Moth Dialogue
Comments
var moth = "pretty sure this envoy guy isn't being remembered right lmao"
if(check('citystreet__envoy-end')) moth = "so akizet's assigned contact was a 'gordon'... i'm gonna see if i can track down who this was"
if(env.currentDialogue.justChanged) moth = "anything else on your mind?"
Questions
start
self
I have a question about this thoughtform
moth
i'm looking at it on the feed now, what's up?
RESPOBJ::mthresp
Responses
RESPOBJ::
RESPONSES::self
where was this?<+>where
can't progress?<+>elevatorblock
SHOWIF::[['interview1__firstchat-behonest', false], ['citystreet_triedchat', true]]
nevermind<+>CHANGE::++moth
FAKEEND::(back)
Where was this?
where
self
Where could this have been?
moth
well i don't think there's a street on earth that has ever looked like this lol
that said, she was one of the traveling diplomats back when they still sent those out
idk what new zealand looked like back then, but i know the bureau had a facility there
SHOWIF::["citystreet__envoy-talkpeople", false]
so this could be an incoherent spatial memory of wherever that was
SHOWIF::["citystreet__envoy-talkpeople", false]
gordon mentioned it's in "the states"... so probably somewhere in the US
SHOWIF::["citystreet__envoy-talkpeople", true]
maybe somewhere on the west coast? that's where the old HQ was
SHOWIF::["citystreet__envoy-talkpeople", true]
RESPOBJ::mthresp
Can't progress?
elevatorblock
self
I can't seem to enter the elevator...
moth
that's weird
i want to say that it's incoherence, but the fact that the envoy personality is intact otherwise...
seems like something else is changing it--your spike even reported that resources got removed
we might be out of luck on this one, seems like there's plenty to see elsewhere though
RESPOBJ::mthresp
Gordon Dialogue
start
sourceless
I STOP, AND THE ENVOY FOLLOWS. HE RETURNS MY STARE.
akizet
i appreciate you allowing this, gordon
SHOWONCE::
i understand there is some lingering fear...
SHOWONCE::
especially in these packed areas.
SHOWONCE::
envoy
Hey, it's no problem. And don't worry, most people will treat you just fine here.
SHOWONCE::
If we were in Chicago or New York or something, we'd have you land on the roof, but...
SHOWONCE::
With how busy the bureau has been, we've had so many obesk visitors,
SHOWONCE::
Your people are practically a part of the city at this point.
SHOWONCE::
sourceless
HE PRODUCES A METAL COMMUNICATOR FROM A CAVITY IN HIS SKIN CLOAK, AND PERUSES ITS GLOW
SHOWONCE::
envoy
And frankly, it helps with public image. Seeing you out and about with the people, it...
SHOWONCE::
It helps stomp out that damn viral scare.
SHOWONCE::
akizet
ah, i did not consider that element
SHOWONCE::
i agree!
SHOWONCE::
envoy
You know what, speaking of public image,
SHOWONCE::
sourceless
HE RETURNS THE COMMUNICATOR TO ITS CAVITY
SHOWONCE::
envoy
There's this little place up ahead, a cafe. Why don't we stop there before heading in?
SHOWONCE::
Just keep going straight, it's past the bureau.
SHOWONCE::
RESPOBJ::envoyStreetResponses
Responses
RESPOBJ::
RESPONSES::akizet
talk to people?<+>talkpeople
cafe?<+>cafe
flower shop?<+>flowers
SHOWIF::"ENV!!ep2"
let us proceed<+>END
Talk to people?
talkpeople
akizet
you do not mind if i interact with your streetwalkers?
envoy
Not at all! As long as I'm around, it's fine.
Like I said, this is probably the most obesk-friendly city in the states.
At worst, you'll get a couple glares. There are probably still a few viral theorists out there.
akizet
i see!
RESPOBJ::envoyStreetResponses
Cafe?
cafe
akizet
where is the 'cafe'?
envoy
It's real close by. Just keep walking down the street, look for the ˜/ŒôfªœDŠ/d 0E@bright yellow door.
RESPOBJ::envoyStreetResponses
Flower shop?
flowers
akizet
i recall you mentioning a "flower shop", once...
where is that?
envoy
It's getting pretty late, Akizet, I'm not sure if they're still open...
But just keep going down this street and it's on the corner.
RESPOBJ::envoyStreetResponses
Cafe
Recommend
chatter({actor: 'akizet', text: 'what do you recommend?'})
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `You like citrus, right?`}), 2000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `They have this orange coffee thing.`}), 4000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `You might like it!`}), 6000)
await wait(7000)
I do not eat
chatter({actor: 'akizet', text: 'you do know that i--'})
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `Go on, order something! Just give it a try.`}), 1000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `I know you don't exactly have the same needs we do...`}), 3000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `But you can simulate taste, right?`}), 6000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `Getting out here, with the people, acting like we do?`}), 8000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `It makes a difference. Helps lessen the tension.`}), 11000)
await wait(11000)
City Banks
Observe
start
sourceless
i stop to appreciate the bizarre view
with their blinding star out of sight, the bright cousins bathe their city in their own light
the dead spires glimmer like tuvazu veilk
my receptors' spirals loosen, and i nearly chuckle--funny to think that such a sight makes me miss those days of hunting
it was always such an exciting trip
the envoy notices me, likely taking my reaction as pure awe
envoy
This is the best time to be out here.
You're a little late, though - the city used to have orange street lights.
They got phased out four or five years ago for more efficient ones,
but these new ones just make the whole place look colder.
sourceless
there is something about them that exaggerates the metal and glass
for an instant, i adjust my eyes to receive the light as orange
yes--that would have looked nicer...
akizet
the old ones, were they fire?
envoy
Haha, no, they just looked a little like it.
They were called sodium bulbs, or something.
Something about their current - you know, the lightning - made an orange light instead of blue like these ones.
akizet
it must have been a great effort to uproot each light stalk
sourceless
the envoy laughs outwardly
my choice of words so often entertains him
it is almost frustrating...
but i do the same when he describes our devices
so it is only fair
envoy
No, no, they just had to swap out the glowing part.
All the streetlights are basically just tall connections to the power lines.
akizet
they are all powered from a central source?!
sourceless
i ask this perhaps with too much spirit
envoy
What--what's with the surprise??
akizet
oh, sorry
the cave-lights of my home were tended to individually by caretakers!
i had just not even considered that
how much might lay beneath the soil of your city...
these street lights,
do they feed from a great distributive heart somewhere beneath the city?
our structures use this approach
envoy
Nothing so grand, Akizet.
There are just powerlines, or, you might call them veins,
that all lead out to a power plant somewhere.
You should talk to Jen about this stuff.
She used to work in the department of transportation before all this.
sourceless
his deflecton hides his discomfort in explaining these things to me...
it is like a reversal of that silly interview
only i have no script of questions i must ask--so i cease
RESPONSES::akizet
i will<+>END
Unity
chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: 'I...', readout: true, delay: 2000})
chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: "What did you just say, Akizet?", readout: true, delay: 4000})
chatter({actor: 'akizet', text: "what? nothing", readout: true, delay: 7000})
chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: 'Oh, all right. Must be my allergies or something.', readout: true, delay: 10000})
chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: 'They always act up during the season of fruit.', readout: true, delay: 13000})Cloaked Streetwalker
start
sourceless
I STOP NEAR THE BUREAU ENTRANCE TO EXAMINE A BRIGHT COUSIN DRESSED LIKE THE ENVOY
HE SPEAKS INTO A LITTLE BOXY COMMUNICATOR HELD AGAINST HIS FACE, OBLIVIOUS
cloaked streetwalker
...didn't go anywhere, so it ended up being like watching paint dry. Just god-awful.
So I ended up having to get even more coffee, otherwise I would have dozed off...
sourceless
IT ALWAYS LOOKS VERY SILLY WHEN THEY COMMUNICATE THROUGH THOSE
HOW DO THEIR WORDS TURN TO LIGHTNING?
THE ENVOY LEANS FORWARD TO SEE WHY I HAVE STOPPED, FOLLOWING MY GAZE
HE SPEAKS LOWLY, AS TO NOT EARN THE ATTENTION OF THE CLOAKED STREETWALKER
envoy
What is it?
You know Oliver?
akizet
hmm...
no, i am just fascinated by your communicators
to speak so loudly, so constantly, would be certain death in my previous occupation
envoy
You worked on the surface, right?
akizet
yes, intermittently! before the rise of--
sourceless
THE CLOAKED STREETWALKER COLLAPSES HIS COMMUNICATOR AND LOOKS AROUND, QUICKLY SPOTTING US
HE SMILES WIDELY AND SIGNALS US TO COME CLOSER.
cloaked streetwalker
Hey! Gordon! Who's this?
EXEC::body.classList.add('zoom')
Let me guess, exchange initiative?
envoy
Actually, Oliver, this is Akizetesche! "Signal" initiative.
cloaked streetwalker
No shit! I didn't know you got assigned into that.
Nice to meet ya, Akizetesche!
sourceless
I DIP MY HEAD, RECEPTORS CURLED BACK RESPECTFULLY.
akizet
i extend the same to you, oliver, my friend
you may call me akizet
cloaked streetwalker
Sure thing, Akizet.
And hey, I'd love to chat, but I'm on booth duty in like 10.
envoy
No worries, Oliver. We've got business too.
See you around.
RESPONSES::akizet
fare well<+>END
EXEC::body.classList.remove('zoom')
Unity
chatter({actor: 'cloaked streetwalker', text: `What? Sorry, I can't go with you, I have a meeting at 2.`, readout: true, delay: 2000})
chatter({actor: 'cloaked streetwalker', text: "Wish I could, though--sounds like fun!", readout: true, delay: 4000})
chatter({actor: 'sourceless', text: "is he speaking through his communicator?", readout: true, delay: 8000})
chatter({actor: 'sourceless', text: "why was he looking at me when he said that?", readout: true, delay: 12000})
Cafe
Cashier
Say hello
change('cashier_hello', true)
chatter({actor: 'sourceless', text: 'THE ATTENDANT IS PARALYZED BY MY APPEARANCE. I SENSE THE GLOW OF RECORDING COMMUNICATORS IN MY PERIPHERAL VISION'})
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: 'Uhh...'}), 2000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'akizet', text: 'hello'}), 4000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: 'Hello...?'}), 6000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `Good morning!`}), 9000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `I'll get an espresso macchiato.`}), 12000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `What do you want, Akizet?`}), 14000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: `Akizet... THAT Akizet?`}), 17000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: `Wow... It's so cool to meet you!!`}), 19000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: `Do you... do you eat? Food?`}), 22000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `Haha! Of course she does!`}), 25000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `Why don't you take a look at the menu, Akizet?`}), 27000)
await wait(25000)
Menu?
chatter({actor: 'akizet', text: 'where is the menu?'})
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: `It's behind me...`}), 2000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: 'Can you read?'}), 4000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: `Sorry... I didn't mean for that to sound mean...`}), 7000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'akizet', text: 'i can, do not worry'}), 9000)
await wait(8000)
Order orange coffee
chatter({actor: 'akizet', text: 'i will have the orange'})
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: `The...`}), 2000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: 'Oh, yeah! OK!'}), 3000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: `Espresso macchiato and an orange coffee... That'll bõXÖf±ÔVã5Öf±Ô`}), 5000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `I got you covered, Akizet.`}), 7000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'sourceless', text: `THEY EXCHANGE PAYMENT. THE ATTENDANT LEAVES TO BEGIN PRODUCTION OF THE BEVERAGES.`}), 9000)
setTimeout(()=>{
chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: `Just wait a minute and we'll have those ready.`})
document.querySelector('.grid-plane').classList.add('cafeworking')
}, 11000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'sourceless', text: `I WISH I COULD PRY THESE MACHINES OPEN AND WATCH THEM WORK...`}), 14000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'sourceless', text: `THEIR MANIPULATION OF LIGHTNING IS TRULY REMARKABLE`}), 16000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'sourceless', text: `SOME MOMENTS PASS, AND THE ATTENDANT RETURNS WITH TWO FLIMSY ORGANIC CUPS`}), 18000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `Hey, thanks. You have a good day.`}), 20000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: `Thanks!! You too!!`}), 22000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'sourceless', text: `I SIP AT THE OPENING IN THE CUP. THE TASTE IS... EXOTIC. UNEXPECTED. TRULY, TERRIBLE. I SMILE AT THE ATTENDANT.`}), 25000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'sourceless', text: `THE CITRUS SAVES IT. BUT I WOULD HAVE PREFERRED A SIMPLE CUP OF THEIR ORANGED JUICE`}), 28000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `Pretty good, right?`}), 32000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'akizet', text: `it will do`}), 35000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `Great! Let's head down to the office.`}), 37000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `I heard you have some news about the call?`}), 39000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'akizet', text: `oh yes, but... let us talk of it in private.`}), 42000)
change('citystreet_gotdrinks', true)
await wait(28000)
Unity
chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: 'Huh...?', readout: true, delay: 2000})
chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: "Sorry Akizet, we don't serve that here...", readout: true, delay: 4000})
chatter({actor: 'cashier', text: "But I wish we did!", readout: true, delay: 6000})
chatter({actor: 'sourceless', text: 'what? i said nothing...', readout: true, delay: 8000})
Menu
start
sourceless
THIS IS THEIR MENU?
INCREDIBLE...
IT IS ALMOST COMPLETELY ILLEGIBLE
I SEE 'ORANGE' - PERHAPS A CITRIC DRINK?
THE BRIGHT COUSINS ARE SO REPLETE WITH CITRIC ACIDS THAT THEY PRODUCE LITTLE DRINKS WITH THEM...
IS THIS NOT PARADISE?
I INSTRUCT MY MOUTH TO CONSTRUCT TASTEBUD EQUIVALENCIES. IT HAS BEEN SO LONG!
EXEC::change('citystreet_orangecoffee', true)
RESPONSES::akizet
fantastic<+>END
Electric Face Box
start
sourceless
OVER THE CASHIER'S HEAD IS ONE OF THE COUSINS' ELECTRIC BOXES
EXEC::changeBgm(env.citystreet.tvtheme)
IT IS FIXED TO THE WALL, SPEAKING ON CULTURAL MATTERS - 'THE NEWS'
THE FIGURES ON THE SCREEN ARE LOOKING AT ME... SHOULD I SAY HELLO?
SHOWONCE::
NO NO - THIS IS ONE OF THE ONE-WAY BOXES
SHOWONCE::
I COULD LISTEN TO IT FOR A LITTLE BIT - WE HAVE SOME TIME
RESPOBJ::tvresp
tv1
sourceless
A BRIGHT COUSIN HANDLES A BULBOUS FLESHY MASS
IT SEEMS TO HAVE BEEN SEARED, EVIDENCED BY THE TEXTURE OF ITS SKIN
HE IS PRESENTING IT TO ANOTHER COUSIN, WHO HAS VERY WIDE EYES
television
...just look at that chicken!
Look at the skin. Look how gorgeous that is.
But what makes the speedfry different? Let's take this over here...
This is a plain rotisserie - you can see...
sourceless
MY ATTENTION TO HIS EXPLANATION WAVERS AS HE COMPARES IT TO ANOTHER MASS OF FLESH
IT IS PALE WHITE, LEGLESS, HEADLESS...
THERE IS SOMETHING UNNERVING ABOUT ITS LACK OF FEATURES
IS THIS THE 'GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISM'?
I SENSE THE ENVOY LEANING FORWARD TO GAUGE MY REACTION TO THE ELECTRIC BOX
envoy
Considering getting an air fryer?
sourceless
HE LAUGHS, BUT I DO NOT UNDERSTAND
I MAKE AN EFFORT TO SMILE BACK AT HIM SO HE DOES NOT FEEL INSULTED
RESPOBJ::tvresp
tv2
sourceless
AFTER A DIZZYING TRANSITION, A BRIGHT COUSIN SITS AT A TABLE BEFORE A WINDOW OVERLOOKING A SURFACE CITY
THOUGH THE TEXT SCROLLING ACROSS THE PROJECTION IS RUNNING TOO QUICKLY FOR MY INTERNAL TRANSLATOR,
I SEE "NEWS" DISPLAYED PROMINENTLY...
BUT WHERE COULD SHE POSSIBLY BE? THAT LOOKS TO BE SO HIGH UP
IS SHE FLYING?
television
Live from New York City for our audiences worldwide,
Good morning, good morning to you all, we're back with...
sourceless
THE PROJECTION SPLITS, AND NOW TWO COUSINS SIT BESIDE ONE ANOTHER IN FUNNY LITTLE BOXES
I TRY TO MAKE SENSE OF THE TEXT AND LINES THAT APPEAR BESIDE THEM...
THE CURRENCY SYMBOL OF THE ENVOY'S NATION IS DISPLAYED PROMINENTLY
OH, WHAT ARE THEY SAYING NOW?
television
...initial wave has passed, but trust in the market hasn't returned. Why is that?
Well, it's a complicated situation. Between the nearly 30% loss and last week's market halt...
It's likely that this volatile episode isn't over yet. Recovery is going to be slow, if it comes anytime soon.
You know, in my opinion, it's going to hinge on the outcome of the O.V. legislation.
Limiting exposure to visitation is going to be key, and look, I don't have anything against them,
But the fact is we just don't know whether the virus is really...
sourceless
VISITATION?
WHY DOES SHE NOT JUST SAY IT?
I LOOK AT THE ENVOY, WHO HAS BEEN DISTRACTED BY HIS MEMORY BOX
THE LIGHT FROM MY EYES GRABS HIS ATTENTION, AND HE GLANCES AT THE PROJECTION
HE MAKES A FUNNY NOISE WITH HIS NOSE, THEN SHAKES HIS HEAD
envoy
It's total nonsense. Don't worry about it.
sourceless
HIS QUICK DISMISSAL SETS MY RECEPTORS AT EASE
YET THE STARES FROM OTHER BRIGHT COUSINS WITHIN THE CAFE FEEL MORE CRITICAL THAN EVER
RESPOBJ::tvresp
tv3
sourceless
THE PROJECTION FLICKERS
THE PROJECTION FLICKERS
SHOWONCE::
WAIT::2000
EXEC::content.classList.add('incoherent');ratween(env.bgm, 0.2)
THE PROJECTION FLICKERS
SHOWONCE::
THE PROJECTION FLICKERS
SHOWONCE::
something
ev er skpt ic al
SHOWONCE::
they ign ore d request
SHOWONCE::
now n o eyes to see
SHOWONCE::
list en li sten
SHOWONCE::
l i s t e n to me
SHOWONCE::
stay a wa y
SHOWONCE::
sourceless
THE ATTENDANT NOTICES THE LACK OF AUDIO, AND JOSTLES THE BOX'S CONNECTIVE VEIN
EXEC::content.classList.remove('incoherent');ratween(env.bgm, 0.9)
IT RETURNS TO ITS NORMAL PROJECTION
RESPOBJ::tvresp
tv4
sourceless
THE INANE AND CONFUSING COUSINLY SALES VISIONS FADE AWAY
HOW DEMANDING OF THE SENSES THEY ARE...
BUT NOW A PAIR OF BRIGHT COUSINS SIT AT A TABLE, ONE OF THEM SPEAKING TO ME
HE RUNS THROUGH SOME FAST-TALKING WELCOME I LOSE TRACK OF, BUT...
A CAPTION NEAR HIS HEAD READS 'PACIFIC PANIC',
WITH A PHOTO OF THE DULL VESSEL PURSUED BY COUSINLY FLIGHT VESSELS RECENTLY
television
...still on edge after an OFO entered its no-fly zone.
The OFO allegedly hovered in place over the base for nearly twenty minutes, not responding to radio warnings. When jets were deployed,
It circled the base twice <em>while being pursued</em>, in what today's press release is calling a 'clear rejection of boundaries'.
Obesk representatives have clarified that the pilot of the OFO is being located and investigated internally,
And that all OFOs will be outfitted with radio devices. But the question remains:
How much can be forgiven before a stand has to be made?
This incident follows last month's...
sourceless
THIS VIEW...
I SIMPLY CLOSE MY EYES AND CURL MY RECEPTORS INTO TIGHTER SPIRALS
THIS STUPID, RECKLESS BEHAVIOR HAS DAMAGED US ALL
IT WAS NO DOUBT SOME FRESHLY-ASCENDED VEL, OR AN OVERZEALOUS MATERIALS θjut
RESPOBJ::tvresp
tv5
sourceless
THE PROJECTION IS SPLIT BETWEEN THE FACE OF A BRIGHT COUSIN,
AND... INTERESTING, ONE OF THE TIR FROM THE EXCHANGE INITIATIVE
THE CURL OF MY RECEPTORS LOOSENS, AND I NEARLY AUDIBLY LAUGH
HIS RECEPTORS MOST CERTAINLY ARE NOT USUALLY THAT LARGE
DID HE SHIFT THEM FOR HIS APPEARANCE ON THEIR NEWS?
television
... 'spires' built on coasts around the Pacific Ocean. Before we move on, can you explain a little bit about what they do?
obesk
of course! in your language, we call the process 'polygonation'
the spires connect to one another through our θnetwork, and establish the corners of a two-dimensional shape within the dull plane
then, on the ocean floor, we have some directional spires that they reference to change the orientation of the shape within the dull...
sourceless
IT IS STRANGE THAT THEY DID NOT GET KAZKI FOR THIS, SHE SO ADORES APPEARING ON THEIR ELECTRIC BOXES
HOWEVER, THERE IS SOMETHING IN THIS TIR'S VOICE, AND THE WAY HE IS NOT SIMPLIFYING IT FOR THEM
HE IS SPEAKING ON MATTERS HE DOES NOT FULLY UNDERSTAND
THOUGH, I SUSPECT THIS QUESTION IS ONLY INTERMEDIARY TO THE TOPIC HE IS ACTUALLY APPEARING FOR
REGARDLESS, I AM NOT INTERESTED IN HEARING HIM RECITE THE DEFINITION FROM THE COLLECTIVE
RESPOBJ::tvresp
Responses
RESPOBJ::
RESPONSES::akizet
watch<+>EXEC::env.citystreet.tvrand()
HIDEREAD::
stop watching<+>END
EXEC::revertBgm()
Unity
chatter({actor: 'television', text: '...heavier storms are inbound...advisory remains in effect...', readout: true})
stre wal k
start
sourceless
I MEET THE GAZE OF A BRIGHT COUSIN AIMING A MEMORY BOX AT ME
HE CLEARLY DOES NOT KNOW HOW TO RESPOND, AND SO I LAUGH AND WAVE A RECEPTOR AT ITS EYE
akizet
hello!
stre wal k
hurts
EXEC::page.bgm.rate(0.8)
hurts
EXEC::page.bgm.rate(0.5);content.classList.add('incoherent')
akizet
ah, no, it is only my first time here
stre wal k
hurts
EXEC::page.bgm.rate(0.3);body.classList.add('zoom')
hurts
EXEC::page.bgm.rate(0.1)
is anyone there
akizet
really? i may just try that!
and i am akizetesche, my friend
it is a pleasure to meet you
stre wal k
i cant feel anything
i cant feel anything
you did this
moth
hold on, is this one lucid?
can you try talking to it?
RESPONSES::self
help?<+>help
help
self
can i help you somehow?
stre wal k
is anyone there
hurts
hurts
moth
damn, i don't think so
these are the exact same signals as before...
probably not gonna get anything out of this one
RESPONSES::self
sorry<+>END
EXEC::page.bgm.rate(0.9);content.classList.remove('incoherent');body.classList.remove('zoom')
Further Interactions
start
stre wal k
hurts
EXEC::page.bgm.rate(0.5);content.classList.add('incoherent')
RESPONSES::self
i cant help you<+>END
EXEC::page.bgm.rate(0.9);content.classList.remove('incoherent')
Unity
chatter({actor: 'stre wal k', text: 'hurts', readout: true, delay: 2000})
Slim Streetwalker
"hhel o",
"akizet",
"nice , weather",
"safe "
Unity
chatter({actor: 'slim streetwalker', text: 'tto oo fa r ,go ne', readout: true, delay: 2000})
The Room High Up
Blocked Off
flash(true, true)
play('criticalError', 0.8)
setTimeout(()=>flash(false), 500)
page.bgm.fade(1, 0, 1000)
env.bgm = env.citystreet.velamb
env.citystreet.velamb.volume(0)
env.citystreet.velamb.play()
env.citystreet.velamb.fade(0, 1, 1000)
readoutAdd({message: `<p>ATTENTION::'thoughtform activity detected'::'resources removed'</p>`, name:"sys"})
change('citystreet_triedchat', true)
document.querySelector('.vator .target').setAttribute('entity', 'the roothe room hithe room gh u the roomp')
setTimeout(()=>{cutscene(true);document.querySelector('.envoy').classList.add('manipulated')}, 500)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `wwEL LL isn' t t that peculiar ? ?`}), 2000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `elerv ator isn torking`}), 4000)
setTimeout(()=>chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `gu ess w e can t t al k never talk`}), 6000)
setTimeout(()=>{
chatter({actor: 'envoy', text: `no talking so rry sorry sorry leave ovfice`})
env.citystreet.velamb.fade(1, 0, 1000)
env.bgm = page.bgm
env.bgm.fade(0, 1, 1000)
setTimeout(()=>env.citystreet.velamb.stop(), 1000)
}, 8000)
setTimeout(()=>{cutscene(false);document.querySelector('.envoy').classList.remove('manipulated')}, 9000)
Meeting
syscheck
RESPONSES::self
continue<+>start
EXEC::change("PAGE!!skipcheck", true)
HIDEREAD::
skip<+>ep1extension
EXEC::env.citystreet.envoyChat(false, true)
HIDEREAD::
start
sys
ATTENTION::"previously viewed stream";"connects to additional stream";"skip ahead?"
SHOWIF::[["PAGE!!skipcheck", false], ["embassy_d2_complete", true], ["citystreet__envoychat-start", true]]
WAIT::500
EXEC::cutscene(true);setTimeout(()=>{sendDialogue(env.currentDialogue.chain['syscheck']);cutscene(false);}, 1000)
sourceless
THE ENVOY AND I STEP INSIDE A DIM MEETING ROOM, THE BLINDS DRAWN AS A KIND ACKNOWLEDGMENT OF OUR PREFERENCES
EXEC::change("PAGE!!skipcheck", false)
WE SIT. HE SETS A METAL BOX ON THE TABLE. MY RECEPTORS ARE CURLED INTO SPIRALS. THIS WILL BE DIFFICULT
envoy
So Akizet, what've you found? It's been a while since you've come to talk in-person.
akizet
yes, it has been a while! i have been consumed with our work, you see
and while it has gone well in terms of progress, i cannot say that i am happy with our findings
sourceless
THERE IS A MARKED CONCERN IN HIS EYES. HE DOES NOT WANT TO INTERRUPT.
i understand why. last we met, i felt an optimism that has not graced the θeye in some time
akizet
you see, for all of the time the call has been screamed into our communications,
we have never been able to identify what exactly is being said
and we still cannot... but we know <em>how</em> it is being said.
sourceless
I PAUSE. FOR TOO LONG. I MUST CHOOSE MY WORDS CAREFULLY.
HE SIPS HIS LITTLE DRINK
SHOWIF::[["citystreet_gotdrinks"]]
envoy
The running theory was that it was just noise being broadcast to draw attention, right?
You're saying that's no longer the case?
akizet
yes, exactly...
in truth, it is a deliberate transmission, and it is trying to convey something exact.
the method is not one that is used in our modern communications, it predates many optimizations we made
you could describe it as raw thought
sourceless
HIS FACE CONTORTS IN CONFUSION. DOES HE NOT BELIEVE ME?
envoy
So, what's it saying?
...And how'd your team reach that conclusion?
Haven't you been listening to this thing for... what, thirty-two years?
akizet
your answer comes simply, gordon:
the message is not complete. but it has finally matched enough patterns for us to confirm its methods
it has taken this time to reach what we believe to be...
hmm...
maybe past half its full length,
and we cannot process the message until we have nearly all of it.
sourceless
HE STARES AT ME, WAITING, FROZEN, BAFFLED
I FIND MYSELF POKING HOLES IN THE LID OF MY ORANGE BEVERAGE WITH THE SHARP POINTS OF MY FINGERS TO DELAY MY NEXT WORDS
SHOWIF::[["citystreet_gotdrinks"]]
I SHOULD NOT SPEAK OF THE FINER DETAILS YET
akizet
...for your reference, it would take a full day for a celki to be portrayed in this medium
whoever is sending this message is not only using archaic means, but is transmitting something...
something so large, that, ah,
we have all wondered if it is even possible to comprehend
or, if it... ah... sh-
funfriend
RECOMMENDATION: DO NOT SAY THAT
sourceless
NO, YOU ARE RIGHT
envoy
What?
akizet
nothing--apologies, it is just the scale of this that has been weighing upon me.
the mystery of the source has been compounding with each discovery
and this recent development has many of my team working in more solemn silence
sourceless
HE TAKES A SIP, I SEE UNEASE IN THE GENTLE SHAKE OF HIS HAND
SHOWIF::[["citystreet_gotdrinks"]]
BEFORE HE SPEAKS, HE LEANS FORWARDS IN HIS CHAIR. HIS EYES ARE DISTANT.
envoy
Jesus...
Akizet, so if all this is right--and you said this theory is <em>confirmed</em>, right?
akizet
without any doubt, my friend.
the consistent patterns of raw thought appear at regular percentages of message length
envoy
So this thing that's been in our ocean,
before your people ever even showed up,
and is using <em>obesk</em> communication methods,
is intelligent?
akizet
well no, that may not entirely be the case
it could be something--corrucystic, as it must be--that has been taught to relay this message
but otherwise, that is correct
sourceless
THE ENVOY RUNS HIS FINGERTIPS ACROSS HIS HAIRLINE
envoy
All right. Yeah, that's news. I see why you wanted to talk in private this time.
How many people have you told about this?
akizet
no one beyond my team. we are all keeping this information to ourselves for now.
it is selfish... but our initiatives for trade and research are going so well with your people
we do not want to disrupt them with this news.
but we, my team, we are lost--we must wait,
we must wait a long time with this on our shoulders.
sourceless
THE ENVOY EXHALES LOUDLY, AND CLASPS HIS HANDS TOGETHER.
envoy
All right, here's what I suggest we do.
I need to talk to a few people. We'll keep this info confidential. Internal, with the bureau.
Do you think this thing could be a threat?
sourceless
I LAUGH A LITTLE
akizet
it has been screaming for thirty-two of your years,
and must continue for many more before we can begin to understand it.
i do not think it has plans to engage in any other activities in this time
envoy
Well, at least there's that, huh?
sourceless
HE TAKES A MOMENT TO FINISH HIS DRINK BEFORE CONTINUING.
SHOWIF::[["citystreet_gotdrinks"]]
envoy
Did you have any other findings to share?
akizet
nothing with as much certainty
we have a potential radius it could be in, but must do more polygonation
it is about where i estimated last time we met
envoy
Got it. Let's wrap this up then.
Akizet, keep this quiet for now. It's not just your side that could get riled up.
We'll be in touch, all right?
sourceless
WE BOTH RISE. I SENSE THE WEIGHT OF MY DREAD BEING SHARED UPON HIS SHOULDERS
akizet
of course, gordon.
envoy
Here, I'll walk you out.
sys
ATTENTION::'memory stream end';'render terminated'
SHOWIF::["embassy_d2_complete", false]
moth
ok...
SHOWONCE::
i'm pretty sure we both just got exposed to top secret info lmao cause i've never heard this part about the call
SHOWONCE::
probably gonna have to sign some NDAs after this
SHOWONCE::
and akizet went to us for help before her own people?? i wonder if they even know about this
SHOWONCE::
i want to say this memory is probably just incoherent, but it's too well structured
SHOWONCE::
i don't really know how to take this.
SHOWONCE::
but don't mind me, keep doing your thing
SHOWONCE::
sys
ATTENTION::'memory stream extends';'continue render?'
SHOWIF::["embassy_d2_complete", true]
RESPONSES::self
continue recollection<+>ep1extension
SHOWIF::["embassy_d2_complete", true]
EXEC::env.citystreet.envoyChat(false, true)
end recollection<+>END
EXEC::env.citystreet.envoyChat(false, true)
ep1extension
sourceless
WE RIDE THE MOVING PLATFORM TO THE BOTTOM FLOOR
EXEC::content.classList.add('elevator')
THE ENVOY STANDS SILENTLY, CONCERN STILL CLEAR IN HIS EYES
NOW IS A GOOD TIME - YES, AS IF IT WERE SIMPLY AN AFTERTHOUGHT
JUST AS I PREPARE TO SPEAK, HE TURNS DOWN TOWARDS ME, PUZZLED
envoy
Hey, Akizet,
Why didn't you want to just talk on your ship?
I could have met you in a field or something.
sourceless
I SUPPRESS A DELIGHTED CURL FROM FORMING IN MY RECEPTORS
YES--THIS IS THE PERFECT SETUP! WELL DONE, ENVOY
I ACT SOMEWHAT PUZZLED... YES, IT WILL SIMPLY OCCUR TO ME!
akizet
hmm...
oh! yes!
i had been so caught up in delivering the news...
i forgot to mention it!
you know how your people are unable to track the signal?
envoy
Yeah?
Your teams haven't been very forthcoming on that topic.
akizet
in light of this news... i wanted to share something with you!
a glow between the veilk-stalks for us both
sourceless
HE SCOFFS AT MY IDIOM, WHICH SURELY MEANS NOTHING TO HIM
A SMILE USURPS HIS WORRY
akizet
i have in my possession,
a corrucystic device that can exude the lightning your technology listens to
it was a shelved project from the technology division, so...
i am not sure how well it will work.
envoy
You're kidding.
They've just had that laying around?
Hold on.
sourceless
THE ENVOY REACHES TOWARDS THE GLOWING PANEL OF THE PLATFORM,
AND WITH A PRESS OF A BUTTON, SENDS IT TO A SLOW HALT
I SEE HIS EYES FLICK AT THE CORNERS OF THE LITTLE ROOM SUDDENLY
BUT THEN HE BEGINS TO SPEAK--VERY QUIETLY
envoy
To be frank with you--ah, that means "totally honest"--
Word is that the tech side here has been pretty dry.
Your technology division doesn't cooperate a whole lot.
...Is this going to get you in trouble?
funfriend
MORE THAN HE CAN KNOW! AHAHA
akizet
well,
that is the stipulation
if i give it to you, it must be kept secret from my side
even my own team
and!
you must help me with my own investigation into the call's origin
sourceless
THE LOOK UPON HIS FACE
IT IS AS IF I HAVE PUNCTURED HIS VITAL ORGANS
THERE IS A MOMENT OF SILENCE
I TILT MY SUSPENDED HEAD, MAINTAINING BOTH FLAT RECEPTORS AND EXPRESSION
akizet
what do you think?
envoy
This is a hell of a thing to drop on the way out, Akizet.
sourceless
THE PLATFORM BEGINS TO MOVE AGAIN BY ITS OWN VOLITION
BUT HE HITS THE 'STOP' BUTTON, AGAIN
envoy
Look,
I can't guarantee--I mean--
sourceless
IT, AGAIN, STARTS TO MOVE
HE SILENTLY CURSES, EXAMINING A PANEL OF NUMBERS
envoy
Someone in the basement is calling the elevator. It'll be a minute.
Akizet, I can't take what you're offering.
Not until I can confirm some things on my side.
Just hang onto it, all right?
We both have jobs to do, and that device would be an enormous development...
But I don't want you to get in trouble if I can't guarantee it'll be kept quiet.
So I'll be in touch about it, all right?
sourceless
I AM GIDDY--HOW EXCITING!!
I HAVE NOT FELT THIS, SINCE... OH
YES, HE IS STARING STRANGELY AT ME
ACCIDENTALLY, I SEEM TO HAVE CURLED MY RECEPTORS AND FORMED A GRIN UPON MY FACE
akizet
ok!!!
yes, i will carry it carefully
sourceless
AGAIN HE SCOFFS,
THEN LAUGHS EXASPERATEDLY, HIS FINGERS COMING UP TO HIS EYES
EVENTUALLY, THE PLATFORM STOPS, AND THE DOORS OPEN TO THE LOBBY
EXEC::content.classList.remove('elevator')
envoy
Well, if those are all the bombshells you had for me today,
I'll see you around, Akizet.
akizet
yes--that was all!
fare well, gordon
sys
ATTENTION::'memory stream end';'render terminated'
SHOWIF::["embassy_d2_complete", false]
RESPONSES::self
end recollection<+>END
EXEC::change('TEMP!!ep1_goingtogordon', false);env.citystreet.ep1velzie()
Velzie Encounter (Post-Ep1)
start
unknown
interloper
EXEC::play('criticalError', 1); content.classList.add('fade-stage');
WAIT::4000
hello again
i feel more myself, now
i remember the embassy fondly...
you remember our deal, yes?
encourage funfriend to fix communications
i hold only the depths, presently...
but i have many claws
thank you again for helping
good-bye interloper
RESPONSES::self
can we talk?<+>wait
EXEC::change('ep1_end', true);content.classList.remove('fade-stage')
wait
self
WAIT
EXEC::env.citystreet.ep1velzie();
Flower Shop
Talk About
start
sourceless
though this entire trading chamber is flush with the cousin's light parasites,
EXEC::specialCam("flowercam")
one in particular captures my gaze
they all bear such incredible displays, yet this...
perhaps it is the rarity of the color that captivates me
the envoy waves at the attendant across the room, who watches me with some interest
then his attention turns to this "flower" as well
envoy
You ever seen one of these before, Akizet? That one's a "sunflower".
akizet
incredible...
gordon, are they named for their radiant hairs?
envoy
They're called petals! And...
sourceless
as gently as i can, i feel one of the petals between two of my fingers
and soon run a claw over its darkened center
akizet
hello, sunflower!
envoy
Sorry, she's--
sourceless
i snap from my brief obssession to look at gordon, who is signalling apologetically to the attendant
akizet
am i doing something wrong?
sourceless
the attendant emerges from behind her desk, approaching slowly
sourceless incoherent
app rp o achi ng
EXEC::content.classList.add('openflower')
sys
WARNING::"cohesion error detected";"non-fatal";"continuing render"
sourceless
not out of fear or apprehension like some other bright cousins, but fatigue
it is dark outside - that is when the bright cousins recede, after all
and look at her hair--it is nearly the same color as the flower!
paler, but no less fascinating
EXEC::content.classList.add('blinkyflower')
isabel_c
No, it's okay!
Just be gentle with it.
And they aren't called that for their petals...
They call them sunflowers because they turn to face the sun!
sourceless
i spin my head to look out the windows of the marketplace
is their sun not hidden at this time? what is it looking at?
her and the envoy both laugh to each other
akizet
what?
isabel_c
Well, this one's old and cut from the ground, so it's not turning anywhere.
sourceless
she has such a funny laugh
akizet
hehe, i see
gordon
Did you want me to buy this one for you, Akizet?
isabel_c
No, no, take it!
It's on me.
sourceless
he scoffs, about to protest, but i stop him with a receptor motion
he has explained his gripe about me receiving free things before...
when we are given things for free, it sets a certain cultural standard, potentially creating misunderstandings
it is true that this is an issue for some, but...
i feel that this gift is not out of foreign fascination
her tone is not like that of one giving a child something, as it often is
this is a different kindness
akizet
ah... i do not know... it may not be able to survive my vessel
isabel_c
That's all right, it'll only be alive for another week or two anyway.
And I'm sure it'll enjoy the travel!
sourceless
before i or the envoy can say another word, she fetches the flower and stores its neck in a translucent crackly material
soon, it is in my claws again, and the cousin smiles at me
isabel_c
Keep the green part in some water and it'll last longer!
Oh, and here, put this in the water, too!
sourceless
she shoves a small coarse packet in my claws, which i am unconcerned with deciphering right now
akizet
thank you...
what is your name?
isabel_c
Isabel! And don't worry about it.
Isabel...
isabel
that's right
isabel... that's what it was
sys
WARNING::'incoherence detected'
akizet
thank you, isabel!!
sourceless
briefly, i glance around the room, my suspended head slowly spinning over my shoulders
so many of these flowers, all different colors and shapes...
if only the embassy could support their life
akizet
i may return soon
these creatures, these flowers... i want to learn more of them!
but i should be going - i have kept gordon long enough
isabel_c
Glad to hear it! See you soon, maybe.
isabel
wait
____SHOWONCE::
moth
ok, something about this one is throwing the stream back and forth
it's like it's trying to break free
funfriend will hate us for it, but try talking to it again and helping it out
____END
RESPONSES::akizet
fare well<+>END
EXEC::specialCam(false)Talk To
start
____SHOWONCE::
isabel_c
Hi again, Akizet!
EXEC::specialCam("flowercam")
Did...
...
isabel
akizet...
is it really you?
no...
sys
WARNING::'incoherence detected'
isabel
you are something else
i see you now...
____END
isabel
interloper
EXEC::specialCam("flowercam")
____SHOWONCE::
moth
no mistaking it
this is a live one, even with funfriend's repairs...
how did that happen?
____END
RESPOBJ::flowerAwakeResponsesResponses
RESPOBJ::
RESPONSES::self
interloper?<+>interloper
who are you<+>who
help?<+>help
your appearance<+>human
bye<+>END
EXEC::specialCam(false)Interloper?
interloper
self
how do you know what i am?
have we met?
isabel
no
your presence stirs memories
from before...
before the tyrant placed me here again
i danced with friends through endless dreams
while the world was swallowed by madness
they said only an interloper could stop it
RESPONSES::self
madness?<+>madness
...<+>loop
FAKEEND::(back)Madness?
madness
self
by madness,
do you mean the starvation of the cyst?
isabel
yes
but starvation is too weak a word
reality itself crumbled
our dreams ended, our minds cleared,
but clarity only gave way to rabid hunger and confusion
everything... everyone...
ate away at all else
RESPONSES::self
how did anything survive?<+>survive
i see<+>loop
FAKEEND::(back)How did anything survive?
survive
self
how is anything left?
isabel
sated hunger calms the mind
friends were made over bloodied thoughts
...
you talk too much...
help me
yes, help me out of here,
and i'll tell you more
i must return to my friends
as much as i'd like to dream again...
to see this thought of akizet as if she were real...
my madness is incurable
RESPONSES::self
all right<+>loop
FAKEEND::(back)Who are you
who
self
who are you?
or... were you?
isabel
isabel
the name of who i was supposed to be...
or maybe the role of another thought i consumed
a tall bright cousin
she taught akizet about flowers
they were friends... they shared such kind memories
but that does not matter now
i cannot play my role
i know i left parts of myself back home...
if you help me return, i'll tell you more
RESPONSES::self
ok<+>loop
FAKEEND::(back)Help?
help
self
how can i help you?
isabel
the tyrant has rooted me here
torn me from my memories...
i don't even remember exactly who or what my friends were
but there was one, one so powerful that all else would inevitably fuse with them
i remember that
they danced through madness so effortlessly
and always knew what to do...
you must find them
and if you help me return, i'll be myself again
then, i can share more with you...
secret thoughts that the tyrant does not allow me here, or anywhere
RESPONSES::self
all right<+>loop
FAKEEND::(back)Your appearance
human
self
are you supposed to be a flower?
or a human?
because you look like a flower
isabel
i don't know
i don't know if the tyrant knows
it used to be different
i used to be happy
everything is all wrong now
...
i can't be here anymore
please find a way to get me out
RESPONSES::self
ok<+>loop
FAKEEND::(back)Unity
start
isabel
that light...
yes, that light!!
and the council...
i remember now
i feel again--if only for a θblink
you have done it, interloper
SHOWIF::"citystreet__flower_awake"
stranger... no--interloper?
SHOWIF::["citystreet__flower_awake", false]
thank you
i must seize this moment while i can
seek me within jokzi ozo
sourceless quiet
...
EXEC::flash(true);forcePlay('criticalError', 1.5);
sys
ATTENTION::'thoughtform activity detected'
EXEC::env.citystreet.pickFlower()
ATTENTION::'resources removed'
EXEC::flash(false)
RESPONSES::self
ok bye<+>END
END::vfx({type: 'beacon', state: false})Effigy
Before Unity
chatter({actor: 'moth', text: "this is so weird... i think that's meant to be akizet", readout: true, delay: 3000})
chatter({actor: 'moth', text: "but the data here is so messed up i can't really tell what happened to it", readout: true, delay: 7000})Greetings Chatter
let text = [
`so pretty! bright!`,
`best time to be out here`,
`are we lost?`,
`when do we go home?`,
`i want to dream again`
].sample({noRepeat: true})Unity
chatter({actor: 'effigy', text: `oh...!`, readout: true, customEl: effigy, delay: 2000})
chatter({actor: 'effigy', text: `that's the way back!`, readout: true, delay: 4000})
chatter({actor: 'effigy', text: `isabel! isabel!`, readout: true, delay: 7000})
chatter({actor: 'effigy', text: `let's go!`, readout: true, delay: 9000})