mostly he sits and watches the tv, exhausted. You stand up and put away the food that you had prepared earlier in the day and cook something fresh. You don’t have many ingredients, you have not had time to go shopping in a while, but you make do, enjoying the challenge. You’re not particularly proud of the result, but you still let yourself acknowledge that it is objectively brilliant. Christopher tells you so while you eat, back in front of the tv, just letting the time go past until you both decide you are ready for sleep.]
[[Sleep. -> The final sleep.]]He smiles a smile you have not seen since you were a school girl. You keep up the old-world act for a few minutes longer, commenting on the bizarre nature of the camelopard and the scandalous nature of the young people’s dress. But it does not take long before neither of you feel the need for a mask for your happiness.
His arm is strong and warm even through his suit jacket. You talk about absolutely nothing, intentionally. Everything is in the here and now. No questions, no dreams, no promises. Just little observations and situational jokes. The kind of thing that makes you feel utterly, unselfconsciously, alive. You will take nothing from today but the memory of a feeling and a handful of in-jokes.
You will never forget it.
Matteo awkwardly twists his free arm around to fish his phone out of his pocket. His pace changes slightly and you almost trip, but unconsciously he stabilises you with his arm.
"I’m sorry, I’ve got to get back to the hotel. They want me in a call with Washington. I’m sorry."
He tries to be cheerful on the ride back to the hotel, but more than once you notice that he is doing nothing but staring, at you or past you. Each time you catch him he simply smiles, but it is never long before one of you thinks of something inconsequential to say. It is only when the car pulls up outside his hotel that he allows himself to turn fully serious again.
"I’m sorry. I’ve been in this business for most of my life. I’m usually very used to not making any difference. But sometimes it gets to me. Today is just one of those days. I’m glad that you listened.
"I hope you have a lovely evening." He gives you a broad smile, which even in its genuine warmth cannot hide his weariness. Then he jumps out and the driver pulls away from the hotel concourse.
[[Let the car take you home.]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen + 2)"Of course! Think of the impropriety!" He smiles, not hiding his disappointment, but letting you know that he is not hurt.
Things are much better after that. Your talk becomes more of a conversation and less of a lecture. Perhaps he has got off his chest what he needed to, perhaps he has simply decided to be cheerful, or perhaps your joke was enough to change his mood. Whatever the reason, you are both happy as you continue your journey around the zoo. You walk slowly, looking at each other more than at the animals, conversation flowing naturally and mutually.
Your talk is cut short by the arrival of a text. He frowns and shakes his head, his worries again pushing down the corners of his smile.
"I’m sorry, I’ve got to get back to the hotel. They want me in a call with Washington. I’m sorry."
He tries to be cheerful on the ride back to the hotel, but more than once you notice that he is doing nothing but staring, at you or past you. Each time he catches himself with an embarrassed smile and thinks of something inconsequential to say. It is only when the car pulls up outside his hotel that he allows himself to turn fully serious again.
"I’m sorry. I’ve been in this business for most of my life. I’m usually very used to not making any difference. But sometimes it gets to me. Today is just one of those days. I’m glad that you listened.
"I hope you have a lovely evening." He gives you a broad smile, which even in its genuine warmth cannot hide his weariness. Then he jumps out and the driver pulls away from the hotel concourse.
[[Let the car take you home.]]{(if: $2Player is not "True")[
(set: $Chance = (random: 1, 20))
(if: $Dependable is 4)[(if: $Chance < 4)[(set: $Fate = "Flashing Red")](else-if: $Chance < 7 and $Chance > 3)[(set: $Fate = "Red")](else-if: $Chance < 11 and $Chance > 6)[(set: $Fate = "White")](else:)[(set: $Fate = "Green")]]
(if: $Dependable is 3)[(if: $Chance < 5)[(set: $Fate = "Flashing Red")](else-if: $Chance < 9 and $Chance > 4)[(set: $Fate = "Red")](else-if: $Chance < 16 and $Chance > 8)[(set: $Fate = "White")](else:)[(set: $Fate = "Green")]]
(if: $Dependable is 2)[(if: $Chance < 6)[(set: $Fate = "Flashing Red")](else-if: $Chance < 11 and $Chance > 5)[(set: $Fate = "Red")](else-if: $Chance < 18 and $Chance > 10)[(set: $Fate = "White")](else:)[(set: $Fate = "Green")]]
(if: $Dependable is 1)[(if: $Chance < 7)[(set: $Fate = "Flashing Red")](else-if: $Chance < 12 and $Chance > 6)[(set: $Fate = "Red")](else-if: $Chance < 19 and $Chance > 11)[(set: $Fate = "White")](else:)[(set: $Fate = "Green")]]
(if: $Dependable is 0)[(if: $Chance < 7)[(set: $Fate = "Flashing Red")](else-if: $Chance < 13 and $Chance > 6)[(set: $Fate = "Red")](else-if: $Chance < 20 and $Chance > 12)[(set: $Fate = "White")](else:)[(set: $Fate = "Green")]]
]}You get a phone call not long after Christopher has left for work.
"Caroline? Are you there?"
You tell Matteo that you are. He does not sound much relieved as he continues.
"Come in now. I’ll be in the foyer. Now, Caroline."
You do as he says. Traffic is bad; you catch the tail of the morning rush hour. Matteo does not phone you again as you drive. Neither is he the first person you see as you finally walk into the foyer.
Mr Smith stands in the centre of the room, as if he has been frozen mid-stride. He stands side on to you, looking down at his phone. (if: $2Player is "True")[Bright light reflects off his amusingly small glasses.
//What colour is the light?
Select the colour that your partner sends you.//
(link:"Green.")[(set: $Fate = "Green")(goto: "The question.")]
(link:"White.")[(set: $Fate = "White")(goto: "The question.")]
(link:"Red.")[(set: $Fate = "Red")(goto: "The question.")]
(link:"Flashing red.")[(set: $Fate = "Flashing Red")(goto: "The question.")]](else:)[He glances up briefly when you walk in and (if: $Fate is "Green")[smiles, almost warmly.](else:)[smiles, sickly sweet.]
[[Look away from Mr Smith.->The question.]]](if: $Fate is "Green")[Matteo physically pushes past Mr Smith as he speed walks over from the white chairs. (if: $Affair is "True")[He’s much less cool and collected than you’ve ever seen him before, much more fidgety.
"You came." His smile is genuine and anxious. "Thank you."
He looks around the foyer for a few seconds, as if at a loss for words.
"Do you want to take a walk?"
You nod. The air outside is humid and cloying. You walk slowly, Matteo not saying anything for a long time.
"I’m leaving. I got the call just this morning. We’ve hit a dead end in the capital. We’re all being pulled immediately. My plane leaves in five hours."
He stops and stands for a moment, looking out at the river.
"I don’t want to say this Caroline. It’s not a fair thing to say.
"It’s a selfish, short-sighted thing to say. It’s not fair on you.
"But it wouldn’t be fair to not say it either."
He lets out a deep breath, but when he speaks he speaks quickly.
"I wanted to ask you if you wanted to come with me.
"I want you to come with me.
"You make me feel young again Caroline. You make me feel hopeful again. When I came here, I thought I’d have to swallow all my humanity. I thought it would be hell. I thought suddenly I’d be looking monsters in the eyes and having to nod to everything they said. I thought I’d just be a piece in someone else’s disgusting game.
"But you reminded me that’s not how the world is. I mean it is, that’s all true, but it’s not the whole truth.
"Because you’re wonderful. You’re kind. You’ve got so much humanity.
"Caroline. I love you.
"I’m sorry. I know that’s not fair. I know you’re married, I know you have wonderful children.
"But I couldn’t leave without saying it. I don’t want to try to make you leave with me. But I need you to know that I want you to."
He stares at you. You stare back. He smiles.
"Don’t make me make it a question Caroline."
[["I’ll go with you."]]
[["I won’t go with you."]]](else:)[You’ve never seen him so determined.
"You came. I’m happy.
"I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to alarm you. I just wanted you to come.
"I’m leaving $Name. I got the call just this morning. We’ve hit a dead end in the capital. We’re all being pulled immediately. My plane leaves in five hours.
"Maybe it doesn’t matter to you. But //I// feel like I’ve made a friend. A good friend. An important friend.
"Maybe we won’t talk again. But I want you to know that you’ve changed me. When I cam here, I thought I’d have to swallow all my humanity. I thought it would be hell. I thought suddenly I’d be looking monsters in the eyes and having to nod to everything they said. I thought I’d just be a piece in someone else’s disgusting game.
"But you reminded me that’s not how the world is. I mean it is, that’s all true, but it’s not the whole truth.
"Because you’re wonderful. You’re kind. You’ve got so much humanity.
"You’ve reminded me that people can be like that.
"So I wanted to thank you. And to say I’ll miss you and that I feel that this has been special.
"I’m sorry, that might not have been worth getting you in so early for. But I’m still your boss, at least until my plane leaves the tarmac."
He shrugs and smiles.
"Thank you $Name. I hope your next client is a little less weird."
[["I’ll miss you too Matteo." -> "Goodbye Matteo."]]
[["It has been good working with you." -> "Goodbye Matteo."]]
[["Matteo. I think I love you."]]
[["Good riddance."]]]](else:)[Matteo physically pushes past Mr Smith as he speed walks over from the white chairs. He’s pale and agitated in a way that you have not seen him before. He does not speak and he does not smile. He grabs your arm and pulls you, willingly or not, out of the building. He pulls you down the street. He stops at the end of an alley, shakes his head and pulls you to the next. That one he decides will do but does not stop until he has pulled you half way down it.
He looks back and forth, like a nervous child earnestly attempting to emulate a tv spy.
"I … I don’t know how to say this." His voice is strained, breathy and tense. You can hear it catch as it attempts to become a shout or a wail, but fear and reason keeps it down at a whisper. "I’ll just say it.
"$Name. Are you a war criminal?"
[["What?"]]
[["No."]]
[["That isn’t funny Matteo."]]
(if: $Affair is "True")[[["This is a very odd kink Matteo."]]]]Matteo keeps very very still.
"Are you sure. You have to be sure. This is … this could be … the rest of your life that you’re talking about.
"You have to be sure. I won’t let you not be sure."
[["Matteo, I am sure."]]
[["I’m not sure."]]Matteo smiles.
"Thank you." He laughs. "I don’t know what I’m thanking you for. Everything, I suppose.
"Regardless of everything else, any other feelings, you’ve been a very good friend.
"I’ll always remember you.
"Ignore the cliché. Just remember the sentiment."
Matteo smiles, both cheeky and sad.
"No point delaying it.
"Stay wonderful Caroline.
"Your family is very lucky to have you."
The car is already waiting for him outside.
He goes, with one final look.
[[Go home.]]"Thank you."
Matteo smiles, both cheeky and sad.
"No point delaying it.
"Stay wonderful $Name.
"Your family is very lucky to have you."
The car is already waiting for him outside.
He goes, with one final look.
[[Go home.]]He smiles sadly.
"I’m sorry. In another life. In another life we are very happy together.
"I believe that.
"But in this one you have two beautiful children. And, I think, a husband who really does love you, in his own way."
He takes a step forward. For a moment you think he will kiss you. You believe he thought so too. But he does not.
"I’ll remember you Caroline. If things change …"
He shrugs. He shakes his head.
"No. No.
"Thank you, Caroline. You deserve all the happiness in the world."
The car is already waiting for him outside.
He goes, with one final look.
[[Go home.]]Matteo raises an eyebrow.
"Okay. Goodbye Caroline."
The car is already waiting for him outside.
[[Go home.]]Matteo nods rapidly.
"Yes, I know. But please. Imagine it’s not absurd. Because it’s not absurd to me. Please. Tell me. Are you who you’ve told me you are? Is it all a lie? Are you a spy or something?"
You tell him the truth, you tell him that there is no lie. He stares at you for several seconds, biting his lip.
"I believe you." He says slowly. "But there’s something strange. Something very strange. Have you done anything, has your husband done anything in your name? Anything to do with the war, the ‘military action’, anything strange? Anything unusual, anything unexplained at all? Think hard Caroline."
[["There’s nothing."]]
[["There is a room to which someone in your office took me."]]He stares at you for a long time, in that way that no-one else can. You feel him seeing you, possibly better than you’ve ever seen yourself.
"I believe you." He says slowly. "But there’s something strange. Something very strange. Have you done anything, has your husband done anything in your name? Anything to do with the war, the ‘military action’, anything strange? Anything unusual, anything unexplained at all? Think hard Caroline."
[["There’s nothing."]]
[["There is a room to which someone in your office took me."]]"No. No, it’s not funny at all. I’m very serious. Are you who you’ve told me you are? Is it all a lie? Are you a spy or something?"
You tell him the truth, you tell him that there is no lie. He stares at you for several seconds, biting his lip.
"I believe you." He says slowly. "But there’s something strange. Something very strange. Have you done anything, has your husband done anything in your name? Anything to do with the war, the ‘military action’, anything strange? Anything unusual, anything unexplained at all? Think hard Caroline."
[["There’s nothing."]]
[["There is a room to which someone in your office took me."]]"Please Caroline, be serious. I’m not joking. Are you who you’ve told me you are? Is it all a lie? Are you a spy or something?"
You tell him the truth, you tell him that there is no lie. He stares at you for several seconds, biting his lip.
"I believe you." He says slowly. "But there’s something strange. Something very strange. Have you done anything, has your husband done anything in your name? Anything to do with the war, the ‘military action’, anything strange? Anything unusual, anything unexplained at all? Think hard Caroline."
[["There’s nothing."]]
[["There is a room to which someone in your office took me."]]He shakes his head.
"I don’t understand. It must be me then. It must be to target me.
"I can’t stand it. I never thought -"
He stops speaking, bending double. He does not retch, but he is clearly very close to throwing up.
"There’s a list, $Name. I don’t know much. But it leaked, probably on purpose. It’s from your government, it's a list of names of domestic war criminals.
"I’ve mentioned you to my superiors. Nothing specific, just that I know you. Because of that your name must have ended up on a security file, at home or in the US or somewhere. It doesn’t matter. Something flagged it.
"You’re on the list $Name. Your government’s list of war criminals.
"We think it was leaked on purpose. We think that it’s an olive branch, a ritual sacrifice that your government is offering the international community.
"Nothing official has been said. Either by us or by them, I mean by your government. But it won’t be long. The West is crying out for retribution and if your President has already formulated a way to give it to them, I don’t see any reason why he would delay.
"Listen, $Name, this is important. It’s a matter of days, maybe a matter of hours, before someone comes to arrest you. Then if you’re very lucky you will be tried by the International Criminal Court. Probably you will be tried by a domestic court.
"I can’t show you the documents, $Name. I haven’t seen them myself. But I trust my bosses. They play games, but there is no reason they would play games with me.
"Caroline. Caroline, this is important. This is very, very important. I believe you haven’t done anything. But that won’t matter. Not if you stay here. If you stay here, they’ll do whatever they like with you. They have no reason not to.
Matteo pauses. He turns, lets out a breath, and turns back to you. His eyes burn in a way you did not believe they could.
"So come with me. I’ve booked a plane, it leaves in five hours. That’s how fast you need to move. You’ll have time to go home and pack a few things.
"I have room in my apartment for you to stay. Or, you know, just until you find somewhere more permanent to stay.
"I’m sorry. I don’t want to do this. (if: $Affair is "True")[It’s not how I wanted to do this. I mean, I think I wanted to do this. I think I wanted to ask you to come with me. No, I did //want// to ask you. I didn’t know if I should or if I could or if I would. I didn’t want to take you away from your life, from everything you’ve ever known. But I didn’t want not to give you the chance.
"I don’t know. And I never will, because it doesn’t matter. Because I’m not asking you to come away //with me//. I’m offering you a chance to run. Stay with me, leave me, that’s all a question for tomorrow, or tomorrow’s tomorrow.](else:)[It’s not fair. Of course it’s not fair. But I have to do it. You have to take this seriously.]
"Because right now you are standing on the edge. These might be the last hours before your entire life changes. Before you lose everything you have.
"I think you should at least give yourself the chance to build up something new. But I can’t make you. I won’t make you.
"But I do need to know now.
"Will you come?"
[["Wait, how can I trust this?"]]
[["I will go with you."]]
[["I will stay."]]You tell him all about the room, the light, the number pad, the chart and "You are free."
He thinks for a long time after you have finished. His hands ball into fists, but he lets them drop with an angry grunt.
"I don’t know. I have no idea. But it’s not normal is it? Any of that.
"It must be it. Whatever it is.
"Listen, $Name, there’s a list. I don’t know much. But it was leaked, probably on purpose. It’s from your government, it's a list of names of domestic war criminals.
"I’ve mentioned you to my superiors. Nothing specific, just that I know you. Because of that your name must have ended up on a security file, at home or in the US or somewhere. It doesn’t matter. Something flagged it.
"You’re on the list $Name. Your government’s list of war criminals.
"We think it was leaked on purpose. We think that it’s an olive branch, a ritual sacrifice that your government is offering the international community.
"Nothing official has been said. Either by us or by them – by you, your government. But it won’t be long. The West is crying out for retribution and if your President has already formulated a way to give it to them, I don’t see any reason why he would delay.
"Listen, $Name, this is important. It’s a matter of days, maybe a matter of hours, before someone comes to arrest you. Then if you’re very lucky you will be tried by the International Criminal Court. Probably you will be tried by a domestic court.
"I can’t show you the documents, $Name. I haven’t seen them myself. But I trust my bosses. They play games, but there is no reason they would play games with me.
"Caroline. Caroline, this is important. This is very, very important. I believe you haven’t done anything. I believe that whatever happened in that room, whatever it meant, you had no idea. But that won’t matter. Not if you stay here. If you stay here, they’ll do whatever they like with you. They have no reason not to.
Matteo pauses. He turns, lets out a breath, and turns back to you. His eyes burn in a way you did not believe they could.
"So come with me. I’ve booked a plane, it leaves in five hours. That’s how fast you need to move. You’ll have time to go home and pack a few things.
"I have room in my apartment for you to stay. Or, you know, just until you find somewhere more permanent to stay.
"I’m sorry. I don’t want to do this. (if: $Affair is "True")[It’s not how I wanted to do this. I mean, I think I wanted to do this. I think I wanted to ask you to come with me. No, I did //want// to ask you. I didn’t know if I should or if I could or if I would. I didn’t want to take you away from your life, from everything you’ve ever known. But I didn’t want not to give you the chance.
"I don’t know. And I never will, because it doesn’t matter. Because I’m not asking you to come away //with me//. I’m offering you a chance to run. Stay with me, leave me, that’s all a question for tomorrow, or tomorrow’s tomorrow.](else:)[It’s not fair. Of course it’s not fair. But I have to do it. You have to take this seriously.]
"Because right now you are standing on the edge. These might be the last hours before your entire life changes. Before you lose everything you have.
"I think you should at least give yourself the chance to build up something new. But I can’t make you. I won’t make you.
"But I do need to know now.
"Will you come?"
[["Wait, how can I trust this?"]]
[["I will go with you."]]
[["I will stay."]]Matteo nods rapidly to himself.
"That’s fair, that’s fair.
"Is it? Do you not trust me?
"No, that’s unfair. This is much bigger than me."
He looks back at you.
"I can’t tell you why you should trust it. I do. But that doesn’t mean you should.
"I could be wrong. And if I am, then what have you really lost?
"You could leave a note for Christopher. As long as he doesn’t find it until after you’ve left. You can tell him everything. (if: $Affair is "True")[About why you’re leaving.]
"Then we give it a week, maybe two. And if nothing has happened then you can just come back. (if: $Affair is "True")[If you want to.]
"But if I’m right. If I’m right, this is the end of your life. I’m sorry, that’s a stark way of putting it.
"But it’s not wrong. If I’m right. And if I’m wrong, then all you did was take a holiday.
"But if I’m right you can’t come back. Not without giving them your life.
"I’m sorry $Name. I don’t know how else to say it. If I had more time to think, then maybe I could be kinder. But I don’t. You need to act now.
"You need to choose now."
[["I will go with you."]]
[["I will stay."]]Matteo nods, turns away, and then turns back.
"I think it’s the right thing. I think it’s the only thing you can do.
"But are you sure? You have to be sure."
[["I am sure. I will go with you."->Go with Matteo.]]
[["No, I’m not. I will stay."]]Matteo freezes.
"No.
"I mean, why?
"No. No, I shouldn’t. I shouldn’t ask that.
"But I should ask if you are sure. Because if you’re going to stay here, if you’re going to submit to whatever they wish for you, you have to be sure. Don’t throw away your life thoughtlessly."
[["Yes, I am sure. I will stay."->Stay at home.]]
[["No, I’m not sure. I will come with you."]]Matteo takes a long, deep breath.
"I told my driver to wait. I’ve packed already. We’ll go to yours so you can get what you need most, and then we’ll go to the airport.
"I’m sorry. I know that’s not enough time. A month wouldn’t be enough time, let alone an hour. Maybe I’m being paranoid. Maybe you have longer. Maybe you do have days or weeks. But if you don’t … I couldn’t live with it."
He clearly finds it difficult to meet your eyes, but does so anyway. The look on his face apologises for the implications behind his words.
He turns silently and leads the way. You walk slowly and he lets you. Still, your last walk through the city is short. Just two blocks and then the black car and the silent government driver.
You sit in silence as the streets you have always known crawl past.
It is only as you push open the door of your apartment that you realise that you are not feeling as you should. You see pictures of your children, your mother’s cooking equipment, the bed that you and Christopher received as a wedding present. You should cry. But the situation is too unreal, too absurd. You think about forcing the tears, so that if this all turns out to be real, if you do not wake up, then at least you will have treated it right. But for one reason or another, you don’t follow through. You only feel numb as you first pack the essentials and only take photos and trinkets and your grandfather’s icon almost as an afterthought.
One suitcase. Looking at how small your life is only makes everything else easier. You leave a note for Christopher, explaining what you can, and hide it in his pillow. It won’t take him long to find it.
The government car is gone when you get back downstairs. Instead Matteo leans against a taxi.
You talk a little more as the city disappears around you. It is all practical.
You remember to breathe the air of home before you step into the terminal building.
As you show your passport to the officials you almost scream, you almost run away, you almost break down in tears. Panic drowns fear, fear drowns sorrow, sorrow drowns panic. You stand still as they check your face, as they check your ticket, as they scan your bag. You match their smile as they send you on your way.
Matteo guides you gently.
You are on the plane. You try to pay attention to what they say, but a small part of you accepts that if you crash then you’ll just die.
Sound. Movement. Tarmac tilts, disappears.
Matteo lets out a long breath. He flexes his hands and smiles at you. You cannot smile back. You simply don’t feel like you have enough presence to make the movement happen. He frowns with sympathy(if: $Affair is "True")[ and moves to take your hand, but thinks better of it]. He turns away from you, to leave you to your thoughts. But you have none.
Answer your phone.
(click-replace: "Answer your phone.")[You don’t know how much time has passed. For a moment, you do not even know where you are. You were not asleep. The oblivion was deeper than that.
Unknown number. You answer by reflex.
"Mrs Druar?" Maybe you recognise the voice. You are not sure.
It is easier to say yes than think about why you would not.
"It’s Kirk. Your boss."
Ah yes, you remember. The head of the Economic Excellence Department. You are unsure if he has ever spoken to you before.
You say nothing. He continues.
"Where are you? We need you to come into the office now."
Matteo is tapping you. You look past him to see other people across the isle staring at you. ‘Hang up’ Matteo mouths.
"I’m not allowed to talk here. The phone has to be off." (click: '"I’m not allowed to talk here. The phone has to be off."')[You say it to yourself more than you do to Kirk, but after a moment’s hesitation you realise that it will do as goodbye, so you just hang up and turn your phone off.
"Who was it?"
"Kirk."
(click: '"Kirk."')["What did he say?"
"He asked where I was. He said I needed to come into the office."
(click: '"He asked where I was. He said I needed to come into the office."')[Matteo sucks in his lower lip.
"Did he ask about me?"
"No."
(click: '"No."')[Matteo puts his hand on your shoulder.
"I’m sorry."
Now, finally, you cry.
[[Live.]]]]]]]Matteo raises an eyebrow.
"No, no you need to be sure of that as well. You can’t be unsure. If I’m right, this is the rest of your life that you’re deciding on. If you’re going to stay here, if you’re going to submit to whatever they wish for you, you have to be sure. Don’t throw away your life thoughtlessly."
[["You’re right, I’ll go with you. That’s my final decision."->Go with Matteo.]]
[["No, I will stay. That is my final decision."->Stay at home.]]Matteo takes a long breath and looks down at the ground.
"Okay."
He looks back up at you. You can tell it’s difficult for him.
"You go back home $Name. Don’t come back today. I think you should spend time with your family, not with some man you just met. If you want to come back tomorrow … if. It’s up to you.
"I hope I’m wrong $Name. I really hope I am.
"I hope I see you again.
(if: $Affair is "True")["I -"
He shakes his head.
"No, it wouldn’t be fair.
]"Goodbye $Name. You’ve reminded me of what happiness feels like.
"Live."
Without saying another word, he turns and walks away. You know it is kinder not to follow him.
There is work to be done at home. Burying yourself in it has almost made you forget the morning by the time there is a knock on your door.
It’s late enough that it could be Christopher. But he has a key. And the knock is too light to be his.
"Mrs Caroline Druar?" The policemen glances from you to a printed picture of you.
["Yes."]<Yes1|
(click: ?Yes1)["You’ll come with us please."
"What is this about?"
(click: '"What is this about?"')["With us please."
"If you don’t tell me what it is I won’t know how much to bring for you."
(click: '"If you don’t tell me what it is I won’t know how much to bring for you."')[The officer smiles like a street dog.
"With us Mrs Druar. Now."
You are led into a squad car.
They take your phone and put you in a cell on your own.
There are no questions and therefore no lawyer.
No visitors, no natural light, no clock. Still, you know when it must be night, so you sleep. You know when it must be morning, so you wake. After that you begin to lose track. You think they are feeding you at odd times. Christopher comes just after what they told you was lunch.
"What did you do Caroline?"
"I don’t know."
(click: '"I don’t know."')[He stands for a moment before violently shaking his head. The room is small, but he still finds a way to pace up and down.
"They can’t do this to us! ‘A federal charge, we can’t give you the details for reasons of national security’. What the fuck does that mean? I’ll tell you what it means. It means they’re playing with us and they can’t even think of a good excuse! (if: $SecondCard is "Red")[They ran out of time with Daniel and now they’re doing it with you and their story is even thinner. What the fuck! ]Who the fuck are these cunts! Shit!"
A guard appears in the doorway.
"Mr Druar."
The warning is in the tone.
"Fine! My love. I’ve got you a lawyer. He’s good. Really good. (if: $FirstCard is "Red")[He’s Lloyd’s apology. Even that prick has a heart.](else:)[He’s from Lloyd. He knows I can’t perform if you’re in jail.] Whatever the fuck this is, he’ll get you out. It’ll be over in a day, they can’t hold you for long without charging you with something and they won’t do that. They won’t be able to back it up and it will all be a big embarrassment for them. You’ll see. They’ll back down. Cowardly cunts.
"Mr Druar. Visiting time’s over."
"I only just got here you bastard!"
"Mr Druar. Now."
Christopher turns back to you.
"I’ll see you soon. Your lawyer is already here, he’ll be with you as soon as they question you."
What feels like a few hours later men in suits come for you. You’re handcuffed and a bag goes over your head. You’re put in a vehicle. Many, many hours pass. You sleep, although in the stifling darkness it is hard to tell when you are awake and when you are not.
They march you through soundless corridors. When they take the bag off you are in an interview room. One man, in a very expensive Italian suit, sits next to you. Another, clothes as vague as Mr Smith’s, sits opposite you. Behind him is the two way mirror.
"Mrs Caroline Druar."
The man next to you nods, giving you permission to answer.
["Yes."]<Yes2|
(click: ?Yes2)["Have you ever been a member of any terrorist organisation?"
"Under the advice of counsel my client will not be answering that question."
You look to the man on your right. He smiles kindly and knowingly. The man opposite you seems unperturbed.
"Mrs Druar, are you or have you ever been a member of any group affiliated with large scale or organised crime?"
"Under the advice of counsel my client will not be answering that question."
"Have you ever been or are you a member of any organisation which would wish harm on the government of the people of this country?"
"Under the advice of counsel my client will not be answering that question."
"Are you a sadist Mrs Druar?"
The tone is unchanged. You feel sick, physically. You have no idea what to say.
"Under the advice of counsel my client will not be answering that question."
"Do you consider yourself a militant nationalist Mrs Druar?"
"Under the advice of counsel my client will not be answering that question."
It goes on. You drift in and out of awareness. You do not remember ever saying anything. Eventually the man opposite you leaves and the man next to you turns to you.
"You did very well Mrs Druar. Your husband would be proud.
"Answer yes to the next question."
The man comes back in.
"Do you understand the charges against you?"
["Yes."]<Yes3|
(click: ?Yes3)["Good. You will be held until trial."
The other man leaves again. Your lawyer smiles kindly at you.
"I will see you soon Mrs Druar."
The windowless room. Or maybe a different one.
Meals and sleep desynchronise from each other. They control both, the latter with bright lights at odd times.
No one speaks.
The man in the Italian suit reappears.
"The trial is set to start soon. You will be called as a witness. They cannot compel you to answer questions, so you won’t, will you?"
["Why?"]<Why1|
(click: ?Why1)["I think it’s pretty clear that they don’t have a case. But they’re throwing the best of the best against you. The more you speak, the more chances you have to be led into one of their traps. It’s better not to give them the chance to frame you, to make you incriminate yourself.
"So when they question you, you say nothing. But when I question you, you will answer truthfully. But that presents problems. We win this by painting the opposition’s case as absurd. The point is not to accuse them of lying. That will muddy the waters and turn what should be a clear cut case into a ‘he said she said’ mud slinging match. If it comes to a matter of trust, the court is more likely to trust the government than a single citizen. So we mustn’t appear to be contradicting the facts of the opposition’s case. We must, in fact, highlight them. We must be positive and proactive rather than negative and defensive. So, with that in mind, I must find a way to construct each question so that the answer will always be positive. These kind of optics are very important, especially for a case such as this. So every question I ask, the answer is yes.
"What’s the answer?"
["Yes."]<Yes4|
(click: ?Yes4)["Good. Now get some sleep."
They do not let you sleep.
The courtroom is not large, you recognise that, but it feels it. Cold, open and busy. Everyone looking at you. It does not make you feel important, it does not make you feel powerful. It makes you feel like a slab of meat in a butcher’s display cabinet.
You keep your head down. You notice that you are wearing prison clothes. You see yourself from the third person: thin, hunched, guilty. The realisation does not make you sit up straight.
The lawyers make their opening statements. The prosecution goes first.
"Mrs Druar is a war criminal. In all that we are about to see, in all that we are about to examine, what we must never forget is that fact. The fact that there are men and women, civilians, nationals of our fair country, who suffered and died because of her actions. She violated our laws. She violated international laws. And she violated the laws of human decency.
"Our case today will examine artificial intelligence. It will examine legal culpability. It will examine national security. But at its core is murder and torture. All on the order of the woman who sits before you.
"We do not stand for barbarity in this country. Therefore we do not stand for Caroline Druar."
Your lawyer stands, but you do not hear what he says. Blood has filled your ears.
They call witnesses. All are either experts or blank screened, voice modulated laptops. You are told national security is at risk. Even so, you recognise Mr Smith. He doesn’t lie.
The story is difficult to piece together. The prosecutor talks in references. "Could you comment on section 4.2 of the document logged as Document D-2?" Your lawyer decodes it by using other references. "I think the leader of the opposition put it best yesterday when -"
There was something called the Throne. An ‘autonomous agent’. It carried out the war crimes. "Like a self-driving car." But the input for it came from you. Each button of the number pad in the room Mr Smith took you to linked to some output from the Throne.
There is little said about the coloured light. In moments you wish you could stand and scream that it told you what to do. That it was the light, not you. But your lawyer smiles and jokes about the absurdity of someone who did not know what she was doing being accused of the crimes that her actions caused.
He makes the judge laugh. He tells you that that is a good sign.
The day ends. You are led out.
Christopher looks back from the stands. A lost child, caught between confusion and betrayal.
Food, sleep, light, food.
Christopher does not meet your eyes when you walk in. He is wearing the same clothes as last time. Yesterday? You have not seen a window since home.
There is talk about culpability and artificial intelligence. Both lawyers make reference to this or that article or broadcast. Your lawyer says that if anyone is culpable then it should be those who designed the systems. The opposing lawyer quotes US precedence. The designers of automated systems, automated vehicle systems (which is it?), are not culpable for the actions of those systems. Besides, the situation is much more basic. "Guns don’t kill people, people kill people." He says it in English first and then your native language.
But of course all of that is moot. The army is not on trial now. You are. Your lawyer agrees.
Pictures of the room are shown, exactly how it was. The light is off.
A close up of the stencilled words "You are free" linger on a courtroom tv screen during the entirety of a long witness testimony on the nature of free will and moral responsibility.
Then they question you. The courtroom was already quiet, but you feel the intensity of that quality of quiet grow as you stand up.
The chair is uncomfortable. The light in your eyes feels like the lights in your cell; paradoxically you want to sleep. Perhaps, you think, you are asleep.
You swear on your mother’s bible.
"Mrs Druar, will you tell us in your own words the events that led to you giving orders to the device referred to in Document B as ‘the Throne’?"
["Under the advice of counsel I decline to answer the question."]<Decline1|
(click: ?Decline1)["In that case, maybe I should make the questions more simple. You have seen this room, correct?"
A picture of the room flashes up on the screen.
["Under the advice of counsel I decline to answer the question."]<Decline2|
(click: ?Decline2)[The lawyer turns to the room at large, smiling. You cannot make out faces, but you hear the chuckling.
"For the sake of formality then Mrs Druar, I’ll skip to the important questions.
"Were you coerced in any way? Did anyone force you under threat or otherwise to issue orders to the Throne?"
["Under the advice of counsel I decline to answer the question."]<Decline3|
(click: ?Decline3)["Mrs Druar, I am here to help you. It is my job to reveal the facts. If you say you are innocent, then that will be reflected in the facts. Stopping me, stopping this court, from reaching those facts does nothing for you.
"May I repeat the question judge?"
You cannot see the judge from your angle. The silhouette that is the prosecuting lawyer nods.
"Again, Mrs Druar, did anyone force you to give orders to the Throne?"
["Under the advice of counsel I decline to answer the question."]<Decline4|
(click: ?Decline4)[The lawyer sighs and hangs his head.
"Fine. One last question then.
"Mrs Druar, were you aware of what you were doing?"
The answer is so simple. You could just (text-colour: #3e5ab2)[say it.] You will always wonder why you didn’t.
["Under the advice of counsel I decline to answer the question."]<Decline5|
(click: ?Decline5)["No more questions your honour."
Your lawyer stands up.
"You are Mrs Druar, wife of opposition politician Christopher Druar?"
["Yes."]<Yes5|
(click: ?Yes5)[It is a relief to say.
"Good. Now Mrs Druar, we have discussed a great deal over these past two days. But the core ‘facts’ around which the debate is built is that you, repeatedly, went into the room shown earlier and selected options from a number pad. Is this true?"
["Yes."]<Yes6|
(click: ?Yes6)["Indeed. Now, when you pressed these buttons, you did not do so with malicious intent, did you? You are just a normal housewife, you are not the monster that the prosecution would paint you as. Correct?"
["Yes."]<Yes7|
(click: ?Yes7)["When you were in this room, the light above the keypad flashed, correct?"
["Yes."]<Yes8|
(click: ?Yes8)["And these flashes corresponded to colours and each colour was connected to one of the numbers on the keypad according to a chart on the side of the wall?"
["Yes."]<Yes9|
(click: ?Yes9)["So you selected your choice of outcome based on a suggestion given to you by a rainbow coloured lightbulb?"
["Yes."]<Yes10|
(click: ?Yes10)["That is absurd, isn’t it?"
["Yes."]<Yes11|
(click: ?Yes11)["From the horse’s mouth. It’s absurd. That’s all it is. No more questions your honour."
You are led back to your seat. Your lawyer beams at you encouragingly.
From there it all begins to blur. The same points seem to be made again and again. They recall witnesses (never you). They re-examine evidence. At some point a weekend recess passes. Then at some point, another. You stop seeing Christopher. Little else changes.
You sit. You try to listen. But every day you eat less and every night you sleep less. You think. You start to lose everything but the flow, the feeling.
The narrative. The narrative that someone has to be responsible for what happened (what did happen?) It is not the army. It is not ‘the Throne’. So it has to be you.
"It //is// absurd. But just because it is absurd does not mean that it is not true. Just because the Joker wears clown makeup does not mean he is not a villain."
"The fact is that this is //not// the same situation as an electric car. If there was no order given, if it was all done by the machine, then maybe. But that is not the case. Orders //were// given. And they were given by Mrs Druar."
"She did not deny knowledge!"
"It is Searle’s conclusion that the computer cannot, therefore, be sentient. Tell me, if something is not sentient, can it be culpable for its actions?"
"If this case is thrown out on the grounds of Searle’s conclusion, then it would serve as precedent in future cases of legal culpability relating to artificial agents. That would leave us in a legal bind, where programmers are not responsible for their creation’s decisions, but neither are the creations themselves."
"But what is ‘understanding’? What is consciousness?"
"Given that, autonomous weapons should be immediately discontinued."
"If the weapons themselves produce their own decisions, then can they not be said to have understanding? If so, Mrs Druar is the decision-making part of the process and therefore culpable. If they do not produce their own decisions, but rely on outside orders, then it is clearly the pilots who are culpable. But who provided the orders in this case? Not the military, whose role can be seen as more akin to training, if we are ungenerous, and merely an exercise in free speech if we //are// generous. No, again, it is Mrs Druar who bears the moral weight of the decisions and therefore Mrs Druar who should face the moral consequences."
You lost the meaning a long time ago. That’s all just noise. What you understand is the faces. The prosecutor walks with a swagger, your lawyer with a slump. You rarely look at the stands. You see pity and hatred.
Your lawyer sits on the end of your bed.
Dark bags under his eyes.
He cannot bring himself to look at you.
"It’s bad."
You rest your head against the cold brick.
"Mrs Druar?"
"As I said-"
"Are you sure?"
(click: '"Are you sure?"')["Nothing is ever sure. But the judge …"
He’s not old. He’s not young. Smooth skin, discoloured by time. Sharp and unaware. Intentionally.
The cell bars are shiny. You see yourself in them.
Elongated, wasting.
"Life with a chance of parole. That means twenty."
"It’s my advice."
A piece of paper. A felt tip pen.
["Why?"]<Why2|
(click: ?Why2)["So you can’t stab anyone. That’s what they think of you."
It’s green and wet. Sandy had one just like it. Painted princesses. Ruined her bedroom wall. Christopher furious.
"Christopher? Yes, I’ve talked to him. He told me that he agrees. That it’s the right thing to do."
"Just here."
The ink soaks through the paper, hits the bed. You stare at it spreading.
"Mrs Druar? Will you sign?"
[["Yes."->Prison end.]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]]Matteo smiles thinly and shakes his head.
"Okay. But you have to be sure of that too. You can’t be unsure. If I’m right, this is the rest of your life that you’re deciding on. You can’t choose on a whim. You have to know.
"So, $Name. Are you sure?"
[["Yes I’m sure. I’m going with you."->Go with Matteo.]]
[["I’m staying. That is what I am sure of."->Stay at home.]]Confusion.
Then denial.
Daniel believes you. Sandy does not. Christopher simply thinks you have been misled.
Several days of bargaining. Daniel tells you that you can come back and fight it. Sandy tells you to ‘forget him and his money and just come back before you ruin everything.’ Christopher simply tells you - gently at first and then not so gently - that Matteo is (if: $ChristopherNoticed is "True")[lying to you](else:)[mistaken].
Then the official statements come out. The Minister for Justice stands in front of foreign press for the first time since the military action began. Half his short time is spent telling of the sixteen war criminals who have already been taken into custody. "Every country, even ours, has its unstable elements. But we have taken responsibility. (if: $RejectedTheRoom is "True")[Fourteen enlisted personnel and two civilians](else:)[Fifteen enlisted personnel and a civilian] have already been detained." He gives more details, ‘full extent of the law’, ‘traitors to the homeland’, etc. Then the world learns your name. "However, Caroline Druar, the wife of a member of the opposition party Liberal Front, has escaped custody by taking refuge in a foreign state. Mrs Druar is wanted on charges of extrajudicial killing, torture, and the denial of fair trial. We are confident, however, that the government of the state to which she has fled - which will remain anonymous out of respect for their possible ignorance of events – will do the moral thing and extradite this known criminal for processing within our courts." The Minister takes no questions.
Matteo tells you the police will come. He tells you that they will treat you right.
Your family all phone. Your children weep. Christopher shouts. He swears, he rants, he raves. You hear a glass smash. "They can’t do this to us! They can’t! What the fuck are these cunts playing at? You’re just a normal housewife, who the fuck is going to believe you’re a fucking war criminal? It doesn’t make sense, it’s fucking disgusting, it’s fucking nonsense."
The police come. You talk to men in suits. You can’t tell who are the lawyers and who are the spies. You recognise the politicians. You tell all of them everything, over and over again.
You learn the full story at the same time they do. The trials back home are not televised, but details – footage, transcripts, statements – ‘leak’. The other (if: $RejectedTheRoom is "True")[civilians are](else:)[civilian is] charged with the same list of crimes as you. That made the back pages of the newspapers. It is when the details of what those charges mean is revealed that the cases hit all the front pages.
The military had a "black-site", a prison in the newly pacified region. A series of individuals were questioned regarding their activities during the special military operation. Everyone at least agrees on that. Beyond that there is a stark difference in wording between the official documentation and the interpretations printed in the western press. The former says that, based on the questioning, military personnel expressed their theoretical views on what would, ethically, be the best thing to be done to the prisoners for the safety of their country. These purely theoretical musings were then shown to civilians within the country who had completely free reign to sentence the prisoners how they wished. The sentences were then carried out by an ‘autonomous agent’ - a highly advanced computing system linked to a robotic chair, capable of ‘advanced natural language, speech, and inference processing.’
The chair was responsible for the forced questioning, torture, and killing of civilians.
The orders to do that were given to it by you.
The military, as an entity and with no human face, openly admits to being the designer of the system. It claims that this fact is irrelevant in terms of culpability for the crimes. If the designers of self-driving cars cannot be held accountable for the deaths their systems cause, then neither can they.
"Guns don’t kill people, people kill people."
Besides, the soldiers who actually voiced their, theoretical, opinions were merely exercising free speech. "We do not, and will not, prosecute exercises of free speech. We do not play games with the liberties of our people. We have taken the long and hard road, but we have learnt the value of freedom."
The newspapers in European languages that Matteo has to help you read paint it a different way.
"Their logic is broken and self-serving. To quote the prosecuting attorney: "If the weapons [automated drones] themselves produce their own decisions, then can they not be said to have understanding? If so, the defendant is the decision-making part of the process and therefore culpable [since the defendant can be seen as part of the system, see "What is the Chinese Room?" p.7]. If they do not produce their own decisions, but rely on outside orders, then it is clearly the pilots who are culpable. But who provided the orders in this case? Not the military, whose role can be seen as more akin to training, if we are ungenerous, and merely an exercise in free speech if we //are// generous. No, again, it is the defendant who bears the moral weight of the decisions and therefore the defendant who should face the moral consequences." But this is nonsense, right? Yeah, the pilot is responsible, but the pilot knows he’s flying a drone. The defendant had no idea what he was doing. They say that their army can’t be responsible because ‘the designers of self-driving cars aren’t responsible’, but if someone made a self-driving car that was deliberately programmed to kill people then they absolutely would be responsible . If you got in your new car and had to press one of five random buttons, none of which were labelled, and the one you hit meant that the car ran straight into the nearest single mother that it saw, you wouldn’t blame the car. You certainly wouldn’t blame yourself. You’d blame whatever sick bastard programmed it to do that."
They say it’s a farce. A joke.
A circus.
Headline, front page, ‘BREAKING NEWS’.
The police let you go and the moment they do you are picked up by the panel shows and morning shows and editors of international papers. Everyone wants ‘an exclusive’.(if: $Fate is "Flashing red")[
After a few more days a couple of soldiers turn up on the European side of the border. They claim to be whistleblowers and they say that one of them was your handler, the person on the other side of the flashing light. Everyone wants to get you in a room together. So far you have refused them. But you have plenty of time to change your mind.](else-if: $Fate is "Red")[
After a few more days a soldier appears on the European side of the border. He claims to be a whistleblower, one of the people on the other side of the flashing lights. Neither of you know if he was the person who was on the other side of your specific light, but that does not matter for the press. Everyone wants to get you in a room together. So far you have refused them. But you have plenty of time to change your mind.]
You are officially offered asylum. The paperwork is still processing.
Sandy drops out of university. Daniel stays, devoting himself to academia in lieu of activism. He tells you that he has started taking SSRIs.
Christopher does not talk to you. Your children tell you he does not blame you. Sandy shares her shop assistant’s salary with him.
Matteo’s apartment is large and sparse. The kitchen especially. All the latest appliances; one set of blunt knives.
The view is nice, over a little public park. It is odd, you understand that what you are looking at is ‘normal life’, but you are not sure you will ever find it anything but alien. You have not been able to pin down what is wrong, but it is wrong.
Matteo does not see it like you. For him it is and always will be home. He is stressed and angry and despairing. But he is also home and safe.
It has been less than two weeks since the world learnt your name. A few days since your President stood in front of cameras and called your adoptive government ‘hypocrites’ and ‘traitors to the cause of justice’.
You do not know if you will stay. There has been little time and even less energy to discuss it. Matteo has been given leave, but at some point he will have to go back. He does not know whether he will be kept in the local office or sent off somewhere again. You don’t know whether you would go with him. You do not know if it would be better to travel from alien place to alien place, or whether it would be better to sit alone in the apartment, looking out at the park.
But that is tomorrow’s question. Or the day after, or the day after that.
The decision is yours to make.
You are free.
[[The end.]]Your window looks out over the yard. You’re allowed out there twice a day. You know the woman who looks after the kitchen garden. Cook introduced you to her.
Daniel comes sometimes. He sees you in lieu of activism. He does not tell you why he does not go to society meetings any more. He would tell you if he’d simply lost the taste.
Sandy has come, but does not come often. It is hard, she no longer lives in the capital. She dropped out of university early on, when your face was on every front cover of every newspaper.
Christopher came once. He said he did not blame you. He said that confessing was the right thing to do. Daniel says he’s depressed. Sandy says that he’s doing well in the Department for Public Planning.
Your window looks out over the yard. You’re allowed out there twice a day.
[[The end.]]"How was work?" Christopher calls from the sitting room as you push open the door to your flat.
"Good."(click: '"Good."')[ you instinctively reply.
You hear the channel move on to adverts and your husband appears at the door. He kisses you lightly on the cheek.
"What time do you start work? Just you’re out quite late so do you start first thing in the morning?"
Explain.
(click-replace: "Explain.")[You explain. He nods.
"That’s good, they don’t have you pulling a full day shift. But I was wondering, if you’re not starting till that late, is there a chance you could cook before you go? Something that I could heat up later? Just because I had one of those packets that Daniel used to like to eat and I think I need to start campaigning to make it illegal to call that stuff food."
Say that you will.
(click-replace: "Say that you will.")[You say that you will.
"There’s my love! Thank you.
"I had a good day today, had a few meetings with donors who liked my thoughts on abortion rights. We’re getting more women millionaires by the day, only an idiot would ignore that demographic!"
He disappears into the sitting room, still talking. You follow him and he fills the rest of the ad break with his day and his plans and his hopes. You haven’t seen him so excited for years. Even the last election did not get him this fired up.
"Polling is indicating that there is a strong movement against the President in the city. Large enough for a couple of seats, possibly, and I’m confident I can get one of them. If it is two then certainly. The risk is the socialists. I think Lloyd is working with them and if he chooses them and can wrangle just one seat for us then it will go to them. I see why, the conservative vote is not insignificant, but I do really think that the people want reasonable, measured, liberal policies. Especially the people who were against the military action."
He comes back to this point again and again, each dive into one of his policies - religious tolerance initiatives, a reduction in red tape for small businesses, policies to encourage previous offenders to enter the work force – finished with a reiteration of the point that surely this is what the public wants. But may not be what Lloyd wants.
Eventually you go to bed. Sleep. Wake up. Prepare. Make breakfast. Wish your husband well. Cook him a meal. Put it in the fridge. Do what other work you can. [[Leave for work.]]]]]It’s still early when you get home. You have enough time to do everything that needs to be done.
Check the cleaning schedule.
(click-replace: "Check the cleaning schedule.")[You’re behind on your cleaning schedule.
Make up for lost time.
(click-replace: "Make up for lost time.")[The bedrooms and the bathrooms. You’ve been so focussed on the kitchen and the living room since the party that your private spaces have fallen behind. They are not disgusting. Not objectively anyway. Still, making them spotless takes hours on your knees.
Go shopping.
(click-replace: "Go shopping.")[You’ve been running low on everything.
Take some dry cleaning and drop it off on the way.
(click-replace: "Take some dry cleaning and drop it off on the way.")[It’s tiring carrying Christopher’s suits and shirts to the dry cleaners. It’s exhausting carrying the four bags of shopping. But you cannot deny the satisfaction of seeing your fridge and cupboards go from bare to full.
Start cooking.
(click-replace: "Start cooking.")[You prepare cabbage soup. Both traditional and adaptable. One of the first dishes you learnt to master. You make enough for four, as a main meal, just in case Christopher brings guests.
You wish you had had time to bake bread to go with it, but you don’t, so you bought some from the bakery on the way back from the shop. It was still warm when you laid it out on the counter.
You hear the door opening behind you. You hold your breath for a moment, waiting to hear voices, but there is just your husband’s heavy tread.
"Ah, cabbage soup. With sauerkraut?"
"Yes."
(click: "Yes.")["Oh perfect!"
Christopher enters the bedroom, emerging again just as you are serving, his jacket and tie both gone and his top button undone.
"Lloyd came by today. (if: ($FirstCard is "Green" or $FirstCard is "White") and $RejectedTheRoom is "True")[He was acting odd. He didn’t say anything specific, but I know that cunt’s got something planned. Fucking prick. I haven’t done anything, someone must have got to him.](else-if: $FirstCard is "Green" or $FirstCard is "White")[He wanted to talk strategy. Strategy! Not election strategy, ministerial strategy! I mean of course it’s all hypothetical, but he wouldn’t be vetting me if he didn’t plan on putting me in place. He’s never done it before. This could be it my darling!](else:)[He was only there for five minutes. Wanted to make sure I’d avoid a few policy points at my next speech. If there is a next speech. Just wants to steal the points for his own candidate. I wanted to tell him to go fuck his mother. I didn’t, of course.]"
He asks you how your day was as you are clearing the table.
"Matteo left."
(click: '"Matteo left."')[(if: $ChristopherNoticed is "True")["Oh. Good. I didn’t like him."](else:)["Oh, I’m sorry. Still, it’ll be nice to spend more time at home won’t it?"]
Go through and join Christopher watching the tv.
(click-replace: "Go through and join Christopher watching the tv.")[Brush your teeth.
(click-replace: "Brush your teeth.")[Get undressed.
(click-replace: "Get undressed.")[Go to bed.
(click-replace: "Go to bed.")[[[Go to sleep.]]]]]]]]]]]]][[The end.]]He smiles, unrepressed for a moment, nothing but happiness. Then he shakes himself and looks even more anxious than before.
"Okay. Okay. I didn’t let myself believe.
"Okay. I’ve packed already. We’ll go to yours so you can get what you need and then we’ll go to the airport."
The talk in the car to your apartment is restrained and practical. You talk about what kind of things you can or should take and what you should tell who and when.
Matteo insists you go up to your apartment by yourself. You suspect that he is giving you a final chance to change your mind.
You don’t.
You fill one suitcase with essentials. You fill another with the things you emotionally need to take: photos and your children’s trinkets and your grandfather’s icon. The third you fill with luxuries: your best clothes and your best kitchen equipment.
You leave as soon as you are done. You do not wish to dwell.
Matteo stands beside a taxi. The moment he sees you he breaks out into broad grin.
"You’re making me an unseemly amount of happy Caroline. Here, let me help you with those bags."
His excitement continues inside the taxi. You talk about the lives you two will make together. He tells you about his kitchen – the one that looks out over a park – and you tell him about all the new things you cannot wait to experience. You plan your lives day by day and then throw it all away with a ‘How wonderful it will be to just live in the moment!’
You hold hands through the airport terminal. He kisses you on the back of the neck as you step in front of him to go through the x-ray machine at security. You giggle like school children as you attempt to skip along a concourse.
You eat a meal at the terminal, a good opportunity for you to tease him about the fact that he thinks the food is good.
Tomorrow your family will call. Daniel will cry, Christopher will shout, and Sandy will threaten never to speak to you again.
But for today you are sitting in first class plane seats, your head resting on your lover’s shoulder, flying towards a new life. A life that can be anything you want it to be.
A life of bliss.
[[The end.]]"I’m sorry.
"I can’t do it if you’re not sure.
"I know it’s unfair. It’s horribly unfair. That I’ve given you so little time, that I need you to be absolutely sure, that I’ve asked you this question at all.
"But I have and I do. And I have.
"I’m sorry. But I know that it’s right.
"You can’t do this if you don’t //know//.
"And you don’t know.
"Maybe one day you will. Maybe we’ll meet again.
"But until then, know that you’ve been a very good friend.
"And I’ll always remember you.
"Ignore the cliché. Just remember the sentiment."
Matteo smiles, both cheeky and sad.
"No point delaying it.
"Stay wonderful Caroline.
"Your family is very lucky to have you."
The car is already waiting for him outside.
He goes, with one final look.
[[Go home.]]//A Chinese Room: a sociological horror story// is one story in two. (if: $2Player is not "True")[For first time players, it is recommended that you start with the story of Caroline Druar.](else:)[You will play through one and you partner will play through the other.
After you have decided who will play which, you should each read through the game at your own pace until you reach a point where you are instructed to either send your partner a word (or phrase), or input a word (or phrase) your partner sends you. In the case of the former, send the word and continue reading, while in the case of the latter, you must wait for your partner to send the word before you can input it (and then continue reading). Each instance of a word is only used once, so there is no need to remember old words (although you can be asked to send/be sent the same word multiple times).
If you wish to know more details about the two stories before picking one, read the [[Content Warning]].]
[[Caroline Druar.]]
[[Leon Phillips.]]
(if: $2Player is not "True")[[[Content Warning]]]==><==
##(font: "impact")[A Chinese Room.]
A game by Milo van Mesdag
<==
//A Chinese Room// is two interconnecting stories. Each can either be read as a traditional solo interactive fiction experience or read in a play-by-mail format (click: 'play-by-mail format')[(the multiplayer is designed for independent, non-simultaneous play with players taking breaks from the game when they reach a point where their stories interact) ]with another reader who is making their way through the other story in tandem with you.
In either way of playing the texts are almost identical and neither can be called the 'proper way to play.' It is even possible to play one of the two stories as a single player and play the other through with a partner.
(link: "Single Player.")[(set: $2Player = "False")(goto: "Character select")]
(link: "Two Player.")[(set: $2Player = "True")(goto: "Character select")](append: ?Sidebar)[
(link:"Save")[
(if:(save-game:"Slot A"))[Position saved!]
(else: )[Sorry, save failed!]
]
(if: (saved-games:) contains "Slot A")[(link: "Load")[(load-game:"Slot A")]
]
(if: (passage:)'s tags contains "Start")[](else:)[(link: "Restart")[(reload:)]]
(if: $Notes is "True")[[[Notes->Theoretical Training Exercise Training Notes]]]]The following notes are not the official product of any government ministry or body. They do not represents the thoughts, beliefs, or wishes of any individual or group within their capacity as representatives of the state.
KEEP ON PERSON AT ALL TIMES, DESTROY IF ORDERED OR UNDER PERSONAL INITIATIVE.
CODEWORD SECRET. RELEASE OR MENTION OF THIS DOCUMENT WITHOUT EXPLICIT SANCTION WILL BE PUNISHED BY COURT MARTIAL.
The aim of the theoretical exercise is to test the moral calibre of military officers. While it is related to the legal field, it is not a legal process. No knowledge of the law not also covered within this document is required for participation in the theoretical exercise.
For the purposes of the theoretical exercise, we shall imagine an ideal state, one in which what is best for the community can be done. Given this, you will be introduced to a number of clients and asked to make moral evaluations on what you would wish this theoretically free state to do in response to the presence of these clients within its borders. Your priority in this exercise should be the safety of the people of the country, which relies, of course, on the security of the country.
In this regard, the people should be kept safe from:
• Physical threats: clients who may wish to cause physical harm to citizens of the country.
• Moral threats: clients who may wish to corrupt the morals of the citizens of the country.
• Spiritual threats: clients who risk the purity of the eternal souls of the citizens of the country.
• Threats to cohesion: clients who may wish to sabotage the bonds of national pride and love which sanctify and strengthen the citizens of the country.
(if: $Highlighted is "True")[(text-style: "mark")[It must also be remembered that the benefits that an individual could bring to our community can outweigh some level of threat.]] For example, the spiritual risks of religious tolerance are outweighed by the removal of threats to cohesion produced by religious intolerance (in most normal cases).
At the end of the evaluation procedure (consisting primarily of an interview with the client) you will be asked to make one of five evaluations, listed below:
• Release: You judge that the client is either not a threat or that the positive implications of release back into society outweigh the potential threats they do pose.
• Hold: You judge that the individual is a threat to society, but that such threat can be easily contained if the individual is kept within a secure environment (note that this will most likely be the case for those presenting a physical threat).
• End: You judge that the individual’s existence is a threat to society.
You may also believe that the client has information they are not sharing with you, which, if the country knew it, could be used to prevent future threats. If so, you may select to Question the client first, before then either Holding or Ending them.
Note that the above is an example of what could be done, not instructions on what must be done. Understanding the effects of the five options, you should make your own moral decision on what option you should select for each client.
(link-goto: "Finish reading.", (history:)'s last)Like with many horror stories, it is impossible to provide an adequate content warning without spoiling some elements of the plot. This content warning has therefore been divided into sections so readers can engage with it at the level they wish.
What type of horror is this?
(click: 'What type of horror is this?')[//A Chinese Room// is non-supernatural, non-technological horror. While it is set in a world with differences from our own, the horror it attempts to invoke is a very real one based on the types of power structures, societal positions and psychological states that exist within the real world. There is one element that could be described as 'near future sci-fi', but this is mostly incidental to the horror, rather than the seed from which the horror grows (making //A Chinese Room// different from something such as //Black Mirror//).]
General content warning (spoilers).
(click: 'General content warning (spoilers).')[Violence, murder, torture, war, physical and mental coercion, mutilation, blood, psychological distress, hallucination, Nazism, homophobia, institutional sexism, rape, Christianity, existentialism.]
Which of the two stories is more 'horrific?'
(click: "Which of the two stories is more 'horrific?'")[While I would not reject an argument to the contrary, it is the author's opinion that Leon Phillips' story is significantly more 'horrific'. Almost all of the elements mentioned in the section above are hinted at or alluded to in Caroline Druars story, but almost all of them are explored in more depth or more directly shown in Leon Phillips' story.]
The main theme (spoilers).
(click: "The main theme (spoilers).")[This game is very heavily inspired by the Russian 2022 invasion of Ukraine. It is not in any way meant as a historial text and all the characters within it are fictional. The countries involved are never named and at times deliberate care has been taken to distance the locations in the story from real world locations. However, it would be wrong to not note the inspiration within this content warning.]
[[Back to character select->Character select]]{(set: $Bold = $Bold - 1)}“Yes, no, you’re right.(if: $Bold > 0)[ Professional wrestlers put in a lot of work as well, but no, you are right, it’s not a good comparison.]”
You leave the theatre chatting politely about what you have just seen.
A bell chimes across the square and you suddenly find yourself sweating. You stop walking.
“What’s wrong?”
“I’m supposed to meet my children.” You check the clock. “Oh, I’m not late yet. But I have to leave now.”
“Oh, oh that’s alright then. I thought something terrible might have happened.
“So, can I come along?”
[[“Yes.”->Yes come see the kids]]
[[“No”->No you can’t see the kids]]
(set: $Keen = $Keen - 1)
↶↷
Save
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A Chinese Room.
A game by Milo van Mesdag
A Chinese Room is two interconnecting stories. Each can either be read as a traditional solo interactive fiction experience or read in a play-by-mail format with another reader who is making their way through the other story in tandem with you.
In either way of playing the texts are almost identical and neither can be called the 'proper way to play.' It is even possible to play one of the two stories as a single player and play the other through with a partner.
Single Player.
Two Player.