[X] You smile...
[X] "... what? Scared of a little… *hic*... girl kicking your ass?"
[X] Vodka (70% alcohol)
Hah. That's un unlikely bottle to see in such a place. I expect 70% ABV form moonshine, not factory-made Vodka. But i guess for the quest purposes it shall do.
[X] "Throw him in a cell, and have him do public service. At least he'll be of use that way."
It was also explicitly hinted that the Jeep alone was already a very good offer in text, but anyway here we are. And at least we've picked up some SF souvenirs along the way.
Indeed. It was quite the surprise then Veresk just offered almost everything she had including her services to the Leaders with a straight face and got nothing else in return. I expected QM to give some huge benefits from trading in anything besides the Jeep. Or heaps of miscellaneous junk that might be situationally useful. And yet here we are. Bamboozled
So, while we point fingers at each other throwing accusations about who's bad at haggling, it has come to my attention that... it is time.
It is time... for Veresk to be brought into the 2D realm.
What do I mean with this? Well, I mean it's time to start looking for an artist to commission! Now, money is no problem for me, but I have no idea who to commission, as I'm not at all familiar with the artistic scene of the GFL community, I'm more of a mindless browser on the subreddit. So, I'd appreciate your guys' help. Aid me in finding an artist who draws similar in GFL's general style and has reasonable commission prices.
I know the skin color has not been decided on yet, but by the time we find someone we might as well have decided on the underwear. So, let's hear those suggestions! Let's make our tiny, smug, flat, drunk waifu a reality! For cuteness!
It is time... for Veresk to be brought into the 2D realm.
What do I mean with this? Well, I mean it's time to start looking for an artist to commission! Now, money is no problem for me, but I have no idea who to commission, as I'm not at all familiar with the artistic scene of the GFL community, I'm more of a mindless browser on the subreddit. So, I'd appreciate your guys' help. Aid me in finding an artist who draws similar in GFL's general style and has reasonable commission prices.
My sister is an excellent artist who draws in a very anime-inspired style. I can draw well. She does it 5x as well in 1/2 the time it takes me. She's never tried to get paid for it before, but she definitely should. Should I ask her if she's interested?
My sister is an excellent artist who draws in a very anime-inspired style. I can draw well. She does it 5x as well in 1/2 the time it takes me. She's never tried to get paid for it before, but she definitely should. Should I ask her if she's interested?
If she has a devianart account or any place where I can view her work, I'd appreciate a showcase. Has she drawn anything GFL related before? If it's her first time drawing guns and the like it might not be ideal, so I wanna make sure.
I'll talk to her about posting some of her work for you. She might even be willing to give you a quick-sketch-Varesk sample. I can show her the character profile. I'll show you or point you to whatever she decides to do if she goes for it.
I'll talk to her about posting some of her work for you. She might even be willing to give you a quick-sketch-Varesk sample. I can show her the character profile. I'll show you or point you to whatever she decides to do if she goes for it.
Phew, just in time... I think. Wasn't keeping track of time, just thought today is post day. No matter, what's done is done. Hope you'll enjoy this one, got a little frustrated towards the end but hopefully it fits the bill.
Concerning the search for an artist to commission Veresk to, I have found some very promising candidates, but I am still open for suggestions. I'll announce my decision once I have made a deal with whoever it will be. Until then, this loli needs her skin color picked, so get to it people!
Adhoc vote count started by Lurkman on Aug 20, 2019 at 2:53 PM, finished with 24 posts and 10 votes.
"Let it be Martha, enough blood has been spilled."
The old woman refused to lower her weapon from the criminal's head until a few seconds later, when with a grunt she gave up against the decision made by the majority. Not all the villagers were satisfied, some shouting for justice, but the many who were silent seemed content with the decision made.
"... fine. But don't you think we'll go easy on you Ralph. Many cold nights of toilet washing await you, and the barrel of my gun with be aimed at your nards every time you look around."
"Seriously… screw you."
"A little punk till the end… take him, I can't even look at this pathetic face anymore."
You rose your foot from Ralph to hand him over to the town's enforcers, tying his hands behind his back to take him away. He looked down at you, though only physically, where in these given circumstances you're above him.
"You… you were lucky you had that T-doll with you, else you wouldn't even have a clue. You think you're tough shit, but you're not. I'm still the better man!"
[ ] "Whenever you think that to yourself Ralphie, just remember… I still kicked your ass."
[ ] "Enjoy the toilet aroma for the months to come, mister Ralph. And may we never meet again."
[X] Remain silent, pat his cheek, wave farewell, and smile smugly.
[ ] Write-in
With that, he was taken away, muttering incoherent curses in your name as they drag him off. His goons were also being grouped up and led out of the bar, and with them left the last bit of imminent hostility. The people were now starting to clean up after the mess, tables being picked up and bloody noses given tissues. Spilled drinks were being cleaned up, and some went back to drinking more already. As order was being re-established, the two village leaders turned to you once more.
"Well, we send you to clear out a place for scavenging, and you not only find a murderer amongst our midst but also apprehend him without our support. Can't say I don't like your spirit, Heather."
"Although being a little straightforward couldn't have hurt, could it? Not that it matters now. The bastard's caught, and you're to thank."
"We do not know whether you did this out of the good in your heart, or because you figured you'd be compensated for the trouble, but a reward's due either way. Anything you'd like, we can make it happen."
It is a gracious offer you've been given. Or perhaps subpar compensation. You may have saved this town some severe corruption and injustice, but things went well and didn't cost you much more than time. The amount you should be rewarded is certainly up for debate, but before you can decide, AA-12 walks over with heavy steps.
"How about you count a day off of our service deadline? I think we earned it."
"Oh, want to leave us already? And we were hoping you might start feeling at home here."
"Listen… just give us the damn map or whatever it is you use to get through. We have a job to do."
Surprise at your companion's sudden addendum and the tone she used did not come only from the humans' side. Didn't you tell her to keep quiet? Perhaps it didn't register as an order, or you overrode it when you gave her permission to speak again. Not the best at reading such commands that one. Either way, the words have been spoken, now you should add yours so she wouldn't seem so insubordinate.
[ ] "Although I would've worded it differently, I must agree with my companion. We can't afford to waste any more time than we have to. Above all, we are still Griffin."
[ ] "She's right. You owe us now. The whole town does. It's time you've done us a service."
[X] "If not that, some supplies for the road would be welcome. The trade has left our resources rather thin."
[ ] "Patience AA-12. Some financial compensation would be more than welcome."
[ ] Don't add anything, she said it well enough.
[ ] Write-in
"... we'll… think about it. Tomorrow we'll let you know of our decision. For now, it's been a long day. Feel free to spend the remainder of the evening however you like."
"Just don't start another fight, ya hear?"
With duties to fulfill and troublemakers to see to, Martha and Gustav waved farewell as they left. AA-12's sour looks seemed as if stuck on her face "Vandals… all of them…" until she looked your way, after which it softened a little.
"Sorry… I know I shouldn't talk, I'm just… sick of it all. I was this close to pulling my gun out. This close! And even then my programming wouldn't allow me to. I'm gonna pull my hair out at this rate. And it's all because of y-"
She bit her tongue, eyes closed and fist clenched as if she's trying hard to swallow her words.
"... never mind… I just… let me finish my drink."
Back to the bar counter she went, picking up stool she was pulled away from. As she is your companion, you join her. And besides, you still need to pay for the drinks you ordered. The second you sat down however, that's when a wave of dizziness hit you. It seems the alcohol you ingested has finally caught up with you. Nothing you can't handle, but you figured that looking a little tipsy will keep people from wondering how you remained perfectly sober after half a bottle of Vodka.
The bar's aura was completely different now as opposed to when you first came in. Calmer, no more loud drinking, and it seems the guitarist has broken his instrument in the crossfire. With a sad expression, he sets up an old radio and presses the play button. A cheerful tune fills the air, if not fitting for the area, it's definitely fitting for the establishment. You could hear people chat more clearly now, some were whispering. One particular conversation caught your ears.
"Jesus, what happened here? Was that Ralph I saw being dragged away in cuffs?"
"Man, you just missed it. Those new arrivals just kicked some serious ass! That girl is one mean bitch."
"What, you mean the one with pale skin and white hair?"
"No, the small one, with [X] fair skin and light blue hair."
"Blue? Seems more pink to me."
"Sure it's not the lighting in here? Pretty sure that's purple... or lavender was it?"
"My wife's good with colors, bet she'd knew that shade."
"Anyway, so what happened?"
"Well, all was calm, we were drinking and laughing, when suddenly she and her doll bodyguard showed through the door..."
And you know the rest.
You look to the shotgun, who had left her lollipop soaking in her glass of a Malibu Sunset, which might explain why she was so cranky. She put it back in her mouth and took a sip. Immediately some tension was relieved from her face, and as you're sitting next to her you notice her clothes are all wet, along with most of her hair. You ask her about it.
"... some punk smashed a bottle over my head. Spilled it everywhere. Smells like… cheap beer."
"If you'd like something more expensive, just ask."
The bartender chimed in, cleaning the counter of spilled liquids. AA-12 gives him an inquisitive look.
"You'll still serve us after we smashed half the place up?"
"You didn't. Ralph and his idiot crew did. They forced your hand, so I can't blame you for defending yourselves. The damage will be repaired from their pockets anyway. So how about a couple more drinks on them, just to make their lives a little more miserable?"
"Heh, when you say it like that… give me a mojito."
[ ] "I'll have a (write-in)."
[X] "I'll pass."
"Here you go."
When AA-12's drink arrived, she dipped her lollipop into the glass straight away. The bartender gave her an odd look, but didn't question it. He just kept polishing a glass in his hand. You can tell the glass was already clean, but it's a tactic to not make the patrons uncomfortable with him staring and doing nothing.
"So, what's it like? Going from distrustful stranger to local hero? At this rate I reckon they might start singing songs about you. Those were some crazy moves."
[X] "I've had some training outside of Griffin. Looks like it was worth it."
[ ] "Feels like we're finally getting somewhere."
[ ] "It's good to be recognized for once.
[ ] "I'd prefer it if they would stop looking this way."
[ ] Write-in
"Well, make sure to enjoy the fame while it lasts. You're at the right place to celebrate- oh, excuse me."
He apologizes as he turns to serve other waiting patrons. One might even forget the fight that transpired mere minutes ago. You try and center yourself in the moment, but after a while you feel the light nudging of your companion on your shoulder. She was asking for your attention.
"Hey, I've been thinking… you know the radio in the car? We traded the jeep, but not what's within it. We could alter its parameters and… well, t-there's this talk show I really like, and it only airs late at night, so I thought maybe we could… ugh, look, you wanna listen to it or not?"
[X] "Sure, sounds like fun."
[ ] "You do it if you wanna, just don't get caught with the radio."
[ ] "They might see this as a violation of our deal, so I'd rather not."
"And I'm back. Sorry ladies, the people here use alcohol to deal with both mental and physical pain. And there was a lot of headbutting just now."
"Noted."
"Hey, bartender… you seem oddly unopposed to serving a T-doll."
"Well, as long as you can drink, and pay for your drinks, I have nothing against a customer."
"But I'm not paying for these drinks."
"You're not. But someone else is."
"In that case, can you give me something against this headache? And make it something sweet. Like, really sweet. Throw in a pack of sugar if you have to. Or several."
"Uuuh... ok..."
While he prepares what likely will be an abomination of a drink for AA-12, you sit and ponder on what to do. Both now and later. It's getting pretty late, judging by your internal clock. It is time to decide how to spend the night. On one hand, this bar isn't a terrible place to stay at, you're already tipsy and you were suggested to celebrate. But that would probably mean missing that talk show AA-12 mentioned, if she won't be too drunk to care by that time. On the other hand, you've still got memories to decrypt, and your dummy suggested something about "bringing old Gamma back", whoever that is. You're in no shortage of options, but nobody's pressing you for a decision.
[ ] Stay at the bar and celebrate
[X] Decrypt another memory file (2 if you rejected AA-12's offer)
- [ ] Memory file No. 8
- [ ] Memory file No. 9
- [X] Memory file No. 13
[ ] Unlock dummy
[ ] Hack into T-doll digimind
- [ ] AA-12 (hacked)
[X] Remain silent, pat his cheek, wave farewell, and smile smugly.
"No, the small one, with [X]fair skin and light blue hair."
[X] "I'll pass."
[X] "I've had some training outside of Griffin. Looks like it was worth it."
[X] "Sure, sounds like fun."
[X] Decrypt another memory file
- [X] Memory file No. 13
Don't forget that we do have some dark skinned dolls in the game. And even the majority of white skinned dolls wary in shades of white, AA-12 here being a good example of the paler variety. If you want the most common shade I'd say it's fair.
[X] Remain silent, pat his cheek, wave farewell, and smile smugly.
[X] "If not that, some supplies for the road would be welcome. The trade has left our resources rather thin."
"No, the small one, with [X]fair skin and light blue hair."
[X] "I'll pass."
[X] "I've had some training outside of Griffin. Looks like it was worth it."
[X] "Sure, sounds like fun."
[X] Decrypt another memory file
- [X] Memory file No. 13
Great chapter
By hacking a T-doll your meaning AA-12 again or is there another one in the area?
[X] Remain silent, pat his cheek, wave farewell, and smile smugly.
[X] "If not that, some supplies for the road would be welcome. The trade has left our resources rather thin."
[X]fair skin and light blue hair.
[X] "I'll have a beer."
[X] "I've had some training outside of Griffin. Looks like it was worth it."
[X] "Sure, sounds like fun."
[X] Decrypt another memory file
- [X] Memory file No. 13
[X] "The better murderer you mean? I don't care, Ralph. I DID have the t-doll, so that's that. You've been given a second chance here. Please don't waste it."
[X] "Although I would've worded it differently, I must agree with my companion. We can't afford to waste any more time than we have to. Above all, we are still Griffin."
While this may be a bit hypocritical to say, considering what we've actually been doing with Griffin and AA-12, we DO still consider Griffin our primary employers, and even if our current task isn't for them, the sooner we get it done, the sooner we can get back to them.
"No, the small one, with [X] the fair skin and freckles and light blue hair."
[X] "I thin' I'm agtually drun' by gnow. Jus' zoda iv ya god any bleez."
[X] "At least I don't have to be as worried about offending anyone, so that's nice I guess."
[X] "Sure, why not?"
Do we really care about talk shows? Not really, but AA-12 is... sort of a friend. If it pleases her, may as well tag along.
[X] Decrypt another memory file
- [X] Memory file No. 13
Option with most immediate potential usefulness. Dummy would be nice later on down the road if we ever have access to an actual dummy manufacturing facility, but not really right now. No need to further intrude on AA-12's brain-space either. That leaves memory recovery, and file 13 is as good as any since that's what people are voting for so far.
I appreciate the effort anyway. I may have found the ideal artist already, so after the skin color has been decided on I can try and ask them. Let's pray things go smoothly ^^
[X] Remain silent, pat his cheek, wave farewell, and smile smugly.
[X] "If not that, some supplies for the road would be welcome. The trade has left our resources rather thin."
[X] "I'll have a beer."
[X] "I've had some training outside of Griffin. Looks like it was worth it."
[X] "Sure, sounds like fun."
[X] Decrypt another memory file
- [X] Memory file No. 13
[X] Just roll your eyes.
[X] "Although I would've worded it differently, I must agree with my companion. We can't afford to waste any more time than we have to. Above all, we are still Griffin."
"No, the small one, with [X]fair skin and light blue hair."
[X] "I'll pass."
[X] "I've had some training outside of Griffin. Looks like it was worth it."
[X] "Sure, sounds like fun."
[X] Decrypt another memory file
- [X] Memory file No. 13
*Asking for supplies back that you traded away in the first place*
... Well I can't disagree that we need them, but maybe you guys should have put some thought into that before hand... and no, I don't think I'll ever stop milking that. You traded away everything but your guns and clothes and didn't ask for anything when context clues said that the jeep along probably would have done it with something else.
*Asking for supplies back that you traded away in the first place*
... Well I can't disagree that we need them, but maybe you guys should have put some thought into that before hand... and no, I don't think I'll ever stop milking that. You traded away everything but your guns and clothes and didn't ask for anything when context clues said that the jeep along probably would have done it with something else.
If you would go back to the update (chapter 20) and look at the votes, you'll find that only 2 out of 7 voters actually voted for that entire list of things which was traded away. And only 1 more voted for trading our service at all (total of 3 out of 7).
For most voted subvotes: 6 for the antlers, 5/6 for the jeep (1 vote was conditional), 5/6 for varying amts of canisters of fuel
Edit: So no, stop asserting no thought was put into it
[X] Remain silent, pat his cheek, wave farewell, and smile smugly.
[X] "If not that, some supplies for the road would be welcome. The trade has left our resources rather thin."
[X] "I'll have a beer."
[X] "I've had some training outside of Griffin. Looks like it was worth it."
[X] "Sure, sounds like fun."
[X] Decrypt another memory file
- [X] Memory file No. 13
The only reason I wanted to trade away the antlers is so that they would be in a safe place. I'm hoping to come back with more ammunition and grenades we can trade for some of the stuff back.
Adhoc vote count started by Lurkman on Aug 23, 2019 at 3:32 PM, finished with 8 posts and 5 votes.
[X] "The better murderer you mean? I don't care, Ralph. I DID have the t-doll, so that's that. You've been given a second chance here. Please don't waste it."
[X] "Although I would've worded it differently, I must agree with my companion. We can't afford to waste any more time than we have to. Above all, we are still Griffin."
One day late, I know that this time. I'm surprised I got it to 3k words again, I constantly worried whether it'll even reach the 2k mark. I like writing dialogue, but I hope my first time writing a talk show wasn't too terrible. I didn't do much re-reading, so I apologize for any errors or sentences that could've been written better, I just didn't want to take another day.
Concerning votes, V's choice of drink was a tie between nothing and a beer, and since we solve these kinds of things with sudden death, the winner is no drink.
Lastly, now that the skin color is decided upon, I'll see about chatting with some artists ^^
Adhoc vote count started by Lurkman on Aug 25, 2019 at 10:02 AM, finished with 13 posts and 7 votes.
[X] "Although I would've worded it differently, I must agree with my companion. We can't afford to waste any more time than we have to. Above all, we are still Griffin."
[X] "The better murderer you mean? I don't care, Ralph. I DID have the t-doll, so that's that. You've been given a second chance here. Please don't waste it."
Mentally, you've made your decision, and that just in time to see the monstrosity of a drink AA-12 has ordered. A glass of butter beer, nothing out of the ordinary there, aside from the literal spoonfuls of sugar added. You feel like both your stomach, tongue, but mainly your teeth are cringing just from the sight. But to her it's probably exactly what she needs. Soothes that apparent addiction of hers, and contains some nerve numbing alcohol. She doesn't even brace herself before gulping it down the hatch, something that made even the bartender grimace. She shook her head a little, like it was a shot of something stronger, at least not in the sweet department.
After seeing that you don't think you can stomach any more drinks for tonight.
"It's about time we went back."
"Rrright on, chief."
"Take care. And beware of the entrance, it's slippery in the evening."
You thankfully have your feet well under control, and so does AA-12. You had enough drunk steps for tonight. Outside, before heading back to your room you make a slight detour to the jeep. Yours or not, the pried open door couldn't really be locked anymore, so it couldn't keep you out. You keep watch while AA-12 pulls the radio out. She fiddles a little but ultimately gets it out without getting caught. Within that big hoodie of hers it's only a matter of getting back to private now. Once there, you set down your things and she gets to work on fiddling with it straight away. It took a while to sink it, the silence as there's finally a quiet moment. No loud noise from outside nor within, just the wind gracing the roof and the creaking floor boards on yours and the lower levels.
"And… there. Should be working now."
Putting the cover back on the radio, AA-12 put it on the ground near the window and started adjusting the makeshift antennas, trying to catch a good signal.
"They should be airing any minute now. Broadcast duration varies, miss Kalina has a loose work schedule and often pulls night shifts. Let's hope this isn't one of those nights…"
Once she's satisfied with her work, AA-12 sat onto the couch and prompted you to get the snacks. By snacks she meant the crackers you found today. Not much, but beggars can't be choosers. Seems everything's set. Now to take your place…
[ ] sit on the opposite end of the couch
[X] sit right next to AA-12
[ ] sit next to AA-12 and huddle up to her
[ ] lay down on the sleeping mat
Soon, a cheery little tune came out of the radio, likely announcing the show's start. AA-12's eyes gleam like it's the first good thing in days. Shortly after you hear the voice of a young woman who sounds surprisingly enthusiastic for the time of day.
"Greetings, fellow T-dolls of Griffin! I welcome you to another evening at Kalina's Consultation Office. I am your host, Kalin, and today we have with us a charming trio of dolls, one of which is a dear acquaintance of mine who I definitely didn't spend all evening coercing to be here, miss FN-49. We have the sweet and buttery Sten MkII, and last but not least, Skorpion has returned to tell us another story! We will chat a little about some recent events, then go onto suggested topics and some questions from the audience. So, girls, why don't you introduce yourselves?"
"F… FN-49. P-pleased to meet you all."
"Sten MkII. It's a pleasure."
"VZ61 Skorpion. Thanks for the welcome."
"Glad to have you all here. So, why are we all here today?"
"You know what sucks more than retreating, miss Kalina?"
"I'm assuming that'd be losing? Also, just call me Kalin."
"Right on point there Kalin. I always got so mad whenever I was ordered to retreat, whether it was because my allies got banged up or I did. But now? Heck, there's worse things."
"You're talking about that incident from a few days ago, right?"
"Yup. FN-49 was there too. Biggest fight I ever saw. I never witnessed so many SF at once! And Ringleaders! We were getting swarmed from every corner, every flank, it was chaos! And it was pretty fun, fighting alongside the girls from the AR team, until things started getting real bad."
"I've heard about what happened. It's times like that where I feel sorta lucky it wasn't me. You have my condolences, Skorpion."
"Thanks Sten. Anyway, it was the first real loss I ever experienced. They got close, blinded-sided us, and next thing I knew I was a prisoner. Weird luck happened that it was the one day SF wanted us still operational. Well, most of us."
"I've read the report. Units AK-47, Simonov and PPsh-41 were there unfortunate casualties of the mission. Were you close?"
"Kinda… they were fun to hang out with. AK-47 and Simonov knew how to enjoy themselves, even though we had to dig them out of some mess they caused every now and then. PPsh-41 was like a little sister... and she had a damn good throwing arm."
"The report mentioned that their digimind backups would be transferred to new bodies as soon as possible. They're likely already operational and up for deployment again. Have you met them yet?"
"No. Then again, not sure it'd be the same. You know how it with digimind backups, it's the memories that's being copied, not the doll. Those aren't the same girls that were with me that day shooting SF into beehives. But… it might not be so bad to meet PPsh-41 all over again. She's to be stationed here too under this new commander."
"So, it was a pretty bad day, huh?"
"Bad doesn't even come close. It was really rough… but you gotta learn from everything, ya know? Next time, I'll pack more grenades."
"You were pretty quiet there, FN-49. How was your experience?"
"... i-it was very stressful. Like miss Skorpion, I haven't been part of a mission that ended it complete failure before… I'm just glad most of us made it out okay."
"Your stay at this base was pretty peaceful until that operation. Hope you're not mad at the commander for that."
"T-the commander couldn't have known what would happen. On paper it was a simple patrol mission. To stumble onto the AR team was complete coincidence, and so was the SF ambush… they would've sent more competent T-dolls than me if we knew what would happen."
"Aw, don't sell yourself short 49. You contributed to the escape, didn't you?"
"Y-yes… I carried a lot of things…"
"Yeah, she got me my weapons back! You're a lifesaver FN-49!"
"T-t-t-thank you, miss VZ61 Skorpion…"
"Just Skorpion will do. Some call me Skorp too."
"A-alright."
"Well, I'm glad to see you two came out on top. More girls on the base is always good to see. Have you met the commander yet Skorpion?"
"I wanted to say hi, but I think she was asleep… on a bowl of noodles..."
"Same old commander… anyway, I feel like we've been neglecting Sten a little."
"It's fine. I wasn't part of that operation, but we've heard about it all over Area S09. I am glad to hear most of our comrades made it out. How are the others doing?"
"They're doing rather well actually. Some were sent back to their respective commanders, others got put on standby here. After that ambush from SF we could use the support. If they come at us again, you can bet your butt we'll be ready for 'em!
"Glad to hear that. I'd like to ask some more details about the mission, but I doubt good subject to talk about here."
"Speaking of different subjects, you guys tried the new cafeteria food yet?"
"Oh yes! The deserts are fantastic here! Have you tried the fruitcake yet?"
"Fruitcake? Oh, now I'm jealous."
"I-I liked the pastries more…"
"Oh, FN-49, remember that time I baked some and…"
…
It went on for quite a while. Hours maybe? You didn't really keep track. There was a lot of talking, varying subjects ranging from food and cooking to self-esteem issues and the secret to pigtails. Some listening dolls chimed in with questions, and although AA-12 wanted to as well, it wasn't possible with this radio. Somewhere along the line tiredness took over, and you're not sure which came first, the end of the show or sleep. Either way, you're on a lower consciousness level right now, and back within the code realm that is your digimind. It's time to dream of what once was again.
"So… fishing for more memories then, hm? Guess what you need right now isn't two voices in your head. Nah, what you need is to GTFO. If these guys don't give you what you need, then they're just bleeding you dry at this point. How much longer do you plan on having them keep you?"
[X] "No more than a day. We're leaving tomorrow."
[ ] "A day at most."
[ ] "A few days. Our reputation is growing for the better."
[ ] "If I could I'd stay for a week. It could become comfortable here."
"I just hope you know what you're doing Alpha. I may be you, but I can't predict you any more than I can predict myself. My job is only to advise anyway, for now at least."
Load memory file 13
"Yeah yeah, thankfully you're not too drunk to forget this… here we go."
------ Memory File No. 13 (2 years and 3 months ago) ------
Singing...
Harmonic, melodic, synchronized singing…
It feels soothing, calming, therapeutic… your thoughts are clean and organized, even for a doll…
Why do you feel this way? Perhaps they're not entirely original to you…
Finally you open your eyes. You're sitting on a long bench, men and women alike sitting besides you and on more benches in front and behind you. The ceiling was so high up one would need several ladders to reach it. Sound was echoing along the grand hall, voices you never heard before, all part of one great choir. And to what were they singing to? An altar. A prayer for whoever watches the world, their creation, from above. God.
You never thought you'd find yourself in a house of prayer like this. You guess your job takes you to many places, but even this is an odd one. Thankfully, it's not for a job. Well, not entirely.
Beside you sits someone from the company, someone you know very well. Not that you need someone to look over you, things were just convenient enough for him to escort you.
"Why are we here again?"
"Hm?"
It may not be very respectful to chatter in a church, but he didn't seem very opposed to it. You were in a back line where sound didn't bounce around as much, so not many would hear.
"Why are we in a church?"
"Well… it's a special day. Was going to church anyway, figured I'd take you along since your drop-off's just around the corner."
"Then why are you here?"
"What's so weird about a guy going to church?"
"The fact you're doing it randomly. You've skipped days far more important for the christian calendar, and participated on days no one would consider significant… like this one."
Your statement has left him silent for a while. All this time you were facing forward, not because of necessity, but because it was oddly comforting.
"... it's a service to my deceased grandmother. It's tradition. I do it every year."
A service for the dead, the remembrance of a burial, as humans call it. Digging a hole to store the bodies of the dead in, a tradition spread throughout the world among several religions, in this case Christian. You don't entirely understand it, but you can feel a sense of respect for the dead and the body they leave behind. It is only fair to give them some form of peace.
"And you allow yourself to talk with others during her service?"
"I'm here, that's what counts. Doubt she'd want me to just stand around and do nothing anyway."
"Doesn't sound much like what a believer would say…"
"..."
Silent again. It wasn't exactly a question, so he doesn't have to answer. The choir picks up again, and he starts singing along. He did it before too. He knows every word and signs it out loud with confidence he couldn't even show to some of his co-workers. His eyes are distant while he does, as if his thoughts lay somewhere completely else, like he doesn't even need to think about what he's singing. Nobody else would notice this, he looks like a good boy holding his cross to pray. As the choir quiets down again you ask.
"Are you a believer Dai?"
"... I believe in my own way… I believe there's a god, and I believe in the Christian values I grew up with. But there's… all these restrictions a devout follower would have to uphold, a book telling me how I should feel, just didn't sit right by me."
"Then why are you really here?"
"... tradition, mostly. You see, when I was young, my parents brought me to church but never really bothered to explain why. Pretty sure my dad did it out of tradition too."
He sighs.
"I had no idea what to do, so I barely ever paid attention. My mind always wandered, I never felt like I was talking to Jesus when I sang like everyone else pretends they are. But when I grew up, I realized this place isn't that bad. It's great to think here, you feel at peace, no way you meet a bad person here… sometimes I think that's what these places are for. That's God's gift to us, and it'd be folly not to make use of it."
"So… it's like a mental shower?"
"Heh… you're taking my previous lessons a bit too close to heart."
His hand lightly lays on you head, patting you. He's doing that somewhat often lately, the others at the company are too. Are they getting more comfortable with you around? Or are they treating you like a child? Either way, it's kinda good...
"Remember to have your own opinions. I'm just a guy who likes talking to robots, not some book you should follow. Nobody is, really."
The choir picks up again. Despite the heavy subject he seems unaffected, calm as ever in this place of harmony. Like nothing could shake him here. And yet it wasn't faith that people revere so much these days, nor devotion. He quite simple just liked it here.
"... I think it's time for you to go. Mack is probably waiting for you outside."
You nod. You have a job after all, this was merely an insightful detour. You stand up and leave, your departure barely noticed by anyone. Being below almost everyone's head level in height has its uses. You make it outside, just to meet the annoyed face waiting face of your co-worker Mack, still dressed up in his office attire. He spots you, sighs in relief and prompts you to come over.
"There you are. I told that buffoon to not take you inside. A service doll in church, what was he thinking? I'll have a proper chat with him afterwards…"
Fixing his glasses, the two of you head out, walking along the sidewalk through the streets of town. This wasn't the corporate district, so it wasn't a clean and modern, but it wasn't the slums either. Decently dressed men and women with the occasional child went about their business around you in the afternoon sun, if a little cloudy today. Mack kept talking as he walked alongside you.
"So, what was it he got into your head this time, hm? How great God is? How praying solves all your problems? Hm? How there's only one path to salvation? Hm?"
[ ] "Yes, exactly."
[ ] "Not really. He goes to church to think, not to pray."
[X] "More philosophy than religious talk I'd say."
[ ] "I doubt you'd understand."
"Yeah? Hah! I knew it. I got him all figured out now."
"Do you now?"
"Oh, you can bet your shiny metal smile I do! Just wait till the next board meeting, he won't stand a chance."
"You said the same last time."
"You say that like something went wrong last time, Heather."
"Did it not?"
"... let's not talk about last time."
Eventually you make it to a building with an address Mack takes a good look at. He pulls out a paper from his pocket, compares it to the address, and hums in confirmation.
"This is the place. Alright, you know how it goes. I talk, you just stand there and look cute. Then hand over the package. You got the package, right?"
You nod, and pull out a small black rectangular object from your pocket to reassure him. He nods and you hide it again, as he prepares himself to knock on the door. 3 precise quick knocks, then he speaks.
"Columba Shipping, here to deliver your package."
A few seconds later, the door opens and a tall man in a checkered shirt welcomes you in.
"What kept you?"
"Ah, a mild case of bad traffic and annoying co-worker antics. Nothing to worry about."
"You weren't followed, right?"
"Followed? Who do you take us for? No reason anyone would follow us."
"Yeah, right… come on in, I don't wanna make the transaction with too many people watching...."
"Oh, of course, our company respects customer privacy. Come on Heather."
The man tilts his head looking at you, visibly confused by your appearance and presence, but ultimately doesn't question it. The inside is badly lit, windows covered, the door closed behind you. The house itself seemed nice, clean, but kinda empty at the same time. You're led to the living room, where three more men are waiting for you, one sitting on the couch, the other two standing by the windows for whatever reason.
"Not to be a critic but it's kinda dark in here, and…*cough*, dusty too… you should try opening a window."
"I'll be sure to keep that in mind… you got the package?"
"Of course sir. Columba always delivers."
"Good…"
At that moment, the friendly faces faded, the sound of a door being locked building some immediate tension in the air. Then came more mechanical cracking noises, the coking of firearms. Now the tension's through the roof.
"... what's the meaning of this?"
"Hand it over."
"Now hold on, you're not seriously thinking about threatening a-"
"Hand. It over. I won't ask again."
He now showed the handgun he hid behind his back as he stood up, reinforcing his statement. Mack has lost all cool and looks thoroughly distressed now. 4 armed men are threatening the two of you, demanding the package you are hardwired to protect unless overridden by a command or higher priority. Thankfully, self-preservation and the preservation of co-workers are higher priorities. You're small, they underestimate you, and that's your trump card. Well, that, and the firearm hidden beneath your skirt that you're imprinted on. You analyze the situation, and pick a course of action.
"... Heather? You heard the man…"
[ ] Take a hostage and negotiate.
- [ ] Take the closest armed man as a hostage
- [ ] Take the guy who appears to be in charge as a hostage
- [ ] Use Mack as a hostage
[ ] Shoot first, ask questions later.
- [ ] Aim to wound
- [ ] Aim to kill
[X] Hand over the package, notify HQ and wait for instructions.
[ ] Write-in
