Flynn, Sean - Final

Every morning, Blank opens their eyes to complete darkness. They leave the locker they rest in, avoiding the other humanoids in the locker room. Blank is not wanted in their social circles, and they don't want to make them uncomfortable. They are the first to leave the locker room and the last to return at night. They pass their days with their head full of nothing but the task at hand- putting together the same computer chips day in and day out. They pride themself with their efficiency and focus, happy to maintain the position of worker with the highest product output. A television hangs in the workspace, tuned in to the news at all hours of the day. Every humanoid in the factory bears witness to horrible things that seem to happen in the outside world. Wildfires. Police brutality. War. Crime. Corrupt politicians. It makes Blank grateful that they've never had to leave, and they tend to tune out whatever terrible event is being broadcast when they work. On this particular day, however, more of their fellow humanoids have paused in their productivity. Their heads are raised, eyes glued to the screen. [[Ignore the television. These products aren't going to make themselves.]] [[Watch the television. It must be something important]]

Blank shakes their head, doubling down on the chip they were working on. Words slip through their concentration from the television. Something about a new law being put in place. Murmurs travel throughout the room, and Blank can only imagine how much trouble the others are going to be in when the owners notice the hit to their productivity. Several of them even get up and return to the locker room early. By the time Blank returns to the locker room, the conversation is loud, grating on the ears. A humanoid named Nil approaches them. A humanoid named Nil approaches them. Nil is more social, more charming than Blank. They don't know why he talks to them. "Did you hear the news?" Nil asks. [["There's a new law or something, right?"]] [["You know I don't watch the news."]] [["Yes, I did."]]

"There's a new law or something, right?" "Yeah! I can't believe how fast it's happening! It feels like just yesterday they were talking about us getting out of this place, and now the gears are already in place." Nil says. Blank's brows furrow. What's all this about getting out? They're happy at their job. They like their routine. They've never had anything to complain about. They've heard the news talk about hundreds of other humanoids dying in wars the humans have started. Horrible things happen out there, but Nil is bouncing on his feet at the mere idea of leaving. "What'll you do if it goes through?" [["I think I'll just stay here."]] [["Expire."]] [["Maybe I could adjust to it."]]

"I think I'll just stay here." "Well... That might not be an option. I heard Zilch say the big boss is releasing all of us tomorrow to get ahead of things." [["So they're booting us out onto the streets?"]] [["It's a good thing I don't have belongings."]] [["I hope Zilch is wrong."]]

"So they're booting us out onto the streets?" Nil starts to laugh, though Blank wasn't trying to joke. "No way! I'm sure they wouldn't do that. We'll probably get housing or something- can you imagine having a whole room to yourself?" [["I've never needed to."]] [["I can't."]]

"I've never needed to." "You should think about it. Chances are, you'll have one soon." Blank hopes not. They don't think they would enjoy a room many times larger than their locker, especially if it were empty. "Anyways, I'm gonna rest for the night. I wanna be up bright and early if they make an announcement." He says, waving at Blank before walking off. [[You may as well rest too]]

In the morning, Blank opens their eyes to complete darkness. They leave the locker they rest in, but find the chatter and gossip even louder than usual. Their fellow humanoids are all talking about the protests. [[Wait for proper news]] [[Eavesdrop]] [[Go to work]]

Blank stands, waiting next to their locker. The chattering amongst the other humanoids stops as the big boss opens the door. He regards them all before speaking. "Looks like y'all have heard the news. I can't have a bunch of you fake people working for me if I have to pay you, so I'm gonna get ahead of the curve and let you go right now." Blank barely listens as the big boss says he called in a favor and has people who can house them while they get on their feet. They scan the room, wondering why more of their fellow humanoids don't seem terrified. Many of them are even smiling, and Nil's smile is wider than anyone else's. The humanoids split into two groups, each headed to a different bus. Blank thinks about the situation they've been thrust into, against their own will. Their decisions have never been important before. Even now, it feels like they're just going through the motions and following what's expected of them. The busses look identical. [[Go left|Go left/right]] [[Go right|Go left/right]]

Blank joins the group and soon they're on a bus. It seems Nil has gone with them, though he sits with somebody else. [[Disappointing...]] [[Good riddance]] [[What he does doesn't affect you]]

A small part of Blank had been hoping they would sit together. Nil isn't like them, though. He's normal. He makes friends easily. The bus stops in front of a building with three stories and flowerbeds out front. Inside is a lobby, and Blank can see doors to a courtyard across from the entrance. A heavyset individual greets the group. "Hey there everyone, I'm the owner of this place, you can call me Shiloh. I know none of you got any money, so don't you worry about paying me. I can give all of you a free year staying here while you get up on your feet. You can check this bulletin board for events coming up, I'll be updating it every day. Keys to the rooms are on the counter over there, pick one and that'll be your room." [[Just get your keys]] [[Check the bulletin board]]

(set: $earlyfiona to false)

(set: $earlyfiona to false) Blank goes to pick a set of keys. The room number is on it. 202. Nil peeks over their shoulder to see the tag on their keys. "Oooh, let me see if I can find 203." [["..."]] [["I think that one is taken."]]

(set: $earlyfiona to true) Blank makes their way over the bulletin board, wondering what 'events' Shiloh was referring to. Much to their surprise, there is a human woman at the board. She has bright red hair, and is the only human in the building other than Shiloh. [[Stare at her]] [["Hello?"]] [[You're here for the events, not the woman]]

Nil scans the counter, picking up key 201. "This is exciting, you know? There are tons of opportunities for us now that we're out of that place." [["It's a bit much."]] [["Why do you talk to me?"]] [["Yes, very exciting."]]

"It's a bit much." Nil slows down for the first time, really looking at Blank. He hadn't noticed their apprehension until now, how they were feeling like a fish out of water. "Hey, let's just get to our rooms. No need to overthink things on the first night." The two of them head up the stairs, rooms 201 and 202 right by the landing. [["Goodnight."]]

"Goodnight." "Night, buddy, sweet dreams!" With a cheerful wave goodbye, Nil goes into his room. Blank stares at his door for a moment. Buddy? Has he considered them his friend this entire time? It would explain why he always tried to talk to them back at the factory, and Blank feels a little embarrassed for not realizing it sooner. There is something comforting about it, though. Blank turns the key to their own room and sees a clean living space. There are all the human necessities, plus some extras. A bed, a small kitchen, a bathroom, a television, a couch, a desk. Blank has never needed any of these, but they imagine someone like Nil would be eager to use them. There is a closet that seems about the size of their old locker, maybe a little bigger. [[Recharge in the closet]] [[Try the bed]]

Blank wakes up to a knock on their door. They (if:(history: where its name contains "Try the bed")'s length is 1)[get dressed](if:(history: where its name contains "Recharge in the closet")'s length is 1)[leave the closet] and go to answer. [["Nil?"]] [[Stare at Nil]]

Blank gingerly sits on the bed. It's soft and inviting, yet foreign and unfamiliar. They lay down, trying to rest, but something just seems off. Blank goes to the closet, intending to rest like they normally do, but they notice a few outfits are hung in the space. A set of what they can assume are pajamas catches their eye. They'd never had a need for sleep clothes, but something compells them to put them on. They return to the bed once more, laying on their back. Blank closes their eyes. 'Sweet dreams,' Nil said. They've never had a dream before. Sleep takes them, and they are greeted by nothing more than the familiar darkness. [[The bed is nice|Next day]]

Blank has had enough novelty for the day. They open the closet and shuffle inside, closing it behind them. 'Sweet dreams,' Nil said. They've never had a dream before. It's dark in the closet, just like they're used to. There are clothes hanging in there though, and they're left aware that nothing is as it once was. [[Not the familiarity you'd hoped for|Next day]]

"Nil?" "Heya! I was thinking we could check out the bulletin board. I wanna see if they have any hobby classes or whatever." Nil's smile is wide as he awaits Blank's answer. [["That sounds nice."]] [["I'd rather stay in my room."]] [[Just nod]]

"That sounds nice." "Great! Maybe we can eat breakfast afterwards." Nil starts walking, and Blank follows him. [["Breakfast?"]] [[Shrug]]

"Breakfast?" "I was reading in this manual we all got in our rooms that apparently we can eat just fine, we just don't need to. Can you believe it? We even get bowel movements!" Nil sounds more excited than most would be about bowel movements. [[Laugh at him]] [["How... human."]]

Blank starts to laugh. To Nil's credit, he doesn't seem bothered by them laughing at him. He just rolls his eyes and continues down the stairs. "You should laugh more, you know." [["I'll laugh when I want to."]] [["Maybe I will."]] [["You should laugh less."]]

"I'll laugh when I want to." "Fair enough." They reach the lobby, where a few of their former coworkers are also checking the bulletin board. Nil goes over right away. [[Follow him|Bulletin board (Nil)]] [[Wait for the others to disperse|Bulletin board (Nil)]]

The bulletin board isn't covered in opportunities yet, but it's only a matter of time before it will be. Nil's eyes dart across the entire board, landing on one particular poster. It has a ball on it. Blank has only seen one a few times before, on one of the rare days the television in the factory showed a game instead of the news. "I'm gonna try out soccer. What about you?" Blank looks away from Nil, returning their attention to the board. Most of the listings are for hobby classes, lessons, gatherings, and what-have-you. Not many job opportunities quite yet. [["Maybe gardening."]] [["What do you think I would enjoy?"]] [["I don't think I want to do any of these."]]

(set: $hobby to "Gardening") "Maybe gardening." "I can see it! Maybe you've had a secret green thumb this whole time." Maybe. They haven't interacted with any plantlife before, so all they're really hoping for is not to kill anything by mistake. Nil seems to have forgotten he wanted to try eating breakfast as he chatters away about soccer. It doesn't sound like he knows much about it, other than there being a black and white ball involved. He leaves them alone when the time comes, and Blank stands in front of the glass doors that lead to the courtyard garden. [[Feeling nervous|Feeling nervous (garden)]] [[Feeling excited|Feeling excited (garden)]] [[Feeling nothing|Feeling nothing (garden)]]

Blank hesitates, part of them wondering if they could just go back to their room. They know Nil would be disappointed if they did, though. Blank pushes the glass doors open, shielding their eyes from the bright sun. They scan the area, noticing humans and humanoid alike are working alongside each other in the garden plots. For a moment, they are indistinguishable from one another. "Heya! You need any help?" It's a friendly voice, coming from a woman with bright red hair. [["Do I look lost?"]] [["Yes, I do."]] (if: $earlyfiona is true)[["You're the one from before."]](if: $earlyfiona is false)[["Who are you?"]]

"Do I look lost?" "A little, but no worries, I'm here to help! My name is Fiona." Fiona holds out a hand to shake. There's dirt beneath her fingernails. [[Shake her hand]] [[Do not shake her hand]]

Blank decides to shake her hand, despite the dirt. (if: $earlyfiona is true)[She gasps. "Oh my gosh, but you knew my name already! You're the one from the bulletin board last night!" Fiona shakes her embarrassment off. "See, I told you we'd run into each other again. Follow me, le's get you started.] (if: $earlyfiona is false) ["Here, follow me and we can get you started."] They follow her to the table that's been set up, and she asks them to choose a plant starter. [[The yellow flower]] [[The one with a stick for support]] [[The one with thick, fleshy leaves]]

Fiona's hand hangs awkwardly in the air for a moment. "Oh, sorry! Forgot I was all dirty. You will be too, soon enough!(if: $earlyfiona is false)[ Here, follow me."](if: $earlyfiona is true)[" She takes a second look at Blank and turns red. "Ah jeeze, you already knew my name! I totally didn't recognize you! I'm glad you're here though. Follow me, let's get started."] Blank follows her to the table that's been set up, thinking if anyone is apologizing, it should be them and not her. Fiona asks them to choose a plant starter. [[The yellow flower]] [[The one with a stick for support]] [[The one with thick, fleshy leaves]]

(set: $plant to "marigold") "That's a marigold. I don't know much about flower meanings, but seeing them always cheers me up! I try to be like them, in person form." Fiona hands Blank the flower and they look at the little buds. Such small things seem to bring people happiness. Maybe they should learn to enjoy the little things, like these marigolds. Fiona leads them to an empty plot of dirt. "So what's your name?" [["Blank."]] [["I don't really have one."]]

"Blank." "That's unique! Never met anyone with that one." They begin digging out a section of soil for the $plant starter. [["It's not exactly a real name."]] [["Maybe I should change it to something more human."]] [["I'm not sure I want to be unique."]]

"It's not exactly a real name." "Well sure it is! Unless you want a new one?" Blank thinks for a moment as they watch the way Fionna pats the soil down. [["Blank is fine."]] [["Nima."]] [["Sam."]]

(set: $plant to "green bean") "That's a green bean! They're pretty hardy, good for enriching the soil. Maybe it's silly personifying them, but I like thinking they take care of the other plants that'll come after. It's like how I try to teach people good plant care." Fiona hands Blank the bean sprout and they look at the growing plant. They'd chosen it because the found the stick strange, but apparently there's more to it than that. They've learned this about a lot of things lately. There's more to life than working in the factory. Fiona leads them to an empty plot of soil. "So what's your name?" [["Blank."]] [["I don't really have one."]]

{ (set: $name to "Blank") (set: $newname to false) } "Blank is fine." That's the only name they've ever known, and it feels right despite their reservations. "I like Blank." [["I like Fiona."]] [["Thank you."]] [["Is the plant done?]]

"Thank you." "You're very welcome! This $plant is looking nice and settled. Next, we need to make sure it's watered and happy." Fiona hands $name a watering can, and they carefully give it the water it needs. "I love taking care of plants. It helps remind me that sometimes you can't look after yourself, and it's okay to lean on others." [["That's a nice way of thinking about it."]] [["..."|...]]

"That's a nice way of thinking about it." "Thanks!" $name stays in the courtyard for a good amount of time, learning about plant care, which bugs are bad, that each one is similar but different. Now their hands have dirt under the fingernails, just like Fiona's did. It's physical evidence of the work they did that day. Proof that they were caring for something, nurturing it. They never had anything like that back at the factory. The sky turns a warm color with the sunset, and it reminds $name of Fiona's hair. It's pretty. "Hey, $name, I brought some little potted plants to hand out today. Here, pick one!" [[The spiky one]] [[The leafy one]] [[The flowering one]]

(set: $potted to "cactus") "You want the little cactus? You have to be careful with that one, those spines aren't just for show." $name nods. They will definitely avoid touching the spines. Holding the small pot in their hands, they feel a sense of importance and responsibility wash over them. Fiona hands them a small pamphlet as well, on caring for their new little plant friend. "Any plans after this?" [["I think I'll take this to my room."]] [["I might go for a walk."]]

{ (set: $name to "Nima") (set: $newname to true) } "Nima." Nima isn't sure where it comes from. They think it may have been a name they overheard on the news once, long ago. "I like Nima." [["I like Fiona."]] [["Thank you."]] [["Is the plant done?]]

{ (set: $name to "Sam") (set: $newname to true) } "Sam." It's simple. Real. If someone heard it, they would think Sam were human. They're starting to wonder what the difference is between them. "I like Sam." [["I like Fiona."]] [["Thank you."]] [["Is the plant done?]]

{ (set: $walk to false) } "I think I'll take the $plant to my room." "Alright. You have a good night, $name!" Fiona waves them off as they walk toward their room. $name finds a suitable place for their new $plant, making sure it will receive enough sunlight through the window when the sun rises. The night sky catches their eye, twinkling and full of stars. [[Stargaze]] [[Look around]] [[Tuck in]]

(set: $potted to "fig") "Ah, that's a fiddle-leaf fig. Usually they grow pretty tall, but this one is a bambino so it'll stay small." $name nods. They wonder how many varieties of the same plant could exist. Holding the small pot in their hands, they feel a sense of importance and responsibility wash over them. Fiona hands them a small pamphlet as well, on caring for their new little plant friend. "Any plans after this?" [["I think I'll take this to my room."]] [["I might go for a walk."]]

(set: $potted to "violet") "Mm, that's an African violet! It'll get bigger, just make sure not to get those fuzzy leaves wet." $name nods. It would be a shame for the fuzz to get ruined. Holding the small pot in their hands, they feel a sense of importance and responsibility wash over them. Fiona hands them a small pamphlet as well, on caring for their new little plant friend. "Any plans after this?" [["I think I'll take this to my room."]] [["I might go for a walk."]]

$name didn't get to see the sky back in the factory(if:$walk is true)[, and even though they were outside just a minute ago they can't help looking back up at it]. The stars are like nothing they've ever seen before. Sounds of nature, with the wind blowing and the bugs chirping, are a far cry from the dead silence of the factory at night. Tucking under the covers, $name finds themself falling not into darkness like they always have, but into a dream. [[Nil is there]]

"I like Fiona." "Aww, thank you! My friend helped me pick it out." Fiona hands $name a watering can, and they carefully give it the water it needs. "I love taking care of plants. It helps remind me that sometimes you can't look after yourself, and it's okay to lean on others." [["That's a nice way of thinking about it."]] [["..."|...]]

By the time they wake up, $name doesn't remember what they even dreamed about. They feel different though. Ready to take on the world- or at least the day. They wake up thinking of their friend, and go to knock on his door. He looks surprised to see them. "Blank?" (if:$newname is true)["It's $name now, I've decided." "Oh? Well, still Nil over here."] Nil grins, his surprise forgotten. "What brings you to my humble abode?" (if:$hobby is "Gardening")[[Gardening|Nil Gardening]](if:$hobby is "Piano")[[Piano|Nil Piano]] [[Breakfast|Nil Breakfast]] [[Dream|Nil Dream]]

Double-click this passage to edit it.

By the time they wake up, $name doesn't remember what they even dreamed about. They wake up thinking of Fiona, and wander downstairs to see if she's around. Her head of fiery red hair is easy to spot in the lobby. She's pinning new flyers to the bulletin board. $name walks up to her, and she notices the shadow they cast. "Morning, $name! How's it going?" (if:$hobby is "Soccer")[[Soccer|Fiona Soccer]](if:$hobby is "Gardening")[[Gardening|Fiona Gardening]](if:$hobby is "Piano")[[Piano|Fiona Piano]] [[Dream|Fiona Dream]]

(if:$hobby is not "Soccer")[[Soccer|Nil Soccer (Nil)]](if:$hobby is "Soccer")[[Soccer|Nil Soccer (hobby)]] [[idk|Nil Soccer End]]

"I thought you'd be curious about what I was up to yesterday." "Oh, yeah, I am! You were in the garden, right? Here, come sit down." $name follows Nil into his room. It was the same as $name's when they moved in. Nil has already decorated one of his walls with a poster, and left a soccer ball in the middle of the room. They sit on his couch, idly thinking their own room will look much better when they fill it with their own posters and trinkets. "So how was it?" [[Nerve-wracking|Nil Garden End]] [[Exciting|Nil Garden End]] [[Nice|Nil Garden End]]

"Well... At first, I was nervous. I'd never done something like that before. I'm glad you encouraged me though, it was exciting to start learning. A woman there - her name is Fiona - she helped get me started, even gave me a little plant to bring to my room. It's nice, having something to take care of. It was all just... nice." "That's great! I was worried about you, you know." $name looks at their friend. "Worried?" "Yeah, I was worried you wouldn't adjust well. I know you liked your routine at the factory, and you never got along with anyone else." "I did like the routine. I think I still do, if I'm being honest. I feel like nothing I did before even mattered. Everything changed so suddenly." "Hey, you got time. Relax a little, enjoy the gardening, make some friends. You don't need to figure it out right away." "Yeah. Relaxing sounds nice." $name and Nil sit on that couch for a long while, just relaxing.

"I'm standing here at the site of yesterday's Humanoid Rights protest, where Senator Jonathan Parks is set to deliver a speech about the movement. Many people and artificial humans alike have been pushing for labor laws requiring employers to pay their humanoid workers equal to their regular workers. These laws are already being looked at in some states, but only time will tell if they're passed or not." The news anchor continues to speak, but Blank doesn't think she'll have anything more to say. Their hands have stopped at their workstation, and they wonder what their future will hold. Will they be able to stay here? They're distracted as they return to their work, their hands moving at half the speed they usually do. By the time they return to the locker room, they've only made half the units they did yesterday. A humanoid named Nil approaches them. Nil is more social, more charming than Blank. They don't know why he talks to them. "Did you hear the news?" Nil asks. [["No, I didn't."]] [["About the labor laws?"]] [["It was boring."]]

"You know I don't watch the news." "I know, I just thought... Maybe with something this big- whatever though. Short version is that we might be getting out of this place." Blank has never even wanted to 'get out of this place.' They're quite partial to their daily routine and the work they do. Maybe they should have watched the news this time around. "What'll you do if it goes through?" [["I think I'll just stay here."]] [["Expire."]] [["Maybe I could adjust to it."]]

"Yes, I did." "It's crazy, isn't it? I, for one, can't wait to leave this place. What'll you do if it goes through?" Blank freezes, having very little idea what he's talking about. Apparently if something goes through, they will be able to leave? The law they overheard? They were hoping lying about hearing the news would make Nil decide to spread the news to someone else. Clearly, that didn't work. [["I think I'll just stay here."]] [["Expire."]] [["Maybe I could leave too."]]

"No, I didn't." "Oh. Well, I guess that's not surprising. I guess the easiest way to say it is that some legal mumbo-jumbo is going on, and they might be able to pass a law forcing employers to give us working rights. Like an actual wage, and //vacations//." Why would Blank want a vacation? Who would make their share of computer chips if they left? What would someone like them even //do// on a vacation? That sounds like a horrible idea. "What'll you do if it goes through?" [["I think I'll just stay here."]] [["Expire."]] [["Maybe I could adjust to it."]]

"About the labor laws?" "Yeah! I'm crossing my fingers, all eight of them." Blank looks at Nil's hands. He has 10 fingers like the rest of them. They suppose he wasn't counting his thumbs, or perhaps he is just very stupid. "What'll you do if it goes through?" [["I think I'll just stay here."]] [["Expire."]] [["Maybe I could adjust to it."]]

"It was boring." "Our freedom is boring to you? That's..." Nil seems at a loss for words. He doesn't know how he wants to finish that sentence. Blank worries they've finally pushed him away, like they did with everyone else, but he speaks again before they can think of a response. "Well, it'll affect you either way, if the law goes through. Maybe you should think on it a little more." Maybe so. Nil waves to Blank, heading towards his locker. [[You may as well rest too]]

"Did you hear Zilch?" "I still think she's crazy." "The boss is the crazy one, letting us all go at once." "I don't want to be homeless!" "I hope Zilch is right." "You guys worry too much. I'm going to be a news reporter!" The door to the locker room opens, and the whispers quiet down. It's the big boss. He regards them all before speaking. "Looks like y'all have heard the news. I can't have a bunch of you fake people working for me if I have to pay you, so I'm gonna get ahead of the curve and let you go right now." Blank barely listens as the big boss says he called in a favor and has people who can house them while they get on their feet. They scan the room, wondering why more of their fellow humanoids don't seem terrified. Many of them are even smiling, and Nil's smile is wider than anyone else's. The humanoids split into two groups, each headed to a different bus. Blank thinks about the situation they've been thrust into, against their own will. Their decisions have never been important before. Even now, it feels like they're just going through the motions and following what's expected of them. The busses look identical. [[Go left|Go left/right]] [[Go right|Go left/right]]

Blank attempts to exit the locker room, but the door opens right as they're about to turn the handle. They scurry back into the crowd of other humanoids as the big boss walks into the room. The gossiping has ceased. "Looks like y'all have heard the news. I can't have a bunch of you fake people working for me if I have to pay you, so I'm gonna get ahead of the curve and let you go right now." Blank barely listens as the big boss says he called in a favor and has people who can house them while they get on their feet. They scan the room, wondering why more of their fellow humanoids don't seem terrified. Many of them are even smiling, and Nil's smile is wider than anyone else's. The humanoids split into two groups, each headed to a different bus. Blank thinks about the situation they've been thrust into, against their own will. Their decisions have never been important before. Even now, it feels like they're just going through the motions and following what's expected of them. The busses look identical. [[Go left|Go left/right]] [[Go right|Go left/right]]

Blank didn't want to talk to him in the first place. They're glad he's finally leaving them alone. That's what they tell themself, at least. The bus stops in front of a building with three stories and flowerbeds out front. Inside is a lobby, and Blank can see doors to a courtyard across from the entrance. A heavyset individual greets the group. "Hey there everyone, I'm the owner of this place, you can call me Shiloh. I know none of you got any money, so don't you worry about paying me. I can give all of you a free year staying here while you get up on your feet. You can check this bulletin board for events coming up, I'll be updating it every day. Keys to the rooms are on the counter over there, pick one and that'll be your room." [[Just get your keys]] [[Check the bulletin board]]

That's right. Nil can do what he pleases. It doesn't matter to Blank. They do feel a little lonely though, sitting by themself on the bus with nothing to do. The bus stops in front of a building with three stories and flowerbeds out front. Inside is a lobby, and Blank can see doors to a courtyard across from the entrance. A heavyset individual greets the group. "Hey there everyone, I'm the owner of this place, you can call me Shiloh. I know none of you got any money, so don't you worry about paying me. I can give all of you a free year staying here while you get up on your feet. You can check this bulletin board for events coming up, I'll be updating it every day. Keys to the rooms are on the counter over there, pick one and that'll be your room." [[Just get your keys]] [[Check the bulletin board]]

(set: $hobby to "Soccer")

[[Nerve-wracking|Nil Soccer Hobby End]] [[Exciting|Nil Soccer Hobby End]] [[Just nice|Nil Soccer Hobby End]]

Double-click this passage to edit it.

[[Nerve-wracking|Nil Piano End]] [[Exciting|Nil Piano End]] [[Just nice|Nil Piano End]]

(set: $plant to "aloe") "That's an aloe vera plant. They're really good for treating burns, always good to have on hand in an emergency. I like how hardy they are- I could never be that tough, but I admire it about them." Fiona hands Blank the succulent and they look at the little plant starter. Something so small and insignificant can really help people like that? Fiona leads them to an empty plot of dirt. "So what's your name?" [["Blank."]] [["I don't really have one."]]

"I don't really have one." Not a real, human one. They begin digging out a section of soil for the $plant starter after they answer. "Oh, well that's no good! Let's pick one right now." [["Sam."]] [["Nima."]] [["Some people call me Blank. I think I'll keep it."]]

{ (set: $name to "Blank") (set: $newname to false) } "Some people call me Blank. I think I'll keep it." It may not be a human name, but it's the only name they've ever known, and they feel no need to change it. "I like Blank." [["I like Fiona."]] [["Thank you."]] [["Is the plant done?]]

"We never got breakfast together." Nil gasps, slapping his forehead. "How could I have forgotten that!?" "Maybe you're just forgetful. I wouldn't know." "Yeah... I guess you didn't spend as much time with me before." [[Factory|Nil Breakfast End]] [[People|Nil Breakfast End]] [[Friends|Nil Breakfast End]]

"I had a dream." "Oh yeah? What was it about?" "I don't remember. You were in it though." Nil looks at $name for a moment, then laughs softly, gesturing for them to follow him. They got the sense that he didn't have a destination, just wanted to walk. "I remember my first dream." "What was it?" "I dreamt that I was outside. I wasn't asleep for that dream though." [[Daydream|Nil Dream End]] [[Content|Nil Dream End]] [[Trivial|Nil Dream End]]

"Is the plant done?" "Just about! Let's just water it and we can find something else to do." $name stays in the courtyard for a good amount of time, learning about plant care, which bugs are bad, that each one is similar but different. Now their hands have dirt under the fingernails, just like Fiona's did. It's physical evidence of the work they did that day. Proof that they were caring for something, nurturing it. They never had anything like that back at the factory. The sky turns a warm color with the sunset, and it reminds $name of Fiona's hair. It's pretty. "Hey, $name, I brought some little potted plants to hand out today. Here, pick one!" [[The spiky one]] [[The leafy one]] [[The flowering one]]

Fiona doesn't seem to mind when $name doesn't answer. They're letting her words soak in. $name stays in the courtyard for a good amount of time, learning about plant care, which bugs are bad, that each one is similar but different. Now their hands have dirt under the fingernails, just like Fiona's did. It's physical evidence of the work they did that day. Proof that they were caring for something, nurturing it. They never had anything like that back at the factory. The sky turns a warm color with the sunset, and it reminds $name of Fiona's hair. It's pretty. "Hey, $name, I brought some little potted plants to hand out today. Here, pick one!" [[The spiky one]] [[The leafy one]] [[The flowering one]]

"You're the one from before." It takes Fiona a moment to recognize them, but her mouth drops open when she does. "You're right! I'm sorry I didn't realize immediately! See, I told you we'd run into each other again." Fiona nudges Blank. "I'm glad you're here for my gardening workshop. Here, let's jump right in and pick out something for you to transplant." [[The yellow flower]] [[The one with a stick for support]] [[The one with thick, fleshy leaves]]

"Who are you?" "Oh, I'm Fiona! I'm sorta unofficially hosting this gardening thing." Fiona holds out a hand to shake. There's dirt beneath her fingernails. [[Shake her hand]] [[Do not shake her hand]]

"Yes, I do." "Well, it's a good thing I spotted you then! My name is Fiona." Fiona holds out a hand to shake. There's dirt beneath her fingernails. [[Shake her hand]] [[Do not shake her hand]]

(set: $hobby to "Piano")

Blank pushes the glass doors open, warming up to the idea of gardening. Who knows, maybe they have a secret green thumb. They scan the area, noticing humans and humanoid alike are working alongside each other in the garden plots. For a moment, they are indistinguishable from one another. "Heya! You need any help?" It's a friendly voice, coming from a woman with bright red hair. [["Do I look lost?"]] [["Yes, I do."]] (if: $earlyfiona is true)[["You're the one from before."]](if: $earlyfiona is false)[["Who are you?"]]

It almost feels like an obligation. At least it's better than sitting in their room and doing nothing. Walking into the courtyard, Blank has to shield their eyes before they adjust to the bright sunlight. They scan the area, noticing humans and humanoid alike are working alongside each other in the garden plots. For a moment, they are indistinguishable from one another. "Heya! You need any help?" It's a friendly voice, coming from a woman with bright red hair. [["Do I look lost?"]] [["Yes, I do."]] (if: $earlyfiona is true)[["You're the one from before."]](if: $earlyfiona is false)[["Who are you?"]]

Maybe I should change it to something more human." Fiona regards them, pondering something. "The choice is up to you, in the end. If you want to change your name, you can. If you change your mind later, that's okay too." They think for a long while, watching the way Fiona pats the soil down. [["Blank is fine."]] [["Nima."]] [["Sam."]]

"I'm not sure I want to be unique." "Well we're all unique whether we like it or not. I understand if you'd rather change your name though." Blank watches Fiona pat down the soil. They'd never even considered that option before. A new name..? [["Sam."]] [["Nima."]] [["Blank is fine."]]

"I don't know if that counts as a dream." "A daydream, at least. Dreams don't have to happen when you're asleep. I bet you have a dream right now." "I had one last night." "Not like that. Something you want more than anything." $name tries to think of what that could be. Growing a big plant? Decorating their room? Finding a job? All of them seem so trivial, short-term. Meaningless in comparison to Nil's dream of seeing the outside world after a life in the factory. "I don't think I have anything like that. I'm still figuring it out." "There's gotta be something." "No. There isn't, not yet. I'm learning how to choose things for myself, and I'm content with that for now." Pause. Nil doesn't say anything, so $name continues talking. "What about //your// dream?" "My dream? Oh, I guess... I've been outside now, so my new dream is... to fly a kite!" $name isn't sure what they expected, but they smile. Maybe they shouldn't worry about having a proper dream. They definitely won't be comparing it to anyone else's, at least.

$name is quiet, gathering their thoughts as they walk toward the cafeteria in the building. "I didn't understand why you wanted to spend time with me. I never had friends in the factory. I thought I made everyone uncomfortable." "Everyone just figured you didn't want to make friends, after a while. //Did// you want friends at the factory?" They realize they did. Maybe if they'd come off a little more sociable, they could've had some. Maybe the news that they had to leave wouldn't have been so life-changing. "I've just never been good at reading people. It was easier to focus on work." "Well, I think you should give yourself a little more credit. You've been doing pretty okay since you got here." $name thinks on that for a while. They have, haven't they? They held entire conversations with Fiona when they could have simply received their instructions and told her to go away. "I guess I am doing better. Thanks, Nil." Nil just smiles in response to them. His attention is grabbed by the array of breakfast foods that greet them as soon as they open the cafeteria door. "I'm going to eat until I explode." Maybe they aren't the worst at reading people. They're pretty sure that was a joke.

"Are you gardening today?" "Yeah, but not until later. What's up?" "I just wanted to... spend time with you?" "You sound unsure of yourself." "I'm new to interacting with... people." "Well, [[idk|Fiona Garden End]]

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[[idk|Fiona Dream End]]

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The room had seemed so large and empty when they first arrived. $name knows not much has changed, but something about the (if:$hobby is "Gardening")[potted $potted brightens up the entire space](if:$hobby is "Piano")[Your Text Here](if:$hobby is "Soccer")[Your Text Here]. It's still empty, but they find themself wanting to fill that emptiness with tokens of their new experiences. Tucking under the covers, $name finds themself falling not into darkness like they always have, but into a dream. [[Nil is there]]

$name decides it's been an eventful enough day, and crawls under the covers. They close their eyes like usual, but instead of the typical darkness they've come to expect they are greeted by a wonderful dream. [[Nil is there]]

(set: $hobby to "Gardening") "What do you think I would enjoy?" "You want me to decide? Okay, well..." Nil scans the board, mumbling to himself. Blank wonders if they've ever really enjoyed anything. Making computer chips? They thought they did, but now they're not so sure. "How about gardening? That seems fun." Blank isn't sure if they would've chosen that themself, but nothing else is catching their eye so they accept it. Nil seems to have forgotten he wanted to try eating breakfast as he chatters away about soccer. It doesn't sound like he knows much about it, other than there being a black and white ball involved. He leaves them alone when the time comes, and Blank stands in front of the glass doors that lead to the courtyard garden. [[Feeling nervous|Feeling nervous (garden)]] [[Feeling excited|Feeling excited (garden)]] [[Feeling nothing|Feeling nothing (garden)]]

(set: $hobby to "Gardening") "I don't think I want to do any of these." "Come on, Blank! You'll never be happy if you avoid everything!" Happy? The thought had never crossed their mind. "Here, I'll pick something random and you have to //promise// me you'll go to it." Nil closes his eyes and points to a random poster. Gardening. Interesting. They suppose they can promise him just this once. Nil seems to have forgotten he wanted to try eating breakfast as he chatters away about soccer. It doesn't sound like he knows much about it, other than there being a black and white ball involved. He leaves them alone when the time comes, and Blank stands in front of the glass doors that lead to the courtyard garden. [[Feeling nervous|Feeling nervous (garden)]] [[Feeling excited|Feeling excited (garden)]] [[Feeling nothing|Feeling nothing (garden)]]

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(set: $talk to -1) Blank stares at the other humanoid standing at their doorstep. "... Morning?" Blank waves hello. "Well, anyways, I was thinking we could check out the bulletin board. I wanna see if they have any hobby classes or whatever." Nil's smile is wide as he awaits Blank's answer. [["That sounds nice."]] [[Just nod]]

(set: $talk to it-1) Blank nods, and Nil seems to think that's good enough. "Great! Maybe we can eat breakfast afterwards." Nil starts walking, and Blank follows him. [["Breakfast?"]] [[Shrug]]

(set: $talk to it-1) Blank shrugs. (if:$talk is -3)["I guess you don't feel like talking today? That's chill. I can totally do quiet."](if:$talk > -3)["I'll take that as a 'maybe' for breakfast."] They reach the lobby, where a few of their former coworkers are also checking the bulletin board. Nil goes over right away. [[Follow him|Bulletin board (Nil)]] [[Wait for the others to disperse|Bulletin board (Nil)]]

"I'd rather stay in my room." "Too bad, I want someone to check with me and you're my neighbor." Nil urges Blank along with him, against their wishes. "I was thinking we could go get breakfast after we check the board." [["Breakfast?"]] [[Shrug]]

"Expire." Blank's voice is flat. "Wha- that's horrible!" They meant for it to be funny. Nil isn't laughing. "I hope you don't expire." [["Goodnight."|ExpireGoodnight]] [["I didn't mean it."]] [[Say nothing]]

"Maybe I could adjust to it." They doubt it. "I hope you can. I heard Zilch say the big boss is releasing all of us tomorrow to get ahead of things." Oh dear. [["So they're booting us out onto the streets?"]] [["It's a good thing I don't have belongings."]] [["I hope Zilch is wrong."]]

"Maybe I could leave too." "You want to leave?" They don't, not really. They're not entirely sure what he's talking about. "Not that it's really up to us. I heard Zilch say the big boss is releasing all of us tomorrow to get ahead of things." [["So they're booting us out onto the streets?"]] [["It's a good thing I don't have belongings."]] [["I hope Zilch is wrong."]]

"Goodnight." Blank decides it's time to escape the conversation, and closes themself in their locker before Nil can respond. They are soon resting, empty and dreamless as always. In the morning, Blank opens their eyes to complete darkness. They leave the locker they rest in, but find the chatter and gossip even louder than usual. Their fellow humanoids are all talking about the protests. [[Wait for proper news]] [[Eavesdrop]] [[Go to work]]

"I didn't mean it." "That's a relief. You scared me for a second there." Nil smiles at Blank. Blank isn't sure whether or not to smile back. He clears his throat when they don't say anything. "I'm probably going to turn in early. Just in case we get any news." [[You may as well rest too]]

Blank stands still for long enough that Nil doesn't know what to say. He shifts his weight. "I'm going to rest now. You can... talk to me, if you need to." They look at him, puzzled as he turns to his locker. Why would he want them to talk to him? Didn't they just make him uncomfortable? [[You may as well try to rest too|You may as well rest too]]

"It's a good thing I don't have belongings." "You don't? Have you never imagined having a whole room to yourself? It'll be empty if you don't have anything!" [["I've never needed to."]] [["Empty is fine."]]

"I hope Zilch is wrong." "Well, I don't think you should get your hopes up. You know Zilch, she's always right about stuff." Blank doesn't know Zilch, actually. She probably doesn't like them very much. Possibly thinks Blank is weird. "Anyways, I'm gonna rest for the night. I wanna be up bright and early if they make an announcement." He says, waving at Blank before walking off. [[You may as well rest too]]

"I can't." "Well, maybe you should think about it tonight. Get some rest, I have a feeling something big is happening in the morning." Nil pats Blank's shoulder and turns toward his locker. [[You may as well rest too]]

"Empty is fine." "Maybe for now. I hope you change your mind though." Nil glances at the clock hanging in the locker room. "It's getting late though, so I'm going to get some rest. I wanna be ready to go if something happens. He gives Blank a friendly wave before heading toward his locker. [[You may as well rest too]]

Blank stands and stares at her. She seems to be pinning several flyers to the board, so it takes her a moment to notice them. "Oh, hey! You're new here, right?" [["No."]] [["Yes."]] [["Maybe."]]

"Hello?" "Oh, hey! You're new here, right?" [["No."]] [["Yes."]] [["Maybe."]]

Blank shakes themself and approaches the board. There isn't a lot on it, so it makes sense that not many other people are around it. "Oh, hey! You're new here, right?" Despite not being here for the woman, she has approached Blank anyways. [["No."]] [["Yes."]] [["Maybe."]]

"No." She looks at Blank strangely. This is a weird thing to lie about. "Well, my name is Fiona. I'm organizing some of the workshops and stuff on the board." Fiona glances behind Blank. "You should go get your key from your friend. I'll probably see you around." Friend? Oh. Nil is waiting. It seems he picked out both of their room keys. Are they really friends? [[Take the key]]

"Yes." She grins. "I thought so! My name is Fiona, I'm organizing some of the workshops and stuff on the board." Fiona glances behind Blank. "Looks like your friend is waiting for you though, so I won't keep you. I'll see you around!" Friend? Oh. Nil is waiting. It seems he picked out both of their room keys. Are they really friends? [[Take the key]]

"Maybe." She seems amused. "Well then, //maybe// my name is Fiona, and //maybe// I'm organizing some of the workshops and stuff on the board." Fiona glances behind Blank. "Looks like your friend is waiting for you though, so I won't keep you. I'll see you around. Maybe." Friend? Oh. Nil is waiting. It seems he picked out both of their room keys. Are they really friends? [[Take the key]]

"I think that one is taken." "No worries! I can just grab 201." Nil snatches up the key. "This is exciting, you know? There are tons of opportunities for us now that we're out of that place." [["It's a bit much."]] [["Why do you talk to me?"]] [["Yes, very exciting."]]

Blank takes the key from Nil and starts walking to their room. Nil seems to have made sure they're neighbors. Blank is quiet as they walk, Nil chattering away and not minding that they aren't listening. Has he considered them his friend this entire time? It would explain why he always tried to talk to them back at the factory, and Blank feels a little embarrassed for not realizing it sooner. There is something comforting about it, though. "Well, here's our rooms! I'll see you tomorrow, buddy. Sweet dreams!" Blank stares at him for a moment before nodding and turning to unlock the door to their room. It has a clean living space, with all the human necessities, plus some extras. A bed, a small kitchen, a bathroom, a television, a couch, a desk. Blank has never needed any of these, but they imagine someone like their... friend, Nil, would be eager to use them. There is a closet that seems about the size of their old locker, maybe a little bigger. [[Recharge in the closet]] [[Try the bed]]

"How... human." "We're not all that different from them, you know." Blank doesn't have anything more to say for the rest of the walk. They reach the lobby, where a few of their former coworkers are also checking the bulletin board. Nil goes over right away. [[Follow him|Bulletin board (Nil)]] [[Wait for the others to disperse|Bulletin board (Nil)]]

"Maybe I will." "It's nice seeing you happy." Blank has never been told anything like that before. They're not sure how to take it. They don't have to wonder about it for long, because they soon reach the lobby. A few of their former coworkers are also checking the bulletin board. Nil goes over right away. [[Follow him|Bulletin board (Nil)]] [[Wait for the others to disperse|Bulletin board (Nil)]]

"You should laugh less." "Oh, I have an ugly laugh, do I?" Blank does not dignify him with an answer. They soon reach the lobby, where a few of their former coworkers are also checking the bulletin board. Nil goes over right away. [[Follow him|Bulletin board (Nil)]] [[Wait for the others to disperse|Bulletin board (Nil)]]

"Why do you talk to me?" It's something Blank has always wondered, but never asked. Nil seems surprised by the question. "Well you're my friend, aren't you? I don't need a reason to talk to a friend." He laughs a little, though Blank doesn't think anything funny has been said. Friends? Has he considered them his friend this entire time? It would explain why he always tried to talk to them back at the factory, and Blank feels a little embarrassed for not realizing it sooner. There is something comforting about it, though. [["Friends."]] [["Sorry."]] [["Well, goodnight."]]

"Yes, very exciting." "You don't seem very excited." Do they not? They'd been trying to seem excited. Apparently it didn't work. "That's alright though! I know you like your routine, just try to see the good in this place, okay?" Speaking of routine, this is usually the time Blank starts heading toward their locker. Maybe they can translate that to this place, returning to their room. [["Goodnight."]]

"Friends." It almost sounds like a question. Blank lingers on the word, letting it roll around in their head. It's a nice word, but foreign on their tongue. "Yeah, friends." Nil smiles at them, letting them mull over the word for a little longer. "We'd better get to sleep, y'know. I'll see you in the morning, buddy. Sweet dreams!" Nil heads into his room. Blank turns the key to their own room and sees a clean living space. There are all the human necessities, plus some extras. A bed, a small kitchen, a bathroom, a television, a couch, a desk. Blank has never needed any of these, but they imagine someone like Nil would be eager to use them. There is a closet that seems about the size of their old locker, maybe a little bigger. [[Recharge in the closet]] [[Try the bed]]

"Sorry." "What are you apologizing for?" For asking, they suppose. Nil seems fine with them not responding to the question, because he keeps talking. "Anyways, I'll see you tomorrow. Sweet dreams!" Nil heads into his room. Blank turns the key to their own room and sees a clean living space. There are all the human necessities, plus some extras. A bed, a small kitchen, a bathroom, a television, a couch, a desk. Blank has never needed any of these, but they imagine someone like Nil would be eager to use them. There is a closet that seems about the size of their old locker, maybe a little bigger. [[Recharge in the closet]] [[Try the bed]]

"Well, goodnight." Blank decides to pass it off as if they knew they were friends already. Nil laughs at them, and they almost want to pout. "Night, buddy. Sweet dreams!" Nil heads into his room. Blank turns the key to their own room and sees a clean living space. There are all the human necessities, plus some extras. A bed, a small kitchen, a bathroom, a television, a couch, a desk. Blank has never needed any of these, but they imagine someone like Nil would be eager to use them. There is a closet that seems about the size of their old locker, maybe a little bigger. [[Recharge in the closet]] [[Try the bed]]

{ (set: $walk to true) } "I might go for a walk." "There's a clear sky tonight, so that sounds like a great idea! I'd offer to go with, but I promised Shiloh I'd help with something. See you later, $name." Fiona leaves them alone with their small $potted, and they wonder if plants like going on walks. That sounds silly when they think about it. Silly is okay, though. The walk is pleasant, and they return to their room after an hour or two. $name finds a suitable place for their new $plant, making sure it will receive enough sunlight through the window when the sun rises. Speaking of the window, it really is a clear sky. The stars are easy to see. [[Stargaze]] [[Look around]] [[Tuck in]]