Zeitgeist 1980

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<h2>January 1, 1980</h2> <h3>Winter Break</h3> <p>For as long as you can remember, your family has spent the winter break together doing holiday-related things. It’s lame, sure, but it’s a source of stability and normalcy in your life. This year, though… this year was different.</p> <p>Last year was a rough one for the <<print $surnames>>. Real rough. You’re not totally sure of the details, but your parents were fighting a lot, over money, over time, over… well, everything. Your sister said they were probably going to get divorced, and for a few months it seemed like she might be right.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Introduction 2]]>><</button>>

<p>And then something changed. Your dad did… something... that fixed it. That made things right between your parents. They were more affectionate than ever, and while that’s <i>so</i> gross, you guess it's pretty good that they didn’t get a divorce. It’s all culminated in what they’re calling their second honeymoon in Paris.</p> <p>That’s cool and all, and obviously you’re not invited, but the sucky thing? Your sister Donna cut out with her friends to Maui, Gramps is in the middle of a move to the West Coast, your older cousin Norton is in rehab again, and the folks say you’re too young to be on your own. So you’re spending the holidays with your honkey-tonk uncle <b>Colt</b> in the middle of nowhere.</p> <p>What a bogus way to ring in the New Year!</p> <<button[[How was the trip?->1980.1 Introduction Travel]]>><</button>>

Your flight from O’Hare to Tyson in Knoxville was quick and uneventful, only taking an hour and a half. You slept most of the way.</p> <p>And the ride from Knoxville?</p> <p>Awkward as heck. Colt picked you up in <b>Duke</b>, his weird blue Camero - sky blue, with an American Flag decal on top, doors welded shut so that you have to climb in through the windows. He seemed hungover - you got the feeling that he wasn’t any happier than you with the whole situation. After a few abortive attempts to draw you out in conversation he just gave up and turned on the radio.</p> <<button[[Continue->1980.1 Introduction Danja County]]>><</button>>

<p>When you arrived, <b>Danja County</b> (pronounced “dānjər,” as in Mouse) was even worse than you feared. One horse town in the middle of nowhere, scattered houses connected to the short main street by a system of roads winding halfway up Danja Mountain, nothing but honkytonk on the radio. But what can you do?</p> <<button[[Wallow in self-pity|1980.1 Introduction Bad Time]]>><</button>> <<button[[Try to make the best of it.|1980.1 Introduction Good Time]]>><</button>>

<p>Colt spends his evenings getting wasted down at Danja’s only watering hole, the <i>Bird’s Eye</i>. In the three days leading up to New Years’ Eve you’ve had to drag his drunk ass home four times. You’re still not sure how that works. And the more drunk he gets, the more he goes on and on about his glory days running moonshine and racing stock cars… worst thing is, the locals - who should probably know better by now - treat him like some kind of big damn hero.</p> <p>On top of that, Colt insists that you help him with the salvage operation he has going on, forcing you out into the cold to drive a big rig on those narrow mountain roads. You protested that you only had your learner’s permit, but he reasoned that it was less illegal than him getting behind the wheel while on probation. It’s harrowing, you hate it, and are convinced it’s only a matter of time before you drive off the road into the ditch.</p> <p>But hey, if you ever need a commercial driver’s license…</p> <<button[[Anyways, Happy New Year!->1980.1 Change of Plans]]>><</button>>

<p>Colt is a hell of a lot of fun. Every night is a party down at the <i>Bird’s Eye</i>, and your uncle is the star, drinking and singing and laughing and getting in the occasional fist fight. Everybody seems to love him, from the old woman who owns the junkyard, to the town doctor, to all those hillbilly girls. In a way it’s inspiring, as are the stories he tells about running moonshine and racing stock cars.</p> <p>Even better, during the day Colt has a side gig towing salvage to the junkyard, and he’s been letting you drive the big rig through the mountains… never mind the fact that you only have a learner’s permit! It’s a little scary, honestly, given the narrow cliff-side roads, but you think you’re getting the hang of it. </p> <p>And hey, now you have some experience if you ever want to get a commercial driver’s license…</p> <<button[[Anyway, Happy New Year!->1980.1 Change of Plans]]>><</button>>

<h2>Danja County, Tennessee</h2> <h3>New Years Day, 1980</h3> <h3>11:17 AM</h3> <p>The hour before noon finds you along with some of the local teens playing a game in the snow. It doesn’t really have a name or any firm rules, but it does have a football, and the general aim of everybody trying to tackle whoever is currently holding said ball. You’ve played something similar back in Andersonville, and are able to pick up on the differences pretty quickly.</p> <p>It’s between rounds when Colt pulls up in his Camero, whistles to get your attention, and beckons you over to his window.</p> <<button[[Talk to your uncle|1980.1 Change of Plans Colt]]>><</button>>

<p>"Hey, <<if $gender == "male">>buddy<<else>>kid<</if>>, change of plans."</p> <p>"What’s up?" you ask.</p> <p>"I know we were just planning on bumming around the mountain until the end of the week when your folks get back from Paris, but a transport job came up, too good to pass up, and I’m gonna have to head off to Los Angeles."</p> <p>"So what happens to me?"</p> <p>He takes off his hat and scratches his head. "Unfortunately I can’t afford to just ship you off to stay with Grandpa Max, so I was thinking you’d come along."</p> <<button[[Cool, it was getting dull up here anyway.|1980.1 Change of Plans Enthusiastic]]>><</button>> <<button[[Colt *cannot* be serious.|1980.1 Change of Plans Reluctant]]>><</button>>

<<run $Colt.increaseRelationship()>> <p>"Oh man, that sounds really wicked," you say. By this point you’ve seen most of what Danja County has to offer, and a road trip sounds like a much better way to spend the rest of your vacation than bumming around on the mountain. "When do we leave?"</p> <p>Colt’s grin widens. "I’m glad you’re excited! Too many kids these days don’t have a sense of adventure. Glad to see you take after me and Gramps more than your pops. Besides, my CDL is still suspended - I need you to drive the rig."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Change of Plans Details]]>><</button>>

<p>"Are you serious?" You can’t believe your ears. "I can’t just take off on some road trip on the drop of a hat. Dad'd freak!"</p> <p>Colt sets his jaw. "'Fraid there’s not much choice, kiddo. I can’t afford not to take this job, and your parents would be even more pissed with me if I left you alone up here. Besides, I need you to drive the rig - my CDL is still suspended."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Change of Plans Details]]>><</button>>

<p>"So, basically we’re Looking at a five day trip down I-40, though to tell the truth I think we can do it in four. We get to L.A, make the delivery, then spend a few days relaxing on the beach with mai tais before we ship you back home to Chicago. Any questions?"</p> <<include "1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub">>

/* <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Cargo")>><<button[[Ask about the cargo|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Cargo]]>><</button>><</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Employer")>><<button[[Ask about the employer|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Employer]]>><</button>><</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Pay")>><<button[[Ask about the pay|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Pay]]>><</button>><</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Role")>><<button[[Ask about your role|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Role]]>><</button>><</if>> <<button[[No further questions|1980.1 Change of Plans No Questions]]>><</button>> */ <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Cargo")>><<button[[Ask about the cargo|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Cargo]]>><</button>><br><</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Employer")>><<button[[Ask about the employer|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Employer]]>><</button>><br><</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Pay")>><<button[[Ask about the pay|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Pay]]>><</button>><br><</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Role")>><<button[[Ask about your role|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Role]]>><</button>><br><</if>> <<button[[No further questions|1980.1 Change of Plans No Questions]]>><</button>>

<p>"What are we hauling?" you ask.</p> <p>"No idea," Colt responds, shit-eating grin on his face.</p> <p>"You don’t know what we’re transporting?"</p> <p>"I’m not being paid to ask," Colt said. "Doesn’t really matter, though."</p> <<button[[Accept this|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub]]>><</button>> <<button[[Don’t accept this|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Cargo What]]>><</button>>

<p>You can’t quite believe your ears. "What if it’s, like, something dangerous? Drugs? Or explosives? Or explosive drugs?"</p> <p>"Then we’re probably better off not knowing!" Colt lets out his high-pitched laugh, as if that’s the funniest thing in the world. "But seriously, in this business, you know what questions to ask, and what questions to let lie. We’re being paid <i>"shut up and don’t ask questions"</i> money."</p> <<include "1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub">>

<p>"Who are we hauling for?" you ask.</p> <p>He seems momentarily uncomfortable. "The kind of guys you don't ask about."</p> <<button[[Let it go|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub]]>><</button>> <<button[[Press him|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Employer Who]]>><</button>>

<p>Your eyes narrow. "Who are we hauling for, Colt? You tell me, or you move this yourself."</p> <p>His lips draw thin. "People who're paying a lot of money. People we don't want to disappoint. Connected people. Get it?"</p> <<button[[Got it|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub]]>><</button>> <<button[[The mob?!?|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Employer Mob]]>><</button>>

<p>"The mob?!?" You're aghast. "You're running for the freakin' mob?"</p> <p>He rolls his eyes. "Jesus Christ, $name, do you know how hard it is to find a job that doesn't involve the mob? Get a grip."</p> <<button[[Get a grip|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub]]>><</button>> <<button[[Lose your cool|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Employer Lose It]]>><</button>>

<p>"I can't believe you!" Your face is red, your scalp feels itchy. "Getting wrapped up with the mob? You're going to get me killed!"</p> <p>"If it makes you feel better they're really paying me a lot of money."</p> <p>"That doesn't make me feel better, Colt."</p> <p>"Money that I've already accepted, $name. Money I can't exactly return." His face brightens. "So hey, in a way <i>not</i> doing this job is a lot more dangerous."</p> <p>"Not helping, Colt."</p> <<include "1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub">>

<p>"What's the job pay?" you ask.</p> <p>Colt grins and holds up six fingers.</p> <p>"Six thousand?"</p> <p>"Six. Figures."</p> <<button[[Wow!|1980.1 Change of Plans Question No Pay]]>><</button>> <<button[[What's my cut?|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Pay Cut]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.decrease()>> <<include "1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub">>

<p>"What do you mean, what's your cut?" Colt asks.</p> <p>"I'm driving the truck, what am I getting paid?" you ask.</p> <p>He frowns. "Hm. How's a hundred bucks sound?"</p> <<button[[Sounds great!|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Pay Hundo]]>><</button>> <<button[[Sounds like a joke!|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Pay Joke]]>><</button>>

<p>"Sounds great!" you say. Wow! Your mind spins with all the cool stuff you could buy with a hundred bucks.</p> <p>"Deal!" Colt grabs your hand and gives it a brisk shake.</p> <<set $myCut to 100>> <<include "1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub">>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <p>"Are you being serious right now? You're making six figures, and you're offering me a lousy hundred bucks?"</p> <p>"Hey, it's my reputation on the line!" Colt protests. "My truck, my contacts, my…" he trails off at your withering gaze. "Kidding, I was just kidding, jeez. How's two grand hit you?"</p> <<button[[Accept it|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Pay Two Grand]]>><</button>> <<button[[Demand ten|1980.1 Change of Plans Question Ask Ten]]>><</button>>

<p>"Much better," you say, wondering if you let him get off too easily, thinking of all the good that two grand is going to do you.</p> <p>"Deal!" Colt grabs your hand and gives it a brisk shake.</p> <<set $myCut to 2000>> <<include "1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub">>

<p>"How about ten?" you counter.</p> <p>"Ten?" Colt seems shocked.</p> "You think I was born yesterday?" You fold your arms. "You're making hundreds of thousands, <<if hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Employer Mob")>>and you're getting me involved with the freakin' mob! <<else>>and I'm doing half the freakin' driving!"<</if>> <br> "I never shoulda told you," Colt rubs his jaw. <<if $Colt.goodRelationship()>>"But sure. Fine. Ten grand for driving a truck, why not." <<set $myCut to 10000>> <p>"Great!" Your mind immediately goes to all the crazy stuff you can buy with ten grand - starting with your own car! <<else>>"I'm not giving you ten thousand dollars. Two. Two grand. Take it or leave it." <<set $myCut to 2000>> <p>"Fine." Two thousand dollars is still a lot of money, though not anywhere near what you're due. But it's the best you'll get out of the cheap bastard. "But you owe me."</p> <</if>> <<run $Colt.decreaseRelationship()>> <<include "1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub">>

<p>"What do you need me to do?" you ask.</p> <p>"You drive the truck," Colt said. "I'll be out front in the chase car, making sure the route is clear, drawing off any trouble."</p> <p>"Trouble?" you ask. "What kind of trouble?"</p> <p>Colt shrugs and grins his crooked grin. "I'm not expecting any, but you never know, right? Point is, though, I draw all the attention, so whatever happens, you can just drive the truck without worry."</p> <<include "1980.1 Change of Plans Question Hub">>

<<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Cargo") && not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Employer") && not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Pay") && not hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Role")>><<run $Colt.increaseRelationship()>><</if>> <p>"When do we leave?" you ask.</p> Colt hands you a set of keys. "Mount up, cow?youngPerson." <<button[[Mount Up|1980.1 On the Road]]>><</button>>

<p>You get in the truck, buckle yourself in, and notice that Colt already has your bags packed and sitting on the passenger seat. How... thoughtful of him. You put the keys in the ignition, start her up, and rest both hands on the wheel.</p> A part of you can't believe you let Colt talk you into this. Driving the rig around the mountain with your uncle by your side is one thing, but this? Driving it solo behind him, not just down the mountain, but thousands of miles, all the way to the west coast? Carrying who knows what? <<if hasVisited("1980.1 Change of Plans Question Employer Mob")>>For the mob?<</if>> <<if $myCut > 0>> <<button[[Oh well, at least you're getting paid|1980.1 On the Road Ready]]>><</button>> <<else>> <<button[[Maybe you should have asked for a cut of the pay|1980.1 On the Road Ready]]>><</button>> <</if>>

<p>Colt's voice comes in over the truck's CB. <i>"Hey, Little Buddy, ready to go?"</i></p> <p>You grab the mic out of its holder and bring it to your lips. "Ten four, Rascal."</p> <p><i>"Hey, how much you want to bet we can hit <b>Fort God</b> by sundown?"</i> he asks.</p> <p>"Fort God?"</p> <p><i>"Memphis. It's only four-hundred miles. Tell you what, we make it, dinner's on me."</i> It's perhaps five hours until sundown.</p> <<button[[Take the bet.|1980.1 On the Road Bet]]>><</button>> <<button[[Decline the bet.|1980.1 On the Road Decline]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <<run $Colt.increaseRelationship()>> <p>Four hundred miles in just over five hours? Sure, you can do that. A little speeding never hurt anybody! "You're on, Colt!"</p> <p><i>"Gotta remember to call me <b>Rascal</b> over the radio, Little Buddy,"</i> he admonishes.</p> <p>Oh right. "Ten four, Rascal."</p> You didn't know any CB lingo when you started, but you're picking it up. <p><i>"That's the spirit!"</i> Colt put his Camero into gear, and you followed suit, pulling out behind him. <i>"Oh, and I put a few sandwiches and a thermos of coffee in your bag. That way we don't have to stop 'till we hit Memphis."</i></p> <p>"What if I have to pee?" you ask.</p> <p>He laughs. <i>"Drink the coffee first!"</i></p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 On the Road 41]]>><</button>>

<<run $Colt.decreaseRelationship()>> <<run $Stat.decrease()>> <p>There's no way you're going to break your neck driving like an idiot just because Colt wants to get this over with faster. You're barely able to put the damn truck in gear. "Negatory, Rascal. I want to take this nice and easy."</p> <p><i>"C'monnnn."</i></p> <p>"Negatory," you repeat.</p> <p><i>"Kids these days got no sense of adventure!</i>" he whines.</p> <p>"A two-thousand mile cross-country road trip is more than enough adventure, thanks,"</p> you say. <p><i>"Fine."</i> He lets out a long sigh. <i>"Well, I left a few sandwhiches and a thermos of coffee in your bag anyway."</i> Through the windshield you can see him put his Camero into gear, and you follow, pulling out into the street behind him.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 On the Road 41]]>><</button>>

You follow Colt along much the route you took to get to Danja County back up to Knoxville, a series of winding switchbacks and blind curves down the mountain. <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 On the Road Decline")>>Thinking of your wager with Colt you're frustrated that the route is too winding to really get up to speed, but it's probably safer to be careful. And you'll certainly be able to make up the time on the long stretches of I-40.<</if>> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 On the Road I-40]]>><</button>>

<p>Just a little bit later you hit the base of the mountain, and then the on-ramp to <b>Interstate 40</b> - and after twenty minutes of that, you're flying past the suburbs of Knoxville at 65 miles an hour. Highway driving is way different from the tricky mountain roads of Danja County - here, you can relax a little, settle in, and enjoy the scenery.</p> The sun hasn't finished setting by the time you hit Memphis, the lights of the strip dim in the day's fading light. Colt pulls into the parking lot of <i>Siesta Palace</i>, a motel next to a diner <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 On the Road Decline")>> ,and helps you down from the truck. "We made excellent time! Dinner's on me." <<else>>. <</if>> He points you towards the diner. "Why don't you go find us a table while I check us in?" <<button[[Head to the diner|1980.1 Meeting Artemis]]>><</button>>

<p>You're so tired after that long drive that you barely remember dinner, checking into the motel, or getting into bed.</p> <<button[[Sleep|1980.1 Meeting Artemis 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Still, it feels like no sooner has your head hit the pillow than Colt is shaking you awake, the dawn's light barely filtering in through the motel room's window.</p> <p>"Up and at 'em, ?youngPerson!" His cheerfullness is obscene this early. "Let's grab some coffee, breakfast, and get on the road... I wanna try and hit Amarillo before nightfall."</p> <<button[[Grudgingly rise from your slumber|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Diner]]>><</button>> <<button[[Pull your pillow over your head to shut out the bad man's voice|1980.1 Meeting Artemis 3]]>><</button>>

<p>You hear Colt let out a long sigh. "Hey, $name, you want to drive all day on an empty stomach and no coffee? Be my guest. You want to join me, I'll be next door." The door opens and then closes.</p> <<button[[Get dressed and go join him|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Diner]]>><</button>> <<button[[Return to blessed slumber|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Rude Awakening]]>><</button>>

<p>You scarcely remember the diner from last night, and it looks even less impressive by the unflattering light of day. Stained linoleum tiles, chipped Formica counters, haggard looking waitstaff with names like <i>Pearl</i> and <i>Mildred</i>. The air is thick with a nauseating miasma of grease and cigarette smoke.</p> <<if hasVisited("1980.1 Meeting Artemis 3")>><p>Colt is already seated in a booth at the back, flipping through the menu, Stetson hat on the table. He looks up, sees you, and waves you over. You sit across from him, back to the window.</p> <<button[[Sit|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Colt Sees Artemis]]>><</button>> <<else>><p>Colt leads the way to a booth in the back, but gives you first choice as to where to sit.</p> <<button[[Sit facing the wall|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Colt Sees Artemis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Sit facing the window|1980.1 Meeting Artemis You See Artemis]]>><</button>> <</if>>

<p>"You want to try and hit Amarillo today?" you ask. "How far's that?"</p> <p>Colt slides a cigarette out of its pack, pauses, then offers you one, leaning back to gaze out the window.</p> <<button[[Take a smoke|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Colt Sees Artemis 2]]>><</button>> <<button[[Decline|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Colt Sees Artemis 2]]>><</button>>

<p>The waitress swings by handing you a menu. It doesn't contain anything unexpected - eggs, bacon, toast, pancakes, grits, coffee, juice.</p> <p>Colt picks it up but doesn't look at it, still squinting out the window into the daylight. "Coffee, black. Eggs n' bacon."</p> <p>After you order, he glances at you. "What was that about Amarillo?"</p> <p>"How far is it?"</p> <p>He's staring out the window again, but from your angle you can't see what at. "Couple hundred miles. We'll, uh, make it just fine if... if we keep good time."</p> <<button[[Ask what he's looking at|1980.1 Meeting Artemis What is Colt Looking At]]>><</button>> <<button[[Ask if you can see some of Memphis before you leave|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Ask Memphis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Wait in silence for your breakfast to arrive|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Sulk]]>><</button>>

<p>You sit facing the window, giving you a great view of the slow sunset over the Motel parking lot. "You want to try and hit Amarillo today?" you ask. "How far's that?"</p> <p>Colt slides a cigarette out of its pack, pauses, then offers one to you, leaning back and opening his menu.</p> <<button[[Take a smoke|1980.1 Meeting Artemis You See Artemis 2]]>><</button>> <<button[[Decline|1980.1 Meeting Artemis You See Artemis 2]]>><</button>>

<p>The waitress swings by, handing you a menu. It doesn't contain anything unexpected - eggs, bacon, toast, pancakes, grits, coffee, juice - but you're distracted by a guy in jeans and a white t-shirt walking up to Colt's Camero, Duke. You can understand that - sky blue with an American flag on top is pretty striking.</p> <p>"Let's see... Coffee, black. Eggs, toast, and bacon, sweetie." Colt orders his breakfast. "Same for you?"</p> <p>"Yeah, sure." You're only half paying attention. The guy is now leaning over, peering in through Colt's driver-side window.</p> <<button[[Tell Colt about that someone's checking his car out|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Tell Colt]]>><</button>> <<button[[Ask if you can see some of Memphis before you leave|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Ask Memphis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Wait in silence for your breakfast to arrive|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Sulk]]>><</button>>

<p>"You having a good time so far?" Colt asks.</p> <p>You shrug noncomittaly. Long hours on the highway aren't exactly your idea of a good time, and you're not really looking forward to getting back into the driver's seat.</p> <p>"It's something like seven hundred miles to Amarillo." Colt puts one of his hands on each side of the table as if to emphasize the distance. "Easily do-able if we maintain a good head of steam. Blow right through Arkensas and Oklahoma - and honestly, there's not a lot of reason to stop." He brings his hands together.</p> <p>"Uh huh."</p> <<include "1980.1 Meeting Artemis Spot Artemis Choices">>

<p>"Can we take some time to check the city out after breakfast?" you ask. "I mean, I'll probably never be down this way again. Music's supposed to be a big deal, right?"</p> <p>"Oh sure," Colt says. "Hell, Graceland's not far from here. And Beale Street..." he kisses his fingers. "But no, I'm sorry kid, we're on a tight schedule. Maybe next time."</p> <<include "1980.1 Meeting Artemis Spot Artemis Choices">>

<p>"What are you looking at?" You crane your neck again, but can't see whatever's got his attention.</p> <p>"There's a... guy... big guy checking out my ride." He pushes away from the table. "Hey, you mind if I go handle this real quick? Won't take more than a sec." He walks out to the front of the diner, and you reposition yourself to see that a guy in jeans and a white t-shirt is peering in through the window of Colt's Camero over in the motel parking lot.</p> <<include "1980.1 Meeting Artemis Colt Sneak Choices">>

<<run $Colt.increaseRelationship()>> <p>"Hey, Colt, there's a guy checking out your car."</p> <p>Colt leans over in his chair, almost tipping out, taking a good look at the guy scoping out his Camero. His eyes narrow, and he gets up to go outside.</p> <<include "1980.1 Meeting Artemis Colt Sneak Choices">>

<<if hasVisited("1980.1 Meeting Artemis Colt Sees Artemis")>> <p>"Sorry. There's a... guy... big guy checking out my ride." Colt pushes away from the table. "Hey, you mind if I go handle this real quick? Won't take more than a sec." He walks up to the front of the diner, and you reposition yourself in the booth to see that a guy in jeans and a white t-shirt is peering in through the window of Colt's Camero over in the motel parking lot.</p> <<include "1980.1 Meeting Artemis Colt Sneak Choices">> <<else>> <p>Outside, the guy steps back from Colt's car, seems to think for a minute, then bends down and picks up a brick. He hefts it, tests its weight, then looks speculatively at Colt's driver-side window.</p> <<button[[Warn Colt about the guy|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Colt Confronts]]>><</button>> <<button[[Nah, screw Colt, he probably did something to deserve this|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Chuckle]]>><</button>> <</if>>

<<button[[Wait patiently|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Wait While Colt Sneaks]]>><</button>> <<button[[Watch Colt and see what he does|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Watch Colt Sneak]]>><</button>> <<button[[Go back Colt up|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Sneak With Colt]]>><</button>>

<p>Colt slips out the front of the building and down into a crouch, moving from car to car, trying to get closer to the guy messing with his car without being spotted. You follow suit to the best of your ability - you can be sneaky when you want to be. The pair of you stop behind a parked VW Bus.</p> <p>Closer now, you can see that the guy peering into the Camero is a big, big dude. Strong arms, wide back, built like a football player. What did Colt do to piss this guy off?</p> <p>Colt turns to you, serious look on his face. "Hey, kid, this guy looks like real trouble."</p> <p>"Any idea who he is?"</p> <p>"Never seen him before, but he's definitely out for me specifically." He sighs. "You go on, head back to the truck. I'll... do something about this."</p> <<button[[Do what he says|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Shake Artemis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Help Colt distract the guy|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Lure]]>><</button>>

<p>You keep your head low and avoid the big guy's attention, making your way over to the motel parking lot.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Get Back on the Road]]>><</button>>

<p>Man, screw Colt. He probably messed around with that guy's wife, or cut him off in traffic, or was just an asshole to him. And if not that, he's certainly been no picknic on this trip, dragging you out to the middle of nowhere.</p> <p>You wince a little at the sound of breaking glass but Colt doesn't seem to notice as the waitress arrives with your food. You take your time, savoring the meal, anticipating the dessert of watching Colt discover what that dude did to his car.</p> <<button[[Finish eating|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Chuckle 2]]>><</button>>

<p>You finish eating, Colt pays, and the two of you head back to the motel.</p> <p>Halfway to the room Colt spots his car. "What the hell..." He runs over, stopping short when he sees that his driver side window has been smashed out and that the door is open. "Oh no... no no no no no."</p> <p>"Uh, what happened, Colt?" you ask, playing dumb.</p> <p>Colt throws the door open and roots around. "Shit shit shit shit shit." He pulls back, face pale. "Okay, get to the truck, we gotta go."</p> <p>"What?" You're taken aback by his change in attitude. He's not upset - he's scared. "What'd they do?"</p> <p>"It's more about what they didn't do." He starts walking rapidly towards the motel room, head darting as he surveys the parking lot. <p>"They didn't take any of my stuff, not even the radio, and it's a <i>really</i> nice radio, $name."</p> <p>Whatever is going on, his abrupt shift has you spooked.</p> <<button[[You head back to the truck.|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Get Back on the Road]]>><</button>>

<p>"Colt, hey, that guy looks like he's gonna bust out one of your window."</p> <p>Colt stands up. "Oh what the freakin' hell." He begins to stomp quickly and purposefully towards the diner's doors. "Motherf-"</p> <<button[[Get his back|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Get Colts Back]]>><</button>> <<button[[Keep eating breakfast|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Breakfast]]>><</button>>

<p>The waitress brings your breakfast and you start in. The toast is dry, the bacon rubbery, and the eggs strangely tasteless, but you're really hungry so you don't care.</p> <p>Colt abruptly returns, walking quickly, one eye towards the windows. "C'mon, get up, we gotta go."</p> <p>You gesture at your plate. "What? But I'm not done yet."</p> <p>His voice is uncharacteristicly serious. "I'm not kidding, kid, we're in trouble. I'll explain on the way."</p> <<button[[Get up|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Wait While Colt Sneaks 2]]>><</button>>

<p>You rise, but to your surprise Colt heads to the back of the diner, past the confused-looking waitress, and into the kitchen.</p> <p>You follow. "Who is that guy?"</p> <p>"No idea... but he's not just someone admiring my ride. He's waiting for us."</p> <p>"What? Why?"</p> <p>"Look, head to the truck and get ready to roll. We can talk about this later."</p> <<button[[Get back to the truck|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Get Back on the Road]]>><</button>>

<p>The waitress brings your breakfast and start in, watching Colt through the window as he crouches and makes his way towards his car and the guy checking it out, using the vehicles in the parking lot as cover. The toast is dry, the bacon rubbery, and the eggs strangely tasteless, but you barely notice.</p> <p>Colt sneaks past the big guy over to a pickup truck parked near the curb. You see him peek in through the windows before pulling a knife out of his boots. Working quickly, he slashes each of the truck's tires before hastening back to the diner.</p> <p>He keeps one eye towards the window as he approaches the table. "C'mon, get up, we gotta go."</p> <p>You gesture at your plate. "What? But I'm not done yet."</p> <p>His voice is uncharacteristicly serious. "I'm not kidding, kid, we're in trouble. I'll explain on the way."</p> <<button[[Get up and go|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Wait While Colt Sneaks 2]]>><</button>>

<p>You shift in your seat so you can watch while Colt marches up to the guy outside, clearly upset. You can't really hear what they're saying, but Colt goes from angry, to surprised, to afraid. He holds up his hands as the guy starts towards him, fists balled. Seeing them together it's clear that the other guy is much bigger than your uncle.</p> <<button[[Go out and give Colt a hand|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Lure]]>><</button>> <<button[[Enjoy watching him squirm|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Breakfast 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Colt turns and runs back towards the diner, and the bigger guy gives chase. He runs right past your table on his way to the kitchen, almost bowling over a startled waitress. The big guy, pissed as hell, comes running after him.</p> <<button[[Trip the big guy|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Trip]]>><</button>> <<button[[Let him pass then head out to the truck|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Breakfast 3]]>><</button>>

<p>You watch them run out through the back, wipe your mouth, pay the check, and saunter out the front to the motel parking lot.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Get Back on the Road]]>><</button>>

<p>Colt slams the diner's door open and begins to stalk angrily across the lot towards the guy messing with his car. "Hey! What the hell do you think you're doing, bud?" You're not far behind.</p> <p>The guy turns away from the Camero, drawing himself up to his full height and regarding your uncle with a steely glare. "This your car?" He's huge, with massive rock-hard muscles and broad shoulders, built like a quarterback.</p> <p>Colt falters, taking the guy's measure. "What's the big idea?"</p> <p>"I'll ask the questions here." The big galoot balls his fists and starts walking towards him with nefarious intent.</p> <p>Colt takes a few steps back, whispering to you. "Kid, get back to the truck."</p> <<button[[High-tail it back to the truck|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Shake Artemis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Help your uncle out by distracting the big guy|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Lure]]>><</button>>

<p>You think fast, considering different ways to divert the big lug's attention. Let's see... he's bigger, stronger, and probably faster than you. That rusty pick-up over there is probably his. What else... the ground is littered with chunks of masonry from recent construction, and there's a pay phone in the diner.</p> <<button[[Mess with the big guy's truck|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Lure Pop Tires]]>><</button>> <<button[[Throw something at him from far away|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Lure Throw]]>><</button>> <<button[[Call the cops on him|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Lure Cops]]>><</button>>

<p>"I'll go call the cops!" You start to turn back.</p> <p>"No cops!" Something in Colt's voice stops you. "Look, just head back to the truck, I'll deal with this."</p> <<button[[Do as Colt says|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Shake Artemis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Mess with the big guy's truck|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Lure Pop Tires]]>><</button>> <<button[[Throw something at him|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Lure Throw]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <p>The big guy doesn't spare you a second glance as you scoop up a chunk of masonry and backpeddle a few steps before hurling it</p> <<button[[at him|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Lure Throw Artemis]]>><</button>> <<button[[at his truck|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Lure Throw Truck]]>><</button>>

<<run $Colt.increaseRelationship()>> <<run $Artemis.decreaseRelationship()>> <p>You hurl the chunk at him. Somehow he senses it coming and dodges to the side, weaving like a boxer, turning to stare at you with furious rage.</p> <p>Colt takes the moment to turn and run, and for a moment it looks like the big guy doesn't know who he wants to chase.</p> <<button[[Don't wait for him to figure it out|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Shake Artemis]]>><</button>>

<<run $Colt.increaseRelationship()>> <<run $Artemis.decreaseRelationship()>> <p>You hurl the chunk at his truck. The masonry strikes his windshield solidly, bouncing off with a loud ka-thunk.</p> <p>The big guy spins to see what you've done. "Son of a-"</p> <p>Colt takes the moment to turn and run, and for a moment it looks like the big guy doesn't know who he wants to chase.</p> <p>You take a last glance at the truck and are boggled to see what looks like a chimpanzee sit up from the passenger side, staring at you through the window, giving you a very toothsome smile.</p> <<button[[This is getting too weird for you|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Shake Artemis]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <<run $Colt.increaseRelationship()>> <<run $Artemis.decreaseRelationship()>> <p>You sidle over to the big guy's truck while his attention is focused on your uncle. In the back you see an open toolbox containing a screwdriver. As you go to grab it, you look up and see a strange hairy face staring back through the window into the truck's cab - an honest-to-god <b>chimpanzee.</b></p> <p>For a moment the two of you just stare at each other. It doesn't seem to mind that you're grabbing the screwdriver, watching with mild disinterest as you drop to a crouch to stab the metal wedge into the big guy's left rear tire.</p> <p>The noise does get the truck's owner's attention, however. "Son of a-"</p> <p>Colt takes the moment to turn and run, and for a moment it looks like the big guy doesn't know who he wants to chase.</p> <<button[[Don't wait for him to figure it out|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Shake Artemis]]>><</button>>

<<run $Colt.increaseRelationship()>> <<run $Artemis.decreaseRelationship()>> <<run $Stat.increase()>> <p>You casually stick out a foot as the big guy runs by, and he goes sprawling onto the linoleum floor of the diner. He picks himself up, gives you a sour look, then resumes his pursuit of your uncle.</p> <p>You toss a few bills onto the table to pay for breakfast, then make your way back to the truck to wait for word from Colt.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Get Back on the Road]]>><</button>>

<<run $Colt.decreaseRelationship()>> <p>You nap in blissful repose for a while longer before the door is forcefully thrown open. Colt rushes into the room, grabbing his bags and hastily packing. "Stow your gear, we need to get out <i>now</i>"</p> <p>"What? Why?"</p> <p>He shakes his head. "Big guy. Big big guy. Looking for us."</p> <p>You sit up. "Looking for us? What?"</p> <p>He throws your bag at you. "See how much you miss when you sleep all day? Get your stuff, get in the truck, and I'll tell you more, but we need to <i>go.</i>"</p> <p>His urgency is infectious, so you quckly get your things together.</p> <<button[[To the truck!|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Get Back on the Road]]>><</button>>

<p>Once in the truck you key the ignition, keeping an eye on the mirrors in case any unwelcome visitors approach. You don't have to wait long before you hear Colt over the CB.</p> <p><i>"Rascal to Little Buddy, come in Little Buddy."</i></p> <p>"Little Buddy here."</p> <p><i>"Oh thank God. Listen, uh... this channel isn't secure, switch on over to... the last digit in your mom's birthday."</i></p> <<button[[Switch to channel 4|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Get Back on the Road 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"Little Buddy to Rascal, what's going on?"</p> <i><p>"First things first, get back on 41 headed West."</p></i> You pull out onto the strip and start heading for the nearest exit to the Interstate. "On my way." <p><i>"Okay, that big dude?"</i> Colt sounds rushed. <i>"He wasn't just hanging around. I'm not sure what the deal is but it has something to do with the cargo. Over."</i></p> <p>Of course it does. "You sure?"</p> <p><i>"I don't know him, I assume you don't know him, we're carrying a mysterious and valuable cargo cross country." You hear what sounds like a crash over the radio.</i></p> <<button[[Ask if he's okay|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Get Back on the Road 3]]>><</button>>

<p><i>"Oh, well, you know, this big ape is trying to knock me off the road. And the big ape, ha ha, has a big ape."</i></p> <p>"Colt?"</p> <p><i>"Listen, I got this, just-"</i></p> <p>"We should go to the cops," you say. "Or just dump the cargo."</p> <p><i>"Nooooo. No. No."</i> Colt is adamant. <i>"Negatory Little Buddy. To both those ideas. Listen, just head on down the Interstate, pull over at the first rest stop, and just sit tight, okay?"</i> You can hear sirens behind his voice. <i>"Crap, I gotta... I'll come meet you as soon as I've dealt with this. Stay on this channel, first rest stop, wait for me. Over and out."</i></p> <<button[[Drive on|1980.1 Meeting Artemis Rest Stop]]>><</button>>

<p>You drive on a while longer, nervously watching your mirrors for the police or Colt or... you don't even know what. So intent are you that you almost miss the exit to the rest stop fifteen miles out of Memphis.</p> <p>Turning the wheel you pull into what's little more than a glorified gravel parking lot with a single stone restroom. You put the truck in park, turn off the engine, and wonder if Colt is going to catch up to you.</p> <<button[[Check out the Mystery Cargo|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo]]>><</button>>

<p>Unable to resist the urge or shake the increasingly <b>bad vibes</b> you've been feeling, you hop down out of the truck's cab and crunch your way across the gravel to the rear of the trailer. There you find yourself confronted with a sturdy padlock.</p> <<button[[Look for a key|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Look Key]]>><</button>>

<p>You pull out your key chain and confirm that it only has one key on it - the truck's ignition. If there's a key to the padlock Colt probably has it - but it's just as likely that it's sitting in the glove compartment. You turn to go check it out.</p> <p>As you're walking back up the side of the truck, you hear a <b>thud</b> from inside the trailer, as if something struck the wall. You freeze, listening, and hear what you swear is soft movement.</p> <<button[[Bang a fist on the side of the truck|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Noise]]>><</button>> <<button[[Call out to whatever's in there|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Noise]]>><</button>>

<p>There's no immediate response to your actions, but after a moment you swear - you <i>swear</i> - you can hear scrabbling from inside.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Colt Arrives]]>><</button>>

<p>Just then the Duke pulls into the gravel parking lot, coming to a stop alongside the truck. Colt swings out through the window, a chagrined expression on his face. "Hey, $name, are you okay?"</p> <p>"Colt, there's someone - or some<i>thing</i> - moving around inside the truck."</p> <p>He tilts his head back and regards you with a quizzical expression. "What? Buddy, you've been driving too hard."</p> <<button[[Tell him what you heard|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Colt Arrives 2]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <p>"No," you insist. "I heard something!"</p> <p>Never taking his eyes off of you, Colt bangs on the side of the trailer. "Hello in there! Anybody home! Hey! Hey!" His expression turns smug just as there's an answering bang from inside. </p> <p>Colt's eyes widen, and he slowly walks to the back of the truck, pulling a key out of his inner jacket pocket. He gives you a concerned look before using it to unlock the padlock, which he then removes. He pauses, then in one quick motion slides up the door and steps away.</p> <p>To your surprise the back of the truck is largely empty, except for a simple cot, bucket, and chest, all secured with mover's straps. You barely have time to register the <b>thin blond woman</b> sitting up on the cot in the darkness.</p> <<button[[What the hell?|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Colt Sees Girl]]>><</button>>

<p>You feel light-headed.</p> <p>Your uncle slams the door shut as quickly as he'd opened it, eyes wide, mouth agape. He turns to look at you, clearly shocked by your mutual discovery. "What the fuck is this? What the fuck have we gotten ourselves into?" He takes a few stumbling steps back, hands rising to his face, the hat falling back off of his head.</p> <<include "1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Colt Sees Girl 2">>

<p>You're feeling just as horrified, a cold sickness welling up from deep inside your core.</p> <p>"This wasn't the deal," he whispers. "I never agreed to... to this!"</p> <<button[["We could just let her go."|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Let Her Go]]>><</button>> <<button[["You think we should go to the cops?"|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Cops]]>><</button>> <<button[["What do we do, Colt?"|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo What Do We Do]]>><</button>>

<p>"We have to go to the cops!" you say.</p> <p>"Go to the cops?" Colt echoes. "Are you nuts?"</p> <p>"This is kidnapping, Colt!"</p> <p>Colt gestures from himself to you and back. "No, $name, <i>this</i> is kidnapping! We're in it thick, my young friend! Accessories! Transporting across state lines! This is like... super big time turbo kidnapping, which means super big time turbo jail time."</p> <<include "1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Coptions">>

<p>"It's not our fault!" you protest. "They never told us what we had in the back!"</p> <p>Colt lets out a ragged laugh. "Do you think that matters? They'll crucify us - we're talking about <b>hard time</b> here, and don't think for a minute that they wouldn't try you as an adult!"</p> <<include "1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Coptions">>

<p>"We could... we could make a deal, testify against the guys who gave you the job!"</p> <p>"Are you nuts?" Colt asks. "Rat out the mob? It's suicide - and I don't know enough to get a protection deal from the Feds!"</p> <<include "1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Coptions">>

<<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Cops Ignorance")>> <<button[["We didn't know what we were transporting!"|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Cops Ignorance]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Cops Rat")>> <<button[["We could make a deal and turn over the guys who gave you the job!"|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Cops Rat]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<button[["Shit!"|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Cops 2]]>><</button>>

<p>You can't really fault Colt's logic... going to the police isn't an option unless you want to wind up in prison. Or worse!</p> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Let Her Go")>> <<button[["We could just let her go."|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Let Her Go]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<button[["What do we do, Colt?"|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo What Do We Do]]>><</button>> <<button[[You're at a loss for words|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Decision]]>><</button>>

<p>"We could just let her go," you say. "It's not too late. Just... drive her back to Memphis, drop her off, and go."</p> <p>"Kid..." Colt shakes his head. "I wish it was that simple. We know too much now... they'd put a hit out on us for sure."</p> <p>"We could run." Your voice sounds small in your ears. Everything's distant, tinny.</p> <p>"Hide in Mexico for the rest of our lives?" Colt looks down at his scuffed boot tips. "Ain't no life for a kid. Even if I could get us both across the border safely. And then they'd just go after our family. Your mom and dad. Your sister."</p> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Cops")>> <<button[["We could go to the cops."|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Cops]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<button[["What do we do, Colt?"|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo What Do We Do]]>><</button>> <<button[[You're at a loss for words|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Decision]]>><</button>>

<p>Colt is the adult here, the authority figure. He's getting in scrapes like this all the time, right? Surely he can figure a way out of it!</p> <p>"Okay." Colt steps away, gazing at the highway.</p> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Cops")>> <p>"Can't just go to the cops, they'd just throw us in the slammer and throw away the key. Can't turn state's evidence, I don't know anything that'll get us decent protection. Probably try the kid as an adult, get us both hard time."</p> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Let Her Go")>> <p>"Can't just let the girl go, even if we ran to Mexico that's no life for a kid. Just put out a hit on our families anyway..."</p> <</if>> <p>"Shit." He turns back to you.</p> <<button[[So...|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Decision]]>><</button>>

<p>"Kid," Colt begins, gazing out towards the highway. "Our only real option is to stick to the plan. Deliver the girl. They paid me half the fee up front and they're not going to just take it back and forget the whole deal. And I don't know if you figured it out but Danja County really needs that money, or the Commish..."</p> <p>He shuffles his feet, looking at you without meeting your gaze. "Ah geez, it's not like this is a sex trafficking thing. The guy who set this up, he's a bookie, not a pimp. She's probably collateral for some deadbeat. Or she's welshing on a deal. If they were gonna kill her, she'd be dead already! So really, if you think about it, we're doing her a favor." He sounds like he really really believes what he's saying.</p> <p>You know what you need to do.</p> <<button[[Free the girl and run away with her|1980.1 Investigate the Cargo Decision Runner]]>><</button>> <<button[[Convince Colt to let the girl ride up front|1980.1 Meet Lottie]]>><</button>>

<p>As soon as Colt gets back in his car and you get back on the road you have your chance.</p> <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner">>

<p>It's clear that Colt isn't going to listen to reason - he's so high on his own supply that you're clearly going to have to take matters into your own hands. But you ask yourself - what's really going on here? Why are you willing to alienate your uncle and get on the wrong side of the mob for a girl you don't even know?</p> <<button[[The girl doesn't deserve this|1980.1 Do a Runner Compassion]]>><</button>> <<button[[You don't want to go to jail|1980.1 Do a Runner Fear]]>><</button>> <<button[[Because screw Colt, that's why|1980.1 Do a Runner Because Screw Colt]]>><</button>> <<button[[I just want out of this situation|1980.1 Do a Runner Overwhelmed]]>><</button>>

<<if $archetype == "jerk">> <<run $Stat.increase()>> <</if>> <p><b>Why?</b> Isn't it the only moral choice? How could you live with <i>not</i> doing everything you can to save this girl? Doesn't matter that she's a stranger... you just can't leave her in this situation. Even if it means ruining your own life.</p> <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner Where To">>

<p>You wouldn't last a <b>week</b> in jail, doing hard time for Felony Kidnapping. It'd ruin your life!</b> <p>No, your best bet is to let her go. That changes things - makes you a hero instead of a criminal, right? What jury would convict you for saving someone from the mob? None, that's who.</p> <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner Where To">>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <p>Goddamn Colt, man. Your piece-of-crap uncle wrapping you up in this mob bullshit, then just thinking about covering his own ass - you're just a minor! If anybody goes down for this, it's going to be him. And to be honest, he <b>deserves</b> it, way he's been treating you. Serves him right.</p> <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner Where To">>

<<run $Stat.decrease()>> <p>Oh god, this is all just too damn much. Colt, kidnapping, the mob, the police, that crazy guy... you just want it to stop, you just want <b>out</b>. Let the girl go, and you're done with this crazy nonsense, right? You're out!</p> <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner Where To">>

<<button[[Drive the girl back to Memphis|1980.1 Do a Runner Back to Memphis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Let her out along a side road|1980.1 Do a Runner Down a Side Road]]>><</button>>

<p>It's only a quarter mile back to Memphis, and a lot better for the girl than leaving her on the side of the road. You owe her that much.</p> <p>Once you're within the city limits you pull into an out-of-the-way industrial park, grab the crowbar Colt keeps under the driver's seat, hop down, and walk to the back of the truck.</p> <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner Let Her Out">>

<<run $Lottie.increaseRelationship()>> <p>You pry the lock off, slide the door up, and step back. "Hey, uh, you can come out now."</p> <p>There's a very hesitant response with a light New England accent. "What?"</p> <<button[["I'm letting you go."|1980.1 Do a Runner Let Her Out 2]]>><</button>>

<p>The girl steps forward, hesitantly, as if wondering if this is some sort of trick. "You're just... letting me go? What brought on this change of heart?"</p> "Look, I didn't even know you were in the back of the truck until..." <<if hasVisited("1980.1 Do a Runner Compassion")>>Her hesitation makes you feel like garbage... what this poor girl must've been through. "I'm doing it... because it's the right thing to do." <<elseif hasVisited("1980.1 Do a Runner Fear") or hasVisited("1980.1 Do a Runner Overwhelmed")>>You can hear your voice tremble. "Look I... just forget you saw me, okay? I don't want any trouble, I didn't know what was in the truck, I just want to go home." <<else>>You fail to keep the spite out of your voice. "Look, my uncle's a prick and I don't want any part of this goddamn bull-crap." <</if>> <p>Her eyes focus on yours for a moment, then widen. "Oh, you're just a <b>kid</b>!"</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Do a Runner Let Her Out 3]]>><</button>>

She hops down from the truck and takes a look <<if hasVisited("1980.1 Do a Runner Back to Memphis")>> around at the industrial park. <<else>> up and down the deserted stretch of road. <</if>> "Thank you so much... I know what a big risk you're taking. It means a lot. My name's <b>Lottie</b>." <p>"$name."</p> <p>"Thanks, $name... can I convince you to give me a lift somewhere I can get something to eat? And maybe a phone?"</p> <<button[[Agree, of course|1980.1 Do a Runner to the Diner]]>><</button>>

<p>You drive back East until you hit the first back country off-ramp, then head down it a ways until you're out of sight of the highway. You pull over to the side of the road, grab the crowbar from under the driver's seat, hop out, and walk to the back of the truck.</p> <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner Let Her Out">>

<<run $Lottie.increaseRelationship()>> <p>Twenty minutes later you're at a roadside diner, similar to the one you'd stopped at in Memphis. Lottie heads off into the restroom to freshen up, and you order burgers and fries for the both of you. It eats up the last of your funds, but let's be honest - it's the least you can do. And you really need to get on her good side.</p> <p>She comes back, sees the food, and gives you a grateful look before digging in.</p> <<button[[Ask her what happened|1980.1 Do a Runner What Happened]]>><</button>> <<button[[Eat in silence|1980.1 Do a Runner Eat Silently]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <p>"So..." you take a moment to figure out how to continue. "How'd you end up in the back of a truck?"</p> <p>She stares at you, then speaks around her mouthfull of burger. "You don't know?"</p> <p>You shake your head.</p> <p>She swallows and takes a sip of soda. "Okay. Well. My boyfriend, <b>Artemis</b>, is a... well, he's a fighter. I mean he fights people for money."</p> <<button[["You mean like a boxer?"|1980.1 Do a Runner What Happened 2a]]>><</button>> <<button[[Nod along with her story|1980.1 Do a Runner What Happened 2]]>><</button>>

<p>She pauses, looking away. "Sort of? Only he doens't fight in a ring. He fights in the street. Or warehouses, or back alleys, or... let's just say that it's very dangerous and I'm not a big fan of it, but he's very good at what he does."</p> <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner What Happened 2">>

<p>"And a lot of folks consider him to be really really good at it. And people bet a lot of money on his fights. And sometimes they want him to fight people he doesn't want to fight, and when he says no, it makes these people really angry and... am I making any sense?"</p> <<button[[Nod.|1980.1 Do a Runner What Happened 3]]>><</button>> <<button[["Do you mean the mob?"|1980.1 Do a Runner What Happened 3a]]>><</button>>

<p>"Do you mean the mob?" You eat a french fry. "Listen, lady, Lottie, I'm not a kid. I'm sixteen. I get it."</p> "Christ you're even younger than I thought." She stares up at the ceiling. <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner What Happened 3">>

"Okay, so, they wouldn't take no for an answer and he wouldn't give them a yes, so they grabbed me to... I guess... force him to come to Los Angeles for this fight they set up. And now we're here in..." <p>"Memphis," you supply.</p> <<if hasVisited("1980.1 Meeting Artemis Rude Awakening")>> <<button[[Artemis...|1980.1 Do a Runner Tell her you saw Artemis]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<button[[Apologize on behalf of yourself and your uncle|1980.1 Do a Runner apologise for yourself and Colt]]>><</button>> <<button[[Apologize, but make no excuses for Colt|1980.1 Do a Runner apologise for yourself]]>><</button>>

<p>The two of you eat almost half your burgers before Lottie breaks the silence. "So... uh... if you don't mind me askin'... how'd you get wrapped up in this?"</p> <<button[[Apologize on behalf of yourself and your uncle|1980.1 Do a Runner apologise for yourself and Colt]]>><</button>> <<button[[Apologize, but make no excuses for Colt|1980.1 Do a Runner apologise for yourself]]>><</button>>

<p>"Oh god," you say, putting down the fry you'd been eating. "Listen, I had no idea you were even in the truck. I was staying with my uncle near Knoxville over the holidays, and yesterday he drops this sudden road trip in my lap, tells me I have to drive the truck all the way to L.A."</p> <p>"You have a license?" Lottie asks.</p> <p>"No!" you half-laugh. "But nobody cares, not even the cops. All Colt says is that he's being paid a ton of money to deliver this <b>'package,'</b> doesn't even care what it is."</p> <p>"Oh god, I'm so so sorry!" she puts a hand on yours.</p> <<button[[This seems backwards|1980.1 Do a Runner apologise for yourself 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"Lady, you're apologizing to me? You were the one getting..." you lower your voice. "Kidnapped."</p> <p>"$name, it's clear that the adults in your life are letting you down. That's not your fault."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Do a Runner Apologize Options]]>><</button>>

<p>"What now?" you ask. "Go to the cops?"</p> <p>"I don't know," Lottie said. "This is the mob we're dealing with. The police have a knack for making things like this worse, especially for men like Artemis..."</p> <<button[[Offer her a lift back home|1980.1 Do a Runner Back to Boston]]>><</button>> <<if hasVisited("1980.1 Meeting Artemis Rude Awakening")>> <<button[[Artemis...|1980.1 Do a Runner Tell her you saw Artemis]]>><</button>> <</if>>

<p>"It's so screwed up," you say. "Look, we had no idea you were in the back of the truck. My parents are having problems, so my uncle Colt lets me stay with him over the holidays, give them time to fix it. Everything's fine until New Years Day, when this job gets dropped in his lap - transport this cargo from Knoxville to Los Angeles. He doesn't know what's in it, just that he's being paid a lot of money by the kind of people you don't ask too many questions of."</p> <p>Lottie's lips draw thin. "You poor, poor kid."</p> <<button[["Don't be too hard on Colt, he..."|1980.1 Do a Runner apologise for yourself and Colt 2]]>><</button>>

<<run $Lottie.increaseRelationship()>> <p>Anger flashes across her face. "Don't make excuses for him. Do you know how many men like that I've known? <b>Irresponsible</b> men? He's the adult, here, $name. He's the one who's supposed to take care of you. And where is he?" She gestures around at the diner. "You had to go behind his back to let me go, didn't you?"</p> <<button[[Make excuses for Colt|1980.1 Do a Runner apologise for yourself and Colt 3a]]>><</button>> <<button[[Don't|1980.1 Do a Runner apologise for yourself and Colt 3b]]>><</button>>

<p>"He tries." You look down at your last bite of hamburger. "And he was there for me when nobody else was. That has to count for something, right?"</p> <p>"Oh, $name." You can hear Lottie's heart break for you. She dabs at the corner of her eye with a napkin.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Do a Runner Apologize Options]]>><</button>>

<p>"No, you're right." You look up at her. "This is his mess and I don't deserve to be stuck in it."</p> <p>She gives you a high five. "I can tell you from experience that that's the first step to getting your life together!" She looks down at her plate. "Now if only I could get it to stick."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Do a Runner Apologize Options]]>><</button>>

<p>"Artemis," you say. "Tall, maybe six-three, six five, white guy, built, sandy hair, squints all the time?"<p> <p>Lottie blinks. "Why, yes. You seen him?"</p> <p>You nod. "Ran into him just before we left Memphis. Maybe half an hour ago."</p> <p>Her jaw drops. "Really?" She half rises. "He might still be here!"</p> <<button[[Not quite|1980.1 Do a Runner Tell her you saw Artemis 2]]>><</button>>

<p>You shake your head. "No, Colt was leading him out of the city, last I heard. And Colt's still running west."</p> <p>She stands. "We have to go after them, then!"</p> <<button[[Let's go!|1980.1 Do a Runner Back to the Truck]]>><</button>>

<p>"The least I can do is give you a lift back East," you say. "I don't know how far the gas in the truck will get us, but-"</p> <p>"No... no, Artemis will be heading West, to L.A., looking for me. And it's not safe in Boston. And I... I don't think you'll be safe either, $name."</p> <p>The thought had occurred to you. "So what do we do?"</p> <p>Her eyes brighten. "Let's head West! Artemis isn't the sort to give up. Ever."</p> <<button[[Let's go!|1980.1 Do a Runner Back to the Truck]]>><</button>>

<p>You and Lottie get back in the truck and you key the ignition. Almost immediately you hear Colt's frantic voice over the radio. <i>"Rascal to Little Buddy, come in Little Buddy. Rascal to Little Buddy, come in Little Buddy."</i></p> <p>You exchange a glance with Lottie, put the truck in gear, and head out onto the road westward.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Do a Runner Back to the Truck 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"He sounds upset," Lottie says. "Are you going to answer him?"</p> <p>You honestly don't know. "Should I?"</p> <p>She sits in silence, staring at the highway as the truck rumbles along. "I don't know. If you think some good can come of it... then yeah. He is your uncle, after all. But if not..." She trails off.</p> <<button[[Answer Colt|1980.1 Do a Runner Answer Colt]]>><</button>> <<button[[Turn off the Radio|1980.1 Do a Runner Radio]]>><</button>>

<p>Summoning your courage you reach for the mic. "Little Buddy to Rascal, acknowledged."</p> <p><i>"Oh christ,"</i> you can feel the relief flooding his voice. <i>"Kid, $name, you can't do that to me."</i></p> <p>You don't respond.</p> <p><i>"Kid? I've slowed down quite a bit, but I'm still not seeing you."</i> His tone is light.</p> <<button[[Tell Colt what you've done|1980.1 Do a Runner Admit What Youve Done]]>><</button>> <<button[[Act like everything's fine|1980.1 Do a Runner Try to Fool Him]]>><</button>>

<p>"Sorry, but you're not going to." You let out a big sigh. "I can't be a part of this anymore. Kidnapping."</p> <p>Colt's voice goes flat. <i>"What are you saying?"</i></p> <p>Lottie puts a hand on your shoulder, steadying you.</p> <<button[["I'm saying I'm letting Lottie go, Colt."|1980.1 Do a Runner Admit What Youve Done 2]]>><</button>>

<<run $Colt.decreaseRelationship()>> <p>A beat passes, and Colt laughs, a high-pitched, jagged sound. <i>"You're messing with me right?"</i></p> <p>"I'm sorry it had to be this way, Colt."</p> <p><i>"After all I've done for you, you do me like this?"</i> Colt's screaming now. <i>"You know what they're going to do to me? To you if they catch you? To-"</i></p> <<button[[Try and Reason with him|1980.1 Do a Runner Try and reason with him]]>><</button>> <<button[[Turn off the Radio|1980.1 Do a Runner Radio]]>><</button>>

<p>You turn off the radio, heart pounding.</p> <p>"That was very brave," Lottie says.</p> <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner Meet Artemis">>

<p>"Uh, yeah, I just... uh..." you pause. "I'm on my way. Got a little... lost."</p> <p><i>"Lost? It's a highway. You drive down it."</i> There's a long pause. <i>"What's going on, kid?"</i></p> <p>You're not sure what to say.</p> <p><i>"You, uh, you are on the road, right?"</i> He's clearly not buying it.</p> <p>"I'm done with this, Colt. I'm letting Lottie go."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Do a Runner Admit What Youve Done 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"Colt, stop! You know we can't do this, you know this is <b>wrong!</b>"</p> <p><i>"Wrong? Wrong? Kid, we are way past wrong. We left Wrong behind in Memphis. We're in completely screwed territory, and you're throwing away our map!"</i></p> <p>"That doesn't make any sense!"</p> <p><i>"Maybe <i>you</i> don't make any sense! Get back on the road and start on I-40 west, now!"</i></p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Do a Runner Try and reason with him 2]]>><</button>>

<p><i>"I got a better idea."</i> A new, gruff voice comes over the radio. <i>"Howsabout you pull that hunk of junk over and give me my girl back."</i></p> <<include "1980.1 Do a Runner Meet Artemis">>

<p>Looking in the rear-view mirror you spot a junky old blue pickup following close behind, buff-looking dude in a white t-shirt driving. Incongruously, there's a <b>chimpanzee</b> riding shotgun.</p> <p>"Artemis!" Lottie squeals excitedly. "Quick, pull over!"</p> <p>You can't help but be a little nervous as you do so, considering that you're at least partially responsible for the situation the big man's girlfriend is in.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Do a Runner Meet Artemis 2]]>><</button>>

<p>The big man steps out of his car, walking slowly up towards the truck. Lottie jumps down from the cab and runs up to him, throwing her arms around him, kissing him deeply.</p> <p>After a long intimate moment they break. Artemis turns his steely gaze to you, eyes narrowing.</p> <<button[[Explain your situation|1980.1 Do a Runner Explain to Artemis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Keep your silence|1980.1 Do a Runner Dont Waste Words with Artemis]]>><</button>>

<<run $Artemis.increaseRelationship()>> <p>"I'm so, so sorry," you say. "My uncle and I had no idea what was in the truck. It was... it was just a job, you know? If we'd known... but Colt, he's just in over his head."</p> <<if $Lottie.goodRelationship()>> <p>"?They turned on ?their uncle to let me go," Lottie says. "$name's been very kind. I'd still be in the back of the truck if it wasn't for ?them."</p> <</if>> <<if $Artemis.averageRelationship()>> <p>The man nods. "You put yourself on the line for Lottie. I'm impressed, kid. I don't know how much gas you got left, but if you need a lift, you can ride with us."</p> <<else>> <p>Artemis tilts his head. "You did the right thing, I guess. Not many do."</p> <p>Lottie looks at him. "We can give ?them a lift back East, can't we? At least as far as ?they wants."</p> <p>"I suppose, but ?they'll have to ride in the back with <b>Owen</b>."</p> <p>The ape makes a face at you, drawing back its lips.</p> <</if>> <<button[[Accept his offer|1980.1 Colt Catches Up]]>><</button>>

<<run $Artemis.increaseRelationship()>> <p>"?They saved me," Lottie tells Artemis. "?Their uncle took a job transporting for the mob, never asked about the cargo... and $name went behind his back to get me out of there."</p> <p>"Well then," Artemis nods. "I'm much obliged."</p> <p>"The mob might come after them for this... don't you think ?they'd be safer with us?"</p> <p>"I guess." Artemis gives you a look. "We got room for one more, long as ?they rides in the back with Owen."</p> <<button[[Accept his offer|1980.1 Colt Catches Up]]>><</button>>

<p>Colt's right - you can't just let the girl go. The situation's far too complex, too convoluted, to dangerous for such a simple solution. But keeping her locked up in the back of the truck like an animal... no, <i>worse</i> than an animal...</p> <<button[[Ask Colt if Lottie can ride up front|1980.1 7b Ask Colt]]>><</button>> <<if $Stat.good()>> <<button[[Tell Colt that Lottie has to ride up front|1980.1 7b Tell Colt]]>><</button>> <</if>>

<p>"There's no reason why she has to ride in back, is there?" you ask.</p> <<include "1980.1 7b Convo About Lottie Options">>

<p>Colt shakes his head. "Kid..."</p> <<if $Colt.goodRelationship()>> <p>"Colt, please. I can't... I don't feel right driving around with her in the back. I can handle this, just not... like a monster."</p> <p>Colt lets out a long sigh, rubbing his eyes. "Fine. Fine. <b>Fine!</b> You're responsible for her though. Got it?"</p> <<button[[Got it|1980.1 7b Release Lottie]]>><</button>> <<else>> <p>"Colt, please. I can't... I don't feel right driving around with her in the back. I can handle this, just not... like a monster."</p> <p>"Don't be so goddamn <b>dramatic</b>, $name. It's a shit situation, I agree, but we let her out and she's just going to do a runner, and then we're in a worse situation."</p> <<button[[Decide to help the girl escape|1980.1 Do a Runner]]>><</button>> <</if>>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <p>"There's no reason why she should have to ride in back," you tell Colt. "She'll ride up front with me."</p> <<include "1980.1 7b Convo About Lottie Options">>

<pThe two of you return to the back of the truck, sliding the door up.</p> <p> The girl blinks against the sunlight, sitting on her cot, shielding her eyes. She looks a fright, clothes dirty and wrinkled like she's been wearing them for days, and her hair is matted and tangled.</p> <p>Colt takes a step back. "Come on. Come on out. It's okay."</p> <p>She's hesitent, creeping forward, watching you both, as if trying to make sure you're not going to attack her or slam the door shut in her face. "Please." Her voice is weak, trembling. "Just let me go. Please."</p> <<button[[Try to convince Colt to let her go|1980.1 7b Free Lottie]]>><</button>> <<button[[Try to explain the situation to her|1980.1 7b Apologize Lottie]]>><</button>> <<button[[Say nothing|1980.1 7b Colt Lays it Out]]>><</button>>

<p>You turn to Colt. "Can't we just... can't we just let her go?"</p> <p>"Kid..." Colt shakes his head. "You know we can't. This is just the way it has to be."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 7b Colt Lays it Out]]>><</button>>

<p>"I'm sorry," you say, unable to meet her eyes. "We didn't know you were back there when we took the job, but..." you trail off, unable to continue.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 7b Colt Lays it Out]]>><</button>>

<p>Colt clears his throat. "Okay, here's the deal. We're just middlemen here, okay? Not the guys that put you in the truck, but we know better than to cross them."</p> <p>"But you'll screw a complete stranger over to save your own neck, is that it?" the girl asks. </p> <<button[[Ouch|1980.1 7b Colt Lays it Out 1.5]]>><</button>>

<p>Colt doesn't react. "Whatever makes it easier for you. Look, you don't give us any trouble, no need for you to ride in the back of the truck."</p> <p>She turns away, arms folded.</p> <p>Colt steps closer to you, voice low. "She's been in the back of a truck for a few days... why don't you take her over to the restroom to freshen up, make sure she doesn't do a runner while I... take care of her, uh... <b>facilities</b>. Bucket. Empty her bucket."</p> <<button[[Escort her to the bathroom|1980.1 7b Colt Lays it Out 2]]>><</button>>

<p>You and the girl head over to the public restroom. "I'm $name, by the way - that's my uncle Colt."</p> <p>"Lottie," she responds, after a moment. She glances back at Colt. "Jesus, you're just a kid... come on, you have to know this is <b>wrong</b>. You have to help me get out of here."</p> <<button[[Help her escape|1980.1 7b Plot an Escape]]>><</button>>

<<run $Lottie.increaseRelationship()>> <p>You look over your shoulder. Colt is inside the back of the truck, cleaning it out. "Okay, look. Colt drives the chase car, I drive the truck. Soon as he's out of view, I can just... go the other way."</p> <p>"Oh my god, thank you so much!" She brightens. "We'll just... play it by ear, then. Okay?"</p> <<button[[Play it by ear|1980.1 7b Colt Lays it Out 3]]>><</button>>

<p>You return to the truck, giving Colt a brief nod. He gives you a crisp salute and slips in through the driver window of his Camero.</p> <p>You climb up into the truck's driver's seat, opening the passenger door for Lottie. After she climbs in, you pull out onto the road behind Colt. After a few minutes, when he disappears over the horizon, you fall back, take a side road, and head back down the road to Memphis.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Do a Runner to the Diner]]>><</button>>

<p>You climb into the back of the pickup with the chimpanzee.</p> <p>"Don't worry, Owen don't bite," Artemis assures you. He gives Lottie a final deep kiss before climbing into his beat up old truck's driver seat, his girlfriend climbing in on the other side.</p> <p>Owen, the chimpanzee, seems much <b>larger</b> up close, and you can clearly see the corded muscle underneath his fur. He gives you a head tilt, then slips under the tarp in back. You follow, figuring it'll keep the road dust out of your teeth.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Colt Catches Up 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis pulls out onto the road and you can feel the truck accelerate. Mile after mile disapear under the truck's tires... riding in the back isn't exactly the most comfortable option, but the empty burlap sacks provide at least some cushioning.</p> <p>Owen watches you for most of the trip, watery black eyes shining. You wonder how tame he really is... if you had to guess, you'd say <i>not very.</i> Can he smell your uncertainty? Or is that just dogs?</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Colt Catches Up 3]]>><</button>>

<p>After a few hours Artemis pulls into a gravel parking lot. You emerge from the tarp to see that he's left the highway, taking backroads through - likely - the Midwes, parked in front of a motel. He heads on into the office.</p> <p>Lottie smiles at you. "Hope the ride wasn't too rough."</p> <<button[[Tell the Truth|1980.1 08a Colt Catches Up 4]]>><</button>> <<button[[Lie|1980.1 08a Colt Catches Up 4]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis comes back out with a room key. "So kid, since you were such a big help an' all, I don't see a problem swingin' by <b>Chicago</b> on the way home."</p> <p>"Isn't that pretty far out of your way?" you ask.</p> <p>He unlocks the door to a single room with a queen-sized bed. "Yeah, maybe, but taking a round-about route works out better for us in the long run."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Colt Catches Up 5]]>><</button>>

<p>The motel owner, an older bespeckled gentleman, comes along with a pair of cots. He looks you up and down, then turns to Artemis. "You said you needed two?"</p> <p>"Yeah, one for the kid, the other for my mother-in-law." He thumbs over his shoulder to where Owen is climbing out of the back of the truck wearing a bonnet and floral house-dress.</p> <p>"Some mother in law!" the owner mutters, quickly setting up the cots, then making himself scarce.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Colt Catches Up 6]]>><</button>>

<p>You have some time before bed to make small talk with Artemis and Lottie, if you so choose.</p> <<include "1980.1 08a Smalltalk Hub">>

<<if not hasVisited("1980.1 08a Talk to Lottie")>> <<button[[Talk to Lottie|1980.1 08a Talk to Lottie]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 08a Talk to Artemis")>> <<button[[Talk to Artemis|1980.1 08a Talk to Artemis]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<button[[Less talk, more sleep|1980.1 08a Go to Bed]]>><</button>>

<<include "1980.1 08a Talk to Lottie Hub">>

<<if not hasVisited("1980.1 08a How She Met Artemis")>> <<button[["How did you two meet?"|1980.1 08a How She Met Artemis]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 08a What She Does For a Living")>> <<button[[Ask Lottie what she does for a living|1980.1 08a What She Does For a Living]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<button[[Stop talking to Lottie|1980.1 08a Smalltalk Hub]]>><</button>>

What do you want to talk to Artemis about? <<include "1980.1 08a Talk to Artemis Hub">>

<<if not hasVisited("1980.1 08a How Did He Find You")>> <<button[["How did you find us?"|1980.1 08a How Did He Find You]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 08a Why Isn't He Fighting")>> <<button[["Why did you turn down the fight?"|1980.1 08a Why Isn't He Fighting]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<if not hasVisited("1980.1 08a Whats With the Chimp")>> <<button[["What's up with the chimp?"|1980.1 08a Whats With the Chimp]]>><</button>> <</if>> <<button[[Stop talking to Artemis|1980.1 08a Smalltalk Hub]]>><</button>>

<p>It's been a long exhausting day, and despite the stiffness of your cot, the uncomfortableness of sleeping in your clothes, and the smell of the chimpanzee, you drift off almost immediately.</p> <<button[[Sleep, perchance to dream|1980.1 08a Go to Bed 2]]>><</button>>

<p>In the middle of the night you're rudely awakened by the sound of breaking glass.</p> <<button[[Whu... wha?|1980.1 08a Go to Bed 3]]>><</button>>

<p>It takes you a few moments to remember where you are and what's going on.</p> <p>"$name?" Colt's voice, thick and unsteady with drunkenness, floats to you from the parking lot. "Shoudna... shouldna done me dirty, $name. Make. Made things harder..."</p> <<button[[Oh Jesus.|1980.1 08a Go to Bed 4]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis is already up, peering out through the curtains, a grim look on his face. "Your uncle is going to bring heat down on us that we don't need."</p> <p>"What are you going to do?" Lottie asks.</p> <p>He shakes his head. "Nothing good."</p> <<button[[Go talk to Colt|1980.1 08a Talk to Colt]]>><</button>> <<button[[Let Artemis handle it|1980.1 08a Let Artemis handle Colt]]>><</button>>

<p>"How did you two meet?" you ask.</p> <p>"Oh it's a story." Lottie grins.</p> <p>"Here we go." Artemis gets up and walks to the window.</p> <p>"You want to tell it?" Lottie asks, throwing a pillow at him.</p> <p>He bats it away. "No."</p> <<button[[Listen|1980.1 08a How She Met Artemis 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"Artie caught my show at the <i>Iron Horse Music Hall</i> when I was touring the East Coast and he became obsessed."</p> <p>"I wasn't-" Artemis protests.</p> <p>"Ob-sessed," Lottie emphasizes. "Shows up outa nowhere at my place in St. Louis, like a love-sick puppy."</p> <p>"Tell ?them what happened next," Artemis says. "Go on, tell ?them."</p> <<button[[Listen|1980.1 08a How She Met Artemis 3]]>><</button>>

<p>"It was hate at first sight," Artemis continues. "On her end, anyway."</p> <p>"I thought you were going to let me tell it?" Lottie frowns, then turns to you. "I didn't hate him. I just... I don't know."</p> <p>"I was a mark," Artemis says.</p> <p>"They were all marks." Lottie lowers her eyes.</p> <<button[[Listen|1980.1 08a How She Met Artemis 4]]>><</button>>

<p>Lottie continues. "I could give you a hundred excuses why, but the truth is I just saw the world as a place where everybody took advantage of everyone else. I'd do a show, some big galoot in the audience would fall for me, and I'd string him along until I got all I could from him, then move on."</p> <p>"Some of us <b>galoots</b> were more persistent than others." Artemis grins.</p> <p>"Artemis was the first man who wanted to take me further than the bedroom. And I didn't know how to deal with that. But I got lucky."</p> <<button[[Listen|1980.1 08a How She Met Artemis 5]]>><</button>>

<p>She looks at Artemis with unabashed adoration. "He gave me a second chance." She pauses, then turns back to you. "You must think I'm a monster."</p> <<button[["Absolutely."|1980.1 08a How She Met Artemis Monster]]>><</button>> <<button[["You did what you had to do."|1980.1 08a How She Met Artemis Empathy]]>><</button>> <<button[["I don't know what to think."|1980.1 08a How She Met Artemis Ambivalence]]>><</button>>

<p>"I don't know what to think," you admit. "It's... a complicated situation." On the one hand, maybe she was doing what she had to do to survive. And maybe she's doing what she can to be a better person. But change is hard, and it takes a lot of work.</p> <p>"That it is," Artemis acknowledges.</p> <<include "1980.1 08a Talk to Lottie Hub">>

<<run $Artemis.decreaseRelationship()>> <p>"What do you want me to say?" you ask. "I mean, I just met you, but... that's a super shitty way to live. And people don't just change."</p> <p>Lottie sighs. "I'm not asking for absolution. I'm just trying to do better."</p> <p>Artemis puts an arm around her. "Relax. Ain't like you <i>kidnapped</i> someone."</p> <<include "1980.1 08a Talk to Lottie Hub">>

<<run $Artemis.increaseRelationship()>> <p>"You did what you had to do," you say. "There's no shame in that. What matters is what you do now. Who you are now."</p> <p>Lottle blushes. "Thanks for saying so, $name."</p> <p>"Kid's got a good head on ?their shoulders," Artemis says.</p> <<if $archetype=="jerk">> <p>If she can change - really change, become a better person - then maybe you can, too.</p> <</if>> <<include "1980.1 08a Talk to Lottie Hub">>

<p>"What do you do for a living?" you ask. "Professionally, I mean?"</p> <p>"Oh, didn't I mention?" Lottie smiles. "I'm a musician - I play the guitar and sing. Country, mostly, a little folk."</p> <<include "1980.1 08a Talk to Lottie Hub">>

<p>"Do you mind if I ask you why you don't want to fight the guy they want you to fight?" you ask.</p> <p>Artemis takes a long pause before answering. "Kid, I been doing this for years. Little mechanic work on the side, but mostly I fight. It's practically the only thing I know."</p> <<button[["Losing your taste for it?"|1980.1 08a Why Isn't He Fighting 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"Quite the opposite," Artemis says. "I'm starting to like it a bit too much. The <b>pain</b>, I mean. Not sure that's who I want to be."</p> <p>Lottie rubs his arm, and he looks away again.</p> Starting to like it a little too much. Maybe you ask him to show you some moves, maybe in the morning. <<include "1980.1 08a Talk to Artemis Hub">>

<p>"Owen?" Artemis goes to tousle the fur on the chimp's head, only to have his hand slapped away. "He's my guy. You ain't afraid, are you?"</p> <p>Owen makes kissy-faces at you.</p> <<button[["No, he's rad as hell!"|1980.1 08a What's With the Chimp cool]]>><</button>> <<button[["He's a wild animal."|1980.1 08a What's With the Chimp scary]]>><</button>> <<button[["He smells like a zoo and I think I'm getting fleas."|1980.1 08a What's With the Chimp grody]]>><</button>>

<<run $Artemis.increaseRelationship()>> <p>"Rad, huh?" Artemis gives his chimp a glance. "Yeah, I suppose he is at that."</p> <p>Owen gives you a grin, exposing his bottom teeth.</p> <<button[["But how'd you get him?"|1980.1 08a What's With the Chimp 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"He's a wild animal," you say. "Aren't they, like, super strong?"</p> <p>"Aww, he's a big softy." Atemis extends an arm, and Owen moves into an embrace with the big trucker. "Long as you respect him, remember that he <i>is</i> a wild animal, he's perfectly safe."</p> <<button[["But how'd you get him?"|1980.1 08a What's With the Chimp 2]]>><</button>>

<<run $Artemis.decreaseRelationship()>> <p>"Hey now." Artemis frowns. "You're entitled to your opinion, kid, but I think it's a shitty one."</p> <p>Owen draws back his lips and gives you a big grin. It's unsettling.</p> <<button[["But how'd you get him?"|1980.1 08a What's With the Chimp 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis slips an arm around his chimp's shoulders. "Found my boy here at a roadside attraction down in Florida a few years back. Not the good kind, neither. Had him wrestlin' gators. Put my truck and two dirt-bikes up against him that I could take out the four guys keepin' him."</p> <p>"You won an ape in a fight?" you ask.</p> <p>"You can win all kinds of things in a fight."</p> <<include "1980.1 08a Talk to Artemis Hub">>

Artemis shrugs. <p>"Wasn't hard. Figured you'd be heading to Los Angeles - and your uncle ain't exactly what I'd call <b>inconspicuous</b>. Just kept my radio tuned to the police channel."</p> <<include "1980.1 08a Talk to Artemis Hub">>

<p>You're out the door and into the night before you even really know what you're doing.</p> <p>Colt is staggering around, open beer in one hand, crowbar in the other, six pack tucked nder his arm. He blinks blearily as you approach. "Well... look who we have here... the prodigous... prod... prodigal ?youngPerson returns!" He stumbles back a few steps and drops the sixer out from his armpt, sending the bottles to <b>shatter</b> on the asphalt.</p> <<button[[Try and talk him down|1980.1 08a Talk to Colt 2a]]>><</button>> <<button[[Go inside and let Artemis handle him|1980.1 08a Talk to Colt 2b]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.decrease()>> <p>You slip back into the hotel room.</p> <p>"Wait, where ya gon... goin?" you hear Colt ask behind you.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Let Artemis handle Colt]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <p>"Jesus, you're blind stinking drunk!" you say.</p> <p>"No, YOU, you're drunk," Colt slurs. "I'm sober assa churchmouse. An I'm here to finsh what I started." His voice drops to an exaggerated stage-whisper. "So the mob doesn't kill us hokay?"</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Talk to Colt 3]]>><</button>>

<p>"Listen," you put a hand on his shoulder to steady him. "Colt, look, it's over, okay? The girl's free, her boyfriend's a big tough guy, and you just have to <b>deal with it</b>, okay?"</p> <p>He stares at your hand. "Was that always there?"</p> <p>You shake him. "Goddammit, Colt, it's over! Go sleep it off!"</p> <p>He draws his head back, refocusing on your face.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Talk to Colt 4]]>><</button>>

<<if $Colt.goodRelationship()>> <p>Colt's face crumbles and he starts to cry long braying sobs.</p> <p>"Oh no." You catch him as he leans into you.</p> <p>"I nevva wannna beea monsta," he blurbles.</p> <p>"Colt... Colt," you struggle to hold him upright as he staggers against you.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Talk Colt Down]]>><</button>> <<else>> <p>Colt shoves you back. "No. No! Gotta job, gonna do it! Girl?" He steps towards the motel. "Girl! Wharsa Girl!"</p> <p>Artemis steps out into the night, wiping his mitts off on a towel. He gives you a look of mingled annoyance and regret. "You tried kid. Nobody can say you didn't try."</p> <<button[[Ask him to go easy on your uncle|1980.1 08a Talk to Colt 5a]]>><</button>> <<button[[Wipe your hands of Colt|1980.1 08a Talk to Colt 5b]]>><</button>> <</if>>

<p>"Just..." you pause. "Don't hurt him too bad?"</p> <<include "1980.1 08a Artemis beats the crap out of Colt in front of you">>

<p>"Wasted effort," you mutter.</p> <p>Lottie steps into the doorway, shaking her head. "Trying to talk him down is about you, not about him. All we can do sometimes is try."</p> <<include "1980.1 08a Artemis beats the crap out of Colt in front of you">>

<<run $Stat.decrease()>> <p>You stay inside while Artemis heads out into the parking lot.</p> <p>"You did all you could," Lottie says. "This is on <b>him</b> now."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Artemis beats the crap out of Colt]]>><</button>>

<p>"I just wanna be done with this," Colt murbles into your shoulder.</p> <p>You turn back towards the motel room. Artemis stands in the doorway, expression unreadible. "Come on, if he could find us, mob won't be far behind. There's a truck stop up the road where he can sober up."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Colt Coffee]]>><</button>>

<p>You bundle Colt through the window into the Camero's passenger seat and take the wheel, following Artemis's truck a half mile up the road to an almost empty truckstop diner. This isn't how you envisioned finally getting to drive the Duke, but that's the last thing on your mind right now.</p> <p>Lottie hits the bathroom while you serve Colt cup after cup of strong coffee to sober him up. Artemis watches dispassionately while Colt stares at the speckled table, unwilling or unable to make eye contact with anyone.</p> <<button[[Ask Colt to help Artemis and Lottie|1980.1 08a Ask Colt to Help Artemis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Send Colt packing|1980.1 08a Tell Colt to Leave]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis doesn't answer. He walks right up to your uncle, who tries to throw a drunken swing at the fighter. Artemis ducks to the side almost casually, and comes back with a hard punch right to Colt's gut that leaves your uncle sucking air.</p> <p>The boxer doesn't give Colt time to collect himself, and instead throws one... two... three punches to your uncle's face in rapid succession before laying him out with a <b>final uppercut</p>.</p> <p>Colt falls back onto the pavement, flat on his back, cowboy hat landing next to him. It was over so fast... Colt's no slouch in a bar brawl, but even sober he wouldn't have stood a chance against the professional fighter.</p> <p>Artemis gives him a last disgusted look, then heads back inside. "We should get a move on. If he can find us, the mob won't be far behind."</p> <<button[[Get a Move On|1980.1 08a Leave With Artemis]]>><</button>>

<p>From inside you can hear Colt start to slur something, only to be cut off by the meaty sound of Artemis hitting him. This is quickly followed up by three more powerful <b>impacts</b>, and then the louder thud of someone hitting the asphalt.</p> <p>Artemis walks back inside, giving you a fierce look. "Your guy's lucky he's your uncle, trouble he's caused me... we gotta go. If that drunk could find us, the mob won't be far behind."</p> <<button[[Get a Move On|1980.1 08a Leave With Artemis]]>><</button>>

<p>"You gotta make this right, Colt," you say. "You screwed up, but it's not too late to fix things."</p> <p>He looks up at you, then his eyes flicker away. You've never seen him like this.<p> <p>"You hear me?" you ask.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Ask Colt to Help Artemis 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"How?" Colt finally meets your eyes.</p> <p>You turn to Artemis. <p>"My uncle is a helluva driver. Used to race NASCAR. But he's an even better <b>decoy</b> - when we were heading West, he kept the cops busy so I could drive the truck without getting hassled."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Ask Colt to Help Artemis 3]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis seems taken aback. "You expect me to trust this clown after all he's done?"</p> <p>Your uncle gives you a long evaluating look, then turns to Artemis. "Listen, pal, a week ago my sister drops this kid off on my doorstep outa the blue and tells me I gotta watch over ?them for the holiday. Of course, family is family, so I say yes, and you know what I find?"</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Ask Colt to Help Artemis 4]]>><</button>>

<p>"A schnook totally unlike myself. Weak-willed, knobby-kneed, spine like a jellyfish, so used to being kicked around that ?they wouldn't know self-confidence if it came up and bit ?them.</p> <p>Artemis's jaw drops. "Jesus, pal, tell us how you really feel."</p> <<button[[Ouch.|1980.1 08a Ask Colt to Help Artemis 5]]>><</button>>

<p>Colt shrugs. "Sorry, kid, but it's true. That's how I felt."</p> <p>Artemis gives you another look. "Okay, and?"</p> <<if $Stat.good()>> <p>"And I was wrong. Kid's got an iron will in ?them. Or maybe ?they just rose to the challenge, I don't know. Point is, people can change. And if the kid can change, then I can change." Colt turns to you. "You really <b>inspire</b> me, kid. If you can be a better person, then what excuse do I have? All I need is the chance to prove it."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Artemis Agrees]]>><</button>> <<else>> <p>"What, that's it," Colt says. "Kid's an asshole. Tigers don't change their spots. I am who I am, and while I appreciate $name giving me the benefit of the doubt... I don't trust me. And neither should you."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Colt Declines]]>><</button>> <</if>>

<p>Artemis nods. "And I suppose you want me to give you that chance?"</p> <p>Colt gives a half shrug.</p> <p>"Fine. But this is on your ass if he turns on us, kid," Artemis says.</p> <<button[["Okay."|1980.1 08b Colt is Helpful]]>><</button>>

<p>"So here's the deal," Colt says. "I'll stick in my Camero, act like the chase car. Mob'll be on the lookout, and it ain't exactly inconspicuous, and I'll keep going west. You go on the other way, however you're planning it. They come after me, gives you more time."</p> <p>"You know how dangerous that is, right?" Artemis asks.</p> <p>"Oh yeah." Colt nods. "But I can handle the heat."</p> <<button[["Good luck, Colt."|1980.1 08b Colt is Helpful 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Your uncle gives you a thumbs up. "We make our own luck, kid." He jogs back to the Duke.</p> <p>"You can hop into the back with Owen," Artemis tells you, climbing into the pickup next to Lottie.</p> <<button[[Eastward Bound|1980.1 09a]]>><</button>>

<p>"So now what?" Artemis asks, arms folded.</p> <p>"Now we go our separate ways." Colt says. "Look, those mob guys are after me now, and I don't want to run into them any more than you. Best you don't know where I'm headed."</p> <p>"And the kid?" Artemis gestures towards you.</p> <<button[[What about you?|1980.1 08a Colt Declines 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"Kid, you are, and I can't emphasize this enough, dead to me. Got it?" Colt's expression goes dark. "You really screwed me over. So you and me? Through. Go cry to your mom if you want, but I never... never... want to see you again. It's best if we just... pretend each other doesn't exist. Got it?"</p> <p>"Yeah," you manage, stunned. "Yeah. Okay."</p> <p>He drops a few crumpled bills on the table. "For the coffee."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Colt Declines 3]]>><</button>>

<p>"Christ, what an asshole." Artemis watches your uncle leave, then looks at you. "You okay?"</p> <p>"Yeah."</p> <p>"Let's get out of here."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 09a]]>><</button>>

<p>You, Lottie, Artemis, and Owen quickly pack up and head to the parking lot, where you see Colt laying sprawled out in the street. He's unmoving aside from the steady rise and fall of his chest. Wordlessly, you load up Artemis's truck and get back on the road.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 09a]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <p>You clear your throat. "You gotta go, Colt."</p> <p>He doesn't look up, but nods slightly.</p> <p>"Go... West. Or South, head to <b>Mexico</b>. Somewhere the Mob won't follow. But don't go the way we're headed, harder for them to get all of us if we split up."</p> <<button[[Continue}08a Tell Colt to Leave 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"What..." he looks up, eyes red. "What about you?"</p> <p>"Don't worry about the kid," Artemis says. "We'll get ?them home."</p> <p>Colt rises slowly, dropping a few crumpled bills on the table. "For the coffee."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 08a Tell Colt to Leave 3]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis watches your uncle leave, then looks at you. "You okay?"</p> <p>"Yeah." You don't know if you're lying.</p> <p>"Let's get out of here."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 09a]]>><</button>>

<p>East. North-east, really, though sitting in the back of the truck all you can see is the blue of the tarp. The plan, such as Artemis is willing to share, is to drop you off in Indiana a short bus trip from home, then continue on back to Boston.</p> <p>You're not driving, though - the route doesn't really matter. You lie in the back, try not to rattle around too much, staring at the chimp as it stares back at you. It's a surreal trip.</p> <<if hasVisited("1980.1 08b Colt is Helpful")>> <p>Colt, for his part, is driving the chase car, trying to keep the cops and any potential mobsters off your tail.</p> <<else>> <p>You wonder where your uncle is, what he's doing, how he's doing.</p> <</if>> <<button[[Try not to make any sudden movements|1980.1 09a 2]]>><</button>>

This has been a harrowing trip, pushing you to the very limits of your willpower. Time and again, you've had to put it on the line for people you hardly know, to stand up for total strangers. <<if $Stat.good()>> Has it changed you? You feel different. <b>Stronger</b>. More <b>determined</b>. More able to <b>stand up for yourself</b>. This is all still terrifying, of course, nothing you've experienced has made it any [i]less[/i] scary, but you feel... like you can cope with being afraid a bit better. So that's something. <<else>> It's been a miserable experience with miserable people, and you can't help but feel like you've been letting everybody down. Like you've been letting yourself down, taking the path of least resistance more often than not. It's just... easier that way. Safer that way. And surrounded by so much danger, maybe keeping your head down is the only way you'll get through this alive. <</if>> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 09a Filling Station]]>><</button>>

<p>It's near dusk when Artemis pulls the truck to a stop. Peering out, you find that he's pulled into a filling station. Making sure nobody is watching, you slip out of the truck bed to stretch your legs.</p> <p>He beckons you over and indicates the gas pump handle. "Hey, you mind holding this? I gotta go take a leak."</p> <<button[["Yeah, sure."|1980.1 09a Filling Station 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Lottie hops out of the passenger side and gives you a smile. "I'm going to go grab some snacks. You want something?"</p> <p>"Yeah," you think. "Get me some Razzles or Banana Flip. Or a Reggie Bar if they have any."</p> <p>"Got it." She twirls and heads off into the station.</p> <<button[[Fill the tank|1980.1 09a Filling Station 3]]>><</button>>

<p>You top the tank off, return the nozzle to the pump, and Artemis still isn't back yet.</p> <<button[[Wait for Lottie|1980.1 09a Filling Station Lottie]]>><</button>> <<button[[Check on Artemis|1980.1 09a Filling Station 4]]>><</button>>

<p>Lottie returns. "I got you a Twix, you try these yet?"</p> <p>You frown. "Artemis isn't back yet."</p> <p>She turns her head towards the restrooms. "You want to go check on him?"</p> <<button[[Check on Artemis|1980.1 09a Filling Station 4]]>><</button>>

<p>You walk around the side of the filling station to the men's room and knock on the door. "Everything okay in there?"</p> <p>After a few seconds the door cracks open, and Artemis peers out. "Hey, $name. You, uh, you should see this."</p> <<button[["Oooookaaaay?"|1980.1 09a Filling Station 5]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis opens the door, pulls you in, and shuts it quickly. Behind him, seated on the toilet, is a beaten and bruised man in a crumpled suit, a dazed expression on his face. His hands are cuffed behind his back, around the pipe leading to the toilet tank.</p> <p>"Found this <b>mook</b> sneakin' around, watching us." Artemis turns to the sink, washing the blood off his knuckles. "Go on, tell the kid what you told me."</p> <p>"You're dead, you're so dead," the guy mutters, spitting <b>blood</b> onto the floor.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 09a Filling Station 6]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis slaps the guy upside the head. "No, not that. The other thing."</p> <p>"We got the <b>driver</b>," the guy croaks. "Guy in the Camero."</p> <p>"Colt?" you ask, blood running cold.</p> <p>"Guy who let the girl go," the mob guy replies. "Vinchenzo's gonna whack him, soon as he's done interrogatin' the poor sap. Then he's coming for you."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 09a Filling Station 7]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis guides you outside, shuts the door and locks it, breaking the key off in the lock. "Guy also says they're holed up in a construction yard about a mile up the service road."</p> <p>You can't believe they caught Colt - your uncle is slippery, if nothing else. After a lifetime of skirting the edge, it looks like the consequences of his actions are finally catching up with him.</p> <<if $Artemis.goodRelationship()>> <p>"Hell of a situation, kid," Artemis continues. "Listen, your uncle ain't the greatest guy in the world, but family's family. You want to go after him... I got your back."</p> <<button[[Rescue Colt|1980.1 09a Team Up with Artemis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Abandon Colt|1980.1 Resolution - Abandoned Colt]]>><</button>> <<else>> <p>"I know he's family and all, kid, but..." Artemis hesitates. "Some family you don't need."</p> <<button[[Rescue Colt|1980.1 09a Filling Station 8]]>><</button>> <<button[[Abandon Colt|1980.1 Resolution - Abandoned Colt]]>><</button>> <</if>>

<p>"He's a bastard but... family's family," you say. "I can't just let him die!"</p> <p>Artemis shakes his head. "Sorry kid, I'd be the biggest heel in the world if I let you run off and get yourself killed by the mob. Let it go."</p> <<button[[Sneak off to save your uncle|1980.1 09a To the Rescue]]>><</button>> <<button[[Let it go|1980.1 Resolution - Abandoned Colt]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.increase()>> <p>"I'm gonna need a few seconds," you say, leaning against the wall of the filling station.</p> <p>"Sure kid, sure." Artemis turns. "Take all the time you need. I'll be waiting in the truck."</p> <p>As soon as he's out of sight, you take off in the other direction, up the service road towards the construction site.</p> <<button[[To the rescue!|1980.1 09a To the Rescue 2]]>><</button>>

<p>About a mile up the road you spot the construction site - a massive pit surrounded by a <b>chain-link fence</b>. From an overlook you can see a number of <b>trailers, outbuildings, and construction equipment</b> among stacks of material and partially erected girders. <b>Figures</b> move between them - guards, possibly.</p> <p>What's the plan?</p> <<button[[Sneak in and rescue your uncle|1980.1 09a To the Rescue Sneak Bad]]>><</button>> <<button[[Negotiate with them|1980.1 09a To the Rescue Negotiate]]>><</button>>

<p>You jog down into the construction site, imagining yourself to be an Army scout sneaking through the jungle, avoiding booby traps and the <b>commies</b>. You try to keep your steps light, mimic carrying a rifle, and perform a lot of sudden spins while you hum <i>Flight of the Valkyries</i>.</p> <p>"Hey, kid!" The voice startles you, and you turn to see an angry looking galoot in an ill-fitting suit stomping towards you. You turn to run, only to see an even bigger and angrier looking guy striding quickly in your direction.<p> <p>"Let's take ?them to see the boss!" The second guy grabs you before you can run.</p> <<button[[Oh shit!|1980.1 09a Caught by the Mob]]>><</button>>

<p>You walk up to the guys guarding the gate.</p> <p>"You lost, $youngPerson?" one of the men asks.</p> <p>"No, I..." you clear your throat. "You have my uncle Colt in there. I want to, ah, negotiate for his release."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 09a To the Rescue Negotiate 2]]>><</button>>

<p>The guard straightens. "Oh shit, you're the kid. You wanna talk to the boss?"</p> <p>"Yeah. To see if we can come to an arrangement."</p> <p>"Oh, sure, of course, let me bring you right to him." His grin is <b>unsettling</b>, and you wonder if you made the right choice.</p> <<button[[Find out|1980.1 09a Caught by the Mob]]>><</button>>

<p>You and Artemis return to the truck to let Lottie in on the situation.</p> <p>"Of course we have to try to rescue your uncle," Lottie acknowledges. "But what's the plan?"</p> <<button[["What do you think, Artemis?"|1980.1 09a Team Up with Artemis 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"A few of the guys are going to have guns, so we can't just walk on in and start hitting people," Artemis says. "I can see two possible plans... one, $name goes in and gets their attention while I sneak around back. Not gonna lie, that's going to be dangerous - we have no way of knowing how they'll react to you, kid.</p> <p>"Plan B is the opposite. I go in, rough some of them up, keep 'em occupied while you sneak in and rescue your uncle. I can keep moving and avoid getting shot, but kid, this puts more of the pressure on you. So it's your call, $name."</p> <<button[["I'll go in like I'm going to negotiate, you save Colt."|1980.1 09a Team Up - You distract]]>><</button>> <<button[["You cause a distraction, I'll find my uncle."|1980.1 09a Team Up - Artemis distracts]]>><</button>>

<p>The goons drag you to the central trailer to see their boss, a thin and greying man with large glasses and curly hair. "What's this?" he asks.</p> <p>"Caught this kid sneakin' in," one of the goons says. "Get this, it's that prick's little buddy, the one driving the truck."</p> <p>"Oh, so you're the kid. Come to try and get your asshole uncle out, huh? We'll he's into me for a lot of money, kid. Lot of bets were riding on that fight."</p> <<button[[Sell out Artemis and Lottie for your uncle|1980.1 Resolution - Betray Artemis]]>><</button>> <<button[[Beg for Mercy|1980.1 09a Caught by the Mob 2]]>><</button>> <<button[[Remain Silent|1980.1 09a The Big Fight]]>><</button>>

<p>"Please," you beg. "Just let me and my uncle go. We won't tell anyone anything."</p> <<include "1980.1 09a The Big Fight">>

<p>You and Artemis head out to the construction site, an earthen pit surrounded by a <b>chain-link fence</b>. From an overlook you can see a number of <b>trailers, outbuildings, and construction equipment</b> among stacks of material and partially erected girders. You can see a few <b>men</b> in ill-fitting suits keeping watch, particularly over the entrance.</p> <<button[[Let Artemis clear the way|1980.1 09a Team Up - Artemis distracts 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis goes in first, driving his truck right through the front gates, and sending the guards sprawling. They run off after his truck, making it easy for you to sneak inside after them.</p> <p>You come across a small shack just as the guards watching it run off to investigate the commotion. You're able to bust the lock, and inside you find - trussed like a turkey - your uncle. You quickly untie him.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Resolution - Rescue Colt]]>><</button>>

<p>You and Artemis head out to the construction site, an earthen pit surrounded by a <b>chain-link fence</b>. From an overlook you can see a number of <b>trailers, outbuildings, and construction equipment</b> among stacks of material and partially erected girders. You can see a few <b>men</b> in ill-fitting suits keeping watch, particularly over the entrance.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 09a Team Up - You distract 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Artemis sneaks around back while you head up to the front gates.</p> <p>"You lost, ?youngPerson?" one of the men asks.</p> <p>"No, I..." you clear my throat. "You have my uncle Colt in there. I want to, ah, negotiate for his release."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 09a Team Up - You distract 3]]>><</button>>

<p>The guard straightens. "Oh shit, you're the kid. You wanna talk to the boss?"</p> <p>"Yeah. To see if we can come to an arrangement."</p> <p>"Oh, sure, of course, let me bring you right to him." His grin is <b>unsettling</b>, and you wonder if you made the right choice.</p> <<button[[Trust in the plan!|1980.1 09a Team Up - You distract 4]]>><</button>>

<p>"You gimmie my uncle, stop following us, I can give you Artemis and his girlfriend," you say.</p> <p>"You'd do that? Sell out a stranger to save your own skin?" the mob guy asks.</p> <p>"Not for me, but Colt... scumbag or not, family's family. I figured you guys would get that."</p> <<button[[See if he buys it|1980.1 09a Team Up - You distract Success]]>><</button>>

<p>Okay kid," the mob guy says. "We got a deal. You lead me to the boxer and his girl, we let you and your uncle go." He leans forward. "Now, where are they?"</p> <p>"I wanna know Colt's okay first." You stall for time.</p> <p>"Fair enough. Joey, go get the kid's uncle, bring him here." Mob Guy snaps his fingers.</p> <p>One of the goons lets himself out of the trailer.</p> <p>"Your intel better be good, kid," Mob Guy admonishes.</p> <<button[[Minutes tick by|1980.1 09a Team Up - You distract Success 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Your nervousness grows as you can see that the mob guys are getting suspicious.</p> <p>Suddenly, Artemis kicks the door in.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Resolution - Rescue Colt Artemis]]>><</button>>

<p>And that's when all hell breaks loose.</p> <p>Artemis busts on in with a <b>flying drop kick</b>, taking out one of the mob guys, and you take the opportunity to stamp on the instep of the goon nearest to you. He yelps, jumping up and down and grabbing his foot. The comic violence only escalates when Owen shows up driving a bulldozer, pushing a bunch of the mobsters' cars into the construction pit much to their consternation.</p> <p>"Didn't think I'd leave a kid to do this on his own, did ya?" Artemis quips.</p> <p>In all the confusion you manage to get Colt over one shoulder and stagger with him away from the violence even as more and more mob gangsters show up.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Resolution - Rescue Colt]]>><</button>>

<p>What happens next is a blur - all you really remember is staggering through the construction yard with your uncle over one shoulder, sneakers nearly slipping in the mud, feeling tired, feeling scared, the weight of everything you've faced since the new year finally taking its toll with a bone-weariness deeper than the night you're trying to sneak through.</p> <p>You've never been what anyone who knew you would have considered brave, in a conventional sense, avoiding confrontation, never really standing up for yourself, taking the easy route all through junior high. At school they called you a <b>loser</b>... and maybe they were right.</p> <<if $Stat.average()>> <<button[[Maybe you could have been stronger|1980.1 Resolution - Rescue Colt Good Confidence]]>><</button>> <<else>> <<button[[Maybe you could have been stronger|1980.1 Resolution - Rescue Colt Bad Confidence]]>><</button>> <</if>>

<<run $Colt.increaseRelationship()>> <p>But you've changed. I mean, look at you, breaking into a mob-controlled construction site to rescue your uncle? Is that something a loser would do? A weakling? A wimp? That's what this whole trip has been - you proving that they were wrong about you, that you have a reserve of <b>inner strength.</b> <p>Maybe it's luck, maybe it's karma, maybe the goons are just distracted, but you manage to make it out without being spotted. Down to the road, to a well-lit gas station before Colt recovers his senses well enough to walk on his own. He calls a cab, and after a few tense moments waiting to see if it or the mob arrives to take care of you first, you're on your way.</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Resolution - Rescue Colt Good Confidence 2]]>><</button>>

<p>You tell the cabbie to take you to the nearest hospital and get into the back with your uncle.</p> <<if $Colt.goodRelationship>> <p>Bleary-eyed, Colt puts a hand on your shoulder. "Kid," he slurs, "I wasn't always the best role-model for you, but you really turned out to be a good person. You saved me... and I owe you one."</p> <<else>> <p>Bleary-eyed, Colt puts a hand on your shoulder. "Kid," he slurs, "You saved my ass and I owe you one for that, but do me a favor. Never talk to me again, you pain in the ass."</p> <</if>> <p>Before you can respond, he slips into unconsciousness.</p> <<button[[And then what?|1980.1 Resolution - Rescue Colt Good Confidence 3]]>><</button>>

<p>And that's... it, really. You go to the hospital, check in under fake names, and make up some story about a car accident. You don't know how Colt convinces them not to bring the cops into it, but he does, and after being treated for dehydration and minor contusions you're on a bus headed back home.</p> <p>You definitely feel like you're not the same person you were when you left to stay with your uncle. You stand taller. Walk prouder. Smile brighter. Will your parents notice? Your friends at school? After being chased by the mob, after rescuing your uncle, the minor bullying you face feels insignificant. What does it all mean?</p> <p>You have the rest of the 80s to figure it out.</p> <<button[[The End|1980.2]] >><</button>>

<p>Despite all the experiences of the new year, not much has changed. You're still a bit of a coward, still letting others push you around.</p> <p>Maybe that's why it happened. Maybe that's why you choked, hesitating too long to sneak away from those guards... but in the end, what matters is that they caught you. Maybe that's why you dropped your uncle, leaving him to his fate, and ran to save your own skin... like a coward.</p> <p>You didn't see what they did to him. You could hear the gunshots, and you know - <i>you know</i> that they weren't all aimed at you.</p> <<button[[But in your dreams...|1980.1 Resolution - Rescue Colt Bad Confidence 2]]>><</button>>

<p>In your dreams, you see him die. In your dreams, he has time to call out to you, to reach out to you, you can see the hurt and betrayal in his eyes before you turn and run.</p> <p>Sometimes the gunmen have time to turn and shoot you down before you wake up. But that's not the way it happened in real life. In real life, you turn, you ran, they let you go, and you never found out definitively what happened to your uncle.</p> <<button[[But you know better|1980.1 Resolution - Rescue Colt Bad Confidence 4]]>><</button>> <p>Not much more to tell. You ran all night, were picked up by a passing patrol car in the morning, hungry, exhausted, and traumatized. Really it's all a blur, but from what you've been told you managed to spill what had happened - there was a brief investigation, but the police either didn't find anything at the construction yard or were paid to forget about it.</p> <p>You were taken to the hospital, treated, and then your parents showed up to take care of you. Everybody tells you that it wasn't your fault, that you're just a kid, that it was Colt who put you into this situation. And you really want to believe them.</p> <p>But you know better.</p> <<button[[The End|1980.2]] >><</button>>

<p>"I got this, kid, make a break for it!" Artemis yells. Just beyond him, you see Colt slumped in the doorway.</p> <p>"Stop them!" the mob boss cries, reaching for his gun even as Artemis dashes forward to slam him up against the wall.</p> <<button[[You don't need to be told twice|1980.1 Resolution - Rescue Colt]]>><</button>>

<<run $Stat.decrease()>> <p>"He made his choice," you say. And now, you've made yours.</p> <<button[[Go home|1980.1 Resolution - Abandoned Colt 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Lottie and Artemis are kind enough to drive you all the way back to the suburbs of Chicago on their way back to Boston - as they've said, the round-about route keeps them off the mob's radar.</p> <p>You get home a few days before your folks do, and spend the time recuperating and coming up with an explanation as to why you're home early. You decide that banking on Colt's inherent irresponsibility is the best course.</p> <<button[[They bought it, of course|1980.1 Resolution - Abandoned Colt 3]]>><</button>>

<<if ($Stat.good())>> <p>You find out, eventually, that Colt survived. How, you don't know, because he doesn't want to talk to you, and frankly, you can't blame him. You did betray him and leave him to the mob, after all.</p> <p>You've never been what anyone who knew you would have considered brave, in a conventional sense, avoiding confrontation, never really standing up for yourself, taking the easy route all through junior high. At school they called you a loser... and maybe they were right. Maybe you could have been stronger.</p> <p>You definitely feel like you're not the same person you were when you left to stay with your uncle. You stand taller. Walk prouder. Smile brighter. Will your parents notice? Your friends at school? After being chased by the mob, after rescuing Colt, the minor bullying you face feels insignificant. What does it all mean?</p> <<else>> <p>You never really find out what happened to Colt, whether he survived, whether the mob killed him. His disappearance doesn't go unnoticed by your parents, of course, but your dad seems to write it off as inevitable - as if it was only a matter of time before he got himself killed or missing.</p> <p>You've never been what anyone who knew you would have considered brave, in a conventional sense, avoiding confrontation, never really standing up for yourself, taking the easy route all through junior high. At school they called you a loser... and maybe they were right. Maybe you could have been stronger.</p> <p>Despite all the experiences of the new year, not much has changed. You're still a bit of a coward, still letting others push you around. Will you ever become more than that?</p> <</if>> <p>You have the rest of the 80s to figure it out.</p> <<button[[The End|1980.2]] >><</button>>

<<run $Stat.decrease()>> <p>"I want to make a deal," you say. "I give you the fighter and his girlfriend, you let me and my uncle go."</p> <p>Vinchenzo rubs his chin. "You'd do that, wouldn't you? Trade total strangers for your own skin."</p> <p>"Family is family," you say. It's not an easy choice, but you're certain that it's the correct one. "Colt's my family. Artemis and Lottie... aren't."</p> <<button[[Continue|1980.1 Resolution - Betray Artemis 2]]>><</button>>

<p>"My kinda scum." Vinchenzo claps his hands together. "Okay, kid. You got a deal. Where are they?"</p> <p>"They were at the service station up the road when I left," you say. "Hurry and you can catch them."</p> <p>"Tony, take six guys and go check it out," Vinchenzo orders. "Mikey, go get the kid's uncle. ?Their intel's good, we kick 'em loose. If not..." he smiles at you apologetically. "You understand."</p> <<button[[You get it.|1980.1 Resolution - Betray Artemis 3]]>><</button>>

<p>You don't know how it went down. You don't want to know how it went down. All you know is that Tony returned, had a word with Vinchenzo, and they let you and Colt go.</p> <p>You stumble back to the service station, trying not to look for Artemis's truck, and call for an ambulance. Colt told you it wasn't your fault, that you'd made the only possible choice, but he couldn't seem to make eye contact with you.</p> <<button[[You get it.|1980.1 Resolution - Betray Artemis 4]]>><</button>>

<<include "End of Version">>

<p>Zeitgeist 1980s is an interactive fiction game in which you play a teen coming of age in the 1980s, among the growing strangeness of the world as presented by the films and television of the decade. This is the Twine prototype of the eventual godot gamebook.</p> <<button "Back" `previous()`>><</button>>

<p>It's the first year of a new decade, and it's going to be a <i>weird</i> one. You grew up during the seventies, but nothing's prepared you for the world to come. But before we worry about the past, before we look to the future, let's find out who you are now.</p> <p>What's your first name? <<textbox "$name" "Casey" autofocus>></p> <p>What is your last name? <<textbox "$surname" "Smith">></p> <<button[[Continue->Character Creation Pronouns]]>><</button>>

/*pluralize surname*/ <<if $surname.last == "s">> <<set $surnames to $surname + "s">> <<else>> <<set $surnames to $surname + "es">> <</if>> <p>$name $surname, got it.</p> <p>Which set of nouns and pronouns would you like to use?</p> <<button[[He, Him, His, Himself->Character Creation Pronouns Male]]>><</button>> <<button[[She, Her, Hers, Herself->Character Creation Pronouns Female]]>><</button>> <<button[[They, Them, Their, Theirs, Themself->Character Creation Pronouns Neutral]]>><</button>> /* <<button[[Set Custom Pronouns->Character Creation Pronouns Custom]]>><</button>> */

<<set $pgen = 0>> <<set $she = "he">> <<set $her = "his">> <<set $hers = "his">> <<set $herself = "himself">> <<set $herm = "him">> <<set $gender = "male">> <<set $girl = "boy">> <<set $She = "He">> <<set $Her = "His">> <<set $Hers = "His">> <<set $Herself = "Himself">> <<set $Girl = "Boy">> <<set $gal = "guy">> <<set $Gal = "Guy">> <<include [[Character Creation Confirm]]>>

<<set $pgen = 1>> <<set $she = "she">> <<set $her = "her">> <<set $hers = "hers">> <<set $herself = "herself">> <<set $herm = "her">> <<set $gender = "female">> <<set $girl = "girl">> <<set $She = "She">> <<set $Her = "Her">> <<set $Hers = "Hers">> <<set $Herself = "Herself">> <<set $Girl = "Girl">> <<set $gal = "gal">> <<set $Gal = "Gal">> <<include [[Character Creation Confirm]]>>

<<set $pgen = 2>> <<set $she = "they">> <<set $her = "their">> <<set $hers = "theirs">> <<set $herself = "themself">> <<set $gender = "other">> <<set $herm = "them">> <<set $girl = "kid">> <<set $She = "They">> <<set $Her = "Their">> <<set $Hers = "Theirs">> <<set $Herself = "Themself">> <<set $Girl = "Kid">> <<set $gal = "person">> <<set $Gal = "Person">> <<include [[Character Creation Confirm]]>>

<p>Indicate your preferred pronouns in the text fields below. Don't leave any blank or things will get confusing.</p> <ul> <li><<textbox "$she" "ze" autofocus>>What personal pronoun would you like to use? (He, She, They)</li> <li><<textbox "$her" "hir" autofocus>>What possessive pronoun would you like to use? (His, Her, Their</li> <li><<textbox "$hers" "hirs" autofocus>>Which absolute possessive pronoun would you like to use? (His, Hers, Theirs)</li> <li><<textbox "$herself" "hirself" autofocus>>Which Reflexive/Intensive pronoun would you like to use? (Himself, Herself, Themself)</li> </ul> <<set $gender = "other">> <<set $girl = "kid">> <<button[[Continue->Character Creation Confirm]]>><</button>>

<p>You are $name $surname, using $She pronouns. Is this correct?</p> <<button[[Yes->Character Creation Loser Confirm]]>><</button>> <<button[[No->Character Creation Introduction]]>><</button>>

<p>Last year, freshman year, you had this assignment that really stumped you. You had to write an essay defining yourself... and honestly, you think of yourself as pretty ordinary. You've got an ordinary life, in an ordinary suburb, with an ordinary family. You have ordinary friends with ordinary 80s interests.</p> <p>You're not out of shape, but don't excel at sports like the jocks. You get okay grades, but you're no genius like the nerds. Your family isn't poor, but they don't have yacht money like the rich kids. You get in a little trouble, but nowhere near as much as the punks and burnouts. You're just, you know... ordinary.</p> <p>Life is... it's okay. You're going to finish school somewhere in the upper-middle of your class, get an okay job, and start an okay family of your own. Maybe?</p> <<button[[Maybe->Character Creation Loser Confirm 2]]>><</button>>

<p>Maybe you've just never challenged yourself. Maybe you could try harder, if there was something you really wanted. If anything... maybe you lack the confidence and drive to be more than ordinary.</p> <p>Maybe you're about to get the chance to be something different, something special, something... radical.</p> <<button[[Let's find out.|Character Creation Loser Confirm 3]]>><</button>>

<p>If you look at the left sidebar, you'll see that you're lacking in Confidence. Simply put, you've been told you're nothing special so often that you've started to buy into the low self-esteem, and find it difficult to advocate for yourself.</p> <p>Throughout the game you'll have the opportunity to either continue playing the wallflower, or to try to be a more outgoing person. Note that until your Confidence rating is high enough old habits and your base nature may mean that attempts at being more self-assured may not go your way. But trying itself is a commitment to change.</p> <<set $Stat.name to 'Confidence'>> <<set $Stat.down to 4>> <<button[[Start->1980.1]]>><</button>>

<<widget "injured">> <<if $conditions.includes("Hellacious")>> /* I dunno at this point you pass out. As bad as it gets unless we want to include incapacitation or death, and that's better done as a check when injured. */ <<elseif $conditions.includes("Gnarly")>> <<run $conditions.delete("Gnarly")>> <<run $conditions.push("Hellacious")>> <<notify>>The pain is hellacious!<</notify>> <<elseif $conditions.includes("Busted Up")>> <<run $conditions.delete("Busted Up")>> <<run $conditions.push("Gnarly")>> <<notify>>You're starting to look a little gnarly!<</notify>> <<else>> <<run $conditions.push("Busted Up")>> <<notify>>You're a little busted up!<</notify>> <</if>> <</widget>>

$version

by Michael Coorlim

[[About]] [[Patreon|http://www.patreon.com/mcoorlim]] [[Newsletter|https://mcoorlim.com/newsletter-signup/]]

<img src="images/Title-Card.png" id="banner"> <<button[[Start->Character Creation Introduction]]>><</button>>

<<set $debug to false>> <<set $patreon to false>> //set true if patrons <<set $password to "bassoprofundo">> <<set $name to "">> <<set $surname to "">> <<set $alienBuddy to false>> <<set $robot to false>> <<set $psychic to false>> <<set $myCut to 0>> <<set $myBet to 0>> <<set $Stat to { name: 'Confidence', up: 2, down: 1, increase: function (){ this.up +=1; $.wiki("<<notify>>" + this.name + " increased<</notify>>"); }, decrease: function (){ this.down +=1; $.wiki("<<notify>>" + this.name + " decreased<</notify>>"); }, great: function () { return (this.up / (this.up + this.down) > 0.9) }, good: function () { return (this.up / (this.up + this.down) > 0.7) }, average: function () { return (this.up / (this.up + this.down) < 0.8) && (this.up / (this.up + this.down) > 0.2) }, poor: function () { return (this.up / (this.up + this.down) < 0.3) }, terrible: function () { return (this.up / (this.up + this.down) < 0.1) } }>> <<set $Colt to { name: 'Colt', relationshipUp: 2, relationshipDown: 1, increaseRelationship : function () { this.relationshipUp +=1; $.wiki("<<notify>>Relationship with " + this.name + " improved<</notify>>"); }, decreaseRelationship: function () { this.relationshipDown +=1; $.wiki(`<<notify>>Relationship with ${this.name} worsened<</notify>>`); }, greatRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) > 0.9) }, goodRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) > 0.7) }, averageRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) < 0.8) && (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) > 0.2) }, poorRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) < 0.3) }, terribleRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) < 0.1) } }>> <<set $Artemis to { name: 'Artemis', relationshipUp: 2, relationshipDown: 1, increaseRelationship : function () { this.relationshipUp +=1; $.wiki("<<notify>>Relationship with " + this.name + " improved<</notify>>"); }, decreaseRelationship: function () { this.relationshipDown +=1; $.wiki(`<<notify>>Relationship with ${this.name} worsened<</notify>>`); }, greatRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) > 0.9) }, goodRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) > 0.7) }, averageRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) < 0.8) && (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) > 0.2) }, poorRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) < 0.3) }, terribleRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) < 0.1) } }>> <<set $Lottie to { name: 'Lottie', relationshipUp: 2, relationshipDown: 1, increaseRelationship : function () { this.relationshipUp +=1; $.wiki("<<notify>>Relationship with " + this.name + " improved<</notify>>"); }, decreaseRelationship: function () { this.relationshipDown +=1; $.wiki(`<<notify>>Relationship with ${this.name} worsened<</notify>>`); }, greatRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) > 0.9) }, goodRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) > 0.7) }, averageRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) < 0.8) && (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) > 0.2) }, poorRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) < 0.3) }, terribleRelationship: function () { return (this.relationshipUp / (this.relationshipUp + this.relationshipDown) < 0.1) } }>> <<set $version to "Version 1.1">>

<hr> <h3>$name $surname</h3> $Stat.name: <<if $debug>><<print ($Stat.up / ($Stat.up + $Stat.down))>><</if>> <<if $Stat.great()>>Great <<elseif $Stat.good()>>Good <<elseif $Stat.poor()>>Poor <<elseif $Stat.terrible()>>Terrible <<elseif $Stat.average()>>Average<</if>> /******************* ** End of Version ** *******************/

<p>Thanks for playing Zeitgeist 1980. This version was released as part of a monthly interactive fiction project and initially distributed through the author's mailing list. [[Sign up|https://mcoorlim.com/newsletter-signup/]] if it's still on-going and you'll get sent a new work of choice-based or parser IF each month.</p>