{ "conversations": [ [ { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Preach it, brother! Spread the good word *fuck* all over town!" } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"I will not get weary... will not tire... hatred will carry me...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Easy Leo", "dialogue": "(Sings.) \"Soon, oh soon the green is gone and everything is re-eeed!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? Who did then?\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You should implicate *yourself*. Throw yourself onto the embrasure, chest first!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Wait, I just need a little time to figure this out.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"auto.visited_church_inside\"] and Variable[\"TASK.open_gary_door_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "De Paule", "dialogue": "\"Time? You *had* time -- to fuck around in that church.\" She points over the water. \"To run errands for your Union chief. I saw you...\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"Time is up, loincloth,\" he says to you. \"Give me a name. NOW!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Wait, I just need a little time to figure this out.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"auto.visited_church_inside\"] and Variable[\"TASK.open_gary_door_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "De Paule", "dialogue": "\"Time? You *had* time -- to fuck around in that church.\" She points over the water. \"To run errands for your Union chief. I saw you...\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"Time is up, loincloth,\" he says to you. \"Give me a name. NOW!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Point to yourself) \"It was me.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No, wait!\" The lieutenant winces and quickly turns to the mercenary leader. \"He didn't.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "*Bratan*, now is the time!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Time for what?" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Oh... you will see. (It feels like the tie is rubbing itself against your chest like a cat in heat.)" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "First, the spirits -- the blue medicinal spirits. Grab the bottle and uncork it! It is time to unleash the Other-World." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Slowly uncork the blue medicinal spirit." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "The bottle opens with a silent, mysterious hiss. The fumes rising from its mouth are as crisp as the northern winds." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Howling somewhere, lashing the boardwalk with brine and rain -- an ancient warmth crawls under your skin." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Now, *bratan*, take me off." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Take the necktie off." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Your fingers manage to undo the oily knot and the necktie slides off. It looks so frail sitting there in your hand, weighing almost nothing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Now what?" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Now put me in the bottle." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "But... why?" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Trust me -- just trust me. You and I are going to have so much fun it should be illegal!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I suspect that it might be." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Just put me in the bottle, *bratan*. I'm not gonna let you down. You and I are, like, the same person." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Begone, foul necktie! Finally I rid myself of you! (End it. Throw the necktie as far as you can.)" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"When Klaasje came downstairs -- Ruby appeared to *know* that something was wrong.\"" }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Nah, man. That's just Ruby. She's got shit under control,\" the man explains. \"That's her whole thing. That's why she's so good.\"" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Plus, man, it's like *female intuition* you know. Women talk to women.\" He peeks at Titus. \"Which is sorta why we need someone on the team who they talk to.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Eugene wants a woman on the team so they can do their job. That must be *hard*. Half of Martinaise is female..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"*Or* she knew what happened, because she killed him.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"*Not* so useful.\" Titus looks at Alain, then Eugene." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.hardies_ruby_gay_branch_passed\"]]" }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Fucking hell...\" The blond man is in some kind of anguish that makes him stare into his garlic bread bowl, intently." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Betrayal is not painless. Even a doubt of it hurts." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"A little thing -- Ruby had these posters in her truck. Old movie stars.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "Titus's gaze meets yours: \"Yeah, so...?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The people on the posters -- were all women. One looked exactly like Klaasje.\"" }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Well yeah... what do you expect? She wasn't a f*g, of course she had babe-posters everywhere. You should see *my* fucking shack. Tits literally all over the place.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "This one's going into some kind of insane death spiral to preserve his version of the world." } ], [ { "actor": "Bench", "dialogue": "The cold stone slab of the bench looks rather uncomfortable. There are cigarette stubs all around." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"A rather uninviting bench,\" the lieutenant notes. \"I'm not one for sitting on benches anyway -- before the murder investigation is solved.\"" }, { "actor": "Tutorial Agent", "dialogue": "You can revisit the bench if you ever need to pass the time when Lieutenant Kitsuragi is gone." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_punchhub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's Cuno, pig!\" The boy points to his chest with both thumbs." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It's always *Cuno*, never *I*. Clearly the kid's using the third-person perspective as a shield." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Cuno... Primal. Violent." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Cuno? Is that some kind of gang name?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, Cuno's in a fucking gang. In a bang gang. Cuno bangs for Madre, bangs for the Mazda, bangs for Revachol...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He lays the names out there with pride and precision, like cards on a table. Right when he's getting distracted, there's a malevolent hiss behind the fence..." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Watch out, Cuno, he's trying to fiddle you. He's gonna put his HANDS on you!\" The *thing* behind the fence starts squealing, shrill and violent like a fire alarm." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Help! Pigs got Cuno! Help! RAPE!\" The sound gets louder as the child shouts at the windows overlooking the yard." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Help!\" The boy joins in. \"He's got the Cuno!!! HELP!!!\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Everyone can hear. You need to get the hell out of here before..." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Calm down. Anyone watching can see you're doing nothing. Just keep it professional." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_volition_dont_get_excited\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquipped(\"neck_tie\") and Variable[\"whirling.necktie_personified\"]]" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "FUCK THAT. Confront him." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"But now you've got what you came for, so I suppose we'll have to see this business through.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_made_it_to_pre_hub\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"I'm all out of shits to give, loincloth.\" There's a feverish gleam in his eyes. \"Welcome to the fucking reckoning.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Put your damn gun down.\" Titus remains calm. \"People are gonna get hurt. We need to talk this through, alright?\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"SHUT UP!!! You're not gonna talk yourself out of this, loincloth-shit fuck!\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.scab_leader_is_a_merc\"]]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "This is the mercenary at the gates! His chest rises and falls under the ceramic breastplate. His fingers reach for the butt of his sidearm." }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_perc_reaction\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"He's dangerous...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Ssshhhhh....\" The lieutenant raises his left hand." }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"This is a misunderstanding. Nothing irreversible has happened yet. You can just return to your unit and forget all about this.\"" }, { "actor": "De Paule", "dialogue": "\"The kipt is merciful. Willing to spare us if we just forget about our murdered and humiliated commander.\" Her tone is frighteningly emotionless. \"I think we should just kill everyone, Korty.\"" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"You're all drunk, come to your senses!\" She sounds very sure of herself. \"You won't gun down seven people in the middle of the street. This isn't a frontier town or a jungle outpost.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Easy, Lizzie...\" His voice is almost gentle. \"Let me handle it. I know guys like this. I'm sure we can come to a peaceful agreement. Ain't that right, fellas?\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "He is facing overwhelmingly superior firepower -- and he knows it." } ], [ { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "The Ledger of (Oblivion Induced) Mental Health is just as shabby as the Damaged Ledger was: a bunch of sodden papers sags from the clipboard in your hand." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Smell the ledger." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "The acidic stench of rotting food has rubbed off on the cellulose. It now forms the *base* of the experience. This base surrounded by a faint air of spoiled meat -- the stuff of death itself! -- and then sprinkled liberally with the citrus zest of toilet cleaner." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "You know -- like the bits they put into public piss bowls; probably called *Fermi-Discrete* or *Axel* or something. At some point in its journey the ledger has seen the inside of a public toilet." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"inventory.ledger_perception_toilet\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"inventory.ledger_still_not_talking_about_it\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.trash_ledger_kim_wasnt_there\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.trash_ledger_didnt_wanna_talk\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant observes you raising and lowering the toilet-water-logged mass under your nose, trying to get a good whiff. A good *analytical* whiff." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "After a while he can't take it anymore. \"Excuse me, I just have to ask again -- *how* did it get in the trash?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm pretty sure I -- or someone else -- dropped it into the toilet in my hostel room bathroom. The tablet's the same.\" (Tap on your nose.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Okay, good.\" There is a moment's silence. \"But *why*?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"No. Cuno doesn't give a fuck about bugs.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "So he knows locusts are bugs." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Oh my god.\" The little one seems distraught. \"I told you that shit is lame!\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Shut up, C!\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Now they're gonna take you to lame-prison!\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She sounds like she's about to cry out of disappointment at Cuno's newfound lameness." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What's this about?\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Deny everything, Cuno! You need to lawyer up!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.ask_cuno_about_missing_locusts\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's not gonna say anything without his lawyer present.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_rage_city_heard\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_been_opened_the_shack_door\"]]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "There's definitely something going on here. Remember his pigs' head shack? You should check it out." } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Master Investigator! You just can't keep yourself away from locked and hidden places, can you?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Hey! I am not some sort of a... peeper." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Sure, friend. This is nothing sordid, nothing inappropriate. You just *have* to do this... it's your duty." } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Wait... No, something about this bunch doesn't smell right..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What do you mean? Who are they?" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "A little man, hardly bigger than a child, with a lean, hateful face..." }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "You've seen the expression on this one's face before, on a dozen hardened thieves and killers..." }, { "actor": "Fat Angus", "dialogue": "Meanwhile, the fat one keeps shooting you furtive looks while mumbling uneasily to himself..." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "And here, guarding the entrance to his den, the undisputed alpha wolf, radiating contempt for you and all you represent." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "You may not know them, but they seem to know exactly who *you* are..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Alright, guess I'll look elsewhere then. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "One day, you may be able to scale this tower. But it won't be today. Neither your sinews nor your spirit could handle this ascent." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm a man in his prime. I should be able to do anything. This isn't fair." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You might be that numerically, but you've really done a number on yourself too." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "When your mind is clear of the neurotoxins you've been injecting it with for years, and your body regains some nimbleness and swiftness, you might achieve such a feat." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "You're not doing *that* bad. But, yeah, there's some distance to go." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Yeah, you were getting a tad too ambitious there." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "But, can't deny it -- your mind's pretty clear, all things considered. In fact, it's too clear for you to be buying into this climbing vision quest." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't care about the physical stuff -- I'm in it for the spiritual experience." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Some people will find that attitude admirable... but it's not going to help you scale these beams." }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Hey, man. I see it in you -- you are prepared to surrender yourself to the fire of revelation. But you're still a bit shaky spiritually.\" He looks you over. \"You're also just, physically, shaking.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Keep the flame in your soul alive, though. One day you'll make it up here, if you put in the work.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You've been here for a long time. Did you see the police raid that took place here?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Shimmering Wall of Vices", "dialogue": "A colourful display of cigarettes and alcohol bottles lines the shop wall, inviting you closer." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "The bottles wink at you in the light. The smokes too glitter in their wrapping. It's like looking into a kind of heaven. Your knees are weak..." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "There, in that dark green glass, a world of ruby, all in vain! The great flowing river of warmth: Wine-alcohol. Beer-alcohol. Love-alcohol." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I am in Heaven. I need it all so bad.\"" }, { "actor": "Frittte clerk", "dialogue": "\"Um... Sure. If you want something, I can get it for you. Just let me know and pay and stuff...\" She adjusts her hat." }, { "actor": "Frittte clerk", "dialogue": "\"But I'm obliged to inform you that both alcohol and cigarettes damage your health. But I guess you already know that.\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Don't ask, don't look, don't do *anything* here. Just go away. Get back to work." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Give me Astra cigarettes.\"" }, { "actor": "Frittte clerk", "dialogue": "\"Here you go, mister.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you sell any... under the counter vices?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "*Bratan*, now is the time!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Go away necktie. You're just a figment of my imagination." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "*Bratan*, don't push me away. I want to be there for you. Also -- how can you be sure *you* are not just a figment of *my* imagination?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Get lost, necktie! I don't want to be your friend." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "But, *bratan*... I... I understand. (The tie loosens around your neck.) I just wanted you to have fun. I... I never meant to be a burden." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Necktie... I'm sorry. I didn't mean it like that." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "No, *bratan*, no need for that. You and I are *bratannoi* -- brothers. Brothers fight. But when they're done fighting, you know what they do? They party. They fucking party!" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "First, the spirits -- the blue medicinal spirits. Grab the bottle and uncork it! It is time to unleash the Other-World." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, right now? A woman just died and you think now is a good time to party?" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "*Bratan*, life and death are inseparable. There's a party when you're born, a party every year to celebrate that birth, and a party when you're put in the ground." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Yeah... what's the problem here?" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Why shouldn't there be a party when you die? And, beside, this isn't even about that! You have no idea what this is about... this is gonna be so off the hook. It's gonna be off *all* hooks." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You know what, I'm done with this crazy talking necktie bullshit!" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "But, *bratan*... no. Please uncork it. I can make it good again." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Necktie, you and I are done. Both professionally -- and as friends. Begone! (End the tie.)" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "The lifeless necktie looks like a colourful intestine of some dead animal: oily, alien and otherwise disgusting. What could have driven a man to wear something so repulsive around his neck?" } ], [ { "actor": "Bloated Corpse of a Drunk", "dialogue": "Do you remember the scent of your childhood?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I remember nothing." }, { "actor": "Bloated Corpse of a Drunk", "dialogue": "Do you remember your wife's hand on your face?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You said... who?" }, { "actor": "Bloated Corpse of a Drunk", "dialogue": "Do you remember the warmth of her thighs, between her legs and in her mouth?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I left." }, { "actor": "Bloated Corpse of a Drunk", "dialogue": "Oh no, funky-baby, you *stayed*. It was the rest of it that left. While you just stood there. With one hand on the bottle and the other on your dick -- watching it go." }, { "actor": "Bloated Corpse of a Drunk", "dialogue": "Tell me, where are your friends? Human beings have friends, Harry-boy. Where the hell are yours?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't want to come back." }, { "actor": "Bloated Corpse of a Drunk", "dialogue": "They were only cramping your *descent into the abyss*. Now they're gone. Three times gone and never coming back -- all of it. You failed. You failed me." }, { "actor": "Bloated Corpse of a Drunk", "dialogue": "You failed Elysium." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I can come back from this." }, { "actor": "Bloated Corpse of a Drunk", "dialogue": "You're not coming back from shit! Thrashing around in that *high-conductivity state* of yours, bumping into things and acting like a *clown*. Who are you kidding?" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "It's colder outside than you were expecting. You see the lieutenant, standing there, a small cloud of white escaping from his mouth..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He turns to you, but says nothing." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He's waiting to see what you do. For god's sake say you fucked up, please." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey, Kim.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Detective,\" he says, his voice level as a tabletop." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "There won't be any preamble chit-chat this time. Get to the point." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What's your problem?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What's *my* problem?\" he says, his voice rising with indignation..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You're a real piece of work, detective, you know that?\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "He is your half-brother and you're driving him away. For what?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, you're right. I fucked up back there.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes, and?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"'And'?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"What with?\" She tries hard to focus on the book stand." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "What *with*? A lot of things! For example, people tend to go *missing*." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "This citizen thinks she can do without your assistance? Don't buy it. They all need help." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Help her by... carrying things? Uhm... maybe she needs a weightlifter? Maybe she needs you to *fight* her husband? No, that's not it..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Maybe your children are missing?\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"No. Absolutely not.\" Her words come out quick as gunshots." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Right, thanks.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "She gives you a short nod and shifts her attention back to books." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you smoke?\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"No, I don't.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Alright, got it, thanks.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"Mhmh.\" She returns to her book." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's all for the moment. I'll let you read.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, the Kingdom of Cuno, the fuck do you want with it?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What's in the greenhouse over there?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Dunno.\" He shrugs. \"Kipt-ass gardener used to work there.\"" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "*Kipt* is a pejorative term used to describe people of South Semenese or Areopagite descent. It used to be a common first name among the Areopagites of Iilmaraa -- not so much anymore." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You mean the young woman by Whirling-in-Rags? That gardener?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Look, Cuno doesn't explain shit -- Cuno just *says* shit.\" He looks you in the eye and nods, as if agreeing with himself." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Yeah, her." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_rhet_gardener_it_was_her\"]]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "What was she doing in the greenhouse in March anyway? What kind of *gardening* is done in March?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_logic_greenhouse\"]]" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Fish is sometimes used to fertilize the soil a few weeks before planting something. Maybe she was preparing the garden beds?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Not important right now. (Refuse task.)" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"The fuck are you staring at with your mouth open? Ask Cuno a question or get the fuck out of here.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "As you look back you think: So love did *do him in* after all." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I was right..." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "If it weren't for her he would not have been there. The shot would not have connected with his soft palate..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It *killed* him... (Look at Klaasje.)" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "No. Communism killed him, remember? Love made it possible. You know this much." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Turn to Klaasje.) \"Looks like love did him in after all.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "She's silent, holding on to her coffee mug. No vapour rises from it -- it's cold." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Remember this silence. The lady is dangerous. People suffer around her." } ], [ { "actor": "Chester McLaine", "dialogue": "\"It's officer Dick....\" he tries to speak through laughter, \"... Mullen from the bestseller 'Dick Mullen and the Lost Identity.'\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Get lost, loser!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Shoot that shit at Cuno, piggonaut.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You wouldn't happen to know anything about any missing locusts?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"No. Cuno doesn't give a fuck about bugs.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "So he knows locusts are bugs." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Oh my god.\" The little one seems distraught. \"I told you that shit is lame!\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Shut up, C!\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Now they're gonna take you to lame-prison!\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She sounds like she's about to cry out of disappointment at Cuno's newfound lameness." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What's this about?\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Deny everything, Cuno! You need to lawyer up!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.ask_cuno_about_missing_locusts\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's not gonna say anything without his lawyer present.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_rage_city_heard\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_been_opened_the_shack_door\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"The light... wow.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"So the Whirling phone isn't working at all?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Why does art inspire you so much?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It does, yes -- but what *is* art?" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Excellent question. Art is a diverse range of visual, literary, auditory, and performative creativity! It's an expression of imagination and technical skill. Additionally, it's history, criticism and pure enjoyment..." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "In short, art is the highest form of human communication -- representation, narrative, emotion and agency intertwined." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Would I fit into the art world? I mean..." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Have you looked in the mirror lately? You have the exact features of a savage art critic, with that beard and those clothes! Dishevelled and *prophetic*. Perhaps you should try to critique architecture too!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I guess I *have* been feeling critical lately." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Yes! You seek substance. No vapid representations and reproductions of social mores, as made manifest in stuffy biennials, we're talking real *living art* here. Become the Art Cop. Half art critic -- half cop." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Okay. If 50% art critic is what's needed to free me from rote repetition, so be it. (Opt in.)" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Exactly. It's not *only* your duty to only catch the criminals of the street, you must also apprehend criminals of the printing press and the gallery -- the trite and derivative artists and writers of the world!" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Go ahead and provide savage criticisms, Art Cop. The world is yours to rip to pieces and reassemble!" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.inspect_traps_2_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Hello, sweetie. How are you?\" She sounds tired." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Dark circles around her eyes. She's absolutely exhausted." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She asked about you because she's afraid to hear about the traps. But that's what she really wants news of." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"On second thought, things *are* bad. I don't even know enough to know what I *don't* know about this world.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"You know where we *are*, right?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"On Insulinde?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Yes, but, more specifically -- on the coast of the city of Revachol, in the district of Martinaise.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"All I know is that Revachol used to be really cool in the Thirties.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"The New! Disco dancing! It seems like a lifetime ago...\" Her eyes are filled with light reflected off those gilded years, when the city seemed full of possibility." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Much has changed, but it is still the most beautiful city in the world, a rare jewel set in the sand between the pines. Everyone says so, even foreigners.\" There's a pause as she studies your expression. You must look quite lost." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Speaking of history -- you know what *year* it is, yes?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Barry the Butcher", "dialogue": "\"Can't wait till Wednesday, I got meat to sell.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"gates.mhead_fight_success\"]]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.scableader_altgreet_mhead_punched\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"Went native on the chief, huh?\" He nods in approval. \"Those ballerina antics were reckless. Should have just punched him in the throat again.\"" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Wrong. You did the right thing with Measurehead. The ballerina antics won you the fight." }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "He pauses, then abruptly changes the subject: \"Let's talk about our right to work.\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.scableader_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What about it? You're 'right to work'?\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"You here to fuck with us? Beat the honest worker down?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"Hah! Couldn't handle us. A cause gives the workers strength. Gives them power.\" He bellows at the gates: \"We have -- A RIGHT TO WORK!\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"Besides, we're not that different.\" He leans closer. \"It helps if people see us talking -- cops and strikebreakers together. Shows authorities are on our side. Builds confidence.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What kind of a cause are we talking about?\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"Rights of people. Rights of workers. To have gainful employment. To make a salary and feed their families.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"He should be back by now.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's little shitshow...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "*chews loudly*" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "I am yours... So nearly..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I will be there soon. Wherever it is!" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Yes... Reunion...! Listen within the circles that capture the electrical world\u2026 If you can hear me then, we will be united\u2026" } ], [ { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"Your case? We aren't sure you understand. The Committee is waiting for you. You have to tell them what you've uncovered. The stakes here are *much* greater than any individual 'case'...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Sounds like you're the Suicide Cop! With his finger on the *eject* button. Ready to let go of this life! But guess what?" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "You idiot! You've got the bullet, but no gun!" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "You've made such a big show out of it too. You feel like everyone basically *expects* you to do it now." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "What is this? You're not ready to die, this is garbage." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "It *would* be the honourable thing to do. It would really show them. Show her too." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Suicide Cop *does* have a ring to it. I should think about it -- but only a little." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Oh yes. It would be so sweet to taste the barrel once more. That sour metal... maybe there *is* a way? Not yet. But stick with it -- keep going dark, and it'll finally *click*." } ], [ { "actor": "Self-Educated Humanitarian", "dialogue": "\"Let's just sit down and talk this out!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Are you serious?\" The lieutenant's face changes immediately, taking on a more sombre expression." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"How long has he been dead? Did you *identify* him, search through his pockets? Is he still there?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I found a library card from his pockets, issued to someone named Billie M\u00e9jean by the Jamrock Public Library. The body is still there.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Great, we should call the library -- maybe it can provide us with a lead. That is, if we decide to take the case.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Taking the case would mean that we need to identify the man and take care of the corpse. I can take the body to the morgue on my own or we could ask for the help of the Hardie boys.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"But if all of this seems too much of a hassle, then there's also the option of reporting back to the station and leaving the case for our colleagues to solve.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's leave this case for the station, I don't want to spend any time on it.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Alright. The station is going to want details, however. Let's make sure we didn't miss anything before we head back to my Kineema to make the call.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.kimintro_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A bespectacled man in an orange bomber jacket is tapping his foot on the floor. Looks like he's waiting for someone -- you." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "As you approach, he narrows his eyes and extends his hand in greeting." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "If an assault were launched on this building right now -- if the windows came crashing down and the whole world descended upon you -- this man would hurl himself in death's way to save you. You are sure of this -- but why?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "I am yours... So nearly..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "That's great. Tell me what circle I've got to run into this time." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "So near... Listen within the circles that capture the electrical world\u2026 If you can hear me then, we will be united\u2026" } ], [ { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"All *real* connections begin in the mind.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Got the fucking fuel, yeah.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Drunk", "dialogue": "\"Sod off ye pisser!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Mountain of Board Games", "dialogue": "A small mountain of colourful board game boxes. There are numerous types of games for all ages. A lot of shelf space seems to be taken up by Wirr\u00e2l-related merchandise." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to buy the *Wirr\u00e2l* game.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"If you say so.\" She gives you a curious glance. \"But you better stay away from those immoral occult rituals.\"" }, { "actor": "Tutorial Agent", "dialogue": "You've acquired an interactable item. Investigate this item further by going to the INTERACT tab in your INVENTORY." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"And now if you'll just connect that here...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Got it. Are we ready?\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"We're ready to try, at least. Please, put those on. I've configured the channels so that only your microphone is set to broadcast. We'll both be able to listen, but anyone we reach will only hear *your* voice.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"You will need to transmit your connection request while I attempt to locate the warship's public frequency. You will likely encounter some interference, but it's important to keep transmitting your request until you're acknowledged. Ready?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Good. Beginning transmission.\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.is_snowing\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A soft rustling. Between your ears, a winterscape with fast falling snow..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.warship_shivers_snow\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Go ahead, officer.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Coalition Warship Archer, this is Detective Rapha\u00ebl Ambrosius Costeau of the RCM. Please acknowledge.\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." } ], [ { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "\"Zzzzzzzz...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I talked to Joyce. The merc you hanged -- his friends are coming for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Yeah?\" He doesn't seem worried. \"By friends you mean his squadmates from Krenel?\"" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Wouldn't wanna beat up his grandma.\" There's snickering in the room. Some of the men put their beers down." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "*Nervous* snickering. There's a rush of adrenaline present." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Titus did his best, but his men are a bit unsettled." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Forget I mentioned it, it was probably nothing.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Goddamn right it's nothing. The fuck are they gonna do? We got ten thousand men in the Union.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"cargo.evrart_2372_union_members\"]]" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Evrart said there were two thousand three hundred and seventy two Union members. But whatever keeps their spirits up." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So I've listened to the tape and I'm going to confront Klaasje with it.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Smart boy. You go do that.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Klaasje says she wasn't raped.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Fuck!\" The big man's eyes and veins bulge. \"I knew that fucking whore couldn't be trusted!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "A shabby door hangs oddly on its hinges, secured to the doorframe with a safety chain. An unpaid energy bill is attached, threatening to cut off the electricity. It's addressed to Mr. Uuno de Ruyter." }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.get_drugs_from_cunos_apartment\"] == true and Variable[\"TASK.get_drugs_from_cunos_apartment_done\"] == false]" }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"apt.cuno_door_main_hub_reached\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Use the cutters on the chain." }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"apt.cuno_dad_door_interfacing_white_check_succeeded\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquipped(\"chaincutters\") == false]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "This is not something you should be attempting to do with your bare hands. You're just going to get hurt." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.thepigs_took_rcm_cap\"] and Variable[\"boardwalk.thepigs_took_narcotics\"] and Variable[\"boardwalk.thepigs_altgreet_items_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "The woman stands, slumped. She looks catatonic under her mountain of RCM paraphernalia. Nothing more to do here." } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"This shit ain't nothing to Cuno.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.get_the_dead_body_down_from_the_tree_done\"] or Variable[\"TASK.return_to_corpse\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "There he still is -- looking right through you with his white eyes. The body below is entirely dedicated to that corpse smell. Emitting it is *all* it does now." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Turn away. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.feld_mural_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "The once-bright mural towers above you, saying \"FELD ELECTRICAL R&D.\"" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.mural_look_in\"] and IsKimHere() == false]" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Somewhere in Martinaise, Lieutenant Kitsuragi is consulting his notebook... A sudden draught turns a page between his hands. You're going to need him if you want to listen to the wind." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Listen to the wind." }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.feld_mural_shivers_white_succeeded\"]]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.feld_mural_shivers_white_failed_once\"]]" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Suddenly there's a sigh, carried on the molecules around you, moving, flowing from high pressure to low pressure. Like that of a woman emptying her lungs. She wraps the collapsing stone box in front of you in her breath, flowing through it..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Where does it go?" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "In through the collapsed roof, flowing down a concrete staircase -- to the basement, sweeping away footprints in the dust on the stairs. And then the beach below the boardwalk, its winding tunnels... a whisper away." }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.find_children_of_the_big_sea_done\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"You've come back to face your cacodaemons. Good. You ain't gonna outrun them if you don't drop the bottle.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This is tiresome.\" [ Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "It's colder outside than you were expecting. You see the lieutenant, standing there, a small cloud of white escaping from his mouth..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He turns to you, but says nothing." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He's waiting to see what you do. For god's sake say you fucked up, please." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "First the investigation, now this... how many more things do you have to fuck up?" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Sharp pain shoots through your hip, throbbing..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey, Kim.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Detective,\" he says, his voice level as a tabletop." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "There won't be any preamble chit-chat this time. Get to the point." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What's your problem?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What's *my* problem?\" he says, his voice rising with indignation..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You're a real piece of work, detective, you know that?\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "He is your half-brother and you're driving him away. For what?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't see why you're getting all bent out of shape over a *word*.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant sighs. \"Maybe it really *isn't* your fault. You might just be an irretrievable human catastrophe...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "\"What was I gonna say?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "You see several packaged raincoats fill a low shelf beneath a display of croissants and juice bottles. The raincoats are transparent, except for the big 'FRITTTE' slogan on the back." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Steal a raincoat." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "The girl delves into the magazine, hair covering her face... vision obscured, she cannot see your hand move." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Down onto one knee. Pretending to do up a shoelace. Take a loose package from the bottom. Slip it in the old sleeve. The girl doesn't notice *a thing*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to buy a raincoat.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Oh god..." } ], [ { "actor": "Another Scab", "dialogue": "\"I'm in debt!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Sylvie? I believe we've met before. This is me, a detective from the Whirling-in-Rags!\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"Oh, right...\" She recognizes your voice almost immediately. \"Hello, officer, what can I do for you?\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "You can hear resentment in her tone -- she's not thrilled to be talking to you again." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "There is *no* resentment in her tone. She wants you to ask her out. No question about it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You quit your job at the Whirling -- why?\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"You mean why did I leave the bar?\" You can hear her tense up on the other side. \"Honestly, I'm... not really comfortable discussing it with you, sir.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Why not?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Alright, I won't push you on this. Are you ever coming back to work?\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"Maybe, I don't know...\" She seems to relax a little bit. \"I just know I have to take some time off right now.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey, do you want to grab a cup of coffee with me some time?\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"No, absolutely not.\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "That came so fast you can't but wonder what else would she be good at." }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.kineema_sylvie_reaction\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Ouch.... That's like twenty points of pride-damage right there, buddy." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A moment passes. The lieutenant glances at the sports watch on his wrist." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Aren't we going to talk about the boots I'm wearing?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Okay -- let's *talk* about it. You stole the boots.\" He looks at the gleaming technological footwear you're sporting." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Congratulations. That must have taken an enormous, concerted effort. *Considerable* ingenuity. And timing. Now -- I'm going to report you and you're going to go to jail.\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Oh no, you're a cop, you can't go to jail..." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "LIE! LIE TO GET OUT OF IT!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Please don't, I was just...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It was a joke, sadly. There's nothing I can do about your delinquency.\" He sighs. \"What's done is done. Let's get back to policework.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "I don't care about your insane theft, the lieutenant thinks and looks away from the boots. Just know: if anyone asks me, I *will* snitch on you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I found out what the *pale* is while you were gone.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Wonderful.\" He does not seem surprised. \"What is your takeaway?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Where *are* we, Lieutenant Kitsuragi?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"In Elysium,\" he replies. \"Behind our eyes. Like all human beings, detective.\" He looks around and sighs. \"The world is what it is. I'm glad to see you're stable. Keep it that way.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Now -- was there anything else or should we get to it?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm not even sure the *one bullet* my chamber holds would even prick that hulk.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But... I was fighting *bad*, unsavoury ideologies. I'm a hero.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We're not here on some political quest, we're here to solve a crime. Don't make this situation any more volatile than it already is.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How else are we gonna get through the gates?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There must be some other way. Let's go see the yard again -- it faces the other end of the harbour. We're done with Measurehead here.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How else are we gonna get through the gates?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There must be some other way. Let's go see the yard again -- it faces the other end of the harbour. We're done with Measurehead here.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But... I was fighting *bad*, unsavoury ideologies. I'm a hero.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We're not here on some political quest, we're here to solve a crime. Don't make this situation any more volatile than it already is.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Very noble of you. Are we done here?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How do you handle the strain?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Everyone has their own method of coping, some more effective, or self-destructive, than others...\" He gives you a meaningful look." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Personally, I find it helps to keep up a few hobbies.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hobbies are lame.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Suit yourself...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Very noble of you. Are we done here?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Have you ever killed anyone, Kim?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes,\" he says, declining to elaborate." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's not a problem for him to state it, however." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Have you ever killed anyone, Kim?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes,\" he says, declining to elaborate." } ], [ { "actor": "Sad Scab", "dialogue": "\"I have a family!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Who's to say what's possible and what's not?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Snow is quietly covering the numerous wine bottles and cigarette butts on the ground. Someone *partied* really, really hard here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did I do this?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Well...\" The lieutenant looks at you, then the bottles. \"Yes. I think we can say with relative confidence that it was you.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Looks like I had a lot of fun.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It really *really* doesn't.\" The lieutenant turns to go. \"Let's turn our attention elsewhere and move on.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're no fun, Lieutenant Killjoy.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He scans your face as though searching for clues. \"I did not know murder investigations are supposed to be *fun*.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Now, gentlemen, no need to squabble.\" She turns to you. \"I wouldn't be of much use to you anyway, sweetie.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're probably right.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"I really would like to help out, but I don't want to slow you down. If it weren't for all the stairs and potholes in Martinaise, I'd join you for sure!\" She looks out the window wistfully." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are you okay? I am very sorry I crashed into you earlier. I don't know what got into me.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Oh, I'm perfectly alright! I'm more worried about you. What was that?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That cafeteria manager is a bad man, a man without honour or compassion.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"What do you mean?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"He was tormenting me with outrageous demands for *money*.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"He's just on edge because of the lynching. Don't judge him too harshly. Anyway, I'm glad you weren't injured.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are you okay? I am very sorry I crashed into you earlier. I don't know what got into me.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Oh, I'm perfectly alright! I'm more worried about you. What was that?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It was like my body had a will of its own. I was running, my torso turned, my hands made this lewd gesture... I'm sorry you had to witness it.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Don't beat yourself up over it too much, dear. People do strange things when the old fight-or-flight kicks in. I'm just glad you weren't injured.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"If you want to pawn... you're here...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Now that Kim isn't here -- let's talk about Sunday night.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_sunday_night_story_interupted\"]]" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Ha! Yes. My pleasure.\" She smiles. \"Where did we leave off... hell, let's just take it from the top. You start.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "A gleeful smile. She's pretty happy that your partner's not here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did you... hear something? Sunday night -- from my room?\" (Move on.)" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"There was the usual ruckus,\" she nods. \"Loud disco music.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did I have any visitors?\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"I can't say -- probably not. Sounded like you were flying solo.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, that's all I need to hear of this.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Oh...\" The woman makes a sad face." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's return to this later, miss.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_special_exit_done\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "A Folded Library Card", "dialogue": "The library card is folded into two and still slightly wet to the touch. The front side reads: \"Central Jamrock Public Library Card. Issued to Billie M\u00e9jean, expires July '53.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Billie is a unisex name. Could be the deceased *or* his family member?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look at the backside." }, { "actor": "A Folded Library Card", "dialogue": "\"If lost, please return the card to the library. Dial 005-02-55-211 or visit us at Meroe Street 78, Jamrock. Business hours: 09.00 to 18.00.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look at the backside." }, { "actor": "A Folded Library Card", "dialogue": "\"If lost, please return the card to the library. Dial 005-02-55-211 or visit us at Meroe Street 78, Jamrock. Business hours: 09.00 to 18.00.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Do you *feel* that?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Feel what?" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Close your eyes. Reach out with your *feelings*. There's something *para-natural* at play here." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "NONSENSE." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You're right. I feel it now." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Of course you do. You don't even know *what* it is you're feeling, but you can feel it. That's the mark of a true *Remote Viewer*..." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The time has come to *connect* to RVD HQ. By establishing a connection you'll have proved yourself worthy as a Remote Viewer..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Close your eyes." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Everything alright, detective?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Shhh... I'm trying to connect with the Remote Viewers Division.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"This again? Come on, detective. The joke has gone on long enough.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Ignore the lieutenant. He's never connected with anything para-natural. You're on different planes, metaphysically speaking." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Keep your eyes shut." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "It takes time to block out the sounds of the world. But once you do, it's like you're on a wavelength. Not like any *natural* wavelength. No. There seems to be *something* on the other end, if only you could listen closely enough..." } ], [ { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.inside_shack\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "The day has not made the sheets any less coarse. The bed sags beneath your weight as you close your eyes and fall into uneasy sleep..." } ], [ { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "It's easier, this time, drifting off. Your head has found a comfortable indent in the pillow. Your legs and your torso feel like lead weights sinking to the bottom of the sea, until they're suddenly light..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How many days have I been in Martinaise already..." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "There are no days here. There are no weeks. Just black tape spinning. On repeat. Until the end." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "For now -- a little while -- you can..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Sleep. Without words or images.)" }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "When the pictograms and the hieroglyphs of the world return, they seem silent somehow. The alarm rings quietly too. You're ready." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Ready -- but something is coming. It always is." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Open your eyes.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.breakerbox_black_wire_plugged_out\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTaskActive(\"TASK.help_soona_with_her_project\")--[[ Variable[ ]]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "This orange machine is buzzing like an old submarine. It has a hand-cranked ice cream churner on top and an electric freezer that appears to be frozen shut." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try to crack open the lid." }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem(\"kvalsund_multitool\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "You slip your fingers under the frozen lid, but the ice is too cold for you to get a good grip. A prybar would come handy here." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "No -- this is going to need something else, some kind of *super* prybar. Don't even try to open it with a regular prybar, you're just wasting your time." }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem(\"prybar\")]" }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "If you want to try again, then you need to have the prybar in your *hand*, detective." }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ice Cream Maker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"That's just it! This isn't like him at all. He always plans his expeditions so carefully...\"" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A cold breeze hisses through dense thickets of reeds.... Something sweet in it, somnolent. A damp chill goes down your spine. When you look around, you're still in the Whirling-in-Rags." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\u201cBut you have more important things to worry about.\u201d She glances out the window toward the bay." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "More important than a missing *expedition?* I don't know... expeditions often lead to something interesting." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Turns out the water lock was broken, so your husband is probably just stuck further down the coast. He should return now that it's fixed.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "Her eyes light up. \"What wonderful news!\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Thank you, dear. You've already done so much, but if your investigation happens to take you to the other side of the coast, please do keep an eye out for my husband...\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Of course. Do it. Who knows what mysteries await?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "The quest for knowledge is never over!" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"And if you see him, let him know Lena is waiting for him here at the Whirling. He gets so tangled up in his work that he may not know the water lock's been repaired. And it's *cold* out there...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I've really spent too much time on this side-case as it is.\" (Reject task.)" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Oh, of course, sweetie. I understand.\" She smiles brightly to mask her disappointment." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You never told me you've *seen* the phasmid!\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Oh... you don't want to hear about some old woman's ramblings...\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.lena_phasmid_seen_hub_reached\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Scab", "dialogue": "\"Honest work, honest pay!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "... is what you plan to say. Before you can get past 'you're under', the lieutenant interrupts you:" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Officer -- are we sure?\" His voice is lowered. \"We could maybe get more.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Nod.) \"We've been thorough enough.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He nods back and turns to the man sitting on the log. \"Iosef Lilianovich Dros, you are under arrest for the murder of the Krenel colonel. You will be taken to the nearest precinct holding area for preliminary investigation.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"What?!\" The old man's eyes fill with sudden, unexpected terror at the words: \"But you said I would be taken to the...\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "The sum of all the erratic movements, fidgeting and mood swings he's been exhibiting..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "The wind picks up. The silence on the water is broken all around you, little shivers of waves appear. The lieutenant continues, like an incantation..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Your Wayfarer rights have been suspended. Information provided to the officers on the scene will be used against you by the prosecution. You will be given legal counsel within one week, and must face court in 44 days -- do you understand?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Why does art inspire you so much?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It does, yes -- but what *is* art?" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Excellent question. Art is a diverse range of visual, literary, auditory, and performative creativity! It's an expression of imagination and technical skill. Additionally, it's history, criticism and pure enjoyment..." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "In short, art is the highest form of human communication -- representation, narrative, emotion and agency intertwined." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Would I fit into the art world? I mean..." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Have you looked in the mirror lately? You have the exact features of a savage art critic, with that beard and those clothes! Dishevelled and *prophetic*. Perhaps you should try to critique architecture too!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "That's stupid. Architecture is stupid." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Such vigour! Already you express a sharp descriptive mind, ready to slice through the empty and superficial in favour of the *sublime* and the *beautiful*... Do it. Become the Art Cop. Half art critic -- half cop." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, but don't I have to be 100% cop -- to get the case finished and all that?" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Quit being so indecisive. What are you going for here? Some kind of indecisive and *camp* aesthetic now? Strike a bold shape here. Go art or go home." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Okay. If 50% art critic is what's needed to free me from rote repetition, so be it. (Opt in.)" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Exactly. It's not *only* your duty to only catch the criminals of the street, you must also apprehend criminals of the printing press and the gallery -- the trite and derivative artists and writers of the world!" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Go ahead and provide savage criticisms, Art Cop. The world is yours to rip to pieces and reassemble!" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I met her. In the hallway, after I woke up.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Understood -- you were not in good shape on Monday.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I asked her where we are, what city is this, maybe even *what year*. Something like that.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He shrugs. \"That's clearly your interrogation technique. Anything else?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I tried to hit on her...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Understood.\" He's stone-faced." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It went pretty okay, I guess.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It doesn't matter how it *went* officer -- what else?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"She knows I did some pretty crazy stuff before I passed out. That I partied hard. And not very mental-healthily.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"So she overheard you? Or did you *party* together?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Do you know what today is?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Lie.) Yes." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "No, you don't. It's been too long since this has happened for you to recognize the feeling." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "It's your first day sober." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How did I let it come to this? I need to get my buzz on *immediately*." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "No, you don't. You're well into detoxing now. *Reality* is beginning to come into focus -- just look around." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Reality... (Study your surroundings with your newly sober eyes.)" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Yes, you're beginning to see the world for what it is, even through the mental fog. And yourself, too -- what you've made yourself into." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Oh, how I've missed this clarity!" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Don't get too excited. Clarity is still many months away for you -- difficult, confusing, very emotional months. Shall we keep going?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm done with my old life. One foot after the other, I will go on..." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "...and together we will walk the waste land of reality. Because even if you haven't had your last drink or your last line, you will never really, truly enjoy either again." } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "He eyes you sceptically. \"All right -- what cryptids, precisely? I usually discuss these things with *specialists*, so I don't know what...\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "*...we would have to discuss?* he wants to say, but decides against it." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "You need to ask him about specific cryptids -- cryptids you've heard about from Lena, or his friend Gary. He won't *just* talk." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I know the biggest cryptid -- the Giant of Koko Nur.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"That's impressive, I guess.\" He does not seem that impressed. \"But have you *seen* it with your own eyes?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Truth.) \"No.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Of course you haven't.\" He seems satisfied." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Have *you* seen it?\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"I haven't had a chance to travel to *Koko Nur*, no. And I likely never will. The Samarskilt desert region has been embroiled in a small civil war for the last eight years.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"I fear this mindless barbarism may have wiped out the elusive creature entirely. Sightings of *towering luminosities* have grown rare recently. While they once used to be constant...\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Yes. Sightings of *mirages* are constant. A mirage is a constant phenomenon that people have no time to *report* when a war is going on." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "It remains unclear what this has got to do with *you seeing it*, as he was inquiring before. He was just being defensive." } ], [ { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Take the speed. Take that glorious stuff. You have it now. You've got it! TAKE IT!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No. Not right now, anyway. [Discard thought.]" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Come on. Come on! A little! Just a little bit! Whaddya say, huh?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I said I discard the thought! [Discard thought.]" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Fuck you. You used to be cool. Why can't you just take the bottle and snort snort snort?" } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "He eyes you sceptically. \"All right -- what cryptids, precisely? I usually discuss these things with *specialists*, so I don't know what...\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "*...we would have to discuss?* he wants to say, but decides against it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I know all about the kind green ape!\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"I'm guessing you heard about it from Lena,\" he smiles. \"The kind green ape is one of her favourites.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "A warm wave passes him. Of course the *kind* green ape is her favourite, he thinks." }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"We travelled to South Safre to look for it once. Gary and I got stuck in a rainstorm, though, and had to spend most of our time there in a little village.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"The search was fabulously unsuccessful -- but the people were very nice. I'm glad they didn't understand what Gary was saying about them...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He's a good and loyal man despite his ramblings, the elderly cryptozoologist thinks to himself." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Their relationship transcends Gary's politics. It must -- to work. Plus, a guy like Morell knows a thing or two about being on the fringes himself, though his fringes are... different." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I know the biggest cryptid -- the Giant of Koko Nur.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.exec_viscal_succeeded\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "A scattering of bullet holes is spread across the cracked wall, reaching from one corner to the other." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Oh my god, look at all these bullet holes! I haven't seen any other bullet holes in the walls before, somehow.\"" }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Hmm, correct.\" The lieutenant examines the wall closely. \"The density of the bullet holes is unusual, even in a general *average bullet hole frequency in Martinaise* sense. Grim affairs.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Meaning, this is *a lot* of bullet holes.\" He brushes the wall with his hand. \"Looks like fully-automatic rifle fire. Something you don't see these days...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why not?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"The manufacturing and sale of automatic rifles was curtailed after the Revolution. The destructive power of such tools proved to be... too much. We do need to retain some humanity in this world.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Even more bullet holes. Something has definitely happened here." }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "The density and spread of these bullet holes is surprising -- this takes *a lot* of bullets. Fully-automatic rifle fire." } ], [ { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "You see a heavy steel door with a prominent dimple lock. It's painted blue." }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.bluedoor_inland_blue\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You immediately feel *drawn* to the colour. Blue is for mystery." }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.barreddoor_kick_down_success\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.barreddoor_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "It could be connected to the barred door upstairs." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I wonder where this door leads.\"" }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.barreddoor_not_unimportant\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Blue door", "dialogue": "Your words fail to even echo against the door's implacable steel." } ], [ { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"Unfortunately, I don't.\" He shrugs. \"Unlike most of the locals, I have no qualms about assisting law enforcement, but this affair has passed me by completely.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And... most of the locals?\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"In Martinaise, the Union is the law, so can you really blame them?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But you don't have a problem with cops?\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"*Cop* is a pejorative term. I don't have a problem with policemen. On the contrary, I admire the effort to bring order to our streets.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "He doesn't know about the crime. Your time is better spent discussing *politics*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So, again: you don't know anything?\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"If I knew, I would not be *afraid* to tell you. I simply don't. I am an old man, not a coward. The daily business of the riff-raff no longer concerns me.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "'Tis true sire. He knows nothing." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "This is a man with a lot of past, but little present. And almost no future." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I managed to get my hands on Gaston's sandwich.\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"Yes,\" he says impatiently. \"I was standing right here. I saw it. Why are you telling me this?\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "He seems agitated. Trying to control himself." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let us -- true Revacholians -- symbolically share this meal. For Revachol!\" (Give half the sandwich to Ren\u00e9 and eat your half.)" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"What? No!\" He gasps, looking like he's about to cry. \"Old angry Ren\u00e9 doesn't even have taste buds -- it would be a complete...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "It is harder and harder to reach you... I am not sure how well you'll hear me..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Can't you just tell me where you are? Or what you are?" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "I am lost and unfound... Listen within the flower of home\u2026" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Agent... Is La Puta Madre some kind of travel agency?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, they love sending people to faraway places...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Could you... tell me about it?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I'm sure La Puta Madre himself will explain it all to you soon enough.\"" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A man in a white suit walks through a garden coaxed from soil that had once been covered in asphalt -- a city block closed off from the rest of the city by dark buildings." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"boardwalk.ruby_la_puta_esprit\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What did you *do* to this... Madre anyway?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"You know what I did. I fucked him over.\" She pauses. \"And now I have Harry Can-Opener in my lair. Fucking Titus...\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "I thought we had an agreement, she thinks. *This* was not supposed to happen." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "She's not going to change her mind that easily. She still perceives you as a threat." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Wait, one thing. Possibly small but -- she said *you* rolled into town. Was that 'you' singular or plural? She might know something..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"If you didn't kill him... why hide?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I saw *you* roll into town. I wasn't about to stick around for questioning by a goddamn La Puta Madre agent.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.titus_ruby_scared_thiscopthiscop\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_kim_shot\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_locked_yourself_out_of_cuno_in_his_post_cunoesse_gunpointing_greeting\"] == true or (Variable[\"TASK.make_truce_with_Cuno\"] == true and Variable[\"TASK.make_truce_with_Cuno_done\"] == false) or Variable[\"yard.cuno_befriend_lost_to_cunoesse\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_altgreet_tribunal\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.add_even_more_beauty_to_the_wall_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_altgreet_wall_painting\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno saw you wield that can,\" he says with an approving nod. \"Sweet graffito action, pig. Cuno likes that delinquent shit.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Poppa's bad to the bone, Cuno. Rotten to the core.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's pa is. You're just shit at life,\" he says without malice. \"Now what's your case with Cuno?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"About the crime scene -- you kids often play in this yard?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "That isn't *just* a five-pointed star -- it's an inverted white pentagram cradled in a wreath of antlers. The iconography of communism, in other words." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Look out, Kim: There are communists around here.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'll keep my Armistice handy, detective.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "He doesn't actually reach for his gun." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Look out, Kim: There are communists around here.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'll keep my Armistice handy, detective.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "He doesn't actually reach for his gun." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"Look what the tide brought in,\" the man says in a measured tone. Suddenly, his expression changes and he tilts his head..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquipped(\"shirt_t500\") and (CheckEquipped(\"shoes_t500\") or CheckEquipped(\"gloves_t500\") or CheckEquipped(\"hat_t500\"))]" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"I wanna call you a teapot, but I'm honestly kind of impressed... no idea where you got all that gear -- but there's no doubt in my mind that some bad, bad people are looking for it...\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"Also, you look like a fucking idiot.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Whatever this is, it is completely unimportant compared to what you've just *seen*." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.vicquemare_main_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Wait... you're the Man with Sunglasses.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"That's right, and you're some kind of a... urban scarecrow thing.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who are you people?\"" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"Hello, I'm Trant Heidelstam. I believe we've met on several occasions.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"I'm your goddamn *partner* Jean Vicquemare, and this is *your* special task force,\" he says, gesturing toward his companions. \"Or what's left of it.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"Special Consultant Trant Heidelstam, Patrol Officer Judit Minot.\"" }, { "actor": "Judit Minot", "dialogue": "\"Hi.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere() and Variable[\"coast.morell_before_lena_day_2\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"coast.morell_before_lena_day_2_wokim\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I think I ran into your husband on the coast. He seemed to be busy, so I didn't talk to him much.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Are you sure it was him? Oh, thank heavens! Silly me.\" She smiles, though there's still concern in her features." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"I knew what I was getting into when I married a *cryptozoologist*, of course. It's just... Waiting for him to come back from field work is always nerve-racking...\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Still, I should have *known* he'd be returning late this time around. Finding the Insulindian phasmid -- it's *very* important to him.\" She glances out the window toward the bay." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I restocked the empty trap... Where's Morell?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Thank you for doing that, dear.\" She manages a smile for you." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Her smile is weary. Her earlier ebullience has left her." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Morell still isn't feeling well. I convinced him to stay at Gary's to get some rest.\" She looks down at her hands. \"I'm afraid the cold has really gotten to him.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Only the hard core players left, huh?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\" She smiles a cautious smile. \"Field work is a young person's game, as they say...\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Her voice is shaky. What is going on here?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So... who's going to check the traps?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"Go ahead.\" The young man gives you a half-smile. His companion sniffs." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did this reading group have anything to do with the lynching?\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"Lynching? No. We're not an *operational* cell.\"" }, { "actor": "Echo Maker", "dialogue": "\"We think of ourselves as more of an intellectual vanguard.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So what's your stance on crime in general?\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"That's easy: Crime is simply the inevitable expression of the injustice and incoherence embedded within capitalism itself.\"" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Delivered with the smug assurance of a schoolboy reciting a maxim he's committed to memory." }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"It's a symptom, in other words. Not a cause.\" He waves his hand as though this is all there is to say on the subject of crime." }, { "actor": "Echo Maker", "dialogue": "His companion can barely suppress a yawn." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"*Are* there any operational communists in Martinaise?\" (Proceed.)" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"No, unfortunately. The communards were hunted down and killed nearly to a man. All that's left of them are bones and old rifles.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Right. They all got shot in the head, just like the anarchists.\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"The Insulindian Deluge wiped out an entire generation of communists. Afterward, they were all bulldozed into mass graves.\" The young man looks slightly queasy at the thought." }, { "actor": "Echo Maker", "dialogue": "His friend, though, seems oddly unmoved." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "On the contrary, he appears to be *savouring* the thought of so many people shot in the head, regardless of their beliefs." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm more interested in *why* you're so fixated on this idea in the first place.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We can't assign *la responsabilit\u00e9* if we don't go through the proper channels.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"But here's the thing, detective. *We're* the proper channels. Doing our work, right here on the ground, is how we'll solve this case. There's no need to bring the Coalition into this.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you think we'll actually be able to reach the Coalition with this?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"To be perfectly frank, I have my reservations about this whole antenna scheme. But who knows? We may yet be surprised.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How does this compare to your DynaWave, Kim?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It doesn't, frankly. Don't get me wrong, this appears to be a *fine* transceiver for a general audience, but it's not something a serious radio-head would use.\" He shrugs." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's fine. I'm not interested in 'pissing competitions,' as you know.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Of course not, detective. This is *strictly* business.\" The lieutenant smiles to himself." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Examine the transceiver." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's not why I've come here. I *really* need to turn back time now.\" (Continue.)" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"CLEARLY IT IS IMPOSSIBLE FOR YOU TO SHED YOUR NEUROTIC OBSESSION. THIS WAILING FOR THE PAST IS A TASK UNFIT FOR MEN. IT IS BETTER LEFT FOR WIDOWS, MOURNING THEIR HUSBANDS -- AND FOR MENTALLY ILL COMMUNISTS MOURNING THEIR COMMUNE.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"IF YOU WANT ADVICE ON BABES -- OR THE MYSTERIES OF LIFE -- OR EVEN ON REVACHOL -- LOOK FORWARD. TO ESCAPE YOUR DEFEATED STATE YOU NEED TO MOVE FORWARD. ONTO FUTURE VICTORIES.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "But isn't he a traditionalist?! Why does he keep talking about future..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You don't get it. I need to bring disco back -- from the Thirties.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"IT SEEMS TO ME YOU ARE IN NEED OF A WARNING. HERE IT IS: IT IS ABSOLUTELY POSSIBLE TO RETURN TO THE PAST. YOU JUST NEED TO TAKE A TICKET TO SEREGLEE ISLAND, THE SOUTHERNMOST OF THE SEMENINE ARCHIPELAGO, ALSO KNOWN AS ILE DU FANT\u00d4ME. AND WALK INTO PALE.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"LET IT DITHER AND ROT YOUR MIND. THEN YOU CAN MARINATE FOREVER IN YOUR IRREVERSABLE DEFEAT. WHILE RACE ENEMIES LAUGH AT YOUR MOTIONLESS, GAP-MOUTHED CORPSE.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.pale\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.what_is_pale\"] and Variable[\"TASK.ask_paledriver_how_to_turn_back_time_done\"] == false) == false]" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Pale? What is pale... it does *not* sound inviting." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Where would you even get a ticket? You can't just pack your bags and leave." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Finally -- a chance to connect with the *divine*." }, { "actor": "Perception", "dialogue": "It gets very cold in the office, like in a desert after the nightfall..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why do I have the feeling there's a catch...\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"THERE IS NO CATCH. YOU WILL GET WHAT YOU WANT. THE GHOUL IS A CRUEL MASTER, BUT IT IS NOT PALE. PALE TAKES YOUR MIND AND REJECTS THE FLESH. IT IS CAPRICIOUS AND TERRIFYING, LIKE A VIRGIN. YOU WILL LOSE YOUR COURAGE BEFORE HER FACE.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"GO HAVE A LOOK,\" he gestures toward the intersection. \"THE WHITE-HAIRED PROTEIN MASS AT THE INTERSECTION. A LORRY DRIVER. IMPOSSIBLE TO MISS HER IF YOU'RE EVEN A HALF-DECENT COP.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I'm listening.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You... liked Klaasje *a lot*.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I considered her a good friend, yeah.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And... despite everything, you helped her by staging the lynching?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah. The girl seemed terrified. The merc was beyond caring what happened to his mortal coil. It was a no-brainer.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is peeping... one of your hobbies?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Wow. Pissing, pinball, and now peeping. I'm just not following your insinuations, detective.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"There's a... hole in the wall. You can see into Klaasje's room... I wouldn't blame you if you've..\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"If I want to stare at a pretty girl, I can pick one up at a bar -- or, worst case scenario, look at a naughty photo. Who has time to go skulking about the Whirling, drilling *holes* in walls?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Klaasje looks like... a girl in one of your posters. She seems to be *your type*.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "What's this? We're getting reports of *normal*, *reasonable*, *temperate* political opinions somewhere in Martinaise..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "This is because I keep saying *none of the above* to political stuff, isn't it?\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's *also* about that. But it's *also* more! Perhaps it's the hangover, perhaps it's a temporary surge of serotonin, but something tells you..." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's time... to become a citizen of the *Kingdom of Conscience*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "First, where is this Kingdom of Conscience?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It is not a place, it is a *moment* in time that can only arise in the right circumstances. In all of human history, it's only been achieved a handful of times..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How do you bring about those *circumstances*?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "*Incrementally*." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "YAWN. You'd get there faster with a little *speed*." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "History's greatest catastrophes have been brought about by people trying to make the world a better place *too quickly*..." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "That's the genius of *Dolores Dei*. She recognized that progress is meaningless if its gains are lost because of instability. *Real*, lasting change can only come about gradually. Increment by increment." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "This sounds mega boring. Count me out. (Opt out.)" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "What you *want* is immaterial. The Kingdom of Conscience is coming... WHETHER YOU LIKE IT OR NOT. (Only very slowly.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.dicemaker_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"Oh, it's you again. Are you looking for a die?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I've heard this place is cursed. Did you know that people call it the Doomed Commercial Area?\"" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"I've heard the stories,\" she nods, as the wind howls in from the furnace shaft above. \"But I don't think those stories are true.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Plaisance is the one who sent me. She's convinced that the place is swarming with malicious energies.\"" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"Plaisance, the bookshop lady?\" She raises her brows. \"I've heard that her business is doing rather well. Have the *energies* spared her somehow?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't know why the bookstore hasn't gone bankrupt yet -- that's what I'm here to investigate.\"" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"Alright. But it's not just the bookstore that's still up and running. What about the Whirling-in-Rags? Some people say it's part of the building complex.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, the Whirling isn't doing well either: its waitress just took off and customers have trouble paying bills.\"" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"And then there's me...\" She sighs, looking at her messy work table. All kinds of tools lie there scattered, from knives to carving files to wire cutters." }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"I've been here for 14 years, selling novelty dice to role-playing enthusiasts. Not exactly a million re\u00e1l business idea, yet somehow I've survived despite the talk of malicious energies. Strange, isn't it?\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "It's because she's in cahoots with the demons!" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Maybe it's just because she's so talented that she's been able to woo the curse?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's because you're competent, and dedicated to your craft. The curse doesn't affect people like you.\"" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "The dicemaker erupts in laughter. \"What, so the curse only affects people with poor work ethics? What you're describing isn't a *curse*, it's *capitalism*.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Thank you for your cooperation.\" [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Strikebreaker", "dialogue": "\"Just be reasonable!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Egg Head", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"ice.egg_eyck\"]]" }, { "actor": "Egg Head", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"ice.acele_heard_arno_van_eyck\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who is this \"van Eyck\"? Did he make this music?\"" }, { "actor": "Egg Head", "dialogue": "\"This is Arno van Eyck! ARE YOU READY?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"... yeah...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"WE'RE NOT GOING ANYWHERE!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A moment passes. The lieutenant glances at the sports watch on his wrist." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Uhm. I want to talk about *you*.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.kim_main_about_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"*Me*?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes, you.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I don't see how *my* life is pertinent to the investigation.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We'll work better together if we have more rapport.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Hmmm, that's a fair point. Alright, for the good of the investigation, what do you want to know?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's all for now.\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Good. Let's change the subject.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Tell me about the case again.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What do you want to know?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Now that we've inspected the scene -- I want to know more about this 'pissing competition' you mentioned.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Deluxe Topping Pie", "dialogue": "The super fancy topping pie is waiting for you to dig in." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "You should eat it slowly, really savour the chef's concept." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Eating this pie will almost certainly make you less of a man. What were you thinking, agreeing to take a wheat-free, meat-free pie from that sleazy bastard?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm hungover and *famished*! Who cares what's on it? Devour that topping pie!" }, { "actor": "Deluxe Topping Pie", "dialogue": "You can barely taste what you're eating as you shove the slices in your mouth, but you can tell: it's doing your body good. Soon it's all gone -- just some wheat-free flour left on your hands." } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yeah,\" he says slowly, meeting your gaze with sullen defiance. \"Cuno took the bugs. So what?\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "So it wasn't the phasmid... a wave of disappointment washes over you." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_locusts_said_doesnt_know\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why steal locusts? Couldn't you find some other pets?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"They're not pets.\" Sounds like you've offended him. \"Don't you know what locusts *are*, when they come out of the fucking sky? Fuckin' *descend* and shit.\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Stooooop!\" she wails from behind the fence, then covers her face with her hands." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_rage_city_heard\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"You stop! It's like they're *night*. Locusts are like this *huge shadow*...\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Locusts coming down like a shadow... This must be the *Night City* he mentioned when you asked him where he's been." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So this is the city you kept talking about.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yeah. Locust City -- City of Rage, City of Lights...\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "There's a tug-of-war over the name of his fantastical city. It's almost too big for his imagination." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "The girl forces herself to watch again, the corners of her eyes twitching from discomfort." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "The lameness is causing her physical pain. The damage may be permanent." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"City of Rage sounds like a cool place.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Drunk", "dialogue": "\"Y'gotta problem with me too?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "The trash container has *somehow* been unlocked. It's all for you, Harry. The smell of rotten food rises up as you climb inside. This is where you belong..." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm coming.\" (Climb down.)" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"church.soona_archer_working_soona\"]]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Good. Now, give me a hand with these amplifiers. Leave the cables. I don't feel like making two trips...\"" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.warship_turned_down_archer\"]]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Script: SetVariableValue(\"character.committee_of_la_responsabilite\", true) --[[ Variable[ ]]]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Well, this was an *interesting collaboration*.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We make a pretty good team, Soona.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.warship_empathy_rc_success\"]]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Perhaps. You're more reliable than the writers I used to work with, though that is not a difficult bar to clear...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"In any event, just leave that equipment here. I'll put it away later. If you'd like, you can take one of the extra headsets. I don't need so many spares.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Now you'll excuse me. I have to get back to my own work.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"Give me a moment...\" The cleaning lady still seems to be having difficulty breathing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I am looking for Martin Martinaise.\"" }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"Oh, you'll find plenty of Martins here, don't you worry!\" She smiles a gap toothed smile when she hears you mention the name." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, you don't understand. I'm looking for a real person named Martin Martinaise. He told me he's Martin Martinaise.\"" }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"Pea-brain, someone played a trick on you. Martin Martinaise is a name for *anyone* from Martinaise. Like Jim Jamrock or Raoul Revachol.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Oops... you really didn't get the joke there." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I am looking for the parents of a kid named Cuno.\"" }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"De Ruyters are at the end of this hallway, right next to the communal bathroom.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I have a few questions about those apartments...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I talked to Joyce. The merc you hanged -- his friends are coming for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Yeah?\" He doesn't seem worried. \"By friends you mean his squadmates from Krenel?\"" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Wouldn't wanna beat up his grandma.\" There's snickering in the room. Some of the men put their beers down." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "*Nervous* snickering. There's a rush of adrenaline present." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Titus did his best, but his men are a bit unsettled." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes, they are forming some kind of *tribunal* -- and they're coming for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"This is what happens if you take the law into your own hands. Other people start doing it too.\"" }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Let them come!\" Blondie yells across the cafeteria. \"The Hardie boys are right fucking here!\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"You heard the man -- right here.\" He points to the ground. \"We're armed, we got the whole district behind us and Glen... Glen is fucking *crazy*.\"" }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, a well oiled murder-machine!\" He punches blondie on the shoulder." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "The mood is on the rise. They're feeling confident -- ready to punch out the whole merc platoon." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This Krenel is bad news. You know that, right?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Pft!\" A spray of beer. \"So were the local gangs. The fuckin' *Barmy Army* and the Madre scum. You've been out there. Seen any around?\"" }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? Where are they now, huh?\" He points South. \"Sent back to Madre in an airtight cargo crate.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Moneyman", "dialogue": "\"You can buy stocks with money.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Use your chaincutters to fix the faucet. Stop steam from fogging up the mirror." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.mirror_interfacing_white_check_succeeded\"]]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "The faucet is quite terribly mangled, but you just might be able to twist its parts into place." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "You handle the chaincutters deftly, applying just enough pressure. The faucet regains a recognizable shape. The steam stops." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (HasVolitionDamage()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Told you that you *needed* those chaincutters. Everything is connected. Everything has a purpose." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "The mirror begins to clear slowly without you having to wipe it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Dig deep into your mind to locate the source of *The Expression*." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.mirror_expression_source_located\"]]" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "It belongs in The New -- the third decade of the current century. Enough time had passed from the failure of Revolution that, for a fleeting moment, free market economy seemed like the ultimate, uncontested way of life for our species." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Okay..." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Things were good. It was *smooth sailing*. People made gold-and-champagne-tinted interiors and fa\u00e7ades to suit the times, calling this *The New Style*. But, more importantly -- disco happened." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "For Revachol -- your city -- that meant only one thing: Guillaume Le Million!" } ], [ { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "O glorious Falnier! You wear the full set like a true-born hero. The *ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE* of FALN flows in you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It's like I can do anything. *ANYTHING*!" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "You are literally untouchable. A god among mere men." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Go on! The fucking sunset awaits, FALN rider!" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A shift in temperature. The air chills around you. Dust settles on the stony floor." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Rub your sides for warmth." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A former architect stands before a slice of window, a room plan in her hand. A cold wave has made the air in the building stand still and frozen, with temperatures falling down to -20\u00b0C." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Shiver. [Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "You made the right call there. It feels good. Pure." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Shame... (hic)... burns worse than anything... I just want this to end..." } ], [ { "actor": "Former Coal Miner", "dialogue": "\"I'll work for two!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"Give me a moment.\" An elderly woman is leaning on her broom, her knuckles white as bone. She seems to be having difficulty breathing." }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"The cold never does any good for my bronchitis...\" She sneezes into a dirty handkerchief." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "This woman's health is failing her. There's not much to do, not in this damp." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This won't take long, I only have a few questions.\"" }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"Go ahead then. What do you want to know, policeman?\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "She's the cleaning lady. She knows the floor plan and the residents." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I am looking for the parents of a kid named Cuno.\"" }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"De Ruyters are at the end of this hallway, right next to the communal bathroom.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I didn't find any counterculture people in apartment #10 -- it was just a real estate agent setting up the room for new tenants.\"" }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"I see...\" She takes out her handkerchief and wipes her nose. \"I hope some good people are finally going to move in. This place needs them.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sure everything will be fine. This apartment building needs *slow* change. Imperceptibly slow.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Of course, let us dispatch with the formalities, you call me Evrart, I call you Harry!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Fine by me.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"So Harry, what can I help you with today?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm told the Union is involved in the local drug trade.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"What?!\" He smacks his forehead, completely flabbergasted. \"Harry... how could you say that to me? You know I appreciate a joke as much as any jolly fat guy, but I can't take *slander*. Are you actually investigating this?\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "The reaction appears to be sincere, but... it's impossible to tell with this guy, honestly." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, I'm not.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"You've hurt me, Harry -- me! A friend!\" The man rubs his temple and closes his eyes, in pain. \"But you know what?\" He perks up." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "And gets over it in two seconds? Seems like it didn't really hurt him." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"I trust you, like I trust all my friends. And I know you'll never talk to me about this again, because you don't want to *wound* me. So do what you want -- and let's change the subject.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "He's hiding his real reaction beneath courtesy." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"A few more questions about the harbour.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You close your eyes and vacate your skull, leaving your brain to wonder: where did that little fluttering light go?" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "TOTAL DARKNESS! You sink down the darkest fathoms of your own personal deep, vertebrae by vertebrae -- THROUGH THE UNFORMED SKULLS OF YOUR SPINE." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "HERE IT WILL BEGIN." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Where did the music go?" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Oh, don't worry, *the music* is still there. It's *you* who's gone." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Concentrate on hearing." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Nothing. Just the immaculate silence of your spinal fluid. Electrified." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "It comes to you like a blue whale. You sense it stir the tranquillity of the deep -- a single note of bass passing through. Then it's gone. Back to *el silencio*." }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"ice.andre_composure_heard_beat_underwater\"]]" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "This is where the beat plunged. It will resurface soon. Brace for glory." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Where did the music go?" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Oh, don't worry, *the music* is still there. It's *you* who's gone." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Concentrate on hearing." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Nothing. Just the immaculate silence of your spinal fluid. Electrified." } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"*This* is gonna make a hell of a sad tattoo...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.boombox_mainhub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem(\"boombox\")]" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Boomboxes", "dialogue": "All the old boomboxes are there, blinking and waiting to whirl. All but one: yours." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Bingo.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Wait, stop -- that man, bloated beyond all recognition, was 42?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It's what she said, yes." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Below the damage, the weeks of decomposition, all the swollen indignity of mortality -- he was 42 years old?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Where is this going?" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "How old are *you*? That's where this is going. Forty-five thousand litres of raw alcohol has left its disfigurements. What lies beneath, you wonder." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, how old do you think I am?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Huh?\" The lieutenant isn't quite sure he heard you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Nothing.\" [Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Could this have been the killer's hideout, and this narrow window -- the point of origin of the shot that killed the mercenary?" }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "This does look like an *embrasure*, a slit made for shooting out of." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Peek out." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "The lights of Martinaise shine coolly in the clear night." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Would this have been a good hideout for a sniper?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's a great place to hide, certainly, but there hasn't been anyone here in ages.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Lilienne, the Net Picker", "dialogue": "\"Goddamnit... I *just* bought that net...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"All right, so you got Cuno's kilo.\" He rubs his hands together. \"Here is how we do it. First, you give Cuno Cuno's kilo. Then Cuno gives you half back.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"That's how we split it -- it's the *best* way. Street way.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm not ready to make this decision.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"The fuck are you talkin' about? Gettin' Cuno all worked up for nothing...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's discuss these illegal narcotics again.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Been waitin' for you to fucking man up.\" He nods at the building behind him. \"In there is Cuno's violent dad. On steroids. Cuno's dad does steroids *and* speed. If you can take him, you can have half the speed.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But that's not very much material at all.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Fuck you talkin' about. Half a G?! This shit is *giant*, grade A shit. So clean you can barely see it!\"" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "You can barely see it because there's barely any." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How much material are we talking about?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Like half.\" He says very confidently." } ], [ { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "It's a matter of fierce debate what form society would assume under the highest levels of revolutionary plasm, also known as 'Full Communism' or, as Nilsen termed it, 'Communism Above Reality'." } ], [ { "actor": "Policeman Cloak", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Policeman Cloak", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_saw_death_dream\"]]" }, { "actor": "Policeman Cloak", "dialogue": "The tarpaulin cloak swings alone for a while there in the wind. No one's coming for it anymore." } ], [ { "actor": "Tourist map of Martinaise", "dialogue": "The worn map features the patchwork grid of the streets of Martinaise, with directions to appropriately *tourist-y* locations. Year '48 resides on the upper-right corner." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Put the map away.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "You hold in your hand the colourful primer. The title reads: \"A Primer for Small Kids.\" There's a bear involved." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, I know the alphabet now.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Good. I also know the alphabet.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "It is a very useful skill to have, he thinks. For all sorts of life-activities. Like reading, and..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, I know the alphabet now.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Good. I also know the alphabet.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "It is a very useful skill to have, he thinks. For all sorts of life-activities. Like reading, and..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Put the book away.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "Machine's keyboard is still illuminated, revealing virescent PLAY and PRINT buttons." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "This fan has two chain pull switches -- one ends in a tiny fan, the other in a light bulb. A truly horrific necktie has somehow attached itself to one of the blades." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Or has it been consigned there as punishment? You feel as though this creature is your *friend* and wants to reattach itself to your neck. So that you may continue your adventures together in this strange world!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Is that an Insulindian phasmid? It looks like an Insulindian phasmid. Quick -- catch it before it scuttles away!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pirouette toward the phasmid." }, { "actor": "Fishing Rod", "dialogue": "Beautiful leap! But this isn't a phasmid in your hand -- it is a fishing rod." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"What are you trying to accomplish, Harry?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I was just trying to surprise you. To throw you off, you know.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Well, you certainly succeeded, Harry.\" He adjust himself in the chair. \"You are a very surprising police officer indeed.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Booooring!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "What happened here?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "This looks so sad..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Put your emotions aside. Try to focus on abstract, impersonal things." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "But this reeks of sadness!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You can't foreclose on an apartment with a hole in the wall." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It will still be accessible through the apartment next to it. That one didn't have a door... Sadly, nothing of great value remains here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "There's always a little something in the fridge." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Indeed!" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno gets it from his dad. Cuno and his dad are major suppliers!\" His eyes bulge; their veins reach out like tree branches. \"That's where Cuno gets his lightning on.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Problem is, Cuno and his dad had a little falling out. Now junkies clawing at Cuno's door. Streets going mad. Cuno's gotta throw his dirty popo-man at it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Mhmh, this is very interesting, but I'll have to get back to you.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Don't take for fucking ever, Cuno's got wheels turning everywhere.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"About the crime scene -- you kids often play in this yard?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Right, pig, this is where Cuno plays with his little wooden choo-choo. Fuck do you want with it?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"There was also a mug in the trash.\" (Show him the mug.)" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"The fuck? A *mug* in the trash? Is this about the fucking clothes again?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes. Does this adequate depiction of a South-Samaran man have anything to do with it?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, Cuno sees where this is going. Cuno's got that fast-brain,\" he whispers excitedly. \"You saying you pigs are after the mug fucker -- coz he's the clothes fucker...\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Can't hear you, Cuno! Speak louder, Cuno!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Not just that. I also think the hypothethical *mug fucker* lives in that apartment there.\" (Point to Gary's apartment.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Footprints in the Dust", "dialogue": "You *clearly* see footprints in the downy carpet of dust covering the workshop floor." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Jackpot.\" The lieutenant takes out his notebook. \"These, unlike everything else here, are *new*.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Someone's been back here -- *recently*." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Three weeks maximum -- from the dust coverage. It could easily have been *one* week too. You know, officer...\" He looks at you." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "This is so good it makes him forget the whole *Kimball* memory." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It was a *stereo-investigation* after all. It has now converged with our main investigation. Adding a new fact to *consider*.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What does this *mean*?" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I just heard you say, 'It's cold now'.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Very Hard to Exploit Handicapped Person", "dialogue": "\"We're workers, just like you! Let us in!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you *didn't* kill him. He was already dead.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "He nods." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"XP.discover_the_bullet\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You hanged a corpse to cover up the real cause of death -- the bullet in his head.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "Another nod." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Cause the girls asked us to. They were in some shit.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Girls plural? There's another girl? Two of them? Take note of this. They'll probably say more about her later." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did *she* kill him?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Cop, I have no idea -- the girl says she didn't...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He doesn't think she did. Or at least he *hopes* she didn't." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What happened Sunday night?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Klaasje came down.\" He points to the stairs. \"She seemed really out of it. Drugged up -- even more than usual. Bug eyed and gurning, you know? Not in a *fun* way.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"coast.reeds_checked_counter\"] >=1]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"cargo.garrydoor_broke_into\"]]" }, { "actor": "Door, Basement Apartment", "dialogue": "The door is closed again. Nothing to do here anymore." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "You hear someone inside, walking from room to room... whoever lives here must be back home." } ], [ { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.doomed_radiocomputer_turned_on\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.seen_radiocomputer\"]]" }, { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "The dusty radiocomputer sleeps on its wired frame, forgotten and unused. Its keyboard has a rectangular ON/OFF button; a piece of paper still hangs from the printer." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Turn on the machine." }, { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "The machine lights up like some prehistoric animal stirring from its slumber, revealing virescent PLAY and PRINT keys on the keyboard. The hatch on the machine's central compartment is wide open." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Remove THE PRODUCTION SCHEDULE." }, { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "The filament slides out of its glowing nest." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Insert THE PRODUCTION SCHEDULE." }, { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "Like a smooth drawer, the filament slides into place. On the keyboard, the PLAY key starts blinking." } ], [ { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "A good, orderly task that leaves you feeling relaxed and accomplished." } ], [ { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.gardener_main_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.gardener_prehub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "\"The RCM in Martinaise?\" The young woman looks up at you. \"What can I help you with?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I have some questions for you.\"" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "\"Of course. What can I help you with?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you still have your salts? I think I could use some.\"" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "\"Sure -- I'm done with them.\" She takes a small capsule out of her breast pocket and hands it to you." }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "\"Go easy on that stuff. It gave me a terrible headache.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you still have your salts? I think I could use some.\"" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "\"Sure -- I'm done with them.\" She takes a small capsule out of her breast pocket and hands it to you." }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "\"Go easy on that stuff. It gave me a terrible headache.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "The evening is winding down..." } ], [ { "actor": "Job Market Loser", "dialogue": "\"Without work I am nothing!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.hanged_autopsy_exited_cause_known_path\"] or Variable[\"TASK.get_hardie_boys_to_tell_you_the_whole_story_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"And one more thing...\" He pulls the black plastic over the dead man's face, then looks at you. \"This was *very* good work, detective.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"Was there anything else?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm trying to form a committee to assign *la responsabilit\u00e9*.\"" }, { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"My friend, if it's *la responsabilit\u00e9* you're after, I have good news for you: There's no need to form such a committee, because it already exists!\"" }, { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"The Comit\u00e9 de Responsabilit\u00e9 de Revachol. It acts as a sort-of clearinghouse for Coalition activities. To put it simply, they are the ultimate arbiters of la responsabilit\u00e9 in this part of the world.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Yes, this is just the sort of reasonable authority you're looking for!" }, { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"I would offer to connect you with the committee myself, but alas, I am not actually *in* Martinaise.\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "What? Where is he, then?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "He's speaking figuratively. He means he's not in Martinaise in his *official* capacity." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Titus sent Elizabeth away and said her services were no longer needed.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Oh yes. She came to see me. Said Titus Hardie is the most stubborn man she's ever met and you...\" He shakes his finger at you. \"You are on a whole new level of *difficult*.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Honestly, Harry,\" he says with a chuckle. \"Jamming a wedge between a man and his legal counsel is no small achievement. Sounds like you're handling this like a supercop.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"She was trying to help Titus, but the man just didn't want to listen.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"That's Titus Hardie alright.\" He starts laughing. \"They say no man is an island, but Titus Hardie is definitely an island. And a big one at that. At least he thinks he is.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"To tell you the truth, I'm actually quite interested to see how this whole thing between you and Titus is gonna play out. You guys really deserve each other.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm told the Union is involved in the local drug trade.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"What?!\" He smacks his forehead, completely flabbergasted. \"Harry... how could you say that to me? You know I appreciate a joke as much as any jolly fat guy, but I can't take *slander*. Are you actually investigating this?\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "The reaction appears to be sincere, but... it's impossible to tell with this guy, honestly." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I am.\" (Lie.)" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"You've hurt me, Harry -- me! A friend!\" The man rubs his temple and closes his eyes, in pain. \"But you know what?\" He perks up." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "And gets over it in two seconds? Seems like it didn't really hurt him." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"I trust you, like I trust all my friends. And I know you'll never talk to me about this again, because you don't want to *wound* me. So do what you want -- and let's change the subject.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "He's hiding his real reaction beneath courtesy." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Big surprise.\" The lieutenant grins mirthlessly. \"Anyway -- one down, three to go.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No need to grin. I'm not *expecting* to find anything. I'm helping some citizens and getting some fresh air.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I meant no offence, just...\" The lieutenant doesn't know how to finish the sentence. He looks at you, putting the trap back on the ground." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "At the beginning of the book, ethnic unrest has taken Yugo-Graad by storm. Windows and mailboxes are smashed, motor carriages turned over and set on fire..." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "Black smoke hangs above cobblestones speckled with droplets of reddish-grey blood. Militant guardsmen, decked in heavy armour, have been called in to control the riots..." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "As ethnic tensions run wild, a pair of young lovers meet each other on the street. Somehow, in the middle of all the chaos, they manage to lock arms and look into each other's eyes." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What happens next?" } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_cryptozoologists_1\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.morell_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"coast.morell_midgreet_leave\"]]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.locate_morell\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Hello hello!\" He gets up. \"What can I do for you, officer?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are you doing some kind of science here? You look like a science person.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"'A science person'?\" He snarls. \"The *so-called* science community hasn't accepted me as one of their own quite yet.\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Doesn't sound like he particularly wants to be lumped in with them either. His is a scientific community of one." }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"I'm Morell, a cryptozoologist. I'm out here looking for a rare insect called the *Insulindian phasmid*. I'd shake your hand, but...\" He displays his gloved hands, which are glistening with silt and sewage." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "The way he said the word *phasmid* made it sound full of mystery -- this is a very special word for him indeed." } ], [ { "actor": "Self-Educated Humanitarian", "dialogue": "\"Seems like it ain't getting any better...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What, specifically, did you not *like* about what you saw the night of the murder?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Them fucking...\" He looks at the charred wood. \"I didn't like that.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay then.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "*Splat*, a bloody spitball lands on the firewood." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Now we are done.) \"Iosef Lilianovich Dros, you are under arrest for the murder of the colonel.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsCunoInParty()]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"What?!\" The old man's eyes fill with sudden, unexpected terror at the words: \"But you said I would be taken to the, uhm, the...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "This terror -- the sum of all the uncontrollable movements and mood swings he's been exhibiting..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "The wind picks up. The silence on the water is broken all around you, little shivers of waves appear..." } ], [ { "actor": "Mountain of Board Games", "dialogue": "A small mountain of colourful board game boxes. There are numerous types of games for all ages. A lot of shelf space seems to be taken up by Wirr\u00e2l-related merchandise." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look through the pile of Wirr\u00e2l-related items." }, { "actor": "Mountain of Board Games", "dialogue": "An endless variety of sourcebooks, lorebooks, and codices litter the table. The top-most book is titled \"Welkin Compendium, Second Edition.\"" }, { "actor": "Mountain of Board Games", "dialogue": "There's also a large hardbound tome with intricate cover art: \"The Hunters of Katuak: Boreal Creature Compendium,\" and a pick-your-path adventure gamebook titled \"Tales of Wirr\u00e2l: Cavern of Velkraag.\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Books in a *board game* section? Who wants to read books!?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Hm, maybe I'm not into all this binoclard stuff." }, { "actor": "Mountain of Board Games", "dialogue": "A towering mountain of colourful board game boxes and Wirr\u00e2l codices." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to buy the *Suzerainty* game.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Wonderful choice, sir.\" She smiles at you. \"A wholesome *family* game.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Storekeep, what board games do you have here?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Wonderful board games, sir. 'The Viticulturist' is a classic for sure, or perhaps you'd like 'Archipelagos of Insulinde', a very educational game for those interested in geography.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Yellow Man Mug", "dialogue": "It's just a racist mug, what's there to *read* here? Not much." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I want to get into that mug talk again." }, { "actor": "Yellow Man Mug", "dialogue": "But it will not happen. The mug talk is exhausted. It is time to return to work." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Agent... Is La Puta Madre some kind of travel agency?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, they love sending people to faraway places...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's... talk about something else.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? What?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I can't take it anymore. Just go.\" (Don't attempt to destroy the compressor.)" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Glad to have been of assistance.\" She tosses her head back defiantly and turns down the machine. \"Best of luck to you, officers -- Revachol's a bitch.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "The woman runs past you and disappears into the darkness of the tunnel." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"All things considered...\" The lieutenant is still reeling from the pain. \"...that could've gone worse.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What now?\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Now we have to come up with a really good excuse... for why we walked right into a trap like that. This isn't going to look good in the report.\" He looks around, then points further into the cavern." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.explore_the_passages_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Her tent! Maybe there's something in there.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "The dry grass crackles under your feet as you stop. Far away birds' wings touch the still surface of the sea..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is that flutter?" }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "The flock of quail departs; now more than a hundred metres away... a hundred and two... a hundred and five..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Underneath the flutter..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "On the islet? There is almost no wind, just snow quietly falling on the reeds. Bulrushes swaying on the waterline, long dried leaves chafing against each other." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Like a silent orchestra tuning -- at the beginning of some major work." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "The great ghost of the air is holding its breath." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Beyond that... further north..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "Air flows out of a pillbox window. There is very little there. The air cossets flowers on a meadow? Absolute silence. Reeds motionless. Bulrushes motionless." } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.roy_intro_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.roy_pilehub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsHourBetween(22, 5)) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsHourBetween(5, 9)) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Hello again. How can I help you?\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.roy_comp_intro1\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You might be able to aid my investigation.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"I doubt it, but I can try to answer any questions you may have.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Think you could help me get a corpse out of a tree?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Hardie boys are local legends now.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Avenge and die... that simple (hic)... You'll be proud, T...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "There they both are -- two identical shoes, both *copiously* green and *indiscriminately* snake-skin. Reunited on your feet!" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Like two baby crocodiles." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, these do not look like normal cop shoes..." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "It's pretty clear a *normal cop* is not what you are." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "You may be what they call a *big dick cop*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How do they fit?" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Good. They're balanced. Comfy. Feels like the only good thing about you right now, truth be told." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Maybe you could convince her to tell you about some *cool* cryptids?" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "There's really no point in manipulating anyone. She'd be only too pleased to tell you about her work. Go on and ask!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey, Lena, I'd like to hear about some of the cryptids you've studied. Could you just tell me about a couple of them?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"I suppose you could use a break, and I could use a distraction...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is that a cryptid on this pen you gave me?\" (Take out the pen she gave you.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Stock Certificate", "dialogue": "The pearlescent paper adamantly resists being held open -- it demands struggle at both ends. The print inside is just as taxing due to its fine and curlicued font. The most attractive part is the image emblazoned across the top." }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "Feisty little thing! But don't worry -- it's under control." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Devious use of Swish there. It's a font literally *designed* to win legal agreements by way of being almost unreadable through flamboyance." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Put it away.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Little Lily", "dialogue": "\"Hello, mister!\" A young girl, barely four or five years old, sits on the sofa. She is looking at you with frank curiosity." }, { "actor": "Little Lily", "dialogue": "She clutches a small stuffed animal. Occasionally she twirls it around." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What's this?\" (Show her the stuffed bird you took from the ceiling.)" }, { "actor": "Little Lily", "dialogue": "\"It's a *grouse*,\" she yelps, smiling broadly." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "You might be able to get on Garte's good side if you make up for the skua you broke?" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Wasn't Garte, the cafeteria manager, trying to repair a piece of taxidermy?" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"What with?\" She tries hard to focus on the book stand." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "What *with*? A lot of things! For example, people tend to go *missing*." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "This citizen thinks she can do without your assistance? Don't buy it. They all need help." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Help her by... carrying things? Uhm... maybe she needs a weightlifter? Maybe she needs you to *fight* her husband? No, that's not it..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You were right that I'm a cockatoo.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"Excuse me?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I went and read up on them, just like you said. And I even decided on what kind of a cockatoo I am. Want to know?\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"I don't know, the most talkative one?\" She's ready to put that question aside." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, I'm the fuckupatoo.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"The what now?!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The fuckupatoo. It's the one who always fucks everything up.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.find_working_class_husband\"]]" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"No, you're not. Don't think that...\" she says, slowly shaking her head. The wind brings a strand of hair to her rough face. \"You're the cockatoo who offered to find my stupid husband. Let's leave it at that.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She doesn't want you to be the fuckupatoo." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Give her a hug." } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"An *unconfirmed* sighting is just a story.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"So, the death notification...\" the lieutenant says as soon as you've left the apartment." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He's avoiding your gaze. This is the time to say how sorry you are about how things went." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sorry, I know I fucked up.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's alright, don't worry about it.\" His eyes wander over the sleeping district." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'll call the station tomorrow and let them know the name of the deceased.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Right, lets try to get back to it then.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He looks at you. \"And... officer -- I've seen worse. This wasn't the worst I've seen, okay? Now, let's go.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "I really have, he thinks. She was strong. She made it easy for us." } ], [ { "actor": "Idiot Doom Spiral", "dialogue": "\"But are you *really* cornering the market is the question?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "A Pile of Clothes", "dialogue": "A bundle of clothes heaped on the bed. A stained parka, some towels and a duvet. Some socks even." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "In the dark it looks like a nest." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Slowly reach out your hand." }, { "actor": "A Pile of Clothes", "dialogue": "Something underneath there is breathing." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "It doesn't give a shit that you're a cop! Stop your hand now or you're gonna die!" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "It's not too late, no one's going to blame you for backing out. You don't have to do this. Just get out." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Fuck this, I'm out. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're running... drugs for the Union. I've been through your lorry.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"So, heart-of-gold Tommy fucked me over too...\" She shakes her head, slowly. \"Never trust a musician.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "That really comes as a blow to her." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Maybe twist the knife? Just in case. Make her more desperate." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, he didn't. I found my own way in.\" (Lie.)" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Okay, great, you got into my lorry on your own. What now? You're going to arrest me for drug trafficking?\" A bitter smile." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Beneath it, she's relieved Tommy didn't betray her." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You had... a financial incentive to kill the merc.\" (Move on.)" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Man, it's to get *away* from all that murderous shit that I left Jamrock -- my previous employer -- for the Union.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Hnghh...\" The lieutenant is unable to articulate his question." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "She deliberately avoided naming the mob she worked for. You might be able to find this out later." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.solve_the_strike_deadlock_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"cargo.evrart_altgreet_joyce_is_gone\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"So, the ship has sailed... did you see it? I know you did.\" He leans toward you. \"Tell me, what did it look like as it grew smaller and smaller? When that mainsail dropped behind the horizon...\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "There's a mean little light in his eyes." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"... did it look like a germ? Did it look like a piece of *bacteria*?\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "His tone is totally different now. The jolly man of the people is gone and so is the smile." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "His jaw is clenched and his quadruple-chin is quivering with hatred. This is *decades* of hatred speaking right now." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You get a sinking feeling..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Oh my god, you've been played!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes, it sort of did look like that. A bacteria. Growing smaller and smaller.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You wanted us to relay all this information to her...\" the lieutenant cuts in." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"That this is a takeover, that I want a war?\" He nods, forcefully. \"God, I hope you also told her about the drug trade... They absolutely hate getting their hands dirty with that.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look around." }, { "actor": "Trap: Boathouses", "dialogue": "Behind you, the ruins of a residential building rise over the reeds, shielding them from the wind. The reeds rustle confidentially." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "When this district was booming, the reeds were kept at bay. Nothing obscured the freshly painted fa\u00e7ades, nowhere for drunks and adventurous teenagers to hide. Now only the wind blows..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Reach for the trap." }, { "actor": "Trap: Boathouses", "dialogue": "The trap feels light -- and silent -- as you pick it up. Something is different here..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look closer." }, { "actor": "Trap: Boathouses", "dialogue": "No locusts!" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "No phasmid either -- but still..." } ], [ { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "She's black." }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.gardener_perc_black\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're black.\"" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "\"What do you mean?\"" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (CheckEquipped(\"neck_tie\") and Variable[\"whirling.necktie_personified\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Nothing.\"" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We should proceed with our business in Martinaise.\" The lieutenant turns to you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who are you exactly?\"" }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "\"Me? I'm just a gardener.\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "She hides it well, but behind the sweat and dirt there is something... else. In her rigid posture." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Cool. And what are you doing here?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Master Investigator! You just can't keep yourself away from locked and hidden places, can you?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What do you mean?" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Nothing. Nothing! You're right -- get in there... deep. Invade every personal space, break every lock..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Hey! I am not some sort of a... peeper." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Sure, friend. This is nothing sordid, nothing inappropriate. You just *have* to do this... it's your duty." } ], [ { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "This isn't just glass -- these are old computation components." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "These are computer components?" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Yes. Filament memories. From the time when wires were cast in glass; slides with an inlaid nervous system." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey Kim, look -- old cybernetics.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant tilts his head, watching the light glimmer on the glass. \"So it is. I think these used to form a single system, slotted in the wall.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So this is all that remains of Feld R&D?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He nods. \"The rest of the building seems to have been picked clean.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"Moderacy in everything -- even in moderacy.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"We ask you one more time. Are you prepared to accept your responsibility?\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "This is it, there's no turning back, no more pussyfooting about. You have to choose, once and for all." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No. I can't do it, Archer. You'll have to leave without me.\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsTaskActive(\"TASK.ask_traditionalists_how_to_turn_back_time\")--[[ Variable[ ]]]" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Seems like it isn't working, br\u00f6ther... maybe you should try talking to other traditionalists instead." } ], [ { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.sleeper_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "The worker is in a deep slumber." }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.sleeper_inland_about_oblivion\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Perhaps he's on his way to where you just came from -- into the primordial darkness?" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.sleeper_felt_itch\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "A colourful piece of plastic is dangling from his carabiner... hmm. Makes your fingers itch." }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.sleeper_picked_magnesium\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Lieutenant, who is this?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No idea. Looks like he works for Wild Pines, the logistics company who owns and operates the harbour.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But why is he sleeping during the day?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Possibly because there's a strike going on in the harbour. There's not much to do -- aside from drinking and sleeping.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Unemployed Person", "dialogue": "\"Just let me work a little, I'm really good!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Where did the horse-faced woman go?\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"I don't really use words like that to describe my clients, and maybe you shouldn't either\u2026\" He purses his lips. \"Seeing as you're a cop and all.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No. I meant it, like, in a good way.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"Sure. Anyway, I can't help you there. A lot of women come and go here.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"All right. Thanks.\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"No problem.\" He looks around at the empty establishment. \"They'll come back. They always do.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"About my bill for tonight...\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.daychange_whirling_paid\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"Got the 20 re\u00e1l?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So, uh... you sure you can't swing me a free bed?\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "His eyes flash with fury. \"You want a free place to sleep? Fine.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.trash_physinst_bent_staples\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Apartment #28", "dialogue": "This door is made of metal and appears to be reinforced. Someone here really values their security." }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Yes?\" A handsome young man hums with a cigarette in his hand. \"Are you looking for me, gendarme?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Where did the horse-faced woman go?\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"I don't really use words like that to describe my clients, and maybe you shouldn't either\u2026\" He purses his lips. \"Seeing as you're a cop and all.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, you're right.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"Anyway, I can't help you there. A lot of women come and go here.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"By the way -- where were you when it happened?\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"Where was *I*? How do you think I know the crazy shit you pulled off out there? I was *there* -- out on the balcony, protecting my establishment.\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "That's actually true. You remember him, from the corner of your eye, right behind you on the Whirling balcony..." }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"So yeah.\" He looks around, aloof. \"I guess I'm what you call a bad ass.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "It really took courage. Don't pick at him." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, I guess you are a bad ass.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, I don't know...\" He feels the need to explain himself. \"Clients were panicking. And also, I guess I sort of found out that I don't give a shit if I die.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He means it. It's not just boasting. It's something he discovered about himself, stepping onto that balcony." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, so I have to mention -- when it happened, *you* were right out there. On the balcony.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, I was, yeah.\" He nods. Trying to remain aloof. \"That's because I'm a *bad ass*.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "It really took courage. Don't pick at him." } ], [ { "actor": "ROO A72 Motor Skiff", "dialogue": "The skiff bobs in the calm waters. It has nothing more to do." } ], [ { "actor": "Sixteen Days of Coldest April", "dialogue": "In excruciating detail, the author describes the socio-economic conditions that have brought the people of Yugo-Graad into the streets -- centuries of humiliations and despair. And then, during these riots, two young people meet..." } ], [ { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"If you'll please carry that amplifier and cables, officer. We have quite a lot to carry...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Script: PassTime();\nPassTime();\nPassTime();\nPassTime()]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"And now if you'll just connect that here...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Got it. Are we ready?\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"We're ready to try, at least. Please, put those on. I've configured the channels so that only your microphone is set to broadcast. We'll both be able to listen, but anyone we reach will only hear *your* voice.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"You will need to transmit your connection request while I attempt to locate the warship's public frequency. You will likely encounter some interference, but it's important to keep transmitting your request until you're acknowledged. Ready?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Not yet.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Too late. I've begun transmitting...\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.is_snowing\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A soft rustling. Between your ears, a winterscape with fast falling snow..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.warship_shivers_snow\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Go ahead, officer.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Shimmering Wall of Vices", "dialogue": "A colourful display of cigarettes and alcohol bottles lines the shop wall, inviting you closer." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "The bottles wink at you in the light. The smokes too glitter in their wrapping. It's like looking into a kind of heaven. Your knees are weak..." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "There, in that dark green glass, a world of ruby, all in vain! The great flowing river of warmth: Wine-alcohol. Beer-alcohol. Love-alcohol." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Not right now. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Microgrid Generator", "dialogue": "An old cylindrical generator is nested above the ammo lift, with makeshift electrical wiring running out of its side and across the floor. The cables disappear into the wall to your right." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: DayCount() == 1]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.lena_intro_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Hello again, sweetie.\" Her grey eyes shine above the rims of her glasses." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are you okay? I am very sorry I crashed into you earlier. I don't know what got into me.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Oh, I'm perfectly alright! I'm more worried about you. What was that?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It was like my body had a will of its own. I was running, my torso turned, my hands made this lewd gesture... I'm sorry you had to witness it.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Don't beat yourself up over it too much, dear. People do strange things when the old fight-or-flight kicks in. I'm just glad you weren't injured.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't know if you've noticed, but I don't know where I am, or what I'm doing. Or *anything*.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Yes, officer, you look rather dazed... like a stunned fox. But surely things can't be *that* bad?\" Her eyes follow your movements with some concern." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "She won't judge you, no matter what you say." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I hope you're right. I hope it's not too bad...\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"You know where we *are*, right?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"The theatrical suicide attempt -- we need to talk about it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It was a cry for help.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes. Well. I was able to re-contextualize it as a *dark joke*.\" He pauses thoughtfully. \"I will not be able to re-contextualize it the next time.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I understand you sometimes employ *extreme* interrogation tactics, but I want you to understand: that was *too* extreme.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We can't have RCM officers going around, putting guns in their mouths. We can't afford to have that image. Few institutions can.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sorry I put you into this position.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No need to apologize -- just keep your gun out of your mouth and we'll be all right.\" He nods. \"Let's move.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "The Great Doorgunner Megamix", "dialogue": "The porta-reel is just what you needed -- the reels attach to the apparatus with a satisfying click. The tape is routed behind the magnetic reader." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Don't play the tape. [Put porta-reel away.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "As you hold your ledger's clip under the headlamp, an iridescent hologram appears: a street grid and the veins of a great river. A familiar sensation washes over you..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There she is: Revachol West.\" There's a note of pride in the lieutenant's voice." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "Around the borders of the watermark are dozens, no, *hundreds* of micro-perforations." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look at the perforations." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "There are many of them. And they are divided into three separate rows." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Tally up the different rows." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "The first row has 18 dots." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What about the next one?" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "The next is the longest. It runs all the way around the border and then some." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Count them individually." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "You count 216 perforations. Considering that nice, large number, a wave of pride washes over you, though you can't say why, precisely." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "There are so many it's hard to count. More than 150, at least. Maybe even 200." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What about the last row?" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I wanna talk about the hanging again.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Again? Someone ask the guy for an autograph -- you cops are his biggest fans.\"" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "A burst of laughter in the room; the little guy is the loudest. \"Good one, Titus!\" he fawns." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm going to ask you again, Titus. Why'd you kill him?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Why?\" he hisses through his teeth. \"Because he was worthless mercenary scum -- *and* he stepped out of line. In *my* town.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Glad we cleared that up.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"So am I. Now how about you get the fuck out of my town?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardies_heard_someone_was_raped\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "No, fuck him. Murder rage never came from *nothing*. Hit him with the question again -- why'd he fucking do it?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardies_gonna_ask_again_old_man\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "He killed the guy for stepping out of line? What, is Mr. Titus Hardie here a *fascist*? No sir, he is not. Get to the bottom of it. Ask again." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardies_gonna_ask_again_old_man\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Countless lines separate life and death. What terminal boundary was crossed here? Men like Titus don't murder over nothing. Ask him again." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Alain is a fucking cockroach name... (unintelligible)... suits me...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "One day, you may be able to scale this tower. But it won't be today. Neither your sinews nor your spirit could handle this ascent." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm a man in his prime. I should be able to do anything. This isn't fair." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You might be that numerically, but you've really done a number on yourself too." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "When your mind is clear of the neurotoxins you've been injecting it with for years, and your body regains some nimbleness and swiftness, you might achieve such a feat." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "You're not doing *that* bad. But, yeah, there's some distance to go." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Yeah, you were getting a tad too ambitious there." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "But, can't deny it -- your mind's pretty clear, all things considered. In fact, it's too clear for you to be buying into this climbing vision quest." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I feel like I am failing as a man. I am ashamed." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "There still may be time to recuperate. Just grit your teeth." }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Hey, man. I see it in you -- you are prepared to surrender yourself to the fire of revelation. But you're still a bit shaky spiritually.\" He looks you over. \"You're also just, physically, shaking.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Keep the flame in your soul alive, though. One day you'll make it up here, if you put in the work.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did you just climb down from the church tower?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "All around you, the hisses and chirps of locusts fill the musky air. The earthen floor of the shack has been shaped into mounds of mud dotted with little holes for windows." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Like skyscrapers, spires of dirt and sand rising. Accommodations for their insectoid inhabitants?" }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "Sounds like you found the locusts, detective." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is this?" }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "Heaps of leaves are rotting among the mud-cake towers. Dozens of little locusts feed on them, buzzing away with vicious joy. Cuno has really outdone himself here." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "It's an ode to self expression." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "It's the work of a self-taught visionary." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I should go and ask him to stop then. [Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." } ], [ { "actor": "Sandcastle", "dialogue": "Weather has not been kind to Lily's little sandcastle. The once mighty towers are quickly eroding away. You can see something shining back to you from what must have been a vast underground catacomb network." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Reach in the catacombs and pull out the shiny object." }, { "actor": "Sandcastle", "dialogue": "The walls and floors give way to the giant's greed, collapse and present you with a pair of ceramic gauntlets." } ], [ { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "As you turn, a bright light catches your eye, making you squint." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Where's it coming from?" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "From a distant sunset? A stage light? Flash photography? Nowhere in particular? It's just what *superstar law-officers* do -- they squint at lights. And they solve shit." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Actually, now that I hear *superstar* and *law official* in a sentence they sound weird together." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "What are you, deaf? They're perfect! Like 'rockstar politician' and 'drug-addict teacher'. Embrace the superstardom you've worked so hard to establish." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You've got the wrong impression. I'm no superstar. I'm trash." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Yeah, a cool *trash* superstar. Big dick cop down on his luck. Salaam Rocky Bhai. Bad-ass, on the edge disco cop. Time to recede into a ludicrous fantasy world, HERE WE GO! Camera, lights..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "ACTION!" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "With a sudden flash the world freezes around you -- and you along with it. In an iconic monochrome solution, a black silhouette against a rasterized orange world. It's *on*." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You think this will make them cooperate?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Nothing will make them respect the RCM. But it will disrupt the game they prepared for us. We just stripped off one layer of whatever it is. Her decision to not corroborate their story was *definitely* not part of the plan.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Got it. Let's go.\" [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Right, pig, this is where Cuno plays with his little wooden choo-choo. Fuck do you want with it?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The ladder, ever climb it?\" (Point to the ladder on the tree.)" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Look at that fucking shit?\" he screeches. \"You tryin'a get Cuno killed?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you would say that the ladder is... unclimbable?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Fuck does Cuno know? Cuno's not a fucking acrobat!\"" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Cuno knows the ladder is unclimbable." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant takes a quick note in his notebook." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"It's a trap, Cuno! Don't climb it, Cuno!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Cuno, there's a stack of eternite back there...\" (Point to the shack.)" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"That's just some shit roofing-gimps left behind. Lazy dinks.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.shack_strange_feeling\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "He's hiding something." } ], [ { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Well, now you've done it. Let's see if you can talk your way out of this one." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't really want to talk about it.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant looks at you in silence, though you cannot discern if he's judging you or not. \"I suppose your reasons are your own.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Let me say just one more thing. As you've seen, these sorts of attitudes are quite common in Martinaise. So I expect this to happen again. And again...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I've had this conversation enough times in my life. From now on, I'm going to stay out of it. How you choose to respond is your business.\" He concludes: \"Now -- let's get back to the task at hand.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"And now if you'll just connect that here...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Got it. Are we ready?\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"We're ready to try, at least. Please, put those on. I've configured the channels so that only your microphone is set to broadcast. We'll both be able to listen, but anyone we reach will only hear *your* voice.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"You will need to transmit your connection request while I attempt to locate the warship's public frequency. You will likely encounter some interference, but it's important to keep transmitting your request until you're acknowledged. Ready?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Wait, what if they *never* acknowledge me?\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Then it will be exactly like every other moment of every other day. I ask again: Are you ready?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Good. Beginning transmission.\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.is_snowing\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A soft rustling. Between your ears, a winterscape with fast falling snow..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.warship_shivers_snow\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Go ahead, officer.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Trap: Boathouses", "dialogue": "Nothing has changed about this trap. You need to check the others." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Nightwatchman's Booth", "dialogue": "This is the nightwatchman's booth. The name on the door reads *Ren\u00e9 Arnoux*." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Listen... It's okay to take a few minutes to yourself. Sit down and have a breather." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "You need to rest. Your body is aching. Getting in here has taken something out of you. Have a seat." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So this is where Ren\u00e9 works. I'm gonna look around.\" (Search the booth.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"If you must.\" The lieutenant looks around. \"But please hurry -- we're pretty easy to spot up here.\"" }, { "actor": "Nightwatchman's Booth", "dialogue": "Nothing incriminating catches your eye. The cabinets are clean and their sparse contents meticulously organized. There's a framed photograph on the table." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Seems like something police would do. What do you think of all this, Kim?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Honestly, I'm quite worried by what we've seen so far. The evidence seems to point to a rather extensive and well-organized operation.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.abandoned_seen_radio\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.abandoned_seen_article\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.abandoned_seen_maps\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Oh, and the maps we found. They reveal the *geographical* extent of the operation -- looks like they've used abandoned tunnels and access roads to stay hidden. This is useful info.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.confront_hardie_about_drug_trade\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The Union really is in neck-deep with everything around here, isn't it?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"One way or another, they seem to be -- logistically, if nothing else. But don't expect to bust this open during our stay here. At best, this is an angle we can use against them. To other ends. As extra ammunition.\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Meaning: someone as slippery as Evrart won't be caught by a couple of cops and some stuff they found in some cabin." } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Is that the phasmid? It looks like the phasmid, leaning against the wall..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try to sneak up to the phasmid." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "It's not the phasmid... It's not even organic -- it's a fire iron. How disappointing!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "This is what I get for trying to be a scientist instead of a cop. I mean, I'm not even a *good* cop." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You were just following your instincts, your destiny. You're meant to find the phasmid! Just maybe not here..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Give the dream of discovering the Insulindian phasmid a rest... for now. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.roy_intro_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"It's not often that I see officers from the RCM in my pawnshop.\" The man at the counter turns to you slowly." }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"What can I do for you?\" he asks." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "His courtesy is not insincere, but he prefers being alone with his projector, just watching the movement of light across the walls of the shop." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Shake your head.) \"It's shameful, how insufficient the police presence is in these parts!\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"I haven't had any problems myself... though some of my customers have complained about inconsistent law enforcement.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who are your customers usually?\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"All kinds of people come through here... Locals, travellers. People looking for a deal. People looking for a keepsake. People who are terminally bored.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"As you can see... I have a wide selection of goods for everyone to choose from.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Honestly, I think some of your selections are...\" (Press your finger to your lips) \"...more tasteful than others.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"It keeps me entertained,\" he responds, unimpressed with your snobbery." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "He's well composed, but underneath it you sense *psychedelic* processes, bubbling. Some kind of drug maybe?" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Entertained? He might be high -- if he is, on what?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Care to share your Pyrholidon with me?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "The mug, I'm getting that mug too." }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "You pick out a broken mug, with an oddly racist depiction of *the yellow man* frolicking in saffron." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "An antique?" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "Only in its social sensibility." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Take the mug.)" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"backyard.gary_mugs\"]]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "You betcha. You know -- this awfully *colonial* mug reminds you of another one, doesn't it? Anyway..." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Yes! The one in the apartment you broke into. Interesting little clue. Surely this will yield something -- down the road..." }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"] or Variable[\"character.interactable_tutorial_seen\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Time for bed again. Crawl inside for real..." }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "The smell of rotten food rises up at you as you climb inside the trash container." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Close the lid.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.dicemaker_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"Oh, it's you again. Are you looking for a die?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How did you become a dicemaker?\"" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"How did I *become* one? It was a business decision. I was a regular jeweller at first, but that's an unfocused field -- with too much competition.\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "She doesn't let it show, but there's anger in there -- she doesn't like jewellers. Thinks they're a mob." }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"Some of my friends were role-players. They asked me to make some polyhedral dice out of cobalt. That was my first order. I grew it from there.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you like role-playing games yourself?\"" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"Not especially. I like working with rare materials and a steady pay. And role-players as customers -- they're nice people.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Some of those nice people have big bucks to spend on novelty items." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She's thankful for the security they provide her." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I have more questions about this building.\"" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"I'm listening.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Apricot Chewing Gum Wrapper", "dialogue": "A crinkled chewing gum wrapper. The worn label reads: 'Tutti Frutti.' It smells faintly of apricots, with a barely noticeable twinge of cinnamon." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "You feel compelled to point out that there's nothing fruity about cinnamon -- It's a spice derived from tree bark." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Why do I even care about this?" }, { "actor": "Apricot Chewing Gum Wrapper", "dialogue": "Good question, There is no answer or secret phrase written on the inside of the wrapper. Yet you're drawn to it." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Drawn by regret. Stop, before you *hurt* yourself with the Tutti Frutti wrapper. Throw it away, please." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'll hang on to it, just in case." }, { "actor": "Apricot Chewing Gum Wrapper", "dialogue": "You neatly fold the wrapper into a square before you put it back into your pocket. Carefully. Lovingly even..." } ], [ { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "What is that awful smell?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Hold on, that *is* awful. (Cover your nose.)" }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "It doesn't help. You can still smell it." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Keep it in now. Don't overreact. Breathe." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is it?" }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "You've never smelled anything this bad before. It's pungent, but with a faintly cloying sweetness like cheap perfume on Death itself." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Something cold wakes in the pit of your stomach: fear." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It *is* death. It must be." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Goddamnit..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "A sense of dread washes over you as you look ahead." } ], [ { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "A pane of eternite has been planted into the snow. Two poles are holding it up." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "*Barely* holding it up. It could fall over any minute... a stronger gust of wind might be enough." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is this?" }, { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "Looks like a makeshift bridge, currently drawn up." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "When junior researcher \u00d5lari Taal invented eternite in the un-prestigious V\u00e4rtna Polytechnic Institute some thirty odd years ago, he thought it would last forever -- hence the name eternite. The only lasting thing about it turned out to be its carcinogenic effect." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Push the eternite over." }, { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "The pane falls into the icy snow with a soft thunk." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We should ask that girl on the ice what's going on here.\" The lieutenant gestures toward the young woman next to the tent." } ], [ { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"If you'll please carry that amplifier and cables, officer. We have quite a lot to carry...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Script: PassTime();\nPassTime();\nPassTime();\nPassTime()]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"And now if you'll just connect that here...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's done. I believe we're ready.\" The lieutenant wipes his brow." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"We're ready to try, at least. Please, put on these headphones, there should be two extra sets. I've configured the channels so that only your microphone is set to broadcast, officer. We'll all be able to listen, but anyone we reach will only hear *your* voice.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"You will need to transmit your connection request while I attempt to locate the warship's public frequency. You will likely encounter some interference, but it's important to keep transmitting your request until you're acknowledged. Ready?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Good. Beginning transmission.\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"auto.is_snowing\"]]" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A soft rustling. The snow seems to have gotten between your ears somehow..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.warship_shivers_snow\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Go ahead, officer.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant clears his throat. \"Detective -- aren't you forgetting something?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We still need to investigate the scene. Remember?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Aw, can't you do it Kim? I'm wiped out.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant only shakes his head. \"Let's just do it, shall we?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Banger Scab", "dialogue": "\"Should've stayed in the damn sawmill...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"So. Those voices they heard...\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Yes, of course! Earlier, when you turned the radio on in his Kineema!" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Don't." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Speedfreaks FM! Your favourite channel!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant breathes steadily, each inhalation and exhalation controlled." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I can't explain how they heard it,\" he says, ignoring your comment. \"I believe they heard something. And given the poverty of this part of town, I don't know how they could have heard a radio. However...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Weird as it is, this situation is not connected to the murder. This isn't our business.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But it is related, Kim. The wind told me so.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant says nothing. An ocean breeze blows in strong. He raises his jacket collar against it." } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "There! Do you smell that?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't smell anything." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Can you not detect that inimitable *whiff* of dissatisfaction and restlessness, that sense that the world is in need of dramatic, even *violent* re-ordering?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Does that mean there's a communist nearby?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Undoubtedly. And the scent is coming... from that railing over there!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You mean from Ma\u00f1ana?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Yes. Now's your chance to *establish contact*." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "But be easy about it. Communists have been known to charge when startled." } ], [ { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"And now if you'll just connect that here...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Got it. Are we ready?\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"We're ready to try, at least. Please, put those on. I've configured the channels so that only your microphone is set to broadcast. We'll both be able to listen, but anyone we reach will only hear *your* voice.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"You will need to transmit your connection request while I attempt to locate the warship's public frequency. You will likely encounter some interference, but it's important to keep transmitting your request until you're acknowledged. Ready?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Good. Beginning transmission.\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"auto.is_snowing\"]]" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A soft rustling. The snow seems to have gotten between your ears somehow..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.warship_shivers_snow\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Where's the sound coming from?" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Every lightswitch, every motor carriage, every doorbell, tea kettle, and radio in Martinaise, all mingled with electrical interference caused by scattered thunderstorms over Ozonne." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Officer? Are you in order? We're waiting for you to start...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm more interested in *why* you're so fixated on this idea in the first place.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We can't assign *la responsabilit\u00e9* if we don't go through the proper channels.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"But here's the thing, detective. *We're* the proper channels. Doing our work, right here on the ground, is how we'll solve this case. There's no need to bring the Coalition into this.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This has *got* to be better than your DynaWave.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"An Esterhaz is certainly nothing to sniff at.\" The lieutenant nods. \"But if you compare the feature sets, I would say they're more-or-less equivalent.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's okay. As long as it works.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It should. Assuming we can find a way to replace the frequency dial.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Put the transceiver away. (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "The movie stars are still smiling from the walls. There's a radio transmitter in the front and a pull-out toolbox tucked under the driver's seat. Some tools lie scattered near the pedals." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pull out the pull-out toolbox." }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "A metallic drawer slides out from the seat: It's empty, except for a folded newspaper." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Push in the pull-out toolbox." }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "The pull-out toolbox slides back into its nest. The rest is as it was: radio, posters, a trace of motor oil smell under all the cigarettes." } ], [ { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "The remaining windows rattle from a strong gust of wind. They're covered in a thick layer of grime. They must have been like this for forty years." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Now that you've acquired some stimulants, it's time for a little pick-me-up. Time to *detect*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm not doing this now. [Ignore thought.]" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "This is so unprofessional of you. Think you can ignore this -- your *moral compass* telling you to sniff it? Guess again -- you'll be back here soon. You'll get the chance to choose more wisely." }, { "actor": "Tutorial Agent", "dialogue": "You've passed up your chance to start using SPEED for now, but don't worry! The option to use it becomes available again in 1 hour." } ], [ { "actor": "Trap: Canal", "dialogue": "The locusts aren't doing all too well, but they're still in there. This isn't the empty trap. That must have been another one." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "The light vanishes inside the concrete slit. The structure goes deep under the earth." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Harry... \" he says almost gently. \"Honestly, I'm just relieved you didn't get a hernia. A man your age...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I too am surprised by the resilience and athleticism of this tool I've been provided with.\" (Tap your chest.)" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Yes, yes, Harry. You are obviously in peak physical condition and I salute both your initiative and your physical prowess. Very impressive, Harry. *Very impressive*.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Anyway, I assure you, I am a very well-informed man. Information reaches me before I even get the chance to request it.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Yes, but it's because his word usually sets things in motion." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's talk about something else.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"But of course, Harry.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It turns out the strikers were being served an alcoholic brew. I stopped this madness.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsCunoInParty()]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Whoa there, man. You've been squealing and thrashing around, crazy. And now -- you're bleeding too... again.\" He stares in awe at the streaks of blood covering your body." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm fine, really.\" (Try to cover up the blood seeping out with your hands.) \"I'm super mega fine.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Sure, sure. That's why you mumbled about bitches. Real fine.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Just grunt in pain." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Right. Pig takes it like a man. Good for you. Bitches always tryna' damage you with *psi* weapons. *Psi* style -- you wouldn't *believe* the shit Cuno sees about C...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's not good, this C in his dreams." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Now let's get this shit back on the road, yo. Just make sure you don't die.\" He glances at your blood-covered hands. \"Cuno's no fucking mortician.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "However bad it is, pig, we go on, deputy Cuno thinks. We detect. There's nothing more." } ], [ { "actor": "Easy Leo", "dialogue": "(Sings.) \"Container, container, container!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Nothing jumps out to you. Nothing out of the ordinary." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Really? Because I could swear something's not adding up here." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "How about you get out and breathe -- the air in the tent is too thick for you to think clearly." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No words. Just dance." }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"ice.andre_composure_initiated_dance\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You close your eyes and dream of the shapes your body should form to bring this strange music into life. For now, such ferocity of motion is beyond you..." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "...but just *imagine* the moves you could pull to this futuristic beat!" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Puts a grin on your face just to think about it. Even a failed attempt gets the juices flowing and repairs some of the damage done by battles lost. If you up the dose and TRULY DANCE, who knows what will happen?" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"ice.andre_electrochemistry_dance_failure_reward\"]]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "SALVATION!" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You did well,\" the lieutenant says as soon as you've left the apartment. The balcony feels cool and quiet, with a stunning view over the sleeping district." } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Biographies", "dialogue": "The plaque on the shelf reads: \"Biographies of Famous People.\" You see a large variety of names, none of which ring a bell." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "You will attain a place on this shelf one day... or *die trying*!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm interested in that 'Greatest Innocence' book.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"A true cultural touchstone.\" She nods. \"Enjoy the read.\"" }, { "actor": "Tutorial Agent", "dialogue": "You've acquired an interactable item. Investigate this item further by going to the INTERACT tab in your INVENTORY." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm interested in that 'Greatest Innocence' book.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"A true cultural touchstone.\" She nods. \"Enjoy the read.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant clears his throat. \"Detective -- aren't you forgetting something?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We still have to deal with her...\" He adjusts his coat. \"Not pleasant, I know. But we can't leave her like that. And we have to investigate the scene, too.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But it's so sad, Kim. Too sad for me!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Be that as it may, it doesn't change the fact. We have a duty to her. Let's see it through.\" He gestures back toward the tunnels. \"After you.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "His eyes move from you to the lights dancing on the walls." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you recognise net worth in here? I have a *lot* of it.\" (Show him the certificate.)" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "He scans the document in your hand. \"This is--\" He's interrupted by a sudden cough. \"I certainly wouldn't pass up the opportunity to acquire something that can make princes out of peons.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Owning shares -- that's where the proper trade is. Far beyond the pittance I deal with in here.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "He seems down on himself. Offer a bit of positivity and you might put him in a more benevolent mood." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What can I trade for these shares then? *Everything*?\" (Proceed.)" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"In theory, yes, you probably have enough to afford it all. However, I don't plan on selling up and joining the mastodons of La Delta just yet.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.roy_electro_white_check\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"What I can do is trade that modified street light over there for some of your shares. It's the most expensive item in here -- the finest in interior lighting.\"" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Expensive isn't everything. Bet this light doesn't even have a recognisable *brand*. And you can't exactly strut down the street and turn heads with it like you can a new Perseus Black number." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Good point. I won't bother with it then." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Let's not *completely* write it off yet. Perhaps there's a business venture to be had here. Any ideas?" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Turn it into an art installation. Invite viewers to question what it means to bring an outside light, *inside*? We have so many barriers to break down and concepts to explore... for a price, of course." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Imagine swinging it at a ball -- the distance you'd get! That's the kind of feat that nets sportsmen a corporate sponsorship." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "There's much to be learned in this kind of rewiring job. You could steal its secrets and make a whole line of modified street tech to sell to the public." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "It's been through a whole *transformation*. There are so many insights to share -- it just needs a medium. Wouldn't the wake-walkers pay to hear the somniloquy of the spirit light?" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "It's up to you. If you think it's got ROI potential then go ahead. Just bear in mind that these shares are developing into a fortune without you having to do anything." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Good lord...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "From A to Zrieek! A Guide To a Well-Behaved Cockatoo", "dialogue": "A cockatoo is a parrot with an erectile crest, found on the Semenine islands and in southern Face-\u00e0-la-Mer. Known for their intelligence and general precociousness, cockatoos are popular birds in aviculture; however, they often exhibit various behavioural issues." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Okay. What more?" }, { "actor": "From A to Zrieek! A Guide To a Well-Behaved Cockatoo", "dialogue": "This book talks about the delicate nature of 'toos, as well as introducing some of the most popular species among the bird enthusiasts: the funeral cockatoo, the Major Majestic cockatoo, and the most common bang-bang cockatoo. It's colourfully illustrated." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Honestly, this bird does sound a bit like me..." }, { "actor": "From A to Zrieek! A Guide To a Well-Behaved Cockatoo", "dialogue": "Yes, but all those cockatoo species are so different! Which one are you?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Only the funeral cockatoo in its darkness can truly grasp the depths of my doom-laden soul." }, { "actor": "From A to Zrieek! A Guide To a Well-Behaved Cockatoo", "dialogue": "You're right, you're *Psittacus funereus* embodied. This ominous bird belongs on your heraldry!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Read about the most common bang-bang cockatoo." }, { "actor": "From A to Zrieek! A Guide To a Well-Behaved Cockatoo", "dialogue": "Despite its *banging* name, the bang-bang cockatoo is actually the shyest of the species. Common in almost all Semenese forests, as well as zoos and homes all over the world, its plumage is mainly grey and white. The Semenese name *bang-bang* is thought to be of onomatopoeic origins." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "The *bang* is for all the scary things in the world... that may happen at any time." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Read about the funeral cockatoo." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing -- just nod." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We should go talk to the locals, find something else to do while the wind changes. It's pretty bad right now.\"" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Give it half an hour, get yourself together, then come back and have another go.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Turn away. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "These are the same belts as the one the victim was hanged with." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I should talk to him about the hanged man." } ], [ { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Ah, yes -- back to the *low-down*.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is this?\" (Spread your hands.)" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"A bird?\" She tilts her head. \"A *sphenicid* -- a flightless bird of the polar regions?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Keep guessing.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Some sort of... krill hunter? No, wait...\" Joyce raises her eyebrows. \"You're an ancient ruin, a symbol of hubris and decay, half-submerged in some salty sea.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What -- really?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Of course you're not, my dear. I'm just terrible at guessing games.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I meant what is this *place* here?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.ask_about_ruby_in_village\"]]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"This *place* is an unmarked microsettlement on the coast of Martinaise...\" She gestures toward a collection of cinderblock dwellings covered by a highly carcinogenic roofing material." }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"It's lovely, really. I'm thinking of buying it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Really?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"pier.joyce_evrart_villagequest_told\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsTaskActive(\"TASK.meet_lilienne_for_a_date\")--[[ Variable[ ]]]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Actually, yes. The thought did cross my mind when Mademoiselle Lilienne earlier told me about the fresh produce these women sell to restaurants on the Delta.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"This place could use a competent manager. There's so much to be done. But then, I'll never get around to it, will I?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Good going, buddy." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Is that how it's going to be now when I close my eyes?" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Yes. Wait till you see the one with the chick in it, it's gonna be a good one. You feel even worse this morning than you did last night." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What chick?" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "You don't know? Some broad that messed you up. It'll come to you. It always does." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What the hell is going on with me?" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "You mean why are you so tired? Too tired and *down* to even think? It *is* worrying, isn't it. You can't be a detective like this -- detectives need to be able to think." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Why is this happening?" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "It's just that your heart has finally pumped all the *speed* out of your system, buster. Time to get some more." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Don't do that. Stay strong. The hangover will wear off. You don't need to keep doing this to yourself." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I need to get more of it then. *Detecting* is my life. (Opt in.)" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Of course! Martinaise is speed-central. You just gotta poke around, follow your nose." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "You and speed will be happy again. You will make her come home. This time it will be different." } ], [ { "actor": "Echo Maker", "dialogue": "\"I would commit war crimes for some real Saramirizian coffee.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Industrial Stove", "dialogue": "This industrial gas-powered stove has been used to prepare food for many hungry hostel guests. There are several pots and pans on hand." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.hanged_boots_kim_acid\"]]" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "The lieutenant said you'd need to boil the boots in acid to get the corpse smell out, but this huge pot, industrial dish soap, white vinegar, and patience might do the trick." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Check out the cleaning supplies." }, { "actor": "Industrial Stove", "dialogue": "There is a variety of soaps and bleaches in the cabinet to the left of the stove. There is also a bottle of white vinegar in the cabinet next to the fridge." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "This is gonna take *the hard* stuff too. Use as much as you can." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It's bad with those boots. Don't be stingy now." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "The boots are *really* disgusting. Pour some dish soap *and* the bottle of white vinegar into the pot." }, { "actor": "Industrial Stove", "dialogue": "The delicious smells of cheap soap and vinegar waft up from the pot." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Alright now, chef. Light the stove up and boil them." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Check out the cookware." }, { "actor": "Industrial Stove", "dialogue": "A commercial pot draws your attention. It's very large. Gigantic, even. It could be used to make enough stew to feed an entire city. And also to boil a putrid pair of death-boots." } ], [ { "actor": "Set of Tracks", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Set of Tracks", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tracks_viscal_wc_success_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "The tracks are as they have ever been. A bit more worn, perhaps. Fortunately, the street sweeper still hasn't noticed their presence." }, { "actor": "Set of Tracks", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Set of Tracks", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This is where I started off with my motor carriage... before sinking it in the sea.\"" }, { "actor": "Set of Tracks", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Set of Tracks", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.garte_mentions_cavalry\"] or Variable[\"whirling.garte_gives_directions_to_yard\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No wonder the cafeteria manager seemed frustrated when he was giving us directions to the yard.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Well,\" he gestures toward the gaping hole in the fence, \"you did provide us with a very convenient access point to the crime scene.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This is the point of departure of the vehicle that crashed into the Samaran Butter sign.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant follows the tracks with his gaze. \"That's plausible. A similar... reckless abandon seems to be in evidence.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This is where I started off with my motor carriage... before sinking it in the sea.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Looks like someone tried to *reconceptualize* their business here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard the thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Small Buoy", "dialogue": "A metal-and-plastic contraption bobs up and down amidst the trembling reeds. At first it just looks like trash, but if you look closer..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "This must be the buoy Klaasje mentioned." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Oooh, hidden things -- secrets, lies!" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Cold. Air. Tendons. Snapped the cords keeping the buoy in place. A little longer and it would be floating somewhere out in the open sea..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Enough. Shake it off." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "It's just rapid movement across the water. It leaves no trace. A whisper..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We're lucky it's still here. A little longer and it would have floated away...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Convince Titus he is being manipulated." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardie_rhetoric_wc\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardie_failed_the_rhet_wc\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Klaasje is playing them like a fiddle -- tell them how bad they got played and they'll tell you the truth. There are many ways to go about it -- all of them *really good*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm gonna tell you a little story about *Kim* here.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"What fucking story?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "A story that fits the occasion, of course! I invented a wonderful *allegory* for all this..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No, no.\" He looks around. \"There is no story.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Point to the lieutenant) \"You see, Kimothy here got himself into a jam...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I didn't,\" the lieutenant says quietly. \"Let's not do stories. Let's do *questions*.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "No, no. Don't listen to him. This is gold stuff. Now let's get *didactic*!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kimmo got to thinking he could trust this bad chick. Because she was hot. So he asked her to *lie* for him. She promised she would -- then ratted him out. Almost cost him his job.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"So you got, played huh?\" Titus glances at the lieutenant." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Good. You got his attention. Now reward it with a metaphor." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Titus, she played Kim like a miniature train set.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes, yes, a miniature train set...\" He turns to Titus. \"The point is, this *allegorical* Kim should've just told the truth.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"You need to man up and take charge, little guy. Shit's got to be equal in a couple. Listen to your buddy Titus here.\" He points to himself. \"Nothing like this would ever happen to a Hardie boy.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "You hold in your hand the colourful primer. The title reads: \"A Primer for Small Kids.\" There's a bear involved." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Exactly what I need!" }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "Mhm. This book will show you the score; get you oriented with those basic concepts you appear to be hazy on. The anthropomorphic bear will give you the *low-down* of your life..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "On what?" }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "The alphabet." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Flip through the pages." }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "Every page has one word designating one letter of the alphabet, with a faded illustration -- most of them are scientific and cultural principles. It goes as follows..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let's do this." }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "A is for Azimuth, B is for Boreas, C is for Cosign, D is for Diamat, E is for Ellips, F is for Flogiston, G is for Gamut." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Mmhm." }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "H is for Homeboy, I is for Iikon, J is for Jura, K is for Kollaps, L is for Laudanum, M is for Myriad, N is for Nadir, O is for Oreole, P is for Perihelion." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Nod stoically." }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "Q is for Quasar, R is for Rhododendron, S is for Sinus, T is for Tricoleur, U is for Ultra, V is for Vector, W is for Warheit, X is for Xylophone, Y is for Yst\u00e4v\u00e4, Z is for Zenith." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "That's it?" }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "That's it. You know the alphabet now." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You know, Contact Mike doesn't *just beat people up*. Contact Mike is a role model.\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Um...\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "An entire *litany* spews forth!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"On second thought, screw Contact Mike. He's not a champion -- you are! Look at you here in front of a saggy tent, picking your nose to drug-addict music. The world of sports is in awe of your faith and dedication.\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Man, you are one weird cop.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This isn't about me. This is about your lack of respect for one of boxing's greats -- and for *yourself*.\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"What is it with you and this Mike guy?\" She pauses. The question is rhetorical." }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Okay, if it floats your boat I'll be more like Contact Mike and less like me.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Self respect is not meant to float any boats but your own.\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"I'll keep that in mind, for future use.\" She turns to check her tape recorder." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How does that thing work?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"The mic? I don't exactly know. Somehow it doesn't pick up vibrations from the air. The box said it only picks up *structure-borne sound*. If you like technobabble.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Does this have anything to do with Contact Mike?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Uh...\" She's confused. \"Yeah, I record stuff with it.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Sorry, but you just don't have it in you right now." }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"What were you even trying to do, man? I believe you can overcome your problems eventually, if you purge yourself of your wilfulness and seek the Mother's guidance. But *this*, right now, would be some suicidal shit.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You've been here a long time. Do you know why the church was abandoned?\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Police raid a while back,\" he responds, his voice suddenly flat." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did you see what happened?\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Not really, or at least I don't remember much of it anymore. The Mother's Love has done its job... That's what's so great about the Mother -- it lets you forget about everything.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Could it be that he just doesn't want to discuss a police raid with another police officer?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It looks like he truly doesn't remember. There's a vagueness to his sense of time." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What are you doing here?\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"This is a special place. There's a perforation in the world up there. A way out, into nothingness.\" He nods toward the ceiling. \"This church was built around it, for purposes of veneration.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"I circle it, nurtured by the silence bestowed by the Mother. One of these days, I'll be pure enough to go drink from it directly.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "As you hold your ledger's clip under the headlamp, an iridescent hologram appears: a street grid and the veins of a great river. A familiar sensation washes over you..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There she is: Revachol West.\" There's a note of pride in the lieutenant's voice." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "Around the borders of the watermark are dozens, no, *hundreds* of micro-perforations." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look at the shimmering street grid." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "The rectangular watermark is overlaid with the logo of the RCM, and yet the major arteries of Revachol are all recognizable. They shimmer in the Kineema's headlights." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Where are we on this?\" (Point to the halogen map.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Let me see.\" He takes the ledger for a moment and inspects it." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Right here,\" he says, his finger near the top of the map, on a segment of coast jutting out into the great ocean." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sure I've seen worse.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Oh yes. Coal City, Le Royaume, the Burnt Out Quarter...\"" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "All of them worse than here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look at the perforations." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "There are many of them. And they are divided into three separate rows." } ], [ { "actor": "Trap: Morell", "dialogue": "You've checked all the traps now. There's nothing else to do with them. The cryptozoologists await your report." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No time. Let's move.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Got you.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere() and Variable[\"gates.measurhead_disable_kim_react_to_turnbacktime_if_seen_once\"] == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.fascha_dq_asked_someone_the_q\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No,\" the lieutenant shakes his head. \"You don't. You need to help me find out who killed our hanged man.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, you cannot even *begin* to comprehend the importance of this.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No, I cannot,\" he agrees. \"Just make it quick, please.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.pale\"]]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"gates.measurhead_fascha_dq_didnt_know_reality\"]]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"MANAGED TO LEARN THE REALITY RHIZOME -- AND NEXT UP IS RETURNING TO THE PAST?\" The giant locks eyes with you. His face is serious..." }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"YOU DON'T HAVE IT IN YOU. BE GRATEFUL FOR THAT.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So it *is* possible to go back?\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. JUST NOT FOR YOU.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.what_is_race_enigma_done\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Corpse", "dialogue": "A man lies on the boardwalk, his limbs bent and neck turned at an unnatural angle. Right next to him is an empty bottle of spirits. In his cramped hand: a chewing gum wrapper." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Half of his body has slipped between the cracked boardwalk, starting with the right leg. The fall has left him broken, contorted like a sad puppet." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "The smell is... not as bad as a two-week-old corpse, but it's definitely heading there." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Another dead body. This is your job. Steel yourself." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Calm now. Carefully. Just another day, just another dead body. Breathe." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What should I do with the body?" }, { "actor": "Working Class Corpse", "dialogue": "First you need to talk with the lieutenant, then report back to the station. This is too complicated to handle on your own." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who is this man?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Looks like one of the locals -- he'd have to know this spot to come here. You don't *just* walk over here.\" He looks south, the way you came." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"But that's just a lazy assumption. What do you think?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Scab", "dialogue": "\"You have no idea how bad I need this!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Drunk", "dialogue": "\"I'm a scum, just a scummy ol' scum...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"What are you talkin' about, madman? There's no eighth Hardie boy. There's seven of us and we're all here.\" He sizes you up." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Or what -- *you* want to be the eighth Hardie boy? We ain't hiring!\" He shakes his head." }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Actually, boss, we've been talking and we think she could maybe...\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "This person Glen wants to hire -- he really respects her." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"XP.gardner_confirmed_shes_not_eight_hardie\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "*She*? So there is an eighth Hardie and it's a Hardie girl? Who might it be, Elizabeth the gardener?" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Shut the *fuck* up, Glen!\" he roars. \"I do the talking here! Now what the fuck do you want, cop?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It has to be good if he won't let you pursue it. Looks like the lieutenant thinks so too..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"So let me get this straight... there *is* an eighth Hardie boy, it's a *she* and you don't like us talking about her?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"That's right, we're not talking about this. This is a private Hardie boys matter, nothing to do with your shit. *And*...\" He points at the lieutenant." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"You're not cops here. Don't go digging around, if you don't want a bullet in the back of your head. I'm watching you.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Good -- we're all watching each other.\" The lieutenant adjusts his spectacles. \"Officer, your question?\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "There's no point in pushing it further, he thinks. This is already a victory. We'll learn more about this eighth Hardie sooner or later." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I found someone who saw the hanging. A witness.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.return_lenas_pin\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.pay_lena_back\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I just wanted to thank you again.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Of course, dear! I just wish I could have done more.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.lena_pin_task_from_main\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I've gotta get going now.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.lena_exit_clicked\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Of course, dear. Good luck with your case!\" She gives you a small wave." } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You stop mid-step and put your hand on the garish necktie." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "That bottle, *bratan*! Just look at that bottle!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"I don't know what I'm even doing here.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's not much, but it'll do.\" (Go!)" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"It'll *have* to.\" He puts his hand out." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Walk away." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Asshole till the end, huh. Well, fuck you too, then!\" He doesn't sound angry, despite shouting." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.kimintro_did_not_shake_hand\"] or Variable[\"pier.joyce_intro_did_not_shake_hand\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"He's right, you know?\" The lieutenant notes dryly. \"Great work, but the not shaking people's hands thing -- is a little odd.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Scab", "dialogue": "\"Fuck, I'm already tired...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What's the tiniest cryptid?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant leans in. \"Hey, you promised you'd only ask about one cryptid.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Right, okay, we can move on for now.\" (It'd be dishonourable to renege on the promise.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He nods approvingly." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'd really like to hear about more cryptids.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.lena_cryptid_kim_1st\"] == 0 and IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Of course, dear. Is there a particular cryptid that you're interested in learning about?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is this bird a cryptid?\" (Point to the tie she gave you.)" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"No.\" Her eyes narrow mysteriously. \"It's *the* cryptid.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Old Scab", "dialogue": "\"I was promised a place.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.titus_posttribunal_explained_your_betrayal_of_titus\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.titus_posttrib_bad_greet\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.titus_posttrib_gud_greet\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_i_didnt_do_nothing_those_guys_did\"] or Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_theory_hardie\"]]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "Seeing you approach, the bruised man clenches his fists." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsCunoInParty()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_theory_hardie\"]]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"You slimy piece of shit...\" He surveys you. \"You're lucky you got shot, 'cause I've a mind to tear you to pieces right now, but...\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "He did *not* appreciate you blaming him for the murder -- but then again you probably saved his ass later, so he says..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_theory_hardie\"] == true or Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_i_didnt_do_nothing_those_guys_did\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"In the light of your...\" he searches for the right word, then finds it, \"badassery... I'm even willing to forgive the fact you tried to pin a murder on us.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Stone", "dialogue": "A stone like any other, lying in a whorl of sleet and mud. Maybe there's something under it?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Ignore it. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.doomed_radiocomputer_turned_on\"]]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Script: SetVariableValue(\"doomed.radiocomputer_kim_has_seen_it\", true) --[[ Variable[ ]]]" }, { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "Tiles on the cube are still smouldering, casting the framework in a soft glow. Virescent PLAY and PRINT keys shine on the keyboard." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look inside the compartment." }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.radiocomputer_inserted_dev_schedule\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.radiocomputer_inserted_offsite_copy\"]]" }, { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "Behind the hatch sits a cube-like crisscross of filaments, smouldering in the dark like fireflies. Silver tape on the side says in a black marker: \"THE OFF-SITE COPY\"." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Read the printout." }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.radiocomputer_printed_dev_schedule\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "\"Hey, officer. Got a minute?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "You see a colourful primer. The title reads: \"A Primer for Small Kids.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Steal the Primer." }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.book_primer_wc_stealing\"]]" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You peek at the storekeep, waiting for her to be distracted. When she's not looking, you deftly swipe the small booklet off the shelf and stuff it in your pocket." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You now proudly own a primer book for small children which, to be honest, barely cost anything." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to buy the map of Martinaise.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "She nods. \"Always good to be informed of your surroundings.\"" }, { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"] or Variable[\"character.interactable_tutorial_seen\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Tutorial Agent", "dialogue": "You've acquired an interactable item. Investigate this item further by going to the INTERACT tab in your INVENTORY." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Steal it instead." }, { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"*Obviously* I'm gonna quit some day.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"What are we doing, Cuno?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "You've finally made it haven't you? People point fingers at you and whisper to each other when you pass by, wondering to themselves:" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "\"Where did that man get such a cool jacket? Did he receive it upon graduating the \u00c9cole normale sup\u00e9rieure de Bad-Assery? Is he *dangerous?*\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Damn right I'm dangerous." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "You are very dangerous, my friend. Dangerous and cool. In fact, no one dares to say *a single thing* about the jacket. But believe me, they are all *very impressed*." } ], [ { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? What?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Destroy the machine." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.ruby_red_check_pain\"]]" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "You did it. The Compressor lies broken on its side. It's quiet in your head again. It still hurts like hell, but..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Whisper over your shoulder.) \"You okay, Kim?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant hunches, recovering. \"All good, officer. Be careful.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "She looks at the machine, assessing the damage. Her hand trembles." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Ah, fuck it.\" She puts the barrel of the gun into her mouth." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem(\"gun_villiers\")]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What are you *doing*?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Problem-solving,\" she mutters." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Ma'am, put the gun down. That's not the solution to your problems. You are...\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Oh, yes, it is.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Go ahead, then.\" (Let her do it.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.inspect_traps_2_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Hello, sweetie. How are you?\" She sounds tired." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Dark circles around her eyes. She's absolutely exhausted." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She asked about you because she's afraid to hear about the traps. But that's what she really wants news of." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is this *expedition* your husband was on?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Just some field work, sweetie. Morell is a highly trained scientist. He and his assistant, Gary, are studying an *extremely rare* species of insect...\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"But they should have returned by now. They were just going down the coast, across the water lock, to set a few traps. He said they'd be back on Monday...\" She sighs. \"What could be keeping them?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.lever_greeting_done\"] or Variable[\"canal.water_lock_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Maybe your husband went off on an adventure?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Goodness, no! Well, we did get separated once before, during that *monsoon* in South Safre. But we were younger then, and Morell always takes the appropriate precautions...\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Do it. Find him. This will *surely* lead to a mystery with that *extremely rare insect*..." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Yes, please. Some science fiction is *exactly* what's needed right now. Spice up that *vanilla* murder investigation." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Don't worry. You've asked me to look into it and I will.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Large Scab", "dialogue": "\"Look, look here! I signed a six month contract!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_made_it_to_pre_hub\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"Think you can hang our brother and then just fucking *talk* your way out of it?\" His eyes flash." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Whisper.) \"The big one is the mercenary at the gates! The scab leader.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"If this turns into a firefight, we should take him out first.\" He nods." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "A sound strategy. He's the leader." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Whisper.) \"The big one is the damn *scab leader*.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"If this turns into a firefight, we should take him out first.\" He nods." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "A sound strategy. He's the leader." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What do we do?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"My plan is not to get killed.\" He puts his hand on his holster. \"But we have to intervene.\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "He doesn't want to. But he must." } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A brisk coastal wind still howls against the window of the shack. Occasionally the waves crawl in under the foundation, producing a low hum..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Shake it off. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "A warm wave of accomplishment washes over your head, as you drop the barbell to the floor. For a moment it feels like you're strong enough to succeed at anything you ever set your mind to." } ], [ { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.reneandgaston_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"Life... *mnjam-mnjam*... doesn't need to be a struggle.\" He covers his mouth to hide a burp." }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"I'll be with you in a moment, officer. Let me just finish my sandwich.\" He nods to his partner. \"Talk to angry old Ren\u00e9 first.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "\"It will take just a moment, officer...\"" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "Her voices fades out into the familiar radio static." }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.call_station_lazareth_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "\"...\"" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "\"...\"" }, { "actor": "Nix Gottlieb", "dialogue": "You hear a man clearing his throat briskly, then an answer: \"Gottlieb. What'd ya want?\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "He's carelessly chewing on a piece of hard candy." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm in a bad way, doc. A real *bad* way.\"" }, { "actor": "Nix Gottlieb", "dialogue": "\"Oh,\" the man is unpleasantly surprised. \"It's you.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Was that a snarl or a suppressed groan? No love for you here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I've lost my memory. All of it.\"" }, { "actor": "Nix Gottlieb", "dialogue": "\"With all the damage you've been dealing yourself with drugs and alcohol, I'm not surprised.\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "There is no surprise in his voice. Only careless superiority." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're not surprised? Okay. Anything else?\"" }, { "actor": "Nix Gottlieb", "dialogue": "\"What else? I'm not a *brain* doctor. Look on the bright side -- you've got a whole new life now. Use it wisely.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "It's hard to say if he doesn't believe you -- or doesn't care." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I found this in the Doomed Commercial Area.\" (Use the perfectly adequate transceiver.)" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Ah, you 'found' the transceiver from my old Rehm Civic. Did you think I wouldn't recognise it? No matter. It should work for our purposes...\"" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "She's not upset. More bemused. This particular transceiver brings back memories, not that she is one to indulge in superstitions." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I wonder what brand of boots you're wearing?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Everything is brands with you individualists... Who cares what *brand* my shoes are? Sansa...\" He looks at his running shoes, covered in mud. \"Some shit.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Show me the soles please, Mr. Dros.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Fucking imbecile...\" The old man stretches out his leg. A black and white spiral pattern covers the sole of the worn out old running shoes on his feet." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "The maker is Sansarique -- the model is Corbeille and the size is 43." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "These are not the unusual, horizontal patterned soles you saw in the dust on the floor of the hidden room. They do, however, seem to be about the same size..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who cares about shoes, we got you without the prints too.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Corrupt henchman of paedophiles...\" The old man shakes his head. \"You're desperate to report something back to them, aren't you? Your liberal masters. They must have really loved that dead fuck...\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "The old man stares at his own prints in the ash around the fire. Silent suddenly, some strange process within him. A gush of wind. Seagulls in the distance." } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead's Babe", "dialogue": "\"No man matches Measurehead.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "A machine stands in the corner, watched over by the figures on the stained glass window. It's turned on and quivering with soft electricity." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant doesn't say anything, but you can sense that he doesn't like you meddling with the machine." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes, but what is this strange thing?\" (Point at the machine.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"A radiocomputer,\" the lieutenant repeats a little impatiently, \"we have one down at the station.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "And before you have time to ask: \"No, I don't know how to operate it or what it's used for. Let's go.\"" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "This is the Rehm Prefect radiocomputer, a model number RC7024, equipped with a Feld mainframe and a Rehm-compatible Interim printer." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "A quaint little box of radio waves." } ], [ { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Officer.\" The woman nods to you, still smoking her cigarette." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Turn your bloated face away from her beauty and just keep on walking. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm trying to turn back time. Can you help me, br\u00f6ther?\"" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.fascha_dq_asked_someone_the_q\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"This again, really?\" The lieutenant looks frustrated." }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.truckman_told_him_to_fuck_off\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.down_with_racism\"]]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "The lorryman ignores the lieutenant. \"My friend, I don't know what you're after, but I have to tell you there's no turning back time...\"" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"I've seen the demographic reports, I know what our experts say. Our greatest days as a people are behind us, and we're not going back.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What am I supposed to do then?\" (Proceed.)" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"That's the question, isn't it?\" He takes a drag. \"People think you and me got it so easy. But the reality is it's fucking *hard* to be a regular guy these days...\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Is he serious right now?" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "The rumbling in your stomach says there's something not quite right with this one..." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Goddamned pinball.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A shift in temperature. The air chills around you. Dust settles on the stony floor." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Rub your sides for warmth." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A former architect stands before a slice of window, a room plan in her hand. A cold wave has made the air in the building stand still and frozen, with temperatures falling down to -20\u00b0C." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Her face..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "...is red from the cold. She's breathing on her fingers clasping the plan. Traces of sadness are visible in her expression." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look around yourself..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "It's clean and empty, with new tapestry embellishing the walls. A standard HB graphite pencil has fallen off a three-legged stool in the middle of the room." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "She had an eye for beauty." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "The plan..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "... faint pencil lines on paper depict the same place, but a missing eastern wall connects the room with the neighbouring apartment. Ideas for arranging the furniture have been jotted down." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look around yourself..." } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Apartment #20", "dialogue": "A weathered brown door. The number reads '20'." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "Something smells good -- soupe \u00e0 l'oignon?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant motions you to go ahead and knock." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "This is the door, you already know it's the right door. This is going to be *so hard*." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Get yourself together. It's just police work." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Don't knock, just leave. You don't need this. You don't need to *sad it up*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hold on, Kim, we should discuss this before we move on. What should we expect?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You're right, let's talk this through.\" He looks at the apartment door and lowers his voice a bit..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "You hear some light footsteps and what appears to be a daily weather forecast playing on the radio." } ], [ { "actor": "Wirr\u00e2l", "dialogue": "Large letters on the front form a title: \"Wirr\u00e2l.\" The colourful box is illustrated with bucolic vistas. The cover art also features odd-looking humanoids, some short, some taller, some with pointy ears, others with ephemeral wings." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Examine the box." }, { "actor": "Wirr\u00e2l", "dialogue": "Text underneath the title, in smaller typeface, reads: \"Third Edition, Mega-Setting Supplements Module.\" The side panel adds: \"A sword and sorcery adventure board game. With new maps and miniatures.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Shake the box." }, { "actor": "Wirr\u00e2l", "dialogue": "You hear the figurine rattling inside the box, bumping against the sides." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Shake the box." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Put 10 cents in and dial a random number: 005-51-17-912." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Calling..." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Still calling..." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Again? Seriously?" }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Someone with a masculine voice picks up:" }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "\"Hello, Girard speaking!\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Hello, Girard. Technically speaking, you're electricity." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.payphone_concept_electricity\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "What *you* are is a *surprise*, get his wife on the phone..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Girard... what a douche name... Change it -- change your name!\"" }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "\"What are you, like five?\" A woman's voice shouts something in the background and when Girard speaks again his voice is hushed..." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "\"Thanks for calling, asshole!\"" }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Phone hanging up." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Disconnect tone." } ], [ { "actor": "Drainage Pipe", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Drainage Pipe", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"boardwalk.drainage_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Drainage Pipe", "dialogue": "An old pipe peeks out from beneath the rotting boards of the boardwalk. Could this be an alternative path into the Feld building?" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "A building like this must have multiple doors serving various functions. Perhaps a basement access?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Fat Angus", "dialogue": "\"I didn't say anything.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.kineema_sylvie_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "If she used to work in the Whirling-in-Rags, then you must have met her." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Sylvie? I believe we've met before. This is me, a detective from the Whirling-in-Rags!\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"Oh, right...\" She recognizes your voice almost immediately. \"Hello, officer, what can I do for you?\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "You can hear resentment in her tone -- she's not thrilled to be talking to you again." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "There is *no* resentment in her tone. She wants you to ask her out. No question about it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Have you seen my police man uniform?\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"Uniform? I never saw you in any uniform, you had your... *things* on. The disco things.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Somewhere in a dank rental apartment, two police officers stand in the dark. Trash and liquor bottles cover the floor. Things are not good." }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.kineema_sylvie_esprit_youruniform\"]]" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "One of the men, trying not to slip on old newspapers, makes his way to the window and pulls the curtains apart. Roaches scatter as the light comes in." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "\"Goddamn...\" officer Michel 'Elfboy' Williams speaks to himself. His partner, Sundance Fischer, looks at the patrol uniform he's wearing -- then at an identical suit framed on the wall. It's blue and covered in dust. \"Let's get the fuck out of here,\" he turns to Williams, \"he hasn't been here in days.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"For the fuck-gimp? Good thing you asked The Cunmeister.\" He nods, trying to look older. \"Cuno knows a fridge, perfect for freezing f****ts.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I thought you would! Where is it?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Baconman's in a rush. But what's in it for the Cuno?\" He crosses his arms. \"What's the return on Cuno's investment?\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Don't fuck it up, you *need* a fridge." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Now is the time to be humble. Say the *sir* thing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Fine, Cuno... *Don't* help me then.\" (Back off.)" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Wasn't going to.\" He waves you off. \"Cuno's not into bacon-charity.\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"You can't turn Cuno into your little popo-man! Cuno's his *own* man!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I took care of the drug situation.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"All right, so you got Cuno's kilo.\" He rubs his hands together. \"Here is how we do it. First, you give Cuno Cuno's kilo. Then Cuno gives you half back.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"That's how we split it -- it's the *best* way. Street way.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"By kilo you mean gram, right?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno knows what Cuno means.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "There! Do you smell that?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't smell anything." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Can you not detect that inimitable *whiff* of dissatisfaction and restlessness, that sense that the world is in need of dramatic, even *violent* re-ordering?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Close your eyes and take a deep breath.)" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Can you smell it now?" }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "You inhale. The cilia along your olfactory epithelium tingle with excitement as they sift through the swirling morass of industrial odours..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "First come the smells of the agitated strikebreakers, layers of body oil and sweat, over-buttered meals pulled from bakelite lunch pails, the biting stench of lye soap. And then there's the slowly oxidizing metal gates, the scent of stale grease emanating from every crack..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "In a word, exactly what you would expect to find at any harbour in the industrialized world..." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Nonsense. The reek of communism is unmistakable, and it's coming... from that railing over there!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You mean from Ma\u00f1ana?" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "You see the lieutenant's familiar shape in the orange jacket. It turns double -- then triple -- from the pain." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "It's nothing. You're alive, that's what matters." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm alive...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"*Sunrise, parabellum*,\" the lieutenant says. He's in the middle of a freshly cleaned room, with the fan above his head like a halo. His face is covered in bruises." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm ready.\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Good.\" There's a pause. \"Where do you want to limp to?\"" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A gust of wind blows in from the bay, the duraluminium box around you vibrates imperceptibly... a familiar cold, a red thread on the roof upstairs. Taut. Plucked like a string by the gust." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "The lieutenant did mention doing more ballistics..." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Also, it's just close enough to endure the walk." } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "He eyes you sceptically. \"All right -- what cryptids, precisely? I usually discuss these things with *specialists*, so I don't know what...\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "*...we would have to discuss?* he wants to say, but decides against it since you've offered to help." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Enough tales then. Let's change the subject.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"By all means...\" He coughs and wipes his mouth." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's talk about *specific* cryptids.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Okay...\" He eyes you sceptically. \"I already did my best to inform you. I don't really know what else I could discuss with a layman...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "Your flashlight slides over an old green chalkboard covered in scribbles, sketches and schemes like some ancient cave mural." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "Some of the writing has faded with age, but you can still make out sections here and there; photos and drawings have been pinned to the board." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Inspect the notes." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "The handwriting is only partly legible, but you can still make out three slogans: 'Call in, tune out!', 'WIRR\u00c2L UNTETHERED', and 'Heat death of the Universe'..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "The full text reads: 'Heat death of the Universe is the new black'. Another note says: 'The biggest advancement in role-playing systems since the Thirties'." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Outside, a cold wind wraps the building in its bosom. Snowflakes in the wind. An old woman passes what the locals call the Doomed Commercial Area. She tries hard not to look at the bookstore windows. It's *unwise*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Inspect the drawings." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "These lithe, pointy-eared creatures appear to be different types of *welkins*. You make out autumnal *candle-welkins* casting wax-based magic..." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "*Translucent welkins* with organs shining under their skin, and even aether welkins -- hailing from the vast emptiness of sidereal space." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "This looks like an *enormous improvement* on the classic Wirr\u00e2l setting. Much more *advanced*. Light years ahead." } ], [ { "actor": "Apricot Chewing Gum Wrapper", "dialogue": "There it is again -- the scent of apricots, with a touch of cinnamon. Smells like the end of some distant summer. The surface of another planet, or some ancient temple." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Put the wrapper away.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Titus sent Elizabeth away and said her services were no longer needed.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Oh yes. She came to see me. Said Titus Hardie is the most stubborn man she's ever met and you...\" He shakes his finger at you. \"You are on a whole new level of *difficult*.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Honestly, Harry,\" he says with a chuckle. \"Jamming a wedge between a man and his legal counsel is no small achievement. Sounds like you're handling this like a supercop.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I needed to talk to Titus man to man and she was getting in the way.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Oh, I can imagine that. Lizzie is tenacious like a little pitbull. Underneath the law degree and sophistication, she's still a Martinaisian through and through.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"To tell you the truth, I'm actually quite interested to see how this whole thing between you and Titus is gonna play out. You guys really deserve each other.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I may have changed my mind about getting those signatures.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"You bring joy to my heart, Harry -- such a pleasure to be working with you. Here...\" He hands you an open white envelope." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"You need to get signatures from Isobel Sadie and Lilienne Carter. The cul-de-sac is right past the pawnshop and across the canal. I hear there is some trouble with the water lock, but they should fix it by Wednesday morning.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Once you have the signatures, mail this to 13022 La Rocca, district of La Delta. Then we can talk.\" He runs his fingers through his thin hair." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm looking for a cell of underground communists. Can you help me?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Mr. Du Bois, really. Do I look like a man who has time for *underground* communists? I'm as aboveground as it gets!\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "That's a non sequitur if you've ever heard one!" } ], [ { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Why does he have to be such a binoclard? It's just a funny word!" } ], [ { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "The spread pattern of these bullet holes makes your chest ache. Your breath grows heavier." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "More old bullet holes, at least half a century. A different era altogether." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, look... more bullet holes. Someone has been shot here.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant inspects the wall, then nods. \"Another set of old bullet holes from the Revolution.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Figured as much.\" [Discard thought.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"A history of violence streaking all across Revachol.\"" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "The streets ran red with blood. Dust swirled above the ruins. The pressure change from artillery fire ripped people apart in the top floors of the building above you..." } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Psst, hear that?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't hear anything." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "The ominous hum of a preposterously affluent individual... It seems to be coming from above us." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "You hear dock water quietly lapping against seaweed-slimed concrete, but definitely no ominous hums." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't see anyone. Are you sure?" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Yes, I'm sure. *Someone* here has assets stacked away in OFCs. Look up." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "OFCs or Offshore Financial Centres -- that's another word for tax havens. EPIS has adopted the OFFNET approach into their frameworks for addressing OFCs, but it's still a problem." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, OFCs?" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Tax havens, OFCs, Sinks, Conduits, *heavens*... Get with the terms, hustler-boy. Now look up!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Look up.)" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "See that massive container there, held up by that humongous crane? That's it! We need to get that box of treasures down. Try using that control panel over there." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Hold up a minute... why should a preposterously affluent individual be hiding themselves in a container?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let's slow down here. Why would we search for rich people in containers?" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "*Slow down*? We don't have time to slow down -- it's *crunch time*! Get your ass moving and control that crane! We've got sales to make." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No problemo, boss-man. On my way to lower that crane... [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "No, it was an artifact of your pre-ideological consciousness." } ], [ { "actor": "A Note from the Fridge", "dialogue": "The note is written with a blue pencil on a piece of lined office paper. The kitchen magnets have left spots on its surface." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Does it say anything interesting?\" The lieutenant leans closer to read the crumpled note over your shoulder." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "This is tangential at best, but the lieutenant's *detective instinct* is still active." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Who wrote that note?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Looks like someone from that radiogame company upstairs. I'm a little surprised they just left their property lying here.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Maybe they had to leave in a hurry.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"That's a plausible hypothesis.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What, you're just going to guess?\" The lieutenant shakes his head, staring at the glowing radiocomputer. Seems like the repeater station hasn't heard his words however, for the line is still silent." } ], [ { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Snow covers the white-on-blue police livery of the motor carriage. The white colours nearly meld together." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, why am I even thinking about this? Wasn't I supposed to..." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "... do something important? Something murder-related? There's always *something* important. Doesn't mean you can't take a moment to admire this piece of machinery." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "This is a Coupris Kineema, the Coupris MotorCorp's follow-up to their highly successful workhorse, Coupris 40, and the answer to the LUM's racing-bred 'Fevre' series." }, { "actor": "Coupris Kineema", "dialogue": "Even at a standstill the uni-body Coupris Kineema looks sleek and dynamic. The cabin is tilted frontward to give it a more aggressive *hunched* look." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Someone has waxed it recently." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't like your machine, lieutenant. Looks impractical.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Mhmh...\" the lieutenant huffs. \"No point in stopping then.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Kim also tries *not* to look at the pile of tape viscera on the carpet. Or the weird suitcase on the hat rack. Or the potted plant dying in the corner. But it's all just too morbid to ignore." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "The man is finding it hard not to trip on the tape -- and not to send any of the bottles rolling across the floor..." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "...where unidentifiable sludge makes it hard for him to breathe. Smells of vomit in here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sorry for... this.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No problem, officer.\" He takes a step toward the door. Like he'd like to leave." } ], [ { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Okay.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Tell me about Andre.\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Andre? He's a cool guy. Doesn't really come off as one, but he is. To me at least...\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "She rubs her sides, but not from cold. Her shoulders are relaxed. She must have taken a hit or she's on an upswing." }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"He takes care of shit. Sorry, I mean he's got a *vision*. Of what life should be, you know? He tries to push things until everything falls into place. He's an organizer.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What has he organized?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Nothing. But then again... there's nothing to organize around here either. He really wants this church thing to work...\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Must have taken it as a sign when he found it abandoned like that. Said it was an *augury*. I don't know where he got that from.\" She smiles. \"Andre's not super intelligent...\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"I've never seen him so psyched about anything though -- and he's often psyched. Looked sort of desperate, like it's his last chance or something. Or maybe he was just high...\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"I mean, not that he does drugs. Just *high* you know.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Relax, girl. I am a police officer, but I'm perfectly corrupt. You can tell me about drugs and shit, I don't care.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yeah. Drugs. Shit. Fuck. We don't care.\" He smirks." }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Uh, yes. Anyway.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Scab", "dialogue": "\"WOORK WOORK WOORK!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Safety Curtains", "dialogue": "As before, an iron safety curtain curves before your eyes. It covers half the room -- blocking the way into a colossal industrial chimney." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hello? I yelled, but it didn't work...\"" }, { "actor": "Safety Curtains", "dialogue": "Again your voice becomes a raspy croak, mid-sentence. It's silent in the abandoned office building -- no one answers you." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "A sudden bout of self pity comes over you." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Sire, may we suggest something? Think of the yelling-into-the-furnace as a *grand performance*. Use your chest voice, not your head voice. Sing from the diaphragm." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Perhaps it's not such a bad idea? Try it again, son." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hello? I yelled, but it didn't work...\"" }, { "actor": "Safety Curtains", "dialogue": "Again your voice becomes a raspy croak, mid-sentence. It's silent in the abandoned office building -- no one answers you." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "A sudden bout of self pity comes over you." } ], [ { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Can't hear you over the moans of your w\u00f6men. They writhe in pleasure as the foreigners are playing them like instruments. Be careful, or they'll wear you like a sock, Harry." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's done. I mailed the signatures you asked me to mail.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Hey, psst..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look around." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Psst, hey, you!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Who -- me?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Yes, you. Word on the street is you're ready to start building *communism* again!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How come there's *word on the street*?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "You keep saying things like *down with the bourgeoisie*, *eat the rich*, *sodomize the land-owners*, *impale all people who have more than 25 re\u00e1l in their pocket*, *literally murder all human beings regardless of their political beliefs* -- that kind of stuff." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I've said *some* mildly left wing things but none of those." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Oh yes, the *mask of ambivalence*. Don't deny it. You're about to rip it off and reveal the monstrous seven-eyed lamb of global communism that will devour and masticate mankind." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Everyone can see that. So tell me, do you have any questions before we fire up the Big Communism Builder, or do we get *right down to it*?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It's too tiring. I don't have it in me. I'm beat down and broken. (Opt out.)" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Very well. I guess no one will build Communism then. Tell the working man it's over. Unless anyone has... objections?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "No objections. It's mathematically impossible to achieve a classless society. Everyone knows this." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Let not failure ensnare you any further, beautiful pixie girl! Be an acrobat! A prancing faerie queen!" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Did someone mention cocaine? Are we doing cocaine? No? I'm sure I heard someone say Cocainimism..." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Anyone? Anyone else? There's no one?" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "There's one." } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Room #1", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Door, Room #1", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"character.door1_locked_inland\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Why would I want to stay in such a place?" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Because it's your last lifeline to being a police officer instead of a hobo." } ], [ { "actor": "Sandcastle", "dialogue": "The fortress is still defiantly standing. There's an inviting gleam of *something* coming from the depths of the deepest cellars." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Reach in the catacombs and pull out the shiny object." }, { "actor": "Sandcastle", "dialogue": "The walls and floors give way to the giant's greed, collapse and present you with a pair of ceramic gauntlets." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Congratulations -- that's the gauntlets down, then. We're doing good on the armour collection front.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are you a cryptozoologist too?\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"No-no... I help Morell with research sometimes and I've learned some things along the way. But I don't usually go in for picnics like this on my own.\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "After all this time with Morell, he must have an opinion on cryptids -- this could lead to a good one." }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.gary_conceptualization_cryptid_tell_me\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "What *does* he do then? This feels like a good opportunity to DOMINATE him." }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.gary_conceptualization_cryptid_tell_me\"] or Variable[\"coast.gary_authority_profession_tell_me\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "There *probably* is a follow-up to this, but you can't think of any. Doesn't matter. Waste of time anyway. Gotta keep moving." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You said you'd tell me about Seolites, when Kim isn't here. He isn't here.\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"coast.gary_white_check_succeeded\"]]" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"Man, I don't wanna talk about that... I was wrong to bring it up at all. Shouldn't have said those things about your partner...\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"Most of the Seolites may be shifty, but the ones in Revachol have always been loyal to Revachol -- and the Suzerain too. I...\" He trails off." }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.inspect_traps_done\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, the Kingdom of Cuno, the fuck do you want with it?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The dead man's clothes were in the trash container.\" (Point to the container.) \"How did they get there?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, Cuno doesn't know shit about that. That shit is *beneath* Cuno.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Right. About something else, then...\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Shoot that shit at Cuno, dumpster diver.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I was wondering about that trash container.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Don't be wondering about Cuno's shit, pig!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.open_trash_container\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.trash_inland_something_in_there\"] and CheckItem(\"ledger_damaged\") == false and CheckItem(\"ledger_of_failure_and_hatred\") == false and CheckItem(\"ledger_oblivion\") == false) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Look, it's basic police work. If there's a trash container on the crime scene you have to investigate it.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Hey, so we've been monitoring you internally, and now we know your *copotype*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Very Hard to Exploit Handicapped Person", "dialogue": "\"You're just afraid of work yourselves!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Hear that? Magnesium. That's what you're lacking. The lack of magnesium has you slouched." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "The magnesium levels in your blood are dangerously low. It's about the low magnesium levels and *not* the high alcohol levels." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "My magnesium level is fine. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Establish authority in their eyes." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.hardie_authority_wc_to_get_klaasje\"]]" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "As you look around this room full of sweaty men, swearing, drinking, spitting out tobacco.... does this look familiar?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I get it, Titus. You guys really are *the authority* around here.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Huh?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You must be -- you're just like real cops. Drinking beer and sitting around with your dicks in your hand.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "He leans in. \"You got a problem with *beer* now?\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Not quite there yet -- push on." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, I'm also a big fan of beer -- *and* jerking off instead of helping people.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"You saying we don't *help* people?\" He puts the beer down. \"I've been doing this job for *ten years*! Martinaise was a dump before we put this outfit together.\"" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"They don't know, man -- they weren't here.\" He turns to you. \"We had three shootings a week, kids dead, fuckin' *graffito* everywhere -- you cops haven't shown up since the Thirties.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Congratulations on the graffito removal.\" He turns to Titus. \"All I see is you sitting around talking about *Monica's titties* -- while there's a rape victim.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"So what? What do you want from me? We took care of that fuck.\" He picks the beer back up." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Don't let him drink that. One more push, quick!" } ], [ { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "\"Nice vest, officer. Taking art classes now?\"" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"pier.cindy_concept_rc_succeeded_failed\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"pier.cindy_percept_fuel\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.on_cindy_balcony\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "That isn't a fresh paint smell coming from the wall. She's using heavy fuel oil." }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"pier.cindy_percept_fuel\"]]" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Red-dyed heavy fuel oil is only used in government vehicles. Or at least that's the idea." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you won't talk about the murder -- but maybe you can tell me something about the murder victim's missing armour?\"" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "\"What do I care about some fucking tin egg shells?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"C'mon Cindy, just help me out here.\"" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.find_the_armoured_gloves\"] == false]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "\"Ugh, alright, sad piggy. I'll give you this one -- I saw a little girl in the fishing village running around with military-grade hand-wear. Looked cute as hell.\"" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"The Hardie boys are *unfuckable* now.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Man from Hjelmdall and the Devil Woman", "dialogue": "The edges of the pages are worn and smudged. A lot of people have read about the Devil Woman's altercations with the Hjelmdall Man." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Time to flip through the book." }, { "actor": "Man from Hjelmdall and the Devil Woman", "dialogue": "You open the book to a random page. Man from Hjelmdall, wielding his two zweih\u00e4nders, is carving through a sea of savages, his visage fixed in grim determination." }, { "actor": "Man from Hjelmdall and the Devil Woman", "dialogue": "His arms, whirling like windmills, are soaked with the blood of his enemies. Mangled corpses litter the battlefield." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Good god this is some retrograde stuff. When was this shit written?" }, { "actor": "Man from Hjelmdall and the Devil Woman", "dialogue": "You flip to the copyright page. This book was written in '38." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Ugh, vulgar. (Close the book.)" }, { "actor": "Man from Hjelmdall and the Devil Woman", "dialogue": "The edges of the pages are worn and smudged. A lot of people have read about the Devil Woman's altercations with the Hjelmdall Man." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Time to flip through the book." }, { "actor": "Man from Hjelmdall and the Devil Woman", "dialogue": "You open the book to a random page. Man from Hjelmdall, wielding his two zweih\u00e4nders, is carving through a sea of savages, his visage fixed in grim determination." }, { "actor": "Man from Hjelmdall and the Devil Woman", "dialogue": "His arms, whirling like windmills, are soaked with the blood of his enemies. Mangled corpses litter the battlefield." } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Why does art inspire you so much?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Graad Factory of Magnets and Miracles U49", "dialogue": "A lorry stuck in the traffic jam. This big, heavy Graad-made machine is well kept for such an old machine." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"When it's done I'll just blow my brains out... Fuck everything.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Coupris Kineema", "dialogue": "In the cabin you see a set of steering levers, a radio on a hook, a pull-out toolbox and the soft glow of the fuel pre-heater gauge." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Run your fingers over one of the steering levers." }, { "actor": "Coupris Kineema", "dialogue": "The white suede feels luxurious under the touch and the metal clutch handle so very familiar in your palm..." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Your fingers waste no time closing around the handle. Clutch disengaged. Release the handle -- clutch drops -- right foot yearns for the familiar touch of the accelerator pedal. You have synced with the machine's mechanical circulation." }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.kineema_sync_circulation\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Tap on the fuel pre-heater gauge." }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (DayCount() <2 or IsMorning() or IsAfternoon()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Coupris Kineema", "dialogue": "As you tap on the gauge, the indicator pin jerks as if startled. It's in the small blue sector, indicating the engine is cold. Next to the gauge is a red switch labelled HEAT." }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There's no use pressing the HEAT button,\" he says and jingles his keys. \"It won't start without the ignition key.\"" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.read_the_watermark_done\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Stereo 8 Player", "dialogue": "The compact tape player is still and silent. Seems it has completely broken down now." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "The machine was made in Revachol by a company called Lemercier -- their logo depicts the triple-towered Delta skyline. It was supposedly built to last." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "There is no fixing this one." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Well shit." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "I guess the only thing to do is to find a new player. Might be one waiting for you out there somewhere." } ], [ { "actor": "Unemployed Person", "dialogue": "\"I'd leave, but I don't wanna get beaten up...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "This bookstore is not *strictly* about crime, romance, and biographies of famous people -- there's also a wide range of paranatural literature." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"All right. I want to buy *Medicinal Purposes of the Pale*.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Indeed...\" She mumbles, staring at the book for a moment. \"Something about that book does seem to have spoken to you...\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Well, I hope it contains what you're looking for.\"" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"] or Variable[\"character.interactable_tutorial_seen\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Tutorial Agent", "dialogue": "You've acquired an interactable item. Investigate this item further by going to the INTERACT tab in your INVENTORY." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Boy Strikebreaker", "dialogue": "\"Stop fuckin' ruining it for everybody!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? What?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How did you know we were coming?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I heard you in the passages. And I've been preparing for quite a while.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"By hiding bullets under floorboards?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"So you found my shack, huh? I'm not surprised.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Her tone is bitter. She thinks she's been betrayed." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're... desperate, aren't you?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I was. Before I caught you in the pale latitude compressor. I'm fine now.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "That's her admitting the bullet was an emergency exit." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "It was dark in the shack. The waves outside had calmed down. She looked at the loaded gun, then she cracked the barrel open and took the bullet out. Not today." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"When I came into town was there... anyone with me?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah. You had your death squad with you. What happened to them, anyway?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who was in this... squad?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Well, it wasn't this scrawny dude.\" She nods toward the lieutenant. \"You had two guys and a lady. The guys looked pretty buff. Lady wasn't bad either.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What else can you... tell me...\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"One of the guys seemed chipper, a blond, the other had a brooding something-or-other about him... And the woman... the woman was the only one in uniform. All were carrying.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"cargo.evrartdocument_forged_two_signature\"]]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "You take the legal documents out of the envelope: a 12-40 month construction period and the zoning plan in the addendum. Underneath all this -- on the signature lines -- your little forgery." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try to find a loophole in the deal." }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"cargo.evrartdocument_logic_wc_to_see_whats_up_with_the_signatures\"]; Script: SetVariableValue(\"cargo.evrart_explained_there_was_no_fine_print\", true) --[[ Variable[ ]]]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.find_two_random_people_to_sign_the_papers_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.forge_liliennes_and_isobels_signatures_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"village.ww_got_her_signature\"]]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "There is no loophole. The simple truth is the current residents are going to lose their street access and for the next 12-40 months their lives will be dominated by constant construction noise right next door." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Isobel and Lilienne have a rough 12 to 40 months ahead of them." }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It's hard to imagine anyone enduring these conditions. The stubborn ones might last for a year, but before 40 months are through, they'll sell their property for pennies and move on." } ], [ { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "Your flashlight slides over an old green chalkboard covered in scribbles, sketches and schemes like some ancient cave mural." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "Some of the writing has faded with age, but you can still make out sections here and there; photos and drawings have been pinned to the board." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Inspect the drawings." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "These lithe, pointy-eared creatures appear to be different types of *welkins*. You make out autumnal *candle-welkins* casting wax-based magic..." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "*Translucent welkins* with organs shining under their skin, and even aether welkins -- hailing from the vast emptiness of sidereal space." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "This looks like an *enormous improvement* on the classic Wirr\u00e2l setting. Much more *advanced*. Light years ahead." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "You should adopt one of those welkins as your *persona*. No longer a mere man -- but a welkin..." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "One of the welkins -- towering among the rest -- appears to be different, however." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't care -- step back." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "Your eyes glide over four sections of the imposing green chalkboard..." } ], [ { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"cargo.evrartdocument_forged_two_signature\"]]" }, { "actor": "White Envelope", "dialogue": "You take the legal documents out of the envelope: a 12-40 month construction period and the zoning plan in the addendum. Underneath all this -- on the signature lines -- your little forgery." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Put the documents back in the envelope. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Apartment #28", "dialogue": "This door is made of metal and appears to be reinforced. Someone here really values their security." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Number twenty eight... This is where the cleaning lady said the smoker on the balcony lives." }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Yes?\" A handsome young man hums with a cigarette in his hand. \"Are you looking for me, gendarme?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Knock." }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #28", "dialogue": "No one answers." }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #28", "dialogue": "Nothing do to here anymore..." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So I talked to Klaasje about the tape.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"And?\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "He tenses immediately. Chest tightens. Jaw sets. Ready for another blow." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'll get back to you on that one.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"The fuck do you mean *you'll get back to me*?!\" he roars. \"NO! Tell me she said she was raped!\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "He completely blew his fuse there. The calm act is completely gone." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"She didn't say that.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"That fucking fucker...\" He stares at his beer for two seconds -- intently -- then turns to you. \"You're the worst cop in Revachol! I gave you *gold* on that tape.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "That 'fucker' wasn't aimed at you. It was at *her*." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "You smell weakness. He's getting tired of the game he's been playing." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You caught him off balance. Push and he will give way." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It was dark stuff, but it didn't prove anything. And it didn't change her mind.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Dark?! Dark is when you start a goddamn death-rock band! He said he'd rape her!\" He shakes his head in disbelief." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Sounds like he wanted it to change her mind about the hanged man. This is definitely personal." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"What did she have to say then? Fine by her?! This is what people are *supposed* to be like? Fucking whoopty doo!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"coast.reeds_checked_counter\"] >=1]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"cargo.garrydoor_broke_into\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Door, Basement Apartment", "dialogue": "The door has braved the elements for decades. The copper nails holding the upholstery in place have turned green from sea air and so is the knocker, shaped like a lion's head." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "The Royal Lion. Guillaume's Kitten. This knocker will last a lifetime and then some." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem(\"key_basement_apartment\")]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Use Ma\u00f1ana's key to unlock the door." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.garrydoor_knocked_or_tried_key\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Door, Basement Apartment", "dialogue": "The key stops mid-way in the lock. Something's blocking its path. You hear a dish smashing and shattering inside the apartment, then everything falls very silent." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "The tenant's key is in the lock." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant looks first at the door, then back at you, then signals you to back off from the door." } ], [ { "actor": "Old Scab", "dialogue": "\"I spent all my money getting here!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's gonna have a fucking heart attack!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "You see that seagull up there? Remind you of anybody?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm not going to have a seagull conversation. [Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.kineema_sylvie_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "If she used to work in the Whirling-in-Rags, then you must have met her." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hello, this is the police calling. I have some questions for you about your last days at work.\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"Oh, right...\" She recognizes your voice almost immediately. \"Hello, officer, what can I do for you?\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "You can hear resentment in her tone -- she's not thrilled to be talking to you again." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "There is *no* resentment in her tone. She wants you to ask her out. No question about it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Have you seen my badge?\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"Yes, I know who you are. You're a police officer... *the law*.\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.kineema_made_sylvie_cry_like_a_boss\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "This exact conversation has happened before. Establishing authority before this young girl seems to have been important to you in the past. Don't go there again." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"My badge is missing. Have you seen it anywhere?\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.kim_badge_lie\"] == true and IsKimHere()) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Big surprise.\" The lieutenant grins mirthlessly. \"Anyway -- one down, three to go.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Damn, I was hoping it would be in the *first* one.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No you weren't.\" He looks at the sea, then you -- laying the trap back down on the ground." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Been waitin' for you to fucking man up.\" He nods at the building behind him. \"In there is Cuno's violent dad. On steroids. Cuno's dad does steroids *and* speed. If you can take him, you can have half the speed.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How much material are we talking about?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Like half.\" He says very confidently." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Half of what?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"A baggie... but like in this vial.\"" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "That's half a *gram*, sir." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_yard_viscal_half_a_gram\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How much material are we talking about?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Like half.\" He says very confidently." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Half of what?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"A baggie... but like in this vial.\"" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "That's half a *gram*, sir." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_yard_viscal_half_a_gram\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Half a gram?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Is that an Insulindian phasmid? It looks like an Insulindian phasmid. Quick -- catch it before it scuttles away!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pirouette toward the phasmid." }, { "actor": "Fishing Rod", "dialogue": "Beautiful leap! But this isn't a phasmid in your hand -- it is a fishing rod." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"What are you trying to accomplish, Harry?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Sorry, I thought the fishing rod was... something else.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "His great belly ripples with laughter. \"A skinny, shy young girl? Never mind.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Been waitin' for you to fucking man up.\" He nods at the building behind him. \"In there is Cuno's violent dad. On steroids. Cuno's dad does steroids *and* speed. If you can take him, you can have half the speed.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who is your dad, Cuno?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's dad is a fucking monster,\" he says proudly. \"He's the most violent man in Revachol. He doesn't give a shit about a single thing. He drinks too.\"" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Are you sure you can take the most violent man in Revachol? In your condition?" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Looks like we're looking at a close-quarters fight in some run-down drug den. Bongs falling, hookers screaming. You should use the environment against him." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "You can't afford to take a hit from this guy. I mean, anabolic steroids... *and* speed. You're best off dodging blows, wearing him out until he has a heart attack." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem(\"gun_villiers\") or CheckItem(\"gun_ruby\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "You know how you'd be best off here? With a gun. I'd be the star of the show if you only had a working gun." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Don't expect to talk this one down. There are some situations your mouth can't get you out of." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_speed_dad_rhetoric\"]]" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "You won't sweet-talk your way around this man. Good thing this psycho drug-boss is strictly optional." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I've made up my mind, Cuno. And this is what's going to happen...\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Okay, Cuno's listening?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm going in there, but not for the speed. I'm going after the most violent man in Revachol.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Women's Rights", "dialogue": "\"The male tries to affirm his *Manhood* by being like... all other men...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's the netherworld. Beyond the veil.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No, it's a gym,\" he disagrees. \"Though it looks like no one's been here in ages...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I doubt the electricity still works... Good thing we have a flashlight on us.\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Some specks of dust shimmer in a faint beam of daylight falling from the window. Other than that, the room is dark." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "An eerie feeling rises in your chest..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What if there's a *reason* why no one's been here for ages...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes, because it's *closed*...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Guess what -- I've come upon something incriminating.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Incriminating... now that's a big boy word.\" He puts his beer can down." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why was there a *Vermillion* belt around his neck?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Vermillion? Like we use in the harbour?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Because we took it,\" he says, \"from the harbour where we work. Then we went out back and used it to *hang* him.\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "As he speaks, his fists contract, going through the pulling motion again, savouring it." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"We did this,\" -- he looks you dead in the eye -- \"together. All of us. Until he was dead. That's why there's a container belt around his neck.\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "There's a catch hidden somewhere. He didn't confess so that you could take them all away. It's too simple." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's it, the game's over. I got the perpetrator!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.return_to_hardies_with_more_evidence\"]]" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"No, you don't. What you have is seven honest men, who thought it forthcoming to tell you what happened -- so that you don't waste any more of your time.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "All -- seven -- together. They're diluting responsibility. It's an anti-arrest tactic." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "They're playing to their *considerable* strength in numbers. Don't talk about arresting them. You'll only bring attention to your inability to do so." } ], [ { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (DayCount() == 3) == false]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.rene_refused_boule\"]]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.rene_altgreet_bully_cop_thrower\"]]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.get_petanquista_new_boule_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.get_petanquista_new_boule\"]]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.rene_altgreet_boule_unfinished\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"We're still waiting for a replacement for the *boule* you sent sinking.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is it about this old soldier that makes him stand so proud?" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.rene_medals_perc_wc\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "On the cover of the book there's a wall of concrete buildings, with a black-and-white rainbow over them. It's written by someone from a country where even rainbows are black and white." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Storekeep, what's on this shelf?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Oh, such wonderful, beautiful stories. Stories of love!\" She sighs wistfully. \"You should definitely buy these.\"" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.book_wc_trigger_bad_romance\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"To be honest, I'm looking for something more *real*.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"No-no, sir, you don't want that. That's not proper romance... romance is about overcoming adversity and finding that *single millionaire* who wants to take care of you until the end of days.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want buy the 'Sixteen Days of Coldest April' book.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Huh, it's in the wrong shelf... Annette's been moving things around again, has she! That girl...\" She shakes her head. \"No matter, I hope you enjoy... this.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Does anything more real, more *you* stand out?" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.book_whitech_pain_threshold_romance\"]]" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "As you focus on the overwhelming mass of colourful novels, a discrepancy catches your eye -- one of the books is not like the others." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "A grey book has lost itself between all the romance. The title reads: 'Sixteen Days of Coldest April.'" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"These men, they didn't do it!\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? Who did then?\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You should implicate *yourself*. Throw yourself onto the embrasure, chest first!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It was someone *else* -- someone who's not here now.\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"How fucking *convenient*...\" He gives you a drunken stare -- then puts his hand on the gun." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "His fingers are twitching. That's a draw reflex. He's about to draw." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"A lot of people could have gotten to that roof. Like Garte, the cafeteria manager.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"What the *FUCK*?\" The man yells from the balcony. \"What are you DOING?!\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"You think I'm fucking *stupid*, cop?\" There's a dangerous gleam in his eye. \"What if I just shot one of your pals here right now, huh?\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"Go ahead.\" He points his gun at Elizabeth. \"Tell me it was the fucking cafeteria manager one more time!\"" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"Listen, please!\" She raises both hands. \"This cop and this drumhead court martial won't decide who...\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "He's gonna do it, he's gonna shoot her!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing. Just stand there." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_you_think_this_is_funny\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "He pulls the trigger. A plume of smoke erupts from the muzzle." }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "\"I'm okay... I'm okay...\" The woman staggers backward, crouches, then grabs her left side. Her white shirt soaks a blood red around her abdomen and she gasps for air." } ], [ { "actor": "Padlocked Door", "dialogue": "This door has been closed with a padlock. A chalk-drawn number on the board says #11." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Examine the padlock." }, { "actor": "Padlocked Door", "dialogue": "It's a solid lump of metal, but the shackle is deeply corroded -- a solid pair of chaincutters would make short work of it." }, { "actor": "Padlocked Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Padlocked Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Padlocked Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Padlocked Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquipped(\"chaincutters\")]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Yes! Get those cutters in there and *snip* away. This weak chain is no match for your might." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We could use some chaincutters here to cut the shackle.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Why would we want to break into some random citizen's apartment?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Snip-snip, my friend!\" (Do hand-scissors.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant doesn't say a word, his face wiped clear of any emotion." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "There's so much he could say right now, but he knows it wouldn't make much of a difference." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He takes a closer look at the lock. \"I supposed if one were *committed* to it, there's a pair of chaincutters in the Kineema.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What's below me?" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Layer upon layer of sand poisoned with industrial run-off. The storm drainage. Hidden bunkers. Rats scuttle..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What's in the south?" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "The raised motorway, 8/81, with vehicles whooshing past one another day and night, while those who reside beneath the motorway attempt to carry on with their lives in the snow and the slush. And south of the 8/81 is the Pox." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "The Pox..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "...was once a park, a place for reflection and recuperation for the patients of the Old Military Hospital. In the Twenties, it was used as a quarantine centre during a measles outbreak that killed many children. Most everyone has avoided the hospital and surrounding park ever since." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "The Pox is completely wild now. Evergreen thickets covered in snow and industrial dust. Feral dogs and even wolves roaming in packs. The police try to keep the deepest corners cordoned off." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "But still..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "...heavy drug users do slip through and hole up in the Old Military Hospital, hoping to find something to get high on among the hastily abandoned supplies. Or just to overdose in peace." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Further south..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A line of motor garages with armoured carapaces, hunched in the cold. A mechanic is hard at work, patching up bullet holes in the side of a Coupris 40. These are the garages of Precinct 41. Snow settles on the roof of the re-purposed silk mill that serves as your station. Shivering RCM personnel hurry in and out of the main entrance." } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "ICM? This feels familiar somehow..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsHourBetween(21, 2)) == false]" }, { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"village.has_shack\"]]" }, { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "\"Our tenant, the policeman. I hope the waves don't keep you up at night. What can I help you with?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I had a few more questions about Ruby...\"" }, { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "\"What more do you want to know about that poor girl?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did she have any technical equipment with her, like radio stuff?\"" }, { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "\"Not that I know of, though she was into nice music. She once showed me a few mixtape-milieus she'd made.\" She brushes her forehead with the back of her hand. Water drips to the ground." }, { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "\"Although I guess she was pretty handy with the mechanical and technical stuff. Even fixed the heater in the shack. You should be thankful for that.\"" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "She may simply have kept the equipment elsewhere." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is the room exactly as she left it?\"" }, { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "\"I cleaned it, like I always do.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "You see the shape of a prepubescent boy in FALN pants. It turns double -- then triple -- from the pain. He says:" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Coinslot's dead.\"" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "You can barely hear him, the pain is so bad." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No... no, no...\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Just kidding, piggo,\" he chuckles. \"The boo-boo wagon took the binoclard away. He's probably gonna live.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The what? Where did they take him?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"To the hospital, fucktard. Try to keep up with Cuno.\" He glares at you with something akin to respect..." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Thank god, okay, he's alive." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"They say you shot that fucker in the face. That's fucking cool to Cuno.\" He looks down. \"So I thought I'd stick around.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "He's saying *I* now? And not calling you a f****t or a pig? Is he ill or something?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Be straight with me. I need to get my bearings.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Women's Rights", "dialogue": "\"A degenerate... can only produce degenerate *art*...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"church.stained_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"church.stained_midgreet_quick_exit\"]]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "There she still stands. In white, silver, and apricot, the young mother of humankind. A crack runs across her body. She is impossibly tall, oval-faced and sad -- a dark and radiant majesty." }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "Cradled in her arms are a pair of glowing lungs, clearly visible from underneath her flowing dress. \n\nYou should kneel." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Leave me alone, woman. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Drunk", "dialogue": "\"They don't know me... no one *knows* me... (hic).\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You should totally sing karaoke here, the first chance you get. Your emotions need to be expressed. People need to know of your vast, oceanic soul." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "My soul is modest. It's normal sized." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Exactly. It's measured, level-headed, and it needs to be heard." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Through a PA system." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "By other people." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Whether they like it or not. Ram it up their ears, says your adrenaline gland. Violently express yourself." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Why does art inspire you so much?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It does, yes -- but what *is* art?" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Excellent question. Art is a diverse range of visual, literary, auditory, and performative creativity! It's an expression of imagination and technical skill. Additionally, it's history, criticism and pure enjoyment..." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "In short, art is the highest form of human communication -- representation, narrative, emotion and agency intertwined." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Would I fit into the art world? I mean..." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Have you looked in the mirror lately? You have the exact features of a savage art critic, with that beard and those clothes! Dishevelled and *prophetic*. Perhaps you should try to critique architecture too!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Hold on, is architecture also art?" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Of course not, it's autism. Box-drawing. Masturbation with a ruler and a sextant or whatever they use. You should demean and criticize the genteel institution of architecture. While extolling the virtues of the *pure* arts." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, what about music? Is it art?" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Only the most experimental kind." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I guess I *have* been feeling critical lately." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Yes! You seek substance. No vapid representations and reproductions of social mores, as made manifest in stuffy biennials, we're talking real *living art* here. Become the Art Cop. Half art critic -- half cop." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No. I cannot risk another copo-diversion at this point. Go away! (Opt out.)" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Bravo! Continue, then, in the mediocre and vulgar epigones of the world. So what if everything is incomprehensibly shit and you can see it. Take no responsibility." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "This was a good call. That guy probably thinks forensics is autism too." } ], [ { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "You think you have a pretty hot suspect right now, don't you? That Ruby of yours." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't need this criticism right now, this chapter is closed. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Women's Rights", "dialogue": "\"The male is an... incomplete female...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Droplets of rain fall on the white-on-blue police livery of the motor carriage." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No time for this, gotta run.\" [Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.ask_about_ruby_in_village\"] and Variable[\"pier.joyce_village_intro_done\"] == false) == false]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"pier.joyce_left_performative_experience\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"pier.joyce_left_angry\"]]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Officer, I am *so* sorry for the whole pier situation.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Her concern is sincere, her eyes round and affectionate." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "What situation?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No problem, let's resume normal, professional relations.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Of course. You have my full cooperation -- and the cooperation of the Wild Pines Group.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you know something about these tattoos?\" (Show her the photo.)" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"That's the man who was killed...\" She almost takes the photo -- but then stops. \"I'm afraid this is a discussion for once we've cleared the lynching question.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you know something about the tattoos?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Better not to tie the forestay to the backstay on this. I hope there is something else I can help you with?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Self-Educated Humanitarian", "dialogue": "\"I thought it'd be over by now.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "The young woman raises a cigarette to her lips." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Her eyes are brown and her face is speckled with birthmarks. She can't be more than 28." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "A silver jumpsuit falls off her like scale armour, sparkling. This is the sparkle of too many nights out on the city." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Ah yes, *officer*... about that.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Yes, sir?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How did you know I'm with the police?\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Unless you've been feeding us a set of well rehearsed lies, you've been here for three days. On *official police business* no less.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And what business is that?\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"I couldn't say. In truth... so far, mostly drinking.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "You have no doubt about the drinking, but do you strike yourself as a tight-lipped drunk? She must have heard *something*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I should get going now.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Of course.\" She puts out her cigarette. \"Be careful, officer. They don't like the police around here.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait. It was about him meeting Edgar, and a deal..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "By god, we are on the edge! In the very end -- and you can't even remember what you're trying to connect, can you? While the murder suspect stares at you with contempt!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Something with the Union boss... the elections. The previous leader...\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"What?\" He's beginning to sense it now. Something is off." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yo, Cuno doesn't understand what's goin' on here. Get a hold of it, detective Dick, let's move on, okay?\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "You *have* to straighten your back and get back to it now. You're the last detective of the RCM here. Finish the interrogation, it doesn't matter if you forgot one thing." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Get a hold of yourself, this is just one little thing. You still have everything else! Go on, finish the interrogation!" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Yes, *of course*. Now we're on the right track..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Where am I?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "An important place. One of the last bastions of the left in Martinaise. Perhaps here you'll find the man who'll help you get organised?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "But you can't just come out and *ask* him. You should make your introduction first. Pay homage. This is a man of *stature*." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "Meanwhile, the man of stature clatters away on his typewriter, wilfully indifferent to your presence." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Big surprise.\" The lieutenant grins mirthlessly. \"Anyway -- one down, three to go.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No need to grin. I'm not *expecting* to find anything. I'm helping some citizens and getting some fresh air.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I meant no offence, just...\" The lieutenant doesn't know how to finish the sentence. He looks at you, putting the trap back on the ground." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Reach for the trap." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Hey, before we talk to the owner...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"When Klaasje came downstairs -- Ruby appeared to *know* that something was wrong.\"" }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Nah, man. That's just Ruby. She's got shit under control,\" the man explains. \"That's her whole thing. That's why she's so good.\"" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Plus, man, it's like *female intuition* you know. Women talk to women.\" He peeks at Titus. \"Which is sorta why we need someone on the team who they talk to.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Eugene wants a woman on the team so they can do their job. That must be *hard*. Half of Martinaise is female..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\" (Roll your eyes.) \"Female intuition. That's what it was. You're right Eugene.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardies_ruby_gay_branch_passed\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Yeah -- exactly. Why not, man?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Wishful thinking has no place in a police investigation,\" the lieutenant tells Eugene, his voice mild but firm." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"A more serious consideration -- that you wish to avoid -- is that she knew what happened, because she did it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's not 'why did she kill him?' -- it's 'why did she organize the coverup?'.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.hardies_ruby_gay_branch_passed\"]]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"And I suppose you have a theory about that too, cop?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\u201cWhat about... '1 <= getResult() and and getResult() <= getNumSides()'...?\u201d" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno likes this brain-shit. Thinking-shit.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.make_truce_with_Cuno_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: DayCount() == 3]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's like Cuno's dad -- Cuno doesn't give a fuck about anything.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The body -- what do you know about it?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Shitload, pig, what's your question?\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Don't tell the pig shit, Cuno!\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "This is where you *quickly* ask him questions. Real cop-questions. Like a cop." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_cop_questions\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Look at that lucky boozer there, the heaviest drinker on the planet! Look at his liquor-abusing excuse of a face -- those swollen bug-eyes, that muttering mouth." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "I wonder how many litres of sheer alcohol has he consumed today? I bet you'd like a sip of that. Give it a real taste of your manly mouth." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'd like more than a sip. I'd abuse *the devil itself* out of that liquor." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Then you should run for it, rascal. Become a modern hunter, tame that nasty urge inside of your guts. Reward your electrochemistry!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You betcha! I was born to drink. A new day, a new bottle!" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Yeah, wildo, time to get a drinking problem so massive that even stars collapse around it. Become an alcoholic!" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A moment passes. The lieutenant glances at the sports watch on his wrist." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I found out what the *pale* is while you were gone.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Wonderful.\" He does not seem surprised. \"What is your takeaway?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Wait, you're not surprised?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I can't stop a grown man from learning about the fundamental geographic and entroponetic features of our world, can I?\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Perhaps I shouldn't have tried, he thinks." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Perhaps I was overprotective, is what's insinuated." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm super cool with all of it.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm glad to hear that. I'm glad to see you're stable.\" He nods approvingly. \"Keep it that way. Now -- was there anything else, or should we get to it?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim! We need to talk about... *responsibility*.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"reputation.kim\"] >=1) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"To be completely honest, detective, I've been meaning to raise that very subject with you.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Good. We're on the same page then.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Take a deep breath. You've done some reading these past few days. But you also know there's more to life than what you find in books..." } ], [ { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "*Bratan*, now is the time!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Time for what?" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Oh... you will see. (It feels like the tie is rubbing itself against your chest like a cat in heat.)" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "First, the spirits -- the blue medicinal spirits. Grab the bottle and uncork it! It is time to unleash the Other-World." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You know what, I'm done with this crazy talking necktie bullshit!" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "But, *bratan*... no. Please uncork it. I can make it good again." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Slowly uncork the blue medicinal spirit." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "The bottle opens with a silent, mysterious hiss. The fumes rising from its mouth are as crisp as the northern winds." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Howling somewhere, lashing the boardwalk with brine and rain -- an ancient warmth crawls under your skin." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Now, *bratan*, take me off." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What? I didn't know I could do that..." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "*Bratan*, have I ever lied to you? Just take me off. (The necktie tugs encouragingly at your neck.)" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Take the necktie off." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Your fingers manage to undo the oily knot and the necktie slides off. It looks so frail sitting there in your hand, weighing almost nothing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Now what?" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Now put me in the bottle." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "But... why?" } ], [ { "actor": "Scabette", "dialogue": "\"Please, I'll come on half-time, work night-shifts!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"XP.help_annette\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.annette_white_success_nervous\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.doomed_investigation\"]]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.annette_heard_of_doomed\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.annette_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.annette_exit_mid_intro\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Hello, sir! Step right in, the store is open!\" A young girl with chubby red cheeks waves at you, smiling. Her nose is also red from the cold." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hi.\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Are you interested in a new and exciting book?\" She stomps her feet to feel warmer." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is it okay if I ask you some questions?\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Okay, sir. I'll try to answer any questions you have. I hope they're about books.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Moneyman", "dialogue": "\"Unpaid labour doesn't net you any money.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "There! Do you smell that?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Smell what?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Can you not detect that inimitable *whiff* of dissatisfaction and restlessness, that sense that the world is in need of dramatic, even *violent* re-ordering?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Close your eyes and take a deep breath.)" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Can you smell it now?" }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "You inhale. The cilia along your olfactory epithelium tingle with excitement as they sift through the swirling morass of industrial odours..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "First come the smells of the agitated strikebreakers, layers of body oil and sweat, over-buttered meals pulled from bakelite lunch pails, the biting stench of lye soap. And then there's the slowly oxidizing metal gates, the scent of stale grease emanating from every crack..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "In a word, exactly what you would expect to find at any harbour in the industrialized world..." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Nonsense. The reek of communism is unmistakable, and it's coming... from that railing over there!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You mean from the skinny guy in the red hat?" } ], [ { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "As you turn, a bright light catches your eye, making you squint." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Cool." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Sooooo cool." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Where's it coming from?" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "From a distant sunset? A stage light? Flash photography? Nowhere in particular? It's just what *superstar law-officers* do -- they squint at lights. And they solve shit." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Actually, now that I hear *superstar* and *law official* in a sentence they sound weird together." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "What are you, deaf? They're perfect! Like 'rockstar politician' and 'drug-addict teacher'. Embrace the superstardom you've worked so hard to establish." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You've got the wrong impression. I'm no superstar. I'm trash." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Yeah, a cool *trash* superstar. Big dick cop down on his luck. Salaam Rocky Bhai. Bad-ass, on the edge disco cop. Time to recede into a ludicrous fantasy world, HERE WE GO! Camera, lights..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No. Fuck you! [Finish thought]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you killed him?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Oh the inhumanity...\" He closes his black eyes. \"One paramilitary less in Revachol.\" You can almost see him squeeze a tear out of his eye. His fists begin to tremble from the anger." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Just nod." }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I *had* them in my sights, both of them -- him and the whore. I was breathing with them, in phase, and I pulled the trigger and flew on the air until I landed in his mouth...\" He begins to smile." }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I didn't think I had a shot like that in me anymore. I did. I saw him kneel there with his mouth full of death and that stupid look on his face.\" The smile quivers. \"And his dick still in her...\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "There. A hot flash of rage almost carries the smile away. Some dark piece..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Then what?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Nothing. I went to sleep. Next morning there were May bells everywhere. The world was white -- or what's left of it anyway. My last spring here... I knew the fascists would come to avenge their own...\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"And so they did.\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Be very very precise now... don't make a splash, you can still mess it up." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you understand you're confessing to murder -- to a police officer?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\" A single word is all he gives." } ], [ { "actor": "Reading Materials", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Reading Materials", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"seafort.books_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Reading Materials", "dialogue": "Books and magazines lie scattered on the floor and on a makeshift cupboard. They are not particularly well organized." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Wait, stop -- that man, bloated beyond all recognition, was 42?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It's what she said, yes." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Below the damage, the weeks of decomposition, all the swollen indignity of mortality -- he was 42 years old?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Where is this going?" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "How old are *you*? That's where this is going. Forty-five thousand litres of raw alcohol has left its disfigurements. What lies beneath, you wonder." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Turn around.) \"Miss, how old do you think I am?\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Huh?\" She leans in closer. \"How old do I think you are?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "She's buying time to formulate the best answer." } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You did it. You fucked up now. No money, no way to pay Garte. There's only one option left..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is it?" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Go... to the trash container..." } ], [ { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsNighttime()]" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"Oh, it's you.\" She turns around. \"I'm surprised to see you here this late. What can I help you with?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "This phrase is meant to be looked at from above." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey Kim, who is this rooftop message for?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant cranes his head and mutters: \"GO HOME.\" He pauses. \"It's an *aerograffito*. It's meant for the Coalition aerostatics that keep a lookout on the city from the low troposphere.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Silently nod." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "The sky is indifferent to your silent nod, but the lieutenant seems to appreciate it. He gives you a fleeting smile." } ], [ { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "The man sees you approaching and turns away..." }, { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"Officer...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"AND REMEMBER. WHAT HAPPENS IN MY MOM'S OFFICE, STAYS IN MY MOM'S OFFICE. QUIET CONTEMPLATION ENDS, BIOLOGICAL RIVALRY RESUMES.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "As you hold your ledger's clip under the headlamp, a shimmering iridescent pattern appears. One you've definitely seen before..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There she is: Revachol West.\" There's a note of pride in the lieutenant's voice." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "Around the borders of the watermark are dozens, no, *hundreds* of micro-perforations." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, let's go.\" [Put the ledger away.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Right. I'll go turn off the lights...\" He presses a remote control on the key." } ], [ { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_made_it_to_pre_hub\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"Think you can hang our brother and then just fucking *talk* your way out of it?\" His eyes flash." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We're out of time. This is...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"... the mercenary tribunal.\" The lieutenant nods." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Whisper.) \"The big one is the mercenary at the gates! The scab leader.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"If this turns into a firefight, we should take him out first.\" He nods." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "A sound strategy. He's the leader." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Whisper.) \"Let's walk away for now.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No,\" the lieutenant says firmly. \"We have to step in. This is not going to end well if we don't...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Stop, this is the police!\" (Get between them.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_kim_shot\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's a pig now.\" He picks his tooth with a dirty fingernail." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I've had these weird shakes recently. And something like... visions? Sounds familiar?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Totally, pig. Cuno's in the same shit every time he's coming off speed.\" His tone gets parental. \"You need to *medicate* that shit.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, it's more than that. It's like the city is speaking to me.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Ah, Cuno's not into that hallucinogenic shit -- that's for pussies.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, I don't think it's actually drug related...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Mother of a Scab", "dialogue": "\"C'mon, guys! I gotta feed my kids!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Easy Leo", "dialogue": "(Sings.) \"Plants are happy, boots are shining, every man is fed!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "This phrase is meant to be looked at from above." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey Kim, who is this rooftop message for?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant cranes his head and mutters: \"GO HOME.\" He pauses. \"It's an *aerograffito*. It's meant for the Coalition aerostatics that keep a lookout on the city from the low troposphere.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Wave at the sky.) \"Hello, nice international community. Thank you for watching over us.\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "The sky feels more bright and welcoming than ever before." } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Theo went like he lived -- fast and hard. Tough old man.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Lilienne, the Net Picker", "dialogue": "She doesn't wait for an answer. You better get ready." }, { "actor": "Lilienne, the Net Picker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lilienne, the Net Picker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (HasVolitionDamage()) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Bust of Kras Mazov", "dialogue": "A plaster cast bust depicts a middle-aged man with impressive sideburns. The name on the plinth reads 'Kras Mazov'." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Kras Mazov (nom de guerre), was an economist and theoretical historian. He was a leading figure on the Graad side of the Turn-of-the-Century Revolution, where he headed the Eleven Day Government. Mazov is considered the father of scientific communism (Mazovian thought or Mazovianism)." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Who is Kras Mazov?" }, { "actor": "Bust of Kras Mazov", "dialogue": "Situated between a poster of a white star and a photo of revolutionaries posing with their guns... This can't be a coincidence. There can be only one explanation." }, { "actor": "Bust of Kras Mazov", "dialogue": "Kras Mazov is a *communard*." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Yes, Kras Mazov (nom de guerre), was an economist and theoretical historian. He was a leading figure on the Graad side of the Turn-of-the-Century Revolution, where he headed the Eleven Day Government. Mazov is considered the father of scientific communism (Mazovian thought or Mazovianism)." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kras Mazov was a mass murderer. There's nothing *cool* about keeping his bust on your night stand.\" (Stare at the bust.)" }, { "actor": "Bust of Kras Mazov", "dialogue": "The bust doesn't reply. The hallway behind the door is empty; no one heard your words." } ], [ { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Gendarmerie! You found me.\" The young man on the balcony gives you a bright smile, before taking another drag from his cigarette." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "Somewhere in the distance a baby cries over a blasting radio. There's a family argument reaching its crescendo in an upstairs apartment, while around the corner the air conditioners drone." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It feels like a Friday. He seems to be in a good mood tonight." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "And his shirt is still unbuttoned." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I got your hint. Found the key right under that stone.\"" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Beautiful,\" he replies, smiling. As he looks at you, something sparkles in his eyes." }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"So tell me, are you here to make things *right* again?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's what I'm aiming for, yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Beautiful,\" he says again. A nearby street lamp casts shadows on his chin, drawing out the slender cheekbones." }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"I have some good news for you. My Sunday friend is visiting me tonight. I told him about you and he'd like to say hello. Step in, he's already waiting.\" He nods towards door #28." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why would I want to meet your friend?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "You see a colourful primer. The title reads: \"A Primer for Small Kids.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Make this quick, detective.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "That's the spirit, comrade!" } ], [ { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Wow... this jacket makes you feel *strong*. As if your blood is mixing with that of the venerable Filippian loyalists of old." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Mixing? Does my blood *need* mixing? Or is it good as it is?" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Apologies, you're right! The need for a strong central government has always been clear to you. You're a true patriot of Revachol -- born to do it." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "It's time to clean up the streets and restore the city to its former glory! Whether you like it or not, this jacket gives you serious nationalist cred." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Put 10 cents in and dial the long phone number again." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "You dial the number again -- twenty six pulls of the rotary dial. The machine eats the coin and a terrifying ocean of distance rustles in your ear..." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "In the middle of it -- a familiar ring. Small. Distorted." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Calling..." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Calling..." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Put it down." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"coast.payphone_volition_put_it_down_before_badness\"]]" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Before it's too late, please." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let it call!" }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Calling..." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Calling..." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Calling..." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Calling..." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "Calling..." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It looks like she does not want to pick it up, Harry. Stop scaring her." }, { "actor": "Payphone", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "The young woman raises a cigarette to her lips." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Her eyes are brown and her face is speckled with birthmarks. She can't be more than 28." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "A silver jumpsuit falls off her like scale armour, sparkling. This is the sparkle of too many nights out on the city." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Ah yes, *officer*... about that.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Yes, sir?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How did you know I'm with the police?\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Unless you've been feeding us a set of well rehearsed lies, you've been here for three days. On *official police business* no less.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And what business is that?\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"I couldn't say. In truth... so far, mostly drinking.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "You have no doubt about the drinking, but do you strike yourself as a tight-lipped drunk? She must have heard *something*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try *The Expression* on her -- let her know you want her. Physically." }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_tried_the_expression\"]]" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "*Try The Expression*? C'mon, why are you still doing this?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm at death's door, bloated, a goner. And still...\" (Sigh.) \"Does the longing ever stop?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Could this have been the killer's hideout, and this narrow window -- the point of origin of the shot that killed the mercenary?" }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "This does look like an *embrasure*, a slit made for shooting out of." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Peek out." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Outside the window -- desolation. Snow falls softly onto the coastal sand, where it melts almost instantly. On rooftops, it lingers." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, I can't see the Whirling-in-Rags... The shot didn't come from here.\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Indeed. No one could get a clear view. Well, at least we've been thorough. I like thorough.\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "The lieutenant's voice betrays a slight disappointment, which he glosses over by reasserting control." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"In fact -- I think we're done with this bunker.\" He looks to the exit. \"After you, officer.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Death ain't sad -- theirs was glorious. Hope mine will be dignified like that...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Alphonse the Scab", "dialogue": "\"I even brought my own overalls!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"C'mere, you mesque coward... die with the rest... die like a man...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.siileng_sunglasses_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "There's a pile of cheap sunglasses in a small box, a variety of shapes and colours." }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"You like sunglasses, officer? I've got the latest styles, right here!\" The vendor takes a pair of sunglasses and sticks them under your nose." }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.siileng_asked_pay_net_worth\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Stylish shades, huh? They'd be even more stylish if you paid for them with net worth. Go over and ask him." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'll take those cool deep blue glasses.\"" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"A man who knows his style,\" the street vendor nods. \"Much respect.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try the shades on." }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "Abort! These are hideous. What's more, they don't even fit your face. You can feel them pinching your nose and chafing against your brow." }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"Damn, officer, you look like a mega-secret spy, very secret,\" the man nods eagerly. \"They're practically made for you. I'll let you have them for... two re\u00e1l and fifty cents!\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "They're perfect for concealing your bloodshot and baggy eyes." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "It's going to be very difficult for anyone to take you seriously with these things on your face." }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.titus_posttribunal_explained_your_betrayal_of_titus\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.titus_posttrib_bad_greet\"]]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"God, why are you still here...\" He's getting quite drunk now. \"I'm sick of seeing you cops around.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.titus_big_dick_cop\"]]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"And I was wrong about your big dick too... you don't have a big dick.\" He stares disappointed into his beer." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sorry about the people you lost.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "His bruised face stiffens. \"Theo was old. I think he'd be pretty happy with the way he went. Never could imagine him withering away on a sickbed.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"But Angus...\" He gulps. \"He was just a stupid kid. Didn't realize the mess he'd gotten into... trusted me... Still, the balls on that kid! Went down fighting for someone else's shit like a fat angry bear.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Here it comes. The last one is the worst one. He only deals with it by drinking copious amounts of 8% beer." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.titus_empathy_glen_worst\"]]" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "An honest tactic. And effective." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"And Glen... Glen was my friend. Best I've ever had. I loved that crazy homo like my own brother.\" He takes a sip of his beer. \"We're all fucked without him, but whaddaya do? This job is shit.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The man hanged in the backyard -- did you do it?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.titus_big_dick_cop\"]]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"So you're not just here to swing your big dick -- you're here for the Pretty Boy? A real looker that one...\" He shakes his head. \"Stinks like *shit* too.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.get_the_dead_body_down_from_the_tree_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "\"They love him, boss. Spent all day digging around in there. Can't get enough of that Pretty Boy smell.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Evidence. Show them you have it. It doesn't have to be conclusive." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardies_rhet_show_them_some_evidence\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Just keep talking. Put something on the table. Something incriminating." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why's there a container belt around the dead man's neck?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Container belt? Like we use in the harbour?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes. Why?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Because we took it,\" he says, \"from the harbour where we work. Then we went out back and used it to *hang* him.\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "As he speaks, his fists contract, going through the pulling motion again, savouring it." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"We did this,\" -- he looks you dead in the eye -- \"together. All of us. Until he was dead. That's why there's a container belt around his neck.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Someone here is stealing from a company called Humanox." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Did you see that?\" The lieutenant nods towards the vehicle. \"The seals on the humanitarian aid lorry have been broken off.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I did see it, yes. Let's better not jump to any conclusion.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes, absolutely,\" he agrees, while his eyes turn to the traffic jam. \"But I suggest we keep our eyes open around that streethawker we met before.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Drunk", "dialogue": "\"The fuckin' piss-shitter...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pick at the rags." }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.trash_clothes_found\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "Among the threadbare kitchen towels, something catches your eye -- a pair of denim trousers?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Grab them." }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "As the legs of the slime-covered jeans begin to unspool from the garbage, a rank corpse smell fills the air." }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.sense_smell_rotting_corpse\"] or Variable[\"yard.hanged_vomit_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "Are these the victim's clothes? The smell is not nearly as bad as the cadaver. These clothes could not have been in contact with the deceased for more than two days after his death." }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Cadaverine odour is faint.\" The lieutenant smells them. \"If these belonged to the deceased, they were removed when he was still in the early stages of decay.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Drop them in here, officer.\" The lieutenant produces a black plastic bag marked *evidence* from his pocket." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"By *early stages* you mean these were taken from him no more than two days after his death?\"" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.hanged_where_are_clothes\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\" He nods. \"...if we're still assuming the clothes were taken off to get to the armour. They must have stripped him of it fast, the scavengers. In a matter of days.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Good God. A hidden room...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Of course, let us dispatch with the formalities, you call me Evrart, I call you Harry!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is that my name?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "For a fraction of a second the big man looks at you inquisitively. \"Experiencing partial amnesia, are we, Harry?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "It might be a good idea to hide your confusion, see what his game is first." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Nah, my memory is fine -- I'm just testing you.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"I'm very glad to hear it. Some of my associates here in Martinaise told me you had trouble remembering things -- I am relieved they were mistaken.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"I'm sure you had some concerns you thought I might be able to address.\" He pauses to look at a brown folder on his desk. \"And you were probably right.\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "The huge block letters on the folder read \"HARRIER DU BOIS\". There's something in small writing just above that..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's done. I mailed the signatures you asked me to mail.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"The golden boy returns once more! Wonderful -- simply wonderful, Harry.\" He claps his hands together like a child who's just been offered cotton candy. \"Of course, I already knew this.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"My friend, the mail-man, confirms the letter is on its way. You've done a great thing today. You've given the children of Martinaise a real future. I feel I can finally trust you, Harry.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Attempt to narrow the receiving mode manually." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.warship_interfacing_rc_success\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "You allow the broken hunk of metal to clatter to the ground. It wasn't clear to you it did anything anyway..." }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "\"Nein, Liebling!\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"What are you doing? The connection is even worse now! This is extremely unprofessional.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sorry! I was trying to do good.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"But you didn't, you made things worse.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She's right. This was your responsibility..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Damn it! I'm going to push the power supply. I doubt it will last more than a few minutes, so you'd better make them count.\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "A maelstrom of sound, swirling and swirling around an invisible point. It's mounting, mounting..." }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "\"... nicht mehr derselbe ist, seit er auf einem Luftschiff aus Graad zur\u00fcckgekommen ist...\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "\"... Firewalker? Please respond...\"" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "It's too much! Your ear drums are throbbing, about to burst!" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"... a long winter... Long and cold...\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "... and then, nothing." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Try it now.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Water Lock Control Panel", "dialogue": "A couple of indicator lights are missing from this control panel. Loose wires dangle from the now-vacant holes. In the middle is a lever -- beneath it, a small metal plaque." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "This panel usually closes the water lock, turning it into a bridge that lets you cross the canal -- but there's a crashed \"Samaran butter\" sign in the way. Pulling the lever *probably* won't do anything." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pull the lever -- again." }, { "actor": "Water Lock Control Panel", "dialogue": "You pull the lever all the way up until the metal clicks against the contact pins. You hear a soft *clunk*, then..." }, { "actor": "Water Lock Control Panel", "dialogue": "Nothing happens." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Push it HARDER." }, { "actor": "Water Lock Control Panel", "dialogue": "Nothing happens. A cold gust of wind blowing in from the sea interrupts the silence of the situation." } ], [ { "actor": "Colonial Mug Collection", "dialogue": "A row of mugs sits on the shelf. Each one depicts a human figure: a dark-skinned woman grinning amidst mysterious symbols, a broad-shouldered man shovelling potatoes, and others." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Move on from the mugs. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "You see rows of toy soldiers guarding the rest of the trinkets displayed on the table: some on horseback, others in rags, others yet in bright blue uniforms. All are stern and unyielding in their duty." }, { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.roy_inland_buy_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Purchase the Headless FALN Rider and his cap." }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Did I mention that this figurine is supposed to be lucky? Always carry it with you.\" He grins." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "That was a very smooth salesman's grin that almost comes off as earnest. You should learn from him." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Inspect the figurines in rags." }, { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "This set of soldiers isn't meant to look impressive. A few have rifles, but most of them carry pistols -- some even shovels and tall sticks." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Point at the figurines in rags.) \"Are these even soldiers?\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"You're probably talking about the revolutionaries, yes?\" the man behind the glass answers. \"Yes -- they are soldiers. Revolutionary soldiers.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"I think their poverty has been exaggerated for effect. When you place them next to the royalists, it doesn't seem like they could possibly win.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It is impossible to win against the cohorts of capital. Ask my friend Garte, whose bitch it made me.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Okay.\" He doesn't bat an eye. \"I don't like either set too much, to be honest.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "He seems to have his own take on the conflict played out in perpetuity by these toys. Might be interesting to find out what it is..." } ], [ { "actor": "Frequency Fireplace", "dialogue": "This old fireplace is covered in lines drawn in blue and red marker, the mesh spreading over the stone like blood vessels on alabaster skin. It looks ghostly and strangely ancient." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "A diagram for summoning some time-forgotten being? The symbols seem very esoteric." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "The whole thing resembles Kedran mosaic tiles. Very Pisantic." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Sounds like you're a potential Suicide Cop! With his finger on the *eject* button. Ready to let go of this life! Guess what?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What's that?" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "One bullet should do the trick. You have the gun... and you have the bullet." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "You've made such a big show out of it too. You feel like everyone basically *expects* you to do it now." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "What is this? You're not ready to die, this is garbage." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "It *would* be the honourable thing to do. It would really show them. Show her too." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No. It's a sign that I want to live. (Refuse.)" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Fine. Keep up the charade another day. This could have been so liberating, but you cling to the case, to your partner, to the world... it's pitiful." } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere() and Variable[\"coast.morell_before_lena_day_2\"]]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.morell_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I believe we ran into your husband on the coast, madam. He seemed to be busy setting up some trap, so we didn't talk to him much.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Are you sure it was him? Oh, thank heavens! Silly me.\" She smiles, though there's still concern in her features." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"I knew what I was getting into when I married a *cryptozoologist*, of course. It's just... Waiting for him to come back from field work is always nerve-racking...\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Still, I should have *known* he'd be returning late this time around. Finding the Insulindian phasmid -- it's *very* important to him.\" She glances out the window toward the bay." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'd really like to hear about more cryptids.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.lena_cryptid_kim_1st\"] == 0 and IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Of course, dear. Is there a particular cryptid that you're interested in learning about?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are there any *invisible* cryptids?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Oh hey, wey. There's coffee in the back... Oh, wait, I meant the Mother's love.\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "\"Coffee in the back\"? Something familiar about that. Coffee and stale cookies..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What was that about coffee? I feel like I've heard it somewhere before...\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Look, man. I'm at liberty to talk about the sacred blaze of the Mother's glorious heart. But not about the coffee.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You've been here a long time. Do you know why the church was abandoned?\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Police raid a while back,\" he responds, his voice suddenly flat." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did you see what happened?\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Not really, or at least I don't remember much of it anymore. The Mother's Love has done its job... That's what's so great about the Mother -- it lets you forget about everything.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Could it be that he just doesn't want to discuss a police raid with another police officer?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It looks like he truly doesn't remember. There's a vagueness to his sense of time." } ], [ { "actor": "Little Lily", "dialogue": "\"Hello, mister!\" A young girl, barely four or five years old, sits on the sofa. She is looking at you with frank curiosity." }, { "actor": "Little Lily", "dialogue": "She clutches a small stuffed animal. Occasionally she twirls it around." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are the twins outside your brothers?\"" }, { "actor": "Little Lily", "dialogue": "\"Yesss.\" She frowns. \"They don't want to play with me. They're older and play outside!\"" }, { "actor": "Little Lily", "dialogue": "\"They look the same! Haa ha haa! Sometimes I can't tell them 'part.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"They look identical, right? I said the same thing.\"" }, { "actor": "Little Lily", "dialogue": "\"They look... ai-dent-ik!\" She slowly processes the word, then snickers with laughter." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you know anyone named Ruby?\"" }, { "actor": "Little Lily", "dialogue": "\"Ll... Luby... Rr... R-luuby.\" Suddenly the girl gets all serious and leans in, as if she's about to tell you a secret." } ], [ { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.siileng_sunglasses_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"The shine on these sunglasses lasts a lifetime, officer! One hundred percent guaranteed!\"" }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.siileng_asked_pay_net_worth\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try the shades on." }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "Abort! These are hideous. What's more, they don't even fit your face. You can feel them pinching your nose and chafing against your brow." }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"Damn, officer, you look like a mega-secret spy, very secret,\" the man nods eagerly. \"They're practically made for you. I'll let you have them for... two re\u00e1l and fifty cents!\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "They're perfect for concealing your bloodshot and baggy eyes." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "It's going to be very difficult for anyone to take you seriously with these things on your face." }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Rummage through the box." }, { "actor": "Box of Sunglasses", "dialogue": "These are all boring. Boring third-rate ho-hum sunglasses made of cheap Seraise plastic. The kind of plastic that melts in the sun." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Those UV-stickers are almost certainly just there for show. If anything, these lenses probably direct more UV light *into* your pupils -- a UV magnifier." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Great, the case is closed then.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Sure, I'll call the station when we're done with the day. Let's go.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to buy the *Wirr\u00e2l* game.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"If you say so.\" She gives you a curious glance. \"But you better stay away from those immoral occult rituals.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to buy the *Suzerainty* game.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Wonderful choice, sir.\" She smiles at you. \"A wholesome *family* game.\"" }, { "actor": "Tutorial Agent", "dialogue": "You've acquired an interactable item. Investigate this item further by going to the INTERACT tab in your INVENTORY." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So what about all these 'Wirr\u00e2l' things?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Lousy auras there!\" She shudders. \"No, *role-playing games* are popular among those types... you know, who're into those kinds of things. Personally, I don't like it. Not at all!\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"I've heard they turn people into occult-enthusiasts. That they have rituals, where they try to summon entities. Highly immoral stuff... You can still buy them, though.\" She looks at the table, crossing her arms." } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Good, you're up. Listen, there's something that's been bothering you for a few days now." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is it?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's a suspicion, or a feeling, really, that things are not quite *in hand* around here..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "An earth-shattering deduction from your psyche. What will those guys come up with next?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Every day things seem to spin more and more wildly out of control. The centre isn't holding. And despite your efforts to *moderate* and *contain* these energies, things only seem to be getting worse." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let's get right to it: What needs to be done?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "You've got to find out who bears *la responsabilit\u00e9*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Alright, give it to me. *I'll* accept responsibility. (Proceed.)" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Whoa, whoa, *whoa*. This isn't some kind of *dictatorship*. You can't simply seize la responsabilit\u00e9 for yourself. It must be given by a legitimate authority..." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Like a committee." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Sounds like too much responsibility for me. I don't want it." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Don't run away from it now, Harry. You know it's the *right thing to do*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Sigh.) You're right. Who's going to sit on this committee?" } ], [ { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "What strikes you about this gaunt man is not the stomach pain, or the cough, or the malnutrition. For a man who's spent 44 years hidden in the urban wild..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "He is surprisingly okay." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Indeed. He speaks fluidly, his movements are rapid, if erratic. His voice, despite the cough, is there. It is capable of expressing complicated ideas. Above all, he seems *animated*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Animated? By what?" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "It's a mystery. This animation comes at a cost too: erratic hand gestures, thought processes cut off like threads, as he just stares at the logs or the reeds. He also suffers mood swings, bubbling to the surface, unconstrained by his nervous system." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Great leaps of emotion: from anger to grief, despair..." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "And also flashes of lust, simmering in there. Not too common in people his age." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Mr. Dros, are you okay? How is your memory?\" (Finish the examination.)" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"No I'm not *okay*...\" He waves his hand, chasing something that's not there. \"I shit blood and I'm surrounded by insane people...\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "There it is again -- erratic hand motions. Bouts of rage. And the stomach thing too of course..." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A moment passes. The lieutenant glances at the sports watch on his wrist." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hold still a second...\" (Try to smell Kim.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant's posture becomes rigid and uncomfortable as you lean forward and sniff the area just above his shoulder blade..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "The lieutenant is fastidious as a cat in matters of his personal upkeep. And yet, in the folds of his jacket you can just perceive the stale and acrid traces of oil rags, transmission fluid, and brake pads." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.kim_perc_garage\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "He smells... like a man? A perfectly normal man?" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Wait-wait. There's *something* there, something that sets your GABA-receptors aflutter." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.kim_electro_gaba\"]]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "The lieutenant's aftershave. A common drugstore brand. Strong hints of pine needle." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Strange. You're not getting any strong *ideological whiffs* from the lieutenant." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Do you *need* something, detective?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I was just wondering what brand of aftershave you use.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's nothing fancy, just plain old Taiga Super Special...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"character.beard_shaven\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I do like the way it tingles, though. It's the only part of shaving I actually look forward to.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm more interested in *why* you're so fixated on this idea in the first place.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"To be honest, I mostly just want to ride on Coalition Warship Archer.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Let me make a prediction, detective. You are not going to see the inside of a Coalition warship anytime soon.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Reach for the trap." }, { "actor": "Trap: Boathouses", "dialogue": "The trap feels light -- and silent -- as you pick it up. Something is different here..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look closer." }, { "actor": "Trap: Boathouses", "dialogue": "No locusts!" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "No phasmid either -- but still..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look closer still." } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A drop in temperature. An easy flow of air: an empty street. Before you, a thoroughfare unjammed with lorries. No more drivers smoking on hitch steps. Just... silence." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let go of the moment. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Psst, hear that?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Everything gets so quiet when it snows." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "No, not the snow -- the ominous hum of a *preposterously affluent individual*... It seems to be coming from above us." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "You hear dock water quietly lapping against seaweed-slimed concrete, but definitely no ominous hums." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Look up.)" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "See that massive container there, held up by that humongous crane? That's it! We need to get that box of treasures down. Try using that control panel over there." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Hold up a minute... why should a preposterously affluent individual be hiding themselves in a container?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No problemo, boss-man. On my way to lower that crane... [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Great *work* ethic, friend. No one should be scared to get their hands dirty on the road to brilliant *success*." } ], [ { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"Give me a moment...\" The cleaning lady still seems to be having difficulty breathing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm looking for a young male in his mid-twenties, dark hair, skinny build. A smoker on the balcony.\"" }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"Yes-yes. I know who you mean. The scrawny boy who's always smoking like the devil, right?\" She looks at the other end of the hallway." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "Somewhere in the building a child starts crying. You hear a radio tuned to a talk show and someone taking a shower." }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"What's he in trouble for?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No trouble, I just want to talk to him. Do you know where he lives?\"" }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"Talk!\" The cleaning lady starts laughing, but it turns into a violent coughing spasm. She squeezes her broom, trying to catch her breath." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "What was so funny about that?" }, { "actor": "Cleaning Lady", "dialogue": "\"He lives upstairs in room #28. Go to the balcony. It's one of those doors there,\" she points east. \"He's usually home in the evening.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Thank you.\" He turns to you. \"We should go check out his apartment on the balcony, see if he's home.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I have a few questions about those apartments...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A shift in temperature. The air chills around you. Dust settles on the stony floor." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "The Delta Logistics Company truck stands here waiting, reflecting white light from the courtyard behind it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Are there people in there?" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Yes, people hard at work at their desks. They can barely tell if it's day or night anymore because the lights in the building are so uniform and bright. Who knows when they'll come out?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What keeps them motivated?" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Irony. They're yuppies masquerading as Mazovians... Or was it Mazovians masquerading as yuppies? Even they get confused sometimes, out here in poverty-stricken Martinaise." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Can't I get into the courtyard somehow?" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Not yet." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Can't I get into the courtyard somehow?" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere() and Variable[\"coast.morell_before_lena_day_2\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.morell_before_lena_day_2_wokim\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "A little missing person's puzzle might be just the thing to take your mind off the hangover." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "You hear that? Someone's *missing*. There could be *foul play* afoot!" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.lena_authority_missing\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, I'll bite. Has your husband gone missing before?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"That's just it! This isn't like him at all. He always plans his expeditions so carefully...\"" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A cold breeze hisses through dense thickets of reeds.... Something sweet in it, somnolent. A damp chill goes down your spine. When you look around, you're still in the Whirling-in-Rags." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\u201cBut you have more important things to worry about.\u201d She glances out the window toward the bay." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "More important than a missing *expedition?* I don't know... expeditions often lead to something interesting." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"On second thought, things *are* bad. I don't even know enough to know what I *don't* know about this world.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"You know where we *are*, right?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"On Insulinde?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Yes, but, more specifically -- on the coast of the city of Revachol, in the district of Martinaise.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So I talked to Klaasje about the tape.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"And?\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "He tenses immediately. Chest tightens. Jaw sets. Ready for another blow." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And nothing. She stands by what she said.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"That fucking fucker...\" He stares at his beer for two seconds -- intently -- then turns to you. \"You're the worst cop in Revachol! I gave you *gold* on that tape.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "That 'fucker' wasn't aimed at you. It was at *her*." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "You smell weakness. He's getting tired of the game he's been playing." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You caught him off balance. Push and he will give way." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It was dark stuff, but it didn't prove anything. And it didn't change her mind.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Dark?! Dark is when you start a goddamn death-rock band! He said he'd rape her!\" He shakes his head in disbelief." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Sounds like he wanted it to change her mind about the hanged man. This is definitely personal." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"What did she have to say then? Fine by her?! This is what people are *supposed* to be like? Fucking whoopty doo!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"She did not say it was *fuck-a-doodle-fine*.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I can confirm that.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I noticed your room is close to mine. I have a personal question.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_sunday_night_story_interupted\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Yes, you're just one room away.\" She pours herself more coffee. \"Very personal.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Good. Yes. This means she could have heard something. Like what you were doing before you blacked out." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's all. Just wanted to establish that.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Funky.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Ruby is definitely not at her old crash pad anymore.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"That doesn't surprise me... She's careful. But -- before you ask -- I really have no clue where she could've gone.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "A cornered animal might seek a hiding place that has some sentimental value." }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_ruby_pain_sentimental\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"They tell us you were raped.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You should totally sing karaoke here, the first chance you get. Your emotions need to be expressed. People need to know of your vast, oceanic soul." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.mhead_fight_success\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"gates.mhead_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTHCPresent(\"advanced_race_theory\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"YOUR RACE DESCENT HAS ONLY *WORSENED* SINCE I LAST SAW YOU -- YOU HAVE REALLY LET YOURSELF GO.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's go, I'm ready to talk in private.\" (Go to mom's office with him.)" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"THIS WAY, PROCESSED MEAT MAN.\" He points to the office door behind you." }, { "actor": "Measurehead's Babe", "dialogue": "\"We're gonna miss you, Jean!\" The babes swoon and sigh as if he's about to leave on an interisolary flight." }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"DON'T WORRY, BABE. THIS WON'T TAKE LONG.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"SO... WOMEN, HUH?\" The Semenese supraman stretches on the couch like a giant tattooed cat." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "His shoulders relax, tension is leaving him." } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "The theme on that pinball machine is a standard *royalist* theme -- used on everything from pinball cabinets to full-flavour cigarettes." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What are its hallmarks?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Clinging to a picture-book version of the past century, waiting for the King to come back and cast out all the profiteers and homo-sexuals. Basically, imagine a yellow plastic crown with a liquor brand emblazoned on it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "The idea of a king and a century gone is pretty fascinating." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "The sentiment is called *antecentennial nostalgia* -- pining for a time before the turn of the century. It's common even now, after 50 years." } ], [ { "actor": "Sad Scab", "dialogue": "\"We're all so tired out here, have mercy!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "It's easier, this time, drifting off. Your head has found a comfortable indent in the pillow. Your legs and your torso feel like lead weights sinking to the bottom of the sea, until they're suddenly light..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Sing along -- in silent communion." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Blackness, blackness, blackness. The ultimate disco. The ruins of your life behind you, still smouldering. Ashes rise. But you're not looking." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "For now -- a little while -- you can..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Sleep. Without words or images.)" }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "When the pictograms and the hieroglyphs of the world return, they seem silent somehow. The alarm rings quietly too. You're ready." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Ready -- but something is coming. It always is." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Open your eyes.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "You should pick that fat, juicy cigarette butt from the tray, light it up and smoke the living shit out of it!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "The what now?" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "THE LIVING SHIT. Your mesolimbic reward pathway does not mince words. It wants smokes." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Am I a smoker?" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Who knows what you are? A monster, a murderer, the Gnome of Geroma? You *feel* like a smoker, especially when you look at that juicy, succulent, seductive cigarette stub. Still smouldering deliciously..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "But she broke it at the filter. I can't smoke that." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "How very astute of you! This renders it ineffectual. You should look for a *whole* cigarette. Or better yet -- an entire pack! Strike that, a CARTON! Make sure they're all healthy and able-bodied, then smoke them all." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Or -- you could *not* do that. No one is making you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I should enthusiastically do that!" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Good. They'll make you stronger and better. You're too old to be cool now, but find cigarettes, smoke them -- blam! Instantly a cool renegade man, a mystical red dragon with smoke rising from his nostrils!" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Plus, smoking them gives *massive bonuses*." } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The Headless FALN Rider -- he could appear at any minute!" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Please tell me we're not here to look for a headless man in a tracksuit riding a horse... because there's no such thing.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Don't listen to the lieutenant! He doesn't know *anything*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We'll just wait and see.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There's nothing to wait for. We should get some rest, it's been a long day.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're right, what was I thinking? Let's go.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant nods." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I talked to Joyce. The merc you hanged -- his friends are coming for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Yeah?\" He doesn't seem worried. \"By friends you mean his squadmates from Krenel?\"" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Wouldn't wanna beat up his grandma.\" There's snickering in the room. Some of the men put their beers down." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "*Nervous* snickering. There's a rush of adrenaline present." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Titus did his best, but his men are a bit unsettled." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes, they are forming some kind of *tribunal* -- and they're coming for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Let them come!\" Blondie yells across the cafeteria. \"The Hardie boys are right fucking here!\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"You heard the man -- right here.\" He points to the ground. \"We're armed, we got the whole district behind us and Glen... Glen is fucking *crazy*.\"" }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, a well oiled murder-machine!\" He punches blondie on the shoulder." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "The mood is on the rise. They're feeling confident -- ready to punch out the whole merc platoon." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you know that a single Seraise Giant Hornet can kill forty bees a *minute*?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"... the fuck is that supposed to mean?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're the bees; they're the hornet.\"" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"We're not bees, we're men. We're socialists!\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Easy, E, he's tryna' faze you.\" He turns to you. \"What are you trying to do? Scare my men?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "This is it -- the scene of the party. The fire pit, cigarettes, and empty bottles all evidence it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Dismiss thought.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"Fifty years ago this place was the heart of innovation.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"Is everything alright?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "You see a colourful primer. The title reads: \"A Primer for Small Kids.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Steal the Primer." }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Primer Book", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.book_primer_wc_stealing\"]]" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You peek at the storekeep, waiting for her to be distracted. When she's not looking, you deftly swipe the small booklet off the shelf and stuff it in your pocket." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You now proudly own a primer book for small children which, to be honest, barely cost anything." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to buy the map of Martinaise.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "She nods. \"Always good to be informed of your surroundings.\"" }, { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"] or Variable[\"character.interactable_tutorial_seen\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look at the map of Revachol." }, { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "The north coast of a verdant island is shattered by the delta of a river. It is the River Esperance. Countless bridges put the shards back together, connecting city blocks to river islands. *La Delta*, says a great, artificial heart in the centre, teeming with lifeforms and construction." }, { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "To the east, rolling hillsides: Le Jardin, Stella Maris, the suburbs of Saint-Batiste, swallowed up into the megacity. They sound *rich* to you. This is Revachol East." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsCunoInParty()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I got shot too -- in that fight.\" (Point to your leg.) \"I did my absolute best.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"You went in drunk and you got yourself shot -- and others killed.\" He sighs, then continues more calmly: \"Why are you even *here* after Kitsuragi got shot?\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Stop taking this abuse. YOU. SOLVED. THE. CASE." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I solved the case. A straggler from the Revolution shot the merc. He was hiding for *fifty* years on that island before I found him.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"A straggler? From the *Revolution?*\" He sounds incredulous." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's wild. But I have a confession *and* a murder weapon. He's on the island now -- waiting for arrest.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"You just left him on the island -- unguarded?\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "There is a *perfect* explanation for that!" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Don't tell him about the phasmid. He *will not* believe it. IT. DIDN'T. HAPPEN." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't know. What I *do* know is -- there was no giant stick insect on the island. That would be insane.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"What is this, a joke? We *will* dump you, Harry. We will leave you here -- you'll be just another bum on the coast. This is a *trial*. Stop fucking around.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Right-to-Worker", "dialogue": "\"Right to work! Right to work!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "The thick journal bound in brown leather is full of candour and diagrams." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Study the handwriting." }, { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "The large cursive of someone who writes quickly and confidently." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Perhaps too confidently -- many phrases and even paragraphs have been crossed out, with tiny corrections scrawled above and in the margins." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Flip through the pages again." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What's the most recent entry? (Conclude with journal.)" }, { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "The most recent entry is from today. It reads:" }, { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "\"Even when I leave here (if I leave here alive) -- what's my next move?... Staging a lynching is a crime, even if I'm not accused of murder on top of that. Forever on the run? Not really my idea of the open road. \n\nMan, I was really looking forward to winning.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.ask_about_ruby_in_village\"] and Variable[\"pier.joyce_village_intro_done\"] == false]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"village.joyce_left_mid_village_greet\"]]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "The woman is tying a complicated nautical knot around the post, while occasionally exchanging a few words with the other woman." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hello, ma'am.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Hello, detective.\" She fastens the end of the line around the post and straightens her back." }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"It's good to see you here. I only just arrived myself.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I need your help with something, right away! No time to talk!\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Of course -- how fortuitous that I'm so close at hand. What do you need?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "The thick journal bound in brown leather is full of candour and diagrams." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Flip through the pages again." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What are the diagrams of?" }, { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "Esoteric radio technology. The most recent ones probably pertain to the Latitude Compressor: sketches, calculations of distance and density. You make out a familiar spiral shape." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What are the diagrams of?" }, { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "Esoteric radio technology. The most recent ones probably pertain to the Latitude Compressor: sketches, calculations of distance and density. You make out a familiar spiral shape." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How far back do the entries go?" }, { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "The first entry is from August 2nd of last year. It reads simply: \"I know my position is precarious. All I can do is make myself as useful as I can while looking for a way out. (Remember: no one is indispensable.)\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "*\"That's* the where you remember me from?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Chester McLaine", "dialogue": "The tall ginger on his right still has tears of laughter in his eyes. \"Yeah, Mack's right, that was some gnarly shit there...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.working_meeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"Hmm-hmm-hmm.\" You see a sturdy woman humming to herself. She seems to be browsing books." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "\"The ship takes off like a silvery mosquito... unfolding its rotor blade arms...\" She mumbles reading. Then puts down the softcover." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave her be.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Metal Grille Door", "dialogue": "As you approach the metal grille you can hear several voices having what appears to be an animated discussion." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "This must be it. Beyond this door lies the beating heart of radical communism in Martinaise." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "Somehow the night air softens the smell of trash and sea brine. As the breeze pulls through the canvas like a shuttle through a loom you catch a hint of something unexpected, something earthy, warm, and burnt..." }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "\"Just look at this pig, sniffing about after-hours...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Ignore her.)" }, { "actor": "Metal Grille Door", "dialogue": "The metal grille is cool to the touch." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "You notice the lieutenant is looking uncustomarily anxious. His posture is rigid, his right hand hovers near the zipper of his jacket." }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "He wants so badly to draw his Armistice, but he also doesn't *want* to want to draw it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Well, detective. It seems we've located your underground cell...\" He looks over the balcony, down toward the water." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Which is just to say: We should be prepared for *any* eventuality.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"auto.on_cindy_balcony\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"pier.cindy_main_hub_reached\"] and Variable[\"pier.cindy_first_greet_roof\"] == false) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"pier.cindy_first_greeting_balcony_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "\"The streets will flow red once more. A great torrent, rushing down Rue d'Esperance. You wait and see.\" The girl stares at the sailboat by the pier." }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You seem pretty cool. Who are you?\"" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "\"I'm Cindy the fucking SKULL -- what else do you want to know? Date of birth? Blood type? The last time I was tested for Hep C?\"" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.ask_cindy_about_the_armoured_gloves\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Don't use that tone with me. I am the law.\"" }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "\"Sod off, pig man. Art is above the law.\" Despite the sass, she puts the brush aside." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "She's grown frustrated with her work and welcomes the opportunity to challenge authority in other ways." } ], [ { "actor": "Scabette", "dialogue": "\"Unions are a scam!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"XP.help_annette\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.annette_white_success_nervous\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.doomed_investigation\"]]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.annette_heard_of_doomed\"]]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.annette_altgreet_doominvestigation\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Hello, sir. How is the investigation going? Found any *cuuurses* yet?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's going bad, *really* bad.\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Oh, that's very sad to hear.\" She frowns. \"But it'll pick up soon, don't worry. There's always a... bad spot in the stories, right before the detective figures things out.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey, guess what. I found a way into the Doomed Commercial Area.\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Oh, that's great!\" Her smile is warm. \"I hope exciting adventures lie ahead! And maybe you can help mother become... less afraid.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"DON'T WORRY, BABE. THIS WON'T TAKE LONG.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"SO... WOMEN, HUH?\" The Semenese supraman stretches on the couch like a giant tattooed cat." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "His shoulders relax, tension is leaving him." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Strange, he seems different in here. Less 'monolithic' somehow." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The room feels soporific in its silence, dust particles twirling around in the air..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't really like women.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"AND? THAT'S WHAT YOU WANTED TO TALK ABOUT? THAT YOU DON'T LIKE WOMEN?\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"WHAT IS THIS *REALLY* ABOUT?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's about love.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTHCFixed(\"the_waste_land_of_reality\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"I CAN BARELY HEAR YOUR WORDS THROUGH THE VOICE OF AL-GUL, BUT IT SPEAKS TRUTH. MEN ONLY WANT TO REVERSE TIME FOR ONE REASON -- LOVE.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"THEY *SAY* IT'S ABOUT HONOUR, JUSTICE, REVENGE, REGRET, REDEMPTION, AND A PLETHORA OF FALSE REASONS, BUT FURTHER BACK -- DEEPER IN -- IT IS ALWAYS LOVE THAT DRIVES THEM.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.rene_its_About_love\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "There! Do you smell that?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't smell anything." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Can you not detect that inimitable whiff of dissatisfaction and restlessness, that sense that the world is in need of dramatic, even violent re-ordering?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Are you saying there's a communist nearby?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Without a doubt. Your politico-olfactory cortex doesn't deceive you. The smell is coming... from that balcony over there!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You mean from Cindy?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Certainement! A precocious communist youth, a symbol of a kinder, more hopeful future. Now's your chance to *establish contact* with your revolutionary brothers and sisters." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "A chance to establish contact with the future! What a beautiful, *terrible* thought..." } ], [ { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Don't even get me started on beauty...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.gaston_rhetoric_sandwich\"]]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "All right, this is how we're gonna do it:" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I admire your handiwork,*ch\u00e9f*, but there are a few things I'd do differently.\"" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"Like what, officer?\" His eyes rest on the sandwich. \"This is as good as they come in Revachol, I assure you.\"" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "An array of delicious recipes flashes through your mind. Salads... Salmon... Sandwiches. Bingo!" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "This calls for an engineering angle. Structural rigidity, exposed rafters, lattice-works -- that type of approach." }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.gaston_interfacing_go_structural_with_sandwich\"]]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Lattice-works? Like *Lettuce-works*? I see what you did there. Don't ever do that again." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The bread you built this wonder on, could have been toasted beforehand.\"" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"That *would* certainly have been an improvement.\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Beautiful, now bring it home with paprika." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'll do you one better -- the air pocket between cheese and ham could house pre-roasted paprika.\"" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"*Ce serait d\u00e9licieux*! he shouts excitedly. \"Can you make that sandwich, officer?\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "No problem, you just need *his* for research and development first. Just as a prototype of course. Stall now and the sandwich is forever lost." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No. No one can.\" (Gaze at the distance, slowly shaking your head.)" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"Wait... But I thought...\" The old-timer, visibly disappointed, pockets the sandwich and sighs. \"I'd really like to get back to the game now, if there isn't anything else?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Now! Now you will *finally* get to know who you are!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Wait. I have a *few* questions before we go. About who I am.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "The man looks westward, impatiently." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "Jingling his car keys in his pocket." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why am I *like* this?\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"It's not a mystery. Some chick fucked you over. Also, you're a drunk.\"" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "You really went with it too. Really maximized the damage." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.dora_du_is_her_full_name\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Was she called Dora Du Bois?\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"Du Bois?\" He shakes his head. \"It was... Dora Ingerlund, I think. You've said her name. But you weren't married. You were engaged.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So we weren't even married...\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"No one is married anymore. This is Revachol.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"When was this?\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"God, I don't know...\" He thinks. \"Six years ago? She was way before my time.\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Six years and you haven't gotten over it, what the hell is wrong with you?" } ], [ { "actor": "Door", "dialogue": "Two rusty metal plates that slide apart form a crude door. It's been here under the boardwalk for a while." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Ignore the door. [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Officer? Are you okay in there?\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "You really ought to open this door. It's dangerous to go ahead alone." } ], [ { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Damn, that felt *good*. Your heart's pounding nicely. You should tell people to fuck off more often." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "No, you shouldn't. You're an officer of the law." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Fuck yeah, motherfuckers!" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "That's the spirit!" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Never forget: The whole world's a wooden house and you're a god damn flamethrower." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Touch it with your finger, gently. (Proceed.)" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "A black trickle of liquid runs into his throat from the wound..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Put your finger in." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "Your index fits right in there. A tight tunnel of flesh opens up -- tissue damage -- wide enough for two fingers. As you push both in, you reach through his mouth, right into his brain stem." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.fridge_corpse_in_fridge\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Feel around first." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "The basal ganglia feels clumpy -- what entered here has torn apart his reptilian complex." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "This man will never sleep again. Never wake." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "The *funk soul brother* at the back of his head has gone dark. Forever." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Push deeper." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "Your fingers slide into the remains of his limbic system. There is no resistance. It's gelatinous. The slug-like structures are damaged too, the tearing extends deep into both hemispheres." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "This is what he used to regulate his emotions with..." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The ululations of the limbic system have ended. All is quiet." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"There's a cavity... cut right between the hemispheres.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant answers with the sound of his pen on paper." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.fridge_corpse_in_fridge\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What was what?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You looked strange when he mentioned the assault victim's name.\" He looks you in the eye: \"Do you know that woman?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He repeats: \"Officer, before we interview this woman -- is there something I should know?\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "He's not leaving you a lot of room to back off from this." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Whatever you do, don't say the first thing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"She knows I did some pretty crazy stuff before I passed out. That I partied hard. And not very mental-healthily.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"So she overheard you? Or did you *party* together?\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "So this is what it feels like to be *interviewed*..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Fun." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "I wouldn't say it is." } ], [ { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "She's tying a complicated nautical knot around the post." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"J-j-j-jettady-jetty.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Oh jetty, oh jetty....\" she responds mournfully..." }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "...then secures the mooring line. \"It's good to see you here, detectives. I only just arrived myself.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What brings you here, madam?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Nothing, really... I've had my eye on this jetty for weeks now. So I decided to investigate it personally. This cluster of buildings isn't on any of the official maps, as far as I can tell.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "That -- and she's also keeping an eye on *you*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Have you been spying on me?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"'Spying' has such a negative connotation. I did track your progress along the coast, however, and decided I would be better able to assist you from here...\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Then there's the matter of that little scamp in old-lady clothes. She threatened to paint the Cor-de-Leite red. Like blood, you see. Well, I like it the way it is -- white.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"pier.cindy_first_greeting_balcony_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "What is this? Destruction of property? Hooliganism? Elder abuse? And who is this *scamp*, anyway?" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"pier.cindy_authority\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.fridge_corpse_in_fridge\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, this fridge looks perfect for the corpse -- we don't have to ask around anymore.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant studies the fridge. \"It's an eccentric choice... but it definitely fits the body. Now the only thing left to do is plug the fridge back in.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try to remove the dead man's boots." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I thought we decided to leave it to Processing.\" The lieutenant shakes his head. \"Let's not turn this into some kind of circus.\"" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Damn it, this is turning into some sort of mega-puzzle." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Okay, so you can *sneak* out of your room maybe, after he's gone asleep..." } ], [ { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"Someone is always watching.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "You see rows of toy soldiers guarding the rest of the trinkets displayed on the table: some on horseback, others in rags, others yet in bright blue uniforms. All are stern and unyielding in their duty." }, { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.roy_inland_buy_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Try to find something pretty and cool here. Then use it to win her back!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Win 'her' back?" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Yes! Buy something nice! A figurine." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "This sounds... off. You shouldn't trust this guy." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Inspect the figurines in rags." }, { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "This set of soldiers isn't meant to look impressive. A few have rifles, but most of them carry pistols -- some even shovels and tall sticks." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Point at the figurines in rags.) \"Are these even soldiers?\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"You're probably talking about the revolutionaries, yes?\" the man behind the glass answers. \"Yes -- they are soldiers. Revolutionary soldiers.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"I think their poverty has been exaggerated for effect. When you place them next to the royalists, it doesn't seem like they could possibly win.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I wish it was more *nuanced*. As it stands, I cannot comment.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"I don't like either set very much, to be honest, but there are many parents among my customers.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "He seems to have his own take on the conflict played out in perpetuity by these toys. Might be interesting to find out what it is..." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Time to get my gun!" }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.thepigs_redc_handeye_recognize_gun\"]]" }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquipped(\"ledger_damaged\") or CheckEquipped(\"ledger_oblivion\") or CheckEquipped(\"ledger_of_failure_and_hatred\")]" }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "Alright, here's the plan: You hurl the ledger in her face -- already darting right -- and *immediately* close the distance. Left hand grabs the barrel, right one breaks the wrist..." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "...fingers lock behind her head, knee to the face, knee to the face, crush the ribcage, side-step and drop her with the hammer kick." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "OH MY GOD, YES!!!!" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "No. That won't be necessary. Look closer. The gun, all three barrels, red and blue light shining through -- it's not loaded." }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.pigs_viscal_gun_is_empty\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Go ahead, pull the trigger. I dare you.\"" }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "\"SUICIDE BY COP! SPLIT-SECOND DECISION. EAT LEAD, SCUMBAG!\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "OH MY GOD!!!!" }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "CONDITION BLACK, ALL SYSTEMS CRITICAL!" }, { "actor": "The Pigs", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Agent... Is La Puta Madre some kind of travel agency?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, they love sending people to faraway places...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sure I'm supposed to know... but I lost my memory recently.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, sure.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "She doesn't believe you." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I'm sure La Puta Madre himself will explain it all to you soon enough.\"" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A man in a white suit walks through a garden coaxed from soil that had once been covered in asphalt -- a city block closed off from the rest of the city by dark buildings." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"boardwalk.ruby_la_puta_esprit\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, other questions.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah. Other questions.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What happened... Sunday night? Tell me your version.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "She eyes you warily, as though gauging your sincerity." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "She's refusing to adopt the demeanour of a cornered animal. A leader with no one to lead -- she still wants to retain some control of the situation." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's okay... We just want to... hnghhhhh...\" He struggles to finish the sentence." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Alright, don't kill yourself over it. I was shooting the shit with Hardie and the boys over a few beers, like always. Then Klaasje comes in, all pale and shuddering...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.get_the_weasel_key_from_manana\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Lieutenant, what is your opinion of this task we're undertaking?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"cargo.evrart_kim_expresses_understanding_worknig_with_evrart_is_necessarry\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"As I already said,\" the lieutenant replies, adjusting his glasses. \"I understand this can't be avoided.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Got it!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.get_the_weasel_key_from_manana\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.get_the_weasel_key_from_manana_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant merely nods in response." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who are you?\"" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "\"Who *am* I? Oh, I haven't been asked that question for such a long time.\" There's genuine surprise in his voice. \"I don't meet a lot of people outside my circle these days...\"" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "\"Anyhow, my name is Roustame Diodore -- investor, licence holder, and extremely high-net-worth individual. And you are?\"" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTaskActive(\"TASK.sell_art_for_gains\")--[[ Variable[ ]]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Mr. Diodore, I am Lieutenant Kim Kitsuragi of the RCM, and this is my partner...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"My name is Harry, and I'm an alcoholic detective.\"" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "\"Pleasure to meet you, Harry,\" he says warmly. \"Though I'm sorry to hear a good public servant like yourself is in servitude to *the drink*. A man can't serve two masters, in my experience.\"" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who are you?\"" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "\"Who *am* I? Oh, I haven't been asked that question for such a long time.\" There's genuine surprise in his voice. \"I don't meet a lot of people outside my circle these days...\"" }, { "actor": "Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy", "dialogue": "\"Anyhow, my name is Roustame Diodore -- investor, licence holder, and extremely high-net-worth individual. And you are?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "This is the flag of Revachol the Suzerainty." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What's with the sun?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "This isn't just one sun, but there are little suns dancing around the big sun. This is the Sevenfold Sun Miracle." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "That's good to know. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Church Doors", "dialogue": "Heavy wooden doors more than twice your height stand shut in front of you. The rectangular, sea-worn ornamentation appears in stark contrast to the padlock carelessly drilled into the wood." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Open the padlock with the key." }, { "actor": "Church Doors", "dialogue": "The lock turns easily. You hear a click as the shackle pops open." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Feels like electricity and a very small piece of nothingness." }, { "actor": "Church Doors", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Church Doors", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pull on the doors..." }, { "actor": "Church Doors", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Church Doors", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.doomed_investigation_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Church Doors", "dialogue": "A great whoosh of air rushes into the dark innards of the church, as though rushing to fill a great vacuum..." }, { "actor": "Church Doors", "dialogue": "... in the heart of the city." }, { "actor": "Church Doors", "dialogue": "You enter the church." } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "A shabby door hangs oddly on its hinges, secured to the doorframe with a safety chain. An unpaid energy bill is attached, threatening to cut off the electricity. It's addressed to Mr. Uuno de Ruyter." }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.get_drugs_from_cunos_apartment\"] == true and Variable[\"TASK.get_drugs_from_cunos_apartment_done\"] == false) == false]" }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "The handle is loose from violent, fruitless yanking. Paint at the door's bottom is chipped from kicking. People have tried often, and apparently without success, to enter." }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #12", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Winter, slow to let go of Revachol, flecks some more wet snow from above..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Shake the shivers off. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Scabette", "dialogue": "\"Let us through!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"We can assure you your partner will carry on just fine, that is his responsibility, just as this is yours. Now, there's no time to waste. The Committee is waiting to hear what you've uncovered...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Water Bowls", "dialogue": "It's awfully silent again, as if someone turned off the entire world outside those walls. Water inside the bowls stands still." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Measurements have been marked down around the bowls, each chalk-drawn line representing a centimetre on the floor." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Oh boy, this is going to be good." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"Kind of chilly tonight, Uli.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Chester McLaine", "dialogue": "The tall ginger on his right still has tears of laughter in his eyes. \"Yeah, Mack's right, this was some gnarly shit there. I mean, before he started begging for money -- it was... \"" } ], [ { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.tommy_told_him_ruby_dead\"]]" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "Out of old habit he still snaps his fingers at you -- but then stops immediately, realizing what he's done. He does not want to talk to you." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Today, tomorrow, *ever*." } ], [ { "actor": "Dick Mullen and the Mistaken Identity", "dialogue": "In your hand, you hold four-fifths of \"Dick Mullen and the Mistaken Identity.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Examine the cover." }, { "actor": "Dick Mullen and the Mistaken Identity", "dialogue": "The cover features a pastiche of different scenes. In the foreground, a man in a dark overcoat clutches a pistol to his chest. Rising up behind him are two silhouettes wrapped in a passionate embrace." }, { "actor": "Dick Mullen and the Mistaken Identity", "dialogue": "The tagline reads: \"Detective Dick Mullen must prove his innocence after an old friend is murdered -- by someone who looks just like Dick Mullen!\" That seems to sum up the premise nicely." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Needless to say, it violates nearly every RCM regulation for a detective to investigate a murder in which he is a suspect." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Are you really reading that, detective?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm looking for advice on being a real detective.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Well, you won't find it in *there*. Those books are much more about ravishing dames and gun play than real policework.\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "When was the last time *you* ravished a dame, detective? Besides your crusty old sock, that is." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Put the book away.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.trant_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsMorning()]" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"Hello! Isn't this a fine morning?\" He nods to you, smiling." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Have you been talking to other police officers?\"" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"Me? Yes, at some point, I'm sure I have. There was this one rather, uh,\" he stops, smiling at the reminiscence, \"*memorable instance* when I had a chance to meet the head of Dominion Police of K\u00f6nigstein.\"" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"And, as you know, they have this very distinctive dress uniform with scarlet breeches and little cylindrical fur caps, I think these are called...\" You daze off, as Trant tells you about the peculiarities of mounted police forces in central Occident." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Wait, what was it that you wanted to ask...?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What's so fascinating about an empty old building?\"" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.is_raining\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"auto.is_snowing\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Karaoke Stand", "dialogue": "The stage is all set up for your performance. Feels... silent. You can hear the pellets creak under your feet." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You feel a little dizzy. A little *unsteady*, suddenly." }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"So, are you ready for your... *thing* now? Let me know when I should turn on the karaoke carousel.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm ready, Garte. Hit play.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "The air is thick with anticipation." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Someone dims the lights as the music starts... Okay. Here we go..." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "\"I would often go there. To the tiny church there. The smallest church in Saint-Sa\u00ebns -- though it once was larger.\n\nHow the rill may rest there. Down through the mist there. Toward the seven sisters -- toward those pale cliffs there\n\nI would often stay there. In the tiny yard there. I have been so glad here -- looking forward to the past here\n\nBut now you are alone. None of this matters at all.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "A lazy applause fills the room. You feel your hands shake as awareness of your body returns to you." } ], [ { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "Like a fan of gills the chequered papers dry in your hand. The handwriting is extremely dense, if mostly illegible." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Inspect the handwriting in the files." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "It's *inornate*. Nearly illegible, yet marching in orderly lines." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "*Pedagogical* somehow. Brash. It must be yours for you to be able to read it. These are the lines of someone who has written by hand *a lot* and has developed a style only they themselves -- or *you yourself* -- can decipher." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Written in a rush. In pain. A race to beat your own heart's pulse to some dark finish line." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Your hand cramps up merely looking at the scribbles, drawn -- as by some magnet -- to the red chequered margins. Fast, but always *straight*..." }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"inventory.ledger_empathy_handwriting\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How much is that -- two new cases a week?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "A lot? A little? You have no idea, this all depends." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Does it? It feels like a *lot*. Or maybe even more than a lot. It feels like *too much*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, my cases appear to employ some kind of... naming convention.\"" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Damaged Ledger", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.open_official_case_done\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Backyard Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Backyard Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"backyard.wall_concept_wc\"]]" }, { "actor": "Backyard Wall", "dialogue": "There it is -- the most beautiful of walls. Stop and admire it for a moment." }, { "actor": "Backyard Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Backyard Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.add_even_more_beauty_to_the_wall\"] == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "There! Working class drunk! You know what this means, right?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Case solved!" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Cracked it. All in a good day's work." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, what did I crack exactly?" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "What do you mean *what did I crack*? Look at how working class that drunk is!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It's the future leader of a proletarian uprising." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "No, it's not." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It's... uhm... some third option?" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "No. Stop goofing around, recruit!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It's... uhm... some third option?" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "No. Stop goofing around, recruit!" } ], [ { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Word on the street is: 'Outgunned, the Hardie boys kill twenty Krenel mercs...'\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.get_yourself_organised_cancelled\"]]" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"Would you mind? We've got *group business* to take care of.\"" }, { "actor": "Echo Maker", "dialogue": "\"That means go home, gendarme.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Chester McLaine", "dialogue": "\"Ask him...\" The speaker succumbs to laughter. \"Ask him to check his hand -- the one without a wine bottle -- I bet that's where his badge is!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Welcome to the pawnshop!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "You see the lieutenant's familiar shape in the orange jacket. It turns double -- then triple -- from the pain." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "It's nothing. You're alive, that's what matters." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim....\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"*Sunrise, parabellum*,\" the lieutenant says. He's in the middle of a freshly cleaned room, with the fan above his head like a halo. His face is covered in bruises." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How bad am I hurt?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Reasonably bad. You were shot in the left quadriceps -- that's your thigh. It appears no major arteries were nicked. The bullet was removed and a bacterial infection treated with mercurochrome.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"The bruising in your shoulder is negligible. The armour took the brunt of the fire.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Can I... walk?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We will see.\"" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "With considerable pain and the stitches tearing every now and then -- you should be able to do it." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Through tears and blood and stitches tearing it *should* be possible." } ], [ { "actor": "Water Lock Control Panel", "dialogue": "A rusting control panel with loose wires dangling out from the hole where an indicator light used to be, and a mechanical lever sitting in the middle." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "This panel usually closes the water lock, turning it into a bridge that lets you cross the canal -- but there's a crashed \"Samaran butter\" sign in the way. Pulling the lever *probably* won't do anything." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So the coast is closed off. This may be why Lena's husband Morell the cryptozoologist hasn't returned.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Looks like it, yes. We should probably go tell Lena. Take a load off her mind.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She *was* quite worried..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So the coast is closed off. This may be why Lena's husband Morell the cryptozoologist hasn't returned.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Looks like it, yes. We should probably go tell Lena. Take a load off her mind.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She *was* quite worried..." } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Where could he be...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Probably a Migrant", "dialogue": "\"We were promised work!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.smoker_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.smoker_commented_on_clothing\"]]" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Hi again, gendarme.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"About this hat I'm wearing...\"" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"You can keep it, I don't mind. I can appreciate beauty when I see it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I wasn't really planning on giving it back anyway.\"" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"How cunning.\" He raises his brows and you're not sure whether he's mocking you or not. \"I like men who take what they want.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Tell me again about that *muscular type* who came to investigate the crime.\"" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Oh, yes... let's see. He knocked on my door a few days after the lynching. I think he was going through the entire building, asking questions.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Besides *muscular*, did he have any other identifying traits?\"" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Oh, let me think...\" He turns his eyes upward in recollection. \"He had an accent. He sounded like one of those mercenaries.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"It's supposed to become, like, a club. For *anodic dance music*. Like that new style of synthesizer stuff they play at The Paliseum.\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Except that... yeah.\" She looks at the old wooden church up on the poles. As a mean wind comes bellowing in, the six-story structure lets out a doleful shriek." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "The floorboards are twisting and the shooting beams are slowly cracking like bones. Far east of the golden Delta, beyond the industrial port, there is a black patch of unlit coast with the smallest creatures on the ice..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "There will never be a club for anodic music here." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Not in a million years." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you want to turn the church into a club?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"I know.\" She nods towards the sloping mass of wood on the coast, then shivers. \"It's not my idea. Andre and the boys found the place. It was supposed to be deserted, but now they can't even take it...\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Hey...\" Her black eyes widen. \"You're a cop...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't know where you got that idea.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Honestly, I didn't want to bring it up, Harry -- I heard you have become Measurehead's race pupil...?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I really believe in the race mystery and I'm glad I was given this chance. I hope to one day be able to contribute.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Personally I'm not big on the whole race thing, but that's okay. It's alright to be a massive racist, Harry.\" He sinks deeper into his armchair." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Let me assure you, I'm very glad you're comfortable sharing this with me. I run a big and quirky organisation. Everyone is welcome. Birds of all feathers.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Anyway, I assure you, I am a very well-informed man. Information reaches me before I even get the chance to request it.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Yes, but it's because his word usually sets things in motion." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Aren't you going to ask me how I got in?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "An inconspicuous pile of the roofing material, eternite." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Why am I looking at this pile of the roofing material?" }, { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_shack_white_perc_sight\"]]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Because there's a secret door hidden behind the panels of eternite. That's why they're *too* orderly." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pull the panels aside." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "There it is! You see a shabby little door." }, { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What is this, then? A tool shed?\" He peeks inside. \"Let's investigate.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "It's *STILL* not over, he's hurting now. Deep inside, the minuscule matter which you are composed of persists. The ride never ends. It just gets harder." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTaskActive(\"TASK.check_back_on_renovation_later\")--[[ Variable[ ]]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "There! Working class drunk! You know what this means, right?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Case solved!" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Cracked it. All in a good day's work." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Open and shut. I don't even need to think about this anymore. Goodbye. [Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Right. I don't really want to hear about what happened in the tent. Let's get going.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_volition_white_check\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_volition_white_failed_once\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "She looks back, time moves slowly. The triangles of her face rearranging into a weary smile..." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Don't worry. We will protect you from her beauty. We will *consult* you through the reefs and sounds of her persona." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "We will see through deceits. You are shielded. You are wise." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "You are advised. There are muscles on long white bones that line her limbs, just below the silver jumpsuit..." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Miss Oranje Disco Dancer... You want to put your hand on her back and feel it arch." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Avert your eyes." }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "The strange moment ends. It was brief, no longer than 2.2 seconds." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "In god's name, *wake up*!" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_drama_white_success_volition_activated\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.sleeper_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "The worker is in a deep slumber." }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.sleeper_inland_about_oblivion\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Perhaps he's on his way to where you just came from -- into the primordial darkness?" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.sleeper_felt_itch\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "A colourful piece of plastic is dangling from his carabiner... hmm. Makes your fingers itch." }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.sleeper_picked_magnesium\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Steal the dockworker's ID." }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Sleeping Dockworker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.sleeper_redcheck_stealing_stuff\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "You fumble with the spring-loaded gate of the carabiner, but to no avail... the dangling items refuse to come loose, they just jingle in an ever louder manner." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Like fucking sleigh bells! What are you doing, you're gonna get caught!" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"Stop *finger-fucking* him, officer!\" The cafeteria manager shouts from behind the counter. \"I'm responsible for these oafs and their *stuff*. Even Sleepy there...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I thought we decided to leave it to Processing.\" The lieutenant shakes his head. \"Let's not turn this into some kind of circus.\"" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Damn it, this is turning into some sort of mega-puzzle." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Okay, so you can *sneak* out of your room maybe, after he's gone asleep..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Tell me, who are you, dead man?\"" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.hanged_inland_corpse_answered\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.hanged_inland_failed_twice\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.hanged_inland_failed_once\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The lips of the corpse are swollen, preposterously. They are also silent. You have no idea why you just said that." } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Fuckin'... May bells everywhere.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Believe me, dude, it's better we talk about something else.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What are you doing out here in the cold?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Recording, I guess.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And what is it you're recording exactly?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"I *think* I'm recording cracks in the ice, but there's no way to tell. Not without headphones. I think I just recorded your footsteps, too. Not sure how that will sound...\" She scratches her forehead." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "What happened to the old headphones?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Wait, what happened to the headphones?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"My boyfriend sold them.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What for?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"I don't know, man... things. Just stuff you need for life.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "A lie. They were probably pawned off for something ssssuspicious." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Everything checks out, sire!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And what are these recordings for -- the cracks, the footsteps?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"The musicians in The Paliseum use them for making music. They loop the stuff, cutting the tapes together. They make music out of cracks in the ice and keys jangling... crazy sounds like that. It's hard to explain.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Just nod." }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Anyway, I thought I'd make some, too. It's supposed to be, like, a music place anyway...\" She rubs her shoulders and looks around." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "The girl is cold all of a sudden. Very cold." }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"I don't really know what I'm doing. They use synthesizers, too. I don't have a synthesizer.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What was what?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You looked strange when he mentioned the assault victim's name.\" He looks you in the eye: \"Do you know that woman?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Is there something I should know before we talk to her?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Whatever you do, don't say the first thing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"She knows I didn't remember being a cop.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Okay,\" he nods. \"That's manageable.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"She knows I did some pretty crazy stuff before I passed out. That I partied hard. And not very mental-healthily.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"So she overheard you? Or did you *party* together?\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "So this is what it feels like to be *interviewed*..." } ], [ { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsNighttime()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Novelty Dicemaker", "dialogue": "\"Hello again.\" She turns around. \"You must really like walking through the dark. What can I help you with?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Shit like that really makes you think.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Here's the money for a pilsner.\"" }, { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "\"Bottoms up, captain!\" He hands you an ugly brown bottle." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Here's the money for the spirits.\"" }, { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "He hands you the bottle. \"Jus' make sure to *enjoy* that one, friend!\"" }, { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.necktie_personified\"] and CheckEquipped(\"neck_tie\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.necktie_personified\"] == false or Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Son, you will NOT kill yourself with this. Not today. So we're going to store this as a SELLABLE item. Go sell it at the pawnshop for a profit." }, { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"village.rosemary_selling_instruction_got\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm off.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"village.rosemary_left_convo_once\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But if I join the Moralintern, I can take on *more* responsibility.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Don't you think we should *finish our case* before you go taking on more responsibility?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is it... here?\" (Look around.)" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"No, detective, we're safe.\" She points to the sea. \"It begins there, 6,000 kilometres to the north, and even more to the south, east, and west. You are in the middle of the isola.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "As your gaze instinctively turns north, a small black pit opens up in your stomach." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Six thousand kilometres from the end of the world?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Yes -- that is enough. Many cities are built *much* closer.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And... (point north) ...there?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"An uproar of matter, darling, *rising* into the pale. Rolling. Evaporating even, a great vision. The area of transition between the world and the pale is called *porch collapse*.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Imagine a grey coronal mist, cold vapour, marked by spores of an opportunistic microorganism -- a mould that's adapted to grow at the edge of the unrest. It's...\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "She closes her eyes and breathes out heavily: \"... the most *disco* thing you will ever see.\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "You hear your pulse rise, the air feels caustic and cold suddenly." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"If we're surrounded by pale, how do you get from isola to isola?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Oh, it is...\" Her lungs deflate, her words sound like a sigh, \"...*so* difficult for us.\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "A squall of birds, hardware operating in the harbour. Firm, self-evident." }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"It is possible to force dimensions on the pale -- in modern times we can even compress its latitude, bouncing radio waves from one end to the other. Shortening the path.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"But it is still hard for humans to navigate the pale without getting lost. Or having our minds damaged.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.mhead_fight_success\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.mhead_fight_failure\"] or Variable[\"gates.mhead_fight_failed_mid_success\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.talk_merc_tattoo_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"gates.scableader_altgreet_tattoos\"]]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"gates.scableader_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"RIGHT TO WORK! RIGHT TO WORK!\" the ostensible leader of the strikebreakers chants furiously. \"SHAME ON YOU!\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.scableader_abrupt_end\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm just going to leave now.\" [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "This phrase is meant to be looked at from above." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey Kim, who is this rooftop message for?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant cranes his head and mutters: \"GO HOME.\" He pauses. \"It's an *aerograffito*. It's meant for the Coalition aerostatics that keep a lookout on the city from the low troposphere.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is an aerostatic?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"An aerostatic is an airship. A hybrid airship, semi-rigid.\" He points up to a small dot in the cloudline. \"*That* is an aerostatic.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"There are airships around? Where can I get one?!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Look,\" the lieutenant says impatiently. \"It's not something that can be explained on the go in couple of sentences. We have more important things to focus on right now, so let's get back to them, alright?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Silently nod." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "The sky is indifferent to your silent nod, but the lieutenant seems to appreciate it. He gives you a fleeting smile." } ], [ { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.wards_plais\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "A heavy door with a missing handle stands before you, covered in dozens (if not hundreds) of little oddly-shaped trinkets and charms. It appears to be locked." }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem(\"key_bookstore_backdoor\")]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Small Blast Door", "dialogue": "The heavy metal door stands as it did, firmly rusted shut into its big brother." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How do I open this?" }, { "actor": "Small Blast Door", "dialogue": "Fuel --> generator --> console. Seems like an obvious path, now that the power is on." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "This bookstore is not *strictly* about crime, romance, and biographies of famous people -- there's also a wide range of paranatural literature." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Storekeep, what books are these?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Hum... sir, please, no browsing in that shelf.\" She narrows her eyes. \"That wisdom is not for free.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"I can't have you end up... like... opening a police store next door and stealing my customers, oh no.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"All right. I want to buy *Medicinal Purposes of the Pale*.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Indeed...\" She mumbles, staring at the book for a moment. \"Something about that book does seem to have spoken to you...\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Well, I hope it contains what you're looking for.\"" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"] or Variable[\"character.interactable_tutorial_seen\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"All right. I want to buy *Medicinal Purposes of the Pale*.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Indeed...\" She mumbles, staring at the book for a moment. \"Something about that book does seem to have spoken to you...\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Well, I hope it contains what you're looking for.\"" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "Holding the gun feels natural and satisfying. It's like an extension of your arm, the polished wooden handle almost fusing into your palm." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No time for this. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Mhm!\" She stamps her feet, waiting for you to say something." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey, guess what. I found a way into the Doomed Commercial Area.\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Oh, that's great!\" Her smile is warm. \"I hope exciting adventures lie ahead! And maybe you can help mother become... less afraid.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is your name?\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"My name is Annette, sir. My mum, her name is Plaisance, she owns the store. She's inside, minding the register... or organizing the stock.\" The girl gazes at the window, then suddenly jolts, her eyes wide, as if recalling something:" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Feel free to step in and browse our wares!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, I guess I will.\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Mhm!\" She stamps her feet, waiting for you to say something." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Say, child... *you* wouldn't happen to know a good fridge, would you?\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"A fridge?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes. Like a big, big fridge a cop could put a dead body into.\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Hah!\" She smiles. \"You mean like the ice bear fridge? Man, that's scary.\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" } ], [ { "actor": "Old Scab", "dialogue": "\"C'mon, there's plenty of work for everyone!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Probably a Migrant", "dialogue": "\"We wanna work!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"I'd take a bullet for you, but I won't spend another hour out here.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Wait... No, something about this bunch doesn't smell right..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let's keep moving, then. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"That's just it! This isn't like him at all. He always plans his expeditions so carefully...\"" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A cold breeze hisses through dense thickets of reeds.... Something sweet in it, somnolent. A damp chill goes down your spine. When you look around, you're still in the Whirling-in-Rags." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\u201cBut you have more important things to worry about.\u201d She glances out the window toward the bay." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "More important than a missing *expedition?* I don't know... expeditions often lead to something interesting." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You never told me you've *seen* the phasmid!\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Oh... you don't want to hear about some old woman's ramblings...\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.lena_phasmid_seen_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How big was it?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"It's hard to say how big things are when you're quite *small* yourself. To me, it seemed to be taller than I was then... but that's probably not the case.\"" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "What if it *is* the case?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How big was it?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"It's hard to say how big things are when you're quite *small* yourself. To me, it seemed to be taller than I was then... but that's probably not the case.\"" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "What if it *is* the case?" } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere() and Variable[\"gates.measurhead_disable_kim_react_to_turnbacktime_if_seen_once\"] == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.fascha_dq_asked_someone_the_q\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Goddamnit...\" mumbles the lieutenant. \"It's becoming a thing now, huh?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Ignore him." }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.pale\"]]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"gates.measurhead_fascha_dq_didnt_know_reality\"]]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"MANAGED TO LEARN THE REALITY RHIZOME -- AND NEXT UP IS RETURNING TO THE PAST?\" The giant locks eyes with you. His face is serious..." }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"YOU DON'T HAVE IT IN YOU. BE GRATEFUL FOR THAT.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Wait, what exactly am I lacking?\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"YOUR NEED TO STEER EVERY CONVERSATION TOWARDS YOUR OWN PERSONA IS A SIGN OF LOW SELF-ESTEEM.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead's Babe", "dialogue": "\"Stop boring Measurehead. He talks about *big* things and you only talk about yourself!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So it *is* possible to go back?\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. JUST NOT FOR YOU.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.paledriver_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTHCPresent(\"motorway_south\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.is_raining\"] or Variable[\"auto.is_snowing\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "The woman is still hunched over the railing, her head swaying to the music, her eyes looking at nothing in particular." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Snap your fingers in front of her face." }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"Huh?\" That flicked a switch somewhere. \"What is it? What do you want?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Show me the soles of your boots.\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"Now what do you want with an old woman's boots, *xerife*?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Nothing, I guess. Let's talk about something else.\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "The woman sways her wrinkled shell back and forth, a strange grin across her face." } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Stop. Just up ahead: danger." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You are prepared. Don't put away your friend. Your weapon. It is glowing in your hand, ready to serve." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Raindrops slip down the oily fabric of the tail end of your necktie-turned-fuse." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm ready to do this." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Good. Be ready to take damage." } ], [ { "actor": "Sixteen Days of Coldest April", "dialogue": "Their happiness is fleeting. A cruel jest. The absurdity of the state totally crushes them and they end up betraying each other. She becomes an official for \"the regime\" and he, a lens-grinder in Ferdydyrke. The end." } ], [ { "actor": "Cafeteria Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cafeteria Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardies_inland_black_tree_taps\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cafeteria Window", "dialogue": "Behind the dockworkers: a ceiling height window. The hawthorn branches scrape the glass like bony fingers." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The men are talking, but you swear you hear those black limbs tap on the window as the wind blows outside." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "You see two, maybe three bushes, grown into a single thicket -- over a period of circa 50 years. It takes time for a hedge like that to form." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Revert your gaze.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What happened to you?\" the lieutenant asks as he leans in, eyes mapping your frozen face." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Better keep the lieutenant in the dark about the whole 'Icebreaker' thing. He's not gonna get it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Oh, this?\" (Point to your face.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes, your face.\" He nods, looking worried. \"Looks like you're having a stroke. Can you even move it?\"" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "That's a negative, lieutenant." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't need to 'move it', this is my final form.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I just don't understand, officer.\" The lieutenant just stands there, looking perplexed. \"Please, help me understand.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This is what I am now, Kim. What I was always meant to be.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"And what is that? A walking mask?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"He Who Stares Straight into the Eclipse.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"So now you want to go blind as well?\" He shakes his head. \"How about we become Those Who Solve Murder Cases instead and get back to work?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Neither was an actual question." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "The lieutenant is *not* loving the new look." } ], [ { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Thoughts, baby. A million little lights in the dark. You're one fine instrument, brother -- all those faces and all those names, all that laughter and screaming and scheming around... Every corner and every street..." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Recorded in you. Forever. On ferrotape." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Spinning, spinning... tell me, am I dreaming?" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "No. You're spinning tapes at the discotheque. The great, unceasing disco of the mind. The flash! The bang! The endless *learning* experience." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Spinning on empty." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "On and on it goes, for untold hours. At the disco where you first asked her to dance. Rising -- rising! -- above the dark curvature. The great wingspan of sleep, studded with stars." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Behold, there are *millions* of them down there. The first time. The last time. The smoke in her mouth, the potted flowers, the faces: turning, changing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "*What* is it?" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "It's the *world*, Harry-boy. And you're *made* of it. Every day you're out there you make more of yourself from it. I'm afraid you can't be *unmade* now." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "You can never forget this shit." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "The rain, the snow... I don't want to. It's beautiful." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Beautiful? It's *stuck* on loop... whirling, spitting out words and images." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "You're the son of the World again. Harrister -- a ceaseless agent picking up litter and old newspapers, collecting your little bubble gum wrappers and idiotic picture post cards. Meaningless, meaningless keepsakes." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Reading your awful letters and *recalling* things, aren't you? The endless names of the world... An address book, you are. The map of a city." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "But what if I want to be the agent of nothing?" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "It's too late. You're not *made* of nothing anymore, you're something now, Harry. I tried to drown you in the black water but you re-emerged. Kicking and screaming. Running. And for what?" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.ruby_third_merc\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "De Paule", "dialogue": "\"Oh yeah, that's Ruud.\" The armoured woman smiles a vicious smile. \"Ruud 'The Killer' Hoenkloewen -- he doesn't talk much.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruud Hoenkloewen", "dialogue": "\"... all of you fucking cunts inside out...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay. Let's just keep talking -- no one needs to die today.\" (Back off.)" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"This... talking-shit won't help you.\" The man shakes his head and staggers forward." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem(\"gun_villiers\") or CheckItem(\"gun_ruby\") or CheckItem(\"spirit_bomb\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who is that?\" (Point to the man) \"I didn't know you had a third guy.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.ruby_third_merc\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "De Paule", "dialogue": "\"Oh yeah, that's Ruud.\" The armoured woman smiles a vicious smile. \"Ruud 'The Killer' Hoenkloewen -- he doesn't talk much.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruud Hoenkloewen", "dialogue": "\"... all of you fucking cunts inside out...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay. Let's just keep talking -- no one needs to die today.\" (Back off.)" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"This... talking-shit won't help you.\" The man shakes his head and staggers forward." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Netpicker's Twins", "dialogue": "\"Down, rock!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Former Coal Miner", "dialogue": "\"I came all the way from Olduwai to work here!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Brother, you've managed to collect all the armour pieces. Too bad it's too late for the big showdown." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Don't think this helmet would have helped me anyway. (Look down at your wound.)" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "It would have looked very impressive... Still. You found it all. Now your mortal coil is *completely* protected. Few cops are this futuristic." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "At least now I am truly invincible. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "Holding the gun feels natural and satisfying. It's like an extension of your arm, the polished wooden handle almost fusing into your palm." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I think my hand recognizes it." }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "It reminds you of the day you first held it. With fear and respect. Hoping you don't have to use it -- in vain. The sun was out in Jamrock. It was so long ago..." }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "Sheathe your sidearm, officer. A serious law official -- cop-by-the-book -- should know to only unholster their service weapon when using it is unavoidable." } ], [ { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Son, you've really let yourself go -- it's a disgrace. But Coach Physical Instrument is going to get you back in prime condition. Even if it takes a million push-ups!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Coach Physical Instrument? Does that mean you'll call me a maggot and a nancy-boy to motivate me?" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Does a master swordsman insult his own blade? No! I'm going to turn you into an athletic bench-mark, you big pussy!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Yes sir! Forge me into organic steel, coach!" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "It's going to take blood, sweat, piss, and tears, but when I'm done with you, boy, you will be a Master Athlete!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Too much abuse for my taste. I'm more of an intellectual. (Opt out.)" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Attention, attention! An old has-been giving up! Come see the has-been quitting again, everyone!" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you think he did it?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He nods. \"From nothing to this in a day...\" A crooked little smile. \"This is *good*, we just need a confession first, and then *maybe* a solid motive later.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How do you think the questioning is going?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Good.\" He nods. \"We're doing very good. He *wants* to confess -- I can see that. We just need to pile it on, a little more -- the more we have on him, the closer he is...\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "You hear that? He thinks you're *this* close..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm slapping myself to get ideas!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I can see that, yes. I'm not judging.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm trying to get him to confess...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes, good going -- that should be our *first* priority.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Theo", "dialogue": "*coughs violently*" } ], [ { "actor": "Trash Can", "dialogue": "There's some tare, an empty cigarette package, and a crumpled kebab wrapper in the trash bin." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Examine the kebab wrapper." }, { "actor": "Trash Can", "dialogue": "You see traces of mayonnaise and ketchup on it, as well as a tomato wedge. The wrapper reads: 'SHISH KEBAB REVACHOL'." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "It's no older than a day, or two. No mould yet." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "It's hard to concentrate in the smell. The sea air brings some relief." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Examine the cigarette package." }, { "actor": "Trash Can", "dialogue": "Whoever tossed it here was a heavy smoker: the brand name reads 'Red Astra'." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "'Red Astra' is the black market version of 'Astra' cigarettes, known for their high tar content." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Now, this makes partying look *bad*. Still -- don't let it sway you. *You're* responsible." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Examine the tare." }, { "actor": "Trash Can", "dialogue": "Two empty bottles of 'Touloula' vodka and a can of black 'Potent Porter' is all you find." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "No. There's more in there. 'Livis' strawberry liquor, plus some pilsner bottles too. Better not pick them up, they seem unhygienic." } ], [ { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"Go ahead.\" The young man gives you a half-smile. His companion sniffs." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Where is the rest of the reading group?\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"What do you mean? This *is* the reading group...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So there's just two of you?\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"We're in something of a rebuilding phase.\"" }, { "actor": "Echo Maker", "dialogue": "\"Some of our former comrades didn't have the *ideological fortitude* our work demands.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What about Cindy, is she part of the group?\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"Cindy is... how to describe her *role*...\"" }, { "actor": "Echo Maker", "dialogue": "\"... something of an ideological auxiliary, perhaps.\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"Yes, that's exactly how I would put it. And naturally we support her radical counter-liberal aesthetics.\"" }, { "actor": "Echo Maker", "dialogue": "\"But she refuses to submit an essay, so we can't call her a member of the group *per se*.\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"That doesn't stop her from using the room for studio space, of course.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who are the Econoclards?\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"For starters, they love talking about *beans*.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What's wrong with beans? I like beans.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "You feel something -- like a swarm of hornets buzzing under your scalp. A strange tingling you can almost *smell*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Lieutenant, do you feel something?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No. What do you mean?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Nothing. It's just my mind playing tricks.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Hmm...\" He looks ahead, beyond the arch. \"Either way, we ought to be careful. There were footprints back there. And I'm pretty sure they were fresh.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I saw them too. Footprints with the right sole worn smooth.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Looks like our suspect -- if she's in here, we need to plan our next step carefully.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What do you mean?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He lowers his voice. \"Once we detain a credible suspect, who knows what the Union and the Wild Pines will do? We'll set in motion events we have no control over.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "You will upset the balance of power in Martinaise. The deadlock between the company and the Union will destabilize." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "This part of town is a fine clockwork puzzle. Disturb its peace and it will start breaking down -- uncontrollably." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Keep calm. Go over the whole situation in detail." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Maybe we should finish looking into the Speedfreaks FM mystery?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"If you want to do that, then yes. We'd be advised to finish every lead. I don't think we'll have the chance to after...\" He looks down the dark tunnel. He does not finish the thought." } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"What with?\" She tries hard to focus on the book stand." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "What *with*? A lot of things! For example, people tend to go *missing*." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "This citizen thinks she can do without your assistance? Don't buy it. They all need help." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Help her by... carrying things? Uhm... maybe she needs a weightlifter? Maybe she needs you to *fight* her husband? No, that's not it..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Maybe your husband is missing?\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"My husband? No, he's not.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, thanks.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"Mhm. You're welcome.\" She reverts her attention back to the book stand." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Maybe your *cockatoo* is missing?\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"I don't mean to disrespect, sir, but *you* are being a bit of a cockatoo here.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"For what it's worth -- I agree. But cockatoos can't be stopped when they get like this. It's better to indulge him at this point.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What do you mean I'm being a cockatoo?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Yes, yes, my best men are tracking it down. Some kids saw some other kids running away with it. Some folks said a paranoid schizophrenic might have it. Leads are being checked, Harry.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"What's that, Harry? You're getting a little pale. Is it the words *paranoid schizophrenic* and *lost gun* in one sentence? Don't worry, it's just a lead. It'll probably turn out to be nothing.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Have you heard about the horseback monument being renovated?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Ah yes, I was informed.\" He clasps his hands together and rests them on his desk. \"It seems to be a big undertaking. What are you hoping to achieve with it exactly?\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Who told him it was you?!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How did you know I was behind it?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Mr. Du Bois, please, it is clearly the work of a great businessman. And I know *I* didn't order it.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "It's business etiquette to take compliments even if they aren't sincere. Like this one." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"cargo.evrart_suggestion_compliment\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Anyway, I'm glad to see you making such headway with your endeavours. I look forward to seeing the end result. Is there anything else on your mind?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm ready for my gun now.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"For Titus... for Glenny... for... for Titus... wait... already got one for Titus...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.paledriver_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.paledriver_quick_intro\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "The small wrinkled woman does not greet you. She nods along to something on her radio. A photograph is clutched in her hands and there is a warm smile on her face." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "The photo -- an *ambrotype* from the turn of the century. As golden as her smile." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "It's the warmth of a winter night's fire. Maybe she could give you comfort and shelter? Some cigarettes and food money? Maybe she's your..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Snap your fingers twice." }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"Where am I? Who are you?\" Like a magician recalling a subject from hypnosis, you've jolted her back to reality." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "The smile on her face has disappeared, replaced by the wary aspect of a cornered beast." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Me? I am the law around here.\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"Then I don't suppose you could tell me where we are, lawman?\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"Never mind,\" she sighs. \"I remember now. I'm still stuck in that traffic jam. In the *Fifties*,\" she adds with contempt." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Where else would you be then?\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"Back in Mesque during the time of the Revolution.\" The smile returns to her face. \"The sidewalks and cafes are filled with young people... I was on my way to see a new boiadeiro picture starring Gabriel Buenguerro.\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"Until you came along, that is.\" The look she gives you is accusatory." } ], [ { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "You holding it together there, Meltdown Cop?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm not. I'm really not." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Do you need to have a cry?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't cry. (Wipe your eye.)" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "It's fine. Being a cop is tough. You can't be expected to keep it together *all the time*. Or, in your case, *much of the time*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let's just cut straight to the waterworks." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Not just yet! Sure, it feels good to wallow in self-pity... But think of all the other people out there who are suffering -- people whom you could be helping right now." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "As you will. Let the tears flow." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant politely averts his eyes as two rivulets form on your cheeks." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Doesn't that feel better, Meltdown Cop?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "But haven't I just embarrassed myself?" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "What? No, of course not. Probably no one even *noticed* your little *episode* just now..." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Now wipe the snot from your sideburns. It's time to get back to work." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I talked to Joyce. The merc you hanged -- his friends are coming for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Yeah?\" He doesn't seem worried. \"By friends you mean his squadmates from Krenel?\"" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Wouldn't wanna beat up his grandma.\" There's snickering in the room. Some of the men put their beers down." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "*Nervous* snickering. There's a rush of adrenaline present." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Titus did his best, but his men are a bit unsettled." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes, they are forming some kind of *tribunal* -- and they're coming for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"This is what happens if you take the law into your own hands. Other people start doing it too.\"" }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Let them come!\" Blondie yells across the cafeteria. \"The Hardie boys are right fucking here!\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"You heard the man -- right here.\" He points to the ground. \"We're armed, we got the whole district behind us and Glen... Glen is fucking *crazy*.\"" }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, a well oiled murder-machine!\" He punches blondie on the shoulder." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "The mood is on the rise. They're feeling confident -- ready to punch out the whole merc platoon." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay.\" (Conclude with a shrug.)" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"What do you mean *okay*?\" He jerks forward a bit." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I mean, 'Okay, they're going to wipe you the fuck out, Titus.'\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"No, they won't.\" He shakes his beer at you. \"Get out of here with your negative energy.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "There is nothing. Only warm, primordial blackness. Your conscience ferments in it -- no larger than a single grain of malt. You don't have to do anything anymore." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Ever." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Never ever." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Never ever ever?" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Never ever ever ever, baby!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Simply keep on non-existing.)" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "An inordinate amount of time passes. It is utterly void of struggle. No ex-wives are contained within it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What was that about the *ex-* something?" }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "An awareness creeps up on you. A mass lies hidden in your dead angle, soaking in some lurid, acidic sauce. It's bloated and shameful, a ball of meat surrounding you... This is a terrible line of questioning, and it will only lead to more awareness of the meat-thing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No, I wanted to know about the ex-something." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Ex-love, ex-tenderness. It is foolish of you to resurface to the loss. Not after all the damage you suffered to get here, some of it irreversible... Stay, sail with me through the Abyssopelagic Zone!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No, I want to get off now. I like pain and burning light and wanting things from people who don't want to give them to me." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Do you really?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Don't be naive, of course not. I want to sail the inky blackness until forever ends!" }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.dreamone_longroute\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.inside_shack\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.mirror_secondgreeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.mirror_stopped_expression\"] and Variable[\"character.beard_shaven\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.mirror_stopped_expression\"]]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "The bathroom mirror has been wiped completely clean. You see the reflection of your face in the mirror -- such as it is without *The Expression*. It's just hairy." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsTaskActive(\"TASK.face_yourself_done\")--[[ Variable[ ]]]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.mirror_stopped_expression\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "This idiocy has gone on too long. It's time to wipe that decadent homo-sexual grin off your face." } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "On the cover of the book there's a wall of concrete buildings, with a black-and-white rainbow over them. It's written by someone from a country where even rainbows are black and white." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "This phrase is meant to be looked at from above." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What the hell is that?\" (Point to the rooftop message.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant cranes his head and mutters: \"GO HOME.\" He pauses. \"It's an *aerograffito*. It's meant for the Coalition aerostatics that keep a lookout on the city from the low troposphere.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is an aerostatic?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"An aerostatic is an airship. A hybrid airship, semi-rigid.\" He points up to a small dot in the cloudline. \"*That* is an aerostatic.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"There are airships around? Where can I get one?!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Look,\" the lieutenant says impatiently. \"It's not something that can be explained on the go in couple of sentences. We have more important things to focus on right now, so let's get back to them, alright?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Wave at the sky.) \"Hello, nice international community. Thank you for watching over us.\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "The sky feels more bright and welcoming than ever before." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.lena_intro_greeting_kim_first\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A bespectacled man in an orange bomber jacket has folded up his newspaper and is now tapping his foot on the floor. Looks like he's been waiting for quite some time." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "After catching your attention, he narrows his eyes and extends his hand in greeting." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "If an assault were launched on this building right now -- if the windows came crashing down and the whole world descended upon you -- this man would hurl himself in death's way to save you. You are sure of this -- but why?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem(\"jacket_suede\")]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "On the sleeve of his bomber jacket -- as well as on its back -- are the same enigmatic white rectangles as on your blazer." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Shake his hand." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Hello, I'm Kim Kitsuragi.\" His grip is firm. \"Lieutenant, Precinct 57. You must be from the 41st...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "You realize he is waiting for your name." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "This is your chance to come up with a really good name for yourself. Get *creative* -- conceptualize!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It looks like we had a little scheduling error on Sunday. Saturday too, actually... Have you had time to talk to the manager here?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "What he means is he has been trying to meet up with you for two days, but you have been *otherwise occupied*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, I haven't.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We just need to get him back to the mainland.\" A crooked little smile. \"We actually did it...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's get him back before we congratulate ourselves.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He smiles. \"You should be proud. Come on -- let's wrap this up.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, let's do this.\" (Climb the monument.)" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.warship_phys_inst_bar\"]]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquippedGroup(\"gloves\")]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "Your gloves give you a solid grip on the metal bar. This feels pleasingly familiar..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.warship_phys_inst_bar\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "You don't exactly cut a lithesome figure, but after several moments of scrambling you manage to hoist yourself atop the monument." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "That performance was, frankly, an embarrassment." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That was pretty bad. I hope nobody saw it.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes, you're a natural gymnast, detective. Now would you like to do what you got up there to do?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That was pretty bad. I hope nobody saw it.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Good, you're up. Listen, there's something that's been bothering you for a few days now." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is it?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's a suspicion, or a feeling, really, that things are not quite *in hand* around here..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "An earth-shattering deduction from your psyche. What will those guys come up with next?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Every day things seem to spin more and more wildly out of control. The centre isn't holding. And despite your efforts to *moderate* and *contain* these energies, things only seem to be getting worse." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let's get right to it: What needs to be done?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "You've got to find out who bears *la responsabilit\u00e9*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I thought I *was* assigning responsibility, for the murder?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Please, you're thinking about this too narrowly." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "La responsabilit\u00e9 isn't concerned with trivial questions like *who killed who*. It's about the real issues: the human welfare index, the price of staple goods, the transition to real democracy..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What exactly *is* la responsabilit\u00e9?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "The most awesome, terrible thing..." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It is human nature to crave la responsabilit\u00e9 and to deny it. That's why it must be distributed across many different organisations, agencies, offices, and portfolios." } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "On the cover of the book there's a wall of concrete buildings, with a black-and-white rainbow over them. It's written by someone from a country where even rainbows are black and white." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Storekeep, what's on this shelf?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Oh, such wonderful, beautiful stories. Stories of love!\" She sighs wistfully. \"You should definitely buy these.\"" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.book_wc_trigger_bad_romance\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want buy the 'Sixteen Days of Coldest April' book.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Huh, it's in the wrong shelf... Annette's been moving things around again, has she! That girl...\" She shakes her head. \"No matter, I hope you enjoy... this.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want buy the 'Sixteen Days of Coldest April' book.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Huh, it's in the wrong shelf... Annette's been moving things around again, has she! That girl...\" She shakes her head. \"No matter, I hope you enjoy... this.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look through the display of books." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "You see a foamy mass of pinks and reds... colourful covers filled with risqu\u00e9 imagery. These books are most oft adorned by women in skimpy clothes, thighs revealed... a few roses and sometimes even some pistols." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "They also tend to feature chisel-jawed men in dark suits. It's all such... glitzy garbage." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm looking for any information that you can provide on Billie M\u00e9jean, a reader.\"" }, { "actor": "Jamrock Public Library", "dialogue": "\"Billie, Billie *M\u00e9jean*, you said? Give me a moment, I'll have to check our database.\" He puts down the receiver." }, { "actor": "Jamrock Public Library", "dialogue": "\"...\"" }, { "actor": "Jamrock Public Library", "dialogue": "\"...\"" }, { "actor": "Jamrock Public Library", "dialogue": "\"...\"" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "On Meroe drive in Central Jamrock -- in a darkened hall lit by orange desk lamps -- far away from the noise outside -- a middle-aged man taps commands into an old radiocomputer. A printout falls on the desk. Behind him, a lonely reader scours some dusty bookshelves, looking for a paperback..." }, { "actor": "Jamrock Public Library", "dialogue": "\"Yes, hello, are you still there?\" You can hear him fiddle with the printout. \"I found Billie M\u00e9jean's home address, is that alright? No phone number unfortunately.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "They're too poor to have a phone line." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm not really that good with addresses.\"" }, { "actor": "Jamrock Public Library", "dialogue": "\"Maybe you can write it down? It's Rue de Saint-Ghislaine 33B, apartment no 20. It's in Martinaise, I believe... Capeside Apartments, it says. That's all.\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "By the pier, north of here. Those big apartment buildings there." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Thank you. That's all from me, I have no other questions.\" (End call with the library.)" }, { "actor": "Jamrock Public Library", "dialogue": "\"Happy we could help. Good bye, officer.\" The librarian hangs up and the call gets redirected back to the station." }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "\"Anything else you need from me?\" Alice asks." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, I gotta ask. Where exactly are you from?\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"What's it to you?\" Deep-set suspicion drips from every syllable." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I thought you looked real familiar for a second there.\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"No, don't think we've met before.\" His eyes narrow with mistrust. \"I came to help out *the people*.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Every once in a while, it is like you can see glimpses of another guy under the guise of this *fighter for jobs*. He seems a more brutal, cunning and suspicious person. Just a hunch. Or... you just might be paranoid!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Makes sense, I guess. Never mind, not gonna pry.\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "The man has turned his attention elsewhere, he shakes his fist slowly -- while observing you from the corner of his eye." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You don't have any tips on how to punch a guy out, do you? Say, a really big race-theorist guarding a button?\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "He smirks. \"Not before you get in there and get your ass whooped. Learn by failure, I always say.\"" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "He might have some advice, but you gotta at least *try* to fight Measurehead first. Return if you fail." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You don't have any tips on how to punch a guy out, do you? Say, a really big race-theorist guarding a button?\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "He smirks. \"Not before you get in there and get your ass whooped. Learn by failure, I always say.\"" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "He might have some advice, but you gotta at least *try* to fight Measurehead first. Return if you fail." } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Uh... (unintelligible)... like a fucking *cobarde*... like a fucking bitch...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.barbell_main_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "A barbell lies on the floor. The colour has worn off its weight plates." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "It's 60 kg. Your triceps hum at the sight of these weights. Show the world what kind of beast it's dealing with. Lift them." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "There are no collars on the barbell. This is a safety hazard." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Why does it feel so familiar?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_volition_white_check\"]]" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Soft, light brown eyes look back at you, directly into the space behind your eye sockets. You see the smoke rise from between her painted red lips. She's beautiful..." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "I have bad news for you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What?" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "You know these guys?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Who, me?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_volrapids_first_succeeded\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Who, me?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_volrapids_second_succeeded\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Who, me?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_volrapids_third_succeeded\"]]" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Yes, he's talking about you, you sinewy idiot." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "You too." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Me? What have I done this time?" } ], [ { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.tommy_told_him_ruby_dead\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.tommy_tribunal_alt_greet\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.tommy_forced_him_to_out_instigator\"]]" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "\"Oh look...\" As you approach he instinctively averts his eyes. \"It's the cop who turned me into a bad person.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Know anything about the dead man? The one hanging behind the hostel there?\" (Point at the yard.)" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "\"He ain't one of us drivers -- I know that. All accounted for. Otherwise, I haven't really asked about that. Been wastin' time right here. Keepin' busy.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "It's easy to see he's telling the truth. He's kept his nose out of the dark stuff." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Alright, never mind then.\"" }, { "actor": "Tommy Le Homme", "dialogue": "The man taps his fingers rhythmically against his arm." } ], [ { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"church.stained_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "The mother of humanism stands above you -- a precious and complex wax painting on a single pane of glass. A crack runs across the length of her body, her face oval and sad." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who is this, Kim?\"" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"village.ww_dolorian_church_kim_heard\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's Dolores Dei...\" he says in a hushed voice. \"The old woman was right. This is the Dolorian Church of Humanity in Martinaise. Or the Small Pinewood Church in some records.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You knew of the place?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's a minor landmark, not easy to find. Most maps misplace it...\" He lowers his voice. \"It was built not long after Revachol's founding, 300 or so years ago by first-generation settlers.\"" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "On the coast of an uninhabited archipelago, where only animals had roamed before. In the wild reeds." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okey-dokey.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Okey-doe-doe,\" he whispers in the silence of the great building." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "A touch of absurdity there, nice!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Looks like I can't give this figurine to her." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant remains engrossed in his notebook." } ], [ { "actor": "Water Lock Control Panel", "dialogue": "A couple of indicator lights are missing from this control panel. Loose wires dangle from the now-vacant holes. In the middle is a lever -- beneath it, a small metal plaque." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Could this be why Morell hasn't returned to Lena?" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Wait... Could this be why Morell hasn't returned to Lena?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So the coast is closed off. This may be why Lena's husband Morell the cryptozoologist hasn't returned.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Looks like it, yes. We should probably go tell Lena. Take a load off her mind.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She *was* quite worried..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pull the lever up." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you deliver things. What kinds of things?\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"Oh, I don't know the contents, officer. Part of my job is discretion.\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "He's trying too hard to seem untroubled by your question. The rigidity in his posture gives him away." }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.gary_courier_comp_lying\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm into cryptids. Do you have a favourite?\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"Oh, yes! The Burning Rhino. Morell doubts he's real, but I don't much care -- because I won't be the one looking for him out in Safre Serai.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What's a Burning Rhino?\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"A rhinoceros that looks ordinary during the day, but burns brightly by night. Well, at least the males do.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How do they burn?\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"They have special ducts just above their shoulder blades that secrete a combustible fluid. When the rhino is just beginning to light itself, it looks as though it has wings of fire.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "But how is this combustible fluid lit?" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.gary_rhino_logic\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"coast.gary_rhino_burn\"] and Variable[\"coast.gary_rhino_males\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Snap out of it, Cuno!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "Nothing comes up. You see the lieutenant watch you try to stimulate thought processes by hitting yourself." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He does not look worried -- yet. He has that *do what you have to do* expression, with a pinch of *don't hit yourself again*." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "You need to punch yourself again!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"May bells -- behind the victim's window! I saw them growing *here*.\" (Point to them.)" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Damn May bells...\" He looks at the blossoming field: \"The whole island is turning white with them...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He seems tender suddenly, nostalgic even. A strange mood swing." }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"So many this year too. The spring is coming, no... it's already here. Wash the filth away...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You've been in Martinaise your whole life -- know any... secret paths?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I may...\" A strange tremor passes his face." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"A young woman called Klaasje -- ring any bells? Flowers like these were behind her window.\" (Continue.)" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"*Klaasje*...\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "He repeats the name with care. As if it were at risk of breaking." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "He knows her -- but hadn't heard the name." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.solve_the_strike_deadlock_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem(\"gun_villiers\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"cargo.evrart_find_your_gun_done\"] and Variable[\"TASK.find_out_whats_happening_with_the_special_brew_strikers_are_eating_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquipped(\"jacket_carabineer\")]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"cargo.evrart_altgreet_rene_uniform\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Mr. Du Bois...\" He looks at you with surprise. \"Why on earth are you dressed like my recently deceased security guard?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm honouring a great man.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"From where I'm sitting, it looks more like you've robbed a dead man, Mr. Du Bois.\" He leans back. \"But as this matter is far below my pay grade, I'm just going to ask: how can I help you today?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I opened the door you asked me. Can we discuss the murder now?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"I'm very glad to hear that, Harry,\" he says with a smile. \"One question: you didn't actually happen to stumble in and see what's inside the apartment, did you?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.plais_whitecheck_succeeded\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.bookstore_curtains_greeting_done\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "You see a set of tattered curtains blocking the way to another room. A strange cage-like trinket dangles from the curtains." }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Excuse me, officer...\" She calls out from the counter. \"The back room is strictly for employees only.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "She's right -- those curtains give off some *eerie vibes*. Better not mess with it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Pull open the curtains.)" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "Just as you're about to pull apart the curtains, the petrified voice of the shop owner cries out once more:" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Sir, don't touch that! I told you it's off-limits for the customers!\" Her hand has closed around her pendant, her fingers nervously playing with the talisman." }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Para-psychologically speaking -- we're *done* if you decide to open them. I won't be held responsible for the consequences! It's too dangerous!\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "She looks away, mumbling: \"Why is everyone *always* messing with the curtains, why can't they just buy books like normal people...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Alright, I'll think about it for a while...\" (Continue.)" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Thank you!\" The shopkeeper lets out a loud sigh. \"Let's just talk about this first, alright? There's no reason for you to venture into the unknown...\"" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquipped(\"neck_tie\") and Variable[\"whirling.necktie_personified\"] == true]" } ], [ { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.water_lock_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.water_lock_left_mid_intro\"]]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "\"Welcome back, officer.\"" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (DayCount() > 2) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"First things first -- what are you doing here, man on the water lock?\"" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "\"My friend Barry the Butcher is stuck on the other side of the water lock. I'm keeping him company -- and eating his salami.\"" }, { "actor": "Barry the Butcher", "dialogue": "From the corner of your eye you see a man in a yellow shirt and grey overalls waving at you from across the canal. He seems disappointed about the wreckage on the water lock -- *and* the salami." }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "\"*Very* good stuff. Anything I can do for you, officer?\" The man on the water lock picks the skin off a slice of a salami and takes a sizeable bite." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Banger Scab", "dialogue": "\"How 'bout some WORK?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"Step right up, mister!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"cargo.mrlb_has_left\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"cargo.container_hub_reach\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "You're back before the cargo container. Its draw has not lessened since you were last here. If anything, it seems to have grown slightly." }, { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere() or Variable[\"cargo.container_flattered\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Knock on the door." }, { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "No reply." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "The knock produces a hollow ring of metal. Doesn't sound like there's anything inside the container." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Nothing more to do here for now. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_locked_yourself_out_of_cuno_in_his_post_cunoesse_gunpointing_greeting\"] == true or Variable[\"yard.cuno_befriend_lost_to_cunoesse\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "The girl is ignoring you. It's like you don't exist at all as far as she's concerned." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.alaineugene_bad_greet\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.alaineugene_gud_greet\"]]" }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "The man stares at you through the haze in his eyes." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Take care guys.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.eugene_exit_done\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "He eyes you sceptically. \"All right -- what cryptids, precisely? I usually discuss these things with *specialists*, so I don't know what...\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "*...we would have to discuss?* he wants to say, but decides against it since you've offered to help." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "You need to ask him about specific cryptids -- cryptids you've heard about from Lena, or his friend Gary. He won't *just* talk." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I know about *Cryobacter katlensis*.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Oh, everyone knows about that one, thanks to professor Mijanou being the talk of the town for a time...\" He coughs in his fist." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "A bit of jealousy there. He'd want that glory, truth be told. Even if he'd have to inject *himself* with bacteria to get it." }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Although -- probably because her life ended as a result of her work in Katla -- no one remembers her contributions to the search for the Nnong Okk.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The Nnong Okk?\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"A flightless *cursor owl* found in the Semenine isles. Its long legs permit the Nnong Okk to run faster than any other avian, perhaps any other *animal*, who knows?\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"When it's not hunting its prey in this manner, the Okk hangs from tree branches, like a bat, waiting to dive on hapless prey below, on the jungle floor.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Mijanou liked *extreme* animals, you see. One of the few figures of the academic establishment I respect. Really a shame she disappeared.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"When did she disappear?\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Oh, decades ago. In the Thirties. I didn't know her personally, of course. A chasm of academic pretension still stood before us, even though she had unusual courage for someone from the other side.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Guess what: I've come upon something incriminating.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Incriminating... now that's a big boy word.\" He puts his beer can down." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why was there a *Vermillion* belt around his neck?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Vermillion? Like we use in the harbour?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Because we took it,\" he says, \"from the harbour where we work. Then we went out back and used it to *hang* him.\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "As he speaks, his fists contract, going through the pulling motion again, savouring it." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"We did this,\" -- he looks you dead in the eye -- \"together. All of us. Until he was dead. That's why there's a container belt around his neck.\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "There's a catch hidden somewhere. He didn't confess so that you could take them all away. It's too simple." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Squint your eyes.) \"But there's a catch...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.return_to_hardies_with_more_evidence\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"There is no catch. These seven honest men have all *equally* come forth to tell you what happened -- so that you don't waste any more of your time.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "All -- seven -- together. They're diluting responsibility. It's an anti-arrest tactic." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "They're playing to their *considerable* strength in numbers. Don't talk about arresting them. You'll only bring attention to your inability to do so." } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"No. Cuno doesn't give a fuck about bugs.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "So he knows locusts are bugs." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Oh my god.\" The little one seems distraught. \"I told you that shit is lame!\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Shut up, C!\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Now they're gonna take you to lame-prison!\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She sounds like she's about to cry out of disappointment at Cuno's newfound lameness." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You kids are in trouble.\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Deny everything, Cuno! You need to lawyer up!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.ask_cuno_about_missing_locusts\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's not gonna say anything without his lawyer present.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_rage_city_heard\"]]" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "*Lame...* That rings some bells... Could this be connected to Night City -- a.k.a. the *City of Rage*?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_conze_lame_rage_city\"]]" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Yeah, that's pretty lame. Sounds like art." } ], [ { "actor": "Small Buoy", "dialogue": "A metal-and-plastic contraption bobs up and down amidst the trembling reeds. At first it just looks like trash, but if you look closer..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "This must be the buoy Klaasje mentioned." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Oooh, hidden things -- secrets, lies!" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Cold. Air. Tendons. Snapped the cords keeping the buoy in place. A little longer and it would be floating somewhere out in the open sea..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Damn, I felt *really* strange just now.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Mhm.\" No further response. All his concentration is on the contraption." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Stare into the empty buoy." } ], [ { "actor": "Stone", "dialogue": "A stone like any other, lying in a whorl of sleet and mud. Maybe there's something under it?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Turn it over." }, { "actor": "Stone", "dialogue": "There's a key beneath it, rusty from the dirt." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"This must be for the front door. Let's see if it works.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Put the stone back. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"If you'll please carry that amplifier and cables, officer. We have quite a lot to carry...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Script: PassTime();\nPassTime();\nPassTime();\nPassTime()]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"And now if you'll just connect that here...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's done. I believe we're ready.\" The lieutenant wipes his brow." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"We're ready to try, at least. Please, put on these headphones, there should be two extra sets. I've configured the channels so that only your microphone is set to broadcast, officer. We'll all be able to listen, but anyone we reach will only hear *your* voice.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"You will need to transmit your connection request while I attempt to locate the warship's public frequency. You will likely encounter some interference, but it's important to keep transmitting your request until you're acknowledged. Ready?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Good. Beginning transmission.\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"auto.is_snowing\"]]" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A soft rustling. The snow seems to have gotten between your ears somehow..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.warship_shivers_snow\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Where's the sound coming from?" } ], [ { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "You feel something in your chest. An unnatural pressure. It's spreading to your left arm, your jaw..." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Well, this feels familiar." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "We've been here before. You've got this." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Nope, sorry, you don't. Not this time." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Fucking shit, I'm scared. What do I do? Who do I call?" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Don't go grabbing at your chest and screaming bloody murder. Keep your cool. Remember -- looking good always makes you feel better." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm sure it's just heartburn. Oh god..." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "No. It's many years of combined self-neglect and self-abuse." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let it all go." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "There's no shame in surrendering now. We all do, it gets *so* dark. You don't even see her face, like you always thought you would. You only see pain and fear." } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "There! Do you smell that?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't smell anything." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Can you not detect that inimitable *whiff* of dissatisfaction and restlessness, that sense that the world is in need of dramatic, even *violent* re-ordering?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Close your eyes and take a deep breath.)" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Can you smell it now?" }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "You inhale. The cilia along your olfactory epithelium tingle with excitement as they sift through the swirling morass of industrial odours..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "First come the smells of the agitated strikebreakers, layers of body oil and sweat, over-buttered meals pulled from bakelite lunch pails, the biting stench of lye soap. And then there's the slowly oxidizing metal gates, the scent of stale grease emanating from every crack..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Still smelling for communists, detective?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Well, I'll be over here when you've finished.\" The lieutenant nudges something on the ground with his foot." } ], [ { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.get_the_dead_body_down_from_the_tree_done\"] or Variable[\"TASK.return_to_corpse\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "There he still is -- looking right through you with his white eyes. The body below is entirely dedicated to that corpse smell. Emitting it is *all* it does now." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let go of your nose without throwing up." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.hanged_endurance_didnt_vomit\"]]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem(\"ammonia_ampoule\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "As you breathe in, the odour comes over you. It's a spell of the mind telling you to run -- and your stomach to wring itself empty. With your hands at your sides and your eyes squinting you stand in it." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "It's a puzzle -- what's hanging in front of you is a puzzle of decaying flesh, tattoos, and tendons." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Your muscles tense up. The vision in your dead angle darkens. You feel the sudden urge to push your hand into his soft gut." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "The spell has no effect. You stand eye to eye with it, the odour washing through you." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "This delicate machine, ready for picking... Instinctively you crack your fingers." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Step closer." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.shit_together\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "The man before you is naked, but for a pair of underpants and enameled boots. His skin is greenish, marbled with decaying veins and blotched by lividity. A fading web of tattoos covers his chest and shoulders. The cargo belt used to fasten him to the branch above appears industrial in strength." } ], [ { "actor": "The Great Doorgunner Megamix", "dialogue": "You stare at the Great Doorgunner Megamix. If only you had a boombox, you would be able to play Titus' tape." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The tape feels ominous... Upon it, the dead speak. Respect the tape!" } ], [ { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "\"Suliram, suliram, ram, ram...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Pile of Clothes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Pile of Clothes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.siileng_clothes_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Pile of Clothes", "dialogue": "There are clothes inside. Cheap second-hand clothes, smelling of strangers' body odours." }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"Don't be shy, these are premium-class clothes! Good quality fabrics, best retro design! Save the economy with your style, officer!\"" }, { "actor": "Pile of Clothes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Pile of Clothes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.siileng_asked_pay_net_worth\"]]" }, { "actor": "Pile of Clothes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Pile of Clothes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.siileng_rhetoric_why_eco_needs_saving\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Save the economy? That sounds off." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Save the economy? What are you talking about?\"" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"Haven't you heard, officer? We've got to be economically conscious. Recycle your cash, keep it in circulation! Don't buy new things! Buy eco!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This doesn't make any sense. Why exactly does the economy need saving?\"" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"Look around, officer! You see all these premium goods, just sitting there, *not* getting bought? We've got to keep the flow of goods moving!\"" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"Is this really the economy we want to leave to our children?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's just nature: Powerful economies expand, weak economies go extinct.\"" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"I can't go extinct, officer! I've got kids to feed. Once an economy goes extinct, it messes up the whole eco-system. You got to think about the consequences!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "The lieutenant's final words are nearly swallowed by the roar of the aerostatic's main rotors..." }, { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"Firewalker, this is Coalition Warship Archer. We have been instructed to inform you that the Laurel arrived at your position. Please acknowledge.\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "No shit! How are they supposed to hear your acknowledgement over the thundering of their own rotors?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Acknowledged, Archer. This is Firewalker.\"" }, { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"Thank you. The Committee of Responsibility for Revachol has authorised us to offer you an immediate extraction. Do you accept?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I accept, Archer. Get me out of here.\" (Board the aerostatic.)" }, { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"Acknowledged. Laurel has initiated the extraction procedure. Stand by...\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "\"Marianne hat mir erz\u00e4hlt, dass Oskar nicht mehr derselbe ist, seit er auf einem Luftschiff... zur\u00fcckgekommen ist...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I think you may be able to help me decipher some tattoos.\" (Take out the picture.)" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem(\"instant_photo_tattoos\")]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"Don't think so,\" he grunts, barely glancing at it." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Suddenly this feels like a really, *really* bad idea." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Of course. Yes. Forget about it. Let's discuss something else.\" (Cancel task.)" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "Another grunt. He's turned his attention to the gates and seems tense." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is a *strike*?\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"When a bunch of ungrateful, lazy cockroaches can't get their act together. Decide to block honest work for other people.\" He shifts uncomfortably in his worker's overalls." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What do the strikers want?\"" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"Beats me. They mumble nonsense about *board rooms* and *workers' rights*. While we --\" he raises his fist and starts shouting again, \"-- HAVE THE RIGHT TO WORK!\"" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "When the man moves around, you perceive some *serious abs* underneath his tight-fitting shirt. This man is in *shape*." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "There's something odd in the way he carries himself. His set of clothing looks vaguely mismatched. The different pieces of the attire seem ill-fitting." }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.scableader_composure_blackcheck\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Room #3", "dialogue": "The door is closed." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "There's still a dent in the vinyl -- where you punched it before." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Knock." }, { "actor": "Door, Room #3", "dialogue": "There is no answer -- it's nighttime, officer." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "A young woman like this is probably out partying the night away. Drink and drugs, sweet drugs are involved. Loneliness begone..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We should come back in the morning.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"In a *wider* sense z'is is actually my apartment. And yours.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"ice.tentflap_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Tent Flap", "dialogue": "The tent is just tarpaulin fabric covering a pile of stuff. The flap is open. Inside, three young men are listening to some new form of music. It's like nothing you've ever heard. One of them looks at you." }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"C'mon! Get in and close the flap behind you! The warm stuff is getting out!\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "It's safe to assume this is their leader. Or at least he thinks he is." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No way.\" [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Sleep is merciful this time, brother. Not too deep. Lit by the continuous sound of the sea outside." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "And the shape of the insect, its cyclical praying motion just... going on and on. That thing. Looking at you. You -- two things standing in front of each other..." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "No. Relax, man. It's just the comfortable darkness. Interrupted by the pain in your body. A telegraph, far away." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Far enough not to hurt for a while." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "And your mind healing too. Weaving itself back into shape." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Somehow you managed to dodge it all... The church, the window *and* the bad book in the store. On the shelf. You made it. Across the black sea unharmed..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What?" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Nothing. Just threats that passed by -- outside in the world. Ill omens from another life. Not this one. You ignored them. Good. The sleep is nourishing. Take more of it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Turn to the other side." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "You do so many times. Until dim light starts peeking into the hood you're under. The rough karakul. More and more each second. Time to face it again -- the world. Anew..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Open your eyes.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A moment passes. The lieutenant glances at the sports watch on his wrist." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Convince Kim there's a sexy dark mystery twist in the case." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.kim_inland_mystery_created\"]]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "What if *you* did it?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_body_mercenary\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.garte_body_mercenary\"] or Variable[\"TASK.inspect_the_dead_body_done\"] or Variable[\"TASK.briefing_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Did... what? The hanged man?" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Yes, you killed him. And then, as part of the plan, you drowned out the memory..." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "It wasn't that you were horrified -- you were just surprised by your own daring!" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Forgetting was merely a matter of convenience -- very clever!" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Maybe this is why your chest feels so hollow -- you did an awful thing, and you can't even bring yourself to acknowledge it..." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Are you sure you would have had the strength to take down a hardened mercenary? You're not in the best shape." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.garte_body_mercenary\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"cargo.mrlb_has_left\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cargo Container Door", "dialogue": "The door seems to be locked. Conclusively." } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "ICM? This feels familiar somehow..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Are those specks stars too?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "The *uninhabited archipelago*. A Dolorian-era symbol of Insulinde -- the Face In The Sea, as they call it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Looks old. What is it still doing here?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Forty four years is not enough time to hide what happened here, on these islands..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Huh, what is the ICM?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Insulindian Citizens Militia, the official name of the communards' army. The army of the Revolution." } ], [ { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "This is it -- the scene of the party. The fire pit, cigarettes, and empty bottles all evidence it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Yeah. Sure does look like a lot of folks partied here." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Looks like they were here a while, judging from all the bottles. The sunken motor carriage provided them a focal point -- like a goose ice-sculpture or a chocolate fountain." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Guess I'll be on my way. (Finish thought.)" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try once more to figure him out, find a way to connect with him." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_wc_empathy_get_cuno_alone_2\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_befriend_failed_once\"]]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "What's going on? He's an ungovernable youth on your crime scene, throwing around incendiary language, trying to push your buttons." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Like you don't have enough on your plate! You feel a sudden surge of self-pity coming on..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Cuno, listen. I know this *boundary-pushing* thing is new to you, but it's old news for us grown-ups.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Get your snout out of Cuno's ass!\" He waves you off. \"Cuno knows how hard Cuno pushes it. Cuno pushes it hard-level...\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"You should give up, popo. Or the Cunn will keep fucking it out of you.\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Are you okay, Cuno?\" She looks worried. The *Cunn* has her confused." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "That went wrong. He took it as a compliment. Then he had a minor seizure." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey Cuno... got any speed?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.trash_container_open\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "This trash container is locked. The sliding lid has a padlock that says \"Whirling-in-Rags.\"" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.trash_inland_something_in_there\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Open the lid again." }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "The smell of rotten food rises to greet you. You see soggy cartons, dirty rags, and organic waste." }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.trash_kim_comment_seen\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Search the food waste." }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.find_your_paperwork_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Trash Container", "dialogue": "There's nothing more of interest in this sludge of peels and meat by-product. Try the carton or those stinking rags." } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "ICM? This feels familiar somehow..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are those specks stars too?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No. That's the *uninhabited archipelago*.\"" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "A Dolorian-era symbol of Insulinde. Known as The Face In The Sea." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"A white star.\" (Point to the star on the label.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No.\" He looks at it. \"An *upside down* star.\"" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "With its horns in the sky -- the symbol of the Commune." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are those specks stars too?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No. That's the *uninhabited archipelago*.\"" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "A Dolorian-era symbol of Insulinde. Known as The Face In The Sea." } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: DayCount() == 1]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.lena_intro_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.kimintro_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Hello, sweetie.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"You shouldn't keep your colleague waiting.\" She nods toward the man in the orange bomber jacket." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.light_paid_shares\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.light_money\"]]" }, { "actor": "Sawed-off Street Light", "dialogue": "It's the 700 re\u00e1l modified street light you bought for some unknown reason." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is there still no way you'd give me my money back? I can't do anything with this light.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"I'm sorry, there are no returns or exchanges for items purchased in this shop. Just enjoy it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look at the light in your life." }, { "actor": "Sawed-off Street Light", "dialogue": "Still the same. The pole has been carefully cut, the wiring redone and attached to a standard indoor plug. The light buzzes faintly but persistently." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Makes you feel *rebellious*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Great. I guess I'm stuck with it. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Speedtrain: Cuno -- leaving station!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.kimintro_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A bespectacled man in an orange bomber jacket is tapping his foot on the floor. Looks like he's waiting for someone -- you." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "As you approach, he narrows his eyes and extends his hand in greeting." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "If an assault were launched on this building right now -- if the windows came crashing down and the whole world descended upon you -- this man would hurl himself in death's way to save you. You are sure of this -- but why?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem(\"jacket_suede\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "On the sleeve of his bomber jacket -- as well as on its back -- are enigmatic white rectangles." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Hold on, who is he to me?" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "He is your half-brother." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Don't shake his hand." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Hello, I'm Kim Kitsuragi.\" He looks unfazed. \"Lieutenant, Precinct 57. You must be from the 41st...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's barely noticeable, but he might be *a bit* annoyed at your rudeness. Then he lets it go -- more important matters need tending to." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "You realize he is waiting for your name." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "This is your chance to come up with a really good name for yourself. Get *creative* -- conceptualize!" } ], [ { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "You feel something in your chest. An unnatural pressure. It's spreading to your left arm, your jaw..." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Well, this feels familiar." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Fucking shit, I'm scared. What do I do? Who do I call?" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Don't go grabbing at your chest and screaming bloody murder. Keep your cool. Remember -- looking good always makes you feel better." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm sure it's just heartburn. Oh god..." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "No. It's many years of combined self-neglect and self-abuse." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let it all go." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "There's no shame in surrendering now. We all do, it gets *so* dark. You don't even see her face, like you always thought you would. You only see pain and fear." } ], [ { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"What are you talkin' about, madman? There's no eighth Hardie boy. There's seven of us and we're all here.\" He sizes you up." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Or what -- *you* want to be the eighth Hardie boy? We ain't hiring!\" He shakes his head." }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Actually, boss, we've been talking and we think she could maybe...\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "This person Glen wants to hire -- he really respects her." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"XP.gardner_confirmed_shes_not_eight_hardie\"]]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Hmmm... *She*? So there is an eighth Hardie and it's a Hardie girl?" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Shut the *fuck* up, Glen!\" he roars. \"I do the talking here! Now what the fuck do you want, cop?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It has to be good if he won't let you pursue it." }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Sorry, boss...\" you hear the blond man almost whimper." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Take an aggressive step closer." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "The room is silent. The leader does not flinch." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Get *further* in there. Escalate." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "De-escalate." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"What are you looking at, copper?\" He cracks his neck." } ], [ { "actor": "Probably a Migrant", "dialogue": "\"You can't win this, just let us work!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "You hear a jingle! Keys are clinking in the pocket of your flare-cut pants." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Fish them out." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "It says \"Whirling-in-Rags\" on the aluminium keyring. There is a single key on the ring, the number #1 is etched on it. It should open the door." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "The \"Whirling-in-Rags\" is a hostel-cafeteria on the urban coast, frequented by dockworkers." } ], [ { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "Just as you look at the flowers, a gust of wind raises them from the roof, picking them up in the air..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Move your hand, fast!" }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_flower_red_check_grab\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "...the wind brushes them off the roof. They're gone." } ], [ { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Oh hey, wey. There's coffee in the back... Oh, wait, I meant the Mother's love.\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "\"Coffee in the back\"? Something familiar about that. Coffee and stale cookies..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You know, there are some speedfreaks around here who call you 'the crab-man'.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"*Un Cangrejo*!\" He laughs. \"Never thought of myself as a crab. More like... a flame flickering among the rafters and beams...\" He pauses. \"It may be that I gotta work on my technique.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "That's not the only technique he's working on. Look at those carved sculptures. And is that a satchel of tools over there?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"To be fair, it's really more like a spider. But everyone calls you the crab-man.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"It don't bother me none. Crab's no worse than a man, if you think about it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You've been here for a long time. Did you see the police raid that took place here?\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Something like that,\" he responds, his voice suddenly flat." } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "That patch of reeds over there -- it's a great place to hide something. Kind of out of the way, being so close to the water." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, I can't see anything interesting..." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You don't have a reason to -- yet." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is this about?" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Nothing. Just a hunch. The hunch passes, leaving you there, by the old buoy bobbing in the water. Time to go." } ], [ { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.gaston_rhetoric_sandwich\"]]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "All right, this is how we're gonna do it:" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I admire your handiwork,*ch\u00e9f*, but there are a few things I'd do differently.\"" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"Like what, officer?\" His eyes rest on the sandwich. \"This is as good as they come in Revachol, I assure you.\"" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "An array of delicious recipes flashes through your mind. Salads... Salmon... Sandwiches. Bingo!" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "This calls for an engineering angle. Structural rigidity, exposed rafters, lattice-works -- that type of approach." }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.gaston_interfacing_go_structural_with_sandwich\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Had you put a large slice of Olduvaian cheese crosswise from the ham, it would minimize the component loss via crumbling.\"" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"*Mon dieu*, that is an excellent idea!\" he exclaims. \"That would virtually negate the component loss.\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Beautiful, now bring it home with paprika." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'll do you one better -- the air pocket between cheese and ham could house pre-roasted paprika.\"" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"*Ce serait d\u00e9licieux*! he shouts excitedly. \"Can you make that sandwich, officer?\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "No problem, you just need *his* for research and development first. Just as a prototype of course. Stall now and the sandwich is forever lost." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No. No one can.\" (Gaze at the distance, slowly shaking your head.)" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"Wait... But I thought...\" The old-timer, visibly disappointed, pockets the sandwich and sighs. \"I'd really like to get back to the game now, if there isn't anything else?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Nope, not happening." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What was that about coffee? I feel like I've heard it somewhere before...\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Look, man. I'm at liberty to talk about the sacred blaze of the Mother's glorious heart. But not about the coffee.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Some ravers want to turn this place into a nightclub.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"The ones in the tent outside, right? I seen 'em. Guessing they're the ones who call me a crab? Probably scared of me...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So, what do you think? About the nightclub, that is.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Why not? They wouldn't bother me none. I'm usually way up there, imbibing. Ain't no music on Earth that can reach where I go.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Might even be nice to have some company...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He said that in spite of himself. He's more attached to the human than he'd like to think." } ], [ { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Bust out the big guns.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yo, detective Dick, a word...\" The boy gestures to the side as you slap yourself." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, I'm almost there! Just let me have a few more punches...\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Almost *where?* Almost ready to bleed to death?\" He looks at the bloodstain on your pant leg..." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"No, c'mon.\" He's half whispering. \"A *word*, let's go.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_shivers_white_check\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_shivers_white_failed_once\"]]" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Continuously nothing. The sky slowly slides above you. The young woman exhales, the scent of menthol tobacco. Sounds like a sigh." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "In god's name, *wake up*!" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_drama_white_success_volition_activated\"]]" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Who... what... Dear god, you've been lied to! She could have killed her lover and lied to everyone! She's not *candid* at all, she's smoke and mirrors and will-o-wisps!" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.who_was_caller_done\"] and Variable[\"tc.klaasje_amandou\"]]" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "She probably didn't give you her real name either -- why would she? Arrest her immediately, before she further entangles you in her *web of lies*!" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"XP.detect_compromized_skillset\"]]" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Take it easy. Don't overcompensate with this *course correction*. Ask questions first..." } ], [ { "actor": "Stock Certificate", "dialogue": "The pearlescent paper adamantly resists being held open -- it demands struggle at both ends. The print inside is just as taxing due to its fine and curlicued font. The most attractive part is the image emblazoned across the top." }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "Feisty little thing! But don't worry -- it's under control." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Devious use of Swish there. It's a font literally *designed* to win legal agreements by way of being almost unreadable through flamboyance." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Attempt to read the words." }, { "actor": "Stock Certificate", "dialogue": "Each letter is shaped like a laugh line being pulled in a million different directions. They're all grinning at you -- pleased with practically being indecipherable." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "You can do this. Maybe squinting will help?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Start with the biggest letters in order to learn the characteristics of the style. Then work your way down." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Give it up. (Go back.)" }, { "actor": "Stock Certificate", "dialogue": "The certificate threatens to coil back into itself as you relax a little." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Attempt to read the words." }, { "actor": "Stock Certificate", "dialogue": "Each letter is shaped like a laugh line being pulled in a million different directions. They're all grinning at you -- pleased with practically being indecipherable." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "You can do this. Maybe squinting will help?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Start with the biggest letters in order to learn the characteristics of the style. Then work your way down." } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"DON'T WORRY, BABE. THIS WON'T TAKE LONG.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"SO... WOMEN, HUH?\" The Semenese supraman stretches on the couch like a giant tattooed cat." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "His shoulders relax, tension is leaving him." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Strange, he seems different in here. Less 'monolithic' somehow." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The room feels soporific in its silence, dust particles twirling around in the air..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I like women.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"AND? THAT'S WHAT YOU WANTED TO TALK ABOUT?\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"WHAT IS THIS *REALLY* ABOUT?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's about her.\" (Nod solemnly.) \"Revachol.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"THAT IS A LIE YOU ADMINISTER YOURSELF. LIKE HEART MEDICINE. GO WITHOUT IT ONE DAY AND YOUR HEART WILL STOP.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"MEN ONLY WANT TO REVERSE TIME FOR ONE REASON. THEY *SAY* IT'S ABOUT HONOUR, JUSTICE, REVENGE, REGRET, REDEMPTION, AND A PLETHORA OF FALSE REASONS, BUT FURTHER BACK -- DEEPER IN -- IT IS ALWAYS LOVE THAT DRIVES THEM.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.rene_its_About_love\"]]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Ren\u00e9 certainly seemed to agree with that." }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.lorryman_fascha_rc_scss\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"If you have more questions, don't hesitate to ask.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.wards_plais\"]]" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "A heavy door with a missing handle stands before you, covered in dozens (if not hundreds) of Semenese trinkets and charms. It appears to be locked." }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem(\"key_bookstore_backdoor\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.bookstore_backdoor_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Break down the door." }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.bookstore_backdoor_redcheck_smash\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "Ow, shoot! Whose moronic idea was it to just *run through the door*? Don't you know that things like that *hurt*?!" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsTHCPresent(\"coach_physical_instrument\")]" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Walk it off, son! Stop wriggling like a maggot, it's nothing to worry about." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Please don't cry, please don't cry...\" (Slap your face.) \"I don't want anyone to see me cry!\"" }, { "actor": "Warded Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "There it is, a brave little army in your pocket. The First Smokes Platoon. Twenty brave souls standing in salute, ready to step into the fire for you, sir..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm not going to do it. [Ignore thought.]" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Already you regret it -- looking at the pack... But don't worry. You can come back to this later. The army of smokes is honourable and faithful to you. You have your entire *life* to return to it." } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Been waitin' for you to fucking man up.\" He nods at the building behind him. \"In there is Cuno's violent dad. On steroids. Cuno's dad does steroids *and* speed. If you can take him, you can have half the speed.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How much material are we talking about?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Like half.\" He says very confidently." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Half of what?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"A baggie... but like in this vial.\"" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "That's half a *gram*, sir." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_yard_viscal_half_a_gram\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But that's not very much material at all.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Fuck you talkin' about. Half a G?! This shit is *giant*, grade A shit. So clean you can barely see it!\"" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "You can barely see it because there's barely any." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How much material are we talking about?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Like half.\" He says very confidently." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Half of what?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Barry the Butcher", "dialogue": "\"If I ever get my hands on the idiot who broke that sign...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Codex Urik", "dialogue": "The title reads: \"Codex Urik: the Industrious Dweorgr of Wirr\u00e2l\". It's an introductory race creation and dweorg cultural backstory manual." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Put the book away.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "There is nothing." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Again." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Just lie there, passed out." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Well, *almost* nothing. There is the ground below you. That's still there. And the small light that's on -- fluttering -- somewhere in the Basal Ganglia." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Who's that?" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "That's me, blue eyes. That's me." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "And who was *that*?" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Who was what?" }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "He speaks of the *sickening* longing, the unwell emotion. Even in the darkness he's grasping for it, still trying to hold on to the great sorrows slipping in the water -- slimy." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No, I was *cool*. I'm cool." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "The cool when you're dead, brother." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Here in the Paleo-Mammalian Cortex we call it -- *the shadow*." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Because it's always there." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "Tell him! Tell him!" }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Ah, yes. And in the olfactory system they call it The Apricot Chewing Gum Scented One. It's unhealthy of them to linger on it so. But -- as they say -- what do you do?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Smelled like betrayal." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "They look pretty organised to me." } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Listen to the wind -- but for *what*? Ruby whistling? The crackle of her bonfire? Some errant whisper, or a dog barking..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Shake off the feeling." }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "The writing rises in front of you, its ancient carton wet from the coastal air." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pull on your knowledge to understand what caused the twins to hear radio in their heads." }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.mural_encycloedia_pass_check\"]]" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "You know a lot about radio. Enough to know: You have no idea how or why those boys heard Speedfreaks FM in their heads." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Knowledge like that isn't just obscure; it's unknowable. Dangerous theoretical facts like that are probably protected under the Coalition Government's Articles of Dominion, Title XIV, Article 7c. While an expert might be able to suss it out on their own, a layman like you has no hope." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "You don't know how it happened. But the stores of your knowledge are vast and there *is* something crucial in them." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What's that?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "You know where Ruby *isn't.*" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "She isn't in the fishing village. She's not with her bullet under the floorboards in the shack. So where could she be?" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.meet_lilienne_for_a_date_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.idiot_teq_story_end_reach\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.inspect_traps_done\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"I can't get involved in this...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Use your chaincutters to fix the faucet. Stop steam from fogging up the mirror." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.mirror_interfacing_white_check_succeeded\"]]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "The faucet is quite terribly mangled, but you just might be able to twist its parts into place." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "You handle the chaincutters deftly, applying just enough pressure. The faucet regains a recognizable shape. The steam stops." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (HasVolitionDamage()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Told you that you *needed* those chaincutters. Everything is connected. Everything has a purpose." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "The mirror begins to clear slowly without you having to wipe it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Attempt to stop *The Expression* from happening." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.mirror_subdued_expression\"]]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.inside_shack\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.mirror_steam_stopped\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The air outside is brisk, the lieutenant is silent for a moment. He listens to the traffic hum, then..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.kim_orientation\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Now then... we should talk about the investigation -- but I also feel you're a bit *hazy* on the RCM. Our role here, our rights. Our *jurisdiction* basically.\" He lights a cigarette." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing. Just look into the night." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The dying lights of the city shimmer below -- slowly, like luminous clouds, they pass on his lenses. The lieutenant looks at his slim cigarette, contemplating the next drag." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "This *soldier* is the highlight of the day for me, he thinks. This little stick right here." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "An aerostatic passes overhead -- the whiskers of its floodlights on the ground below. Kitsuragi's glasses light up as he looks to the sky. Two glowing circles." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"They *really* don't like us here. And the mouth on that kid, Cuno... It's different inland. In Jamrock and the G.R.I.H.\" He pulls on the cigarette." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why *are* they like this?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.kim_said_no_one_cares_about_martinaise\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's our fault for leaving this place to the dogs. To the Union. To the company. Not daring to come here more often. This place has fallen between the cracks. The jurisdictions of our two Precincts.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And in Jamrock and the G.R.I.H?\" (Continue.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.gardener_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"I've got nothing to say to you. Why are you wasting your time?\" She crosses her arms." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are you Lizzy -- Elizabeth -- Miss Beaufort?\"" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"I suggest not wasting time on trivial pleasantries and focusing on why you are actually here -- Titus Hardie,\" she points to the tall man by the table." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Even though she has excellent control over her self, something moved behind her eyes, in the way she stands, in her face..." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "You caught her off guard. Push her some more." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Easy Leo told me about you, he likes to talk a lot.\"" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"You're not here to chat up the legal counsel, you're here to question these men.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.gardener_booth_rhet_push_her_more\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "She shut you down -- because you don't have enough backbone." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I should talk to Titus then!\" [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.gaston_rhetoric_sandwich\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.gaston_told_about_peoples_sandwich\"] and Variable[\"plaza.gaston_fascist_sandwhich\"] and (Variable[\"plaza.gaston_altgreet_rene_dead\"] or Variable[\"plaza.rene_know_dead\"])) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "A man so principled about his sandwich calls for a principled approach. Time to get political." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm already tripping knee-deep in politics, baby." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "You really do. Now, *unleash the fury*!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This city's going to shit. Sooner or later some foreign anarchist is gonna *steal* your sandwich. That's a fact.\"" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What the hell are you talking about? What *foreign anarchist*?\" the lieutenant asks, confused." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "No time to bring him in. Just keep your eyes on the prize and ignore him." }, { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"Eh... I don't think that's gonna happen.\" He chuckles. \"Why would you even...?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Cause that's how foreigners *are*, Gaston. They won't stop 'till you have nothing left.\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"He won't care.\" The old veteran glances at his partner. \"As long as there's food in his fat belly, he'll lick any boot that's kicking it to him...\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Good, Ren\u00e9's on board too -- time to take back the streets. Right-wing populism, here we come!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Revachol is calling -- she needs us. Not tomorrow, not *soon*, but right now. Let's take our home back.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Well, now you've done it. Let's see if you can talk your way out of this one." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Relax, I was practising the time-honoured technique known as the 'lie'.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I suppose that's a relief. Just be careful how often you avail yourself of this 'technique'. A lie may be useful in the short-term, but they have a way of catching up with you later.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "We know a *lie*, sire. And it didn't feel like one to us. He chooses to believe though -- for now." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"And one more thing -- as you've seen, these sorts of attitudes are quite common in Martinaise. So I expect this to happen again. And again...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I've had this conversation enough times in my life. From now on, I'm going to stay out of it. How you choose to respond is your business.\" He concludes: \"But be careful. Now, let's move on.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Of course, let us dispatch with the formalities. You call me Evrart, I call you Harry!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is that my name?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"My god so it's true! I didn't want to believe it, but you *are* a fantastic science-fiction amnesiac cop, aren't you?\" He shrugs with an amazed expression. \"What are the odds of that?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "It might be a good idea to hide your *confusion*... I mean, see what his game is first." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"My memory is fine -- I'm just testing you.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"So good to hear that, Harry. Apparently my sources were wrong.\" He pats the brown folder in front of him. \"However if you *did* have a spot of memory trouble I could help you out -- with my big fat folder.\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Words flow like a river of honey from his lips." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "I guess word has already reached him. No matter, no harm done." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "It's just a brown folder. You can't make out what's written on it." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"You *must* have questions, Harry. C'mon on now...\" He makes a come-hither motion. \"Don't be shy. Let's hear them.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "You look down at the white ceramic sabatons hugging your arches and calves, surprised at how well they fit." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "Your movements cause tiny little clicks, like dice rolling somewhere far away, as the plates reorient to your motions." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It is good to be an unstoppable ceramic man." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Remember, the vitreous enamel material acts as a kinetic re-distributor. It's meant to stop bullets. Wear it, observe its properties. See if there's a *weakness* in the design." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "For the day you have to *fight* someone covered in the same material." } ], [ { "actor": "Barred Door", "dialogue": "The door is small but heavy-looking. It's barred from the inside." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let the door remain barred. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "You made the right call there. It feels good. Pure." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "About what?" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "I'm talking about your zero tolerance policy toward *the mania of Narco*! You're in the *right* there. Powerful stance. Would you like to take it up a notch? Would you like to become an anti-narcomania zealot?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I seem to have a slight speed habit myself, though. Is this really a good idea?" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "That's *not* a problem. At all. The more drugs you do, the more zealous you can be in combating them. Drugs give you the *vigour* to fight drugs." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "And not only that!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Yeah -- and the intimate knowledge of their damaging effects." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Yeah. Sure." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Me drinking -- moribundly -- that isn't gonna be a problem, is it?" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "No. Alcohol is a powerful anti-narco agent. Seventy-eight percent of people who use alcohol daily feel no need to use it's opposite -- narcohol. If anything, you should drink more. It cleanses." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm gonna pussy out at the last moment, like a degenerate.\" [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Establish authority." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardie_authority_wc_to_get_klaasje\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.hardie_failed_wc_once\"]]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.hardie_failed_the_wc_second_time\"]]" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "You have *so* many bad options ruled out it's *insane*! There is no way in the world you won't do it this time!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "That's it? That's all I got?" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.hardies_just_put_the_gun_in_your_mouth\"]]" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Well... The rest of that nancy stuff was really just there to make the gun thing more appealing. But it might work anyway." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm the only thing keeping this town from going to *hell* and you're not helping.\" (Point your finger.)" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"And what exactly is it you've been doing that's so god damn special -- shitting yourself in front of us?\" He leans in. \"Going around harassing kids on the street? Kids who've done nothing wrong?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Safety Curtains", "dialogue": "An iron safety curtain curves before your eyes, folded like a bellows. It covers half the room -- blocking the way into a colossal industrial chimney." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "This must be where the *Entity* lives..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "This is directly above the central furnace in the cellar. The voices probably came from here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hello? I yelled, but it didn't work...\"" }, { "actor": "Safety Curtains", "dialogue": "Again your voice becomes a raspy croak, mid-sentence. It's silent in the abandoned office building -- no one answers you." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "A sudden bout of self pity comes over you." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Sire, may we suggest something? Think of the yelling-into-the-furnace as a *grand performance*. Use your chest voice, not your head voice. Sing from the diaphragm." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Perhaps it's not such a bad idea? Try it again, son." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What a shame. Look at all the damage done to the church...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Hey, psst..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Who -- me?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Yes, you. Word on the street is you're ready to start building *communism* again!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "'Again'?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Yes -- you're ready to start building communism *again*. You've built it before, *they've* built it before. Hasn't really worked out yet, but neither has *love* -- should we just stop building love, too?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Love has worked out really well for me. I'm a love winner." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Good. We need tender men like you building gargantuan communism. Word on the street is it's going to be ten thousand times larger than any communism previously attempted by human beings. Is that right?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How come there's *word on the street*?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "You keep saying things like *down with the bourgeoisie*, *eat the rich*, *sodomize the land-owners*, *impale all people who have more than 25 re\u00e1l in their pocket*, *literally murder all human beings regardless of their political beliefs* -- that kind of stuff." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Oh, right. That sounds like me." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Funky-style. Very funky. So tell me. Do you have any questions before we fire up the Big Communism Builder, or do we get right down to it?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, first -- what's this *communism* even about?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Failure. It's about failure." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't *do* failure." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Of course you do! You *are* failure, you *are* Communism. Absolutely vanquished, beaten, curb-stomped, shat on. While everyone else is out partying, having a callous laugh, *you* will reverse the fortune of the workers of the world." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "You alone, against every living thing, against every human alive: eight hundred trillion re\u00e1l in the hands of an *impossibly* well organized ruling class; towering city blocks of bank-men who have the ears of prime ministers; million-headed armies of nations and the love of your own mother!" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "You -- against the atom, the charm and the spin. Where the whole world failed -- matter failed to bend to human will; human will failed to get out of bed and tie its laces -- you alone, single-handedly, will rebuild the dreams of the working class. You are The Last Communist." } ], [ { "actor": "Oranjese Passport", "dialogue": "This passport, issued by the Sovereign Republic of Oranje -- is issued to a black haired woman called Katarzine Alasije." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Klaasje's hidden documents -- from the empty buoy." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It says -- Katarzine Alasije.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He opens his notes. \"She said it would be for *Annouk Meijer-Smit*. Annouk -- Meijer -- Smit.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I don't know who Katarzine Alasije is, but it's safe to say it's not her either. In short: we got lied to, again. Good luck to whoever is questioning her in the 57th right now.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "A Stas-Rajko! One of the finest Zsiemsk-made motor carriages ever. An oldie but a goldie." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Who drives these?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Not many people outside of Graad \u2013 and Revachol West too, it appears." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Bulky frame. Heavy. Hardy. Looks like a tractor." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "That's cool, but I have policeman things to do. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "This bookstore is not *strictly* about crime, romance, and biographies of famous people -- there's also a wide range of paranatural literature." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look through the shelf." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "Amidst the various books you find one written by someone named Matthias W. Dundas. It's about \"Wholeness, Unity, Balance\"." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "These three things are very important to the working-class mind." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "The point of the book, and many others on this shelf, is to give people medicinal advice in situations where they don't have access to paid health services." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Uh huh, interesting." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "Various paranatural books still litter the shelf." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Hmmm, this really didn't seem like it was going to be that hard. We'll just have to try again..." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I wanna talk about the hanging again.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Again? Someone ask the guy for an autograph -- you cops are his biggest fans.\"" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "A burst of laughter in the room; the little guy is the loudest. \"Good one, Titus!\" he fawns." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So, what are we going to do now?\" (Conclude the questioning.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"Nothing,\" her reply comes sharp. \"Your investigation here is done. You should go back to Jamrock -- to your station, where you belong.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I think we're going to stick around, thanks. Some things don't add up here, Titus.\" The lieutenant closes his notebook." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I've done this job for long enough to know that people don't just confess to first-degree murder. *Even* if it is a group responsibility. We're going to look into this.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Good luck with that.\" He grabs another beer. \"You've heard everything a *rent-a-cop* is gonna hear from us *real* law officials. You're lucky you didn't get a beating.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Rent-a-cop? So that's what this is about. He doesn't see you as his equals." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.footprints_seen\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Here we are again, my broken bird. The waves are coming... carrying you away... but you can't go. No -- you have to stay. Always half-aware of yourself." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "You're not *cooperating* brother-man." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Why?" }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "It's your disgusting *body*. Even through your sleep, you feel a vague discomfort suffusing it. Your belly and your sides are unpleasantly tender. You wish you could curl up into a foetal ball of safety, but you cannot -- because of the PAIN." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "And there's a lot of it. Ever present in your organs. It's like every one of them has their own *nasty* song to sing." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "That pain in your right side is your enlarged liver, by the way. As for your kidneys... you've really been compounding the damage lately. And, trust me, you don't want me to do the maths." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Every cell in your body is moaning in agony, asking, \"What did we ever do to you?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm sorry, cells! It's all me! It's my fault!" }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "*Now* you're finally thinking about something other than yourself. Let's see how far that'll get you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, wasn't this the express to Fuck-All-Borough?" }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Now, you've gone off the rails, baby, now you're stuck sitting here by the tracks, admiring the wreck around you. You just can't help it: looking at yourself, the sum total of your *accomplishments*..." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "You're just stuck here. In the half-world. Could try looking at other people. *Really* looking. But why would you want to start doing that?" } ], [ { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"What have I used it for...\" He looks you dead in the eye: \"I've used it for *killing people*.\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Here we go! A trail of blood." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "You can smell it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You've done a lot of that?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"It's a gun. That's what they're for. You want a moralist euphemism -- defending your family and your property? I haven't done that.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I've used it to kill people.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"You mean like... lately? *After* the War?" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"There is no *after* the war.\" He shakes his head and smiles, his teeth rotten black: \"Class war is never over.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "So he's continued killing *after* hostilities ended. Okay, okay..." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "This is it. You can feel it, like battery acid on the tip of your tongue -- something you haven't felt in a while, but..." } ], [ { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"This place is wa-aaaay *under* the underground.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "One day, you may be able to scale this tower. But it won't be today. Neither your sinews nor your spirit could handle this ascent." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Oh well, didn't really care about climbing up some stupid beams anyway." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Yeah, sure. There are other things we could do. But, man, it would have been cool." }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Hey, man. I see it in you -- you are prepared to surrender yourself to the fire of revelation. But you're still a bit shaky spiritually.\" He looks you over. \"You're also just, physically, shaking.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Keep the flame in your soul alive, though. One day you'll make it up here, if you put in the work.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did you just climb down from the church tower?\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Sure did, homes.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, I have other questions.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "The sinewy figure lingers on the wooden beams, blending into the shadows." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You've been here a long time. Do you know why the church was abandoned?\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Police raid a while back,\" he responds, his voice suddenly flat." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Did you witness it?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't need your cooperation. I've got this.\" (Show him the Triangong 4-46.)" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Heh...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Not a lot of guns around that use military-grade ammunition, are there?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"It's a real gun,\" he points at the lieutenant's sidearm, \"not like your musketeer pistols.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"You look like imbeciles. Why don't you ask them to give you real weapons, huh?\" He chortles. \"Going against automatic rifles with a *flame bomb*... of course you got all those boys killed!\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Damn, he saw you. He's watched it happen." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "He would have a good view of the tribunal from here. It's not just empty boasting." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "So he saw you... okay. So what. Don't let it divert you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We saved a lot of them -- Alain, uhm, and that musician... we handled it.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A frustrated sigh. \"I've been through this with you. I am *not*...\" He changes his mind. \"Just please make it quick, we're in the middle of a murder investigation, remember?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Looks like someone tried to *reconceptualize* their business here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't get it." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Look: The skis and rotor blades both bear the same \"Slipstream\" logo. It seems likely that they started out making one, failed to turn a profit, and then pivoted to producing the other." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What a strange leap of imagination... And yet they still failed. How sad. [Finish thought.]" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Reality is ruthless." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.kimintro_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A bespectacled man in an orange bomber jacket is tapping his foot on the floor. Looks like he's waiting for someone -- you." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "As you approach, he narrows his eyes and extends his hand in greeting." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "If an assault were launched on this building right now -- if the windows came crashing down and the whole world descended upon you -- this man would hurl himself in death's way to save you. You are sure of this -- but why?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem(\"jacket_suede\")]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "On the sleeve of his bomber jacket -- as well as on its back -- are the same enigmatic white rectangles as on your blazer." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Don't shake his hand." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Hello, I'm Kim Kitsuragi.\" He looks unfazed. \"Lieutenant, Precinct 57. You must be from the 41st...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's barely noticeable, but he might be *a bit* annoyed at your rudeness. Then he lets it go -- more important matters need tending to." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "You realize he is waiting for your name." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "This is your chance to come up with a really good name for yourself. Get *creative* -- conceptualize!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't really know my name.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Okay, then.\" He processes the information, then disregards it." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Fish it out." } ], [ { "actor": "Loose Floorboard", "dialogue": "As you look at the floorboards in this corner of the shack, it's clear one of them isn't quite level with the others." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "The edge of a floorboard next to it looks scratched." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"See anything interesting?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Move the board aside." }, { "actor": "Loose Floorboard", "dialogue": "The hollow space underneath the floorboards is dark and damp. You can barely make out the mixture of sand and sawdust below." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Search through the sand and sawdust." }, { "actor": "Loose Floorboard", "dialogue": "You stick your hand in and start combing through the sand. Dry, not like outside. Fine dust... and then -- something hard, wrapped in paper." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is it?" }, { "actor": "Loose Floorboard", "dialogue": "A small cylindrical object. You pull it out -- a bullet." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "A 9mm bullet to be exact. Fit for all muzzleloaders of that calibre, like your own Villiers pistol, for example." } ], [ { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "The young woman raises a cigarette to her lips." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Her eyes are brown and her face is speckled with birthmarks. She can't be more than 28." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "A silver jumpsuit falls off her like scale armour, sparkling. This is the sparkle of too many nights out on the city." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Turn your bloated face away from her beauty and just keep on walking. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Whatever I can help you with. We need to contain the situation.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Does this mean I don't have to look into that drug stuff?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"That is exactly what it means. What I am about to tell you is more pressing, I assure you.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm glad we reached an agreement without turning the RCM into your personal investigative unit.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Do not gloat, officer. These are grave matters.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "It only lasts for the briefest instance but you catch a look of disappointment in her eye. Anger even." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's enough for now.\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"pier.joyce_lynching_story_told\"]]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"I am sorry to have been the bearer of bad news. If there is anything else I can help you with, please ask.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Show her your badge.) \"I found my badge, by the way.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"By love, you did!\" She inspects the piece of blue plastic, her eyes scanning from left to right." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Fast, observantly. Like an electronic printer." } ], [ { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "An apricot sceptre shines party-bright across the monument. Glitter balls dangle like severed heads below the eternal king of disco. It is unmistakably a vision of you in your prime -- a killer on the performance floor, icon for all." }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "Your eyes glide over the horse, over its patina green coat. Something about the mount's sad animal-eyes makes you pause..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I've made it." }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "The thought rings hollow in your silent mind. It's even quieter on the roundabout, under the brilliant sun." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "You can feel the lieutenant's stillness next to you..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Savvy, hey Savvy... where did you go?! Talk to me!" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Savvy's here, watching the little *fiasco* of the horseback monument. You should distance yourself from this project. Say it's your Personal Brand Strategist gone rogue." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Yes, it's not very good for PR..." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "'Gone rogue'? No, Idiot Doom Spiral has finally achieved something *remarkable*." } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"You're dead to Cuno.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The Headless FALN Rider -- he could appear at any minute!" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Please tell me we're not here to look for a headless man in a tracksuit riding a horse... because there's no such thing.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Don't listen to the lieutenant! He doesn't know *anything*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We'll just wait and see.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There's nothing to wait for. We should get some rest, it's been a long day.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm just going to wait a few more minutes, just in case.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Yes, stay! What's a few more minutes going to hurt?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant has his arms crossed, fingers tapping against his bicep. \"There, we waited. Nothing happened. Happy now?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "There's nothing here -- You lied to me!" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Your ears hum from the silence inside your mind..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This has made me unspeakably unhappy.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I know myths and legends are enticing, but in the end they're just stories for children... to teach them lessons, or to frighten them.\" He gestures toward the waves." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Let's go. It's very late -- we should be resting already. Tomorrow will be another tough day.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Fuel -- this should do the trick...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Honourable One, you have accumulated a substantial amount of honour points on your life-path. You are a man most virtuous." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Hold your horses! This is a mistake. Honour is meaningless to me. [Discard thought.]" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Meaningless?! Vulgar knave, how dare you besmirch the honour of honour points... It hurts the eyes to look upon filth like you. Begone." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "You brought much shame on your family today. Your name will forever be tarnished by this most shameful of deeds. Be forever banished, Shameful One!" } ], [ { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.serial_number_2\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.serial_number_1\"]]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: TotalHourCount() >= Variable[\"plaza.alice_serial_next_meeting_time\"]]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.kineema_serial_told_right\"]]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "\"Yes. The armour was produced by...\" She looks at her notes. \"Fairweather in their facilities in Betancourt, Sur-la-Clef, in '42.\"" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "\"It was part of a special order for Corps de Pharmacie, a security firm contracted to protect the interests of Oranjese pharmaceutical companies. In the Semenine conflict.\"" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "She browses pages. \"So... it seems the armour went to Semenine. That's where the paper trail ends, though. Even the firm has proven difficult to track. Corps de Pharmacie has been renamed several times over in the years since the armour was issued.\"" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.crenel\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm guessing one of its names is Krenel.\"" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "\"Yes!\" She seems glad you guessed it. \"That is the most recent name the ICP has been able to connect to the CdP. And the one before it was Downwell. I also have one called Sediment -- but I think that might be a different contractor...\"" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "You hear her fingers on a keyboard. \"No, they were called *Sediment*. And *Somatosensor*, it seems. All that during the last nine years.\"" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "A suit of armour like this would have been manufactured with a particular person's physique in mind. You should ask for whom this suit was fitted." }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.reeds_checked_counter\"] >=1) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"cargo.garrydoor_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Door, Basement Apartment", "dialogue": "The door to the 'Weasel's' Den', guarded by the lionhead-knocker. Both have seen better days." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Press your ear against the door." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"auto.is_raining\"]]" }, { "actor": "Door, Basement Apartment", "dialogue": "The door is slick with rain. You don't hear any movement inside." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "In fact, it's oddly silent in the yard around you. No birds chirp." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "Machine's keyboard is still illuminated, revealing virescent PLAY and PRINT buttons." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look inside the compartment." }, { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "Behind the hatch sits a cube-like crisscross of filaments, smouldering in the dark like fireflies. Silver tape on the side says in black marker: \"LOG (FEB-MAR)\"." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Another filament memory. Press PLAY to talk with the repeater." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Press PLAY." }, { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "The speaker comes to life, static seeps through the machine's planar magnetic driver. An old lady greets you, her voice sounds a hundred years old..." } ], [ { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Okay, the man with the sunglasses and his *hypothetical Station 41*. Weird, right?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No, this whole interaction was perfectly normal." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "There's something we're missing here... something you can't put our finger on. You know what -- just ask him. I know it sounds crazy (and you'll probably get laughed at). But still..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I was thinking the same thing. I should just ask him if we're from the same station." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Yes. Just cross it off the list. It's probably not true though." } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Wait, stop -- that man, bloated beyond all recognition, was 42?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.inspect_traps_2_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Hello, sweetie. How are you?\" She sounds tired." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Dark circles around her eyes. She's absolutely exhausted." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She asked about you because she's afraid to hear about the traps. But that's what she really wants news of." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So your husband is some kind of scientist?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Oh yes,\" she says with a pinch of pride. \"A zoologist -- a *crypto*zoologist to be more precise.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is cryptozoology?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's a pseudo-science that attempts to legitimize *research* into mythological beasts and urban legends.\" The lieutenant sounds unimpressed." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"That's one opinion, yes. And people are entitled to their opinions...\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "She's used to playing off such insults casually, but they still affect her." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"My apologies, ma'am. I did not mean to undermine your hobby.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"It's not a hobby, dear. It's a *sub-field* of zoology, one specializing in animal species that are so exceedingly rare that many assume them to be *extinct* or even *fictitious*...\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Searching for such species -- called *cryptids* -- is difficult and often thankless, and frankly, many scientists are too lazy to do it. Universities these days are rarely interested in supporting *real* research.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Probably a Migrant", "dialogue": "\"LET US IN!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.paledriver_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTHCPresent(\"motorway_south\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.is_raining\"] or Variable[\"auto.is_snowing\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "The woman is still hunched over the railing, her head swaying to the music, her eyes looking at nothing in particular." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Snap your fingers in front of her face." }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"Huh?\" That flicked a switch somewhere. \"What is it? What do you want?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm looking for Ruby, the *lady driver*. Know anything about her?\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "She cups her ear and leans forward. \"Did you just call me a *lady*, xerife?\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "If you want to know more about Ruby, this is a dead end. She's only heard the word 'lady' and latched onto it. You can push on if you're interested in *that*, though." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Never mind. I have other questions.\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "The woman sways her wrinkled shell back and forth, a strange grin across her face." } ], [ { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "It's *STILL* not over, he's hurting now. Deep inside, the minuscule matter which you are composed of persists. The ride never ends. It just gets harder." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsTaskActive(\"TASK.check_back_on_renovation_later\")--[[ Variable[ ]]]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Script: SetVariableValue(\"jam.horseback_monument_scaffolding\", false) ;\nSetVariableValue(\"plaza.ultralib_monument_apocalypse\", IsHighestCopotype(\"apocalypse_cop\")) ;\nSetVariableValue(\"plaza.ultralib_monument_superstar\", IsHighestCopotype(\"superstar_cop\")) ;\nSetVariableValue(\"plaza.ultralib_monument_sorry\", IsHighestCopotype(\"sorry_cop\")) ;\nSetVariableValue(\"plaza.ultralib_monument_boring\", IsHighestCopotype(\"boring_cop\")) ;\nSetVariableValue(\"plaza.ultralib_monument_art\", IsHighestCopotype(\"art_cop\")) --[[ Variable[ ]]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.roy_intro_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.roy_pilehub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Hello hello! Let me know if I can help you with anything.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you have any recordings of the Col Do Ma Ma Daqua?\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"The Col Do Ma Ma Daqua?\" He looks at you with astonishment. \"Sorry, I would never have guessed that you were that interested in ultrasonic sounds... or *birds*, for that matter.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I've been thinking of quitting the RCM and becoming a cryptozoologist.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"How interesting! Well, it's been a while since I've gone hunting for the Col Do Ma Ma Daqua...\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Once knew a group of young musicians who decided they didn't want to play music anymore and started looking for all kinds of interesting sounds instead...\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.roy_pilehub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That sounds so cool.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Echo Maker", "dialogue": "\"Yes, exactly.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Crane Control Panel", "dialogue": "A rusting control panel with several knobs. The words *Marche* and *Arr\u00eat* are -- very, very slightly -- even more faded with use." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Press *Arr\u00eat*." }, { "actor": "Crane Control Panel", "dialogue": "The crane does not return to its original position. It does not move at all." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"What?\" The big man looks at you surprised." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The brew! The shady, shady brew.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Oh, how could I forget your little side-project! Well done, Harry. Well done! Don't even tell me what it was. But good job! I love it when workers take the initiative like this.\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "So do I. That's one tasty brew, you should drink some right now if you can!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's done. I mailed the signatures you asked me to mail.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"The golden boy returns once more! Wonderful -- simply wonderful, Harry.\" He claps his hands together like a child who's just been offered cotton candy. \"Of course, I already knew this.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"My friend, the mail-man, confirms the letter is on its way. You've done a great thing today. You've given the children of Martinaise a real future. I feel I can finally trust you, Harry.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "He leans forward and looks straight into your eyes with the warmest of smiles. \"You're in my inner circle. We can talk about anything: the strike, the murder, your lost gun -- *nothing* is off the table.\"" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Oh, *bratan*, you played the old man like a three-string banjo. He has no idea." } ], [ { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardie_failed_the_rhet_wc_again_again\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "You keep failing cause you haven't failed enough times. You just need to go over and over and over this." } ], [ { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "\"Hey, up here, piggo!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "That sugary black rum stain on the counter makes you teary-eyed with joy. It's almost touching how syrupy and sticky it is. How long have you been up already?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pretty long. It's drink o'clock." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Atta boy! It's coming back to him! You had your mesolimbic reward pathway worried there. Not thinking about drinking all that time... It was like you weren't *yourself*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Actually, *should* I be thinking about this? Looks like drinking hasn't turned out too well for me." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "MAYBE YOU HAVEN'T TURNED OUT WELL FOR YOUR DRINKING?! Have you thought about that?! Get a god damn rum and lemonade into yourself, boy! Or better yet -- lick that stain off the counter!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Lick it." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "Calmly the lieutenant looks out of the window, then to you licking the tasty rum stain off the counter, then out of the window again." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What are you doing?\" he asks without turning his eyes from the street outside." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sorry. I drifted off into my own thoughts and now this happened.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We should move.\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "You could definitely go for some more, the titillating scent of alcohol in your nostrils was beautiful." } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno's Dad", "dialogue": "The ageing alcoholic is still there, breathing... The air in the room is stale." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Maybe we should help him somehow?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What is there to do? We could turn him on his side, so he doesn't choke on his own vomit. But he's already on his side...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Excellent form.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We could take him to Remedie or Saint Batiste, but he doesn't have money for medical services. The Almshouse would turn him down...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"They don't do charity for people who're trying to kill themselves. Besides, he'll be dead in a few...\" The lieutenant stops, listening to him." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "... years? Months? Weeks?" }, { "actor": "Cuno's Dad", "dialogue": "The pile of blankets grunts miserably." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey, talk to me! Are you even alive?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno's Dad", "dialogue": "A lump of flesh is sticking out from under the blanket. It seems to be twitching from time to time, like the paw of an animal who's having a bad dream." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "And look, the other foot is camouflaged by a striped sock bearing the name MAXTOR on the sole. Three toes are poking out of a hole." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What do you need with another transceiver? It's almost exactly like the one you took from that radiocomputer in the Doomed Commercial Area.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But Kim, I need to collect *all* the radio transceivers. For thoroughness' sake.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You sound pathological, you know that? Now come on, let's stop wasting time.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "Let's test. This is the last hub." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Here are many options before leaving.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "Let's test. This is the last hub." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Here are many options before leaving.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "Let's test. This is the last hub." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Here are many options before leaving.\"" }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "Let's test. This is the last hub." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm ready.\" (End with Kim / Cuno.)" }, { "actor": "Judit Minot", "dialogue": "\"Good.\" She looks at you, then Vicquemare..." }, { "actor": "Jean Vicquemare", "dialogue": "\"Fuck it, let's go.\" The man points down the street. \"Trant left his motor carriage behind the gates. It's a 20 minute drive to Jamrock.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"boardwalk.feld_mural_main_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "You see a once-bright mural towering above you. The signage has peeled off over the years, but you can still make out: 'FELD ELECTRICAL R&D'." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "A slogan used to intertwine with the loops a long time ago. Now only a shadow of peeled letters remains. It says: 'Tomorrow is just a whisper away'." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Step closer." }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "Above the mural -- a collapsed roof, broken windows set in walls that are cracking and will soon also fall, and the coastal breeze rustling and sighing in the remains of the edifice." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Feld *Electrical*. How ironic -- all these dark rooms..." }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.feld_electrical\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "There's something in the wind. Sometimes the only way to go forward is to fail first." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Could she be in there?\"" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"In there? She could. Or...\" The lieutenant points behind you. \"She could be in the *identical* ruin over there, or in that boat shack. In that church tower, maybe...\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Why single out this one building?" } ], [ { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "The thick journal bound in brown leather is full of candour and diagrams." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Flip through the pages again." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What kinds of logistics?" }, { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "Hard to tell exactly -- it's mostly noted down in code. Looks like contact information, quantities, directions." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What did she write the day Lely died?" }, { "actor": "Ruby's Journal", "dialogue": "Nothing on March 4th... March 5th, though: \"Well, *that's* bound to come back and bite me in the ass. I'm bad at this -- loyal to a fault. Except... But that's another matter entirely.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "She is referring to betraying her previous employer. Does this suggest she did it in self-defence?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "You have no idea what she means. These are personal notes, don't expect to understand all of it." } ], [ { "actor": "Don't Call Abigail", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Don't Call Abigail", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"village.abigail_drunk_alt_greet\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Don't Call Abigail", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Don't Call Abigail", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"village.abigail_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Don't Call Abigail", "dialogue": "\"Don't call Abigail,\" grumbles an unshaven man with a ruddy nose. He narrows his eyes at you as if in recognition, then turns his head away." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "The noxious odour emanating from the drunken man is strong and familiar." }, { "actor": "Don't Call Abigail", "dialogue": "\"Don't ya call her, ya hear. Don't call Abigail...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'll call whoever I want, don't tell me what to do.\"" }, { "actor": "Don't Call Abigail", "dialogue": "\"Abigail!\" He grunts. \"Don't... don't call her.\" He waves a finger in your general direction." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "You're not going to get anything from this guy. He's too drunk." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Never thought you'd see such a thing in your life, but this guy's a little *too* drunk." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Walk away. [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Don't Call Abigail", "dialogue": "\"Don't... call Abigail...\" he whimpers softly, his voice trailing off into nothingness." } ], [ { "actor": "Washerwoman", "dialogue": "\"Bidjakla sana dipandang manis... \"" } ], [ { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "\"That butter sign is a write-off for sure.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Dolores Dei", "dialogue": "Dolores Dei -- the innocence of humanism, internationalism, and the welfare state -- turns around to face you. She has an airship bag in her hand. She seems to be in a hurry." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Okay, don't say you need to 'talk' right away. Melt the ice first -- this way you're *already* talking." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Off to advise the queen of Shest, most likely. This is the holy suzerain of Mundi and Insulinde -- *definitely* not your wife -- you need to talk to her! Think of the historical knowledge you could glean!" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "You may not be able to take this. Not this time. Not anymore." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"H-hey.\"" }, { "actor": "Dolores Dei", "dialogue": "\"Hey.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"'Hey'? That's all I get?\" (Smile.)" }, { "actor": "Dolores Dei", "dialogue": "\"I mean -- hey to you too?\" she says apprehensively." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing." }, { "actor": "Dolores Dei", "dialogue": "She breathes out, impatiently." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you deliver things. What kinds of things?\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"Oh, I don't know the contents, officer. Part of my job is discretion.\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "He's trying too hard to seem untroubled by your question. The rigidity in his posture gives him away." }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.gary_courier_comp_lying\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What do you do, then? If not cryptozoology?\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"Oh, this and that.\" He grins." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Sounds intriguing.\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"Sometimes.\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "See? He's being evasive. Shake him up, show him who's boss." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let it go." }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"Okay, I work as a special courier.\" He smiles. \"You know, urgent deliveries, overnight deliveries, deliveries to out-of-the-way locations.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Fascinating. Let's talk about something else.\"" }, { "actor": "Gary, the Cryptofascist", "dialogue": "\"Yes, officer?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Why's he shifting around like that? Analyze Gary's composure." } ], [ { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.jammystery_ladydriver_cabin_located_racist\"]]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"I've told you everything I've got.\" He looks around nervously. \"Can you please stop talking to me now?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're lorryman, right? What's your stance on drugs?\"" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"Drugs? They're shit, man. I don't let anything pollute my body.\" He takes a long drag on his cigarette." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You smell of booze and cigarettes, what's different about narcotics?\"" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"You know where that shit comes from? Saramiriza, Safre, Iilmaraa. They take the money from our local junkies here and then use it to out-compete us in the manufacturing sector.\"" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"They know they can't beat us in a fair fight, so they have to get us to weaken ourselves somehow. It's racial sabotage. Racial *economic* sabotage.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "There's your in. Take his side in this particular fight." }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.racist_suggestion_pretend_you_agree\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Perhaps it's good to agree? To get him talking." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's all I needed to know. Now let me ask you something else.\"" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "The man bites his lip and drops the near-finished cigarette lingering between his fingers. He reaches for a new one." } ], [ { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.doomed_radiocomputer_turned_on\"]]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "Tiles on the cube are still smouldering, casting the framework in a soft glow. Virescent PLAY and PRINT keys shine on the keyboard." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Insert THE PRODUCTION SCHEDULE." }, { "actor": "Mainframe", "dialogue": "Like a smooth drawer, the filament slides into place. On the keyboard, the PLAY key starts blinking." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.fortress_accident_kim_switch_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Radiocomputer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Stop. Just up ahead: danger." }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "You are prepared. Don't put away your friend. Your weapon." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Snowflakes speck the barrels of your Nachtwey A80 pistol." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Why don't you take out your trusty Villiers instead?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "There really isn't much of a difference between these two guns..." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You... liked Klaasje *a lot*.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I considered her a good friend, yeah.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And... despite everything, you helped her by staging the lynching?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah. The girl seemed terrified. The merc was beyond caring what happened to his mortal coil. It was a no-brainer.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And... despite everything, you helped her by staging the lynching?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah. The girl seemed terrified. The merc was beyond caring what happened to his mortal coil. It was a no-brainer.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And... despite everything, you helped her by staging the lynching?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah. The girl seemed terrified. The merc was beyond caring what happened to his mortal coil. It was a no-brainer.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And... despite everything, you helped her by staging the lynching?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah. The girl seemed terrified. The merc was beyond caring what happened to his mortal coil. It was a no-brainer.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Lilienne's Twin", "dialogue": "The scruffy-haired little boy kicks a stone. He can't be more than five years old." }, { "actor": "Lilienne's Other Twin", "dialogue": "The other one looks indistinguishable from him. He watches his brother kick the stone with his tongue lolling out of his mouth." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You must be Lilienne's twins.\"" }, { "actor": "Lilienne's Twin", "dialogue": "\"Mhm. Lily's our mom,\" says one of the twins." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is little Lily your sister?\" (Point to the house.)" }, { "actor": "Lilienne's Twin", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay.\"" }, { "actor": "Lilienne's Twin", "dialogue": "\"Yes.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Children are stupid.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Cuno, I found your shack.\" (Point to the shack.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"XP.befriend_the_cuno\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? Did you fuck in there?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I found a plate covered with powder residue -- know anything about it?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"That's where Cuno gets his daily hit of electric, Cuno's *shazam*. Cuno rides the fucking lightning in there, pig.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.get_speed_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Bet you'd like to ride the lightning too, wouldn't you? You feel tired and old, but you could have that sparkle in your eyes..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is that my coat up there? I'm pretty sure it's mine.\" (Point to your coat waving in the wind.)" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Is it?\" Cuno squints at it. \"You got pretty fucked. Cuno's surprised you've still got your head after all that.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Thanks, kid.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Whatever, piggy.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Familiar faces.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_made_it_to_pre_hub\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"I'm all out of shits to give, loincloth.\" There's a feverish gleam in his eyes. \"Welcome to the fucking reckoning.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Put your damn gun down.\" Titus remains calm. \"People are gonna get hurt. We need to talk this through, alright?\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"SHUT UP!!! You're not gonna talk yourself out of this, loincloth-shit fuck!\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.scab_leader_is_a_merc\"]]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "This is the mercenary at the gates! His chest rises and falls under the ceramic breastplate. His fingers reach for the butt of his sidearm." }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_perc_reaction\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing." }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"This is a misunderstanding. Nothing irreversible has happened yet. You can just return to your unit and forget all about this.\"" }, { "actor": "De Paule", "dialogue": "\"The kipt is merciful. Willing to spare us if we just forget about our murdered and humiliated commander.\" Her tone is frighteningly emotionless. \"I think we should just kill everyone, Korty.\"" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"You're all drunk, come to your senses!\" She sounds very sure of herself. \"You won't gun down seven people in the middle of the street. This isn't a frontier town or a jungle outpost.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Easy, Lizzie...\" His voice is almost gentle. \"Let me handle it. I know guys like this. I'm sure we can come to a peaceful agreement. Ain't that right, fellas?\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "He is facing overwhelmingly superior firepower -- and he knows it." }, { "actor": "Ruud Hoenkloewen", "dialogue": "\"Peaceful...\" It sounds like the armoured figure is weeping." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I wonder what's in there.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "They really have an interesting set up here. Like kids preparing for a school science fair. It's pretty neat." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey Andre, what's all this?\" (Continue.)" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"This? Oh, we're trying to see if we can come up with some cool new special effects to add to the visual aspect of our club experience...\" He gestures toward the set-up proudly." }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "\"We tinker with things. Art, music... chemistry.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm not sure I'm buying what you're selling. What kind of effects?\"" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"Some chemicals when mixed can, you know, change colour, or sort of -- blow up...\"" }, { "actor": "Egg Head", "dialogue": "\"BLOW UP! BLOW UP!\" The young man with the large head pumps his fist in the air." }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"Not, like, you know, in a dangerous way,\" he throws Egg Head an uneasy glance, \"or, well, we're not going to do it in a dangerous way.\"" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"Besides, did you know that *smell experiences* are all the rage now at the most forward-thinking venues?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Very big in *art circles*.\" She looks up for a moment." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "The lead programmer turns to look at you for a moment, her gaze impassive, then returns to her work." }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"I hope you get to experience one of our light-smell shows sometime, sir,\" he says with a smile, nodding his blond, spiked head vigorously. \"It'll be a blast.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"Necessity-driven architectural design at its finest.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"] and Variable[\"TASK.check_back_on_renovation_later\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.horseback_monument_scaffolding\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"apt.student_posters_okay\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.contact_warship_archer_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "An old monument stands in the middle of the traffic island, pointing toward the sea. It looks as if it's been reassembled piece-by-piece, secured and mounted in the air with the aid of numerous ropes and rods." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What indentations? What do I see?" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Something with great kinetic energy seems to have impacted the cuirass... around where the 'heart' is. A bullet?" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Someone's shot him in the heart. Interesting." }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Horseback Monument", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Lieutenant -- has someone *shot* the king?\" (Point to the indentation)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Okay...\" He cleans his glasses before looking up. \"I can't see it. But I'll take your word for it.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "You were too pushy last time. Think this through, try to really *understand* the psychological bond Cuno has with Cunoesse." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Okay. So what's the deal with Cunoesse?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Just look -- while Cuno has no problem being near you, she always hides behind the fence, afraid for her life, like she's *done* something. Something very bad." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_punchhub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cunoesse_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Also, Cuno hasn't stopped talking to you. Even enjoys it from time to time. When you talk to the other one it's like talking to a cornered animal. She only hisses." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cunoesse_reaction_speed_shes_a_girl\"]]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "And then there's the fact that she's a girl. And appears to be a little younger, certainly smaller. And yet Cuno is afraid of her. What's up with *that*, Cuno?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "All in all, Cuno respects madness. You cannot hope to outdo her on that front. You must win yourself a few minutes with him alone." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Interesting. How?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Cunoesse is by far the worst of the two. Cuno has no problem being near you, but the other hides behind the fence, afraid for her life, like she's *done* something. Something very bad." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_punchhub_reached\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "There! Working class drunk! You know what this means, right?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno knows how to fucking throw!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Metal Grille Door", "dialogue": "As you approach the metal grille you can hear several voices having what appears to be an animated discussion." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "This must be it. Beyond this door lies the beating heart of radical communism in Martinaise." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "Somehow the night air softens the smell of trash and sea brine. As the breeze pulls through the canvas like a shuttle through a loom you catch a hint of something unexpected, something earthy, warm, and burnt..." }, { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "\"Just look at this pig, sniffing about after-hours...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Ignore her.)" }, { "actor": "Metal Grille Door", "dialogue": "The metal grille is cool to the touch." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "You notice the lieutenant is looking uncustomarily anxious. His posture is rigid, his right hand hovers near the zipper of his jacket." }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "He wants so badly to draw his Armistice, but he also doesn't *want* to want to draw it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Relax, they're only communists.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Something's not right here. The equation doesn't quite balance...\" He taps his foot and takes a deep breath." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Which is just to say: We should be prepared for *any* eventuality.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This is a long-shot, but could you help me contact the Coalition?\"" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"Well, that certainly depends. You know, the popular image of the Coalition is of a monolithic politico-military entity, but in reality, it's comprised of many interconnected, yet semi-autonomous components...\"" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"For instance, the offices of INSURCOM are responsible for military affairs. These offices are located in the Bank of the World building, just a few kilometres from here...\" He points west toward the skyscrapers across the bay." }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"But then there's also the Provisional Commission, as well as the Institute for Revacholian Culture, with its architecturally significant headquarters in Le Jardin.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's all fine, but what if I want to assign *responsibility*?\" (Proceed.)" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"Ah, that's simple! You're looking for the Comit\u00e9 de Responsabilit\u00e9 de Revachol. It's a sort of clearinghouse for Coalition affairs in Revachol...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Yes, this is just the sort of reasonable authority you're looking for!" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"If you will, picture the Coalition as a kind of wheel. The hub of this wheel is the Comit\u00e9 de Responsabilit\u00e9, and out from that hub radiate a great many spokes, which connect to INSURCOM, the Institute for Revacholian Culture, the Provisional Commission, and so on...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"If you're not part of the Coalition, how do you know so much about its bureaucracy?\"" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"I have a longstanding interest in political systems. You see, it's my personal theory that political systems are a lot like personalities. In other words, how a state organises itself is in some way the public expression of its innermost character...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is the innermost character of the Coalition, then?\"" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "The man smiles at you for a long moment..." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "He is doing his best not to show it, but the smile is ever-so-slightly more forced than before." }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"Of course, officer, we've only recently met. It would require a more thorough conversation than we have time for to answer a question like that. It's fascinating to think about, though, isn't it?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Alright, fine. How do I get in touch with the Committee?\"" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "The man's smile turns into a frown. \"Well, now, *that* is rather complicated. You can write to the Committee directly, but I understand that there's quite the backlog. A month or more, according to friends of mine who just so happen to know about this sort of thing...\"" }, { "actor": "Trant Heidelstam", "dialogue": "\"Of course, if you could somehow contact Coalition Warship Archer, you could reach the Committee directly. But, well, that obviously presents any number of logistical and technical challenges.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "They really have an interesting set up here. Like kids preparing for a school science fair. It's pretty neat." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I hope I did stuff like this when I was a kid." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "I'm sure you did. You have an exploratory, creative streak -- just like them." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey Andre, what's all this?\" (Continue.)" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"This? Oh, we're trying to see if we can come up with some cool new special effects to add to the visual aspect of our club experience...\" He gestures toward the set-up proudly." }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "\"We tinker with things. Art, music... chemistry.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, sounds cool.\" (Nod along.)" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"Some chemicals when mixed can, you know, change colour, or sort of -- blow up...\"" }, { "actor": "Egg Head", "dialogue": "\"BLOW UP! BLOW UP!\" The young man with the large head pumps his fist in the air." }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"Not, like, you know, in a dangerous way,\" he throws Egg Head an uneasy glance, \"or, well, we're not going to do it in a dangerous way.\"" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"Besides, did you know that *smell experiences* are all the rage now at the most forward-thinking venues?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Very big in *art circles*.\" She looks up for a moment." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes, chemistry has many uses. In police work, too,\" the lieutenant says, deadpan." }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "The young man looks startled for a moment, but then flashes you his most winsome smile." }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"I hope you get to experience one of our light-smell shows sometime, sir,\" he says, nodding his blond, spiked head vigorously. \"It'll be a blast.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"I'm alright, you can leave now...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"SO... WOMEN, HUH?\" The Semenese supraman stretches on the couch like a giant tattooed cat." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "His shoulders relax, tension is leaving him." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Strange, he seems different in here. Less 'monolithic' somehow." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The room feels soporific in its silence, dust particles twirling around in the air..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I like women.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"AND? THAT'S WHAT YOU WANTED TO TALK ABOUT?\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"WHAT IS THIS *REALLY* ABOUT?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's about love.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTHCFixed(\"the_waste_land_of_reality\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"I CAN BARELY HEAR YOUR WORDS THROUGH THE VOICE OF AL-GUL, BUT IT SPEAKS TRUTH. MEN ONLY WANT TO REVERSE TIME FOR ONE REASON -- LOVE.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"THEY *SAY* IT'S ABOUT HONOUR, JUSTICE, REVENGE, REGRET, REDEMPTION, AND A PLETHORA OF FALSE REASONS, BUT FURTHER BACK -- DEEPER IN -- IT IS ALWAYS LOVE THAT DRIVES THEM.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.rene_its_About_love\"]]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Ren\u00e9 certainly seemed to agree with that." }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"This... *reality*?\" She pulls her hood closer around her neck." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Yes, reality is your side-case." }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"pier.joyce_drama_realityinvestigation\"]]" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "An *experimental* side-case." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The aim is to gain a deeper understanding." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I got so drunk I forgot literally everything.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "*\"What?\"* She chortles, nearly spilling her tea." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"A supra-natural event took place.\" (Point to your head.) \"Within my head -- on alcohol.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Such an acute encephalopathy... just doesn't seem possible.\" She puts her beverage down and stares at you. \"Surely you're joking...\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Don't be fazed, madam. He functions perfectly well. He only needs a... *lowdown* on all of reality.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"We may be here awhile, then.\" She takes a long sip to clear her throat. \"Ask away, officer -- I'll help however I can.\"" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "All right. We're in. I know these *all* look good, but begin with the first, okay." } ], [ { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "A threat? Retaliate immediately. You'll see -- they'll fall over like bitch-leaves. These boys ain't got the *cojones*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I just wanted to talk about music and now there's a conflict all of the sudden... it's too much.\" (Nervously shake your head.)" }, { "actor": "Pissf****t", "dialogue": "\"Uh... that's right,\" the young man says, looking unsure of himself. \"You... you should back off and let silence rule supreme.\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "What is wrong with you? Now you're just empowering these punks." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"This is ridiculous.\" The lieutenant gives you an irritated glance. \"Boys, do you know why the gang is called SKULLS?\"" }, { "actor": "Pissf****t", "dialogue": "\"Yeah -- the skull symbolizes the embrace of death and nothingness, present in all of us, the vehicle of our future operations. Death and nothingness.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"They're called SKULLS because when you're shot dead in the middle of the street, the skull is the only part the stray dogs won't eat.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Just trust me and follow my lead." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, maybe you shouldn't scare them like that?\"" }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.hangedman_tried_to_shoot_cunoesse_and_missed\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.hanged_pointed_at_cunoesse\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_clicked_on_cuno_punching_check\"]]" }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_punched_cuno\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You punched a twelve-year-old boy in the face. I think I'm still pretty much in the clear here,\" the lieutenant replies. There's is no discernible change in his tone." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're no fun, Lieutenant Killjoy.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He scans your face as though searching for clues. \"I did not know murder investigations are supposed to be *fun*.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Now, gentlemen, no need to squabble.\" She turns to you. \"I wouldn't be of much use to you anyway, sweetie.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why? Three heads are better than two.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Thank you, but...\" She looks out the window wistfully. \"Martinaise isn't the most wheelchair-accessible place, you see. I'd slow you down.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Perhaps another time?\" She turns back to you with a hopeful glint in her eyes." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How'd you like to roll with me?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "Her eyes light up. \"Whatever do you mean?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Nothing, I was thinking of the lyrics to a song: *Wanna roll with me?*\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Ah, yes -- probably 'Roll With Me' by The Fletchers. People often quote the Fletchers at me.\" She settles down. \"Morell says it's my theme song.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How'd you like to roll with me?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "Her eyes light up. \"Whatever do you mean?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Nothing, I was thinking of the lyrics to a song: *Wanna roll with me?*\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Ah, yes -- probably 'Roll With Me' by The Fletchers. People often quote the Fletchers at me.\" She settles down. \"Morell says it's my theme song.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "One day, you may be able to scale this tower. But it won't be today. Neither your sinews nor your spirit could handle this ascent." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm a man in his prime. I should be able to do anything. This isn't fair." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You might be that numerically, but you've really done a number on yourself too." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "When your mind is clear of the neurotoxins you've been injecting it with for years, and your body regains some nimbleness and swiftness, you might achieve such a feat." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "You're not doing *that* bad. But, yeah, there's some distance to go." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Yeah, you were getting a tad too ambitious there." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "But, can't deny it -- your mind's pretty clear, all things considered. In fact, it's too clear for you to be buying into this climbing vision quest." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I feel like I am failing as a man. I am ashamed." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "There still may be time to recuperate. Just grit your teeth." }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Hey, man. I see it in you -- you are prepared to surrender yourself to the fire of revelation. But you're still a bit shaky spiritually.\" He looks you over. \"You're also just, physically, shaking.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Keep the flame in your soul alive, though. One day you'll make it up here, if you put in the work.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Some ravers want to turn this place into a nightclub.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Mattress Nest", "dialogue": "There's a rain-soaked mattress on a concrete slab, only half-covered by the crumbling roof. At the head of it -- double embrasures -- firing slits, like two eyes in the wall." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"B triple prime...\" The lieutenant lowers his voice, stepping closer with his hand on his gun. \"This looks like a good place to shoot from.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Inspect the wall." }, { "actor": "Mattress Nest", "dialogue": "There's a firing slit in the wall in front of you. Like a little window..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Touch the concrete first." }, { "actor": "Mattress Nest", "dialogue": "Quite old, and grimy from years without cleaning by anything other than the rain." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Touch the concrete first." }, { "actor": "Mattress Nest", "dialogue": "Quite old, and grimy from years without cleaning by anything other than the rain." } ], [ { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"What are you talkin' about, madman? There's no eighth Hardie boy. There's seven of us and we're all here.\" He sizes you up." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Or what -- *you* want to be the eighth Hardie boy? We ain't hiring!\" He shakes his head." }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Actually, boss, we've been talking and we think she could maybe...\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "This person Glen wants to hire -- he really respects her." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"XP.gardner_confirmed_shes_not_eight_hardie\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "*She*? So there is an eighth Hardie and it's a Hardie girl? Who might it be, Elizabeth the gardener?" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Shut the *fuck* up, Glen!\" he roars. \"I do the talking here! Now what the fuck do you want, cop?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It has to be good if he won't let you pursue it." }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Sorry, boss...\" you hear the blond man almost whimper." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to go over a few things regarding Ruby's disappearance again.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, what?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What else did Ruby tell you -- about me?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"Unfortunately, I don't.\" He shrugs. \"Unlike most of the locals, I have no qualms about assisting law enforcement, but this affair has passed me by completely.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And... most of the locals?\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"In Martinaise, the Union is the law, so can you really blame them?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But you don't have a problem with cops?\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"*Cop* is a pejorative term. I don't have a problem with policemen. On the contrary, I admire the effort to bring order to our streets.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "He doesn't know about the crime. Your time is better spent discussing *politics*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What about policewomen?\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"I'm confident they are indispensable in regard to all the paperwork and other administrative duties.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You better not be implying that women are unfit for fieldwork...\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"I am merely stating that Nature, in her infinite wisdom, has made men more fit to perform certain... more challenging tasks than women.\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"Remaining headstrong, making tough decisions on the spot, or even tackling physical obstacles are a few examples of such *challenges*.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Tell me something you are really good at and I'll find a woman who's better.\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"I don't want to get into this argument with a police officer,\" he replies calmly. \"Let's just say that in the last eighty-two years I have repeatedly seen my beliefs confirmed in full.\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"XP.gaston_told_technically_jeanmarie_still_engaged_to_both_rene_and_hjim\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "This is the flag of Revachol the Suzerainty." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What's with the sun?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "This isn't just one sun, but there are little suns dancing around the big sun. This is the Sevenfold Sun Miracle." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What's the Sevenfold Sun Miracle?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "It's an optical atmospheric anomaly the first settlers saw. Happens in cold weather: six small suns around the big one. This complex halo-phenomena is how old Revachol got its flag." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "It is but one of the many strange *optic-atmospheric* phenomenon on this wondrous archipelago. You're sure you once saw sundogs -- in your youth. And blue flares...." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Bow down before the flag. [Finish thought.]" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "The flag accepts your honourable salute with quiet dignity." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Agent... Is La Puta Madre some kind of travel agency?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, they love sending people to faraway places...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's... talk about something else.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? What?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"If you didn't kill him... why hide?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I saw *you* roll into town. I wasn't about to stick around for questioning by a goddamn La Puta Madre agent.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.titus_ruby_scared_thiscopthiscop\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.titus_half_light_thiscopthiscop\"]]" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "That strange distant fear is getting close now. It's a fear -- of *yourself.*" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What do you mean... La Puta Madre agent?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yes -- you.\" She looks at you quizzically. \"Everyone says you're his peone. His 'Human Can Opener.'\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "Through the sudden sharp pain in your head, you hear the lieutenant mumble something to himself." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "\"Fucking hell\" and \"Why me?\" you hear through the white noise." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "It's especially bad suddenly. Felt like a vein exploded." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who's 'everyone'? How do you know this?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Yellow Man Mug", "dialogue": "It's just a racist mug, what's there to *read* here? Not much." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Got it. [Leave]" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"The golden boy returns once more! Wonderful -- simply wonderful, Harry.\" He claps his hands together like a child who's just been offered cotton candy. \"Of course, I already knew this.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"My friend, the mail-man, confirms the letter is on its way. You've done a great thing today. You've given the children of Martinaise a real future. I feel I can finally trust you, Harry.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"You're in my inner circle. You too, Mr. Kitsuragi,\" he nods to the lieutenant, smiling broadly. \"We can talk about anything: the strike, the murder, your lost gun -- *nothing* is off the table.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Hear that? You did it the honest way. You got the *real* signatures and now he's happy. Well done." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "I don't know... your dirty forgery-fingers aren't sure if playing this one straight was the right thing to do." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "We would've preferred trickery, but the choice was yours, sire, as always. You are the liege. And you're *in*." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Finally -- answers. Ask away, son." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did *you* order the hanged man killed?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Order it? You know my men didn't kill him. They told you -- it was a happy accident. You know how it is, no one takes the *initiative*. If I wanted him dead I would have had to do it myself. And I'm too fat for that.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What do you gain from him being dead?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Why, a war, of course.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Mountain of Board Games", "dialogue": "A small mountain of colourful board game boxes. There are numerous types of games for all ages. A lot of shelf space seems to be taken up by Wirr\u00e2l-related merchandise." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"seafort.deserter_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"seafort.phasmid_has_arrived\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.extract_a_motive_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere() or IsCunoInParty()]" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Minions of capital,\" he spits. \"What do you want?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Been looking at anything else you haven't *liked*?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"A tragicomedy...\" He shakes to life. \"Druggies, prostitutes and rentiers.\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "A strange little engine seems to fire up in him again. It straightens his back." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "The familiar *put put put* of hatred." } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Sorry, but you just don't have it in you right now." }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"What were you even trying to do, man? I believe you can overcome your problems eventually, if you purge yourself of your wilfulness and seek the Mother's guidance. But *this*, right now, would be some suicidal shit.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You must be the crab-man.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"Never known myself to be a *crab*. But if that's the name you've got for me, I won't stop you from using it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Sorry, you just weren't moving like a human.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "He considers this for a moment. \"I always thought of myself more like a *flame*. Flickering along the rafters and beams.\" He pauses. \"It may be that I gotta work on my technique.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What were you before you became a crab-man?\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"I was in a gang, wey. But my memories of that time are fading... Most of them are already gone.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I lost my memory, too, but I like it. It's like I get to create a whole new me, start again from scratch.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"That's not really the point, ese.\" He frowns. \"You gotta give yourself over to service... Service of the Mother, that is...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Metal Grille Door", "dialogue": "You can hear animated voices coming from the other side of the grille." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "You see rows of toy soldiers guarding the rest of the trinkets displayed on the table: some on horseback, others in rags, others yet in bright blue uniforms. All are stern and unyielding in their duty." }, { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Knick-knacks Stand", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.roy_inland_buy_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Purchase the Headless FALN Rider and his cap." }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Did I mention that this figurine is supposed to be lucky? Always carry it with you.\" He grins." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "That was a very smooth salesman's grin that almost comes off as earnest. You should learn from him." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Step away from the table. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Great news -- the boat is big enough for a grown man like you to fit underneath it in a supine position." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, what would I be doing under there?" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "I don't know? Sleeping? What do people do under boats? This is merely a measurement from your visual cortex, do with it what you want." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "The elements are rough around here. I don't know about this..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Great news then. I do need somewhere cosy." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "No, wait -- sorry. My bad. There's a rotting dog carcass under there and old fish too. You wouldn't fit next to the mummified canine's mausoleum." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "Damn dog, taking up all your space. The fish smell is too rank too, though." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "You have a home, somewhere. All cops do. When this is done you can return." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Just finish the case and you'll probably have somewhere to go. Hopefully." } ], [ { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"We have transmitted our summary to the Committee of Responsibility. Please continue standing by...\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "\"Wie kannst du... unseren Jungen... auf einem dieser *Dinger*...\"" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"church.soona_archer_working_soona\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "\"Damn spookers. Can't keep 'em off our back...\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"Firewalker, this is Archer. Are you there?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead's Babe", "dialogue": "\"More than enough to please a woman.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Gor\u0105cy Kubek", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gor\u0105cy Kubek", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.goracy_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Gor\u0105cy Kubek", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Gor\u0105cy Kubek", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsNight()]" }, { "actor": "Gor\u0105cy Kubek", "dialogue": "The man nods at you, checks his watch and sighs, \"Ai-ai-ai...\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It's late. He's working." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you know what's behind that door?\" (Point to the blue door.)" }, { "actor": "Gor\u0105cy Kubek", "dialogue": "He looks up at you, then looks away quickly, shrugging and muttering something to himself." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Shrugging is an international sign for: 'No, I don't know what's behind that door'." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You wouldn't mind if I were to boil some boots here, would you?\"" }, { "actor": "Gor\u0105cy Kubek", "dialogue": "The man takes another drag of his cigarette and shakes his head, smiling widely. It's not clear whether he understood your question." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "It doesn't matter -- you're a police officer, you can do anything you want." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "You can always talk your way out if things go sour." } ], [ { "actor": "Bust of Kras Mazov", "dialogue": "A plaster cast bust depicts a middle-aged man with impressive sideburns. The name on the plinth reads 'Kras Mazov'." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Kras Mazov (nom de guerre), was an economist and theoretical historian. He was a leading figure on the Graad side of the Turn-of-the-Century Revolution, where he headed the Eleven Day Government. Mazov is considered the father of scientific communism (Mazovian thought or Mazovianism)." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kras Mazov was a filthy homo-sexual.\" (Stare at the bust.)" }, { "actor": "Bust of Kras Mazov", "dialogue": "The bust doesn't reply. The hallway behind the door is empty; no one heard your words." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"You should throw the pig at him, Cuno!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Boots with Rotting Flesh", "dialogue": "These boots were probably left on the corpse because they were impossible to pull off while it was hanging. They're not exactly pleasant to look at right now, much less smell." }, { "actor": "Boots with Rotting Flesh", "dialogue": "Hopefully you will know who they belonged to very soon." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Isn't there a saying about walking in another man's shoes?" }, { "actor": "Boots with Rotting Flesh", "dialogue": "You've seen too much to be that naive, even if you don't remember it. You'll never know what it was like to be him." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Will I ever be able to wear them?" }, { "actor": "Boots with Rotting Flesh", "dialogue": "The size seems about right. Once you get the foul-smelling flesh-gunk out." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Will I ever be able to wear them?" }, { "actor": "Boots with Rotting Flesh", "dialogue": "The size seems about right. Once you get the foul-smelling flesh-gunk out." } ], [ { "actor": "Drainage Pipe", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Drainage Pipe", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.drainage_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Drainage Pipe", "dialogue": "Behind the pipe -- the maintenance door, rusted shut and half-sunken in sand." }, { "actor": "Drainage Pipe", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Drainage Pipe", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This looks like a great place to stash narcotics. I want to make sure there's nothing hidden in there that children might pick up.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I see. Another stop on your crusade against narcomania. I *was* hoping we were in pursuit of a murder suspect...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try to pull the door apart." }, { "actor": "Drainage Pipe", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Drainage Pipe", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.drainage_wc\"]]" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "The metal doors are heavy, and very awkward to open on your own, but you just manage to slide them open wide enough for you to slide yourself between them..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Good work.\" The lieutenant nods toward the impenetrable darkness inside. \"Shall we?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Go in.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno's got nothing to say to you.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"How about rekindling that camp fire so we can dry off?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Boy Strikebreaker", "dialogue": "\"I will fight any one of you to work. One on one, let's go!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"I got balls. That's it.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "The Delta Logistics Company truck stands here waiting, reflecting white light from the courtyard behind it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Can't I get into the courtyard somehow?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Whatever's going on there could hardly be of any consequence to our ongoing investigation.\" The lieutenant adjusts his glasses." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You can come back to it on your own when we're done with this case.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Are there people in there?" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Yes, people hard at work at their desks. They can barely tell if it's day or night anymore because the lights in the building are so uniform and bright. Who knows when they'll come out?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Are they really so pressed for time to finish whatever they're doing? Sounds potentially dangerous..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Could be. They certainly want to stir the pot. Remake reality in some new image." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Can't I get into the courtyard somehow?" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_befriend_failed_once\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He's on your crime scene, bossing you around. And he's been here for some time, too -- this is where he *hangs out*. You have to get more out of him. He could be useful." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Cuno -- 'City of Rage'? 'Night City'? What's going on there? I'm intrigued.\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Nooooo...\" The evil shit behind the fence hacks like she's coughing up a furball." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"You told him about it and now he knows you're lame!\"" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "The prospect of the Cuno turning lame is physically painful for her." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"The city's not fucking lame, *you* are lame! Cuno's tired of defending Rage City from...\" He waves his hands in the air. \"Just fuck off, alright.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"And fuck you too,\" he adds, turning to you. \"Putting Cuno on the spot like that. Cuno doesn't need to fucking *explain* his shit, Cuno's KING, he rules here -- fuck did you want?\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Explain himself? As if... explaining some kind of *work*? Some kind of avant-garde work way ahead of its time?" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_concept_passive\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Do you know what today is?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Huh?" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Of course. It's been too long since this has happened for you to recognize the feeling." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "It's your first day sober." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What?! I've been sober for *over two days* already!" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "It takes a while for that shit to get out of your system, and for reality to come back into focus." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Reality... (Look around.)" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Yes, you're beginning to see the world for what it is, even through the mental fog. And yourself, too -- what you've made yourself into." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't know how I feel about this yet..." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "You're going to feel all kinds of contradictory, confusing things for months to come. But don't get discouraged -- you just have to keep going, right foot in front of left, left foot in front of right..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No, I can't handle this, I'm done. I'm going to find a drink *right now*. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's not Cuno. It's Cunoesse." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Interesting. How?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Cunoesse is by far the worst of the two. Cuno has no problem being near you, but the other hides behind the fence, afraid for her life, like she's *done* something. Something very bad." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_punchhub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cunoesse_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Also, Cuno hasn't stopped talking to you. Even enjoys it from time to time. When you talk to the other one it's like talking to a cornered animal. She only hisses." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cunoesse_reaction_speed_shes_a_girl\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "All in all, Cuno respects madness. You cannot hope to outdo her on that front. You must win yourself a few minutes with him alone." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Act on it, try and separate them.) \"Cuno! Psst...\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Fuck you whispering about?\" he whispers back." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He's whispering too. He's going with it. But watch what happens..." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Fuck you *f****ts* whispering about?!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"You have acquired the hat.\" The man assesses the situation. \"Keep it, officer, it looks good on you.\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "You shouldn't be seeing him in an intimate setting. For some reason you feel this man is your... *superior*." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Superior? But he's not in the command chain..." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "His hands are clean and well-manicured. This is a man who knows the importance of appearances." }, { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"My name is Charles Villedrouin and I'm an official with the Coalition Government. I work for the Institute of Price Stabilit\u00e9, on assignment from Sur-la-Clef.\"" }, { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"I heard you talking to my friend outside... Very good. Super. I am here to assist you in any way possible. Ask me about the hanging.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What if I told you there's a fugitive from the Moralintern in Martinaise?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "Suddenly, your entire body is paralysed. Aggressive white noise fills your skull -- a strange pain like you've never felt before. Through the static, you hear a woman's voice." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "It's like a thousand radio stations are being blasted into your head all at once, but her words are the only ones you can make out." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I know you're feeling pretty uncomfortable right now. Don't move too much or fight it. That'll just make it worse,\" says the shadowy figure by the machine." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Can't say it's a pleasure, officer. I was really hoping *not* to make your acquaintance. But -- here we are. \"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "The voice coming through the whirlwind of pain is not malicious. She doesn't want to hurt you -- but she has to." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"boardwalk.ruby_suggestion_malice\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "As she says the word \"officer,\" you feel a spike in the agony. It sounds like the entire radio frequency range is screaming directly into your neural pathways." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.ruby_electro_new\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Don't cover them." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "That's an awful decision. Why would you not want to shield yourself from it? It's an entirely *new* type of experience -- way worse than all the previous ones." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: SubstanceUsedOnce(\"pyrholidon\")]" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Take out all the good parts of pyrholidon, leave all the bad parts, and make a brain-bomb. In a constant state of exploding. That's this." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Don't focus on the pain -- focus on doing your job. Tell her she's under arrest." } ], [ { "actor": "Feld Ladder", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Ladder", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"boardwalk.ladder_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Feld Ladder", "dialogue": "A rusty ladder leads to the rooftop. Some of the rungs are missing." }, { "actor": "Feld Ladder", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Ladder", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, that doesn't look good at all.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You're not ready to do this yet. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"auto.inside_shack\"]]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "The bed is comforting, if a bit run down. Still, you've earned a rest." }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.bed_tutorial_shown\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Go to sleep." }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.inside_shack\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "The passage of time has not made the sheets any less coarse. The bed sags beneath your weight as you close your eyes and drift off into an uneasy sleep..." }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "..." } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.return_lenas_pin\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I bought it back. I know it means a lot to you. You should have it.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Aw, thank you, dear. I confess -- I am glad to see it again. Very honourable of you, officer.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.lena_pin_task_from_main\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You seem to be in a chair.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Yes, dear, I am a paraplegic.\"" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "A paraplegic is someone with limited or no ability to use the lower half of their body. Paraplegia is caused by spinal cord injuries -- like falling from a great height, or a grenade explosion!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Thanks for clearing that up for me. Let's move on.\" (Proceed.)" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"No problem.\" She nods, smiling up at you from behind her glasses." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "There is no bitterness in her voice. She accepted the curiosity her condition inspires a long time ago." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't know if you've noticed, but I don't know where I am, or what I'm doing. Or *anything*.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Yes, officer, you look rather dazed... like a stunned fox. But surely things can't be *that* bad?\" Her eyes follow your movements with some concern." } ], [ { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.water_lock_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.water_lock_left_mid_intro\"]]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "\"Welcome back, officer.\"" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (DayCount() > 2) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you know what caused this wreckage?\" (Point at the smashed billboard in the canal.)" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "\"I wasn't here to witness it, but those look like tyre tracks on that sign. Weird, huh? Then again, plenty of daredevil drivers in Revachol.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The words *daredevil driver* sound ominous to you." }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "\"Too bad it also takes a year and a day to repair anything 'round here -- especially a water lock. The rest of the coast is closed off till then.\"" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.lena_husband_across_water_lock\"] and Variable[\"canal.know_water_lock_time\"] == false]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "This is the water lock on the Martinaise Canal. It has to be the same water lock Lena mentioned, the one her husband crossed on his \"expedition.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Right, bye.\" [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "You should totally use emotional blackmail. Because that *always* works on women." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I helped you get your husband back. You *owe* me some sweet cryptid facts as a reward!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant shuts his eyes briefly..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"That's not how the world works. Let's get back to our investigation, shall we?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Lena, what's wrong? You seem different.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Different -- how?\" The half-moons of her glasses reflect you as she looks up at you." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Answering a question with a question, for example -- defensive isn't her usual style." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You've given up on the phasmid.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"I'm... in doubt, sweetie. That's all. Everyone is, now and then.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Bust of Kras Mazov", "dialogue": "A plaster cast bust depicts a middle-aged man with impressive sideburns. The name on the plinth reads 'Kras Mazov'." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Kras Mazov (nom de guerre), was an economist and theoretical historian. He was a leading figure on the Graad side of the Turn-of-the-Century Revolution, where he headed the Eleven Day Government. Mazov is considered the father of scientific communism (Mazovian thought or Mazovianism)." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kras Mazov was a mass murderer. There's nothing *cool* about keeping his bust on your night stand.\" (Stare at the bust.)" }, { "actor": "Bust of Kras Mazov", "dialogue": "The bust doesn't reply. The hallway behind the door is empty; no one heard your words." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Father Mazov, the hero of the working class!\" (Salute the statue.)" }, { "actor": "Bust of Kras Mazov", "dialogue": "A warm feeling fills you as you look into Mazov's marble eyes. The hallway behind the door is empty; no one else heard your courageous salute." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kras Mazov was a filthy homo-sexual.\" (Stare at the bust.)" }, { "actor": "Bust of Kras Mazov", "dialogue": "The bust doesn't reply. The hallway behind the door is empty; no one heard your words." } ], [ { "actor": "Shack Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Shack Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.locate_ruby_on_the_coast_done\"] and Variable[\"TASK.return_to_whirling_done\"] == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm afraid we don't have time for rest stops right now, officer. We should really get back to the Whirling.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Right.\" [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.viquemare_esprit_wc_firefighters\"]]" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "You *know* what it is. It's like the two of you know each other. Just ask him." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Tell me the truth, do you know me from somewhere?\"" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"Oh, I definitely know you from *somewhere*.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Another life..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"From where? From another life?\"" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"Yes. From another life. A different life. Maybe the life of a police officer belonging to the ranks of the...\" He pauses." }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"To what station do you think you would belong in this alternate and totally fictional reality?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Sixty-nine.\"" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "He seems to be observing you through the reflective glass of his eye-wear. There's no reply. Perhaps repeat it?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"99,999,999.9th?\"" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"That's...\" The man looks extremely surprised. \"...exactly right! Down to a fraction.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No need for the sarcasm.\"" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"I don't even know what to say to that...\" he shakes his head. \"What is your god damn station?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Forty-first?\"" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"Okay, okay!\" The man sounds genuinely excited. \"That's plausible. That's entirely plausible. Now we're really getting somewhere...\" He gives you a long, meaningful look and adds:" } ], [ { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Hello, officer.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Oh, I know everything about you, Harry.\" He taps on the folder in front of him. \"I have a big fat folder on you. Very juicy stuff.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"And the word on the street is your memory is a bit... hazy.\" He looks at you questioningly. \"If that's true, maybe I can help you out? Do you a little favour so to speak.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "It might be a good idea to hide your *confusion*... I mean, see what his game is first." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"My memory is fine. Don't worry about it.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"So good to hear that, Harry. Apparently my sources were wrong.\" He pats the brown folder again." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"However if you *would* have a spot of memory trouble -- well, let's just say a fat juicy folder could really fill in the blanks.\" He winks at you." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Words flow like a river of honey from his lips." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "I guess word has already reached him. No matter, no harm done." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "It's just a brown folder. You can't make out what's written on it." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Are you trying to tell me you've gotten hold of some of our documents?\" The lieutenant inspects Evrart over his spectacles." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Mr. Kitsuragi, would you mind?\" His eyes never leave yours. \"Harry has some questions he needs answers to.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Of course, let us dispatch with the formalities. You call me Evrart, I call you Harry!\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "That's what the hanged corpse called you -- Harry." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is that my name?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"My god so it's true! I didn't want to believe it, but you *are* a fantastic science-fiction amnesiac cop, aren't you?\" He shrugs with an amazed expression. \"What are the odds of that?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I think the odds of that...\" He looks at you. \"Are very low.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "It might be a good idea to hide your *confusion*... I mean, see what his game is first." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"My memory is fine -- I'm just testing you.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"So good to hear that, Harry. Apparently my sources were wrong.\" He pats the brown folder in front of him. \"However if you *did* have a spot of memory trouble I could help you out -- with my big fat folder.\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Words flow like a river of honey from his lips." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "I guess word has already reached him. No matter, no harm done." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "It's just a brown folder. You can't make out what's written on it." } ], [ { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "You see a young man on a balcony nursing a cigarette. His eyes have been following you for a while." }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Not looking for any trouble, officer...\" he says in a quiet voice. Despite the cold, his shirt hangs unbuttoned on his frame." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "It's the voice of someone who has something to *hide* my liege." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Too late, young man. Trouble's found you.\"" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Sorry, I don't have time for this. I just want to finish my cigarette and be gone.\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "It's the God of Cigarettes and Youth -- ask him if he's got anything to spare." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Don't let him go! This could be your witness -- the balcony has a great view of the whole thing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No problem. We'll talk more next time.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"There won't *be* a next time.\" He takes a last drag of his cigarette, before stubbing it out in the balcony snow. \"I really need to get going.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Convince him to stay." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "This isn't the place or time for questions: Who knows who might be watching from the distance, hidden behind the curtains." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey, listen...\" (Lower your voice.) \"I am just trying to make things okay again. Can we meet again somewhere else?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Gaston Martin", "dialogue": "\"Argh.. my back! I swear it's getting worse...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "She's tying a complicated nautical knot around the post." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "You leave her fastening the mooring line around the post rotting in the water." } ], [ { "actor": "Egg Head", "dialogue": "\"Sandals make a man -- detour, ten-four, HARD CORE!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"But just one. I doubt your partner would appreciate it if I were to distract you from your duties for much longer!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Apartment #28", "dialogue": "This door is made of metal and appears to be reinforced. Someone here really values their security." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Number twenty eight... This is where the cleaning lady said the smoker on the balcony lives." }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Yes?\" A handsome young man hums with a cigarette in his hand. \"Are you looking for me, gendarme?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Knock." }, { "actor": "Door, Apartment #28", "dialogue": "No one answers." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Big surprise.\" The lieutenant grins mirthlessly. \"Anyway -- one down, three to go.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing, just put the trap down." }, { "actor": "Trap: Land's End", "dialogue": "You set the apparatus back on the ground, among the reeds." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm more interested in *why* you're so fixated on this idea in the first place.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"To be honest, I mostly just want to ride on Coalition Warship Archer.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Let me make a prediction, detective. You are not going to see the inside of a Coalition warship anytime soon.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you think we'll actually be able to reach the Coalition with this?\"" }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"reputation.kim\"] > 1) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I wouldn't like to guess. Your performance so far doesn't exactly inspire confidence, but all sorts of things are possible...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"*You* could reach the Coalition and have your talk about *la responsabilit\u00e9*... *I* could grow 10 centimetres and become a flanker for the Stormers.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you think we'll actually be able to reach the Coalition with this?\"" }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"reputation.kim\"] > 1) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I wouldn't like to guess. Your performance so far doesn't exactly inspire confidence, but all sorts of things are possible...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"*You* could reach the Coalition and have your talk about *la responsabilit\u00e9*... *I* could grow 10 centimetres and become a flanker for the Stormers.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you think we'll actually be able to reach the Coalition with this?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.boombox_mainhub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem(\"boombox\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Boomboxes", "dialogue": "The boomboxes wait on the shelves. And your boombox -- that gold and amber Harmon Wowshi -- stares at you longingly with its tape reel eyes." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Thanks for the discount, man. Here's the money for the boombox.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"And here you are. Quality sound reproduction on the go. It'll play anything. Wherever. Turn *any* tape into a conversation of sounds and shapes.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "La Fum\u00e9e, Vol. 1 No. 4", "dialogue": "The face of King Frissel smiles at you. For some reason the smile now strikes you as more forced than it did before." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Read the editor's note." }, { "actor": "La Fum\u00e9e, Vol. 1 No. 4", "dialogue": "\"Comrade, as you know, this journal takes its name from Mazov's immortal expression 'Du cristal \u00e0 la fum\u00e9e.' This was his way of describing the way the rigid, crystalline structures of capitalist ideology turn to smoke under communism...\"" }, { "actor": "La Fum\u00e9e, Vol. 1 No. 4", "dialogue": "\"But like the structures of capitalist ideology, we too are at risk of going '\u00e0 la fum\u00e9e.' Unlike many publications which are content to spoonfeed their readers reassuring drivel, *La Fum\u00e9e* is committed to telling the radical truth, even when that truth may drive away potential subscribers.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Only four issues in and it sounds like they've already alienated their readership." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Perhaps they've overestimated the market demand for this kind of *commentary*." }, { "actor": "La Fum\u00e9e, Vol. 1 No. 4", "dialogue": "\"So please, if you value our radical Mazovian perspective on contemporary politics, culture, and international affairs, please consider subscribing today. \n\nYours in struggle, The Editors.\"" }, { "actor": "La Fum\u00e9e, Vol. 1 No. 4", "dialogue": "You flip back to the front of the magazine. The table of contents unfolds before you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Put the magazine away.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Someone here is stealing from a company called Humanox." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Humanox is a non-profit humanitarian aid organization created by EPIS countries to provide assistance during humanitarian crises." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Cool. Thieves. I should catch them." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "That's what a cop does, isn't it? Keep your eyes peeled... crime is close by." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Are you serious?\" The lieutenant's face changes immediately, taking on a more sombre expression." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"How long has he been dead? Did you *identify* him, search through his pockets? Is he still there?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Whoah, easy now... I haven't done anything yet, I wanted to tell you first.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant nods to himself, thinking. \"From where I stand I can see two options. We either take the case or report back to the station and leave it for our colleagues to handle.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"If we take the case then we have to identify the man and take care of the corpse. I can take the body to the morgue on my own or we can ask for the help of the Hardie boys.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want us to solve the case completely on our own.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Alright. We're still going to have to call the station to let them know we're taking on an additional case, and so they can take away the body.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Let's make sure we didn't miss anything -- especially any identifying information -- before we go.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.kimintro_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A bespectacled man in an orange bomber jacket is tapping his foot on the floor. Looks like he's waiting for someone -- you." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "As you approach, he narrows his eyes and extends his hand in greeting." } ], [ { "actor": "Spring Mattress", "dialogue": "The greasy old spring mattress lies in the corner, fresh linen under the heavy karakul cover." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"The offer still stands,\" he says, looking out the pillbox window. \"Take it -- you don't look so good.\"" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "The bed is quite inviting, all things considered. It's much warmer inside than out there..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "No time to rest now. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Wait... No, something about this bunch doesn't smell right..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What do you mean? Aren't they Evrart's guys?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "They are, but they don't seem too keen to talk with you, do they?" }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "No, they don't. Glen seems to be contemplating grievous bodily harm while he massages his raw knuckles..." }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "In the far back, Eugene is doing his best to ignore you..." }, { "actor": "Fat Angus", "dialogue": "Meanwhile, Fat Angus keeps shooting you furtive glances and mumbling uneasily to himself..." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "And from his perch at the end of the table, Titus Hardie himself stares at you with a cold contempt that makes you want to leave the cafeteria straightaway." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Besides, you're pretty sure they consider themselves social democrats." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Alright, guess I'll look elsewhere then. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm not even sure the *one bullet* my chamber holds would even prick that hulk.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But... I was fighting *bad*, unsavoury ideologies. I'm a hero.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We're not here on some political quest, we're here to solve a crime. Don't make this situation any more volatile than it already is.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, I was trying to assert my dominance over him.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We're not here on some political quest, we're here to solve a crime. Don't make this situation any more volatile than it already is.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How else are we gonna get through the gates?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There must be some other way. Let's go see the yard again -- it faces the other end of the harbour. We're done with Measurehead here.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Alright, fine. I won't do it again.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He nods. \"Let's think of something else.\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "No, no. You *should* do it again. It's the *last* thing he'll be expecting." } ], [ { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.jammystery_ladydriver_cabin_located_racist\"]]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"I've told you everything I've got.\" He looks around nervously. \"Can you please stop talking to me now?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm trying to turn back time. Can you help me, br\u00f6ther?\"" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.fascha_dq_asked_someone_the_q\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"This again, really?\" The lieutenant looks frustrated." }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.truckman_told_him_to_fuck_off\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.down_with_racism\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"Mhmhm, I see...\" The lorryman takes a long drag from his cigarette." } ], [ { "actor": "ROO A72 Motor Skiff", "dialogue": "The skiff floats on the calm mirror of the sea -- its two seats are empty." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Once you get in, that's it -- one pull of the starter handle and you're off into the bay. A strange trepidation comes over you: are you sure you want to go *now*?" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Have you made all the necessary preparations? Closed all your accounts?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Remember what the Net Picker said: It's a small tank. You won't be going back and forth on this." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "First -- tie your porta-reel boombox to the breasthook to keep you company." }, { "actor": "ROO A72 Motor Skiff", "dialogue": "There. This is now a *Rock and roll* skiff." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Cool." }, { "actor": "ROO A72 Motor Skiff", "dialogue": "It'll keep you company on this lonely voyage." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Very cool. Now tune it to Sad FM. You know you want to." } ], [ { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"I can already see it, cr\u00e8me de la cr\u00e8me of Revachol...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "The pockets of these new jeans are perfect for sticking your hand into. Makes you look cool, calm, and collected. As your hand enters the pocket, your fingers brush against something... soft, yet crinkly." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Take the item out." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Hey! It's a chewing gum wrapper. It reminds you of the fruity juice of apricots. You should inspect it closer if you have time. Something about the wrapper's texture is familiar..." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "*Not* familiar in a good way, you might say. There's pain in there somewhere..." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "By the way, the raw materials were most likely exported from Siigay (the Apricot Suzerainty) and processed in Sur-La-Clef into the apricot-flavoured chewing gum loved by kids of today -- and yesterday. Hmm. Something about it *is* familiar... And not only to your fingers." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"When did you first see the deceased?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Three weeks ago, when the rich hag came in on her galley. Her honour guard came in tow.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"By that you mean Joyce Messier, the Wild Pines rep?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Wrinkled up whore,\" he nods." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Whore. Good strong word. I use it often myself.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Yes,\" he nods enthusiastically. \"Old-fashioned.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Khm...\" (Cough.) \"Moving on -- the victim arrives some time after her...\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"They moved into a deserted apartment above the roundabout.\" He nods toward the city. \"Radio equipment out for all to see -- reactionary radio playing. Sloppy and drunk.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I've seen their kind during the Landing. Those Occidental and Mesque falangues weren't conscripts -- boys, like us. They were wights. All they know is to destroy and hurt.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.fritte_main_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Frittte clerk", "dialogue": "\"Welcome to Frittte! Feel free to look around or something, everything is out on the shelves.\" She returns to her magazine." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "What's that magazine she's reading?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What magazine are you reading?\"" }, { "actor": "Frittte clerk", "dialogue": "\"You mean this?\" She looks at the cover boasting a colourful photo of two girls kissing." }, { "actor": "Frittte clerk", "dialogue": "\"This is Pop-Stars, it's got, like, famous people in it? It's not for sale.\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Looks like it also has something called 'Police De La Mode' featured on page 34. This speaks to you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I approve of this, very futuristic.\" (Tap on the girls kissing.)" }, { "actor": "Frittte clerk", "dialogue": "She pops her raspberry-flavoured bubblegum and nods." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Her shoulders tense. She shuffles back only slightly; bewilderment and repulsion root her in place." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant frowns at you, before turning to the clerk with an apologetic half-smile." } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "The theme on that pinball machine is a standard *royalist* theme -- used on everything from pinball cabinets to full-flavour cigarettes." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Safety Curtains", "dialogue": "An iron safety curtain curves before your eyes, folded like a bellows. It covers half the room -- blocking the way into a colossal industrial chimney." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Knock on it." }, { "actor": "Safety Curtains", "dialogue": "What an odd thing to do.... Nothing happens." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Knock on it harder." }, { "actor": "Safety Curtains", "dialogue": "Still nothing. No one's home." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "From A to Zrieek! A Guide To a Well-Behaved Cockatoo", "dialogue": "A sulphur-crested cockatoo sits on the cover, its beak slightly open. It looks as if the bird is calling out the book title: \"From A to Zrieek! A Guide To A Well-Behaved Cockatoo.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What about this guide to cockatoos, storekeeper?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"It's a must-have if you own a cockatoo. I've heard they're quite capricious.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What about this guide to cockatoos, storekeeper?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"It's a must-have if you own a cockatoo. I've heard they're quite capricious.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What about this guide to cockatoos, storekeeper?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"It's a must-have if you own a cockatoo. I've heard they're quite capricious.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to buy the guide to cockatoos.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Oh, a nature enthusiast! Good choice. I *knew* it was a good idea to keep that around...\"" }, { "actor": "From A to Zrieek! A Guide To a Well-Behaved Cockatoo", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "From A to Zrieek! A Guide To a Well-Behaved Cockatoo", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"] or Variable[\"character.interactable_tutorial_seen\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Convince Titus he is being manipulated." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.hardie_rhetoric_wc\"]]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Convince *Titus?* he's being manipulated? You should know by now -- Titus Hardie will never falter." }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.hardie_drama_rc_success_they_lie\"]]" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "But you know someone who *might*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's it then. Case closed.\" (Look around.) \"I'm going home.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Huh?\" He looks surprised." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "You caught the leader off guard. Now strike." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Really. I'm gonna start typing up my report. It's gonna say: in Martinaise they just kill you because they don't *like* you...\"" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, let them know!\" The little guy slams his fist on the table. \"We'll kill you dead.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"...because you work for the wrong people.\"" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "\"Goddamn right, this is Uniontown! You work for the company -- we *will* kill you!\"" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Fuck, Dennis, we don't kill you if you work for the company! Half the harbour works for the company...\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Work for the wrong company,\" he jots down, \"and they execute you.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "A threat? Retaliate immediately. You'll see -- they'll fall over like bitch-leaves. These boys ain't got the *cojones*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm going to look you boys up in the police registry, come to both of your houses at night and MURDER YOU IN YOUR GODDAMN FUCKING SLEEP!!!\"" }, { "actor": "Pissf****t", "dialogue": "As your bellow echoes through the street, the boys quiver ever so slightly and gaze down at their shoes, pretending to be deaf." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Right.\" Lieutenant Kitsuragi adjusts his spectacles. \"You heard the detective. He's gonna ask you some questions now.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Don't ever do that again. But good call, detective." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why aren't there more SKULLS in Martinaise?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"The Union does their share of policing in Martinaise, at least where gangs are concerned,\" the lieutenant replies instead. \"That's why there isn't much organized crime around here.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Apart from the Union themselves of course." }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "\"Don't you worry about that. We're gonna make up for the deficit.\"" }, { "actor": "Pissf****t", "dialogue": "\"Yeah we are!\" The young men exchange approving nods." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who's van Eyck?\"" }, { "actor": "Pissf****t", "dialogue": "\"Old man, it doesn't matter. You'll be long gone before his greatness is recognized.\"" }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Fuck the World", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"church.ravers_inside_church\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Could this have been the killer's hideout, and this narrow window -- the point of origin of the shot that killed the mercenary?" }, { "actor": "Hand/Eye Coordination", "dialogue": "This does look like an *embrasure*, a slit made for shooting out of." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Peek out." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "In the darkness, you can barely make out the falling snow. It settles, making the night still quieter." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, I can't see the Whirling-in-Rags... The shot didn't come from here.\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Indeed. No one could get a clear view. Well, at least we've been thorough. I like thorough.\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "The lieutenant's voice betrays a slight disappointment, which he glosses over by reasserting control." } ], [ { "actor": "Barred Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Barred Door", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.barreddoor_inside_main_hub_reached\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "Barred Door", "dialogue": "This is the door to the pinball workshop that you left barred on the inside." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Let's start from the top.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There's no doubt the twins heard Speedfreaks FM. I still don't know how, without a radio -- but they did.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Spooky shit. But what does it... mean?\" (Squint in thought.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I don't know what it means.\" The lieutenant's gaze travels toward the coast, toward the fishing village so far away." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Guess we're stuck then.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant turns his attention away from the coast, back to you." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Not necessarily. We've learned something. No idea what. Something, at least.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Did we ask where the kids were when they heard the voice?\" The wind picks up, blowing a stray strand of the lieutenant's hair out of place. He smooths it back." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are you criticizing me, Kim?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He sighs. \"No. I was just thinking that it'd be a good idea to ask them.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"And, detective...\" He turns to you. He smiles. \"Thanks for this. It's been interesting.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "He eyes you sceptically. \"All right -- what cryptids, precisely? I usually discuss these things with *specialists*, so I don't know what...\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "*...we would have to discuss?* he wants to say, but decides against it." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "You need to ask him about specific cryptids -- cryptids you've heard about from Lena, or his friend Gary. He won't *just* talk." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Your friend Gary told me about the burning rhino.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Did he?\" He lowers his voice. \"That one's a hoax. Some Seraise rice farmers set fire to rhinoceros cadavers and used them scare tourists.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"See Kim, one of them is a hoax.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Which one?\" He hasn't been paying attention." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The burning rhinoceros.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Mhm. The *burning rhino* is where they draw the line.\" He's unimpressed." } ], [ { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.jammystery_ladydriver_cabin_located_racist\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.truckman_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.truckman_mid_intro_exit\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"Welcome to Revachol!\" the rotund man announces. He has a lit cigarette between his fingers." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Usually he says it with derision, but to you he seems to say it as an actual greeting." }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.question_drivers_about_drugs\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Uh, welcome, indeed. Who are you?\"" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"Oh, I'm just a simple camionneur, a father of three, and a Revachol patriot.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's... disarmingly direct.\"" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"Just the truth.\" The man shrugs. \"I'm a truth-teller, above all else.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I wanna talk about the hanging again.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Again? Someone ask the guy for an autograph -- you cops are his biggest fans.\"" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "A burst of laughter in the room; the little guy is the loudest. \"Good one, Titus!\" he fawns." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why don't I just arrest you?\" (Step closer to Titus.)" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, lawman.\" He takes a step closer as well, fixing his ball cap. \"Why *don't* you?\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "It's almost an anthropological sight: watching him try to assert dominance over you." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardies_authority_strength_in_numbers\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "\"Not in the *arresting mood*?\" His mean little eyes come alive with hatred." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "A fearful readiness, like an electrical charge, raises hairs in the room." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "By your side, the lieutenant keeps his hand away from his holster. You hear the nylon of his coat hiss as he steps closer." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Easy. Walk back from the provocation. They're armed, and they outnumber us. The lieutenant tries to establish eye contact with you." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "While the little rat-faced man reaches into his sleeve... there's a *knife* in there! Some of the others reach for their belts, their eyes alight." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, why are they reaching for their belts?" } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He's avoiding your gaze. This is the time to say how sorry you are about how things went." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"There's nothing to discuss, let's move on.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Well, I'll call the station when we're done with the day and inform them about the identity of the deceased.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"But yes, that's on me. Let's get on with the murder investigation.\"" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "You look south, over the crumbling balustrade. There -- 1.2 kilometres away -- a piece of broken stone cuts into the sky. A tomb. On it, a mural that used to say: tomorrow is just a whisper away. You cannot *really* see the Feld building from here, but somehow you feel like you should return to it." } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.report_to_cryptozoologists_1\"]]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"coast.morell_refused_to_restock_trap\"]]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Oh, hello, officer.\" He covers his mouth, struggling to suppress a coughing fit." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"There, there, dear.\" She gently touches her husband's arm. \"Don't talk too much. And have some more tea.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I had a chat with this kid, Cuno. He promised to stop stealing the locusts.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"So it *was* just a child...\" He purses his lips, crestfallen." }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.who_put_the_clothes_in_the_trash_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Thank you for telling us, sweetie.\" She turns to smile gently up at her husband. \"This is good news, right? It means we can try *again*.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "She acts chipper, but something's changed in her tone. A hidden worry." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Something is secretly gnawing at her confidence. It's not this Cuno kid, or the missing locusts, it's something else." }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Yes, you're right. We just need to restock the empty trap. Then we'll need to inspect the traps one more time, and then *maybe*... we can...\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "The ageing cryptozoologist breaks into a hideous coughing fit." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "He has a 38 degree fever. His resilience has given way." } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Radiowaves...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's too late to turn back now. Archer is on its way.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Listen, detective. I want you to consider, at least for a moment, the possibility that *your actual responsibility lies down here*...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yeah,\" he says slowly, meeting your gaze with sullen defiance. \"Cuno took the bugs. So what?\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "So it wasn't the phasmid... a wave of disappointment washes over you." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_locusts_said_doesnt_know\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why steal locusts? Couldn't you find some other pets?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"They're not pets.\" Sounds like you've offended him. \"Don't you know what locusts *are*, when they come out of the fucking sky? Fuckin' *descend* and shit.\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Stooooop!\" she wails from behind the fence, then covers her face with her hands." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_rage_city_heard\"]]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"You stop! It's like they're *night*. Locusts are like this *huge shadow*...\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Locusts coming down like a shadow... This must be the *Night City* he mentioned when you asked him where he's been." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So this is the city you kept talking about.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Yeah. Locust City -- City of Rage, City of Lights...\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "There's a tug-of-war over the name of his fantastical city. It's almost too big for his imagination." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "The girl forces herself to watch again, the corners of her eyes twitching from discomfort." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "The lameness is causing her physical pain. The damage may be permanent." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What are you, some kind of *artist* now?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.lena_intro_greeting_kim_first\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "A bespectacled man in an orange bomber jacket is tapping his foot on the floor. Looks like he's waiting for someone -- you." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "As you approach, he narrows his eyes and extends his hand in greeting." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "If an assault were launched on this building right now -- if the windows came crashing down and the whole world descended upon you -- this man would hurl himself in death's way to save you. You are sure of this -- but why?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem(\"jacket_suede\")]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "On the sleeve of his bomber jacket -- as well as on its back -- are the same enigmatic white rectangles as on your blazer." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Don't shake his hand." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Hello, I'm Kim Kitsuragi.\" He looks unfazed. \"Lieutenant, Precinct 57. You must be from the 41st...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's barely noticeable, but he might be *a bit* annoyed at your rudeness. Then he lets it go -- more important matters need tending to." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "You realize he is waiting for your name." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "This is your chance to come up with a really good name for yourself. Get *creative* -- conceptualize!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It looks like we had a little scheduling error on Sunday. Saturday too, actually... Have you had time to talk to the manager here?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "What he means is he has been trying to meet up with you for two days, but you have been *otherwise occupied*." } ], [ { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"church.soona_pregreeting_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"What is it?\" The woman is still hunched over the keyboard, gently illuminated by the purring machine." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I didn't break anything, did I?\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"No, you just printed out my personal log and wasted some paper.\" It does not look like a big loss to her." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Sorry, but... who *are* you? What are you doing here?\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"I am Soona Luukanen-Kilde, the former lead programmer of Fortress Accident and RSA Radios. I have over 16 years of programming experience and I'm proficient in both Vox and Orbis languages...\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"If you're not here to hire me, I don't really know how can I help you.\" She turns back to the terminal." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Did she say *over 16 years of experience*? She must have started programming when she was still a teenager." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "That still doesn't answer what she's doing in an abandoned church." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Now that the ravers are settled in, can you help me contact Coalition Warship Archer?\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"It's true, the drug fiends have made themselves quite comfortable. But *I* still have a great deal of work to do...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "This project is immensely important to her. She's not going to help you until it's finished." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"If you're desperate for collaborators now, I suggest you ask your new friends. They seem to have plenty of time for side projects.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Something with the Union boss...\" (Punch yourself in the head.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Officer!\" The lieutenant watches you beat yourself in the head -- to make a connection in the murder case." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "He quickly realises what is happening." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Mr. Dros, about this deal you made.\" He turns to him. \"With Edgar. The death of the Krenel mercenary was only *coincidentally* beneficial to the Claires. But...\" He leans closer." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What about the *other* people you've killed for them?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Other people?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Like -- the previous forewoman of the Union.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "That's it! That's what you weren't connecting yourself..." }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I didn't fight forty years to end up an informant for the international regime.\" He wags a finger at the lieutenant. \"What happened happened.\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Still dumb, your eyes are transfixed on his digit. It's yellow with nicotine..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Before, when you asked him about the Union he said it was a *disappointment*. They promised him something. Political." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "That's it? I've gotta say that? There are no other thoughts in my head?" } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.inspect_traps_2_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Hello, sweetie. How are you?\" She sounds tired." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Dark circles around her eyes. She's absolutely exhausted." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She asked about you because she's afraid to hear about the traps. But that's what she really wants news of." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So your husband is some kind of scientist?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Oh yes,\" she says with a pinch of pride. \"A zoologist -- a *crypto*zoologist to be more precise.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is cryptozoology?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"It's really just a *sub-field* of zoology, one specializing in animal species that are so exceedingly rare that many assume them to be *extinct* or even *fictitious*...\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Searching for such species -- called *cryptids* -- is difficult and often thankless, and frankly, many scientists are too lazy to do it. Universities these days are rarely interested in supporting *real* research.\"" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "The quality of research at Revacholian universities *has* been on the decline, but you doubt there was ever a time when *cryptozoology* was embraced by the academic elite." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She's completely internalized her husband's struggles. They are her own." } ], [ { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"canal.water_lock_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.water_lock_left_mid_intro\"]]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "\"Welcome back, officer.\"" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (DayCount() > 2) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you know what caused this wreckage?\" (Point at the smashed billboard in the canal.)" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "\"I wasn't here to witness it, but those look like tyre tracks on that sign. Weird, huh? Then again, plenty of daredevil drivers in Revachol.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The words *daredevil driver* sound ominous to you." }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "\"Too bad it also takes a year and a day to repair anything 'round here -- especially a water lock. The rest of the coast is closed off till then.\"" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man on water lock", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.lena_husband_across_water_lock\"] and Variable[\"canal.know_water_lock_time\"] == false) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Right, bye.\" [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm more interested in *why* you're so fixated on this idea in the first place.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"To be honest, I mostly just want to ride on Coalition Warship Archer.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Let me make a prediction, detective. You are not going to see the inside of a Coalition warship anytime soon.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Examine the transceiver." }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "It's about the size of a small paving stone, and nearly as heavy. Now that you're looking at it more closely, you realise the various dials and meters make it look vaguely like a face. A distinctive triangular logo forms the nose." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "That's the marque of Esterhaz Elektronika, one of the major manufacturers of advanced radio equipment." }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.abandoned_interfacing_esterhaz\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Not just any face... it reminds you of the grotesque carvings sometimes found in prehistoric caves." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you think we'll actually be able to reach the Coalition with this?\"" }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Abandoned Lorry", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"reputation.kim\"] > 1) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I wouldn't like to guess. Your performance so far doesn't exactly inspire confidence, but all sorts of things are possible...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"*You* could reach the Coalition and have your talk about *la responsabilit\u00e9*... *I* could grow 10 centimetres and become a flanker for the Stormers.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.titus_posttribunal_explained_your_betrayal_of_titus\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.titus_posttrib_bad_greet\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.titus_posttrib_gud_greet\"]]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Hey, it's you again!\" He smiles, more than a bit drunk now. \"I've been thinking about it and you know what... we're both cops. This city is big enough for two cops.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Okay...\" He looks at the lieutenant. \"Three cops. Me, you, and your little friend here.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Can you help me get into harbour?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Nah, the harbour is in complete lockdown. Evrart's orders.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Wait, how do *you* get in, then?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"We don't. Gonna sit tight, get drunk and mourn our fallen comrades till bossman sends word.\" He shakes his can. \"Times are changing, coppo.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Listen, about me kind of throwing you under the wagon there...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Be still, my beating heart... it's amphetamine, sweet amphetamine!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Lick it. Big-style." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "You run your tongue across the plate four or five times. Like a dog. Still, just a very faint, bitter taste. This isn't enough to get a big man anywhere." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Attempt to narrow the receiving mode manually." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.warship_interfacing_rc_success\"]]" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Your grip is firm, yet controlled. The swelling in your headset guides your hands as much as your hands guide the bronze horse head. It's almost like you're hearing *through* the horse itself..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"That's very good. Just a bit more to the left...\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "\"... Nein, Liebling!\"" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "The signal is clear, the storm has passed. This is another voice, a live voice, on the other end of this invisible bridge you've established..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Try it now, officer.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Coalition Warship Archer. This is RCM Officer Firewalker. Please acknowledge.\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "..." }, { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"Firewalker, this is Coalition Warship Archer. We are acknowledging and accepting you.\"" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "\"Aha, excellent! You are connected. Now be quick, I don't know how long I'll be able to preserve the signal.\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "This is it... you're finally getting to speak with those who hold *real* power." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.warship_authority_power\"]]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "And by that, they mean the ones with the guns and the warships..." }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Soona, the Programmer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.warship_interfacing_rc_success\"]]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "There is so much you wish you could ask. Your efforts have bought you some time, but you can't forget what you're *really* here for..." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you think he did it?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He nods. \"From nothing to this in a day...\" A crooked little smile. \"This is *good*, we just need a confession first, and then *maybe* a solid motive later.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What am I missing? What haven't I done?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Also, the gun.\" He smiles very politely. \"We should pick it up and discuss it in front of him. Make a show of it.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Yes, sire! Make a production of this examination!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What can I put on him -- to get him to fess up?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"He's a communard. The victim was a mercenary. We should get him talking politics again. You could even tell him we already *have* a motive.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Shoot that shit at Cuno, piggonaut.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you respect me now?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"You're dreamin' pig. That's not how this shit *works*.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "A *little*. But don't expect anything to *change*." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Don't let him dominate you, Cuno! Fuck his fat ass!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to discuss the body with you again, Cuno.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"The fuck about it?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"More on this later. Right now let's talk about something else.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"You're testing Cuno's patience here.\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"Get lost, f****t!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"About the crime scene -- you kids often play in this yard?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"That's charming.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.plais_whitecheck_succeeded\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.bookstore_curtains_greeting_done\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "You see a set of tattered curtains blocking the way to another room. A strange cage-like trinket dangles from the curtains." }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Excuse me, officer...\" She calls out from the counter. \"The back room is strictly for employees only.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "She's right -- those curtains give off some *eerie vibes*. Better not mess with it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What's so eerie about those curtains?" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Be wary of those mysterious ornaments from the *dark isles*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Dark isles? What's going on?" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Closed Curtains", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.bookstore_curtains_ency_called_ie_racist\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Do you realize what's out there? Upon the mist-shrouded islands of Ile du Fant\u00f4me, in Semenine? Eerie pygmies and wild shamans practising unnatural mysticism?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You're out of line." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Not so! You sense their strange magicks, cast from the dark forests they writhe around in. Don't believe it? Go ahead, straight through the curtains. Suffer the consequences." } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Room #3", "dialogue": "The door is closed." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "There's still a dent in the vinyl -- where you punched it before." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Run your finger across the dent." }, { "actor": "Door, Room #3", "dialogue": "This little depression is all you could inflict on the door." } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Drunk", "dialogue": "\"Y'r ded to me, y'hear y'r DEAD!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A shift in temperature. The air chills around you. Dust settles on the stony floor." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Rub your sides for warmth." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "A former architect stands before a slice of window, a room plan in her hand. A cold wave has made the air in the building stand still and frozen, with temperatures falling down to -20\u00b0C." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Her face..." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "...is red from the cold. She's breathing on her fingers clasping the plan. Traces of sadness are visible in her expression." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Shiver. [Finish thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Easy Leo", "dialogue": "(Sings.) \"Leo, Leo, Leo -- Evrart will be pleased!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Blackout drunk, here I come!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.hanged_inland_corpse_answered\"]]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "I'm gone." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is happening?" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "What do you mean?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'm talking to you." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "It's the power of your... (Black, frothy liquid starts bubbling on his lips...)" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "IMAGINATION." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquipped(\"neck_tie\") and Variable[\"whirling.necktie_personified\"]]" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "Yeah, man, don't be *crazy*. Inanimate objects and dead people can't really talk to you, your *wild imagination* is doing this -- ask some more of those questions you love so much!" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "He *loves* those." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Enough." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "You can come back and look into this face any time you want. Ask me your little questions, freshen your memory. Create associations, remind yourself of your *mortality*, Coppolopo." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "He eyes you sceptically. \"All right -- what cryptids, precisely? I usually discuss these things with *specialists*, so I don't know what...\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "*...we would have to discuss?* he wants to say, but decides against it since you've offered to help." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "You need to ask him about specific cryptids -- cryptids you've heard about from Lena, or his friend Gary. He won't *just* talk." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I know about the most dangerous cryptid -- the Gnome of Geroma.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"*Formerly* the most dangerous, yes... But do you know the most dangerous *living* cryptid?\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "He does not want to make it feel like you knowing it is some big deal." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Living? No.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"The most dangerous cryptid is a carnivorous ruminant, known colloquially as the *dread moose*.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Get outta here!\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"No. I will not *get* out of anywhere.\" He lashes immediately. \"The dread moose is a widely reported cryptid from Arda. It subsists entirely on flesh, and has even been known to dig up fresh graves in search of sustenance.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay. What does the dread moose look like?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "The silence in this part of the church -- it's almost palpable. All the shifting matter and shuffling of living things is gone. Nothing seems to exist beyond the church anymore." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "Maybe if you were to stand in just the right spot, even your footsteps would be completely silent..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, I think I still hear something..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "And then it's gone. Almost all of it -- but for the faintest of hums." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It seems that sound here is detached from its source somehow, if not blotted out outright. Truly unusual." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "You can hardly hear your own breathing." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look up into the bell tower." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "The orderly rows of ceiling panels become barely visible, then disappear completely in the darkness of the tower overhead." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try to see beyond the shadows." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Just darkness without end -- it makes your head spin." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try to make out something -- anything." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "There's nothing. You're dizzy and disoriented as you see dark and more dark -- rising..." } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "The Delta Logistics Company truck stands here waiting, reflecting white light from the courtyard behind it." }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "You knew it would be here, blocking the gate." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Why is the light so strange?" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Because this is a place of mystery." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let it go for now. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Finally. I thought I have to come looking for you. What took you so long?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Just men being men, Kim. You wouldn't understand.\" (Look solemnly to the horizon.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.met_rene\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Right...\" He nods. \"Did he teach you to turn back time?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "The sarcasm is so finely tuned it actually comes off like worry." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, he thought it's a bad idea and that I should stop obsessing about it.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Huh...\" The lieutenant thoughtfully rubs his chin as he turns to move. \"So there is something we agree on after all. Didn't see it coming. But let's move, I'm getting cold.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, man...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"JUMP.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I will escort you to the motor carriage outside, miss.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "With a muffled whimper, she extends her wrists. They're white, bony -- exposed below the rolled-up sleeves of her jumpsuit." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Waiting for your teeth and talons to cut into..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He puts the handcuffs away. \"These won't be necessary. I will take you to Station 57 myself -- and slow the extradition process as much as I can.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It may be possible to stall it indefinitely. But you *will* be safer there for the purposes of this investigation.\" He turns to you." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I can do this on my own. She's not an immediate flight risk. See you tomorrow morning, officer. Downstairs, at the Whirling-in-Rags.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "ROO A72 Motor Skiff", "dialogue": "The skiff is swaying on the waves by the dock." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Hey, don't be going soft on me.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.replaced_viscal_success_read\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.locate_ruby_on_the_coast_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "This window is pristine on the inside -- unlike the one next to it. Light from the desk lamp reflects off the glass in an untarnished golden halo." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hello, this is the police calling. I have some questions for you about your last days at work.\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"Oh, right...\" She recognizes your voice almost immediately. \"Hello, officer, what can I do for you?\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "You can hear resentment in her tone -- she's not thrilled to be talking to you again." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "There is *no* resentment in her tone. She wants you to ask her out. No question about it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I must have had some sort of official police documents on me. Do you know where they could be?\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"I, ugh... the ones I had to wrench out of your toilet?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What happened to them?\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"I... dammit, I don't remember what I did to your damn papers! I don't remember every little thing I do...\" Resentment gives way to concern in her voice." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "She's worried she might have accidentally done something bad. Then she remembers it's *you*." }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"Especially when there's a hurricane loose. It's your fault for losing them -- not mine.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Something in you wants to immediately *forget* about this. As if there was a reason you threw them away." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Have you seen my gun?\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"Please, no. Not this again -- everyone saw your 'cool gun', detective...\" She sounds beyond exacerbated." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I showed you my gun? When did it happen?\"" }, { "actor": "Sylvie", "dialogue": "\"You were trying to *impress* some people with it. Everyone was eating and...\" She stops hesitantly, not sure if she should continue." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.viquemare_esprit_wc_firefighters\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "There's something that binds you to him. Some kind of an outfit maybe...? A uniform!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "A firefighters uniform?" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Exactomundo!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I don't think he's a firefighter. I'm not gonna ask that." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Of course, you don't have to. You can talk about anything you want." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are you famous or something?\"" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"Not as famous as you, superstar.\" He says without the slightest hint of irony." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Yeah... it's still irony." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's happening! My hard work is paying off! I'm becoming famous!\"" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"Oh, yes you are! And you've worked really, *really* hard, haven't you?\"" }, { "actor": "Horse-Faced Woman", "dialogue": "\"Jean, he's obviously suffering...\" The woman stops mid-sentence." }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "The man with sunglasses looks at her -- then back at you: \"Okay, superstar. Talk to me, what do you want? You want a pat on the back?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"church.stained_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"church.stained_midgreet_quick_exit\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "In white, silver, and apricot fa\u00efence, the young mother of humanism stands above you. A crack runs across her body. She is impossibly tall, oval-faced and sad -- a dark and radiant majesty." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "This is Her Innocence Dolores Dei." }, { "actor": "Stained Glass Window", "dialogue": "Cradled in her arms are a pair of glowing lungs, clearly visible from underneath her flowing dress. \n\nYou should kneel." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Leave me alone, woman. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"Unfortunately, I don't.\" He shrugs. \"Unlike most of the locals, I have no qualms about assisting law enforcement, but this affair has passed me by completely.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And... most of the locals?\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"In Martinaise, the Union is the law, so can you really blame them?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But you don't have a problem with cops?\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"*Cop* is a pejorative term. I don't have a problem with policemen. On the contrary, I admire the effort to bring order to our streets.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "He doesn't know about the crime. Your time is better spent discussing *politics*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So, again: you don't know anything?\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"If I knew, I would not be *afraid* to tell you. I simply don't. I am an old man, not a coward. The daily business of the riff-raff no longer concerns me.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "'Tis true sire. He knows nothing." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "This is a man with a lot of past, but little present. And almost no future." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Ren\u00e9, I found your guard booth.\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"Yes, the D\u00e9bardeurs' Union pays me to stand vigil during the nights.\" He looks down. \"Not out of any *political* allegiance, mind you.\"" }, { "actor": "Ren\u00e9 Arnoux", "dialogue": "\"I'm an old man, don't sleep more than a few hours every night anyway and... money is tight,\" he adds with a slight sigh." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He feels like he has to justify himself for some reason." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You must have seen *something* on the night of the murder. Your booth looks right into the yard.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Office Radio", "dialogue": "A common office radio, like any of those found in countless waiting rooms, lounges, and other semi-public spaces all over the world." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sorry, I know I fucked up.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's alright, don't worry about it.\" His eyes wander over the sleeping district." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'll call the station tomorrow and let them know the name of the deceased.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What about Billie and her kids?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There's not much we can do for them anymore, I'm afraid.\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "They have to. It's not your place to live their lives." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What about Billie and her kids?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There's not much we can do for them anymore, I'm afraid.\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "They have to. It's not your place to live their lives." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's it?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"That's it. We should get back to our case. There's nothing more we can do here.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.working_meeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"Hmm-hmm-hmm.\" You see a sturdy woman humming to herself. She seems to be browsing books." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "\"The ship takes off like a silvery mosquito... unfolding its rotor blade arms...\" She mumbles reading. Then puts down the softcover." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hello.\" (No ceremonies. Just hello.)" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"Hello.\" She nods, her attention fully focused on reading." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who are you?\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"Me?\" She looks up briefly. \"No one, I'm just a working class woman.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She doesn't really want to be disturbed that much..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "If she's such a *working class* woman, why isn't she working?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What are you doing?\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"Looking for something to read.\" She reverts her attention to a worn out paperback." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Phenomenal.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"It is.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_cryptozoologists_1\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.morell_greeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"coast.morell_midgreet_leave\"]]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.locate_morell\"]]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"If you see Lena, tell her I won't be long,\" he says, getting up. \"I'm so close to being done here...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "This is a man possessed, always on the brink of some breakthrough. He won't leave if there's a sliver of hope *the Great Find* might happen today." }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Sir, your wife is waiting for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"I just have to do one more round, see if the phasmid has taken the bait... Then we're going.\" He refastens a bit of netting that has come loose in the wind." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "His hands are large and weather-worn, but also used to delicate, precise work." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "For all his passion, this man is diligent and patient. You could learn things from him." } ], [ { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.barbell_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "The barbell waits patiently on the floor, like a dog for its master." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Look, Kim, it's a trap. There are no collars on the barbell.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You're right, the weights may fall off. Better not touch it then.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What kind of a bastard would just remove the collars? It should be a felony.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It would be a violation of EPIS safety regulations if the gym was still operating. But it isn't. No one's supposed to come here anymore.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Lift the barbell." }, { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.gym_doing_reps\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "You manage to hoist it off the ground, but the barbell feels wobbly and dangerous, your hands slick with sweat. Turns out you're no beast, just an old man with bad form." }, { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.doomed_commercial_area\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Even your body has failed you. It's a miracle you didn't injure yourself." }, { "actor": "Barbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Of course, let us dispatch with the formalities. You call me Evrart, I call you Harry!\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "That's what the hanged corpse called you -- Harry." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is that my name?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"My god so it's true! I didn't want to believe it, but you *are* a fantastic science-fiction amnesiac cop, aren't you?\" He shrugs with an amazed expression. \"What are the odds of that?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "It might be a good idea to hide your *confusion*... I mean, see what his game is first." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"My memory is fine -- I'm just testing you.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"So good to hear that, Harry. Apparently my sources were wrong.\" He pats the brown folder in front of him. \"However if you *did* have a spot of memory trouble I could help you out -- with my big fat folder.\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Words flow like a river of honey from his lips." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "I guess word has already reached him. No matter, no harm done." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "It's just a brown folder. You can't make out what's written on it." } ], [ { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "\"No one can find us here.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.fridge_corpse_in_fridge\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hmm-hmm...\" (Take a peek at Kim's notes.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "You find a moment, as the lieutenant inspects the dead man's fingernails. Just a few glances. The pages are filled with a bulky freehand that's nearly illegible..." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "...still, you can make out a case with a curious title: THE MAN WITH THE HOLE IN HIS HEAD." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Oh, so here it is!\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"What?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Tell me something, dead man." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "Shoot, Loonie Roonie!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Why *do* I love questions so much?" }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "Because you're a copparooni. Look at all of them go! Do you want more questions?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Yeah, give me questions." }, { "actor": "The Hanged Man", "dialogue": "Here you go, you loonie!" } ], [ { "actor": "Stone", "dialogue": "A stone like any other, lying in a whorl of sleet and mud. Maybe there's something under it?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Turn it over." }, { "actor": "Stone", "dialogue": "There's a key beneath it, rusty from the dirt." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Looks like it could belong to the building's front door." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Put the stone back. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Wow, you work *hard*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Discard thought.)" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "I know you're in a hurry, sir -- off to work really hard, as always -- I just need *one* moment of your time to discuss how hard you hustle." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Oh, yes. You hustle. You're a provider. It's tough out there, but you keep it real and provide..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I guess I do, yeah." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Oh yeah! Like a horse. A work horse. For hard work." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What hard work do I do exactly?" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Look at yourself, you're a human pedometer! You must have walked 200,000 steps down cracked asphalt, mosaic, sand, and linoleum after you re-emerged." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "That is the sign of a hustler who never gives up. The world is harsh and people are evil -- you didn't make it that way. And you won't let it break you. You *ride*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Yeah, I ride. A little." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "A little? You *make* money. You got gills, baby, got those black papers with the faces of the innocences on them. You bring in the Franconegros and the Solas." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "It ain't easy, but you *do* it. Day in and day out. You didn't make the rules but you won't lose! You're a cop and a sprinter and a money printer." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Can't say I didn't make that Siileng guy give some of his money either." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Can't say that -- you *shook* him. You're a killer. A shark." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Yeah, and Evrart gave me that fiver.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Kim also tries *not* to look at the pile of tape viscera on the carpet. Or the weird suitcase on the hat rack. Or the potted plant dying in the corner. But it's all just too morbid to ignore." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "The man is finding it hard not to trip on the tape -- and not to send any of the bottles rolling across the floor..." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "...where unidentifiable sludge makes it hard for him to breathe. Smells of vomit in here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're looking at the destruction?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He nods." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This is where *the magic* happens.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"And by that you mean crimes against humanity?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Well, crimes against myself anyway.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I have no idea what that means.\" He looks toward the exit, longingly." } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Room #1", "dialogue": "This is the door to your room." }, { "actor": "Door, Room #1", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Door, Room #1", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.pay_for_the_damages_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Door, Room #1", "dialogue": "Something about it has changed." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Door, Room #3", "dialogue": "The door is closed." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "There's still a dent in the vinyl -- where you punched it before." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Knock." }, { "actor": "Door, Room #3", "dialogue": "\"Who is it?\" A woman's voice answers -- muffled by the door." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Tired. Controlled." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"This is the police. Can we come in?\"" }, { "actor": "Door, Room #3", "dialogue": "\"Come on up -- the door is open!\" She shouts: \"I'm drying my hair...\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "Sounds like it's coming from upstairs somewhere -- you could snoop around before going up..." } ], [ { "actor": "Photo of Tattoos", "dialogue": "An intricate web of blue lines stretches across the torso of the hanged man, from the right shoulder to the solar plexus. Each time the lines intersect, a small white star is formed in their crossing. Hundreds of fading asterisks riddle his skin; their concentration is highest around his heart." }, { "actor": "Photo of Tattoos", "dialogue": "It still kind of looks like a map of the stars in the night sky, but... something's not right." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Put the photo away.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Lilienne's Twin", "dialogue": "The scruffy-haired little boy kicks a stone. He can't be more than five years old." }, { "actor": "Lilienne's Other Twin", "dialogue": "The other one looks indistinguishable from him. He watches his brother kick the stone with his tongue lolling out of his mouth." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You must be Lilienne's twins.\"" }, { "actor": "Lilienne's Twin", "dialogue": "This one doesn't say anything, kicking the concrete with his worn-out sneaker." }, { "actor": "Lilienne's Other Twin", "dialogue": "\"Lily's our mom,\" explains the other one, tongue still lolling out of his mouth." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I already said that.\"" }, { "actor": "Lilienne's Twin", "dialogue": "The stone-kicker laughs suddenly. His head is too large for his shoulders." }, { "actor": "Lilienne's Other Twin", "dialogue": "The other one laughs as well." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Maybe there's some kind of reason why they're laughing? An interesting reason somehow tied to the case!" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Wow, so intellectually stimulating." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "The stone-kicking isn't even of very high calibre. Anyone can do that." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you think he did it?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He nods. \"From nothing to this in a day...\" A crooked little smile. \"This is *good*, we just need a confession first, and then *maybe* a solid motive later.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How do you think the questioning is going?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Good.\" He nods. \"We're doing very good. He *wants* to confess -- I can see that. We just need to pile it on, a little more -- the more we have on him, the closer he is...\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "You hear that? He thinks you're *this* close..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm trying to get him to confess...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Yes, good going -- that should be our *first* priority.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What am I missing? What haven't I done?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "He eyes you sceptically. \"All right -- what cryptids, precisely? I usually discuss these things with *specialists*, so I don't know what...\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "*...we would have to discuss?* he wants to say, but decides against it since you've offered to help." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "You need to ask him about specific cryptids -- cryptids you've heard about from Lena, or his friend Gary. He won't *just* talk." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Just tell me about a cool cryptid. Any cryptid.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"No offence, officer, but I'm not much of a *pedagogue* -- I don't know what I would've done if Lena hadn't persuaded me to go back to field research. You should ask her, if you want interesting stories.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Me -- I'm not a people person, unless you haven't noticed. And I don't make a good lecturer. My strength lies in field work and *persistence*.\" He brushes an errant strand of hair from his eye." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "This is a gruff man who's been ridiculed too many times to feel comfortable talking about what's dearest to his heart. It's in his shoulders, his face, his... everything." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Enough tales then. Let's change the subject.\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"By all means...\" He coughs and wipes his mouth." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This is probably too lame for *you*, but maybe you know someone who'd dig this...\" (Hold out the *Man from Hjelmdall* book.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Whether you're a family man or not is unimportant right now, officer. We are here for a different reason. In fact, we should probably move on to the murder.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"No, no. Don't interrupt him.\" He looks the lieutenant with reproach. \"Me and Harry are having a moment here. Go on, Harry.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Have another look at that folder." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "As you look at the folder, Evrart covers it with his hand and pets it. Is he trying to hide that it's not a real RCM folder? It certainly doesn't have the RCM stamp on it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's not an RCM folder.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Okay, Harry, you got me,\" he says, grinning. \"This is from the Census Bureau, not the RCM. Those Census Bureau people are absolutely *corrupt*. You should do something about them.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"He got the name from the Census Bureau and everything else from your actions here in Martinaise.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Yes, yes, Mr. Kitsuragi, from the Census Bureau, like I said.\" He looks annoyed. \"Now I'm actually a very busy man, so is there anything else I can do for you, Harry?\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "That means he doesn't *really* know anything about you." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "A pity. The mystery of *you* will have to remain a mystery for the time being." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So the Census Bureau says my name is Harry Du Bois?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Yes, that's what I said. Try to keep up, okay? Let's move on.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to ask again about the people you don't like.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "His lip curls into a sneer at the memory." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm glad we talked about this. Now...\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Glad we talked about *what*?\" Another erratic gesture. He's trembling..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"When did you first see the deceased?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Three weeks ago, when the rich hag came in on her galley. Her honour guard came in tow.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Joyce... he means Joyce again." } ], [ { "actor": "Unemployed Person", "dialogue": "\"We can all work together!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "This old green chalkboard is covered in scribbles, sketches and schemes like some ancient cave mural." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "Some of the writing has faded with age, but you can still make out sections here and there; photos and drawings have been pinned to the board." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Inspect the drawings." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "These lithe, pointy-eared creatures appear to be different types of *welkins*. You make out autumnal *candle-welkins* casting wax-based magic..." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "*Translucent welkins* with organs shining under their skin, and even aether welkins -- hailing from the vast emptiness of sidereal space." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "This looks like an *enormous improvement* on the classic Wirr\u00e2l setting. Much more *advanced*. Light years ahead." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "You should adopt one of those welkins as your *persona*. No longer a mere man -- but a welkin..." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "One of the welkins -- towering among the rest -- appears to be different, however." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Examine the welkin -- this is important." }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "It's Vaarahamira, a *high welkin* -- his face white and scarred like cracked marble. This is clearly a welkin supremacist. The note says: 'All non-welkin races will be purged.'" }, { "actor": "Project Dread Board", "dialogue": "The huldur, the dweorg, the humans, and even headless men... all of them. Purged. Imagine a world filled *only* with welkin! Green welkin, dread welkin... and the high welkin to rule them all." } ], [ { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Whatever I can help you with. We need to contain the situation.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What was that about a... *blood bath*?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Yes. I'm afraid this strike may descend into a small scale civil war. With possible consequences for all of Revachol West.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Since you're sharing, ma'am -- this is also the RCM's worst case scenario.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Then we're on the same page -- as grim as it may be.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How are the lynching and the strike connected?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"I have an indirect role to play, I'm sad to say. My employer experienced a *momentary lapse of faith* in me. In that moment they elected to deploy a private military contractor. As an *insurance* measure. They called it my 'security detail'.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you need a security detail?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Absolutely not. These mercenaries are muscle, pure and simple. They are meant to intimidate the Union into surrendering.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who are they?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"*Krenel* -- an Oranjese military company. As far as I know three arrived in Martinaise. They report to me sporadically, but they do not answer to me. To be frank, our relationship is deteriorating.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"They wear ceramic armour, have semi-automatic weapons and years of combat experience. They also have Trauma-and-Stressor Disorder and no idea how to conduct themselves in an urban civilian environment.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Whether you're a family man or not is unimportant right now, officer. We are here for a different reason. In fact, we should probably move on to the murder.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"No, no. Don't interrupt him.\" He looks the lieutenant with reproach. \"Me and Harry are having a moment here. Go on, Harry.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Where did you get that folder?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Ah, this?\" He closes the folder. \"My friends in your organization gave it to me, Harry.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "This translates into: \"Ha-ha, you guys are so corrupt.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I find that very suspicious. May I have a look?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"I'm afraid this is meant for Union eyes only, Mr. Kitsuragi. I'm sure you understand.\" He turns back to you. \"Please continue, Harry.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's talk of other matters for a moment.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Of course, Harry, of course! Let's not linger on personal details and amnesia. You wanted something from me?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I mailed the signatures you asked me to get.\" (Lie.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Don't you remember that method I showed you back in... never mind.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, what's Revachol Ice City?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No idea,\" he shrugs. The three-worded business name stands cryptic among the others:" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"24h Window.\"" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "You ring the doorbell, but nothing happens." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Try again, you didn't press it hard enough." }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.doorbell_interfacing_press_again_24h_window\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Press again." }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "This time a pleasant female voice answers: \"Thank you for calling 24h Window Company. This is an automated message. Are you experiencing a window-related emergency? During non-business-hours, please call 0-0-7-2-5-4-7-7-6-5-1. The streets are mean, but we're *always* there for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "That's only half-true. The streets *are* mean, but they're not there for you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No emergencies, thank you.\" (Look at other buttons again.)" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "Twelve name cards on the call box read:" } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "There! Do you smell that?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Smell what?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Can you not detect that inimitable whiff of dissatisfaction and restlessness, that sense that the world is in need of dramatic, even violent re-ordering?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Are you saying there's a communist nearby?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Without a doubt. Your politico-olfactory cortex doesn't deceive you. The smell is coming... from that balcony over there!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You mean from Cindy?" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Certainement! A precocious communist youth, a symbol of a kinder, more hopeful future. Now's your chance to *establish contact* with your revolutionary brothers and sisters." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "A chance to establish contact with the future! What a beautiful, *terrible* thought..." } ], [ { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.kineema_intro_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Coupris Kineema", "dialogue": "Inside you see a set of steering levers, a radio-microphone, a pull-out toolbox, and the soft glow of the fuel pre-heater gauge." }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTaskActive(\"TASK.help_kim_with_money_plan\") and IsKimHere()--[[ Variable[ ]]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look in the suspect transport enclosure." }, { "actor": "Coupris Kineema", "dialogue": "The cage at the back of the motor carriage looks rather uncomfortable. Four shiny hubcaps are stacked against the seat. Their silver edges sparkle in the dark." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I confiscated these four a little while back. We can take them to the pawnshop down by the Martinaise Canal.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Thanks. I appreciate your help.\" (Take the spinners.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant nods as you take the spinners." }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.kineema_intro_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Tap on the fuel pre-heater gauge." }, { "actor": "Alice", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.siileng_post_tribunary_you_reacted\"]]" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"Everything's still cool here, officer,\" the street vendor assures you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Persuade him to give you some money." }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.siileng_whitecheck_rhetoric_give_me_money\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "No need to dress this one up, just tell him what you want." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You, I want your money. Now.\"" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.siileng_white_failed_once\"]]" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.siileng_white_failed_thrice\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Siileng", "dialogue": "\"Wow! So cool... you keep saying *the same sentence*, mister. No difference. Same words.\" He grins in amazement. \"Let me donate you some sunglasses. For only 20 cents to 2 re\u00e1l.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'll look around, thanks.\" [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Okay, the man with the sunglasses and his *hypothetical Station 41*. Weird, right?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Frankly I'm way past caring or wondering. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Set of Tracks", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Set of Tracks", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tracks_viscal_wc_success_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "The tracks are as they have ever been. A bit more worn, perhaps. Fortunately, the street sweeper still hasn't noticed their presence." }, { "actor": "Set of Tracks", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Set of Tracks", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "This is where I started off with my motor carriage." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Yes. And ended up half-sunken in the sea. You must have been drunk when you left off." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I think I got it. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Rosemary", "dialogue": "\"The way she fucking goes...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Office Radio", "dialogue": "You have no need for this transceiver, because you already have one just like it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "But what if I want *another* one, as a backup?" }, { "actor": "Office Radio", "dialogue": "The radio appears to disapprove of your acquisitiveness. Its buzz seems to drive you away." } ], [ { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "You were right, br\u00f6ther. (There's a sudden tightness in your lower intestine.)" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What? What's going on?" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Back there, in your sleep. All the weak-willed delinquents, dilly-dalliers, foreign moneylenders, insane anarchists, and yes -- the w\u00f6\u00f6men -- they've run this place to ruin." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Those sons of bitches..." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "The game was rigged from before you even knew how the pieces move, s\u00f6ldier. (The tightness spreads to your gut.)" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I *do* feel like everything's gone to shit..." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "It has, br\u00f6ther, but we are going to turn back time! (A solemn gurgle emanates from your stomach.)" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "I will send you back to the time when the sun had not yet vanished, when it was still setting into the sea. The time of the Suzerain, the time when love was still possible." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I like it just fine right here, right now. [Discard thought.]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you think he did it?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He nods. \"From nothing to this in a day...\" A crooked little smile. \"This is *good*, we just need a confession first, and then *maybe* a solid motive later.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What am I missing? What haven't I done?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Ballistics. Let him cook here for a minute or two -- we can have another look around the island for a sniper's nest.\" He looks to the small tower on the coast. \"I think we should check out the post.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "It doesn't have to hold in court. Just establish a line of sight and he'll do the rest himself." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay, let's do this.\" (Conclude.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Alright. Are you *the* lady driver?\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"Did you just call me a *lady*, xerife?\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "She clearly doesn't think she's a 'lady'. Don't repeat it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Well, aren't you a lady?\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "The woman's malevolent cackling fills the roundabout." }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"I'm a lady like you're Gabriel Buenguerro -- only in dreams.\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.hardie_went_through_ruby_info\"]]" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"I'm terrifying to small children. And to those who used to know me.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's all I needed to know, thanks.\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"*O sim*...\" The woman stares at you, her mind elsewhere now, on other matters." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Something in her is pulling toward some unknown rest state. She twitches -- like a sleep kick." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What are you hauling?\"" }, { "actor": "Paledriver", "dialogue": "\"Diamonds.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Wow, so someone's been a little... *boring*?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What?" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Yes, my *standard* liege. Someone's seen all sorts of wild ideas pop off and thought -- 'I'll take the *boring* one. The regular, please. The brown.'" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I like standards." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Of course you do. Maybe some *regulations* and a *usual* pistol to go with them? It's official: My lord's *copotype* is Regular Cop. I'll let everyone know. I'll send out a telefax." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Yeah, no need. Let's keep that announcement on standby for now. (Opt out.)" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Good, good. Of course. To outright declare yourself something does seem a bit too... *interesting* now, doesn't it? I won't trouble you any further." } ], [ { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"Are you lost? You look lost. Out of place.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How much pale is there compared to the world?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"The pale outweighs reality two to one -- there is more pale than there is matter. And the ratio is slipping.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Slipping how? To our detriment or...\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"What do you think, detective?\" She looks you in the eye." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's shrinking. There is more and more of the world.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Oh no, detective -- it's not. One of the few measurable effects of the pale is that it is expanding at an unknown rate.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"An intuitive conclusion of that development is that one day the pale will cover everything -- but this sort of talk is mostly left to extremists.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Cover *everything*? That can't be. Where would we go...\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Most people -- and indeed most private and government sector organizations; entire civilizations and religions even -- find handy ways to ignore, or downplay that knowledge.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"I suggest you do the same.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.hanged_talk_wild_pale_yonder\"]]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "*Off we go...* you see the hanged man's mouth open." }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"pier.joyce_inalnd_yonder\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Gulp." }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"It doesn't look like you're *doing* the same. The suggestion was meant in earnest, detective. Live life.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "By the way, where *is* home? The address is coming up blank and this place sure isn't it..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "As I said, I don't think I have one." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "But you've been at this hostel-cafeteria for only three nights. Where were you before? You had to be somewhere." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Far away?" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "In time or space?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "In space." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "That doesn't sound like somewhere you can stay if you run out of money." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I'll live in a dumpster, I don't care. Fuck everything. Hobocop." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Entertain the thought when you get the time. Maybe being a hobo *and* a cop has its advantages?" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You still haven't explained the bullet in his head.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"You know, all this talk about bullets and heads makes me think you want one in *yours*.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Oh, they're itching for one...\" He clacks his tongue. \"I listen to Channel 8. These cops have a death wish.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem(\"fractured_bullet\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm gonna ask you again, why was this...\" (Show them the bullet) \"... in the victim's head?\"" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "\"Wow.\" The little man leans in to inspect the leaden blossom. \"He's got it in a real evidence bag and all...\"" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"Why don't you go home and log it into evidence. These men have told you what happened.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I think the hanging was a cover-up for the shooting.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"You know what I think?\" He raises his finger. \"I think he was shot in the head as a kid. And his brain grew around the bullet.\"" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "It *is* possible to live with an injury like that. Makes you touch the back of your skull, wondering if there's one in there?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.hardies_its_possible_the_merc_was_shot_in_the_head_as_a_child_and_his_brain_grew_around_the_bullet\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm trying to turn back time. Can you help me, br\u00f6ther?\"" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.truckman_told_him_to_fuck_off\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.down_with_racism\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"Oh, yeah?\" He looks intrigued." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Listen, despite his hostile exterior, this one's got a soft underbelly. He's desperate for affirmation..." }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.lorryman_fascha_composure_begging_for_praise\"]]" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Massage his ego, feed him a few grapes, make him *like* you." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "DON'T FORGET TO TICKLE THE BEANBAG!" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"XP.remember_the_beanbag\"]]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Okay, but don't *literally* say that." }, { "actor": "Racist lorry driver", "dialogue": "\"Now what makes you think I know how to 'turn back time'?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Despair creeps into you, getting fat on your weakness. Whatever noble intentions you once had as a police officer -- it's eating them all up now." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "There's something else in there. There has to be. But -- it's like reaching your hand into muddy water, fishing around, and coming up with nothing..." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "You're still coming up with sentences. That's a step up from total annihilation, right?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm seriously running out of shits to give, Cuno. I'm quitting.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno don't give a shit about your shits.\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Nothing you can say would make you feel any better now..." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm really not sure we should be in here.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "This is it -- the scene of the party. The fire pit, cigarettes, and empty bottles all evidence it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Hold up -- don't you mean scene of the crime?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Not as such. I'm talking about what came after -- the party scene." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Dismiss thought.)" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Destroy the machine." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"boardwalk.ruby_red_check_pain\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "The violent white noise becomes even more overwhelming closer to the Compressor. Feels like your brain is swelling up in your skull." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Squirm in pain." }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I know it's bad -- try not to move.\"" }, { "actor": "Pale Latitude Compressor", "dialogue": "\"875263... 23621837... for that special someone...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim! Kim! Make it stop!\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Look, I know this isn't very fun for you, so let's wrap this up. You have a tribunal to attend.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.tribunal\"]]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "She knows about the tribunal?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What happened... Sunday night? Tell me your version.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "She eyes you warily, as though gauging your sincerity." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "She's refusing to adopt the demeanour of a cornered animal. A leader with no one to lead -- she still wants to retain some control of the situation." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's okay... We just want to... hnghhhhh...\" He struggles to finish the sentence." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you killed him?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Oh the inhumanity...\" He closes his black eyes. \"One paramilitary less in Revachol.\" You can almost see him squeeze a tear out of his eye. His fists begin to tremble from the anger." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Hold your breath." }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I *had* them in my sights, both of them -- him and the whore. I was breathing with them, in phase, and I pulled the trigger and flew on the air until I landed in his mouth...\" He begins to smile." }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I didn't think I had a shot like that in me anymore. I did. I saw him kneel there with his mouth full of death and that stupid look on his face.\" The smile quivers. \"And his dick still in her...\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "There. A hot flash of rage almost carries the smile away. Some dark piece..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Then what?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Nothing. I went to sleep. Next morning there were May bells everywhere. The world was white -- or what's left of it anyway. My last spring here... I knew the fascists would come to avenge their own...\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"And so they did.\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Be very very precise now... don't make a splash, you can still mess it up." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Boom -- I got you. Me, the most boring cop on Earth.\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Moronic, gloating psychopath.\" He squints." } ], [ { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.ask_about_ruby_in_village\"] and Variable[\"pier.joyce_village_intro_done\"] == false) == false]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"pier.joyce_left_performative_experience\"]]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"The *performative experience* has ended. Good -- what can I help you with?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're on a boat.\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.ask_about_ruby_in_village\"]]" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Well, technically speaking I'm not *on* it right now...\" She looks at the sloop sway in the waves." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I think I have a handle on the boat thing.\" (Conclude.)" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "\"Good,\" she takes a sip of her thermal cup." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What can you tell me about this strike?\"" }, { "actor": "Joyce Messier", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Sunday Friend", "dialogue": "\"If *stabilit\u00e9* is ensured, progress will naturally follow.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Hey, so we've been monitoring you internally, and now we know your *copotype*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Okay. What am I?" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Guess." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I was kinda hoping I'm the Superstar Cop." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "That is only a ludicrous daydream. Guess again. You're the..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I was kinda hoping I'm the Apocalypse Cop." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "That is only a ludicrous daydream. Guess again. You're the..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I was kinda thinking I'm the Regular Cop." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "No, you're the *Sorry Cop*. The cop who's sorriest. Let's make it official, then, shall we?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Huge lack of enthusiasm going on in here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Fuckin'... *they* should be sorry!" } ], [ { "actor": "Small Buoy", "dialogue": "The dome-shaped plastic buoy still bobs up and down in the water amidst the trembling reeds." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We're lucky it's still here. A little longer and it would have floated away...\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Indeed.\" The lieutenant nods thoughtfully. \"Let's see what's inside.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let the buoy be. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? What?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"If you didn't kill him... why hide?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"I saw *you* roll into town. I wasn't about to stick around for questioning by a goddamn La Puta Madre agent.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.titus_ruby_scared_thiscopthiscop\"]]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "So this is what she was scared to tell Titus. *This cop, this cop...*" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.titus_half_light_thiscopthiscop\"]]" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "That strange distant fear is getting close now. It's a fear -- of *yourself.*" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What do you mean... La Puta Madre agent?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Yes -- you.\" She looks at you quizzically. \"Everyone says you're his peone. His 'Human Can Opener.'\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "Through the sudden sharp pain in your head, you hear the lieutenant mumble something to himself." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "\"Fucking hell\" and \"Why me?\" you hear through the white noise." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "It's especially bad suddenly. Felt like a vein exploded." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who's 'everyone'? How do you know this?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Everyone in Jamrock. The cops, the criminals... Why do you think I'm holed up in here with a goddamn death ray, waiting for you?\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "If she knows *that* about you, she must know your real name too." } ], [ { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "The book fits quite snugly into your palm. It would also fit comfortably into a jacket pocket." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Keep reading." }, { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "You flip forward a few pages until you come upon a chapter titled 'Mental Projection and Transference'..." }, { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "When a community has achieved a sufficiently high degree of revolutionary fervour, infra-materialists believe that second-level effects may be observed." }, { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "At this second level, certain hyper-revolutionary individuals may even develop the ability to extend their thoughts into material space and vice versa." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "So why do these effects only work for hyper-revolutionary communists? (Continue.)" }, { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "Because plasm has never been directly observed, the exact mechanism behind these effects remains entirely speculative." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "In other words, there's no evidence that any of this mind-reading stuff is real." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Why are you getting hung up on mechanisms... Open your mind's aperture just a little wider! You're so close to true understanding!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, if there's no evidence plasm exists, how can the theory be true?" }, { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "Most infra-materialists would argue that the inability of skeptics to detect plasm is simply evidence of their own insufficient revolutionary enthusiasm." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "There you have it. A perfectly unfalsifiable loop. The theory is impossible to disprove on its own grounds..." } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Cuno gets it from his dad. Cuno and his dad are major suppliers!\" His eyes bulge; their veins reach out like tree branches. \"That's where Cuno gets his lightning on.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Problem is, Cuno and his dad had a little falling out. Now junkies clawing at Cuno's door. Streets going mad. Cuno's gotta throw his dirty popo-man at it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Mhmh, this is very interesting, but I'll have to get back to you.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Don't take for fucking ever, Cuno's got wheels turning everywhere.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I want to discuss the body with you again, Cuno.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"The fuck about it?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"There are contusions all over his body. Did you do that?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Fuck are you talking about? What is this *con-tush-on* shit?\" He grabs his head like it's suddenly hurting." }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"He says you're *stupid*, Cuno! They want to make you stupid again!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"A contusion is a bruise. I'm talking about the marks your stones left on the corpse.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Oh, did Cuno make your shit-sniffing harder? Obstruction of shit-sniffing?\" He lets go of his head, suddenly feeling better. \"This is Cuno's Kingdom. Cuno fucking rules here.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Reach for the trap." }, { "actor": "Trap: Canal", "dialogue": "Locusts are crawling around in the trap, confused but uneaten. You see no carnivorous *reed-phasmid* gorging on them." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're no fun, Lieutenant Killjoy.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He scans your face as though searching for clues. \"I did not know murder investigations are supposed to be *fun*.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Now, gentlemen, no need to squabble.\" She turns to you. \"I wouldn't be of much use to you anyway, sweetie.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're probably right.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"I really would like to help out, but I don't want to slow you down. If it weren't for all the stairs and potholes in Martinaise, I'd join you for sure!\" She looks out the window wistfully." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I don't know if you've noticed, but I don't know where I am, or what I'm doing. Or *anything*.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Yes, officer, you look rather dazed... like a stunned fox. But surely things can't be *that* bad?\" Her eyes follow your movements with some concern." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "She won't judge you, no matter what you say." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, I'm blowing this whole thing out of proportion. Forget I said anything.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "She nods, but still looks worried." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I've gotta get going now.\" [Leave.]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.lena_exit_clicked\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's not Cuno. It's Cunoesse." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Interesting. How?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Cunoesse is by far the worst of the two. Cuno has no problem being near you, but the other hides behind the fence, afraid for her life, like she's *done* something. Something very bad." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_punchhub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She came up with that psychopathic scheme of screaming for help before. Cuno just wanted to talk to you about his name. Cunoesse was the one who wound him up and directed him." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cunoesse_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Also, Cuno hasn't stopped talking to you. Even enjoys it from time to time. When you talk to the other one it's like talking to a cornered animal. She only hisses." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cunoesse_reaction_speed_shes_a_girl\"]]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "And then there's the fact that she's a girl. And appears to be a little younger, certainly smaller. And yet Cuno is afraid of her. What's up with *that*, Cuno?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "All in all, Cuno respects madness. You cannot hope to outdo her on that front. You must win yourself a few minutes with him alone." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Interesting. How?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Cunoesse is by far the worst of the two. Cuno has no problem being near you, but the other hides behind the fence, afraid for her life, like she's *done* something. Something very bad." } ], [ { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Mhm!\" She stamps her feet, waiting for you to say something." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is romance?\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"It's the type of book where there's a rich lady and she has to choose between the good man and the bad man.\" She smiles at the thought, perhaps imagining herself in that situation." }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Or there could be a story about a poor lady getting a rich man. It's about man and lady business, sir.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What about a book where the *man and lady business* doesn't work out at all?\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"I haven't read many of... those. Maybe you should ask Mum?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? You think she has one about an *excruciatingly painful* breakup?\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"I don't think it's a romance story if the main characters break up, though...\" She pauses, trying to figure out the appropriate answer." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Okay.\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Sometimes they break up for a little while, but then they always get back together.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What about a poor man getting a rich lady?\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"It happens. But usually the guy gets rich in the process, or should actually be rich himself, but has lost his family property unjustly, like during the Revolution or something.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I see.\"" }, { "actor": "Annette", "dialogue": "\"Those are unhappy books, for most of the pages. People sad about what they have lost. But then it all turns out just fine in the end!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Looks like an undercover counterintelligence programme.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No, that's not it. *I* think...\" The lieutenant takes a step back, steepling his hands." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Like he's ready to lay out a fine theory, crafted together like a puzzle box." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It looks like one of those popular pen-and-paper role-playing games -- only these people were trying to *automate* it. Make it work on *radiocomputers*.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"And by 'these people' I mean people in Soona's radio game company -- Fortress Accident.\"" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Utter madness, he thinks -- as a compliment." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Has anyone ever done this before?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Not to my knowledge. They make automated games in Graad, Messina, K\u00f6nigstein... You know, places with industry.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "*Not* in Revachol West, among the ruins." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"But I don't think *anyone* has attempted to create an *interisolary* game before. We just don't have the technology.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Has anyone ever done this before?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Not to my knowledge. They make automated games in Graad, Messina, K\u00f6nigstein... You know, places with industry.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.inside_shack\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.mirror_secondgreeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.mirror_steam_stopped\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.mirror_stopped_expression\"] and Variable[\"character.beard_shaven\"]]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "A mirror hangs on the bathroom wall. In it -- your face, a regular, clean-shaven police officer." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTaskActive(\"TASK.face_yourself_done\")--[[ Variable[ ]]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Attempt to stop *The Expression* from happening." }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Mirror", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.mirror_subdued_expression\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.roy_intro_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.roy_pilehub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Hello hello! Let me know if I can help you with anything.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Is Roy high -- and if yes, then what is he on?" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"canal.roy_electro_white_check\"]]" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Feeling warm and enthralled by the movement of light, while the mind continues to race forward? Lucky bastard -- he's probably on Pyrholidon. It's tough to come by on the street." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pyrholidon? What is that?" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "A drug developed by the military to treat and prevent radiation sickness. It has psychedelic side-effects. *And* it makes your eyes turn yellow!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is it just me, or is it really warm in here?\" (Look around.)" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "He tilts his head. \"I try to keep the shop at a comfortable temperature.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "There's a note of indignation in his voice. Interesting." } ], [ { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.garte_alt_greet_tribunal_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"Oh, you're up.\" He looks you over. \"It's good to see you back on your feet. Did you like your room? I cleaned it for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsCunoInParty()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hold up. What was that, Cuno?\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "Cuno forces an unnatural smile." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I did, thank you. Big improvement.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"You're welcome. I thought it would be nice for you to wake up in a clean place after you -- let's be fair -- defended this establishment and its client\u00e8le from gunfire.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_shot_kortenaer_success\"]]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"I give credit where credit is due and that, sir -- was a nice shot. I was watching until you hit him, crawled inside then. Bullets started flying. Anyway...\" He clears his throat." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "He really wants you to realize that he was also on the balcony looking by. In the *danger* zone, so to say." }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_kim_shot\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Son, you've really let yourself go -- it's a disgrace. But Coach Physical Instrument is going to get you back in prime condition. Even if it takes a million push-ups!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Yes sir! Forge me into organic steel, coach!" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "It's going to take blood, sweat, piss, and tears, but when I'm done with you, boy, you will be a Master Athlete!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Too much abuse for my taste. I'm more of an intellectual. (Opt out.)" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Attention, attention! An old has-been giving up! Come see the has-been quitting again, everyone!" } ], [ { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Now, the time has come for you to be inducted into the ranks of the Remote Viewers Division." } ], [ { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "An advancement of the KR18GU engine of the Coupris 40, to be precise." } ], [ { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "The book fits quite snugly into your palm. It would also fit comfortably into a jacket pocket." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Start reading the first chapter." }, { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "If you're like most people, you probably believe that your thoughts reside in your brain, right?" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Yes, you have a little cabinet for organizing and storing them away." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "That's not right at all. Thoughts don't exist in the brain, they float through the *air*! Your brain is but a fish swimming through them..." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "Completely backwards. You think with your hands, always have." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Maybe if you're some kind of binoclard. *You* on the other hand, are a gut-thinker, through and through." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Nah, I always listen to my gut." }, { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "There is no evidence that the human digestive system is the seat of cognition. But let's get back to Ignus Nilsen, shall we?" }, { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "As Mazov's devoted comrade and leading theoretician, Nilsen was responsible for developing much of the intellectual foundation of communism. But his interests and speculations were famously wide-ranging." }, { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "During his final years in exile, he produced, among other things, an early guide to homebrewing, instructions for raising revolutionary children, plans for a universal pictographic language, and a detailed materialist critique of Dolores Dei's chess strategy." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "A true man of ideas, equal to any of the great Dolorian polymaths." }, { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "But one subject he returned to time and time again was the fundamental relationship between thoughts and matter..." } ], [ { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.mhead_fight_success\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"gates.mhead_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsTHCPresent(\"advanced_race_theory\")) == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"YOUR RACE DESCENT HAS ONLY *WORSENED* SINCE I LAST SAW YOU -- YOU HAVE REALLY LET YOURSELF GO.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why are you not with the Hardie boys?\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"I AM NOT THE FIRST LINE OF DEFENCE -- I AM THE LAST.\" He looks toward the coast, defiantly. \"IN ADDITION, THESE SO-CALLED *HARDIE BOYS* ARE AN EFFEMINATE CLIQUE OF BODYBUILDERS. THEIR COMPANY IS SPIRITUALLY DEGRADING.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "You pick up on something artificial in his tone, like he's putting on an *act*. This is unlike him. He is usually more himself." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"But you're all part of the Union?\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"THE HARDIE MANLETS ARE ON THE PAY OF THE COMPANY. I ANSWER TO THE UNION ALONE -- AND I DO THIS OUT OF *RACE HEROISM*. FINANCE IS AN ALIEN CONCEPT TO THE SEMENESE.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"NOW LEAVE ME BE. I MUST LUXURIATE IN THE COMPANY OF MY WOMAN.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.mhead_drama_lying\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I noticed your room is close to mine. I have a personal question.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_sunday_night_story_interupted\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Yes, you're just one room away.\" She pours herself more coffee. \"Very personal.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Good. Yes. This means she could have heard something. Like what you were doing before you blacked out." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"That's all. Just wanted to establish that.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Funky.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"We have concluded our autopsy and would like to ask questions about Lely.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_talked_about_lely\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Let's see. I wrote down the nickname 'Lelystad'.\" The lieutenant has taken out his notebook. He moves his finger across the page\u2026" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "...then tears one out and hands it to you. \"We have questions that might help solve some gaps in our field autopsy. I'm sure my colleague has a few of his own while I take notes.\"" }, { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "The young woman cranes her neck, trying to catch a glimpse of the page the lieutenant passed to you. On it is a list of autopsy observations, recorded neatly in blue ink." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "The last missing pieces of a puzzle of flesh." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_inland_puzzle_of_flesh\"]]" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"You're up quick... How was your sleep?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Actually -- it was total annihilation, Kim.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He frowns. \"I did not want to wake you -- perhaps I should have? Was it a job dream?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, an ex-wife dream.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant nods solemnly." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "I understand -- we've all been through similar things. It can be overcome." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Swallow the blood and conclude.) \"Let's talk to our perp again. That's the next step in the *task chain*.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Okay,\" he replies simply." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He's still worried. You must have really thrashed and squealed in your sleep." } ], [ { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.inspect_traps_2_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Hello, sweetie. How are you?\" She sounds tired." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Dark circles around her eyes. She's absolutely exhausted." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She asked about you because she's afraid to hear about the traps. But that's what she really wants news of." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Lena, what's wrong? You seem different.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Different -- how?\" The half-moons of her glasses reflect you as she looks up at you." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Answering a question with a question, for example -- defensive isn't her usual style." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're... on the back foot.\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"I'm... in doubt, sweetie. That's all. Everyone is, now and then.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You're in doubt? About what?\"" }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"It's... a strange feeling.\" She looks down, biting her lower lip. \"I haven't really told this to anyone, but... you *are* a police officer.\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "And when a police officer asks -- you must answer." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Do you ever wonder if some lovely story from your childhood is just that... a story? Or a dream?\"" }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Hunching her shoulders now, she seems even smaller than she is. Like a sad young girl." }, { "actor": "Lena, the Cryptozoologist's wife", "dialogue": "\"Seeing the Insulindian phasmid was just a story I used to tell people. I didn't really think about whether it was *real* or not.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "So this is where they brought faulty pinball machines to fix them up -- a long time ago. Everything is covered with dust now..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Could this mean the Whirling-in-Rags really *is* part of the Doomed Commercial Area?\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Yes. It would mean that." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "And Garte would not like that. He should probably be made aware that his establishment is part of the neighbourhood ghost story." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This used to be a... pinball workshop.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Looks like it. I'm guessing Martinaise North 22 used to be a pinball arcade before it became a hostel. There are machines left over...\" He taps his foot." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "A creak, some dust falls off a shelf." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you killed him?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Oh the inhumanity...\" He closes his black eyes. \"One paramilitary less in Revachol.\" You can almost see him squeeze a tear out of his eye. His fists begin to tremble from the anger." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How did you...\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I *had* them in my sights, both of them -- him and the whore. I was breathing with them, in phase, and I pulled the trigger and flew on the air until I landed in his mouth...\" He begins to smile." }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I didn't think I had a shot like that in me anymore. I did. I saw him kneel there with his mouth full of death and that stupid look on his face.\" The smile quivers. \"And his dick still in her...\"" }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "There. A hot flash of rage almost carries the smile away. Some dark piece..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Then what?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Nothing. I went to sleep. Next morning there were May bells everywhere. The world was white -- or what's left of it anyway. My last spring here... I knew the fascists would come to avenge their own...\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"And so they did.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Fuckin' hell...\" The kid looks at him for one, maybe two seconds, breathing heavy with excitement." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Be very very precise now... don't make a splash, you can still mess it up." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I just fuckin' nailed you. Supercop of Jamrock.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? Who did then?\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You should implicate *yourself*. Throw yourself onto the embrasure, chest first!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It was someone *else* -- someone who's not here now.\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"How fucking *convenient*...\" He gives you a drunken stare -- then puts his hand on the gun." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "His fingers are twitching. That's a draw reflex. He's about to draw." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Actually, they *are* here.\" (Point to the enemy) \"It was one of you.\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"One of *us*? You saying we...\" There's a dangerous gleam in his eye. \"What if I just shot one of your pals here right now, huh?\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"How about the kipt?\" He points his gun at Elizabeth. \"Go ahead, tell me we fucking killed our own colonel one more time...\"" }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"Listen, please!\" She raises both hands. \"This cop and this drumhead court martial won't decide who...\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "He's gonna do it, he's gonna shoot her!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing. Just stand there." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_you_think_this_is_funny\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "He pulls the trigger. A plume of smoke erupts from the muzzle." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "The shot rings in your ears -- a low tinny ring. Then the Hardie boys yell something..." }, { "actor": "The Gardener", "dialogue": "\"I'm okay... I'm okay...\" The woman staggers backward, crouches, then grabs her left side. Her white shirt soaks a blood red around her abdomen and she gasps for air." } ], [ { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "His eyes move from you to the lights dancing on the walls." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"By the way... do you, um, happen to have any *guns*? Like the ones carried by cops?\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.find_any_info_on_gun\"] == true and Variable[\"TASK.find_any_info_on_gun_done\"] == false and Variable[\"TASK.find_your_sidearm_done\"] == false]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"Someone else came here earlier today asking the same question -- I promptly sold her the gun you pawned a couple days back.\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "WHAT? *Sold*?!" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "This is a pawn shop... And it *did* feel as if you've met before. Oh god..." }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Wait, I *sold* you my gun?\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"You... uhh...\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "With Kim here too?! That just sounded really, really bad." }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"You were adamant about getting rid of it, officer.\" He hesitates. \"Said you were *undeserving* of a service weapon of the Revachol Citizens Militia.\"" }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "\"And I don't like keeping guns around the shop for long. Off-the-charts photon emissions. The unhealthy kind.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He's not telling you the whole story. It seems he's trying to spare you." }, { "actor": "Bird's Nest Roy", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Is there something here that would indicate a sniper used this place as a nest for taking the shot? Just some urban detritus, a bottle and a dilapidated old comms tower." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "The wind picks up. Fine sea foam lashes your face. It feels like needles. You can take it -- just raise your collar, detective." }, { "actor": "Perception", "dialogue": "In the distance you can hear the breakers roar." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Maybe the campfire was used by the perpetrator?" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "To warm his hands before he pulled the trigger? There are no markings on the ground for a tripod, he would have had to lie on a mattress. This is simply not a good spot for a 1.2 kilometre shot." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Maybe the assailant climbed the comms tower, took the shot there?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"It's not possible to climb that ladder and even if it were -- why? There's no platform up there to aim from.\" The lieutenant looks up, raising his collar." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "He looks like he's cold out here at the tip of the coast. The jacket is warm, but not for this weather." } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Woah! What have we here?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "A bridge?" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "A bridge with loose nails and rot-infested wood that creaks in the wind. A construction code violation if there ever was one!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Guess I'll have to take my chances." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Guess so. Just be careful out there! One false step could cost you dearly!" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.alaineugene_bad_greet\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.alaineugene_gud_greet\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_i_didnt_do_nothing_those_guys_did\"] or Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_theory_hardie\"]]" }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "Seeing you approach, the bruised man clenches his fists." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsCunoInParty()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_spiritbomb_succeeded\"] or Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_shot_kortenaer_success\"]]" }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "\"Oh, it's you... Didn't think we'd see you walking any time soon.\" He looks to the man sitting behind him. \"Alain, look, it's the killer cop.\"" }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"Uh... what?\" He looks up, his eyes full of confusion, as if he'd just woken from a deep sleep." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "He's very, *very* drunk." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Our condolences for your losses,\" he says with a little nod, but the remaining Hardie boys don't seem to register his words." } ], [ { "actor": "Fat Angus", "dialogue": "*wheezy breathing*" } ], [ { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "*Bratan*, now is the time!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Go away necktie. You're just a figment of my imagination." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "*Bratan*, don't push me away. I want to be there for you. Also -- how can you be sure *you* are not just a figment of *my* imagination?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Get lost, necktie! I don't want to be your friend." }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "But, *bratan*... I... I understand. (The tie loosens around your neck.) I just wanted you to have fun. I... I never meant to be a burden." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Necktie, you and I are done. Both professionally -- and as friends. Begone! (End the tie.)" }, { "actor": "Horrific Necktie", "dialogue": "The lifeless necktie looks like a colourful intestine of some dead animal: oily, alien and otherwise disgusting. What could have driven a man to wear something so repulsive around his neck?" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Seems you'll never learn the answer to that question." } ], [ { "actor": "Dried Wildflower", "dialogue": "Six crumbling petals rest on your palm. They're white, a bell-shaped crown." }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Somewhere in Central Jamrock, Lieutenant Kitsuragi steps into the public library, rows of shelves pass on either side... you feel he should be here for in-depth flower analysis." } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Sorry, but you just don't have it in you right now." }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"What were you even trying to do, man? I believe you can overcome your problems eventually, if you purge yourself of your wilfulness and seek the Mother's guidance. But *this*, right now, would be some suicidal shit.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You know, there are some speedfreaks around here who call you 'the crab-man'.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"*Un Cangrejo*!\" He laughs. \"Never thought of myself as a crab. More like... a flame flickering among the rafters and beams...\" He pauses. \"It may be that I gotta work on my technique.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "That's not the only technique he's working on. Look at those carved sculptures. And is that a satchel of tools over there?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"To be fair, it's really more like a spider. But everyone calls you the crab-man.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"It don't bother me none. Crab's no worse than a man, if you think about it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What are you doing here?\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"This is a special place. There's a perforation in the world up there. A way out, into nothingness.\" He nods toward the ceiling. \"This church was built around it, for purposes of veneration.\"" }, { "actor": "Tiago", "dialogue": "\"I circle it, nurtured by the silence bestowed by the Mother. One of these days, I'll be pure enough to go drink from it directly.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "On the cover of the book there's a wall of concrete buildings, with a black-and-white rainbow over them. It's written by someone from a country where even rainbows are black and white." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look through the display of books." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "You see a foamy mass of pinks and reds... colourful covers filled with risqu\u00e9 imagery. These books are most oft adorned by women in skimpy clothes, thighs revealed... a few roses and sometimes even some pistols." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "They also tend to feature chisel-jawed men in dark suits. It's all such... glitzy garbage." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I think I'd enjoy reading a few of these." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "No, you wouldn't. Being a rough, *hard-boiled* detective, you hope for something more real... more *authentic*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Storekeep, what's on this shelf?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Oh, such wonderful, beautiful stories. Stories of love!\" She sighs wistfully. \"You should definitely buy these.\"" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.book_wc_trigger_bad_romance\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"To be honest, I'm looking for something more *real*.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"No-no, sir, you don't want that. That's not proper romance... romance is about overcoming adversity and finding that *single millionaire* who wants to take care of you until the end of days.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Does anything more real, more *you* stand out?" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "A Brief Look at Infra-Materialism", "dialogue": "You spend a moment contemplating the cover's slightly unnerving swirl of orange, yellow, and green." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Put the book away.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Mysterious Pair of Eyes", "dialogue": "The eerie pair of blue eyes is still here, gazing out from the dark void between the gates." }, { "actor": "Mysterious Pair of Eyes", "dialogue": "\"Boo! The eyes of Martinaise are upon you, piggy!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Are you the company lookout Joyce hinted at?\"" }, { "actor": "Mysterious Pair of Eyes", "dialogue": "\"Wouldn't you like to know, fuckstick!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Can you please not call me names?\"" }, { "actor": "Mysterious Pair of Eyes", "dialogue": "\"Sure thing, pisspig, ha ha ha.\" The eyes blink rapidly. \"Oh, and no, I'm not some fuckin' 'lookout' for the *leeches*.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"God fuck, don't do that, you lunatic.\"" }, { "actor": "Mysterious Pair of Eyes", "dialogue": "\"Do what, look?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes!\"" }, { "actor": "Mysterious Pair of Eyes", "dialogue": "\"We are the eyes, we cannot be closed... if one pair shuts, another takes its place, ha ha!\" The eyes grow wide and ominous." } ], [ { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.vicquemare_main_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"You look like shit.\" Your ruffled face reflects in the man's sunglasses." }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"And I don't mean that as a metaphor.\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "You can't leave it like that -- spin it on its head. ENGAGE CAPS LOCK." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "No, you don't -- you look like a young god." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I know, it's intentional.\"" }, { "actor": "Horse-Faced Woman", "dialogue": "\"Like undercover?\" The woman in the RCM uniform interjects." }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"Well, as far as disguises go, this is one of the best I've seen... I mean, I could swear you're an actual bum!\"" }, { "actor": "Horse-Faced Woman", "dialogue": "\"C'mon, Jean...\" The woman next to him sighs. \"It looks like it's been a rough week on him.\"" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "\"It's not just this week.\" He scans you from head to toe. \"What do you want?\"" }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "There's something about this guy that *matches* with a face in your head. A similar, but different face." }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.viquemare_viscal_familiar\"]]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "The suit, the sunglasses, the haircut... he's *famous*. That's how you know his face." }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Man with Sunglasses", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.viquemare_logic_antipassive_he_is_famous\"] or Variable[\"whirling.vicquemare_disguise_asked\"] == true) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Gendarmerie! You found me.\" The young man on the balcony gives you a bright smile, before taking another drag from his cigarette." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "Somewhere in the distance a baby cries over a blasting radio. There's a family argument reaching its crescendo in an upstairs apartment, while around the corner the air conditioners drone." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It feels like a Friday. He seems to be in a good mood today." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "And his shirt is still unbuttoned." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I found a key hidden under a stone. Was it yours?\" (Show him the key.)" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"It was mine. My friends use it from time to time to visit me.\" As he looks at you, something sparkles in his eyes." }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"So tell me, are you here to make things *right* again?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm not going to make things just *right*, I'm going to make them *spectacular*.\"" }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"Beautiful,\" he says again. A nearby street lamp casts shadows on his chin, drawing out the slender cheekbones." }, { "actor": "Smoker on the Balcony", "dialogue": "\"I have some good news for you. My Sunday friend is visiting me tonight. I told him about you and he'd like to say hello. Step in, he's already waiting.\" He nods towards door #28." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why would I want to meet your friend?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Mm, these are some wonderfully regular pants. Not too tight, not too loose -- moderate in every sense. You'll blend right in at some pleasant dinner party." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I like regular, normal things." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "Mhm, I know you do. These interisolary pants are like wearing a perfect *compromise* in your nether regions. No one will call the Moralintern on you like this, that's for sure." }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "You're a little more moralist now, buddy. A little more *normal*. Even if you didn't want to be." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Makes sense. This is what wearing boring office trousers does to you." } ], [ { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "Several maps have been attached to a bulletin board hidden inside the alcove. They're held up by small pins. The board has come loose from one corner." }, { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "The maps look old and faded. Your eye catches a map of Insulinde, a map of Revachol, and a map of Martinaise." }, { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Map Wall", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.buy_a_map_of_martinaise\"] and Variable[\"TASK.buy_a_map_of_martinaise_done\"] == false and CheckItem(\"map_of_martinaise\") == false) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"ARTEMITEP's Boxing for Young Athletes & Gym.\"" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.doorbell_punched_the_doorbell\"]]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "Congratulations, you've destroyed Artemitep's Boxing Club's doorbell. It's not working anymore." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"ARTEMITEP's Boxing for Young Athletes & Gym.\"" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.doorbell_punched_the_doorbell\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "All you hear is static, but no one answers the call." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"East Delta Pinball (Entrance from building B).\"" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "Silence. No one answers your call." } ], [ { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Petty-bourgeois law...\" He snorts and spits. \"This is all you care about, right? The only thing in the world for you types...\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "A drop of blood in the saliva..." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Tear into him again. Pile it on him." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Lie! You have a witness." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"May bells -- behind the victim's window! I saw them growing *here*.\" (Point to them.)" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"Damn May bells...\" He looks at the blossoming field: \"The whole island is turning white with them...\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He seems tender suddenly, nostalgic even. A strange mood swing." }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"So many this year too. The spring is coming, no... it's already here. Wash the filth away...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You've been in Martinaise your whole life -- know any... secret paths?\"" }, { "actor": "The Deserter", "dialogue": "\"I may...\" A strange tremor passes his face." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You've been in Martinaise your whole life -- know any... secret paths?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Try to establish a connection." } ], [ { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "You'll be leading this conversation, so wherever you take it, they'll be glad to follow." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's the theoretical parts I'm interested in. The third-level stuff.\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"Oh, yes. Or the *fun parts*, as we like to call them.\"" }, { "actor": "Echo Maker", "dialogue": "His companion nods his head with expectation." } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "This bookstore is not *strictly* about crime, romance, and biographies of famous people -- there's also a wide range of paranatural literature." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Find something truly otherworldly." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.book_wc_what_is_actually_paranatural\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You sense something ominous emanating from the shelf... but it lacks form and substance, and soon enough you lose track of it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look through the shelf." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "Amidst the various books you find one written by someone named Matthias W. Dundas. It's about \"Wholeness, Unity, Balance\"." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "These three things are very important to the working-class mind." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "The point of the book, and many others on this shelf, is to give people medicinal advice in situations where they don't have access to paid health services." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How does that work?" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "It serves platitudes, while also telling everyone that traditional medicine (the kind people don't have access to, and which costs more than this book) is garbage, and would only give you cancer anyway, without even curing your cold or anything." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "\"Wholeness, Unity, Balance\" on the other hand, can basically take care of anything. Though it is important to note..." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "\"When it's up to your mind to heal yourself, then it's because of your mind that you're *ill* in the first place.\"" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "It's your own fault if you're ill, got it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Does the book say anything else?" } ], [ { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.inside_shack\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.dreamtwo_open_case\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "The bed is cold and not particularly inviting, but it's yours. The sheets look awful..." }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.bed_tutorial_shown\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Tutorial Agent", "dialogue": "The option to go to sleep becomes available every night after 21.00." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Go to sleep." }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"auto.inside_shack\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Bed", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "Listen to the wind -- but for *what*? Ruby whistling? The crackle of her bonfire? Some errant whisper, or a dog barking..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Shake off the feeling." }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "The writing rises in front of you, its ancient carton wet from the coastal air." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Listen to the wind again." }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"boardwalk.feld_mural_shivers_white_succeeded_two\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.feld_mural_shivers_white_failed_thrice\"]]" }, { "actor": "Shivers", "dialogue": "For what? God? God is very, very silent. Too silent. Even the wind seems tired..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Pull on your knowledge to understand what caused the twins to hear radio in their heads." }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.mural_encycloedia_pass_check\"]]" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "You know a lot about radio. Enough to know: You have no idea how or why those boys heard Speedfreaks FM in their heads." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "Knowledge like that isn't just obscure; it's unknowable. Dangerous theoretical facts like that are probably protected under the Coalition Government's Articles of Dominion, Title XIV, Article 7c. While an expert might be able to suss it out on their own, a layman like you has no hope." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "You don't know how it happened. But the stores of your knowledge are vast and there *is* something crucial in them." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What's that?" } ], [ { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.replaced_viscal_success_read\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.locate_ruby_on_the_coast_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.arrest_klaasje_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "Light from the desk lamp reflects off the glass in an untarnished golden halo. The glass is pristine and utterly silent." }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Clear Window", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We need to do ballistics on this -- understand where the shot came from once and for all.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.sense_viscal_greeting_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "Starting from the right: Boot size 44. Blond man in his thirties. Overbearingly masculine." }, { "actor": "Composure", "dialogue": "Wants the world to know he's a macho-macho man: tobacco-chewing and knuckle cracking. Who else do we have here?" }, { "actor": "Theo", "dialogue": "Sitting on his right: standard working boots, size 45 or 46. Eldest in the room, probably mid-fifties. Smoker, quiet." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Coughs a lot." }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "Across, at the other table: hobnailed working boots, size 43. Gang tattoos. Mesque or Saramirizian. In his late thirties/early forties." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "He spent his youth in Villalobos, a housing project in the Jamrock Quarter. There were incarcerations. Hard to say what else -- the ink is fading." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardeie_scan_the_room_encyclo_fired\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "A symmetric burn on his neck, resembling the letters *Los Los*. Has he tried to burn it off, leave that life behind?" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "And then -- standard working boot, steel reinforced toes, size 46. The big dick. Wide at the shoulders and lean at the hips. Rugby cap, fingerless gloves, and numerous scars, a little under forty." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "The emblem on his vest says 'Rowing club'. A little patch below it reads: 'T. Hardie, Captain'." }, { "actor": "Eugene", "dialogue": "In the far corner: standard working boot, steel reinforced toes, size 44. Forty-something, non-alcoholic beverage in hand. (You squint.) Is that a *plectrum*?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "And the little guy?" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "Size 41, with the light step. Not a child after all -- an older man with a rat-face; mean watery eyes and two front teeth missing." }, { "actor": "Fat Angus", "dialogue": "In the middle, heaving and wheezing: big guy, boot size 46, deep marks. Probably carried the victim over. He alone is 130 kilos; add the man in armour and you could easily exceed 220." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "Awful smell. His feet stink from all the way over there, despite having boots on." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "In conclusion: these seven are the actors on the crime scene. The footprints were theirs, but there's a *discrepancy*." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Seems like something police would do. What do you think of all this, Kim?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Honestly, I'm quite worried by what we've seen so far. The evidence seems to point to a rather extensive and well-organized operation.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.abandoned_seen_radio\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm especially intrigued by that radio transmitter -- particularly the sheer number of stations it can connect. Looks like this alleged drug trade casts a wide net.\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "This means it's well funded. Technology like that... a major player must be financing it." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.abandoned_seen_article\"] == true]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I'm not sure what the ULAN frequencies are all about, but they may hold some significance. Perhaps it's a better way to connect between fleets while avoiding frequency bleed, or maybe it's used to tap into RCM networks...\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Listening in on your calls? Between you and your station? A worrying prospect..." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"jam.abandoned_seen_maps\"] == true) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.confront_hardie_about_drug_trade\"]]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardie_went_through_ruby_info\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"And last but not least, it looks like the Hardie boys knew this driver, as we know that she was present at the lynching. This may be the Union connection we've been searching for.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I found someone who saw the hanging. A witness.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"A witness?\" The tall man crosses his arms on his chest. \"You ain't got shit. The locals would never come to you with this.\"" }, { "actor": "Alain", "dialogue": "\"That's just cop-tactics, Titus. Next he's gonna tell you one of us already rolled on the others -- and is in witness protection.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Let's just drop this.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Your fake witness?\" Titus rubs his chin. \"Yeah, let's do that before this gets embarrassing.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Guess what: I've come upon something incriminating.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Incriminating... now that's a big boy word.\" He puts his beer can down." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I have spoken to the dead man -- in a *bizarre* occult vision.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"That *is* fucking bizarre. A magic-man, a goddamn magician...\" he shakes his head." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Just keep it simple. He said they killed him. These uninitiated do not understand the fineries of Runic Science." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"He said love did him in.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Barry the Butcher", "dialogue": "\"This is outrageous.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Not top-of-the-line glass. Hope he never has to rely on it.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you have an... alibi? For when Lely was shot?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Man, I was with the boys the whole night. I hope they at least bothered to impress *that* upon you.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"There were... ten minutes they couldn't account for.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"You mean, the length of a toilet break? That wouldn't even have been enough time.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"No one takes a...\" -- the lieutenant winces from the pain -- \"fifteen-minute leak.\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"Look, fuck you, man. I might have also stopped by the bar.\"" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "She speaketh truth." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Did you leave any... flowers for Klaasje on the roof?\"" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"No, gifts of flowers and candy aren't really my style.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"These weren't just flowers -- they... symbols... of... Revolution.\" (Push through the pain.)" }, { "actor": "Ruby, the Instigator", "dialogue": "\"So now I'm leaving Revolutionary symbols around... Come on.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Was that... pity? For you? She sees you're grasping for straws here." } ], [ { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"church.ravers_inside_church\"]]" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"ice.acelegreeting_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Hey there.\" The girl with an electronic recording apparatus turns to you as you approach." }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Thanks for helping us out. My associates and I are settling in here nicely. Even found some new associates.\" She turns back to her work, whistling softly..." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Why does that melody sound so familiar?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What are you doing?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Recording the audio coming through the wooden framework. I bet it's pretty cool. Creaks and stuff. Sounds like when you're underwater, you know?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Oh, is that what the device is for?\" (Point to it.)" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"This?\" She taps on the electronic device. \"Yeah, it's a portable recording device. For field recording. Low quality, but still.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"And the wires?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Actually just one wire, I picked on it till the braiding came loose. The wire leads to a contact microphone.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What is a *contact microphone*?\"" }, { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"A contact mic is a microphone that records sounds from inside things. Like all this wood.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why would anyone do that?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's not Cuno. It's Cunoesse." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Interesting. How?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Cunoesse is by far the worst of the two. Cuno has no problem being near you, but the other hides behind the fence, afraid for her life, like she's *done* something. Something very bad." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"yard.cuno_punchhub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cunoesse_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Also, Cuno hasn't stopped talking to you. Even enjoys it from time to time. When you talk to the other one it's like talking to a cornered animal. She only hisses." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cunoesse_reaction_speed_shes_a_girl\"]]" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "And then there's the fact that she's a girl. And appears to be a little younger, certainly smaller. And yet Cuno is afraid of her. What's up with *that*, Cuno?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "All in all, Cuno respects madness. You cannot hope to outdo her on that front. You must win yourself a few minutes with him alone." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Interesting. How?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Cunoesse is by far the worst of the two. Cuno has no problem being near you, but the other hides behind the fence, afraid for her life, like she's *done* something. Something very bad." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Oranjese Passport", "dialogue": "This passport, issued by the Sovereign Republic of Oranje -- is issued to a black haired woman called Katarzine Alasije." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Klaasje's hidden documents...\" The lieutenant looks at it in your hands. \"From the empty buoy.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It says -- Katarzine Alasije.\"" }, { "actor": "Oranjese Passport", "dialogue": "And not *Annouk Meijer-Smit*. Like she told you. Annouk -- Meijer -- Smit. Remember? You got lied to. Again." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "This Katarzine Alasije -- it's safe to say it's not her either. In short: you got lied to, sire. Maybe it's best we let her go -- at least we don't have to question her again." } ], [ { "actor": "Acele", "dialogue": "\"Oh, here we go...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Strikebreaker", "dialogue": "\"You think you're better than us?! You're not!!!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm coming.\" (Climb down.)" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"church.soona_archer_working_soona\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "\"About time. You grab that amp. Forget the cables. Need to leave some evidence of our antenna to inspire future generations...\"" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"jam.warship_turned_down_archer\"]]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Script: SetVariableValue(\"character.committee_of_la_responsabilite\", true) --[[ Variable[ ]]]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.make_the_music_harder_core_done\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "\"Alright, cop-man. We've held up more than our share of this collaboration. I hope you *recognise* how much the hardcore underground came through for you.\"" }, { "actor": "Andre", "dialogue": "\"If you want to show your appreciation, we could still use your help. Egg is the one to talk to.\"" }, { "actor": "Egg Head", "dialogue": "\"HARD CORE! MUTUAL AID!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"It's been good working with you... gentlemen.\"" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "\"No need to fake it, we know you're still a cop at heart...\"" }, { "actor": "Noid", "dialogue": "\"I'll put this tech away later. Think there's an extra can set, in case you want to grab a *souvenir* or something. Don't think anyone will miss it.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"TASK.get_yourself_organised_cancelled\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"apt.student_main_hub_reached\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"apt.student_left_pre_main_hub\"]]" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquipped(\"jacket_interisolar_white\") and Variable[\"apt.student_jacket_discussed\"] == false]" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"You know,\" the young man looks up at you as you enter, \"if you wanted to borrow my jacket, you could've just *asked*...\"" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "It looks better on you, anyway. He never had the shoulders for it." }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"But no matter. What's on your mind?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What were you doing with those matchboxes just now?\"" }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "The young man frowns at the little pile of boxes on the floor." }, { "actor": "Steban, the Student Communist", "dialogue": "\"Nothing, just messing around until the meeting started.\"" }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "They're watching those matchboxes awfully intently for two guys who are just 'messing around.'" } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He's not accustomed to exposing his doubt like this." } ], [ { "actor": "Klaasje (Miss Oranje Disco Dancer)", "dialogue": "\"Hello again, officer.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "What happened here?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "You can't foreclose on an apartment with a hole in the wall." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "It will still be accessible through the apartment next to it. That one didn't have a door... Sadly, nothing of great value remains here." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "There's always a little something in the fridge." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Indeed!" } ], [ { "actor": "Wirr\u00e2l", "dialogue": "Large letters on the front form a title: \"Wirr\u00e2l.\" The colourful box is illustrated with bucolic vistas. The cover art also features odd-looking humanoids, some short, some taller, some with pointy ears, others with ephemeral wings." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Examine the box." }, { "actor": "Wirr\u00e2l", "dialogue": "Text underneath the title, in smaller typeface, reads: \"Third Edition, Mega-Setting Supplements Module.\" The side panel adds: \"A sword and sorcery adventure board game. With new maps and miniatures.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look at the back." }, { "actor": "Wirr\u00e2l", "dialogue": "A blurb on the back reads: \"Tired of the tedium and toil of modern life? Escape to Wirr\u00e2l! Leave behind isolas and nations with their petty squabbles. Discard electricity, magnets, and boring technological widgets...\"" }, { "actor": "Wirr\u00e2l", "dialogue": "\"Succumb to a world of high-Pasternal fantastique, unleash your imagination and create an adventure of endless possibilities. Discover the terrible secret threatening Wirr\u00e2l -- can your band of adventurers save the world?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Definitely not, it sounds too dangerous." }, { "actor": "Wirr\u00e2l", "dialogue": "It's not dangerous, it's fun, structured fun! All you have to do is read an intricate rulebook, study an assortment of maps, unfold the illustrated gameboard, and start rolling dice." }, { "actor": "Wirr\u00e2l", "dialogue": "In no time you could be romping through grasslands with low-level characters, hunted by iyskel riders... or battling unspeakable monsters in endless dungeons fraught with danger and despair, conjuring up forceful maegics to aid your quest." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Don't forget heated arguments escalating to physical confrontation with your friends." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "And beer. Lots of beer." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "And most importantly, never forget to rage-quit if the dice don't go your way!" } ], [ { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? Who did then?\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You should implicate *yourself*. Throw yourself onto the embrasure, chest first!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "(Point to the coast) \"It was Ruby.\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"Yeah? Who the FUCK is Ruby?!\" He puts his hand on the gun." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "His fingers are twitching. That's a draw reflex. He's about to draw." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"A suspect! Ruby is a suspect we chased down on the coast. She was hiding...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"She's wrapped up in some really dangerous La Puta Madre stuff.\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"You think I'm fucking *stupid*, cop?\" There's a dangerous gleam in his eye. \"What if I just shot one of your pals here right now, huh?\"" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "\"How about the kipt?\" He points his gun at Elizabeth. \"Go ahead -- tell me about some *puta* one more time...\"" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Bad argument -- he doesn't know local mobsters..." }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"Listen, please!\" She raises both hands. \"This cop and this drumhead court martial won't decide who...\"" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "He's gonna do it, he's gonna shoot her!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Think! THINK! Why doesn't he believe me?" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.tribunal_logic_rc_to_prevent_gardener_death\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Your mind grinds to a halt. All you can see is the revolver in the man's armoured hand -- swaying, pointed at her. You move your mouth like a fish gasping for air..." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Thank you for your time!\" [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Fabron's Taxi...\" (The rest has been burned off.)" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "Looks like someone has melted half the plastic off with a lighter -- the doorbell doesn't work anymore." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Emma's Fashion Atelier.\"" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "You wait for a minute or two, but all you get from the call box is silence -- no one answers the call." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"ARTEMITEP's Boxing for Young Athletes & Gym.\"" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.doorbell_punched_the_doorbell\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "All you hear is static, but no one answers the call." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Slipstream SCA.\"" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "You hear static from the intercom speaker. It sounds as if someone has picked up the receiver, but isn't saying anything." } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"What with?\" She tries hard to focus on the book stand." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "What *with*? A lot of things! For example, people tend to go *missing*." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "This citizen thinks she can do without your assistance? Don't buy it. They all need help." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Help her by... carrying things? Uhm... maybe she needs a weightlifter? Maybe she needs you to *fight* her husband? No, that's not it..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"You were right that I'm a cockatoo.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"Excuse me?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I went and read up on them, just like you said. And I even decided on what kind of a cockatoo I am. Want to know?\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"I don't know, the most talkative one?\" She's ready to put that question aside." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No, I'm the bang-bang cockatoo.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"The what now?!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The bang-bang cockatoo. It's the most common one.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "The woman looks baffled by your personal revelation. \"You truly are one *strange* cop, aren't you?\" she says, slowly shaking her head." }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.find_working_class_husband\"]]" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "The wind brings a strand of hair to her rough face. \"I have a strange cop offering to find my stupid husband. What a day...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Do you smoke?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cindy the SKULL", "dialogue": "\"Look at me when I'm talking to you.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant clears his throat. \"Detective -- aren't you forgetting something?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"We still have to deal with her...\" He adjusts his coat. \"Not pleasant, I know. But we can't leave her like that. And we have to investigate the scene, too.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yeah, you're right. Let's get it over with.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He gestures back toward the tunnels. \"After you.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Of course, let us dispatch with the formalities, you call me Evrart, I call you Harry!\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Is that my name?\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "For a fraction of a second the big man looks at you inquisitively. \"Experiencing partial amnesia, are we, Harry?\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "It might be a good idea to hide your confusion, see what his game is first." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"To be honest, my memory is a bit hazy right now, yes.\"" }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"I guess the stress of peace-keeping and order-maintaining can get even to the best of us.\" He scratches his earlobe." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"Don't be too hard on yourself, officer. And if there's *anything* I can help you with, please don't hesitate to ask.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Do *not* trust him. For all you know, it might be *his* name by which he is addressing you. You need confirmation." }, { "actor": "Evrart Claire", "dialogue": "\"I'm sure you had some concerns you thought I might be able to address.\" He pauses to look at a brown folder on his desk. \"And you were probably right.\"" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "The huge block letters on the folder read \"HARRIER DU BOIS\". There's something in small writing just above that..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I've just finished investigating the local drug trade.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" } ], [ { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kortenaer", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.kipt\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "*Kipt* is a pejorative term used to describe people of Semenese descent." } ], [ { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.report_to_cryptozoologists_1\"]]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.morell_refused_to_restock_trap\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.morell_white_check_succeeded\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.report_to_cryptozoologists_1_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"Hello! Lena and I were just discussing the design of the new trap.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"How did you become a *cryptozoologist*?\"" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.morell_cryptozoology\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Morell, the Cryptozoologist", "dialogue": "\"I've just always liked animals, and puzzles. Searching for cryptids is a bit of both.\"" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "He seems reluctant to talk about himself, but he'll open up -- if you prod a little." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Thanks for explaining that. Now, about something else.\" (Conclude.)" } ], [ { "actor": "Nightwatchman's Booth", "dialogue": "This is the nightwatchman's booth. The name on the door reads *Ren\u00e9 Arnoux*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Maybe Ren\u00e9 is hiding something interesting here. (Search the booth.)" }, { "actor": "Nightwatchman's Booth", "dialogue": "Nothing incriminating catches your eye. The cabinets are clean and their sparse contents meticulously organized. Apart from the uniform, the only noteworthy item is a framed photograph on the table." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Looks like the inhabitant is rather pedantic when it comes to order." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Leave the picture alone." } ], [ { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.feld_mural_main_hub_reached\"]]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "The once-bright mural towers above you, saying \"FELD ELECTRICAL R&D.\"" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Feld Mural", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"boardwalk.mural_look_in\"] and IsKimHere() == false]" }, { "actor": "Esprit de Corps", "dialogue": "Somewhere in Martinaise, Lieutenant Kitsuragi is consulting his notebook... A sudden draught turns a page between his hands. You're going to need him if you want to listen to the wind." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Scab Leader", "dialogue": "\"LET US THROUGH, LOINCLOTHS!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"All right, so you got Cuno's kilo.\" He rubs his hands together. \"Here is how we do it. First, you give Cuno Cuno's kilo. Then Cuno gives you half back.\"" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"That's how we split it -- it's the *best* way. Street way.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"All right. Fair is fair.\" (Give Cuno the vial.)" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Whooh that's heavy...\" He waves the minuscule bottle around, then slips it into his coat pocket." }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "Out comes another, similar vial -- from the sock above his running shoe. \"Here you go -- *more* than half in there. Cuno's fuckin' honourable like that.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"Now tell me, how the fuck are you still alive, pig?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I did right not to give you the drugs. Let's conclude this.\" (End the conversation.)" }, { "actor": "Cuno", "dialogue": "\"That didn't change shit, pig. That only made things worse. Fucking social worker shit... It doesn't *work* pig.\"" }, { "actor": "Cunoesse", "dialogue": "\"It doesn't work, Cuno! Only our shit works.\"" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "She must repeat it. Use every chance to confirm that version of reality." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "She tries to bind their fates together. She needs him. Bad." } ], [ { "actor": "Bathtub", "dialogue": "This is not the cleanest bathtub in the world, but it's cleaner than you are right now." }, { "actor": "Perception (Smell)", "dialogue": "Ah, that soap scum smell. It smells like life. At least compared to you." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I want to live forever with the corpse smell. Memento mori and stuff. [Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Klaasje's Note", "dialogue": "\"I'm sorry I fucked everyone over.\n\nPS. I didn't kill him.\n\nPPS. Gift upstairs.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "[Leave.]" } ], [ { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Here we are again, my broken bird. The waves are coming... carrying you away... but you can't go. No -- you have to stay. Always half-aware of yourself." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "You're not *cooperating* brother-man." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Why?" }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "It's your disgusting *body*. Even through your sleep, you feel a vague discomfort suffusing it. Your belly and your sides are unpleasantly tender. You wish you could curl up into a foetal ball of safety, but you cannot -- because of the PAIN." }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "And there's a lot of it. Ever present in your organs. It's like every one of them has their own *nasty* song to sing." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "That pain in your right side is your enlarged liver, by the way. As for your kidneys... you've really been compounding the damage lately." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Every cell in your body is moaning in agony, asking, \"What did we ever do to you?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "It's all the system's fault. The system failed me." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Yes, your body is a system, and and it's failing you because you're failing it." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "I think I... need medical attention." }, { "actor": "Ancient Reptilian Brain", "dialogue": "Oh yes. *They'll* check you out, give you some pills, make it all okay. The wonder-makers." }, { "actor": "Limbic System", "dialogue": "Don't be stupid Harry, it's not happening. They don't make new *kidneys* and *livers* in hospital. All you've got to do is pray to god it passes -- while you *stare* at the flickering darkness." } ], [ { "actor": "Moneyman", "dialogue": "\"The laws of money are just like the laws of nature.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "This fan has two chain pull switches -- one ends in a tiny fan, the other in a light bulb. A truly horrific necktie has somehow attached itself to one of the blades." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "Or has it been consigned there as punishment? You feel as though this creature is your *friend* and wants to reattach itself to your neck. So that you may continue your adventures together in this strange world!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Grab the tie." }, { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.fan_caught_the_tie\"]]" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "You swoop up and catch the tie... Snap! It's released from the blade." }, { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.necktie_personified\"]]" }, { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "What you have in your hand is a fantastically colourful tie, with four or five different patterns. The knot reminds you of a noose." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "If it's your *friend*, why was it up there? Who ties their friend to a ceiling fan? Maybe this thing is dangerous somehow..." }, { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.fan_logic_doubt\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Grab the tie." }, { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Ceiling Fan", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.fan_caught_the_tie\"]) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "This bookstore is not *strictly* about crime, romance, and biographies of famous people -- there's also a wide range of paranatural literature." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"All right. I want to buy *Medicinal Purposes of the Pale*.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Indeed...\" She mumbles, staring at the book for a moment. \"Something about that book does seem to have spoken to you...\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Well, I hope it contains what you're looking for.\"" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"tc.turn_off_tutorial_node\"] or Variable[\"character.interactable_tutorial_seen\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Tutorial Agent", "dialogue": "You've acquired an interactable item. Investigate this item further by going to the INTERACT tab in your INVENTORY." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look through the shelf." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "Amidst the various books you find one written by someone named Matthias W. Dundas. It's about \"Wholeness, Unity, Balance\"." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "These three things are very important to the working-class mind." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "The point of the book, and many others on this shelf, is to give people medicinal advice in situations where they don't have access to paid health services." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How does that work?" }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "It serves platitudes, while also telling everyone that traditional medicine (the kind people don't have access to, and which costs more than this book) is garbage, and would only give you cancer anyway, without even curing your cold or anything." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "\"Wholeness, Unity, Balance\" on the other hand, can basically take care of anything. Though it is important to note..." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Paranormal Books", "dialogue": "\"When it's up to your mind to heal yourself, then it's because of your mind that you're *ill* in the first place.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Do you feel that?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Feel what?" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "That tingle on the back of your neck... like you're being *watched*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What, where? (Look around.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant is waiting patiently, tapping his foot lightly to a tune only he can hear." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "There, *the lieutenant*. Isn't it suspicious how he's always there, *watching* you, *listening* to you?" }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "Assume for the sake of argument that there's something to this inane conspiracy... If Seol is keeping tabs on everyone, maybe they can fill in some of your memory holes..." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Isn't that what you've always wanted, to be listened to?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Kim, is it true that your people are secretly spying on everyone?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"My... people? What are you talking about?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I just want to know what's in my personal file. Who am I? What happened to me? You owe me that much, at least.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant sighs, takes off his glasses, and breathes on the lenses, fogging up the glass. As he wipes them clean on his jacket, he begins speaking." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I respect you as a colleague, and so I will have this conversation with you, but only once.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"There is no Seolite Conspiracy, and even if there were, I would not be a part of it.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Why not?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"I was born and raised Revacholian. So was my mother. As for my father, I didn't know him, I don't know who he was. And I don't care. From what I've heard, he wasn't a very pleasant person to be around.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm sorry I doubted you even for a moment, Kim.\" (Lie.)" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "He leans back and studies you with a look of grave concern." } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Look her in the eye." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_volition_white_check\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasje_volition_white_failed_once\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "She looks back, time moves slowly. The triangles of her face rearranging into a weary smile..." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Don't worry. We will protect you from her beauty. We will *consult* you through the reefs and sounds of her persona." }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "We will see through deceits. You are shielded. You are wise." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "You are advised. There are muscles on long white bones that line her limbs, just below the silver jumpsuit..." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Miss Oranje Disco Dancer... You want to put your hand on her back and feel it arch." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is... happening?" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Nothing. Just time passing. Don't worry." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "You are not a *fool*." }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "Anything out of the ordinary and you would be notified." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "Air moves in your windpipe. Your heart beats. You're a detective -- get back to detecting." } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Mm, the luxury of fine things. Just look at those black monk straps! After spending an entire day hustling, who's to say that you *didn't* deserve a pair of ridiculously expensive shoes on your tired feet?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Oops, it's a fashion faux pas! [Discard the thought -- and the shoes!]" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Let's hope no one saw you wearing these outrageously expensive -- and ultraliberal! -- shoes." } ], [ { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Good, you're up. Listen, there's something that's been bothering you for a few days now." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is it?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It's a suspicion, or a feeling, really, that things are not quite *in hand* around here..." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "An earth-shattering deduction from your psyche. What will those guys come up with next?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Every day things seem to spin more and more wildly out of control. The centre isn't holding. And despite your efforts to *moderate* and *contain* these energies, things only seem to be getting worse." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, I thought things were going pretty well?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Oh, sure. You've been making progress on your case, interviewing people, *solving side tasks*..." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "But who's focusing on *the big questions*?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What am I supposed to do?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "You've got to find out who bears *la responsabilit\u00e9*." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What exactly *is* la responsabilit\u00e9?" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "The most awesome, terrible thing..." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "It is human nature to crave la responsabilit\u00e9 and to deny it. That's why it must be distributed across many different organisations, agencies, offices, and portfolios." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "In other words, it must be diffused across the entire bureaucracy, so that no one can ever truly say *who is responsible for what*." } ], [ { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"Yes?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Garte, I found a new bird... dammit, I FORGOT to take it with me!\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"I have no idea what you're talking about.\"" }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "It's a long *healthy* trek back to the village." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Back to the village -- then back here -- then back to the coast *again*... That must be 3 kilometres in total. Okay..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I seem to be in need of a fridge.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"Yes, yes. For the dead body. You want to put a dead *corpse* into my fridge, right?\"" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Correct him!" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.garte_reaction_very_important\"]]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"No. We want to put a *very important* dead body into your fridge.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"I don't care. You're not putting a dead body into my fridge.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I'm not gonna even ask why. You're just gonna say something mean.\"" }, { "actor": "Garte, the Cafeteria Manager", "dialogue": "\"This is a *culinary* establishment, not a morgue -- you don't have to ask me *why* you can't store a dead body in my kitchen.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Trap: Canal", "dialogue": "The trap is full of locusts, but they seem weak and unhealthy. A few lie on their backs with their legs twitching. Still no phasmid." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Poor things..." } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Biographies", "dialogue": "Shelves full of biographies of *famous people*, whoever they are." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Storekeep, anything of note in this shelf?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"I would say...\" The woman hums to herself. \"'The Greatest Innocence.' Yes, most certainly. It's an important educational tool, delving into the depths of history, religion, and their relation to *innocentic power*.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Who or what is an innocence?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"A very influential historical figure, but surely I don't have to tell you that.\" She waves her hand, as if casting aside the thought. \"You're a law officer and law officers have at least *some* education.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"The book is also very daring. The author aims to re-examine the universal understandings of the innocentic system, creating a fresh vantage point and a shift in the tired order of things.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I thought it was about which of these... innocences... is the coolest and greatest?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Perhaps for a layman!\" She scoffs. \"Deep analysis is necessary to peel back the multi-layered meanings.\"" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "Do her words seem vague and abstract to you?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"So you recommend it?\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Certainly. It's prudent for a person to have at least an elementary understanding of history and society. Imagine the chaos we'd be in otherwise.\"" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You feel like you should get this one. Definitely. It's *important* somehow. There is something personal inside..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Storekeep, anything of note in this shelf?\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Me and Evrart talked. He promised you'd cooperate.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Oh, so you went and talked to my mommy -- and now she's making me play with you?\" He spits. \"Is that it, lawman?\"" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "\"And what's going to happen if we don't?\" The little guy leans forward. \"You gonna go and *tell* on us?\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Very mature, guys. Evrart sent word, right?\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Yeah yeah, I heard him. The fuck do you think I'm doing here? You'd have your ass handed to you if it wasn't for the bossman's word.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Let me state this very clearly, coppo.\" He clears his throat and declares: \"Hello, officer! I'm Titus Hardie and these are my boys. Hardie boys. How may we assist you?\"" }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "Explosive laughter follows. To his men, Titus Hardie is a golden god. They want to laugh at his jokes even before they leave his lips. This guy is a born leader." }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "It would take an army to bend Titus to its will, but having Evrart back you up like that... did seem to have *some* effect." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Klaasje says she wasn't raped.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Fuck!\" The big man's eyes and veins bulge. \"I knew that fucking whore couldn't be trusted!\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.klaasjedoor_whore_yelled\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "You've hit a nerve. Titus is furious -- no, more than that -- the loyal Titus feels *betrayed*." }, { "actor": "Elizabeth", "dialogue": "\"For the record...\" she steps in, forcefully. \"Titus Hardie did not explicitly specify the *victim* as a whore. Nor did he say anything about trusting her.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"Oh, shut up and stay out of this, Liz!\" He turns back to you. \"He raped her. He was out of his fucking mind. You have no idea!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"We ask you one more time. Are you prepared to accept your responsibility?\"" }, { "actor": "Volition", "dialogue": "This is it, there's no turning back, no more pussyfooting about. You have to choose, once and for all." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Yes, I accept. Now, let's get me out of here.\"" }, { "actor": "Coalition Warship Archer", "dialogue": "\"Acknowledged. Laurel has initiated the extraction procedure. Stand by...\"" }, { "actor": "Horseback Antenna", "dialogue": "\"Marianne hat mir erz\u00e4hlt, dass Oskar nicht mehr derselbe ist, seit er auf einem Luftschiff... zur\u00fcckgekommen ist...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"The man hanged in the backyard -- did you do it?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"whirling.titus_big_dick_cop\"]]" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"So you're not just here to swing your big dick -- you're here for the Pretty Boy? A real looker that one...\" He shakes his head. \"Stinks like *shit* too.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"TASK.get_the_dead_body_down_from_the_tree_done\"]]" }, { "actor": "Shanky", "dialogue": "\"They love him, boss. Spent all day digging around in there. Can't get enough of that Pretty Boy smell.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Rhetoric", "dialogue": "Evidence. Show them you have it. It doesn't have to be conclusive." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"whirling.hardies_rhet_show_them_some_evidence\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "Just keep talking. Put something on the table. Something incriminating." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"I have spoken to the dead man -- in a *bizarre* occult vision.\"" }, { "actor": "Titus Hardie", "dialogue": "\"That *is* fucking bizarre. A magic-man, a goddamn magician...\" he shakes his head." }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "Just keep it simple. He said they killed him. These uninitiated do not understand the fineries of Runic Science." } ], [ { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "At the beginning of the book, ethnic unrest has taken Yugo-Graad by storm. Windows and mailboxes are smashed, motor carriages turned over and set on fire..." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "Black smoke hangs above cobblestones speckled with droplets of reddish-grey blood. Militant guardsmen, decked in heavy armour, have been called in to control the riots..." }, { "actor": "Shelf of Romance Stories", "dialogue": "As ethnic tensions run wild, a pair of young lovers meet each other on the street. Somehow, in the middle of all the chaos, they manage to lock arms and look into each other's eyes." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "That doesn't sound too bad..." } ], [ { "actor": "Frequency Fireplace", "dialogue": "This old fireplace is covered in lines drawn in blue and red marker, the mesh spreading over the stone like blood vessels on alabaster skin. It looks ghostly and strangely ancient." }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "A diagram for summoning some time-forgotten being? The symbols seem very esoteric." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "The whole thing resembles Kedran mosaic tiles. Very Pisantic." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What am I looking at?" }, { "actor": "Frequency Fireplace", "dialogue": "Radio frequencies, it seems. UKV123.6, UKV123.7, UKV123.9... some written notes too. Sparse and cryptic." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Radio frequencies for what?" }, { "actor": "Frequency Fireplace", "dialogue": "Unclear. It looks like a cardiovascular system, split into veins and capillaries. Very advanced." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Of course... (Narrow your eyes.) The anatomy of *the curse*." }, { "actor": "Frequency Fireplace", "dialogue": "Perhaps... The web is comprised of radio stations. All lead back to one red heart, titled: The Game Master Frequency. A note says: 'This one can listen in on any station it wants?!'" }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Looks like a surveillance programme..." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "They must have had *massive* airwidth. These things don't come cheap." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Wait, who's the Game Master?" }, { "actor": "Frequency Fireplace", "dialogue": "Someone very important." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "The leader of a massive on-air game built by these people." }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "A conductor for the hundreds of story threads that pass through the Game Master's Frequency." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "If it's a game, then who's playing?" }, { "actor": "Frequency Fireplace", "dialogue": "Whoever decides to call in to a call-in station, it looks like." } ], [ { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Main Hall, Building A.\"" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"doomed.doorbell_heard_plaisance\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "An off-key melody starts playing after you ring the doorbell... Then a woman picks up the receiver..." }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Cuno! Please stop calling here! Grown-ups don't have time for your stupid games.\"" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"yard.cuno_intro_hub\"]]" }, { "actor": "Drama", "dialogue": "She thinks you're the gremlin child! What would he say to this?" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"This is the police, please open the door.\"" }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"Oh, I'm sorry, officer, I thought you were...\" There's a spot of static that overrides her words." }, { "actor": "Plaisance", "dialogue": "\"...but the doorbell is broken and the bookstore shouldn't even be on the list anymore, so I can't help you. Please don't call here again. Thanks.\"" }, { "actor": "Electronic Doorbell", "dialogue": "A single beep indicates that the line has gone dead." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"ARTEMITEP's Boxing for Young Athletes & Gym.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "There! Right in front of you. Do you see it? It's an artist!" }, { "actor": "Conceptualization", "dialogue": "A strong aura of *originality* surrounds the girl in question." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "Quick, kill it with fire before it organises a *happening*!" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How can you tell?" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "The dishevelled hair, cheap clothes, slumping posture that suggests an unearned sense of superiority..." }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "Hints of deep emotional trauma that have led to ironic detachment..." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "It's all there if you know how to read people. Commanders of the streets like me have it down to a tee. I'll teach you. Listen up..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Alright, I'm listening. What's the plan?" }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "Artistos are known to *repel* wealth. It bounces off their skin like rubber. The moment a reasonable business proposal enters their periphery, they go and get 'political'." }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Nonsense, no one 'repels wealth', the businessmen just don't know how to entice them." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "What you need to do is lure them in with a strong one-liner -- get them on your side before you've even finished a sentence. Show us what you've got -- pretend you're facing the girl!" } ], [ { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "How do I get him to talk to me mano-a-mano?" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"plaza.measurehead_facha_dq_wc_to_get_him_to_talk\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Suggestion", "dialogue": "Simple. Just humiliate him in front of his entourage until he has to *beg you* in private to stop. Then you can let him know it was all but a clever ploy to separate him from his babes..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"These pants don't suit you. It looks like you come with *love handles*.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"BABE, LOOK.\" His arm reaches out, palm open as if giving a demonstration. \"SCORCHED BIOMASS IS ALL THAT THE GHOUL LEFT OF HIS BRAIN. SOON HE WILL DEVOLVE INTO AN ANDROGYNOUS BI-PEDAL, ABLE TO PERFORM ONLY THE MOST INSTINCTUAL OF FUNCTIONS.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead's Babe", "dialogue": "\"What functions will he able to perform, Measurehead?\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"INGEST AND DEFECATE, LIKE AN OVERWEIGHT AMOEBA.\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead's Babe", "dialogue": "\"Hear that,\" she shrieks, \"like a fat amoeba! You can't even *fuck*! Pathetic.\"" }, { "actor": "Pain Threshold", "dialogue": "That voice should be registered as a sonic weapon, cause the damage it does to your head is *very* real." }, { "actor": "Electrochemistry", "dialogue": "Here's a lady who clearly puts a man's cockmanship above all other qualities." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"What are those tattoos of yours supposed to mean?\"" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"RACISTS ARE GENERALLY NOT VERY GOOD EXAMPLES OF THEIR RACE.\" He gestures toward the lorryman down the street..." }, { "actor": "Perception (Hearing)", "dialogue": "\"Welcome to Revachol!\" you hear him yell at a red-head woman visiting the Frittte nearby." }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"gates.mhead_perc_welcome_to_revachol\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Measurehead", "dialogue": "\"I AM NOT LIKE THEM. I AM CRANIOMETRIC PERFECTION. I HAVE TAKEN THE TROUBLE TO PERMANENTLY DRAW A PHRENOLOGIC GRID ON MY SKULL AND FEATURES. THIS SHOULD DISPEL ANY DOUBT.\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Central Furnace", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Central Furnace", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.seen_furnace\"]]" }, { "actor": "Central Furnace", "dialogue": "A thick layer of coal dust covers the furnace, colouring it pitch-black." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Kick it with your foot." }, { "actor": "Central Furnace", "dialogue": "A hollow ring echoes through the furnace. Your toe hurts." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Kick it with your foot." }, { "actor": "Central Furnace", "dialogue": "A hollow ring echoes through the furnace. Your toe hurts." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Yell \"Hello!\" into the furnace." }, { "actor": "Central Furnace", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Central Furnace", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"doomed.furnace_phys_in_whitecheck\"]]" }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Something *breaks loose* in you. A mighty bellow echoes throughout the chimney's depths. The chatter of tiny voices above suddenly cease. Then..." }, { "actor": "Central Furnace", "dialogue": "\"Hello?\" you hear a woman's voice answer." }, { "actor": "Central Furnace", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Central Furnace", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: Variable[\"tc.doomed_commercial_area\"] or Variable[\"plaza.annette_heard_of_doomed\"]]" }, { "actor": "Inland Empire", "dialogue": "You've awakened the entity!" } ], [ { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "Ruination has come. The broken arches betray the once grand history of this building. It towered over the harbour, until *it* happened." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Form a guess about what happened." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "A great force from the northeast fired into the city. Heavy artillery shelled the coastline, fired from the water -- a straight shot into Revachol." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "The tenement acted as a defensive wall against the worst of the shelling. Until it was destroyed, and they had a direct firing line." }, { "actor": "Savoir Faire", "dialogue": "The wind blows through your hair. The sea breeze cuts around you, high on the balcony, as you stare over the edge at the sea." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Take in the ocean." }, { "actor": "Visual Calculus", "dialogue": "The waves of the Martinaise inlet roll over the fallen remains of the building. The dark waters obscure the better part of the remains." }, { "actor": "Endurance", "dialogue": "This is where the damage came from. From somewhere in the inlet. The cannons." }, { "actor": "Logic", "dialogue": "What didn't fall into the ocean was used as scrap; what wasn't used as scrap was thrown into the ocean." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Hey Kim. Do you know who *shelled* our city?\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"The Coalition,\" says the lieutenant. \"But that was a long time ago. I think we should move on. It's chilly up here.\"" }, { "actor": "Empathy", "dialogue": "He does not like talking politics of this kind." }, { "actor": "Half Light", "dialogue": "He fears the discussion might lead to disagreements. As it often does." } ], [ { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"coast.exec_viscal_succeeded\"]) == false]" }, { "actor": "Perception (Sight)", "dialogue": "A scattering of bullet holes is spread across the cracked wall, reaching from one corner to the other." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Oh my god, look at all these bullet holes! I haven't seen any other bullet holes in the walls before, somehow.\"" }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Hmm, correct.\" The lieutenant examines the wall closely. \"The density of the bullet holes is unusual, even in a general *average bullet hole frequency in Martinaise* sense. Grim affairs.\"" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Meaning, this is *a lot* of bullet holes.\" He brushes the wall with his hand. \"Looks like fully-automatic rifle fire. Something you don't see these days...\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Say nothing, just nod." }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (Variable[\"reputation.kim\"] >= 5) == false]" }, { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "The lieutenant gives a terse nod. \"Nothing for us to do here. Let's move along.\"" }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Even more bullet holes. Something has definitely happened here." }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check:]" }, { "actor": "Scattering of Bullet Holes", "dialogue": "[Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]" } ], [ { "actor": "Glen", "dialogue": "\"Like hell I didn't!\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"What with?\" She tries hard to focus on the book stand." }, { "actor": "Reaction Speed", "dialogue": "What *with*? A lot of things! For example, people tend to go *missing*." }, { "actor": "Authority", "dialogue": "This citizen thinks she can do without your assistance? Don't buy it. They all need help." }, { "actor": "Physical Instrument", "dialogue": "Help her by... carrying things? Uhm... maybe she needs a weightlifter? Maybe she needs you to *fight* her husband? No, that's not it..." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Give her a hug." }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "You step in and close your arms around this foreign body, wandering astray in touch. There's a small movement beneath your hands, as you shut your eyes. Then a tiny voice breaks out and asks:" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"What is happening?\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "She seems to be confused. Your hands are wrapped around her polyester coat. The fabric feels cold, moist from the sea nearby." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "Let go." }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "She steps back and returns her attention to books, pretending this hug didn't happen." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Maybe your children are missing?\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "\"No. Absolutely not.\" Her words come out quick as gunshots." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "\"Right, thanks.\"" }, { "actor": "Working Class Woman", "dialogue": "She gives you a short nod and shifts her attention back to books." } ], [ { "actor": "Kim Kitsuragi", "dialogue": "\"Bell boys...\"" } ], [ { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "A pane of eternite has been planted into the snow. Two poles are holding it up." }, { "actor": "Interfacing", "dialogue": "*Barely* holding it up. It could fall over any minute... a stronger gust of wind might be enough." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is this?" }, { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "Looks like a makeshift bridge, currently drawn up." }, { "actor": "Encyclopedia", "dialogue": "When junior researcher \u00d5lari Taal invented eternite in the un-prestigious V\u00e4rtna Polytechnic Institute some thirty odd years ago, he thought it would last forever -- hence the name eternite. The only lasting thing about it turned out to be its carcinogenic effect." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is this?" }, { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "Looks like a makeshift bridge, currently drawn up." }, { "actor": "You", "dialogue": "What is this?" }, { "actor": "Pile of Eternite", "dialogue": "Looks like a makeshift bridge, currently drawn up." } ] ] }