[User] 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.

[Assistant] "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."

[User] Inspect the wall.

[Assistant] There's a firing slit in the wall in front of you. Like a little window...

[User] Look through the hole in the concrete.

[Assistant] The springs screech as you lean on the mattress and crane your neck to look out...

[User] Trepidation. A tingling feeling in your stomach...

[Assistant] A small piece of Martinaise coastline opens up in the square in front of you -- like a tiny landscape painting, one kilometre across the water. The ruins look familiar.


[User] Now! Now you will *finally* get to know who you are!

[Assistant] "Wait. I have a *few* questions before we go. About who I am."

[User] The man looks westward, impatiently.

[Assistant] Jingling his car keys in his pocket.

[User] "Who *am* I?"

[Assistant] "Who *are* you? You're a gym teacher, Harry."

[User] "What?"

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.return_to_mainland_done"]]

[User] "Well -- obviously you're not a gym teacher anymore, but..."

[Assistant] "But before..."

[User] "Before you were a cop, you were a gym teacher in Couron." She looks around. "It's getting really cold outside. Should we maybe..."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["TASK.return_to_mainland_done"]) == false]

[User] She's avoiding your gaze.

[Assistant] "A special forces gym teacher?"


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: DayCount() == 3]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["plaza.rene_altgreet_day_two_heart_hint"]) == false]

[User] "Offic... argh..." He rubs his chest and spits. "Goddamnit... pull yourself together, René." He turns to you. "What do you want?"

[Assistant] This man seems to be experiencing a mild to medium level of congestive heart problems, either due to narrowing of the arteries or high blood pressure.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["plaza.rene_endurance_heart_problems"]) == false]

[Assistant] "René, the medal story -- Drysant's horse stepped on your knee, then what happened?"

[User] "I grabbed my sidearm and shot the beast in the head. Then everything went black."

[Assistant] "*Capitaine Arnoux -- le fléau des chevaux*!"

[User] The bane of horses.

[Assistant] "When I came to, it was all over," he continues, ignoring his companion. "It was just me and jawless Drysant, gurgling in the blood-soaked mud right next to me."

[User] "The dink had taken numerous flesh wounds and lost a lot of blood, but despite missing his jaw he seemed hesitant to die. Tougher than he looked, that one."

[Assistant] "This would never happen to Johnny Law-jaw." (Point to your jaw.) "My jaw is tight."


[User] "And now if you'll just connect that here..."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[User] "Got it. Are we ready?"

[Assistant] "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."

[User] "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?"

[Assistant] "Yes."

[User] "Good. Beginning transmission."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["auto.is_snowing"]]

[Assistant] A soft rustling. The snow seems to have gotten between your ears somehow...

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.warship_shivers_snow"]]

[Assistant] Ignore it.

[User] "Go ahead, officer."

[Assistant] "Coalition Warship Archer, this is Detective Raphaël Ambrosius Costeau of the RCM. Please acknowledge."


[User] "Okay, let's do this." (Climb the monument.)

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["jam.warship_phys_inst_bar"]) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquippedGroup("gloves")]

[Assistant] Your gloves give you a solid grip on the metal bar. This feels pleasingly familiar...

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["jam.warship_phys_inst_bar"]) == false]

[Assistant] You don't exactly cut a lithesome figure, but after several moments of scrambling you manage to hoist yourself atop the monument.

[User] That performance was, frankly, an embarrassment.

[Assistant] "That was pretty bad. I hope nobody saw it."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]

[Assistant] "Yes, you're a natural gymnast, detective. Now would you like to do what you got up there to do?"


[User] "Fine. 20 reál for the night."

[Assistant] He sighs so much he seems to deflate. He slams the key before you. "The room is yours for the night. Don't forget you'll need *another* 20 reál tomorrow."

[User] "Here's your trash container key."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.garte_trash_bed_offer_made"] == true) == false]

[User] "Thanks. I hope you found what you were looking for."

[Assistant] "Just trash."

[User] "As it should be. Anyway. Thank you for returning my key."

[Assistant] "So, about that money I owe..."

[User] "Yes, have you got it?"

[Assistant] "Actually, let's talk about something else."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.garte_owing_hub_exited_once"]) == false]

[Assistant] "Like what? I was really enjoying talking about the *money* you owe me..."


[User] "I just found a *bullet* -- in the hanged man's head."

[Assistant] "A bullet, you say?" He pats the back of his head. "That's mighty curious."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[Assistant] "Curious yes, I guess we'll never know... About something else though?"

[User] "I really don't care." He shrugs and looks over his shoulder.

[Assistant] Convince Titus he is being manipulated.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.hardie_rhetoric_wc"]]

[Assistant] Convince *Titus?* he's being manipulated? You should know by now -- Titus Hardie will never falter.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.hardie_drama_rc_success_they_lie"]) == false]

[Assistant] One of his boys will.


[User] "Gendarmerie! You found me." The young man on the balcony gives you a bright smile, before taking another drag from his cigarette.

[Assistant] His slender figure is backlit by city lights, its distant streets and motorways flashing like diamonds...

[User] It feels like a Friday. He seems to be in a good mood tonight.

[Assistant] And his shirt is still unbuttoned.

[User] "Yes, the cleaning lady let me in. She also led me to your apartment."

[Assistant] "Beautiful," he replies, smiling. As he looks at you, something sparkles in his eyes.

[User] "So tell me, are you here to make things *right* again?"

[Assistant] "Honestly I'm just trying to not screw anything up."

[User] "Beautiful," he says again. A nearby street lamp casts shadows on his chin, drawing out the slender cheekbones.

[Assistant] "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.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.jammystery_ladydriver_cabin_located_racist"]]

[Assistant] "I've told you everything I've got." He looks around nervously. "Can you please stop talking to me now?"

[User] "If it's not you, then who's running drugs through Terminal B?"

[Assistant] "Isn't it obvious? Fuckin' Siileng, that beady-eyed South-Samaran." He spits on the ground. "His little side business is a scam. I wouldn't be surprised if he was peddling drugs as well."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["jam.siileng_met"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.hardie_went_through_ruby_info"]) == false]

[User] "Who's that?"

[Assistant] "He's the Samaran guy who likes to pretend he's some kinda businessman... Really he's just selling his employer's stuff. Stuff he *stole* after he broke the seals on his Humanox lorry."

[User] "Where do I find him?"

[Assistant] "Just follow the smell. It smells like apricots and *oil* when you're nearby..." The lorryman lets out a raspy croak at his own sense of humour.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[Assistant] "Seriously, though, he's usually just a little bit south of here. Down near the canal, you can't miss him. Just watch yourself..."


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsHourBetween(21, 2)) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["village.has_shack"]) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["village.ww_altgreet_singing_reaction"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["village.ww_greeting_done"]]

[User] The old woman still hums her unknown song. She opens her eyes to acknowledge your presence.

[Assistant] There's a gap where the name of that song should be. You should ask her about it, right now!

[User] Convince her to sign Evrart's document.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["village.ww_whitecheck_rhetoric_convince"]]

[User] Logic and reason won't work on this old bat. Better go for shameless emotional manipulation. What's a grandmother's deepest vulnerability?

[Assistant] Does this *feel* like a *good* thing though?


[User] "Shoot that shit at Cuno, piggonaut."

[Assistant] "Cuno, I... I threw up and I can't investigate the body now..."

[User] "Yeah, like a fucking volcano!" The kid is mimicking violent puking noises. "Fucking pathetic."

[Assistant] "You're lucky you didn't die there, f****t!"

[User] "Ah, forget about it."

[Assistant] "Wish Cuno could," he says with sadness in his eyes. "That shit was vile."

[User] "About the crime scene -- you kids often play in this yard?"

[Assistant] "Right, pig, this is where Cuno plays with his little wooden choo-choo. Fuck do you want with it?"

[User] "I was wondering about that trash container."

[Assistant] "Don't be wondering about Cuno's shit, pig!"

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["TASK.open_trash_container"]) == false]

[Assistant] [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]


[User] ICM? This feels familiar somehow...

[Assistant] "Are those specks stars too?"

[User] He leans in for a closer look. "Dunno. Maybe. Sorta looks like stars to Cuno. Or, like, islands maybe? Fuck does Cuno know..."

[Assistant] Thank you, Cuno. It's the Dolorian symbol of Insulinde -- the face in the sea.


[User] Now that you've acquired some stimulants, it's time for a little pick-me-up. Time to *detect*.

[Assistant] Okay, my body is ready. Let's do this. (Try some speed.)

[User] You raise the Preptide bottle, press one nostril closed, and inhale *furiously* with the other. The rush is almost immediate. It tastes bitter and caustic, and stings a bit inside your nose.

[Assistant] Good to have you back, Officer Supercop. The world has been waiting.

[User] Now the taste is slowly receding into your throat... The rush is growing in intensity, your little heart pounding like a bird in a cage. A sweat breaks out across your brow, your jaw clenches...

[Assistant] And, let's be honest, there's a little chest pain -- the *good* kind, of course. You may wanna blast a Nosaphed or something.

[User] Hmmm, you could work with this high... Like, literally *work*: Solve the case, file some papers. Maybe clean up your hostel room, then solve *another* case, then start a side investigation into the para-natural, then build a radiocomputer...

[Assistant] Whooh, this shit is strong. This shit is disco.

[User] "Kim, I did a little speed. I hope you don't mind. It was for professional reasons."

[Assistant] "I'm not your mother." He avoids your gaze. "I don't care. Do what you have to do."


[User] "Okay, let's do this." (Climb the monument.)

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.warship_phys_inst_bar"]]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (CheckEquippedGroup("gloves")) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["auto.is_raining"] == true  or  Variable["auto.is_snowing"] == true) == false]

[User] The cold metal chills your bare hands. Some part of your brain tells you something is missing...

[Assistant] Chalk powder. Absorbs moisture and keeps your grip firm.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.warship_physint_chalk"]]

[Assistant] ... and before you know it, you're safely perched atop the monument.

[User] "Did you *see* that bar work?"

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]


[User] "So, the death notification..." the lieutenant says as soon as you've left the apartment.

[Assistant] He's avoiding your gaze. This is the time to say how sorry you are about how things went.

[User] "That did not go..."

[Assistant] "*Well*? No, it didn't."

[User] "That did not go..."

[Assistant] "*Well*? No, it didn't."

[User] "That did not go..."

[Assistant] "*Well*? No, it didn't."

[User] "That did not go..."

[Assistant] "*Well*? No, it didn't."

[User] "That did not go..."

[Assistant] "*Well*? No, it didn't."


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["village.rosemary_made_it_to_main_hub"]) == false]

[Assistant] "Good to see you, friend! Do I have *deals* set up for you, buddy-boy!" He spreads his arms as if wanting to embrace you.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["coast.idiot_teq_story_end_reach"]) == false]

[Assistant] Does he actually know you or is he just shopkeep-friendly?

[User] "What are you talking about?"

[Assistant] "So whadda'ya want?" He tilts his head. "I got smokes. They're cheap. Very cheap. I got pilsner. Great deal. You won't get a better deal on that piss... Spirits I can let go for 300 reál. I also have speed. And by *speed* I mean amphetamine."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.necktie_personified"]  and  CheckEquipped("neck_tie")  and  Variable["TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done"] == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["village.orb_necktie_bottle_done"]]

[User] See, there it is, bratushka! -- you feel your necktie *strangle* you with excitement -- the *spirit*! Let's buy the spirit! 300 reál is a lot, but this has to be done.

[Assistant] It's our END GAME.

[User] This is just another stupid drunk idea I'm having, that I'm attributing to my necktie.

[Assistant] Bratan, you don't understand. It's not just another drink. This is what our relationship has been building towards all these years. This is the climax. The mystery. The virginal sigh.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.barreddoor_inside_main_hub_reached"] == true) == false]

[Assistant] This is a small, heavy door. There is no lock in sight.

[User] Kick the door in.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.barreddoor_physinst_kick_in_success"]) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["TASK.arrest_klaasje_done"]  or  Variable["TASK.enter_cavern_done"]  or  IsHourBetween(7,22) == false) == false]

[Assistant] You kick it -- gung ho-style, *entering the premises*-style -- but the door fails to respect the force. All you hear is the bar rattling inside, laughing at you.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.barreddoor_physinst_kicked_once"]]

[Assistant] The woman takes a drag of her ziggie and nods: "Demolish the place."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem("key_workshop_spare")) == false]


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.report_to_cryptozoologists_1"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["coast.gary_greeting_done"]) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["coast.gary_midgreet_leave"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.lena_thanked_for_getting_m_back"]) == false]

[User] "Hello, officer! Name's Gary. Boy, am I ever so grateful to you! But I'm not the only one who wants to thank you..." He nods toward Lena.

[Assistant] [Leave.]


[User] "I could have done more."

[Assistant] "You did enough." He pauses, rubbing his hands together to generate some heat.

[User] "Can't save the whole world, you know?"

[Assistant] Can't bring the dead back.

[User] Say nothing.

[Assistant] "Anyway, I'll call the station when we're finished with the day and let them know the name of the deceased."

[User] "What about Billie and her kids?"

[Assistant] "They'll manage."

[User] They have to. It's not your place to live their lives.

[Assistant] "Right, this is closed then." [Leave.]


[User] Pull out the pull-out toolbox.

[Assistant] A metallic drawer slides out from the seat: It's empty, except for a folded newspaper.

[User] Push in the pull-out toolbox.

[Assistant] 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.

[User] [Close the door.]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["TASK.search_through_the_locked_cabin_done"]) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.abandoned_seen_article"] == true  and  Variable["jam.abandoned_seen_posters"] == true  and  Variable["jam.abandoned_seen_radio"] == true  and  Variable["jam.abandoned_seen_pedals"] == true]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]


[User] Was that -- could it be -- the Col Do Ma Ma Daqua?! No. It's probably just your *imagination* ringing in your ear...

[Assistant] Is it? Is there a ringing? (Listen more closely.)

[User] There seems to be. An *extremely* high pitched ring. Ultrasonic. Lena said it was very high-pitched, right? It's like something *tickles* your ear.

[Assistant] Lena also said that it couldn't be heard by any other animal -- including humans. What you're hearing must just be a regular bird.

[User] But you're not a regular animal. You're not even a regular cop. You see -- and hear! -- beyond the veil.

[Assistant] "Wait, Kim, do *you* hear a high pitched noise?"

[User] "No. I don't hear the Col Do Ma Ma Daqua -- and neither do you."

[Assistant] Of course he doesn't. He's DEAF.

[User] "Wait, Kim, do *you* hear a high pitched noise?"

[Assistant] "No. I don't hear the Col Do Ma Ma Daqua -- and neither do you."


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.minot_whirling_mainhub_reached"]) == false]

[Assistant] The woman in an RCM patrol officer's uniform winces as she notices you.

[User] "I would really prefer not to talk to you right now..."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["tc.decomptage"]]

[User] As Lieutenant Kitsuragi explained, a patrol officer is the lowest rank in the RCM, below lieutenant and sergeant.

[Assistant] "Is everything alright? Why don't you want to talk to me?" (Proceed.)

[User] "I don't know..." She's still avoiding your gaze. "I mean, why would I want to talk to you?"

[Assistant] ...after all you've done -- is what her tone implies.

[User] "I'm a deeply flawed individual, but I bring joy to the world."

[Assistant] "Do you now?" she asks, narrowing her eyes. After a moment she shakes her head.

[User] Something changes in her. It's pity. Pity comes over her.

[Assistant] "Okay, fine. Let's talk. What did you want?"

[User] Hmm... what does one talk about with a fellow officer?

[Assistant] "I bet you liked that, didn't you? Let's be honest, that was some first rate karaoke."


[User] She's black.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["plaza.gardener_perc_black"]]

[User] So what? I'm also black.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.mirror_first_greeting_done"]]

[User] You *really* need to take a look at that mirror upstairs.

[Assistant] "I have to run." [Leave.]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["plaza.gardener_first_ending_done"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["plaza.gardener_interfacing_gloves"]]


[User] A cockatoo is a parrot with an erectile crest, found on the Semenine islands and in southern Face-à-la-Mer. Known for their intelligence and general precociousness, cockatoos are popular birds in aviculture; however, they often exhibit various behavioural issues.

[Assistant] Okay. What more?

[User] 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.

[Assistant] Read about the funeral cockatoo.

[User] This is a yellow-tailed black cockatoo. Its specific name *Psittacus funereus* relates to its dark and sombre plumage. This bird looks as if dressed for a funeral, 24/7. There is something indisputably ominous about it.

[Assistant] Cool.

[User] Yes, but there has to be something *great* about cockatoos as well.

[Assistant] You're right, cockatoos are magnificent creatures. They love to perform, cuddle and show off, and will even scream for *fun* -- often as loud as up to *135* decibels!

[User] Ouch. That must hurt.

[Assistant] Not great for the neighbours.

[User] Performing? Yesss, birdie!

[Assistant] Read about the most common bang-bang cockatoo.


[User] Is that... a man? Looks more like part of the carpentry of the building came alive and is now studying you intently.

[Assistant] The crab-man!

[User] Say nothing. Be quiet for now.

[Assistant] The man leans forward a little, fixing you with a steady, unreadable gaze, then speaks...

[User] "Habitual alcohol use has made you into a scared little pussy, homes. But don't worry, everything's gonna be alright -- you've come to the right place."

[Assistant] That accent is Villalobos -- a peninsula in Mesque *and* a district in Jamrock. There's a sizable contingent of Villalobos-speaking mesques in Revachol.

[User] "The right place for what?"

[Assistant] "Here you can receive the Mother's love, and, when you're ready, she will take your hand and lift you out of the despair at the bottom of the bottle."


[User] "Whose idea was it to hang him anyway -- hers?"

[Assistant] "In a manner of speaking."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.hardies_reaction_speed_another_girl_picked_up"]) == false]

[Assistant] "What do you mean?"

[User] "We had... help. From another girl. It was her idea to hang him -- and I liked it, for political reasons. It sent a good message."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["XP.glen_says_he_thinks_she_could_be_a_new_hardie"] == true) == false]

[User] "Who is she -- this *other* girl? Do I know her?"

[Assistant] "No," he shakes his head, "you're not gonna be on a first name basis with this person."

[User] "Okay -- I get it. Stonewalled."

[Assistant] "Glad you understand that."

[User] "Who's *Tibbs*?"

[Assistant] "My brother. He's in the window replacement business."


[User] 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 Wirrâl-related merchandise.

[Assistant] "I want to buy the *Wirrâl* game."

[User] "If you say so." She gives you a curious glance. "But you better stay away from those immoral occult rituals."

[Assistant] You've acquired an interactable item. Investigate this item further by going to the INTERACT tab in your INVENTORY.

[User] "Storekeep, what board games do you have here?"

[Assistant] "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."

[User] "'Raubritter' is a fun game of economic competition, but can get quite intense after a while. We have games for the whole family. You can play with your children!"

[Assistant] Who are you going to play board games with? Do you have friends or family?

[User] "Look at me, who'd want to have children with me?"

[Assistant] "Don't be so hard on yourself, sir. You just need to clean up a bit. And technically, friends are a bit like family." She fiddles her pendant.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["canal.water_lock_greeting_done"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: IsEvening()]

[User] "Evening, officer!"

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: DayCount() > 2]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.close_water_lock_done"]  or  Variable["canal.water_lock_alt_cant_chat"]]

[Assistant] "High time I got moving up the coast. But please, officer, after you."

[User] "But, wait, what's further down the coast?"

[Assistant] "Well, there's the fishing village. An abandoned fish market. A bizarro church. Not much use to the congregation, though -- there always seems to be something wrong with it." He thinks for a moment.

[User] "Yeah, not really much else. Just bombed-out ruins."

[Assistant] "Alrighty then." [Leave.]


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["plaza.kineema_intro_done"]) == false]

[Assistant] Before you stands a motor carriage. The bodywork is covered in blue and white livery bearing the number 57.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: IsTaskActive("TASK.help_kim_with_money_plan")  and  IsKimHere()--[[ Variable[ ]]]

[Assistant] "I have something in the back we could sell so you can pay for your room. Open the suspect transport enclosure."

[User] Those are some fancy words. Most people would just call it *the cage*.

[Assistant] Open the door.

[User] 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.

[Assistant] "I confiscated these four a little while back. We can take them to the pawnshop down by the Martinaise Canal."

[User] "You said something about a pawnshop?"

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["canal.roy_intro_done"]  or  Variable["canal.light_mainhub_reached"]   or  Variable["canal.table_mainhub_reached"]  or  Variable["canal.hjelmdall_mainhub_reached"]  or Variable["canal.boombox_mainhub_reached"]]

[User] "Yes, the Bird's Nest Roy, near the canal -- we've been there. If I'm not mistaken it should be open late."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["tc.turn_off_tutorial_node"]) == false]


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()  and  Variable["gates.measurhead_disable_kim_react_to_turnbacktime_if_seen_once"] == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["plaza.fascha_dq_asked_someone_the_q"]]

[User] "Goddamnit..." mumbles the lieutenant. "It's becoming a thing now, huh?"

[Assistant] Ignore him.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["tc.pale"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["plaza.joyce_fascha_dq_endurance_too_late_reality_now_must_get_from_headmeasure"]) == false]

[User] "OBSERVE," he turns to the women. "LIKE A PEASANT HOPING TO BED A NOBLEWOMAN, THE HAM SANDWICH IS REACHING STRAIGHT FOR THE *ADVANCED* CONCEPTS. NO HUMILITY, AWARENESS, OR RESPECT."

[Assistant] "Get your dirty hick-dick away from these advanced concepts, peasant!"

[User] "TO COMPREHEND TIME YOU MUST POSSESS AT LEAST A BASIC UNDERSTANDING OF HOW *REALITY* WORKS, WHAT THE RULES ARE. THE LOOK OF INFINITE ASTOUNDMENT IN YOUR EYES SAYS YOU HAVE *NO IDEA*."

[Assistant] "Hey, I'm a police officer, I know *plenty*!"

[User] "THE CONCEPTS YOU REACH FOR ARE FAR BEYOND YOU, PUPA. WITHOUT THE NECESSARY VOCABULARY YOU ARE ONLY WASTING MY TIME." He frowns. "EDUCATE YOURSELF FIRST, TALK TO PEOPLE, AND UNDERSTAND THE BASICS."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.get_reality_lowdown"]]


[User] This industrial gas-powered stove has been used to prepare food for many hungry hostel guests. There are several pots and pans on hand.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["yard.hanged_boots_kim_acid"]) == false]

[Assistant] Getting the corpse residue out of these boots is going to require patience. And also a huge pot full of boiling water, soap, and white vinegar.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["canal.samaran_vis_calc_wc_success"]) == false]

[Assistant] A crumpled billboard reading "SAMARAN BUTTER" soaks in the canal. Two ugly lines mar the bright countenance of the blond boy depicted.

[User] The sign billboard has fallen on the water lock, keeping it open -- and thus out of order.

[Assistant] What is Samaran Butter?

[User] Whatever it is, the boy on the billboard seems very happy about it.

[Assistant] Goat milk butter. The Samaran terrain makes it easier to raise goats than cows, and the local goat farmers produce high-quality meat and dairy staples that add variety to other nations' diets.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["canal.samaran_encyc_butter"]]

[Assistant] It's an acquired taste.

[User] Attempt to reconstruct what happened here.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["canal.samaran_vis_calc_white_check"]]


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["cargo.evrartdocument_forged_two_signature"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem("white_envelope_signed_wrong")]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["village.idiot_signed_by_rosemary"]]

[Assistant] You take the legal documents out of the envelope: a 12-40 month construction period and the zoning plan in the addendum. It's signed by 'Idiot Doom' Spiral and someone called 'Don't Call Abigail', apparently.

[User] Look at the zoning plan.

[Assistant] The youth centre cuts into the ocean like the bow of some great modern ship. Apparently it's going to cover most -- if not all -- of the street and the square between the existing houses. It's three storeys tall.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["cargo.evrartenvelope_viscal_youthcentre_very_close_to_houses"]) == false]

[Assistant] It's going to be awfully close to the already existing buildings. Almost wall to wall, practically integrating them into the youth centre.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["cargo.evrartenvelope_viscal_youthcentre_very_close_to_houses"]]

[Assistant] This is either an ominous or cool architectural choice -- hard to say.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]

[Assistant] 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.

[User] 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.

[Assistant] "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.

[User] "Can't say it's a pleasure, officer. I was really hoping *not* to make your acquaintance. But -- here we are. "

[Assistant] The voice coming through the whirlwind of pain is not malicious. She doesn't want to hurt you -- but she has to.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["boardwalk.ruby_suggestion_malice"]]

[Assistant] Doesn't wish to hurt you? Not according to your ear canals... wait, no, not even your ear canals -- this is going directly into your neural pathways.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["boardwalk.ruby_electro_new"]) == false]

[Assistant] Don't focus on the pain -- focus on doing your job. Tell her she's under arrest.

[User] "Help, Kim, help! My brain's on fire!"

[Assistant] "Mmm..." The lieutenant clutches his head as his eyes roll back into his skull.

[User] The torment Lieutenant Kitsuragi is experiencing is worse than your own. He's trying to resist, but there's no way of knowing when he will recover.

[Assistant] "I'm using a pale latitude compressor. You and your partner have been caught in its field."


[User] 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.

[Assistant] Like skyscrapers, spires of dirt and sand rising. Accommodations for their insectoid inhabitants?

[User] Sounds like you found the locusts, detective.

[Assistant] I need to tell Morell...


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["gates.mhead_fight_success"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["gates.mhead_fight_failure"]  or  Variable["gates.mhead_fight_failed_mid_success"]]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["gates.scableader_altgreet_mhead_failed"]) == false]

[Assistant] "Nice aggression with the native." He nods in approval. "Don't let the chief fool you next time. You don't need to be that up in his face -- leave yourself space to move."

[User] Not bad advice, actually. This might do the trick..

[Assistant] He abruptly changes the subject: "Let's talk about our right to work."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["gates.scableader_greeting_done"]) == false]

[Assistant] "What about it? You're 'right to work'?"

[User] "You here to fuck with us? Beat the honest worker down?"

[Assistant] "No."

[User] "Good. We're fighting for a cause here." He chants at the gates: "RIGHT TO WORK! RIGHT TO WORK!"

[Assistant] "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."


[User] Sorry, but you just don't have it in you right now.

[Assistant] "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."

[User] "Do you know where the other spooker is?" (Point at the strange machines around you.)

[Assistant] "Other spooker? Oh, esa viejita muy estudiosa!" He laughs. "Dunno, homes."

[User] Viejita is... grandma?

[Assistant] "Right, thanks. I'll see if I can find her some other way..."

[User] "You just have to wait until she comes back or..." He shrugs.

[Assistant] Or search through her radiocomputer.

[User] "You've been here for a long time. Did you see the police raid that took place here?"

[Assistant] "Something like that," he responds, his voice suddenly flat.

[User] "Did you witness it?"

[Assistant] "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."


[User] The man sees you approaching and turns away...

[Assistant] "Officer..."

[User] "Mr. Villedrouin..."

[Assistant] "I must admit. I did not take you for a sightseer. What do you want now?"

[User] "Listen, about what happened earlier..."

[Assistant] "Yes?" He turns to face you.

[User] "I'm still pretty sure you were in the wrong, but I'm willing to forgive you."

[Assistant] "Unbelievable. I have never seen the nerve before..."


[User] "Show me the soles of your boots."

[Assistant] "Now what do you want with an old woman's boots, *xerife*?"

[User] "Please? Help me out here. It's important."

[Assistant] "Please?" She raises her boot, slowly, with contempt. "I think you should let me get back to Gabriel Buenguerro. You're no Gabriel. Gabriel doesn't say please..."

[User] She's wearing sturdy worker's boots made of black leather. Buckles run across. The sole is also made of leather.

[Assistant] "Now the other one please."

[User] "Just before Gabriel it was the coronation of Franconegro -- now *there* was a real man..." There is no aberration in the pattern that you can see. She puts her foot down.

[Assistant] Moreover, the boots were size 37. Tiny. There are too many discrepancies in all this.

[User] Another discrepancy, although not boot-related, is the coronation of His Innocence Franconegro. Which happened 500 years ago.

[Assistant] "These are not the boots I was looking for."

[User] "The feet of a little girl," she smiles. "They fit well on the pedals.

[Assistant] "I think I know what's going on with you."

[User] "And what *is* that?" She sticks a filterless cigarette into a cigarette holder and reaches for the light.

[Assistant] "You're a paledriver. You transport goods through the pale."


[User] "I need to find a way to turn back time."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()  and  Variable["gates.measurhead_disable_kim_react_to_turnbacktime_if_seen_once"] == false) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["tc.pale"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["plaza.joyce_fascha_dq_endurance_too_late_reality_now_must_get_from_headmeasure"]]

[User] "THAT SURPRISES NO ONE. AND YET YOU *STILL* FEEL ENTITLED TO RETURN TO THE PAST?" The giant locks eyes with you. His face is serious...

[Assistant] "YOU DON'T HAVE IT IN YOU. BE GRATEFUL FOR THAT."

[User] "So it *is* possible to go back?"

[Assistant] "ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE. JUST NOT FOR YOU."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.what_is_race_enigma_done"]]

[Assistant] "Can't you just give me a straight answer for once?"

[User] "DO NOT THINK ME INTRODUCING YOU TO RACE SCIENCE MEANS I'M NOW PART OF YOUR *GROWING* PROCESS -- IT DOES NOT LOOK PROMISING."

[Assistant] He just needs some convincing before you can talk to him mano a mano.


[User] "Agent... Is La Puta Madre some kind of travel agency?"

[Assistant] "Yeah, they love sending people to faraway places..."

[User] "Let's... talk about something else."

[Assistant] "Yeah? What?"

[User] "Do you know something about the tribunal... the mercenaries are planning?"

[Assistant] She chuckles. "*Tribunal* is an awfully fancy word for what they're going to do. But, yeah, I was listening to their frequency. They've finished their 'investigation.'"

[User] "Now they're going to put on a show before meting out punishment." She pauses, biting her lip. "Even though those assholes gave me up... I'm worried for the boys."

[Assistant] "And you -- watch out for yourselves. You seem to have a habit of walking into traps."

[User] "They're planning to set up a trap for us?"

[Assistant] "I'm guessing you don't know that a third mercenary has come to town just in time for the tribunal -- now you do."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["tc.seraise_giant_hornet"]) == false]

[Assistant] Three mercenaries, no doubt armed to the teeth, hungry for vengeance... You've only got muzzle loaders. This isn't looking good.

[User] "A third... Oh, this is bad."

[Assistant] "As I said -- watch out." She nods.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["yard.trash_container_open"]) == false]

[Assistant] This trash container is locked. The sliding lid has a padlock that says "Whirling-in-Rags."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["yard.trash_inland_something_in_there"]) == false]

[Assistant] There's something in there. Not necessarily connected to the case -- but still...

[User] "How do we get the lock open?"

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem("prybar")]

[User] "We could try using a prybar -- the one you took from my motor carriage. Or..."

[Assistant] Did someone say *prybar*?!

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["yard.trash_physint_prybar_excitement"]]

[Assistant] Fuck yeah! Prybar!


[User] It takes you a moment, but finally you spot the last of Morell's traps. This one's partially obscured by the reeds...

[Assistant] Reach for the trap.

[User] The trap feels light -- and silent -- as you pick it up. Something is different here...

[Assistant] Look closer.


[User] 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.

[Assistant] 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.

[User] I'd like more than a sip. I'd abuse *the devil itself* out of that liquor.

[Assistant] Then you should run for it, rascal. Become a modern hunter, tame that nasty urge inside of your guts. Reward your electrochemistry!

[User] Fuck, I don't know... maybe I shouldn't rush head-first into bad habits? I'll leave that alcohol be for now.

[Assistant] And while you're there, maybe you should hop by the Anonymous Alcoholics as well. You *lamo*.


[User] "Whose idea was it to hang him anyway -- hers?"

[Assistant] "In a manner of speaking."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.hardies_reaction_speed_another_girl_picked_up"]]

[Assistant] Remember the two girls? He may be talking about the other one.

[User] "Earlier you said the *girls* asked for your help. Was this the other girl?"

[Assistant] "That's right." He blinks. "It was her idea to hang him -- I liked it, for political reasons. It sent a good message."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["XP.glen_says_he_thinks_she_could_be_a_new_hardie"] == true) == false]

[Assistant] "Who is she -- this *other* girl? Do I know her?"

[User] "No," he shakes his head, "you're not gonna be on a first name basis with this person."

[Assistant] "Okay -- I get it. Stonewalled."

[User] "Glad you understand that."

[Assistant] "Whose idea was it to hang him anyway -- hers?"


[User] He eyes you sceptically. "All right -- what cryptids, precisely? I usually discuss these things with *specialists*, so I don't know what..."

[Assistant] *...we would have to discuss?* he wants to say, but decides against it.

[User] You need to ask him about specific cryptids -- cryptids you've heard about from Lena, or his friend Gary. He won't *just* talk.

[Assistant] "Enough tales then. Let's change the subject."

[User] "By all means..." He coughs and wipes his mouth.

[Assistant] "Have you noticed anything *off* about your friend Gary?"

[User] "Huh? No. No, of course not. Why?"

[Assistant] "Are you sure?"

[User] "Well..." He lowers his voice. "He's been a little unenthusiastic about the trip. More so than usual. But that's understandable. He just wants to get home and warm up."

[Assistant] He doesn't want to say it, but this *is* unusual. Gary's been to the jungle with him -- to places *way* more challenging than the coast. Why so eager to go home?


[User] "Why does the bottle of spirits cost 300 reál?"

[Assistant] "See, friend..." He brings out a one-litre bottle with blue-ish liquid. The mouth is corked shut. "It's *real* valuable. Worth every reál, if you catch my drift. Got it from a bit of a business venture..."

[User] "No one can buy spirits for 300 reál, that's crazy."

[Assistant] "You know what's crazy, actually..." He grins, then bursts out laughing, then takes three gulps of his pilsner and stares at you intently.

[User] He's finding it difficult to focus his watery gaze.

[Assistant] "What is?"

[User] "What?"

[Assistant] Keep him talking.

[User] "What do you mean *what*? What did you think was funny earlier?"

[Assistant] "This guy, this guy..." He says and shakes his index finger at you.

[User] Conversation might bring a discount, no?

[Assistant] "Where did you get the bottle of spirits from?"

[User] "Oh, this is medicinal spirits. The good stuff. Got it from the doctor's office."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.necktie_personified"]  and  CheckEquipped("neck_tie")) == false]

[User] "I got one of those scientific ampoules a few months ago. 'Torpedo' they call it. It's supposed to keep a man from takin' a drink." He spits a nasty yellow clot on the ground before you.

[Assistant] "Didn't stop *me* for shit, that's for sure!" His voice rings with pride. "Five lemons with half a pack of butter and you're good to go."


[User] 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.

[Assistant] Okay, don't say you need to 'talk' right away. Melt the ice first -- this way you're *already* talking.

[User] 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!

[Assistant] I don't know, man... what is the holy suzerain doing here? Something seems off...

[User] "H-hey."

[Assistant] "Hey."

[User] "How are you doing?"

[Assistant] "I'm doing really good, actually. Both professionally and romantically. I've come to a fulfilling and peaceful period in my life." She nods hastily. "How are you doing, Harry?"


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["jam.abandoned_cabin_accessed"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.abandoned_greeting_done"]]

[User] This green FALN A-Z 'Contemporain' is parked in the shadow of the ruins looming overhead. It's seen better days.

[Assistant] How am I going to get this open?

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: CheckItem("prybar")  or  CheckItem("kvalsund_multitool")]

[User] "Use the prybar to smash the window. Open it from the inside."

[Assistant] "Good idea."

[User] "I don't know how *good* it is, but this investigation has taken long enough. We can't afford it to take any longer."

[Assistant] [Leave.]


[User] "Whatever I can help you with. We need to contain the situation."

[Assistant] "That's enough for now." (Conclude.)

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["pier.joyce_lynching_story_told"]]

[Assistant] "I am sorry to have been the bearer of bad news. If there is anything else I can help you with, please ask."

[User] "What can you tell me about this strike?"

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["pier.joyce_strike_hub_reached"]]

[User] "Of course." She takes a sip from the thermal cup.

[Assistant] "What are their demands?"

[User] "There are leaflets everywhere, and banners... what did they say again? Oh, yes..."

[Assistant] "*EVERY WORKER -- A MEMBER OF THE BOARD!*"

[User] Most of the workers probably don't know what that means.

[Assistant] "Forget it. I wanted to ask something else about the strike."


[User] "What have I used it for..." He looks you dead in the eye: "I've used it for *killing people*."

[Assistant] Here we go! A trail of blood.

[User] You can smell it.

[Assistant] "You've done a lot of that?"

[User] "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."

[Assistant] "I've used it to kill people."

[User] "Interesting." The lieutenant nods. "During, or *after* the War?"

[Assistant] "There is no *after* the war." He shakes his head and smiles, his teeth rotten black: "Class war is never over."

[User] So he's continued killing *after* hostilities ended. Okay, okay...

[Assistant] 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...


[User] Say nothing -- just nod.

[Assistant] "We should go talk to the locals, find something else to do while the wind changes. It's pretty bad right now."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["tc.turn_off_tutorial_node"]]

[Assistant] "Give it half an hour, get yourself together, then come back and have another go."


[User] These are the same belts as the one the victim was hanged with.

[Assistant] I knew it was a cargo lashing belt!

[User] "Look, lieutenant. The same belts as the one the victim was hanged with. Says *Vermillion* on the side..."

[Assistant] "You're right. This is probably where Titus and his men got the belt." The lieutenant looks at the pile.

[User] "More ammo on our belt for the remainder of the investigation. Good find, detective."

[Assistant] [Finish thought.]


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["doomed.breakerbox_black_wire_plugged_out"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: IsTaskActive("TASK.help_soona_with_her_project")--[[ Variable[ ]]]

[User] 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.

[Assistant] Crack open the lid.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["doomed.icecreammaker_whitecheck_open_the_fridge_2"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["doomed.breakerbox_black_wire_plugged_out"]) == false]

[User] Ice groans and howls under the strain of your giant Kvalsund multitool -- until the lid cracks open. Blue electric lights come to life...

[Assistant] Inside on a frosty platform lies an object, intricate and foreign, left there for a sub-zero beauty sleep -- a filament memory with the words "OFF-SITE COPY" written on its side.

[User] Disappointment washes over you as you stare into the almost-empty ice cream maker.

[Assistant] Take the filament memory.


[User] You spend a moment contemplating the cover's slightly unnerving swirl of orange, yellow, and green.

[Assistant] Start reading the first chapter.

[User] If you're like most people, you probably believe that your thoughts reside in your brain, right?

[Assistant] Yes, you have a little cabinet for organizing and storing them away.

[User] 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...

[Assistant] Completely backwards. You think with your hands, always have.

[User] Maybe if you're some kind of binoclard. *You* on the other hand, are a gut-thinker, through and through.

[Assistant] Uh, right?


[User] The eerie pair of blue eyes is still here, gazing out from the dark void between the gates.

[Assistant] "Boo! The eyes of Martinaise are upon you, piggy!"

[User] "What are you doing?"

[Assistant] "Looking. Peeking. Gazing. Staring. Watching. Ogling. Gawking."

[User] "Okay, who or what are you looking at?"

[Assistant] "Right now? You! Ha ha. We've got our eyes on you, believe you me!"

[User] "And the other eye's on that hulking, blaring leader of the scabs. What a suspicious fucking guy."

[Assistant] "Oh yeah, him. He's a mercenary posing as a worker, yeah."


[User] Two rusty metal plates that slide apart form a crude door. It's been here under the boardwalk for a while.

[Assistant] "Who's there?"

[User] "What do you mean 'who's there'? It's me, Kim. Stop playing around and help me get this door open."

[Assistant] Ignore the door. [Leave.]

[User] "Officer? Are you okay in there?"

[Assistant] You really ought to open this door. It's dangerous to go ahead alone.


[User] "I tried to hit on her..."

[Assistant] "Understood." He's stone-faced.

[User] "Better not to add anything to that."

[Assistant] "Mhm," he nods. "What else did you do?"

[User] "She knows I did some pretty crazy stuff before I passed out. That I partied hard. And not very mental-healthily."

[Assistant] "So she overheard you? Or did you *party* together?"

[User] So this is what it feels like to be *interviewed*...

[Assistant] Fun.


[User] A moment passes. The lieutenant glances at the sports watch on his wrist.

[Assistant] "You seem to be following me."

[User] "Excuse me?"

[Assistant] "Nothing. Just an observation."

[User] "You have a..." He's looking for the right words. "...a *distinctive* way of walking. If I were to walk *in front* of you, we would surely collide."

[Assistant] Let it go.

[User] A moment passes. The lieutenant glances at the sports watch on his wrist.

[Assistant] Convince Kim there's a sexy dark mystery twist in the case.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.kim_inland_mystery_created"]]

[Assistant] What if *you* did it?

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.klaasje_body_mercenary"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.garte_body_mercenary"]  or  Variable["TASK.inspect_the_dead_body_done"]  or  Variable["TASK.briefing_done"]]


[User] His eyes move from you to the lights dancing on the walls.

[Assistant] "There's something I'd like to sell."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: IsTaskActive("TASK.take_spinners_to_pawnshop_done")  and  Variable["canal.roy_sold_spinners"] == false  and  CheckItem("radiant_spinners")  and  IsKimHere()]

[Assistant] "Yes, we'd like to sell these hubcaps," the lieutenant steps in and hands him the spinners.

[User] Roy takes the hubcaps from the lieutenant and inspects them. The spinners appear iridescent in the dancing light of his pawnshop.

[Assistant] Gone forever...

[User] He marvels at the cobalt shimmer, and nods: "Yes, these are very, very good. Did you defraud some foreign prince for them? Jump a Mesque banger? No matter... I'll give you 200 reál."

[Assistant] "No one was defrauded or *jumped*, I assure you," the lieutenant explains as the pawnbroker opens the register and counts the cash.

[User] "Of course. I meant no offense. 200 reál for you, officer. Delightful doing business with you. Do come again."

[Assistant] "Thank you." He takes the cash, then turns to you.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.garte_debt_window_and_room_down"]]

[Assistant] "Here's the 30 reál you need for your bill. Do *not* waste it." The rest goes in his pocket.

[User] The rest is for him -- to compensate for the pain of being separated from his radiant spinners.

[Assistant] The windfall is a small consolation.

[User] "Anything else you're thinking of selling?" Both the lieutenant and the pawnbroker turn to you.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["canal.roy_pawn_menu_tutorial"]]


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.siileng_bough_samaran_speakers"]]

[Assistant] Only the speakers remain, dusty and forgotten...

[User] Inspect the speakers.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["jam.siileng_bought_faln_sneakers"]) == false]

[User] These once-respectable speakers have been conquered, reduced to a mere prop by the indomitable FALN 'Ultras' atop them.

[Assistant] A small heat emboss on the veneer reads: "Solidarity Aid from the People's Republic of Samara." The speakers themselves don't seem to display any magical qualities.

[User] "No-no, don't look at the speakers, officer! Look at the *sneakers*!" The man points to the footwear. "The *sneakers* are the stars here!"

[Assistant] "But I already *bought* the sneakers."

[User] "So you did! Now put them on and look at them, officer! Make the people jealous of your premium lifestyle!"

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquipped("shoes_faln")]

[User] Contemplate your sneakers in total silence.

[Assistant] "Oh," he exclaims, appearing to wipe a tear from his eye. "They're so beautiful I can hardly look at them."


[User] A police badge on which you see the photo of a man -- you. Some seaweed is stuck to the back.

[Assistant] "Serial: REV12-62-05-JAM41..."

[User] "That's just the serial number. Revachol, Jamrock, Precinct 41, with some numbers thrown in there for good measure."

[Assistant] The numbers are not there for 'good measure'. They have an administrative purpose. One that's unfortunately been erased from your memory.

[User] "Name: Harrier Du Bois..."

[Assistant] This document confirms it -- Harrier Du Bois, i.e. Harry, is really your name.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["canal.roy_intro_done"]) == false]

[Assistant] "It's not often that I see officers from the RCM in my pawnshop." The man at the counter turns to you slowly.

[User] "What can I do for you?" he asks.

[Assistant] 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.

[User] "Now that the RCM is here -- tell me, have you had any trouble lately?"

[Assistant] "I haven't had any problems myself... though some of my customers have complained about inconsistent law enforcement."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[Assistant] "Who are your customers usually?"

[User] "All kinds of people come through here... Locals, travellers. People looking for a deal. People looking for a keepsake. People who are terminally bored."

[Assistant] "As you can see... I have a wide selection of goods for everyone to choose from."

[User] (Look around.) "Typical vacuous consumerist objects."

[Assistant] "It keeps me entertained," he responds, unimpressed with your critique.

[User] He's well composed, but underneath it you sense *psychedelic* processes, bubbling. Some kind of drug maybe?

[Assistant] Entertained? He might be high -- if he is, on what?


[User] Looks like someone tried to *reconceptualize* their business here.

[Assistant] I don't get it.

[User] 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.

[Assistant] But the question is -- which did they start with, and which did they pivot to?

[User] That's a good question.

[Assistant] That's just speculation. We don't know anything for sure. [Finish thought.]


[User] "I am fully deserving of the trials life has dealt me."

[Assistant] "Perhaps, but it's no use punishing yourself more."

[User] He's not too comfortable counselling you like this, but he's genuinely concerned for your well-being.

[Assistant] "I'm pretty sure you can pick up some odds and ends to sell here. Take a look around." He nods toward a table heaped with knick-knacks. "The owner has eclectic taste."

[User] Eclectic taste? This shop is full of *stolen* goods -- a blight on the community!

[Assistant] (Lower your voice.) "You do realize this place is full of stolen goods, right?"

[User] "We can't go around punishing the people we're supposed to protect for breaking laws they don't even know exist."

[Assistant] "True. There are inherent injustices in the social system I -- and all of us -- find ourselves in."


[User] This industrial gas-powered stove has been used to prepare food for many hungry hostel guests. There are several pots and pans on hand.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["yard.hanged_boots_kim_acid"]]

[Assistant] 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.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.kimintro_done"]) == false]

[Assistant] A bespectacled man in an orange bomber jacket is tapping his foot on the floor. Looks like he's waiting for someone -- you.

[User] As you approach, he narrows his eyes and extends his hand in greeting.

[Assistant] 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?

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem("jacket_suede")) == false]

[Assistant] On the sleeve of his bomber jacket -- as well as on its back -- are enigmatic white rectangles.

[User] Shake his hand.

[Assistant] "Hello, I'm Kim Kitsuragi." His grip is firm. "Lieutenant, Precinct 57. You must be from the 41st..."

[User] You realize he is waiting for your name.

[Assistant] This is your chance to come up with a really good name for yourself. Get *creative* -- conceptualize!

[User] "Uh, I'm... maybe I'm Harry?"

[Assistant] "You seem a little unsure, officer. Have you spent too much time undercover lately?" He cracks an uneasy smile to let you know it's a joke.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.jammystery_ladydriver_cabin_located_racist"]]

[Assistant] "I've told you everything I've got." He looks around nervously. "Can you please stop talking to me now?"

[User] "I'm trying to turn back time. Can you help me, bröther?"

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["plaza.fascha_dq_asked_someone_the_q"]) == false]

[Assistant] "You've got to be kidding me..." The lieutenant rubs his forehead as if hit by a sudden migraine. "What is this, detective?"

[User] "Bear with me, Kim, this could be very important."

[Assistant] "I promise you, it isn't." He lets out a sigh. "Just please make it quick, I'll organise my notes in the meantime."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.truckman_told_him_to_fuck_off"]]

[Assistant] "Let's get one thing straight: You can't tell a man to 'fuck off' and then say he's your brother. It doesn't work like that..."


[User] Toy soldiers stand guard over bowls filled with bracelets, rings, and used cigarette lighters.

[Assistant] Purchase the Headless FALN Rider and his cap.

[User] "Did I mention that this figurine is supposed to be lucky? Always carry it with you." He grins.

[Assistant] That was a very smooth salesman's grin that almost comes off as earnest. You should learn from him.

[User] Inspect the blue uniforms.

[Assistant] They're not all blue. These figurines also wear gold coats and caps, complimented by orange trousers. They are variously posed, wielding swords and rifles with bayonets.

[User] (Point at the blue figurines.) "Are these royalist soldiers?"

[Assistant] "Which ones?" The man peers from his glass box. "Ah, those! Yes, they are. I find the paint job a bit gaudy, but children like bright colours indiscriminately."

[User] Dig up a truly *cool* figurine in the box under the table.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["canal.toy_white_check"]) == false]

[User] Everything you pick out seems faded, chipped, and sad somehow. Most of them are  just broken toys.

[Assistant] Purchase the Headless FALN Rider and his cap.


[User] It's only a red chair. Just a red chair in an empty shack -- with what looked like a dusty bow tie on the shelf. Nothing to see here, right?

[Assistant] "Hey Kim, where are we?"

[User] "In someone's abandoned shack. On the coast. In Martinaise..." He looks at you. "In Revachol."

[Assistant] He's afraid you've forgotten suddenly.

[User] "What's with the red chair?"

[Assistant] "Nothing. It's just a piece of furniture." He looks at the chair gathering dust.

[User] Red paint is peeling off it. Looks like blood, no?

[Assistant] "Could our suspect be staying here?"

[User] "Here?" He looks around. "I don't see signs of recent habitation. This place is abandoned."

[Assistant] See? He doesn't like the *vibration* from the red chair either.

[User] "What's with the red bow tie?" (Show it to him.)

[Assistant] "It's just a piece of clothing you've picked up. You do that, officer -- you collect clothes sometimes."


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["doomed.doorbell_know_revachol_ice_city"]]

[Assistant] They don't want to talk to you.

[User] "East Delta Pinball (Entrance from building B)."

[Assistant] Silence. No one answers your call.

[User] "REVACHOL ICE CITY."

[Assistant] Silence. No one answers the doorbell.

[User] "Main Hall, Building A."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["doomed.doorbell_heard_plaisance"]) == false]

[User] An off-key melody starts playing after you ring the doorbell... Then a woman picks up the receiver...

[Assistant] "Cuno! Please stop calling here! Grown-ups don't have time for your stupid games."


[User] A weathered brown door. The number reads '20'.

[Assistant] Something smells good -- soupe à l'oignon?

[User] The lieutenant motions you to go ahead and knock.

[Assistant] This is the door, you already know it's the right door. This is going to be *so hard*.

[User] Get yourself together. It's just police work.

[Assistant] Don't knock, just leave. You don't need this. You don't need to *sad it up*.


[User] Attempt to stop *The Expression* from happening.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.mirror_subdued_expression"]]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["auto.inside_shack"]]

[Assistant] It's like something snaps in you -- a nerve ending, a thought, a sadness. Your face in the mirror is suddenly clean of the leer that had distorted it for god knows how long.

[User] Just like that it's over -- the running gag that your life had become. A sad old man looks back at you.

[Assistant] Attempt to stop *The Expression* from happening.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.mirror_subdued_expression"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["auto.inside_shack"]) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.mirror_steam_stopped"]) == false]

[Assistant] It's like something snaps in you -- a nerve ending, a thought, a sadness. Your face in the mirror is suddenly clean of the leer that had distorted it. For god knows how long...


[User] "Okay, let's do this." (Climb the monument.)

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["jam.warship_phys_inst_bar"]) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: CheckEquippedGroup("gloves")]

[Assistant] Your gloves give you a solid grip on the metal bar. This feels pleasingly familiar...

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.warship_phys_inst_bar"]]

[Assistant] Keep it together, champ! You've *got* this.

[User] ... and before you know it, you're safely perched atop the monument.

[Assistant] "That was pretty bad. I hope nobody saw it."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]

[Assistant] "Yes, you're a natural gymnast, detective. Now would you like to do what you got up there to do?"


[User] "Do you think he did it?"

[Assistant] 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."

[User] "What can I put on him -- to get him to fess up?"

[Assistant] "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."

[User] "How do you think the questioning is going?"

[Assistant] "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..."

[User] You hear that? He thinks you're *this* close...

[Assistant] "How do you think the questioning is going?"

[User] "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..."

[Assistant] You hear that? He thinks you're *this* close...


[User] Tremble. THE TIME IS NOW. τὰ ὅλα.

[Assistant] Wait, wait -- when did this *countdown* begin?

[User] Monday morning. The moment you arrived in this reality. You are the first crack in the sheer face of god. From you it will spread.

[Assistant] Wait, wait -- when did this *countdown* begin?

[User] Monday morning. The moment you arrived in this reality. You are the first crack in the sheer face of god. From you it will spread.

[Assistant] This is because of the insane world-ending I've been saying isn't it? (Proceed.)

[User] Yes. You spoke the words of the παλίντροπος, and the houses of Perikarnassis. Items, people, even WORDS will tumble, all will lose its meaning in the coming years. That is why you marked yourself.

[Assistant] I'm... a little afraid.

[User] So you should be. The world island crumbles at your feet and in the far plain -- παλίντροπος.

[Assistant] Perhaps -- just a thought -- this has something to do with the hangover?


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["church.ravers_inside_church"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["church.andre_church_altgreet_done"]) == false]

[User] "Yeah. It's all set up, man! Can you already imagine a thousand people in here?! Ten thousand?!" He waves his hands in an unbelievably lame, non-hard-core manner.

[Assistant] "Ecstatic vibrations! Totally transcendent! And I've finished setting up the new compressor too!" He looks at the imposing black box in the corner that's churning out the sound.

[User] "Now the only thing left to do is the name of the club. Will you do the honours, detective?"

[Assistant] "What do you propose as the name, Andre?"

[User] "The name..." He appears to mull it over, one hand idly touching his hair. "Everything I manage to come up with sounds just *wrong*."

[Assistant] "Andre's overthinking it," says the girl with the microphone.

[User] "Yes, *you* should do it, detective." The speedfreak with yellow beads around his neck is looking at you. "It would be good for the sines."

[Assistant] "Noid's right. You've helped us so much, it's the right thing to do."

[User] "Kim, how would you name the club?"

[Assistant] "I wouldn't. I wouldn't build a club and I wouldn't name it either."


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["jam.siileng_bough_samaran_speakers"]]

[Assistant] Only the speakers remain, dusty and forgotten...

[User] "Okay, now let me buy the speakers."

[Assistant] "The junk is yours, officer," the street vendor hands you the speakers. "Happy listening! Try not to hurt your ears with that Samaran garbage."

[User] Inspect the sneakers.

[Assistant] A pair of FALN 'Ultras.' The design is impossibly sleek and simple -- a futuristic silhouette with a sleek monochrome colourway, a jet black upper, and a silver-lined midsole.

[User] Dedicated! Victorious! Sporty! These *FALN* sneakers are a must-have for a track-and-field legend.

[Assistant] "Those sneakers, mister..." the street vendor intones. "Those sneakers are the latest FALN sneakers. Super-rare, super-fine, super-cool -- only 50 reál!"

[User] Only?! That's madness.

[Assistant] *FALN "Ultra" -- wear the future!* You remember the slogan from some magazine...

[User] "Okay, now let me buy the speakers."

[Assistant] "The junk is yours, officer," the street vendor hands you the speakers. "Happy listening! Try not to hurt your ears with that Samaran garbage."


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["cargo.evrartdocument_forged_two_signature"]]

[Assistant] 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.

[User] Try to find a loophole in the deal.

[Assistant] [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[ ]]]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.find_two_random_people_to_sign_the_papers_done"]]

[Assistant] 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.

[User] Good thing I got those drunks to sign this.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[User] That was a nice move, yes.

[Assistant] Look at the zoning plan.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: IsCunoInParty()]

[User] "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.

[Assistant] "I'm fine, really." (Try to cover up the blood seeping out with your hands.) "I'm super mega fine."

[User] "Sure, sure. That's why you mumbled about bitches. Real fine."

[Assistant] "How did you know?"

[User] "Cuno knows that shit. All the worst dreams are about bitches -- you wouldn't *believe* the shit Cuno sees about C..."

[Assistant] It's not good, this C in his dreams.

[User] "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."

[Assistant] However bad it is, pig, we go on, deputy Cuno thinks. We detect. There's nothing more.


[User] "Harry... " he says almost gently. "Honestly, I'm just relieved you didn't get a hernia. A man your age..."

[Assistant] "'A man my age'? What are you implying? I'm at the peak of my abilities."

[User] "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*."

[Assistant] "Anyway, I assure you, I am a very well-informed man. Information reaches me before I even get the chance to request it."

[User] Yes, but it's because his word usually sets things in motion.

[Assistant] "Evrart, that's just giving orders."

[User] "Oh, you're so clever, Harry. And technically you're right. Now... what else can I do for you?"

[Assistant] "It turns out the strikers are being served an alcoholic brew. I made it even stronger."


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["church.soona_pregreeting_hub_reached"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["church.soona_greeting_done"]) == false]

[User] "Yes, what is it?" She doesn't look up from the keyboard.

[Assistant] "I didn't break anything, did I?"

[User] "No, you just printed out my personal log and wasted some paper." It does not look like a big loss to her.

[Assistant] "Nothing, I'll let you work." [Leave.]


[User] "Give me a moment..." The cleaning lady still seems to be having difficulty breathing.

[Assistant] "I didn't find any counterculture people in apartment #10 -- it was just a real estate agent setting up the room for new tenants."

[User] "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."

[Assistant] "Lax women and sexual deviants. That's who'll come." (Spit.)

[User] "I know those types, yes. There have been some here, but they never make their rent. So they have to move out. I know their type..." She coughs.

[Assistant] She appreciates your effort to curb the deviantry and laxness.

[User] "I am looking for Martin Martinaise."

[Assistant] "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.

[User] "No, you don't understand. I'm looking for a real person named Martin Martinaise. He told me he's Martin Martinaise."

[Assistant] "Pea-brain, someone played a trick on you. Martin Martinaise is a name for *anyone* from Martinaise. Like Jim Jamrock or Raoul Revachol."


[User] "Shoot that shit at Cuno, piggonaut."

[Assistant] "Cuno, I... I threw up and I can't investigate the body now..."

[User] "Yeah, like a fucking volcano!" The kid is mimicking violent puking noises. "Fucking pathetic."

[Assistant] "You're lucky you didn't die there, f****t!"

[User] "Maybe you got some advice for me? I mean, you are obviously handling it quite well."

[Assistant] "Yeah, Cuno's got some advice for you." The kid looks to his left, then to his right, and then leans towards you.

[User] "What are you... like, eighty, right? Maybe you should stop embarrassing yourself in front of a fucking kid."

[Assistant] Hmm... perhaps you could compress this negative energy and turn it into some sort of a Cunofied Nonvomitor?

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["yard.cuno_vomit_advice"]) == false]

[Assistant] "The body -- what do you know about it?"

[User] "Shitload, pig, what's your question?"

[Assistant] "Don't tell the pig shit, Cuno!"


[User] "That's just it! This isn't like him at all. He always plans his expeditions so carefully..."

[Assistant] 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.

[User] “But you have more important things to worry about.” She glances out the window toward the bay.

[Assistant] More important than a missing *expedition?* I don't know... expeditions often lead to something interesting.

[User] "Tell me more about Morell. Looks, character, your relationship..."

[Assistant] "Oh dear... I'm not sure where to begin..."

[User] "How did the two of you meet?"

[Assistant] "Via a dating agency, I'm ashamed to say. I was looking to get back into the scene after recovering from my accident, and he'd just divorced..."

[User] "We hit it off and, well, here we are." She smiles wistfully.

[Assistant] She's skipping over some important parts... perhaps you'll find out more later.

[User] "What does your husband look like?"

[Assistant] "Hmmm. Well, his expression is slightly grumpy, but his eyes are always bright and curious, like a small boy's. And his palms are quite coarse from all the field work, but he's quite gentle..."

[User] You can't go around Revachol feeling grown men's hands. If you want to find her husband, you'll need more *concrete* information.

[Assistant] It's always a challenge to describe the person you know best in the world.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["yard.cuno_punchhub_reached"]]

[Assistant] "Cuno's Cuno!" The boy points to his chest with both thumbs. "You already know that, slow-shit."

[User] "Right. How could I forget?"

[Assistant] "Cuno thinks you have brain damage or some shit." He twirls a finger next to his head. "Cuno cares."

[User] "Cuno, stop being nice to the pig!" The screech pierces through the yard. "Step away from Cuno, fat-ass creep!"

[Assistant] "Ease off, C. Don't be telling Cuno what Cuno can do!" He turns back to you. "What else you want, pigman?"

[User] "The body -- what do you know about it?"

[Assistant] "Shitload, pig, what's your question?"

[User] "Don't tell the pig shit, Cuno!"

[Assistant] This is where you *quickly* ask him questions. Real cop-questions. Like a cop.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["yard.cuno_cop_questions"]]

[Assistant] "There are contusions all over his body. Did you do that?"


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["village.abigail_drunk_alt_greet"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["village.abigail_greeting_done"]) == false]

[User] "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.

[Assistant] The noxious odour emanating from the drunken man is strong and familiar.

[User] "Don't ya call her, ya hear. Don't call Abigail..."

[Assistant] "Who is Abigail?"

[User] He draws out a disgusting snort, then mumbles, waving a finger in your general direction: "Ugh... Abigail... don't ya... fuckin'... call Abigail."

[Assistant] Abigail is his wife or girlfriend. Chances are, she's gone. Calling her wouldn't make it any better or worse.

[User] You're not going to get anything from this guy. He's too drunk.

[Assistant] Never thought you'd see such a thing in your life, but this guy's a little *too* drunk.

[User] "Why shouldn't I call Abigail?"

[Assistant] He snorts and beckons you to lean in closer.

[User] Don't lean in.

[Assistant] He waves his hand, as if shooing you away, all the while murmuring something indecipherable.


[User] You were right, bröther. (There's a sudden tightness in your lower intestine.)

[Assistant] What? What's going on?

[User] Back there, in your sleep. All the weak-willed delinquents, dilly-dalliers, foreign moneylenders, insane anarchists, and yes -- the wöömen -- they've run this place to ruin.

[Assistant] Those sons of bitches...

[User] The game was rigged from before you even knew how the pieces move, söldier. (The tightness spreads to your gut.)

[Assistant] I *do* feel like everything's gone to shit...

[User] It has, bröther, but we are going to turn back time! (A solemn gurgle emanates from your stomach.)

[Assistant] 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.

[User] I'm not sure if I'm *feeling it*.

[Assistant] But just imagine... to go back with the knowledge and the experience you now have and do it all over. Do it *richtig* this time?

[User] Protect the Suzerainty, clean up the city, revive disco music, and get her back? You could save Revachol. You could be the *man*, bröther.

[Assistant] Her?

[User] No one, don't ask about her.

[Assistant] Wait, get who back?


[User] "I wanna talk about the hanging again."

[Assistant] "Again? Someone ask the guy for an autograph -- you cops are his biggest fans."

[User] A burst of laughter in the room; the little guy is the loudest. "Good one, Titus!" he fawns.

[Assistant] "How does the *bullet* in his head factor into this?"

[User] "Huh?!" A sip of beer makes the surprise go down easier.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[User] "How the fuck do I know? Anyone could have shot him. Target practice maybe?" Another sip. He's tight-lipped suddenly.

[Assistant] Interesting, sire. It's as if he's lying -- to *protect* someone. He's not very good at it.

[User] "This line of questioning is *over*," the woman steps in before you can answer. "You got the cause of death already. Hanging. If there's any *post-mortem* trauma, it's your problem. This will not turn into a cross-examination."

[Assistant] This was a good move. Also, notice how Titus doesn't *like* her much. Especially when she's calling the shots.

[User] "*How* did you kill him?"

[Assistant] "We hanged him up by his neck until he got real still. Wasn't that obvious, copper?"

[User] "Didn't they teach you *anything* at the cop school, idiot?"

[Assistant] You're pretty sure you've had at least two years of *cop school* and many more of active service.


[User] "Cuno, let's talk about your shack."

[Assistant] "The fuck do you want with it?"

[User] "What was with the pighead?"

[Assistant] "Oh that?" He picks a bit of dirt from his fingernail. "Cuno decapitates pigs. That's just a Cuno demo-tape."

[User] "Demo-tape? Like some kind of a musician?"

[Assistant] "Yeah, Cuno plays on snuff radio. Fucks pigs. Live. Fucks their heads off." He ominously points to the shack. "Cuno's a cop killer."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["church.noid_said_snuff_radio"]) == false]

[Assistant] "What's with the tube of Magnesolam, Cuno?"

[User] "It's a vitamin, pig. Don't you know anything?" He looks at you like you just pointed at the sun and asked what it was.

[Assistant] You could use some.

[User] "Okay, whatever."

[Assistant] "Okay? Whatever?! You fucking *need* that shit to stay on top of your game. Cuno goes through like a tube a day. And you look like you could use a *barrel*."

[User] "Don't teach him, Cuno! He's gonna use it against you, Cuno!"

[Assistant] "C'mon, it's just magnesium, don't mystify it."


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["village.idiot_greeting_done"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.report_to_the_tribunal_done"]]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: IsTaskActive("TASK.check_back_on_renovation_later")  or  Variable["jam.horseback_monument_reflection_done"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["village.idiot_manager_gave_verdict"]]

[User] "What can I do for you, boss-man?"

[Assistant] "I got you some more booze, can you tell me the next story now?"

[User] "Of course -- drink first, story later." He holds out his palm.

[Assistant] "I've got this blue medicinal spirit, how about that?"


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.kim_took_away_body_day_2"]]

[Assistant] "I've got some good news." The lieutenant smiles. "I took care of the body. The thought of him decomposing in my MC wouldn't let me sleep."

[User] "Good, thanks."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.get_the_boots_off_the_hanged_mans_feet"]  and  Variable["TASK.get_the_boots_off_the_hanged_mans_feet_done"] == false]

[User] "I'm just glad he's gone. We have other matters to attend to."

[Assistant] Oh well -- we'll get the armoured boots in another lifetime.

[User] The lieutenant is downplaying his contribution -- he got up before sunrise to get this done. And now he's quite pleased with himself for taking care of the gruesome business so efficiently.

[Assistant] He points to the mess hall doors. "The Union muscle finally turned up, and they look rowdy. We need to talk to them."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (CheckEquipped("shoes_t500") and  Variable["whirling.kim_stolen_boots_greet_done"] == false) == false]

[Assistant] "What do you mean 'rowdy'?"

[User] "I mean ungovernable. Martinaise isn't exactly enthusiastic about the RCM being here. They prefer to be *policed* by the Union -- these men here..."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["cargo.evrart_hardieboys_did_the_merco_in"]]


[User] This coin-operated viewer is facing South. The instruction manual says to insert twenty five *centims* and pull the handle while looking inside, then use the focus knob to zoom in if necessary.

[Assistant] Insert a coin.

[User] Your money disappears into the coin-slot. A clunk, the ring of metal...

[Assistant] Pull the handle and look inside.

[User] The curtains on the display open. You lean in to catch the view -- it's blurry, different blues and greens. In the middle of the shimmer stands a drab grey shape, like a ghost.

[Assistant] Turn the knob to focus your vision.

[User] The lenses shift, the ghost sharpens into an islet in the bay. In the ruins a man-made structure is visible: a half-sunken sea-fort, its concrete almost reconquered by nature.

[Assistant] It looks as if it was abandoned quite some time ago, nothing but a rotten tooth remains of the anti-aircraft tower. A lonely birch tree grows out of it.

[User] Its leaves ripped from it by the winter wind...

[Assistant] "There are ruins of some kind of building there..."

[User] "Really? I don't have the eyesight to make it out..." The lieutenant takes off his glasses and cleans them.

[Assistant] [Leave.]


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.barreddoor_inside_main_hub_reached"] == true]

[Assistant] This is the door to the pinball workshop that you left barred on the inside.

[User] Push.

[Assistant] It's barred from the inside. You hear the bar rattle in the brackets.

[User] Sounds like it's heavy too. Very sturdy.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.barreddoor_hearing_heavy"]) == false]

[User] Kick the door in.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.barreddoor_physinst_kick_in_success"]]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.enter_the_mysterious_door_done"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.arrest_klaasje_done"]  or  Variable["TASK.enter_cavern_done"]]


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.inspect_traps_2_done"]]

[Assistant] "Hello, sweetie. How are you?" She sounds tired.

[User] Dark circles around her eyes. She's absolutely exhausted.

[Assistant] She asked about you because she's afraid to hear about the traps. But that's what she really wants news of.

[User] "I've changed my mind. I'll help you find your husband after all."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[User] "Oh, thank you sweetie, truly. I'll be right here if you come across any sign of Morell."

[Assistant] "On second thought, things *are* bad. I don't even know enough to know what I *don't* know about this world."

[User] "You know where we *are*, right?"

[Assistant] "A war zone. At the edge of the world."

[User] "It does still look like that in some parts of the city, doesn't it..."

[Assistant] "We are in a hostel called the Whirling-in-Rags, dear. And the Whirling itself is in the city of Revachol."


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["yard.sense_viscal_greeting_done"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["yard.viscal_greeting_pre_stage"]]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[Assistant] Sitting at a desk, Lieutenant Kitsuragi fiddles with a pen, then writes something on the paper in front of him. He shouldn't be doing that, he should be here discussing the footprints.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]

[Assistant] "You're up quick... How was your sleep?"

[User] (Swallow the blood and conclude.) "Let's investigate that gigantic insect. That's the next step in the *task chain*."

[Assistant] "Okay," he replies simply.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["church.ravers_inside_church"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["ice.acele_hat_exit"]]

[User] "Is this about the hat again?" She looks up at you, distracted. "I don't see you wearing a hat..."

[Assistant] "*I* don't have to do anything, I'm a police officer. *You*, however, have to do what I say."

[User] "Real cool..." She looks down at the device, mumbling under her breath.

[Assistant] "Way to abuse that power, man..." she says, thinking you can't hear her.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["ice.acele_heard_her_mumble"]) == false]

[Assistant] "So keep that in mind while I ask some questions."

[User] "Like what?" She straightens out slightly, propping herself up with her hands, waiting for you to speak.

[Assistant] "What's your name?"


[User] 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.

[Assistant] "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."

[User] Inspect the mattress.

[Assistant] A single-person mattress. Modern, civilian use. Brand name: Marjorie. There's a fuel stain on the cover, along with cigarette burns.

[User] And an empty can of beans on the ground next to it -- filled to the brim with cigarette butts.

[Assistant] "Someone been hidin' here like a bitch," he whispers. "Maybe  jerkin' off too?"


[User] Do you *feel* that?

[Assistant] Yes.

[User] 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*...

[Assistant] The time has come to *connect* to RVD HQ. By establishing a connection you'll have proved yourself worthy as a Remote Viewer...


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["plaza.tribunal_saw_death_dream"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["auto.near_cloak"]) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["backyard.cloak_greeting_done"]]

[Assistant] A tarpaulin cloak is still caught on the railing. No one has claimed it for their own.

[User] Go for the cloak -- jump over the ledge!

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["backyard.jump_whitecheck_chasm"]]

[User] As you leap in the air, a chilly breeze engulfs you, sharpening you senses.

[Assistant] Close your eyes, let your senses take in the world around you.

[User] Ankles tingling from the tension, blood roaring in your ears -- you are ready for your rendezvous with the concrete pavement below.

[Assistant] Martinaise goes about its daily routine as you soar through the air. The loud voices of protesters mix with the engine sounds from the traffic jam; waves crash against the pier and dense, salty sea air fills your lungs.


[User] 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.

[Assistant] Hopefully you will know who they belonged to very soon.

[User] Will I ever be able to wear them?

[Assistant] The size seems about right. Once you get the foul-smelling flesh-gunk out.

[User] Isn't there a saying about walking in another man's shoes?

[Assistant] 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.

[User] Will I ever be able to wear them?

[Assistant] The size seems about right. Once you get the foul-smelling flesh-gunk out.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["yard.sense_viscal_greeting_done"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[User] There are eight pairs of tracks in the mud. Three stick out, but...

[Assistant] ...you won't get far without the lieutenant here to bounce thoughts off of -- where could he be right now? The asphalt passing underneath the front wheels of his motor carriage at a high speed...


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.klaasje_drama_white_success_volition_activated"]) == false]

[Assistant] But we *are* awake, sire! She has been forthcoming -- with sordid details women usually conceal! Most *shocking* details of the sexual kind! We are a bulwark, un-breached...

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.klaasje_drama_white_failed_once"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["XP.detect_compromized_skillset"]]

[User] You've been breached, bulwark. You've been breached, like, a thousand times now!

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["whirling.klaasje_volition_breached"]) == false]

[User] If you have doubts, just give us *one* example of deceit! Just one, and we will gladly change our minds.

[Assistant] She was *confused* when I asked about the bullet in his head. That was a lie.

[User] *Laedyfolk* do not know of such things -- ballistics and weapons of war. She is too young and frail.

[Assistant] You should stop staring at her and say something. This is costing you *credibility and power* in her eyes.

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.klaasje_drama_white_failed_once"]]

[Assistant] It looks like this one's not waking up. You'll have to do it without pushing her further. At least for now.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.report_to_cryptozoologists_1"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["coast.gary_greeting_done"]]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.lena_thanked_for_getting_m_back"]]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["coast.gary_whirling_thanks_done"]]

[User] "Always a pleasure to see an officer of the law!"

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: IsKimHere()]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["coast.gary_called_kim_yellow_man"] == true) == false]

[Assistant] "Yellow Man!" He turns toward Kim. "I mean... officer."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["coast.gary_white_check_succeeded"]) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.open_gary_door_done"]]


[User] "I noticed your room is close to mine. I have a personal question."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.klaasje_sunday_night_story_interupted"]]

[User] "Ha! Yes. My pleasure." She smiles. "Where did we leave off... hell, let's just take it from the top. You start."

[Assistant] A gleeful smile. She's pretty happy that your partner's not here.

[User] "Did you... hear something? Sunday night -- from my room?" (Move on.)

[Assistant] "There was the usual ruckus," she nods. "Loud disco music."

[User] "Did I have any visitors?"

[Assistant] "I can't say -- probably not. Sounded like you were flying solo."

[User] "Yeah, that's all I need to hear of this."

[Assistant] "Oh..." The woman makes a sad face.

[User] "Let's get back to those lies you told."

[Assistant] "Lies, I..." She repeats -- then trails off. It's unclear what she intended to say.


[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["coast.reeds_checked_counter"] >=1) == false]

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["cargo.garrydoor_hub_reached"]) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (Variable["coast.gary_apartment"]) == false]

[Assistant] This must be it. The basement door is weather-worn. The copper nails holding the upholstery in place have turned green from sea air and there's a knocker, shaped like a lion's head.

[User] The Royal Lion. Guillaume's Kitten. This knocker will last a lifetime and then some.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: (CheckItem("key_basement_apartment")) == false]

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: (IsKimHere()) == false]

[Assistant] This must be the door Evrart mentioned. You still need to get the key from Mañana first though.


[User] "No, I think I'm good. I think I'm good without my badge, thanks."

[Assistant] "I'm going to report that you are in pursuit of your missing items. Over."

[User] "In pursuit of his..." The man is fighting back tears.

[Assistant] "Officer, do you need further assistance? Over."

[User] "Jules, I've heard that some people think of me as a La Puta Madre's peone... Do you think I'm corrupted?"

[Assistant] "10-4, sir." There's a pause, as he seems to mull it over behind his enormous radio-microphone. "Well, there's been some talk, sir," he finally says reluctantly.

[User] "Some *talk*? What does it even mean there's been some talk? Do they think I'm corrupt or not?!"

[Assistant] "I only meant that there's been some talk in the station, that's all. But there's always some talk in the station. You know how officers in Jamrock are..."

[User] "But then again, some of us truly are on the take. It's unfortunate. Over."

[Assistant] "I need to report my badge missing."

[User] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.kim_badge_lie"] == true  and  IsKimHere()]

[Assistant] The lieutenant's eyes go wide. "But you said..." He shakes his head. "Never mind."


[User] Numerous empty wine bottles glisten in the rain. Someone *partied* really, really hard here.

[Assistant] Wait, how hard?

[User] Well, they went through six bottles of *Potent Pilsner*, three bottles of *Commodore Red*, and almost four packs of cigarettes -- it must have been pretty hard.

[Assistant] "Did I do this?"

[User] Look at it. Of course it was you. You *partied* here.

[Assistant] Yeah we did, *bratan*! And from the looks of it we had hell of a time. Hell of a time, *bratan*.


[User] This is the door to your room.

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["TASK.pay_for_the_damages_done"]]

[User] "Good night, lieutenant."

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.kim_orientation"]]

[User] "Just a moment. You had some questions earlier, I believe, and, besides, we should discuss our progress on the investigation. Let's go out to the balcony."

[Assistant] "Alright, let's go."

[User] The air outside is brisk, the lieutenant is silent for a moment. He listens to the traffic hum, then...

[Assistant] [Action/Check: Condition: Variable["whirling.kim_orientation"]]

[User] "Where shall we begin? We should talk about the investigation first and foremost, but I also remember you wanting to discuss the RCM?" He lights a cigarette.

[Assistant] "So what are our powers exactly? The RCM?"

[User] "They're quite limited, actually -- the power officers of the Revachol Citizens Militia exercise most *frequently* is imposing fines of up to 1000 reál for offences, in accordance with an interdepartmental schedule."

[Assistant] "Okay. What else?" (Continue.)