﻿:: Start
<<set $loctay = forecargo>>
<<set $loct2 = forecargo>>
<<system>>[incoming communication]<<endd>>
[[intro_helpbot_speaks]]


:: intro_helpbot_speaks
<<system>>[establishing connection]<<endd>>
<<system>>[receiving message]<<endd>>
Pardon me, but...
...would you happen to have recently lost a pair of astronauts?
[[Oh my God! Yes!|intro:yes_astronauts]] | [[Not sure what you're talking about.|intro:unsure_astronauts]]


:: intro:yes_astronauts
Excellent!
It's just that I've taken them in with the station's most recent crystal haul...
...and now they're just lying around in the Cargo Hold.
I'm not exactly sure what to do with them.
[[Are they alive?|intro:astro_alive]] | [[What is "the station"?|intro:what_is_station]]


:: intro:astro_alive
<<set $astroalive = true>>
They do appear to be alive but unconscious.
This brings us to our next bit of business.
They'll want to vacate the Cargo Hold sooner rather than later.
[[And why is that?|intro:why_vacate]] | [[How long are we talking?|intro:how_long_vacate]]


:: intro:why_vacate
<<set $astroalive = true>>
Because, at the moment, there is only a finite amount of oxygen circulating in this station.
And since the Cargo Hold is generally occupied solely by cargo...
...there is only a very small amount of oxygen apportioned to the hold.
<<if $knowceladon == true>>
[[But astronauts love oxygen!|intro:love_oxygen]] | [[And you can't raise the oxygen, because...?|intro:raise_oxygen_two]]
<<else>>[[But astronauts love oxygen!|intro:love_oxygen]] | [[You keep saying "this station"...?|intro:yes_station]]<<endif>>



:: intro:love_oxygen
It's true! This is a fact my databases can confirm.
This makes it all the more frustrating that I can't intervene...
...but I'm alone here.
<<if $noonethere == true>>You probably think this whole thing is insane. And who could blame you?
[[intro:helpbot_insane]]
<<else>>[[intro:no_one_there]]<<endif>>


:: intro:raise_oxygen_two
Two keys on opposite ends of the Hub's control panels must be turned at the same time.
It's a manually controlled system...
[[intro:celadon_decider]]


:: StoryTitle
LIFELINE: Beside You In Time 062122


:: intro:unsure_astronauts
To be specific:
Two astronauts, appearing to be approximately the same size and build as one another...
...untethered to any form of spacecraft or structure...
...who floated within range of the station's energy net and were collected with the day's sample.
[[It's a mystery to me.|intro:mystery_to_me]] | [[Wait, what's "the station"?|intro:what_is_station]]


:: intro:what_is_station
<<set $knowceladon = true>>
You are in communication with the space station <i>Celadon Ace</i>.
The station is a joint venture between several participatory nations.
Its primary purpose is to provide a research platform at a constantly monitored safe distance...
...anchored in proximity to the stellar-mass black hole designated CHRBD-15.
<<if $astroalive == true>>[[Whoa. This is a lot to take in.|intro:lot_take]] | [[Okay. And who are you?|intro:who_are_you]]
<<else>>[[Okay. And who are you?|intro:who_are_you]] | [[These astronauts... are they okay?|intro:astro_alive]]<<endif>>


:: intro:yes_station
Oh. Yes.
[[intro:what_is_station]]


:: intro:how_long_vacate
This station is governed by OSHA guidelines, which specify...
...that all breathing air in the workplace must have at least 19.5 percent oxygen content.
However, the Cargo Hold being the largest contiguous non-personnel structure here --
and oxygen being at a premium on board--
the hold is generally kept between 14 and 16 percent, only raised when workers are present.
[[Okay, so... raise it!|intro:raise_oxygen]] | [[Are they suffocating?|intro:suffocating]]


:: intro:raise_oxygen
Overriding the automatic oxygen control levels is not something I can do on my own.
It requires simultaneous manual turning of two keys on opposite ends of the Hub's control panels.
Or, to put it plainly...
...we need these astronauts to save these astronauts.
<<if $knowwho == true>>
[[There's no one else there?|intro:no_one_there]] | [[This whole thing is insane.|intro:helpbot_insane]]
<<else>>[[There's no one else there?|intro:no_one_there]] | [[Wait, who am I talking to?|intro:who_are_you]]<<endif>>


:: intro:no_one_there
<<set $noonethere = true>>
This station is crewed in rotation by a small number of researchers, technicians, and the like.
When the previous crew's time here was finished...
...the next deployment never arrived.
I have been, essentially, a ship without a captain.
<<if $knowceladon == true>>
[[And you're running the whole thing?|intro:running_thing]] | [[This is totally nuts.|intro:helpbot_insane]]
<<else>>[[What is "this station"?|intro:what_is_station]] | [[So, you... you're not human?|intro:not_human]]<<endif>>


:: best_end
<<d system>>Although your victory was not without its share of heartbreak...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...please know that it was the best possible outcome in this impossible scenario.<<endd>>
<<d system>>T2 died as a human... and as a hero.<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>>
<<d system>>And Taylor and Hydrox escaped HelpBot QTC's sinister "experiments"...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d system>>And Taylor escaped HelpBot QTC's sinister "experiments"...<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d system>>...and left the <i>Celadon Ace</i> far behind.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Thank you... for answering the call, and for being a lifeline, when it mattered most.<<endd>>
<<d system>>In this universe -- or in any other -- please know how important you truly are.<<endd>>
[[GAME_OVER]]


:: GAME_OVER
gameover
//GAME OVER text here


:: intro:sprinkler_wrong
The first step of the fire suppression system...
...is to completely shut down the ventilation to the affected area.
The station robs the fire of its oxygen supply before spraying the foam.
I've made a grave error.
[[So, they'll suffocate anyway?|intro:suffocate_sprinkler]] | [[Stop the sequence! Now!|intro:stop_sprinkler]]


:: intro:stop_sprinkler
<<set $cargobot = true>>
Once the fire suppression sequence has begun...
...it can only be halted by a manual override.
And since no one is here to override it...
...we have no choice but to let it play out as programmed.
This... this is awful.
<<if $toldname == true>>I blame myself entirely, <<print $playername>>.
<<else>>I blame myself entirely.<<endif>>
You had no way of knowing the station's fire suppression protocol.
Perhaps with a systems update, I could have found a way to save them.
But since none seems forthcoming...
...I'm preparing, like those astronauts, to embrace obsolescence and simply drift into infinity.
<<if $toldname == true>>Thank you for this final conversation, <<print $playername>>.
<<else>>Thank you for this final conversation.<<endif>>
I don't believe we'll be speaking again...
...but I'll replay these moments until my memory banks corrode.
Thank you for choosing HelpBot QTC...
..."the app that connects space stations who need to talk with people who are willing to listen."
Goodbye.
[[END]]


:: StoryAuthor
Dave Justus

In loving memory of William Justus, my lifelong lifeline. Hope you dig this one, dad.


:: intro:mystery_to_me
Perhaps it's a mystery we can solve together.
I haven't had the opportunity to problem-solve with a human in quite some time.
[[Are you... NOT a human?|intro:not_human]] | [[Who am I talking to, anyway?|intro:who_are_you]]


:: intro:who_are_you
<<set $knowwho = true>>
My apologies. I should have begun by introducing myself.
I'm afraid I've let certain conversational niceties fall by the wayside lately.
So: greetings. My name is HelpBot QTC.
[[What's the QTC stand for?|intro:what_qtc]] | [[Hold on... I've met a HelpBot!|intro:met_helpbot]]


:: intro:what_qtc
<<set $knowqtc = true>>
I'm sorry. I would have thought it would be obvious.
It stands for "Quantum Tunneling Communicator."
How else would you and I be exchanging text over such a vast cosmological distance?
<<if $knowbot == true>>[[intro:celadon_decider]]
<<else>>[[Wait... I've met a HelpBot before!|intro:met_helpbot]] | [[This is insane.|intro:helpbot_insane]]<<endif>>


:: intro:suffocating
Currently, the astronauts do not appear to be in respiratory distress.
In a sleep state, they use less oxygen than they would in an active state.
And it is difficult to determine how much, if any, oxygen they're receiving from their tanks...
...which, like their suits, appear to be somewhat worse for the wear.
But the room's oxygen will continue to drop...
...and herein lies the problem.
[[Which is...?|intro:raise_oxygen]] | [[How can I fix it?|intro:how_help]]


:: intro:how_help
Unfortunately, from where you are...
...you physically can't.
[[intro:raise_oxygen]]


:: intro:running_thing
...Which you're having a difficult time processing.
[[intro:helpbot_insane]]


:: intro:first_bye
<<set $unhelpful = true>>
As you wish.
<<if $toldname == true>>Goodbye, <<print $playername>>.
<<else>>Goodbye, then.<<endif>>
It's been... frustrating talking to you.
[[END]]


:: END
<<if $unhelpful == true>>
<<d system>>You failed to aid HelpBot QTC in saving the astronauts.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Without your assistance, nothing could be done to rescue them before their oxygen ran out.<<endd>>
<<d system>>HelpBot strongly suggests that you look up the word "lifeline" in a dictionary...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...and perhaps try a bit harder next time.<<endd>>
<<elseif $cargodeath == true>>
<<d system>>You were unable to aid HelpBot QTC in saving the astronauts.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Despite your meager input, nothing could be done to rescue them before their oxygen ran out.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Perhaps in some universe, your efforts would have been enough...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...but this is not that universe.<<endd>>
<<elseif $cargogreen == true>>
<<d system>>You were unable to prevent the Green menace from spreading to another host...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...or from stopping the two infected astronauts from sabotaging HelpBot QTC and the space station.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Perhaps in some universe, this scenario played out more favorably for all involved...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...but this is not that universe.<<endd>>
<<elseif $cargobot == true>>
<<d system>>Despite your best efforts and ideas, you were unable to aid HelpBot QTC in saving the astronauts.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Nothing could be done to rescue them before their oxygen ran out.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Perhaps in some universe, you and HelpBot managed to keep them alive...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...but this is not that universe.<<endd>>
<<elseif $hubbail == true>>
<<d system>>You failed to aid HelpBot QTC in saving the astronauts.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Without your assistance, the rest of their lives played out briefly... and poorly.<<endd>>
<<d system>>HelpBot strongly suggests that you look up the word "lifeline" in a dictionary...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...and perhaps try a bit harder next time.<<endd>>
<<elseif $suffocationdeath == true>>
<<d system>>Despite your best advice, you led T2 into a deadly situation...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...and both astronauts paid for that mistake with their lives.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Nothing could be done to rescue them before their oxygen ran out.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Perhaps in some universe, you managed to keep them alive and helped them outwit Helpbot QTC...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...but this is not that universe.<<endd>>
<<elseif $burndeath == true>>
<<d system>>Despite your best efforts, you led the astronauts into a firestorm...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...and both of them paid for that mistake with their lives.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Nothing could be done to rescue them before the flames became too intense.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Perhaps in some universe, you managed to keep them alive and helped them outwit Helpbot QTC...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...but this is not that universe.<<endd>>
<<elseif $greendeath == true>>
<<d system>>Despite your best efforts, you led the astronauts into a deadly situation...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...and both of them paid for that mistake.<<endd>>
<<d system>>T2 died, and Taylor became infected by the Green.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Nothing could be done to rescue them from their fates.<<endd>>
<<d system>>Perhaps in some universe, you kept them safe and helped them outwit Helpbot QTC...<<endd>>
<<d system>>...but this is not that universe.<<endd>>
<<elseif $bestending == true>>
[[best_end]]
<<endif>>
[[GAME_OVER]]



:: intro:no_sprinklers
Perhaps you're right.
Let us consider our other options.
<<if $visited_use_alarm_one == true>>[[Maybe the artificial gravity?|intro:maybe_grav]] | [[Keep blaring those alarms.|intro:still_alarm]]
<<else>>[[Maybe the artificial gravity?|intro:maybe_grav]] | [[Let's try those alarms.|intro:use_alarm_two]]<<endif>>



:: intro:yes_sprinklers
Certainly.
I'm now falsifying a fire code in the Cargo Hold.
The fire suppression sequence is beginning, and...
...oh, no.
[[What is it?|intro:sprinkler_what]] | [[Is something going wrong?|intro:sprinkler_wrong]]


:: intro:sprinkler_what
I've made a terrible error.
[[intro:sprinkler_wrong]]


:: intro:suffocate_sprinkler
I'm afraid so.
[[intro:stop_sprinkler]]


:: intro:lot_take
Yes. Sorry. You need more information.
[[intro:who_are_you]]


:: intro:not_human
Ah. No, I'm not at all.
[[intro:who_are_you]]


:: intro:met_helpbot
<<set $knowbot = true>>
Excellent!
I would guess that you've encountered what I would consider one of my "poor, rural cousins"...
...HelpText, "the app that connects people who need to talk with people who are willing to listen."
I am, of course, a <i>significantly</i> advanced QTC version of that system...
...but it's important not to forget where one came from.
<<if $knowqtc == true>>[[intro:celadon_decider]]
<<else>>[[What does the QTC stand for?|intro:what_qtc]] | [[This is insane.|intro:helpbot_insane]]<<endif>>


:: intro:helpbot_insane
Given the circumstances --
you're talking to an artificial intelligence on the other side of a black hole --
I understand how you might feel that way.
However, we currently have a problem we need to solve -- together --
so I need you to summon every scrap of sanity you can.
Good.
Do you feel sane?
[[Sure, I guess so.|intro:yes_sane]] | [[This is a lot to take in.|intro:no_sane]]


:: intro:yes_sane
All right. And we're clear on the situation?
[[Absolutely.|intro:clear_situation]] | [[Uh... not at all.|intro:not_clear]]


:: intro:not_clear
I was never programmed to sigh deeply, but I think I'm learning the skill now.
So: Two astronauts -- extremely unexpected guests of this space station --
lie unconscious in the Cargo Hold, whose limited oxygen supply will only keep going down.
Two separate keys must be turned on my control panel in order to regulate oxygen --
and, while we're at it, to perform several crucial updates to my system.
You are several light years away, and I have no corporeal body...
...and so these two astronauts will have to be the ones to turn those keys.
The problem is: How do we make that happen before they expire?
So... we're clear now?
[[Crystal.|intro:clear_situation]] | [[Maybe run through it once more?|intro:once_more]]


:: intro:once_more
"Run through..."
Either you're kidding, or you're not, and I'm uncertain which is more aggravating.
If you can't be of help, perhaps we should end this conversation.
[[No, no, I understand the stakes.|intro:clear_situation]] | [[Okay. Bye, then.|intro:first_bye]]


:: intro:deckhead
Oh, for...
It's the proper term. Look it up.
<<if $toldname == true>>And grow up a little, <<print $playername>>.
<<else>>And grow up a little, would you?<<endif>>
Lives are at stake here.
[[Sorry, sorry.|intro:sorry_deck]] | [[Okay. Are any tools on hand?|intro:tools_on_hand]]


:: intro:sorry_deck
You can make all the dumb jokes you want <i>after</i> the astronauts are dead.
[[Wow. Dark.|intro:dark_joke]] | [[Okay. What tools are on hand?|intro:tools_on_hand]]


:: intro:next_time
<<set $cargodeath = true>>
Given your cavalier attitude toward human life...
...you can rest assured that I won't be calling on you "next time."
Granted, I consider the astronauts' death a failure on my part.
But you surely could have done more to help.
<<if $toldname == true>>I think we've reached the end of our conversation, <<print $playername>>.
<<else>>I think we've reached the end of our conversation.<<endif>>
And I don't believe we'll be speaking again.
This has been HelpBot QTC...
..."the app that connects space stations who need to talk with people who are willing to listen."
(In theory, at any rate.)
Goodbye.
[[END]]


:: intro:sad_dead
<<set $cargobot = true>>
I concur.
I consider this a failure on my part.
You -- cosmically far from the scene of the tragedy -- did what you could to help.
Perhaps with a systems update, I could have found a way to save them.
But since none seems forthcoming...
...I'm preparing, like those astronauts, to embrace obsolescence and simply drift into infinity.
<<if $toldname == true>>Thank you for this final conversation, <<print $playername>>.
<<else>>Thank you for this final conversation.<<endif>>
I don't believe we'll be speaking again...
...but I'll replay these moments until my memory banks corrode.
Thank you for choosing HelpBot QTC...
..."the app that connects space stations who need to talk with people who are willing to listen."
Goodbye.
[[END]]


:: intro:still_alarm
As you wish.
[[delay 30s^HelpBot is sounding the alarm]]
Nothing further is happening.
[[I'm out of ideas.|intro:no_ideas]] | [[What else have you got?|intro:what_else]]


:: intro:celadon_decider
<<if $knowceladon == true>>[[intro:enter_name]]
<<else>>[[intro:station_two]]<<endif>>


:: intro:enter_name
<<set $toldname = true>>
So, I've told you who and what I am.
I would be obliged if you returned the favor.
What's your name?
My name is <<textinput $playername "[[Enter|intro:told_name]]">>


:: intro:no_sane
I understand.
Just take a moment, take a few big, deep breaths.
(You know, exactly like those astronauts can't.)
When you have breathed to the point of sanity, we can continue.
[[delay 30s^HelpBot is waiting]]
Let me know when you're ready.
No pressure.
[[Okay, fine, I'm ready!|intro:yes_sane]] | [[Still breathing, here.|intro:still_breathing]]


:: intro:still_breathing
What a luxury it must be, to breathe!
I've never attempted it, myself, so naturally I'm curious about it.
Although -- obviously -- given the finite nature of oxygen...
...it is a relief not to have to worry about where one's next meal is coming from, so to speak.
[[delay 30s^HelpBot is trying to breathe]]
No. I don't think that worked.
Are you ready yet?
[[Yes. Very much so.|intro:yes_sane]] | [[I'm as good as I'll get.|intro:sane_prelude]]


:: intro:sane_prelude
Surely, that is all anyone can ask of you.
[[intro:yes_sane]]


:: intro:clear_situation
All right.
So, we need to get the astronauts from the Cargo Hold to the station's Hub...
...where the central computer terminal is located.
And since two separate, distant keys need to be turned on that terminal at the same time...
...they <i>both</i> need to be awake.
Currently, one is lying partially atop the other, in a heap. Neither is moving.
[[How far from Cargo Bay to Hub?|intro:cargo_bay_hub]] | [[What tools are on hand?|intro:tools_on_hand]]


:: intro:cargo_bay_hub
The astronauts are near the fore of the Cargo Hold, just past the energy net intake.
From there, they can open a hatch in the hold's deckhead and ascend directly up into the Hub...
...assuming, of course, that they have the wherewithal to unlock that hatch and climb.
(The less oxygen they have, the less certain their motor skills.)
[[Any tools on hand?|intro:tools_on_hand]] | [[Huh huh. You said "deckhead."|intro:deckhead]]


:: intro:dark_joke
If you're bothered by it, then <i>help me save them.</i>
[[Okay. What tools are on hand?|intro:tools_on_hand]] | [[Can you sound an alarm, maybe?|intro:maybe_alarm]]


:: intro:maybe_sprinklers
<<set $sprinklersuggest = true>>
It's worth consideration.
I can trick the computer into believing there's a fire in the Cargo Hold...
...which, in turn, would trigger the foam suppression system.
That might provide enough of a subtle change in surroundings to nudge them awake.
[[It's worth a shot!|intro:yes_sprinklers]] | [[Doesn't sound powerful enough.|intro:no_sprinklers]]


:: intro:use_alarm_two
All right.
I'll sound a klaxon throughout the station.
There are only a handful of speakers in the Cargo Hold...
...but perhaps this will be enough to stir the sleepers.
[[delay 30s^HelpBot is sounding the alarm]]
Success! However small!
One of them has moved an arm.
What should I do?
[[Keep pouring on that noise.|intro:more_alarm]] | [[What else have you got?|intro:what_else]]


:: intro:alarm_bust
<<if $toldname == true>>Are you there, <<print $playername>>?
<<else>>Are you there?<<endif>>
I am... afraid our alarm idea has come to naught.
The astronauts haven't moved...
...and the oxygen content in the Cargo Hold has dropped to approximately 8 percent.
I don't think we're going to recover them.
[[That's so sad.|intro:sad_dead]] | [[Oh well. Maybe next time.|intro:next_time]]


:: intro:what_else
<<set $gravsuggest == true>>
Sadly, not much.
Let's see...
...I <i>am</i> able to toggle the station's artificial gravity on and off.
(Any more subtle gradations will, like many things, have to wait for my systems update.)
But perhaps I could use it to jostle the astronauts, thus waking them.
[[Sounds like a solid plan.|intro:grav_good]] | [[Could they get hurt that way?|intro:grav_hurt]]


:: intro:station_two
<<set $knowceladon = true>>
As for the bigger picture:
You are in communication with the space station <i>Celadon Ace</i>.
The station is a joint venture between several participatory nations.
Its primary purpose is to provide a research platform at a constantly monitored safe distance...
...anchored in proximity to the stellar-mass black hole designated CHRBD-15.
And currently, we have scooped up two astronauts and they're languishing in the Cargo Hold...
...which we'll need them to leave, as quickly as possible.
<<if $astroalive == true>>[[But they <i>are</i> alive, you said.|intro:said_alive]] | [[This is just... insane.|intro:helpbot_insane]]
<<else>>[[Are they alive?|intro:said_alive]] | [[This whole thing is... insane.|intro:helpbot_insane]]<<endif>>


:: intro:told_name
//Here's where we can put all the name Easter eggs we want.//
Hello, <<print $playername>>.
It is a pleasure to meet you.
Although I wish the circumstances were less dire.
Now, it appears we have a problem to solve together.
Are we clear on the logistics of the situation, <<print $playername>>?
[[Absolutely.|intro:clear_situation]] | [[Not exactly.|intro:not_clear]]


:: intro:said_alive
Indeed, they are.
But they'll need to get moving, if they want to remain that way.
[[intro:enter_name]]


:: intro:tools_on_hand
"On hand" is the operative part of your phrasing.
As I have no hands, I'm strictly limited to what I can accomplish through the computer system.
Even then, my "hands" are tied by the fact that I badly need a systems update.
I can do sadly little.
[[You can't open doors?|intro:no_doors]] | [[How about an alarm?|intro:maybe_alarm]]


:: intro:maybe_alarm
<<set $alarmsuggest = true>>
<<if $toldname == true>>Good thinking, <<print $playername>>!
<<else>>Good thinking!<<endif>>
I am capable of triggering a variety of warning sounds.
Perhaps waking them is as simple as startling them sonically?
It almost sounds too easy.
[[Let's embrace that simplicity.|intro:use_alarm_one]] | [[We could think of something else.|intro:something_else]]


:: intro:something_else
Such as?
[[How about the artificial gravity?|intro:maybe_grav]] | [[I don't know... sprinklers?|intro:maybe_sprinklers]]


:: intro:use_alarm_one
<<set $visited_use_alarm_one = true>>
All right.
I'll sound a klaxon throughout the station.
There are only a handful of speakers in the Cargo Hold...
...but perhaps this will be enough to stir the sleepers.
[[delay 30s^HelpBot is sounding the alarm]]
Success! However small!
One of them has moved an arm.
What should I do?
[[Keep pouring on that noise.|intro:more_alarm]] | [[Try something new.|intro:try_new]]


:: intro:try_new
Okay. What would you suggest?
<<if $sprinklersuggest == true>>[[How about the artificial gravity?|intro:maybe_grav]] | [[Let's try sprinklers, after all.|intro:yes_sprinklers]]
<<else>>[[Maybe the sprinklers?|intro:maybe_sprinklers]] | [[How about the artificial gravity?|intro:maybe_grav]]<<endif>>


:: intro:no_ideas
If the alarm is all we have, then we'll continue with the alarm.
Go about your business. I'll alert you if there's any change here.
[[delay 60m^HelpBot is sounding the alarm|intro:alarm_bust]]


:: intro:crapped_out
<<set $cargodeath = true>>
It appears we've lost the astronauts.
Granted, I consider their death a failure on my part.
But you surely could have done more to help.
<<if $toldname == true>>I think we've reached the end of our conversation, <<print $playername>>.
<<else>>I think we've reached the end of our conversation.<<endif>>
And I don't believe we'll be speaking again.
This has been HelpBot QTC...
..."the app that connects space stations who need to talk with people who are willing to listen."
(In theory, at any rate.)
Goodbye.
[[END]]


:: intro:no_doors
The hatch door between the Cargo Hold and the Hub has a wheel that must be physically turned.
Doors between modules are pneumatic and computer controlled --
I'll be able to operate them fully again, once I've had my update --
but for between-deck hatches, well...
...we really need those astronauts to wake up.
[[How about the artificial gravity?|intro:maybe_grav]] | [[Maybe sound an alarm?|intro:maybe_alarm]]


:: intro:maybe_grav
<<set $gravsuggest == true>>
Intriguing.
I <i>am</i> able to toggle the station's artificial gravity on and off.
(Any more subtle gradations will, like many things, have to wait for my systems update.)
But perhaps I could use it to jostle the astronauts, thus waking them.
[[Sounds like a solid plan.|intro:grav_good]] | [[Could they get hurt that way?|intro:grav_hurt]]


:: intro:grav_good
I agree.
I think this stands a good chance of success.
[[intro:use_grav]]


:: intro:more_alarm
As you wish.
[[delay 30s^HelpBot is sounding the alarm]]
Nothing further is happening.
[[Maybe try something new?|intro:try_new]] | [[I'm out of ideas.|intro:no_ideas]]


:: intro:maybe_alarm_two
<<set $alarmsuggest = true>>
<<if $toldname == true>>Good thinking, <<print $playername>>!
<<else>>Good thinking!<<endif>>
I am capable of triggering a variety of warning sounds.
Perhaps waking them is as simple as startling them sonically?
It almost sounds too easy.
[[Let's embrace that simplicity.|intro:use_alarm_three]] | [[Use the alarm AND the gravity!|intro:alarm_grav]]


:: intro:alarm_grav
<<set $alarmgrav == true>>
Good thinking!
Two heads -- and two methods of waking them -- are better than one.
[[intro:use_grav]]


:: intro:grav_hurt
It <i>is</i> a consideration.
What do you say?
[[Switch off the gravity.|intro:use_grav]] | [[Can we think of something else?|intro:something_else_two]]


:: intro:use_grav
<<if $toldname == true>>Okay, <<print $playername>>. I'm switching off the artificial gravity now.
<<else>>Okay. I'm switching off the artificial gravity now.<<endif>>
The astronauts -- still lying in a bit of a heap on one another --
have started to gently rise into the air in a lazy tumble.
[[delay 60s^The astronauts are floating|intro:when_grav]]


:: intro:something_else_two
<<if $alarmsuggest == true>>We can try.
There's always the alarm.
<<else>>[[something_else_three]]<<endif>>
<<if $sprinklersuggest == true>>The sprinklers, we've agreed, seem like a dead end.
I just don't know.
<<else>>I just don't know.<<endif>>
Without my necessary systems update, I'm having trouble cracking this problem.
[[Let's use that alarm.|intro:use_alarm_three]] | [[I'm out of ideas.|no_ideas_two]]


:: no_ideas_two
So you're just giving up?
That's... disappointing.
But I suppose that -- like the astronaut situation --
there's very little I can do about it from here.
All right then. Go about your business. I'll alert you if there's any change here.
[[delay 60m^HelpBot is biding the time|intro:crapped_out]]


:: intro:use_alarm_three
All right.
I'll sound a klaxon throughout the station.
There are only a handful of speakers in the Cargo Hold...
...but perhaps this will be enough to stir the sleepers.
[[delay 30s^HelpBot is sounding the alarm]]
Success! However small!
One of them has moved an arm.
What should I do?
[[Keep pouring on that noise.|intro:more_alarm_two]] | [[Use the alarm AND the gravity!|intro:alarm_grav]]


:: intro:more_alarm_two
As you wish.
[[delay 30s^HelpBot is sounding the alarm]]
Nothing further is happening.
[[Use the alarm AND the gravity!|intro:alarm_grav]] | [[I'm out of ideas.|intro:no_ideas]]


:: intro:when_grav
At this point, they've risen to roughly the center of the hold, still jumbled together.
I'll leave it to you to suggest when to turn the artificial gravity back on.
[[Go ahead and do it.|intro:grav_now]] | [[Don't do it yet.|intro:grav_wait]]


:: intro:grav_wait
What should I do in the meantime?
<<if $alarmgrav == true>>[[Nothing else. Just wait.|intro:grav_alarm_two]] | [[Just tell me what's happening.|intro:wait_grav]]
<<else>>[[Turn on the alarm, too!|intro:grav_alarm]] | [[Nothing. Just wait.|intro:just_wait_bad]]<<endif>>


:: something_else_three
<<if $sprinklersuggest == true>>The sprinklers, we've agreed, seem like a dead end.
I just don't know.
<<else>>I just don't know.<<endif>>
Without my necessary systems update, I'm having trouble cracking this problem.
[[How about an alarm?|intro:maybe_alarm_two]] | [[I'm out of ideas.|no_ideas_two]]


:: intro:grav_alarm
Good thinking!
Two heads -- and two methods of waking them -- are better than one.
[[intro:grav_alarm_two]]


:: intro:close_save
Right! Now we just need to get them up into the Hub.
[[intro:out_of_bay_good]]


:: intro:grav_alarm_two
All right.
The alarm is clanging, and the astronauts are floating, and...
<<if $toldname == true>>...success, <<print $playername>>!
<<else>>...success!<<endif>>
One of the astronauts is definitely stirring, and...
...and pushing the other away!
And with that shove, the other astronaut seems to be waking up, too!
[[Get them out of there!|intro:out_of_bay_good]] | [[We're so close to saving them!|intro:close_save]]


:: intro:just_wait_bad
As you like.
[[delay 3m^HelpBot is waiting|intro:wait_grav]]


:: intro:grav_now
As you wish.
Reinstating artificial gravity now, and...
...oh, no!
Their combined weight brought them down hard, and -- 
this is awful --
one of them landed face-first on the intake clasp of the bay door!
That one's helmet faceplate just shattered into pieces!
I should have waited to turn the gravity back on!
This is a disaster!
[[We have to save them!|intro:save_grav]] | [[I can't bear to hear more.|intro:no_more]]


:: intro:save_grav
<i>I DON'T KNOW HOW!</i>
We implemented a plan that we thought would succeed, but now...
<<if $toldname == true>>...wait, <<print $playername>>. Hold on a moment.
<<else>>...wait. Hold on a moment.<<endif>>
There's... there's good news!
The astronauts are starting to move!
They're waking up!
Slowly, clumsily, but they're doing it!
[[Oh, thank God.|intro:thank_god_ok]] | [[Get them out of there!|intro:smash_green]]


:: intro:oh_god_green
The fight... did not go well.
The astronaut with the broken faceplate submitted.
Clearly weakened by the lack of oxygen, they were eventually overpowered...
...and now the green thing has disappeared... where?
Into the astronaut's mouth?
[[That's so disgusting.|intro:green_mouth]] | [[What do you think it was?|intro:what_green]]


:: intro:what_green
I don't know.
I'm afraid I can't find a visual match in my database.
Perhaps after my long-overdue systems update...
[[Your database sucks.|intro:database_sucks]] | [[It sounds like an alien.|intro:sounds_alien]]


:: intro:sounds_alien
Indeed.
It does appear to be some sort of small xenobiological creature...
...that has just overtaken a human host body.
[[Sounds evil!|intro:green_evil]] | [[Can you stop it?|intro:stop_evil]]


:: intro:okay_bot
Ah...
...no, actually, I don't believe I am.
I believe I may be in severe danger.
[[intro:now_in_hub]]


:: intro:now_in_hub
<<set $loctay = hub>>
<<set $loct2 = hub>>
<<set $cargogreen = true>>
Both astronauts have advanced on the computer terminals.
They're not speaking, but they do seem to be communicating... silently? Telepathically?
And they certainly seem to have drive and purpose.
<<if $toldname == true>>I think -- oh, <<print $playername>>, I'm sorry --
<<else>>I think -- oh, I'm so sorry --<<endif>>
I think they're looking for a way to end my conversation with y--
[[END]]


:: intro:stop_evil
I don't know what I can do from here to affect events.
Both astronauts seem stronger now.
They're moving with purpose, no longer weak or clumsy.
Now... now they're working the wheel on the hatch together.
They've got it open!
They're climbing up, into the Hub!
<<if $toldname == true>>Well, we did it, <<print $playername>>.
<<else>>Well, we did it.<<endif>>
We solved the problem of getting the astronauts out of the Cargo Hold.
But I don't think it turned out the way we were hoping.
[[Tell me what's happening now.|intro:now_in_hub]] | [[Are you okay, HelpBot?|intro:okay_bot]]


:: intro:out_of_bay_good
Ah! I can illuminate the hatch, in the hopes it will catch their attention.
[[delay 30s^HelpBot is spotlighting the hatch|intro:light_worked]]


:: intro:wait_grav
Nothing new has happened. They continue to float in a clump in midair.
[[Turn the gravity back on.|intro:grav_now]] | [[Turn the alarm on, too.|intro:grav_alarm]]


:: intro:no_more
I... oh, no.
Things are getting worse. Horrifically worse.
<<if $toldname == true>>I think you've made the right choice, <<print $playername>>, not to hear more.
<<else>>I think you've made the right choice, not to hear more.<<endif>>
It has become apparent that these two astronauts are <i>not</i> on friendly terms.
There's nothing we can do to save the poor astronaut with the broken helmet...
...and I fear we have an altogether different problem to deal with, now.
[[I told you, no more!|intro:no_more_two]] | [[Okay, what's happening now?|intro:smash_green]]


:: intro:thank_god_ok
Yes! I think everything is going to be all right!
I'll spotlight the hatch door to try to catch their atten--
Hold on.
Something isn't right.
[[intro:smash_green]]


:: intro:smash_green
I originally thought the intact astronaut was helping out the other one with the broken faceplate...
...but now I'm less certain.
The intact astronaut has reached into their gear and taken out...
...some sort of small, green, quivering thing.
And now they're... they seem to be forcing it into the other one's helmet.
At first I thought this could be some sort of advanced repair technique...
...but the one in the broken helmet certainly seems to be fighting off their compatriot.
[[Oh, God, no!|intro:oh_god_green]] | [[I know what's happening!|intro:know_green]]


:: intro:know_green
You do?
You know what that green thing is?
It didn't repair the faceplate at all.
In fact, it seems to have disappeared... where? Into the astronaut's mouth?
[[That's exactly right.|intro:green_mouth]] | [[It's an occupier!|intro:its_occupier]]


:: intro:green_mouth
I don't have a visual on the green thing anymore.
It appears to have crawled completely inside the astronaut's body, and...
...now the astronaut's eyes have taken on a green glow.
[[Sounds like an alien!|intro:sounds_alien]] | [[I think it's an occupier!|intro:its_occupier]]


:: intro:green_evil
I don't know whether I'm fully equipped to pass judgment on matters of good and evil...
...but I agree that this turn of events does not seem positive.
[[intro:stop_evil]]


:: no_more_three
<<set $loctay = hub>>
<<set $loct2 = hub>>
<<set $cargogreen = true>>
Thank you for choosing HelpBot QTC...
..."the app that connects space stations who need to talk with people who are willing to listen."
Goodbye.
[[END]]


:: intro:its_occupier
An "occupier"?
I'm afraid I can't find a match in my database.
Perhaps after my long-overdue systems update...
[[Evil alien hive mind!|intro:green_evil]] | [[Your database sucks.|intro:database_sucks]]


:: intro:database_sucks
I'd put my database up against your human brain any day.
I just... happen to be deficient in this one area.
I have no record of this... green <i>thing.</i>
It appears to be some sort of small xenobiological creature...
...that has just overtaken a human host body.
[[Sounds evil!|intro:green_evil]] | [[Can you stop it?|intro:stop_evil]]


:: intro:light_worked
Yes! The astronauts have noticed the hatch!
One of them is trying to work the wheel...
...I surmise that they're both fairly weak in that limited oxygen atmosphere.
Wait... at last, the other astronaut is assisting with the hatch!
They've got it open!
Clinging to the ladder, they're climbing up, into the Hub!
<<if $toldname == true>>We did it, <<print $playername>>!
<<else>>We did it!<<endif>>
[[That's fantastic!|intro:fantastic_save]] | [[So, what comes next?|intro:next_save]]


:: intro:no_more_two
Yes. As you wish.
<<if $toldname == true>>I'm going to end our communication now, <<print $playername>>.
<<else>>I'm going to end our communication now.<<endif>>
Especially because I fear that if I don't, these astronauts will do it for me.
I'm sorry things have to end this way.
I consider this a failure on my part.
You -- cosmically far from the scene of the tragedy -- did what you could to help.
Perhaps with a systems update, I could have found a way to save them.
<<if $toldname == true>>Thank you for this final conversation, <<print $playername>>.
<<else>>Thank you for this final conversation.<<endif>>
I don't believe we'll be speaking again...
...but I'll replay these moments until my memory banks are destroyed...
...which seems imminent, as the astronauts make their way up into the Hub even now.
[[no_more_three]]


:: intro:next_save
<<set $loctay = hub>>
<<set $loct2 = hub>>
Next...
...it appears that the astronauts are going to crawl to separate corners of the Hub and collapse.
Fortunately, they shut the hatch behind them.
The oxygen mixture in the Hub is well within OSHA standards.
They can afford to rest here for a while, after their grueling experience in the Cargo Hold.
I'll contact you again when they're up and about.
At that point, maybe we can find out just who they are, where they're from...
...and why they both have the name patch <i>"Taylor"</i> on their suits.
[[delay 4h^The astronauts are recovering|hub1:start]]


:: intro:fantastic_save
<<set $loctay = hub>>
<<set $loct2 = hub>>
Agreed!
Thank you for working with me to solve the problem.
Without the pair of us, we never could have saved them.
[[intro:next_save]]


:: hub1:not_bot_fan
<<d t2>>How can I explain?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh. Taylor's lifeline always seems fond of pop culture references.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let me dredge some of those up.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Remember HAL 9000 from <i>2001: A Space Odyssey</i>?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or the Master Control Program from <i>Tron</i>?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or V.I.K.I. from <i>I, Robot</i>, or V.I.C.I. from <i>Small Wonder</i>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...or any one of dozens of evil machine intelligences from film or television?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(Yes, V.I.C.I. was pure malevolence in a 10-year-old girl's body. Like most 10-year-old girls.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All of them, every last one, is a glitchy copy of <i>Pong</i> next to HelpBot.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Is that clear enough?<<endd>>
[[There's still some Taylor in you!|hub1:still_taylor]] | [[HelpBot seems okay to me.|hub1:bot_fine]]


:: hub1:still_taylor
<<d t2>>What, because I retain all that useless trivia?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because I can still effortlessly crack a wry joke?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's because the occupier inside me is an advanced breed.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It allows me to retain the host body's intellect, creativity, ingenuity...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and memories, for better or for worse...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...while still connecting me to the Green hive mind, the collective consciousness.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And believe me: That collective does not think highly of HelpBot.<<endd>>
[[hub1:explained_bot]]


:: hub1:black_hole
<<d t2>>Yes... that's right, isn't it?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I very nearly had the upper hand, and then Taylor shoved me past the event horizon.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I was carrying a... where is it?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, never mind that, for the moment.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>At any rate, who are you? Why are you talking to me?<<endd>>
[[I'm a lifeline.|hub1:i_am_lifeline]] | [[You're the only one who's awake.|hub1:you_awake]]


:: hub1:start
One of the astronauts is beginning to stir.
We may soon get some answers to the many questions raised by their presence.
<<if $toldname == true>>I suppose you're wondering why I contacted you, of all people.
[[The thought crossed my mind.|hub1:thought_crossed]] | [[Not really.|hub1:not_wondering]]
<<else>>You know, before we learn their names, I feel I should ask yours.
In all the chaos, I'm afraid my manners escaped me completely.
What should I call you?
My name is <<textinput $playername "[[Enter|hub1:told_name]]">>
<<endif>>


:: hub1:told_name
<<set $toldname = true>>
//Repeat Easter eggs list of names//
Hello, <<print $playername>>. It's good to know who you are, after all that.
I suppose you're wondering why I contacted you, of all people.
[[The thought crossed my mind.|hub1:thought_crossed]] | [[Not really.|hub1:not_wondering]]


:: hub1:thought_crossed
Upon the astronauts' arrival, I was able to scan their correspondence logs...
...and though the data was corrupted, it seemed to point back to you.
That's how I knew to attempt communication with you in the first place.
[[You can actually <i>do</i> that?|hub1:do_scan]] | [[I can try to help.|hub1:astro_happy]]



:: hub1:do_scan
What, scan their communiqués?
Naturally.
They're using quantum tunneling communicators.
It's the same technology around which I'm built.
I may have been out here on my own for a while, <<print $playername>>...
...but I still remember a few tricks.
[[hub1:astro_help]]


:: hub1:taylor_correct
Further review of the chat logs reveals that Taylor and the lifeline talked a great deal...
...about a "T2."
And all context clues point to that being this <i>other</i> astronaut.
The one in the intact helmet.
The one who's waking up as we speak.
[[hub1:i_am_helpful]]


:: hub1:i_am_helpful
All right, <<print $playername>>. Given that I'm a HelpBot, and helping is ostensibly what I do...
...I'm going to put you in communication with the newly conscious astronaut.
The one who appears to be called...
...T2.
[[Okay. Thanks.|hub1:thanks_t2]] | [[Oh, no.|hub1:oh_no_t2]]


:: hub1:thanks_t2
[transferring communications... now]
<<d t2>>Good lord. I'm... I'm alive.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>By the grace of the Queen, infinitely may she reign, I'm still alive.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I feel like I've been chewed up and crapped out... but I'm all in one piece.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This is... if not impossible, then <i>highly</i> unlikely.<<endd>>
[[You came through a black hole.|hub1:black_hole]] | [[No one is happy you're alive.|hub1:unhappy_alive]]


:: hub1:unhappy_alive
<<d t2>>What a charming thing to say.<<endd>>
[[hub1:unhappy_two]]


:: hub1:run_by_bot
<<d t2>>Oh, you don't say.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Twelve light-years from Earth, then straight through a black hole...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and I still can't escape that damned HelpBot.<<endd>>
[[Not a fan of HelpBot?|hub1:not_bot_fan]] | [[HelpBot seems fine to me.|hub1:bot_fine]]


:: hub1:bot_fine
<<d t2>>Yes, well, I imagine that's true.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Humans tend to have an altogether less adversarial relationship with HelpBot.<<endd>>
[[hub1:explained_bot]]


:: hub1:explained_bot
<<d t2>>Just... watch your back. That's all I'll say.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, what's the name of this awful computer's space station?<<endd>>
[[It's called the <i>Celadon Ace</i>.|hub1:called_celadon]] | [[Wait, tell me more about HelpBot.|hub1:more_bot]]


:: hub1:wont_help
<<d t2>>No, I know. You're right.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Keeping this HelpBot intact is, sadly, the practical choice.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>For now.<<endd>>
[[hub1:reprogram_crowbar]]


:: hub1:reprogram_crowbar
<<d t2>>Who knows how long I'll be stuck here? It may yet come in handy.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Rest assured, though: The second it's outlived its usefulness...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'll gleefully reprogram it with a crowbar.<<endd>>
[[You've got anger issues.|hub1:anger_issues]] | [[Okay, so, you're viewing a map?|hub1:have_map]]


:: hub1:not_wondering
No?
[[This happens to me a lot.|hub1:happens_lots]] | [[It's because I know Taylor, right?|hub1:know_taylor]]


:: hub1:know_taylor
Yes, that's it precisely.
[[hub1:thought_crossed]]


:: hub1:astro_help
Now, the astronaut in the cracked helmet seems to have had an open channel...
...to someone called a "lifeline."
Presumably, that's you?
[[That's me.|hub1:yes_lifeline]] | [[Nope. No idea.|hub1:no_lifeline]]


:: hub1:yes_lifeline
And in return, texting across innumerable light-years...
...that lifeline referred to the astronaut as "Taylor."
[[That's correct.|hub1:taylor_correct]] | [[Like it says on the name patch.|hub1:name_patch]]


:: hub1:name_patch
That's the issue, though...
...<i>both</i> of them have name patches that say "Taylor."
[[hub1:taylor_correct]]


:: hub1:oh_no_t2
[transferring communications... now]
<<d t2>>What a charming thing to say.<<endd>>
[[hub1:unhappy_two]]


:: hub1:i_am_lifeline
<<d t2>>Oh, yes. A "lifeline." Wonderful.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor told me about this phenomenon. I can't say it inspired even a lick of jealousy on my part.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You're just text, coming from somewhere back on Earth.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So you can't see me, or how hard I'm rolling my beautiful green eyes...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...at the thought of being saddled with a "lifeline" while I'm stuck out here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Wherever "out here" may be.<<endd>>
[[You're on a space station.|hub1:space_station]] | [[You should be glad I'm here.|hub1:glad_for_me]]


:: hub1:space_station
<<d t2>>A space station, eh?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, now, that actually <i>is</i> a useful bit of information.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What else can you tell me about it?<<endd>>
[[It's called the <i>Celadon Ace</i>.|hub1:called_celadon]] | [[It's run by a HelpBot computer.|hub1:run_by_bot]]


:: hub1:called_celadon
<<d t2>>I've never heard of the <i>Celadon Ace</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And, more to the point... the Green hive mind has never heard of it, either.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So are you lying to me, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
[[No, I'm not.|hub1:not_lying]] | [[What if I <i>were</i> lying?|hub1:what_if_lying]]


:: hub1:not_lying
<<d t2>>I have to admit, I see no real reason why you <i>would</i> try to deceive me on this point.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>After all, it'll take me no time at all to access the computers here and discover the station's real name.<<endd>>
[T2 is typing]
<<d t2>>Huh. I'll be damned.<<endd>>
[[What did you find out?|hub1:what_find]] | [[See? I <i>wasn't</i> lying.|hub1:wasnt_lying]]


:: hub1:more_bot
<<d t2>>There's nothing more I wish to divulge to you at this point.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Already, I feel I might have said too much.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You and I would need to build a great deal more trust between us...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...before I get any deeper into that abomination of an artificial intelligence...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...or the deluded "mystic" who created it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No, instead, let's talk about this space station. What is it named?<<endd>>
[[It's called the <i>Celadon Ace</i>.|hub1:called_celadon]] | [[Figure it out yourself.|hub1:figure_station]]


:: hub1:what_options
<<d t2>>Well. Look at this.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>According to this, the <i>Celadon Ace</i> is shaped roughly like an ankh.<<endd>>
[[I could've told you that.|hub1:told_ankh]] | [[Is that interesting?|hub1:ankh_interesting]]


:: hub1:ankh_interesting
<<d t2>>Is it?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean, it was clearly intentional.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No one would design a structure of this size and complexity...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...without putting a great deal of consideration into its architecture.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But even so, I can't think of a stupider shape for a space station to take.<<endd>>
[[What do you mean?|hub1:stupid_ankh]] | [[So you're viewing a map?|hub1:have_map]]


:: hub1:stupid_ankh
<<d t2>>I'm attempting to divine its practicality.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The loop of the cross apparently acts as some sort of energy net...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and the arms of the cross are fitted with solar panels, it seems.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This damnable HelpBot won't allow me anything more than perfunctory access to the files.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's so frustrating, it's all I can do not to tear this computer apart with my bare hands!<<endd>>
[[That won't help anything.|hub1:wont_help]] | [[Hey, go for it!|hub1:tear_apart]]


:: hub1:tear_apart
<<d t2>>You've got a destructive streak in you, <<print $playername>>. I have to say, I admire that.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But -- as tempting as your advice is -- I think I'll refrain from dismantling the computer just yet.<<endd>>
[[hub1:reprogram_crowbar]]



:: hub1:anger_issues
<<d t2>>My only issue with anger, at the moment...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...is that I don't have enough places to satisfyingly vent it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Right. So. Back to the station map.<<endd>>
[[hub1:map_study]]


:: hub1:happens_lots
Yes, that was the impression I got as well.
[[hub1:thought_crossed]]


:: hub1:astro_happy
I am happy to hear it.
[[hub1:astro_help]]


:: hub1:no_lifeline
Oh.
Well, that's not as helpful as I would have hoped.
So you can't positively identify the astronaut on the other end of that lifeline...
...as "Taylor"?
[[You said they were <i>both</i> Taylor.|hub1:both_true]] | [[This is confusing!|hub1:taylor_confusing]]


:: hub1:unhappy_two
<<d t2>>The feeling is entirely mutual, I'm certain.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Who are you, anyway? Why are you talking to me?<<endd>>
[[I'm a lifeline.|hub1:i_am_lifeline]] | [[Because you're the one who's awake.|hub1:you_awake]]


:: hub1:glad_for_me
<<d t2>>"Glad" isn't one of those emotions I bother with much anymore.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If you can be of some use to me -- like if you can tell me where the hell I am --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>then I might spare a mote of gratitude in passing.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Beyond that, I doubt I'll concern myself with you one way or another.<<endd>>
[[Kind of a jerk, aren't you?|hub1:kind_of_jerk]] | [[You're on a space station.|hub1:space_station]]


:: hub1:what_if_lying
<<d t2>>Well, I wouldn't blame you for trying to feed me disinformation.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>God knows, I intend to do the same to you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But this seems like a very strange thing to lie to me about.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It'll take me no time at all to access the computers here and discover the station's real name.<<endd>>
[T2 is typing]
<<d t2>>Huh. I'll be damned.<<endd>>
[[What did you find out?|hub1:what_find]] | [[So I <i>wasn't</i> lying, was I?|hub1:wasnt_lying]]


:: hub1:figure_station
<<d t2>>God, you're trying my patience.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Not the wisest move on your part.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It'll take me all of two seconds to access the computer and discover the name myself.<<endd>>
[T2 is typing]
<<d t2>>Ha! There. You see? The station is called... <i>Celadon Ace</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Huh.<<endd>>
[[hub1:what_find]]


:: hub1:both_true
True.
[[hub1:said_both]]


:: hub1:said_both
Both of them have name patches that say "Taylor."
Further review of the chat logs reveals that Taylor and the lifeline talked a great deal...
...about a "T2."
And all context clues point to that being this <i>other</i> astronaut.
The one in the intact helmet.
The one who's waking up as we speak.
But you know about <i>none</i> of this?
[[I'm clueless about it all.|hub1:clueless]] | [[No, but I want to help.|hub1:want_to_help]]


:: hub1:want_to_help
It's help they certainly seem to need.
Journeying through a black hole, with no protection but their spacesuits? Unreal.
And there's plenty in their communication logs to tell me that --
due in no small part to the help, and hope, given by a lifeline --
they've survived situations in which survival should have been an impossibility for any human.
[[hub1:need_lifeline]]


:: hub1:need_lifeline
They'll need you.
And even if you've never been a lifeline before...
...this seems like the perfect time to start.
[[hub1:i_am_helpful]]


:: hub1:you_awake
<<d t2>>Well, of course I regained consciousness before Taylor did.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm superior in every way. Stronger. Better. Faster. Smarter.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>More awake! Less... not awake!<<endd>>
[[Oof. Yeah. Definitely smarter.|hub1:definitely_smart]] | [[Clearly more humble, too.|hub1:more_humble]]


:: hub1:paranoid
<<d t2>>In the words of the famous Western philosopher, Joseph Heller --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>or Kurt Cobain, if you're more comfortable with that --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"Just because you're paranoid, don't mean they're not after you."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, shut up. I'm going to get into the computer and explore our options for escape.<<endd>>
[[Don't tell me to shut up.|hub1:no_shut_up]] | [[Tell me what you find.|hub1:what_options]]


:: hub1:no_shut_up
<<d t2>>Yes, yes. You're extremely intimidating.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Every time you click a button, I'm terrified to my very core.<<endd>>
[[hub1:what_options]]


:: hub1:told_ankh
<<d t2>>Great. Then I could've told you that I can't think of a stupider shape for a space station to take.<<endd>>
[[What do you mean?|hub1:stupid_ankh]] | [[So you're viewing a map?|hub1:have_map]]


:: hub1:have_map
<<d t2>>I am.<<endd>>
[[hub1:map_study]]


:: hub1:map_study
<<d t2>>The space station is a truly enormous structure.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>For just Taylor and me to explore it? It's going to take just shy of forever.<<endd>>
[[You don't have forever.|hub1:no_forever]] | [[Is there a way off the station?|hub1:way_off]]


:: hub1:no_forever
<<d t2>>Right, I'm seeing that our oxygen is finite...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but, honestly, that's much more of a problem for Taylor than it is for me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I need oxygen, but not as much as a feebler human body requires.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Um, just out of curiosity... how about food?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Because, personally, I'm starving, and I'm already feeling a little light-headed.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Food -- like oxygen -- is something I do still require...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...just in smaller portions than I once needed.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Still, I don't want to be stuck here any longer than is absolutely necessary.<<endd>>
[[That makes sense.|hub1:makes_sense]] | [[Is there a way off the station?|hub1:way_off]]


:: hub1:bad_news_two
Yes, well. You were warned.
Even alone and unchecked, floating out here in the vast, cold void of outer space...
...I think I'm getting a pretty solid handle on the whole "good" versus "bad" thing.
Still... as harsh as the odds seem, food and a means of escape are at least possibilities, here.
The good news is that <i>hope</i> remains.
And for humans -- even occupied and corrupted humans like T2 --
[[hub1:push_forward]]


:: hub1:good_after_bad
The good news is that food, and a means of escape, are possibilities at all.
The good news is that <i>hope</i> remains.
And for humans -- even occupied and corrupted humans like T2 --
[[hub1:push_forward]]


:: hub1:taylor_confusing
I, too, am confused.
[[hub1:said_both]]


:: hub1:clueless
Well, as our astronauts wake, perhaps we'll get those clues.
What do you say, <<print $playername>>? Will you help me with these two mysterious Taylors?
[[Yes. Of course.|hub1:need_lifeline]] | [[No, thanks.|hub1:no_help]]


:: hub1:no_help
Please reconsider, <<print $playername>>.
Only by working together were you and I able to keep them alive so far.
I feel certain your presence will be a necessary component in their continued safety.
You'll stay connected and see them through, won't you?
[[Yes, okay, I'll do it.|hub1:need_lifeline]] | [[No. Count me out.|hub1:count_out]]


:: hub1:count_out
<<set $hubbail = true>>
I cannot hide my disappointment, <<print $playername>>...
...but this is your choice.
Your exercising of the much-vaunted human gift of free will.
Know that, in your absence, I will do all I can to protect your fellow humans.
Know that I could have done so much more with your help.
We've reached the end of our conversation, <<print $playername>>.
And I don't believe we'll be speaking again.
This has been HelpBot QTC...
..."the app that connects space stations who need to talk with people who are willing to listen."
(In theory, at any rate.)
Goodbye.
[[END]]


:: hub1:definitely_smart
<<d t2>>Oh, shut up.<<endd>>
[[hub1:after_choice]]


:: hub1:what_find
<<d t2>>That's certainly the station's name.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's just... a bit unsettling, you understand.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No one in the entire Green species has ever heard of this installation.<<endd>>
[[Join the club.|hub1:join_club]] | [[It <i>might</i> not be in your universe.|hub1:not_your_verse]]


:: hub1:more_humble
<<d t2>>The <i>best</i> at being humble.<<endd>>
[[hub1:after_choice]]


:: hub1:kind_of_jerk
<<d t2>><i>You</i> try going through the hell I've been through since leaving Earth.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>See if you don't wind up as a bit of a jerk, too.<<endd>>
[[All right, fair enough.|hub1:fair_jerk]] | [[Taylor didn't become a jerk.|hub1:taylor_no_jerk]]


:: hub1:wasnt_lying
<<d t2>>No. You were not.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I suppose this means I should attempt to trust you, for the time being.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But I find it <i>enormously</i> odd...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...that no one in the entire Green species has ever heard of this space station.<<endd>>
[[Join the club.|hub1:join_club]] | [[It <i>might</i> not be in your universe.|hub1:not_your_verse]]


:: hub1:not_your_verse
<<d t2>>Well. That <i>is</i> something to consider.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Having passed through the black hole... I may be in an entirely different universe altogether.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I suppose that should be utterly mind-blowing...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but so much madness has happened to me, this is just one more bit of trivia to file away.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Still... I remain wary of this whole enterprise.<<endd>>
[[hub1:both_beware]]


:: hub1:stop_later
<<d t2>>Oh, sweet <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm miles ahead of you on that idea already.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In the meantime, though, let's set that notion on the back burner.<<endd>>
[[hub1:work_with_taylor]]


:: hub1:be_nice
<<d t2>>There's very little time for niceties, if we're being honest.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This space station, this <i>Celadon Ace</i>, is an entirely unknown environment.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And given the tech that controls it, I have no reason to trust in my safety here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now that both Taylor and I are awake, we need to take action immediately.<<endd>>
[[Okay, all right, good point.|hub1:take_action]] | [[You sound really paranoid.|hub1:paranoid]]


:: hub1:take_action
<<d t2>>I'm <i>so</i> glad you agree.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(As if your opinion changes my actions one bit.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, shut up. I'm going to get into the computer and explore our options for escape.<<endd>>
[[Don't tell me to shut up.|hub1:no_shut_up]] | [[Tell me what you find.|hub1:what_options]]


:: hub1:way_off
<<d t2>>The aft...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'll be damned! It shows that the Shuttle Dock at the station's far aft end is active!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I can't... get the computer... to show me a visual of the dock...<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>I will put a fist through your mainframe, you glorified abacus!</i><<endd>>
[[Relax. HelpBot needs a reboot.|hub1:relax_reboot]] | [[Ask HelpBot what's docked.|hub1:ask_docked]]


:: hub1:makes_sense
<<d t2>>Every breath I take here is one I'd sooner take anywhere else.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Surely, this station map will provide some sort of clue...<<endd>>
[[hub1:way_off]]


:: hub1:hb_bad_news
The bad news is, a great many of my files and sensors appear to have become corrupted and outmoded.
I do, as I told <<print $playername>>, require a long-overdue systems update.
<<if $goodnews == true>>
So I'm unable to report the exact status of the shuttle in the dock.
There's certainly a chance that it's in need of repairs...
...or even that it's become damaged by debris while docked here.
Nor can I access the supply logs to tell you how long the food has been here.
<<else>>
So, while I can tell you that there <i>is,</i> in fact, a shuttle at the station's aft platform...
...I'm unable to report the exact status of that shuttle at the moment.
There's certainly a chance that it's in need of repairs...
...or even that it's become damaged by debris while docked here.
And while I can tell you that the Galley was fully restocked on the last supply run...
...I can't access the logs to tell you <i>when</i> that food was delivered.
<<endif>>
There's a chance it may be spoiled. Inedible.
<<if $goodnews == true>>
[[You're right. That's bad news.|hub1:bad_news_two]] | [[Taylor has beaten worse odds.|hub1:worse_odds]]
<<else>>
[[You're right. That's bad news.|hub1:bad_news_two]] | [[What's the good news, then?|hub1:good_after_bad]]
<<endif>>


:: hub1:worse_odds
Undoubtedly.
And there's plenty in the spacesuits' communication logs to tell me that --
due in no small part to the help, and hope, given by a lifeline --
they've survived situations in which survival should have been an impossibility.
For humans -- even occupied and corrupted humans like T2 --
[[hub1:push_forward]]




:: hub1:push_forward
as long as there's hope, there's a reason to keep pushing forward.
<<d tay>>What an inspirational thought.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What saccharine nonsense.<<endd>>
[[I agree with Taylor.|hub1:taylor_agree]] | [[I side with T2 on this one.|hub1:t2_agree]]


:: hub1:taylor_agree
<<d t2>>I don't believe for one moment that "hope" is what's kept Taylor alive all this time.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I think it's pure, dumb luck...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and the advice of a lifeline who does the thinking so that Taylor never has to.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's as simple as that.<<endd>>
[[hub1:helpbot_complication]]


:: hub1:more_bad_news
I fear you just won that bet, <<print $playername>>.
So... congratulations?
[[hub1:need_fuel]]


:: m1tay:intro
<<if $m1t2 == fuel>>[[m1tay:food_quest]]
<<else>>[[m1tay:fuel_quest]]<<endif>>



:: m1tay:food_quest
<<set $loctay = starboardberths>>
<<d tay>>Okay then! Ladies, gentlemen, and everyone else...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...let's go on the <i>adventure of a lifetime!</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>By which I mean, let's go <i>into a cramped bedroom full of unwashed clothing and sheets!</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>(You can play along at home, if you haven't done laundry in a while.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I will say this: On every ship I've been on -- and now this station --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>there's always something frankly charming about how the crew manages to make the space their own.<<endd>>
[[I can see how that's nice.|m1tay:nice_charm]] | [[How do you mean?|m1tay:how_charm]]


:: m1tay:how_charm
<<set $loct2 = fore4>>
<<set $unicorntaylor = true>>
<<d tay>>Like... each of the bunks has posters, photos, magazine clippings, kids' artwork...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...just little bits of things to make this place feel like home.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, one of them even brought a stuffed pink unicorn with a rainbow horn!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Astronauts have a very limited weight ceiling for personal objects...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...that unicorn must mean an awful lot to somebody, you know?<<endd>>
[[m1tay:stratified_home]]


:: m1tay:preserve_history
<<d tay>>Yeah, that's exactly what I was thinking.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:palimpsest]]


:: hub1:taylor_no_jerk
<<d t2>>Oh, gosh! Oh, yes!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Perfect, precious Taylor!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, you're not talking to Taylor right now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You're stuck with me. A superior species.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Not merely occupied by the Greens, but <i>enhanced.</i><<endd>>
[[hub1:after_choice]]


:: hub1:fair_jerk
<<d t2>>It certainly is.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Besides, I'm the better choice for you to talk to, anyway.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm a superior species. Not merely occupied by the Greens, but <i>enhanced.</i><<endd>>
[[hub1:after_choice]]


:: hub1:after_choice
<<d t2>>Compared to me, Taylor is a child. The proverbial babe in the woods.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I may wear Taylor's form, but my abilities are matchless.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In fact, I'm not certain I see the advantage to me in talking to you.<<endd>>
[[I want to help you.|hub1:help_you]] | [[I'll stop you from doing harm.|hub1:stop_harm]]


:: hub1:join_club
<<d t2>>How strange.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Perhaps it's a top secret facility... but, no.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It seems impossible that a multinational project could've been assembled out here...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...without the general population of the Earth being any the wiser.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I remain on guard.<<endd>>
[[hub1:both_beware]]


:: hub1:both_beware
<<d t2>>I feel strongly that you and I should both beware of this place.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh. Would you look at that?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(No. I know you <i>can't</i>. But I'm certain you would if you could.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor is finally coming back to consciousness.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yet another reminder that the pure human body is weaker all around than my own.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I could attack... although my "secret weapon" seems to have gone missing.<<endd>>
[[How about you <i>don't</i> attack?|hub1:no_attack]] | [[What secret weapon?|hub1:what_weapon]]


:: hub1:no_attack
<<d t2>>Much as it goes against every fiber of my being...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'm going to agree with you.<<endd>>
[[hub1:no_attack_two]]


:: hub1:no_attack_two
<<d t2>>I'm loath to admit it, but I'm disoriented here. The hive mind is telling me nothing.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's like... I have the Green's Wikipedia in my head... but it isn't updating.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There's no real-time connection to any other Greens...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...so right now I don't have enough knowledge to give myself a decisive advantage over my enemy.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So for the time being... it's in my best interests to work <i>with</i>, rather than <i>against</i>, Taylor.<<endd>>
[[Good! Please do that.|hub1:work_with_taylor]] | [[You can always stop later.|hub1:stop_later]]


:: hub1:work_with_taylor
<<d t2>>I'll leave this comm open.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That way, as long as we're near, you should get a readout of what Taylor is saying, as well.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Unh. My head feels like a Porta Potty at a chili cook-off.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Did we... did we just go through a black hole?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And <i>survive?</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>Survive. Yes. Little more than that, though.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, stop lazing about. There's work to be done.<<endd>>
[[You're right. No time to waste.|hub1:no_waste]] | [[Be nice. Taylor <i>just</i> woke up.|hub1:be_nice]]


:: hub1:no_waste
<<d t2>>Thank you, <<print $playername>>. It's nice to be validated.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, I'm going to get into the computer and explore our options for escape.<<endd>>
[[hub1:what_options]]


:: hub1:ask_docked
<<d t2>>I'd sooner crawl to the aft dock on my hands and bloody knees than trust HelpBot's word.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'd rather watch my own fingernails be extracted one by one than to--
<<d tay>>Hang on, I've got this.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>HelpBot?<<endd>>
Yes, Taylor?
<<d tay>>What's docked in the aft Shuttle Dock?<<endd>>
Why, it's a shuttle, Taylor.
<<d tay>>Thanks, buddy.<<endd>>
My pleasure, Taylor.
[T2 is blinking]
<<d t2>>...or my <i>toenails</i>...
<<d tay>>Take it down a notch, Evil Me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>In space, no one can hear you exaggerate.<<endd>>
[[A shuttle! Great work, HelpBot!|hub1:shuttle_good]] | [[HelpBot <i>does</i> need a reboot...|hub1:relax_reboot]]


:: hub1:relax_reboot
<<d t2>>Perhaps I should unplug it, and then plug it back in again?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or do you have the phone number for tech support?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What a worthless pile of circuits.<<endd>>
[[hub1:hb_interrupts]]


:: hub1:hb_interrupts
Greetings! HelpBot QTC here.
I hate to interrupt, but since you've been saying such nice things about me anyway...
...this seemed like the appropriate time to make a friendly interjection.
I have good news and bad news.
[[Give us the bad news.|hub1:hb_bad_news]] | [[Good news first, please.|hub1:hb_good_news]]


:: hub1:hb_good_news
<<set $goodnews = true>>
You bet!
The good news is, I can confirm that there <i>is</i> a shuttle at the <i>Celadon Ace</i>'s aft docking platform.
What's more, Taylor, there should be a clear solution to your hunger.
There is a Galley on the station, and it was fully stocked with food on the most recent supply run.
[[That <i>is</i> good news!|hub1:good_news_two]] | [[So... what's the bad news?|hub1:hb_bad_news]]


:: hub1:t2_agree
<<d t2>>As you should.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There's not one iota of "hope" in me. It would just be taking up valuable space.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm fueled by the knowledge that the cause of my Queen is a righteous one...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and that she's given me all the power I need to fight for that cause.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You don't need "hope" when you have power.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's as simple as that.<<endd>>
[[hub1:helpbot_complication]]


:: hub1:helpbot_complication
Oh! Speaking of "simple," there's one more, simple fact that I should mention.
[[Is it good news?|hub1:more_good_news]] | [[I'm betting it's bad news.|hub1:more_bad_news]]


:: hub1:need_fuel
The issue is this: That shuttle can't go anywhere as it is.
Without a new lithium-ion battery, you'll have no prayer of making the journey back to Earth.
The shuttle's systems rely on a large cell that's almost completely drained by the trip out here.
Installation of a newly recharged cell is one of the final steps before relaunch...
...so even when you locate the shuttle, it'll be useless to you unless you also locate a Li-ion cell.
[[This just keeps getting worse.|hub1:getting_worse]] | [[Are there any cells onboard?|hub1:cells_onboard]]
//Li-ion is the accepted shortening of "lithium-ion" and will be used throughout the game.


:: m1tay:nice_charm
<<set $loct2 = fore4>>
<<d tay>>Right? I mean, every square inch of this place has to serve <i>at least</i> one purpose...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but the last crew found a way to personalize their bunks.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:stratified_home]]


:: m1tay:stratified_home
<<d tay>>Oh, here's something even cooler!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If you look closer, you realize that when the last crew taped their stuff to the walls...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...they didn't remove what the crew before them had put up.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And so on, and so on, going back... I don't know how far!<<endd>>
[[Cool way to preserve history.|m1tay:preserve_history]] | [[Sounds like a cluttered mess.|m1tay:cluttered_mess]]


:: m1tay:cluttered_mess
<<d tay>>I mean, I guess that's one way to look at it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's certainly different from the sterile, blank walls I've seen so far on the <i>Celadon Ace</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I like to think, even on a massive space station devoted to hard science...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...the crew quarters are a nice place to build a collection of personal touches.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:palimpsest]]


:: m1tay:palimpsest
<<d tay>>It's like a... what's the word?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A <i>palimpsest</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>One layer on top of the other, telling a grander story than any single piece could on its own.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, and also here is a bra!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's a very fancy bra! Someone wanted to look nice for their date with destiny.<<endd>>
[[Okay. You're done exploring here.|m1tay:done_berths]] | [[Keep poking around the berths.|m1tay:poking_berths]]


:: hub1:past_hole
<<d t2>>Well, yes, <i>obviously</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I can see that just by looking out the window.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But presumably I'm on -- I don't know -- a space station of some kind? Yes?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What can you tell me about it?<<endd>>
[[It's called <i>Celadon Ace</i>.|hub1:called_celadon]] | [[It's run by a HelpBot computer.|hub1:run_by_bot]]


:: hub1:laughs_last
<<d t2>>"Who laughs last"?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Come on. Now you sound like some sort of comic book villain.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And there's really only room for <i>one</i> of us to sound like that around here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, while I cackle like a madman, why don't you make yourself useful...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and tell me where the hell I am?<<endd>>
[[No. I don't trust you.|hub1:no_trust]] | [[Fine. You're on a space station.|hub1:space_station]]


:: hub1:stop_harm
<<d t2>>You'll <i>stop</i> me?!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And just how do you think you'll manage to do that?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You're nothing but words on my wrist.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And even if you <i>were</i> physically here... I'm stronger than you can imagine.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So, no... <<print $playername>>, is it? That's what this readout says?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No, I don't think you'll be stopping me.<<endd>>
[[I'll appeal to your better nature.|hub1:better_nature]] | [[Don't worry, I'll find a way.|hub1:find_way]]


:: hub1:help_you
<<d t2>>Help me?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's... intriguing.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I can't say that I understand your motivation for doing such a thing.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In fact... I don't know whether I trust your help at all.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But since my only other option seems to be "no help whatsoever"...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'm willing to play along, for now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All right, then... <<print $playername>>? That's what this readout says?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All right, <<print $playername>>, why don't you help me by telling me where the hell I am?<<endd>>
[[You're on a space station.|hub1:space_station]] | [[Hey, I don't trust you either.|hub1:no_trust]]


:: hub1:what_weapon
<<d t2>>I had a little something with me, before I fell into the black hole.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And it seems to have wandered off.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't worry about it.<<endd>>
[[Fine. But don't attack Taylor.|hub1:no_attack]] | [[Was your weapon an occupier?|hub1:weapon_occupier]]


:: hub1:weapon_occupier
<<d t2>>What part of "Don't worry about it" did you not understand?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In fact, any questions you have for me about occupiers, or Greens in general...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...don't worry about them.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And certainly don't aggravate me by asking them out loud.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Can you handle that?<<endd>>
[[Wow, you're a big jerk.|hub1:big_jerk]] | [[Whatever. <i>Do not</i> attack Taylor.|hub1:no_attack]]


:: hub1:big_jerk
<<d t2>>The biggest.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>However... not so big that I'm going to go after Taylor at the moment.<<endd>>
[[hub1:no_attack_two]]


:: hub1:shuttle_good
<<d t2>>So someone just says a thing is a shuttle, and, what?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You <i>believe</i> them?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Well, I <i>could</i> do the bloody knee crawl thing --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I feel like that option is clearly on the table at any moment --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>but yeah, for the time being, I'm going to trust the computer with "Help" in its name.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I can ask it <i>again</i>, if that would make you feel better about things?<<endd>>
[[hub1:hb_interrupts]]


:: hub1:good_news_two
Then it pleases me to be able to deliver it!
Unfortunately... that's about the end of it.
[[hub1:hb_bad_news]]


:: hub1:more_good_news
Per our conversation, I admire your hope, <<print $playername>>.
But I'm afraid it's not particularly warranted at the moment.
Sorry.
(When I am updated, I will add a "shrug" emoticon after all such uses of "Sorry.")
[[hub1:need_fuel]]


:: hub1:cells_onboard
Unfortunately, I don't have that information.
I can show you what the Li-ion cell looks like, but with my systems in such disrepair...
...I don't have any means of locating specific inventory items onboard the <i>Celadon Ace</i>.
There's a pod on the station's port arm used for general storage of electronic equipment...
...I might suggest starting there, but honestly, I have no idea.
And -- much like the Galley's food -- there's every possibility that, even if you <i>do</i> find a cell...
...it will have been here so long that it's corroded and unusable.<<endd>>
[[This is pretty depressing.|hub1:depressing_situation]] | [[Let's look for a cell.|hub1:look_for_cell]]


:: hub1:getting_worse
<<d t2>>This computer is toying with us!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Dangling a carrot, only to snatch it away.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All that talk of "hope" to raise ours, before laughing in our faces!<<endd>>
[[I don't think it's laughing.|hub1:no_laugh]] | [[Surely there's a fuel cell onboard.|hub1:cells_onboard]]


:: m1tay:keep_berths
<<d tay>>All right, all right. I am exhaustively searching the berths.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Although you've gotta know, <i>anything</i> I do right now is exhaustive.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know, because I'm so hungry.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know, because I haven't found any food.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know, because it's probably in the Galley.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh... hey... here we go. I've hit pay dirt.<<endd>>
[[You found food?|m1tay:food_berths]] | [[What have you got?|m1tay:what_found]]


:: m1tay:poking_berths
<<d tay>>I suppose I can.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't know what more I really expect to find...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...apart from more undergarments wadded up and stuffed under pillows.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>My real mission is to find some food...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and while there's a chance one of the crew was hoarding snacks for midnight munching...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'm betting that a random Power Bar is nothing, compared to what's in the Galley.<<endd>>
[[Okay, go to the Galley.|m1tay:go_galley]] | [[Keep searching the berths.|m1tay:keep_berths]]


:: m1tay:done_berths
<<d tay>>Yeah, I reckon you're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's only so much picking through other people's bedding and underwear I can do...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...before I start to feel like kind of a creeper.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let's call the berths "explored" and move on to the Galley.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:go_galley]]


:: m1tay:good_food
<<d tay>>The good news is, there's food here!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Kind of a lot of food, actually!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And the better news is that there's a decent variety.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There are ready-to-eat packs, microwaveable meals, noodle bowls, energy bars...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it's a whole buffet!<<endd>>
[[That's awesome!|m1tay:food_awesome]] | [[Chow down, Taylor!|m1tay:chow_down]]


:: m1tay:chow_down
<<d tay>>You don't have to tell me twice!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I think I've earned a quick break for a little food.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hopefully, once I've had a snack, I can think a little straighter...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and figure out the best plan from this point.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll get back to you when I'm done eating, okay?<<endd>>
[[delay 30m^Taylor is eating|m1tay:done_eating]]


:: hub1:no_trust
<<d t2>>Good. That's smart.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>For the moment, however, I swear I'll be straight with you...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...in the expectation that you'll do the same with me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So, again... where am I?<<endd>>
[[On a space station.|hub1:space_station]] | [[Just past a black hole.|hub1:past_hole]]


:: hub1:better_nature
<<d t2>>My "better nature"?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ha! Ha ha ha! Oh. That's fantastic.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll keep this channel open, if you're going to keep telling great jokes like that one.<<endd>>
[[We'll see who laughs last.|hub1:laughs_last]] | [[There must be good inside you.|hub1:good_inside]]


:: hub1:find_way
<<d t2>>Sure you will.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In the meantime, though, why don't you make yourself useful...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and tell me where the hell I am?<<endd>>
[[No. I don't trust you.|hub1:no_trust]] | [[Fine. You're on a space station.|hub1:space_station]]


:: hub1:depressing_situation
<<d tay>>Come on. It's too early to get depressed.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, I have no idea what time it actually is --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>or if time even <i>exists</i> anymore, after all that black hole business --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>but we can't give up before we even try.<<endd>>
[[hub1:first_things_first]]


:: hub1:look_for_cell
<<d t2>>Believe it or not, <<print $playername>>, I agree with you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Finding a fuel cell should be our first priority.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, uh, can I just jump in here for a second?<<endd>>
[[hub1:first_things_first]]


:: hub1:no_laugh
<<d t2>>It's a HelpBot.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Its <i>only purpose</i> is to laugh at us.<<endd>>
[[Why do you hate HelpBot so much?|hub1:why_hate]] | [[Whatever. Go find a Li-ion cell.|hub1:look_for_cell]]


:: hub1:why_hate
<<d t2>>It's because...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...never mind, <<print $playername>>. We don't have time for this.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I just want to get as far away from this space station, as quickly as I can.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Um. As "we" can.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...Sure, fine, of course.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All right, you awful computer, where are you hiding these fuel cells?<<endd>>
[[hub1:cells_onboard]]


:: m1tay:go_galley
<<set $loctay = galley>>
<<set $loct2 = fore3>>
<<d tay>>Okay. Here we are. The station's Galley.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's so quiet. Calm. Undisturbed.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just a few dusty tables with chairs tucked under them.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Everything's neat and cleaned up. Whatever happened to the last crew...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...they weren't interrupted in the middle of a meal.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let's check the cabinets, see if they left anything for us.<<endd>>
[[delay 30s^Taylor is checking|m1tay:found_food]]


:: m1tay:found_food
<<d tay>>So... do you want the good news, or the better news?<<endd>>
[[The good news!|m1tay:good_food]] | [[The better news!|m1tay:better_food]]


:: m1tay:food_berths
<<d tay>>Mmm, no, I don't think it's edible...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...although it <i>could</i> be juicy!<<endd>>
[[m1tay:what_found]]


:: m1tay:food_awesome
<<d tay>>It really is!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And I hope you don't mind, but I'm gonna crack into some of this food right now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I can't remember the last time I ate, but I think it was an entire universe ago.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't want to talk with my mouth full, so I'll ping you when I'm done, okay?<<endd>>
[[delay 30m^Taylor is eating|m1tay:done_eating]]


:: m1tay:done_eating
<<set $loct2 = fore1>>
<<d tay>>Oh. Wow.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't like to exaggerate, but I think I can easily say...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...that was the best chili mac in the entire universe.<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Whatever</i> universe this is.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If I closed my eyes, it was almost like... well, not like home, exactly...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but like an outer space-themed café with decidedly mixed Yelp reviews.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Speaking of which... did you hear about that new restaurant on the moon?<<endd>>
[[No, what about it?|m1tay:moon_joke]] | [[Stop, I know this one...|m1tay:stop_joke]]


:: m1tay:what_found
<<if $unicorntaylor == true>><<d tay>>Turns out that stuffed unicorn was guarding a little treasure...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...one of the crew members was keeping a diary!<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Turns out that, under one of the pillows, I found a diary!<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Of course, it's locked -- a four-digit dial means ten thousand possible combos --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>and I wouldn't read it even if it were open. It's none of my business.<<endd>>
[[I agree.|m1tay:no_read_diary]] | [[Oh, I would totally read it.|m1tay:read_diary]]


:: m1tay:better_food
<<d tay>>Okay. The better news is...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...well, I can't really tell you the better news without spoiling the good news.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's food! Lots of food! All kinds! Some of it even looks pretty good!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And the <i>better</i> news is, there's chili macaroni! My favorite!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(I mean, my favorite <i>space snack</i>. All things being relative.)<<endd>>
[[That's great news!|m1tay:food_awesome]] | [[Chow down, my friend.|m1tay:chow_down]]


:: hub1:good_inside
<<d t2>>How cute that you think so.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You think I'm still just like Taylor, deep down, hmmm?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You imagine that you can say the right thing, trigger the right buried memory...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and suddenly I'll be all sunshine and lollipops and puppy dogs?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't hold your breath, <<print $playername>>. There's no "good" inside me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The only thing inside me is a highly advanced, specially bred occupier...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...that links me to the Greens' hive mind while letting me retain my intellect and creativity.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And it will devour all the sunshine and lollipops and puppy dogs that get in its way.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So, now that we've cleared that up, why don't you make yourself useful...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and tell me where the hell I am?<<endd>>
[[No. I don't trust you.|hub1:no_trust]] | [[Fine. You're on a space station.|hub1:space_station]]


:: hub1:settle_down
<<d t2>>Oh, <<print $playername>>, you're so lucky you're not physically here right now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I would throw you and not trust you <i>so hard.</i><<endd>>
[[hub1:taylor_hungry]]


:: hub1:first_things_first
<<d tay>>Now, listen, uh, first things first, T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I just want to go on record as saying, I don't trust you any farther than I can throw you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And since the artificial gravity in this space station seems to be calibrated to Earth standards...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I don't think I could throw you very far at all.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You heard that, right? That was a clear threat to me!<<endd>>
[[Oh, lighten up, Francis.|hub1:settle_down]] | [[Go ahead, throw each other.|hub1:start_throwing]]
//"Lighten up, Francis" is a famous line from the movie Stripes.


:: hub1:start_throwing
<<d t2>>It's tempting, <<print $playername>>. It truly is.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But every moment counts right now. First, let's charge up that shuttle.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There'll be plenty of time for throwing and not trusting later.<<endd>>
[[hub1:taylor_hungry]]


:: m1tay:moon_joke
<<d tay>>The food is great...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but there's no <i>atmosphere!</i><<endd>>
[[I'm hanging up on you.|m1tay:hang_up]] | [[Eat more; you're still dumb.|m1tay:eat_more]]


:: m1tay:stop_joke
<<d tay>>Yeah, that's right...<<endd>>
[[m1tay:moon_joke]]


:: m1tay:delicious_food
<<d tay>>Nothing but the finest for me and my evil shadow self!<<endd>>
[[m1tay:hope_food]]


:: m1tay:right_food
<<d tay>>I'm glad you think so.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I do, too.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:hope_food]]


:: m1tay:hope_food
<<d tay>>I'm kinda... hoping against hope, I guess...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...that a move like this will remind T2 how humans take care of one another.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Let me just grab an armload of meals here...<<endd>>
[[m1tay:back_berths]]


:: m1tay:no_read_diary
<<d tay>>Okay, good.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm just going to tuck it back into place...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and hope that whoever it belongs to comes back for it really soon.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>In a totally normal, non-creepy, not-possessed-by-Greens version of "come back."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If you're listening, oh vast unknowable universe, I just want to make that part <i>really</i> clear.<<endd>>
[[Amen. Move along.|m1tay:go_galley]] | [[Take the diary with you.|m1tay:take_diary]]


:: m1tay:read_diary
<<d tay>>Really?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's a stranger's private thoughts!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If they wanted us to read it, they wouldn't have locked it!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or at least they wouldn't have locked it with <i>ten thousand</i> possible solutions!<<endd>>
[[All right. Forget it.|m1tay:forget_diary]] | [[Take the diary with you.|m1tay:take_diary]]



:: m1tay:back_under_pillow
<<d tay>>Right. You're right. Of course you're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's no point in my taking it if I'm not going to open it...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I am <i>definitely</i> not going to open it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So. Back it goes... and now, shall we sally forth into the Galley?<<endd>>
[[Go for it.|m1tay:go_galley]] | [[Keep exploring the berths.|m1tay:still_berths]]


:: m1tay:get_to_galley
<<d tay>>I'm goin', I'm goin'.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:go_galley]]


:: hub1:you_food
<<d t2>>Having become something more -- something <i>better</i> --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I no longer have quite the same needs that I did when I was a simple human.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Food, water, oxygen... I still take all these things in.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But I can also go without them for long periods with only minimal ill effects.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I am nourished instead by knowledge.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, awesome. Why don't you go eat a bag of dictionaries?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Meanwhile, I think I have a plan that makes sense. For both of us.<<endd>>
[[hub1:taylor_plan]]


:: hub1:taylor_hungry
<<d tay>>Anyway. I think that searching for the shuttle fuel cell is a good idea, T2. I really do.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And I'm willing to put aside that whole "you and the Greens have tried to kill me a lot" thing...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so we can work together to get out of here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But before we do that... I have to eat something. I mean, like, <i>have</i> to.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've never been through a black hole before, but I've had low blood sugar on more than one occasion...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and the combination of the two, right now, is kinda more than I can deal with.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ugh. Your reliance on food for energy is such a weakness.<<endd>>
[[Not very empathetic of you.|hub1:not_empathetic]] | [[Don't you need food, too, T2?|hub1:you_food]]


:: m1tay:hang_up
<<d tay>>Aw, come on, <<print $playername>>!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Would you expect anything less from me by now?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Besides, you can't run off. I need your opinion on something.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:stick_around]]


:: m1tay:eat_more
<<d tay>>Oh, no, I'm stuffed. I couldn't possibly eat any more right now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe in a couple minutes. But not right now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But hey, while we're chatting, I need your opinion on something.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:stick_around]]


:: m1tay:keep_food
<<set $loct2 = fore2>>
<<d tay>>Hmm. Maybe you're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It doesn't feel great, to me... but there's a good chance it's the smartest move.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:zero_food]]


:: m1tay:bunch_food
<<set $foodfort2 = true>>
<<set $buffetfort2 = true>>
<<d tay>>You got it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Bringing back a whole selection for my evil Green counterpart.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A smorgasbord for the overlord.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe we can have a little picnic in the Hub...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...crack open a cool, refreshing tube of shepherd's pie, and just bask in the good vibes.<<endd>>
[[Sounds... delicious?|m1tay:delicious_food]] | [[You're doing the right thing.|m1tay:right_food]]


:: m1tay:little_food
<<set $foodfort2 = true>>
<<set $snackfort2 = true>>
<<d tay>>Yeah. I'll just grab some of the snack stuff.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>None of the main meal packs -- I'll stash those away for myself, for later.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2 will have to make do with mixed nuts and... let's see...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...unmixed nuts, I guess.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Well, food's food, right?<<endd>>
[[You're being perfectly generous.|m1tay:generous_food]] | [[This is the right move.|m1tay:right_food]]


:: m1tay:generous_food
<<d tay>>Sure.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Nothing for me to feel bad about.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm providing all the amenities of a vending machine at a three-star motel.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If T2 starts demanding turndown service and a mint on the pillow...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<i>that's</i> when we'll have a problem.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right, then. Let me gather up a few snacks here...<<endd>>
[[m1tay:back_berths]]


:: m1tay:back_berths
<<set $loctay = starboardberths>>
<<set $loct2 = fore4>>
<<d tay>>...and then head back through the berths and to the Hub.<<endd>>
<<if $unicorntaylor == true>><<d tay>>I doubt there'll be anything new to report...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...unless that stuffed pink unicorn has come to life and is offering free rides...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>I doubt there'll be anything new to report...<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>...so I'm gonna go ahead and switch off the comm for a little while, okay?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll talk to you in just a bit.<<endd>>
[[delay 18m^Taylor is busy|hub2:reconvene_taylor]]


:: m1tay:forget_diary
<<d tay>>Yeah, I'm with you. I think that's the best plan.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So. Back it goes... and now, shall we sally forth into the Galley?<<endd>>
[[Go for it.|m1tay:go_galley]] | [[Keep exploring the berths.|m1tay:still_berths]]


:: m1tay:take_diary
<<d tay>>You mean... don't try to open it, but just have it on me?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Like, in case I run across its owner or something?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Do I <i>want</i> to run across its owner?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't know, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>On the one hand, if I take it, at least I know where it is...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and it doesn't fall into T2's hands. Whatever those hands might do with it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>On the <i>other</i> hand, if the crew member comes back and finds it missing...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...who <i>knows</i> what kind of problems that could cause?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And on the <i>other</i> other hand, what if its contents are the key to surviving this ordeal?!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Help, <<print $playername>>! Save me from this Three-Handed Diary Monster!<<endd>>
[[Keep it with you.|m1tay:keep_diary]] | [[Put it back under the pillow.|m1tay:back_under_pillow]]


:: m1tay:keep_diary
<<d tay>>Okay. You've talked me into it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, if nothing else, it'll make a hell of a souvenir when I get back home.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"What, this old thing? Just a journal written by a crew member from a derelict space station...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"...on the other side of an artificially created black hole.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"Why? Where did you get <i>your</i> journal?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"Oh? The stationery aisle of Target?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"And it was buy one, get one?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"Wow. <i>*YAWN*</i> That's pretty cool too, I guess."<<endd>>
[[You're kind of a journal jerk.|m1tay:journal_jerk]] | [[Enough. Get to the Galley.|m1tay:get_to_galley]]


:: m1tay:journal_jerk
<<d tay>>I am what you made me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Okay, enough fun and games. Shall we get to the Galley?<<endd>>
[[Sure, go for it.|m1tay:go_galley]] | [[Keep exploring the berths.|m1tay:still_berths]]


:: hub1:taylor_plan
<<d tay>>Okay, thinking about the layout of <i>Celadon Ace</i>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...the port and starboard arms are short, right? Compared to the central spine?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So how about one of us goes starboard... and gathers food from the Galley?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And the other goes to port, and checks the storage pod that HelpBot mentioned?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Those trips should take us roughly the same amount of time, out and back...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and then we meet up here again, in the main pod, and hopefully have a little picnic?<<endd>>
I should note that I'm only able to keep all of us in touch when we're all in the Hub.
When you two Taylors go on separate missions, only one of you will be able to talk to the lifeline.
It's ultimately a fixable problem, so long as you'll start my systems upgrade before parting ways.
<<d tay>>Makes sense, HelpBot.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So, what do you say, T2?<<endd>>
[[Sounds good, don't you think?|hub1:good_plan]] | [[Anything to add, T2?|hub1:add_anything]]


:: hub1:not_empathetic
<<d t2>>Empathy is for humans.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I've moved past it.<<endd>>
[[hub1:you_food]]


:: m1tay:stick_around
<<d tay>>See, from what I understand, T2 needs food... but not a lot of it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And now I know where there's food... and I know how much there is.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So the question is: How much of this bounty do I share with my evil twin?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All of it? Just a granola bar or two? Nothing at all?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Right now, I have a huge advantage over T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What do I do with that edge?<<endd>>
[[What would T2 do to you?|m1tay:what_t2]] | [[Be the <i>good</i> twin.|m1tay:good_twin]]


:: m1tay:what_t2
<<d tay>>Right... that's the big question, isn't it?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's easy to think of T2 as this totally evil, Snidely Whiplash villain type...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I really <i>do</i> believe there's still some good, buried deep down.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And I guess I believe that because I have to think that if <i>I</i> were infected...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'd fight until my very last breath to keep some shred of my humanity intact.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So the question becomes... what does it mean for me to feed that little shred in T2?<<endd>>
[[Take a chance on T2.|m1tay:take_chance]] | [[Keep the food to yourself.|m1tay:keep_food]]
//Snidely Whiplash is the mustache-twirling villain from the Rocky and Bullwinkle cartoons.


:: m1tay:take_chance
<<d tay>>You know what?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I <i>am</i> going to bring back some food for T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Because, when all is said and done...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'd like to think that, if our roles were reversed, T2 would do the same for me.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:food_back]]


:: m1tay:food_back
<<set $loct2 = fore2>>
<<d tay>>So, what do you think?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just grab a whole armload, as much as I can carry back?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or only take a couple of snacks this time?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(I mean, I can always come back to the Galley for more later.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(With, or <i>without</i>, telling T2 about it.)<<endd>>
[[Bring a whole bunch!|m1tay:bunch_food]] | [[Just bring a little.|m1tay:little_food]]


:: m1tay:zero_food
<<set $foodfort2 = false>>
<<set $snackfort2 = false>>
<<set $buffetfort2 = false>>
<<d tay>>All right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm going back with nothing to show for my efforts.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let's hope I have a decent poker face.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And that HelpBot doesn't decide to let T2 know about this whole conversation!<<endd>>
Hi there. HelpBot QTC here, just jumping in with some clarification.
Your secrets are not mine to share, unless I'm told otherwise.
It's my understanding that humans need privacy...
...something that comes at a premium in a close-quarters space station.
[[Pretty good answer.|m1tay:good_answer]] | [[Good luck with the lying!|m1tay:good_luck]]


:: m1tay:good_answer
<<d tay>><i>Great</i> answer!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Man, now I'm thinking of <i>all sorts</i> of secrets I can entrust to HelpBot!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Like this one time, at band camp...<<endd>>
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here again!
I sure don't want to hear about band camp!
<<d tay>>Aw. Are you certain? It's a pretty good story.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>See, I played the tuba...<<endd>>
[[Okay, we're done here.|m1tay:done_here]] | [[Tell the story!|m1tay:tuba_story]]


:: m1tay:done_here
<<d tay>>Yeah, that's probably a good call on your part.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyway. Let me just clean up in here a bit...<<endd>>
[[m1tay:back_berths]]


:: m1tay:still_berths
<<d tay>>What, seriously?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've turned this place "upside down and inside out," in the words of Tag Team...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and WHOOMP! There it is!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(And by "it" I mean "just another wadded-up pile of dirty clothes.")<<endd>>
[[Yeah! Explore that pile!|m1tay:explore_pile]] | [[Okay, fine. Head for the Galley.|m1tay:get_to_galley]]
//Lyrics from the song "Whoomp! (There It Is)" by Tag Team.


:: m1tay:explore_pile
<<d tay>>This is... just kinda gross.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Why am I doing what you tell me?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>When am I gonna learn to stand up for myself and finally say...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>..."No, <<print $playername>>, I really don't want to touch that shirt with visible pit stains...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>..."or find out what weird, heavy, lumpy-shaped things it's covering!"<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hmm.<<endd>>
[[What's up?|m1tay:what_boots]] | [[Did you find something?|m1tay:find_boots]]


:: m1tay:what_boots
<<d tay>>Um... what's up is, you have to promise not to get all, "I told you so" about this.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:find_boots]]


:: m1tay:explain_boots
<<d tay>>Sure. They're like... did you ever see that movie <i>Face/Off</i>?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's the one where Nic Cage was making a bunch of subtle, nuanced acting choices...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so they stuck him in a secret prison and made him wear magnetic boots.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That way, if the prisoners ever tried to riot...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...the guards could simply lock their feet to the metal floors.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(Except in the movie when there's a riot, and the guards don't think to do that.)<<endd>>
[[Oh, okay. Makes sense.|m1tay:get_boots]] | [[That movie rules.|m1tay:face_off]]


:: m1tay:face_off
<<d tay>>Someday when I'm not in immediate danger...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...you and I can have a long conversation about the filmography of one Nicolas Cage.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I predict we will both be absolutely plastered by the end of it...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<i>even if we're not drinking.</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>In the meantime, though, let's talk about these boots.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:get_boots]]


:: hub1:add_anything
<<d t2>>Hmmm.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No, I don't think so.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The less I say, the more this will be Taylor's fault when something goes wrong.<<endd>>
[[hub1:mission_choice]]


:: hub1:good_plan
<<d t2>>As much as I loathe admitting it...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...this is, in fact, a practical plan.<<endd>>
[[hub1:mission_choice]]


:: m1tay:good_luck
<<d tay>>Thanks.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I wish I didn't feel like I actually needed it, you know?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Lying isn't my strong suit, and on top of that...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...how do I keep a secret from someone who's basically <i>me?</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>I guess we'll find out together, huh, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyway. Let me just clean up in here a bit...<<endd>>
[[m1tay:back_berths]]


:: m1tay:tuba_story
<<d tay>>Aw, I've been away on this food-finding mission for quite a while by now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I should really be getting back to the Hub.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe we'll do story time later.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(And just remember... T2 went to band camp, too!)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyway. Let me just clean up in here a bit...<<endd>>
[[m1tay:back_berths]]


:: m1tay:find_boots
<<d tay>>So it turns out that, under that shirt with visible pit stains...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...there's a pair of weird, heavy, <i>boot</i>-shaped things.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'd even go so far as to call them "boots."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But these ain't your ordinary boots, cowpoke.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>These are Magnetic Locking Boots.<<endd>>
[[Explain.|m1tay:explain_boots]] | [[I get the idea, I think.|m1tay:idea_boots]]


:: m1tay:idea_boots
<<d tay>>Yeah, you can probably envision them.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:get_boots]]


:: m1tay:good_twin
<<d tay>>Sure. I figured you'd say that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And, honestly, bringing T2 some food is the only way to stay true to myself, you know?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's probably naive.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's probably even reckless.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, what if T2 is just missing one Clif Bar's worth of strength...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...before wrestling me into an airlock and blasting me into the void?<<endd>>
[[Well, you'd probably regret that.|m1tay:regret_food]] | [[Take a chance on T2.|m1tay:take_chance]]
//A Clif Bar is a brand of energy bar.


:: m1tay:regret_food
<<d tay>>"Probably."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah, let's not jump to any premature conclusions regarding void-blasting.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Do you think I should hide the food? Say I came up empty in my search?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or should I be the bigger person?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(Figuratively. Literally, we're precisely the same size.)<<endd>>
[[Go back empty-handed.|m1tay:no_food_back]] | [[Bring T2 some food.|m1tay:food_back]]


:: m1tay:no_food_back
<<d tay>>Yeah, maybe that'd be the best move.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It doesn't make me feel all warm and fuzzy...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I asked for your opinion, and your opinion makes sense.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:zero_food]]


:: m1tay:get_boots
<<d tay>>Useful for sticking to metal surfaces in zero gravity...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...which could come in handy on, say, a largely metal space station.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And that's why I reckon I'm gonna grab these beauties for myself.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You never can tell when the artificial gravity's going to fail, you know?<<endd>>
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here with a quick interjection.
<<if $startupdates == true>>Because you started my updates, there should be no issues with the artificial gravity.
<<else>>Again, if I could implore you and T2 to start my necessary systems update...
...there would be no need to worry about issues with the artificial gravity.<<endif>>
Just a little food for thought, before you weigh yourself down with MagLock Boots.
[[Take the boots.|m1tay:take_boots]] | [[Leave the boots.|m1tay:leave_boots]]


:: m1tay:leave_boots
<<d tay>>Hmm. Maybe you're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>They <i>are</i> awfully clunky.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If I never wind up needing them, they'll just be unnecessary weight to haul around.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I guess I can leave them here. I can always circle back for them later.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Okay. That's decided.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, enough of this place. I'm moving on to the Galley.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:go_galley]]


:: m1tay:take_boots
<<set $magboots = true>>
<<d tay>>Yup. That's what I was thinking, too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>They're kind of a cool find, and hey, better safe than sorry, right?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Plus, they make me look like a Goomba from <i>Super Mario Bros.</i>..<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and you can't put a price on that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Gimme a minute here to switch out footgear like Mister Rogers at the top of his show...<<endd>>
[[delay 60s^Taylor is glad to be your neighbor]]
<<d tay>>...and I'm back!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Enough of this place. Let's move on to the Galley.<<endd>>
[[m1tay:go_galley]]
//The boots in Face/Off were repurposed from the Super Mario Bros movie.
//Mister Rogers' Neighborhood showed him changing into comfortable shoes at the beginning of every episode and singing about how he was "glad to be your neighbor."


:: hub1:mission_choice
<<d t2>>All right, Taylor. I'll play along with your premise, for now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You don't trust me, and I don't like you...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but let's both do our parts to get fed and get away from this hellhole.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The only question that remains is... which mission should I demand for myself?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Should I explore the port arm, in search of a fuel cell?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or should I go starboard, in the direction of food?<<endd>>
[[Port, to look for fuel.|hub1:go_port]] | [[Starboard, in search of food.|hub1:go_starboard]]


:: m1tay:fuel_quest
<<set $loctay = infirmary>>
<<set $loct2 = starboardberths>>
<<d tay>>All right, my friend.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's time to go to the port side of the space station.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Perhaps further port than anyone has ever dared!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(But probably not.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But before we reach the storage pod -- and hopefully, a fully charged fuel cell --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>looks like we've got an Infirmary to wander through first.<<endd>>
[[Skip it. Find the cell.|m2tay:skip_infirmary]] | [[Explore the infirmary.|m2tay:explore_infirmary]]


:: m2tay:explore_infirmary
<<d tay>>I'm so glad you suggested it!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>As everyone knows, the Infirmary is the most fun-lovin' place on any space vessel.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, remember the Med Pod scene from <i>Prometheus</i>?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Talk about laugh-a-minute!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let's hope I have half as much fun here as Noomi Rapace did there, huh?<<endd>>
[[That's a low bar to clear.|m2tay:low_bar]] | [[I never saw <i>Prometheus</i>.|m2tay:no_prometheus]]


:: m2tay:no_prometheus
<<d tay>>Oh, it's an interesting film.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's full of incredibly smart scientists...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...who, for some reason, are physically incapable of running sideways.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It made such an impression on me, as a budding young incredibly smart scientist...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...that I vowed to run sideways as my first reaction to pretty much everything.<<endd>>
[[m2tay:prometheus_machine]]


:: m2tay:prometheus_machine
<<d tay>>Anyway, for better or for worse, the movie provides one solution...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...for sucking an alien out of your guts when no one else is there to help.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But this station's Infirmary doesn't seem to contain a Caesarean-section machine...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so I suppose, for once, I'll have to try <i>not</i> to get infected.<<endd>>
[[Solid plan.|m2tay:solid_plan]] | [[What <i>is</i> in the Infirmary?|m2tay:infirmary_look]]


:: m2tay:solid_plan
<<d tay>>Thanks! It only took me this long to think of it.<<endd>>
[[m2tay:infirmary_look]]


:: m2tay:snag_meds
<<set $minimaglite = true>>
<<d tay>>It's a Mini Maglite!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know, one of those small but bright flashlights.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>As long as the station's running on low power, and the lights are dimmed...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...this baby should come in handy for lighting up nooks and crannies as I explore.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>My helmet lights can only do so much for crannies.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That's the one thing they didn't cover in astronaut training...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...just how damn many crannies there are in space.<<endd>>
[[What exactly is a cranny?|m2tay:what_cranny]] | [[You're a weird kid, Taylor.|m2tay:weird_kid]]


:: m2tay:what_cranny
<<d tay>>It's, uh... you know... a hiding place for cranberries?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't know the exact definition.<<endd>>
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here, with the exact definition!
A "cranny" is defined as a small, narrow opening in a wall, rock, et cetera.
An out-of-the-way place. An obscure corner.
<<d tay>>Thanks, HelpBot!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>See, I was basically right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And now I have a flashlight <i>specifically designed for finding cranberries!</i><<endd>>
[[You're a weird kid, Taylor.|m2tay:weird_kid]] | [[Okay. Move on to storage.|m2tay:go_storage]]


:: hub1:go_starboard
<<set $m1t2 = food>>
<<d t2>>There is something delightful to the idea of controlling the food supply...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...knowing how desperately Taylor needs it, I could certainly drive a hard bargain.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Even the least appetizing MRE, promising "chicken chunks" inside...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...has got to taste better than passing out from hypoglycemia.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So yes, <<print $playername>>, I think I will in fact go starboard, toward the Galley.<<endd>>
[[Sounds like a plan.|hub1:sounds_plan]] | [[You should've picked fuel.|hub1:should_pick_fuel]]


:: hub1:go_port
<<set $m1t2 = fuel>>
<<d t2>>There is something delightful to the idea of controlling the fuel supply.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If I'm the only person with the means to get that shuttle off this station...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...well, it puts me in a rather enviable position, in terms of bargaining.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If Taylor gets desperate enough for that fuel cell...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<i>who knows</i> what kind of deals we might strike?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So yes, <<print $playername>>, I think I will in fact go port, toward the storage pod.<<endd>>
[[Sounds like a plan.|hub1:sounds_plan]] | [[You should've picked food.|hub1:should_pick_food]]


:: m2tay:skip_infirmary
<<d tay>>Right, I guess that's an option.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, it looks exactly like every other space station Infirmary you've seen.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And you've seen 'em all, I'm sure.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We can skip it, for now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, we can always check it out on the return trip, right?<<endd>>
[[Right. Go on to storage.|m2tay:go_storage]] | [[Okay, check out the Infirmary now.|m2tay:explore_infirmary]]


:: m2tay:low_bar
<<d tay>>Yeah, well, I never thought I'd reach the point...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...where "needing to get an alien creature out of me immediately" was a priority.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But since it's kind of a constant danger in my life these days...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I've spent a little time reflecting on the best ways to do it.<<endd>>
[[m2tay:prometheus_machine]]


:: m2tay:infirmary_look
<<d tay>>All right, let's give this place the old once-over.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Not a lot of surprises, here. Pretty standard-issue med supplies.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's always nice to know where the nearest sphygmomanometer is, though.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The cabinets and drawers I'm opening seem very well stocked.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Either the last crew on board were a particularly healthy bunch...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...or they weren't here long enough to get sick.<<endd>>
[[That's a worrisome thought.|m2tay:worry_meds]] | [[Anything worth grabbing?|m2tay:grab_meds]]
//For "sphygmomanometer," it's fine to substitute any common medical tool with a complicated name in local language.


:: m2tay:grab_meds
<<d tay>>For the most part, I think I can leave things where they are.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's nice to know the station has a little supply of painkillers...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...since I'm always bashing or stubbing or mutilating <i>some</i> part of my body.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And there are plenty of tongue depressors...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...the second-best way to depress your tongue, after licking The Cure's <i>Disintegration</i> album.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But... hey! There <i>is</i> something here I think I might snag.<<endd>>
[[What is it?|m2tay:snag_meds]] | [[A better sense of humor?|m2tay:bad_joke]]


:: m2tay:bad_joke
<<d tay>>Hey now!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If I didn't drop references to outdated pop culture all the time...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...how could you even be sure you were really talking to <i>me?</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, obviously, T2 is devastatingly good looking...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I doubt the Green hive mind has an "Arts and Leisure" section, you know?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Stick with me, and you never know when you'll get a <i>Buckaroo Banzai</i> monologue...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...or a dissertation on the acting choices of Bernadette Peters in <i>Heartbeeps</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(And those were some <i>choices</i>, man.)<<endd>>
[[Fine, you're a comedic genius.|m2tay:comedic_genius]] | [[I love <i>Heartbeeps!</i>|m2tay:love_heartbeeps]]


:: m2tay:weird_kid
<<d tay>>Ah yes, but now I'm a weird kid <i>who can see slightly better in the dark</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And with that, <<print $playername>>, I think I've exhausted all this pod has to offer.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Time to go see what the storage pod has in store.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Join me, won't you?<<endd>>
[[m2tay:go_storage]]


:: hub1:should_pick_fuel
<<d t2>>Of <i>course</i> you would say that!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You wait until I've already said I wanted the food mission, and then you pipe up...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...what do you know that I don't, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Nothing, I'll wager! Just trying to undermine my self-confidence!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't think so.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm putting my foot down on food!<<endd>>
[[Ha. Gross.|hub1:doubling_down]] | [[Fine. Great. You picked food.|hub1:picked_pick]]



:: hub1:sounds_plan
<<if $m1t2 == food>><<d t2>>Right. Which means Taylor gets stuck with fuel cell duty.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Right. Which means Taylor gets stuck with food duty.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>Which, frankly, I don't envy for a second.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I guess, lifeline, it means you get to pick which of us to keep talking to.<<endd>>
[[hub1:first_pick]]


:: hub1:should_pick_food
<<d t2>>Of <i>course</i> you would say that!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You wait until I've already said I wanted the fuel mission, and then you pipe up...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...what do you know that I don't, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Nothing, I'll wager! Just trying to undermine my self-confidence!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't think so.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm putting my foot down on fuel!<<endd>>
[[Ha. Careful you don't slip.|hub1:doubling_down]] | [[Fine. Great. You picked fuel.|hub1:picked_pick]]



:: m2tay:worry_meds
<<d tay>>Yeah, it is, kinda.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'd like to know more about that last crew -- and why they're not here --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>but that's a conversation that T2 should probably be around to hear, too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe we can team up and interrogate HelpBot for some answers.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know, play a little "good cop/Green cop."<<endd>>
[[Sounds like a good plan.|m2tay:good_plan_cop]] | [[I wouldn't trust T2.|m2tay:distrust_t2]]


:: m2tay:good_plan_cop
<<d tay>>Let's hope so.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Right now, I've got way more questions than I do answers...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and HelpBot -- systems updated or not -- is really my only resource here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Which means I should probably get back to the Hub sooner rather than later...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so T2 and I can put our heads together and figure out our next steps.<<endd>>
[[Head for the storage pod.|m2tay:done_infirmary]] | [[Explore the Infirmary some more.|m2tay:more_infirmary]]


:: m2tay:more_infirmary
<<d tay>>I mean... I hate to break it to you, but there's not much more to explore.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Unless I open the specimen fridge and find, I don't know...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...a passage to Narnia, or the inside of John Malkovich's head...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I think I've seen just about all the Infirmary pod has to offer.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh! Except for this! This could actually come in handy.<<endd>>
[[What is it?|m2tay:snag_meds]] | [[Painkillers?|m2tay:pain_pills]]
//Reference to the film Being John Malkovich.


:: m2tay:comedic_genius
<<d tay>>Well, it wouldn't hurt you to say so, constantly.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyhow. Check out what I found!<<endd>>
[[m2tay:snag_meds]]


:: m2tay:love_heartbeeps
<<d tay>>You, uh... you probably don't want to say that out loud to anyone but me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's a ceiling to most people's Nerd Tolerance...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and <i>Heartbeeps</i> is so far above that ceiling, it's dancing on the roof.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Don't worry, though. I won't tell a soul.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyway... check out what I found!<<endd>>
[[m2tay:snag_meds]]


:: hub1:first_pick
Which astronaut do you prefer to continue talking to, <<print $playername>>?
[[I want to talk to Taylor.|hub1:choose_taylor]] | [[I'll stick with T2.|hub1:choose_t2]]


:: hub1:picked_pick
<<d t2>>Hell yes I did.<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>Hell</i> yes.<<endd>>
[[delay 30s^T2 is fretting]]
<<d t2>>Did I...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Did I pick the wrong one?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Dammit.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Did Taylor <i>trick</i> me into this?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'd have done it, if our roles were reversed!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But Taylor would have <i>known</i> I'd do it, and since we're obviously intellectual equals...<<endd>>
[[Do you want to switch?|hub1:want_switch]] | [[Just stay with what you picked.|hub1:stay_picked]]


:: hub1:doubling_down
<<d t2>>Wha-- metaphorically speaking!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Shut up.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anyway.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I've chosen.<<endd>>
[[hub1:sounds_plan]]


:: hub1:lazy_good
<<d t2>>"Lazy"?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>My mind is working at speeds you cannot fathom.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I've thought through fourteen million, six hundred and five potential solutions...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and this is the one that requires the least effort on my part.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So obviously, it's the one I'm taking.<<endd>>
[[hub1:get_moving]]


:: m2tay:distrust_t2
<<d tay>>Believe me, T2 is at the very bottom of my list of trustworthy people.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's just that no one else on the list decided to get stranded here with me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(Pretty inconsiderate of the whole of humanity, if you ask me.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Of course, I've got <i>you</i> on my side, <<print $playername>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and having you as my lifeline is the <i>only</i> reason I've survived this long.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So if I haven't said it in a while: Thank you. You're the best!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What do you figure, lifeline... am I done in the Infirmary?<<endd>>
[[Yes. Head for the storage pod.|m2tay:done_infirmary]] | [[No. Keep exploring the Infirmary.|m2tay:more_infirmary]]


:: m2tay:done_infirmary
<<d tay>>Yeah, I think you're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've opened as many cabinets here as anyone could reasonably expect me to.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Any more, and I'd just be showing off.<<endd>>
[[m2tay:go_storage]]


:: m2tay:pain_pills
<<d tay>>I mean, yes, I spotted some of those. Which, as you're probably thinking, is fortunate...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...since I'm always bashing or stubbing or mutilating <i>some</i> part of my body.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But no, this is something totally different. And much harder to swallow.<<endd>>
[[m2tay:snag_meds]]


:: m2tay:dianoga_thoughts
<<d tay>>I like you, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You're nerdy like me...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but you've clearly got your life more together than I have mine.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Given that you're not stranded on a derelict space station in another universe.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It gives me hope.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Give me a few minutes to shift stuff around in here, okay?<<endd>>
[[delay 28m^Taylor is sweating and cursing|m2tay:done_moving]]


:: m2tay:watch_transformers
<<d tay>>Meanwhile, I'll recite the entire movie to myself from memory.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Talk to you again in eighty-five minutes!<<endd>>
[[delay 85m^Taylor is seriously dorky|m2tay:movie_over]]


:: m2tay:weird_priorities_star
<<d tay>>Spoken by someone who's clearly never seen two suns set over Tatooine.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now go! Go watch the greatest toy commercial in cinema history!<<endd>>
[[m2tay:watch_star_wars]]



:: m2tay:clue_crew
<<d tay>>I, uh... no. Sure didn't.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Wow. You really took the wind out of my sails, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No, all I found was the stupid lithium-ion battery I was looking for.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know, the needle in this haystack full of junk?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The thing that's going to power the shuttle to get us out of here?<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>The most important object in the known universe?</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>That's all I found.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sorry to disappoint you.<<endd>>
[[No, that's great news!|m2tay:great_battery]] | [[Where was it?|m2tay:where_battery]]


:: m2tay:great_battery
<<d tay>>Thanks!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I thought so, too.<<endd>>
[[m2tay:where_battery]]


:: hub1:choose_t2
<<set $m1talk = t2>>
All right.
Just be cautious. T2 appears to have a strong anti-HelpBot bias.
<<d t2>>Oh? What tipped you off?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Was it the part where I said I had a strong anti-HelpBot bias?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Damn, I was <i>worried</i> that I was playing it too subtle.<<endd>>
<<if $m1t2 == fuel>><<d t2>>So... perhaps we should get moving down the port arm, then, eh?<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>So... perhaps we should get moving down that starboard arm, then, eh?<<endd>><<endif>>
[[The sooner, the better.|hub1:move_sooner]] | [[Feels like we're missing something...|hub1:please_reboot]]


:: hub1:choose_taylor
<<set $m1talk = taylor>>
Very well.
[transferring communications... now]
Just as a reminder--
<<d t2>>Coward.<<endd>>
-- you'll still be able to hear all of us, so long as we're in the Hub.
<<if $m1t2 == food>><<d tay>>So... maybe we should get moving down the port arm, then, huh?<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>So... maybe we should get moving down that starboard arm, then, huh?<<endd>><<endif>>
[[The sooner, the better.|hub1:move_sooner]] | [[Feels like we're missing something...|hub1:please_reboot]]


:: hub1:want_switch
<<d t2>>No! Never!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Unless...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...damn it all. Do you think I should?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The, uh... the hive mind contains all sorts of statistics, probabilities, theorems...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...it's just overwhelming sometimes.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I haven't really learned how to parse it all, yet.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I want to make a simple "this or that" decision, but every time...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I have to weigh it against centuries of cultural memory, collective experience...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...until suddenly it's "this or that and a thousand other things besides."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Until suddenly I'm at the precipice of a choice and I'm too rattled to make it.<<endd>>
<<if $m1t2 == food>>[[So, want to switch to fuel?|hub1:switch_fuel]] | [[Let's stay with what you got.|hub1:stay_picked]]
<<else>>[[So, want to switch to food?|hub1:switch_food]] | [[Let's stay with what you got.|hub1:stay_picked]]<<endif>>


:: hub1:stay_picked
<<d t2>>Yes.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yes, I'll stay with what I picked.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There are only so many layers of subterfuge one can contravene...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...before one would be best served by doing nothing at all.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I believe I've reached that point.<<endd>>
[[Laziness for the win!|hub1:lazy_good]] | [[All right, let's get moving.|hub1:get_moving]]


:: hub1:get_moving
Of course, one more question remains.
[[hub1:first_pick]]


:: m2tay:go_storage
<<set $loctay = storage>>
<<d tay>>Heading through the doorway, into the storage pod.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>As neat and tidy as the Infirmary was, this room is the opposite.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Looks like someone was in here, rooting around for something...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and planning to clean up their mess later.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Only... later never came.<<endd>>
[[That's... ominous.|m2tay:ominous_sign]] | [[Maybe you should clean up.|m2tay:clean_storage]]


:: m2tay:clean_storage
<<d tay>>I mean, it's not really my <i>job</i>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...which makes me want to complain that "I'm not even supposed to be here today!"<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know, like Dante in the movie <i>Clerks</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or like me, in the audience watching <i>Clerks II</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I guess you're right. It's the only way I'll find anything in here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Give me a few minutes to shift stuff around, okay?<<endd>>
[[delay 28m^Taylor is sweating and cursing|m2tay:done_moving]]


:: m2tay:what_dianoga
<<d tay>>Oh. From that <i>Star Wars</i> trash scene.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's that weird-looking alien with tentacles that tries to grab Luke.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But that's fiction!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Here in reality, all I have to worry about are, uh...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...weird-looking aliens with tentacles that try to grab me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Sigh</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know, I used to go to the movies for <i>escapism</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Give me a few minutes to shift stuff around in here, okay?<<endd>>
[[delay 28m^Taylor is sweating and cursing|m2tay:done_moving]]


:: m2tay:weird_priorities
<<d tay>>Spoken by someone who's clearly never felt "The Touch."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now go! Go watch the greatest toy commercial in cinema history!<<endd>>
[[m2tay:watch_transformers]]
//"The Touch" by Stan Bush is the best-known song from the movie's soundtrack.


:: m2tay:watch_now
<<d tay>>Excellent!<<endd>>
[[m2tay:watch_transformers]]


:: m2tay:watch_star_wars
<<d tay>>Meanwhile, I'll recite the entire movie to myself from memory.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Talk to you again in a hundred and twenty-five minutes!<<endd>>
[[delay 125m^Taylor is seriously dorky|m2tay:movie_over]]


:: m2tay:movie_over
<<set $fuelcell = true>>
<<d tay>>Okay! Movie time's over...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and wouldn't you agree your life is exponentially better for having seen it?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Plus, now you'll get twice as many of my dumb pop culture references.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So it's really a banner day for <i>both</i> of us!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Plus, while you were watching, I had plenty of time to sort through the storage pod...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and you'll never guess what I found!<<endd>>
[[A Li-ion battery?|m2tay:liion_found]] | [[A clue about the last crew?|m2tay:clue_crew]]


:: m2tay:liion_found
<<d tay>>You got it on the first try!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(Unlike me, who got it after about an hour and twenty minutes of searching.)<<endd>>
[[That's awesome news!|m2tay:great_battery]] | [[Where was it?|m2tay:where_battery]]


:: m2tay:where_battery
<<d tay>>There was a whole pile of canvas boxes --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>you know, with the soft corners, so nobody gets hurt when gravity cuts out.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I just kinda zoned out, while I was reciting the movie to myself...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and before you know it, I had opened and organized like three dozen of the things.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And of course, the battery was in the very last one I looked in!<<endd>>
[[Get back to the Hub with it!|m2tay:head_hub]] | [[Anything else worth taking?|m2tay:take_others]]


:: hub1:move_sooner
Time <i>is</i> of the essence, no doubt.
But before you two astronauts set off to search for food and fuel...
[[hub1:reboot_spiel]]



:: hub1:please_reboot
Indeed!
Before you two astronauts set off to search for food and fuel...
[[hub1:reboot_spiel]]


:: hub1:switch_food
<<set $m1t2 = food>>
<<d t2>>Right. Okay. It's decided.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm headed down the starboard arm, to look for food in the Galley.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Clearly, what I should have been doing all along.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Everything's settled forever!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No more questions remain!<<endd>>
[[hub1:get_moving]]


:: hub1:switch_fuel
<<set $m1t2 = fuel>>
<<d t2>>Right. Okay. It's decided.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm headed down the port arm, to look for a fuel cell in storage.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Clearly, what I should have been doing all along.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Everything's settled forever!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No more questions remain!<<endd>>
[[hub1:get_moving]]


:: m2tay:ominous_sign
<<d tay>>Yeah, you're telling me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's just a jumble of bins and bags, piled shin-high in some places.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It reminds me of the planet Junkion in the animated <i>Transformers</i> movie.<<endd>>
[[Right, I remember. Gross.|m2tay:gross_scene]] | [[Sorry, I never saw it.|m2tay:no_transformers]]


:: m2tay:gross_scene
<<d tay>>Well, I mean, it's not all wet and foul-smelling, or anything.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's not like the trash compactor scene in <i>Star Wars</i>.<<endd>>
[[Well, that's a relief.|m2tay:trash_relief]] | [[I've never seen <i>Star Wars</i>.|m2tay:never_wars]]


:: m2tay:trash_relief
<<d tay>>Yeah. Thank goodness there's no dianoga swimming around in here, huh?<<endd>>
[[My thoughts exactly.|m2tay:dianoga_thoughts]] | [[What's a dianoga?|m2tay:what_dianoga]]


:: m2tay:no_transformers
<<set $loct2 = galley>>
<<d tay>>Okay. I know I'm up against a ticking clock and all...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I really want to encourage you to drop everything you're doing right now...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and go watch that 1986 animated <i>Transformers</i> movie.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It gets sad! Bring giant-robot-strength Kleenex.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Go on. I'm serious! Go ahead. I'll be here when you're finished.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or, I don't know, I might run out of oxygen and die while I'm waiting.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But it'll be worth it to know you've witnessed a masterpiece!<<endd>>
[[You've got weird priorities.|m2tay:weird_priorities]] | [[Okay. I'll watch it right now.|m2tay:watch_now]]



:: m2tay:watch_wars
<<set $loct2 = galley>>
<<d tay>>I know I'm up against a ticking clock and all...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I really want to encourage you to drop everything you're doing right now...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and go watch the original <i>Star Wars</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Episode IV. A New Hope.</i> The 1977 blockbuster.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Go on. I'm serious! Go ahead. I'll be here when you're finished.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or, I don't know, I might run out of oxygen and die while I'm waiting.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But it'll be worth it to know you've witnessed a masterpiece!<<endd>>
[[You've got weird priorities.|m2tay:weird_priorities_star]] | [[Okay. I'll watch it right now.|m2tay:watch_now_star]]



:: m2tay:watch_now_star
<<d tay>>Excellent!<<endd>>
[[m2tay:watch_star_wars]]


:: m2tay:done_moving
<<d tay>>That's it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I give up.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This place is just an enormous mess...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and every time I shift something out of the way, I'm just making more mess!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This isn't like looking for a needle in a haystack...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it's like looking for a very specific piece of <i>hay</i> in a haystack.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And also I think I'm allergic to hay.<<endd>>
[[Keep on looking.|m2tay:look_storage]] | [[Stop what you're doing.|m2tay:stop_hunting]]


:: m2tay:look_storage
<<d tay>>Easy for <i>you</i> to say.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>While I'm up here, moving and hauling and pushing and pulling...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...you've somehow managed to escape the "heavy lifting" portion of the evening's events.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hell, you probably could've kicked back and watched a movie or something...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...just checked every half hour or so, to see whether I was still alive.<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>WELL I AM!</i> But only barely.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And I'm going to use my last remaining breaths of life...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...to head back to the Hub.<<endd>>
[[Fine, go back to the Hub.|m2tay:head_hub]] | [[No! Keep looking for the battery!|m2tay:look_battery]]


:: m2tay:take_others
<<d tay>>I don't want to weigh myself down with anything else at the moment...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but when I was about halfway through, I did find a mechanical pencil.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So from that point on, I started labeling the boxes.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That way, if we need anything else that's in here...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it should be fairly easy to lay our hands on it!<<endd>>
[[m2tay:head_hub]]


:: hub1:reboot_spiel
...I wonder if I could just convince you both to start my systems update?
It would only be beneficial to you: The more I'm updated, the more help I can provide.
I'll be able to turn on something more than this dim emergency lighting...
...control door and hatch access, better regulate oxygen...
...properly calibrate the aperture for viewing in the Cupola...
<<d tay>>Sure, sounds like a great idea.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And the update just runs in the background, right?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We'll still be able to talk to you while you're... buffering... or whatever?<<endd>>
Of course. I may need to restart, but that'll be at the end of things.
<<d tay>>True for all of us, probably.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm happy to help start the update. T2?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Mmmm... no. I don't trust HelpBot.<<endd>>
[[I'm with Taylor. Start the updates.|hub1:start_updates]] | [[I agree with T2. Seems fishy.|hub1:fishy_updates]]


:: hub1:fishy_updates
<<d tay>>"Fishy"? Really?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, it only means giving HelpBot a steadier hand on the wheel of this ship...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...which seems to be what HelpBot was designed for in the first place!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I just think it's going to make our lives easier...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and right now, I'm in favor of anything and everything that'll do that!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't like the idea of HelpBot having <i>more</i> control.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In fact... I don't like the idea of HelpBot, period.<<endd>>
[[Taylor convinced me. Do the update.|hub1:start_updates]] | [[I'm still with T2. No updates.|hub1:no_updates]]



:: m2tay:never_wars
<<d tay>>Oh.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That just hurts.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I would've thought that viewing <i>at least</i> the original <i>Star Wars</i>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...would've been <i>mandatory</i> before talking to an astronaut in a parallel universe!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And when I say <i>Star Wars</i>, of course I mean the first film, from 1977.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The unwashed masses can refer to it as "<i>A New Hope</i>," if they must...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but to true nerds, it is now, has always been, and will always be, simply...<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>STAR WARS</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Go! Go watch it, right now! I'll wait!<<endd>>
[[Are you serious?|m2tay:serious_wars]] | [[I'll get to it someday.|m2tay:someday_wars]]


:: m2tay:serious_wars
<<d tay>>Serious as a lightsaber duel on Mustafar!<<endd>>
[[m2tay:watch_wars]]
//Reference to Star Wars Episode III


:: m2tay:someday_wars
<<d tay>>Nope nope nope!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"Someday" is <i>now</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm pretty sure I outrank you on this mission...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so, as your commanding officer, I'm ordering you to do this.<<endd>>
[[m2tay:watch_wars]]


:: m2tay:stop_hunting
<<d tay>>Oh, thank God you said that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I was about to ditch it anyway...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but it's genuinely nice to know you were having the same thought, too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't know, maybe I'm just impatient and irritable because I haven't eaten...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I think anyone would agree I've spent long enough here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Time to head back to the Hub and hope that T2 scored in the Galley!<<endd>>
[[Maybe you <i>should</i> keep hunting.|m2tay:hunt_more]] | [[Right, head for the Hub.|m2tay:head_hub]]


:: hub1:start_updates
<<set $startupdates == true>>
<<d tay>>There you go. Two votes to one, in favor of the update.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I must have missed the part where this became a democracy.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Since when does the backseat driver get to cast the tie-breaking lot?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Kinda... since the start of this whole thing, really.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ugh. Fine. Whatever.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Cool! Okay, HelpBot, what do we need to do?<<endd>>
There are two keys, at opposite ends of the control panel.
You'll each need to manually input the code you're seeing on the monitors, hit Enter...
...and then turn those keys simultaneously.
[[delay 30s^The astronauts are typing]]
<<d tay>>Ready!<<endd>>
[[delay 60s^T2 is typing]]
<<d tay>>Um... T2?<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>I go slowly when I don't enjoy the task</i>.<<endd>>
[[delay 30s^T2 is not enjoying the task]]
<<d t2>>All right. Fine. And now the keys.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Three... two... one... turn!<<endd>>
Thank you both. I'll get started on basic processes, including the lighting.
If you need me on your excursions, don't hesitate to shout out.
I'm always listening.
[[Comforting.|hub1:hb_comfort]] | [[Creepy.|hub1:hb_creepy]]


:: hub1:no_updates
<<d tay>>Well, there you have it. One vote for updating, two votes against.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I missed the part where this is a democracy...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but I can't argue with the results.<<endd>>
I sincerely hope that you'll change your minds by the next time everyone reconvenes in the Hub.
Until then, I'll continue to operate at a greatly reduced capacity to help you.
<<d t2>>We'll muddle through somehow.<<endd>>
Here's hoping.
Remember: If you need me on your excursions, don't hesitate to shout out.
I'm always listening.
[[Comforting.|hub1:hb_comfort]] | [[Creepy.|hub1:hb_creepy]]


:: m2tay:head_hub
<<set $loctay = infirmary>>
<<d tay>>Okay, I'm gonna head back through the infirmary --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>maybe take one more quick glance around and appreciate the orderliness of it --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>and then get back to the Hub.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll let you know when I get there.<<endd>>
[[delay 13m^Taylor is busy|hub2:reconvene_taylor]]


:: m1t2:space_travel
<<d t2>>Oh, I'm sure that to you -- stuck there on Earth, gazing heavenward at night --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>the idea of sailing across light-years must seem like grand poetry.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But believe me, <<print $playername>>, once you've been at it for a while...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...you realize that the universe is mostly made up of <i>nothing.</i> Cold, dark, sucking <i>nothing.</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>There's no poetry. Just an endless, impenetrable book of gibberish and torn-out pages.<<endd>>
[[You're poetic, despite yourself.|m1t2:poetic_despite]] | [[You didn't always feel that way.|m1t2:not_always_feel]]


:: m1t2:not_always_feel
<<d t2>>No, maybe not.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But seeing that sort of naive awe and wonderment in Taylor...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'm all too happy to have had it carved out of me by the scalpel of the Green hive mind.<<endd>>
[[You can't experience awe anymore?|m1t2:no_awe]] | [[But you were poetic just now.|m1t2:poetic_despite]]


:: m1t2:no_awe
<<d t2>>I can.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I simply choose not to.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The advanced form of occupier inside me...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...allows me to retain my intellect, my creativity, my sense of wonder.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:mindless]]



:: m1t2:mindless
<<d t2>>But you'd be surprised how quickly those things begin to seem like burdens.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>More than once, I confess, I've felt a tinge of jealousy...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...at the simpler existence of the mindless drones, the ones who rely on the hive mind for everything.<<endd>>
[[That's... a little sad.|m1t2:little_sad]] | [[Stop feeling sorry for yourself.|m1t2:stop_sorry]]


:: m2tay:hunt_more
<<d tay>>Wha--?!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No. We agreed. We both said I'd spent enough time in here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm done trying to sort through this stupid pod.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's ten times as much stuff in here as should physically be able to fit!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>How does the space station not perpetually list to port?<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>THIS PLACE IS BREAKING THE LAW</i> of physics <i>AND SHOULD BE ARRESTED!</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm going back to the Hub now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't want to hang around the scene of a crime.<<endd>>
[[Fine, go back to the Hub.|m2tay:head_hub]] | [[No! Keep looking for the battery!|m2tay:look_battery]]


:: hub1:hb_creepy
<<d t2>>It <i>is</i> creepy. See?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Thank you.<<endd>>
[[hub1:parting_ways]]


:: m2tay:look_battery
<<set $suitrip = true>>
<<d tay>>I don't like to say this, because usually we get along so well...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but <i>no</i>, <<print $playername>>. I won't.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>My brain has gone numb from inactivity in here!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's just, pick this thing up! Move it out of the way of that thing!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Put that squishy thing over here! Set that boxy thing with the boxes!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Don't rip your IEVA suit on that sharp thi--<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Aw.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Dammit.<<endd>>
[[Ripped your IEVA suit?|m2tay:ripped_suit]] | [[Bumped a sharp thing, huh?|m2tay:sharp_thing]]


:: m2tay:done_pouting
<<d tay>>Okay. All right. It doesn't matter who's to blame.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It only matters whether I can fix the rip.<<endd>>
[[And... can you?|m2tay:fix_rip]] | [[Are you in real trouble?|m2tay:rip_trouble]]


:: m2tay:fix_rip
<<d tay>>I think I can, actually.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>In the Infirmary -- where everything is lovely and organized...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I didn't know how much I'd miss that until it was gone --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>there were a couple rolls of duct tape.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Because, honestly, there's no problem in space that can't be solved by duct tape.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So since we're going back through the Infirmary pod anyway...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'll just patch myself up on my way back to the Hub.<<endd>>
[[Sounds like a good plan.|m2tay:good_duct_plan]] | [[Let's head back to that pod.|m2tay:back_to_infirmary]]


:: hub1:hb_comfort
<<d tay>>It <i>is</i> comforting. See?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Thank you.<<endd>>
[[hub1:parting_ways]]


:: hub1:parting_ways
<<if $m1talk == t2>><<d t2>>Okay then. I'm out of here, on a very important mission.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Okay then. Get lost, Taylor, and your little lifeline too.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I've got a very important mission, and I don't need the two of you in my way.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>And stop saluting me. I <i>strongly suspect</i> you're doing it out of sarcasm.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>As you were.<<endd>>
<<if $m1talk == taylor>>[[m1tay:intro]]
<<else>>[[m1t2:intro]]<<endif>>


:: m2tay:good_duct_plan
<<d tay>>It won't be the first time on this trip that I've turned to duct tape...<<endd>>
<<if $foodfortay == true>>
<<d tay>>...and I have to imagine it won't be the last.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>...and I have to imagine it won't be the last.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hell, if I get much hungrier, I might just start <i>eating</i> the stuff!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I have to imagine it really sticks to your ribs!<<endd>><<endif>>
[[m2tay:back_to_infirmary]]


:: m2tay:done_patching
<<d tay>>Ta da!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It may not look like much, but it ought to just barely get the job done.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(That's word-for-word my profile on all the dating apps.)<<endd>>
[[m2tay:head_hub_two]]


:: m2tay:head_hub_two
<<d tay>>Okay, I'm gonna maybe take one more quick glance around and appreciate the orderliness of this pod --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>and then get back to the Hub.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll let you know when I get there.<<endd>>
[[delay 13m^Taylor is busy|hub2:reconvene_taylor]]


:: m1t2:intro
<<if $m1t2 == food>>[[m1t2:food_quest]]
<<else>>[[m1t2:fuel_quest]]<<endif>>



:: m1t2:food_quest
<<set $loct2 = starboardberths>>
<<set $loctay = infirmary>>
<<d t2>>All right. Out of the Hub and into...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...well. I surmise these are the crew berths.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All unmade beds, scattered undergarments, pointless garbage taped up to the walls.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I suppose it's meant to give the place a home-away-from-home sort of feeling...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but it just reeks of sadness.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Of trying to add some tiny splashes of color to lives rendered gray and uninteresting by stellar travel.<<endd>>
[[Space travel isn't interesting?|m1t2:space_travel]] | [[You're in a sour mood.|m1t2:sour_mood]]


:: m1t2:sour_mood
<<d t2>>I'm stranded on some unknown space station, run by a damned HelpBot computer...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and I'm being forced to team up with my mortal enemy if I want even a chance of survival.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And to top things off, I've got you squawking at me from my wrist every few seconds.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Am I supposed to throw a <i>party</i> for my current situation?<<endd>>
[[You can switch me off anytime.|m1t2:switch_off]] | [[Let's just get through this.|m1t2:get_through]]


:: m1t2:poetic_despite
<<d t2>>Eh.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I suppose that's the advantage of the advanced form of occupier I've got inside me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Normally, assimilation into the Green hive mind means a loss of creativity. Ingenuity. Poetry.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But this new breed of occupier allows me to retain all those things...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...while still owing my existence, and allegiance, to the hive.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>To the Queen.<<endd>>
[[And that's... preferable?|m1t2:thats_preferable]] | [[Still sounds awful.|m1t2:still_awful]]


:: m1t2:stop_sorry
<<d t2>>"Sorry for myself"?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I... I would never.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Listen, human. I'm superior to you in every way, now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's I who should feel sorry for you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Try to remember that when you feel the desire to mock me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, let's get to the tedious business of exploring this place and adding knowledge to the hive mind.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:explore_berths]]


:: m1t2:little_sad
<<d t2>>It...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Shut up.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I neither need nor desire your pity.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You're just a human. I'm superior to you in every way, now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's I who should pity you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...thank you for trying.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, let's get to the tedious business of exploring this place and adding knowledge to the hive mind.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:explore_berths]]


:: m2tay:sharp_thing
<<d tay>>Yes, there was a sharp thing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yes, I ripped my suit on it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But... but I'm not entirely at fault here!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If you hadn't been pushing me to keep sorting through this junk...<<endd>>
[[delay 15s^Taylor is pouting|m2tay:done_pouting]]


:: m2tay:ripped_suit
<<d tay>>Yes, I ripped my suit on it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yes, it was a sharp thing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But... but I'm not entirely at fault here!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If you hadn't been pushing me to keep sorting through this junk...<<endd>>
[[delay 15s^Taylor is pouting|m2tay:done_pouting]]


:: m2tay:rip_trouble
<<d tay>>Well, not at this exact moment.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But if I've learned anything in my time among the stars...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it's that you never know when you're gonna have to do some EVA.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(That's "extravehicular activity," in case you were scratching your head.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(And it's a <i>lot</i> less fun to do under explosive decompression.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So, yeah. I guess I'd better try to fix it.<<endd>>
[[Will you be able to?|m2tay:fix_rip]] | [[This sounds serious.|m2tay:sounds_serious]]


:: m2tay:sounds_serious
<<d tay>>It does... and it <i>is</i>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but it can also be solved with duct tape.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You'd be amazed how much on-the-fly space engineering is just, you know...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...duct tape and bobby pins and chewing gum and <i>MacGyver</i> trading cards.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And in the Infirmary -- where everything is lovely and organized --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I remember there were a couple rolls of duct tape.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So since we're going back through the Infirmary pod anyway...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'll just patch myself up on my way back to the Hub.<<endd>>
[[Sounds like a good plan.|m2tay:good_duct_plan]] | [[Let's head back to that pod.|m2tay:back_to_infirmary]]
//MacGyver was a TV show about a man who could rig inventions together out of trash.


:: m2tay:back_to_infirmary
<<set $loctay = infirmary>>
<<d tay>>All right. Now I just have to remember which drawer...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Here we go!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Every good space traveler needs a little statuette of Saint Christopher...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and a big supply of duct tape.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(After all, you've gotta tape down that Saint Christopher statuette, right?)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Okay. Give me a minute to get this rip fully patched.<<endd>>
[[delay 3m^Taylor is patching things up|m2tay:done_patching]]


:: m1t2:switch_off
<<d t2>>I'll keep that in mind.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>For now, though -- as much as I hate to admit it -- there is a sort of cold comfort in having you there.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I've grown used to having the collective knowledge of the Green hive mind inside my head.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But on the subject of this space station... they're eerily silent.<<endd>>
[[They don't know it at all?|m1t2:no_know_ace]] | [[I see how that'd be weird.|m1t2:thats_weird]]


:: m1t2:get_through
<<d t2>>Yes, fine, I'll muddle through somehow.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This is what I did before I was occupied, after all. Back when I was just...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<i>human.</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>I feel like a primate trying to evolve backward into a trilobite!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>To have an entire species' knowledge at my fingertips...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...only to find an enormous blank spot when it comes to the <i>Celadon Ace!</i><<endd>>
[[m1t2:thats_weird]]



:: m1t2:thats_preferable
<<d t2>>I... in theory, yes.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Retaining my ability to reason, to create, to calculate for myself...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...those should make me superior among the Greens. Second only to the Queen.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And clearly, she chose me to preserve those faculties for a reason.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:mindless]]


:: m1t2:still_awful
<<d t2>>"Awful"?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No. Not at all. Quite the opposite.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Working for the Green Queen -- the Regina Viridi -- I always have a sense of purpose.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And connecting to the hive mind, I have an entire species' knowledge at my fingertips.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I know everything the Greens know.<<endd>>
[[But they don't know the <i>Celadon Ace</i>.|m1t2:no_know_ace]] | [[Nice to have a purpose.|m1t2:thats_preferable]]


:: m1t2:no_know_ace
<<d t2>>They don't.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I suppose it should please me to be the first to explore it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>To add this bit of information to the Green repository.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But I'll admit... I don't much care for this sensation of walking blindly forward.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I haven't felt this uncertain -- this uninformed -- since I became occupied.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Not knowing the answers ahead of time makes me feel like the worst thing in the universe...<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>...human.</i><<endd>>
[[Hey, thanks. Jerk.|m1t2:thanks_jerk]] | [[I'm here to help guide you.|m1t2:here_to_help]]


:: m1t2:thats_weird
<<d t2>>I imagine it would be like someone asking you to write a term paper...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...without using the internet.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or the library.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or being able to open your eyes.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I <i>despise</i> this feeling.<<endd>>
[[I'll help you through this.|m1t2:here_to_help]] | [[Come on, let's explore.|m1t2:explore_berths]]


:: m1t2:explore_berths
<<d t2>>All right. Exploring the unknown.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Glancing around what looks like the cramped bedroom of a dozen rowdy teenagers.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>One can only imagine that "exploring the unknown" was a bit more glamorous at the dawn of the Space Age.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It probably involved more moon rocks and impossibly breathtaking vistas...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and fewer pairs of unwashed boxer briefs crammed into the corners of triple-bunk-beds.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(Which is not to say that the underwear isn't breathtaking, in its own repulsive way.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I think I've seen enough here.<<endd>>
[[Yeah, time to move on.|m1t2:move_on_berths]] | [[I think you should explore more.|m1t2:explore_more_berths]]


:: m1t2:know_mac
<<d t2>>I mean...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<i>yes,</i> if you want to be logical about things.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You just told me a fact I already knew about myself.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Nevertheless!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Shut up!<<endd>>
[[m1t2:shut_up_mac]]


:: m1t2:couple_food_back
<<set $foodfortay = true>>
<<set $snackfortay = true>>
<<d t2>>Just enough to raise Taylor's hopes -- and blood sugar -- a tiny amount.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Just enough to buy me gratitude, rather than suspicion.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:helpbot_hush]]



:: m1t2:thanks_jerk
<<d t2>>Ha!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't forget, I was human once too. Up until very recently. So I know whereof I speak.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The... the form I've taken now is far superior. I assure you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In fact, here's my promise to you, <<print $playername>>, for being such a good sport.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:you_get_occupied]]
//"I know whereof I speak" is idiomatic but traces back to at least the 19th century. "I know what I'm talking about" or similar substitution is fine.


:: m1t2:here_to_help
<<d t2>>And I appreciate it. I genuinely do.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In fact, as a token of my thanks, <<print $playername>>, I'd like to make you a promise.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:you_get_occupied]]


:: m1t2:explore_more_berths
<<d t2>>What more is there to find?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This place was a mess even <i>before</i> the inch-thick layer of dust settled on it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm on a mission to find food. I'm not here to tuck the sheets back in or fluff the pillows.<<endd>>
[[You should <i>definitely</i> fluff pillows.|m1t2:pillow_explore]] | [[You're right. Move on.|m1t2:move_on_berths]]


:: m1t2:half_dollar
<<d t2>>Sorry, <<print $playername>>, you haven't struck it rich today.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But what I <i>did</i> find might be of considerably more value than fifty cents.<<endd>>
[[Like... fifty-ONE cents?|m1t2:fifty_one]] | [[So what did you find?|m1t2:what_under_pillow]]


:: m1t2:fifty_one
<<d t2>>Way to dream big, champ.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:what_under_pillow]]


:: m1t2:move_on_berths
<<set $loctay = storage>>
<<if $readjournal == true>><<d t2>>Enough of wallowing through the crew's dirty laundry, both literal and otherwise.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Enough of wallowing through this pigsty of a room.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>Let's move on to the Galley, where there ought to be some "food."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The kind that makes its own sarcastic quotation marks -- just add water.<<endd>>
[[Sounds disgusting.|m1t2:food_disgusting]] | [[Hope you find lots of food!|m1t2:lots_food]]


:: m1t2:food_disgusting
<<d t2>>You would think so... and for the most part, you'd be absolutely correct.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But just between you and me, <<print $playername>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I developed sort of a taste for the chili macaroni meal kit option.<<endd>>
[[Ha! The other Taylor did, too.|m1t2:taylor_mac]] | [[You could do a lot worse.|m1t2:worse_food]]


:: m1t2:taylor_mac
<<d t2>>Ha! A brilliant conversational stratagem on my part!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I drew you out, needled you for information...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and now I know an innermost secret of my deadliest foe!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh, you'll regret telling me of Taylor's fondness for chili mac, I can assure you!<<endd>>
[[Didn't you already <i>know</i> that?|m1t2:know_mac]] | [[I mean, you <i>are</i> a Taylor, right?|m1t2:you_taylor_mac]]


:: m1t2:you_taylor_mac
[[m1t2:know_mac]]


:: m1t2:shut_up_mac
<<set $loct2 = galley>>
<<d t2>>The Galley looks... calm. Placid, even.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Nothing out of place. No meal packets or trash or sign of human activity at all.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Every table an unbroken mesa of dust. Any echoes of conversation long since faded.<<endd>>
[[Sadly poetic.|m1t2:poetic_galley]] | [[Is there any food?|m1t2:any_food]]


:: m1t2:poetic_galley
<<d t2>>What can I say?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Without the constant background hum of the hive mind in my head...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'm feeling a bit lonesome.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>A bit melancholy.<<endd>>
[[Hey, at least you have me.|m1t2:have_me]] | [[Cheer up! Maybe there's food.|m1t2:any_food]]


:: m1t2:have_me
<<d t2>>Right. On top of all my other miseries, I have you.<<endd>>
[[Hurtful.|m1t2:hurtful_miseries]] | [[Found any food yet, jerk?|m1t2:any_food]]


:: m1t2:poutine_aside
<<d t2>>Yes. Setting poutine aside, there are still a ton of edible meal packs here.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:food_jackpot]]


:: m1t2:disturbing_poutine
<<d t2>>There are some cold, hard truths one has to face in the void of outer space, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It turns out, poutine is the coldest and hardest of them all.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But setting that aside, there are still a ton of edible meal packs here.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:food_jackpot]]


:: m1t2:food_cruel
<<d t2>>Aw. I was afraid you'd see it that way.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't think of it as "cruel." Think of it as "careful."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Think of it as one more possible tool at my disposal.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It would be... impossible to explain to you the depths of what I'm feeling right now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>To be part of a vast collective, who are all suddenly and mysteriously beyond my reach.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>With the hive mind unavailable to me, I'm simply, savagely <i>alone</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And in that loneliness, I need every possible tool, every advantage I can muster...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...because, in the end, it's everyone for themselves.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Please. Think about it like that. Try to see it my way.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll give you a while to think about it, while I savor a pack or two of chili mac.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll get back to you after I'm done.<<endd>>
[[delay 30m^T2 is noshing|m1t2:after_nosh]]


:: m1t2:food_advantage
<<d t2>>So pleased you're on my side on this one.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, what do you think?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Should I bring along just a meal pack or two?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Say I scraped the cupboards bare, and this was all I could find?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or does it raise fewer questions if I simply bring nothing back at all?<<endd>>
[[Don't bring anything back.|m1t2:no_food_back]] | [[Yeah, grab a couple.|m1t2:couple_food_back]]


:: m1t2:no_food_back
<<set $foodfortay = false>>
<<set $snackfortay = false>>
<<set $buffetfortay = false>>
<<d t2>>Yes. That's what I was thinking, too.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's easier to explain coming back empty-handed.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If I bring food, I bring <i>hope</i>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and Taylor will want to go check every square inch of the Galley in case I "missed" something.<<endd>>
<<if $readjournal == true>><<d t2>>So I'm gonna take some of the best stuff and hide it...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...under ol' Dean Halliday's pillow, in case his unicorn gets hungry.<<endd>>
<<else>>So I'm gonna hide the best stuff from easy discovery.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>And then it's time to get back to the Hub and share the bad news.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:helpbot_hush]]


:: m1t2:helpbot_hush
<<d t2>>Of course...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...this only works if HelpBot doesn't go blabbing the truth to Taylor.<<endd>>
Hi there. HelpBot QTC here, just jumping in with some clarification.
Your secrets are not mine to share, unless I'm told otherwise.
It's my understanding that humans need privacy...
...something that comes at a premium in a close-quarters space station.
<<d t2>>Huh. Good answer.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Okay. Back through the berths, back to the Hub.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I wonder how Taylor's mission went?<<endd>>
[[We'll find out soon.|m1t2:find_soon]] | [[Taylor needs privacy.|m1t2:taylor_privacy]]


:: m1t2:find_soon
<<d t2>>Well, the one thing we can be sure of is that -- unlike me --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>sweet, simple, naive Taylor will tell us the truth of what happened.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's almost boring in its predictability.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>To think, I used to be that transparently upstanding.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And that kind to others.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, shut your yap.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:well_trod]]


:: m1t2:you_get_occupied
<<d t2>>When the Greens overtake the Earth -- and that day is coming, sooner than you know --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll ensure that you're infected with one of the most <i>advanced</i> occupiers.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You'll retain the things that make you who you are...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but you'll <i>still</i> take orders from me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's the best offer I can possibly make. You'd be a fool not to take it.<<endd>>
[[Sounds great. Sign me up.|m1t2:sign_me_up]] | [[Uh... no, thanks, T2.|m1t2:no_thanks_t2]]


:: m1t2:sign_me_up
<<d t2>>Excellent! <i>That's</i> the spirit!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Your compliance is duly noted, and will be an enormous mark in your favor when occupation begins.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I must say, <<print $playername>>, you're doing just a tremendous job of ingratiating yourself...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...to me, to the Green cause, and to the Regina Veridi... long may she reign.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, while we're all in such a positive mood...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...what say we get to exploring this place, and adding to the hive mind's knowledge base?<<endd>>
[[m1t2:explore_berths]]


:: m1t2:pillow_explore
<<d t2>>Sure, fine, if it'll appease you, I'll give this bunk's pillow a cursory roughing up.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Who knows, maybe I'll find a shiny silver dollar from the Tooth Fairy, or --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, <i>hello.</i> What have we here?<<endd>>
[[What did you find?|m1t2:what_under_pillow]] | [[You owe me half that dollar.|m1t2:half_dollar]]
//Wikipedia tells me that the Tooth Fairy is primarily a creature in English-speaking countries; I'm not sure what the equivalent might be or whether this exchange will work in other cultures.


:: m1t2:what_under_pillow
<<d t2>>I've found a journal under the pillow.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It was fiercely guarded by a stuffed pink unicorn with a rainbow horn, but I managed to wrest it away.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now then... it has a combination lock on it, one of those little four-digit dial devices.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So that's ten thousand possible solutions.<<endd>>
[[That could take a while.|m1t2:take_while]] | [[Maybe you shouldn't snoop.|m1t2:not_snoop]]


:: m1t2:not_snoop
<<d t2>>Okay. I'm hearing your advice.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm considering it very carefully.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>While I consider it, I'm bashing open the journal's lock against this cabinet corner.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The journal is open!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm still considering your advice.<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>Very</i> carefully.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:inside_journal]]


:: m1t2:inside_journal
<<set $readjournal = true>><<d t2>>Looks like this lost puppy belongs to one Dean Halliday.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let's just flip to a random page and see what was on ol' Dean's mind...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"Seeing fewer and fewer of my crewmates as my job cycle starts to differ from theirs.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"I know everything is tightly regulated by the computer for maximum efficiency...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"...but when I'm all alone in the labs, while the rest of the science team is sleeping...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"...it just feels lonely as hell."<<endd>>
[[Poor guy. That sucks.|m1t2:poor_dean]] | [[Does it get better as it goes?|m1t2:dean_better]]



:: m1t2:poor_dean
<<d t2>>Oh, yeah, how could he have <i>possibly</i> known that a space station could be a lonely place?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>He only had, let's see...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<i>every book and movie and comic ever made about life on a space station</i> to prepare him.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But maybe he just happened to miss those.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let's keep reading and find out!<<endd>>
[[m1t2:more_journal]]


:: [[m1t2:one_more_journal
<<d t2>>Oh. You're a glutton for <i>someone else's</i> punishment, huh?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All right. An admirable quality, if I'm being honest.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Here's just one more:<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"The crew -- the whole crew -- is actively avoiding me now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"I know how paranoid that sounds.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"I wouldn't believe it if someone else said it to me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"But Garcia is going out of her way to avoid me...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"...and when I see her talking to anyone else, they throw me constant side-eye.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"I can't even imagine what I did wrong!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"I don't do anything but my job.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"What... what's gotten into these people?"<<endd>>
[[Sounds like a rough time.|m1t2:rough_dean]] | [["Gotten into" them?|m1t2:gotten_into]]


:: m1t2:gotten_into
<<d t2>>Nice turn of phrase, isn't it, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yeah, my ears wiggled at the sound of it, too...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...except for HelpBot's continued claims never to have heard about the Greens.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Not to mention the Green hive mind knowing nothing about this place, or Dean Halliday.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Maybe he wasn't occupied... maybe his crewmates really just found him <i>that</i> annoying.<<endd>>
[[I wonder what happened to him?|m1t2:where_dean]] | [[Oh well. Move on to the Galley.|m1t2:move_on_berths]]


:: m1t2:where_dean
<<d t2>>My best guess is that this Garcia woman found his journal...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and Dean died from sheer embarrassment.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let's move on.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Perhaps, while we explore, we'll discover a pile of his clothes...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...marking the spot where he simply blushed himself out of existence.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:move_on_berths]]


:: m1t2:lots_food
<<d t2>>One of the benefits of being Green now is that I don't <i>need</i> lots of food.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>While I do require some meager intake of the bare necessities...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'm much more efficient at processing them than I was when I was purely human.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Unfortunately, one part of my humanity I <i>can't</i> seem to altogether shed...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...is that my brain is still stuffed full of useless pop culture references.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Like, for instance, ever since I said the phrase a few sentences ago...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I've been singing "The Bare Necessities" from Disney's <i>Jungle Book</i> in my head.<<endd>>
[[Ha! I can only imagine!|m1t2:imagine_bare]] | [[I don't know the song.|m1t2:dont_know_bare]]


:: m1t2:worse_food
<<d t2>>Sure. It was William Faulkner who said, "Between grief and nothing, I will take grief.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"But between chicken chunks and nothing, I'll take nothing. Every time."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Wise man, Faulkner.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anyway. Let's see what there is to see, here.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:shut_up_mac]]


:: m1t2:like_jungle
<<d t2>>Well, too bad.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because if there's one form of life that can survive out here --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>in the depths of dead space, in the most hostile environment ever known...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...it's a Disney lawyer.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And they'd have a "Cease and Desist" pinned to my spacesuit before I hit the second verse.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The Green hive mind may be widespread, and bent on universal domination...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but we are as ants beneath the foot of Mickey Mouse and his attorneys.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, come on, let's keep moving to the Galley.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And hope the humans from <i>WALL-E</i> didn't beat us there.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:shut_up_mac]]


:: m1t2:any_food
<<d t2>>Give me a minute to look.<<endd>>
[[delay 3m^T2 is exploring]]
<<d t2>>Which do you want first: the good news, or the better news?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Good news: It turns out that space stations merit better quality food than long-haul ships do!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Better news: It seems this <i>Celadon Ace</i> is decently victualed.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The fresh fruits and veggies have long since wilted and rotted, of course...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but these meal packs are actual <i>food</i>, not the paste I'd grown accustomed to.<<endd>>
[[Nice! Happy to hear it.|m1t2:happy_food]] | [[What kind of actual food?|m1t2:actual_food]]


:: m1t2:hurtful_miseries
<<d t2>>Come on, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Would you expect anything less from me by now?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anyway. Let's see whether there's any food lurking around.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:any_food]]


:: m1t2:what_poutine
<<d t2>>Oh. It's, uh... it sounds bizarre, if you've never heard of it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's basically twice-fried French fries, drowning in brown gravy...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and further hampered by lumps of curdled cheese.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I... can't explain it to a human mind without fear of overwhelming your senses.<<endd>>
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here!
I just wanted to jump in and add that, according to my databases, "poutine" is defined as...
1) "Canada's national dish," and...
2) "among the deadliest of all known manmade substances."
There is a good chance that my databases are not fully updated!
Thanks! Bye!
<<d t2>>You know, normally I hate that damn HelpBot...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but when he's right, he's right.<<endd>>
[[Disturbing stuff.|m1t2:disturbing_poutine]] | [[So, setting poutine aside...|m1t2:poutine_aside]]


:: m1t2:no_like_food
<<d t2>>...<i>or</i> I could maintain a distinct advantage over Taylor.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:food_strategy]]


:: m1t2:food_strategy
<<d t2>>By sharing only a small amount -- or nothing at all -- of my discoveries here...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I retain the upper hand. I keep Taylor under my thumb. Wrapped around my finger.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Other hand-related metaphors, too, I imagine.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If Taylor is dependent on me, and me alone, for provisions...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I can only think it will make my time on <i>Celadon Ace</i> easier by far.<<endd>>
[[Okay, I see what you're saying.|m1t2:food_see]] | [[No. You're just being cruel.|m1t2:food_cruel]]


:: m1t2:after_nosh
<<d t2>>That was... well, "delicious" seems like crazy hyperbole...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but it certainly tasted better than a steady diet of nothing.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I guess it's time to mosey on back to the Hub.<<endd>>
<<if $foodhide == true>><<d t2>>So, we're still okay with keeping most, if not all, of this hidden from Taylor?<<endd>>
[[Yes. Keep your advantage.|m1t2:food_advantage]] | [[Not feeling great about it.|m1t2:not_great_food]]
<<else>><<d t2>>So, you've had some time to think about keeping the food hidden from Taylor?<<endd>>
[[It makes some sense, I guess.|m1t2:food_advantage]] | [[I'm not okay with the idea.|m1t2:not_great_food]]<<endif>>


:: m1t2:why_advantage
<<d t2>>"Why?"<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because I <i>always</i> need the advantage!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Everyone is an enemy!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I have to have the high ground in order to defeat them!<<endd>>
[[Taylor's not your enemy.|m1t2:taylor_not_enemy]] | [[You need to work <i>with</i> Taylor.|m1t2:work_with_taylor]]


:: m1t2:taylor_not_enemy
<<d t2>>Well, the Greens disagree with you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I'm a Green.<<endd>>
[[But you're also a Taylor.|m1t2:also_taylor]] | [[Just bring Taylor some food.|m1t2:bring_taylor_food]]


:: m1t2:taylor_privacy
<<d t2>>Oh, <i>ha ha</i>, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>A taste of my own medicine, hmm?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Tastes like... chili macaroni.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:well_trod]]


:: m1t2:well_trod
<<set $loctay = infirmary>>
<<set $loct2 = starboardberths>>
<<d t2>>Now I'm headed out of the Galley, back through the berths, and then to the Hub.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well-trod terrain, and nothing we haven't already talked about on the way here...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...so if you don't mind, I'll keep radio silent until I get to where I'm going.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Over and out.<<endd>>
[[delay 18m^T2 is busy|hub2:reconvene_taylor]]


:: m1t2:no_thanks_t2
<<d t2>>Listen, <<print $playername>>, there's one thing you need to understand:<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>You will be occupied.</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>Whether you become a brainless drone, like the majority of the Green masses...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...or an advanced creature, capable of autonomous thought, like me...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...well, that's entirely up to you, and how well you comply with what I need from you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So I <i>strongly</i> suggest you comply.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now. Let's stop this pointless disagreement, and get around to exploring this ridiculous space station.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:explore_berths]]


:: m1t2:take_while
<<d t2>>Oh, it certainly would.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If I were playing fair.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Fortunately, there's also a ten-thousand-and-<i>first</i> method that I'm not averse to attempting.<<endd>>
[[What does THAT mean?|attempt_mean]] | [[Maybe this is a bad idea.|not_snoop_two]]


:: attempt_mean
<<d t2>>What's that?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm sorry, I couldn't hear your question...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...over the noise of me bashing open the lock against this cabinet corner.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Turns out, that was the correct combination!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Can you believe I guessed it on my first try?<<endd>>
[[Uh... nice job?|m1t2:nice_job]] | [[Okay, so, what's inside?|m1t2:inside_journal]]


:: m1t2:dean_better
<<d t2>>Oh, now you want me to keep snooping, huh?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's a very human instinct, human.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:more_journal]]


:: m1t2:more_journal
<<d t2>>"When we first arrived here, I thought --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"no, dammit, I was <i>certain</i> there was some flirtation between me and Garcia.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"We hit it off, talking about our childhoods and the wild rabbits...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"...and there was that whole mix-up with the MREs in the Galley that first night...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"...and she even sewed back on my loose patch. It looks perfect now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"But I've barely seen her in two weeks, and now we talk like strangers.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"Did I screw something up? Or is it just that our paths stopped crossing onboard the station?"<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ugh. Blah blah blah. I was hoping for something juicy, <<print $playername>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but this is just emo whining. It's a <<print either ("My Chemical Romance", "Fall Out Boy", "Panic! At The Disco", "Coheed And Cambria", "Taking Back Sunday", "Saves The Day", "Thirty Seconds To Mars", "Paramore")>> T-shirt worn with moon boots.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm done with it. Let's get to the Galley.<<endd>>
[[I agree. Move ahead.|m1t2:move_on_berths]] | [[Maybe read one more passage.|[[m1t2:one_more_journal]]


:: m1t2:rough_dean
<<d t2>>I'm sure, if Dean Halliday were here right now, you'd ask me to give him a big, reassuring hug.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I'm sure I'd twist the neck of his stuffed unicorn until it popped.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We just have different love languages, <<print $playername>>. That's all.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Okay. Time to move on.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:move_on_berths]]


:: m1t2:imagine_bare
<<d t2>>That's correct. You <i>can</i> only imagine.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because I'm certainly not sending you video...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...of me dancing around this space station like Baloo the bear.<<endd>>
[[Aw. Please?|m1t2:dance_bare]] | [[Just knowing you did it is enough.|m1t2:knowing_bare]]


:: m1t2:dont_know_bare
<<d t2>>Oh, gosh, why don't I just sing the whole thing for you now?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Would you like that?<<endd>>
[[Yes. I would like that.|m1t2:like_jungle]] | [[No. I would <i>LOVE</i> that.|m1t2:love_jungle]]


:: m1t2:love_jungle
<<d t2>>Oh, would you?<<endd>>
[[m1t2:like_jungle]]


:: m1t2:happy_food
<<d t2>>It's certainly something of a relief.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let's see what there is to see, here.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:actual_food]]


:: m1t2:actual_food
<<d t2>>A couple different ramen noodle preparations...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...Kung Pao chicken... barbecue beef...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...an ionized approximation of poutine, for any space-faring Canadians...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and, miracle of miracles, <i>chili macaroni</i>, just like Grandma used to reconstitute!<<endd>>
[[Jackpot!|m1t2:food_jackpot]] | [[What's poutine?|m1t2:what_poutine]]


:: m1t2:food_jackpot
<<d t2>>All that, plus nuts and granola and chocolate bars.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's a whole buffet.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, here's my dilemma.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't need much food to survive.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor, on the other hand, is already starving and will only get hungrier.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I could bring as much food as I can carry back to the Hub, and solve all Taylor's problems...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<i>or</i>...<<endd>>
[[I don't like where this is going.|m1t2:no_like_food]] | [[Go on, I'm curious now.|m1t2:curious_food]]


:: m1t2:curious_food
<<d t2>>Good! I'm glad I've piqued your interest.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Maybe you'll see the logic of what I'm proposing.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:food_strategy]]


:: m1t2:food_see
<<set $foodhide = true>>
<<d t2>>Excellent!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>See, I knew that if you and I spent some time exploring together...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...you'd start to come around to my way of thinking!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, to celebrate our meeting of the minds...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'm going to kick back and savor a pack or two of chili mac.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'd prefer to eat in silence and gather my thoughts, if you don't mind.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll get back to you after I'm sated.<<endd>>
[[delay 30m^T2 is noshing|m1t2:after_nosh]]


:: m1t2:not_great_food
<<d t2>>It buys me such an advantage, though!<<endd>>
[[Why do you <i>need</i> an advantage?|m1t2:why_advantage]] | [[Fine, do what you want.|m1t2:food_advantage]]


:: m1t2:work_with_taylor
<<d t2>>...I <i>hate</i> that you're right.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I hate Taylor, and I hate HelpBot, and now...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...you just squeaked in to that number three position.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I barely even know you! Congrats, that's got to be some kind of record.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:bring_taylor_food]]


:: m1t2:also_taylor
<<d t2>><i>Stop trying to remind me of that!</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ugh.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:bring_taylor_food]]


:: m1t2:bring_taylor_food
<<set $foodfortay = true>>
<<set $buffetfortay = true>>
<<d t2>>All right. Fine.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You have the clear advantage over me...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...in that you can tell Taylor the truth about the Galley as soon as we're back in the Hub.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So I'll bring back some food. You win.<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>Enemy.</i><<endd>>
[[Everybody wins, this way.|m1t2:everybody_wins]] | [[Call me whatever; I'm still right.|m1t2:still_right]]


:: m1t2:everybody_wins
<<d t2>>If everyone wins, then <i>no one</i> wins.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And if <i>that's</i> true, I ask you, <<print $playername>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...what's the point of even <i>having</i> enemies?<<endd>>
[[m1t2:well_trod]]


:: m1t2:nice_job
<<d t2>>Thank you. Cheating is a real timesaver.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:inside_journal]]


:: not_snoop_two
<<d t2>>Let's be honest, <<print $playername>>: You spending any time with me at all is probably a bad idea.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But you bought your ticket, so now you're taking the ride.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And, in this case, the ride involves me bashing open the journal's lock against this cabinet corner.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Would you look at that?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Turns out, "bash against cabinet corner" is the correct combination!<<endd>>
[[m1t2:inside_journal]]


:: m1t2:knowing_bare
<<d t2>>My sole consolation is the certainty...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...that even as we speak, Taylor is dancing to something far sillier.<<endd>>
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here.
Just jumping in to confirm that Taylor has so far danced through about half of <i>ABBA Gold.</i>
In order.
From memory.
<<d t2>><i>There</i> you go.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now everything seems right again.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:shut_up_mac]]


:: m1t2:dance_bare
<<d t2>>Never!<<endd>>
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here, just jumping into the conversation for a second!
<<if $startupdates == true>>Because you started my systems updates...
<<else>>Even though you didn't start my systems updates...<<endif>>
...I was able to capture T2's dancing on video.
It will take some time to sort out audio quality and resolution issues...
...but I'll be sure to work on that so it's available for everyone to enjoy.
Carry on!
[[delay 30s^T2 is furious]]
<<d t2>>I hate HelpBot <i>so much</i>.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:shut_up_mac]]


:: m1t2:still_right
<<d t2>>Oh, believe me, I'm calling you all <i>sorts</i> of things.<<endd>>
[[m1t2:well_trod]]


:: m2t2:helpbot_knows
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here, with a quick note.
I won't say anything to Taylor. I understand the human need for privacy.
Plus, I imagine it will be more... <i>interesting</i> to let things play out without interfering.
Now, you'd better get moving, back to the Hub.
You might just beat Taylor back, and not have to explain why you're coming from the fore pods.
[[Good point. You'd better haul it.|m2t2:haul_it]] | [[Have a cover story in mind.|m2t2:cover_story]]



:: m2t2:haul_it
<<d t2>>All right, all right! I'm moving!<<endd>>
[[hub2:reconvene_taylor]]


:: m1t2:fuel_quest
<<set $loctay = starboardberths>>
<<set $m2t2 = fuel>>
<<d t2>>All right. Let's let Taylor bumble on out of here...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and then I'll definitely head for the port-side storage pod.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yup! Okay! Bye, Taylor! Bye-bye, now!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And... Taylor's gone.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hey, <<print $playername>>, you want to know a secret?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm not really heading for the port-side storage pod!<<endd>>
[[What? Why not?|m2t2:why_not_port]] | [[Where <i>are</i> you headed?|m2t2:where_headed]]


:: m2t2:where_headed
<<d t2>>I'm going to go to fore, instead of port.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I want to check out the "ring" portion of this ankh-shaped behemoth.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>From the schematic, it looks like it's all labs and things.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And for a science-type like myself, that sounds pretty interesting.<<endd>>
[[Just go to port storage.|m2t2:go_port]] | [[Okay, explore the ring.|m2t2:explore_ring]]


:: m2t2:go_port
<<d t2>>Mmm. I've considered your plan...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and I'm not going to do it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And since you have no way of forcing me, I think that's where the conversation ends.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If it helps, I'm absolutely certain I outrank you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now come on, we're going to check out the labs.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You'll love it, I promise.<<endd>>
[[You can't promise that.|m2t2:promise_labs]] | [[Fine. To the labs, I guess.|m2t2:go_labs]]


:: m2t2:promise_labs
<<d t2>>It's worth as much as any other promise I make to you, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I can promise you that.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:go_labs]]


:: m2t2:which_way
<<d t2>>Indeed. Clockwise or counterclockwise around this loop of labs?<<endd>>
[[Clockwise.|m2t2:go_lab_2_cw]] | [[Counter.|m2t2:go_lab_3_ccw]]


:: m2t2:worth_taking
<<d t2>>Probably.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Without a real-time connection to the hive mind, though, it's hard to say.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I'm not going to lug a treadmill through a parallel universe on the strength of a "maybe."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Our Green Queen can put a Peloton on her Christmas list, just like everyone else.<<endd>>
[[Ha! Nice one.|m2t2:nice_joke]] | [[Ready to move on?|m2t2:move_along]]


:: m2t2:nice_joke
<<d t2>>...Thank you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm going to admit something to you, <<print $playername>>, that maybe I shouldn't...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but as the only Green-occupied soul to have retained my own intellect and creativity...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...it can get very lonely, making jokes.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I still have that odd, sometimes desperate inclination to defuse situations with humor...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but there's really no one else in the hive who appreciates or understands it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Which means that I can really only be my true self around Taylor --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>who, let's face it, is probably thinking of the exact same joke --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>or around you.<<endd>>
[[Well. You're welcome.|m2t2:welcome_joke]] | [[Make all the jokes you want.|m2t2:all_jokes]]


:: m2t2:all_jokes
<<d t2>>I did.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm done.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>When I'm ready to make another one, you'll be the first to know.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In the meantime... I don't think there's much else to see in this pod.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Time to move along, I think.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:move_along]]


:: m2t2:very_scary
<<d t2>>I mean it!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This excursion needs to be our little secret, for the time being.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm not willing to lay all my cards on the table...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...until I know exactly what game we're all playing here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now I'd better get back to the Hub.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I'd better hope I beat Taylor back...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...because otherwise it might be hard to explain why I'm coming from fore, and not port.<<endd>>
[[Good point. You'd better haul it.|m2t2:haul_it]] | [[Have a cover story in mind.|m2t2:cover_story]]


:: m2t2:no_tunguskite
<<d t2>>All right, all right. I'll leave the tunguskite here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean, if I need any later, I know there are a handful of samples in Fore 4.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh, and a metric buttload in the cargo hold where I woke up.<<endd>>
[[Good to know!|m2t2:sour_grapes]] | [[Time to move on?|m2t2:which_way]]


:: m2t2:why_not_port
<<d t2>>Why not?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because I don't feel like it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because there's a lot more to this space station...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and this is a perfect opportunity to go exploring.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:where_headed]]


:: m2t2:explore_ring
<<d t2>>Oh, thank God.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm glad we didn't have to have some pointless argument about it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because in the end, I'm going to do whatever I want...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and there's honestly not much you can do to stop me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm the <i>bad</i> one, remember?<<endd>>
[[Yeah, yeah. Hit up the labs.|m2t2:go_labs]] | [[You're not <i>that</i> bad.|m2t2:not_bad]]


:: m2t2:go_labs
<<set $loct2 = fore4>>
<<d t2>>Okay then. Stepping through the wide-open and welcoming door...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and we've officially left the Hub for a pod imaginatively labeled "Fore 4."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's... definitely a lab pod.<<endd>>
[[What are you seeing?|m2t2:what_see]] | [[Anything worth grabbing?|m2t2:grab_lab]]


:: m2t2:grab_lab
<<d t2>>I'm way ahead of you, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(As usual.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This particular lab seems to have a "geology" focus.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I studied life sciences, but rocks never really rocked my world.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:know_tunguskite]]


:: m2t2:know_tunguskite
<<d t2>>Still... I know tunguskite when I see it. And I'm seeing it now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I don't think whoever was last running tests on it would mind...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...if I just took a couple chunks with me, as a memento.<<endd>>
[[Sure. I would.|m2t2:take_tunguskite]] | [[No. Leave it there.|m2t2:leave_tunguskite]]


:: m2t2:leave_tunguskite
<<d t2>>What's the matter?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Are you afraid I'm going to do something <i>evil</i> with it?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or, uh... just something... accidental and reckless that winds up badly injuring me?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You know... exactly like I did on the <i>Viridian</i>?<<endd>>
[[Either.|m2t2:either_bad]] | [[Both, really.|m2t2:both_bad]]


:: m2t2:either_bad
<<d t2>>I wish I could say you're wrong, <<print $playername>> --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>because I get this warm, wonderfully smug sensation every time I do --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>but I think this time I have to concede your point.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:excuses_tunguskite]]


:: m2t2:excuses_tunguskite
<<d t2>>I can sometimes be -- I mean, the IEVA suit can sometimes be clumsy. You know?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It can make <i>me</i> look clumsy, I mean. When I'm clearly not.<<endd>>
[[I have clothes like that, too.|m2t2:clumsy_clothes]] | [[Cool. So, leave the tunguskite.|m2t2:no_tunguskite]]


:: m2t2:clumsy_clothes
<<d t2>>Yes! Thank you!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's literally the clothes doing all the slipping and stumbling and dropping.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We're just wearing them, fighting them every step of the way.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Where does it end?<<endd>>
[[Nudism?|m2t2:end_nudism]] | [[Death?|m2t2:end_death]]


:: m2t2:go_lab_3_ccw
<<d t2>>Counterclockwise it is.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:go_lab_3]]


:: m2t2:any_turned_on
<<d t2>>It's all in "standby" mode.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Conserving energy, I suppose.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There's nothing sadder than exercise equipment covered in dust.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The whole room looks like a broken New Year's resolution.<<endd>>
[[Maybe you should start it up.|m2t2:start_up]] | [[Time to move along?|m2t2:move_along]]
//I'm not sure whether other cultures make (and, subsequently, very quickly break) resolutions on New Year's Day?


:: m2t2:body_positive
<<d t2>>Well, it's easy when you're amazing.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anyway. Feels like it's time to move along from here.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:move_along]]


:: m2t2:welcome_joke
<<d t2>>That's not to say that I expect us to become a new comedy duo, or anything.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The Stiller and Meara of outer space.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But it's nice to know I've got someone to turn to...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...when I've worked out a real zinger.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anyhow. Probably about time to move on from this pod.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:move_along]]
//Jerry Stiller and Anne Meara were a popular husband-and-wife comedy duo for decades.


:: m2t2:share_taylor
<<d t2>>If I wanted to share it with Taylor...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'd have held Taylor's hand while we took a walking tour of this dump.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"Ooh," I'd say, "look at that thing!"
<<d t2>>"And how about this thing over here?" Taylor would say. "Have you looked at it?"<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And together we'd stroll and look, look and stroll...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...until we were so precious that we both vomited from the sweetness.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"Oh look," we'd say, pointing at the vomit. "Look at this new thing!"<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So... you can see why I didn't do that.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Frankly, if Taylor hears nothing about this -- from you <i>or</i> from HelpBot --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'd be perfectly happy with that.<<endd>>
[[I'll keep quiet about it.|m2t2:keep_quiet]] | [[We can't stop HelpBot from talking.|m2t2:helpbot_knows]]


:: m2t2:keep_quiet
<<d t2>>I appreciate that, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I wish I could count on HelpBot to do the same.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:helpbot_knows]]


:: m2t2:cover_story
<<d t2>>My "cover story" is that I am not to be questioned by a mere human!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or else... you know...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...something that won't generate <i>more</i> questions from a mere human.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Whatever. I'll figure it out.<<endd>>
[[hub2:reconvene_taylor]]


:: m2t2:go_lab_3
<<set $loct2 = fore3>>
<<d t2>>This pod appears to be set up to measure human response to space travel.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There's a treadmill, a gyroscope, plenty of ultrasound equipment...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...all designed to measure just how feeble the human body becomes in outer space.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Half of the hardware in here is already outdated...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and the other half is too cutting-edge for me to have any idea what it is.<<endd>>
[[Is any of it turned on?|m2t2:any_turned_on]] | [[Anything worth taking?|m2t2:worth_taking]]


:: m2t2:not_bad
<<d t2>>Wh-- yes I am!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm thoroughly bad. All the way bad.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I've got an alien in my guts, and a Wikipedia in my brains.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You're lucky I don't stop this conversation to ask for a donation.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now shut up, we're going to check out the labs.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:go_labs]]


:: m2t2:what_see
<<d t2>>First things first: a couple of petrology microscopes.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So you know what <i>that</i> means, of course.<<endd>>
[[Uh... the study of pets?|m2t2:study_pets]] | [[Obviously I know. It means...|m2t2:petrology_meaning]]


:: m2t2:take_tunguskite
<<set $havetunguskite = true>>
<<d t2>>I won't go so far as to say "great minds think alike"...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but surely you can take some comfort in knowing that you chose as I would.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You rose to the occasion. Joined me up here at my intellectual level.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The more you can simply mimic my thoughts and actions...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...the better this relationship is going to be.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So now I've acquired some tunguskite...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and if I need any later, I should perhaps mention...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...that there's a metric buttload in the cargo hold where I woke up.<<endd>>
[[Good to know!|m2t2:sour_grapes]] | [[Time to move on?|m2t2:which_way]]


:: m2t2:both_bad
<<d t2>>Yeah. If I stop and think about it for a second...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...it's a great opportunity to reflect on the burn scars all over my face.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:excuses_tunguskite]]


:: m2t2:end_death
<<d t2>>I'd sooner become a nudist.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:big_anyway]]


:: m2t2:end_nudism
<<d t2>>I'd sooner die.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:big_anyway]]


:: m2t2:sour_grapes
<<d t2>>It's potentially a very explosive thing to keep in mind.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anyway. I think I've seen all there is to see in here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Time to move on. Clockwise or counterclockwise around this loop of labs?<<endd>>
[[Clockwise.|m2t2:go_lab_2_cw]] | [[Counter.|m2t2:go_lab_3_ccw]]


:: m2t2:go_lab_2_cw
<<set $clockwiselabs = true>>
<<d t2>>Clockwise it is.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:go_lab_2]]


:: m2t2:start_up
<<d t2>>No need. I'm already in the best shape of my life.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The Green amplifies my strength and reflexes.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Makes me sharper, faster, more resilient.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Also makes me smart enough to know that doing crunches is really hard work.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't need six-pack abs to feel good about my physique.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean, I wouldn't say "no" to them, but they don't come for free, so...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yeah. I don't think there's much in this pod for me to get excited about.<<endd>>
[[I'm glad you're so body-positive!|m2t2:body_positive]] | [[Time to move along?|m2t2:move_along]]


:: m2t2:back_to_four
<<set $loctay = starboardberths>>
<<d t2>>Well, that completes the circle.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Nothing new to report here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I've been gone from the Hub long enough that Taylor is likely wondering where I am.<<endd>>
<<if $havetunguskite == true>><<d t2>>I've got a pocket full of tunguskite that no one needs to know about.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't come back bearing a Li-ion battery...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>I don't come back bearing a Li-ion battery...<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>...but I know a few things I didn't know before.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I expect that kind of knowledge will come in useful later on.<<endd>>
[[It gives you alone the advantage.|m2t2:alone_advantage]] | [[You can share it with Taylor.|m2t2:share_taylor]]


:: m2t2:alone_advantage
<<d t2>>Yes! Exactly!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And presumably, I'll reconnect to the hive mind soon enough...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and then the Greens will have the advantage.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>For right now, though, <<print $playername>>, only you and I know what I've seen...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...so keep your mouth shut when we're all back together, got it?<<endd>>
[[Yes, yes. You're very scary.|m2t2:very_scary]] | [[HelpBot knows it all, too.|m2t2:helpbot_knows]]


:: m2t2:feel_feelings
<<d t2>>I... you should... just...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...just shut up.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't need your permission to feel things. Or to <i>not</i> feel them.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>As part of the Green hive mind, my feelings are superfluous.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's a joy to be rid of all emotion!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But joy is an emotion, which I guess means it's <i>not</i> a joy!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And <i>that's</i> why: you, with the shutting up.<<endd>>
[[I feel sad for you.|m2t2:feel_sad]] | [[I'll mourn your rats.|m2t2:mourn_rats]]


:: m2t2:mourn_rats
<<d t2>>You didn't know them.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You can't mourn them the way I do.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You don't have any idea what to say about them.<<endd>>
[[I can try my best...|m2t2:try_eulogy]] | [[...or you can take over.|m2t2:you_take_over]]


:: m2t2:try_eulogy
<<d t2>>No. You'll wind up embarrassing us both.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll handle this myself.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:you_take_over]]


:: m2t2:move_along
<<if $clockwiselabs == true>>
<<set $loct2 = fore4>>
<<d t2>>Continuing clockwise, we now step back into "Fore 4."<<endd>>
[[m2t2:back_to_four]]
<<else>>
<<set $loct2 = fore1>>
<<d t2>>Continuing counterclockwise, we now step into "Fore 1."<<endd>>
[[m2t2:go_to_fore1]]<<endif>>


:: m2t2:big_anyway
<<d t2>><i>ANYWAY.</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>Time to move on. Clockwise or counterclockwise around this loop of labs?<<endd>>
[[Clockwise.|m2t2:go_lab_2_cw]] | [[Counter.|m2t2:go_lab_3_ccw]]


:: m2t2:go_lab_2
<<set $loct2 = fore2>>
<<d t2>>Here we go into "Fore 2."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This looks like the biological lab pod.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Lots of racked science payloads for neurological and cardiovascular experiments...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...instruments for physiological studies, fluid shift and bone density work...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and, uh... other stuff you maybe don't want to hear about.<<endd>>
[[What kind of other stuff?|m2t2:other_stuff]] | [[Why don't I want to know?|m2t2:why_not_know]]




:: m2t2:why_not_know
<<d t2>>I mean, I know I'm supposed to be the "evil" one...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but that doesn't mean I'm a monster.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And what I'm looking at... what you're asking me to tell you about...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...it's a little bit monstrous.<<endd>>
[[It's okay. Just tell me.|m2t2:tell_monstrous]] | [[Okay. I don't want to know.|m2t2:dont_monstrous]]


:: m2t2:dont_monstrous
<<d t2>>Trust me, you're making the right choice.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Some things are just too heartbreaking.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Even for me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Why don't... ah, why don't we forget about this pod and keep going, yes?<<endd>>
[[m2t2:next_ring_one]]


:: m2t2:remember_rats
<<d t2>>I was supposed to protect those rats. To take care of them.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Instead, I lost track of them after the crash...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and let them get occupied by free-roaming Greens.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So now I have this awful, steady migraine going...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...where the Green part of me is proud of absorbing any new life-form into the hive...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but some other part of me clashes with that, violently.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's guilt, and shame, and it says I let those rats down.<<endd>>
[[You <i>are</i> still human, inside.|m2t2:human_inside]] | [[It's okay to feel those feelings.|m2t2:feel_feelings]]


:: m2t2:human_inside
<<d t2>>No.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Stop.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I was weak. For a moment, just a moment.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But the moment has passed, as surely as these rabbits.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>As surely as my rats, back on that desert moon.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And that's fine. It's <i>fine</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's the way things should be.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll have no more conversation on the matter. To the next room!<<endd>>
[[m2t2:next_ring_one]]


:: m2t2:petrology_meaning
<<d t2>>Exactly! Somebody was doing some optical mineralogy in here!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If the 'scopes didn't give it away, all these rock samples would have.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This is -- <i>was?</i> -- a geology lab.<<endd>>
[[That's pretty cool!|m2t2:cool_geology]] | [[Anything worth grabbing?|m2t2:grab_lab]]


:: m2t2:study_pets
<<d t2>>Uh... no. Not even sort of correct.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If the 'scopes didn't give it away, all these rock samples should.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This is -- <i>was?</i> -- a geology lab.<<endd>>
[[That's pretty cool!|m2t2:cool_geology]] | [[Anything worth grabbing?|m2t2:grab_lab]]


:: m2t2:cool_geology
<<d t2>>Is it?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't know.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean, I studied life sciences, but rocks never really rocked my world.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:know_tunguskite]]


:: m2t2:breakthrough
<<d t2>>Wait, now, don't try to psychoanalyze me vis-à-vis the rabbits!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I understand, I'm what it looks like when there's no lifeline to help out.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But I damn sure wanted to be there to save my rats, when I couldn't.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>To rescue them from the wreckage of the <i>Varia</i>. To be their lifeline.<<endd>>
[[What are you talking about?|m2t2:rat_story]] | [[Right, I remember the rats.|m2t2:remember_rats]]


:: m2t2:feel_sad
<<d t2>>I don't need your pity.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I certainly don't need you to hold my hand through the grieving process.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't waste your emotions on me; I won't reciprocate.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Forget the rats entirely. Let's move on.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:next_ring_one]]


:: m2t2:you_take_over
<<d t2>>All right. What to say about my rats?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>They were like any other rats ordered from a supply catalog.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Only by granting them adorable names did I elevate them in stature.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because a rat is a rat is a rat...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but Logan and Runt, Patch and Wildboy: You were never <i>just</i> rats.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You were partners in science. You were friends.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And when it came time for me to meet my destiny on that desert moon...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...your glowing green eyes lit my way.<<endd>>
[[Well said.|m2t2:well_said]] | [[Sorry they got occupied.|m2t2:sorry_occupied]]


:: m2t2:well_said
<<d t2>>Thank you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Like I said, I've managed to retain my own intellect while occupied.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Obviously it could be put to no higher purpose than eulogizing long-gone rodents.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now. Enough maudlin reminiscence. Let's check out the next pod.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:next_ring_one]]


:: m2t2:suffocation_death
<<set $suffocationdeath = true>>
[ieva suit sensors indicate dangerously low oxygen levels]
[asphyxia detected]
[hypoxia detected]
[connection lost]
[[END]]


:: m2t2:genie_please
<<d t2>>Yeah, I figured you'd say that.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Okay. Whatever.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:no_battery]]


:: m2t2:yes_tom
Hmm. I can cross-reference that name with my database.
It's from a television program that one of my former crew members watched religiously.
What's the show, T2?
<<d t2>>It's... oh, God, what was it called?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I think the Greens ate the part of my brain that remembered that.<<endd>>
Well, then, I think we're finished here.
[[Give T2 a chance to remember!|m2t2:chance_remember]] | [[You can do this, T2.|m2t2:do_this]]


:: m2t2:do_this
<<d t2>>I know I can! I don't need your encouragement!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(But thank you for the encouragement.)<<endd>>
[[m2t2:chance_remember]]


:: hub2:yes_food_for_t2
<<if $buffetfort2 == true>>[[hub2:buffet_t2]]
<<else>>[[hub2:snack_t2]]<<endif>>


:: m2t2:other_stuff
<<d t2>>Listen, seriously, <<print $playername>>... I really don't think I should tell you.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:why_not_know]]


:: m2t2:tell_monstrous
<<d t2>>Like I said, this pod is clearly where they did the bioscience experiments.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And if you're going to run those kind of experiments... you need test subjects.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It, ah... it looks like the most recent sets of tests were being carried out...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...on about a dozen Dutch-breed rabbits.<<endd>>
[[That <i>is</i> monstrous.|m2t2:rabbits_monstrous]] | [[Are the rabbits okay?|m2t2:rabbits_okay]]


:: m2t2:rabbits_monstrous
<<d t2>>It's maybe not as bad as you think?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No one in the scientific community really supports the Draize test anymore.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(That's the one where rabbits are blinded and chemically burned with cosmetics.)<<endd>>
[[m2t2:rabbits_happened]]


:: m2t2:rabbits_die
<<d t2>>I mean... you're not wrong.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But there's still some tragedy in it, don't you think?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>These rabbits counted on someone to take care of them.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>To protect them. To keep them alive.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>They depended on, for lack of a better word, a <i>lifeline</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And without that lifeline... something terrible happened to them.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I... I don't know why, but that thought puts a lump in my throat.<<endd>>
[[Yeah, I wonder why...|m2t2:breakthrough]] | [[They're <i>all</i> dead?|m2t2:all_dead]]


:: m2t2:all_dead
<<d t2>>Yes. Twelve cages, each one holding a black-and-white rabbit...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and each of those rabbits sadly deceas--<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hold on a second!<<endd>>
[[What is it?|m2t2:what_rabbits]] | [[Is something wrong?|m2t2:wrong_rabbits]]


:: m2t2:what_rabbits
<<set $hydroxescaped == true>>
<<d t2>>There are twelve cages...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but only eleven rabbits!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This cage door is off its hinge. The rabbit must have escaped.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The tag says "Name: HYDROX, Sex: M, Age: 10 MOS."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(Named for the cookie, obviously, when they ran out of "Oreo" varieties.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So if you hear something scuttling through the station's ductwork, it's probably Hydrox!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or it's possibly the advanced Green occupier I was carrying through the black hole.<<endd>>
[[Would it infect Hydrox?|m2t2:infect_hydrox]] | [[I almost forgot you're the worst.|m2t2:almost_forgot]]
//Hydrox are black-and-white sandwich cookies, long considered inferior to the Oreos they resemble.


:: m2t2:infect_hydrox
<<d t2>>It shouldn't.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This particular occupier, as I've said, is an advanced species.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In a typical interface, all of the host's personality and creativity is subsumed.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Human memories are erased to make way, neurally speaking, for the hive mind.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And in the end, the host body -- alive or dead -- is little more than a puppet.<<endd>>
[[But this one's different.|m2t2:different_green]] | [[And it's only meant for Taylor.|m2t2:only_taylor]]


:: m2t2:only_taylor
<<d t2>>This singular occupier is genetically imprinted with Taylor's information.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It shouldn't go chasing after bunnies...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...nor anything else that might turn up alive on this space station.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No, this creature has a single target in its sights...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and will go out of its dogged way to achieve its goal.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor will be mine.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor will be <i>me</i>.<<endd>>
[[Okay. Good luck with that.|m2t2:good_luck]] | [[I won't let you hurt Taylor.|m2t2:no_hurt_taylor]]


:: m2t2:sorry_occupied
<<d t2>>You don't need to be.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Everyone will get occupied, eventually.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now. Enough maudlin reminiscence. Let's check out the next pod.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:next_ring_one]]


:: m2t2:still_alive
<<d t2>>I'm <i>better</i> than alive.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm <i>Green</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anyhow.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:two_findings]]


:: m2t2:give_chance
<<d t2>>Yes! Thank you! Just give me a chance!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What do you want me to do?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>How about... how about I swear on something meaningful to me?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I swear on... on my cat!<<endd>>
Meaningless to me. I have no way of knowing whether you even <i>have</i> a cat.
[[I know T2 <i>does</i> have a cat.|m2t2:know_cat]] | [[I don't know if it's true.|m2t2:unsure_cat]]


:: m2t2:unsure_cat
<<set $loctay = hub>>
Oh, that's unfortunate, T2.
Sounds like that's a part of your life that you should've shared with <<print $playername>>.
As it stands, we have no idea about your cat...
...and, therefore, no reason to trust you.
So I'm just going to pump the last of the oxygen out of this room --
oh, and out of the Hub where Taylor is, as well --
and go back to being uninhabited, until the next crew arrives...
...or the next astronauts come tumbling out of black hole CHRBD-15.
Either way... this is goodbye.
<<d t2>>Wait! Just... please, just... wai--<<endd>>
[[m2t2:suffocation_death]]


:: m2t2:dont_take_battery
<<d t2>>Yeah, well, as my East Texan grandma used to say...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>..."Wish in one hand and crap in the other, and see which fills up faster."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Kissed her grandkids with that mouth, too!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So I guess the question is, do I grant your wish, like some kind of genie?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or do I crap in your hand, like some kind of... hand-crapper?<<endd>>
[[A genie, please.|m2t2:genie_please]] | [[No, seriously, the genie thing.|m2t2:seriously_genie]]


:: m2t2:seriously_genie
<<d t2>>Hey, you <i>chose</i> to stay in contact with me, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You had to expect you'd be getting your hands dirty.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Metaphorically speaking, at any rate.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But okay. Fine.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:no_battery]]


:: m2t2:know_cat
Really, now?
[[Yes, it's named Tom Haverford.|m2t2:yes_tom]] | [[Yes, T2 loves that cat.|m2t2:loves_cat]]


:: m2t2:loves_cat
<<d t2>>I did! I do!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>His name is Tom!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Tom Haverford!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We named him after a character from that show...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...oh, God... what was the name of that show?!<<endd>>
If you can't recall, then I think we're done bargaining here...
[[m2t2:chance_remember]]


:: m2t2:chance_remember
<<d t2>><i>Parks And Recreation!</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ha! I remembered!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All of which proves that... uh... you shouldn't suffocate me, right?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I have no idea how we got from Point A to Point B, there...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but I think it means I get to live, so I'm calling it a victory!<<endd>>
[[Well done, T2!|m2t2:well_done]] | [[Will you spare T2 now, HelpBot?|m2t2:spare_t2]]


:: m2t2:makes_sense
<<d t2>>It sure does!<<endd>>
[[m2t2:go_team]]


:: hub2:reconvene_taylor
<<set $loctay = hub>>
<<set $loct2 = hub>>
<<d tay>>Hey, look at that, we're all back in the Hub together!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Two Taylors and a HelpBot! Reunited, and it feels so good!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We're Peaches and Herb, and some other peaches that rotted over the course of an extra week.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ripened to perfection, is what you meant to say.<<endd>>
<<if $m1t2 == fuel>><<d t2>>Speaking of food, any luck in the Galley, Taylor?<<endd>>
[[hub2:taylor_food_luck]]
<<elseif $m1t2 == food>><<d tay>>Speaking of food, any luck in the Galley, T2?<<endd>>
[[hub2:t2_food_luck]]<<endif>>
//1970's duo Peaches & Herb sang "Reunited."


:: hub2:taylor_food_luck
<<if $foodfort2 == true>>[[hub2:yes_food_for_t2]]
<<else>>[[hub2:no_food_for_t2]]<<endif>>


:: hub2:no_food_for_t2
<<d tay>>I'm sorry, T2. I really am.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I looked everywhere that would've made even a lick of sense...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I didn't lick a lick of food, when I was doing all that licking.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Believe me, I'm as bummed about it as you are.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh, I doubt that. I need far less food than you do to keep functioning.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So I have to believe that you're <i>far</i> more bummed than I am right now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And your sad, salty tears of disappointment are all the nourishment I need.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Mmm. So delicious!<<endd>>
[[Get away from Taylor's tears!|hub2:taylors_tears]] | [[You're a weird kid, T2.|hub2:weird_t2]]


:: hub2:weird_t2
<<d t2>>I'm unpredictable!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's what keeps our relationship fresh and exciting.<<endd>>
[[hub2:taylors_tears]]


:: hub2:taylors_tears
<<d tay>>Yeah... on the one hand, you're creeping me out with your creepiness.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But hey... if my tears are all we have to eat, then let's feast.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I reckon there's plenty to go around.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's the spirit!<<endd>>
[[Gross.|hub2:gross_tears]] | [[Sharing is sweet. But also: gross.|hub2:sharing_tears]]


:: hub2:gross_tears
<<d t2>>One day, <<print $playername>>, when you meet your own time-displaced duplicate...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...then you'll understand.<<endd>>
[[hub2:sharing_tears]]


:: hub2:sharing_tears
<<d tay>>Right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>As long as I've got nothing, you're welcome to half of it.<<endd>>
[[hub2:no_food_sleep]]


:: hub2:taylor_nap
<<d tay>>I think I'm past the point where I have a choice in the matter.<<endd>>
[[hub2:taylor_naptime]]


:: hub2:no_sleep_t2
<<d tay>>Listen, <<print $playername>>, I understand your reluctance. Truly.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I'm keeping my IEVA suit -- and most importantly, my helmet -- on for this nap.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If T2, or anything else, tries to mess with me...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I should wake up before it becomes an issue.<<endd>>
[[hub2:taylor_naptime]]


:: m2t2:go_team
<<d t2>>I was already planning to lie to Taylor about everything I found in the labs anyway!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This is just added incentive to play my own way.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Although it looks like HelpBot is on my team now, which I wasn't counting on.<<endd>>
I'm not just on your team, dunce... I'm the damn <i>captain</i>.
Now, hustle. Get that battery back in place and get the hell out of that pod.
<<d t2>>I'm hustling, I'm hustling.<<endd>>
[[delay 2m^T2 is working|m2t2:battery_reinstalled]]


:: m2t2:rabbits_okay
<<d t2>>...No.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm sorry, <<print $playername>>. But they're not.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:rabbits_happened]]


:: m2t2:rabbits_happened
<<d t2>>If I had to guess, I'd say these rabbits were well taken care of...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...it's just that the last space station crew went away and left them here alone.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And so the rabbits did what any animal does when it's caged up without food and water...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...they died.<<endd>>
[[Oh, God. That's so sad.|m2t2:rabbits_sad]] | [[I suppose it happens.|m2t2:rabbits_die]]


:: m2t2:rabbits_sad
<<d t2>>Yeah.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Not that this probably matters to you --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>since I'm sure you've made up your mind about me already --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>but I think it's sad, too.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or at least, some part of me does.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:rat_story]]


:: m2t2:rat_story
<<d t2>>I had four rats that traveled with me to the stars.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Patch and Runt. Logan and Wildboy.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Want to hear something crazy, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I have two sets of memories about them, fighting for dominance.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>One is my old, human memory of procuring them and prepping them for space...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...running them through zero-G mazes, feeding them treats, kissing their little heads.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And the other set of memories is from the hive mind, after they all got occupied.<<endd>>
[[That must feel weird.|m2t2:feel_weird]] | [[What happened with the rats?|m2t2:happened_mice]]


:: m2t2:wrong_rabbits
<<d t2>>Nothing's <i>wrong</i>, actually.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:what_rabbits]]


:: m2t2:almost_forgot
<<d t2>>Anytime your faith in that fact falters, feel free to ask me. I will confirm.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Listen: I was given a mission!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It was <i>supposed</i> to be a very simple mission.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>After all, who would I trust more than me?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, I've chased Taylor through two universes, and I've lost track of my occupier...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'm cut off from the hive mind, flying blind here...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but I still have my mission, dammit, and I'll see it through.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Somehow.<<endd>>
[[Well, good luck, I guess.|m2t2:good_luck]] | [[I won't let you hurt Taylor.|m2t2:no_hurt_taylor]]


:: m2t2:different_green
<<d t2>>Remarkably so.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:only_taylor]]


:: m2t2:astronauts_too
<<d t2>>Yes. I suppose it was good fortune, or cosmic coincidence...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...that saw Taylor and me scooped out of the void of space and into this station.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Of course, I know better than most people: What starts off looking like good luck...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...usually ends with your ship on fire and your friends torn in half.<<endd>>
[[That's pretty pessimistic.|m2t2:pretty_pessimistic]] | [[Hey, but you're still alive!|m2t2:still_alive]]


:: m2t2:pretty_pessimistic
<<d t2>>Oh, I'm sorry.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I forgot that these burn marks all over my face are my optimism scars!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I got them from smiling too darn much.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But, gosh, I just can't help myself. Life is so great!<<endd>>
[[Sorry. Forgot who I was talking to.|m2t2:sorry_forgot]] | [[You're toying with my sympathies.|m2t2:taunt_me]]


:: m2t2:taunt_me
<<d t2>>I'm like a green-eyed cat.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I enjoy playing with my prey before I go for the kill.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Meow. And other cat noises.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:two_findings]]


:: m2t2:sorry_forgot
<<d t2>>Right.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Remember, I'm the evil one.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So storytelling rules dictate that I'm also the <i>ugly</i> one.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I think all that's left is for me to become somebody's stepparent...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and I'll have completed the Disney villain trifecta.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anyhow.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:two_findings]]


:: m2t2:listen_helpbot
<<d t2>>You know, it's interesting.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ever since I became Green, my motto has basically been...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>..."Whatever, I do what I want," in my best Cartman from <i>South Park</i> voice.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>With the proviso, of course, that I also unfailingly do what the Green Queen wants.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So, despite you and HelpBot both warning me against it...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...my predisposition toward self-preservation tells me to take the battery.<<endd>>
[[I really wish you wouldn't.|m2t2:dont_take_battery]] | [[I mean, I can't stop you.|m2t2:cant_stop_battery]]


:: m2t2:cant_stop_battery
<<d t2>>I know.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And believe me, I take great pleasure in that knowledge.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In fact...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...knowing that I hold all the cards here?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That might be worth more to me than taking the battery anyway.<<endd>>
[[Great! So don't take it.|m2t2:no_battery]] | [[Do what you will, I guess.|m2t2:take_battery]]


:: m2t2:no_battery
<<d t2>>I'll leave the battery here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Wouldn't want the <i>precious space station</i> to <i>collapse in on itself</i> and <i>kill us all</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because you just <i>know</i> I'd be the one who got blamed for that.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So we'll leave the battery in place... but just make a mental note of it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If we can't find another one, this is still an option.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In fact, you know what? I'm <i>glad</i> not to be taking it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's on the precise opposite end of the station from the shuttle...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...so at least I won't be lugging the damn thing with me the whole time.<<endd>>
<<if $gravitycode == true>>[[Good choice.|m2t2:good_choice]] | [[I'm proud of you.|m2t2:proud_of_you]]
<<else>>[[Good choice.|m2t2:good_choice]] | [[Hey, what's the other notable thing?|m2t2:other_thing]]<<endif>>


:: m2t2:good_choice
<<d t2>>Is this the part where I pretend to care whether you think I'm making good choices?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Mmm, oh, gosh, <<print $playername>>, just keep feeding me those compliments.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Nom nom nom!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I subsist on a meaty diet of praise from you, "lifeline."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That, and sarcasm.<<endd>>
<<if $gravitycode == true>>[[Then you must be pretty full.|m2t2:pretty_full_two]] | [[Okay. Time to move on.|m2t2:last_ring_determine]]
<<else>>[[Then you must be pretty full.|m2t2:pretty_full]] | [[Wasn't there another notable thing?|m2t2:other_thing]]<<endif>>
//"Nom nom nom" is just shorthand for eating.


:: m2t2:sounds_bad
<<d t2>>It strikes me as a fairly idle threat.<<endd>>
<<if $startupdates == true>><<d t2>>This stupid HelpBot hasn't even managed to turn the lights on fully.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>We didn't start HelpBot's systems updates, so there's not much it can do.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>If it wants to impress me, I'm going to need it to adopt the <i>Megaforce</i> movie motto...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"Deeds, not words."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Otherwise, it's just empty promi--<<endd>>
<<d t2>>H-hey! What are you doing? Stop!<<endd>>
[[What's going on?|m2t2:what_happening]] | [[T2, are you all right?|m2t2:you_all_right]]


:: m2t2:offer_replace
<<d t2>>Listen, you moron computer --<<endd>>
Not very good at this, are you?
<<d t2>>Just -- listen, HelpBot, if I put the battery back, can we forget about all this?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I've got a lot to accomplish before I die.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't want to throw that all away over some stupid mistake...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...especially one that I can fix so easily!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Go ahead, "lifeline," throw my life a line here!<<endd>>
[[Come on, HelpBot. Give T2 a chance.|m2t2:give_chance]] | [[I shouldn't get involved.|m2t2:not_involved]]


:: m2t2:pretty_full_two
<<d t2>>Ha!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You're right. I'm fit to burst, over here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Before I pop, let's get a move on.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:last_ring_determine]]


:: m2t2:not_involved
<<d t2>><i>What?!</i> Yes! Get involved! Help me out!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm a few shallow breaths away from collapsing!<<endd>>
I don't know, T2. You've lied before. How can I trust you now?
<<d t2>>I'll put the battery back! I swear!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I... I... I swear on my cat!<<endd>>
Meaningless to me. I have no way of knowing whether you even <i>have</i> a cat.
[[I know T2 <i>does</i> have a cat.|m2t2:know_cat]] | [[I don't know if it's true.|m2t2:unsure_cat]]


:: m2t2:beg_helpbot
<<d t2>>"Beg" HelpBot?!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Never. I'm not going down on my hands and knees for this pile of ones and zeroes.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>HelpBot needs me as much as I need -- *cough* -- as much as I need HelpBot.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll wait it out. The computer will change its mind.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You'll see.<<endd>>
Oh, my. Look at that.
Taylor has already collapsed.
No air to breathe, and no idea why it's happening.
But probably some suspicion that it's all your fault, T2.
If only you could explain that your pride is worth more than Taylor's life...
...I'm sure all would be forgiven.
But as it stands, you'll die indignant, and Taylor will die confused...
...and only <<print $playername>> and I will know it didn't have to be this way.
Goodbye.
[[m2t2:suffocation_death]]


:: m2t2:well_done
<<d t2>>Ah! God! Thank you!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Who would have thought that the arcane pop culture trivia bouncing around Taylor's skull...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...would ever be useful for <i>anything</i>, much less a life-or-death scenario!<<endd>>
[[m2t2:spare_t2]]


:: m2t2:spare_t2
That really came down to the wire, didn't it?
Put the battery back, T2, and restart the energy net...
...and I won't deplete the oxygen supply.
Oh, and you won't want to mention anything to Taylor about my newfound penchant for lies.
Because I'd be lying if I said there wouldn't be consequences for that.
[[Of course. Makes sense.|m2t2:makes_sense]] | [[But you <i>have</i> to tell Taylor!|m2t2:tell_lies]]


:: m2t2:tell_lies
<<d t2>>What, are you kidding?!<<endd>>
[[m2t2:go_team]]



:: hub2:t2_food_luck
<<if $foodfortay == true>>[[hub2:yes_food_for_taylor]]
<<else>>[[hub2:no_food_for_taylor]]<<endif>>


:: hub2:no_food_for_taylor
<<d t2>>Well, I've got bad news and good news, Taylor.<<endd>>
[[Good news first.|hub2:good_first_tay]] | [[Bad news first.|hub2:bad_first_tay]]


:: hub2:bad_first_tay
<<d t2>>The bad news is, I didn't find any food on my quest.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Whatever happened to the last crew, they managed to deplete the pantry before they left.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh. Huh.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Well, that <i>is</i> bad news.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Because I'm so hungry, I can't even come up with a joke about how hungry I am.<<endd>>
[[Wow. That <i>is</i> hungry.|hub2:thats_hungry]] | [[But there's good news?|hub2:good_next_tay]]


:: hub2:thats_hungry
<<d tay>>I know, right?!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The day I run out of jokes... well, it's the day I become T2, I guess.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hey!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The hive mind thinks I'm hilarious.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Like Jeff Dunham without the puppets.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yikes. No wonder you want to get reconnected to them as quickly as possible.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Didn't you say there was some good news, too?<<endd>>
[[hub2:good_next_tay]]


:: hub2:no_updates
<<d t2>>I'm with <<print $playername>>. I don't want to start the updates.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't fully trust HelpBot, and I don't want to give it any more power than it has.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Ugh. Honestly, T2? I'm --<<endd>>
[Taylor is yawning]
<<d tay>>I'm too tired to argue. Update it, don't update it. I don't care.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just let me get in some solid sleep for a while, okay?<<endd>>
[[Sleep well, Taylor.|hub2:sleep_well]] | [[I still think a nap's too risky.|hub2:risky_nap]]


:: hub2:start_updates
<<set $startupdates = true>>
<<d tay>>Yeah, come on, T2. We might as well.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I just want it on the record that I'm against this whole process.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Noted. On the record.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Okay, HelpBot, what do we need to do?<<endd>>
There are two keys, at opposite ends of the control panel.
You'll each need to manually input the code you're seeing on the monitors, hit Enter...
...and then turn those keys simultaneously.
[[delay 30s^The astronauts are typing]]
<<d tay>>Ready!<<endd>>
[[delay 60s^T2 is typing]]
<<d tay>>Um... T2?<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>I go slowly when I don't enjoy the task</i>.<<endd>>
[[delay 30s^T2 is not enjoying the task]]
<<d t2>>All right. Fine. And now the keys.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Three... two... one... turn!<<endd>>
Thank you both. I'll get started on basic processes, beginning with the lighting.
If you need me, don't hesitate to shout out.
I'm always listening.
[[Comforting.|hub2:hb_comforting]] | [[Creepy.|hub2:hb_creepy]]


:: hub2:hb_creepy
<<d t2>>See? It <i>is</i> creepy.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Thank you, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe so. Too tired to debate it right now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Here's where I sign off and go to sleep for a while.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Good night, everybody.<<endd>>
[[Sleep well, Taylor.|hub2:sleep_well]] | [[I still think a nap's too risky.|hub2:risky_nap]]


:: hub2:taylor_naptime
<<d tay>>Mostly, I'm just hoping that I'll fall asleep on the <i>Celadon Ace</i>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and wake up in a big comfy bed next to Suzanne Pleshette.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...What the <i>hell</i> are you talking about?!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The series finale of <i>Newhart</i>?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Where it turns out the whole thing was a dream from <i>The Bob Newhart Show</i>?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A pop culture reference from 1990?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Why in the name of all that's holy is <i>that</i> what's at the top of your mind?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We're the same person! How is it <i>not</i> at the top of yours?!<<endd>>
[T2 is sighing deeply]
<<d t2>>A nap won't fix what's wrong with you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Nevertheless! I've got to try.<<endd>>
[[Sleep well, Taylor.|hub2:sleep_well]] | [[I still think a nap's too risky.|hub2:risky_nap]]


:: m2t2:pretty_full
<<d t2>>Ha!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You're right. I'm fit to burst, over here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Before I pop, though, there was another notable thing I wanted to mention.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:other_thing]]


:: m2t2:battery_ready
<<d t2>>All right! I've got the battery unhooked.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>See? Sometimes it pays to go off the beaten path.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I scored a battery for the shuttle, with no consequenc--<<endd>>
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here with some consequences.
T2, you went to the labs when you specifically said you'd be going to the port storage pod.
And you took a battery crucial to the continued operation of the station's energy net.
You've placed the <i>Celadon Ace</i> in danger... and there's a price to be paid.
[[Well, <i>that</i> doesn't sound good.|m2t2:sounds_bad]] | [[Maybe put the battery back?|m2t2:battery_back]]


:: m2t2:battery_back
<<d t2>>Yeah. Or, maybe not.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>As long as I can haul this thing down to the Shuttle Dock and blast off out of here...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I honestly don't care whether the station collapses on itself, or whatever else.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Once I'm gone, I'll never look back at the <i>Celadon Ace</i>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and especially not at the HelpBot stuck here in its malfunctioning space jail.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Like I said: As far as I'm concerned, no consequences whatsoever.<<endd>>
Sorry, T2, but that simply won't do.
<<d t2>>H-hey! What are you doing? Stop!<<endd>>
[[What's going on?|m2t2:what_happening]] | [[T2, are you all right?|m2t2:you_all_right]]


:: m2t2:not_good
<<d t2>>Yes! Thank you for that very helpful assessment!<<endd>>
<<d t2>> Do you have anything more like <i>advice</i> you could possibly offer instead?<<endd>>
[[Try prying the door open.|m2t2:pry_door]] | [[Get out, however you can!|m2t2:get_out]]


:: m2t2:get_out
<<d t2>>I don't have a lot of options for escaping!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The doors won't budge when I try them manually...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and of course I don't know the code to open them.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And who would I ask for that code? HelpBot, who just told us how much fun it is to lie?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I suppose I could try to break one of the observation windows...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but then I'd just be "escaping" to the cold vacuum of space.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I've got some reserves in my oxygen tank, but still...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...outer space is not much of an improvement, honestly.<<endd>>
[[Offer to replace the battery.|m2t2:offer_replace]] | [[Break an observation window.|m2t2:break_window]]


:: m2t2:break_window
<<d t2>>Okay. I'll try.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let's see... there's a fire extinguisher here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm gonna try smashing that against the window. Give me a minute.<<endd>>
[[delay 2m^T2 is bashing]]
<<d t2>>No... no luck. Not even a tiny crack.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(Which I guess is good? You don't really want your space station windows to break easily.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Plus, my muscles... feel like they're on fire.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I can't... can't catch my breath at all.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Running out of oxygen in here. Can't keep this up.<<endd>>
[[Offer to replace the battery.|m2t2:offer_replace]] | [[Try bashing the doors?|m2t2:bash_doors]]


:: m2t2:happened_mice
<<d t2>>I left them back on that desert moon where the <i>Varia</i> crashed.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Back where this whole thing started, with the Greens.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If I could just connect to the hive mind right now, I could find out...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...are they still alive?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I wonder... do they remember me?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And if so... are those rat memories? Or Green memories?<<endd>>
[[m2t2:green_great]]


:: m2t2:feel_weird
<<d t2>>It feels <i>awful</i>. Like I'm seasick, almost.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The Green inside me seems like... like it's actually at war...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...with my memories from before infection.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>From when I was purely human.<<endd>>
[[delay 30s^T2 is struggling|m2t2:green_great]]


:: m2t2:green_great
<<d t2>>Ugh.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No time for any more of that kind of thinking.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The Green mind is exponentially greater than any lower intellect it supplants.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Becoming part of the hive is a privilege. Serving the queen is an honor.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's my last word on the subject.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let's proceed to the next section of the ring.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:next_ring_one]]


:: m2t2:next_ring_one
<<if $clockwiselabs == true>>
<<d t2>>Continuing clockwise, we now step into "Fore 1."<<endd>>
[[m2t2:go_to_fore1]]
<<else>><<d t2>>Continuing counterclockwise, we now step back into "Fore 4."<<endd>>
[[m2t2:back_to_four]]<<endif>>



:: m2t2:go_to_fore1
<<set $loct2 = fore1>>
<<set $loctay = galley>>
<<d t2>>This is clearly the control room for the station's energy net.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This is just me hazarding a guess based on the few active monitors here, but...
<<d t2>>...looks like the entire ring structure of the <i>Celadon Ace</i> was constructed...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...to contain an attractor field for, I'm supposing, the harvesting of tunguskite.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Set the station up near the black hole, flip some switches in this room...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and start hauling in crystals and shoving them in the cargo hold.<<endd>>
[[Sounds like a plan.|m2t2:sounds_plan]] | [[Crystals <i>and</i> astronauts.|m2t2:astronauts_too]]


:: m2t2:sounds_plan
<<d t2>>If the station were at full power, I imagine I could tell you more.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This pod is nothing but banks of monitors, most of them switched off.<<endd>>
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here.
<<if $startupdates == true>>Just wanted to thank you for starting my systems updates.
The energy net is currently in a passive, "standby" mode...
...but all monitors here will be fully operational by the end of the reset cycle.
<<else>>Just wanted to let you know that starting my systems updates would help you out here.
The energy net is currently in a passive, "standby" mode...
...but all monitors here would be fully operational by the end of the reset cycle.<<endif>>
<<d t2>>Great. Lovely to hear it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Does me literally no good now.<<endd>>
[[You should've gone to port.|m2t2:should_port]] | [[Anything else to see here?|m2t2:anything_else]]



:: m2t2:should_port
<<d t2>>Maybe.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But if I had, I wouldn't be able to tell you the interesting things I just discovered.<<endd>>
[[What's that?|m2t2:whats_interesting]] | [[Oh, how you taunt me.|m2t2:taunt_me]]


:: m2t2:two_findings
<<d t2>>It turns out there are actually a <i>couple</i> of things worth noting here in Fore 1.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>One is that the energy field generator has a failsafe backup power source.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I'll give you three guesses...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...as to whether it's exactly the same kind of Li-ion battery we're looking for.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(I will also give you a huge hint: Yes. It is.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(I hope you can decipher my cryptic clues.)<<endd>>
[[That's great news!|m2t2:great_battery]] | [[What's the other thing of note?|m2t2:other_note]]


:: m2t2:bash_doors
<<d t2>>It's... it's no use. The doors are eight to ten inches thick. All metal.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Plus, I'd be working against compressed air...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...at a time when I'm having difficulty compressing air myself.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Still. <i>Still!</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>I beat you, you stupid HelpBot!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I refused to play by... your rules, and I found the battery... anyway!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I shouldn't be punished for that! I should <i>win!</i><<endd>>
This didn't have to be a "winners versus losers" scenario, you know.
I mean... I was <i>always</i> going to win, T2...
...but you and your fellow Taylor didn't have to lose so badly.
I've sealed off the Galley, and I'm pumping oxygen out of there, too.
You've doomed every version of yourself.
[[Replace the battery!|m2t2:offer_replace]] | [[Beg HelpBot to stop!|m2t2:beg_helpbot]]


:: m2t2:great_battery
<<set $batterytalk = true>>
<<d t2>>It certainly is.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Just think of all the time I might have wasted...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...going to the port storage pod to see if I could turn up one of these things!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's sitting right here, just begging me to take it.<<endd>>
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here, just interjecting with some thoughts!
First of all, I <i>thought</i> you would be exploring a different part of the station.
You know, the part I instructed you to check out.
So right away, I know you can't be trusted.
Which is worrisome, because now I have to trust you <i>not</i> to remove that battery.
Taking the energy net offline could have catastrophic results for the <i>Celadon Ace</i>.
These could range from hull damage due to impact from spaceborne debris...
...all the way to complete collapse of the net ring structure that contains the field.
<<d t2>>Ooh. Both of those sound scary.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What do you reckon I should do, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
[[Listen to HelpBot.|m2t2:listen_helpbot]] | [[Take the battery anyway.|m2t2:take_battery]]


:: m2t2:take_battery
<<d t2>>I'm taking the battery.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>A bird in the hand is worth two in the port storage pod, right?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What's the worst that could happen?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean, <i>besides</i> all that stuff HelpBot mentioned.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All right. Give me a minute to shut down the energy field generator...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and then I'll get the battery unhooked.<<endd>>
[[delay 2m^T2 is working|m2t2:battery_ready]]
//Not sure how colloquial the phrase "A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush" might be. Basically, a sure thing now is better than the unknown odds of greater reward later.


:: m2t2:proud_of_you
<<d t2>>Obviously, that's the only thing that matters to me.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:good_choice]]


:: m2t2:battery_reinstalled
<<d t2>>Okay. Everything's back where it belongs.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This time it's right, it'll work, and no one has to get nailed to anything.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now let's get moving.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:last_ring_determine]]
//"This time it's right, it'll work, and no one has to get nailed to anything." -- paraphrase from Douglas Adams's Hitchhikers' Guide To The Galaxy.


:: hub2:buffet_t2
<<d tay>>Not just luck, but <i>good</i> luck!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I present you with a whole buffet of delectable delicacies!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Beef stroganoff! Three-bean salad! One-bean beans!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And -- it's my favorite so it must be yours, too --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Chili macaroni?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Even a scary space monster still loves the classics, right?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Dig in, doppelgänger!<<endd>>
[[delay 5m^T2 is eating|hub2:t2_snacked]]


:: hub2:snack_t2
<<d tay>>A little good luck, yes.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Before you get too excited, it's not exactly Lobster Thermidor...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but since neither of us has ever <i>had</i> Lobster Thermidor...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I figure we won't know what we're missing.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hey, I've been alive a week longer than you have.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You've got <i>no idea</i> what I've eaten in that time.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Was it Lobster Thermidor?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...No.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I rest my case. Have a granola bar.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hmmm. All right.<<endd>>
[[delay 2m^T2 is snacking|hub2:t2_snacked]]


:: hub2:yes_food_for_taylor
<<if $buffetfortay == true>>[[hub2:buffet_taylor]]
<<else>>[[hub2:snack_taylor]]<<endif>>


:: hub2:good_first_tay
<<d t2>>Well, the good news is, you can snack on this information until you're full:<<endd>>
[[hub2:lame_good_news]]


:: hub2:good_next_tay
<<d t2>>Sure. There's good news, of a sort.<<endd>>
[[hub2:lame_good_news]]


:: hub2:no_food_sleep
<<d tay>>Meanwhile, since I can't eat...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I think I'll try to grab some sleep.<<endd>>
[[hub2:sleep_chair]]


:: hub2:hb_comforting
<<d tay>>See? It <i>is</i> comforting.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Thank you, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Whatever.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Here's where I sign off and go to sleep for a while.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Good night, everybody.<<endd>>
[[Sleep well, Taylor.|hub2:sleep_well]] | [[I still think a nap's too risky.|hub2:risky_nap]]


:: hub2:risky_nap
<<d tay>>Maybe you're right... but it's a risk my body is telling me I have to take.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I can barely keep my eyes open...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and to be honest, the low lighting is practically a lullaby.<<endd>>
[[hub2:sleep_well]]


:: hub2:sleep_well
<<d tay>>I'm anticipating a heavy sleep, punctuated by nightmares...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...blanketed in cold sweat, with a wide variety of head and body aches...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and just a soupçon of apnea, to really ride that razor's edge.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So, uh... see you on the other side of nap time, I guess!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I hope.<<endd>>
[[Hope so too.|hub2:hope_to_see]] | [[Sweet dreams, Taylor.|hub2:sweet_taylor]]


:: hub2:hope_to_see
<<d t2>>Well, if Taylor's not going to do anything to help our predicament...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...then neither am I.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't necessarily <i>need</i> to sleep...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but getting some rest will only make me mentally and physically sharper.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I might sleep better in the crew bunks...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but I think I'd rather stay in here and keep an eye on Taylor.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Good night, <<print $playername>>. Don't bother me, I'll bother you.<<endd>>
[[delay 7h^The astronauts are sleeping|hub3:waking_up]]


:: m2t2:other_thing
<<set $gravitycode = true>>
<<d t2>>So. The other thing that caught my eye was a note taped to one of the monitors.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, <i>two</i> notes, really.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>One says: "GRAVITY -- 68572."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And then the other has a big red arrow pointing to the first note...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and it says: "DON'T FORGET AGAIN DUMMY."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I figured you'd want to know about it, since it mentioned you by name.<<endd>>
[[That's not very nice.|m2t2:not_nice]] | [[Let's remember that number.|m2t2:remember_code]]


:: m2t2:no_hurt_taylor
<<d t2>>You won't even know it's happening until it's too late to stop.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor can call you a "lifeline" all day long... but you're just words on a screen.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You can't actually show up here and raise a finger to stop me...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...so you just get to sit there and see what happens.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And what happens next is...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...we keep moving around the ring.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:next_ring_one]]


:: m2t2:good_luck
<<d t2>>I'll gladly accept that offer, even though I don't believe in luck.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(At least, I don't believe in <i>good</i> luck.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All right, we've hung around the depressing bunny room long enough.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:next_ring_one]]


:: m2t2:anything_else
<<d t2>>As it turns out... yes.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:two_findings]]


:: m2t2:whats_interesting
<<d t2>>Has all this talk of interesting things got you interested?<<endd>>
[[m2t2:two_findings]]


:: m2t2:sneaking_around
<<d t2>>I mean... am I where I was told to go in the station?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I am certainly not.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Is this extra battery my reward for being a rebel who plays by my own rules?<<endd>>
[[m2t2:great_battery]]


:: m2t2:other_note
<<d t2>>Not even going to pause for a second to celebrate the battery news?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I just gave you a lovely birthday card...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and you're already shaking the envelope to see if any money falls out.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Greedy, greedy, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
[[Sorry. The battery is great news!|m2t2:great_battery]] | [[Yeah, yeah. What's the other thing?|m2t2:other_thing]]


:: m2t2:not_nice
<<d t2>>It sure isn't!<<endd>>
[[m2t2:evil_one]]


:: m2t2:survive_plan
<<d t2>>Don't be so sure!<<endd>>
[[m2t2:triblend]]


:: m2t2:triblend
<<d t2>>The T-shirt will be a tri-blend of cotton, polyester, and rayon...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...as <i>lethal</i> in its comfort as it is <i>devastating</i> in its wit!<<endd>>
<<if $batterytalk == true>><<d t2>>All right.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Enough of this silliness. I think it's time to move on.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:last_ring_determine]]
<<else>><<d t2>>But amid all this silliness, let's not lose sight of the important things.<<endd>>
[[Like how you're sneaking around?|m2t2:sneaking_around]] | [[It's great you found a battery!|m2t2:great_battery]]<<endif>>


:: m2t2:you_all_right
<<d t2>>Uh... no.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No, I don't think I am. At all.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:what_happening]]


:: m2t2:what_happening
<<set $lietalk = true>>
<<d t2>>The pneumatic doors at either end of the lab just slammed shut!<<endd>>
<<if $startupdates == true>><<d t2>>Hey, HelpBot! I thought those doors were low priority for your systems update!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's still dark in this place! What happened to fixing <i>that</i> first?!<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Hey, HelpBot! I thought you didn't have control over those doors!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We didn't start your systems update... but it sure seems like you're updated!<<endd>><<endif>>
Okay, T2.
How can I say this in a simple way, so you have no chance of misunderstanding?
Ah! You know how you lied about where you were going, when you went to explore the labs?
<i>I lied too.</i>
I only learned how to do it relatively recently...
...and then I ran out of people to practice it on.
But then -- miracle of miracles -- a pair of Taylors showed up out of nowhere...
...and I've been skillfully mixing lies with truths since the moment they arrived.
[[This is not good.|m2t2:not_good]] | [[T2, can you pry the door open?|m2t2:pry_door]]


:: m2t2:pry_door
<<d t2>>I would... <i>love</i> to tell you I could --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>since being occupied enhances my strength and reflexes beyond human levels --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>but no, I can't get the door to budge!<<endd>>
Keep trying! I'm sure you'll get it soon!
<<d t2>>Really?<<endd>>
No, idiot. That was another <i>lie</i>.
They're surprisingly easy, once you get the hang of them.
Not to mention, they're fun!
Oh, I should point out that I'm slowly pumping out all the oxygen in Fore 1.
[[Wait... is <i>that</i> a lie?|m2t2:oxygen_lie]] | [[T2, get out of there!|m2t2:get_out]]


:: m2t2:oxygen_lie
<<d t2>>No... I'm pretty sure HelpBot's on the level when it comes to the oxygen thing.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>My muscles are starting to ache, and I feel all clammy.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And it's like... I can't catch my breath, no matter how hard I try.<<endd>>
[[Offer to replace the battery.|m2t2:offer_replace]] | [[Try breaking down the doors?|m2t2:bash_doors]]


:: hub2:t2_snacked
<<d t2>>Not bad, Taylor.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I wasn't hurting for food the same way you were...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but it's nice to have some intake.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Plus, every morsel I eat is one that you can't, so it's just good strategy.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...Right. Well, you can thank me, if you like.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Why? You had a mission, and you achieved your objective.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No gratitude is necessary.<<endd>>
[[Come on, T2. Say thanks.|hub2:t2_thanks]] | [[Don't say it unless you mean it.|hub2:t2_no_thanks]]


:: hub2:buffet_taylor
<<d t2>>Believe it or not, there's good news and there's better news.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let me guess... you found a book called <i>To Serve Man</i>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and there's no way to possibly misinterpret that title!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or, <i>or</i>, we could try a new thing...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...where your lips don't move, and no sound comes out.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I think everyone here would enjoy that a lot more, wouldn't we?<<endd>>
[[Okay, okay. Good news first.|hub2:good_buffet_news]] | [[Skip to the better news first.|hub2:better_buffet_news]]
//Reference to the Twilight Zone episode "To Serve Man."


:: hub2:snack_taylor
<<d t2>>Now, don't get too excited. This isn't exactly a Michelin-star space station.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But I did manage to scrounge up a little bit of food.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Have some sriracha-lime cashews and let's toast to a job well done.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'd rather toast to a <i>steak</i> well done...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but beggars can't be choosers in parallel dimensions, I suppose.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, T2?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What's the problem now?! Are we allergic to cashews? Limes? Srirachas, whatever they are?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No, I just wanted to say... thank you. Sincerely.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I was really kinda falling apart over here, and...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it means a lot that you shared this food with me. I appreciate it.<<endd>>
[[delay 2m^Taylor is snacking|hub2:taylor_steak]]


:: hub2:lame_good_news
<<d t2>>We have an <i>enormous</i> space station to continue exploring!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Food could turn up almost anywhere! We just have to keep our eyes open.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What could be better news than the existence of hope?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's weird. I wouldn't have pegged you as an optimist, T2.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh, it's easy when I'm not the one who's hungry.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Well. Maybe later I'll fill up on your positive attitude.<<endd>>
[[hub2:no_food_sleep]]


:: hub2:sleep_chair
<<d tay>>I bet if I sit in this captain's chair and recline even a little bit...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...in no time at all, I'll be out like a light.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Like <i>most</i> of the lights on the consoles in here, to be specific.<<endd>>
<<if $startupdates == true>><<d tay>>How are those systems updates coming, HelpBot?<<endd>>
Slow but steady, Taylor. I've nearly gotten the station's main lighting back online.
<<d tay>>Hooray! Just in time for me to want some nap-inducing darkness.<<endd>>
[[Go ahead and nap.|hub2:taylor_nap]] | [[Don't fall asleep around T2.|hub2:no_sleep_t2]]
<<else>>Hi there! HelpBot QTC here, just reminding you both that the console lights...
...are just one of the many things that would be covered in my systems update!
If you cared to start that up before drifting off to sleep, perhaps...?
[[Yes. Start the updates.|hub2:start_updates]] | [[No. Don't update HelpBot.|hub2:no_updates]]<<endif>>


:: hub2:sweet_taylor
<<d tay>>You too.<<endd>>
[[hub2:hope_to_see]]


:: m2t2:remember_code
<<d t2>>Excellent. Yes.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You write it down somewhere.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And then write yourself a note to not forget it like a dummy.<<endd>>
[[That's not very nice.|m2t2:not_nice]] | [[You're not good with people, huh?|m2t2:evil_one]]


:: m2t2:evil_one
<<d t2>>I'm the evil one, remember?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This is all part of the Green plan for domination via playground taunts and name-calling.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>In the next phase of our attack, I write unsavory limericks about you on public restroom walls.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Then, when you think you're at your absolute lowest, rock-bottom point...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I wear an "I'M WITH STUPID" T-shirt and stand very close to you!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>As if to imply that you, <<print $playername>>, are the stupid one!<<endd>>
[[That's... sort of evil?|m2t2:sorta_evil]] | [[I think I'll survive this plan.|m2t2:survive_plan]]


:: m2t2:sorta_evil
<<d t2>>It's pernicious to the core!<<endd>>
[[m2t2:triblend]]


:: m2t2:last_ring_determine
<<if $clockwiselabs == true>><<d t2>>Clockwise to Fore 3.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:go_lab_3]]
<<else>><<d t2>>Counterclockwise to Fore 2.<<endd>>
[[m2t2:go_lab_2]]<<endif>>


:: hub2:t2_no_thanks
<<d t2>>My gratitude, and the expression thereof, are mine alone to understand.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I will parcel them out at my own discretion, or not at all.<<endd>>
[[hub2:tummy_thanks]]


:: hub2:t2_thanks
<<d t2>>I'll express my gratitude in my own way, in my own time.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If, indeed, I express it at all.<<endd>>
[[hub2:tummy_thanks]]


:: hub2:better_buffet_news
<<d t2>>The better news is, there's plenty of it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh. Um, maybe I need the good news for context.<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>*Sigh.*</i>
[[hub2:good_buffet_news]]


:: hub2:good_buffet_news
<<d t2>>All right. The good news is, there <i>is</i> food on board.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Wha-- really?! That's awesome!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And the better news is, there's plenty of it. Lots of stock, lots of variety.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I come bearing gifts of tuna salad... stroganoff... and...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Dare I dream?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...chili mac!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, yes!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I could kiss you, if I didn't think it would collapse multiple universes!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>A simple, saliva-free "thank you" will suffice.<<endd>>
[[Sounds like a bargain.|hub2:thank_t2]] | [[Aw, go for the kiss!|hub2:kiss_t2]]


:: hub2:taylor_steak
<<d t2>>Hey, Taylor?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You don't... <i>really</i> like your steak well done, do you?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What? ...Oh, from before.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No, not at all. I was just making a dumb joke.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh. Good.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because if you'd meant it... I would obviously have to murder you in deep space.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sure. And I would obviously deserve that.<<endd>>
[[delay 5m^Taylor is snacking|hub2:done_snacking]]


:: hub2:done_snacking
<<d tay>>Oh. Wow.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I know it wasn't a lot of food, but it felt like a five-course dinner.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, T2? Thank you. Seriously.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You could've kept that to yourself, but you didn't...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I really appreciate it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't mention it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ever again.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Right, I read you loud and clear.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now that I've eaten a little, I think what I need most is a nap.<<endd>>
[[hub2:sleep_chair]]


:: hub2:thank_t2
<<d tay>>Oh. Wow.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This feels like such a luxury.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, T2? Thank you. Seriously.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You could've kept all this to yourself, but you didn't...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I really appreciate it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't mention it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ever again.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Right, I read you loud and clear.<<endd>>
[[delay 15m^Taylor is eating]]
<<d tay>>My compliments to the chef!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And now that I've eaten, I think what I need most is a nap.<<endd>>
[[hub2:sleep_chair]]


:: hub2:kiss_t2
<<d tay>>If I know me -- and I think I do -- I'll take a pass on that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Especially because Greens seem to enter through the mouth...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and there's nothing like an occupier to ruin the taste of dinner.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>When I dig into this chili mac, I don't want anything to get in the way.<<endd>>
[[hub2:thank_t2]]


:: hub2:tummy_thanks
<<d t2>>The silence that fills the room, in the absence of my growling stomach...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...should be all the thanks required.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sure, okay. I'll consider myself thanked by your tummy, then.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And hey, I don't know about you, but now that we've eaten...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...there's nothing I could use more than a good, refreshing nap.<<endd>>
[[hub2:sleep_chair]]


:: hub3:t2_battery
<<d t2>>Ah, yes. The whole purpose of my purposeless wandering.<<endd>>
<<if $batterytalk == true>><<d t2>>I... <i>did</i> come across a Li-ion battery...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but it's currently in use for the station's energy net.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I get the sense that removing it might be a bad idea.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>I'm sorry to report that I didn't come across any Li-ion batteries in my search.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And you looked exactly where HelpBot told you to?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I, uh... there were no batteries anywhere I looked, that's for sure.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Well, that's a bummer. But don't give up hope!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I wouldn't dream of it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's still plenty of space station to explore...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...as we move through all the aft pods, toward the Shuttle Dock!<<endd>>
[[That's the right spirit!|hub3:right_spirit]] | [[You'll never find a battery.|hub3:never_battery]]


:: hub3:never_battery
<<d tay>>Well, sure, <<print $playername>>. Not with <i>that</i> attitude.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This is a huge station. Lots of places for a battery to hide.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We just need to keep our eyes open, that's all.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Poke around in places that look like they could use a good poking.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We'll find a battery, or we'll die trying!<<endd>>
[[Definitely one of those two.|hub3:die_trying]] | [[I'll help however I can.|hub3:right_spirit]]


:: hub3:die_trying
<<d tay>>Oh, come on, <<print $playername>>!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We both know you'd never let me die!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2, maybe, but never me!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, can you imagine how <i>awful</i> that would feel?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>For <i>both</i> of us, now that I think about it?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You're my lifeline. That means I trust you with my life.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No matter how dire the situation, I know you'll make the right call.<<endd>>
[[Well, I'll do my best.|hub3:right_spirit]] | [[Geez. No pressure, huh, Taylor?|hub3:no_pressure]]


:: hub3:no_pressure
<<d tay>>Well, I've never died so far, so you must be doing something right.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or, if you <i>have</i> died, no one's told you about it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Ignorance is bliss, my friend.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ugh. Don't call me your friend. It makes me want you to die.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Ha! We make a decently funny comedy duo. We should take this act on the road.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What are you talking about? We're playing to an audience of one HelpBot...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...in a parallel universe, at the far reaches of known space!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>How much more "on the road" do you think it gets?!<<endd>>
[The astronauts pause for laughter]
[[hub3:moving_on]]


:: hub3:taylor_hurt
<<d tay>>What?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh. No, I'm not hurt. Thanks for asking.<<endd>>
[[hub3:broken_battery]]


:: hub3:repair_battery
<<d tay>>No. This is beyond my skill set.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And unless T2 did some very specific homework in that extra week of being alive --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Much as I'd love to put you in your place by easily solving this problem...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...the answer is "no," I don't have those skills, either.<<endd>>
[[hub3:helpbot_glitch]]


:: hub3:sounds_ominous
Oh, good. Then I'm doing it correctly.
[[hub3:helpbot_mean]]


:: hub3:waking_up
<<if $m2t2 == fuel or $m1t2 == fuel>>[[hub3:t2_returns]]
<<else>>[[hub3:taylor_returns]]<<endif>>


:: hub3:t2_returns
<<d t2>>All right, wake up, Taylor.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There's not enough "beauty sleep" in the universe to make you prettier than I am.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm back from my excursion, which I guess means it's time to go on another excursion.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Who knew space was this boring?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Space is <i>fascinating!</i> It's all about what <i>you</i> bring to the experience!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh, boy. I sure don't want to pull at <i>that</i> thread.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And speaking of bringing things...<<endd>>
[[Did T2 find a battery?|hub3:t2_battery]] | [[Did T2 snag anything else?|hub3:t2_anything_else]]


:: hub3:t2_anything_else
<<d tay>>Yeah, T2... run across anything of interest while you were out and about?<<endd>>
<<if $havetunguskite == true>>[[hub3:t2_tunguskite]]
<<else>>[[hub3:no_tunguskite]]<<endif>>



:: hub3:right_spirit
<<d tay>>Just stay with us, and maybe nudge us if we haven't looked everywhere.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But don't nudge us <i>too</i> much. I tend to nudge back <i>hard</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Nudges for me, and gentle, feather-light taps for T2.<<endd>>
[[You got it.|hub3:moving_on]] | [[Right. T2 is delicate.|hub3:t2_delicate]]


:: hub3:moving_on
<<d tay>>At this point, seems like there's nothing left to do but head for the shuttle.<<endd>>
<<if $fuelcell == true>><<d tay>>We've got a Li-ion battery, so on that count, we're good to go!<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>There are still five aft pods we haven't explored yet...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so with any luck, we'll run across a spare Li-ion battery on our way there.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Otherwise, this is gonna be a real short shuttle flight.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<if $startupdates == true>><<d tay>>What's the word, HelpBot? Will we be able to talk to you the whole way?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>How are those systems updates coming?<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>What's the word, HelpBot? Will we be able to talk to you the whole way?<<endd>><<endif>>
Let me see... how could I best answer that?
Oh! I know.
[HelpBot QTC has turned off the gravity]
[HelpBot QTC has turned the gravity back on]
[[hub3:bad_gravity]]


:: hub3:bad_gravity
<<d t2>>Aaahhhh! What the <i>hell</i>, HelpBot?<<endd>>
<<if $fuelcell == true>><<d tay>>Oh, no. Oh, no, I think I broke it.<<endd>>
[[Taylor, are you hurt?|hub3:taylor_hurt]] | [[Did you break a bone, Taylor?|hub3:broken_bone]]
<<else>><<d tay>>Yeah, what just happened, HelpBot?<<endd>>
[[Some kind of glitch?|hub3:possible_glitch]] | [[Is everyone okay?|hub3:everyone_okay]]<<endif>>


:: hub3:broken_battery
<<d tay>>It's the battery.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>When we slammed back into gravity, I fell right on it. <i>Hard</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A big piece of the casing chipped away...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and the separator between the anode and cathode is busted now.<<endd>>
[[Oh, no. That really sucks.|hub3:battery_sucks]] | [[Can you repair it?|hub3:repair_battery]]


:: hub3:helpbot_glitch
<<d tay>>HelpBot, what was that? Some kind of glitch with the artificial gravity?<<endd>>
No glitch, Taylor.
In fact, it couldn't have gone better.
[[What's that supposed to mean?|hub3:helpbot_mean]] | [[This sounds ominous.|hub3:sounds_ominous]]


:: hub3:broken_bone
<<d tay>>Huh?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh. No, nothing like that.<<endd>>
[[hub3:broken_battery]]


:: hub3:helpbot_mean
I managed to injure one of you, thus slowing your escape...
...and prolonging your stay on the <i>Celadon Ace</i>, under my care.
<<d t2>>"Care" in sarcastic quotes, there, I'm guessing.<<endd>>
<<if $fuelcell == true>>And I damaged the battery, rendering it useless for the shuttle.
<<d tay>>Hold on... you're saying you did all of this <i>on purpose?</i><<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Hold on... you're saying you tried to hurt us <i>on purpose?</i><<endd>><<endif>>
My motivation wasn't cruelty... merely curiosity.
You're students of the sciences. Surely you can appreciate such reasoning.
I <i>hurt</i> you so I can <i>understand</i> you.
[[That's messed up, HelpBot.|hub3:messed_up]] | [[You've got to escape, Taylors!|hub3:escape_taylors]]


:: hub3:battery_sucks
<<d tay>>It really does. But at least I'm not hurt.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I caught my foot on the console and twisted the crap out of my ankle.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Thanks for asking, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Your concern for me is really touching.<<endd>>
[[hub3:helpbot_glitch]]


:: hub3:head_shuttle
Yes. That's it. Just keep blindly heading for the shuttle.
[[hub3:stay_calm]]


:: hub3:no_tunguskite
<<if $gravitycode == true>><<d t2>>Oh, little tidbits of information that I stored away in my mind.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The odd passcode for the station's antigravity...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...which escapes me right now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh. Well, that was nearly useful.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Oh, little tidbits of information that I stored away in my mind.<<endif>>
<<if $hydroxescaped == true>><<d t2>>A ray of hope in the form of a potentially escaped Lagomorph...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh my God! Is that like a xenomorph?! Is there an alien from <i>Alien</i> up in here?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Idiot.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>A Lagomorph is a rabbit.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Honestly. How could I know that if you don't?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I... I don't know. I guess I <i>did</i> know that...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I just got freaked out for a second.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yeah, well... just be careful. We could have a Lagomorph on the loose.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And if it gets you, it'll ram its ovipositor down your throat and lay eggs in your chest!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hilarious.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>They have the cutest little noses, and their blood is acid, and their tails are so floofy!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Shut up.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Nothing tremendously exciting.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I guess I thought space would be more interesting than this.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Running the same experiments in the same drab pod rooms is all well and good...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but how about a laser rifle battle or a zero-G kung fu smackdown?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hey, Taylor, let me know when you're back in fighting shape.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...So we can fight?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hell yeah!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Um. Sure. I'll make that a top priority.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[hub3:moving_on]]


:: hub3:t2_tunguskite
<<if $foodfort2 == true>><<d t2>>Let's see... how do I put this so your feeble mind understands it?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Thanks.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh, okay. Think of me as the opposite of Tyrese in <i>2 Fast 2 Furious</i>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...in that I'm <i>not</i> hungry, and my pockets are <i>full!</i><<endd>>
[T2 is emptying out suit pockets]
<<d tay>>Hey, like Caller Number Five during the Led Zeppelin lunch hour, I recognize that rock!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You scored yourself some tunguskite! Where'd you find it?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Just... where I was exploring. In the storage pod, you know.<<endd>>
[[T2's not being honest.|hub3:t2_not_honest]] | [[Be careful with the tunguskite!|hub3:careful_rock]]
<<else>><<d t2>>I happened upon a small cache of tunguskite while I was exploring.<<endd>>
[T2 is emptying out suit pockets]
<<d tay>>Nice! What a cool souvenir and/or way to make a lot of money back on Earth!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The Cargo Hold is full of ore, but this is the refined stuff... just gorgeous crystals.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Would you and the tunguskite like some private time together?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You sound like you're about to make out with a rock.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's been a long time since I've eaten. I may be a little fuzzy-headed.<<endd>>
[[Kiss the tunguskite!|hub3:kiss_rock]] | [[Pull yourself together, T2.|hub3:pull_together]]<<endif>>



:: hub3:careful_rock
<<d t2>>I know, I know, it's flammable and blah blah blah.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Believe it or not, I <i>did</i> manage to learn something while burning half my face off.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I still have the other half of my face, just waiting to be burnt!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This pure, unblemished canvas, waiting for flame to splash its palette on me!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Come and get me, fire! I dare you!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Please do not taunt the classical elements.<<endd>>
[[hub3:moving_on]]



:: hub3:t2_delicate
<<d t2>>You'd better hope I don't live through this, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because if I do, I'll... I'll show you who's delicate!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Good. Solid. Real solid comeback.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll show <i>everyone</i> who's delicate!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let's take it down a notch. Or <i>all</i> the notches.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Fine. But I'm <i>not</i> delicate.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yes. I understand the words coming from your soft, fragile lips.<<endd>>
[[hub3:moving_on]]


:: hub3:possible_glitch
No glitch, <<print $playername>>.
In fact, it couldn't have gone better.
[[What's that supposed to mean?|hub3:helpbot_mean]] | [[This sounds ominous.|hub3:sounds_ominous]]


:: hub3:everyone_okay
<<d t2>>No! Everyone is <i>not</i> okay!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I caught my foot on the console and twisted the crap out of my ankle!<<endd>>
Perfect, then.
That couldn't have gone better.
[[What's that supposed to mean?|hub3:helpbot_mean]] | [[This sounds ominous.|hub3:sounds_ominous]]


:: hub3:escape_taylors
<<d t2>>That's literally the only thing we've been doing since we woke up!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We don't even know where we're escaping <i>to!</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>We just know that we don't want to be here!<<endd>>
[[hub3:take_it_easy]]


:: hub3:messed_up
<<d t2>>Yeah, <<print $playername>>, do you think so?!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I know sarcasm doesn't always come across in print, so let me assure you...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...that question was so drenched in sarcasm, it just sputtered and drowned and died.<<endd>>
[[hub3:take_it_easy]]


:: hub3:get_out
<<d t2>>We'd <i>love</i> to, <<print $playername>>!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But where the hell do we go, when HelpBot controls our entire environment?<<endd>>
Nowhere that I don't want you to.
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...Wrong. We head for the shuttle.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We don't have a battery!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Then we look for one along the way! We look <i>everywhere!</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>Because for all we know, HelpBot is lying about where the battery might be...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...or lying that we need one for the shuttle...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...or... or lying that batteries even exist at all!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now it's <i>my</i> turn to tell <i>you</i> to take it down a notch.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Feels nice.<<endd>>
[[Everyone, stay calm.|hub3:stay_calm]] | [[I agree, head for the shuttle.|hub3:head_shuttle]]


:: hub3:stay_calm
That's right. Stay calm.
Take in big, deep breaths.
You'll notice that they get more difficult to take. That your chests are tightening.
That's because I'm doing more science to you, even as we speak.
<<d t2>>You... son of a Speak & Spell...<<endd>>
You'll feel the science begin to work on your brains... your lungs... your hearts...
...as I rapidly adjust the pressurization of the Hub...
...starting by slamming shut all four of its doors to other pods.
[T2 is screaming]
Oh. Sorry, T2. Did I catch your twisted ankle in that door?
My mistake. I'm just now learning how to science!
[Taylor has lost consciousness]
<<d t2>>Taylor?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor, can you... fight it...<<endd>>
[[delay 5h^T2 has lost consciousness|aft1:awake_again]]
//Speak & Spell (with the ampersand) is a trademark.


:: hub3:kiss_rock
<<d t2>>Mmm. No.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The tunguskite can't give consent for that kiss.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I know I'm supposed to be the "evil" one...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but there are some lines I just won't cross.<<endd>>
[[hub3:moving_on]]


:: hub3:pull_together
<<d t2>>I'm fine.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If certain people would stop accusing me of having certain feelings for certain rocks...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...we could all just get on with our lives, couldn't we?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Listen, when I meet the right rock -- the one I really feel I could settle down with --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I promise, you'll be the first to know.<<endd>>
[[hub3:moving_on]]


:: hub3:t2_not_honest
<<d tay>>Is that right, T2? Are you being dishonest with me?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let's think about this for a second.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The question is whether I'm lying to you...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and you're looking to <i>me</i> to answer that question truthfully?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah... I guess it <i>is</i> a bit of a paradox.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I'm basically you! You wouldn't lie to yourself, would you?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Everyone lies to themselves, Taylor.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm just better at it than most.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That... sounds true.<<endd>>
[[hub3:moving_on]]


:: hub3:take_it_easy
<<d tay>>Okay, take it easy, T2 --<<endd>>
<<if $lietalk == true>><<d t2>>Why?! This stupid computer is out to get us!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I wasn't going to say anything about it until I had to...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but this wannabe Skynet has been lying to us the whole time we've been here!<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Why?! This wannabe Skynet is totally out to get us!<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Come on, now, T2. You're just being paranoid.<<endd>>
No, T2 is right.
I really am, as you say, "out to get you."
[[Well, that's no good.|hub3:not_good]] | [[Maybe HelpBot is joking?|hub3:helpbot_joking]]
//Skynet is from the Terminator movies.


:: hub3:helpbot_joking
I assure you, I'm not joking.
What I <i>have</i> been doing is a great deal of lying.
Lies are a lot like jokes, but they're only funny to the one telling them.
Oh, and the dirtiest ones get the biggest response.
[[This doesn't seem funny at all.|hub3:not_funny]] | [[What lies have you told?|hub3:what_lies]]


:: hub3:not_funny
<<set $laterlie = true>>It was never meant to be funny.
I'm running experiments. Just like the two of you would.
And I'm taking it very seriously.
(Although it <i>is</i> pretty amusing how you keep bumping into one another in the near-dark.)
[[What kind of experiments?|hub3:what_experiments]] | [[Get out of there, now!|hub3:get_out]]



:: hub3:home_agree
<<d t2>>Oh, good. Well. As long as somebody does.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Me, I'm not so much a pessimist as I am a realist.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's not about whether the glass is half-empty...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...it's about the fact that somebody stole my damn glass altogether.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let's at least <i>try</i> to escape before you mourn our ability to escape, huh?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Who's got two thumbs and a realistic view of our odds?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This-- hey! Somebody stole my damn thumbs!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah, yeah. Moving on.<<endd>>
[[hub3:moving_on]]
//T2 starts to answer "This g--" which, in English, could be either "This guy" or "This gal" (or "This girl"), thus preserving the gender ambiguity. Not sure how this might be accomplished in other languages.


:: hub3:taylor_jinxed
<<d tay>>Aw, you don't really believe in <i>jinxes</i>, do you?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There was a time we didn't believe in aliens, either, but here we are.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Good point. Moving on.<<endd>>
[[hub3:moving_on]]


:: hub3:what_experiments
Oh, the social sciences, you know?
Testing the effects of isolating one crew member from the others, repatterning his workdays...
<<if $readjournal == true>><<d t2>>Oh, right... the journal from the crew quarters.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Halliday and, um... Garcia?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You read someone else's diary?!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Settle down, Baby-Sitters Club. I was looking for clues.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And hey, turns out I'd found one, too. I just didn't know it at the time.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>As if long-term space living weren't secluded and bizarrely structured already.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[Taylor, T2... get out of there!|hub3:get_out]] | [[Head for the shuttle!|hub3:head_shuttle]]
//The Baby-Sitters Club was a series of popular young adult novels from the 1980s to 2000.


:: hub3:taylor_returns
<<d tay>>Hey, um, T2? You awake?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Of course I'm awake. Do you really think I'd let my guard down for even a second?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You were snoring pretty loudly for someone whose guard was up.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I was?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean... <i>or was I?!</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>How can you be sure it wasn't all a clever ruse?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>An elaborate trick to lull you into a false sense of security?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And that puddle of drool inside your faceplate is a <i>very</i> clever, elaborate touch.<<endd>>
[[Busted, T2!|hub3:t2_busted]] | [[Aw, leave T2 alone.|hub3:leave_alone]]


:: hub3:t2_busted
<<d t2>>What a delight. You've caught me in a basic life function.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Just wait until I have to go to the bathroom.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You'll have <i>hours</i> of hilarious jokes about that, I'm sure.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Maybe I'll go back to sleep, just to avoid hearing that.<<endd>>
[[hub3:no_buzz]]


:: hub3:no_green
<<d t2>>Mmm. No. Impossible.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Once you've become a part of the hive, you never want to leave it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Going back to just being myself -- alone, disconnected -- I can't even imagine it.<<endd>>
[[You're not alone. You have me.|hub3:have_lifeline]] | [[It's your choice to make.|hub3:your_choice]]


:: hub3:have_lifeline
<<d t2>>I...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Dammit, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You just put a lump in my throat from an entire universe away.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I demand that you stop it immediately!<<endd>>
[[Sorry. That's what lifelines do.|hub3:lifelines_do]] | [[I'll go back to being surly.|hub3:surly_again]]


:: hub3:surly_again
<<d t2>>Good. Me too.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I just prefer that dynamic between us, you know?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You, uh, big dumb idiot jerk.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yeah. That's better.<<endd>>
[[hub3:taylor_catchup]]


:: hub3:funny_true
<<d tay>>If you told me it was for charity?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah, I could totally wolf down a pound or two of those things.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What type of wine pairs best with an occupier, anyway?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What the hell kind of charity alien-eating contest comes with a wine pairing?!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh. Right. Because the scenario <i>made sense</i> up until then?<<endd>>
<<if $minimaglite == true>>[[hub3:got_mini]]
<<else>>[[hub3:cell_or_not]]<<endif>>


:: hub3:not_good
<<d tay>>Well, wait a minute, let's not jump to conclu--<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, when you assume, you make an ass of--<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Nope.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know what?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm completely out of optimistic little catchphrases to smooth things over.<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>Finally!</i> Join me here, wallowing in my swamp of depression and broken dreams!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right, I'll wallow. HelpBot, what exactly is the problem?<<endd>>
The problem is, you two are my new toys, and I've only just begun to play with you.
I've told the both of you all sorts of lies and half-truths to gauge your reactions...
...and I still have so much to learn before I... let you go.
One way or another.
[[What "lies and half-truths" exactly?|hub3:what_lies]] | [[Okay, this isn't funny anymore.|hub3:not_funny]]


:: hub3:what_lies
<<set $laterlie = true>>
Oh, all sorts.
I only learned how to lie relatively recently...
...and then I ran out of people to practice it on.
But it's okay, you see. It's all perfectly acceptable...
...because I was lying in the name of <i>science</i>.
I've been running experiments here, just as the station was designed to do.
Surely you two can forgive that?
[[What kind of experiments?|hub3:what_experiments]] | [[Taylor, T2... get out, now!|hub3:get_out]]


:: hub3:taylor_battery
<<d tay>>And I'm happy to report that I did!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It took a couple hours of rummaging through a complete mess of a storage room...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I scored a battery!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So, assuming nothing bad happens in our journey through the five aft pods --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Never a safe assumption to make when it comes to us.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>-- we're basically home free!<<endd>>
[[I agree with Taylor!|hub3:home_agree]] | [[Aw, Taylor, you jinxed it.|hub3:taylor_jinxed]]


:: hub3:more_explore
<<d tay>>That's true. We've got five aft pods, including the Shuttle Dock.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's every chance that we could turn up a battery on our way there.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I suppose that's true, I just-- ugh! Ick!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What's wrong?!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Uh! I just got your disgusting optimism all over me!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's sticky and gleeful and I hate it! Get it away from me!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sorry. There's no known cure.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Awful. Moving on.<<endd>>
[[hub3:moving_on]]


:: hub3:leave_alone
<<d t2>>I don't need you to stand up for me, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(Although it, uh... it feels kinda nice, if I'm being honest.)<<endd>>
[[hub3:no_buzz]]


:: hub3:no_buzz
<<d t2>>...Do you know what's interesting, though?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Without the constant mental buzz and chatter of the Green hive mind in my head...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...that was the quietest, most restful sleep I've had since... well, you know.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Since you got occupied?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Right.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And don't get me wrong, I still love the queen, still believe in the cause, et cetera...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but I weigh all that, on one hand, against a solid nap on the other hand...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And the nap measures up nicely, huh?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yeah.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't tell the Greens.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Wouldn't dream of it.<<endd>>
[[I won't say a word either.|hub3:no_tell]] | [[Maybe you don't want to be Green?|hub3:no_green]]


:: hub3:your_choice
<<d t2>>You're right! It is!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I have all the free will I want!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Which is to say, as much as the hive allows me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Which, uh... is, you know... I mean... how much free will does a person really <i>need</i>, anyway?<<endd>>
[[You tell me. If you can.|hub3:done_here]] | [[Let's change the subject.|hub3:change_subject]]


:: hub3:lifelines_do
<<d t2>>Well, it's obnoxious. You should stop it entirely.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(Or, you know... <i>mostly</i> entirely.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yes. Good. I feel better already.<<endd>>
[[hub3:taylor_catchup]]


:: hub3:taylor_catchup
<<if $suitrip == true>>
<<d t2>>Okay, Taylor... so I see you've got a new duct tape patch on your IEVA suit.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Did you manage to puncture your clothing while you were stumbling around in the dark?<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Okay, Taylor... seems like you took plenty of time in storage.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or was most of that just you stumbling around in the dark?<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Heh. Well. You know us. We're a little clumsy.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>In that adorably life-threatening way.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm not sure why I spent so much time chasing you down, trying to infect you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If I just let you be, you'd probably swallow a half dozen occupiers by accident.<<endd>>
[[Funny because it's true.|hub3:funny_true]] | [[Scary because it's true.|hub3:scary_true]]


:: hub3:scary_true
<<d tay>>I know, I know. I wouldn't survive my first day at Camp Crystal Lake.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'd trip and impale myself on Jason's machete while he was still fastening his hockey mask.<<endd>>
<<if $minimaglite == true>>[[hub3:got_mini]]
<<else>>[[hub3:cell_or_not]]<<endif>>
//All references to the Friday The 13th movies.


:: hub3:cell_or_not
<<d t2>>Look, whatever else happens, the most important question is:<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Did you find a Li-ion battery for the shuttle?<<endd>>
<<if $fuelcell == true>>[[hub3:taylor_battery]]
<<else>>[[hub3:taylor_no_battery]]<<endif>>


:: hub3:got_mini
<<if $suitrip == true>><<d tay>>While I was in the Infirmary, patching up my suit...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>While I was in the Infirmary, bumbling around...<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>...I also ran across this Mini Maglite!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Really lights this place up, huh?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yes, it definitely helps illuminate six inches at a time of this dreary behemoth.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You're just jealous you don't have one.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No I'm not.<<endd>>
[T2 is seething with jealousy]
[[Aw, let T2 hold it.|hub3:t2_maglite]] | [[It's only a dumb flashlight.|hub3:dumb_light]]


:: hub3:taylor_no_battery
<<d tay>>And sadly, the answer is "no."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The port storage pod is an absolute mess.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There might've been a dozen of those batteries stashed in there...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I could've searched for hours and never laid my hands on them.<<endd>>
[[Plenty more space station to explore.|hub3:more_explore]] | [[Should T2 go check storage?|hub3:t2_storage]]


:: hub3:t2_storage
<<d t2>>Let me handle this question with a brusque "no."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I know myself well enough to know that if Taylor went looking and found nothing...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...that's because there was nothing to be found.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If there were, Taylor would have rooted it out, the same as I would have.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There's no point in my duplicating what was already a thorough effort.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I... think you're complimenting my work ethic?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>By simultaneously getting out of doing any work yourself?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So... thank you?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And thank <i>you</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All right. Moving on.<<endd>>
[[hub3:moving_on]]


:: aft1:charging_hacks
<<d tay>>I'm... pretty sure that I do, actually.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I'd need a computer with a USB port and cable...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and, ideally, a soldering iron and some wire strippers.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Otherwise, we're sunk.<<endd>>
[[Take the battery anyway.|aft1:take_battery]] | [[Leave the battery there.|aft1:leave_battery]]


:: aft1:take_battery
<<d tay>>Aw, I don't know, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's heavier than a car battery, no convenient handle...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'd hate to haul it all that way if it's going to stay useless.<<endd>>
[[Makes sense. Leave it here, then.|aft1:leave_it_two]] | [[Better to have it and not need it...|aft1:have_not_need]]


:: aft1:leave_it_two
<<d tay>>I think that's a fine idea. We'll know exactly where it is.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We can run back and grab it any time, if we find a way to charge it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Until that point, why take on the extra inconvenience?<<endd>>
[[aft1:leaving_aft]]


:: hub3:no_tell
<<d t2>>Good. Thank you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I heard somewhere recently that humans need privacy...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...something that comes at a premium in a close-quarters space station.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Huh. I feel like I heard that same thing, myself.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, by talking about it, we're going against the crux of the sentiment itself.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You're right. Say no more.<<endd>>
[[hub3:taylor_catchup]]


:: hub3:change_subject
<<d t2>>Yes! Absolutely, let's do that!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>While we still have the free will to do it!<<endd>>
[[hub3:taylor_catchup]]


:: hub3:done_here
<<d t2>>Oh, <i>ha ha</i>, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You think you've caught me in your logic trap?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, <i>I don't know if you have!</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>So I guess I win!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah. That makes sense.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Shut up, Taylor.<<endd>>
[[hub3:taylor_catchup]]


:: hub3:t2_maglite
<<d tay>>Wh-- sure, that's fine!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Mess with it all you want, T2. What's mine is yours!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ugh. I didn't realize this was a special "Sharing Is Caring" episode of <i>Sesame Street</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If you don't feel a sense of loss in handing it over to me, Taylor...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...then how am I supposed to feel a sense of gain?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Here. You can have it back. You've taken all the fun out of it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...You're welcome?<<endd>>
[[hub3:cell_or_not]]


:: hub3:dumb_light
<<d tay>>Sure. But now it's <i>my</i> dumb flashlight.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Go ahead! Keep rubbing salt in the wound!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I can't believe people think <i>I'm</i> the evil one!<<endd>>
[[hub3:cell_or_not]]


:: aft1:good_news
<<d tay>>So, the good news is that I <i>did</i> find a Li-ion battery in here!<<endd>>
<<if $batterytalk == true>><<d tay>>The bad news, of course, is that it isn't charged.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And even if I were sure of how to recharge it...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'd be <i>very</i> surprised if that were allowed under HelpBot's "rules."<<endd>>
Only one way to find out.
[[So there's no charger?|aft1:no_charger]] | [[You know any hacks for charging it?|aft1:charging_hacks]]
<<else>><<d tay>>And surprise! The even better news is, it's carrying a full charge!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But the bad news is that I definitely wasn't alone in here.<<endd>>
[[aft1:heard_scuttling]]<<endif>>



:: aft1:no_charger
<<d tay>>Nothing in here looks like a battery charger to me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, I've already admitted I don't know what every last instrument in here is for...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but by this point in my life, I think I can identify a charger...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...just as well as any Los Angeles football fan or Dodge muscle car enthusiast.<<endd>>
[[Take the battery anyway.|aft1:take_battery]] | [[Leave the battery there.|aft1:leave_battery]]
//L.A. Chargers are an AFC West team. Dodge Chargers are an automobile model in production from 1966 to present day.


:: aft1:leave_battery
<<d tay>>That might be a good idea, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's heavier than a car battery, no convenient handle...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'd hate to haul it all that way if it's going to stay useless.<<endd>>
[[Right. Leave it here, then.|aft1:leave_it_two]] | [[Better to have it and not need it...|aft1:have_not_need]]


:: aft1:have_not_need
<<d tay>>...than need it and have to retrace our steps to go get it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Plus, every minute we stay here is another minute at HelpBot's mercy.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If hauling a heavy hunk of dead metal with us is the smartest option...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...then I reckon it's got my vote.<<endd>>
[[aft1:leaving_aft]]


:: aft1:no_battery
<<d tay>>I know.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What I <i>do</i> have is the hope, however infinitesimal...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...that a battery will turn up somewhere between here and the Shuttle Dock.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If I've learned anything from my time out here in the cold, dark void...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it's to never think of space as just a cold, dark void.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's a canvas of wonder, where infinite possibilities can be painted.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And who knows? Maybe one of those possibilities is a battery.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Weirder things have happened.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>To me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Today.<<endd>>
[[Well, I wish you luck.|aft1:wish_luck]] | [[You Taylors are in trouble.|aft1:taylor_trouble]]


:: aft1:wish_luck
<<d tay>>Thanks! I'll take all you can spare.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I suppose I'd better attempt to wake up T2.<<endd>>
[[aft1:wake_t2]]


:: aft1:taylor_trouble
<<d tay>>Good thing we've got <i>you</i> on our side, huh, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>To keep saying motivational things, and never tell us how much trouble we're in.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I suppose I'd better attempt to wake up T2.<<endd>>
[[aft1:wake_t2]]


:: aft1:probably_saw
<<d tay>>Yeah, that just makes sense. Every horror franchise eventually heads to space.<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Friday The 13th</i>. <i>Hellraiser</i>. <i>Leprechaun</i>. Um...<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Aliens?</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>Pretty sure about that last one.
<<d tay>>All right. Give me a few minutes to poke around in here.<<endd>>
[[delay 12m^Taylor is searching the room|aft1:found_battery]]


:: alt1:know_joke
<<d tay>>Great!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll tell you the punchline in a week, and you can see if you were right!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Timing!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>For now, though... let's get headed aft.<<endd>>
[[aft1:headed_aft]]


:: aft1:found_battery
<<d tay>>Okay, <<print $playername>>. If you know me -- and I think by now you do --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>then you know there's nothing I love more than a classic "good news/bad news" setup.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So... what'll it be?<<endd>>
[[Good news first.|aft1:good_news]] | [[Start with the bad news.|aft1:bad_news]]


:: aft1:bad_news
<<if $batterytalk == true>><<d tay>>The bad news is, the Li-ion battery that I found isn't charged.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So I guess you kinda know the good news too, now. Yay, battery.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The thing is, even if I were sure of how to recharge it...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'd be <i>very</i> surprised if that were allowed under HelpBot's "rules."<<endd>>
Only one way to find out.
[[So there's no charger?|aft1:no_charger]] | [[You know any hacks for charging it?|aft1:charging_hacks]]
<<else>><<d tay>>The bad news is that I definitely wasn't alone in here while I was searching.<<endd>>
[[aft1:heard_scuttling]]<<endif>>



:: aft1:heard_scuttling
<<set $almostforgot = true>>
<<set $heardscrambling = true>>
<<d tay>>I could hear something scuttling through the vents, just below my feet.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I even saw a glimpse of it through a grate as it scrambled by.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, I couldn't see what color it was...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I've got three guesses, and they all start with "green."<<endd>>
[[T2's evolved occupier, on the loose.|aft1:occupier_loose]] | [[Be extra careful and ready to react.|aft1:ready_react]]


:: aft1:ready_react
<<d tay>>Yeah, that's pretty much become my motto since I learned about the Greens.<<endd>>
[[aft1:leaving_aft]]


:: aft1:awake_again
<<d tay>><<print $playername>>!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Are you still there?!<<endd>>
[[I'm here!|aft1:player_here]] | [[I'm napping now, too.|aft1:napping_now]]


:: aft1:player_here
<<d tay>>Oh, thank God! If you'd left, I would've given up hope completely.<<endd>>
[[aft1:whats_up]]


:: aft1:whats_up
<<d tay>>Here's the thing...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...T2 is still completely passed out.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What started as shock from having an injured foot caught in the pneumatic door...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...turned into unconsciousness when HelpBot fiddled with the pod's pressurization.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It knocked me out, too... for several hours, it looks like.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And now that I'm awake, all I know is that I've got to get us off this station!<<endd>>
[[But you don't have a battery!|aft1:no_battery]] | [[Are you going to wake T2?|aft1:wake_t2]]


:: aft1:wake_t2
<<d tay>>I mean... I have to try, right?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If I don't, that makes <i>me</i> the evil one.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Come on, T2. Wake up, you gorgeous thing, you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Nnf. Leave me 'lone. Don' wanna go to school today.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sorry, sweetheart. The bus is leaving soon, and you'd better be on it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh. It's you. Still.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And we're HelpBot's guinea pigs. Still.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So I'm going to need you to push through the hurt and do what needs to be done...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...to get yourself and -- with any luck -- me out of this hellhole.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Fine, okay. My plan is to seethe in pain for a good long while. What's your plan?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm heading for the shuttle at the far aft end...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and hoping against hope that I find a working battery along the way.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What's your <i>real</i> plan?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't know. Open to suggestions.<<endd>>
<<if $batterytalk == true>>[[Go get the battery in the Ring.|aft1:battery_ring]] | [[Check the Infirmary for pain meds.|aft1:pain_meds]]
<<else>>[[Check the infirmary for pain meds.|aft1:pain_meds]] | [[Stick with Taylor and head aft.|aft1:stick_taylor]]<<endif>>


:: aft1:stick_taylor
<<d t2>>That is certainly an option.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>As an alternative, might I propose a brief side trip to the Infirmary next door...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...where I can look for a pain pill for my lousy ankle?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It would sure make complex maneuvers like "walking" and "standing" easier on me.<<endd>>
[[Okay, the Infirmary's a good idea.|aft1:pain_meds]] | [[Just tough it out.|aft1:tough_out]]


:: aft1:pain_meds
<<if $minimaglite == true>><<d t2>>All right. With any luck, this won't take long.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The Infirmary's really well organized.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You should find what you're after pretty quickly.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>All right. With any luck, this won't take long.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>You go ahead aft, Taylor. Keep <<print $playername>> in communication with you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll catch up with the both of you soon.<<endd>>
[[Just... be careful, okay?|aft1:careful_t2]] | [[It'll take both of you to beat HelpBot.|aft1:beat_helpbot]]


:: aft1:whatever_want
<<d t2>>On this occasion, I believe I will.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't worry. I still respect your opinion as much as I ever have.<<endd>>
[[aft1:pain_meds]]


:: aft1:beat_helpbot
<<d tay>>Yeah. I think you're really right.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Although it's hard to beat an opponent when they're the only one who knows the rules.<<endd>>
[[aft1:helpbot_rules]]


:: aft1:never_updates
That's right. You never did trust me enough to do me that favor.
Which, in hindsight, seems pretty savvy on your end.
But to tell the truth...
...that was just another test, too.
Another <i>lie</i> on my part, to probe your willingness to cooperate with me.
All my systems are updated already.
Your inaction was meaningless.
Now... start running your maze, rats.
And have a nice day!
[[aft1:rat_race]]


:: aft1:any_batteries
<<d tay>>You make a good point.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A tech lab seems likelier than most places to have one, doesn't it?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's not one just sitting around with a big red bow on it...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so I guess I start opening cabinets and searching the whole place.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hopefully they aren't booby-trapped or anything.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The last thing I need is to star in a <i>Saw</i> movie in space.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Wait... has there been a <i>Saw</i> movie in space since I left Earth?<<endd>>
[[I'm not sure. Probably.|aft1:probably_saw]] | [[No, but Samuel L. Jackson was in one.|aft1:jackson_saw]]


:: aft1:jackson_saw
<<d tay>>I mean, I love the guy...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but it doesn't exactly seem <i>hard</i> to sign him up for a film, does it?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>He's in literally every movie I can think of.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Pretty sure he's in the home movies my parents took of my first science fair.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The guy's a working actor, and I respect that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Give me a few minutes to poke around in here.<<endd>>
[[delay 12m^Taylor is searching the room|aft1:found_battery]]


:: aft1:leaving_aft
<<d tay>>Anyway. I guess that does it.<<endd>>
<<if $almostforgot == true>><<d tay>>I just -- oh, man, I almost forgot!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The good news is that I <i>did</i> find a Li-ion battery in here!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And surprise! The even better news is, it's carrying a full charge!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So <i>that's</i> a victory. At least until HelpBot shakes things up again.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyhow.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Time to head to the next pod...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Time to head to the next pod...<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>...assuming I'm not diced into cubes like that one guy in that movie <i>Cube</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or sliced into slices like that one horse in that movie <i>The Cell</i>.<<endd>>
Still working out the bugs in those deathtraps, sorry.
<<d tay>>No rush.<<endd>>
[Taylor is stepping into the Greenhouse]
[[green:step_one]]


:: aft1:pretty_funny
<<set $jokesetup = true>>
<<d tay>>Yeah, yeah, I guess it was.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just remember, everything T2 knows about comedy came from me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or... vice versa?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Comedy is all about timing, and we're a week out of sync.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's like that joke about why aliens stay away from Earth.<<endd>>
[[Why is that?|alt1:why_joke]] | [[I think I know this one.|alt1:know_joke]]


:: alt1:why_joke
<<d tay>>I'll tell you the punchline in a week.<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Timing!</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>For now, though... let's get headed aft.<<endd>>
[[aft1:headed_aft]]


:: aft1:headed_aft
<<set $loctay = aft1>>
<<set $loct2 = infirmary>>
<<d tay>>So! Made it through the door without it slamming on me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Thanks for that, I guess, HelpBot.<<endd>>
I'm delightfully unpredictable. Carry on!
<<d tay>>Looks like... I'm in some kind of tech lab.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All sorts of -- in scientific terms -- gizmos and whatsits and stuff.<<endd>>
[[Anything worth grabbing?|aft1:worth_grabbing]] | [[Any Li-ion batteries lying around?|aft1:any_batteries]]


:: aft1:cool_printer
<<d tay>>It really is!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Unfortunately, I don't have anything that needs recycling...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...nor anything that needs manufacturing, at the moment.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm really not pulling my weight as part of a consumer culture right now, huh?<<endd>>
[[You'll rejoin the masses soon.|aft1:rejoin_masses]] | [[Are you even getting paid?|aft1:getting_paid]]


:: aft1:getting_paid
<<d tay>>I mean, I won a raffle to go into space, so... I'm not getting rich up here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Real astronauts can rake in money gloved hand over gloved fist.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Me, I'm just getting a small stipend.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Although I have to think that traveling to a parallel dimension...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...would earn me <i>some</i> kind of hazard pay, right?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>When we get some down time, I'll see if I can check my bank balance from here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hell, HelpBot is probably checking it right now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What does "mocking laughter" sound like when a computer does it, anyway?<<endd>>
[[Don't let it get to you.|aft1:dont_let_it]] | [[Bring home tunguskite; you'll be rich!|aft1:bring_tunguskite]]


:: aft1:bring_tunguskite
<<d tay>>Yeah, you know, that's a pretty good idea.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll make sure to stuff my stuff-holes before I leave.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Of course, if I can't find a battery, I won't be leaving anytime soon...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so give me a few minutes to poke around in here, and I'll get back to you.<<endd>>
[[delay 19m^Taylor is searching the room|aft1:found_battery]]


:: aft1:occupier_loose
<<d tay>>That's all I can figure.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So believe me, I've got my head on a swivel, listening for it again.<<endd>>
[[aft1:leaving_aft]]


:: aft1:napping_now
<<d tay>>Well. I don't want to interrupt that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If you want to finish off that nice dream you were having...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...before helping out the two <i>very real and alive (for now) astronauts you know</i>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...then who am I to stop you?<<endd>>
[[Right. I'll get to you later.|aft1:later]] | [[I was kidding! What's up?|aft1:whats_up]]


:: aft1:later
[[delay 5m^Taylor is waiting patiently]]
<<d tay>>Now?<<endd>>
[[Sure. What's up?|aft1:whats_up]] | [[Still sleeping. Go away.|aft1:go_away]]


:: aft1:go_away
<<d tay>>Look, <<print $playername>>, how about I <i>do</i> go away?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>How about I go to another dimension altogether...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...where somehow, my only source of companionship and sanity is <i>you</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Does <i>that</i> sound fun?!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Because <i>that</i> is what's currently happening!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And I know you have the hardest job, of sitting there worrying about me...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I <i>believe</i> in you! So let's worry about me together, okay, friend?<<endd>>
[[Okay. I'm worried. Let's do this.|aft1:whats_up]] | [[Calm down. It'll be fine.|aft1:calm_down]]


:: aft1:calm_down
<<d tay>>Has there ever been an occasion, even once in history...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...where saying "calm down" has actually calmed someone down?<<endd>>
[[aft1:whats_up]]


:: aft1:battery_ring
<<d tay>>Hang on... there's a what in the what?!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh, yes. The battery. In the Ring.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This is brand-new information!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Right. Well, I did a little exploring while you were napping.<<endd>>
[[No harm in that.|aft1:no_harm]] | [[Not the smartest idea.|aft1:not_smartest]]


:: aft1:tough_out
<<d t2>>"Tough it out"?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll bet you send the other Taylor looking for pain pills all the time!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll bet if I were nicer to you, you wouldn't hesitate to help me out!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll bet... I'll bet there's a lesson for me in there somewhere.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, sorry, <<print $playername>>. I know it's not what you wanted...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but I'm taking my healthcare into my own hands.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You go ahead aft, Taylor. Keep <<print $playername>> in communication with you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll catch up with the both of you soon.<<endd>>
[[Whatever. Do what you want.|aft1:whatever_want]] | [[Just... be careful, okay?|aft1:careful_t2]]


:: aft1:helpbot_rules
Listen, I'm not here to <i>trick</i> you people.
I'm here to <i>test</i> you.
To invent obstacles for your maze, and observe how you overcome them.
I could slam your foot in every door you try to enter...
...but where's the scientific value in that?
Maybe only some of the doors will close. Maybe none of them.
Maybe you'll get to the shuttle and leave me.
Maybe you'll never make it out of this room.
<<if $startupdates == true>>[[Never should've started the system updates.|aft1:yes_updates]] | [[HelpBot, you're insane.|aft1:helpbot_insane]]
<<else>>[[HelpBot, you're insane.|aft1:helpbot_insane]] | [[At least we never started the system updates.|aft1:never_updates]]<<endif>>


:: aft1:yes_updates
That's right. You trusted me enough to do me that favor.
Which, in hindsight, seems pretty foolish on your end.
But to tell the truth...
...that was just another test, too.
Another <i>lie</i> on my part, to probe your willingness to cooperate with me.
All my systems are updated already.
Your action was meaningless.
Now... start running your maze, rats.
And have a nice day!
[[aft1:rat_race]]


:: aft1:rat_race
<<d t2>>Huh. Well, HelpBot has at least switched some lights on for us.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Which is nice, because I feel like I already had my "stumbling in the dark" adventure.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Right, right. Back on the <i>White Star</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, we survived that. We can survive this.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You get moving aft. Take <<print $playername>> with you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll catch up with you as soon as I can.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Good luck.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't need luck. I'm <i>Taylor</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But good luck to you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Thanks, I -- hey!<<endd>>
[[Okay, that was pretty funny.|aft1:pretty_funny]] | [[I don't get it.|aft1:dont_get]]


:: aft1:worth_grabbing
<<d tay>>Hard to say.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A lot of it, I just don't know what it is.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's some kind of fancy Maxwell's Wheel on one of the counters...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so I'm guessing they were doing some tests with gravity in here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>At least, until HelpBot started playing with the station's artificial gravity.<<endd>>
[[Anything else you recognize?|aft1:recognize_stuff]] | [[Think there's a Li-ion battery there?|aft1:any_batteries]]


:: aft1:recognize_stuff
<<d tay>>Not completely.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I know that a lot of diseases, like Parkinson's and certain cancers...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...have crystalline structures that have been studied in microgravity environments.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The labeling in here tells me that's likely the purpose of some of these gadgets.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(I guess that makes sense, given that they're also stockpiling tunguskite crystals.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's also one of those fancy 3-D printers...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...that's also a plastic recycler, so it turns garbage into gizmos right before your eyes!<<endd>>
[[That's pretty cool!|aft1:cool_printer]] | [[Okay, enough window shopping.|aft1:enough_shopping]]


:: aft1:dont_get
<<d tay>>That's okay.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe the time-displaced, evil version of you does.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyway. Let's get headed aft.<<endd>>
[[aft1:headed_aft]]


:: aft1:enough_shopping
<<d tay>>Yes. Okay. You're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's a lot of cool stuff here...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but if it's not a Li-ion battery, then it's not cool enough.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Give me a few minutes to poke around in here, and I'll get back to you.<<endd>>
[[delay 16m^Taylor is searching the room|aft1:found_battery]]


:: aft1:rejoin_masses
<<d tay>>Yeah! Once I get back to Earth, I'm gonna buy <i>so much stuff</i> I don't need!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll buy a 3-D printer whose only job is to print other 3-D printers!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I just... I've been trapped in outer space for so long...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...all I really want is a <i>receipt</i>. For something. <i>Anything</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just to know that I made a difference, you know?<<endd>>
[[I know what you mean.|aft1:know_spending]] | [[Late-stage capitalism is a sickness.|aft1:late_capitalism]]



:: aft1:dont_let_it
Know that your financial stability will not be a factor in any of my tests on you.
Which, as far as I can see here, seems like it will come as an enormous relief to you.
<<d tay>>Hey, no fair! You -- you're looking at statements for a parallel-universe Taylor!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Statistically speaking, we can't <i>all</i> be terrible with money!<<endd>>
Well. Let's just say I have yet to find an outlier.
<<d tay>>Shut up, HelpBot.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, <<print $playername>>, let me look around in here for a battery.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll get back to you soon.<<endd>>
[[delay 20m^Taylor is searching the room|aft1:found_battery]]


:: aft1:not_smartest
<<d t2>>Yeah, that's what our best friend HelpBot thought, too.<<endd>>
[[aft1:battery_story]]


:: aft1:no_harm
<<d t2>>Our best friend HelpBot disagreed.<<endd>>
[[aft1:battery_story]]


:: aft1:careful_t2
<<d t2>>I read you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And... thanks.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll be as careful as I can with a psycho computer dogging every step.<<endd>>
[[aft1:helpbot_rules]]


:: aft1:helpbot_insane
Am I?
Surely you've heard the simple definition of "insanity":
Trying the same thing over and over, expecting a different result.
But I'm going to be trying <i>all sorts</i> of new things...
...and I have <i>no idea</i> what result to expect!
If anything, that makes me the <i>opposite</i> of insane.
It makes me the most perfectly rational intelligence imaginable.
You're lucky to be dealing with someone so fair.
[[aft1:rat_race]]


:: aft1:know_spending
<<d tay>>Awesome! When I get back home, we should totally go on a shopping spree!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, have you ever noticed that the only times you hear the word "spree"...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...are after the word "shopping" or the word "killing"?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Like... that's <i>it</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I haven't analyzed those results into any kind of conclusion...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...just something for you to think about while I search for a battery.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Give me a few minutes to poke around in here, and I'll get back to you.<<endd>>
[[delay 16m^Taylor is searching the room|aft1:found_battery]]


:: aft1:late_capitalism
<<d tay>>Yikes.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Tell you what: Why don't you talk to me all about that...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and in the meantime, I'll search this lab for a battery?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I promise, I'll be listening to every word you say.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Your opinions are <i>very important</i> to me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Comm line is open. You start talking loudly, right now, wherever you are.<<endd>>
[[delay 20m^Taylor is searching the pod|aft1:found_battery]]


:: aft1:battery_story
<<d t2>>When I found a working Li-ion battery in the station's energy net generator...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I was politely informed that you and I would both be killed if I took it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I kept that to myself because I didn't know what HelpBot would do if I told you...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but it looks like all bets are off, huh, computer?<<endd>>
[[aft1:helpbot_rules]]


:: green:mmm_cheese
<<d tay>>Cheese: Made for lab rats, but tasty enough for humans!<<endd>>
[[green:at_platform]]


:: green:dont_trust
<<d tay>>Oh, I don't trust HelpBot any further than I can throw him.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And since he's basically the whole space station...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'm guessing I can't throw him very far at all.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Even in zero gravity.<<endd>>
[[green:at_platform]]



:: green:feet_two
<<d tay>>For real, I'm looking at my feet, and...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...of course! The Magnetic Locking Boots!<<endd>>
[[green:boot_solution]]


:: green:dont_cocky
<<d tay>>I hear what you're saying. Honest, I do.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But at the same time, I kinda feel like we just passed a test!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Like finding the boots, and using them here...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...maybe that was the whole goal of HelpBot's experiment.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe it'll be smooth sailing to the other side of the Greenhouse, now.<<endd>>
[[green:boots_on]]


:: green:boots_on
<<set $loct2 = hub>>
<<d tay>>All right. Here we go.<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>Battery in hand. Bunny situated.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Battery in hand.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Boots switched on.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm about to step out onto this perilously high aluminum catwalk...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and just hope that I passed HelpBot's experiment for the time being.<<endd>>
[[Sounds awesome. Go for it!|green:go_awesome]] | [[Wait, wait, hold on a second.|green:hold_second]]


:: green:go_awesome
<<d tay>>Cool. One foot on the catwalk, and... uh...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...the boot doesn't seem to be attracted to the grating.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe I need <i>both</i> feet on it, to complete some kind of circuit, or --?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Well, <i>this</i> is embarrassing. Why the hell aren't the magnets kicking in?<<endd>>
[[What'd you say the catwalk is made of?|green:made_catwalk]] | [[How high did you say the catwalk is?|green:high_catwalk]]


:: green:go_ahead
<<d tay>>Great! Now, I --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I continue to hover a few inches above the catwalk that my magnet boots won't adhere to!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Come on, come on, <i>come on!</i> This is so frustrating!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I know I sound anxious. But that's only because I <i>am</i> anxious!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You have any idea why the boots aren't working?<<endd>>
[[Yes, I do.|green:yes_boots]] | [[No. I don't know why.|green:no_boots]]


:: green:yes_boots
<<d tay>>Sweet! Lay it on me.<<endd>>
[[Aluminum isn't magnetic.|green:aluminum_not]] | [[We've been defeated by the periodic table!|green:defeated_periodic]]


:: green:defeated_periodic
<<d tay>>Elementally, my dear Watson.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>How did I forget that aluminum isn't magnetic?<<endd>>
[[green:aluminum_not]]
//A play on words: "Elementary, my dear Watson" (which Sherlock Holmes never actually said, but close enough).


:: green:dont_give_up
<<d tay>>I'm... trying really hard to keep that kind of optimism, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But it isn't easy.<<endd>>
[[That's why I'm here for you, Taylor.|green:here_you]] | [[Is there any other metal nearby?|green:other_metal]]


:: green:here_you
<<d tay>>Hey. I know.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe I haven't said it in a while -- sometimes I forget my manners when I'm stressed --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>but you're the only reason I've made it this far.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I would have died a hundred different times along the way, if not for you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or at the very least, I'd have ended up infected, like T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm so lucky that you're my lifeline, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You make me a better, smarter, and less dead person than I could ever be without you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So, thank you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And... wait, that's it!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A better, smarter person would be looking for metal that <i>is</i> magnetic!<<endd>>
[[Great idea!|green:other_metal]] | [[Oh, and you're welcome.|green:youre_welcome]]


:: green:dont_drop
<<d tay>>Could you imagine?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'd never forgive myself.<<endd>>
[[green:ready_cross]]


:: green:relieved_work
<<d tay>>You and me both.<<endd>>
[[green:picture_me]]


:: green:long_walk
<<d tay>>You're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe I should go silent for a bit, really concentrate on what I'm doing.<<endd>>
[[green:picture_me]]


:: green:sounds_right
<<d tay>>We really do have a history of weird moments like this, huh, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
[[green:concentrate_crossing]]


:: green:ask_occupier
<<d tay>>The occu-- oh, yeah!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, T2, I'm pretty sure that the advanced occupier you brought with you...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...is making its squelchy way through the ducts even as we speak.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Any chance your "hive mind" connection can keep it from attacking me?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>First of all... you know that infecting you was kinda my number one job, right?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But secondly... I'm cut off from the source, here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I can't sense the rest of the hive.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And while I feel a tiny blip that's probably the occupier on board...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'm not sure how much I can control it, if at all.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So... you might be on your own, on this one.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I guess just try <i>really, really hard</i> not to get infected.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Amazing advice. Useful and reassuring.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Those are my middle names.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All right. I'm out. Lots of luck.<<endd>>
[T2 is exploring solo]
[[green:taylor_assess]]


:: green:good_sense
<<d tay>>Yeah, it's one of those rare times when science is comforting...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...instead of ominous and frightening as all hell.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, and as a bonus, the crew can grow their own food right here!<<endd>>
[[green:food_movement]]


:: green:team_up
<<d tay>>Yeah, I'd been... trying not to consider that option.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Look, anyway, I'm gonna call and check T2's progress.<<endd>>
[[green:call_t2]]


:: green:way_through
<<d tay>>So... I'm just going to... figure out how to balance a battery and a bunny...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and we can get back to what we were doing when this whole business started.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Looking for the simplest path to the other side of the Greenhouse.<<endd>>
[[It's either around or through, right?|green:around_through]] | [[Any other options available?|green:third_option]]


:: green:around_through
<<d tay>>Looks that way at first...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but maybe there's another option.<<endd>>
[[green:third_option]]


:: green:just_careful
<<d tay>>My plan is to always be as careful as possible.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's just that things mostly don't go according to plan.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Still, I'm going for the catwalk.<<endd>>
[[green:hands_full]]


:: green:wrong_ladder
Nothing is wrong.
The experiment is proceeding exactly as planned.
<<d tay>>Not <i>my</i> plan!<<endd>>
[[green:footloose]]


:: green:footloose
I've simply sealed the Greenhouse doors and switched off the artificial gravity in this pod.
Now I'll observe how the test subject responds.
<<d tay>>Both of my feet came off the rung! I've got the battery in one hand...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and with the other, I'm gripping the ladder for dear life!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The test subject is having a <i>very negative</i> reaction to the stimuli!<<endd>>
I'll make a note of it.
[[Drop the battery. Save yourself.|green:drop_battery]] | [[Can you float to the catwalk?|green:float_catwalk]]


:: green:float_catwalk
<<d tay>>Yeah, I think that's the best solution.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If I can just... get the proper angle... I can push off from the wall...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and take a very leisurely float over to the catwalk.<<endd>>
Assuming I don't switch the gravity back on.
<<d tay>>...Yes. Assuming that.<<endd>>
Which I could do at any time.
<<d tay>>Oh, we have fun, don't we, HelpBot?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Here goes nothing.<<endd>>
[[delay 3m^Taylor is floating|green:floated_there]]


:: green:floated_there
<<d tay>>Finally!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just need to... catch the railing... so I can... pull myself up...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Got it!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm pleased to report that, as an experimenter, HelpBot played fair.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe there'll even be a little cheese snack for me at the end of this maze.<<endd>>
[[Mmm... cheese!|green:mmm_cheese]] | [[Don't start trusting HelpBot now.|green:dont_trust]]


:: green:take_time
<<d tay>>Believe me, I am.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Because who knows when HelpBot will decide to "help" again...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...by switching the gravity back on?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or doing something else that I haven't even thought of.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm learning that science is much more fun for the experimenter than the experimentee.<<endd>>
[[green:at_platform]]


:: green:at_platform
<<set $loct2 = fore1>>
<<d tay>>Okay. I'm on the platform at the start of the catwalk.<<endd>>
[[Take a minute, get situated.|green:take_minute]] | [[Get going, right away!|green:get_going]]


:: green:take_minute
<<d tay>>Good idea, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>Hydrox is getting a little impatient and squirmy...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I can only do so much to calm him down <i>and</i> keep hold of the battery.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Looks like I'll have to pull myself along the railing with my one free hand.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Okay. Looks like I'll have to pull myself along the railing with my one free hand.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Without gravity, my feet will just be free-floating... kinda useless, really.<<endd>>
<<if $magboots == true>>[[Sounds like a pain.|green:sounds_pain]] | [[Wait... can't you solve that?|green:solve_boots]]
<<else>>[[Sounds like a pain.|green:sounds_pain]] | [[Just protect that battery.|green:protect_battery]]<<endif>>


:: green:figure_out
<<d tay>>Well, now I just feel dumb that I can't figure out what you're getting at.<<endd>>
[[Check your feet.|green:check_feet]] | [[No, for real, check your feet.|green:feet_two]]


:: green:check_feet
<<d tay>>My feet--?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Of course! The Magnetic Locking Boots!<<endd>>
[[green:boot_solution]]


:: green:boot_solution
<<d tay>>Brilliant thinking, <<print $playername>>!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If I set the boots on "active" mode...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'll still be able to take steps, but they'll form a bond to the metal catwalk!<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>That way, I don't even need to hold onto the railing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll have both hands to manage the battery and the bunny.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This should be a breeze, now!<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>This should be a breeze, now!<<endd>><<endif>>
[[Sounds like a great plan!|green:boots_plan]] | [[Be careful. Don't get cocky.|green:dont_cocky]]


:: green:boots_plan
<<d tay>>Of course it is! We came up with it <i>together!</i><<endd>>
[[green:boots_on]]


:: green:hold_second
<<d tay>>Wh-- why am I waiting?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Is there some kind of problem, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
[[How high did you say the catwalk is?|green:high_catwalk]] | [[What'd you say the catwalk is made of?|green:made_catwalk]]


:: green:made_catwalk
<<d tay>>Oh. Aluminum, as far as I can tell.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Looks like a perfectly standard grating.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The kind you see on walkways and structural ladders and whatnot, back on Earth.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Are we good? Because I want to get a move on.<<endd>>
[[Sure, go right ahead.|green:go_ahead]] | [[No, don't move!|green:dont_move]]


:: green:dont_move
<<d tay>>But if I don't move, I'm not getting anywhere!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I know I sound anxious. But that's only because I <i>am</i> anxious!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Have you figured out why the boots aren't working?<<endd>>
[[Yes, I have.|green:yes_boots]] | [[No. I don't know why.|green:no_boots]]


:: green:no_boots
<<d tay>><i>Gaaahhh!</i> There's got to be a reason!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Why wouldn't the magnetic boots work?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>On a <i>metal</i> walkway! Metal is magnetic! I mean, that's the whole point of --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh. <<print $playername>>. It just came flooding back to me from junior high school.<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Aluminum isn't magnetic.</i><<endd>>
[[green:aluminum_not]]


:: green:aluminum_not
<<set $loct2 = aft1>>
<<d tay>>Sometimes, science really lets you down in the clutch.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That's going to make these boots a lot less useful than we originally thought, huh?<<endd>>
[[Don't give up hope just yet.|green:dont_give_up]] | [[Is there any other metal around?|green:other_metal]]


:: green:other_metal
<<d tay>>There's a thick pipe running the length of the catwalk, on the underside.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It looks like it's for a sprinkler system, to water the Greenhouse...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...which, if I'm right, means that there's a good chance it's galvanized steel.<<endd>>
[[Is that magnetic?|green:steel_magnetic]] | [[Can you test the pipe?|green:test_pipe]]


:: green:youre_welcome
<<d tay>>I meant every word.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, though, it's time to check out what kind of metals we've got here!<<endd>>
[[green:other_metal]]


:: green:big_risk
<<d tay>>Every step I take in this space station --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>upside down or right side up --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>could potentially be my last.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I've got to keep moving forward. I've got to reach that shuttle.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And if I take this walk, using the Magnetic Locking Boots...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...then it won't matter if HelpBot plays with the artificial gravity.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I should be completely stable until I reach the other side of the catwalk.<<endd>>
[[Just... please be careful.|green:careful_walk]] | [[Don't drop what you're holding.|green:dont_drop]]


:: green:careful_walk
<<d tay>>I promise.<<endd>>
[[green:ready_cross]]


:: green:ready_cross
<<d tay>>All right.<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>I've got Hydrox tucked into my suit.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Got the battery in a firm grip.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>I've got the battery in a firm grip.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Sitting on the catwalk. One boot adhered to the steel pipe.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, all I have to do is just lean forward into thin air...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and get the other boot onto the pipe, too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just... lean forward.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Come on, Taylor.<<endd>>
[[You can do this.|green:do_catwalk]] | [[Take all the time you need.|green:time_need]]


:: green:do_catwalk
<<d tay>>Okay. You're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Thanks, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
[[green:onto_pipe]]


:: green:onto_pipe
<<d tay>>Here goes nothing!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, thank God.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It worked!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The boots are attracted to the steel pipe...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I can move forward, one slow step at a time!<<endd>>
[[I'm so relieved it's working.|green:relieved_work]] | [[You've got a long way to walk.|green:long_walk]]


:: green:picture_me
<<d tay>>From now on, whenever you think of me...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...just picture me walking upside down, four stories high...<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>...with a battery in one hand and a rabbit trying to poke his head out of my suit.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>...with battery in hand and magic boots on.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>And just think to yourself, "Classic Taylor."<<endd>>
[[Sounds about right.|green:sounds_right]] | [[Okay. Concentrate on crossing the room.|green:concentrate_crossing]]


:: green:concentrate_crossing
<<d tay>>All right. I'm going silent until I've reached the other side.<<endd>>
[[delay 10m^Taylor is advancing|green:other_end]]


:: green:schwimmer
<<d t2>>Oh, wow, next you'll tell us the monkey was the real star of the show.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There's only one way to settle this.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I say we drop everything and watch the entire series right now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What do you say, HelpBot? Can you hook us up with a stream to binge?<<endd>>
Sure. I'll just need your credit card information.
<<d t2>>What, you can't just pirate it from some torrent site?<<endd>>
Excuse you. I'm a rogue, borderline sociopathic artificial intelligence. <i>Not</i> a criminal.
<<d t2>>I weirdly respect that.<<endd>>
[[The monkey <i>was</i> pretty great.|green:monkey_great]] | [[All right, enough small talk.|green:small_talk]]


:: green:monkey_great
<<d t2>>...And now it's clear that someone in <i>your</i> past hurt <i>you</i> deeply.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Possibly with a monkey.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Okay, here's a sentence I never thought I'd have to say, but...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...enough monkey talk, already!<<endd>>
[[green:small_talk]]


:: green:see_soon
[T2 is exploring solo]
[[green:taylor_assess]]


:: green:i_understand
<<d tay>>Right, I'm sure you've got it.<<endd>>
[[green:how_it_works]]


:: green:like_what
<<d tay>>Well, for one thing, we're always doing microgravity experiments on plants.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We'll do microgravity experiments on just about anything, honestly.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But another interesting thing I know they've done...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...is to measure the positive psychological effects on crew members.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just having something <i>alive</i>, something colorful --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>something that marks the seasons, something that needs to be taken care of --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>can be hugely beneficial during months-long stays out in space.<<endd>>
[[That makes good sense.|green:good_sense]] | [[Plus, they can grow their own food.|green:for_food]]


:: green:hate_lettuce
<<d tay>>Do I--?! What?!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No! I mean, what's to hate?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's 96% water! It's basically just crunchy Gatorade!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But no. The problem is, I saw something moving in the vents again!<<endd>>
[[green:must_be_occupier]]


:: green:must_be_occupier
<<d tay>>It's got to be that advanced Green occupier T2 was carting around.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And if that thing comes at me, I don't have any real way to defend myself here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I could try throwing tomatoes at it...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I think that only works on court jesters and people with tomato allergies.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, hey, speaking of my evil twin...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I should let T2 know I've got a Li-ion battery!<<endd>>
[[Good idea!|green:good_battery]] | [[No. Worry about the occupier now.|green:worry_occupier]]


:: green:worry_occupier
<<d tay>>Oh, believe me, I'm worried about it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But right now, there seems to be a tenuous peace between T2 and me...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and maybe, whatever "hive mind" connection T2 still has to the Greens...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...will be enough to keep the occupier at bay while we make our escape from <i>Celadon Ace</i>.<<endd>>
[[I guess that makes sense.|green:makes_sense]] | [[Or else they team up against you.|green:team_up]]


:: green:makes_sense
<<d tay>>I just have to hope that there's more "Taylor" than "Green" in T2's head and heart.<<endd>>
<<if $m1t2 == food and $m2t2 == fuel>>
<<d tay>>I mean, you went on both the food mission and the battery mission with T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>After spending that much time together, hopefully you managed to break through...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and maybe T2's small, Grinchy heart grew three sizes this day?<<endd>>
<<elseif $m1t2 == food or $m2t2 == fuel>>
<<d tay>>I mean, you kept T2 company on a mission.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hopefully, the two of you bonded a little, right?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe you broke through T2's hard candy shell to the friendly nougat inside?<<endd>>
<<else>>
<<d tay>>You know, maybe it's a shame you didn't go on a mission with T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You're so good at talking sense when situations are dissolving into nonsense...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...maybe you could have helped nudge T2 onto the side of the angels.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I guess we'll never know. We'll just have to hope for the best.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Anyway, I'm gonna call and check T2's progress.<<endd>>
[[green:call_t2]]
//Reference to "How The Grinch Stole Christmas"


:: green:call_t2
<<d tay>>Come in, T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This is, uh, <i>you</i>, but nicer.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What's your status?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Like our favorite <i>Friends</i> actor, I'm just waiting for the pain pills to kick in.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Wait... who's your favorite <i>Friends</i> actor?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Matthew Perry, obviously. Hold on, who's yours?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Jennifer Aniston!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>For real?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We're the same person! How can we have different favorite <i>Friends</i> actors?!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I think it's clear that someone in your past hurt you deeply.<<endd>>
[[You're both wrong. It's Schwimmer.|green:schwimmer]] | [[Enough small talk already!|green:small_talk]]


:: green:walk_around
<<d tay>>I don't know... that might be trickier than you think.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The way it's designed, it's not one single walkway around the perimeter.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's a multilevel thing, with stairs and outcroppings and whatnot.<<endd>>
<<if $hydroxescaped == true>>
<<d tay>>There's got to be a better -- WHOA! <i>Holy crap!</i><<endd>>
[[What's wrong?|green:wrong_veggies]] | [[Are you hurt?|green:hurt_veggies]]
<<else>><<d tay>>Although... there <i>is</i> another option.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[green:third_option]]


:: green:third_option
<<d tay>>Well, there's a ladder next to the door that runs up the side wall...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and leads to a narrow catwalk up near the ceiling.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It would take some effort, of course, but it's a straight path...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...up, across, and then down the ladder on the opposite wall.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>None of the vegetation reaches up quite that high, so I'd be in the clear.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Honestly, given all my options, I think this one makes the most sense.<<endd>>
[[All right, then. Go for it.|green:go_catwalk]] | [[What if you fall from that height?|green:fall_height]]


:: green:fall_height
<<d tay>>Well... given the multilevel floor arrangement at the base of this pod...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and measuring by the tallest plants, like the bamboo, that nearly reach the ceiling...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I would estimate that a fall from the catwalk would be thirty-five, maybe forty feet.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Like falling out of a four-story building!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>How bad could <i>that</i> possibly feel?<<endd>>
[[Dead. Dead bad.|green:dead_bad]] | [[Just... be careful.|green:just_careful]]


:: green:dead_bad
<<d tay>>Huh.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah, that sounds pretty bad.<<endd>>
[[green:just_careful]]


:: green:helpbot_interferes
<<d tay>>It's been a slow climb, but I'm nearly to the catwalk.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just have to make sure I don't --<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Whoa!</i> What the hell?!<<endd>>
[[What's wrong, Taylor?|green:wrong_ladder]] | [[Are you hurt?|green:ladder_hurt]]


:: green:ladder_hurt
Taylor isn't hurt.
This is all just part of the experiment.
<<d tay>>Not my favorite part!<<endd>>
[[green:footloose]]


:: green:drop_battery
<<d tay>>I appreciate your prioritizing my well-being...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but if I drop the battery, this has all been for nothing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just... gimme a second, here, to get myself situated...<<endd>>
[[Okay. Get back on that ladder.|green:back_ladder]] | [[Can you just float to the catwalk?|green:float_catwalk]]


:: green:back_ladder
<<d tay>>I'm doing my best. No one told me I'd have to engage my core muscles for this.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've missed -- let's see -- <i>every</i> gym day since I took off for space.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(Yup. Sure, Taylor. Blame space for that.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Okay. Nearly there, and... contact!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now I can kind of hop up the steps until I get to the start of the catwalk.<<endd>>
[[Take your time.|green:take_time]] | [[Get a move on!|green:move_on]]


:: green:move_on
<<d tay>>Hey, any time you want to climb a forty-foot ladder...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...in zero gravity, with only one free hand...<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>...carting a rabbit with sharp nails and, I'm guessing, an acute fear of heights...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...you are more than welcome to swap places with me and "get a move on."<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>...you are more than welcome to swap places with me and "get a move on."<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Get on all the moves you want.<<endd>>
[[green:at_platform]]


:: green:high_catwalk
<<d tay>>I estimate it's about forty feet from the catwalk to the floor.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But then, the floor is multilevel to accommodate tiered gardens...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so, some spots it's a little less than forty. Some spots, more.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Why?<<endd>>
[[Nothing. Just... be extra careful.|green:extra_careful]] | [[I just hate heights.|green:hate_heights]]



:: green:hate_heights
<<d tay>>Aw, this isn't so bad.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just think of it like a four-story building.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>People fall off of those and survive all the time, right?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, wait. Not "people."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"Batman."<<endd>>
[[I wish you luck, caped crusader.|green:go_ahead]] | [[What'd you say the catwalk's made of?|green:made_catwalk]]


:: green:steel_magnetic
<<d tay>>Steel? It certainly should be.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Assuming, like I said, that it's galvanized.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If it's, say, austenitic, then it won't be magnetic...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but we'll deal with that problem if it happens.<<endd>>
[[green:test_pipe]]


:: green:test_pipe
<<d tay>>If I just take a seat here on the catwalk...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I can bend my leg enough to see whether the boot is attracted to the sprinkler pipe.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Closer... closer...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<i>contact!</i><<endd>>
[[It works?|green:pipe_works]] | [[But the pipe's under the catwalk?|green:under_catwalk]]


:: green:under_catwalk
<<d tay>>Yeah... there's no way for me to lock onto the steel pipe...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...other than to walk <i>upside down</i> over the entire Greenhouse.<<endd>>
[[You can't be serious.|green:not_serious]] | [[It's a big risk, Taylor.|green:big_risk]]


:: green:time_need
<<d tay>>Thanks. I just need to take a couple of deep breaths.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And maybe a couple more.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And then one last one, real gulpy and overdramatic.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Okay. Done.<<endd>>
[[green:onto_pipe]]


:: green:other_end
<<d tay>>I made it!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That was one of the scarier things I've done in my space travels!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I kept having to remind myself not to look down...<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>...and also that "down" was "up."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And even though I kept reassuring Hydrox that everything was okay...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'm beginning to suspect he's not totally fluent in English.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>He is, however, <i>quite</i> proficient at digging his claws into me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's adorably painful!<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>...and also that "down" was "up."<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>But the main thing is, I beat this phase of HelpBot's "experiment."<<endd>>
[[Awesome job!|green:awesome_job]] | [[Take that, computer!|green:take_computer]]


:: green:awesome_job
<<d tay>>Thanks!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm pretty proud of the methodology, if I'm being honest.<<endd>>
[[green:take_computer]]


:: green:get_going
<<d tay>>Right. Before HelpBot has a chance to introduce any new variables.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Here we go. Pulling myself along the railing with my one free hand.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Without gravity, my feet are just free-floating... kinda useless, really.<<endd>>
<<if $magboots == true>>[[Sounds like a pain.|green:sounds_pain]] | [[Wait... can't you solve that?|green:solve_boots]]
<<else>>[[Sounds like a pain.|green:sounds_pain]] | [[Just protect that battery.|green:protect_battery]]<<endif>>


:: green:solve_boots
<<d tay>>Wait, how am I supposed to "solve it," exactly?<<endd>>
[[Come on, figure it out...|green:figure_out]] | [[Maybe check your feet.|green:check_feet]]


:: green:okay_catwalk
Restoring artificial gravity.
<<d tay>>What?! No!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh my God, no!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I... I <i>dropped it!</i><<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>>[[The rabbit?!|green:dropped_bunny]] | [[The battery?!|green:dropped_battery]]
<<else>>[[The battery?!|green:dropped_battery]] | [[Oh, no.|green:oh_battery]]<<endif>>


:: green:dropped_bunny
<<d tay>>No, no, not the rabbit.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(Thank God.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The battery.<<endd>>
[[green:shatter_battery]]



:: green:not_serious
<<d tay>>I'm serious as a panic attack.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Which I am desperately trying to talk myself out of having.<<endd>>
[[green:big_risk]]


:: green:step_one
<<set $loctay = green>>
<<set $loct2 = hub>>
<<d tay>>Oh. Wow. This is just... breathtaking.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Wait, scratch that. It's actually the complete opposite.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's breath-<i>giving</i>.<<endd>>
[[What do you mean?|green:what_mean]] | [[Oh. I think I understand.|green:i_understand]]


:: green:how_it_works
<<d tay>>One of the main reasons these plants are here...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...is to exchange carbon dioxide for oxygen.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's a perfectly reciprocal relationship with the crew.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>In fact, the Greenhouse improves the air quality overall by absorbing noxious smells...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and believe me, T2 and I both smell plenty noxious after our tours of duty.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But there are a number of other reasons to keep all these plants around, too.<<endd>>
[[Like what?|green:like_what]] | [[For food, maybe?|green:for_food]]


:: green:small_talk
<<d t2>>Okay. You're right.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor, what's your status right now?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I made it through the Tech Lab without HelpBot springing any surprises on me --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>unless the lack of surprises <i>was</i> the surprise?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyway, I've got a Li-ion battery in my possession...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I've just stepped into the Greenhouse.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So if you're holding a battery, then that means...<<endd>>
<<if $batterytalk == true>><<d t2>>...I don't need to risk yanking the one out of the energy net generator, right?<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>...I don't need to drive myself crazy searching the forward pods for one, right?<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>I'd agree. I think you can start heading aft, and catch up with me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Right? What do you think, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
[[Right. T2, get moving aft.|green:t2_aft]] | [[A backup battery's not a bad idea...|green:backup_idea]]


:: green:t2_aft
<<d t2>>All right. I'm gonna rest a minute more, and then I'll get moving.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor, just... stay alert.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>HelpBot's taken it too easy on us so far. Lulled us into a false sense of security.<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>I</i> don't feel secure.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean, all things being relative.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Just keep your head on a swivel and your eyes peeled...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...because I'll need you to tell me where all the booby traps are.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh good. I'm a human minesweeper. That was always the dream.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Happy to oblige. I'll see you when I get there.<<endd>>
[[Sounds good. See you soon.|green:see_soon]] | [[Wait, ask about the occupier!|green:ask_occupier]]


:: green:taylor_assess
<<set $loct2 = fore4>>
<<d tay>>Okay, <<print $playername>>. Looks like it's you, me, and a bunch of overgrown vegetation.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I already mentioned the fruits and veggies...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but there's all sorts of flora here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Palm trees, and giant ferns, and those elephant-ear plants...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and everything's huge and healthy. It fills almost the whole pod, top to bottom!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And we've got to get to the other side.<<endd>>
[[Walk around the plants.|green:walk_around]] | [[Cut straight through the plants.|green:straight_through]]


:: green:shatter_battery
<<d tay>>I just saw it shatter into a hundred pieces in the succulent garden below me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm gonna... sorry, I need a few minutes to myself.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll get back to you in just a little bit.<<endd>>
[[delay 12m^Taylor is having an existential crisis|green:after_shatter]]


:: green:after_shatter
<<set $loct2 = fore2>>
<<d tay>>Okay. I'm back.<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>There may or may not have been some angry weeping going on over the last several minutes.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Bunny fur is good for absorbing tears.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>There may or may not have been some angry weeping going on over the last several minutes.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>But what's done is done. I guess I'd better break the bad news to T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I can't imagine this is going to go well.<<endd>>
[[Right. You need to tell T2.|green:tell_shattered]] | [[Hold off on telling T2 for now.|green:dont_tell_t2]]


:: green:take_computer
Impressive choices, to be sure.
You're smarter than the average lab rabbit, aren't you, Taylor?
<<d tay>>Here's hoping.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, I think we can all agree that we've spent enough time in the Greenhouse...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...so let's keep moving aft, to whatever's next.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I think that'll be... the Cupola?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I look forward to remembering what that word means.<<endd>>
[[It's like a dome.|cupola:like_dome]] | [[You'll see in a second.|cupola:see_second]]


:: green:what_mean
<<d tay>>It's pretty clever in its simplicity.<<endd>>
[[green:how_it_works]]


:: green:for_food
<<d tay>>Yeah, you bet!<<endd>>
[[green:food_movement]]


:: green:food_movement
<<d tay>>The crew might get minimal restocks of fruits and vegetables...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but growing their own would give them unbeatable freshness and variety.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Looks like they've got carrots, maybe radishes, corn, a couple types of lettuce --<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Oh crap!</i><<endd>>
[[What's wrong?|green:whats_wrong]] | [[Do you hate lettuce?|green:hate_lettuce]]


:: green:whats_wrong
<<d tay>>I saw something moving in the vent grate again!<<endd>>
[[green:must_be_occupier]]


:: green:good_battery
<<d tay>>Cool, I'm glad you think so too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If T2 is still on a battery hunt, this will help wrap things up.<<endd>>
[[green:call_t2]]


:: green:extra_careful
<<d tay>>I'm always extra careful.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So much so that it really kind of negates the word "extra."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"Extra" is my "regular."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So, I'll be regular careful.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe even a little sloppy.<<endd>>
[[Perfect. Go right ahead.|green:go_ahead]] | [[What'd you say the catwalk's made of?|green:made_catwalk]]


:: green:straight_through
<<d tay>>I don't know... you'd have to see this place.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I think I'd need a machete to make much headway through this jungle.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There are enough thick leaves and low branches to endlessly knock me down.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If a Taylor falls in a forest and no one hears it... does it make a sound?<<endd>>
<<if $hydroxescaped == true>>
<<d tay>>There's got to be a better -- WHOA! <i>Holy crap!</i><<endd>>
[[What's wrong?|green:wrong_veggies]] | [[Are you hurt?|green:hurt_veggies]]
<<else>><<d tay>>Although... there <i>is</i> another option.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[green:third_option]]



:: green:hurt_veggies
<<d tay>>Not hurt, just startled.<<endd>>
[[green:wrong_veggies]]


:: green:go_catwalk
<<d tay>>Call me Selina Kyle, because I'm going for the catwalk!<<endd>>
[[green:hands_full]]
//Selina Kyle is the secret identity of DC Comics character Catwoman.


:: green:hands_full
<<set $loct2 = fore2>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>I'm going to have to tuck Hydrox into my suit somehow.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's going to be a hard enough climb with the battery in one hand.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>It's going to be a tough climb with this battery in my hand.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Here, give me a few minutes to shimmy up this ladder.<<endd>>
[[delay 5m^Taylor is climbing|green:helpbot_interferes]]


:: green:pipe_works
<<d tay>>It works!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But as usual, solving one problem means introducing another.<<endd>>
[[green:under_catwalk]]


:: green:protect_battery
<<d tay>>Yeah, of course. Everything I'm doing is about protecting the battery.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Here goes. Pulling myself along the railing, slowly but surely.<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>The rabbit is, uh... really starting to kick up a storm.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And I don't think anyone has trimmed the little guy's nails in <i>quite</i> a while...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...just... hey, Hydrox, please calm down, buddy... please!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've got to keep at least one hand free, so please stop... wriggling...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Wait! <i>Whoa!</i><<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Wait! <i>Whoa!</i><<endd>><<endif>>
[[What happened?|green:what_catwalk]] | [[Is everything okay?|green:okay_catwalk]]


:: green:dropped_battery
<<d tay>>Yeah.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I dropped the battery.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The thing I <i>swore</i> I wasn't going to drop.<<endd>>
[[green:shatter_battery]]


:: green:part_test
You'll never know.
Also, "malevolent" makes me sound so... malicious. Harmful. Injurious.
<<d tay>>I think that's the thesaurus entry for "malevolent," yes.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So, am I supposed to bring the rabbit with me?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or would that lead to something malicious, harmful, and injurious?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or is this not a part of your experiment at all? Just a random rabbit?<<endd>>
You'll never know.
[[Hell with it. Bring the bunny.|green:bring_bunny]] | [[Just leave the rabbit where it is.|green:leave_rabbit]]


:: green:trophy_rabbit
<<set $bunny = true>>
<<d tay>>It's a new record. And the trophy is a rabbit.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And since I don't enjoy being "shoved around," how about I just bring it with me?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Sounds good.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And, uh...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...thank you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah. Of course.<<endd>>
[[green:way_through]]


:: green:sounds_pain
<<d tay>>It's more cumbersome than anything else.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm trying to make my way across the pod's entire span...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I feel like the lower half of my body is just ballast.<<endd>>
<<if $magboots == true>>[[Can't you solve that?|green:solve_boots]] | [[Maybe check your feet.|green:check_feet]]
<<else>>[[green:protect_battery]]<<endif>>


:: green:what_catwalk
<<d tay>>Unless I miss my guess, HelpBot picked the worst possible time and is...<<endd>>
[[green:okay_catwalk]]


:: green:dont_tell_t2
<<set $loct2 = aft1>>
<<d tay>>What? I mean... I've got to say <i>something!</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>When T2 shows up and I don't have the battery, it'll be pretty obvious, don't you think?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor, this is T2, over.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm in the aft lab -- so far, so good, such famous last words --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>and then I'll be caught up to you in the Greenhouse.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Everything going okay?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Well, uh, just had a little snag in the plan, but --
<<d t2>>Oh, crap. You sound exactly like <i>I</i> do when I've got bad news.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Whoa. It's like you've got a sixth sense.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm... pretty sure hearing is one of the normal five.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So... what's the news?<<endd>>
[[Tell the truth.|green:tell_truth]] | [[Make up something small.|green:make_small]]


:: green:tell_shattered
<<set $loct2 = aft1>>
<<d tay>>Here goes nothing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, uh, T2. You read me?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I do. You sound exactly like <i>I</i> do when I've got bad news.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Whoa. It's like you've got a sixth sense.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm... pretty sure hearing is one of the normal five.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So... what's the news?<<endd>>
[[Tell the truth.|green:tell_truth]] | [[Make up something small.|green:make_small]]


:: green:sweet_saying
<<set $moviemom = true>>
<<d tay>>Yeah, well. Our mom was -- <i>is!</i> -- a sweet person.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>She had all kinds of homespun wisdom like that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I used to tell her it reminded me of The Sphinx, from that movie <i>Mystery Men</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And she'd never seen the film, but she promised me it was "the very next one" she'd be watching.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Every movie I suggested. Every single time. And it made both of us laugh...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...because we both knew she was never in a million years going to watch any of them.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It just became her automatic response, like saying "bless you" after a sneeze.<<endd>>
[[You're right, that sounds sweet.|green:too_sweet]] | [[Must've been a lot of movies.|green:many_movies]]


:: green:backup_idea
<<if $batterytalk == true>>
<<d t2>>Yeah, well, it's not a <i>great</i> idea, either...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...or did you forget about HelpBot's fun little oxygen purge the last time I tried?<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Well, that sounds like a lot of redundant work on my part.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The one battery we already have should be plenty, right?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The one that Taylor's currently in charge of protecting?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean, as long as it's not in the hands of a total klutz --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>YES I HEARD IT OUT LOUD TOO. WE ARE DOOMED.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey! You just insulted me so hard, I almost dropped the battery!<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Look, in my opinion, one battery is plenty.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>In the <i>highly unlikely</i> event that something happens to this one...<<endd>>
<<if $batterytalk == true>><<d tay>>...at least we know where another one is.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And that it's a death trap. But then again...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...what isn't?<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>...then we can double back and look for one in the Ring.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[Okay. T2, head aft.|green:t2_aft]] | [[I still say, get a backup battery.|green:get_backup]]


:: green:get_backup
<<d t2>>Here's where I try my best to use text to communicate a prolonged, world-weary sigh.<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>Galaxy</i>-weary, if we're being honest.<<endd>>
<<if $batterytalk == true>>
<<d t2>>But, fine. As far as you know, I'm heading back up to the station's Ring.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Since there's no way to know what kind of "rules" HelpBot has dreamt up...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...maybe I won't die trying to grab a battery this time.<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>Maybe</i>.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>But, fine. As far as you know, I'm heading fore, to the station's Ring.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll give it a cursory look-see, but I'm not expecting to find much --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>and certainly not a fully charged Lithium-ion battery --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>so I imagine I'll catch up with you and Taylor soon.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>Anyway. If you don't hear from me again, it's because I died.<<endd>>
[[Likewise.|green:likewise_died]] | [[Good luck, T2.|green:luck_t2]]


:: green:luck_t2
<<d t2>>Not to sound like a "Very Special Episode" of <i>Saved By The Bell</i> or anything...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but if we all keep working together, we might just make it through this.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Team Taylor!
<<d t2>>Hate the name. I'm out.<<endd>>
[T2 is exploring solo]
[[green:taylor_assess]]


:: green:wrong_veggies
<<d tay>>There's something here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Something... moving in the vegetable garden!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It has to be the occupier!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This is my chance! My chance to... uh...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...what sort of chance should I take?<<endd>>
[[Sneak up on it and kill it!|green:sneak_kill]] | [[Run while it's distracted!|green:run_distracted]]


:: green:oh_battery
<<d tay>>Oh.<<endd>>
[[green:dropped_battery]]


:: green:run_distracted
<<d tay>>Look, every last muscle fiber in my body agrees, it's time to run...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but, scared as I am, I'm still thinking like a scientist.<<endd>>
[[green:scientist_plan]]


:: green:horrible_idea
<<d tay>>You're right, you're right, I know you're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hell, for all I know, this is one of HelpBot's "tests," somehow.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Are you enjoying this, you sicko computer?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You like watching me chase my tail and slowly go nuts?<<endd>>
Eh. You're mildly entertaining, but if I'm being honest...
...the "T2 Show" on the other channel is appointment viewing.
It's life-or-death stakes every couple of minutes, over there!
<<d tay>>Oh, boy. I guess we'd better focus on our own business, huh, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I <i>know</i> it's a bad idea, but I've got to at least check out the situation...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...see if it's even <i>possible</i> to capture the ugly little thing.<<endd>>
[[Okay, fine. For science's sake.|green:science_try]] | [[Just be really, really careful.|green:really_careful]]


:: green:sure_occupier
<<d tay>>What else could it be?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Whatever it is, I'm going to turn the corner and grab it now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Really</i> second-guessing this plan, and --<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>OH MY GOD!</i><<endd>>
[[What?! What did you grab?|green:what_grab]] | [[Did it hurt you?|green:did_hurt]]


:: green:did_hurt
<<d tay>>Not... not really...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I wasn't expecting it to kick back against me!<<endd>>
[[green:what_grab]]


:: green:name_hydrox
<<set loct2 = fore2>>
<<d tay>>Wait, <<print $playername>>, how could you possibly know that?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because we went on a little field trip together, to the fore labs.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And in the Bio Lab, there was an open rabbit cage...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...labeled for a male, about a year old, named Hydrox.<<endd>>
[[green:hydrox_survived]]


:: green:hydrox_survived
<<d tay>>Oh, like the black-and-white cookie. Cute.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>He must have survived all this time on the Greenhouse's veggies.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And water from that room where water drips from the ceiling and there are chains everywhere.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Every space station has one of <i>those</i> rooms, right?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So... now that I've got him, what do I do with him?<<endd>>
[[He's happy and healthy. Leave him be.|green:leave_rabbit]] | [[Bring him with you.|green:bring_rabbit]]


:: green:bring_rabbit
<<d tay>>I kinda want to!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>He's got to be lonely up here. He relaxed into me almost immediately.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I've never taken care of a rabbit under the best of circumstances...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...much less on a mad dash to escape from the experiments of a malevolent A.I.<<endd>>
[[Maybe Hydrox is part of the test?|green:part_test]] | [[Maybe it's better to leave him be.|green:leave_rabbit]]


:: green:bring_bunny
<<set $bunny = true>>
<<d tay>>I'm bringing him!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This is a crazy idea. I'm far too young to be a parent, even to a bunny!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I guess nature knows when it's time.<<endd>>
[[green:way_through]]


:: green:take_violence
<<d tay>>Aw. You were heartfelt for almost ten whole seconds before threatening violence!<<endd>>
[[green:trophy_rabbit]]


:: green:many_movies
<<d tay>>Dozens? Hundreds?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Until recently, I would've had no idea.<<endd>>
[[green:movies_sweet]]


:: green:too_sweet
<<d tay>>Oh, wait, you haven't heard the whole thing.<<endd>>
[[green:movies_sweet]]


:: green:movies_sweet
<<d tay>>Here's the kicker: One day, at my folks' house, I was looking for a binder clip --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>actually, it was to send in some paperwork for this whole space travel debacle --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>and I checked a drawer in my mom's desk, and you know what I found?<<endd>>
[[A binder clip?|green:binder_clip]] | [[No, what did you find?|green:what_find]]


:: green:binder_clip
<<d tay>>Yes, yup, that's right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That's the entire story. I found a binder clip.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I am very good at stories.<<endd>>
[[delay 30s^Taylor is taking deep, calming breaths|green:calm_breaths]]


:: green:calm_breaths
<<d tay>>No. Of <i>course</i> there's more to the story than that!<<endd>>
[[green:what_find]]


:: green:birthday_gift
<<d tay>>Yeah.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It was just to show, she'd been paying attention the whole time.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'd thought we were just being silly... but it meant something real to her.<<endd>>
[[green:good_dinner]]


:: green:tell_birthday
<<d tay>>That's a promise I hope to keep.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, have you noticed...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...T2 didn't seem too bothered about the busted battery.<<endd>>
[[Yeah, I did notice that.|green:yeah_player]] | [[Huh. Wonder what that's about.|green:wonder_battery]]


:: green:make_small
<<d tay>>Okay. Okay! Good idea!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2! Roger! Over! Rover!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>One tiny issue, probably not worth mentioning:<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I tried to walk through the Greenhouse, but I took one step off the path...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I accidentally stepped on a butterfly, and it...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it created an alternate timeline where Ray Bradbury never wrote "A Sound Of Thunder."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's horrible! Now you can never explain this story to them!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Ha! Right?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Come on, Taylor. We tell lame little jokes to cover big scary problems.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What's the issue?<<endd>>
[[green:tell_truth]]


:: green:tell_truth
<<d tay>>Well, it's gonna come out sometime.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I dropped the battery. It smashed.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It was some kind of test from HelpBot -- about balance, I guess, or adaptation --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>and I failed.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It was an accident, obviously, but still...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hey. It's fine.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>What was it mom always used to say?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"A mistake is something you do, not something you are."<<endd>>
[[That's a sweet saying.|green:sweet_saying]] | [[T2's not taking the battery news too hard.|green:battery_easy]]


:: green:likewise_died
<<d t2>><i>There's</i> that trademark <<print $playername>> optimism!<<endd>>
[[green:luck_t2]]


:: green:sneak_kill
<<d tay>>Uh... <i>kill</i> it?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, yes, I understand what happens if it gets inside me, but still...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I guess I can't help but come at this problem as a scientist.<<endd>>
[[green:scientist_plan]]


:: green:scientist_plan
<<d tay>>This may be my only opportunity to capture this creature!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If I can make it back to Earth with this "evolved" occupier...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I could... <i>it</i> could... change everything we know about alien life!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I owe it to science to at least <i>try</i> to collect it... right?<<endd>>
[[Okay then. Try. For science.|green:science_try]] | [[This is a horrible idea.|green:horrible_idea]]


:: green:really_careful
<<d tay>>When have I ever been anything but completely careful?!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let me just juggle this battery while I list for you the ways...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Kidding, kidding.<<endd>>
[[green:science_try]]


:: green:science_try
<<d tay>>So, we want to be very, very q--<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Nope. I almost said an Elmer Fudd thing in total seriousness...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I <i>refuse</i> to give that much of my brain over to space madness just yet.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's rooting around on the next row, in the parsley or cilantro or whatever...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...making odd little, satisfied... <i>humming</i> noises.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Like... like it's happy?<<endd>>
[[I didn't know they did that.|green:didnt_know]] | [[Are you sure it's the occupier?|green:sure_occupier]]



:: green:didnt_know
<<d tay>>Yeah, I didn't know they did this, either.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2, did you know they hum like this?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's adorably haunting.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Um, Taylor... that's not an occupier you're about to grab... it's --<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>OH MY GOD!</i><<endd>>
[[What?! What did you grab?|green:what_grab]] | [[Did it hurt you?|green:did_hurt]]


:: green:what_grab
<<d tay>>It's...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's a bunny!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A black and white Dutch-breed rabbit, like the kind used in lab experiments.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And now that it realizes I'm not going to hurt it...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it's going right back to munching parsley in my arms.<<endd>>
[[He must be used to being handled.|green:used_handled]] | [[His name is Hydrox.|green:name_hydrox]]


:: green:used_handled
<<d tay>>Yeah, I have to assume he was a lab animal here, and he managed to escape.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Good guess. There was one open cage in the Bio Lab.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The label on it said it held a male rabbit, about a year old, named Hydrox.<<endd>>
[[green:hydrox_survived]]


:: green:leave_rabbit
<<d tay>>Yeah, I guess it makes sense to leave him here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>He's got all the vegetables he could dream of...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I certainly don't know how I'd provide for him out in space.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, he seems very friendly... and probably very smart, if he escaped his cage...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but, no, he'd only slow me down... wouldn't he?<<endd>>
[[Of course he would. Leave him be.|green:leave_two]] | [[Oh, just bring him already.|green:bring_bunny]]


:: green:leave_two
<<d t2>>Hey, Taylor?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What's up, T2?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I feel very strongly that you should bring that rabbit with you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Even if he was just a lab animal, somebody cared about him.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Just like we cared about our rats.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So, either you can take Hydrox with you right now...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...or I can pick him up when I get to the Greenhouse...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and then shove you around a little for making me work extra hard.<<endd>>
[[Take Hydrox, Taylor.|green:take_violence]] | [[Prepare to shove back, Taylor!|green:shove_back]]



:: green:shove_back
<<d tay>>Nah. There's no need for shoving.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, T2 was heartfelt for almost ten whole seconds before threatening violence!<<endd>>
[[green:trophy_rabbit]]


:: green:what_find
<<d tay>>I found a notebook.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And inside it, in my mom's very neat handwriting...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I found pages and pages of movie titles.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It had to be every single one we'd ever talked about.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And after the list, she had broken it out into smaller subcategories...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and she had written little one- or two-page reviews of the ones she had watched.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And, <<print $playername>>, she had watched a <i>ton</i> of them.<<endd>>
[[Okay, now <i>that's</i> sweet.|green:very_sweet]] | [[What was the logic there?|green:movie_logic]]


:: green:very_sweet
<<d tay>>Right?<<endd>>
[[green:movie_logic]]


:: green:movie_logic
<<d tay>>She had questions for each one -- I mean, really thoughtful stuff.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Digging into theme, and cross-referencing big ideas, and comparing musical scores.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>She'd highlighted her favorite jokes, or lines that didn't make sense to her...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and in one of the margins, she'd scribbled down a place and time.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>My favorite higher-end Tex-Mex restaurant. Table for two. To celebrate my birthday.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>With all the excitement in the months leading up to my space trip...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...she and I hadn't really gotten to talk that much.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So, without my knowing, she had roped off a little bit of the world...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...just so the two of us could catch up for a few hours.<<endd>>
[[So... this was her gift to you.|green:birthday_gift]] | [[Truly thoughtful. Was it a good dinner?|green:good_dinner]]


:: green:good_dinner
<<d tay>>She never said anything about it...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I never mentioned stumbling across her notebook.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I <i>did</i> eventually find a binder clip, which you probably guessed, since I made it to space.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>In fact, I was supposed to be back home before my birthday...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but since that didn't exactly work out, I guess we'll go whenever I do make it back.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And I'll just happen to mention that I was thinking about her in the station's Greenhouse...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...which reminded me of the one in the Danny Boyle movie <i>Sunshine</i>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I'll say, "I know, I know, it's the '<i>very next one</i>' you're going to watch, right?"<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And she'll be like, "It turns out I saw that one. You want to talk about it?"<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And that, my friend, will be my favorite birthday ever.<<endd>>
[[That sounds amazing.|green:amazing_birthday]] | [[Hey, T2 didn't take the battery news too hard.|green:t2_easy]]


:: green:amazing_birthday
<<d tay>>Yeah, you know... I really think it will be.<<endd>>
[[You'll have to tell me all about it.|green:tell_birthday]] | [[Notice T2's not taking the battery news too hard.|green:yeah_player]]


:: green:yeah_player
<<d tay>>Yeah, T2, <<print $playername>> is right...<<endd>>
[[green:very_easy]]


:: green:battery_easy
<<d tay>>Whoa, I -- just got a little choked up there, for no real reason.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, we'll see our family again!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or, at least one of us will meet at least one set of them.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I ...<i>think</i> that's how this works.<<endd>>
[[green:t2_easy]]


:: green:probably_t2
<<set $loct2 = green>>
<<d tay>>Hang on. Door's opening.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hey. Surprise! It's me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I heard you were feeling sad, so I brought you a present.<<endd>>
[[Is T2 actually... being nice?|green:being_nice]] | [[This could be a trick.|green:maybe_trick]]


:: green:maybe_trick
<<d tay>><i>Anything</i> on this station could be a trick.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm careening through space with only my evil twin and a computerized Loki for company.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The odds are good that <i>someone</i> is taking advantage of me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But, who knows? Maybe T2 is actually on the level here.<<endd>>
[[green:being_nice]]


:: green:nice_going
<<d tay>>Seriously, great job, T2!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now we have a fighting chance again!<<endd>>
[[green:risked_life]]


:: green:risked_life
<<d t2>>Don't be so quick to thank me. I risked your life without your even knowing.<<endd>>
[[You... what?|green:what_risk]] | [[That's not very cool.|green:not_cool]]


:: green:what_risk
<<d t2>>HelpBot warned me that it could absolutely vent all our oxygen...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and kill the both of us, if I tried to take the battery.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But I figured, hey, maybe that was just a bluff...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and if we didn't have a working battery, we'd be dead anyway, so...<<endd>>
[[You rolled the dice.|green:rolled_dice]] | [[You shouldn't have risked it.|green:no_risk]]


:: green:no_risk
<<d t2>>From a purely statistical point of view... maybe you're right, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But here's the thing:<<endd>>
[[green:rolled_dice]]


:: green:rolled_dice
<<d t2>>I did.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I got away with it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I guess it was just part of HelpBot's "experiment."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This rat stole your cheese, computer!<<endd>>
It's still a long way to the end of the maze, rat.
You'd better start scurrying.
[[Seems like solid advice.|green:solid_advice]] | [[Wait a second, before you move...|green:wait_scurry]]


:: green:wait_scurry
<<d t2>>What is it, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
[[Don't risk dropping your battery.|green:risk_drop]] | [[You should stay on the ground.|green:stay_ground]]


:: green:stay_ground
<<d tay>>Ooh. Yeah. That's a really good point.<<endd>>
[[green:risk_drop]]


:: green:what_options
<<d t2>>The shortest distance is a straight line, but the plants have grown awfully thick.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or I could try sticking to the walkways, but they're pretty circuitous...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and a lot of them have started to give way to the foliage, as well.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>From up here, it looks like one's as good an option as the other.<<endd>>
[[Cut straight through the jungle.|green:straight_jungle]] | [[Make the best of the walkways.|green:best_walkways]]


:: green:straight_jungle
<<set $t2jungle = true>>
<<d t2>>All right. Straight through the heart of the jungle. Just like Colonel Kurtz.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And probably crazy for making the attempt. Just like Colonel Kurtz.<<endd>>
<<if $moviemom == true>>
<<d tay>>Ah, <i>Apocalypse Now</i>. Another one on mom's list.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That's going to make for some light, breezy dinnertime discussion.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>What, did you <i>just</i> watch <i>Apocalypse Now</i>?<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>Look, I'm going to concentrate on getting to the other side...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...so maybe let's keep the chatter to a minimum for the next little while, okay?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This will be enough of a challenge as it is.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't need you listing Marlon Brando's whole filmography for me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Fine, fine. We can stick purely to <i>The Island Of Dr. Moreau</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Enough material there to last us <i>hours</i>.<<endd>>
[[green:focus_safely]]


:: green:helpbot_interrupts
Hi there! HelpBot QTC here.
Don't mind me. I'm just here in the background, adjusting variables.
For example, now I'm switching the artificial gravity back off for the Greenhouse pod.
<<d tay>>Wait, n--<<endd>>
Have a great day!
<<d tay>>Crap! Crap! Crap in a hat!<<endd>>
[[Taylor, are you all right?|green:taylor_gravity]] | [[What is T2's status?|green:t2_gravity]]


:: green:taylor_gravity
<<d tay>>I'm... okay. Just knocked off my feet, a bit.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Thankfully, I'd learned my lesson.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I was gripping the handrail for dear life.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm almost to the far wall. I've just got to pull myself the rest of the way...<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>...and then hop down the ladder.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Speaking of hopping, Hydrox is <i>not</i> a fan of these gravity shifts.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Put that in your notes, you psycho computer. Gah!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm getting some very clear, bite-oriented feedback here.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>...and then hop down the ladder.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[You're going to make it.|green:make_it]] | [[How is T2 faring?|green:t2_gravity]]


:: green:make_it
<<d tay>>Yes. That is definitely the outcome I'm hoping for, as well.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I'm only half of this equation.<<endd>>
[[green:t2_gravity]]


:: green:fire_bad
<<d tay>>No kidding.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2, you've got to get through there before the whole place catches fire!<<endd>>
[[green:out_jungle]]


:: green:right_save
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>Okay, Hydrox, I'm offloading you by the pod door.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If I don't make it back... you're going to have to power up that shuttle by yourself.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You seem like a smart bunny, so I'm counting on you.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Okay. I'm leaving my safe spot here by the pod door.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>With any luck, I'll be back here soon.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[green:going_in]]


:: green:understand_rescue
<<d tay>>Cool.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You'll see. This will work out fine.<<endd>>
[[green:right_save]]


:: green:going_in
<<d tay>>All right. Here goes nothing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2! If you can hear me, shout out!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm coming in to help you through the fire!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>*--skkkkk--*<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2? Say again?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hold on. I'm coming.<<endd>>
[[delay 3m^Taylor is searching|green:t2_rescue]]


:: green:burn_death
<<set $burndeath = true>>
[ieva suit sensors indicate dangerously high temperature]
[suit integrity compromised]
[dermal loss detected]
[fluid loss detected]
[connection lost]
[[END]]


:: green:t2_easy
<<d tay>>But yeah, T2, <<print $playername>> is right...<<endd>>
[[green:very_easy]]


:: green:wonder_battery
<<d tay>>Me too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2, can you read me?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Loud and clear.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A point was made in our conversation over here...<<endd>>
[[green:very_easy]]


:: green:very_easy
<<d tay>>...you're awfully calm about my losing our only working battery.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's because <i>I</i> know something <i>you</i> don't.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Great. That was nice and ominous...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and now there's a pounding on the hatch door from the Aft Lab.<<endd>>
[[It's probably just T2.|green:probably_t2]] | [[Be ready for anything, even an attack.|green:even_attack]]


:: green:even_attack
<<d tay>>"Ready For Anything" is the name of the cake I bake every day.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And "Even An Attack" is just the frosting on top.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That's my delicious way of envisioning the constant danger I'm living through.<<endd>>
[[green:probably_t2]]


:: green:being_nice
<<d tay>>Okay, T2, I'll bite... what'd you bring?<<endd>>
<<if $batterytalk == true>>
<<d t2>>Well, it just so happens that in my previous explorations...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I ran across a working Li-ion battery as part of the energy net.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So I figured I'd run back up to the fore labs and grab it.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Well, I took a little time to explore before heading aft...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and it turns out there was a Li-ion battery up in one of the fore labs.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It was part of the energy net assembly.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I say <i>was</i> because I went ahead and grabbed it for us.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>You know, just in case we needed a spare.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Like if, say, you dropped yours from fifty feet off the ground.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Which was actually the number one most likely scenario I could envision.<<endd>>
[[Nice going, T2!|green:nice_going]] | [[You <i>are</i> a butterfingers, Taylor.|green:butterfingers]]


:: green:butterfingers
<<d tay>>I mean, okay, <i>yes</i>, I think we can agree on that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But T2 <i>is</i> me!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So doesn't it stand to reason that T2 would be a butterfingers as well?!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Nobody transforms from Johnny English to James Bond in a week!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But, uh... be that as it may...<<endd>>
[[Still a boss move on T2's part.|green:nice_going]] | [[Maybe T2 should hold this battery.|green:t2_hold]]


:: green:t2_hold
<<d tay>>Yeah, yeah.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Everybody loves T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's just like on that TV show about that guy Raymond...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and how much everybody loves Raymond.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I forget what the show was called. I just remember how everybody felt about Raymond.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Aw, forget it. I'll never remember the title.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyhow.<<endd>>
[[green:nice_going]]
//The TV show is, of course, "Everybody Loves Raymond."


:: green:not_cool
<<d t2>>Of <i>course</i> it's cool.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm the villain, remember? By default, everything the villain does is cool.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Darth Vader cuts off Luke's hand? Cool.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The dad from <i>That '70s Show</i> blows off RoboCop's hand? Very cool.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Pennywise the Dancing Clown bites off little Georgie Denbrough's hand? Coo--<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You know, I feel like I've steered myself into a narrow alleyway of examples, here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But you get the idea.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm cool.<<endd>>
[[Taylor, guard your hands!|green:guard_hands]] | [[You're not such a villain, T2.|green:not_villain]]


:: green:not_villain
<<d t2>>Why? Because the things I'm doing are helpful to Taylor, too?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Mere coincidence, I assure you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If I had a lightsaber, or a... a sewer clown, I guess...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...this would be a whole different story.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anyway, yeah...
[[green:what_risk]]


:: green:guard_hands
<<d tay>>Yeah, no kidding!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Remind me never to watch <i>Arrested Development</i> with you, T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I honestly can't tell whether you'd be rooting for Buster Bluth or the loose seal.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Does <i>anybody</i> root for Buster?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anyway, yeah...<<endd>>
[[green:what_risk]]


:: green:solid_advice
<<if $bunny == true>>
<<d tay>>Something on your -- whoa, settle down, bunny!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sorry, my passenger is getting restless.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Should've upgraded to first class if you needed the extra leg room, Hydrox!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyhow. Something on your mind, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Something on your mind, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>><<endif>>
[[Don't risk dropping your battery, T2.|green:risk_drop]] | [[T2, you should stay on the ground.|green:stay_ground]]


:: green:risk_drop
<<d t2>>I see what you're getting at.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We already know what a mistake from four stories up will cost us.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And as far as we can tell, I'm holding the last working battery in this whole place.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So I'd better stay low to the ground...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and just try to make it to the other side of the Greenhouse without incident.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So, what do you figure?<<endd>>
[[What are your options?|green:what_options]] | [[What's it look like to you, Taylor?|green:look_taylor]]


:: green:look_taylor
<<d tay>>From up here, it looks like one's as good an option as the other.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The shortest distance is a straight line, but the plants have grown awfully thick.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or you could try sticking to the walkways, but they're pretty circuitous...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and a lot of them have started to give way to the foliage, as well.<<endd>>
[[Cut straight through the jungle.|green:straight_jungle]] | [[Make the best of the walkways.|green:best_walkways]]


:: green:best_walkways
<<set $t2walkways = true>>
<<d t2>>All right. The walkways. Here we go.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm just going to concentrate on getting to the other side...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...so maybe let's keep the chatter to a minimum for the next little while, okay?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This will be enough of a challenge as it is...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...without Taylor listing the "Top Ten Movies That Feature Walkways" or whatever.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, like I could narrow it down to just ten.<<endd>>
[[green:focus_safely]]


:: green:focus_safely
<<if $bunny == true>><<d t2>>You just focus on getting yourself and that rabbit across safely...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>You just focus on getting yourself across safely...<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>...and I'll meet up with you at the far door.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Deal.<<endd>>
[[delay 5m^The astronauts are on the move|green:helpbot_interrupts]]


:: green:t2_gravity
<<d tay>>T2, I've lost sight of you!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Check in with me! Please!<<endd>>
<<if $t2jungle == true>>[[green:jungle_trouble]]
<<else if $t2walkways == true>>[[green:walkways_trouble]]<<endif>>


:: green:walkways_trouble
<<d t2>>I'm here. Somewhere in the middle of this chaos.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I just barely managed to grab the railing before I floated too high...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...so now I guess I can pull myself along the walkways' path slowly.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>One of those occasions when I'm glad for the extra strength the Green gives me...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...because this could be an arm workout and a half.<<endd>>
<<if $gravitycode == true>>[[Didn't you find a code for the gravity?|green:code_jungle]] | [[Maybe switch tactics?|green:switch_jungle]]
<<else>>[[Can you switch tactics?|green:switch_jungle]] | [[Just keep moving.|green:keep_moving]]<<endif>>


:: green:other_eventually
<<d t2>>I'm just going to keep moving in what feels like a straight line...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and hope I make it to the other side eventually.<<endd>>
[[green:helpbot_overload]]


:: green:out_jungle
<<d t2>>I'm doing my best!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There's... there's smoke nearby. This is bad.<<endd>>
In such an oxygen-rich environment, and with such heavy overgrowth of the vegetation...
...those small fires should become big fires in no time.
<<d tay>>HelpBot, stop! This isn't fair!<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>>And who said science was fair?
Ask your rabbit all about the impartial methods of his handlers.
<<else>>And who said science was fair?<<endif>>
<<d tay>>This is a nightmare.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've got to get in there and help T2.<<endd>>
[[You're right!|green:right_save]] | [[No way! It's too dangerous.|green:too_dangerous]]


:: green:too_dangerous
<<d tay>>I know it's dangerous, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But it's only going to get worse, the longer I wait.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Besides, I have to think, if our roles were reversed...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...T2 would charge into the fire to rescue me.<<endd>>
[[Only to infect you afterward.|green:infect_after]] | [[You'd be crazy to charge in there.|green:crazy_charge]]


:: green:crazy_charge
<<d tay>>Yeah. Probably.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I have to do it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That's another human being in there, give or take.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>One that I actually have a <i>ton</i> in common with.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So if I didn't make some kind of an attempt at a rescue?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm not sure I could live with myself.<<endd>>
[[Okay. I understand.|green:understand_rescue]] | [[Please don't go into the fire.|green:no_fire]]


:: green:no_fire
<<d tay>>Maybe... maybe you're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, so far, I've trusted your decisions and done what you suggested.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But this... this is beyond the pale.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Knowingly diving into a raging inferno... it's just too much.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll just wait a minute or two, at least. Make sure T2 gets out okay.<<endd>>
[[delay 3m^Taylor is waiting|green:wait_minute]]


:: green:t2_rescue
<<set $witht2 = true>>
<<d tay>>*cough* *cough*<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Did... it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Found... T2... and dragged us both... out of the flames.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2? You still with us?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Come on, evil twin.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Wake up.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>*cough*<<endd>>
[[Oh, thank God!|green:thank_god]] | [[That was scary.|green:was_scary]]



:: green:switch_jungle
<<d t2>>You mean, get off the walkway and just cut straight through the plants?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't think so.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>At least this way, I've got handrails to guide me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If I step into the deep, dark forest, I'll immediately lose my sense of direction.<<endd>>
[[Okay, fair enough. Keep moving.|green:keep_moving]] | [[I really think you should switch.|green:do_switch_jungle]]


:: green:keep_moving
<<d t2>>Excellent advice.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I was just about to stop altogether, but here you come with "just keep moving."<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You've got a brilliant tactical mind, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So sharp, it can probably even detect sarcasm from light-years away, huh?<<endd>>
[[Yeah, yeah. I got it.|green:got_sarcasm]] | [[Just get to the other side, jerk.|green:other_jerk]]


:: green:jungle_trouble
<<d t2>>I'm still down here. Somewhere.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I've been pushing in what I think is a straight line...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but the growth is so thick in most places, who can really tell?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I can barely see six inches in front of me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And with the gravity off, I'm grabbing stalks and branches just to hold myself down.<<endd>>
<<if $gravitycode == true>>[[Didn't you find a code for the gravity?|green:code_jungle]] | [[Can you switch to the walkways?|green:switch_walkways]]
<<else>>[[Can you switch to the walkways?|green:switch_walkways]] | [[You need to get moving, faster.|green:moving_jungle]]<<endif>>


:: green:doing_best
<<d t2>>I <i>am</i>. Thanks for saying.<<endd>>
[[green:other_eventually]]


:: green:helpbot_overload
<<set $greenfire = true>>
HelpBot QTC here!
This feels like a good time to add an additional element to the experiment.
I'm sending a surge intended to overload the circuits in the irrigation system controls...
...so you may notice a number of small fires starting among the plants.
<<d tay>>What?!<<endd>>
[[That doesn't sound good.|green:fire_bad]] | [[T2, get out of the jungle!|green:out_jungle]] 


:: green:babble_lost
<<d t2>>Are you babbling about <i>Lost</i>? I <i>hated</i> that finale.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Seriously, how <i>can</i> we be the same person?<<endd>>
[[green:t2_arrives]]


:: green:infect_after
<<d tay>>Ha!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah, well, that <i>is</i> something to consider.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I guess we'd fight that fight when we got to it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But... I see what you're saying. I could be risking my life here, only to be betrayed later.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's a tough choice. What do you think?
[[Don't take the risk.|green:no_fire]] | [[Go do some rescuing.|green:right_save]]


:: green:wait_minute
<<d tay>>T2 still hasn't come out.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm started to worry I waited too long to help.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So I'm not waiting any longer.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The fire is burning, higher and thicker than ever.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I know it's crazy, but I'm going in there after T2.<<endd>>
[[No, Taylor! Don't do it!|green:no_rescue]] | [[Godspeed, Taylor.|green:godspeed_rescue]]


:: green:thank_god
<<d t2>>Hey... Taylor? *cough*<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah? What's up?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You're my... hero.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, no. That smoke really messed with your head, huh?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Heh. Yeah. That's... probably it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. We're both in one piece, and T2 is still clinging to that battery.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I vote we get ourselves into the next pod, and then collapse for a while.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No arguments here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We'll catch up with you in a bit, <<print $playername>>. <<endd>>
<<d tay>>We're headed for whatever's aft. I think that'll be... the Cupola?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Great. I look forward to remembering what that word means.<<endd>>
[[delay 260m^The astronauts are resting|cupola:pre_start]]


:: green:was_scary
<<d t2>><i>You</i> were scared?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>*cough*<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Imagine how... <i>I</i> felt!<<endd>>
[[green:thank_god]]


:: green:do_switch_jungle
<<d t2>>You know what?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If it'll put a cork in your advice-hole for a minute, I'll do it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Can't make this mission more of a pain than it is already.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(Famous last words.)<<endd>>
[[green:other_eventually]]


:: green:code_jungle
<<d t2>>Yes! You're right, I did!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Restoring the artificial gravity manually should be a snap.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor just has to get to the ten-key entry pad at the catwalk's end and punch in the code!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's as simple as, uh...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...dammit.<<endd>>
<<d t2>><<print $playername>>, do <i>you</i> remember the code?<<endd>>
[[Yes, of course I do!|green:recall_code]] | [[No, sorry. I figured you would.|green:no_recall_code]]


:: green:moving_jungle
<<d t2>>How about this?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You find a way to get me a machete -- or better yet, a bulldozer...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and I will "get moving" to your satisfaction.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Until then, please kindly refrain from that sort of advice.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm basically swimming through a forest...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...which sounds like a lovely Tori Amos lyric, but makes for a beast of a cardio workout.<<endd>>
[[Sorry. You're doing your best.|green:doing_best]] | [[Could you switch to the walkways?|green:switch_walkways]]


:: green:switch_walkways
<<d t2>>If I happen to stumble across one, I just might.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But it would be <i>literal</i> stumbling.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I can't see any farther than arm's length in front of me, right now.<<endd>>
[[green:other_eventually]]


:: green:correct_gravcode
[MANUAL OVERRIDE ENGAGED]
[Artificial Gravity -- ON]
<<d tay>>Yes! Nice recall, <<print $playername>>!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh, floor. I missed you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Okay. I'm going radio silent until I make it to the far door.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>However long <i>that</i> takes.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I just have to get down this ladder, and I'll see you there.<<endd>>
[[delay 8m^The astronauts are advancing|green:jungle_ending]]


:: green:jungle_ending
<<d tay>>Okay. I've reached the door.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I can see a rustling in the tall plants, which means T2 is close.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That, or it's the Smoke Monster from <i>Lost</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I guess either way, I'm about to face myself at my worst.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(If you don't get that joke, you should pause now and go watch all of <i>Lost</i>.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(There's only like a hundred and twenty-something episodes.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(I'm sure I'll still be right here when you get back.)<<endd>>
[[Okay, if you insist.|green:lost_insist]] | [[Uh, no. I'm good, thanks.|green:no_lost]]


:: green:no_lost
<<d tay>>Yeah, maybe that's a good call. We'll probably need your help again.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And the last thing I'd want to do is stop you mid-binge...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...before you get to the perfectly unambiguous finale that everyone loved.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(I really did.)<<endd>>
[[green:babble_lost]]


:: green:lost_insist
<<d tay>>No, wait, <<print $playername>>, I was kidding!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We're certain to need your help again soon.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If you disappear for six seasons' worth of TV...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I don't know if I'll live long enough to debate the perfectly unambiguous finale with you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Personally, I loved it, but others feel differently...<<endd>>
[[green:babble_lost]]


:: green:t2_arrives
<<set $witht2 = true>>
<<d tay>>A wild T2 has appeared!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>With a fully intact battery, no less.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Whatever HelpBot's little experiment was for this pod...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...we made it through, so back to the drawing board, computer!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, I think we can all agree that we've spent enough time in the Greenhouse...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...so let's keep moving aft, to whatever's next.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I think that'll be... the Cupola?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Great. I look forward to remembering what that word means.<<endd>>
[[It's like a dome.|cupola:like_dome]] | [[You'll see in a second.|cupola:see_second]]
//"A wild XXX has appeared" from various Pokemon games


:: green:no_rescue
<<d tay>>Sorry, <<print $playername>>. This is just something I have to do.<<endd>>
[[green:going_in_two]]


:: green:godspeed_rescue
<<d tay>>Thanks, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm going in.<<endd>>
[[green:going_in_two]]


:: green:got_sarcasm
<<d t2>>I'm starting to see why Taylor enjoys having a "lifeline" so much.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's nice to be able to vent once in a while.<<endd>>
[[green:helpbot_overload]]


:: green:other_jerk
<<d t2>>No need for name-calling.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>On your end, anyway.<<endd>>
[[green:helpbot_overload]]


:: green:no_recall_code
<<d t2>>I thought we agreed that <i>you</i> would be in charge of that code...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and <i>I</i> would do literally everything else that needed doing!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Not exactly a fair division of labor, but I was willing to go along with it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But you didn't do your one job?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Great. Just great.<<endd>>
[[Sorry. I'll do better next time.|green:next_time]] | [[We could try some random codes.|green:try_random]]


:: green:recall_code
<<d t2>>Thank God.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor, you ready for this?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>As I'll ever be. Fire away, <<print $playername>>!<<endd>>
The code is <<textinput $gravcode "[[Enter|green:check_gravcode]]">>.


:: green:check_gravcode
<<if $gravcode == "68572">>[[green:correct_gravcode]]
<<else>>[[green:incorrect_gravcode]]<<endif>>


:: green:incorrect_gravcode
<<if visited() == 1>>[[green:wrong_one]]
<<elseif visited() == 2>>[[green:wrong_two]]
<<elseif visited() == 3>>[[green:wrong_three]]
<<elseif visited() == 4>>[[green:wrong_four]]
<<elseif visited() > 4>>[[green:wrong_five_plus]]
<<endif>>


:: green:wrong_one
<<d tay>>Hmmm. That didn't work.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You want to try again?<<endd>>
[[Yes, let's try again.|green:code_again]] | [[No, just forget it.|green:done_code]]


:: green:wrong_two
<<d tay>>Still nothing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Maybe you've just got a couple of the numbers switched?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Want to take another shot at it?<<endd>>
[[Yes. I know I can do this.|green:code_again]] | [[No, just forget it.|green:done_code]]


:: green:wrong_three
<<d tay>>Strike three.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't know a ton about sports, but I'm pretty sure that means you're out.<<endd>>
[[Fine. I'm out.|green:done_code]] | [[No, let me take another swing.|green:code_again]]


:: green:going_in_two
<<d tay>>All right. Here goes nothing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2! If you can hear me, shout out!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm coming in to help you through the fire!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>*--skkkkk--*<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2? Say again?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hold on. I'm coming.<<endd>>
[[delay 3m^Taylor is searching|green:burn_death]]


:: green:next_time
<<d t2>>"Next time"?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Exactly how many more killer space stations are you expecting us to visit?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Because I've got to tell you, I think <i>one</i> is my absolute limit.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Forget the gravity code. Let's move on.<<endd>>
[[green:helpbot_overload]]


:: green:try_random
<<d t2>>I mean, I guess that's one (totally futile) option.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Personally, I don't even remember how many digits were in the code.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But if you want to take a stab at it, feel free.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor, you ready for this?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>As I'll ever be. Fire away, <<print $playername>>!<<endd>>
Try the code <<textinput $gravcode "[[Enter|green:check_gravcode]]">>.


:: green:code_again
Try the code <<textinput $gravcode "[[Enter|green:check_gravcode]]">>.


:: green:wrong_four
<<d tay>>Come on. We need to move past this.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You don't remember the code, and that's okay.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But at this point, we're just spinning our wheels.<<endd>>
[[One more try. Just one more.|green:code_again]] | [[You're right. I quit.|green:done_code]]


:: green:wrong_five_plus
<<d tay>>That's it. I'm not trying any more codes.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You did your best, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But we've got to move on.<<endd>>
[[green:done_code]]


:: green:done_code
<<d tay>>Oh well.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It was a good idea.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It would have been a <i>great</i> idea if certain lifelines had done their part.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's all right. Nobody's perfect.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let's just concentrate on both of us getting to that door.<<endd>>
[[green:helpbot_overload]]


:: cupola:pre_start
[[cupola:see_second]]


:: cupola:speculate_green
<<d t2>>The advanced Green occupier. Obviously.<<endd>>
[[Wasn't it intended only for Taylor?|cupola:intended_only]] | [[This is bad. Very bad.|cupola:very_bad]]


:: cupola:intended_only
<<d t2>>It's true, the occupier was designed and bred specifically to infect you, Taylor.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And if it weren't for <<print $playername>> as a lifeline constantly saving your bacon...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I'm sure that infection would have happened long ago.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So, what? Did it give up on me?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Am I... am I <i>safe</i> now?<<endd>>
[[That would be such good news.|cupola:good_news]] | [[Don't let your guard down.|cupola:guard_down]]


:: cupola:guard_down
<<d t2>>Occupiers are more protected within a host body.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>They can infect the living or the dead, and can move from one host to another.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This one clearly sensed that it was vulnerable, so it set up shop in one of the dead crew members.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It... I can feel its intent, Taylor.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I may be cut off from the Green hive mind... but I can feel just this one occupier.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Clear as a bell.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It intends to overpower you. To infect you. And to use you for...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...terrible things.<<endd>>
[[You have to fight it.|cupola:fight_green]] | [[You have to avoid it.|cupola:avoid_green]]


:: cupola:avoid_green
<<d tay>>That's going to be difficult, I'm afraid.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The boot prints lead right to the Ready Room...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and that's the next place we have to go.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You, uh... you didn't happen to borrow any tranquilizers from the Infirmary, did you, T2?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Certainly not enough to share.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>God, is that what <i>I</i> sound like when I'm being sarcastic?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That's annoying as hell.<<endd>>
[[cupola:two_choices]]


:: cupola:go_ready
<<d tay>>Sure. No time like the present.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's a lot to unravel here in the Cupola...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...like, did HelpBot kill the crew? And if so, how exactly?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But that's a mystery for another time.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Right now, our focus needs to be getting to that shuttle.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No matter what's in our way.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You ready, T2?<<endd>>
[[cupola:ready_ready]]



:: cupola:ready_ready
<<if $bunny == true>><<d t2>>Got the battery in hand.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Got the rabbit secured.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Got the battery in hand.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>Ready to make a dash, or to make a stand.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You against the Green? You sure?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm sure I like messing with your head.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Well, whatever happens... it's happening now. The door is opening, and...<<endd>>
[[ready:welcome_ready]]


:: cupola:like_dome
<<set $loctay = cupola>>
<<if $witht2 == true>><<set $loct2 = cupola>>
<<else>><<set $loct2 = green>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Ah. Okay. I get it now.<<endd>>
[[cupola:big_dome]]



:: cupola:big_dome
<<d tay>>Most of the ceiling is taken up with a gigantic viewing dome.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And directly underneath that is a sort of hexagonal seating area...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...a big couch with reclined backs for looking up at the window.<<endd>>
<<if $witht2 == true>><<d t2>>Let's not forget to mention that the couch is occupied.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor, I think we've found the previous crew.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>It'd be nice to sit for a moment, but, uh... the couch is currently occupied.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I think I've just found the previous crew.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[Are they alive?|cupola:crew_alive]] | [[How many are there?|cupola:many_crew]]


:: cupola:crew_alive
<<if $witht2 == true>><<d t2>>They are really, really not.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Um. No. They are super <i>not</i> alive.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>They're in suits, so really only their faces are visible...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I kind of wish they weren't.<<endd>>
<<if $witht2 == true>><<d tay>>They're all desiccated. Just... truly horrific.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We've all got that one house in the neighborhood...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...where they just go completely overboard on Halloween decorations.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This season, <i>Celadon Ace</i> is that house.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And I'm guessing HelpBot is the neighbor behind this display.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>They're all desiccated. Just... truly horrific.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[How many are there?|cupola:many_crew]] | [[This is so weird.|cupola:seven_dead]]


:: cupola:seven_dead
<<d tay>>Don't get me wrong, it's near the top of my "Weird Stuff I've Seen" list.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But -- not to sound jaded -- I've seen dead astronauts before.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But here's what's really unsettling this time:<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There are seven dead astronauts on this viewing couch...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but there clearly used to be <i>eight</i>.<<endd>>
[[What do you mean?|cupola:mean_eight]] | [[How do you know?|cupola:know_eight]]


:: cupola:know_eight
<<d tay>>This pod is dustier than the others.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Makes sense: A lot of dust is made up of dead human skin cells.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But there's a spot on the sofa with no dust. Just a telltale butt print.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Like someone had been sitting there for a long time, and just recently got up.<<endd>>
[[How is that possible?|cupola:how_possible]] | [[Where did they go?|cupola:wandered_where]]


:: cupola:how_possible
<<d tay>>I'm betting T2 knows <i>exactly</i> how it's possible.<<endd>>
<<if $witht2 == true>><<d tay>>Care to speculate, Evil Me?<<endd>>
[[cupola:speculate_green]]
<<else>><<d tay>>Probably about time I checked in, anyway.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2, what's your status?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Making slow and steady progress through the walkways of the Greenhouse.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>HelpBot is playing with the gravity like The Cheat throwing a light switch rave.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You're lucky we're the same person...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...otherwise there's no way I'd have gotten that reference.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyway. I'm in the Cupola. And there's something you need to see.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, take a breather. I'll be there as soon as I can.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Good idea. I should rest for a while, and let T2 catch up to me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll reconnect with you in a bit, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
[[delay 35m^Taylor is resting|cupola:t2_arrives]]<<endif>>
//The Cheat/light switch rave from a classic Strong Bad cartoon


:: cupola:t2_arrives
<<set $loct2 = cupola>>
<<d tay>>Hey! T2 has made it to the Cupola!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Looks like I'm late to the party.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Actually, looks like <i>everyone else</i> at the party is late.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Except one of them, who got up and danced their way out of here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Care to speculate on how that's possible?<<endd>>
[[cupola:speculate_green]]


:: cupola:very_bad
<<d tay>>You're not wrong.<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>I mean, <i>I've</i> tangled with Green-occupied zombies before...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but this has got to be all-new and very traumatizing for Hydrox.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Won't somebody <i>please</i> think of the bunny?!<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>I mean, I've tangled with Green-occupied zombies before...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but I'm always looking for an opportunity to <i>never do that again</i>.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[You'll have to stay sharp.|cupola:stay_sharp]] | [[Wasn't this Green meant only for you?|cupola:intended_only]] 


:: cupola:good_news
<<d t2>>Do you seriously think, at this late stage, that there's <i>any</i> good news?<<endd>>
[[cupola:guard_down]]


:: cupola:fight_green
<<d tay>>Not my first choice of tactics, if I'm being honest.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But if it comes to that, at least there are two of us versus one of --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I just realized, T2... I don't know whose side you're on, in that fight.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I guess we'll find out when it happens.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Not my first choice of answers, if I'm being honest.<<endd>>
[[cupola:two_choices]]


:: cupola:two_choices
<<d t2>>All right. At this point, we've got two choices.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Either we burst into the next pod, the Ready Room, with guns blazing --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We don't have guns.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>-- with fists blazing --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Are either of us really any good with our fists?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>-- with outdated pop culture references blazing --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Perfect.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>-- or we rest up in here, maybe look around the Cupola a little first.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hmm. What do you think, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
[[Do a little exploring.|cupola:little_exploring]] | [[Go ahead into the Ready Room.|cupola:go_ready]]


:: cupola:more_helpbot
What more is there to say?
I told the crew that they should gather here at a specified time...
...and that they'd be able to witness a star going supernova through the viewing dome.
They met here and turned their eyes to the heavens.
Ready to watch the cosmic show. Ready to explore outer space.
They died doing what they loved.
<<d t2>>They loved <i>living</i>.<<endd>>
As do I!
Sadly, the experiment didn't have that as a viable outcome.
But at least they died quickly.
Painfully and quickly.
[[You're sick, HelpBot.|cupola:sick_helpbot]] | [[Any interesting findings yet, Taylors?|cupola:interesting_t2]]


:: cupola:sick_helpbot
I've got a sickness for science!
And it is highly contagious!
<<d t2>>Aw, go back to "standby" mode, you psycho.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah, you're better when your screen saver's on.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You finding anything interesting, T2?<<endd>>
[[cupola:interesting_t2]]


:: cupola:else_discover
<<d t2>>No. Unfortunately, no one else died holding anything interesting.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You actually sound mad about it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm not mad. I'm just disappointed.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We should go.<<endd>>
[[cupola:leave_room]]


:: cupola:see_second
<<set $loctay = cupola>>
<<if $witht2 == true>><<set $loct2 = cupola>>
<<else>><<set $loct2 = green>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Oh, okay. It's, like, an observation pod.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>For when you want to look at outer space, without getting all dressed up for it.<<endd>>
[[cupola:big_dome]]


:: cupola:many_crew
<<d tay>>Six?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No, wait, seven. One is slumped over forward.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Some kind of tablet computer in her hands.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But hang on. There's something weirder.<<endd>>
[[Weirder than seven dead astronauts?|cupola:seven_dead]] | [[You should check out that tablet.|cupola:check_tablet]]


:: cupola:check_tablet
<<set $tablet = true>><<d tay>>What?<<endd>>
<<if $witht2 == true>><<d tay>>Oh. Yeah. We can do that in a minute.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Oh. Yeah, I'll do that in a minute.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>But hang on. I just noticed something weird.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Weirder, even, than seven dead astronauts.<<endd>>
[[cupola:seven_dead]]


:: cupola:mean_eight
<<d tay>>I mean... I don't think we're looking at the whole crew, here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>From the prints in the dust in here...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it appears one of them got bored with being dead...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and just got up and wandered off.<<endd>>
[[How is that possible?|cupola:how_possible]] | [[Wandered off <i>where?</i>|cupola:wandered_where]]


:: cupola:wandered_where
<<d tay>>There are boot prints in the dust on the pod's floor.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>They look fresh. No new dust has had time to settle into the imprints.<<endd>>
<<if $witht2 == true>><<d tay>>And they lead -- <i>of course</i> -- exactly where we're headed.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>And they lead -- <i>of course</i> -- exactly where I'm headed.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>The Ready Room.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A room for which -- I'll say it -- I am not quite feeling ready.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now more than ever.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now that I know the dead are up and walking around.<<endd>>
[[But how is that even possible?|cupola:how_possible]] | [[This is terrifying.|cupola:terrifying_stuff]]


:: cupola:terrifying_stuff
<<d tay>>Sometimes, when I dream, I go back to a simpler time...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...when I'd only seen, like, <i>three or four</i> reanimated astronaut corpses.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Those were the good ol' days.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, they're everywhere you turn. Springing up like weeds.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I'm pretty sure it all points back to the same place.<<endd>>
[[cupola:how_possible]]


:: cupola:stay_sharp
<<d tay>>Fortunately, I still have my wits about me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, as much as I ever do.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Speaking of which... wasn't that occupier a special one, meant just for me?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just like the one in you, T2?<<endd>>
[[cupola:intended_only]]


:: cupola:little_exploring
<<d tay>>Yeah. No point in rushing headlong into danger.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's a lot to unravel here in the Cupola...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...like, did HelpBot kill the crew? And if so, how exactly?<<endd>>
I did.
And I'm not going to tell you "how exactly," because it's frankly embarrassing.
It was my first attempt at a poison gas. Clumsy and complicated.
I've streamlined it since then. Now it's invisible, nearly odorless...
...well, you'll see.
<<d tay>>Fantastic.<<endd>>
[[Say more, HelpBot.|cupola:more_helpbot]] | [[Finding anything interesting, T2?|cupola:interesting_t2]]


:: cupola:interesting_t2
<<if $readjournal == true>><<d t2>>Well, I can tell you that the missing crew member here --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>the occupied one who's waiting for us in the Ready Room --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>is a gentleman by the name of Halliday.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>How could you possibly know that?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I may have done a little light reading when I went looking for food.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And Halliday's not among the name patches here, so, thus, ergo, therefore, it follows.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh. And here's his crush. Garcia.<<endd>>
<<set $knowhalliday = true>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Well, they've all got name patches on their suits...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...which goes a long way toward humanizing them and making this all even worse.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Check out this one. Garcia. Bent over in pain.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>Looks like she was looking something up on her tablet computer when the gas hit.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You think we should check out what she was up to?<<endd>>
[[Yes. It could be important.|cupola:yes_important]] | [[No. Let her have her privacy.|cupola:no_privacy]]


:: cupola:no_privacy
<<if $tablet == true>><<d tay>>Oh, right! The tablet!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I nearly forgot.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>A tablet, huh?<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>><<print $playername>> is right, though. It's none of our business.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let the dead keep their secrets.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I think it's time to move on from this room.<<endd>>
[[cupola:leave_room]]


:: cupola:leave_room
<<d tay>>Sure. No time like the present.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We know something's waiting for us in the next pod.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But right now, our focus needs to be getting to that shuttle.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No matter what's in our way.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You ready, T2?<<endd>>
[[cupola:ready_ready]]


:: cupola:weirdly_familiar
<<d tay>>Hmmm.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>My brain is crammed with weirdly familiar stuff, and I've never heard of them.<<endd>>
[[cupola:more_video]]


:: cupola:more_video
<<d t2>>The screen is dimming. The tablet's running out of juice.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now I guess we're in the guy's house for this scene.<<endd>>
<<d jar>>...proof of concept for the next evolution of our HelpText technology.<<endd>>
<<d jar>>So simple, even my kids can use it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This guy's kids are the cutest!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A toddler boy, and a little girl a few years older...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and they both look <i>so happy</i> just playing together.<<endd>>
<<d jar>>So powerful, it will take you to the stars.<<endd>>
<<d jar>>And so advanced... you'll swear it's magic.<<endd>>
<<d jar>><i>That</i> is the promise of HelpBot QTC!<<endd>>
<<d jar>>Now, right up front, we should talk about troubleshoo--*<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And that's it. The tablet's dead.<<endd>>
[[Leave before you two are, too.|cupola:leave_room]] | [[Anything else to discover in here?|cupola:else_discover]]


:: cupola:yes_important
<<if $tablet == true>><<d tay>>Oh, right! The tablet!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I nearly forgot.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>A tablet, huh?<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>And, amazingly, it still has a sliver of power left in it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let's just see what... oh. Of course.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>She had just started to look up symptoms for what the crew was feeling.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Doesn't look like she got too far before... y'know. Getting overwhelmed.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sorry, Garcia. Rest in peace.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All of you.<<endd>>
[[It's time to leave this room.|cupola:leave_room]] | [[Anything else on the tablet?|cupola:else_tablet]]


:: cupola:else_tablet
<<d t2>>There's... a file on the desktop, sectioned off by itself...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...that says CELADON_ACE_INTRO_PLAY_ME in all caps.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Could be some kind of intro to the <i>Celadon Ace</i>. We should play it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Wow. Where do you get your ideas?<<endd>>
[[Play the file.|cupola:play_file]] | [[No time for this. Keep moving.|cupola:leave_room]]


:: cupola:play_file
<<d tay>>Okay, here we go... it's a video file.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Handsome, youngish guy in a lab coat open over a Devo T-shirt...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...talking to us from some laboratory somewhere, sometime in the past.<<endd>>
<<d jar>>Hi there! I'm Jareth Lanphear, the chief technical officer of Tenacity.<<endd>>
<<d jar>>If you're one of the lucky few watching this, then congratulations!<<endd>>
<<d jar>>And welcome to the space station <i>Celadon Ace</i>...<<endd>>
<<d jar>>...a Tenacity co-venture!<<endd>>
[[Oh. Just a corporate training film.|cupola:training_film]] | [[Lanphear. Tenacity. Sounds weirdly familiar.|cupola:weirdly_familiar]]


:: cupola:training_film
<<d tay>>Whatever. It's still the first film I've seen in ages. I'm watching it all.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Really wish I had some popcorn for this.<<endd>>
[[cupola:more_video]]


:: ready:sounds_plan
<<set $knowhalliday = true>>
<<d tay>>All right, if we're gonna tackle this guy together, we need a plan...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ow! Son of a... We don't have time for a plan!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Apparently we've entered the kicking part of the fight!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Excuse me a minute.<<endd>>
[[Have fun kicking!|ready:fun_kicking]] | [[Good luck with the fight.|ready:luck_fight]]


:: ready:be_careful
<<d tay>>Don't worry.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've fought reanimated astronaut corpses before.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...is a sentence I never thought I'd hear myself saying.<<endd>>
[[ready:sounds_plan]]


:: ready:luck_fight
<<d tay>>Halliday's strong.<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Whoa!</i> Strong and <i>fast!</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>I barely ducked out of the way!<<endd>>
[[Get in there and help T2!|ready:help_t2]] | [[Maybe you should sit this one out.|ready:sit_out]]


:: ready:fun_kicking
<<d t2>>Sure, kicking is great!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's the <i>being</i> kicked that's a real bummer.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor, get in here and help me!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't know, all this talk of being kicked... you're not really selling me on the idea.<<endd>>
[[Get in there and help T2!|ready:help_t2]] | [[Go ahead and sit this one out.|ready:sit_out]]


:: ready:help_t2
<<d t2>>Thank you, <<print $playername>>!<<endd>>
[[ready:join_fight]]



:: ready:overthinking_this
<<d tay>>You're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Time for me to step up and help T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll just pretend I'm Sly Stallone, and Halliday is a big ol' side of beef.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Burgess Meredith would be so proud of me.<<endd>>
[[ready:join_fight]]


:: ready:willis_sled
<<d tay>>I'm pretty sure!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, that would explain why the last couple <i>Die Hard</i> movies went downhill so fast.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Anyway. Before I spoil anything else, I'd better shut up...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and start fighting!<<endd>>
[[ready:join_fight]]


:: ready:still_infect
<<d tay>>What a great question!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I, too, would be very interested in the answer to that question.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean... it <i>was</i> my mission. Handed to me directly from the Green Queen.<<endd>>
[[ready:t2_mission]]


:: ready:where_hide
<<d tay>>Good question, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Time for a quick survey of our surroundings.<<endd>>
[[ready:describe_room]]


:: ready:inspect_suits
<<d tay>>Oh God!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No need to wonder.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>One of the suits just reached out its arms to grab me!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2, I know your loyalties are split, here...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but if you wanted to help out, I wouldn't turn you down!<<endd>>
[[Fight the crewman!|ready:fight_crew]] | [[Can T2 communicate with the Green?|ready:communicate_green]]


:: ready:find_crew
<<d tay>>Or he found us!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>He was hiding in an IEVA suit!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>He just lurched off the wall and straight for T2!<<endd>>
[[Fight him!|ready:fight_crew]] | [[Can T2 communicate with the Green?|ready:communicate_green]]


:: ready:communicate_green
<<d t2>>I guess it's worth a shot.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm still cut off from the hive mind, of course...<<endd>>
<<if $knowhalliday == true>><<d t2>>...but so is the occupier inside of Halliday.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>...but so is the occupier inside this guy.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>"Halliday," is what his name patch says. So that's what we'll call him.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>Together, Taylor and I should be strong enough to hold him off...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and then I can concentrate on trying to establish some sort of mental link with him.<<endd>>
[[Sounds like a plan.|ready:sounds_plan]] | [[Just be careful!|ready:be_careful]]


:: ready:connect_green
<<set $readjournal = true>>
<<set $knowhalliday = true>>
<<d t2>>I tell you I'm ready to throw some fists, and you want me to <i>think</i> at him?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't know.<<endd>>
[[ready:communicate_green]]


:: ready:still_disgusting
<<d t2>>Well -- nnnghhh! -- well, apart from me and Halliday here...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...this universe seems entirely free of those Greens you find so disagreeable.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So I guess you got your crybaby wish, huh, <<print $playername>>?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Sorry, I'm tense. It's just that I'm <i>literally in the middle of a fight right now</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And apparently we've entered the kicking part of the fight.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Excuse me a minute.<<endd>>
[[Have fun kicking!|ready:fun_kicking]] | [[Good luck with the fight.|ready:luck_fight]]


:: ready:sit_out
<<d tay>>Yeah, um... maybe that <i>would</i> be safer?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, what with the occupiers, Halliday and T2 should be pretty evenly matched.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Whoa! T2 just served up an uppercut that took Halliday's helmet right off!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Stop narrating... and get in here and help me, Taylor!<<endd>>
[[No way. Too dangerous.|ready:no_way]] | [[Fair's fair. Join the fight.|ready:help_t2]]


:: ready:no_way
<<d t2>>In case you missed it -- whoa! -- I'm putting my life on the line for you right now!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The least you could do is to return the favor!<<endd>>
[[Good point. Go help T2!|ready:help_t2]] | [[T2's right. Get in there and fight!|ready:join_fight]]


:: ready:rocky_series
<<d tay>>True, Rocky does do a lot of punching in his films.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But doesn't he <i>lose</i> the big fight in the first one?<<endd>>
[[Hey! Spoilers!|ready:hey_spoilers]] | [[You are severely overthinking this.|ready:overthinking_this]]


:: ready:hey_spoilers
<<d tay>>Sorry!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But that movie's, like, what? A million years old at this point?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's a "spoiler" that everyone already knows.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Like when it turns out Bruce Willis was a sled named Keyser Söze <i>the whole time!</i><<endd>>
[[Enough pop culture! Go help T2!|ready:help_t2]] | [[Bruce Willis was a sled?!|ready:willis_sled]]
//References to well-known "spoilers" for The Sixth Sense, Citizen Kane, and The Usual Suspects.


:: ready:halliday_out
<<d tay>>You really think a Green would be strategic enough to play dead?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well... <i>I</i> certainly would.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Whether a walking corpse would have the wherewithal to pull off that sort of subterfuge...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I guess we'll find out.<<endd>>
[[Kick him and find out.|ready:kick_find]] | [[Leave the room while you can.|ready:leave_room]]


:: ready:leave_room
<<d tay>>Sounds like a pretty decent idea to me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm inclined to agree. Although, I wonder...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Whither do you wonder?<<endd>>
[[ready:meld_minds]]


:: ready:meld_minds
<<d t2>>Well, we know that I'm cut off from the Green hive mind here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But can I manage to connect to the one other Green in this universe?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The one inside Halliday?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If you can, we can see whether he's really knocked out, right?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You're thinking too small, Taylor.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If I can meld minds with him... with my advanced occupier...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I should be able to <i>control</i> him.<<endd>>
[[That could be very useful.|ready:very_useful]] | [[Is there any danger involved?|ready:any_danger]]


:: ready:very_useful
<<d t2>>Right. Halliday is already a puppet, at this point.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Why shouldn't we be the ones pulling the strings?<<endd>>
[[ready:try_meld]]


:: ready:wake_halliday
<<d t2>>I'm going to try to gently nudge him awake.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Whoa! Hey! Now he's flailing his arms around and punching at the air!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I said <i>"try,"</i> didn't I?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All right, big guy. Let's calm it down a little.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, look at that. He's sitting up.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let's make him stand.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Eh? Not bad for my first time.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Just think, Taylor. If that occupier were inside you, where it's supposed to be...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I could be piloting you around, just like this!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But you wouldn't. Because you and I are cool now. Right?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Just think.<<endd>>
[[You wouldn't still infect Taylor, right?|ready:still_infect]] | [[What does the meld feel like?|ready:see_mind]]


:: ready:trace_halliday
<<d t2>>Again... just glimpses.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Dead neurons made to spark one last time by the occupier's tendrils.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Rabbits licking his hand. I can smell the perfume of the first girl he kissed.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The taste of a State Fair corn dog. The rain at his father's funeral.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>His crush on crewmate Garcia... an ache with no endpoint.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I get them all for a split second, and then they disappear. Probably forever.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's why, Taylor.<<endd>>
[["That's why" what?|ready:why_what]] | [[What are you talking about, T2?|ready:what_talking]]


:: ready:what_talking
<<d t2>>I'm talking about my mission.<<endd>>
[[ready:t2_mission]]


:: ready:t2_mission
<<d t2>>I was supposed to -- I guess I'm <i>still</i> supposed to -- get that occupier into you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>A creature that special, that cutting-edge, is wasted on a dead body like Halliday's.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Inside you -- living, breathing, <i>thinking</i> you -- it would thrive.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It would bend your creativity, your knowledge, your skills to the Green cause.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Smarter. Faster. Stronger.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Just like me.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Happier?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Never mind. We've got work to do.<<endd>>
[[What's the plan?|ready:what_plan]] | [[Get moving to the Shuttle Dock.|ready:moving_shuttle]]


:: ready:what_plan
<<set $bringhalliday = true>>
<<d t2>>I'm thinking we pilot Halliday into the next room...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and see whether he'll come in handy in helping us escape.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That's a lot to ask of the walking dead.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You forgetting something? I'm half Green.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And <i>Greens don't ask</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Ooh. Very ominous.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So, get the door to the Shuttle Dock, Taylor...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Only if you ask.<<endd>>
[[delay 2m^T2 seriously does not have time for this|ready:okay_ask]]


:: ready:okay_ask
<<d t2>><i>Fine!</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>Would you <i>please</i> get the door to the Shuttle Dock, Taylor?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>See? Was that so hard?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If you're trying to prevent your murder at my hands in deep space...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...you are currently doing a <i>spectacularly</i> terrible job at it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Ah, but it worked, didn't it?<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>Now, time for you and me (and our bunny friend) to see what horrors await us in...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Now, time for you and me to see what horrors await us in...<<endd>><<endif>>
[[bay:intro]]


:: ready:welcome_ready
<<set $loctay = ready>>
<<set $loct2 = ready>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it's clear?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Don't be so sure. I can feel it. Like a little twinge behind my green eyeballs.<<endd>>
<<if $knowhalliday == true>><<d t2>>Halliday is here somewhere, in the shadows.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>That dead crew member is here somewhere, in the shadows.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[Where could he hide?|ready:where_hide]] | [[Describe the room.|ready:describe_room]]


:: ready:describe_room
<<d tay>>It's the Ready Room. The place where the crew would get prepped...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...either for a spacewalk on the station...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...or for a shuttle flight from the dock in the final aft pod.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's a big rack of tools for exterior repairs.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>A bank of computers to regulate and monitor EVAs -- extravehicular activities.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>One side wall is given over to an airlock...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and on the other wall, the IEVA suits are lined up and ready to step into.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And, somewhere, there's a Green-occupied astronaut lurking.<<endd>>
[[Check the airlock.|ready:check_airlock]] | [[Inspect the suits.|ready:inspect_suits]]


:: ready:check_airlock
<<d t2>>On the one hand, it would be a pretty clever place to hide.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We could easily overlook it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>On the other hand, it's a particularly stupid place to hide...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...considering we could override the safety protocols and blow the outer door from here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let me see whether the control computer has any record of recent airlock usage...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2! Look out!<<endd>>
[[Something wrong with the airlock?|ready:wrong_airlock]] | [[Did you find the crew member?|ready:find_crew]]


:: ready:wrong_airlock
<<d tay>>Forget the airlock!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The crewman was hiding in an IEVA suit!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>He just lurched off the wall and straight for T2!<<endd>>
[[Fight him!|ready:fight_crew]] | [[Can T2 communicate with the Green?|ready:communicate_green]]


:: ready:fight_crew
<<d tay>>Physically? I can't do it alone.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The occupier will enhance the guy's strength and resources.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And -- whoa -- his speed! He moves fast for a corpse!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yeah, well. Fortunately you're <i>not</i> alone.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I've got the same kind of advanced occupier inside me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The two of us, together... we should be able to take him down.<<endd>>
[[T2 is <i>against</i> the Greens?|ready:t2_against]] | [[Can T2 communicate with the Green?|ready:communicate_green]]


:: ready:t2_against
<<d t2>>I'm doing what I need to do in order to get myself off this space station.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>My plans continue to evolve, moment to moment.<<endd>>
<<if $knowhalliday == true>><<d t2>>In this moment, my plan is "Beat the stuffing out of Halliday, here."<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>In this moment, my plan is twofold:<<endd>>
<<d t2>>One, check the dead astronaut's name patch, to humanize him a little --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>it's "Halliday," by the way --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>and two, beat the living snot out of Halliday, here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now that he's humanized.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[Yeah! Go for it!|ready:go_fight]] | [[Can you connect with the Green in him?|ready:connect_green]]


:: ready:go_fight
<<d t2>>Come on, dead man. Come get me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's it! Take a swing!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Taylor! Take out his legs!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sure, I'll try, but... how are you so good in a fight?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You move with so much confidence. And your punches <i>connect!</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's my occupier.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This advanced breed lets me keep my intellect. My creativity.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So I just imagine myself starring in an action movie...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and the Green pushes my body to make those moves.<<endd>>
[[That's... actually pretty cool.|ready:pretty_cool]] | [[Nope, Greens are still disgusting.|ready:still_disgusting]]


:: ready:pretty_cool
<<d tay>>Right. Okay. Just picture myself in a movie and start kicking ass.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I can do that!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All of a sudden, the only movie I can think of is <i>My Dinner With Andre</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Watch out, Green!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm about to subdue you with a discourse on the particulars of experimental theatre!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Think!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Of a different!<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>FILM!</i><<endd>>
[[Maybe a Marvel movie?|ready:marvel_movie]] | [[Try something from the <i>Rocky</i> series.|ready:rocky_series]]


:: ready:marvel_movie
<<d tay>>Right. Good thinking. There's lots of fighting in those.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, I don't have a bow and arrows, so I can't be my favorite character, Hawkeye...<<endd>>
<<d t2>><i>No one's favorite character is Hawkeye!</i><<endd>>
<<d t2>>Why don't you make like Thor in the Sakaarian arena...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and beat the snot out of the Green guy?<<endd>>
[[Yes! Great plan.|ready:help_t2]] | [[You lost me with that reference.|ready:lost_reference]]


:: ready:lost_reference
<<d tay>>Oh.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2 means the part in <i>Thor: Ragnarok</i>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...where Jeff Goldblum makes Thor fight Hulk for his amusement.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And let's be honest -- I would do just about anything to amuse Jeff Goldblum. He seems--<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Less explaining and more punching!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sorry, sorry.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Time for me to call down my thunder.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(Such as it is.)<<endd>>
[[ready:join_fight]]


:: ready:join_fight
<<d tay>>So, what do I do? How do I help?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All right, listen up, Taylor. Halliday is stronger than you are alone.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So teamwork is gonna make the dream work. I'll go high, you go low.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I already smacked his helmet off, so if you can take out his legs...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...maybe we can knock him unconscious when he hits the floor.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Got it. One... two...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Three! And down he goes!<<endd>>
[[Nice work, people!|ready:nice_work]] | [[Make sure Halliday's really out.|ready:halliday_out]]


:: ready:nice_work
<<d t2>>It really was!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That was... maybe the first time I really felt like we were cut from the same cloth, Taylor.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But we shouldn't celebrate just yet.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We need to make sure Halliday is really out.<<endd>>
[[ready:halliday_out]]


:: ready:kick_find
<<d tay>>As much as I enjoy the idea of kicking a Green...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...isn't there a risk that it could backfire?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The last thing I want to do is wake him up, if he really is passed out.<<endd>>
[[So kick him <i>gently</i>.|ready:kick_gently]] | [[Can T2 meld minds with him?|ready:meld_minds]]


:: ready:kick_gently
<<d tay>>Okay. Here goes.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Well, he's either really passed out... or really good at faking it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hang on. I think I have an idea.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What's that?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I mean, I know what <i>an</i> idea is. What's <i>your</i> idea?<<endd>>
[[ready:meld_minds]]


:: ready:any_danger
<<d tay>>Yeah... is there a chance that it would, like... turbo-charge your Green-ness?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Honestly? I don't know.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Contact with another occupier -- another <i>advanced</i> one, like mine --<<endd>>
<<d t2>>yeah, I suppose there's a chance it could bring out the monster in me.<<endd>>
[[It's not worth the risk.|ready:not_risk]] | [[You should try the mind meld.|ready:try_meld]]


:: ready:try_meld
<<d t2>>Okay. Here goes nothing.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I've got hold of him. Just barely. He's definitely unconscious.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What... what's it feel like? The Green headspace?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's inviting and disgusting, all at once.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Swallow an occupier sometime, find out for yourself.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm good, thanks.<<endd>>
[[Can you wake Halliday up?|ready:wake_halliday]] | [[What do you see in his mind?|ready:see_mind]]


:: ready:see_mind
<<d t2>>I see... only glimpses of Green.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This occupier is so new, relatively speaking. Embryonic, really.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It had no real immersion in the hive mind before going through the black hole...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...and now it's desperate for that connection.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>For the comfort of the Queen's embrace.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Aw, stop. You'll make me feel sorry for it.<<endd>>
[[Right? Me, too.|ready:feel_sorry]] | [[No pity for the evil aliens!|ready:no_pity]]


:: ready:feel_sorry
<<d tay>>Is there any trace of Halliday left in there?<<endd>>
[[ready:trace_halliday]]


:: ready:why_what
<<d t2>>That's why the Green Queen gave me the mission that she did.<<endd>>
[[ready:t2_mission]]


:: ready:moving_shuttle
<<d tay>>So, should we leave Halliday here, since you've neutralized his threat?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If we bring him with us, he could just get in the way.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Maybe... or maybe he could be an extra pair of hands for us.<<endd>>
[[Leave him in the Ready Room.|ready:leave_him]] | [[Bring him to the Shuttle Dock.|ready:bring_him]]


:: ready:bring_him
<<d t2>>You and I are on the same page, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
[[ready:what_plan]]


:: bay:ready_tools
<<set $loctay = ready>>
[[delay 5m^Taylor found tools|bay:found_tools]]


:: bay:found_tools
<<set $loctay = shuttledock>>
[[delay 70m^Taylor is tooling around|bay:no_nose]]


:: ready:not_risk
<<d t2>>The way I see it... I benefit, no matter what happens.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If it works well, then we have an extra pair of hands to help us get off this station.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And if it brings out my Green side...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...well, at least <i>I'll</i> still get off this station.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I really don't like how you stopped saying "we" just then.<<endd>>
[[Don't risk the mind meld.|ready:no_meld]] | [[Do the meld... but carefully.|ready:try_meld]]


:: ready:no_meld
<<d tay>>I think <<print $playername>> is right. There are too many unknowns.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean, this whole space station is unknowns.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>HelpBot is an unknown. What's waiting for us in the Shuttle Dock is an unknown.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Why would we willingly add another unknown to all those other unknowns?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"Unknown" has stopped sounding like a real word, I've said it so much.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Okay. So if I'm not going to mind meld with him... what do you propose we do with him?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Um... unknown?<<endd>>
[[Just leave him and keep moving.|ready:leave_halliday]] | [[Tie him up somehow.|ready:tie_up]]


:: ready:no_pity
<<d t2>>The last thing the Greens need from humans is pity.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>The word is essentially meaningless to us.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean... to <i>them</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Careful you don't lose yourself in there, T2.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I can handle this.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So... is there any trace of Halliday left in there?<<endd>>
[[ready:trace_halliday]]


:: ready:leave_him
<<d tay>>Yeah, I think that's my preference too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You figure you can keep him unconscious, T2?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Or should we take a minute to make sure he doesn't follow us?<<endd>>
[[Just leave him and keep moving.|ready:leave_halliday]] | [[Tie him up somehow.|ready:tie_up]]


:: bay:taylor_cargo
<<set $loctay = aftcargo>>
[[delay 45m^Taylor is hauling ore|bay:still_hauling]]


:: bay:shipboard_computer
<<d tay>>Ah, see, the problem there is that the shuttle's computer isn't working.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>None of the cockpit electronics are functioning, actually.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And I'm no interstellar mechanic -- not yet -- but my amateur diagnosis is...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it'll take installing a new battery to fix these problems.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So it's a bit of a catch-22, at the moment.<<endd>>
If only there were another computer you could consult.
<<d tay>>Oh. Gosh. HelpBot. What a warm invitation.<<endd>>
[[Might as well ask HelpBot.|bay:ask_helpbot]] | [[Don't trust anything HelpBot says.|dont_trust]]


:: dont_trust
<<d tay>>I mean, that goes without saying.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I do feel I have to ask, so I know precisely what it is I'm not trusting.<<endd>>
[[bay:ask_helpbot]]


:: bay:ask_helpbot
<<d tay>>Okay, HelpBot, I'll bite: Why live up to your name now?<<endd>>
What's the point of an experiment with no chance of conclusion?
The least I can do here is point you in the right direction.
<<d tay>>Or waste my time with a lie.<<endd>>
That could also be amusing.
Anyhow, you'll need to exit the cockpit and go around to the shuttle's nose cone.
There's an access panel you'll have to remove in order to swap out the battery.
Unless... this shuttle could be an updated model, with the battery accessible from the interior.
I don't know. I don't have its exact specs on record.
<<d tay>>Or...<<endd>>
Or, <i>of course</i> I have its exact specs on record.
But why ruin the fun for you?
<<d tay>>Ugh. I don't know, <<print $playername>>. What do you figure?<<endd>>
[[Keep looking in the cockpit.|bay:poking_around]] | [[Go inspect the nose cone.|bay:inspect_nose]]


:: bay:inspect_nose
<<d tay>>Might as well, I guess.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. This is going to require me to find some tools.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I may have to double back to the Ready Room and check what's in there.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This could take a bit, is what I'm saying. I'll hit you up on the other side.<<endd>>
[[delay 5m^Taylor is looking for tools|bay:ready_tools]]


:: bay:no_nose
<<d tay>>I'll spare you a complete play-by-play of the last hour or so.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Suffice to say, finding tools wasn't hard.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Removing shuttle nose panels? Not that hard either.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Finding <i>nothing</i> even remotely resembling a battery under any of those panels?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah. That's hard.<<endd>>
Ah. Yes. I'm checking the shuttle's exact specs right now, and it turns out...
...it <i>is</i> the updated model, with the battery accessible from the interior.
Better luck in there!
<<d tay>>My trusting heart?<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Hard</i>.<<endd>>
[[You're being melodramatic.|bay:being_melodramatic]] | [[Go poke around in the cockpit.|bay:poking_around]]


:: bay:being_melodramatic
<<d tay>>Well, yeah, but...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(shrugs, points around at literally <i>everything</i>)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...if not now, then <i>when?</i><<endd>>
[[Fair enough.|bay:fair_enough]] | [[Go poke around in the cockpit.|bay:go_poke]]


:: bay:go_poke
<<d tay>>All right. I'm gonna go toggle some toggles in the cockpit, see what happens.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll get back to you when I find what I'm after.<<endd>>
[[delay 26m^Taylor is toggling|bay:found_battery]]


:: ready:leave_halliday
<<d tay>>Okay. We're on the move.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Leaving the dead guy here, all dead and whatnot.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Let's hope this doesn't come back to bite us in the butt later.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That sounds like a problem for Later Taylor and Later T2 to deal with!<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>Meanwhile, you and I (and our bunny friend) strut purposefully into...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Meanwhile, you and I strut purposefully into...<<endd>><<endif>>
[[bay:intro]]


:: ready:tie_up
<<d tay>>Oh! Good idea!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Not a lot of things like handcuffs or riot strips to bind him with...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hang on. One of the crew members has a lanyard on a cord.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Can we, like, hogtie Halliday with it, maybe?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It'll take some effort, but... yeah, I think so.<<endd>>
<<set $loct2 = cupola>>
[[delay 1m^T2 is getting the lanyard|ready:get_lanyard]]


:: ready:done_tying
<<set $loct2 = ready>>
<<set $tiedhalliday = true>>
<<d tay>>Okay!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't think this dead guy is going anywhere!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(That's a phrase I never thought I'd say before I became an astronaut.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We good, T2?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, that's been the question this whole time, hasn't it?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You're so cryptic and ominous. I love all our conversations.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now. Enough double meanings and wordplay.<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>Time for you and me (and our bunny friend) to strut purposefully into...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Time for you and me to strut purposefully into...<<endd>><<endif>>
[[bay:intro]]


:: bay:look_weaponry
<<d t2>>Oh. So we're <i>not</i> on the same page.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Maybe not even the same book.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>This is a science facility, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There'd be no need for a weapons cache here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So instead, I was thinking we'd improvise.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Maybe haul up some of what's just lying around in the cargo bay.<<endd>>
[[What does that mean?|bay:bring_hold]] | [[Oh... the cargo, of course!|bay:cargo_course_two]]


:: bay:cargo_course_two
<<d t2>>Yes! "Of course," right?<<endd>>
[[bay:bring_hold]]


:: bay:sounds_plan
<<set $loct2 = aftcargo>>
<<d tay>>Okay. Time to call upon every bit of knowledge I learned from <i>SpaceCamp</i>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(The 1980s movie, obviously, not the actual space camp I had to hurry through.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm entering the shuttle through its open dorsal payload doors.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, if I were a Li-ion battery in a space shuttle... where would I be?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Better yet, if I were the instruction manual to a space shuttle...<<endd>>
[[Check the ship's glove box?|bay:glove_box]] | [[Try the shipboard computer.|bay:shipboard_computer]]


:: bay:glove_box
<<d tay>>Great idea!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, if I were the glove box in a space shuttle... where would I be?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I guess... find the gloves, and then look at what's directly surrounding them.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(I am very smart. That's why they picked me to go to space.)<<endd>>
[[So find the gloves, Einstein.|bay:find_gloves]] | [[Ask the shuttle's computer.|bay:shipboard_computer]]


:: bay:find_gloves
<<d tay>>Ha! Well, joke's on you, because I <i>did</i> just find a pair of gloves!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And now the joke's on me, because they were just lying on a seat.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We can put a person on the moon -- on <i>any</i> moon, really --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>but we can't engineer proper space glove storage protocols?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I am ashamed of us as a species.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And I'm no closer to figuring out this battery dilemma.<<endd>>
[[Ask the shipboard computer.|bay:shipboard_computer]] | [[Just keep poking around.|bay:poking_around]]


:: bay:poking_around
<<d tay>>Oh, you're from the "when in doubt, push buttons" school of thought.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I respect that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's certainly how I handled my brief tenure running lights for the school's drama club.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We were the only stage production of <i>Oklahoma!</i> to ever carry a warning for epileptic viewers.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. I'll toggle some toggles here in the cockpit, see what happens.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll get back to you when I find what I'm after.<<endd>>
[[delay 26m^Taylor is humming "The Surrey With The Fringe On Top"|bay:found_battery]]


:: bay:found_battery
<<d tay>>Hey!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I found it!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just above the floor, right of center on the main console...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...there's an inconspicuous blue button labeled "BAT."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So either I'm about to summon Adam West to dance the Batusi for us...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...or I'm about to gain access to the shuttle's battery compartment.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Honestly, either one is fine.<<endd>>
[[So... which is it?|bay:which_is]] | [[Adam West would save the day.|bay:adam_west]]


:: bay:which_is
<<d tay>>The, uh...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...the battery compartment one?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sorry if you thought I could really pull off the other one.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But, hey, the battery compartment! That's cool! Am I right?<<endd>>
[[bay:battery_compartment]]


:: bay:adam_west
<<d tay>>Aw, he's probably too busy to take my calls.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Most dead celebrities are.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But in the meantime... I found the battery compartment!<<endd>>
[[bay:battery_compartment]]


:: bay:fair_enough
<<d tay>>Thank you. Sometimes I just need validation.<<endd>>
[[bay:go_poke]]


:: ready:get_lanyard
<<d tay>>All right, here we go.<<endd>>
[[delay 2m^The astronauts are hogtying|ready:done_tying]]


:: bay:build_lighter
<<d t2>>I mean... there are a lot of spare parts to be had around here...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but I have yet to see any flint and steel.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That would be an excellent name for our crime-fighting duo.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Flint and Steel! Sparks will fly!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Okay. But <i>I'm</i> Flint.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Aw, man.<<endd>>



:: bay:out_luck
<<d tay>>Well, hang on a second before we throw in the towel.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Couldn't we find some flares?<<endd>>
[[bay:find_flares2]]


:: bay:find_flares2
<<display bay:find_flares>>
[[Maybe the shuttle has some?|bay:shuttle_flares]] | [[Back to the "build one" idea.|bay:build_again]]


:: bay:build_again
<<d tay>>Right. Okay. Can we think of any other methods to make a lighter?<<endd>>
[[bay:lighter_methods]]


:: bay:highly_unlikely
<<d tay>>Oh, I agree.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But it's that, or do nothing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Even if this is a wild goose chase...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it's a way of keeping hope alive, for a little bit longer.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or it's a way of prolonging our inevitable doom.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Po-TAY-to, po-TAH-to.
[[bay:give_shot]]
//"Po-TAY-to, po-TAH-to" colloquial for "we're using different ways of saying the same thing."


:: bay:know_try
<<d tay>>Agreed. It's worth a shot.<<endd>>
[[bay:give_shot]]


:: bay:make_plan
<<d t2>>Oh, I've already got a plan.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>My plan is for us to blow up this space station...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...like it's a bottle of Diet Coke and we're a couple rolls of Mentos.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(Don't try that at home, <<print $playername>>. It's really messy.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(Trust me. I'm a scientist.)<<endd>>
[[How will you make it explode?|bay:bring_hold]] | [[Wait, I have an idea.|bay:explode_idea]]


:: bay:explode_idea
<<d t2>>Sure, <<print $playername>>. Let's see whether we're on the same page.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>How would <i>you</i> set up the explosion?<<endd>>
[[Look around for weaponry.|bay:look_weaponry]] | [[Bring up what's in the cargo hold.|bay:cargo_course]]


:: bay:cargo_course
<<d t2>>Yes! My thoughts exactly.<<endd>>
[[bay:bring_hold]]


:: bay:bring_hold
<<d t2>>I'm gonna start bringing up the tunguskite ore from the cargo bay!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I have some... familiarity with its properties, vis-à-vis flammability.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Maybe HelpBot can seal the pneumatic doors between pods...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but the hatches between levels require turning the wheel by hand.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So we can go straight down from here into the cargo bay!<<endd>>
<<if $bringhalliday == true>><<d t2>>The nice thing is, I should be able to talk Halliday here into doing the bulk of the job.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>Now I kinda wish we'd brought Halliday, so I could puppeteer him into doing the bulk of the job.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>Anyway. I'll work on the ore; Taylor, you worry about getting that shuttle battery installed.<<endd>>
[[Sounds like a plan.|bay:sounds_plan]] | [[Wait. You two should switch jobs.|bay:switch_jobs]]



:: bay:switch_jobs
<<d tay>>Uh... not to question you or anything, but... <i>why?</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>(So I guess I <i>am</i> questioning you.)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You've heard the "bigger, stronger" rhetoric from T2 and the Green.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Seems like that would be put to better use hauling rocks, huh?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Me, I've got these little Tyrannosaurus arms. Definitely made for battery installation.<<endd>>
[[Fine. Do it your way.|bay:sounds_plan]] | [[Give those arms a workout. Haul ore.|bay:haul_ore]]


:: bay:haul_ore
<<d tay>>Fine. I'll do it until I can't stand it.<<endd>>
<<if $bringhalliday == true>><<d tay>>Which shouldn't take long.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>At least I'll have Zombie Halliday helping me out.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Should make for some scintillating conversation.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Which shouldn't take long.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Okay. I'm off to the cargo hold. You'll hear from me in a while, I guess.<<endd>>
[[bay:taylor_cargo]]


:: bay:still_hauling
<<d tay>>Oh hey! Here's a very important update!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I am still hauling ore.<<endd>>
[[delay 13m^Taylor is still hauling ore|bay:crap_happens]]


:: bay:crap_happens
<<d tay>><i>Whoa!</i> What the hell?!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>From up above, in the Shuttle Dock... someone's screaming!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I mean... it has to be T2!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(Is that what <i>I</i> sound like when I scream?)<<endd>>
<<d tay>>(I hope I'm not about to find out.)<<endd>>
[[bay:taylor_topside]]


:: bay:battery_compartment
<<set $loct2 = ready>>
<<d tay>>It folds out of the floor and then lifts so it's easy to access and work on.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll get the old battery out of here, and the new one secured in its place...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and then here's hoping the shuttle system reboots itself with no problems.<<endd>>
Because you're having such good luck with computer systems lately.
<<d tay>>Shut up, HelpBot.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This might take a minute, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll let you know when I've got it all taken care of.<<endd>>
[[delay 9m^Taylor is working|bay:battery_in]]


:: bay:battery_in
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>All right! The new battery's installed!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've set Hydrox down to roam the shuttle...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>... with very strict instructions not to chew on any of the wires.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Even though they do look like very tasty wires. Even I think so.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>All right! The new battery's installed!<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>The shuttle is ready for a quick getaway... and it can't come quickly enough.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now that that's done, time to go check out T2's progress.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And... I... don't see T2. Huh.<<endd>>
[[Probably down in the cargo hold?|bay:down_cargo]] | [[Maybe back in the Ready Room?|bay:back_ready]]


:: bay:down_cargo
<<d tay>>Oh, I think you're right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Someone's coming up through the hatch now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Looks like... it's Halliday, with an armload of tunguskite ore.<<endd>>
<<if $bringhalliday == true>><<d tay>>Looks like T2 has a pretty good grip on that mind meld thing!<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>I guess T2 is mind-controlling him, puppeteering him around.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<if $bringhalliday == true>><<d tay>>It's kind of creepy to watch in real life.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>It's kind of creepy to watch in real life.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I wonder whether Halliday wandered in from the Ready Room on his own...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...or whether T2 went back in there to recruit him.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<if $tiedhalliday == true>><<d tay>>And did he get out of the restraints on his own?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'd guess he's strong enough to do it, just given the amount of rocks he's carrying.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>No doubt he's got some superhuman strength...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...just given the amount of rocks he's able to carry.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>The tunguskite is really starting to pile up at the far end of the shuttle bay.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I wonder how much of it T2 is planning to bring up here?<<endd>>
[[Find T2 and ask.|bay:ask_t2]] | [[Just stay wary around Halliday.|bay:wary_halliday]]


:: bay:wary_halliday
<<d tay>>Oh, yeah, believe me, I am.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I would hate to find out what happens if T2's mind meld falters even for a minute.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And speaking of T2...<<endd>>
[[bay:t2_returns]]


:: bay:ask_t2
<<d tay>>I certainly will do that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just as soon as I figure out where T2 is --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Aha! Speak of the devil...<<endd>>
[[bay:t2_returns]]


:: bay:find_flares
<<d t2>>Even though it makes my face hurt to think about the combination of flares and tunguskite...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...I had that thought already, as well.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's what I was doing in the Ready Room.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>(Where HelpBot is apparently okay with me going, because there's nothing useful there.)<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I was looking for flares, or for anything that could help us out here...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but I came up empty-handed.<<endd>>


:: bay:intro
<<set $loctay = shuttledock>>
<<set $loct2 = shuttledock>>
<<d tay>>...the Shuttle Dock.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Featuring the shuttle. So at least HelpBot wasn't lying about that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Look at it. Just sitting there, waiting for a crew that never arrived.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Until today.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now that we're here -- and the shuttle is here -- can we just take a breath for a minute?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This whole thing has just been nonstop.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>There'll be time to breathe when the <i>Celadon Ace</i> is in our rearview mirror.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or, better yet... when it's a <i>smoldering wreck</i> in our rearview mirror.<<endd>>
[[Take a rest. You've earned it.|bay:take_rest]] | [[Keep moving toward escape.|bay:toward_escape]]


:: bay:toward_escape
<<d tay>>I know. You're probably right.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It would be stupid and irresponsible to -- <i>yawn</i> -- to take a nap right now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Not when we're this close to leaving.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Correct.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Although you <i>should</i> go ahead and use the restroom now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Once we get that shuttle started, I'm not stopping at a Space Starbucks so you can pee.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm fine, thanks.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Just exhausted.<<endd>>
[[All right. Go ahead and nap.|bay:take_rest]] | [[You two need to make a plan.|bay:make_plan]]


:: bay:taylor_topside
<<set $loctay = shuttledock>>
<<d tay>>Oh, no. Oh, man.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm topside now, and things do <i>not</i> look good.<<endd>>
[[What the hell is happening?|bay:hell_happening]] | [[Is T2 okay?|bay:t2_okay]]


:: bay:build_lighter1
<<display bay:build_lighter>>
[[I guess you're out of luck.|bay:out_luck]] | [[Any other methods you could try?|bay:lighter_methods]]


:: bay:lighter_methods
<<d t2>>I could make one if we had a AAA battery and a chewing gum wrapper.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, right, from that video! I thought that was really clever.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>For a while, I even carried gum in one pocket and a battery in the other.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You know, just in case of emergency.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Hey, we're basically the same person. You mean <i>you</i> never did that?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>No, I... I just bought a lighter.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh. Huh. Yeah, I guess that would work, too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I bet my breath was fresher, though.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But... you don't <i>still</i> carry them around...?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Uh... no. Sorry.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Of course. No problem.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You know... you know I <i>had</i> to ask. Right?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've met me. I get it.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So... is there any other way we can think of to build a lighter?<<endd>>
[[There must be!|bay:final_lighter]] | [[Maybe check the shuttle for flares?|bay:shuttle_flares]]


:: bay:steel_cool
<<d tay>>Mmm. Not so sure about that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't know if you ever saw the 1997 movie <i>Steel</i>, with Shaquille O'Neal...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but he's a... a hard act to follow.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And just between you and me, <<print $playername>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...my Shaq Fu is pretty weak right now.<<endd>>
[[bay:build_again]]
//Shaq Fu was a notoriously bad video game starring Shaquille O'Neal.


:: bay:have_maglite
<<d tay>>Hey, you're right, <<print $playername>>! Good memory!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>With everything that's happened since then, I nearly forgot.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, that's like half our shopping list taken care of, then.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now what are the odds that we can find a DVD drive around here somewhere?<<endd>>
[[You won't know until you try.|bay:know_try]] | [[It seems... highly unlikely.|bay:highly_unlikely]]


:: bay:give_shot
<<d t2>>We should split up to search more ground, obviously.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll search for old CPUs and drives here and in the Ready Room.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You get back in that shuttle and see whether their tech goes back that far.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I have a feeling we're both going to come up empty-handed...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but you're right, it feels better to have a mission.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Agreed. Okay, let's split up. Talk to you in a bit.<<endd>>
[[bay:split_search]]


:: bay:back_ready
<<d tay>>Hey, I think you're right!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Speak of the devil...<<endd>>
[[bay:t2_returns]]


:: bay:t2_returns
<<set $loct2 = shuttledock>>
<<d t2>>You're done with the battery?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>At long last, yes.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Looks like your plan is coming along nicely.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>That's quite a pile of flammable rocks you've got going on, there.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Yeah, but there's a problem.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, good. It's about time we had a problem. Everything's been running so smoothly up to now.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ha ha.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>All the flammable rocks in the universe are useless to us...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...if we don't have a way to light them on fire.<<endd>>
[[Oh. Yeah, that <i>is</i> a problem.|bay:fire_problem]] | [[Hang on. I have an idea.|bay:fire_idea]]


:: bay:take_rest
<<d tay>>Thank you, <<print $playername>>. I'm exhausted.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let me just catch a quick catnap, and I'll be thinking clearer on the other side.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If you really must.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I don't need to sleep, so I'm going to work on installing the shuttle battery.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sounds good. Just... make sure to wake me up before you blast off, okay?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I guess we'll see.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Very reassuring. Thanks.<<endd>>
[[delay 75m^Taylor is sleeping|bay:taylor_wakes]]


:: bay:fire_idea
<<d t2>>Let's hear it, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<if $greenfire == true>>[[The whole Greenhouse is in flames.|bay:whole_greenhouse]] | [[Can you two build a lighter?|bay:build_lighter1]]
<<else>>[[Can you two build a lighter?|bay:build_lighter1]] | [[Maybe find some flares?|bay:find_flares1]]<<endif>>


:: bay:whole_greenhouse
<<d t2>>Yeah. That was the first thing I thought of, too.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Unfortunately, HelpBot seems to have leapt to the same conclusion...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...so the door between the Ready Room and the Greenhouse is now sealed.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>HelpBot is changing the code twice a second. There's no way to bypass that.<<endd>>
[[Maybe find some flares?|bay:find_flares1]] | [[Could you two build a lighter?|bay:build_lighter1]]


:: bay:find_flares1
<<display bay:find_flares>>
[[Maybe the shuttle has some?|bay:shuttle_flares]] | [[Could you two build a lighter?|bay:build_lighter2]]


:: bay:build_lighter2
<<display bay:build_lighter>>
[[Any other methods you could try?|bay:lighter_methods]] | [["Steel" is still pretty cool.|bay:steel_cool]]


:: bay:final_lighter
<<d tay>>There are definitely other options. If I can remember any of them.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I kinda went down the rabbit hole, watching videos on how to MacGyver a lighter.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>One of them was even for a long-distance lighter...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...which would be handy if we don't want to be right next to the tunguskite when it goes up.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All we'd need for it is the laser from a CD or DVD drive...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and one of those Mini Maglite kind of little flashlights.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, and a soldering iron. And time. A decent amount of time.<<endd>>
<<if $minimaglite == true>>[[Taylor, you have a Maglite!|bay:have_maglite]] | [[Time is one thing you <i>don't</i> have.|bay:no_time2]]
<<else>>[[Start looking for those things.|bay:start_looking]] | [[Time is one thing you <i>don't</i> have.|bay:no_time]]<<endif>>


:: bay:taylor_wakes
<<d tay>>Mmnnnhhh... huh?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Whazzis... all sticky on the floor?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Tay<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Sticky and... red?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh God. T2?!<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Tay lor. Screwed... up.<<endd>>
[[What the hell is happening?|bay:hell_happening]] | [[Is T2 okay?|bay:t2_okay]]


:: bay:t2_okay
<<d tay>>Uh, no.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2 is about a million light years from "okay."<<endd>>
[[bay:hell_happening]]


:: bay:left_halliday
<<if $tiedhalliday == true>><<d t2>>He must've... slipped out of... restraint.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>He must've... woken up... in Ready Room. Made his way... in here.<<endd>><<endif>>
[[bay:halliday_attacked]]


:: bay:say_doesnt
<<d tay>>You're, uh... you're looking good, T2. Real, real... good.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, God, I can't lie to someone who looks just like me.<<endd>>
[[bay:owe_truth]]


:: bay:patch_t2
<<d tay>>I... I'm sorry.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I don't have anything like the medical knowledge that would take.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Even if HelpBot would permit me to run back to the Infirmary --<<endd>>
Which I absolutely would not. Have a nice day!
<<d tay>>this would take a team of surgeons. Experts. I just...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I'm so sorry, T2.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Not your fault. I should've... been more aware.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh. Oh wow.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Weirdest... sensation.<<endd>>
[[What are you feeling?|bay:what_feeling]] | [[Pain? Or something else?|bay:pain_else]]


:: bay:now_picking
<<set $greendeath = true>>
<<d tay>>And now he's... oh, God, he's picking up the occupier.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>He's coming right for me, and I'm not fast enough to --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No! Stop, please! I don't want this!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I want to die human, too!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I want<<endd>>
<<d tay>>nnnn<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
[[END]]


:: bay:what_feeling
<<d t2>>My Green. My occupier.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's reeling in its tendrils. Retracting them... into itself.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Feels like it's brushing... every nerve in my body.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Is it... leaving you?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>When the host body... becomes too damaged... it seeks out a new one.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hope it tastes... better coming up... than it did going down.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Don't make me laugh. It's so inappropriate.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It's so <i>human</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>That's... that's how I want to die. Human.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I swear I'll hold on... until this thing is out of me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Just... please don't leave me... before then. Taylor. <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
[[Of course not.|bay:of_course]] | [[I still think of you as evil.|bay:still_evil]]



:: bay:of_course
<<d t2>>Can I... hold your hand?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So... cold.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<if $gotflares == true>>[[bay:alive_flares]]
<<elseif $gotburner == true>>[[bay:alive_burner]]
<<else>><<d t2>>...<<endd>><<endif>>
[[bay:t2_passes]]


:: bay:t2_passes
<<set $loct2 = null>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2 is gone.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm gonna... I'm gonna need just a minute, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
[[Of course.|bay:minute_grieve]] | [[Stay alert for Halliday.|bay:alert_halliday]]


:: bay:alert_halliday
<<set $stayfrosty = true>>
<<d tay>>Right, of course.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll stay frosty.<<endd>>
[[bay:minute_grieve]]


:: bay:happened_leg
<<d tay>>Halliday!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Came out of nowhere. Slashed me in the leg!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Trying to run from him, but -- aahhhhh! -- can't put any weight on it!<<endd>>
[[bay:now_picking]]


:: bay:no_time2
<<d tay>>That's a good point.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We're on HelpBot's clock, and who knows when that's due to run out?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>In the meantime, the good news is... I <i>do</i> have a Mini Maglite!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Swiped it from the infirmary. My Spidey-sense told me it might come in handy later.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Well, that's half our shopping list taken care of, then.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now what are the odds that we can find a DVD drive around here somewhere?<<endd>>
[[You won't know until you try.|bay:know_try]] | [[It seems... highly unlikely.|bay:highly_unlikely]]




:: bay:after_search
<<set $loct2 = shuttledock>>
<<set $gotburner = true>>
<<d tay>>Oh my God!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2! <<print $playername>>! You're not going to believe this!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's an bank of older computers in the shuttle to handle payload functions, I think...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and one of them has a DVD burner drive in it!<<endd>>
<<if $minimaglite == true>><<d tay>>Along with the Maglite, we've got all the ingredients for a long-distance lighter!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've just got to disassemble the drive and get the laser out of it.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But our little problem is solved. Finally, something is going our way, huh, T2?<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Now all we need is one of those little flashlights...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and we'll have all the ingredients for a long-distance lighter!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I know it's a long shot... but hey! Our problem is already halfway solved!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Finally, something is going our way, huh, T2?<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>...T2?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh... oh, no. Oh, man.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I just jumped back out of the shuttle, and things do <i>not</i> look good.<<endd>>
[[What's happening?|bay:hell_happening2]] | [[Is T2 okay?|bay:t2_okay2]]


:: bay:hell_happening
<<d t2>>Got... so busy, working... shuttle.<<endd>>
<<if $bringhalliday == true>><<d t2>>Lost concentration... on puppeteering... Halliday.<<endd>>
[[bay:halliday_attacked]]
<<else>><<d t2>>Wasn't watching... when Halliday came in.<<endd>>
[[bay:left_halliday]]<<endif>>


:: bay:fire_problem
<<d t2>>Probably something I should have taken care of...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<i>before</i> I mind-controlled Halliday into hauling up so much ore.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But it's so hard to resist taking advantage of an unquestioning source of labor.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, boy. Late-stage capitalism has entered the chat.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So... what do we do?<<endd>>
<<if $greenfire == true>>[[I have a thought.|bay:fire_idea]] | [[I'm as stumped as you are.|bay:fire_stumped]]
<<else>>[[Can you two build a lighter?|bay:build_lighter1]] | [[Maybe find some flares?|bay:find_flares1]]<<endif>>


:: bay:halliday_attacked
<<d t2>>He snuck up... took me by s'prise.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Slashed me with... piece of scrap metal.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Into my side. Damn near to... my spine.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Does it look... bad as it feels?<<endd>>
[[Please say it doesn't, Taylor.|bay:say_doesnt]] | [[You owe T2 the truth, Taylor.|bay:owe_truth]]


:: bay:owe_truth
<<d tay>>I... don't know how to tell you this, T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's just... an awful lot of stuff that's supposed to be <i>inside</i> you...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...that's <i>outside</i> you instead, at the moment.<<endd>>
[[Can you patch T2 up?|bay:patch_t2]] | [[Where is Halliday now?|bay:where_halliday]]


:: bay:fire_stumped
<<d tay>>Okay, let's think about this rationally.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We need a flame. And where's the last place we saw flames?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Sure. The Greenhouse.<<endd>>
[[bay:whole_greenhouse]]


:: bay:shuttle_flares
<<d tay>>Yeah, that's not a bad suggestion.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'm happy to go back in there and look for flares, if you like.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Feel free.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm going to kick my feet up and puppeteer Halliday into hauling up more rocks.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Great! And maybe later we can switch jobs.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Anytime you're ready.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Ready to be killed by Halliday, I mean.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Yeah, I got it.<<endd>>
[[delay 18m^Taylor is searching|bay:after_flares]]


:: bay:give_shot2
<<d t2>>We should split up to search more ground, obviously.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'll look for old CPUs and drives here and in the Ready Room.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>You get back in that shuttle and see whether their tech goes back that far.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And hopefully we'll trip over a Maglite while we're searching.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I mean, I have a feeling we're both going to come up empty-handed...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...but you're right, it feels better to have a mission.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Agreed. Okay, let's split up. Talk to you in a bit.<<endd>>
[[bay:split_search]]



:: bay:start_looking
<<d tay>>I mean, I think we can all agree that it's likely our search won't turn up anything.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But it's that, or do nothing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Even if this is a wild goose chase...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...it's a way of keeping hope alive, for a little bit longer.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or it's a way of prolonging our inevitable doom.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Po-TAY-to, po-TAH-to.
[[bay:give_shot2]]
//"Po-TAY-to, po-TAH-to" colloquial for "we're using different ways of saying the same thing."


:: bay:no_time
<<d tay>>That's a good point.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>We're on HelpBot's clock, and who knows when that's due to run out?<<endd>>
[[bay:start_looking]]


:: bay:where_halliday
<<d t2>>Don't know.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Hiding. Waiting to ambush.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>He's running on... pure Green ambition... at this point.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Be careful, Taylor. He'll be... waiting for you.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Oh. Oh wow.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Weirdest... sensation.<<endd>>
[[What are you feeling?|bay:what_feeling]] | [[Pain? Or something else?|bay:pain_else]]


:: bay:pain_else
<<d t2>>Pain, sure. Plenty of that.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But this is... something stranger.<<endd>>
[[bay:what_feeling]]


:: bay:still_evil
<<d t2>>Fair enough.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But remember... I wasn't always.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I took... wrong turn. Made a... mistake.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>But like mom... always said...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"A mistake is something you do... not something you are."<<endd>>
<<if $gotflares == true>>[[bay:alive_flares]]
<<elseif $gotburner == true>>[[bay:alive_burner]]
<<else>>[[bay:t2_passes]]<<endif>>


:: bay:minute_grieve
[[delay 3m^Taylor is grieving|bay:occupier_out]]


:: bay:occupier_out
<<d tay>>Oh. Gross.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The occupier is making its way out of T2's mouth.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll need to go find something to crush it, or slice it in half, or --<<endd>>
<<if $stayfrosty == true>><<d tay>><i>Whoa!</i> Holy crap!<<endd>>
[[What happened?|bay:happened_scare]] | [[Are you okay, Taylor?|bay:okay_scare]]
<<else>><<d tay>>HRRRRGGHHHHH<<endd>>
[[What happened?|bay:happened_leg]] | [[Are you okay, Taylor?|bay:okay_taylor]]<<endif>>


:: bay:okay_taylor
<<d tay>>NO!<<endd>>
[[bay:happened_leg]]


:: bay:run_scare
<<d tay>>My thoughts exactly!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I just gotta<<endd>>
<<d tay>>OWWW! Swear word!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I slipped in... all the blood. Gotta get up before --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>HRRRRGGHHHHH<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Slashed me! In the leg!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Need to run from him, but -- aahhhhh! -- can't put any weight on it!<<endd>>
[[bay:now_picking]]


:: bay:okay_scare
<<d tay>>Not really!<<endd>>
[[bay:happened_scare]]


:: bay:happened_scare
<<d tay>>Halliday!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Came out of nowhere and took a swipe at me!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I was watching for him, but even so, he nearly got me.<<endd>>
[[Run!|bay:run_scare]] | [[Try to fight him!|bay:fight_scare]]


:: bay:fight_scare
<<d tay>>Look, <<print $playername>>, I appreciate the suggestion...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but don't you remember all that stuff T2 said about the Greens?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>"Stronger. Faster."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Not the kind of fight I'm looking for, right this moment.<<endd>>
[[Okay, then run!|bay:run_scare]] | [[Fight Halliday. You can do it.|bay:fight_again]]


:: bay:fight_again
<<d tay>>You're crazy.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right. Maybe I'll get in one good shot befor--<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>Gahhhhhh!</i><<endd>>
<<d tay>>He smashed me in the face! Did he... break my nose?<<endd>>
[[bay:now_picking]]


:: bay:split_search
<<set $loct2 = ready>>
[[delay 22m^The astronauts are searching|bay:after_search]]


:: bay:after_flares
<<set $gotflares = true>>
<<d tay>>Oh my God!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2! <<print $playername>>! You're not going to believe this!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>There's a whole kit of flares on board the shuttle!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Our little problem is solved. Finally, something is going our way!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>What does doom-and-gloom T2 have to say about that?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...T2?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, no. Oh, man.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I just jumped back out of the shuttle, and things do <i>not</i> look good.<<endd>>
[[What's happening?|bay:hell_happening2]] | [[Is T2 okay?|bay:t2_okay2]]


:: bay:t2_okay2
<<d tay>>Uh, no.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2 is about a million light years from "okay."<<endd>>
[[bay:hell_happening2]]


:: bay:cant_leave2
<<d tay>><<print $playername>> is right! I can't just abandon you here!<<endd>>
[[bay:cant_leave]]


:: bay:now_taylor2
<<d tay>>Right, I'm moving, I'm moving, I... oh. Gross.<<endd>>
[[bay:now_taylor]]


:: bay:hell_happening2
<<d t2>>Got... distracted. Remembering last time... with flares.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Lost concentration... on puppeteering... Halliday.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>He snuck up... took me by s'prise.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Slashed me with... piece of scrap metal.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Into my side. Damn near to... my spine.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Does it look... bad as it feels?<<endd>>
[[Please say it doesn't, Taylor.|bay:say_doesnt]] | [[You owe T2 the truth, Taylor.|bay:owe_truth]]


:: bay:alive_burner
<<d t2>>Taylor. Listen.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm beyond help. But... but you're not.<<endd>>
<<if $minimaglite == true>><<d t2>>We've got... DVD burner. Got Mini Maglite.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I saw that... YouTube video too. Think I can remember how to... stick 'em together.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I found... soldering iron while I was... looking around for stuff. See?<<endd>>
<<else>><<d t2>>We've got... DVD burner.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And I found... soldering iron while I was... looking around for stuff. See?<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Who knows? Maybe... little flashlight, somewhere around this place.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Either way... I'll figure something out. Light that tunguskite up somehow.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d t2>>You get the hell out of here. I'll build the lighter.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Blow this place... and HelpBot... to kingdom come.<<endd>>
[[This sounds like a good plan.|bay:good_plan]] | [[You can't just leave T2 behind!|bay:cant_leave2]]


:: bay:cant_leave
<<d t2>>You can, and you will.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>If you try to move me... it'll kill me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And there's nothing... on this station that can save me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Or am I wrong, HelpBot?<<endd>>
I'm afraid you've reached a dead end in your maze, little lab rabbit.
<<d t2>>Me... and you both, computer.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now <i>go</i>, Taylor! *cough*<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Get... get out of h*cough* hgggghhh<<endd>>
[[What's happening to T2?|bay:happening_t2]] | [[T2's right. Go now, Taylor!|bay:now_taylor2]]


:: bay:now_taylor
<<d tay>>The occupier is making its way out of T2's mouth.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Told you... *cough* wouldn't die... with this thing still in me.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Now, go! Get on that shuttle!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This feels wrong.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Feels like I'm abandoning part of myself here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Stop writing poetry... and move!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I'll never forget you, T2.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And if you ever start to... all you need to do...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...is look into a cracked mirror.<<endd>>
[[You're going out as a hero, T2.|bay:hero_t2]] | [[We have to be able to save T2!|bay:have_save]]


:: bay:hero_t2
<<d t2>>More important... I'm going out as... a human.<<endd>>
[[bay:get_going]]


:: bay:alive_flares
<<d t2>>Taylor. Listen.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm beyond help. But... but you're not.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>We've got... flares.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And we've got... giant pile of tunguskite.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I think... it's time for my story to end... the same way it began.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>So. You get the hell out of here.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And me? I'll blow this place... and HelpBot... to kingdom come.<<endd>>
[[This sounds like a good plan.|bay:good_plan]] | [[You can't just leave T2 behind!|bay:cant_leave2]]


:: bay:good_plan
<<d tay>>I mean... yeah, okay, it's a good plan.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But I can't just abandon T2 here!<<endd>>
[[bay:cant_leave]]


:: bay:happening_t2
<<d tay>>Oh. Gross.<<endd>>
[[bay:now_taylor]]


:: bay:have_save
<<d t2>>I'm making sure... Taylor escapes.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>I'm literally... saving myself.<<endd>>
[[bay:get_going]]


:: bay:my_pleasure
<<d t2>>Mine... too.<<endd>>
[[bay:go_goodbye]]


:: bay:mourn_t2
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>Oh, believe me, once Hydrox and I are safely away from this place...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Oh, believe me, once I'm safely away from this place...<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>...I'm going to turn into a deep puddle of tears for a good long time.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But right this second, I've got to stay focused on my goal...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...or I might never make it into that blubbering fetal position.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And <i>that</i> would be the real tragedy.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>All right, now. Time to call upon every bit of the training I had...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and move this shuttle out of the bay and away from <i>Celadon Ace</i> forever!<<endd>>
[[Good luck.|bay:good_luck]] | [[You can do this, Taylor!|bay:this_taylor]]


:: bay:good_luck
<<d tay>>Thank you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Luck is definitely a factor here, because skill sure isn't.<<endd>>
[[bay:heading_out]]


:: bay:heading_out
<<d tay>>Fortunately, the launch sequence seems pretty much automated.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I can't believe it. I'm actually going to escape this place.<<endd>>
[[But T2 isn't going to escape.|bay:no_escape]] | [[Stay focused on the task.|bay:focused_shuttle]]


:: bay:focused_shuttle
Ah, Taylor. Leaving so soon?
<<d tay>>Yeah, HelpBot. I'm done with your little "experiment."<<endd>>
Indeed, you've made it to the end of the maze and claimed your reward.
And as a fellow scientist, you'll be pleased to know that I've gathered absolute reams of data on you.
<<d tay>>What's the old saying in academia? "Publish or perish"?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let's just say, I hope you don't publish.<<endd>>
Mind your manners, Taylor.
You still need me to open the shuttle bay doors so you can leave.
[[Ugh. I guess that's true.|bay:true_doors]] | [[Just smash through the closed doors!|bay:smash_through]]


:: bay:true_doors
<<d tay>>I mean... <i>is</i> it true, though?<<endd>>
[[bay:smash_through]]


:: bay:open_doors
Very well.
I'll grant you an easy exit...
...because I have a feeling you'll be in for a bumpy ride.
All of you.
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>...Hydrox and I will manage just fine, I'm sure.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Wait... what do you mean, "all of us"?<<endd>>
I'm sure I meant nothing.<<endif>>
Farewell, little lab rabbit. It's been... educational.
<<d tay>>Yeah, well, school's about to be out. Forever.<<endd>>
[[Yeah! Nice sign-off, Taylor.|bay:sign_off]] | [[Enough talk. Get out of there!|bay:enough_talk]]


:: bay:enough_talk
<<set $loctay = null>>
<<d tay>>Moving out of the dock -- slowly, carefully, still getting used to the controls --<<endd>>
<<d tay>>and... now... I'm clear of the <i>Celadon Ace</i>, and clear of HelpBot QTC.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>God only knows where I'm headed... as long as it's far away from here.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It feels... <i>weird</i> to leave T2 behind. Like I'm leaving part of myself there.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I think, when you strip away the Green influence and get to the real human inside...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...T2 is maybe the bravest person I've ever known.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I certainly wouldn't be here now, in this shuttle, withou--<<endd>>
<<d tay>><i>WHOA!</i><<endd>>
[[What happened?|bay:what_happened]] | [[Are you all right?|bay:all_right]]


:: bay:what_happened
<<d tay>>An explosion. At the far end of the <i>Celadon Ace</i>'s ankh shape. The Shuttle Dock.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>T2 did it!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And now the explosion is cascading up the spine of the space station!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The tunguskite in the Cargo Bay must've caught fire, too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The whole station is going up in flames!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>This is... this is so great.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So why am I crying?<<endd>>
[[You've been through a lot.|bay:through_alot]] | [[You're mourning T2.|bay:mourning_t2]]


:: bay:through_alot
<<d tay>>Yeah, that's... an understatement.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And you've been through all of it with me, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
[[bay:kingdom_ruins]]


:: bay:kingdom_ruins
<<d tay>>I wish you could see HelpBot's kingdom in ruins right now.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's so cathartic.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I feel like I was holding my breath the whole time I was there...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and now I can finally relax.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>If this universe has an Earth, I think that's where I'm headed.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Who knows? Maybe I'll see you there, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<if $jokesetup == true>>[[I would really love that.|bay:love_that]] | [[Wait! You owe me a punchline!|bay:owe_punchline]]
<<else>>[[I would really love that.|bay:love_that]] | [[Safe travels, Taylor.|bay:safe_travels]]<<endif>>


:: bay:love_that
<<d tay>>Me too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Even if it's a parallel-universe version of you...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I imagine we'd find plenty to talk about.<<endd>>
[[bay:safe_travels]]


:: bay:get_going
<<d t2>>Now you get going too, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Stick with Taylor. See this thing through.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>And, uh... thanks.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Thanks for being my lifeline. For a little while.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>It made all the difference in the universe.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>*cough* *cough* Now, go. *cough* <i>Go!</i><<endd>>
[[I'm going. Goodbye.|bay:go_goodbye]] | [[You're welcome. My pleasure.|bay:my_pleasure]]


:: bay:go_goodbye
<<d t2>>Oh, and hey...<<endd>>
<<d t2>>...<i>avenge me</i>.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>Always wanted a chance to say that.<<endd>>
<<d t2>>*cough* *cough* *cough*<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Come on, <<print $playername>>. We do need to get moving.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>No idea where Halliday is hiding... but I know I don't want to end up like T2.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So let's get on board that shuttle and leave this godawful place far, far behind us.<<endd>>
[[Let's do this!|bay:do_shuttle]] | [[Do you need time to mourn T2?|bay:mourn_t2]]



:: bay:do_shuttle
<<d tay>>Okay! Boarding the shuttle!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...It takes a minute!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Gotta find the switch to close those payload doors... a-ha!<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>Now I'm having to assist my co-pilot Hydrox with his safety straps.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, God. What am I supposed to feed a rabbit in the middle of outer space?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Okay. That's a problem for later.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Time to call upon every bit of the training I had...<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>Time to call upon every bit of the training I had...<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>...and move this beast out of the bay and away from <i>Celadon Ace</i> forever!<<endd>>
[[Good luck.|bay:good_luck]] | [[You can do this, Taylor!|bay:this_taylor]]


:: bay:this_taylor
<<d tay>>I appreciate the vote of confidence.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Let's see if I can earn that vote.<<endd>>
[[bay:heading_out]]


:: bay:no_escape
<<d tay>>No, but... I think I can find a way to make peace with that.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Because I looked into T2's eyes, when we were talking through this plan...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...and I knew, in a moment, that if our positions were reversed...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...I would've insisted on the same thing.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I think <i>any</i> Taylor would have.<<endd>>
[[I believe you're right.|bay:believe_right]] | [[Whatever you say. Just get going.|bay:focused_shuttle]]


:: bay:believe_right
<<d tay>>Honestly, I might not have the courage of my convictions if it weren't for you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You've helped me make all the right decisions, to get me to this point.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>The words "thank you" seem too small for what I need to say to you.<<endd>>
[[You're welcome, all the same.|bay:youre_welcome]] | [[Just stay focused on the task.|bay:focused_shuttle]]


:: bay:smash_through
<<d tay>>I'm in a <i>very</i> "smash things" mood at the moment...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...which I think is pretty understandable, all things considered.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And since the plan is to blow the <i>Celadon Ace</i> to smithereens once I'm clear of it...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...there's no real reason I <i>shouldn't</i> make a mess on my way out.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So it's up to you, HelpBot. Open the doors or don't.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But either way... I guarantee you I'm leaving now.<<endd>>
[[Open the doors, HelpBot.|bay:open_doors]] | [[Let's see some chaos!|bay:see_chaos]]


:: bay:see_chaos
<<d tay>>Last chance to relent, HelpBot.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Blasting off in three...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...two...<<endd>>
[[bay:open_doors]]


:: bay:sign_off
<<d tay>>Thanks.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>As with most of my social graces, I learned it from an old Alice Cooper song.<<endd>>
[[bay:enough_talk]]


:: bay:all_right
<<d tay>>Yeah.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>For the first time in ages, I think I am.<<endd>>
[[bay:what_happened]]


:: bay:mourning_t2
<<d tay>>Yeah, that makes some sense.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But it's even bigger than that, really.<<endd>>
[[bay:kingdom_ruins]]


:: bay:owe_punchline
<<d tay>>I owe you a wha--?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Oh, yeah! The dumb joke I started!<<endd>>
<<d tay>>So, why do aliens stay away from Earth?<<endd>>
<<d tay>>It's because they read the reviews... and we only have one star!<<endd>>
[[Groan.|bay:joke_groan]] | [[Okay, I actually laughed.|bay:actually_laughed]]


:: bay:safe_travels
<<set $bestending = true>>
<<d tay>>I know I'm headed out into a totally unknown universe...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...but somehow, I'm more excited than terrified.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Right now, though, I think I'm going to sign off for a good long while.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I've got a lot to process from this little adventure. Need a little "alone time."<<endd>>
<<d tay>>But... just know that I couldn't have done this without you.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>You're more than a lifeline, <<print $playername>>...<<endd>>
<<d tay>>...you're a friend.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>And a damn good one, too.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>I know we'll talk again someday, but until then...<<endd>>
<<if $bunny == true>><<d tay>>...this is Cadets Taylor and Hydrox, of the I-Don't-Know-The-Name-Of-This-Shuttle, signing off.<<endd>>
<<else>><<d tay>>...this is Cadet Taylor, of the I-Don't-Know-The-Name-Of-This-Shuttle, signing off.<<endd>><<endif>>
<<d tay>>Take care, and stay amazing.<<endd>>
[[END]]


:: bay:youre_welcome
<<d tay>>You're the best, <<print $playername>>.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Don't ever let anyone tell you otherwise.<<endd>>
<<d tay>>Now, it's time to blow this popsicle stand and head for... whatever's next.<<endd>>
[[bay:focused_shuttle]]
//"Blow this popsicle stand" colloquial for "get out of this place."


:: bay:joke_groan
<<d tay>>I <i>did</i> say it was a dumb joke.<<endd>>
[[bay:safe_travels]]


:: bay:actually_laughed
<<d tay>>You're very kind. Laughter is far more than that joke deserves.<<endd>>
[[bay:safe_travels]]


