(set: $madness to 1)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(font:"Exo")+(text-style:"smear","blink")+(text-size:0.9)[''Never answer in the middle of the night'']
(text-size:0.7)[//Well I stepped into an avalanche...//
"Strike?"
//It covered up my soul...//
You ignore the music flowing through the store for a second and nod at the old man on the other side of the counter. "Yeah. Red."
"Still can't sleep?", he asks, raising his eyebrow at you.
[[🔹"You know, me Dan", I smirk. "I'm one of the young and restless"->restless]]
[[🔹"Mhm", I hum, admitting the obvious. "Another one of those nights, I guess..."->hum]]
[[🔹I don't even acknowledge his question. I'm not in the mood for chit chat.->antisocial]]] ]
<audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/75c2d6_ad2e1fc5989e4652ad794d22dc311b03.mp3" autoplay><style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[(text-style:"expand")[Personal file]]
(font:"Exo")+(text-size:0.6)+(text-style:"expand")[Name: (print: $firstname) (print: $lastname)
Age: 28
Gender: (print: $gender_choice)
Height: $height_choice
Eye color: $eyecolor
Hair: $hairlength, $haircolor
Ability: Mind Breach (direct contact with the target enhancing, but not necessary; limited range - aprox. 10 m^^2^^)
Assigned to Unit: Control and Guidance (Public Security)
Current location: $location
Contact: August Wald
Risk classification: $riskclass
Mentions: $mention1. $mention2. $mention3
[[--Saved files--->saved files]]
(if: $codex is true)[Codex
(dropdown: bind $menufile, "Risk Classification", "Relationships", "Clues")
[[Show->risk class]]]
]
(set: $humor to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You wink at him, taking your pack of cigarettes from the counter. He smiles, but you see a faint shadow of worry in there.
[[🔹I appreciate the thought, but I don't feel comfortable with it.->nice thought]]
[[🔹I hate it. He doesn't know a thing about me, he has no right to look at me like that.->hate]]
[[🔹I grew attached to this grumpy old man. It's nice to see that someone still cares in this shithole.->attached]]]](set: $humor to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You take your pack of cigarettes from the counter. He smiles, but you see a faint shadow of worry in there.
[[🔹I appreciate the thought, but I don't feel comfortable with it.->nice thought]]
[[🔹I hate it. He doesn't know a thing about me, he has no right to look at me like that.->hate]]
[[🔹I grew attached to this grumpy old man. It's nice to see that someone still cares in this shithole.->attached]]]]
(set: $humor to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You take your pack of cigarettes from the counter. He smiles, but you see a faint shadow of worry in there.
[[🔹I appreciate the thought, but I don't feel comfortable with it.->nice thought]]
[[🔹I hate it. He doesn't know a thing about me, he has no right to look at me like that.->hate]]
[[🔹I grew attached to this grumpy old man. It's nice to see that someone still cares in this shithole.->attached]]]](set: $gentle to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[His voice snaps you back to reality.
'Kid, take care out there, okay?'
'Thanks, Dan', you say, giving him a little smile. 'But you don't have to worry. Really. My life's as boring as they come.'
He gives you a skeptical look but he doesn't try to argue further.
'August dropped by today. They said something about you two going to buy furniture...'
You sigh. 'I really can't keep up with them.'
He lets out a short laugh and you realise how that must have sounded. You [[blush->return2]].]](set: $anger to true)
(set: $gentle to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)[His voice snaps you back to reality.
'Kid, take care out there, okay?'
'Thanks, but I can fend for myself, Dan', you say, frowning. 'On top of that, my life's as boring as they come. At least lately.'
He gives you a skeptical look, but he doesn't try to argue further.
'August dropped by today. They said something about you two going to buy furniture...'
You sigh, rolling your eyes. "Wonderful."
He stares at you for a couple of seconds, like he's pondering whether to say more. In the end, [[he decides against it.->return3]].]](set: $gentle to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[His voice snaps you back to reality.
'Kid, take care out there, okay?'
'Dan, come one. This is one of the most boring districts in the city. Unless my neighbour decides to kill me with her awful taste in music, I don't have other things to worry about.'
He gives you a skeptical look, but he doesn't try to argue further.
'August dropped by today. They said something about you two going to buy furniture...'
You crinkle your nose. 'Tsk. I thought they'd eventually forget about it.'
He lets out a short laugh and it makes you [[smile as well->smile]].]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Psshht, just do it! I've heard your place is a damn crack house."
'Not a crack house, a crack //home//, please. Also, if you have to know, they just don't like the couch they constantly end up sleeping on', you smirk. 'So I told them that if they can't sleep on it, they don't have to.'
You shrug, shuffling for your lighter. As you take it out of your pocket, you glance at your phone screen. (text-style:"smear")[23:12].
'It's a special thing to have such a close friend', he says, resting his chin on the palm of his hand.
You smile nervously. 'Yeah...[[friend->return]].']]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)['Well, time for me to...Uuuh! Are those sour lollipops?!'
You excitedly reach for the sweets holder, behind Dan.
'Pick one', Dan says smiling. 'I'll pretend I don't see anything.'
'You sweet, aging man!', you coo.
'You brat!', he scoffs, amused.
'I'll pick the one with...'
[[🔹Strawberries. ->strawberry]]
[[🔹Apples.->apple]]
[[🔹Mango.->mango]]
[[🔹Cherries.->cherry]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You stuff the lollipop in your pocket, deciding to keep it for later.
'Now go and sleep already!', Dan chides you gently, with a dismissive gesture of his hand.
[['Yeah, yeah!'->sms]]]]
(set: $strawberrypop to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You stuff the lollipop in your pocket, deciding to keep it for later.
'Now go and sleep already!', Dan chides you gently, with a dismissive gesture of his hand.
[['Yeah, yeah!'->sms]]]]
(set: $applepop to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You stuff the lollipop in your pocket, deciding to keep it for later.
'Now go and sleep already!', Dan chides you gently, with a dismissive gesture of his hand.
[['Yeah, yeah!'->sms]]]]
(set: $mangopop to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You stuff the lollipop in your pocket, deciding to keep it for later.
'Now go and sleep already!', Dan chides you gently, with a dismissive gesture of his hand.
[['Yeah, yeah!'->sms]]]]
(set: $cherrypop to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['Psshht, just do it! I've heard your place is a damn crack house.'
'That's an overstatement. They just don't like the couch they sleep on', you mumble. 'And this wouldn't be a problem if they didn't regulary crash on said couch.'
You shrug, shuffling for your lighter. As you take it out of your pocket, you glance at your phone screen. (text-style:"smear")[23:12].
'It's a special thing to have a close friend', he says, resting his chin on the palm of his hand.
You smile nervously. 'Yeah...[[friend->popsigentle]].']]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['Well, time for me to...Are those sour lollipops?!'
You quickly reach for the sweets holder, behind Dan.
'Pick one,' Dan says smiling. 'I'll pretend I don't see anything.'
'This is awesome! I thought they didn't sell these anymore! Thank you.'
'You're welcome', he says, amused.
'I'll pick the one with...'
[[[🔹Strawberries. ->strawberry]]]
[[[🔹Apples.->apple]]]
[[[🔹Mango.->mango]]]
[[[🔹Cherries.->cherry]]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
You step out in the cold, pulling your coat tighter around you. It's only the first month of fall, but it's already freezing.
Your phone buzzes. You take it out, already knowing who sent you the text. There's only one person who would write to you at this hour.
(text-style:"smear")['at the door. where are you?']
You strugle to stretch your half numb fingers.
(text-style:"smear")['around the corner'
'kay'
]
You pass by the closed stores, the rundown barber shop and the loud, little crowd gathered [[in front of the gambling house.->club]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[They throw the cigarette butt with a flick of their fingers. In the dim, cold streetlight, they look almost like a specter, a white haired ghost clad in a black coat.
//How fitting//, you think to yourself.
Their eyes bore into yours, as if they're searching for something underneath your still neutral expression.
"You shouldn't walk around the streets at this hour", they point out, with a small frown.
You hear yourself sigh, as you begin to search for your keys.
Since your forced retirement, August has been the only colleague who insisted on keeping in touch. Regardless of your desire to hide from the world and forget all about [[who you once were->gusgustalk]].]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You push the key into the lock.
"For a //control dog//, you have a lot of free time on your hands", you grumble.
"Says the //other dog//, who just came back from a fun night walk."
"I'm not a dog. Not anymore."
The mere mention of your former job moniker makes you feel drousy. //The control dogs//. Your life as one of the agents seems so far away now.
They hum noncommittally and you know they're not convinced in the slightest by your claim.
You enter the small hall of your apartment, with August right behind you.
Recalling Dan's mention of a makeover, you glance at the open space room in front of you.
[[🔹I may not have a lot of available funds, but I made my home look welcoming and stylish. ->stylish]]
[[🔹My home would actually look nice and welcoming if it weren't for all the instant food wrappings, empty mugs and clothes laying all around the place. ->trash ]]
[[🔹My place is a dumpster and it wouldn't look much better even if I were to clean it.->dumpster]]
[[🔹My place is tidy and that's all that matters. I don't have money to waste on fancy furniture.->tidy]]] ]
(set: $organised to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[//I don't know what the old man was talking about. My house is completely fine.//
"I'm not staying tonight, I just came to pick up some stuff I left behind."
August walks past you, taking their mustard yellow gloves off. They enter the bathroom. "Have you seen my contacts?"
You stop at the bathroom door, leaning on the doorframe and immediately spot the contacts holder, right on the edge of the sink, between two bottles of expensive face wash. Also theirs.
[[🔹"I still marvel at the fact that they're letting you out on the field with your observation skills", I say, amused by the whole scene.->sarcastic]]
[[🔹I pretend I don't notice. It's not my business.->business]]
[[🔹I pretend not to notice just to tease them a bit.->tease]]
[[🔹I pick up the holder, handing it to them.->helping]]]](set: $organised to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[//Well, the old man was right about one thing. I have to clean.//
"I'm not staying tonight, I just came to pick up some stuff I left behind."
August walks past you, taking their mustard yellow gloves off. They enter the bathroom. "Have you seen my contacts?"
You stop at the bathroom door, leaning on the doorframe and immediately spot the contacts holder, right on the edge of the sink, between two bottles of expensive face wash. Also theirs.
[[🔹"I still marvel at the fact that they're letting you out on the field with your observation skills", I say, amused by the whole scene.->sarcastic]]
[[🔹I pretend I don't notice. It's not my business.->business]]
[[🔹I pretend not to notice just to tease them a bit.->tease]]
[[🔹I pick up the holder, handing it to them.->helping]]]](set: $organised to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[//Why should I bother?...//
"I'm not staying tonight, I just came to pick up some stuff I left behind."
August walks past you, taking their mustard yellow gloves off. They enter the bathroom. "Have you seen my contacts?"
You stop at the bathroom door, leaning on the doorframe and immediately spot the contacts holder, right on the edge of the sink, between two bottles of expensive face wash. Also theirs.
[[🔹"I still marvel at the fact that they're letting you out on the field with your observation skills", I say, amused by the whole scene.->sarcastic]]
[[🔹I pretend I don't notice. It's not my business.->business]]
[[🔹I pretend not to notice just to tease them a bit.->tease]]
[[🔹I pick up the holder, handing it to them.->helping]]]](set: $organised to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[//Who cares about furniture, anyways.//
"I'm not staying tonight, I just came to pick up some stuff I left behind."
August walks past you, taking their mustard yellow gloves off. They enter the bathroom. "Have you seen my contacts?"
You stop at the bathroom door, leaning on the doorframe and immediately spot the contacts holder, right on the edge of the sink, between two bottles of expensive face wash. Also theirs.
[[🔹"I still marvel at the fact that they're letting you out on the field with your observation skills", I say, amused by the whole scene.->sarcastic]]
[[🔹I pretend I don't notice. It's not my business.->business]]
[[🔹I pretend not to notice just to tease them a bit.->tease]]
[[🔹I pick up the holder, handing it to them.->helping]]]](set: $humor to true)
(set: $relgus to 1)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["I don't know what that says about you...
{[(input-box:2bind $firstname,"=XX=",1,"First Name")(replace: ?firstname)[$firstname]]}
"...after all, I saved your ass more than one time, didn't I?", they [[smirk->sarcastic2]].] ](set: $gentle to false)
<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I don't have the time for this, dammit!.."
They stop in front of the white cabinet on the wall, squinting at all the things stuffed on the narrow shelves.
You whisper the next words under your breath, but they catch them immediately. //Well, at least their hearing is top notch//.
"Did you swear at me or something?", they ask, narrowing their eyes.
You bark out a laugh. "Why is it that every time I say something in Seonian you assume it's something offensive?"
"Because you never want to teach me anything in your language. It's clear you don't want me to understand what you're saying..."
[[You scoff.->business 2]]]]
(set: $humor to true)
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(text-size:0.7)[You barely contain a smile as you watch them frantically scavange through all the things around them. They abruptly turn, looking straight at you. "Where is it?"
"What?", you smile innocently.
"The contacts holder, {[(input-box:2bind $firstname,"=XX=",1,"First Name")(replace: ?firstname)[$firstname]]} I //know// you know where it is."
They turn back to the white cabinet on the wall behind them, squinting at all the things stuffed on the narrow shelves.
You whisper the next words under your breath, but they catch them immediately. //Well, at least their hearing is top notch//.
"Did you swear at me or something?", they ask, narrowing their eyes.
You bark out a laugh. "Why is it that every time I say something in Seonian you assume it's something offensive?"
"Because you never want to teach me anything in your language. It's clear you don't want me to understand what you're saying..."
[[//Are they pouting right now//->sarcastic3]]?]](set: $gentle to true)
(set: $relgus to 1)
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You step into the bathroom and pick up the holder. They stretch out their arm and you place the holder in their open hand.
"Thanks, {[(input-box:2bind $firstname,"=XX=",1,"First Name")(replace: ?firstname)[$firstname]]}"
"You know, there's a saying in my father's half of the family. I guess it translates to something like...//it's so easy to see it that it almost screams//," you say, smiling.
"That's a funny one,", they laugh. "When are you going to teach me Seonian?"
"I'm not your language teacher, August," you chuckle.
"[[Fine, fine. But I tell you, I'd be the perfect student.->smartass]]."]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Psssht", you scoff, with a dismissive gesture of your wrist.
"I just didn't want you to feel bad about me being so good."
"Yeah, sure", they say, rolling their eyes. Then they look straight at you. "Where is it?"
"What?", you smile innocently.
"The contacts holder. I //know// you know where it is."
They turn back to the white cabinet on the wall behind them, squinting at all the things stuffed on the narrow shelves.
You whisper the next words under your breath, but they catch them immediately. //Well, at least their hearing is top notch//.
"Did you swear at me or something?", they ask, narrowing their eyes.
You bark out a laugh. "Why is it that every time I say something in Seonian you assume it's something offensive?"
"Because you never want to teach me anything in your language. It's clear you don't want me to understand what you're saying..."
[[Are they pouting right now->sarcastic3]]?]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Don't be such a kid, Gus", you tease them.
They flinch at the dreaded nickname. "Don't..."
"I just have better things to do than to be your language teacher."
You step into the bathroom and pick up the holder. They stretch out their arm and you place the holder in their open hand.
"There's a saying in my father's half of the family. I guess it translates to something like...//it's so easy to see it that it almost screams//. That's what I said earlier."
"[[Smartass->smartass]]."]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[They shove the contacts in their inner pocket and rush back to the door.
"Try to sleep a little, okay?", you hear them say, just as they step outside.
The door closes behind them, as you remain in the hallway, with your gaze still fixed on it.
The memory of a past day returns with full force in your mind. August's right. They saved you more than once and you know it. Maybe you could have become true friends if their presence didn't constantly remind you of your life in the CG Unit. And if they weren't tasked with [[monitoring you->dossier]].] ]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[A beat.
You walk into your bedroom and crouch in front of the nightstand, pushing it towards the wall. Then you stick your fingers through the little crack in the wooden floor, at the intersection of two of the planks, lifting one of them.
A thin pile of files pop into view. You take out [[the top file.->personalfile]]] ]
<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[$firstname
(input-box:2bind $lastname,"=XX=",1,"Last name")(replace: ?lastname)[$lastname]
Age: 28
Gender: (cycling-link: bind $gender_choice, "male", "female", "non-binary")
(replace: ?gender_choice)[$gender_choice]
Height: (cycling-link: bind $height_choice, "average height", "under the average", "over the average");
Hair: (cycling-link: bind $hairlength, "short", "long", "shaved", "shoulder-length"); (cycling-link: bind $haircolor, "blonde", "dark brown", "light brown", "black", "white", "pink", "green", "blue", "grey", "red").
Eye color: (cycling-link: bind $eyecolor, "blue", "green", "brown", "hazel").
(replace: ?hairlength)[$hairlength]
(replace: ?haircolor)[$haircolor]
(replace: ?height_choice)[$height_choice]
(replace: ?eyecolor)[$eyecolor]
Assigned to Unit: Control and Guidance (Public Security)
Mentions: On temporary leave. Mentally stable.
Risk classification: Not determined.
(set: $mention1 to "On temporary leave")
(replace: ?mention1)[$mention1]
(set: $mention2 to "Mentally stable")
(replace: ?mention2)[$mention2]
(set: $riskclass to "Not determined")
(replace: ?rskclass)[$riskclass]
[(rerun:?stats)]
//Temporary leave.//[[You almost feel like laughing]]]]<style>
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</style>
(set: $firstname to "Joe", $lastname to "Doe", $location to "Bercen District, Serga City", $gender_choice to "-")
(set: $haircolor to "-", $hairlength to "-", $height_choice to "-", $eyecolor to "-")
(set: $mention3 to "-", $mention1 to "-", $mention2 to "-", $riskclass to "unknown", $ability to "mental breach")
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(font:"Exo")+(text-style:"smear")+(text-size:0.9)[[[WELCOME BACK, AGENT->First call]]]
(text-size:0.7)+(text-style:"condense")[[[-list of trigger warnings-->trigger warnings]]]]
<audio src="https://static.wixstatic.com/mp3/75c2d6_ad2e1fc5989e4652ad794d22dc311b03.mp3" autoplay><style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Well, this is an old file now. There's no way for you to know how your current one looks, somewhere in the archives below the Main Bureau's building, in the only computer system isolated from any network. And you're sure they won't forget to update it when necessary.
The rumbling sound of a thunder cuts into the silence of your room and you turn to look out of the window. Another rainy night [[announces itself->rainy]]...]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Nights like these make you think...
About where you are now. About how it all started. Would you have done things other way if you had known? Did you have that chance at all?
You go to your desk, flopping down on the uncomfortable chair behind it and you open the second drawer. You [[take out the old, brownish notebook->diary ]].] ]
<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[July, 23.
Spencer left and Ma is sure he's left her for good.
I think Lucas already suspects something is wrong, but he and May are still too young to understand what's happening. At least we don't have to tell them their father abandoned us. I wouldn't know what to say if they were to ask //why//.
On another note, //my// dear father reached out to me for the first time in two years. [[Ma doesn't know yet...->july30]]]] <style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
July, 30.
Ma hasn't been able to stop from crying these days and I feel like the whole house is going crazy. Lucas is being an absolute brat. I get it, he's agitated and probably scared, but sometimes...I wish I could just go away from here.
I was so excited for this year, but now...I'm not sure if I will be able to go to college anymore.
I decided to keep my meetings with father a secret from Ma. He wants to start again our training sessions and I know what Ma thinks about that already. Honestly, I don't really want to hide things from her, but father said that learning to control my ability would also help me with those outbreaks of anger. And they're getting [[more frequent lately->october]].]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
October, 1.
I'm leaving. Ma can't handle all three of us, May is too young for her to return to work now, everything's a mess. I talked with father and he said he can introduce me to someone from Public Security. Apparently they recruit individuals like me. Father told me it's going to be risky, but the money is good and I can ask for protection for ma, Lucas and May.
Ma...she didn't take it well. She said she wouldn't speak to me ever again if I chose this path. I can see she's worried...but I made up my mind. And she'll be taken care of if I pass the interview. I'll send them money.
[[Maybe one day she'll forgive me->forgave me]].]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[October, 5.
I passed. This is probably the last time I'll write in a journal or something like that. They want me to live without //many traces left behind//.
This is my last chance to admit that I'm nervous...[[I hope this was the right decision->back to present]].]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You gently place the diary back in the drawer, then you begin rocking in the chair, until you hear the familiar creaking sound.
//This damned, old thing. Maybe I should buy a new one, after all.//
You decide it's about time you pulled yourself out of this nostalgic trance, so you...
...[[🔹put some music on.->music]]
...[[🔹pour myself a drink.->drink]]
...[[🔹turn on the radio (enable audio).->radio]]] ]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[The thought of drinking some of your favorite (cycling-link: bind $favdrink, "white wine","red wine","vodka","whiskey","gin","beer") crosses your mind, but you decide against it.
You may not have many possessions, but you sure did invest in this sound system. Music makes life better, after all. Even one like yours.
You pick your favorite (cycling-link:"jazz","latino","blues","alternative rock ","rock ","classical ","pop","punk ") playlist and you let the songs flow into the room, as you lightly shift from one foot to the other, on the rythm.
The third song begins to play and the corners of your lips quirk a little. You love this one. You used to listen to it when you were younger and you remember thinking how funny Lucas was when he tried to hum it around the house, [[his awkward way of letting you know he liked it too.->lucas]]] ]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Nothing like a good drink to end the day. This cold, bleak day.
You enter the kitchen and take out a bottle of (cycling-link: bind $favdrink, "white wine","red wine","vodka","whiskey","gin","beer"), then you lazily walk back the living room, flopping down on your armchair. Your couch might not be the most comfortable thing out there, but this chair sure is.
The liquor stings your tongue and you suddenly remember the day when you played that childish prank on Lucas, giving him a glass of plum brandy instead of one of juice. When realization hit, he looked so funny, [[you laughed at him for days.->lucas]]] ]
<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
"...Meanwhile in local news: Yesterday, September 20th, the Main Bureau for Public Security announced a new robbery on one of the BioENH facilities. Commander-in-chief Kalin Maxwell offered an official statement telling the press that the case will be handed over to the CG Unit for further investigations..."
You groan, reaching again for the power switch. You're not in the mood to remember that name right now.
[[Music is better.->music]]
[[A drink it is then.->drink]]
]]
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(text-size:0.7)[It's you. ]
[[...->save I]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Lucas...
He is already 12 old now. And May...she turned 8 just a few weeks ago. You...
[[...🔹remembered her birthday and I sent her a gift, like I do every year. ->remember gift]]
[[...🔹forgotten about her birthday, but I sent her a gift a day after, with a little apology note attached to it.->forgot gift]]
[[...🔹remembered her birthday, but I didn't send her anything. It's better for them to forget about me completely. ->remember no gift]]
[[...🔹forgotten about her birthday.->forgot no gift]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[The least you could do, right?
It's been so long since you've seen your family, but somehow you feel like time has not passed for you and them. Not really.
You weren't allowed to visit them ever since you were taken out of active duty because that last case got so complicated. You weren't exactly happy with the situation, but you understood. There are a handful of people who would still like to take their revenge on you. But...maybe four years is enough. [[Maybe it's time.->time]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You can almost hear your mother say that she was expecting you to forget, because you always do when it comes to important events like that.
You snort. Well, she is right.
It's been so long since you've seen all of them, but somehow you feel like time has not passed for you. Not really.
You weren't allowed to visit them ever since you were taken out of active duty because that last case got so complicated. You weren't exactly happy with the situation, but you understood. There are a handful of people who would still like to take their revenge on you. But...maybe four years is enough. [[Maybe it's time.->time]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You remembered, how could you forget?
However...you didn't want to put your mother in the position of explaining to May why you were not coming to see her, even though you //knew// it was her birthday.
It's been so long since you've seen all of them...Maybe too long.
You weren't allowed to visit them ever since you were taken out of active duty because that last case got so complicated. You weren't exactly happy with the situation, but you understood. There are a handful of people who would still like to take their revenge on you. But...maybe four years is enough. [[Maybe it's time.->time]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You can almost hear your mother say that she was expecting you to forget, because you always do when it comes to important events like that.
You snort. Well, she is right. By the time you remembered it was already too late for a gift.
It's been so long since you've seen all of them. Too long maybe.
You weren't allowed to visit them ever since you were taken out of active duty because that last case got so complicated. You weren't exactly happy with the situation, but you understood. There are a handful of people who would still like to take their revenge on you. But...maybe four years is enough. [[Maybe it's time.->time]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[A wave of warm excitment fills you up as you begin to think about it. //You could return home//. Lately you've been talking with August about the possibility and they didn't seem completely reluctant to it. You'd have to get some approvals first, but it's not impossible.
The only thing that you're scared of is that...
[[🔹My siblings have forgotten about me.->big surprise]]
[[🔹I no longer have a place in the family. ->mentally stable]]
[[🔹I'll only bring them more trouble. ->drinking]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You couldn't blame them if they did, but...it would still be painful.
Your gaze falls on your wrist, at the blue flowers inked on your skin around the small cursive letters.
"I promised," you read them, in a soft whisper to yourself.
The last gift for your Ma. [[//A pledge not to forget.// ->you'll keep it]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You've been away for so long, what if they...don't need you anymore?
As you try to chase away the thought, your gaze falls on your wrist, at the blue flowers inked on your skin, around the small cursive letters.
"I promised," you read them, in a soft whisper to yourself.
The last gift for your Ma. [[//A pledge not to forget.// ->you'll keep it]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Your condition right now is not the best, but then again...it will probably never be.
As you try to chase away the thought, your gaze falls on your wrist, at the blue flowers inked on your skin, around the small cursive letters.
"I promised," you read them, in a soft whisper to yourself.
The last gift for your Ma. [[//A pledge not to forget.// ->you'll keep it]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Your phone starts buzzing again and you look at the screen. (text-style:"smear")[00:46]. An unknown number.
You click your tongue as you pick it up, half-prepared to mute it. But...something stops you. You answer.
"$firstname $lastname?"
You pause a moment before answering the official sounding voice on the other end of the line. "Yes..."
"[[We've called to...->loud knock ]]"]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Loud, almost desperate knocks draw your attention towards the front door. "Wait a minute, please," you say, as you pass through the main hall.
You open it to see August, looking as if they'd run over here. //Chased by a hoard of ghosts//. You frown a little at the sight.
"Excuse me? Are you still there?"
"Oh, yes, yes," you quickly answer, turning your back to them, to resume the conversation.
You hear August coming behind you and you gesture for them to keep silent.
"This is Officer Bernart from Station 33..."
August steps in front of you, looking even more distraught than a moment ago. They try to take the phone from your hand, but you dodge them just in time, still confused.
"Station 33?" you repeat, as the dots begin to connect inside your head.
"Yes..."
//No. //
"We've called you because there was an incident..."
You raise your eyes to August's face, praying for them to hold your gaze confidently, like they always do. [[Like always...->like always]]] ]
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(text-size:0.7)[They make a pained expression. //And they avert their eyes//.
//No.//
"...your mother. She was found dead. We need you to co..."
You can hear a burning, screeching sound. Someone's screaming.
You meet August's terrified expression.
[[//Oh//->it-s you]].]]<style>
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(text-style:"smear","fade-in-out")+(text-size:0.9)+(font:"Exo")[''The long way back into the night '']
(align:"=><=")+(box:"X")[(text-size:0.7)[The humming of the engine intertwines with the sound of rain clawing the car's exterior. You're in the passanger's seat...
[[...🔹absently gazing out of the window, at the blurred neon city lights.->window gaze]]
[[...🔹switching from one radio station to the other, to ease my nerves.->radio stations]]
[[...🔹smoking what I think is already my third cigarette.->smoke]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[//Were they always so bright? They're like fireflies on steroids. Surely this cannot be right...//
"...$firstname..."
//Not right. Not right. Not right.//
"$firstname."
August's voice makes you snap back to reality. You look at them. "Yes?"
They take a drag from their cigarette, their eyes still fixed on the road.
"Do you...need to talk?"
They seem anxious, like they would try to make small talk while standing on the edge of a cliff, pretending not to notice the chasm right next to them.
[[🔹"About what?"->about what 2]]
[[🔹"No."->no no window]]
[[🔹"If you can tell me all this isn't real, yes."->not real]]
🔹My eyes begin to sting, as I try to mutter something about being fine. (BLOCKED)]]
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(text-size:0.7)[//What is it tonight? Not one single good song to listen to. They're all wrong...//
"...$firstname..."
//Everything's wrong.//
"$firstname."
August's voice makes you snap back to reality. You look at them. "Yes?"
They take a drag from their cigarette, their eyes still fixed on the road.
"Do you...need to talk?"
They seem anxious, like they would try to make small talk while standing on the edge of a cliff, pretending not to notice the chasm right next to them.
[[🔹"About what?"->about what]]
[[🔹🔹"No."->no no radio]]
[[🔹"If you can tell me all this isn't real, yes."->not real]]
🔹My eyes begin to sting, as I try to mutter something about being fine. (BLOCKED).]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[//Or the fourth? Do you still have enough left?...It would be bad if you remained without...//
"...$firstname..."
//It would be bad. Bad. Bad. Bad.//
"$firstname."
August's voice makes you snap back to reality. You look at them. "Yes?"
They take a drag from their cigarette, their eyes still fixed on the road.
"Do you...need to talk?"
They seem anxious, like they would try to make small talk while standing on the edge of a cliff, pretending not to notice the chasm right next to them.
[[🔹"About what?"->about what 3]]
[[🔹"No."->no no]]
[[🔹"If you can tell me all this isn't real, yes."->not real]]
🔹My eyes begin to sting, as I try to mutter something about being fine. (BLOCKED).]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["About the fucking weather, $firstname," they say before stopping abruptly. A shadow of guilt creeps on their face.
"Sorry. I didn't mean..."
You narrow your eyes at them. "Why are you so irritated?"
"I'm not. I just..."
Their gaze locks with yours for a second. Something undefined, but genuine creeps between you.
"I'm worried for you."
They turn their head, but you remain with your eyes fixed on their face. They shift in their seat. "And for my radio."
It takes a moment for you to process the last words and August's small, crooked smile. A violent wave of laughter makes your entire body shake, as their smile grows a little.
"This thing is already ancient. It doesn't need my help to break down entirely, believe me," you manage to say, [[between the hiccups of laughter->laugh tears]].] ]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I can't.." they answer, softly.
"How, August? A Shield Unit should've been near at all times, I don't understand..."
August's grip on the wheel tightens, as an angry grimace distorts their face. "That's also something I would like to find out."
"About that...How //did you// find out so fast?", you ask, as you press your forehead against the cold window.
It's expected for them to be informed about this. After all, the Main Bureau had your family under watch and August is responsibile for keeping an eye on you. But as a field agent, they would be one of the last persons to be told about it. Normally, someone directly from the Bureau should have contacted you.
"I...was close by."
"And you left the mission?" you frown, [[turning to them->turning to them]].] ]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Suddenly, your giggles begin to waver and you know you're just a moment away from the tears. The pressure in your nose gets stronger.
"August..." you say, resenting yourself for how weak your voice just sounded. Like a plea.
Their smile falls and they keep silent, waiting for you to continue.
[["Is it really true?->is it really true"]]
[["What am I supposed to do now?->what am i supposed"]]
[["They promised me she would be protected..."->can i count]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)["Why then," you continue shakingly, "is she...dead?"
August's grip on the wheel tightens, as an angry grimace distorts their face. "That's also something I would like to find out."
"About that...How //did you// find out so fast?", you ask, as you press your forehead against the cold window.
It's expected for them to be informed about this. After all, the Main Bureau had your family under watch and August is responsibile for keeping an eye on you. But as a field agent, they would be one of the last persons to be told about it. Normally, someone directly from the Bureau should have contacted you.
"I...was close by."
"And you left the mission?" you frown, [[turning to them->turning to them]].] ]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Yes," they answer, softly.
"But...how? A Shield Unit should've been near at all times, I don't understand..."
August's grip on the wheel tightens, as an angry grimace distorts their face. "That's also something I would like to find out."
"About that...How //did you// find out so fast?", you ask, as you press your forehead against the cold window.
It's expected for them to be informed about this. After all, the Main Bureau had your family under watch and August is responsibile for keeping an eye on you. But as a field agent, they would be one of the last persons to be told about it. Normally, someone directly from the Bureau should have contacted you.
"I...was close by."
"And you left the mission?" you frown, [[turning to them->turning to them]].] ]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["You hold on. Until it gets easier to breathe."
"It gets easier?"
"Yeah, it does. But until then you'll have to hang in there."
A sudden thought comes to your mind and you almost flinch.
"Where were the guys from the Shield Unit when it happened? They should have been nearby."
August's grip on the wheel tightens, as an angry grimace distorts their face. "That's also something I would like to find out."
"About that...How //did you// find out so fast?", you ask, as you press your forehead against the cold window.
It's expected for them to be informed about this. After all, the Main Bureau had your family under watch and August is responsibile for keeping an eye on you. But as a field agent, they would be one of the last persons to be told about it. Normally, someone directly from the Bureau should have contacted you.
"I...was close by."
"And you left the mission?" you frown, [[turning to them->turning to them]].] ]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[A beat.
They rev up the engine and change the gear.
A beat.
They sigh.
"Look, I promise to explain it to you very soon, okay? It's a little complicated..."
"Of course it is," you scoff.
They completely ignore the sarcasm in your voice, looking relieved that you didn't try to push it further.
"What are you going to do? After we pick up your siblings from the station, I mean."
[[🔹"Honestly, I don't know."->don't know]]
[[🔹"I'll do my best to protect them."->me protect ]]
[[🔹"I'll find someone who can protect them."->not me protect]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Let me help you."
Your gaze returns abruptly to them.
"What?"
"I said, let me help you with your siblings. If you need my help, of course."
"...Why?"
A small, sad smile forms on their lips. "Because I think it's the right thing to do. Look, I know you don't think of me as a friend, but I do. Despite the...circumstances. I want to be there for my friend."
[[🔹"Can I really trust you, August?"->can i trust you]]
[[🔹"I don't trust you, August."->i don't trust you]]
[[🔹"I doesn't matter what I think right now. I need all the help I can get and I'd be stupid to refuse."->it doesn't matter]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I'll help you."
Your gaze returns abruptly to them.
"What?"
"I said, I'll help you with your siblings. If you let me, of course."
"...Why?"
A small, sad smile forms on their lips. "Because I think it's the right thing to do. Look, I know you don't think of me as a friend, but I do. Despite the...circumstances. I want to be there for my friend."
[[🔹"Can I really trust you, August?"->can i trust you]]
[[🔹"I don't trust you, August."->i don't trust you]]
[[🔹"I doesn't matter what I think right now. I need all the help I can get and I'd be stupid to refuse."->it doesn't matter]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I can help you protect them."
Your gaze returns abruptly to them.
"What?"
"I said, I can help you. If you want to remain by their side, you won't be alone."
"...Why?"
A small, sad smile forms on their lips. "Because I think it's the right thing to do. Look, I know you don't think of me as a friend, but I do. Despite the...circumstances. I want to be there for my friend."
[[🔹"Can I really trust you, August?"->can i trust you]]
[[🔹"I don't trust you, August."->i don't trust you]]
[[🔹"I doesn't matter what I think right now. I need all the help I can get and I'd be stupid to refuse."->it doesn't matter]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Their jaw clenches slightly and you notice it immediately.
"I hate it when you do this..." they finally say, with a small sigh.
You tilt your head and they continue, in a defeated voice. "You make me want to say yes, even though I can't. Not right now. //So don't trust me//. Just use what I can give you."
A few seconds pass in silence. They switch the right blinker, preparing to enter the police station's parking lot.
"Deal?" they suddenly ask.
[["...Deal."->deal]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Good."
"What?"
"You shouldn't trust me, because I can't be completely honest with you...not right now. //So don't trust me//. Just use what I can give you."
A few seconds pass in silence. They switch the right blinker, preparing to enter the police station's parking lot.
"Deal?" they suddenly ask.
[["...Deal."->deal]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Exactly."
They suddenly click their tongue, almost playfully.
"You alwways knew how to assess a situation, $firstname. I admire that about you."
A few seconds pass in silence. They switch the right blinker, preparing to enter the police station's parking lot.
"I'm counting on you, then," you say, [[with your gaze fixed on the building in front of you.->deal]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
A single glance is enough for you to understand just how overwhelmed is the personnel of Station 33 right now. And most likely not prepared for a case like this.
"Where are my siblings?", you ask, turning to August.
"They're with a social worker. I'll go get them, you wait here. The detective in charge will want to speak with you."
"[[...alright->meeting Bernart]]."]]
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(text-size:0.7)[//This shouldn't take long//, you think as you step inside following the music as it grows louder and louder.
You barely make your way through the restless groups of already intoxicated people, but you eventually reach the bar.
'I was wondering when you were gonna crawl back in here!'
An amused sigh escapes your lips at the sound of that familiar laughter. You raise your head.
'Just my luck, Sorina. To catch// your// shift [[tonight->sabrina]].'] ]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Just before entering the narrow alleway leading to your apartment complex, you glance at the yellow neon sign on your right.
(text-style:"smear","condense")+(text-colour:yellow)[Alter Night Club]
You stop. Didn't Constance tell you to stop by her club tonight to give you something?
[[Well, now you're right in front of it.->give photo]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[The redhead winks at you, taking a bottle out of a high shelf.
'Staying for a drink?'
[[🔹'Just a shot.'->a shot]]
[[🔹'No, August waits for me, I just came because Constance wanted to give me something.'->august waits]]
[[🔹'I'm trying to get my act together lately. Drinking doesn't really help with that.'->act together]]]]
(set: $mentiongus to true)
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(text-size:0.7)['And you're letting your blonde-haired sweetheart wait for you out there in the cold?' she cooes.
You wrinkle your noise. 'I don't think they would appreciate being called that,' you smirk.
She shrugs. 'They never stay around here long enough for me to find out.'
She places a glass of juice in front of you and your attention is immediately drawn to the golden rings placed on all of her fingers. She notices your stare.
'New ones,' she says, in a proud voice, bringing her hands closer so you can see them. 'After I spent so much time just saving money, it's finally time for me to buy pretty things.'
Your gaze drops to her chest and you give her a genuine smile. '[[But it was worth it, wasn't it?->worth it]]']]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)['Of course it was,' she says with a satisfied expression. 'I worked hard to become myself.'
You take a sip from the offered drink.
[[I understand the feeling perfectly, I went through a similar experience. (your current gender identity differs from the one that you were assigned at birth).->the thing you came for 2]]
[[I cannot fully understand the feeling, but I'm happy that Sorina can finally be her true self.->the thing you came for]] ]](set: $cis to true)
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(text-size:0.7)[After a moment of silence you remember the reason you actually came. You look at Sorina.
'Is Constance here? She wanted to give me something and she made it seem important.'
'Oh, yeah, about that. She had to go handle some things, but she left this, telling me to give it to you, in her stead.'
She takes out a yellow envelope from under the counter. You open it, pulling out what [[looks like an invitation->invitation]].]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Is this for tomorrow's party?" you ask.
"It's not just //any// party, dear. It's the five-year anniversary of the club. She'll kill you if you don't make an appearance."
You stare at the fancy-looking piece of hard paper, with the club logo. Under the date and time there's a short handwritten [["//See you there//"->see you there]].]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You sigh. "Okay. I'll probably come."
(if:$mentiongus is true)[Sorina throws a brilliant smile in your direction. "Good. Well, go pick up your angel, they're probably fuming right now."]
(if:$mentiongus is false)["I'd better be going now, though. August is waiting for me in front of the house."
"Oh, no!" she exclaims in an exaggerated tone. "They're probably fuming right now!"]
You let out a laugh. "[[Yeah, you're probably right->go to gus]]."]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Five minutes later, you spot August's red car just as you enter the small, dark alley.
Instinctively, you glance to your front door. They sense your presence, turning slightly in your direction.
"Finally. I was freezing", they [[sigh->gusdescription]].]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You look around. At all of these people fussing, running around. Each one of them in constant motion. Moving to //somewhere//.
A sharp tingle runs down your spine and in a single instant it hits you. The world...it's exactly the same.
This night is just another night for everyone, except for you and your siblings. You're the only ones who were forced to //stop// tonight. Just for you [[everything changed->everything changed]].]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Standing here, in the middle of all this, you feel...
[[...🔹numb.->numb]]
[[...🔹lost.->lost]]
[[...🔹furious.->furious]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You sigh. "Al. So you are in charge of...this case?"
Your words come out strained and it doesn't go unnoticed. His face contorts in a pained grimace.
"I'm so sorry, $firstname...and after what happened to Sash..."
"Al. I'm not here to talk about my father."
He freezes, then he straightens his back a little. "Of course. Umm...do you still smoke?"
"Yeah."
"Then let's go outside. You look like you need some air. [[And so do I->and so do i]]."]]
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(text-size:0.7)[His cigarette case is already in his hand when he steps outside and as he begins to search for the lighter you take a closer look at him. It's been only a few years since you've last seen him, but his once salt and pepper hair is now almost completely white. On his skin, he wears the traces of more than a few sleepless nights.
He's tired. It would be so simple to //breach//...
"Don't," he suddenly says, still searching through his pockets.
"What?"
"Oh, you know what. I can feel your stare and I'm used to it. Your father...he did the same thing to me all the time. It was so annoying."
The man lets out a short, bitter laugh, as he finally takes out the lighter. "Yeah, so annoying...but never mind that. You know damn well what that thing does to you. So don't. [[I'll tell you all you want to know->i'll tell you]].]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Your eyes remain fixed on him for a second. He lights his cigarette. You breathe.
[[🔹"Who did this?"->who did this]]
[[🔹"What were the wards doing when it happened?"->the wards]]
[[🔹"How did she die?"->how did she die]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You're just...empty. Your body feels like someone else's and you're just moving its limbs so it doesn't stand too much in one place. So it doesn't figure out that all this is, in fact, real.
You sigh quietly, repeating in your head the reason you're here. //Focus//. This //is// about you.
A low, hoarse voice reaches you. "$firstname?"
[[You turn to the middle aged man->turn to the middle aged man]].] ]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[The surprise in his pale eyes is probably mirroring your own right now. //What the... //
It takes him a moment to compose himself. "I didn't recognize your last name, it's..."
"My mother's, yes," you intervene, impatiently.
What were the odds? For him to be one of your father's closest friends. He shifts nervously, waiting for your reaction.
[[🔹I have to admit it, I feel reassured to see a familiar face right now. ->feel better with al]]
[[🔹I feel uncomfortable with this situation. He knows more than I'd like to about my circumstances. ->feel uncomfortable with al]]
[[🔹I came here for something else. It doesn't matter to me who the one in charge of the case is, I just want them to be capable.->don't care about detective]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["They were not a //typical//. And they knew exactly what they were doing..."
Your finger nails dig into your skin and you realize you're clenching your fists. Normally, you...
[[...🔹are a rather calm person. Few things can get to you.->calm person]]
[[...🔹are quite an impulsive person. Your emotions are powerful and hard to control.->impulsive person]]
[[...🔹can get quite emotional, but you're able to hide it well.->emotional but hide it well]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["They were already dead."
Your finger nails dig into your skin and you realize you're clenching your fists. Normally, you...
[[...🔹are a rather calm person. Few things can get to you.->calm person2]]
[[...🔹are quite an impulsive person. Your emotions are powerful and hard to control.->impulsive person2]]
[[...🔹can get quite emotional, but you're able to hide it well.->emotional but hide it well2]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Before he can answer you raise your hand.
"Actually, no. I want to see the body," you quickly add.
"You can't."
"You told me you'd share all the inform..."
"There is no body. Not anymore."
[["//What?//"->what3]]]]
(set: $personality to "stoic")
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(text-size:0.7)[However, right now, you're sure that your expression gives it all away.
"...how?" you finally ask. "How did she..."
You clear your throat. "Actually, no. I want to see the body," you quickly add.
"You can't."
"You told me you'd share all the inform..."
"There is no body. Not anymore."
[["//What?//"->what]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)["As I said, it was the work of an atypical. An elemantal one."
You feel your knees melting. "Al."
He lowers his head.
"Al, don't...Al, look at me! Come one, don't tell..was she...burned?"
The next moments fall between you, like a wall of silence.
"Dried. From the inside out..."
[[🔹"No..."->no death]]
[[🔹"Oh, God."->oh god]]
[[🔹"Shit!"->shit]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You begin to fumble through your coat pockets for those damn cigs, as your mind continues to race. Bernart watches you in silence. After a moment, he hands you his lighter.
"What the fuck," you begin as you light up your smoke, "were the wards doing while this was happening?"
"They were already dead."
[[🔹I stay silent. ->stay silent about the wards]]
[[🔹"So it was planned."->so it was planned]]
[[🔹"They must have been very good at their job," I spit out bitterly.->they must be good]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Bernart shoves his hands into his pockets, with a sigh.
"Yes. They knew exactly how many wards there were and how to handle them. [[It was a professional->professional]]."]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You're about to take another drag, when a new, paralyzing thought slithers into your head.
"The kids. Where were they?"
"They weren't at home, fortunately. They were at one of your mother's friends, playing with his kids."
[[A wave of relief washes over you.->relief]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["$firstname, I'm sorry, but I have to ask...do you have any idea who it might be? There are not many atypicals with this ability around and there is no match in our database. We're talking about a TET here."
"You're asking me if I did something to make a murderous nutcase mad at me."
"Yes."
"I...don't know. I haven't had any contact with any individuals from this class of risk in years. Not since my... [[retirement.->retirement]]"]]
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(text-size:0.7)[He stares at you for a moment, with an unreadable expression. "I've heard about that. Are you better now?"
His question almost makes you bark out a laugh. "Right now? No."
"No, I'm referring to your mental..."
"[[I'm not talking about that, Al.->not talking about that]]"]]
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(text-size:0.7)[He just nods and you turn your head to look at the dirty parking lot in front of you. It's not rainning anymore, but the scent of wet concrete still lingers in the air. You're sure it's even colder than a few hours ago, but you can't feel it anymore.
Bernart [[draws your attention and ushers you back inside, quietly->back inside]].]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I'll have to ask you some questions, but I think it's better to leave it for tomorrow. You should take..."
(if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")["Sib?"]
(if:$gender_choice is "male")["Bro?"]
(if:$gender_choice is "female")["Sis?"]
You freeze. Then turn. To your little brother.
"Lucas," you whisper, staring at the now much taller boy than[[ the one from your memories->the one from your memories]]. ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[A pair of brown eyes half covered by tousled light brown hair are now glued to your face. Something moves behind him and you reluctantly look away.
A little blond head pops into your view. 'Brother? Is that...?'
'Yeah,' Lucas says dazedly, as he pats her head gently. 'It's our (if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[sibling](if:$gender_choice is "male")[brother](if:$gender_choice is "female")[sister].
Her striking blue eyes widen in surprise and her whole face brightens up.
She turns, staring at you expectantly.
[[🔹You spread your arms, waiting for her.->spread remember]] 'Do you remember me?'
[[🔹You stare back.->stare remember]] 'I don't think you remember me. And yesh, I'm your older (if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[sibling](if:$gender_choice is "male")[brother](if:$gender_choice is "female")[sister].
[[🔹You smile ar her.->smile remember]] 'You were so small the last time I saw you. Can you give your big (if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[sibling](if:$gender_choice is "male")[brother](if:$gender_choice is "female")[sister] a hug?']]
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(text-size:0.7)[You lift your head.
"I'm here to take you home."
"Why? Where's Ma?" he insists, growing more agitated.
You hear August's calm, mellow voice from a few steps away. "Lucas, let's go talk somewhere more quiet."
"I want to know..."
"Think about May, Lucas", August cuts him off, lowering their voice a little.[[ "She's tired. And scared."->save II]]]]<style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-style:"smear","fade-in-out")+(text-size:0.9)[''From here on out'']
(align:"=><=")+(box:"X")+(text-size:0.7)[Your conversation with the social worker doesn't take long. You pretty much just exchange contact numbers so you can arrange a formal meeting in a few days.
As you approach the car, you see August leaning on the hood, with their arms crossed. They immediately sense your gaze on them, turning in your direction.
//For someone who can barely find something through their own things, they sure are sharp when in comes to people...//
They sigh, and something like sympathy flashes in their eyes.
"Lucas. [[You'll have to convince him to get into the car->talk lucas]]."]]
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(text-size:0.7)[August gestures to a bench nearby and you see Lucas standing there, in a daze.
"May?" you ask.
"She's in the car. Already asleep."
"Okay."
[[You walk towards your brother->to the bench ]].]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You're sure he hears your steps, but he doesn't raise his head.
[[🔹Put your hand on his shoulder.->crouch ]]
[[🔹Remain a step away.->remain standing]]
[[🔹Hug him.->hug him]] ]](set: $gentle to true)
(set: $rellucas to 2)
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(text-size:0.7)[You reach out to him. He quickly avoids your gaze, but he doesn't avoid your touch.
"Lucas..."
"She's gone, isn't she? Forever."
He probably wanted to sound angry, but it's not hard to notice the trembling in his voice. You stare at his hands. He still didn't get rid of his habit of picking the skin around his nails when he feels nervous.
"Yeah. She is."
His sudden hiccup startles you. Instinctively, you grab his shoulders, pulling him into your arms, just as he begins to cry violently. He clings to your coat and you bite your lip in frustration.
"Wh-why?"
"[[I...I don't know yet. I'm sorry->sorry]]."]
]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[It takes some time for Lucas to calm down. You don't rush him. August doesn't even try to interrupt you and you suspect that they wouldn't even if you were to stay in this parking lot all night.
But it's late. It's time to go and you know it.
"Lucas, we have to..."
"What happens now? With us?" he cuts you off.
"You're coming with me home."
"And then?"
"What do you mean?"
"You're going to leave eventually, aren't you?"
[[🔹"No."->no lie]] (lie)
[[🔹"No."->no truth]]
[[🔹"This is not the time to talk about this."->not the time]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I'm not leaving anywhere. From here on out, we're going to stick together."
His gaze locks with yours and it's clear as day he doesn't believe a word you're saying. You sigh.
"I know you don't trust me, but I mean it this time."
You get up, pulling him by the hand. "We'll talk more about this tomorrow. Now we have to go. May is already asleep and she can't spend the whole night in a car."
The mention of your sister's name makes him straighten his back.
[["Okay."->returning home]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Don't! Give that to me!"
August opens the palm of their hand, waiting for you to drop the lighter. You need a moment to realize why. "Ah, the kids..."
You turn your head to the back seats. Both of them are asleep now.
August hits the gas. "They're sweet kids."
[[🔹"Sweet brats," I say, smiling. ->sweet brats]]
[[🔹"Yeah, they really are", I nod.->they really are]]
[[🔹"Mhm..." I agree, hesitantly.->hesitant]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[August chuckles. "As kids their age should be."
You rest your head on the window, listening to the faint sounds of the engine.
"Tomorrow morning. You should come with me to the office."
You turn to August. "Why?"
"Come on, $firstname. I know I can't keep you away from this investigation. I prefer to be there in case something happens. And I already said I wanted to help you."
[[🔹"You know me too well, Gus."->know me too well]]
[[🔹"Fair," I answer with a grin.->fair]]
[[🔹"Alright."->alright]]]](set: $relgus to it + 1)
(set: $humor to true)
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(text-size:0.7)[They click their tongue. "Why must you antagonize me with that nickname?"
"Is it not your name?"
The corners of their lips quirk up. "No."
"I'll be at the office in the morning," you add, returning to the previous subject.
"Good. Another thing...Kosta will be there too. (cycling-link: bind $TheyKosta, "She", "He")'s been working on a[[ nasty case...->try to kill me ]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[...and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] might..."
"Try to kill me when (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] sees me?"
August sighs. "[[Just try to play nice->play nice]]."]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You'd never thought that you would cross paths again with your ex partner. //(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[Darius](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Daria] Kosta.//
"You do know that (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] literally tried to kill me a couple of times, don't you?" you mumble.
"$TheyKosta was always impulsive," August scoffs. "But...(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] was really hurt four years ago. $TheyKosta nerver understood why you...your situation. $TheyKosta thinks you abandoned us."
[[🔹"I did."->i did ]]
[[🔹"The Unit abandoned me."->the unit abandoned me]]
]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["No, you didn't!"
The anger in August's voice makes you flinch. "We did. The Unit abandoned you."
"The members didn't know what really happened."
"I did."
[[🔹"Yes, you did."->yes you did]]
[[🔹"And what the hell could you have done, August? You were a rookie field agent at the time!"->what could you have done]]
[[🔹"Yeah, we could have been both forced to retire," you snort.->both forced to retire]]]](set: $relgus to it + 1)
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(text-size:0.7)[August turns for a second to look at you and you see their dark blue eyes flooded with guilt.
"August, you were just a field agent. And a relatively new one at that. It would have done me no good if you had tried to intervene."
"You might be right, at the time I couldn't have done much. But //I will// help now."
You almost open your mouth to remind them that they're still a field agent, but you stop. They don't deserve your biterness.
You don't think you'll be able to clear the air between you and your former colleagues, but maybe you could still work with them. [[For a short while at least->maybe you were wrong]]. ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["What the fuck (if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[are they](if:$gender_choice is "male")[is he](if:$gender_choice is "female")[is she] doing here?"
The next day, as you face the tall (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[man](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[woman] scowling at you, a single thought will roam through your mind.
''//Or, maybe not.//''
"[[Good to see you again,->save III]] //partner//."]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Your irritation just grows stronger, seeing the sad look he's giving you.
'I know what you're thinking right now,' you grumble. 'They probably told you that my house is some kind of dumpster and that I //really// need help to live again like a human being.'
'No, they just told me that the couch they've been sleeping on is very uncomfortable.'
You shrug, shuffling for your lighter. As you take it out of your pocket, you glance at your phone screen. (text-style:"smear")[23:12].
'Then they can sleep on their own couch. Or bed.'
'It's a special thing to have a close friend', he says, resting his chin on the palm of his hand.
You smile nervously. 'Yeah...[[friend->popsinotgentle]].']]
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(text-size:0.7)['Well, time for me to...Are those sour lollipops?!'
'Pick one,' Dan says smiling. 'I'll pretend I don't see anything.'
'I thought they didn't sell these anymore...thanks.'
'You're welcome', he says, amused.
You pause, hesitantly. Then you reach for the sweets holder, behind Dan.
'Hmmm...I'll pick the one with...'
[[[🔹Strawberries. ->strawberry]]]
[[[🔹Apples.->apple]]]
[[[🔹Mango.->mango]]]
[[[🔹Cherries.->cherry]]]]](set: $mentiongus to false)
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(text-size:0.7)['Coming right up!'
She places a shot of (cycling-link: bind $drink_choice, "tequila", "jager", "vodka") in front of you and your attention is immediately drawn to the golden rings placed on all of her fingers. She notices your stare.
'New ones,' she says, in a proud voice, bringing her hands closer so you can see them. 'After I spent so much time just saving money, it's finally time for me to buy pretty things.'
Your gaze drops to her chest and you give her a genuine smile. '[[But it was worth it, wasn't it?->worth it]]']](set: $mentiongus to false)
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(text-size:0.7)['Someone's all grown up!' she cooes.
You wrinkle your noise.
[['At least one of us,' you smirk.->at least one of us]]
[['Thanks for the support,' you deadpan.->the support]]
[[I just ignore her remark.->ignore sabina]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[She laughs, placing a glass of juice in front of you. Your attention is immediately drawn to the golden rings placed on all of her fingers. She notices your stare.
'New ones,' she says, in a proud voice, bringing her hands closer so you can see them. 'After I spent so much time just saving money, it's finally time for me to buy pretty things.'
Your gaze drops to her chest and you give her a genuine smile. '[[But it was worth it, wasn't it?->worth it]]']]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[She grins. 'Always, dear.'
She places a glass of juice in front of you and your attention is immediately drawn to the golden rings placed on all of her fingers. She notices your stare.
'New ones,' she says, in a proud voice, bringing her hands closer so you can see them. 'After I spent so much time just saving money, it's finally time for me to buy pretty things.'
Your gaze drops to her chest and you give her a genuine smile. '[[But it was worth it, wasn't it?->worth it]]']]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)[She shrugs. "You know, not everyone around you is your enemy..."
Before you can respond, she places a glass of juice in front of you and your attention is immediately drawn to the golden rings placed on all of her fingers. She notices your stare.
"New ones," she says, in a proud voice, bringing her hands closer so you can see them. "After I spent so much time just saving money, it's finally time for me to buy pretty things."
Your gaze drops to her chest and you give her a genuine smile. "[[But it was worth it, wasn't it?->worth it]]"]](set: $trans to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['But you already know that feeling, don't you?' she asks, with a tender look on her face.
'Yeah,' you chuckle. "I do."
After a moment of silence you remember the reason you actually came. You look at Sorina.
'Is Constance here? She wanted to give me something and she made it seem important.'
'Oh, yeah, about that. She had to go handle some things, but she left this, telling me to give it to you, in her stead.'
She takes out a yellow envelope from under the counter. You open it, pulling out what [[looks like an invitation->invitation]].]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["I just have better things to do than to be your language teacher."
You step into the bathroom and pick up the holder. They stretch out their arm and you place the holder in their open hand.
"There's a saying in my father's half of the family. I guess it translates to something like...//it's so easy to see it that it almost screams//. That's what I said earlier."
"Thanks, {[(input-box:2bind $firstname,"=XX=",1,"First Name")(replace: ?firstname)[$firstname]]}"
[["Yeah, sure."->smartass]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You swore to her that you'll find your way back. Even if it would be easier not to.
You almost smile, thinking about the face she'll make when you tell her you've kept the promise. She'll scoff, then she'll hug you. [[Like always.->the call police]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["About the fucking weather, $firstname," they say before stopping abruptly. A shadow of guilt creeps on their face.
"Sorry. I didn't mean..."
You narrow your eyes at them. "Why are you so irritated?"
"I'm not. I just..."
Their gaze locks with yours for a second. Something undefined, but genuine creeps between you.
"I'm worried for you."
[["I was thinking about fireflies on steroids."->steroids]]
"I'm...fine." (BLOCKED)
[["How could this have happened, August?"->shiel unit]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["//What?//"
"Wouldn't it save a lot of electricity if we just doped fireflies enough to light up the city?"
"So, you're talking about big, muscular fireflies," they trail off.
"With big, shining buts and an attitude," you deadpan.
In an instant, a violent wave of laughter takes over both of you, shaking your bodies. Then your giggles begin to waver and you know you're just a moment away from the tears. The pressure in your nose gets stronger.
"August..." you say, resenting yourself for how weak your voice just sounded. Like a plea.
Their smile falls and they go silent, waiting for you to continue.
[["Is it really true?->is it really true"]]
[["What am I supposed to do now?->what am i supposed"]]
[["They promised me she would be protected..."->can i count]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["They promised me a Shield Unit would always be near them."
Why then," you continue shakingly, "is she...dead?"
August's grip on the wheel tightens, as an angry grimace distorts their face. "That's also something I would like to find out."
"About that...How //did you// find out so fast?", you ask, as you press your forehead against the cold window.
It's expected for them to be informed about this. After all, the Main Bureau had your family under watch and August is responsibile for keeping an eye on you. But as a field agent, they would be one of the last persons to be told about it. Normally, someone directly from the Bureau should have contacted you.
"I...was close by."
"And you left the mission?" you frown, [[turning to them->turning to them]].] ]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["About the fucking weather, $firstname," they say before stopping abruptly. A shadow of guilt creeps on their face.
"Sorry. I didn't mean..."
You narrow your eyes at them. "Why are you so irritated?"
"I'm not. I just..."
Their gaze locks with yours for a second. Something undefined, but genuine creeps between you.
"I'm worried for you."
They turn their head, but you remain with your eyes fixed on their face. They shift in their seat. "And for my own lungs."
It takes a moment for you to process the last words and August's small, crooked smile. A violent wave of laughter makes your entire body shake, as their smile grows a little.
"You're smoking like a train and you have the guts to tell me that?!" you manage to say, [[between the hiccups of laughter->laugh tears]].] ]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[Your mind feels all mushy and you do all you can to hide the slight tremor of your body.
You shake your arms a little, repeating in your head the reason you're here. //Focus//. //I can't do this here.//
A low, hoarse voice reaches you. "$firstname?"
[[You turn to the middle aged man->turn to the middle aged man]].] ]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You're angry. Your body trembles and all you can think about is how unfair all of this is. You were about to return home. You were so close to going back to her...
You close your eye for a moment, to stop the stinging sensation, while you begin to repeat in your head the reason you're here. //Focus//. This is //not// only about you.
A low, hoarse voice reaches you. "$firstname?"
[[You turn to the middle aged man->turn to the middle aged man]].] ]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[The corners of your lips lift up a little. You were such a kid, to think that she'd never want to see you again. It took you a while to understand [[she would never stop loving you->last entry]]. ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You begin to fumble through your coat pockets for those damn cigs, as your mind continues to race. Bernart watches you in silence. After a moment, he hands you his lighter.
"What the fuck," you begin as you light up your smoke, "were the wards doing while this was happening?"
"They were already dead."
[[I stay silent. ->stay silent about the wards]]
[["So it was planned."->so it was planned]]
[["They must have been very good at their job," I spit out bitterly.->they must be good]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You begin to fumble through your coat pockets for those damn cigs, as your mind continues to race. Bernart watches you in silence. After a moment, he hands you his lighter.
"What the fuck," you begin as you light up your smoke, "were the wards doing while this was happening?"
"They were already dead."
[[🔹I stay silent. ->stay silent about the wards]]
[[🔹"So it was planned."->so it was planned]]
[[🔹"They must have been very good at their job," I spit out bitterly.->they must be good]]]](set: $personality to "calm")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[However, right now you feel like you're about to crumble.
"...how?" you finally ask. "How did she..."
You clear your throat. "Actually, no. I want to see the body," you quickly add.
"You can't."
"You told me you'd share all the inform..."
"There is no body. Not anymore."
[["//What?//"->what]]]]
(set: $personality to "impulsive")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[And this personality of yours definitely doesn't help you right now. You're one moment away from breaking something.
"...how?" you finally ask. "How did she..."
You clear your throat. "Actually, no. I want to see the body," you quickly add.
"You can't."
"You told me you'd share all the inform..."
"There is no body. Not anymore."
[["//What?//"->what]]]]
(set: $personality to "calm")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[However, right now you feel like you're about to crumble.
"...how?" you finally ask. "How did she..."
You clear your throat. "Actually, no. I want to see the body," you quickly add.
"You can't."
"You told me you'd share all the inform..."
"There is no body. Not anymore."
[["//What?//"->what2]]]]
(set: $personality to "impulsive")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[And this personality of yours definitely doesn't help you right now. You're one moment away from breaking something.
"...how?" you finally ask. "How did she..."
You clear your throat. "Actually, no. I want to see the body," you quickly add.
"You can't."
"You told me you'd share all the inform..."
"There is no body. Not anymore."
[["//What?//"->what2]]]]
(set: $personality to "stoic")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[However, right now, you're sure that your expression gives it all away.
"...how?" you finally ask. "How did she..."
You clear your throat. "Actually, no. I want to see the body," you quickly add.
"You can't."
"You told me you'd share all the inform..."
"There is no body. Not anymore."
[["//What?//"->what2]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["It was the work of an atypical. An elemantal one."
You feel your knees melting. "Al."
He lowers his head.
"Al, don't...Al, look at me! Come one, don't tell..was she...burned?"
The next moments fall between you, like a wall of silence.
"Dried. From the inside out..."
[[🔹"No..."->no death2]]
[[🔹"Oh, God."->oh god2]]
[[🔹"Shit!"->shit2]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["It was the work of an atypical. An elemantal one."
You feel your knees melting. "Al."
He lowers his head.
"Al, don't...Al, look at me! Come one, don't tell..was she...burned?"
The next moments fall between you, like a wall of silence.
"Dried. From the inside out..."
[[🔹"No..."->no death3]]
[[🔹"Oh, God."->oh god3]]
[[🔹"Shit!"->shit3]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You begin to fumble through your coat pockets for those damn cigs, as your mind continues to race. Normally, you're...
[[...🔹an impulsive person. I'm known for my hot-headedness.->impulsive person3]]
[[...🔹a calm person. Few things faze me.->calm person3]]
[[...🔹an emotional person, but I can hide it very well.->emotion hide it 3]]] ]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You begin to fumble through your coat pockets for those damn cigs, as your mind continues to race. Normally, you're...
[[...🔹an impulsive person. I'm known for my hot-headedness.->impulsive person3]]
[[...🔹a calm person. Few things faze me.->calm person3]]
[[...🔹an emotional person, but I can hide it very well.->emotion hide it 3]]] ]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You begin to fumble through your coat pockets for those damn cigs, as your mind continues to race. Normally, you're...
[[...🔹an impulsive person. I'm known for my hot-headedness.->impulsive person3]]
[[...🔹a calm person. Few things faze me.->calm person3]]
[[...🔹an emotional person, but I can hide it very well.->emotion hide it 3]]] ]
(set: $personality to "stoic")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[However, right now, you're sure that your expression gives it all away.
Bernart watches you in silence. After a moment, he hands you his lighter.
"What the fuck," you begin as you light up your smoke, "were the wards doing while this was happening?"
"They were already dead."
"They must have been very good at their job," I spit out bitterly.
I stay silent.
[["So it was planned."->so it was planned]]]]
(set: $personality to "impulsive")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[And right now, your personality doesn't help you at all. You feel like you're about to suffocate.
Bernart watches you in silence. After a moment, he hands you his lighter.
"What the fuck," you begin as you light up your smoke, "were the wards doing while this was happening?"
"They were already dead."
[["They must have been very good at their job," I spit out bitterly.->they must be good]]
[[I stay silent. ->stay silent about the wards]]
[["So it was planned."->so it was planned]]]]
(set: $personality to "calm")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[However, right now, you begin to realize just how much can something like this break you.
Bernart watches you in silence. After a moment, he hands you his lighter.
"What the fuck," you begin as you light up your smoke, "were the wards doing while this was happening?"
"They were already dead."
[["They must have been very good at their job," I spit out bitterly.->they must be good]]
[[I stay silent. ->stay silent about the wards]]
[["So it was planned."->so it was planned]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Bernart shoves his hands into his pockets, with a sigh.
"They knew exactly how many wards there were and how to handle them. [[It was a professional->professional]]."]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Bernart shoves his hands into his pockets, with a sigh.
"They knew exactly how many wards there were and how to handle them. [[It was a professional->professional]]."]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You begin to fumble through your coat pockets for those damn cigs, as your mind continues to race. Bernart watches you in silence. After a moment, he hands you his lighter.
[[🔹I stay silent. ->stay silent about the wards]]
[[🔹"So it was planned," I finally manage to say.->so it was planned]]
[[🔹"The wards must have been very good at their job," I spit out bitterly.->they must be good]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You begin to fumble through your coat pockets for those damn cigs, as your mind continues to race. Bernart watches you in silence. After a moment, he hands you his lighter.
[[🔹I stay silent. ->stay silent about the wards]]
[[🔹"So it was planned," I finally manage to say.->so it was planned]]
[[🔹"The wards must have been very good at their job," I spit out bitterly.->they must be good]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You begin to fumble through your coat pockets for those damn cigs, as your mind continues to race. Bernart watches you in silence. After a moment, he hands you his lighter.
[[🔹I stay silent. ->stay silent about the wards]]
[[🔹"So it was planned," I finally manage to say.->so it was planned]]
[[🔹"The wards must have been very good at their job," I spit out bitterly.->they must be good]]]](set: $discipline to true)
(set: $rellucas to 1)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You stop in front of him. You don't want to be mean to him, but he has to face the situation.
//I have to make sure he's tough enough to go through this. //
"Lucas."
He's still avoiding your gaze, but you see his shoulder slump a little.
"Yes."
"She's gone," you say, keeping your voice steady.
"I know," he mumbles, letting out a sniffle.
"So it's up to us now to take care of May."
[[The mention of your sister's name makes him flinch.->mention may]]
]]
(set: $gentle to true)
(set: $rellucas to 2)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You reach out and drag him into your arms. He resists at first, but you're stronger and you won't let go. Not anymore.
"Lucas..."
"She's gone, isn't she?"
He probably wanted to sound angry, but it's not hard to notice the trembling in his voice. You stare at his hands. He still didn't get rid of his habit of picking the skin around his nails when he feels nervous.
"Yeah. She is."
His sudden hiccup startles you. Instinctively, you grab him tighter, just as he begins to cry violently. He clings to your coat and you bite your lip in frustration.
"Wh-why?"
"[[I...I don't know yet. I'm sorry->sorry]]."]]
(set: $rellucas to it - 1)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You hesitate for a moment and it doesn't get past him.
He appears to be on the verge of crying once more.
You sigh.
"I know you don't trust me, but I'll take care of you."
You get up, pulling him by the hand. "We'll talk more about this tomorrow. Now we have to go. May is already asleep and she can't spend the whole night in a car."
The mention of your sister's name makes him straighten his back.
[["Okay."->returning home]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[His gaze locks with yours and it's clear as day what he's thinking right now. You sigh.
"I know you don't trust me, but I'll take care of you."
You get up, pulling him by the hand. "We'll talk more about this tomorrow. Now we have to go. May is already asleep and she can't spend the whole night in a car."
The mention of your sister's name makes him straighten his back.
[["Okay."->returning home]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You rest your head on the window, listening to the faint sounds of the engine.
"Tomorrow morning. You should come with me to the office."
You turn to August. "Why?"
"Come on, $firstname. I know I can't keep you away from this investigation. I prefer to be there in case something happens. And I already said I wanted to help you."
[[🔹"You know me too well, Gus."->know me too well]]
[[🔹"Fair," I answer with a grin.->fair]]
[[🔹"Alright."->alright]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You rest your head on the window, listening to the faint sounds of the engine.
"Tomorrow morning. You should come with me to the office."
You turn to August. "Why?"
"Come on, $firstname. I know I can't keep you away from this investigation. I prefer to be there in case something happens. And I already said I wanted to help you."
[[🔹"You know me too well, Gus."->know me too well]]
[[🔹"Fair," I answer with a grin.->fair]]
[[🔹"Alright."->alright]]]](set: $relgus to it + 1)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[They chuckle. "I'm glad we agree."
"I'll be at the office in the morning."
"Good. Another thing...Kosta will be there too. (cycling-link: bind $TheyKosta, "She", "He")'s been working on a[[ nasty case...->try to kill me ]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["I'll be at the office in the morning."
"Good. Another thing...Kosta will be there too. (cycling-link: bind $TheyKosta, "She", "He")'s been working on a[[ nasty case...->try to kill me ]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["Yes, we did..."
"However...The members didn't know what really happened," you continue.
"I did."
[[🔹"Yes, you did."->yes you did]]
[[🔹"And what the hell could you have done, August? You were a rookie field agent at the time!"->what could you have done]]
[[🔹"Yeah, we could have been both forced to retire," you snort.->both forced to retire]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[August turns for a second to look at you and you see their dark blue eyes flooded with guilt.
"I'm sorry, $firstname. I regret it every day."
You keep silent and they continue. "But this time it will be different."
You almost open your mouth to remind them that they're still a field agent, but you stop. //Why bother?//
You don't think you'll be able to clear the air between you and your former colleagues, but maybe August is right. You could still work with them. [[For a short while at least->maybe you were wrong]]. ]](set: $relgus to it + 1)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[August turns for a second to look at you and you see their dark blue eyes flooded with guilt.
"August, stop it. I know how you feel, but it wasnt't your fault. You couldn't have done anything about it, you know that!"
"You might be right, at the time I couldn't have done much. But //I will// help now."
You almost open your mouth to remind them that they're still a field agent, but you stop. They don't deserve your biterness.
You don't think you'll be able to clear the air between you and your former colleagues, but maybe you could still work with them. [[For a short while at least->maybe you were wrong]]. ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["You're her big brother. Do you understand that?"
His sudden hiccup startles you and it takes all you have not to throw your arms around him. You bite your lip in frustration.
"Y-yes..."
"Good. You'll take care of her. And I'll take care of the rest, [[I promise.->i promise lucas]]"]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[He raises his face to you and you see he's trying to keep eye contact. You smile, putting out your hand for him to take it.
"I know it's hard to trust me right now, but we'll make this work somehow, okay?"
[["...Okay," he answers faintly, taking your hand.->returning home]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You sigh. "Al. So you are in charge of...this case?"
Your words come out strained and it doesn't go unnoticed. His face contorts in a pained grimace.
"I'm so sorry, $firstname...and after what happened to Sash..."
"Al. I'm not here to talk about my father."
He freezes, then he straightens his back a little. "Of course. Umm...do you still smoke?"
"Yeah."
"Then let's go outside. You look like you need some air. [[And so do I->and so do i]]."]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You sigh. "Al. So you are in charge of...this case?"
Your words come out strained and it doesn't go unnoticed. His face contorts in a pained grimace.
"I'm so sorry, $firstname...and after what happened to Sash..."
"Al. I'm not here to talk about my father."
He freezes, then he straightens his back a little. "Of course. Umm...do you still smoke?"
"Yeah."
"Then let's go outside. You look like you need some air. [[And so do I->and so do i]]."]]
(enchant:?page,(text-colour:#c27332)+(background:#28334a))
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(text-size:0.6)[ This is all for now, guys!
Thank you for playing!
If you're interested in news about updates, more facts about the characters or you want to send me some feedback, you can find me on Tumblr! (''swallowthedark'' or my main blog, ''forgottennamesgame'')]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-style:"smear","fidget")+(text-size:0.9)[''The thing about trust'']
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(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[Darius](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Daria] takes another step (if:$height_choice is "average height")[so (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he] (if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] can loom over you] (if:$height_choice is "under the average")[so (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he] (if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] can loom over you] (if:$height_choice is "over the average")[and you're thankful that your height prevents (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him] (if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] from looking at you from above].
[[🔹"You're as welcoming as ever, Kosta!" I comment teasingly.->teasing kosta ]]
[[🔹"Careful now, if you get any closer you'll make me think you want us to hug," I smirk. ->pissing off kosta ]]
[[🔹"Back off!" I growl.->back off kosta ]]
[[🔹I keep a neutral expression. $TheyKosta doesn't intimidate me, but I don't want to cause a scene right now.->neutral kosta ]]
[[🔹"Not much changed around here, huh?" I ask, with a small sigh.->bored kosta ]] ]]]
(set: $humor to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] light hazel eyes bore into yours and anger, interlaced with something just as intense, ignites in them.
"And you just as irritating," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] snarls.
"Oh well," you begin in a sickeningly cheery voice, "now that we agreed that everything's the same as ever..."
"Why.are.you.here."
You sigh. You entered the office just a couple of minutes ago and you already feel drained.
"That's my own business, Kosta," you answer, [[dropping the fake smile->dropping the smile]].
]](set: $humor to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] light hazel eyes bore into yours and anger, interlaced with something you don't quite recognize, ignites in them.
"You're just as..."
"Charming?" you ask, just to push (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] buttons even more.
"...Irritating as ever. You didn't change one bit," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] snarls.
Your smile drops and the tension only grows higher. You can feel the stares of everyone else around you and if you weren't so pissed off right now, you'd almost laugh. Poor guys, the atmosphere is [[probably suffocating for them.->suffocating]] ]]
(set: $personality to "impulsive")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] light hazel eyes bore into yours and anger, interlaced with something you don't quite recognize, ignites in them.
"Make me," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] snarls back.
[[You can feel the heavy stares of everyone else around you and the tension growing higher.->tension higher]]]] (set: $personality to "calm")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] light hazel eyes bore into yours and anger, interlaced with something you don't quite recognize, ignites in them.
"Look," you begin, trying to pacify (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her], "I didn't come here to cause any trouble..."
"Really?" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] cuts you off mockingly. "Can you really do that?"
You take another deep breath. You entered the office just a couple of minutes ago and you already feel drained.
"I have business here, Kosta," you answer. [["Business that doesn't involve you in any way"->dropping the smile two]].
]](set: $humor to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] light hazel eyes bore into yours and anger, interlaced with something you don't quite recognize, ignites in them.
"I could say the same thing about you," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] snarls.
"But you'd be wrong and I'm sure you don't want that, do you?" you ask, managing to seem almost bored with the whole situation.
"$lastname. //Why// are you here?"
You nearly wince at the sound of (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] teeth gritting. //Such a bad habit for (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] dental health.//
"That's my own business, Kosta," you answer, [[clearing your throat->dropping the smile two]].
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["You're in my office, $lastname. It is my business."
"Oh, please," you cut (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] off, rolling your eyes. "It's the Unit's office, not yours."
"And you're not an agen..."
"Kosta. $lastname. //Enough.//"
August's voice reverberates through the room and you don't need to turn around to know [[they are angry.->august angry]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[They get between you and Kosta, forcing you both to take a step back. "Just //what// do you think you're doing?"
"Giving our greetings!" you say, grinning at them.
"August, what (if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[are they](if:$gender_choice is "male")[is he](if:$gender_choice is "female")[is she] doing here?" Kosta intervenes, impatiently.
"(if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[They're](if:$gender_choice is "male")[He's](if:$gender_choice is "female")[She's] here with me."
"But why?"
"I will //not// be questioned by you, agent."
August's tone makes you jolt. You've never seen them like that before. Much less with a colleague. And to your even bigger surprise, Kosta goes silent, avoiding their gaze. //What's going on here?//
"Agent $lastname, go to the Unit Commander's office. I'll be right behind you," they continue, [[shifting their attention to you.->commander office]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["Why are you here, $lastname?"
"Is that really your business?" you ask back, your tone cold as ice.
"This is my office."
"It's the Unit's office, not yours, Kosta."
"And you're not in the Unit..."
"Kosta. $lastname. //Enough.//"
August's voice reverberates through the room and you don't need to turn around to know [[they are angry.->august angry]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You pause for a second, then you nod and exit the room.
The hollow sounds made by the grey slates of the floor under your feet remind you of all the years spent inside this building. But most of all, they remind you of //that day//.
//"Commander, with all due respect, I can't participate...
"Agent $lastname. You will be on this mission tonight or you will face the consequences. Have I made myself clear?"
"...Yes, sir." //
If only you knew then...[[you had no chance of escaping them from the stat.->who's the commander]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[That night you chose to go even though you knew you were pretty much incapacitated. You went and you made a mistake. And one of your colleagues died because of it.
You try to push back your thoughts as you make it to the black wooden door. You feel almost nauseous, knowing that you're going to see the man who gave you the order four years ago, but you don't have much of a choice.
You step into the antechamber and you immediately recognize the young secretary at the desk in front of you.
[[🔹"Hello Mx. Wesh!" I greet them with a polite smile. ->hello polite]]
[[🔹"Mx. Wesh, I swear, you're like a ray of sunshine in this gloomy place!" I exclaim, grinning at them. ->aster wesh]]
[[🔹"Good morning, Mx. Wesh," I say, remaining aloof.->wesh aloof]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[They raise their head and recognition floods their features. They push back their glasses with slender, perfectly manicured fingers, as their lips settle into a genuine smile.
"Agent $lastname! It's good to have you back."
"Well, I'm not really back," you counter, a little awkwardly.
They lean back in their seat, looking at you with a half-amused expression.
"I know exactly why you're here, agent. No one enters this building without me knowing about it."
You chuckle. [["It's true that the Unit wouldn't survive without you."->about the death]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[As soon as the words escape your lips, you realize that, most probably, they also know about your mother's death. Something on your face gives your thoughts away and their smile falters.
"Agent, I'm...truly sorry for your loss."
A lump forms in your throat and you take a moment to swallow it down. "Thank you," you quickly say, clearing your throat.
"Has the Commander called you in?"
"Umm...August told me to come, so I think so?"
Wesh pauses for a moment, staring at you like you've just said something strange and their confusion makes you raise an eyebrow.
[["Is there...something wrong?"->something wrong]]
]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["Not sure," they trail off, squiting a little.
"What..."
"You should probably go inside. The Commander is out for the moment, but they should return in a few minutes."
Wesh ends the sentence with that smile of theirs that you remember well, the one that stands for "//this conversation is over, stop waisting our time//".
You let out a laugh. This is nostalgic.
"The //Iron Fence// that's keeping the //dogs// from running wild is as firm as ever."
They grimace at the mention of their nickname, waving their hand at you.
"Yes, yes, laugh all you want, but do it in the other room. I have work to do."
You do as you're told, smiling at their attempt to shoo you away [[in order to hide their amusement->into the com office]]. ]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You enter the main office and the first thing that goes through your mind is that this place looks nothing like how it used to be.
You were prepared to see the bland, brownish interior of which the Commander was so proud for reasons that completely eluded you.
Sure, the room is still kind of empty, but the furniture is painted in a lighter color, relatively new and a lot more pleasing to the eye. Not a single speck of dust rests on the things around you and [[even those dreadful dead nature paintings on the walls have been removed.->inside com office two]] ]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[//Has the Commander changed his sense of style?...//
You begin to look around, as you're not entirely comfortable with sitting down right now.
//Or maybe...//
You hear the door opening behind you with a clicking sound.
"Sorry for keeping you waiting!"
Before you can turn, a familiar scent of oud hits you, followed by the the tall figure who walks by you. [[By the time August takes the seat behind the Commander's desk, you're already past the phase of surprise. ->august is comm]]
]]
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(text-size:0.7)[A flicker of a smile makes their full lips tremble, but it can't hide their nervousness as they wait for your reaction.
[[🔹"Was it funny to lie to me all this time?" I ask, barely containing my anger. ->angry promotion]]
[[🔹"I guess congratulations are in order?" I ask, letting out an awkward laugh.->congrats in order]]
[[🔹"See, if //anyone// spared the time to tell me about this, I could've brought you a nice congrulatory gift," I smirk, crossing my arms.->gift promotion]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You're so pissed off right now that that you can hear your own pulse pounding in your ears. You lean even closer to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].
"Gladly."
"Kosta. $lastname. //Enough.//"
August's voice reverberates through the room and you don't need to turn around to know [[they are angry.->august angry two]]]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[They get between you and Kosta, forcing you both to take a step back. "Just //what// do you think you're doing?"
You lower your gaze, refusing to answer.
"August, what (if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[are they](if:$gender_choice is "male")[is he](if:$gender_choice is "female")[is she] doing here?" Kosta intervenes, impatiently.
"(if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[They're](if:$gender_choice is "male")[He's](if:$gender_choice is "female")[She's] here with me."
"But why?"
"I will //not// be questioned by you, agent."
August's tone makes you jolt. You've never seen them like that before. Much less with a colleague. And to your even bigger surprise, Kosta goes silent, avoiding their gaze. //What's going on here?//
"Agent $lastname, go to the Unit Commander's office. I'll be right behind you," they continue, [[shifting their attention to you.->commander office]]]] <style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["You're in my office, $lastname. It is my business."
"Oh, please," you snap. "It's the Unit's office, not yours."
"And you're not an agen..."
"Kosta. $lastname. //Enough.//"
August's voice reverberates through the room and you don't need to turn around to know [[they are angry.->august angry two]]
]](set:$humor to true)
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(text-size:0.7)[A sigh of relief escapes their lips, alongside a soft laugh.
"So you aren't mad at me?"
"Hmmm...Not really," you trail off, thinking about it.
[[If you were to be honest, it stings a little that they didn't tell you, but...->special circumstances]]
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(text-size:0.7)["August, I know what it means to be in this line of work, so I suspect you had your reasons. But...now I'm curious about some things."
"Shoot."
"When were you promoted? And how about our dear old boss, where was he sent to?"
"Last year. Kolt moved higher up the ladder of course," they say, not even trying to hide their displeasure.
"So...Why has the Commander of the Unit kept on monitoring me //personally// for the past year?"
"Would you have left anyone else constantly breathe down your neck?" they ask, resting their chin on the back of their left hand.
You think about it for a moment. Honestly...
[[...🔹no. I might not trust August completely, but they are the closest thing I have to a friend. That's why I let them hang around.->august tolerate]]
[[...🔹no. I might not want to admit it, but I trust August and I do consider them my friend. Because it was them, it didn't bothered me as much that I was kept under surveillance. ->august friend]]
[[...🔹no. The only thing that kept me from sabotaging the whole surveillance effort was that the one in charge was August. I still don't want to admit it, but I feel reassured having them around. (🧡)->august rom]]
[[...🔹yes. Why would I care who's the one keeping the tabs on me?->august don't care]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"Well, you //are// easier to tolerate than other people..."
They roll their eyes. "Yeah, what can I say, I'm charming like that."
You almost smirk.
(if:$humor is true)[[["There must have been a serious shortage of cases during these last few years if babysitting me was a priority for the Unit."->reluctant ]]]
[["I still don't see how you had the time to do all this..."->not humor why]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"So you used this opportunity to hang out with me," you chuckle.
They roll their eyes. "Yeah, what can I say, I really love that couch of yours."
"It's vintage."
"Ugh, alright, whatever..."
Your expression sobers a little as you continue.
(if:$humor is true)[[["There must have been a serious shortage of cases during these last few years if babysitting me was a priority for the Unit."->reluctant ]]]
[["I still don't see how you had the time to do all this..."->not humor why]] ]]
(set: $augustrom to true)
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[(if:$personality is "impulsive")[You turn away slightly, barely managing not to blurt out something unnecessary. This is not the right time for this.]
(if:$personality is "calm")[You'll have to sort out your feelings one of these days, but now's not the time for it. You steady your breathing, remaining as tranquil as ever.]
(if:$personality is "stoic")[Your heart starts pounding in your chest just thinking about these unsorted feelings of yours, but you manage to keep your poker face on, like you always do. This is not the time for this.]
"So basically you wanted to make sure I don't run away?" you finally ask.
"Something like that...but mostly I didn't want to stress you out unnecessarily."
You tilt your head a little, in a silent question which they don't acknowledge.
(if:$humor is true)[[["There must have been a serious shortage of cases during these last few years if babysitting me was a priority for the Unit."->reluctant ]]]
[["I still don't see how you had the time to do all this..."->not humor why]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You stare at them for a moment, then you nod noncommittally. There's no need to say it out loud for now.
(if:$humor is true)[[["There must have been a serious shortage of cases during these last few years if babysitting me was a priority for the Unit."->reluctant ]]]
[["I still don't see how you had the time to do all this..."->not humor why]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[They shrug, as a playful smile appears on their lips.
"To be honest, it was getting harder and harder for me to do it. On top of that, Aster has been threatening me with their resignation for a while now. So I was going to assign someone else, I was in the process of finding a suitable replacement."
You sigh. "Well, at least now I understand why you were so on edge lately. Like the rabbit from Alice in Wonderland."
They snicker. [["I'll remember that."->now what]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You plop on the big couch in front of them. "Now what? How do we proceed with..."
"Your mother's case?" they ask, in a softer tone.
"Yeah..."
August taps on the glass screen embedded in their desk. You hear the secretary picking up, from the other end of the line. "Commander, I was just about to call. Agent Kosta is here to see you, shall I send (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] in?"
"Is it urgent?"
"It's about the case (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] been working on."
"Alright, let (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] in. And bring me the $lastname case file as well."
[["Right away."->right away]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[The door opens and you shift slightly. You (cycling-link: bind $attitude, "really hope (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[he](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[she]'ll just ignore you. You don't have the energy for arguing right now.","are ready to take (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[him](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[her] on if that's what (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[he](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[she] wants.","make yourself more comfortable. You're not going to engage (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[him](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[her], you're too lazy for that.","feel a little apprehensive about this whole situation.")
As soon as Kosta steps in, you have to mentally rebuke yourself for letting yourself be impressed by (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] presence. $TheyKosta always had this ability to grab the attention of the whole room.
[[🔹Which was convenient, because you could do your job undisturbed and your team was well balanced. ->not expansive]]
[[🔹And with your own expansive personality, you two were famous as a team. ->expansive]]]]
(set: $expansive to false)
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(text-size:0.7)[$TheyKosta runs (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] fingers through (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] dark hair, as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] confidently approaches August's desk. You always found it amusing that for someone so put together, that wavy hair never stood in place, like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] would have wanted.
(if:$attitude is "really hope (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[he](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[she]'ll just ignore you. You don't have the energy for arguing right now.")[You remain quiet, while (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] tries not to look in your direction.]
(if:$attitude is "are ready to take (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[him](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[her] on if that's what (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[he](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[she] wants.")[You straighten your back and even though (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] doesn't look in your direction, you can feel (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] is aware of your movements.]
(if:$attitude is "make yourself more comfortable. You're not going to engage (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[him](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[her], you're too lazy for that.")[$TheyKosta tries not to acknowledge you being there, but you know (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] well enough not to be fooled. $TheyKosta //is// attentive to your movements and most probably extremely pissed off by your relaxed attitude right now.]
(if:$attitude is "feel a little apprehensive about this whole situation")[You remain quiet and to hide your anxiety from (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her]. Fortunately, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] doesn't look in your direction.]
"We have a problem", (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, dropping two files in front of August. "The other one is from Aster, they told me to bring it to you."
"Yes, thank you."
[[August opens one of the folders.->open folder]]
]](set: $expansive to true)
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(text-size:0.7)[$TheyKosta runs (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] fingers through (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] dark hair, as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] confidently approaches August's desk. You always found it amusing that for someone so put together, that wavy hair never stood in place, like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] would have wanted.
(if:$attitude is "really hope (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[he](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[she]'ll just ignore you. You don't have the energy for arguing right now.")[You remain quiet, while (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] tries not to look in your direction.]
(if:$attitude is "are ready to take (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[him](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[her] on if that's what (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[he](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[she] wants.")[You straighten your back and even though (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] doesn't look in your direction, you can feel (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] is aware of your movements.]
(if:$attitude is "make yourself more comfortable. You're not going to engage (if:$TheyKosta is \"He\")[him](if:$TheyKosta is \"She\")[her], you're too lazy for that.")[$TheyKosta tries not to acknowledge you being there, but you know (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] well enough not to be fooled. $TheyKosta //is// attentive to your movements and most probably extremely pissed off by your relaxed attitude right now.]
(if:$attitude is "feel a little apprehensive about this whole situation")[You remain quiet and to hide your anxiety from (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her]. Fortunately, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] doesn't look in your direction.]
"We have a problem", (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, dropping two files in front of August. "The other one is from Aster, they told me to bring it to you."
"Yes, thank you."
[[August opens one of the folders.->open folder]]
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(text-size:0.7)["I'm assuming the problem is about the theft case at BioENHC."
"I think we should bring Ioveanu in for questioning. And I need a warrant to get to him."
August raises their eyes to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her]. "Why?"
"An atypical was involved. Powerful and unregistered. Before doing anything else, we should check if the Open Borders Initiative or City Eyes took some new //talented// recruits under their wings."
[["I see..."->theft case]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["I will have to look into City Eyes before going to Open Borders. You know how will the Commander-in-Chief react if I step on the OBI boss' toes..."
"You're right, I'll prepare the warrant. Meanwhile you should contact the ones from Public Order so they can keep an eye open for this guy. Give them all you have about their M.O."
"Well, I'm sure they wouldn't be that hard to spot. I mean, who the fuck uses their powers to create fog these days?"
You freeze. [["What did you just say?"->what did you say]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Kosta glances at you and even though you can still sense (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hostility, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] answers with a small sigh.
"They create fog, to hide I suppose. Personally I think it's a cartoonish move for a thief..."
"They control water?"
You're already on your feet, making (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] flinch at your sudden move.
[["Yeah. They appear to be an elemental.->an elemental]]"]]
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(text-size:0.7)["August," you begin, trying to control the tremor in your voice, "what are the odds that a community of elementals suddenly moved into Serga?"
"Almost none," they answer, grimly.
"Then..."
"I see where you're going, but don't jump to any conclusions yet. We should learn more about this individual first..."
"What are you talking about?" Kosta cuts in.
August looks at you and you pause for a moment before nodding. "$TheyKosta'll hear about it soon anyway..."
Kosta looks at both of you confused, as August hands (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] the other folder. At the sight of your surname on it, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes go wide and for the next couple of minutes you watch (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] go from surprise to shock, anger and then to something close to...sadness.
//It's so strange to see someone else reacting like this to my mother's death...//
$TheyKosta reaches the end of the file and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] stops for a moment to gather (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] thoughts. Then (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] turns completely to you.
"I'm sorry."
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] words are few and simple, but somehow comforting. [[//Honest//. ->honest sorry]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Yeah, well," you begin awkwardly, "thank you for saying it..."
"But...why does it says in here that she was living alone with your siblings?"
//Ah. I always forget (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] doesn't know. //
"She //was// alone with my siblings. I haven't seen her in the last four years."
$TheyKosta frowns. "Why? Haven't you returned to your family?"
You feel the bitterness crawl out of you, in the form of a smile.
[["Is that the official version of the story?"->all this time]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["What the hell is that supposed to mean?" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] asks slowly.
You shove your hands into your pockets, avoiding (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] gaze.
Your mind wanders back to four years ago...
It should have been a straightforward extraction mission for one of your personnel who had blown her cover and was considered to be at risk. A race against time, sure, but not the most complicated operation you've been on. However, you didn't expect civilians at the scene. [[Or the seizure.->story time]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[Darius](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Daria]," you finally answer, "I didn't retire four years ago...I was forced to."
"Of course you were," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] spits out. "Iris died because you were fucking high while leading the misssion!"
"See, that's the thing, //partner//," you cut (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] off. "I wasn't."
"(if:$gender_choice is "female")[She](if:$gender_choice is "male")[He](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[They] had a situation..."
"I had a seizure."
You and August speak at the same time, but your words make Kosta's head snap in your direction.
"What? What seizure, were you sick?"
"It's...complicated. It's about my abilities..." you trail off.
An awkward silence creeps between all of you, while you begin to play with the lighter inside your pocket, spinning it through your fingers.
"But then why were we told...why didn't //you// say something?"
You scoff at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] question. "Seriously? Can't you already see the bigger picture here? Kolt knew I shouldn't be on that mission.// I //told him I shouldn't and he sent me regardless. On top of that, almost all the information he gave me was wrong and when I confronted him he asked me if I care about my family's safety. [[Let's start with this as a reason.->start with that]]" ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["How..."
You watch your former partner pacing around, trying to regain (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] composure.
"Kosta, you're going to ruin my carpet if you continue..."
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[Darius's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Daria's] voice rumbles in the room, cutting off August's complaint.
"$lastname."
"Yeah?"
"Was I that untrustworthy as a partner?" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] asks, gritting (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] teeth.
//Okay, that's enough.//
You throw your arms up in indignation. "Why the hell are you angry now?!"
"Of course I'm fucking angry, $firstname!"
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] dark gaze locks with yours. "We were partners for two years and I didn't even know what was your //ability fallout//. Because you never wanted to tell me! Then one day you go on the most standard mission and three hours later I'm told that you blew it up. That Iris died because of you!"
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] stops abruptly, tilting (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] head towards the ceiling, in a visible attempt to calm down.
"This Unit might not mean shit to you..."
"Come on, now..."
"But to me it's family. Do you realize how I felt being informed that one of my family died and another one was responsible for that?"
A cold, prickly sensation spreads through your chest at the mention of family and although you try to, [[you cannot think of anything to say in response.->and now you come]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["And now, four years later, you waltz in here, tell me that everything I knew until now is some bullshit made up by that oversized weasel and...what I can't, for the life of me, understand is why didn't you come to me //then//?"
"(if:$gender_choice is "female")[She](if:$gender_choice is "male")[He](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[They] were under surveillance..."
"Stop shitting me, August," Kosta counters, irritated. "We both know (if:$gender_choice is "female")[her](if:$gender_choice is "male")[him](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[them] well enough to know that if (if:$gender_choice is "female")[she](if:$gender_choice is "male")[he](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[they] truly wanted to reach me "(if:$gender_choice is "female")[she](if:$gender_choice is "male")[he](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[they] would have, surveillance or not."
You remain quiet. Seeing your reaction, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] sighs.
"I don't know what you expected, $firstname, but you can't tell me not to be angry at you. And believe me, I am."
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] turns away from you. "Commander, if you'll excuse me..."
"You're excused agent."
Out of the corner of your eye, you see (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] walking taway, [[followed by the sound of the closing door.->just you and aug]]
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(text-size:0.7)["That went better than I expected, to be honest..."
You look at August. "It did?"
"Mhm," they nod. "I know you always fought like cats and dogs, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] was really...affected by the whole situation. I'd go as far as saying (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] //missed// you," they chuckle.
[[🔹"Just to be sure, we //are// still talking about Kosta, aren't we?"->just to be sure]]
[[🔹"That's...hard to imagine," I mumble in hesitation.->hard to imagine]]
[[🔹"I...know." ->you know]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[August answers you with a quizzical smile, making you feel like dropping the subject entirely.
"Either way, about the case..."
Their facial expresion turns somber. They nod. "Yes, the possibility of these cases being connected is concerning."
"Why?"
"Because the Commander-in-Chief is putting pressure on us to close the theft case. It makes me wonder why...Well, we have to move fast so I'll have the warrant ready in an hour."
"I'm going as well."
"I figured. I'll meet you in the preparation room once everything is ready. Until then you're free, agent."
You smirk, straightening your back, instinctively.
[["Understood, Commander."->understood commander]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[As you amble down the corridor, you decide to check in with your siblings' temporary nanny. Jess was her name?
You take out your phone and quickly type - "how are the kids?" -
By the time you hit the ''Send'' button, you're already in front of the common lounge. //Might as well.//
[[You open the door.->common lounge]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[As soon as you take the first step inside, the humming sound of voices and movements stops. You almost sigh at the sight of all the agents that turned to you in perfect sync. //Is this a freaking comedy skit?//
The familiar faces stare at you with unveiled hostilty, while the new ones appear apprehensive at best. Yes, you should have expected this.
You spot the counter for tea and coffee and you silently continue to walk toward it. You're here for one purpose only and you're not going to screw it up by causing a scene. //Just take the (cycling-link:"coffee","tea") and leave.//
Just as you're about to pour the drink, you hear the voice of the one person you wanted the least to meet again. //Like ever.//
"Look who crawled back from the dead!"
[[You turn.->bully on duty]] ]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[The blond-haired muscular man smirks at you.
"What are you doing around here, $lastname? Have you come to lick the Commander's boots so they'll take you back?"
[[🔹"Callen, I didn't know you were the bully on duty today." ->sassy]]
[[🔹"Why? Do you want to go first?"->do you want first]]
[[🔹"Stop it, Callen. Behave like a rational being for once."->rational being]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[It takes only a fraction of a second to realize you've made a mistake. [[Just enough to see his fist flying your way. ->sassy fight]] ]](set: $personality to "impulsive")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[It takes only a fraction of a second to realize you've made a mistake. [[Just enough to see his fist flying your way.->do you want first fight]] ]](set: $personality to "calm")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[It takes only a fraction of a second to realize you've made a mistake. [[Just enough to see his fist flying your way.->rational being fight]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[They shrug, as a playful smile appears on their lips.
"To be honest, it was getting harder and harder for me to do it. On top of that, Aster has been threatening me with their resignation for a while now. So I was going to assign someone else, I was in the process of finding a suitable replacement."
You sigh. "Well, at least now I understand why you were so on edge lately. Like the rabbit from Alice in Wonderland."
They snicker. [["I'll remember that."->now what]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[A quizzical smile appears on August's lips, making you feel like dropping the subject entirely.
"Either way, about the case..."
Their facial expresion turns somber. They nod. "Yes, the possibility of these cases being connected is concerning."
"Why?"
"Because the Commander-in-Chief is putting pressure on us to close the theft case. It makes me wonder why...Well, we have to move fast so I'll have the warrant ready in an hour."
"I'm going as well."
"I figured. I'll meet you in the preparation room once everything is ready. Until then you're free, agent."
You smirk, straightening your back, instinctively.
[["Understood, Commander."->understood commander]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[A quizzical smile appears on August's lips, making you feel like dropping the subject entirely.
"Either way, about the case..."
Their facial expresion turns somber. They nod. "Yes, the possibility of these cases being connected is concerning."
"Why?"
"Because the Commander-in-Chief is putting pressure on us to close the theft case. It makes me wonder why...Well, we have to move fast so I'll have the warrant ready in an hour."
"I'm going as well."
"I figured. I'll meet you in the preparation room once everything is ready. Until then you're free, agent."
You smirk, straightening your back, instinctively.
[["Understood, Commander."->understood commander]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[They raise their head and recognition floods their features. They push back their glasses with slender, perfectly manicured fingers, as their lips settle into a genuine smile.
"Agent $lastname! It's good to have you back."
"Well, I'm not really back," you counter, a little awkwardly.
They lean back in their seat, looking at you with a half-amused expression.
"I know exactly why you're here, agent. No one enters this building without me knowing about it."
You chuckle. [["It's true that the Unit wouldn't survive without you."->about the death]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[They raise their head and recognition floods their features. They push back their glasses with slender, perfectly manicured fingers, as their lips settle into a genuine smile.
"Agent $lastname! It's good to have you back."
"Well, I'm not really back," you counter, a little awkwardly.
They lean back in their seat, looking at you with a half-amused expression.
"I know exactly why you're here, agent. No one enters this building without me knowing about it."
You smile a little. [["It's true that the Unit wouldn't survive without you."->about the death]] ]](set: $personality to "impulsive")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[Although they flinch at your words, they continue to hold your gaze.
"$firstname, I don't do this type of thing for fun. I thought you'd already know that by now..."
"Then why?"
"Because I had no other agent suited for the job. And because I didn't think you'd accept just anyone to monitor you. Was I wrong?"
[[...no. I might not trust August completely, but they are the closest thing I have to a friend. That's why I let them hang around.->august tolerate two]]
[[...no. I might not want to admit it, but I trust August and I do consider them my friend. Because it was them, it didn't bothered me as much that I was kept under surveillance. ->august friend two]]
[[...no. The only thing that kept me from sabotaging the whole surveillance effort was that the one in charge was August. I still don't want to admit it, but I feel reassured having them around. (🧡)->august rom two]]
[[...yes. Why would I care who's the one keeping the tabs on me?->august don't care]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[They keep looking at you as if waiting for a final sentence.
"What?" you ask.
"Are you mad at me?"
You pause.
[[If you were to be honest, it stings a little that they didn't tell you, but...->special circumstances two]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["August, I know what it means to be in this line of work, so I suspect you had your reasons. But...I //am// curious about some things."
"Tell me."
"When were you promoted?
"Last year."
"Then what about the old boss, where was he sent to?"
"Kolt moved higher up the ladder of course," they say, not even trying to hide their displeasure.
"So...Why has the Commander of the Unit kept on monitoring me //personally// for the past year?"
"Would you have left anyone else constantly breathe down your neck?" they ask, resting their chin on the back of their left hand.
You think about it for a moment. Honestly...
[[...🔹no. I might not trust August completely, but they are the closest thing I have to a friend. That's why I let them hang around.->august tolerate]]
[[...🔹no. I might not want to admit it, but I trust August and I do consider them my friend. Because it was them, it didn't bothered me as much that I was kept under surveillance. ->august friend]]
[[...🔹no. The only thing that kept me from sabotaging the whole surveillance effort was that the one in charge was August. I still don't want to admit it, but I feel reassured having them around. (🧡)->august rom]]
[[...🔹yes. Why would I care who's the one keeping the tabs on me?->august don't care]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
"Yeah, okay, I'll admit that you're...easier to tolerate than other people..."
Their eyes crinckle in a soft smile. "That's good to hear."
A defeated sigh escapes your lips.
(if:$humor is true)[[["There must have been a serious shortage of cases during these last few years if babysitting me was a priority for the Unit."->reluctant ]]]
[["I still don't see how you had the time to do all this..."->not humor why]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
"So you used this opportunity to hang out with me," you grumble, in a harsher tone that you'd intended.
They don't smile, but you see their eyes crinckle a little. "Yeah, what can I say, I really love that couch of yours."
"I'll have you know, it's vintage."
"Sure it is..."
A defeated sigh escapes your lips.
(if:$humor is true)[[["There must have been a serious shortage of cases during these last few years if babysitting me was a priority for the Unit."->reluctant ]]]
[["I still don't see how you had the time to do all this..."->not humor why]] ]]
(set: $augustrom to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[(if:$personality is "impulsive")[You turn away slightly, barely managing to hide all these unnecessary emotions. This is not the right time for this.]
(if:$personality is "calm")[You'll have to sort out your feelings one of these days, but now's not the time for it. You steady your breathing, returning to your usual tranquility.]
(if:$personality is "stoic")[Your heart starts pounding in your chest just thinking about these unsorted feelings of yours, but you manage to keep your poker face on, like you always do. This is not the time for this.]
"So basically you wanted to make sure I don't run away?" you finally ask.
"Something like that...but mostly I didn't want to stress you out unnecessarily."
You tilt your head a little, in a silent question which they don't acknowledge.
(if:$humor is true)[[["There must have been a serious shortage of cases during these last few years if babysitting me was a priority for the Unit."->reluctant ]]]
[["I still don't see how you had the time to do all this..."->not humor why]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["$firstname..."
"Don't."
"Alright."
You stare at your open lighter as the next minutes pass in silence.
"Wasn't a Shield Unit supposed to be in their proximity at all times?" you ask abruptly.
"It was..."
"Then enlighten me, August. //Why //is she dead?"
August's grip on the wheel tightens, as an angry grimace distorts their face. "That's also something I would like to find out."
"About that...How //did you// find out so fast?", you ask, as you press your forehead against the cold window.
It's expected for them to be informed about this. After all, the Main Bureau had your family under watch and August is responsibile for keeping an eye on you. But as a field agent, they would be one of the last persons to be told about it. Normally, someone directly from the Bureau should have contacted you.
"I...was close by."
"And you left the mission?" you frown, [[turning to them->turning to them]].] ]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["$firstname..."
"Don't."
"Alright."
You keep on pushing the scan button, as the next minutes pass in silence.
"Wasn't a Shield Unit supposed to be in their proximity at all times?" you ask abruptly.
"It was..."
"Then enlighten me, August. //Why //is she dead?"
August's grip on the wheel tightens, as an angry grimace distorts their face. "That's also something I would like to find out."
"About that...How //did you// find out so fast?", you ask, as you press your forehead against the cold window.
It's expected for them to be informed about this. After all, the Main Bureau had your family under watch and August is responsibile for keeping an eye on you. But as a field agent, they would be one of the last persons to be told about it. Normally, someone directly from the Bureau should have contacted you.
"I...was close by."
"And you left the mission?" you frown, [[turning to them->turning to them]].] ]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["$firstname..."
"Don't."
"Alright."
You watch the bright neon billboards run by you, as the next minutes pass in silence.
"Wasn't a Shield Unit supposed to be in their proximity at all times?" you ask abruptly.
"It was..."
"Then enlighten me, August. //Why //is she dead?"
August's grip on the wheel tightens, as an angry grimace distorts their face. "That's also something I would like to find out."
"About that...How //did you// find out so fast?", you ask, as you press your forehead against the cold window.
It's expected for them to be informed about this. After all, the Main Bureau had your family under watch and August is responsibile for keeping an eye on you. But as a field agent, they would be one of the last persons to be told about it. Normally, someone directly from the Bureau should have contacted you.
"I...was close by."
"And you left the mission?" you frown, [[turning to them->turning to them]].] ]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.6)[
//*Alcohol and alcoholism
*Anxiety
*Assault
*Attempted murder and murder
*Blood
*Bullying
*Cheating
*Death
*Depression
*Divorce
*Drugs
*Emesis
*Emotional abuse
*Fire
*Gore
*Gun violence
*Hallucinations
*Hospitalization
*Hostage situations
*Mild sexual content
*Needles
*Poisoning
*Prostitution
*PTSD
*Self-harm
*Swearing
*Snakes and spiders
*Suicide
*Violence//]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[Don't forget the choices you've made, agent.
(link: "save data - FILE A")[(save-game: "file A")[
(if:(save-game:"file A"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file A")[
FILE A is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE B")[(save-game: "file B")[
(if:(save-game:"file B"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file B")[
FILE B is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE C")[(save-game: "file C")[
(if:(save-game:"file C"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file C")[
FILE C is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE D")[(save-game: "file D")[
(if:(save-game:"file D"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file D")[
FILE D is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE E")[(save-game: "file E")[
(if:(save-game:"file E"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file E")[
FILE E is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE F")[(save-game: "file F")[
(if:(save-game:"file F"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file F")[
FILE F is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE G")[(save-game: "file G")[
(if:(save-game:"file G"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file G")[
FILE G is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
]
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[[[I'm ready to move forward (ch II).->on the way]]]
]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[Don't forget the choices you've made, agent.
(link: "save data - FILE A")[(save-game: "file A")[
(if:(save-game:"file A"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file A")[
FILE A is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE B")[(save-game: "file B")[
(if:(save-game:"file B"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file B")[
FILE B is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE C")[(save-game: "file C")[
(if:(save-game:"file C"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file C")[
FILE C is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE D")[(save-game: "file D")[
(if:(save-game:"file D"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file D")[
FILE D is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE E")[(save-game: "file E")[
(if:(save-game:"file E"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file E")[
FILE E is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE F")[(save-game: "file F")[
(if:(save-game:"file F"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file F")[
FILE F is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE G")[(save-game: "file G")[
(if:(save-game:"file G"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file G")[
FILE G is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
]
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[[[I'm ready to move forward (ch III).->tired and scared]]]
]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[Don't forget the choices you've made, agent.
(link: "save data - FILE A")[(save-game: "file A")[
(if:(save-game:"file A"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file A")[
FILE A is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE B")[(save-game: "file B")[
(if:(save-game:"file B"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file B")[
FILE B is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE C")[(save-game: "file C")[
(if:(save-game:"file C"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file C")[
FILE C is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE D")[(save-game: "file D")[
(if:(save-game:"file D"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file D")[
FILE D is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE E")[(save-game: "file E")[
(if:(save-game:"file E"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file E")[
FILE E is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE F")[(save-game: "file F")[
(if:(save-game:"file F"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file F")[
FILE F is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE G")[(save-game: "file G")[
(if:(save-game:"file G"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file G")[
FILE G is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
]
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[[[I'm ready to move forward (ch IV).->meeting Kosta]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[The force of his punch makes your whole body turn. You take a step back to steady yourself and the pain bites from you skin. You lift your hand to your cheek.
[[🔹I snort incredulously. "You crazy bastard..."->crazy bastard]]
[[🔹I clench my teeth. "You fucking scum..."->clench insect]]
[[🔹I just react without much thinking.->without thinking]]
]]
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"What's wrong, $lastname..."
His laughter is broken by the sudden contact between your forehead and his face. He clings for a moment on the chair on his left, but he just ends up dragging it with him down on the floor.
"//I said//. You're a crazy bastard."
Rage erupts on his face and you shift your weight on your other foot, [[ready for his next blow.->his next blow]]
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You feel his tightened knuckles being driven into your stomach. Again. You drive your elbow into his shoulder blade. You're losing your balance.
You //already// lost track of time. You push.
(text-style:"blur")[//This fucking idiot. //]
You grab.
(text-style:"blur")[//I've had enough.// ]
Your fingers sink into his neck.
(text-style:"blurrier")[//I want it to stop. //]
You squeeze.
(text-style:"blurrier")[//Stop...//]
Through the smashing sounds of cheap ceramic you hear a booming voice. A familiar voice.
"$firstname, [[''STOP''!"->stop]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[In an instant your shoulder is yanked and a steady, warm hand covers your own, unclenching it from Callen's neck. Kosta's low voice seeps through you.
"$firstname. [[//Breathe//->breathe]]." ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["Haa...Ha...Haaa..."
"Yes, just like that, slowly."
$TheyKosta moves (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hand to your eyes, covering them gently, pulling your head backwards against (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] chest.
The sounds around you mellow down and you begin to feel the people coming closer.
"What the fuck was that?!"
Callen's voice makes you flinch.
"(if:$gender_choice is "female")[She was](if:$gender_choice is "male")[He was](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[They were] about to kill me!"
"Then maybe you should be careful who you provoke next time, Callen."
"Kosta, you can't be serious right now, have you seen..."
"Callen, are you dead?"
"What? Of course not..."
"Then everything's fine, right?"
Before you can hear anything else through all the tangled, indistinctive sounds, Kosta is already [[taking you out of the room.->out of the room]]
]]
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(text-size:0.7)["Here, let me see that."
You recoil from (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] touch, anticipating the burn of the alcohol on the gash on your brow. The cold air in the medical exam room has sobered you up completely and you begin to feel the aftermath of your earlier encounter.
$TheyKosta clicks (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] tongue, in annoyance. "You're bleeding, you have to get this thing cleaned up."
[[🔹"I can do it myself", I say, taking the cotton swab from Kosta's hand. ->do it yourself]]
[[🔹I remain silent, letting Kosta clean the wound.->let kosta do it]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"Fine."
Just before (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] rises to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] feet, a strand from (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] mahogany hair falls from its place. Now that you look closely, you can see tiny beads of sweat on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] forehead. //Did (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] rush over to you?//
"You helped me. Why?"
"I didn't help //you//, I prevented a freakin' disaster."
A beat. You swallow. The images flash in your mind.
"No, you did. You took my side when you could've let the staff handle me."
$TheyKosta scoffs a little, deciding not to give you a proper answer.
"You said you hated me."
"Oh yes, I pretty much do", (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] agrees bitterly.
[["But..."->you dont hate me two]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[$TheyKosta leans toward you and a strand of (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] mahogany hair falls from its place. Now that you look closely, you can see tiny beads of sweat on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] forehead. //Did (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] rush over to you?//
"You helped me. Why?"
"I didn't help //you//, I prevented a freakin' disaster."
A beat. You swallow. The images flash in your mind.
"No, you did. You took my side when you could've let the staff handle me."
$TheyKosta scoffs a little, deciding not to give you a proper answer.
"You said you hated me."
"Oh yes, I pretty much do", (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] agrees bitterly.
[["But..."->no you dont hate me]]
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(text-size:0.7)["But what?"
You avoid (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] gaze instinctively and it takes just a brief moment for (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] to catch on.
"Don't you dare use your abilities on me, $firstname!" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] snarls at you.
"I didn't...you touched me suddenly and...it wasn't on purpose!"
You wait in silence for (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] reaction. Then you hear (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] sigh.
"Just...stay still for a moment, I want to get this over with" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, focusing back on your injury. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] scowl is still there, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] touch is almost...gentle.
[[🔹You sigh. "Thank you. And I...I get why you're angry. I knew how much you care about being a team, but I still vanished."->you're sorry two ]]
[[🔹You sigh. "Well, I hate you too. But thank you. For getting me out of there."->not sorry two]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
A couple of minutes later, you feel (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] applying the last band aid, at the corner of your mouth.
"That should do it," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, rising to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] feet.
You tap the arch of your brow with your fingers. "At least it's not broken."
"Yeah. You still look like shit, though..."
You pause for a moment, thinking about August's reaction.
[[🔹"I can't just say I fell down on the stairs, can I?" I ask, with a little grimace. ->fell on the stairs]]
[[🔹"August's going to kill me..."->august going to kill you]]
[[🔹"I have to explain this to August before they remove me from the investigation."->explain to august]]
]]
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(text-size:0.7)["From the 10th floor all the way down?"
"Uughhh..."
You slip your fingers through your hair, pressing them against your scalp. "I'm sooo in trouble now...what if August removes me from the investigation?"
"You should have thought about that before you threw your first punch."
You freeze with your gaze still on the floor at the sound of August's voice. Then your head snaps in their direction. "Commander!"
"Don't 'Commander' me, $lastname."
[[Their furrow deepens as soon as they see your face.->what happened]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Kosta takes a step back, making way for them to approach you.
"What the hell were you thinking?" they ask. Their tone seems calm, but you can tell they're not, by the way they bite from every single word.
"I...
[[...🔹wasn't."->wasn't thinking]]
[[...🔹lost control."->lost control]]
[[...🔹don't know."->do not know]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[August crosses their arms.
"Is that it? That's all you have to say?"
"What can I say?"
"What happened there?"
"He attacked me. I defended myself."
"You almost killed him, $firstname!"
Realization slowly creeps in your head. //They aren't exaggerating//. You can still feel your hands on his neck. His pulse. The sound of his muscles being squeezed.
You lift your head and something in your expression makes both August and Kosta look at you in worry.
[["$firstname," August begins, softer this time, "What was that?" ->what was that]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)["I haven't used the //mind breach// in a long time..."
They remain quiet, waiting for you to continue. You take a deep breath.
"It piles up. Everything. All the emotions just gather and the stronger ones are the bad ones. Anger, in my case. And with what happened lately..."
"Did you always know about it?"
"Yeah, my father told me when I was younger."
"Then why don't you breach?" Kosta intervenes.
"Breaching at low intensity wouldn't work, Kosta," you counter. "I would have to use my abilities at nearly full capacity and it could be harmful..."
"You can use your abilities in a controlled environment. The Unit can provide this..."
"No," you cut (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] off. "I can't."
August leans on the wall on your left. "Is it because of your fallout?"
"Yeah..." you nod.
"And you still don't want to tell us what the fallout implies, do you?" they ask, already aware of the answer.
[["...No."->don't want to]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[If they knew about the price of your abilities, you're sure they would never let you become involved in the investigation. //And that would be the best case scenario.//
"Not yet," you add, trying to placate them.
You see Kosta ready to argue, when August raises their hand, stopping (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her]. [["Fine."->fine]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["We don't have the time for this anyway. I have the warrant for Ioveanu and we should get going before he finds out we're ready to take him in. Do you feel you can do this, agent?"
"Yes, Commander," you answer, getting up from your seat.
"You'll report to me the moment you feel anything's wrong, //do you understand//?"
"Yes."
"Good. Now let's go, Leon's waiting outside for us."
Kosta throws you your (cycling-link: bind $coat, "coat", "leather jacket", "windbreaker jacket", "trench coat").
"Ioveanu still has rats inside?" you ask, as you put it on.
[["Things don't change //that// much in just a few years," Kosta grumbles.->bad jokes]] ]]<style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-style:"smear","blink")+(text-size:0.9)[''The Lucky One'']
(text-size:0.7)[//Eyes of Fortune Casino// stands as a luminous thorn in the police's neck, on one of the busiest streets in this city.
"It's just as shiny as I remember it," you comment.
"No, it was extended last year!"
You turn to Leon. "Really?"
"Yep, they made quite a big deal out of it. All of Serga's big shots were invited."
"He nedeed to launder more money, obviously."
You both look at Kosta as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says this, passing you by.
"I suspect (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] envious (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] wasn't invited..."
"Shut up!"
Leon chuckles, leaning back on the hood of the Unit's black car. Then she looks at August. "Boss?"
August sighs, getting out of the car. "It's Commander."
"Commander, should I wait here for you or do you need me to park elsewhere?"
"Stay here. We're going to try to do this nicely."
[["Good luck with that, boss," Leon laughs.->good luck with that]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[August's open coat rustles in the wind as they quicken their pace. You follow, taking one last look at the gaudy building in front of you.
Although a lot of cases related to City Eyes were assigned to you in the past, you've never actually met their leader. And with how many troubles you've caused him, [[you're not sure you would have wanted to.->never met]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["Which one of you will be the main?" you ask, getting closer to the two of them.
"I'll be main, Kosta's going to be supporting," August says, looking at their wrist watch. "You'll stay close to Kosta, $firstname."
[[🔹"Cool."->cool]]
[[🔹"Alright."->alright commander]]
[[🔹"Yes, Commander." ->yes commander]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You shove you hands into your pockets, leaning closer to Kosta. "Hear that, partner? Back to the old days..."
"We're not partners, $lastname," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] retorts, rolling (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes at you. "I'm keeping an eye on you so you won't cause a mess."
(if:$humor is true)["Would you say...you're keeping an //eye of fortune// on me?" you snicker, unfazed by (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] comment.
$TheyKosta winces at your words and your smile grows even bigger (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She's] so easy to tease.]
"Ready?"
August's question makes you shift your attention to the two burly guards standing at the front door of the casino. Mean looking and already very aware of your presence.
[["Ready."->ready ]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Please wait here for a moment, Mr. Ioveanu is caught up with important business."
The middle aged man gestures for you to enter a spacious, black and golden room.
"I'm sure he is."
August clears their throat, covering Kosta's mumbling, while you decide to go ahead and take a seat.
"If you had sent a message beforehand to announce your visit..."
He's not even trying to conceal his disapproval, making you feel like you've just stepped in some old noble's house without an invitation. Even funnier is the way he tries to act like a butler, when it's clear as day he's a trained fighter. [[And not a subtle type, if you'd have to take a guess.->not in a visit]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
So, you're //that// agent $lastname? The..."
"Leon. Focus on the road."
August's clear warning makes the woman stop. Normally, you'd let it at that, but there's something in her curiosity that you haven't sensed in a long time.// It's innocent, like a child's.//
You throw a glance over your shoulder, at the back of the car. August's writing on the tablet, with the most bored expression, while Kosta's playing something on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] phone.// Probably Snake, based on how ancient that thing is. //
"What about me?" you ask, looking back at Leon.
You hear August shift nervously behind your seat, but they don't interrupt you.
"I heard a lot of things about you, that's all," she says, smiling.
[[🔹"All good things, I'm sure," I say, half-amused.->all good things]]
[[🔹"What kind of things?" I ask, raising an eyebrow at her.->what things]]
[[🔹"You mean about me being a thoughtless junkie who kills teammates? Or other things?"->you mean those things]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"No, not really," she admits, getting a little shy.
You snort and she speaks again. "But I also heard good things! You closed many tough cases during your years."
"Yeah..."
You turn to the window, suddenly feeling uncomfortable. August clears their throat. "She's one of our newbies."
"Not the sharpest tool in the shed, but the best driver you can find," Kosta joins, with a low chuckle.
"Takes one to know one!" Leon exclaims, grinning.
You wait for Kosta's venomous retort and when it doesn't come, you turn around, with your eyes round in surprise. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] smile freezes on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] face when your eyes meet. "What?"
"What //what//?" you ask back.
"You're looking at me like you're seeing me for the first time."
You pause for a second. Then you look at August, who gives you an amused look.
"Can you stop that?" Kosta cuts in, annoyed. "I always hate it when you two do that, it gives me the creeps..."
"Boss, we're almost in front of the kiosk on West Street. Do you want me to stop for coffee?"
"Does it look like I came out of the office for coffee?" August deadpans.
You turn to them. "Do you still take your coffee from there?"
They smile seeing your reaction. "Of course. And they still post the jokes in the front."
[["Those aren't //jokes//," Kosta cuts you off, with a grimace.->the bees]] ]]
.
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(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$humor is true)["Have you finally learned how to recognize a joke?" you ask, pretending to be impressed.
"Piss off."]
"The last one was...," August begins, pensively.
"The one with the bees!" Leon chimes in.
"Yeah, that one. What are two bees sent to the moon going to do?"
"What?" you ask, preparing yourself.
[[August gives you a childish smile.->the honeymoon]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"Their honeymoon!"
Leon barks out a laugh, hearing Kosta's annoyed grunt. You...
[[🔹I love bad jokes and puns! My laughter immediately joins Leon's. ->love bad puns]]
[[🔹I find these bad jokes funny, but I'm not the type to laugh out loud like that. A chuckle escapes my lips.->funny but cringe]]
[[🔹I completely understand Kosta's reaction. It's almost physically painful.->painful cringe]]
]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"I miss that place," you say, still giggling.
"Really?" August asks, suddenly fixing you with their stare.
You realize what you've just said and a strange sensation washes over you. //Do I really miss it? All of it?//
Leon's voice grabs everyone's attention, breaking the moment. [["We're here."->save IV]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Well, we're not here for a visit. Sending notifications would kind of defeat our general purpose," August says, politely. "I'm sure he understands."
The man frowns. "I'll let him now you're here."
As soon as he exits the room, August flops on one of the plushy couches.
[["Oooh, these are the best! How much do you think one of these costs?"->these are the best]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)["We shouldn't laze around waiting for him. He might be preparing to escape through a back door or something as we speak," Kosta cuts in.
"You've followed his moves for such a long time and you still don't know him," August answers in an affected tone, taking their pack of cigarettes from the inside pocket.
"He won't leave this building as long as we're still in it. If he knew we were coming he would have blocked us out somehow."
"He's going to make us wait for him, isn't he?" you sigh.
"Charming," Kosta grumbles, still pacing around.
"How long would you say it's fair to wait for someone //that //busy?" August asks, raising their eyes to the ceiling.
Both you and Kosta follow their gaze, until you spot the tiny object above you.
Kosta smirks. "I'd say about 10 minutes should be enough."
You instinctively grab the lighter in your pocket, handing it to August and they glance at the silvery watch on their wrist. [["10 minutes it is then."->10 it is]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Exactly 10 minutes later, you're pressing your palms to your ears, to cover the awful noise coming from the fire alarm.
August shouts something in your direction and you suspect it's something along the lines of 'hang in there', by the movements of their lips. They take another drag, trying to ignore the awful sound.
Then the double doors slam open and a delicate looking young man walks in like a raging storm.
His bright pink silken robe is undone and you're startled at first, thinking he's not wearing anything underneath. //That would have been truly awkward//, you think, glancing at his black boxer shorts.
The man who welcomed you first comes running after him and he begins to shout something, throwing his arms in the air. The exchange lasts only a few seconds before the older man runs back outside.
[[Then the noises stop.// At last.// ->at last]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[The silk pijama man turns to you, seething with rage. "//What the fuck do you think you're doing?//"
"Mr. Ioveanu, thank you for receiving us," August says, almost smiling. They throw the cigarette on the carpet, putting it out with their heel.
You sense Kosta tense beside you, prepared for Ioveanu's next move. Meanwhile, the young man stares at the ruined carpet in silence. A beat. Then he brings his hand to his mouth and it takes you a moment to realize he's laughing.
"Is the police so underfunded that they can't even send their men to some classes to learn manners?", he asks jovially.
"We were taught to adjust our manners depending on the situation. It's not polite to make guests wait for no good reason."
"You're not my guests and my reasons are always good," he says, settling into the couch opposite of you, with his legs crossed. His smile drops. [["Why are you here?"->why you here]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)["There's been a series of incidents lately and a powerful atypical was involved," Kosta cuts in, impatiently.
"And why is that my business?" Ioveanu asks, looking bored.
"That's what we want to find out."
"I suppose you have a warrant for that."
"Of course."
He sighs, rolling his eyes. "Your interrogation rooms are uncomfortable and dreary. And your coffee's just awful."
"With that I agree," Augusts nods, raising to their feet. "Now let's go."
"Shouldn't he...put something on first?" Kosta asks, frowning at Ioveanu.
"I swear agent Kosta, you were so much more fun when agent $lastname was still active. There were times when I almost enjoyed your interference in my business."
Kosta turns to you without thinking, making both you and August freeze. Ioveanu stares blankly at your stiff expressions for a second. Until something //clicks//.
A cat-like smile spreads all over his face and he leans closer, taking in your features, with unexpected, immense satisfaction.
[["Well, I'll be damned!" ->be damned]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[The force of his punch makes your whole body turn. You take a step back to steady yourself and the pain bites from you skin. You lift your hand to your cheek.
[[🔹I snort, feeling my heart rate spiking. "Just ask nicely, you fucking scum..."->ask nicely]]
[[🔹I clench my teeth. "You insect ..."->clench insect]]
[[🔹I just react without thinking.->without thinking]]
]]
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(text-size:0.7)[The force of his punch makes your whole body turn. You take a step back to steady yourself and the pain bites from you skin. You lift your hand to your cheek.
[[🔹I snort incredulously. "Are you done?"->are you done]]
[[🔹I clench my teeth. "You fucking insect..."->clench insect]]
[[🔹I just react without much thinking.->without thinking]]
]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
"What's wrong, $lastname..."
His laughter is broken by the sudden contact between your forehead and his face. He clings for a moment on the chair on his left, but he just ends up dragging it with him down on the floor.
"//I said//. You could just ask me nicely. I might even let you lick// my //boots."
Rage erupts on his face and you shift your weight on your other foot, [[ready for his next blow.->his next blow]]
]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"What's wrong, $lastname..."
His laughter is broken by the sudden contact between your forehead and his face. He clings for a moment on the chair on his left, but he just ends up dragging it with him down on the floor.
"//I said//. Are.You.Done."
Rage erupts on his face and you shift your weight on your other foot, [[ready for his next blow.->his next blow]]
]]
(set:$personality to "impulsive")
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(text-size:0.7)[
"What's wrong, $lastname..."
His laughter is broken by the sudden contact between your forehead and his face. He clings for a moment on the chair on his left, but he just ends up dragging it with him down on the floor.
"Get back on your feet, you scum."
Rage erupts on his face and you shift your weight on your other foot, [[ready for his next blow.->his next blow]]
]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
"What's wrong, $lastname..."
His laughter is broken by the sudden contact between your forehead and his face. He clings for a moment on the chair on his left, but he just ends up dragging it with him down on the floor.
You spit next to his foot and rage erupts on his face. You shift your weight on your other foot, [[ready for his next blow.->his next blow]]
]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
"But what?"
You avoid (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] gaze instinctively and it takes just a brief moment for (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] to catch on.
"Don't you dare use your abilities on me, $firstname!" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] snarls at you.
"I didn't...you touched me suddenly and...it wasn't on purpose!"
You wait in silence for (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] reaction. Then you hear (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] sigh.
"Just...hurry up, I want to get this over with" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, gesturing to your injury. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] scowl is still there, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] retreats into a corner, giving you some space.
[[You sigh. "Thank you. And I...I get why you're angry. I knew how much you care about being a team, but I still vanished."->you're sorry ]]
[[You sigh. "Well, I hate you too. But thank you. For getting me out of there."->not sorry]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
A couple of minutes later, you manage to apply the last band aid, at the corner of your mouth.
"That should do it," you comment.
You tap the arch of your brow with your fingers. "And at least it's not broken."
"Yeah. You still look like shit, though..."
You pause for a moment, thinking about August's reaction.
[[🔹"I can't just say I fell down on the stairs, can I?" I ask, with a little grimace. ->fell on the stairs]]
[[🔹"August's going to kill me..."->august going to kill you]]
[[🔹"I have to explain this to August before they remove me from the investigation."->explain to august]]
]]
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(text-size:0.7)["Yes, I might."
You freeze with your gaze still on the floor at the sound of August's voice. Then your head snaps in their direction. "Commander!"
"Don't 'Commander' me, $lastname."
[[Their furrow deepens as soon as they see your face.->what happened]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
"I can't wait for that explanation."
You freeze with your gaze still on the floor at the sound of August's voice. Then your head snaps in their direction. "Commander!"
"Don't 'Commander' me, $lastname."
[[Their furrow deepens as soon as they see your face.->what happened]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[August crosses their arms.
"That's obvious. But why?"
"I...He attacked me. I defended myself."
"You almost //killed// him."
Realization slowly creeps in your head. //They aren't exaggerating//. You can still feel your hands on his neck. His pulse. The sound of his muscles being squeezed.
You lift your head and something in your expression makes both August and Kosta look at you in worry.
[["$firstname," August begins, softer this time, "What was that?" ->what was that]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[August crosses their arms.
"What do you mean?"
"I...He attacked me. I defended myself."
"You almost //killed// him."
Realization slowly creeps in your head. //They aren't exaggerating//. You can still feel your hands on his neck. His pulse. The sound of his muscles being squeezed.
You lift your head and something in your expression makes both August and Kosta look at you in worry.
[["$firstname," August begins, softer this time, "What was that?" ->what was that]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"You closed many tough cases during your years!"
"Yeah..."
You turn to the window, suddenly feeling uncomfortable. August clears their throat. "She's one of our newbies."
"Not the sharpest tool in the shed, but the best driver you can find," Kosta joins, with a low chuckle.
"Takes one to know one!" Leon exclaims, grinning.
You wait for Kosta's venomous retort and when it doesn't come, you turn around, with your eyes round in surprise. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] smile freezes on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] face when your eyes meet. "What?"
"What //what//?" you ask back.
"You're looking at me like you're seeing me for the first time."
You pause for a second. Then you look at August, who gives you an amused look.
"Can you stop that?" Kosta cuts in, annoyed. "I always hate it when you two do that, it gives me the creeps..."
"Boss, we're almost in front of the kiosk on West Street. Do you want me to stop for coffee?"
"Does it look like I came out of the office for coffee?" August deadpans.
You turn to them. "Do you still take your coffee from there?"
They smile seeing your reaction. "Of course. And they still post the jokes in the front."
[["Those aren't //jokes//," Kosta cuts you off, with a grimace.->the bees]] ]]
.
(set:$anger to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
"Both," she admits, less excited.
You snort and she speaks again. "But I also heard good things! You closed many tough cases during your years."
"Yeah..."
You turn to the window, suddenly feeling uncomfortable. August clears their throat. "She's one of our newbies."
"Not the sharpest tool in the shed, but the best driver you can find," Kosta joins, with a low chuckle.
"Takes one to know one!" Leon exclaims, grinning.
You wait for Kosta's venomous retort and when it doesn't come, you turn around, with your eyes round in surprise. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] smile freezes on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] face when your eyes meet. "What?"
"What //what//?" you ask back.
"You're looking at me like you're seeing me for the first time."
You pause for a second. Then you look at August, who gives you an amused look.
"Can you stop that?" Kosta cuts in, annoyed. "I always hate it when you two do that, it gives me the creeps..."
"Boss, we're almost in front of the kiosk on West Street. Do you want me to stop for coffee?"
"Does it look like I came out of the office for coffee?" August deadpans.
You turn to them. "Do you still take your coffee from there?"
They smile seeing your reaction. "Of course. And they still post the jokes in the front."
[["Those aren't //jokes//," Kosta cuts you off, with a grimace.->the bees]] ]]
.
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
"I almost miss that place," you say, with a little smile.
"Really?" August asks, suddenly fixing you with their stare.
You realize what you've just said and a strange sensation washes over you. //Do I really miss it? What part of it?//
Leon's voice grabs everyone's attention, breaking the moment. [["We're here."->save IV]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
If Kosta had been even a little less irritating, you would have hugged (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] to comfort each other after this attempt at a joke.
"Don't you miss it at all?" August asks, suddenly fixing you with their stare.
You realize what they're really referring to and a strange sensation washes over you. //Do I?//
Leon's voice grabs everyone's attention, breaking the moment. [["We're here."->save IV]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You shove you hands into your pockets, silently getting nearer to Kosta.
$TheyKosta give you side glance. "Don't cause a mess, $lastname."
"Agent, I'm as annoyed by this arrangement as you are," you answer calmly.
$TheyKosta scoffs, turning away from you.
"Ready?"
August's question makes you shift your attention to the two burly guards standing at the front door of the casino. Mean looking and already very aware of your presence.
[["Ready."->ready ]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You shove you hands into your pockets, silently getting nearer to Kosta.
$TheyKosta gives you side glance. "Don't cause a mess, $lastname."
"Oh, I'm sure you're capable enough to take care of whatever I might cause," you retort.
$TheyKosta winces at your words and you barely contain your smile. //(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She's] so easy to tease.//
"I am. I don't //want// to."
"Sure..."
"Ready?"
August's question makes you shift your attention to the two burly guards standing at the front door of the casino. Mean looking and already very aware of your presence.
[["Ready."->ready ]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[Don't forget the choices you've made, agent.
(link: "save data - FILE A")[(save-game: "file A")[
(if:(save-game:"file A"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file A")[
FILE A is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE B")[(save-game: "file B")[
(if:(save-game:"file B"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file B")[
FILE B is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE C")[(save-game: "file C")[
(if:(save-game:"file C"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file C")[
FILE C is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE D")[(save-game: "file D")[
(if:(save-game:"file D"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file D")[
FILE D is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE E")[(save-game: "file E")[
(if:(save-game:"file E"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file E")[
FILE E is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE F")[(save-game: "file F")[
(if:(save-game:"file F"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file F")[
FILE F is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE G")[(save-game: "file G")[
(if:(save-game:"file G"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file G")[
FILE G is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
]
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[[[I'm ready to move forward (ch V).->kosta grumbles]]]
]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
Dark, clear eyes are now completely fixed on you. From somewhere in the background, you hear a small, familiar sigh and you know August is about to intervene.
[[🔹"Agent $lastname is indeed very cool, I agree with that," I confidently say, grinning. ->indeed cool]]
[[🔹I smirk, slightly entertained by the situation. "Well, I didn't know I had a fanclub." ->unimpressed]]
[[🔹I remain silent, waiting for August to take control of the situation.->wait for august to speak]]
[[🔹"//I// certainly didn't miss dealing with your men," I grumble, annoyed.->you didn't miss him]]
]](set: $abelrel to "abelinterested")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[For a moment, he just blinks in surprise. Then laughter begins to spill out of his chest, as he sweeps back some unruly strands from his ashen hair. Suddenly you're curious whether the color is natural. It suits him. In a strange, contrasting way.
"That's actually a fun idea! What about one big fanclub for the whole CG Unit? With monthly fan meetings and stuff like that. What do you say, Agent Wald?"
"If I had to increase the number of our encounters even by one I would quit this job," August deadpans.
[[Abel shrugs, still very amused. "A real pity, then."->don't have time]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["I'm also incredibly sad. Now you have 5 minutes to change clothes, Ioveanu."
Abel sinks back into the sofa, crossing his arms. "I didn't say I was going with you."
You and Kosta both throw a worried glance in August's direction. Their irritation practically oozes out of their skin and a single thought weighs on your mind right now.
//None of us is armed.//
Your eyes instinctively seek Kosta. August is practically useless without a firearm, so if things escalate, someone has to pull them out.
[[🔹I'm a bit rusty, but back in the days I was on par with Kosta. I'm confident I can bring August back to HQin one piece. ->on par with kosta]]
[[🔹I can hold my own in a fight, but I'm no expert. Kosta should take August out, while I distract them.->manage]]
[[🔹I really hope Kosta drank vitamin water today, because I'm no better than August in close combat. ->vitamin water]]
]]
(set: $abelrel to "abelinterested")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[For a moment, he blinks at you in surprise. Then laughter begins to spill out of his chest, as he sweeps back some unruly strands from his ashen hair. Suddenly you're curious whether the color is natural. It suits him. In a strange, contrasting way.
"You're exactly as I imagined you to be!"
"And how is that?" you ask
"//Fun.//"
He answers without taking his eyes off you and you notice a strange gleam in them. "I have this feeling we could become friends."
"I don't think so," August scoffs.
[[Abel shrugs, still very amused. "Your boss always breaks my heart like that."->don't have time two]]
]]
(set: $abelrel to "abelnotinterested")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
"Ioveanu, focus. We're not here to make friends."
"Agent Wald, it's always a good idea to make friends," Abel chuckles.
He sweeps back some unruly strands from his ashen hair. Suddenly you're curious whether the color is natural. It suits him. In a strange, contrasting way.
He then looks at you again, but you can see the boredom flooding his features.
[["But well, I guess I expected something...more from our first encounter."->something more]]]](set: $abelrel to "abelnotinterested")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[For a moment, he just blinks at you. Then laughter begins to spill out of his chest, as he sweeps back some unruly strands from his ashen hair. Suddenly you're curious whether the color is natural. It suits him. In a strange, contrasting way.
"Don't be like that, Agent $lastname. I thought we had a connection."
"We did not," you say dryly.
[[He rolls his eyes, as boredom floods again his face. "How dull."->no time dull]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
The tall woman advances towards you, flanked by burly twin bodyguards, and you have to fight the instinct to take a step back. Her presence is overwhelming. Her mood is //not// good.
"Get your sorry ass out of that couch. ''Now''."
She beckons to the man acting as a butler and he nods before exiting the room in a hurry.
[[Abel groans softly. "I don't want to. Why don't //you// go with them?"->enter cat two]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[The woman completely ignores Abel's comment, turning to August instead.
"We'll cooperate."
Despite her dispassionate tone, you catch something shifting in her eyes, like a spectral fire.
You immediately expect some kind of reaction from Abel, but his expression is entirely unreadable.
"So you already know why we're here," August notes dryly.
"Yeah."
Kosta takes a cautious step closer. "...How?"
[[Catarina purses her lips, frowning. "I've already met the guy you're looking for."->why did they met the guy]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[For a moment, the silence just slithers between all of you, cold, yet scalding. Eeverything about this messed up situation slowly starts to become real. That guy //exists//. Someone else has met them as well.
"Why?" Kosta asks again.
Catarina scwols. "Are you questioning me right now, agent?"
"No, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] just likes to make conversation with you," Abel snorts.
"We will cooperate, but you'd better not remain under the impression that you have the higher ground here," [[Catarina continues, unfazed.->intuition or not]] ]]
(set: $combat to "weak")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
From the corner of your eye, you see August preparing to speak. "Are yo..."
"Don't be a child."
[[All the eyes in the room are suddenly drawn to the new, feminine voice.->enter cat]] ]](set: $combat to "strong")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[From the corner of your eye, you see August preparing to speak. "Are yo..."
"Don't be a child."
[[All the eyes in the room are suddenly drawn to the new, feminine voice.->enter cat]] ]](set: $combat to "moderate")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[From the corner of your eye, you see August preparing to speak. "Are yo..."
"Don't be a child."
[[All the eyes in the room are suddenly drawn to the new, feminine voice.->enter cat]]]] <style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
"So. How //is// he?"
Halfway to the station, Leon's voice pulls you away from the fuzzy blend of flashy displays and sleazy brownish streets.
"Who?" you repeat.
"Ioveanu!"
[[Her eyes sparkle for a moment with admiration and you feel like you've just met a celebrity.->celebrity]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
"So...Like a favor," August says, raising an eyebrow.
"Like that."
You shift into place.
[[🔹I don't know what she's up to, but I'm fairly good at reading people and my senses are ringing right now. Something's weird. (intuitive)->intuition]]
[[🔹I don't know what she's up to, but based on the information we've got so far, her attitude doesn't make sense. (logical)->logic]]
[[🔹I don't care enough to try to make sense of this situation.->dont care]] ]]
(set: $skill to "intuition")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
"...Fine," August finally concedes.
"Commander..."
August raises their hand, stopping Kosta.
"Let's talk at the station."
Catarina shakes her head. "No. This isn't going to be something official."
[[August pauses again, with a conflicted expression.->election]] ]]
(set: $skill to "logic")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
"...Fine," August finally concedes.
"Commander..."
August raises their hand, stopping Kosta.
"Let's talk at the station."
Catarina shakes her head. "No. This isn't going to be something official."
[[August pauses again, with a conflicted expression.->election]] ]]
(set: $skill to "none")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
"...Fine," August finally concedes.
"Commander..."
August raises their hand, stopping Kosta.
"Let's talk at the station."
Catarina shakes her head. "No. This isn't going to be something official."
[[August pauses again, with a conflicted expression.->election]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"Is this about the upcoming election?" they ask. "For the mayor's office."
Catarina nods. "You have to understand that we cannot come out in the spotlight until the campaigns are over..."
[["Because you want to make sure //your candidate //won't be affected by it," August concludes with a mocking smile.->invest]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
August begins to shuffle through their pockets. They pull out a sqaure shaped object and you recognize their silver cigarette case, with the dahlia flower engraved on it. You've never seen it while you were still in the Unit, but in these last years they've been carrying it around, like something precious.
They take a black slim out of the case, then they stop, with their gaze fixed on it. [["We'll contact you tomorrow. We'll tell you the time, you choose the place."->time and place]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)["We believe in long-term //investments//. And as many of Serga's residents can tell you, in most cases we make better investments than the rest of our public officials."
A disgruntled sound escapes August's lips, but they don't argue further.
(if:$skill is "logic")[//Because they can't, not in all honesty//, you think. Their means may not be the cleanest, but they have a reputation for taking care of civilians.]
(if:$skill is "intuition")[And by their reaction, you think that's because they actually agree with Catarina's claim. Which isn't so outlandish, given the fact that three quarters of this city's politicians are way worse than all its mobsters combined.]
You notice the butler returning with several sets of clothing.[[ He puts them silently in front of Abel, who doesn't seem to pay any more attention to the current conversation.->ioveanu office ]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Catarina nods. "Alright."
They tap the silver surface of the case with the end of the cigarette, shifting their attention to Abel. "You'd better have something good to offer, Ioveanu."
"Always ready to please," Abel smirks.
August just turns without another word and you have to push Kosta in the same direction, worried that (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] might snap before exiting the building. [[As you walk out, the doors close behind you, silencing the voices inside.->station inter]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
"Apart from the boss, no one's ever met him face to face. And the boss doesn't really want to talk about it..."
"What would I have to talk about?" August asks, with an exasperated sigh. "He's the head of a criminal organization. And he's annoying," they mumble.
"See?" Leon laughs.
You think for a second, focusing on a red traffic light that just popped into view.
(if:$combat is "moderate")["I don't know about other things, but he's not the type to get his own hands dirty. He's not trained to fight."]
(if:$combat is "strong")["I don't know about other things, but he's not the type to get his own hands dirty. He's not trained to fight."]
[[🔹"He's different from how I imagined him to be. Unexpectedly...laid back."->laid back]]
[[🔹"I fail to see how the organization still stands. He's like a kid."->like a kid]]
(if:$skill is "intuition")[[[🔹"He knew why we were there, even before Catarina showed up. And their dynamic was odd."->intuition works]]]
(if:$skill is "logic")[[[🔹"He's...interesting. He makes his sister look like the power figure, while he observes the situation."->logic works]]]
]]
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(text-size:0.7)["You mean he's like a kid," Kosta grumbles from the backseat, with (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes closed and arms crossed. Since the beginning of the ride, it seems (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] has been trying to rest. Or to calm down.
Leon looks at Kosta, in the rearview mirror.
"No, I didn't mean it like that," you correct (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her]. "Just...eccentric."
Leon snicker, then she notices your confusion. "There's this ongoing bet in the Unit, about who's the one that actually leads City Eyes," "Catarina seems to be much more involved in the group's movements, while Ioveanu just plays at his casino all day."
"He's a joke as a leader."
"Then why is it so hard for you to catch him?" Leon chuckles.
Kosta practically leaps forward, toward the driver's seat. "I'll have you know..."
"Enough," August calmly cuts in. "I already have a headache. Besides, you should be careful with him. He's not a simple man at all."
[[Kosta leans back, mumbling something in forced agreement.->the clock ]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["Told you!" Kosta exclaims from the backseat, with (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes closed and arms crossed. Since the beginning of the ride, it seems (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] has been trying to rest. Or to calm down.
Leon looks at Kosta, in the rearview mirror.
"But that would be so underwhelming!"
She then notices your confusion. "There's this ongoing bet in the Unit, about who's the one that actually leads City Eyes," "Catarina seems to be much more involved in the group's movements, while Ioveanu just plays at his casino all day."
"He's a joke as a leader."
"Then why is it so hard for you to catch him?" Leon chuckles.
Kosta practically leaps forward, toward the driver's seat. "I'll have you know..."
"Enough," August calmly cuts in. "I already have a headache. Besides, you should be careful with him. He's not a simple man at all."
[[Kosta leans back, mumbling something in forced agreement.->the clock ]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"Actually, the whole scene was weird," you continue. "It appeared like he wasn't the one calling the shots, but his sister's reactions were clearly rehearsed. Moreover, he seemed to be looking for something specific regarding our reactions."
"Ha! Told you!" Leon exclaims, looking at Kosta, in the rearview mirror.
Kosta shifts a little, with (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes closed and arms crossed. Since the beginning of the ride, it seems (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] has been trying to rest. Or to calm down.
"There's this ongoing bet in the Unit, about who's the one that actually leads City Eyes," Leon goes on to say, noticing your confusion. "Catarina seems to be much more involved in the group's movements, while Ioveanu just plays at his casino all day."
"I still think he's too negligent to actually be in charge. He's a joke as a leader."
"Then why is it so hard for you to catch him?" Leon chuckles.
Kosta practically leaps forward, toward the driver's seat. "I'll have you know..."
"Enough," August calmly cuts in. "I already have a headache. On top of that, $firstname is right, we shouldn't underestimate him."
[[Kosta leans back, mumbling something in forced agreement.->the clock ]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"Ha! Told you!" Leon exclaims, looking at Kosta, in the rearview mirror.
Kosta shifts a little, with (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes closed and arms crossed. Since the beginning of the ride, it seems (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] has been trying to rest. Or to calm down.
"There's this ongoing bet in the Unit, about who's the one that actually leads City Eyes," Leon goes on to say, noticing your confusion. "Catarina seems to be much more involved in the group's movements, while Ioveanu just plays at his casino all day."
"I still think he's too negligent to actually be in charge. He's a joke as a leader."
"Then why is it so hard for you to catch him?" Leon chuckles.
Kosta practically leaps forward, toward the driver's seat. "I'll have you know..."
"Enough," August calmly cuts in. "I already have a headache. On top of that, $firstname is right, we shouldn't underestimate him."
[[Kosta leans back, mumbling something in forced agreement.->the clock ]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
He then looks back at you.
"Well, let me introduce you..."
//That's really unnecessary//, you think, trying to control your breathing. Long, jet black hair. Striking blue eyes. And that neck tattoo...Even though you've never met her in person, it's not hard to guess who she is.
"My dear older sister, Catarina Ioveanu. You might know her as The Witch," [[Abel finishes with a smirk.->cat common branch]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Leon takes a right, entering the street that leads directly to HQ. You take out your phone to look at the time. It's already so late, you should go back home to talk with your siblings about everything that's happened.
(text-style:"emboss")[[New text message->text]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[From Jess. And 15 missed calls. //What the...//
''Please call. Urgent.''
[[//Oh, man. //->what do you mean ]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[WHAT DO YOU MEAN YOU LOST THEM?!
Your angry shout fills the entire parking lot, turning everyone's head in your direction.
"They just...I didn't, they just...ran..."
The girl on the other side of the phone is one moment away from sobbing.
[[🔹I take a deep breath and lower my voice. I'm certain she's scared senseless, yelling won't help anyone.->gentle reaction]]
[[🔹I don't freaking care about her feelings right now, this is my little brother and sister we're talking about.->impulsive reaction]]
[[🔹She should have done a better job if she didn't want me yelling at her.->stoic reaction]]
[[🔹I tell her to calm down and focus. I need her to have a clear head so she can tell me what happened.->calm or stoic reaction]]
]]
(set: $personality to "calm")
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(text-size:0.7)[(if:$gentle is false)[It's a surprise even to you how you can show sympathy in this situation. People are really unpredictable.]
"Jess, calm down and focus, //please//. I need your help to find them."
You hear the soft whimpering stop for a second. "Yeah, of co...of course."
"Where were you when they ran?"
"In the house. The door was locked, they were sleeping and I was watching something on my phone and I...I just dozed off...I don't know. I don't..."
[["Ok, I get it. I'm coming over there right now." ->over there right now]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$personality is "calm")[It seem that even your usually calm disposition has a breaking point. //This//.]
(if:$personality is "stoic")[Your own reaction takes you by surprise, as you normally would never let your emotions run wild like this.]
"Where were you when they left, Jess?" you ask, between gritted teeth.
"In the house, I swear. The door was locked, they were sleeping and I was watching something on my phone and I...I just dozed off...I don't know. I don't..."
[["I'm coming over there right now."->over there right now]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$gentle is true)[Your usually gentle disposition is completely gone right now. You don't want to be mean, but this is a serious mistake.]
"Where were you when they left, Jess?" you ask, between gritted teeth.
"In the house, I swear. The door was locked, they were sleeping and I was watching something on my phone and I...I just dozed off...I don't know. I don't..."
[["I'm coming over there right now."->over there right now]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$personality is "impulsive")[Your voice shakes with impatience as you ask her to take a breath and now more than ever you resent your impulsive tendencies.]
"Jess, concentrate, //please//. I need your help to find them."
You hear the soft whimpering stop for a second. "Yeah, of co...of course."
"Where were you when they ran?"
"In the house. The door was locked, they were sleeping and I was watching something on my phone and I...I just dozed off...I don't know. I don't..."
[["Ok, I get it. I'm coming over there right now."->over there right now]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
$TheyKosta flinches, taken aback by your words. Only for an instant, before you see (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders relaxing again. "Yeah. It was...tough," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] mumbles, [[avoiding your eyes.->that should do it two]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
$TheyKosta flinches slightly at your words. Then you see (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders relaxing again. "Yeah, sure" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] mumbles, [[avoiding your eyes.->that should do it two]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
$TheyKosta flinches, taken aback by your words. Only for an instant, before you see (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders relaxing again. "Yeah. It was...tough," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] mumbles, [[avoiding your eyes.->that should do it]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
$TheyKosta flinches slightly at your words. Then you see (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders relaxing again. "Yeah, sure" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] mumbles, [[avoiding your eyes.->that should do it]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[August rushes to you, followed by Kosta.
"What happened?"
"Lucas and May. They, um...somehow ran away from home."
"Shit," August swears under their breath.
"I've got to go," you announce.
"Yeah, sure, I'll come with you."
Kosta takes a step forward. "Let me go with (if:$gender_choice is "female")[her](if:$gender_choice is "male")[him](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[them], August."
"But..."
"I'm the one whose job is to find people."
//(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She's] right//, you think.
[[You look at Kosta and nod.->leon come here]] ]]<style>
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(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] takes out (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] phone.
"We can't both go, someone has to report something about our movements at City Eyes," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] taps something on the keypad.
"I'll follow you as soon as I handle it," August concedes.
"Give me your car keys," you say, looking at August.
"'No need," Kosta cuts in.
The sound of an engine makes you turn, just in time to see the Unit's car trail braking as it turns to get around you. From the driver's seat, Leon is grinning at you.
[["Has someone called for a ride?"->to the house ]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["District 5," you say, jumping into the car. You reach for the GPS's screen, to enter the address.
"Roger!" she exclaims, hitting the gas.
"How much time has passed?" Kosta asks, already in work mode.
You take a second to do a quick calculation. "Two hours tops."
"12 and 8 years old, right?"
[["Right. They're unfamiliar with the area and I have no means of contacting them."->radius]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I'll cover a radius of two km for starters," Kosta tells you.
"I'll go straight to the house to see if there are any traces that could help."
"Okay. Leon."
"Yep!"
"Circle the main streets."
"The same surface?"
"For the moment, yes."
[["I'll send you a picture of them," you chime in.->contance call]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You're about to add something, when your phone buzzes again. You take a look.
''Constance Calling''
//She probably wants to remind me about the party tonight.//
[[You swipe left, declining.->decline]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You bring the phone to your pocket, when the call starts again.
//Come on!// you sigh.
It's a video call this time.
"Drop me here," Kosta says, looking at the GPS.
Leon starts pushing the break. You swipe right.
"Hello, Hon!"
You open your mouth to answer the smiling woman in front of the camera. Then something else gets into view.
"Leon," you say, raising your hand.
"Yes?"
[["Don't stop. I found them." ->save file V]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["You'll have to live with the regrets. Now you have 5 minutes to change clothes."
Abel sinks back into the sofa, crossing his arms. "I didn't say I was going with you."
You and Kosta both throw a worried glance in August's direction. Their irritation practically oozes out of their skin and a single thought weighs on your mind right now.
//None of us is armed.//
Your eyes instinctively seek Kosta. August is practically useless without a firearm, so if things escalate, someone has to pull them out.
[[🔹I'm a bit rusty, but back in the days I was on par with Kosta. I'm confident I can bring August back to HQin one piece. ->on par with kosta]]
[[🔹I can hold my own in a fight, but I'm no expert. Kosta should take August out, while I distract them.->manage]]
[[🔹I really hope Kosta drank vitamin water today, because I'm no better than August in close combat. ->vitamin water]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["I wish. Now you have 5 minutes to change clothes, Ioveanu."
Abel sinks back into the sofa, crossing his arms. "I didn't say I was going with you."
You and Kosta both throw a worried glance in August's direction. Their irritation practically oozes out of their skin and a single thought weighs on your mind right now.
//None of us is armed.//
Your eyes instinctively seek Kosta. August is practically useless without a firearm, so if things escalate, someone has to pull them out.
[[🔹I'm a bit rusty, but back in the days I was on par with Kosta. I'm confident I can bring August back to HQin one piece. ->on par with kosta]]
[[🔹I can hold my own in a fight, but I'm no expert. Kosta should take August out, while I distract them.->manage]]
[[🔹I really hope Kosta drank vitamin water today, because I'm no better than August in close combat. ->vitamin water]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[August claps their hands once. "Now that we're over this, you have 5 minutes to change clothes."
Abel sinks back into the sofa, crossing his arms. "I didn't say I was going with you."
You and Kosta both throw a worried glance in August's direction. Their irritation practically oozes out of their skin and a single thought weighs on your mind right now.
//None of us is armed.//
Your eyes instinctively seek Kosta. August is practically useless without a firearm, so if things escalate, someone has to pull them out.
[[🔹I'm a bit rusty, but back in the days I was on par with Kosta. I'm confident I can bring August back to HQin one piece. ->on par with kosta]]
[[🔹I can hold my own in a fight, but I'm no expert. Kosta should take August out, while I distract them.->manage]]
[[🔹I really hope Kosta drank vitamin water today, because I'm no better than August in close combat. ->vitamin water]]
]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-style:"smear","blink")+(text-size:0.9)[''To protect'']
(text-size:0.7)[Night is yet to come, so the club is void of its patrons. You walk straight to the bar, with Kosta and Leon in tow.
Constance is on one of the bar stools, caught in a conversation with Sorina. As soon as she spots you, she greets you with a sunny smile.
"Look who's here!"
[[🔹"Are they alright?" you ask, worried.->worried ]]
[[🔹"Where are they?" you ask, running low on patience->low on patience]].
[[🔹"Have they caused any trouble?" you ask, prepared for the worse.->prepared for the worse]] ]](set: $rellucas to it + 1)
(set: $relmay to it + 1)
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(text-size:0.7)[Constance's grin widens, revealing the small gap between her front teeth.
"Of course they're alright, this is //my// place after all."
"Yeah, you're right, I just..."
"You're worried, I know. Well, your timing is perfect, I was just about to ask Sorina to go play with them. She's better than me with kids, I'd probably just make them feel awkward" she says, with a hesitant smile.
"Thanks for looking after them for me" you sigh.
The woman flips back her dark, curly hair. "No problem, hon."
She then shifts her gaze on your companions. "Friends of yours?"
"Oh, yeah, Constance, this is Leon, member of the CG Unit. And this is (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[Darius](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Daria] Kosta..."
[["...my former partner."->just former partner]]
[["...a former colleague."->former colleagues]]
[["...an old friend and now ex partner."->an old friend]] ]](set: $relkosta to "notfriend")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Her brown eyes widen in surprise for a split second. Then she extends her hand with confidence towards the two of them.
"A pleasure. $firstname's friends are always welcome here."
As both Leon and Kosta respond to her greeting, your eyes fly to a door behind the counter, the one you know leads to Constance's office.
[["Come," she says, sensing your impatience.->to her office ]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I was so freaking surprised," she chuckles as you walk down the corridor, approaching the room they're in.
You hum in agreement, without the energy left to hold any kind of conversation.
"I didn't know they're staying with you. Since when?"
"Last night," you answer, evenly.
"And your mother? Does she know how good of a babysitter you are?" she laughs.
You shut your eyes tight for a moment, grateful that the others remained behind. You couldn't have endured the awkward glances.
"No. She...died," you answer after a pause.
[[She freezes with her back to you.->oh my god constance]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[//A beat.//
She turns to you and you see her face turning pale as she takes in your words. "What?"
"She died," you repeat.
"May I ask...How?"
[[🔹"There was an...incident. I don't know all the details yet."->an incident]]
[[🔹"She was murdered." ->direct oh god]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[An incredulous gasp escapes from her lips. "Oh my god."
"Who..."
"I don't know yet. That's why I was with the Unit..."
Her hands move a little, in a nervous reaction and she lowers her gaze for a second, before looking back in your eyes.
"I'm so sorry, $firstname..."
[[🔹I just nod, acknowledging her words.->just nod]]
[[🔹"Thank you."->thank you loss]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Just before she opens the door to the office, she turns again. "I'll let you talk with them. And...I just want to make sure that you know...I'm here if you want to talk. Or if you need help. //Any kind//."
The look in her eyes is fierce and you immediately understand that she's referring to finding the culprit.
[[🔹"I'd rather not involve my friends in dangerous things, Constance," I answer, smiling a little.->friends protective ]]
[[🔹"Thanks. It means a lot to hear this."->means a lot to hear]]
[[🔹"Sometimes I think I'm really glad you're on my side," I chuckle softly.->on my side ]]
]](set: $protective to true)
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(text-size:0.7)[
"Come on, hon. You're not naive enough to think that I've been doing business in Serga for all these years without dealing with danger," she smirks.
"No, I'm not. But that doesn't mean I would want to bring even more trouble at your door."
A small frown begins to show on her face. "$firstname. Listen to me and listen closely. I'll be there for you, like it or not. You're my friend."
You sigh, knowing way too well that you won't be able to convince her otherwise right now. And you're so tired...
[["Okay, got it."->concede to receive help]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Her features relax right away and she takes a step away to make way for you to go first. "Take all the time you need. I'll make sure your friends are comfortable."
[[You open the black metallic door and step inside.->conv with siblings]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Inside the spacious room it doesn't take you long to see the two small figures huddled together on the velvet settee.
The sound of your steps on the marble tiles makes the children raise their head in your direction.
May's eyes light up at the sight of you.
(if:$gender_choice is "female")["Sis!"]
(if:$gender_choice is "male")["Brother!"](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")["Sib!"]
Lucas' expression, on the other hand, turns worried and something resembling fear sparks in his eyes.
[[🔹I pull them into a tight hug.->pull into a hug]]
[[🔹I stop in front of them, waiting for them to speak first.->stop in front]]
[[🔹"Why are you here?!" I ask, unable to contain my worry.->unable to contain]]
[[🔹"What happened?" I gently ask, crouching in front of them.->what happened worry]] ]]
(set: $rellucas to it + 1)
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(text-size:0.7)[You hear a little puff produced by Lucas' attempt to breathe as you squeeze them even tighter. You burry your face in May's shoulder.
"It tickles," she giggles.
"Does it?" you ask, smiling.
"Yeah!"
"Good. If you ever run away again I'll tickle both of you until you cry," you grumble.
You let them go to look at them. You're about to begin the scolding, but then you stop. Because you notice their confusion.
[["We didn't run away," Lucas says, frowning.->didn't run away]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You tilt your head. "What?"
"We didn't //run//," Lucas says again.
"I'm quite sure I left you at home this morning..." you begin to argue, as your gaze falls on a familiar piece of paper with the inscription //"See you there"//.
//The invitation.//
[[Lucas notices you staring and he tries to hide it.// Too late.// ->did you want to party]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Did you...want to come to the party?" you ask, feeling unsure of what to make out of this whole situation.
May's eyes go wide. "Yes! With you!"
"No," Lucas cuts in, with a grimace.
"Then...why did you come here?" you insist.
Lucas bites his lower lip in frustration, staring at his shoes.
"We came to find you!" May exclaims.
"What?"
"You. You said you wouldn't be gone for more than an hour," Lucas mumbles. "It was getting late and I thought you..."
[[He stops for a moment, refusing to raise his head. "Anyway, it's your fault that we ended up here and you're late," he splutters.->you're late ]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You stiffen, unable to take your eyes off him. And one horrifying thought rings in your head.
//They thought I'd left them. //
[[🔹//I//'m making them feel unsafe, not even one day after they lost their mother.->guilt ]]
[[🔹How was I supposed to know?! This is why I'm not fit to care for children...->how were you to know]]
[[🔹I'll have to be more careful from this point on.->more careful]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You suddenly feel like crying, thinking about it. But you don't.// You can't//. You're still their guardian and crying won't solve anything.
"I'm sorry," you whisper, taking them by the hand. "You're right, Lucas, I'm late. But I'll try to be on time from now on, okay?"
He looks at you for a second and you notice the relief in his eyes. "Yeah, sure..."
"I'm hungry!" May announces, as she pulls your sleeve with her free hand. [["Can we have pizza?"->pizza]] ]]
<style>
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(text-size:0.7))[The frustration begins to boil inside your chest and you run your hand through your hair, in a nervous gesture.
"I didn't...I wasn't planning to stay this long, some things came up and...I'm sorry, okay?"
He looks at you for a second and you notice the relief mixed with irritation in his eyes. "Yeah, sure..."
"I'm hungry!" May announces, as she pulls your sleeve with her free hand. [["Can we have pizza?"->pizza]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[//So this is what it feels like for someone to depend on you.//
"I'm sorry," you whisper, taking them by the hand. "You're right, Lucas, I'm late. But I'll try to be on time from now on, okay?"
He looks at you for a second and you notice the relief in his eyes. "Yeah, sure..."
"I'm hungry!" May announces, as she pulls your sleeve with her free hand. [["Can we have pizza?"->pizza]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You smile, standing up. "Of course we can!"
You guide the kids back to the bar and the first thing you hear is Leon's laughter echoing all over the place. Kosta is seated right next to her, with a slightly amused face. On the other side of the bar, Sorina and Constance are listening to Leon's funny story.
"I tell you, it was madness!" Leon practically shouts. "You should have seen Kosta trying to..."
She stops abruptly, sensing your presence. "$firstname! Oh my, are they your siblings?"
She dashes in their direction. Without a moment of hesitation she goes down on one knee, with a bright smile. "Hello! I'm Leon, one of your (if:$gender_choice is "female")[sister's]
(if:$gender_choice is "male")[brother's](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[sibling's] [[teammates!"->what do you say]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You nudge them softly, asking "What do you say?"
As they tell her their names, you remember how your mother used to have the exact same reaction when you were little. A faint smile creeps up your face.
Kosta approaches as well, much more gently. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] eyes light up as soon as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] gaze falls on them. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] extends (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hand.
"My name's (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[Darius](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Daria]. I'm an old...friend of your (if:$gender_choice is "female")[sister](if:$gender_choice is "male")[brother](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[sibling]."
Your eyes widen a little at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] words.
"I'm glad you're safe," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, [[smiling at them->smiling at them]].]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I can take care of both of us," Lucas retorts, somewhere between indignation and regret.
Kosta's eyes crinckle in obvious amusement. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] puts (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hand on Lucas' shoulder. "And you'll be even better at it, I'm sure. Just don't take unnecessary risks..."
"How funny to hear you talk about caution..."
"Leon!" Kosta hisses, turning to her.
Leon chuckles, looking at the kids. "But (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] right, you guys. [[Safety first!" she says with a playful wink.->back home]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[Don't forget the choices you've made, agent.
(link: "save data - FILE A")[(save-game: "file A")[
(if:(save-game:"file A"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file A")[
FILE A is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE B")[(save-game: "file B")[
(if:(save-game:"file B"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file B")[
FILE B is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE C")[(save-game: "file C")[
(if:(save-game:"file C"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file C")[
FILE C is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE D")[(save-game: "file D")[
(if:(save-game:"file D"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file D")[
FILE D is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE E")[(save-game: "file E")[
(if:(save-game:"file E"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file E")[
FILE E is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE F")[(save-game: "file F")[
(if:(save-game:"file F"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file F")[
FILE F is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE G")[(save-game: "file G")[
(if:(save-game:"file G"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file G")[
FILE G is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
]
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[[[I'm ready to move forward (ch VI).->at constance]]]
]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["Leave the children alone already!" Constance exclaims, still behind the counter. "That's the last thing they need right now, adults giving them life advice. I'm sure they'd rather have some fruit juice. Am I right?" she asks cheerfully.
May wastes no time, running straight to the bar. Lucas, on the other hand, steals a glance in your direction first, to read you mood. You nod to him to go.
"What are the plans for the evening now?" Leon asks, taking a step toward you.
You smile, looking at your siblings trying to perch on the bar stools.
[["Tonight will be my first family dinner in a long time." ->save file VI]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[Don't forget the choices you've made, agent.
(link: "save data - FILE A")[(save-game: "file A")[
(if:(save-game:"file A"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file A")[
FILE A is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE B")[(save-game: "file B")[
(if:(save-game:"file B"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file B")[
FILE B is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE C")[(save-game: "file C")[
(if:(save-game:"file C"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file C")[
FILE C is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE D")[(save-game: "file D")[
(if:(save-game:"file D"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file D")[
FILE D is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE E")[(save-game: "file E")[
(if:(save-game:"file E"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file E")[
FILE E is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE F")[(save-game: "file F")[
(if:(save-game:"file F"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file F")[
FILE F is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE G")[(save-game: "file G")[
(if:(save-game:"file G"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file G")[
FILE G is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
]
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[[[I'm ready to move forward (ch VII).->family dinner]]]
]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-style:"smear","blink")+(text-size:0.9)[''Better than ever'']
(text-size:0.7)["May! Are you washing your hands right now? I'm not hearing the water running!"
You sigh as you try to decide if it's worth the effort to search for matching plates through your kitchen.
"She's not!"
"Shut up!"
[[Your sigh becomes heavier.->not so peaceful]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You were so excited to have dinner together that you almost forgot their age.
[[🔹"Guys! Come on, have some mercy on me!"->mercy on me]]
[[🔹"You have exactly 60 seconds to be ready, or I'll eat all the pizza by myself!"->exactly 60 seconds]]
[[🔹"Do you need help?"->need any help]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You hear May's giggles, before seeing her sprinting into the room. "You're sooooo dramatic, $firstname!"
You fake a shocked expression. "I can't believe you just said that! Where did you learn that?"
"Lucas..."
"May!" Lucas cuts her off, throwing the towel in her direction. "Dry your hands and stop talking."
You laugh. "Well, this dramatic (if:$gender_choice is "female")[sister]
(if:$gender_choice is "male")[brother](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[sibling] of yours is the one who paid for the pizza so a little gratefulness would be much appreciated."
[[You put the plates on the table. "Now, let's dig in!" ->after dinner]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[''-A few hours later-''
//The last slice was a really bad idea//, you think, as you turn on your back.
You try to ignore the dryness in your mouth, but it proves futile. [[With a soft groan you get up, careful not to wake up May and Lucas, on the other side of the bed.->who's on the couch ]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You step out of the bedroom, closing the door after you, to block any noise. Then you turn, sensing another presence nearby.
The silhouette resting on your couch is all too familiar by now and you slowly approach it.
//What dreams do they usually dream //, you wonder, [[looking at August's face.->what dreams]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You sit down on the arm of the sofa, still staring at them.
//They probably came to see if the kids are fine.//
[[You lean forward, putting your chin in the palm of your hand. //Should I wake them?//->wake them]]]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[But you don't have time to reach an answer. You feel them move beside you and when you turn they're already looking at you with sleepy eyes.
"$firstname," they say in a raspy voice. "What time is it?"
"Still early. I woke up just to drink some water."
"Oh..."
They let their head fall back on the pillow, with a sigh. "Today was tough. I feel like I've aged ten years."
[[🔹"Don't worry, Gus. You're as beautiful as ever," you say, with a playful smile. (🧡)->beautiful as ever]]
[[🔹"Tell me about it," you grumble in agreement.->tell me about ]]
[[🔹"It reminded me of the old days," you chuckle softly.->reminded of the old days]] ]](set: $augustrom to true)
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(text-size:0.7)[Sparks of surprise glint in their eyes, followed by a shimmer of excitement.
Even in the dim light of the standing lamp, you can see August's pupils swallowing the blue of their irises.
"Is that so?" they ask, with a little smirk.
[[🔹"Yeah," I whisper, suddenly a little shy about my remark.->a little shy]]
[[🔹"You know me, I'm a terrible liar," I answer, holding their gaze.->terrible liar]]
[[🔹"Since when are you unsecure about your looks?" I ask, jokingly.->since when about looks]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Their smile drops completely at your words. "But if you weren't...how about then?" they ask.
Their tone immediately catches your attention and you realize this is not about their beauty anymore.
"I don't think I could lie to you," you answer honestly.
They keep looking at you for a moment, in silence. Then they lower their head.
"I...probably will. I've done it before and I'll do it again if I think it's going to keep you safe."
The silence slips again in the room, until the pressure gets to you and you shuffle into place.
[["I know," I say softly. "But I trust you. I always have."->trust you still]]
[["I know," I say, trying not to feel the ache in my chest. "That's why I won't ever be able to trust you completely."->ending]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[They lift their head so quickly that you flinch.
"Why?" they ask.
"August," you sigh. "Are you under the impression that I'm a child?"
"Of course not..."
"I //know// what your job implies and what are the risks. And I know enough about your way of doing things. That's who you are and I'll stand by you."
They stare at you with an unreadable expression, so you continue.
[["I thought that was pretty obvious by now," you say, begining to feel a little awkward.->can they kiss you]]
]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["If it's not the same for you that's..."
Their suddent movement stops you. They reach out to your face and their touch makes you shiver. You can feel their fingers slightly trembling as they brush your cheek.
[[🔹I lean into their touch.->lean into their touch]]
[[🔹"August, what's this between us?"->whats this ]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["I'm not sure," they confess. "But I've been thinking of it for so long..."
The corners of their lips go up, but it's a skittish smile, making it obvious how nervous they are right now.
"What about you, $firstname? What do you want this to be?"
[[🔹"If we were to become something more... you already know what that means for me."(asexual romance)->asexual romance]]
[[🔹"I want you August, but things are such a mess right now, I'm..." (sexual romance) ->sexual romance]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Their smile grows wider, as they move to hold both of your hands.
"I know. I still want to stand by you," they answer, repeating your words from earlier.
You chuckle. "You're worse than the police, are you going to use everything I say against me?" you joke, as something warm begins to fill up your chest.
"I //am// police, mind you," they laugh.
"And a smartass," you counter playfully. "But you're my favorite one...and this feels right, doesn't it?"
[[They grin, understanding the full meaning of your words.->on another note]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Their features soften with tenderness, right before they contort in a pained expression.
"That's...nice to hear," they whisper.
Their tone immediately catches your attention and you realize this is not just about their beauty anymore.
"What's wrong?..."
"I...You already know I regret many things. But I always wanted to tell you how much I regret that I can't give you more..."
You frown. "What are you talking about?"
They lower their gaze. "You already know you cannot trust me, $firstname. I lied to you before and I...I will again, if I think it's going to keep you safe."
The silence slips again in the room, until the pressure gets to you and you shuffle into place.
[["I know," I say softly. "But I trust you. I always have."->trust you still]]
[["I know," I say, trying not to feel the ache in my chest. "That's why I won't ever be able to trust you completely."->ending]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I'm always unsure when it comes to you," they answer softly, with their eyes boring into you.
Their tone immediately catches your attention and you realize this is not just about their beauty anymore.
"Why?.."
"Because I...I always wish I were better. Worthy..."
You frown. "What are you talking about?"
They lower their gaze. "You cannot trust me, $firstname. You already know. I lied to you before and I...I will again, if I think it's going to keep you safe."
The silence slips again in the room, until the pressure gets to you and you shuffle into place.
[["I know," I say softly. "But I trust you. I always have."->trust you still]]
[["I know," I say, trying not to feel the ache in my chest. "That's why I won't ever be able to trust you completely."->ending]] ]]<style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You close your eyes, feeling the warmth of their skin. Then you sense them moving closer and you open your eyes just as they rest their forehead against yours. You smile.
The corners of their lips also go up, but it's a skittish smile, making it obvious how nervous they are right now.
"Does it look like it's not the same for me, $firstname?"
You let out a small breath, as your pulse begins to race. "No..."
"I know I shouldn't but...I want this so bad."
[[🔹"Me too, August. But if we were to become something more... you already know what that means for me."(asexual romance)->asexual romance]]
[[🔹"I want you August, but things are such a mess right now, I'm..." (sexual romance) ->sexual romance]]]](set: $rellucas to it + 1)
(set: $relmay to it + 1)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[Constance's grin widens, revealing the small gap between her front teeth.
"Relax, they're alright. This is //my// place after all."
"Yeah, you're right, I just..."
"You're as patient as ever, $firstname. But well, your timing is perfect, They're in my office and I was just about to ask Sorina to go play with them. She's better than me with kids, I'd probably just make them feel awkward" she says, with a hesitant smile.
"Thanks for looking after them for me" you sigh.
The woman flips back her dark, curly hair. "No problem, hon."
She then shifts her gaze on your companions. "Friends of yours?"
"Oh, yeah, Constance, this is Leon, member of the CG Unit. And this is (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[Darius](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Daria] Kosta..."
[["...my former partner."->just former partner]]
[["...a former colleague."->former colleagues]]
[["...an old friend and now ex partner."->an old friend]] ]](set: $rellucas to it + 1)
(set: $relmay to it + 1)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[Constance's grin widens, revealing the small gap between her front teeth.
"None at all! Actually I was a little surprised, I expected kids to bring more...chaos."
"Yeah, well I'm glad they didn't. Are they in your office?"
"Yes. And your timing is perfect, I was just about to ask Sorina to go play with them. She's better than me with kids, I'd probably just make them feel awkward" she says, with a hesitant smile.
"Thanks for looking after them for me" you sigh.
The woman flips back her dark, curly hair. "No problem, hon."
She then shifts her gaze on your companions. "Friends of yours?"
"Oh, yeah, Constance, this is Leon, member of the CG Unit. And this is (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[Darius](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Daria] Kosta..."
[["...🔹my former partner."->just former partner]]
[["...🔹a former colleague."->former colleagues]]
[["...🔹an old friend and now ex partner."->an old friend]] ]](set: $relkosta to "notfriend")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[Her brown eyes widen in surprise for a split second. Then she extends her hand with confidence towards the two of them.
"A pleasure. I'm Constance Walker."
As both Leon and Kosta respond to her greeting, your eyes fly to a door behind the counter, the one you know leads to Constance's office.
[["Come," she says, sensing your impatience.->to her office ]] ]](set: $relkosta to "friend")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[Her brown eyes widen in surprise for a split second. Then she extends her hand with confidence towards the two of them.
"A pleasure. $firstname's friends are always welcome here."
From the corner of your eye, you see Leon respond to her greeting, while Kosta stares at you for a second. But your mind's elsewhere and your eyes fly to a door behind the counter, the one you know leads to Constance's office.
[["Come," she says, sensing your impatience.->to her office ]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["//An incident//?"
"She...someone killed her," you struggle to say.
An incredulous gasp escapes from her lips. "Oh my god."
"I don't know who's the one who did it yet. That's why I was with the Unit..."
Her hands move a little, in a nervous reaction and she lowers her gaze for a second, before looking back in your eyes.
"I'm so sorry, $firstname..."
[[🔹I just nod, acknowledging her words.->just nod]]
[[🔹"Thank you."->thank you loss]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Just before she opens the door to the office, she turns again. "I'll let you talk with them. And...I just want to make sure that you know...I'm here if you want to talk. Or if you need help. //Any kind//."
The look in her eyes is fierce and you immediately understand that she's referring to finding the culprit.
[[🔹"I'd rather not involve my friends in dangerous things, Constance," I answer, smiling a little.->friends protective ]]
[[🔹"Thanks. It means a lot to hear this."->means a lot to hear]]
[[🔹"Sometimes I think I'm really glad you're on my side," I chuckle softly.->on my side ]]
]]
(set: $protective to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
"I'll be there for you, $firstname, you have my word on that. You're my friend."
You sigh, soothed by her promise, and your alertness begins to be make way for exhaution. You're so tired...
[["You nod, giving her a little smile."->concede to receive help]] ]]
(set: $protective to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
"You should be," she laughs. "All these years in Serga have taught me to protect myself. //And my friends//."
You sigh, soothed by her unspoken promise, and your alertness begins to be make way for exhaution. You're so tired...
[["You nod, giving her a little smile."->concede to receive help]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You look down at them, with your eyebrow raised in a silent question. May's smile falters and you see her tug twice at the edge of her jacket.
"Why are you here?" you ask, evenly.
May's about to answer, but then she changes her mind when she glances at Lucas, who's avoiding your gaze completely.
You sigh. //This is going nowhere.//
"I understand this whole situation is hard on you, but it's dangerous and stupid to run away like that," you grumble.
You're about to continue the scolding, when you notice their confusion.
[["We didn't run away," Lucas says, frowning.->didn't run away 2]] ]](set: $rellucas to it + 1)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[The question comes out more like a shrill whine and for a moment you're afraid you might have scared them even more.
May's smile falters and her eyes go wide. However, your reaction didn't seem to scare her.
"Sorry, didn't mean to raise my voice," you say, calmer this time. "I was worried. Very, very worried. Why did you run away like that?"
You're about to continue, when you notice their confusion.
[["We didn't run away," Lucas says, frowning.->didn't run away]] ]](set: $rellucas to it + 1)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["Lucas, May. What's wrong? Did someone tell you something? Did you not get along with Jess?"
"Jess is nice!" May says grinnning. "I like her!"
"Then why did you scare her so badly by running away from home?"
You're about to continue, but you notice their confusion.
[["We didn't run away," Lucas says, frowning.->didn't run away]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["Nooo!!"
You hear May's steps before seeing her sprinting into the room. "You're not fair!"
You fake a surprised expression. "Is that so? What rules am I breaking?"
She thinks for a second, then she puffs her cheeks, vexed that she cannot respond.
"May!" Lucas cuts her off, throwing the towel in her direction. "Dry your hands and don't run."
You laugh. "Well, this unfair (if:$gender_choice is "female")[sister]
(if:$gender_choice is "male")[brother](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[sibling] of yours is the one who paid for the pizza so a little gratefulness would be much appreciated."
[[You put the plates on the table. "Now, let's dig in!" ->after dinner]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You hear May's giggles, before seeing her sprinting into the room. "Done! All by myself"
You smile at her. "Is that so?"
"Well, Lucas helped me just a little..."
"May!" Lucas cuts her off, throwing the towel in her direction. "Dry your hands before leaving."
[[You put the plates on the table. "Now, if everyone's ready, let's eat!" ->after dinner]]]](set: $augustrom to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
"Now that you mention it, you do look the worse for wear. Are those white hairs new?" they smirk.
You feel a grimace forming on your face. "Well excuse me that we don't all have genes as good as //someone//," you counter.
"Don't be all bitter now," they continue, extremely amused by your reaction.
You kick them lightly in the shin with your foot. "The only reason I can't say anything about //your// white hair is that your hair is already dyed. [[I'm sure you also have some," you scoff.->tell that to you]]
]](set: $augustrom to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["Which part exactly? You and Kosta threatening each other first thing in the morning? The office fight? The crazy Seonian mafia? Or losing people we were responsible for?" they snicker.
"All of them," you beam at them.
"Ha!...well, I must admit, we were in better shape today than I would have imagined us to be. You know, after so much time out of the field.
"Working at a desk really got to you, huh?" you tease them.
[["Yeah, I think it did. Today was crazy, but you're right about it being kind of nostalgic."->we were so young when]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[Their smile grows wider, as they pull you completely into their arms. Their hug smells of tangerines, leather and tobacco and it feels...// safe//.
"It's okay, $firstname, we don't need to think about it tonight. If this feels right for you, we can just stay like this for now" they say, smiling in your hair.
[[You put your arms around them. "Thank you, August."->on another note 2]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You tilt your head. "What?"
"We didn't //run//," Lucas says again.
"I'm quite sure I left you at home this morning..." you begin to argue, as your gaze falls on a familiar piece of paper with the inscription //"See you there"//.
//The invitation.//
[[Lucas notices you staring and he tries to hide it.// Too late.// ->did you want to party 2]]]]<style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)["Did you...want to come to the party?" you ask, feeling unsure of what to make out of this whole situation.
May's eyes go wide. "Yes! With you!"
"No," Lucas cuts in, with a grimace.
"Then...why did you come here?" you insist.
Lucas bites his lower lip in frustration, staring at his shoes.
"We came to find you!" May exclaims.
"What?"
"You. You said you wouldn't be gone for more than an hour," Lucas mumbles. "It was getting late and I thought you..."
[[He stops for a moment, refusing to raise his head. "You're //late//," he splutters.->you're late 2 ]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You stiffen, unable to take your eyes off him. And one horrifying thought rings in your head.
//They thought I'd left them. //
[[🔹//I//'m making them feel unsafe, not even one day after they lost their mother.->guilt 2]]
[[🔹How was I supposed to know?! This is why I'm not fit to care for children...->how were you to know 2]]
[[🔹I'll have to be more careful from this point on.->more careful 2]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You suddenly feel a pang of guilt, thinking about it. But you shouldn't dwell on it.// You can't//. You're still their guardian and doing so won't solve anything.
"I'm sorry," you whisper, getting closer to their level. "You're right, Lucas, I'm late. I'll do better, alright?"
He looks at you for a second and you notice the relief in his eyes. "Yeah, sure..."
"I'm hungry!" May announces, as she pulls your sleeve with her free hand. [["Can we have pizza?"->pizza 2]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[The frustration begins to boil inside your chest and you run your hand through your hair, in a nervous gesture.
"I didn't...I wasn't planning to stay this long, some things came up and...I'm sorry, okay?"
He looks at you for a second and you notice the relief mixed with irritation in his eyes. "Yeah, sure..."
"I'm hungry!" May announces, as she pulls your sleeve with her free hand. [["Can we have pizza?"->pizza 2]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[//So this is what it feels like for someone to depend on you.//
"I'm sorry," you whisper, taking them by the hand. "You're right, Lucas, I'm late. But I'll try to be on time from now on, okay?"
He looks at you for a second and you notice the relief in his eyes. "Yeah, sure..."
"I'm hungry!" May announces, as she pulls your sleeve with her free hand. [["Can we have pizza?"->pizza 2]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[A slight smile appears on your lips. "Yeah, that would be nice."
You guide the kids back to the bar and the first thing you hear is Leon's laughter echoing all over the place. Kosta is seated right next to her, with a slightly amused face. On the other side of the bar, Sorina and Constance are listening to Leon's funny story.
"I tell you, it was madness!" Leon practically shouts. "You should have seen Kosta trying to..."
She stops abruptly, sensing your presence. "$firstname! Oh my, are they your siblings?"
She dashes in their direction. Without a moment of hesitation she goes down on one knee, with a bright smile. "Hello! I'm Leon, one of your (if:$gender_choice is "female")[sister's]
(if:$gender_choice is "male")[brother's](if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")[sibling's] [[teammates!"->what do you say]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["Keep telling that to yourself," they chuckle.
Their laugh makes your smile as well. "We're really getting old, aren't we?"
"Actually, I'd say we're still in great shape. We handled today well. Like in the old days," they say, as their lips begin to reveal a wistful smile.
You hum a little, getting caught in your thoughts. Then you hear August clear their throat. "But that much won't be enough this time..."
[["Yeah," you sigh. "This time we'll have to be// better//."->august clap]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["We were so young when we started..." you trail off.
"We're older now, but we're also more experienced."
"I appreciate the fact that you didn't choose the word //wiser//."
"We'll need all our experience for this," they continue, ignoring your remark.
They look straight in your eyes and you pause for a moment. Then you sigh.
[["Yeah. Because this time we'll have to be better than we've ever been."->august clap]]
]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[They give you a small nod, satisfied to see you're on the same page.
"Actually, I came tonight to see how you're holding up..." they trail off, waiting for your reaction.
[[🔹"It's...difficult to think about everything that's happening," I answer, truthfully.->difficult to think about]]
[[🔹"Oh, you know me. I'm cockroach material. I always survive in the end," I say jokingly.->like a cockroach]]
[[🔹"It's...fine," I say, evasively.->its fine ]]
[[🔹"And? What's your conclusion?" I ask, raising an eyebrow->whats their conclusion]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[They stand up, still looking at you. "Of course it is, $firstname. And nobody expects you to just shrug it off. Just..."
They pause abruptly, trying to find their next words.
"Look, I never actually told you this before, but you're one of the toughest persons I know," they continue, slightly embarrassed. "So I'm not having any doubts that you'll get through this. The only thing is...you don't have to force yourself to get through it alone."
You feel the corner of your lips beginning to quiver. "Yeah August, I know you're here for me when push comes to shove."
They let out a relieved sigh that quickly turns into a yawn. "We probably should sleeep some more. While we still can," they mumble, with a grimace.
"How omnious," you chuckle. "But, yeah, that's a good plan. See you in a few hours."
"Mhmm," they murmur, already crashing back into the sofa.
//So envious of their ability to sleep like that//, you think before [[turning to leave. ->to the kitchen]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["That you are," they grin at you. "Your're one of the toughest people I know. It's just that..."
They hesitate a little, lowering their gaze.
"...you don't have to force yourself to get through it alone."
You feel the corner of your lips beginning to quiver. "Yeah August, I know. Thanks."
They let out a relieved sigh that quickly turns into a yawn. "We probably should sleep some more. While we still can," they mumble, with a grimace.
"How omnious," you chuckle. "But, yeah, that's a good plan. See you in a few hours."
"Mhmm," they murmur, already crashing back into the sofa.
//So envious of their ability to sleep like that//, you [[think before turning to leave.->to the kitchen]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Their gaze remains fixed on you for a few uncomfortable moments. "It's not, $firstname. We both know that."
They pause abruptly, trying to find their next words.
"Look, I never actually told you this before, but you're one of the toughest persons I know," they continue, slightly embarrassed. "So I'm not having any doubts that you'll get through this. The only thing is...I want you to know that you don't have to force yourself to get through it alone."
You sigh, feeling the tension leaking out of your body. "Thank you. It means a lot to hear it."
They let out a relieved sigh that quickly turns into a yawn. "Now, we probably should sleeep some more. While we still can," they mumble, with a grimace.
"How omnious," you chuckle. "But a good plan nonetheless. Sleep tight."
"Mhmm," they murmur, already crashing back into the sofa.
//So envious of their ability to sleep like that//, you [[think before turning to leave.->to the kitchen]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Their gaze remains fixed on you for a few uncomfortable moments. Then they sigh. "$firstname, I never actually told you this before, but...you're one of the toughest persons I know," they say, slightly embarrassed. "I don't have any doubts that you'll get through this and you're the only one who can really tell when it gets too...much. But...you don't have to force yourself to get through it alone."
You feel the corner of your lips beginning to quiver. "Oh, August, love you too!"
They scoff softly. "Glad we settled that. Now, should we go back to sleep? While we still can," they mumble, with a grimace.
"How omnious," you chuckle. "But, yeah, that's a good plan. See you in a few hours."
"Mhmm," they murmur, already crashing back into the sofa.
//So envious of their ability to sleep like that//, [[you think before turning to leave. ->to the kitchen]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You stop by the kitchen to get your glass of water and your gaze wonders outside, through the tall, narrow window next to the counter. You stare at the streets beneath.
[[It's so...->concealed]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You'd be tempted to say peaceful, but that's not it. Nothing is peaceful about this city. It's just...concealed.
Even when it's standing still, there's something that keeps on pulsating within.
Serga has many backstreets with twice as many back doors. And everyone knows...what lurks behind them doesn't care about resting schedules. [[//Never did//. ->never did]] ]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
Your chest begins to feel heavy and suddenly you're not feeling so sleepy anymore. You look at the glass in your hand.
[[🔹I need a drink.->need a drink]]
[[🔹I need something stronger than a drink right now.->need stronger]]
]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
You open the cupboard and reach for the bottle.
[[It's unusual for me to get the urge to drink alone like this. But these last days were rough. ->no drinking problem]]
[[Drinking like this has long become a way of coping for me.->drinking problem ]] ]]
(set: $drugs to true)
(set: $madness to it + 1)
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Four years ago when your condition started to worsen, you started taking prescription meds. //And then...a little something on the side//. Because some nights you just couldn't take it.
You rub your face with both palms a few times, pondering what to do.
//Oh, fuck me!//
You bend down to open the drawer where you keep the medical supplies. As you rummage through it, you think about changing the place where you keep them. [[With your siblings staying here and all...->taking pills]] ]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You stir the liquid in the glass, as you sink into the kitchen chair and light up your smoke. The burn in your mouth relieves some of the stiffness in your body.
You down the rest of the drink and exhale. You hate it. You hate this, this creeping sensation that you're the only one left into the night. [[Like you're hopelessly //alone//.->august words 2]] ]]
(set: $drinking to true)
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(text-size:0.7)[You stir the liquid in the glass, as you sink into the kitchen chair and light up your smoke. The burn in your mouth relieves some of the stiffness in your body.
You know you shouldn't.
//
But only for today...//
//Bullshit. // You know that's bullshit.
You down the rest of the drink and exhale. You hate this, this creeping sensation that you're the only one left into the night.[[ Like you're hopelessly //alone//. ->august words]] ]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[//I'll just take these and go to sleep. I have to sleep if I want to be of any good tomorrow,// you think.
You sink into the kitchen chair and light up a smoke as you wait for the stuff to kick in.
"//...you're one of the toughest persons I know...//"
August's words suddenly pop in your head and you snort bitterly.
//"If only. If only that were...true."//
The last thing you remember before slipping is the burning sensation at the tips of your fingers, mirroring the sting in your eyes.
Your head falls into your hands [[as you let out a quiet sob->intermition 2]]. ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
"//...you're one of the toughest persons I know...//"
August's words suddenly pop in your head and you snort bitterly.
//"If only. If only that were...true."//
Something trickles down your left cheek and you close your eyes, [[wishing the sun would come out sooner.->intermition 2]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["//...you're one of the toughest persons I know...//"
August's words suddenly pop in your head and you snort bitterly.
//"If only. If only that were...true."//
Something trickles down your left cheek and you close your eyes, [[wishing the sun would come out sooner.->intermition]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Door…
Wha…
[[The doorbell!...->doorbell]]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[Door…
Wha…
[[The doorbell!...->doorbell]]] ]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You flinch, groaning. Is this...Yes, there’s someone abusing your buzzer. You remain still for a moment, listening as the pauses between the rings become shorter. Your head's already pounding, even without all this noise.
(if:$humor is true)[[[So rude.->rude]]](else-if:$expansive is true)[[[So rude.->rude]]]
(else-if:$anger is true)[[[Who the fuck…->who the fuck]]](else-if:$personality is "impulsive")[[[Who the fuck…->who the fuck]]]
(else-if:$personality is "calm")[[[Are they trying to break it?->breaking the door]]](else-if:$personality is "stoic")[[[Are they trying to break it?->breaking the door]]](else-if:$expansive is false)[[[Are they trying to break it?->breaking the door]]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["Oh, just kill me and be over with it!" you shout as you scramble to get to the front door.
You yank the door open, ready to be very dramatic about it. Then you stop.
Kosta is propped against one side of the door frame, with one hand raised towards the buzzer, probably about to press it again. The first thing you notice is the twinkle of surprise flashes in (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] dark eyes. The second is the fact that (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hair is damp, like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] just ran out of the shower.
[[🔹I instictively push the door back to close it.->push the door]]
[[🔹I'm so confused right now. ->so confused]]
(if:$augustrom is false)[[[🔹This is so bad for my heart. (🧡)->romance kosta]]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You try to take a deep breath as you draw near the front door.// Violence is not an option//, $firstname, you whisper to yourself.
You yank the door open, ready to be very dramatic about it. Then you stop.
Kosta is propped against one side of the door frame, with one hand raised towards the buzzer, probably about to press it again. The first thing you notice is the twinkle of surprise flashes in (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] dark eyes. The second is the fact that (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hair is damp, like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] just ran out of the shower.
[[🔹I instictively push the door back to close it.->push the door]]
[[🔹I'm so confused right now. ->so confused]]
(if:$augustrom is false)[[[This is so bad for my heart. (🧡)->romance kosta]]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You hold back a sigh as you swiftly move toward the front door.
You yank the door open, ready to be very dramatic about it. Then you stop.
Kosta is propped against one side of the door frame, with one hand raised towards the buzzer, probably about to press it again. The first thing you notice is the twinkle of surprise flashes in (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] dark eyes. The second is the fact that (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hair is damp, like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] just ran out of the shower.
[[🔹"Do you need a towel?" you ask, calmly. ->need a towel]]
[[🔹I'm so confused right now. ->so confused]]
(if:$augustrom is false)[[[🔹This is so bad for my heart. (🧡)->romance kosta]]] ]]
(set: $kostarom to false)
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(text-size:0.7)["Is this a new look you're going for?" you ask, raising an eyebrow.
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] winces a little, flustered under your gaze, before straightening (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] back.
"August's call caught me...unprepared."
You instinctively look back to the empty couch, then shrug, taking a step back so (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] can come in. "I'm glad you took the time to put on some pants."
Kosta rolls (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes at you, [[without saying anything back.->where do we go]] ]](set: $kostarom to true)
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(text-size:0.7)[You thought that after all these years of not seeing (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her], the old, hidden flame would have died. It should have. But then why do you still have moments when you find it hard to breathe looking at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her]?
A second passes between you in silence before you realize you had been staring. //Shit, shit, shit!//
You take a step back, clearing your throat.
"It's already Pool Party Tuesday at the office?" you ask, raising your eyebrow.
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] almost averts (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] agze, visibly flustered by your comment.
"I wasn't ready for August's call. And I'm not the only one in this situation, obviously" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, looking at your pijamas.
You instinctively look back at the now empty couch. "I just didn't want to make you feel bad," you smirk, gesturing for (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] [[to sit down on the sofa.->sit down ]] ]](set: $kostarom to false)
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(text-size:0.7)["Hey, wait, no!"
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] sticks (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] foot in your door, holding it.
"I'm not prepared for whatever you want me to do, Kosta!" you whine.
"Well, I'm sorry for the inconvenience, $firstname. Shall we just have a cup of coffee instead of working?" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] hisses at you, as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] tries to slide inside.
"Do you mean it?" you grin.
"No!"
[[You sigh, letting go of the door.->let kosta in]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] remains near the door and you notice (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] staring at you like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] trying to asses something.
"Will you be ready in 10?"
You look down at your pijamas, then back at Kosta. "Where are we going?"
"City Eyes."
[["Can we get a coffee on the way?"->can we get coffee]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] remains near the door and you notice (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] staring at you like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] trying to asses something.
"Will you be ready in 10?"
You look down at your pijamas, then back at Kosta. "Where are we going?"
"City Eyes."
[["Can we get a coffee on the way?"->can we get coffee]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] remains standing. "We leave as soon as you're ready."
You look down at your pijamas, then back at Kosta. "Where are we going?"
"City Eyes."
[["Can we get a coffee on the way?"->can we get coffee rom]]]](set: $kostarom to false)
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(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] winces a little, flustered under your gaze, before straightening (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] back.
"No, I just...August's call caught me...unprepared."
You instinctively look back at the now empty couch, then shrug, taking a step back so (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] can come in.
[[Kosta enters quietly->where do we go]].]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Here!"
You hand Kosta one of the coffee cups. "And don't say anything, it's not my fault, it took forever for the lady before me to make up her mind," you continue, pulling the car door after you.
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] takes it, mumbling a //thank you//.
You almost take a sip from yours, but then you stop, seeing that (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] preparing to start the car. You hear the engine and you raise the cup slightly, completely prepared for the sharp movement coming next.
"How are you still so bad at driving?" you ask, amused.
"I don't //have to// be good at it," Kosta scoffs. [["Leon's doing the driving usually."->leon is doing it]]]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[A small pang of annoyance strikes you.
"So she's your partner now?" you ask, trying to keep an indifferent tone.
"No, she's still in trainning. I'm supervising her," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] corrects you, with (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes still focused on the car's dashboard.
Well,// now// you feel silly. You try to concentrate on your coffee, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] sudden movement makes you flinch. You turn to see (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] staring at you, like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] waiting for something.
[["What?" ->why dont you drive]]]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["Here!"
You hand Kosta one of the coffee cups. "And don't say anything, it's not my fault, it took forever for the lady before me to make up her mind," you continue, pulling the car door after you.
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] takes it, mumbling a //thank you//.
You almost take a sip from yours, but then you stop, seeing that (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] preparing to start the car. You hear the engine and you raise the cup slightly, completely prepared for the sharp movement coming next.
"How are you still so bad at driving?" you ask, amused.
"I don't //have to// be good at it," Kosta scoffs. [["Leon's doing the driving usually."->leon is doing it 2]]]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["Why are you not saying it?" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] asks, furrowing (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] brows.
"Umm..."
"To drive. By now you should've already asked for the keys."
"Oh, yeah," you smile awkwardly. "I used to do that, didn't I?"
"Yeah."
"We're not a team anymore," you say, realizing a moment too late how that must've sounded to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] looks a little suprised, like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he'd](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she'd] forgotten about that.
"I mean," you quickly add, [["when we were a team the car was shared. I had the right to..."->usage rights]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["Are you serious?" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] suddenly laughs. "That's the problem, usage rights?"
You roll your eyes. "I just didn't want to be an asshole, but fine, have it your way."
You get out of the car, circle it and open the door on the driver's side. Then you grin, looking at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] from above. [["Move it." ->move it]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["So what's the plan?"
You glance at Kosta, who's now visibly more relaxed in the passenger seat, waiting for (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] to answer.
"We do everything we can to make Ioveanu tell us what he knows."
[[🔹"Really? Is that //really// what August said?" you insist, knowingly.->really what august said]]
[[🔹"I'm pretty sure August would never use the words "everything you can" with you, Kosta," you smirk.->pretty sure]]
(if:$anger is true)[[[🔹"Cool."->cool orders]]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["I can't recall exactly, I was trying not to slip on the bathroom tiles during the conversation," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] deadpans.
You chuckle. "The disciplinary committee would love to hear this excuse."
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] eyes crinckle into a little smile, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] [[doesn't respond.->arrived at ioveanu]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["My therapist says I just have patience issues" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] retors, raising (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] chin a little.
You chuckle. "The disciplinary committee would disagree. And I also think they would actually pay for you to find another therapist."
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] eyes crinckle into a little smile, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] [[doesn't respond.->arrived at ioveanu]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["I know August did not say that, but I'll just roll with it," you add.
"That would be just the kettle calling the pot black" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] smirks.
You chuckle. "Yeah, that's one of the main reasons."
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] eyes crinckle into a little smile, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] [[doesn't respond.->arrived at ioveanu]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[ ''-Inside //Eyes of Fortune //-''
"I didn't even have time to miss this place," you whisper to Kosta as you walk into the main hall.
"I never miss it," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] grumbles back.
You head directly to the restricted access area, passing by the dome-shaped private gambling rooms. Dim lights, muffled chater, expensive perfume, the spiky alchohol and tobacco aroma in the air. If you didn't just enter two minutes ago, you could easily forget that it's the middle of the day outside.
"It's almost like time stops in places like these," you think out loud.
"That's why they come here," Kosta says, looking at a group of intoxicated individuals, giggling at one of the roulette tables.
Two acrobatic perfomers in sparkling violet costumes descend from the ceiling on satin ropes and for a moment you're entraced by the sight. [["Guess so..." ->guess so ]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)["Here comes our guide," Kosta alerts you, gesturing to the burly man coming in your direction.
"Agents," the man nods at you. "The boss's waiting for you, come with me."
He doesn't wait for you to answer. He immediately turns and you both have to speed up the pace [[to keep up with him.->trick abel]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Curiosity pricks you.
"So she's your partner now?" you ask, trying to keep an indifferent tone.
"No, she's still in trainning. I'm supervising her," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] corrects you, with (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes still focused on the car's dashboard.
"Poor girl," you chuckle.
You try to concentrate on your coffee, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] sudden movement makes you flinch. You turn to see (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] staring at you, like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] waiting for something.
(if:$relkosta is "notfriend")[[[What?->what not friend]]]
(else-if:$relkosta is "friend")[[["What?" ->why dont you drive]]]
]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)["Don't you want to drive?" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] asks, furrowing (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] brows.
"Umm..."
"You always insisted to do it."
"Oh, yeah, I used to do that, didn't I?"
"Yeah."
"We're not a team anymore," you say, realizing a moment too late that you might have sounded too harsh.
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] looks a little suprised, like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he'd](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she'd] forgotten about that.
"I mean," you sigh, [["when we were a team the car was shared. I had the right to..."->usage rights 2]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["Are you serious?" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] asks, looking confused. "That's the problem, usage rights?"
You roll your eyes. "I just didn't want to be an asshole. But if you want me to drive, fine. That way we'll at least get there in one piece."
You get out of the car, circle it and open the door on the driver's side. Then you grin, looking at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] from above. [["Move it." ->move it]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[A couple of intricate halls and corridors later, you enter a tall room that seems encapsulated in a gigantic fish tank. Three of the walls and the floor are made of thick glass beyond which sea creatures of various colors and sizes are swimming. Against the only wall made of brick, a willowy figure dressed in an electric blue trench coat waits for you.
[["Long time no see, agents."->long time no see]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You stare at him. //Oh, I see it now.//
This is the first time you're //really// meeting The Lucky One. Yesterday's man was just an annoyed eccentric and there are no traces of him left in this room.
He smiles at you like an old friend and you feel a shiver running down your spine.
"Let's just do this," Kosta comments, as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] walks towards [[one of the chairs in front of the wooden desk. ->sitting down ]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You snap out of your daze and quickly follow Kosta.
"Radu," he says, looking at the man who brought you here.
"Yes, boss."
"Bring out something for the guests to drink."
"That won't be nec..."
Abel raises his hand in Kosta's direction. "Shhh, agent. Don't ruin our encounter from the start, I beg of you."
Kosta sighs and you hear (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] mumbling something along the lines of //pretentious brat//. Abel seems to maintain his breezy attitude, but he's now wearing his signature pink sunglasess, so his actual mood is harder to read.
[[🔹"Let's get down to business," I intervene abruptly.->down to business]]
[[🔹"Mister Ioveanu, we're interested in the information you might have on the unregistered elemmental who's been active lately," I intervene, leaning back into the chair.->official business]]
[[🔹"Aren't you going to ask us what we want to drink?" I intervene, raising an eyebrow.->what do we drink]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Ioveanu hums, disappointed that you ruined the whole atmosphere. "Well, I should tell you the price first."
Before you get to say something, the man from earlier puts in front of you a trail with a pair of glasses and two bottles. You realize this is the same brand of $favdrink you have at home.
Kosta doesn't even flinch at the sight of (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] go-to drink. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] just completely ignores the glass of whisky.
[[Abel chuckles, seemingly amused by your reaction.->begin convers 2]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Ioveanu hums in acknowledgement. "Firstly, I should tell you the price."
Before you get to say something, the man from earlier puts in front of you a trail with a pair of glasses and two bottles. You realize this is the same brand of $favdrink you have at home.
Kosta doesn't even flinch at the sight of (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] go-to drink. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] just completely ignores the glass of whisky.
[[Abel chuckles, seemingly amused by your reaction.->begin convers 2]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Ioveanu tilts his head, making a few strands of silver hair fall on his forehead.
"I guessed you'll be having the usual."
Before you get to say something, the man from earlier puts in front of you a trail with a pair of glasses and two bottles. You realize this is the same brand of $favdrink you have at home.
Kosta doesn't even flinch at the sight of (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] go-to drink. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] just completely ignores the glass of whisky.
[[Abel chuckles, seemingly amused by your reaction.->begin convers]]
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(text-size:0.7)["I'm sure you already expected at least this much from me, Agent $lastname. But if I have suprised you, I'll take it as a compliment."
"Please don't," you snort. "I wouldn't want to encourage this."
"The information, Ioveanu," Kosta cuts in. "What do you want for the exchange?"
"Nothing much," he quickly assures you, coming closer. Now you can clearly see his eyes through his glsses, raised in the shape of two black crescent moons. "I'm ready to make you a good offer."
//That's how the serpent must've sounded when it convinced Eve. //
"And the apple was just a really nutritious fruit," Kosta snorts, making you turn sharply to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].[[ "I was thinking the same thing," you blurt out.->what abel wants]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You turn to Abel. "Sorry, but that's not convincing. Tell us what you want and we'll tell you if it's //nothing//."
He sighs. "Fair."
He then pauses, looking like he's searching for the right words. The drumming sounds of his fingers on the surface of the study he's leaning on are the only ones that fill the room.
"Two things. Your word that you'll close your eyes once, in the near future.
You both scoff, already annoyed.
[["And a private meeting with August Wald," he finally says. ->private meeting]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You straighten your back, trying to get what he's saying.
"You just met them yesterday," Kosta begins to say, but you cut (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] off.
"A //clean// one?"
Kosta's eyebrows jump up. "What?!"
"Yes," Abel nods. "No security, no devices, no weapons and...[[//no abilities.//"->no abilities]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[You look down at your feet. //A clean meeting//. The most vulnerable situation an atypical can find themselves in. A special device is used to block the ability temporarily and it's sometimes used in some political negotiations, when it's crucial to be sure there's no foul play.
//But...//
"Why?" Kosta asks before you can.
"That's my business, agent. But I can promise you I mean no harm. It's just that, given the nature of your commander's abilities..."
He brings both hands in front of him, interlacing them. "I want to share a certain piece of information and it's sensitive. I must make sure their abilities do not affect my...judgement during our encounter."
"Why share it then?" Kosta insists.
[["Because I want something back, of course."->outrageous]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["This is absurd, Ioveanu," Kosta snaps. "We're officers, not thugs. We cannot just promise you we'll do nothing when you break the law, or let you have access to one of our men without giving them protection."
"No innocents, I promise."
"What?"
"I'll not touch innocents. My plan involves some very specific people."
"You want to get to someone from Open Borders, yeah, I already figured that, thanks," Kosta says in an exasperated tone.
"If you already know, what's the issue?" Abel asks, looking like a confused child.
Kosta just blinks at him and you just know (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] about to snap.
"If we say yes..."
"$firstname!"
[["...how helpful is your information?" ->gamble]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)["I always make efforts to know my guests, Agent $lastname. But if I have suprised you, I'll take it as a compliment."
"Please don't," you snort. "I wouldn't want to encourage this."
"The information, Ioveanu," Kosta cuts in. "What do you want for the exchange?"
"Nothing much," he quickly assures you, coming closer. Now you can clearly see his eyes through his glsses, raised in the shape of two black crescent moons. "I'm ready to make you a good offer."
//That's how the serpent must've sounded when it convinced Eve. //
"And the apple was just a really nutritious fruit," Kosta snorts, making you turn sharply to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].[[ "I was thinking the same thing," you blurt out.->what abel wants]] ]](set: $sexaugust to false)
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(text-size:0.7)["On another note," they add in playfully, "I'd say we're still in great shape today. Almost like the old days..."
You snort at their words. "Kosta and I almost strangled each other."
"Exactly. Like the good old days," they laugh.
"You're enjoying this!"
[[Their laugh grows louder and they have to cover their mouth with one hand to muffle the sound. ->august clap 3]] ]]
(set: $sexaugust to true)
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(text-size:0.7)["On another note," they add in playfully, "I'd say we're still in great shape today. Almost like the old days..."
You snort at their words. "Kosta and I almost strangled each other."
"Exactly. Like the good old days," they laugh.
"You're enjoying this!"
[[Their laugh grows louder and they have to cover their mouth with one hand to muffle the sound. ->august clap 3]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You shake your head in disbelief, smiling.
"But...August?"
"Yeah?"
"Did you come to check up on me tonight?"
"...yeah. I wanted to see how you're holding up..." they trail off, waiting for your reaction.
[[🔹"I'm...scared," I answer, truthfully.->difficult to think about 2]]
[[🔹"Oh, you know me. I'm cockroach material. I always survive in the end," I say jokingly.->like a cockroach 2]]
[[🔹"It's...fine," I say, evasively.->its fine 2 ]] ]]
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(text-size:0.7)["It's fine to be scared, $firstname. It's fine to hide if you feel like hiding. I'm..."
They pause abruptly, trying to find their next words.
"Look, I never actually told you this before, but you're one of the toughest persons I know," they continue, slightly embarrassed. "So I'm not having any doubts that once you're ready, you'll get through this. The only thing is...I'm here and you don't have to force yourself to get through it alone. Know what I mean?"
You feel the corner of your lips beginning to quiver. "Yeah August, I know you're here for me when push comes to shove."
They let out a relieved sigh that quickly turns into a yawn. "We probably should sleeep some more. While we still can," they mumble, with a grimace.
"How omnious," you chuckle. "But, yeah, that's a good plan. See you in a few hours."
You lean in, kissing their cheek and they let out a little moan before crashing back into the sofa.
//So envious of their ability to sleep like that//, you think before [[turning to leave. ->to the kitchen]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["That you are," they grin at you. "You're one of the toughest people I know. It's just that..."
They hesitate a little, lowering their gaze.
"...you're not alone. Know what I mean?"
You feel the corner of your lips beginning to quiver. "Yeah, I know."
They search your face for a moment to gauge your reaction, then they let out a relieved sigh that quickly turns into a yawn. "We probably should sleep some more. While we still can," they mumble, with a grimace.
"How omnious," you chuckle. "But, yeah, that's a good plan. See you in a few hours."
You lean in, kissing their cheek and they let out a little moan before crashing back into the sofa.
//So envious of their ability to sleep like that//, you [[think before turning to leave.->to the kitchen]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Their gaze remains fixed on you for a few uncomfortable moments. "It's not, $firstname. We both know that."
They pause abruptly, trying to find their next words.
"Look, I never actually told you this before, but you're one of the toughest persons I know," they continue, slightly embarrassed. "So I'm not having any doubts that you'll get through this. The only thing is...I want you to know that you don't have to force yourself to get through it alone. Know what I mean?"
You sigh, feeling the tension leaking out of your body. "Thank you. It means a lot to hear it."
They let out a relieved sigh that quickly turns into a yawn. "Now, we probably should sleeep some more. While we still can," they mumble, with a grimace.
"How omnious," you chuckle. "But a good plan nonetheless. Sleep tight."
You lean in, kissing their cheek they let out a little moan before crashing back into the sofa.
//So envious of their ability to sleep like that//, you [[think before turning to leave.->to the kitchen]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["..."
Abel brings one finger to his chin in an exaggerated thinking pose.
"...that would be your own gamble."
"This whole thing is a fucking joke," Kosta exclaims, rising from (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] seat.
"Kosta," you warn in a subdued voice.
"I can assure you I'm not joking," Abel cuts in, unfazed by Kosta's reaction. "As a matter of fact, I'm really interested in helping you out this time."
[["Why?" you ask. ->one of his men]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Two of my men were killed by this trash," he says and you can sense a sudden spike of anger in his voice.
"How..."
"That's part of the info I'm going to sell you."
"I understand the promise part, but why tell us about the meeting with August? You could have told them directly when you contacted us..."
"...I had other reasons.// Personal ones//."
You sigh, looking at Kosta, who's now rubbing the bridge of (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] nose, probably [[trying to make sense of all this.->make sense of it]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[A low, amused chuckle escapes Abel's lips as he watches you shift into place.
"I never meant to make you uncomfortable, agents. Here, let me show you a nice trick."
He takes out a playing deck from his pocket, picking three cards out of it. He slowly bends down to the coffee table in front of you, placing them face up and the rest face down. The Queen of Clubs, the Ace of Diamonds, the King of Spades. He pauses for a moment, looking at them like it's a surprise these exact ones were picked up.
"You know agents, I might be many things," he says as he flips the cards upside down. "A nutjob, a //pretentious brat//..."
You glare for a second at Kosta.
"...but when it comes to the trump card..."
He takes the first card from the untouched part of the deck, turning it for you to see. "I'm usually the one who finds it first."
[[//The Ace of Diamonds.// ->you made them look]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
Both you and Kosta look back to the three cards spread on the table. Kosta reaches for the one that should have been the ace and flips it back. //It's a heart//.
You let out a short laugh. “You made the Ace of Hearts look like the Ace of Diamonds.”
Their attention shifts on you. Abel’s grin widens as he lowers his sunglasses to look at you. Kosta scoffs, glancing back at Abel’s hands. “Of course you did. You ass.”
Abel just blows a kiss in your partner’s direction, without taking his eyes off you. Then he leans more. “So? Do you want my help or not? Because once I start making my move, [[nothing’s gonna stop me, //agent//.->have to ask august]]”]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)["...Either case, we can't give you an answer on the spot," Kosta intervenes, looking a little tired.
"Of course," Abel nods, taking a step back. "Think about it. [[And send August Wald my regards.->his regards]]" ]] <style>
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(text-size:0.7)["Fucking lunatic," Kosta grumbles as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] pulls the seatbelt.
"You're gonna break it," you dully let (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] know. "And he's not telling us the whole story..."
"Why do we need him again?"
"Technically, we don't..."
"Then let's just drop this..."
(if:$skill is "intuition")[[[🔹"But there's something about it...I have a feeling that he really wanted to be involved. It's weird."->you're the intuitive one]]]
(if:$skill is "logic")[[[🔹"But it doesn't make sense and it bothers me. We're missing something."->you're the smart one]]]
[[🔹"Let's see what August thinks about it."->ask august about it]]]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[Kosta gives you a sideways glance.
"Well. Your intuition with this stuff is much better than mine..."
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] lets out a deep breath. [["Fine. Let's talk with August as well..."->going to report]]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Kosta stares at you like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] just been betrayed.
"Great. He gave you a puzzle and now you're hooked! I should've seen this," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] groans. "Fine. [[Let's talk with August as well..."->going to report]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Kosta gives you a sideways glance, then (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] turns (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] gaze to the car window.
[["You're right. Fine. Let's talk with August as well..."->going to report]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(text-size:0.7)["I should go write a report as soon as..."
You're halfway to HQ when sharp pain bursts into your head. You relfexively pull the car off the road, trying to breathe.
"$firstname!"
[[A tingling sensation floods your limbs and you sink your nails into your skin to shift the pain.->who there]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[(text-style:"blurrier")[No...]
(text-style:"blur")[...please...]
(text-style:"blurrier")[...run...]
(text-style:"blur")[...have to...]
[[RUN! ->run]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You jump out of the car, running down one of the alleys on your right. Your lungs begin to burn and you become somewhat aware that you haven't run this fast in a long time.
//But I have to get there. //
Usually you can control your mind breach. It's not like you can really turn it off, but you can tune out stimuli.
//Unless it's something like this.//
[[//Someone's dying and they're near you.//->someone is dying]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You make a left, then another right. Muffled voices are coming from around the next corner.
"Hey! Stop!" you yell as you see the three men hovering over a bloodied body.
They turn and you flinch. They're not ordinary hoodlums. They're trained.
[[//And you're not armed//. ->not armed]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[The next moments seem to slow down before your eyes. You see one of them taking out his gun and your body shifts to avoid the bullet, but you know you're not going to be fast enough. You're too close.
You hear the gunshot. Then another one. And one more. You tense up, waiting for the impact. But there's none.
The men fall on their knees in front of you and you see the bullet hole bleeding on one's forehead. [[You turn. ->kosta is there]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Kosta is a couple of steps behind you, a little short of breath. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] lowers (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] gun as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] approaches.
Your gaze goes back to the person on the ground, gasping for breath. You run to them and turn them face up.
[[//"Wh...Catarina?"// ->catarina why]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Forty minutes later the scene is almost completely cleared up. Almost twenty individuals are on site and you cannot say you're surprised at all. Catarina will probably live, but this incident will have its repercussions. City Eyes will not be quiet after this.
You gave your statement, so you move a couple of streets away from all the crowd, to smoke in silence. However, you don't get to take out your pack, when Kosta's voice rumbles from somewhere near you.
(if:$kostarom is true)[[["Why are you here?" ->why are you here rom]]]
(if:$kostarom is false)[[["Why are you here?" ->why are you here]]]]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You stare at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].
[[🔹"Why not?" you ask, genuinely confused.->genuinely confused 2]]
[[🔹"Why not?" you ask, completely unimpressed.->why not jaded 2]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You stare at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].
[[🔹"Why not?" you ask, genuinely confused.->genuine confusion]]
[[🔹"Why not?" you ask, completely unimpressed.->why not jaded]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[For an instant (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] looks caught off guard by your question. Then something heated flashes into (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] moves abruptly towards you.
"Can you fucking tell me what just happened there?"
[["Someone was in danger. I tried to help," you simply say.->simply say]]
[["Verbally or do you need it in writing?" you snort.->do you need it in writing]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] eyes go wide with anger and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] a steps even closer.
"Is everything a joke to you, $firstname?" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] asks gritting (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] teeth.
You're so close to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] that you can feel (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] rugged breath on your skin. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] looks furious, but strangely you don't feel the impulse to avoid it.
//Why?//
"This is not the first time you do shit like this! Everything was so fucking peaceful while you were gone..."
//Why do I...//
You stare at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] as the wheels keep spinning in your head.
"...I fucking hate this and I fucking hate you!"
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] voice goes higher, until it breaks on the last words.
//Oh. I get it.//
You raise your chin, looking (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] straight in the eyes.
"No, you don't."
You grab (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] collar to kiss (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].
[[next->KostaRouteRom]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[For an instant (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] looks caught off guard by your question. Then something heated flashes into (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] moves abruptly towards you.
"Can you fucking tell me what just happened there?"
[[🔹"Someone was in danger. I tried to help," you simply say.->simply say 2]]
[[🔹"Verbally or do you need it in writing?" you snort.->do you need it in writing 2]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[For an instant (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] looks caught off guard by your question. Then something heated flashes into (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] moves abruptly towards you.
"Can you fucking tell me what just happened there?"
[[🔹"Someone was in danger. I tried to help," you simply say.->simply say 2]]
[[🔹"Verbally or do you need it in writing?" you snort.->do you need it in writing 2]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] eyes go wide with anger.
"Is everything a joke to you, $firstname?" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] asks gritting (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] teeth.
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] looks furious, but strangely you don't feel the impulse to avoid it.
//But I do feel annoyed...//
"This is not the first time you do shit like this! Everything was so fucking peaceful while you were gone..."
You stare at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] voice goes higher, until it breaks on the last words.
//Oh, I'm going crazy right now...//
You snap your head back, looking (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] straight in the eyes.
"WHY ARE YOU YELLING?!"
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] stops.
"Kosta,// what// is the problem?" you ask again, lowering your voice.
"I tried to help someone. I fucked up. I know..."
"You almost //died//," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] cuts you off in a small voice.
You stare at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] pained expression for a moment, then (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] averts (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] gaze.
"You're right. I'm sorry, there's no problem."
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] then [[turns around and walks away.->KOSTA SORRY]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] eyes go wide with anger.
"By running off without back up and unarmed?!" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] asks gritting (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] teeth.
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] looks furious, but strangely you don't feel the impulse to avoid it.
//But I do feel annoyed...//
"This is not the first time you do shit like this! Everything was so fucking peaceful while you were gone..."
You stare at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] voice goes higher, until it breaks on the last words.
//Oh, I'm going crazy right now...//
You snap your head back, looking (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] straight in the eyes.
"WHY ARE YOU YELLING?!"
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] stops.
"Kosta,// what// is the problem?" you ask again, lowering your voice.
"I tried to help someone. I fucked up. I know..."
"You almost died," (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] cuts you off in small voice.
You stare at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] pained expression for a moment, then (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] averts (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] gaze.
"You're right. I'm sorry, there's no problem."
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] then [[turns around and walks away.->KOSTA SORRY]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[For an instant (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] looks caught off guard by your question. Then something heated flashes into (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] moves abruptly towards you.
"Can you fucking tell me what just happened there?"
[["Someone was in danger. I tried to help," you simply say.->simply say]]
[["Verbally or do you need it in writing?" you snort.->do you need it in writing]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] eyes go wide with anger and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] a steps even closer.
"By running off without back up and unarmed?!" (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] asks gritting (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] teeth.
You're so close to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] that you can feel (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] rugged breath on your skin. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] looks furious, but strangely you don't feel the impulse to avoid it.
//Why?//
"This is not the first time you do shit like this! Everything was so fucking peaceful while you were gone..."
//Why do I...//
You stare at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] as the wheels keep spinning in your head.
"...I fucking hate this and I fucking hate you!"
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] voice goes higher, until it breaks on the last words.
//Oh. I get it.//
You raise your chin, looking (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] straight in the eyes.
"No, you don't."
Then you grab (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] collar to kiss (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].
[[next->KostaRouteRom]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You feel (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] going weak under your touch. You swallow (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] sighs, your pulse quickens and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] scent electrifies you. Your mind is a mess, your skin is burning, but you're set in motion by the feeling that receiving (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] touch would be the single most urgent need you've got. You pull (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] even closer.
You feel (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hands on your back when the sound of a car horn, followed by muffled swearings shatter your trance. [[You freeze.->KostaRouteRom2]] ]
]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You pull away and stare at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her]. By the look on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] face you realize that your own expression doesn't look good at all.
//What the fuck am I doing?//
(if: $personality is "calm")[You're startled by your reaction, this is not like you at all.]
(if: $personality is "stoic")[You're startled by your reaction, stuff like this never happens to you, you've always managed to control your emotions.]
(if: $personality is "impulsive")[You're confused. You may be impulsive, but not like this.]
Shame and guilt surge within you at once.
//I'm a fucking asshole! I forced myself on my partner, didn't I? What the...//
Your breathing speeds up and you begin to feel the blood going to your head.
'$firstname...?' Kosta hesitates.
'I...,' you start to mumble. [['...I'm so sorry, Kosta.'->KostaRouteRom3]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] dark eyes sharpen and the lines around (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] mouth turn harsh.
'For what?' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she]asks, lowering (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] voice.
[[🔹'For...what I did. It was a mistake.'->forced kiss bad reply]]
[[🔹'For forcibly kissing you.'->forced kiss good reply]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] fixes you with an indecipherable stare for a few seconds. Then (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] sighs, sweeping back (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hair with an annoyed gesture.
'$firstname. What's my job position?'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] question takes you by surprise, so it takes a moment for you to answer. 'An agent for...'
'Combat and rescue expert. My expertise is in //combat//. Do you really think that //you// can overpower me? Don't flatter yourself, $lastname,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] scoffs.
[[🔹'Well that was offensive. And reassuring at the same time,' you say, feeling more and more confused about this situation. ->forced kiss snarky]]
[[🔹'Then...I don't understand,' you mumble nervously.->forced kiss nervous]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
'Kosta, I...'
'Fuck you.'
Your eyes snap up at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] words and your breath catches in your throat. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] looks //hurt//.
'You've always been like this $firstname, you just waltz around, mess with everything and everyone and then you run away. Is it funny to screw with me?'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] eyes turn glassy and quivering, like warm mercury.
[[//Wait. I didn't mean the kiss was a mistake, the wrong part was how I did it.// ->recuperare kiss kosta]]
[[//I'm sorry for hurting Kosta, but this is really a mistake. We could never be a thing. (NOT FINISHED)//->ending]]
[[//Wait. Does that mean that Kosta wanted this as well? (NOT FINISHED)//->ending]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] rolls (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] eyes at you and you clear your throat nervously. 'Then...I mean, this...'
You try to articulate a question, but your brain feels like it went into stand by. You can barely make sense of your own emotions, you're utterly incapable of understanding (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] right now. You let out an exasperated breath.
'You said you hate me,' you tentatively remind (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].
'Yes,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] answers without any hesitation.
'You could have stopped me but you didn't.'
'Yes,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] nods, looking at you as if you'd just become senile.
For a second you actually belive you're the crazy one. You clear your throat again.
'You must see how this can be a little...contradictory? I //kissed //you. And...I wanted more.'
For the first time since your kiss, Kosta blushes slightly.
'I don't think I...hate you that much.'
A giddy sensation takes over and your lips twich in a smile. 'So you...like me...?'
'You wish!' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] qiuckly retorts, but it's obvious (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] [[flustered.->flustered]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You try to articulate a question, but your brain feels like it went into stand by. You can barely make sense of your own emotions, you're utterly incapable of understanding (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] right now.
'Don't you hate me?' you ask, your voice sounding very much like a squeal.
Kosta blushes slightly, shifting (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] weight on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] left foot.
'I...don't really know. I guess not.'
You lift your head and a giddy sensation starts taking over. 'So you...like me...?'
'No!' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] qiuckly retorts, but it's obvious (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] [[flustered.->flustered]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['I'm angry with you!' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] adds, returning to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] old attitude.
'Yeah, that's fair. But is that all?' you ask, taking a small step closer.
'Hell knows. Every time you're near me you make me wanna crawl up the walls,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] grumbles.
Your face starts burning and you start getting fidgety. 'Come one, I'm not that bad...'
'Yes you are. But...I also wanted more.'
You flinch and steal a glance at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] face. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] looks [[a little dazed->a little dazed]].
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You're able to observe it just for a moment because (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] immediately bounces back, straightening (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders. 'Let's go, it's getting late.'
[[You nod silently and follow.->save VII]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
The sight of (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] turned back suddenly feels like a blow to the back of your head.
(if:$personality is "impulsive")[Something scratches your insides and before you realize you foot moves in anger towards the closest wall.
//Shit!//
The pain is immediate, it crawls up your whole leg. You then feel stupid, like a kid who has to hit walls to release their frustrations.]
(if:$personality is "calm")[A sudden wave of exhaustion and saddness washes over you.
//What the fuck am I doing?//]
(if:$personality is "stoic")[Something scratches your insides and almost bursts, but you manage to control your body. You're trembling in anger.
//Shit...//]
[[🔹I go after Kosta.->sorry imediat]]
[[🔹I take out a cigarette out of my pack. I want to apologize, but both of us need a litte time to cool off.->sorry intarziat]]
[[🔹I take out a cigarette out of my pack. I don't care and won't apologize.->no sorry]] ]]
(set:$relkosta to "friend")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You run to catch (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her]. You just know you'll regret it later if you don't.
'Kosta! Wait!'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She's] already a few steps in front of you and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] flinches at the sound of your voice, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] doesn't slow down.
//This stubborn mother...//
[[🔹Run faster.->run faster kosta]]
[[🔹Use a trick. ->trick kosta]]]]
(set:$relkosta to "friend")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You take a drag and try to bring your breathing to an even pace. You even start counting to calm down.
//This is not working...
//
[[You throw the butt on the ground.->sorry intarziat 2]] ]]
(set:$relkosta to "notfriend")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You take a drag and try to bring your breathing to an even pace. You even start counting to calm down.
//Kosta's feelings are not my fucking problem.
//
[[You throw the butt on the ground. You'll walk back home.->save VII]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You catch up with (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] and grab (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hand. 'Wait, please!'
'What do you want, $lastname?'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] tries to yank (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hand away, but your grip is tighter than a coconut crab's.
'Let go, you stupid...'
'Yeah, I'm stupid!' you quickly say. 'I'm sorry, okay? I was rash and acted on my own and I shouldn't have but it's been so long since I've come across something like this and I didn't even realize that someone could still give a shit about me!
You let out all the words in one breath and you're prepared to resist (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] next push, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] doesn't move an inch. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] just stares at you for a second, then (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] sighs.
'I swear, I have the dumbest partner in the whole Unit,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, with a resigned expression. 'Let go, I'm not going anywhere.'
Your ears perk up at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] words. You release (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] [[wrist. ->go home kosta]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You stop. Then you get down on the ground. And scream.
'AAAAhhh!'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] turns abruptly, with a horrified look on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] face. In an instant, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] next to you, trying to pick you up.
'What happened? Are there injuries?'
You pant as you reach for (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] wrists, then you raise your head to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].
'Gotcha!' you smirk.
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] eyes go wide and realization dawn on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] face. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] [[frowns->trick kosta 2]]. ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] tries to shove you away but your grip is tighter than a coconut crab's.
'Let go, you stupid...'
'Yeah, I'm stupid!' you quickly say. 'I'm sorry, okay? I was rash and acted on my own and I shouldn't have but it's been so long since I've come across something like this and I didn't even realize that someone could still give a shit about me!
You let out all the words in one breath and you're prepared to resist (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] next push, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] doesn't move an inch. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] just stares at you for a second, then (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] sighs.
'I swear, I have the dumbest partner in the whole Unit,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, with a resigned expression.
Your ears perk up at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] words. You let go of (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hands and get up on your feet.
[[🔹'Debatable, but let's leave it at that for now,' you say, smiling.->debatable]]
[[🔹'I have other qualities,' you wink. ->other qualities]]
[[🔹'Come on, I'll buy you some coffee with some of that gross popcorn syrup you like so much.'->popcorn syrup]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
After a short moment of silence, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] pulls back (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] takes out the car keys from (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] pockets.
'Time to go home,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] announces, throwing them in your direction. 'I need something sweet, so we'll stop by a coffee shop on the way. Your treat.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] walks away and [[you sigh. ->save VII]]
]]
(set: $humor to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
||||||||||||||=
(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] tries not ot laugh and you chuckle.
After a short moment of silence, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] pulls back (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] takes out the car keys from (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] pockets.
'Time to go home,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] announces, throwing them in your direction. 'I need something sweet, so we'll stop by a coffee shop on the way. Your treat.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] walks away and [[you sigh. ->save VII]]
]]
(set: $humor to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
A short laugh escapes (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] lips. 'That's the best flavor out there, I stand by that. You...'
'Yes, I know, I'm just not //refined// enough to enjoy it.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] grins. 'Something like that.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] then throws the car keys at you and walks away. 'Hurry up, I have a specific place I want the coffee from and it's closing soon.'
Your intuition tells you that it's also the most expensive place (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] knows in [[this city.->save VII]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
||||||||||||||=
(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[Don't forget the choices you've made, agent.
(link: "save data - FILE A")[(save-game: "file A")[
(if:(save-game:"file A"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file A")[
FILE A is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE B")[(save-game: "file B")[
(if:(save-game:"file B"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file B")[
FILE B is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE C")[(save-game: "file C")[
(if:(save-game:"file C"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file C")[
FILE C is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE D")[(save-game: "file D")[
(if:(save-game:"file D"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file D")[
FILE D is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE E")[(save-game: "file E")[
(if:(save-game:"file E"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file E")[
FILE E is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE F")[(save-game: "file F")[
(if:(save-game:"file F"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file F")[
FILE F is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
(link: "save data - FILE G")[(save-game: "file G")[
(if:(save-game:"file G"))[
(if: (saved-games:) contains "file G")[
FILE G is now in your personal dossier.
]]]]
]
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[[[I'm ready to move forward (ch VIII).->back home abel]]]
]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(font:"Exo")+(text-style:"smear","blink")+(text-size:0.9)[''Sea creatures and new friends'']
(text-size:0.7)[A couple of days pass by and even though you drop by the HQ a few times, you're not able to meet August or Kosta. Wesh tells you that Kosta is on a field mission and August went under the radar after you told them about Ioveanu's request, asking everyone not to search for them until the end of the week.
So your life should've been pretty much uneventful. Only that it wasn't.
The kids had to go back to school and the last days with them were like a bucket of ice cold water.// Taking care of children is hard//.
You look at your phone.(text-style:"smear")[00:08]. You left them at home as you ran //errands// for Constance for some extra cash. The kind about which you wouldn't want [[the authorities to know.->constance job]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[After a short moment of silence, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] pulls back (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] takes out the car keys from (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] pockets.
'Time to go home,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] announces, throwing them in your direction. 'I need something sweet, so we'll stop by a coffee shop on the way. Your treat.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] walks away and [[you sigh. ->save VII]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[You light up your smoke as you continue to walk and try to remember the day this collaboration started. You can't recall it precisely, but it was around the time your dealer went missing, three years ago. You found out he got greedy so he had to be taken out of business. You also found out he was Constance's guy. She had other people for the drugs, but she needed someone for other types of exchanges. Dirty money, exit papers...
[[🔹I didn't really care what was inside the envelope.->fara scrupule]]
[[🔹I didn't really care what was inside the envelope, as long as I knew it didn't get someone killed.->scrupule]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You had the skills for it and the need for funds. Anyhow, these days the errands are scarce, so it's not too much trouble. On top of that, you have more mouths to feed now.
You turn the key and the front door opens with a click. The kids should be asleep by now, so enter silently. Everything is quiet, but a chilling sensation crawls up your spine. You stop.
Before you manage to gather your thoughts, you see a figure shifting slightly in the corner of the room. His low, muted voice reaches you.
[['Good evening, agent.'->good evening agent]]]]
(set:$gentle to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[And she promised you it wouldn't.
You had the skills for it and the need for funds. Anyhow, these days the errands are scarce, so it's not too much trouble. On top of that, you have more mouths to feed now.
You turn the key and the front door opens with a click. The kids should be asleep by now, so enter silently. Everything is quiet, but a chilling sensation crawls up your spine. You stop.
Before you manage to gather your thoughts, you see a figure shifting slightly in the corner of the room. His low, muted voice reaches you.
[['Good evening, agent.'->good evening agent]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You reach for the lamp, but even before the light hits his face, you know who he is.
(link:"'What are you doing in my house, Ioveanu?' you ask, trying to keep your voice even.")[(if:$personality is "impulsive")[(goto: "impulsive reaction abel")], (if:$personality is "calm")[(goto: "calm reaction abel")] , (if:$personality is "stoic")[(goto: "calm reaction abel")]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[Seeing his arrogant smirk makes your blood boil. Who the fuck does he think he is, breaking into your house.
'If you touched even a strand of my siblings' hair, I'm going to kill you,' you hiss at him.
He chuckles lightly and leans back in his seat. 'Don't worry, they don't even know I'm here. They were sleeping when I came.'
You now see he has poured himself a drink. He takes a sip and smiles, like an old friend. 'They look like really nice kids. [[I miss being their age.->impuls 2]]']]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[Your blood runs cold, but you forcibly relax your muscles, so your body doesn't give you away. Who does he think he is, breaking into your house...
'If you touched even a strand of my siblings' hair, I'm going to kill you,' you state matter-of-factly. 'You might have more power than me, but I would have nothing to lose.'
He chuckles lightly and leans back in his seat. 'I admire that about you. But don't worry, they don't even know I'm here. They were sleeping when I came.'
You now see he has poured himself a drink. He takes a sip and smiles, like an old friend. 'They look like really nice kids. [[I miss being their age.->calm 2]]']]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You spot the closest sharp thing around and take a step closer to the coffee table.
'Are you, by any chance, drinking my $favdrink?'
He looks at the glass in his hand, with a relaxed expression. 'Well, yeah, I figured it's only polite to have a drink while visiting. It's not the best, but not the worst either...'
You take advantage of him focusing on the glass and grab the knife on the table. In an instant you're above him, with the blade at his throat. He seems a little surprised, but he doesn't fight back.
(if: $augustrom is true)[[[He glances at the broken glass->abel preten]]]
(if: $kostarom is true)[[[He glances at the broken glass->abel preten]]]
(if: $augustrom is false)+(if: $kostarom is false)[[[He glances up at you.->abel iubi]]]]]
(set: $abelrom to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['It wasn't //that// bad...'
Don't fuck with me,' you threaten, as you push the knife slightly into his skin. His eyes are dark as coal and you can swear you see glimpse of amusement in them. He looks oddly...unbothered by the situation.
'How mean of you. I actually came tonight to thank you.'
You flinch. 'Oh.'
He calmly looks back at you. 'Now, can you play nice and let me do that?' I'm very uncomfortable at the moment.'
You pull away from him slowly, still guarded.
He touches the superficial cut on his neck. 'I really hate pain. And weapons,' he whines.
'Yeah, well, maybe don't make people use them on you next time.'
'I don't. I'm confused as to why it always happens to me,' he says, looking genuinely puzzled. [[He fixes his collar and shifts in the chair.->preten abel 2]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['Don't fuck with me,' you threaten, as you push the knife slightly into his skin. His eyes are dark as coal and you can swear you see glimpse of amusement in them. He looks oddly...satisfied with this situation.
'Agent, you're more...assertive than I thought. I can't say I don't like it though.'
You realize the posture you're in.
[[🔹You blush, but you don't move an inch (🧡). ->romioveanu]]
[[🔹You scoff, not moving an inch.->no rom ioveanu]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You feel the tips of your ears burning, but you control your expression. You're not exactly straddling him, but you're very close. Your skin suddenly feels itchy all over.
//I hate this guy!//
You know you're not the most trainquil person out there, but he manages to push your buttons like no other.
'I'm not in the mood for jokes...'
'Oh, I'm not joking,' he assures you.
You shove your knee in his right side and he winces in pain. [['I want you out.'->want you out rom]] ]]
(set: $abelrom to true)
(set: $abelrom to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['Hold back your excitement, loverboy, we're not even that close.'
He laughs. 'Right, that's what they all say.'
You shove your knee in his right side and he winces in pain. [['I want you out, Ioveanu.'->want you out preten]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['No, agent, trust me. What you want is the information I have.'
You flinch. 'Then tell me.'
He calmly looks back at you. 'I would, but I'm very uncomfortable at the moment.'
You pull away from him slowly, still guarded.
He touches the superficial cut on his neck. 'I really hate pain. And weapons,' he whines.
'Yeah, well, maybe don't make people use them on you next time.'
'I don't. I'm confused as to why it always happens to me,' he says, looking genuinely puzzled. He fixes his collar and shifts in the chair. [['I actually came tonight to thank you.'->thank abel rom]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You sigh. 'For Catarina.'
He smiles, like you did a really good job guessing. 'Yes.'
'You're welcome, but...It wasn't...It was just a coincidence.'
'Either way, she's alive because you were there. That's enough for me. And that brings me to the second point. //Now we owe you//. And we always pay back what we owe, no matter what.'
[[🔹'That sounds omnious, honestly,' you deadpan.->snarky abel rom]]
[[🔹'Well, I don't want it. The thanks are enough.'->don't want abel rom]]
[[🔹'What can you give me?'->what you give me abel rom]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[He laughs. 'In many ways it actually is. But you're lucky this time.'
You sense a headache coming. 'Excellent.'
'So I'm going to tell you something interesting. Actually, three things.'
He smiles at you and raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
'Then who...'
'Shhshsh...The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'What? Why?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[[You rush towards him.->rush abel rom]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[He laughs. 'Too bad, you don't get a say in this.'
You sense a headache coming. 'Excellent.'
'So I'm going to tell you something interesting. Actually, three things.'
He smiles at you and raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
'Then who...'
'Shhshsh...The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'What? Why?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[[You rush towards him.->rush abel rom]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[He grins. 'An interesting clue. Actually, three.'
He raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
'Then who...'
'Shhshsh...The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'What? Why?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[[You rush towards him.->rush abel rom]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['You can't just tell me that and leave!'
You try to grab him by the collar, but he somehow gets around you and catches you by your wrists.
'Of course I can,' he chuckles. 'I could do a lot more than that. Actually, that thought went through my head more than once after I found out you were at the heart of this. You see, this guy and his friends made a really big mess for me and it really, really, //really// annoys me. And you're the thing they seem to want. So I pondered doing a lot of...things, agent.'
His grip weakens and you yank yourself apart. You turn. 'I'm not with them!'
'I don't care. I want everyone involved in this gone, honestly. But I changed my mind about you.'
'Why?'
He goes silent for a moment, then shrugs. 'Who knows? [[I just don't feel like it anymore.->reason rom abel]]']]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You roll your eyes. 'So this is about Catarina...'
He smiles, like you did a really good job guessing. 'Yes.'
'You're welcome, but...It wasn't...It was just a coincidence.'
'Either way, she's alive because you were there. That's enough for me. And that brings me to the second point. //Now we owe you//. And we always pay back what we owe, no matter what.'
[[🔹'That sounds omnious, honestly,' you deadpan.->snarky abel preten]]
[[🔹'Well, I don't want it. The thanks are enough.'->don't want abel preten]]
[[🔹'What can you give me?'->what you give me abel preten]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[He laughs. 'In many ways it actually is. But you're lucky this time.'
You sense a headache coming. 'Excellent.'
'So I'm going to tell you something interesting. Actually, three things.'
He smiles at you and raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
'Then who...'
'Shhshsh...The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'What? Why?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[[You rush towards him.->rush abel preten]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[He laughs. 'Too bad, you don't get a say in this.'
You sense a headache coming. 'Excellent.'
'So I'm going to tell you something interesting. Actually, three things.'
He smiles at you and raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
'Then who...'
'Shhshsh...The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'What? Why?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[[You rush towards him.->rush abel preten]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[He grins. 'An interesting clue. Actually, three.''
He and raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
'Then who...'
'Shhshsh...The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'What? Why?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[[You rush towards him.->rush abel preten]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['You can't just tell me that and leave!'
You try to grab him by the collar, but he gets around you. You feel something pressed against you back and you freeze, thinking it could be the barrel of a gun.
'Of course I can,' he chuckles. 'I could do a lot more than that. Actually, that thought went through my head more than once after I found out you were at the heart of this. You see, this guy and his friends made a really big mess for me and it really, really, //really// annoys me. And you're the thing they seem to want. So I pondered doing a lot of...things, agent.'
He steps away. You turn. 'I'm not with them!'
'I don't care. I want everyone involved in this gone, honestly. But I changed my mind about you.'
'Why?'
He stares at you for a moment, with a blank expression. He then grins. 'I think you're fun!'
You look at him like he just told you he rides a pony every day to work. Your eyes get drawn to his hand and you realize he's holding some kind of spray tube.
[[He notices your gaze.->notice preten]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
You blood pressure goes up again.
//If I just strangle him right now...//
'Oh, look who's up!'
Abel's voice makes you shift attention to the bedroom's door, that goes slightly ajar. Two pairs of eyes peak at you.
//Shit, shit shit!//
Before you get the chance to move, it's already too late. They're both out.
(if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")["Mmmm, Sib? Who's this?"](if:$gender_choice is "male")["Mmmm, Bro? Who's this?"](if:$gender_choice is "female")["Mmmm, Sis? Who's this?"]
'A friend,' Abel answers, smiling. 'An old one. You must be Lucas, right?'
Your brother casts a suspicious gaze in his direction. 'Yeah...'
'I'm Abel.'
'Are you also here to sleep on our couch?' May asks.
Abel frowns like he just heard something really annoying, but he recovers quickly. He bends his knees to get to May's level.
'Oh? Are there many friends who usually sleep on your couch?'
[['Yes, there's...'->sea cretures rom]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['No, agent, trust me. What you want is the information I have.'
You flinch. 'Then tell me.'
He calmly looks back at you. 'I would, but I'm very uncomfortable at the moment.'
You pull away from him slowly, still guarded.
He touches the superficial cut on his neck. 'I really hate pain. And weapons,' he whines.
'Yeah, well, maybe don't make people use them on you next time.'
'I don't. I'm confused as to why it always happens to me,' he says, looking genuinely puzzled. He fixes his collar and shifts in the chair. [['I actually came tonight to thank you.'->thank abel preten]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You sigh. 'For Catarina.'
He smiles, like you did a really good job guessing. 'Yes.'
'You're welcome, but...It wasn't...It was just a coincidence.'
'Either way, she's alive because you were there. That's enough for me. And that brings me to the second point. //Now we owe you//. And we always pay back what we owe, no matter what.'
[['That sounds omnious, honestly,' you deadpan.->snarky abel preten]]
[['Well, I don't want it. The thanks are enough.'->don't want abel preten]]
[['What can you give me?'->what you give me abel preten]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['I told you I hate weapons,' he defends himself.
//If I just strangle him right now...//
'Oh, look who's up!'
Abel's voice makes you shift attention to the bedroom's door, that goes slightly ajar. Two pairs of eyes peak at you.
//Shit, shit shit!//
Before you get the chance to move, it's already too late. They're both out.
(if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")["Mmmm, Sib? Who's this?"](if:$gender_choice is "male")["Mmmm, Bro? Who's this?"](if:$gender_choice is "female")["Mmmm, Sis? Who's this?"]
'A friend,' Abel answers, smiling. 'An old one. You must be Lucas, right?'
Your brother casts a suspicious gaze in his direction. 'Yeah...'
'I'm Abel.'
'Are you also here to sleep on our couch?' May asks.
'Oh? Are there many friends who usually sleep on your couch?' Abel chuckles.
[['Yes, there's...'->sea cretures preten]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You spot the closest sharp thing around and take a step closer to the coffee table.
'Are you, by any chance, drinking my $favdrink?'
He looks at the glass in his hand, with a relaxed expression. 'Well, yeah, I figured it's only polite to have a drink while visiting. It's not the best, but not the worst either...'
You take advantage of him focusing on the glass and grab the knife on the table. In an instant you're above him, with the blade at his throat. He seems a little surprised, but he doesn't fight back.
(if: $augustrom is true)[[[He glances at the broken glass->abel preten calm]]]
(if: $kostarom is true)[[[He glances at the broken glass->abel preten calm]]]
(if: $augustrom is false)+(if: $kostarom is false)[[[He glances up at you.->abel iubi calm]]]]]
(set: $abelrom to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['It wasn't //that// bad...'
'Listen. I don't know why you're here, but I can't have you this close to the kids. Get out,' you threaten, as you push the knife slightly into his skin. His eyes are dark as coal and you can swear you see glimpse of amusement in them. He looks oddly...unbothered by the situation.
'How mean of you. I actually came tonight to thank you.'
You remain still, staring at him.
He calmly looks back at you. 'Now, can you play nice and let me do that?' I'm very uncomfortable at the moment.'
You pull away from him slowly, still guarded.
He touches the superficial cut on his neck. 'I really hate pain. And weapons,' he whines.
'Yeah, well, maybe don't make people use them on you next time.'
'I don't. I'm confused as to why it always happens to me,' he says, looking genuinely puzzled. [[He fixes his collar and shifts in the chair.->preten abel calm 2]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['Listen. I don't know why you're here, but I can't have you this close to the kids. Get out,' you threaten, as you push the knife slightly into his skin. His eyes are dark as coal and you can swear you see glimpse of amusement in them. He looks oddly...satisfied with this situation.
'Agent, you're more...assertive than I thought. I can't say I don't like it though.'
You realize the posture you're in.
[[🔹You blush, but you don't move an inch (🧡). ->romioveanu calm]]
[[🔹You scoff, not moving an inch.->no rom ioveanu calm]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You feel the tips of your ears burning, but you control your expression. You're not exactly straddling him, but you're very close. Your skin suddenly feels itchy all over.
//I hate this guy!//
This is so not like you. He succeeds in doing what others usually can't. Pissing you off.
'I'm not in the mood for jokes...'
'Oh, I'm not joking,' he assures you.
You shove your knee in his right side and he winces in pain. [['I want you out.'->want you out rom calm]] ]]
(set: $abelrom to true)
(set: $abelrom to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['Hold back your excitement, loverboy, we're not even that close.'
He laughs. 'Right, that's what they all say.'
You shove your knee in his right side and he winces in pain. [['I want you out, Ioveanu.'->want you out preten calm]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You roll your eyes. 'So this is about Catarina...'
He smiles, like you did a really good job guessing. 'Yes.'
'You're welcome, but...It wasn't...It was just a coincidence.'
'Either way, she's alive because you were there. That's enough for me. And that brings me to the second point. //Now we owe you//. And we always pay back what we owe, no matter what.'
[[🔹'That sounds omnious, honestly,' you deadpan.->snarky abel preten calm]]
[[🔹'Well, I don't want it. The thanks are enough.'->don't want abel preten calm]]
[[🔹'What can you give me?'->what you give me abel preten calm]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[He laughs. 'In many ways it actually is. But you're lucky this time.'
You sense a headache coming. 'Excellent.'
'So I'm going to tell you something interesting. Actually, three things.'
He raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
You get the urge to cut in, but you refrain.
'The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'Why? And what do they want to finish?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[['No,' you cut him off.->calm abel preten]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[He laughs. 'Too bad, you don't get a say in this.'
You sense a headache coming. 'Excellent.'
'So I'm going to tell you something interesting. Actually, three things.'
He raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
You get the urge to cut in, but you refrain.
'The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'Why? And what do they want to finish?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[['No,' you cut him off.->calm abel preten]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[He grins. 'An interesting clue. Actually, three.'
He raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
You get the urge to cut in, but you refrain.
'The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'Why? And what do they want to finish?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[['No,' you cut him off.->calm abel preten]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['You can't just tell me that and leave,' you continue, as you move between him and the door.
With the way he's looking at you, you get the impression that he thinks a strange creature just crossed his path. He draws closer.
'Of course I can,' he chuckles.
You know you should get away, but for some reason you body freezes under his gaze. He tilts his head slightly.
'I could do a lot more than that. Actually, that thought went through my head more than once after I found out you were at the heart of this. You see, this guy and his friends made a really big mess for me and it really, really, //really// annoys me. And you're the thing they seem to want. So I pondered doing a lot of...things, agent,' he drawls.
'I'm not with them!' you manage to say.
'I don't care. I want everyone involved in this gone, honestly. But I changed my mind about you.'
'Why?'
[[He then grins. 'I think you're fun!'->reason preten calm]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['No, agent, trust me. What you want is the information I have.'
You flinch. 'Then tell me.'
He calmly looks back at you. 'I would, but I'm very uncomfortable at the moment.'
You pull away from him slowly, still guarded.
He touches the superficial cut on his neck. 'I really hate pain. And weapons,' he whines.
'Yeah, well, maybe don't make people use them on you next time.'
'I don't. I'm confused as to why it always happens to me,' he says, looking genuinely puzzled. He fixes his collar and shifts in the chair. [['I actually came tonight to thank you.'->thank abel rom calm]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You sigh. 'For Catarina.'
He smiles, like you did a really good job guessing. 'Yes.'
'You're welcome, but...It wasn't...It was just a coincidence.'
'Either way, she's alive because you were there. That's enough for me. And that brings me to the second point. //Now we owe you//. And we always pay back what we owe, no matter what.'
[[🔹'That sounds omnious, honestly,' you deadpan.->snarky abel rom calm]]
[[🔹'Well, I don't want it. The thanks are enough.'->don't want abel rom calm]]
[[🔹'What can you give me?'->what you give me abel rom calm]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[He laughs. 'In many ways it actually is. But you're lucky this time.'
You sense a headache coming. 'Excellent.'
'So I'm going to tell you something interesting. Actually, three things.'
He raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
You get the urge to cut in, but you refrain.
'Shhshsh...The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'Why? And what do they want to finish?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[['No,' you cut him off.->calm no abel rom]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[He laughs. 'Too bad, you don't get a say in this.'
You sense a headache coming. 'Excellent.'
'So I'm going to tell you something interesting. Actually, three things.'
He raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
You get the urge to cut in, but you refrain.
'Shhshsh...The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'Why? And what do they want to finish?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[['No,' you cut him off.->calm no abel rom]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[He grins. 'An interesting clue. Actually, three.'
He raises his index finger. 'This elemental you're all looking for...they're not working alone.'
You get the urge to cut in, but you refrain.
'Shhshsh...The time of the attack wasn't arbitrary. Something happened recently that set them into motion,' he continues, raising another finger.
'And they're in a rush to finish what they started.'
'Why? And what do they want to finish?'
'No idea,' he says dismissively. He gets on his feet, looking ready to go. 'Well, my job here is...'
[['No,' you cut him off.->calm no abel rom]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['You can't just tell me that and leave,' you continue, as you move between him and the door.
With the way he's looking at you, you get the impression that he thinks a strange creature just crossed his path. He draws closer.
'Of course I can,' he chuckles.
You know you should get away, but for some reason you body freezes under his gaze. He raises his hand towards your face. You swallow. His fingers are cold as ice.
'I could do a lot more than that. Actually, that thought went through my head more than once after I found out you were at the heart of this. You see, this guy and his friends made a really big mess for me and it really, really, //really// annoys me. And you're the thing they seem to want. So I pondered doing a lot of...things, agent,' he drawls.
He steps away abruptly.
'I'm not with them!' you manage to say.
'I don't care. I want everyone involved in this gone, honestly. But I changed my mind about you.'
'Why?'
He goes silent for a moment, then shrugs. 'Who knows? [[I just don't feel like it anymore.->reason calm rom]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You blood pressure goes up again.
//I swear, if I could strangle him right now...//
'Oh, look who's up!'
Abel's voice makes you shift attention to the bedroom's door, that goes slightly ajar. Two pairs of eyes peak at you.
//Shit, shit shit!//
Before you get the chance to move, it's already too late. They're both out.
(if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")["Mmmm, Sib? Who's this?"](if:$gender_choice is "male")["Mmmm, Bro? Who's this?"](if:$gender_choice is "female")["Mmmm, Sis? Who's this?"]
'A friend,' Abel answers, smiling. 'An old one. You must be Lucas, right?'
Your brother casts a suspicious gaze in his direction. 'Yeah...'
'I'm Abel.'
'Are you also here to sleep on our couch?' May asks.
Abel frowns like he just heard something really annoying, but he recovers quickly. He bends his knees to get to May's level.
'Oh? Are there many friends who usually sleep on your couch?'
[['Yes, there's...'->sea cretures rom]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['No, agent, trust me. What you want is the information I have.'
You flinch. 'Then tell me.'
He calmly looks back at you. 'I would, but I'm very uncomfortable at the moment.'
You pull away from him slowly, still guarded.
He touches the superficial cut on his neck. 'I really hate pain. And weapons,' he whines.
'Yeah, well, maybe don't make people use them on you next time.'
'I don't. I'm confused as to why it always happens to me,' he says, looking genuinely puzzled. He fixes his collar and shifts in the chair. [['I actually came tonight to thank you.'->preten abel calm 2]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
//I swear I wish I could strangle him right now...//
'Oh, look who's up!'
Abel's voice makes you shift attention to the bedroom's door, that goes slightly ajar. Two pairs of eyes peak at you.
//Shit, shit shit!//
Before you get the chance to move, it's already too late. They're both out.
(if:$gender_choice is "non-binary")["Mmmm, Sib? Who's this?"](if:$gender_choice is "male")["Mmmm, Bro? Who's this?"](if:$gender_choice is "female")["Mmmm, Sis? Who's this?"]
'A friend,' Abel answers, smiling. 'An old one. You must be Lucas, right?'
Your brother casts a suspicious gaze in his direction. 'Yeah...'
'I'm Abel.'
'Are you also here to sleep on our couch?' May asks.
'Oh? Are there many friends who usually sleep on your couch?' Abel chuckles.
[['Yes, there's...'->sea cretures preten calm]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(text-size:0.7)[
'May,' you cut her off. 'He's not here to sleep, he was just leaving.'
'I'm afraid I am, young lady. But maybe another time I'll take you up on that offer. Have a slumber party maybe?'
May goes wide-eyed and you clear your throat. 'Our place is very small, we don't have the space for...'
'Then we'll just go to my place! Do you like the sea?'
May nods enthusiastically, while Lucas remains silent. However, you can see that even his interest is now peaked.
'I have the biggest fish tank in this city. [[All kinds of sea creatures, big and small,' he proudly says.->sea creatures preten2]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(text-size:0.7)['Guys, it's still late, let's all go to back to bed, alright?'
You turn to Abel. 'Mr. Ioveanu, weren't you in a hurry?'
He sighs like you just killed the last trace of fun in the world. 'Yeah, sure. Next time then!'
He smiles at your siblings before walking out the door. You turn the key into the lock two times. Then once more. You see your hands still trembling lightly.
'Is he really a friend?'
You look at Lucas.
[[🔹'Kind of.'->kind of lucas]]
[[🔹'No.'->no lucas sincer]]
[[🔹'I'm not sure yet.'->not sure yet lucas]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You can't be completely certain, but you're pretty sure Ioveanu won't be a danger to the kids. During all of your years in the Unit, you've never heard about him involving innocents, even when it would have been the easiest way.
'He's just...really weird,' you add.
'So we're really going to see the fish tank?' Lucas insists.
'No! He...he's really busy and his place is...you wouldn't really like it, I've seen it and it's not impressive at all, trust me.'
'I like him,' May mumbles. 'He has pretty hair!'
You grimace, but decide against holding a speech about how appearance can be deceiving.
[['Yeah, sure. Let's go to bed now. Please...'->to bed end chapter]]]]
(set:$trustabel to true)<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[During all of your years in the Unit, you've never heard about him involving innocents, even when it would have been the easiest way. But you won't take any chances with your siblings.
'He's someone I work with, but we're not friends. He's dangerous.'
'So we're not going to see the fish tank...' you hear Lucas whispering.
'No.'
'I like him,' May mumbles. 'He has pretty hair!'
You grimace, but decide against holding a speech about how appearance can be deceiving.
[['Yeah, sure. Let's go to bed now. Please...'->to bed end chapter]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You can't be completely certain, but you're pretty sure Ioveanu won't be a danger to the kids. During all of your years in the Unit, you've never heard about him involving innocents, even when it would have been the easiest way.
'He's someone I work with, but we have to be careful around him' you add.
'So...are we going to see the fish tank?' Lucas insists.
'No! Not in a million years...'
'I like him,' May mumbles. 'He has pretty hair!'
You grimace, but decide against holding a speech about how appearance can be deceiving.
[['Yeah, sure. Let's go to bed now. Please...'->to bed end chapter]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You somehow manage to get them back to sleep, but now it's almost 3 a.m. and your head is throbbing like crazy.
You clean up the broken glass from the floor. You take out all the hidden weapons from the box hidden in the wall and place them around the room, in places your sibling wouldn't reach, but you could. Just in case.
You're about to switch off the lights when you hear a //click//. Then another.
//'Oh, for fuck's sake! What's this place, a train station?!'//
[[You turn around.->cine vine]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(text-size:0.7)[
'May,' you cut her off. 'He's not here to sleep, he was just leaving.'
'I'm afraid I am, young lady. But how about this? Let's have a slumber at my place next time!'
May goes wide-eyed and you clear your throat. 'I don't think that's...'
'Do you like the sea?'
May nods enthusiastically, while Lucas remains silent. However, you can see that even his interest is now peaked.
'I have the biggest fish tank in this city. All kinds of sea creatures, big and small,' he proudly says.'Also...I can't sleep on couches other friends used.'
[[He's still smiling but you get the sensation he's not in a good mood.->sea creature rom 2]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)['Guys, it's still late, let's all go to back to bed, alright?'
You turn to Abel. 'Mr. Ioveanu, weren't you in a hurry?'
He sighs like you just killed the last trace of fun in the world. 'Yeah, sure. Next time then!'
He smiles at your siblings before walking out the door. You turn the key into the lock two times. Then once more. You see your hands still trembling lightly.
'Is he really a friend?'
You look at Lucas.
[[🔹'Kind of.'->kind of lucas rom]]
[[🔹'No.'->no lucas sincer rom]]
[[🔹'I'm not sure yet.'->not sure yet lucas rom]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You can't be completely certain, but you're pretty sure Ioveanu won't be a danger to the kids. During all of your years in the Unit, you've never heard about him involving innocents, even when it would have been the easiest way.
'He's just...really weird,' you add.
'So we're really going to see the fish tank?' Lucas insists.
'No! He...he's really busy and his place is...you wouldn't really like it, I've seen it and it's not impressive at all, trust me.'
'I like him,' May mumbles. 'He has pretty hair!'
You grimace. Great, she's a sucker for looks. Just like you.
[['Yeah, sure. Let's go to bed now. Please...'->to bed end chapter]]]]
(set:$trustabel to true)<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[During all of your years in the Unit, you've never heard about him involving innocents, even when it would have been the easiest way. But you won't take any chances with your siblings.
'He's someone I work with, but we're not friends. He's dangerous.'
'So we're not going to see the fish tank...' you hear Lucas whispering.
'No.'
'I like him,' May mumbles. 'He has pretty hair!'
You grimace. Great, she's a sucker for looks. Just like you.
[['Yeah, sure. Let's go to bed now. Please...'->to bed end chapter]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You can't be completely certain, but you're pretty sure Ioveanu won't be a danger to the kids. During all of your years in the Unit, you've never heard about him involving innocents, even when it would have been the easiest way.
'He's someone I work with, but we have to be careful around him' you add.
'So...are we going to see the fish tank?' Lucas insists.
'No! Not in a million years...'
'I like him,' May mumbles. 'He has pretty hair!'
You grimace. Great, she's a sucker for looks. Just like you.
[['Yeah, sure. Let's go to bed now. Please...'->to bed end chapter]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(font:"Exo")+(text-colour:#c27332)+(text-size:0.7)[[[Personal Information->Stats]]]
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
'May,' you cut her off. 'He's not here to sleep, he was just leaving.'
'I'm afraid I am young lady. But maybe another time I'll take you up on that offer. Have a slumber party maybe?'
May goes eye-wide and you clear your throat. 'Our place is very small, we don't have the space for...'
'Then we'll just go to my place! Do you like the sea?'
May nods enthusiastically, while Lucas remains silent. However, you can see that even his interest is now peaked.
'I have the biggest fish tank in this city. [[All kinds of sea creatures, big and small,' he proudly says.->sea creatures preten2]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You catch up to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] just as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] about to get in the car.
'Kosta, wait a minute!'
You grab the door, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] tries to close it in your face.
//This stubborn mother...//
[[🔹Go in front of the car.->front of the car kosta]]
[[🔹Try to slide inside. ->slide kosta]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You let go of the door and get in front of the car, spreadind your arms.
'You'll have to run me over if you want to leave!'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] starts the engine, sticking (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] head out of the window.
'Don't tempt me, $lastname!'
You jump on the hood, embracing it. All this yelling has started attracting attention and Kosta knows it.
[['DO IT THEN!'->do it then]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You push your body inside the car as much as you can. You probably look like a freaking worm right now.
'You'll have to squash me to death if you want to leave alone!'
'Don't tempt me, $lastname!'
You manage to stick your hand and you grab Kosta's shirt.
[['DO IT THEN!'->do it then slide]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
'Move aside, you stupid...'
'Yeah, I'm stupid!' you quickly say. 'I'm sorry, okay? I was rash and acted on my own and I shouldn't have but it's been so long since I've come across something like this and I didn't even realize that someone could still give a shit about me!
You let out all the words in one breath, still glued to the hood of the car. A couple of seconds pass and you hear the engine stopping. You look up.
'I swear, I have the dumbest partner in the whole Unit,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, with a resigned expression. 'Get inside.'
Your ears perk up at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] words. [[You quickly get up and into the front seat.->do it then 2]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[You start the car again, and for a while you drive in total silence.
'I need something sweet,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] suddenly announces.
'Then...'
'Coffee. With popcorn syrup. Your treat.'
[[🔹'Still drinking that awful thing?' you laugh.->still drinking that]]
[[🔹'Sure, partner!' you grin.->sure partner]]
[[🔹'Don't make it too expensive, please. I have children to raise,' you plead dramatically.->children to raise]]
]]
(set: $humor to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
'It's the best flavor out there, I stand by that. You...'
'Yes, I know, I'm just not //refined// enough to enjoy it.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] grins. 'Something like that. Take a left here.'
As you turn the blinkers, your intuition scream that (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] gonna pick the most expensive place in [[this city.->save VII]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] scoffs, but you can see (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] almost smiling.
'Take a left here.'
As you turn the blinkers, your intuition scream that (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] still gonna pick the most expensive place in [[this city.->save VII]]
]](set: $humor to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] scoffs. 'How about you smoke less then?'
'Fair point.'
'Take a left here.'
As you turn the blinkers, your intuition scream that (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] still gonna pick the most expensive place in [[this city.->save VII]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
'Let go, you stupid...'
'Yeah, I'm stupid!' you quickly say. 'I'm sorry, okay? I was rash and acted on my own and I shouldn't have but it's been so long since I've come across something like this and I didn't even realize that someone could still give a shit about me!
You let out all the words in one breath, still holding on to (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her]. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] stops moving, staring at you.
'I swear, I have the dumbest partner in the whole Unit,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, with a resigned expression. 'Get inside.'
Your ears perk up at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] words. [[You quickly get up and into the front seat.->do it then 3]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You start the car and for a while you drive in total silence.
'I need something sweet,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] suddenly announces.
'Then...'
'Coffee. With popcorn syrup. Your treat.'
[[🔹'Still drinking that awful thing?' you laugh.->still drinking that]]
[[🔹'Sure, partner!' you grin.->sure partner]]
[[🔹'Don't make it too expensive, please. I have children to raise,' you plead dramatically.->children to raise]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
(text-size:0.7)+(font:"Exo")[
(if: (saved-games: ) contains "file A")[(link: "Load game: FILE A " + ("file A") of (saved-games: ))[
(load-game: "file A")
]]
(if: (saved-games: ) contains "file B")[(link: "Load game: FILE B " + ("file B") of (saved-games: ))[
(load-game: "file B")
]]
(if: (saved-games: ) contains "file C")[(link: "Load game: FILE C " + ("file C") of (saved-games: ))[
(load-game: "file C")
]]
(if: (saved-games: ) contains "file D")[(link: "Load game: FILE D " + ("file D") of (saved-games: ))[
(load-game: "file D")
]]
(if: (saved-games: ) contains "file E")[(link: "Load game: FILE E " + ("file E") of (saved-games: ))[
(load-game: "file E")
]]
(if: (saved-games: ) contains "file F")[(link: "Load game: FILE F " + ("file F") of (saved-games: ))[
(load-game: "file F")
]]
(if: (saved-games: ) contains "file G")[(link: "Load game: FILE G " + ("file G") of (saved-games: ))[
(load-game: "file G")
]]
[[[Back to the start.->Start]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
(if: $ablerom is true)[[[Then it stops.->ending]]]
(else-if: $kostarom is true)[[[The door snaps open.->kosta saves the day]]]
(else-if: $augustrom is true)[[[Then it stops.->august rom saves]]]
(else:)[[[Then it stops.->ending]]]
]]
(set:$codex to true)(set: $relmay to 2)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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"$firstname!" she yells, running into your arms.
You catch her, burying your face in her soft hair. "May."
'Of course I remember you. Mom talks about you all the time!'
Her words gnaw at you and you choke down the guilt. Your skin starts to tingle.
//I have to make sure she's alright//.
So, you close your eyes, breaching her mind, looking for what you know best. //Pain//. It takes only a few seconds. In the end, you let out a sigh of relief. She's fine for now.
[["What are you doing here?"->what are you doing here]]]](set: $relmay to 1)
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
She stays glued to her brother but she grins at you.
'Of course I remember you. Mom talks about you all the time!'
Her words gnaw at you and you choke down the guilt. Your skin starts to tingle.
//I have to make sure she's alright//.
'May, come here for a second.'
She's hesitant at first, but she steps into your arms. You tighten your arms around her and close your eyes, breaching her mind, looking for what you know best. //Pain//.
It takes only a few seconds. In the end, you let out a sigh of relief. She's fine for now.
[["What are you doing here?"->what are you doing here]]]](set: $relmay to 2)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
"$firstname!" she yells, running into your arms.
You catch her, burying your face in her soft hair. "May."
'We missed you! Mom talks about you all the time!'
Her words gnaw at you and you choke down the guilt. Your skin starts to tingle.
//I have to make sure she's alright//.
So, you close your eyes, breaching her mind, looking for what you know best. //Pain//. It takes only a few seconds. In the end, you let out a sigh of relief. She's fine for now.
[["What are you doing here?"->what are you doing here]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
[[...->kosta door]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
[[...->kosta door 2]]]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] is about to turn around when you almost yell for (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] to stop.
'Wait. What I meant was...I wanted to kiss you. Hell, I still do, trust me...'
You cringe at your own choice or words. But it makes Kosta stop and look back at you, waiting for you to continue.
'I...I shouldn't have kissed you like //that//. I lost reason for a moment and...I should have asked...'
Something between surprise and doubt strikes (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[hie](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] features before it melts into an [[indecipherable stare.->recuperare 2]] ]]Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
You shift uncomfortably when you hear (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] let out a sigh.
'I see. You're right, it took me a little by surprise...'
'I'm so...'
'So next time maybe let me finish talking...'
Your jaw drops abruptly as your eyes go wide. //Next time?//
'Ummm...you said you hate me,' you quietly remind (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her].
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] shrugs impatiently, like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] not in the mood to think about it.
'I...don't really know. I guess not.'
You lift your head and a giddy sensation starts taking over. 'So you...like me...?'
'No!' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] qiuckly retorts, but it's obvious (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] [[flustered.->flustered]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[A disheveled Kosta stands in your doorway with (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] gun pulled out of its holster.
You blink.
[[🔹'You've finally decided to kill me,' you deadpan.->finally kill]]
[[🔹'My God, Kosta, put that down!' you hiss.->ending]]
[[🔹I wait silently for Kosta to notice me. ->ending]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[On your doorway appears August. You notice their platinum hair is more ruffled than usual and they look agitated. Your gaze locks on the gun at their side.
[[🔹'Me asking for a promotion must've really upset you,' you deadpan. ->august saves 2]]
[[🔹'Freaking hell, August, put that down!' you hiss. ->august save 2.2]]
[[🔹'Uuum...August?' you hesitate. ->august saves 2.3]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] squints at you, relief flooding the lines on (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] face. Then (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] registers your words and scoffs, as (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] puts away the gun.
'Funny.'
'But not as funny as seeing you break into my house.'
'I didn't...'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] stops abruptly, looking back at the door then at the keys in (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hand.
'Right.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] appears a little disoriented now, so you decide to take the lead.
[['So why are you here?'->why here kosta rom]]
]]
Double-click this passage to edit it.Double-click this passage to edit it.<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She]
snaps back into focus, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] gaze glued to you.
'Ioveanu. I found a...//gift// from him when I arrived home and a note saying that you will be given the real reward for saving Catarina. I've been trying to reach you but you weren't answering your phone and I thought...'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] frowns, glancing away. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] last words are dragged and muffled like (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he's](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she's] also trying to understand what (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] was worried about.
A shiver crawls all over your skin. 'Ioveanu sent you a //gift//? What was it, [[are you alright?'->gift from ioveanu]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] frown deepens and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] starts to fidget slightly.
'Yeah, but it wasn't anything dangerous so it's okay...'
You narrow your eyes. 'Then why are you reacting like that?'
'Like what?' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] asks evading your gaze.
'You're...wiggling. Like sawfly larvae.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] face goes blank in evident confusion. 'Like wha...No, it's fine, I don't want to know. Also, I don't //wiggle//!' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says, as if the very idea of it leaves a bad taste in (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] mouth.
[['Then tell me what he sent you.'->kosta cadou 2]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
A blush creeps up (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] cheeks. 'No.'
'Why?'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] presses (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] lips together in an annoyed grimace and you roll your eyes, half amused by (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] childish reaction. Finally you sigh and give up.
'You're right, it's not my business...'
'Flowers.'
You stare at (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] for a moment. 'What?'
'He left me a flower arrangement,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] mumbles. 'With roses and some white small flowers, I don't know.'
'Flowers,' you repeat in a daze.
'Yes. Flowers.'
[[🔹I try, I really try, but in the end I can't control my laughter. ->laugh kosta rom]]
[[🔹Specks of jealousy cloud my thoughts but you try to calm down.->ending]]
[[🔹'Oh. That's...' you struggle to find a word to describe it.->ending]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
You cover your mouth in a pitiful attempt to stiffle the laughter, but it's too late. You hear Kosta grumbling.
'At least //you//'re having a good time...'
'As if,' you say, still wheezing with laughter. 'He wasn't so polite as to get //me// flowers when he came earlier.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] freezes at your words. [['He did //what?//'->kosta angry rom]]
]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
You turn your head sharply towards the bedroom door. Then back at Kosta.
'Shhhhh! Be quiet, I don't want the kids waking up. Again.'
'He saw the kids?!' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] counters, trying really hard keep it down to a whisper.
'Yeah, well....
[[🔹'It was short and mostly benign, so calm down. I think he actually wants to help us for some reason.'->short and benign]]
[[🔹'It really creeped me out, but I guess that's Ioveanu for you.'->creepy ioveanu kosta]]
[[🔹'I took care of it, it's fine,' you say with a smile.->took care kosta]]
]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
</style>
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(align:"=><=")+(box:"=XXXXXXXXX")[
(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] shoots you a skeptical look, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders drop a little, in a more relaxed stance.
'I don't trust him. //You// should not trust him,'(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] grumbles.
'Yeah, well, probably his own mother shouldn't trust him, but that's not the point right now,' you retort as you throw yourself on the couch. 'Thing is, he appears to have something to gain from all this and that's an advantage for us.'
'True,' Kosta sighs, leaning on the side of the table that opposite from you. 'I hate to admit but we don't have their information network and we were already told to close this case as fast as we can, without much noise...'
'Which means they want it covered,' you finish, as you bring your knees to your chest.
[['Yes.' ->deodata]]]]
(set: $flow to false)
(set:$trustabel to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] shoots you a skeptical look, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders drop a little, in a more relaxed stance.
'That doesn't make it any less concerning,'(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] grumbles.
'Yeah, well, it wouldn't do us any good to be paralyzed by concern right now, would it?' you shrug. 'It is what it is and I'd rather roll with it than be stuck.'
'True,' Kosta sighs, leaning on the side of the table that opposite from you. 'I hate to admit but he might actually help us for some reason. Also, we don't have their information network and we were already told to close this case as fast as we can, without much noise...'
'Which means they want it covered,' you finish, as you bring your knees to your chest.
[['Yes.' ->deodata]]]]
(set: $flow to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] shoots you a surprised look, but (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] shoulders drop a little, in a more relaxed stance.
'Good job,'(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] smiles back.
'Yeah, well, I won't let him set the pace that's for sure. However..,he appears to have something to gain from all this and that's an advantage for us.'
'True,' Kosta sighs, leaning on the side of the table that opposite from you. 'I hate to admit but we don't have their information network and we were already told to close this case as fast as we can, without much noise...'
'Which means they want it covered,' you finish, as you bring your knees to your chest.
[['Yes.' ->deodata]]]]
(set: $flow to false)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
You realize you're suddenly really cold, as if your bones are being soaked in liquid ice. A queasy sensation begins to mold and you push it away. Somewhere deeper. //Breathe//.
It whrithes a little before it petrifies further. So it doesn't break.// You cannot break.//
'$firstname?' Kosta asks softly.
You scrape yourself back together quickly and look (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] in the eyes.
'You look haunted,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] whispers with a pained expression.
[[🔹'I probably am. And it's my fault.'->your fault kosta]]
[[🔹'By a ghost with very strange tastes if it wants to keep //me //company,' you deflect.->deflect kosta]]
[[🔹'I have so many regrets Kosta...' ->many regrets kosta]]
[[🔹'I never had a problem with the things I had to do for the job. But now...I'm not so sure anymore.'->sudden regrets kosta]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] straightens up. 'That's...'
'True,' you cut off. Your own voice sounds detached and far away. 'We...I did things...'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] holds your gaze and you see the tacit understanding in them. It's true. It's not without reason that you're called //control dogs//. You're trained to be loyal, relentless and never to question.
'I should be so familiar with death by now, I...I brought it myself so many times,' you let out a humorless laugh. 'Why then? Why do I...'
'It's your family,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says gently. 'And she was innocent.'
'That never stopped us, didn't it?' you snort.
Kosta stiffens for a moment. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] then gingerly kneels down at your feet. 'That's right, we made mistakes. But we wanted to make things better. We wanted to make this city better.'
You think about it. Sometimes civilians in the wrong places at the wrong times. Sometimes a hostage's life in exchange for ten other. You never asked questions about the collateral victims you had to sacrifice during your missions because...
[[🔹'In all those cases, I honestly thought the sacrifices were necessary for a greater good. You cannot save everyone.'->utilitarian]]
[[🔹'I just didn't care. It was my job.'->cold blood kosta]]
[[🔹'I was to afraid to question orders.'->duty kosta]]
]]
(set: $direct to true)<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] straightens up. 'That's...'
'True,' you cut off. Your own voice sounds detached and far away. 'We...I did things...'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] holds your gaze and you see the tacit understanding in them. It's true. It's not without reason that you're called //control dogs//. You're trained to be loyal, relentless and never to question.
'I should be so familiar with death by now, I...I brought it myself so many times,' you let out a humorless laugh. 'Why then? Why do I...'
'It's your family,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says gently. 'And she was innocent.'
'That never stopped us, didn't it?' you snort.
Kosta stiffens for a moment. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] then gingerly kneels down at your feet. 'That's right, we made mistakes. But we wanted to make things better. We wanted to make this city better.'
You think about it. Sometimes civilians in the wrong places at the wrong times. Sometimes a hostage's life in exchange for ten other. You never asked questions about the collateral victims you had to sacrifice during your missions because...
[[🔹'In all those cases, I honestly thought the sacrifices were necessary for a greater good. You cannot save everyone.'->utilitarian]]
[[🔹'I just didn't care. It was my job.'->cold blood kosta]]
[[🔹'I was to afraid to question orders.'->duty kosta]]
]]
(set: $humor to true)(set: $gentle to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] holds your gaze and you see the tacit understanding in them. It's true. It's not without reason that you're called //control dogs//. You're trained to be loyal, relentless and never to question.
'I should be so familiar with death by now, I...I brought it myself so many times,' you let out a humorless laugh. 'But truthfully, I'm not. I never was.'
'And you shouldn't become used to it,' (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] says gently. 'She was innocent.'
'That never stopped us, didn't it?' you snort.
Kosta stiffens for a moment. (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] then gingerly kneels down at your feet. 'That's right, we made mistakes. But we wanted to make things better. We wanted to make this city better.'
You think about it. Sometimes civilians in the wrong places at the wrong times. Sometimes a hostage's life in exchange for ten other. You never asked questions about the collateral victims you had to sacrifice during your missions because...
[[🔹'In all those cases, I told myself that sacrifices were necessary for a greater good. You were taught that you cannot save everyone.'->utilitarian gentle]]
[[🔹'I was to afraid to question orders.'->duty kosta]]
]]
(set: $humor to true)(set: $coldblood to true)
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] holds your gaze and you see the tacit understanding in them. It's true. It's not without reason that you're called //control dogs//. You're trained to be loyal, relentless and never to question.
But human life was never a big concern for you. You followed orders, that was your job. Now you wonder if this is how those people's families felt when they got the news. //A meaningless death//. Just someone caught in someone else's business by a twist of fate.
Kosta quietly kneels at your feet, (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[his](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] hands resting on your clenched fists.(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[He](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[She] leans closer. 'I hate it too. God knows I wanted to run away so many times...'
'I didn't know you believed in God,' you remark absentmindedly.
'I don't. But...there are nights when I'll take any higher power out there just so I can sleep. I must ask for forgiveness...but the ones that should hear it are already dead.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] words are barely a whisper and you realize you never talked about this with Kosta, not once in all these years. You've never seen (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] so...//lost//.
[[next->ending]]
]]
(set: $coldblood to true)
(cycling-link: bind $favdrink, "white wine","red wine","vodka","whiskey","gin","beer")
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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Common morality cannot guide your type of job. It's a shitty truth, but your world //is// a shithole and trying to act like a saint can make you a bigger villain.
Kosta's hands rest on your clenched fists and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] leans closer. 'I hate it too. God knows I wanted to run away so many times...'
'I didn't know you believed in God,' you remark absentmindedly.
'I don't. But...there are nights when I'll take any higher power out there just so I can sleep. I must ask for forgiveness...but the ones that should hear it are already dead.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] words are barely a whisper and you realize you never talked about this with Kosta, not once in all these years. You've never seen (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] so...//lost//.
[[next->ending]]
]]
(set: $utilitarism to true)<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
Human life was never a big concern for you. You followed orders, because that was your job. Now you wonder if this is how those people's families felt when they got the news. //A meaningless death//. Just someone caught in someone else's business by a twist of fate.
Kosta's hands rest on your clenched fists and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] leans closer. 'I hate it too. God knows I wanted to run away so many times...'
'I didn't know you believed in God,' you remark absentmindedly.
'I don't. But...there are nights when I'll take any higher power out there just so I can sleep. I must ask for forgiveness...but the ones that should hear it are already dead.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] words are barely a whisper and you realize you never talked about this with Kosta, not once in all these years. You've never seen (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] so...//lost//.
[[next->ending]]
]]
(set: $coldblood to true)<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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You tried telling yourself that you were following orders because you honestly believed there was no other way. You really tried, but you know that was always and excuse. You were too scared to question things. Scared for your life, your family's, your own conscience. Now you trade fear for regret.
Kosta's hands rest on your clenched fists and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] leans closer. 'I hate it too. God knows I wanted to run away so many times...'
'I didn't know you believed in God,' you remark absentmindedly.
'I don't. But...there are nights when I'll take any higher power out there just so I can sleep. I must ask for forgiveness...but the ones that should hear it are already dead.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] words are barely a whisper and you realize you never talked about this with Kosta, not once in all these years. You've never seen (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] so...//lost//.
[[next->ending]]
]]
(set: $scared to true)<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
Common morality cannot guide your type of job. It's a shitty truth, but your world //is// a shithole and trying to act like a saint can make you a bigger villain. You know that, youve been repeating it to yourself all these years. But it doesn't make things better. Maybe it was alaways too much for you.
Kosta's hands rest on your clenched fists and (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[he](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[she] leans closer. 'I hate it too. God knows I wanted to run away so many times...'
'I didn't know you believed in God,' you remark absentmindedly.
'I don't. But...there are nights when I'll take any higher power out there just so I can sleep. I must ask for forgiveness...but the ones that should hear it are already dead.'
(if:$TheyKosta is "He")[His](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[Her] words are barely a whisper and you realize you never talked about this with Kosta, not once in all these years. You've never seen (if:$TheyKosta is "He")[him](if:$TheyKosta is "She")[her] so...//lost//.
[[next->ending]]
]]
(set: $utilitarism to true)<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[They freeze for a second, as their eyes fall on your face. Without saying a thing they quickly put the gun back in its holster and rush towards you.
'Is everything...' you begin, but your words are cut short by their arms encircling your waist. They push their face in the crook of your neck and you can feel their body starting to soften as your bodies melt against one another.
'It's alright...'
There's almost a sense of despair in the way they cling to you and you're not sure if their words are meant for you or them.
'What happened, August?' you ask, [[their nervousness starting to infect you. ->august save 3]]]]
(set:$humor to true)<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[They freeze for a second, as their eyes fall on your face. Without saying a thing they quickly put the gun back in its holster and rush towards you.
'Is everything...' you begin, but your words are cut short by their arms encircling your waist. They push their face in the crook of your neck and you can feel their body starting to soften as your bodies melt against one another.
'It's alright...'
There's almost a sense of despair in the way they cling to you and you're not sure if their words are meant for you or them.
'What happened, August?' you ask, [[their nervousness starting to infect you. ->august save 3]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[They freeze for a second, as their eyes fall on your face. Without saying a thing they quickly put the gun back in its holster and rush towards you.
'What are you...' you begin, but your words are cut short by their arms encircling your waist. They push their face in the crook of your neck and you can feel their body starting to soften as your bodies melt against one another.
'It's alright...'
There's almost a sense of despair in the way they cling to you and you're not sure if their words are meant for you or them.
'What happened, August?' you ask, [[their nervousness starting to infect you. ->august save 3]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[After another beat, they reluctantly push away so they can look you in the eyes. Their expression finally cools down to the one you're so familiar with. They frown at you.
'Where's your phone, $firstname?'
'What? Oh, hmmm, around here somewhere,' you stutter as you turn around, trying to identify its location.
You are about to pick it from your favorite armachair, but August is faster. They unblock it, turning the screen in your direction.
//20 missed calls.//
[[Their expression grows steely.->august save 4]] ]]
<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)['Ioveanu sent Kosta a...//gift// as he put it,' they begin, their distaste for Ioveanu's choice of words obvious.
'And there was a note saying that you will be given the real reward for saving Catarina. Kosta called me and I tried reaching you but...' they trail off as they point to your phone.
Their gaze locks you on the spot. '$firstname, do you understand how dangerous the current situation is? This is not only about City Eyes, there's still someone out there who might be hunting you down as we speak...'
'August,' you try to cut in.
'No. I don't want to hear it,' they stop you in a matter-of-factly tone. 'I'm one step away from taking you and the kids...'
🔹[['He was already here,' you calmly interrupt.->august save 4.2.1]]
🔹[['Oh my, August, already planning for our family trips,' you quip as you reveal an amused smile. ->save august 4.1]]
🔹[[You hesitate a little, trying to find the best way to tell them about Ioveanu's visit.->august save 4.2.2]]
🔹[['He was here!' you rush out the words, impatiently.->august save 4.2.3]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)['Don't try to distract me, you know it won't work,' they scoff, trying to remain unfazed.
You let out a small sigh. 'He was already here, August.'
Their head snaps in your direction, eyes wide in surprise. In the hanging silence, something seems to click in their mind and they rapidly school their features, warding off all emotion.
[['Where are the kids?'->august 4.2]]
]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)['Asleep.'
'Have they...'
'Met him? Yes.'
'Shit!'
[[🔹'It wasn't so bad actually, May even asked him if he wanted to sleep on the couch,' you shrug, trying to catch their reaction.->august 4.3]]
[[🔹'Yeah...'->august 4.3.2]]
🔹[['What's done is done. Also, their encounter was short, so no harm done.'->august 4.3.4]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[August's lips contort in a grimace. 'You must be kidding me...'
'Nope. She said she liked his hair,' you say, trying to keep yourself from smiling.
They scoff. 'Looks aren't everything...but nevermind that. What did he tell you?'
'He gave me some clues about the murderer. Didn't tell me how he got to the information, though.'
'Probably because he can't,' August says pensively. 'It's probably related to his ability.'
//Pattern reading, huh?//
'Well, that makes sense...although I never quite understood [[how it really worked.'->august 4.4]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)['Like deduction skills on steroids.'
They pause, seemingly trying to find the right words to explain. 'He catches apparently unrelated elements and gets the connection between them. But from I what know in some cases he feels it more like an intuition.'
'So he can't always explain //how// he got to a conclusion.'
'Right. Like the logical link is too fast to follow.'
You let out a small hum in understanding. 'I wonder what his fallout is...'
'Me too...'
They flop down on the couch, stretching their feet. 'But that's not our priority now...$firstname.[[ Do you think we can trust him?'->august 4.5]]]]<style>
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🔹[['No.'->august 4.6.3]]
🔹[['Yes.'->august 4.6.2]]
[[🔹'For now at least, I think we have no choice but to trust him.'->august 4.6]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)['True,' August nods, looking resigned. 'The good news is that I think he really is interested in catching this guy, so you know...my enemy's enemy and all that.'
'We can't count on Public Security, can we?' you gather the courage to ask.
'No. They want to burry this,' [[August admits flatly.->august 4.7]] ]]
(set:$trustabel to true)<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[
You realize you're suddenly really cold, as if your bones are being soaked in liquid ice. A queasy sensation begins to mold and you push it away. Somewhere deeper. //Breathe//.
If only you could seep through your feet into the floor, into the ground. But your flesh remains solid, it doesn't break.// You cannot break.//
You take a step back, leaning slighlty on the wall. The coldness of plaster drags you back.
You meet August's eyes as they silently peer into yours.
[[You wait for them to say something, but they just keep holding your gaze.->august 4.8]] ]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[A part of you is already prepared to make a comment meant to divert their attention, but the way they look at you...there's no reproach, condemnation or pity. Only a patient wait.
Something inside you shifts. 'I should be so used to death by now,' you say with a humorless smile.
'Your mother was an innocent,' August whispers.
'//That// didn't stop us in the past, did it?'
You glance at the floor. It's true. It's not without reason that you're called //control dogs//. You're trained to be loyal, relentless and never to question. Never.
Not even when civilians were in the wrong places at the wrong times. Or when a hostage's life had to be traded in exchange for ten other. You never asked questions about the collateral victims you had to sacrifice during your missions because...
[[🔹'In all those cases, I honestly thought the sacrifices were necessary for a greater good. You cannot save everyone.'->utilitarian august]]
[[🔹'I just didn't care. It was my job.'->cold blood august]]
[[🔹'I was to afraid to question orders.'->duty august]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Common morality cannot guide your type of job. It's a shitty truth, but your world //is// a shithole and trying to act like a saint can make you a bigger villain.
August straigthens up a bit, patting their pockets for the cigarrette case. 'No. It didn't. But what could you have done differently?'
You hesitate. They flick the lighter. 'Want me to tell you how I first realized I was a coward?'
You raise your eyebrows, waiting for them to continue. They take a drag, tilting their head. 'My first year in the Unit. We were extracting Traffic Unit 2 from Grazel Bridge.'
'The shooting,' you trail off.
'Yes. The shooting. You were also there. [[I was watching //you//.'->uti august 2]]]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[Human life was never a big concern for you. You followed orders, because that was your job. Now you wonder if this is how those people's families felt when they got the news. //A meaningless death//. Just someone caught in someone else's business by a twist of fate.
August straigthens up a bit, patting their pockets for the cigarrette case. 'No. It didn't. But what could you have done differently?'
You hesitate. They flick the lighter. 'Want me to tell you how I first realized I was a coward?'
You raise your eyebrows, waiting for them to continue. They take a drag, tilting their head. 'My first year in the Unit. We were extracting Traffic Unit 2 from Grazel Bridge.'
'The shooting,' you trail off.
'Yes. The shooting. You were also there. [[I was watching //you//.'->uti august 2.2]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You tried telling yourself that you were following orders because you honestly believed there was no other way. You really tried, but you know that was always and excuse. You were too scared to question things. Scared for your life, your family's, your own conscience. Now you trade fear for regret.
August straigthens up a bit, patting their pockets for the cigarrette case. 'No. It didn't. But what could you have done differently?'
You hesitate. They flick the lighter. 'Want me to tell you how I first realized I was a coward?'
You raise your eyebrows, waiting for them to continue. They take a drag, tilting their head. 'My first year in the Unit. We were extracting Traffic Unit 2 from Grazel Bridge.'
'The shooting,' you trail off.
'Yes. The shooting. You were also there. [[I was watching //you//.'->uti august 2.3]]]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)['What?'
They let out a hollow laugh. 'I didn't give a shit about the people there. Never gave a shit about people in general. I ended up in the Unit cuz I had to survive and this was my best shot. Sure, I had to at least appear to do my job, but I wasn't about to take any risks...'
'Risks are a fool's coins,' you mutter, remebering the words they used to repeat to you.
'Yeah,' they laugh. 'There was a kid there, remember? A small girl...'
You search your memory for a second but nothing comes to you.
'Anyway...she almost died then. Because I backed away. I had assesed the risks and they were too high...' they continue.
'And then?'
'You pushed me aside and jumped after her.'
August lets out a thin wisp of smoke. 'First time in my life I felt shame. But you...you were //shining//.'
A wistful smile springs on their lips. 'So don't compare yourself with us, $firstname. It might look like we make the same choices, but [[we're not the same.'->ending]]]]<style>
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Their head snaps in your direction, eyes wide in surprise. In the hanging silence, something seems to click in their mind and they rapidly school their features, warding off all emotion.
[['Where are the kids?'->august 4.2]]
]]
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(text-size:0.7)[Their rant stops abruptly. They squint at you suspiciously, then their eyes go wide in surprise. In the hanging silence, something seems to click in their mind and they rapidly school their features, warding off all emotion.
[['He //was// here. Where are the kids?'->august 4.2]]
]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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Their head snaps in your direction, eyes wide in surprise. In the hanging silence, something seems to click in their mind and they rapidly school their features, warding off all emotion.
[['Where are the kids?'->august 4.2]]
]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)['What did he tell you?'
'He gave me some clues about the murderer. Didn't tell me how he got to the information, though.'
'Probably because he can't,' August says pensively. 'It's probably related to his ability.'
//Pattern reading, huh?//
'Well, that makes sense...although I never quite understood [[how it really worked.'->august 4.4]] ]]<style>
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(text-size:0.7)[August's lips contort in a grimace. 'Unfortunately...so, what did he tell you?'
'He gave me some clues about the murderer. Didn't tell me how he got to the information, though.'
'Probably because he can't,' August says pensively. 'It's probably related to his ability.'
//Pattern reading, huh?//
'Well, that makes sense...although I never quite understood [[how it really worked.'->august 4.4]] ]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[August nods, looking resigned. 'The bad news is that we might not have a choice. The good news is that I think he really is interested in catching this guy, so you know...my enemy's enemy and all that.'
'We can't count on Public Security, can we?' you gather the courage to ask.
'No. They want to burry this,' [[August admits flatly.->august 4.7]] ]]
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)['If you think so,' August nods, looking resigned. 'The good news is that I think he really is interested in catching this guy, so you know...my enemy's enemy and all that.'
'We can't count on Public Security, can we?' you gather the courage to ask.
'No. They want to burry this,' [[August admits flatly.->august 4.7]] ]]
(set:$trustabel to true)<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)['What?'
They let out a hollow laugh. 'I didn't give a shit about the people there. Never gave a shit about people in general. I ended up in the Unit cuz I had to survive and this was my best shot. Sure, I had to at least appear to do my job, but I wasn't about to take any risks...'
'Risks are a fool's coins,' you mutter, remebering the words they used to repeat to you.
'Yeah,' they laugh. 'There was a kid there, remember? A small girl...'
You search your memory for a second but nothing comes to you.
'Anyway...she almost died then. Because I backed away. I had assesed the risks and they were too high...' they continue.
'And then?'
'You pushed me aside and jumped after her.'
August lets out a thin wisp of smoke. 'First time in my life I felt shame. But you...you were //shining//.'
A wistful smile springs on their lips. 'So don't compare yourself with us, $firstname. It might look like we make the same choices, but [[we're not the same.'->uti august 2.4]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)[You lean closer to them, taking the cigarrette from their hand.
'You're so wrong,' you say, taking a drag. 'That wasn't what you think it was. I'm not like //that//.'
August shrugs, unconcerned. 'Then we'll share the same hell. I'll abandon hope, but I'll keep that moment. [[That's enough for me.'->ending]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(text-size:0.7)['What?'
They let out a hollow laugh. 'I didn't give a shit about the people there. Never gave a shit about people in general. I ended up in the Unit cuz I had to survive and this was my best shot. Sure, I had to at least appear to do my job, but I wasn't about to take any risks...'
'Risks are a fool's coins,' you mutter, remebering the words they used to repeat to you.
'Yeah,' they laugh. 'There was a kid there, remember? A small girl...'
You search your memory for a second but nothing comes to you.
'Anyway...she almost died then. Because I backed away. I had assesed the risks and they were too high...' they continue.
'And then?'
'You pushed me aside and jumped after her.'
August lets out a thin wisp of smoke. 'First time in my life I felt shame. But you...you were //shining//.'
A wistful smile springs on their lips. 'So don't compare yourself with us, $firstname. It might look like we make the same choices, but [[we're not the same.'->uti august 2.4]]]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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(if: $menufile is "Risk Classification")[[[What did they teach you, agent?->risks 2]] ]
(if: $menufile is "Relationships")[[[Who's truly on your side, agent?->relation class]]]
(if: $menufile is "Clues")[[[Are you closer to the truth, agent?->clues class]]
]]<style>
@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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* August Wald (32 y/o) -(if: $augustrom is true)[You've confessed your feelings and they feel the same.](else-if: $augustbestfriend is true)[You're one soul in different bodies, the deepest friendship you have.](else-if: $augustexrom is true)[](else:)[You're still not sure why but they consider you a friend.]
* Abel Ioveanu (28 y/o) - (if: $ablerom is true)[You're trying to resist, but you're drawn to him. And he noticed it.](else-if: $trustabel is true)[You trust him. Kind of.](else:)[You don't trust him.]
* (if: $TheyKosta is "He")[Darius](if: $TheyKosta is "She")[Daria] Kosta (35 y/o) - (if: $kostarom is true)[You realized you have romantic feelings for your ex partner. You're not sure yet if it's mutual but your intuition tells you it is. ](else-if: $relkosta is "friend")[Your friendship still runs deep, even if you two don't talk about it.](else:)[Your ex partner. Nothing more, nothing less.]
* Lucas $lastname - (if:$rellucas > 3)[Your brother loves you and admires you greatly.](else-if:$rellucas is 2)[Your brother clearly loves you, but he doesn't trust you yet.](else:)[Your brother thinks you're going to abandon him.]
* May $lastname - Your little sister loves you.
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@import url('https://fonts.googleapis.com/css2?family=Alegreya+Sans:ital@0;1&family=Exo:ital,wght@0,300;0,500;1,100&family=Open+Sans&display=swap');
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0. The culprit is an elemental, class Tet
That's all you have so far.]<style>
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SAMEH - Typicals and dormants. No safety risk.
TAV - Atypicals presenting low/no risk to public safety. No tendency for deviant public behaviour.
ZAIN - High safety risk. All switchers must be included in this class by default. Re-evaluation and class reassignment possible.
TET - Highest safety risk. Difficult to contain, unpredictable behaviour (due to lack of information/nature of of ability/other reasons). Only agents prepared for Operation Faust are permitted to interact with individuals in this class.
Other information:
''ability fallout'' - the physical/mental cost of ability usage. Differs for each individual. It cannot be deduced from the ability type. Sensitive information for an atypical.
]↶↷ Personal Information WELCOME BACK, AGENT -list of trigger warnings-