The ELL 2 Archive

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] THUD THUD THUD THUD! WinSton awakes in a cold sweat! [[Someone|Investigator Intro]] has knocked at their door. Throwing their soaked sheets off, they walk to the window with their little cut-up balloon string feet trailing behind them. Yikes! There's flashing red and blue lights lining the yard. [[Something serious|Script WinSton Battles the Feds]] has happened. Is this related to all the stories about them doing things they don't remember? Are they happening in a fugue state, or is this an [[imposter's work|WinStons Great Confrontation]]? THUD! THUD! THUD! The police are trying to ram the door down! Decisions must be made quick. WinSton feels the weight of authority on their neck. [[Maybe they should turn himself in...|WinSton Screwed Up]] But at the same time... the police can't be trusted. Even is they're innocent, they could easily be convicted. [[Running seems like a safe option.|WinSton Ran Away]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] Investigating the mysterious new student, WinSton U. Victory, has led to the following notes being taken. Together, with reports from fellow students from the Electronic Literature Lab, Vancouver Washington, 2023, we hope to unravel the true story at hand. Documents: [[Missing Person|WinSton Is Missing]] [[Notes on the office|The Office]] [[Going Somewhere|Going Somewhere]] [[Searching|Searching Deenas Office]] [[Death|Death]] [[WinSton dossier|WinSton U. Victory]] [[Deena dossier|Deena]] [[EsTon dossier|EsTon]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] As the story begins, let me [[introduce you|V: WinStons Introduction]] to our enigmatic main character, [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]]. WinSton is a peculiar individual made up entirely of what appear to be [[crimson balloons|WinStons Race]]. Their entire form, from head to toe, is composed of these vibrant, glowing orbs, held together by some thin strings. WinSton has been alone, isolated in this human world for far too long, living in a [[cramped and dark office|Deenas Office]]. On this particular evening, WinSton is preparing for a date, a rare and special occasion that has them excited and jittery, as much as someone made of balloons can be. With delicate care, they take a paint brush to their bald head, gliding it gently over the smooth surface of their balloon-like skin, perking up their red coloring. Each stroke seems to emit a soft, harmonious hum, almost as if the balloons themselves are responding to their touch. But what is the special occasion, you might wonder? WinSton, though a mysterious figure, has found a secret love, someone who secretly followed them from [[their home planet|Mother Ground]]. Although this other [[Heliumangi]] must remain a secret on Earth, WinSton now has the company they have longed for. Tonight, they plan to rmeet the one person who has managed to capture their heart. The date is not just any ordinary meeting; it is a chance for WinSton to share the rest of their life by offering an engagement ring. [[Next|WinSton and Their Proposal]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin">  (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] I met a new friend today, [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]]. Upon first glance they appeared shy and meek, always looking down and away at the ground. After they warmed up and got used to the hoard of new students that flooded the classroom, they became more and more rambunctious. Professor [[Deena Larsen|Deena]] had to halt her introduction of the course on several occasions to accommodate WinSton's rude interjectors. A true introduction came when WinSton demanded that everyone knows who they are and see their shining potential. As they are a peculiar and unusual figure, their introduction followed in a similar fashion. With everyone’s [[phone cameras rolling|V: WinStons Introduction]] and the class's attention averted to the bulbous figure, Professor Larsen snapped the scissors shut and sent WinSton to the sky. As they floated up, gasps from the audience echoed to the ceiling with them, carrying them further up. The cool ac shrouded and swaddled the creature as they rose up to the rafters that enveloped the room. A few days later, after the entire class had continued on with their lives and schooling, WinSton’s fall from glory, and the ceiling, left them lifelessly still and immobile on the classroom floor. Someone then carried them to [[the basement offices|The Office]], where they remained locked and caged in a tiny [[office|WinSton and Depression]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] It was like any other day in the life of WinSton: they woke up, brewed some coffee, and turned on the local radio to hear the weather report for the day. This morning would be interrupted by a knock on the door. WinSton, still in a wonderfully cheery mood as they are an early riser, opens the door with glee. To their surprise, it was the authorities: "You’re coming downtown with us, WinSton". WinSton’s gleeful expression quickly turned to confusion as WinSton knows their record is clean. "May I ask why?" WinSton asked without hesitation. "You know [[what you did|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]]. Book them.", [[the investigator|Investigator Intro]] cuffed WinSton at their balloon throat where their strings started with a movement so quick that WinSton had no chance to react, their strings were tied tight no chance for escape. [[Next stop, downtown.|WinSton Goes to the Slammer]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] This introduces Burt Richard-Heart, a private detective who is hunting down WinSton. He was hired by an unknown client to investigate after WinSton went missing. [[The Hunt for Red WinSton]] [[Balloon Busters]] [[The Silence of the Strings]] [[Balloon Siders]] [[That Songbird Everdeen]] [[WinStons Inferno]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] At the start of the semester, you had no idea the trouble that [[this strange student|V: WinStons Introduction]] would cause. Luckily, the conversations you had with WinSton have allowed you to understand what really happened, and--more importantly--why it happened. Turns out, they might have shared some valuable information to the case [[you have been asked to investigate|Investigator Intro]]. Similarily to most mysteries, it has to do with their family. At first glance, WinSton grew up in a typical, nuclear family. A mom, a dad, and of course, their [[twin sibling EsTon|EsTon]]. However, things might not be as perfect as they appear. Growing up, WinSton naturally excelled at many things. School, sports, and social situations were a breeze for them. WinSton was someone easily envied, and they were. Nobody has it all, what may have seemed like a happy, traditional family may be hiding [[something darker|WinStons Great Confrontation]]. And thus this became a story of revenge and [[resentment|WinStons Rivalry]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton walks to their room but the door bursts into splinters in front of them. A SWAT battering ram hits them right in the stomach. //OUUUFGHH// "GET ON THE GROUND! GET ON THE GROUND!!!" the police scream. "I am on the ground!" WinSton replies. "STOP RESISTING, STOP RESISTING" the police yell in their ear, handcuffing WinSton and knocking them into their valuable collection of rare limited edition balloon string accessories from [[Denny's|Script WinSton Gets to Dennys]]. "Why am I being arrested???" WinSton implores the cops, looking up from his big paper balloon eyes. A dweeby low-ranking police officer with a nametag that says Daryl speaks up. "Sorry kid, the Supreme Court recently ruled that it's actually illegal to tell people why they're being [[arrested|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]]." Daryl's partner eyes him suspiciously from across the room. "Careful Daryl, I almost had to arrest you there." his partner responds as he ties WinStons strings together. "What? What the fuck? Why?" Daryl asks. "That's it boys, book them both, and we will never tell why!!" A pile of SWAT officers cuffs WinSton and Daryl and throws them into a highly militarized [[civilian peace enforcement vehicle.|WinSton and Their Jail Time]] (With machine turret attachment.) [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton clutches their locket with a picture of their absolutely stacked [[balloon girlfriend|WinStons Love]] in it. "[[ACAB|C ACAB]]." they say, before jumping out the window in a dramatic swan dive. Just in time, the police burst into the room right as they leave. "THEY'RE RUNNING! THEY'RE RUNNING!!!" the police chief shouts. In their confusion, the police mistake a party balloon for the perp and discharge 700 rounds into a joint veteranary clinic and orphanage 2 blocks down the street. Floating away with sweat dripping down their brow, [[WinSton runs to their girlfriend.|WinSton and Their Girlfriend]] [[But wait! WinSton's Dennys Balloon Accessory Collection! They've got to go back..|WinSton Screwed Up]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton is lonely and depressed. They stay in a cramped and [[damp basement office|Deenas Office]] just waiting for Deena to return to them. Their life is confined between those four walls, unless, of course, Deena says otherwise. Even when WinSton is brought up to the classroom twice a week, they are strictly a spectacle to be examined and expressed through [[our class story|Fall 2023 Students]]. WinSton is entrapped in the requirements and logistics of [[this course!|C Syllabus]] They will never [[roam free|WinSton and Their Flight]] in a knee-high field, chasing away the trauma they endured in that small confinement. They must waste their life for us and our story. [[Unless...|WinSton and the Police]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton called the police to file themselves as a missing person! Last night after Deena locked and left them in the office, they used the university phone to dial 911. They told them that WinSton U. Victory had been missing for the last 50 hours. They even sent a [[video of themselves as missing|V: WinSton Kidnapped]]! The police asked, "Do you have any leads as to where they might be?" WinSton responded with a sly, "Ask [[Deena Larsen|WinSton and Their Lawyer]]." They then hung up the phone abruptly. While the police started their search for the [[missing balloon bunch|WinStons Race]], WinSton merely picked the lock to the door of [[Deena's office|The Office]] and set out on an adventure of a lifetime. Being stuck in that small room for days on end had really cramped up their strings; they felt the wind cascade around their misshaped figure as they stepped out into the world. It was at that moment that WinSton knew they had messed up. The wind sped up and drifted them up into a tree right outside the building. The next day, as school resumed its classes, a student in Deena's class recognized the bright red figure as none other than the class pet WinSton! They were rescued from the tree swiftly, but now they seem messed up and confused. To chill out a bit and think through this, they walk over to the [[rocky fountain structure in the middle of the campus…|WinSton and the Fountain]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton bathes in the fountainous structure in the middle of the WSUV campus. The students peer from the classroom windows, watching as they soak their rubber in the sprinkling water. They are a bright red spectacle for everyone to see. They are enjoying the attention, the spotlight, and the icy water on a hot day. Then POP! One of their appendages suddenly bursts, with bits of their rubber flesh exploding all around them. The shadow of [[a scarlet physique|WinStons Fight]] smiles smugly and evilly, as they gaze out onto the school’s water structure from the grass outside the library, raising a pop gun in their strings. [[WinSton|WinStons Secrets]] sees the shadows and knows exactly what is going on. <img src="./img/winston-fountain.jpg" alt=a bunch of red balloons perched on the WSUV fountain stone, with red balloons on the grass behind them. In the distance is Mount St. Helens.> WinSton barely floats away with their life. They know they are endangered and need to [[flee the country now!|WinSton and Paris]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] My name is Burt Richard-Heart and I’m a private detective. I’ve been hired to look at one WinSton U. Victory from [[WSUV|Investigate the Digs]]. I can’t say who I am working for because my client's identity is a mystery, but I never rule them out of the case. WinSton is from my understanding a group of red balloons. Definitely an odd case in my career but what can I say? I love a good mystery. WinSton has been missing since the 18th of September almost a month ago now as of this report. From what I’ve gotten from my client I know that WinSton is a… special needs student with [[a relationship|Their Deal]] with [[their professor|Deena and WinSton Meet]] before their class started. There have been 3 recorded sightings of WinSton acting strange in class… well strange for them at least. I at least have this candid snapshot of WinSton, who may be escaping: <img src="./img/winston-digs.jpg" alt=Red balloons with a paper face at the door of The Digs, with the sign Electronic Literature Organization Washington State University Vancouver on the door.> First was [[WinSton wanting to get their string cut|V: WinStons Introduction]] in their class and even asked to get it recorded, I mean I’m no stranger to freaky people but wanting it recorded shows they have an ego. Second is a police report of them going missing for the first time. From the information It was asked that the police were not called but after enough time there was a report filed on August 30th. Third and finally, there was a strange tape released of WinSton looking ominously through a window at the camera on the 20th of September. Which leaves me thinking, means WinSton is taunting us which figures cause WinSton loves attention, or Someone has kidnapped WinSton and is showing us proof to ask for ransom which figures cause WinSton loves attention. I crack myself up sometimes heh heh. (bg:#ffd4ff)[[[There is a note on this page:|C Heliumangi FBI]] “Ooh *sips coffee* Burt Richard-heart also appears in this historical, I love reading these with you. - Official Heliumangi FBI”] [[WinSton and the Distraction]] [[WinStons Inferno]] [[See more...|Investigator Intro]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] This is day nine of the investigation, I have enough information for another report. This WinSton character is so twisted, I mean they really love the attention huh? Today I should be getting a new tape from the client but they want to meet in person but this isn’t the norm. Is he- *ooh* I mean the client. Is the client letting on more than well… he shows? Why in person? Why not over the mail like he usually does? Again nobody is off the suspect list. Not since that lovely songbird [[That Songbird Everdeen]]. She played with my feelings and me for a fool. I’m a professional now and I can't afford to make mistakes like that anymore. //-- three hours later --// Holy Schmoly this new tape blows the case wide open, WinSton is pronounced [[Dead|The What If]]. //-- At 9/27/2023 WinSton U. Victory is officially pronounced dead. --// Along with the shocking news came the tape, the tape shows two WinStons, one standing over the other. I’ve done a few cases in my time and I’ll let you in on a little trade secret… you can’t have two of the same person. Let me delve into this for a few days. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] Okay I have had three coffees and I’ve made some progress, WinSton is a [[Balloon person|Heliumangi]] that Deena brought in specially for her class at [[Washington State University at Vancouver|Investigate the Digs]] WinSton was made physically by Deena before class started. Their people are artificial so this makes it possible for my theory of two different WinSton... uhh peoples. Now the question is who is the culprit? Also establish a motive. WinSton had many enemies; they actually remind me of a friend I used to remember from academy. But luckily for me I think this points to a balloon not a human Just need to find the identity. [[Looking at the tape|V: WinStons Introduction]], it shows the school they used to attend. These artificial people can’t just be looked up in a phone book. How am I supposed to find a birth certificate for a bunch of balloons?? With no previous reports by the police involving [[Balloon people|WinStons Race]]. (Just that WinSton is missing and their body has finally been found) I have no leads to go off of. My client has nothing else to show me and wants me to continue to find the murderer despite finding WinSton deflated. The trail is cold for now but I'm closer than ever. This case will not be the end of Burt Richard-heart! Maybe this was the way WinSton went out? He was deflated, [[not popped|The Popping]] as others have suggested? This murder was drawn out. [[At the school|Investigate the Digs]], maybe I can check there [[for clues|Investigator Intro]]. (bg:#ffd4ff)[// [[There is a note on this page:|C Heliumangi FBI]]This historical document is boring, I personally like love stories better, and you should read [[this one|WinSton and Their Date]]. Moreover, this document conflicts with [[other accounts|Deena and WinSton Meet]] -Official Heliumangi FBI”//] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] (set: $culprit to "Chuck") </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] I finally got it. Burt Richard-Heart is the man who can do it all muahahaha. Okay lemme finish this report then send it to the police and the client. Alright first things first, Deena came right out after seeing that tape and gave me a name. EsTon. Deena also mentioned that she had plans for more. Much more. She called them [[Heliumangi]], she gave me his address and she confirmed my theories which was an amazing feeling for being a man cooped up in empty rooms and an office for what feels like the entire case. Which changed pace quite nicely when I was able to chase EsTon down when I knocked on his door. I heard a window smash and I ran to the backyard where I finally laid my eyes on the culprit. Another group of red balloons and I could tell they were a twin immediately. In fact the only difference I could remember was a frowning unibrow drawn by marker. This dude was dangerous so I stood my ground and shouted "Freeze! I’m not police, I’m a freelance detective so I have the freedom to make this ugly before I bring you in. You are under arrest for the murder of WinSton U. Something, your own rubber and air! (flesh and blood) How could you?" And believe me after working on this case for that many nights I was seeing double from the caffeine, adrenaline and lack of sleep. EsTon responded calmly, "Alright Private investigator, I won’t play any games I’m sure you have enough evidence to arrest me with the tape I had delivered to you. But did you ever think of why I did it?", "I don’t care". "I did it for you, for you to notice me. You see Burt, I am going to be famous. People will study me for years at your little school I’m sure. I’m hidden from the world with only years to live. Now I will have weird people fantasize about me, I’ll be a statistic, my legacy will be continued." I now thought of how balloons can’t reproduce. A tragedy. We stood six feet across from each other. Waiting for the other to make a move. Any move. I was too jittery to wait any longer. I couldn’t shoot, I had to bring them in alive. I ran forward and attempted to tackle the group of balloons I fell right through the gaps of EsTon. A smirk grew on their face. They drifted over to the broken window and cut their strings with the broken shards of glass. With the strings cut they slowly started rising in the air out of reach with nothing for me to grab on to. "NO!" I screamed, "I will live forever in history as Deena’s modern Cain and Able just let me fly into the tree branches and cement my LEGACY. You can bring me in as a corpse after, you will still get your paycheck.". I couldn’t let them get away so I scrambled to the roof. I had my mind racing quickly accepting defeat as I saw the red mastermind quickly drifting away. I had one moment to stop them before they drifted out of reach, then I had an idea. I took off my coat and quickly my little burlap body started rolling on the ground. I shouted, "Hey EsTon, You know I did notice you, in fact I think I’m even attracted to you" As they turned with a bewildered look on their face, I jumped into the balloon body again this time with a stored charge of static electricity from my coat. Luckily My little sweater vest was made of one of my mom’s socks and I made wool. I twisted and turned inside the balloons to create as much static as I could. I took the full time of the slow descent with EsTon stuck to me to enjoy my quip I made. I grabbed my coat from the roof. EsTon screaming and cussing to high heaven. "You will get your weird fame in the books but I’m not letting you end it like that. Let's get you some help." I called the police and the rest is in the official police report from there. I probably got a little too personal in [[this report|The Finding of WinSton U. Victory]] but I guess that’s my Burt Richard-Heart signature. I suppose my clients like it that way. I haven't gotten a comment about it yet. This is the first big case where I didn’t get help and it wasn’t Everdeen playing mind games with me. Thanks for hiring me Josh! Oops I mean Client [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]  [[EsTon|WinStons Fight]] was furious; their plan to get WinSton thrown in prison had completely backfired, and now they were stuck in here instead. There was one more trick they had up their [[neck|WinSton and Balloon Anatomy]] though, a last resort. After night had fallen and the prison guards were scarce, EsTon began to chant something from an ancient balloon scripture, something long forbidden by the [[Heliumangi]]. <img src="./img/EsTon-Ritual.png" alt=rough sketch of a balloon in a pentagram.> Since this ritual hadn't been performed in thousands of years, it would be hard for EsTon to be sure if it would be successful. They carved a crudely drawn depiction of a biblically accurate balloon into the cell floor, and rubbed themselves against the carving to generate static electricity. EsTon suddenly lost conciousness, and their body fell to the center. Assuming all had gone correctly, they would awaken in WinSton's body, and WinSton would awaken in [[prison.|WinSton and the Body Swap]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton woke up as they usually would, their blurry eyes didn't recognize [[the stone grey walls|WinSton and Their Jail Time]] at first. The realization set in quickly, this was not the cozy CMDC lounge, [[the Digs|Investigate the Digs]], or even [[Deena's office|Deenas Office]]. What da fweak is going on!? "I gotta get outtie!" they cried. WinSton began floating frantically in circles around the cell looking for a potential way to escape. What could be the way [[out?|WinSton and the Prison Escape]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] <img src="./img/WinSton-jail.png" alt=rough sketch of a balloon in a pentagram.> WinSton tries... Yelling for a guard! That thing in the corner! A loose brick! Thuggin this shit out! The guard's keys! Releasing their helium! A Last Resort! (click-replace: "Yelling for a guard!")["The guard gives WinSton a lifeless stare and says "womp womp" Better keep looking..." ] (click-replace: "That thing in the corner!")["A needle. A shiny, pointy needle. Just what I need. Goodbye cruel world. [[Whatever, I can't take this anymore...|WinSton and Their Needle]]" ] (click-replace: "A loose brick!")["Maybe... oh it's no use, my frail balloon bod could never push that brick out." Better keep looking..." ] (click-replace: "Thuggin this shit out!")["WinSton waits out their [[10 year sentence|WinSton and the Passage of Time]]" ] (click-replace: "The guard's keys!")["WinSton notices the keys the guard holds on his waist. WinSton had sworn they'd never use this attack again, it was inhumane, but everything was on the line. They take a moment to contemplate what they're about to do, WinSton will be just as much of a monster as EsTon if they go through with this. WinSton unleashed the high pressure helium blast on the guard, his body bouncing multiple times off the walls of the hallway from the impact. His keys were knocked into the cell, and WinSton can get [[get out of here|WinSton and Their Consequences]]" ] (click-replace: "Releasing their helium!")["The simplest solutions evade the mind in stressful times. WinSton farts out a lil helium and floats [[out of the cell|WinSton and the End of Evil]] ] (click-replace: "A Last Resort!")[That was no use either. This is taking too long, WinSton shoves themselves through the bars, almost popping themselves in the process. The window is open, there's [[no time to lose|WinSton and Their Poor Choices]] ] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] On this enchanting evening, WinSton and [[Wendy|WinSton and Their Girlfriend]] float along the picturesque paths of the Washington State Vancouver campus, the very place where their extraordinary [[love story|WinSton and Their Date]] began. They share laughter and sweet moments, their [[balloon-like forms|WinStons Race]] bobbing gently in the evening breeze. Wendy's lush, purple appearance contrasts beautifully with WinSton's striking red balloons. As they reach a sunlit hill, WinSton and Wendy decide to enjoy a romantic picnic, basking in the warm glow of the setting sun. WinSton has been carrying a small velvet box in their "pocket" throughout the date, nervously anticipating the perfect moment to reveal their deepest secret and propose to Wendy. However, just as WinSton is about to get on one knee, panic strikes them. The box containing the engagement ring is missing! WinSton's heart races as they realize their carefully planned proposal has taken an unexpected turn. They quickly hide the empty box behind their broad balloons and pretend to tie their "strings" desperate to keep Wendy from noticing the missing ring. Wendy, oblivious to the crisis unfolding behind her, continues to chat and admire the scenery. With every step they take away from the picnic spot, WinSton's anxiety mounts. How could they have misplaced the ring on this momentous occasion? As they walk back, Wendy remains blissfully unaware of the disaster that has just occurred, and WinSton can't help but feel a sense of impending doom. Will they be able to recover the ring in time to propose to the [[love|WinStons Love]] of their life, or will their special day be marred by this unforeseen mishap? Where had the ring gone? [[Next|WinSton and the Distraction]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The following morning, Detective [[Burt Richard-Heart|The Hunt for Red WinSton]], a seasoned investigator known for his no-nonsense approach, stands at WinSton's door with a stern expression. He hands over a police report and says, "Mr. WinSton, we have video evidence of you breaking into the safe in the classroom." WinSton is taken aback, their balloon-like form ruffling with confusion. They stammer, "Detective, that wasn't me, and besides, that safe is mine!" Burt arches an eyebrow, clearly skeptical. "Your safe, you say? This evidence seems pretty clear, now why would someone break into their own safe? You have some explaining to do." WinSton, still flustered, looks around the room, desperately searching for an explanation. Then, a mischievous glint appears in their eyes, and they point excitedly and exclaim, "Look, Detective! A donut!" Burt, momentarily distracted by the mention of a donut, turns his head to look at the absent apearance of a treat, but when he quickly turns back, he's met with an empty room. WinSton had vanished. Detective Burt Richard-Heart blinks in disbelief, realizing he fell for a classic distraction trick. He searches the room in vain but finds no trace of WinSton. How could someone made of balloons disappear so effortlessly? It seems that WinSton's mysterious nature goes far beyond what anyone, even the seasoned detective, could have imagined. But just where did WinSton go? He apears to have an idea, a crazy idea... He knows only one person who could have pulled off such a devious plan... [[Next|WinSton and Their Ring]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] In a dramatic twist, WinSton confronts their nefarious twin, EsTon, who sports a maniacal mustache and is clearly up to no good. WinSton, with a look of determination, has a sinking feeling that EsTon's involvement could jeopardize his proposal and the precious engagement ring. They track EsTon down to the Bookie, the local gift shop on the school campus, where they finally uncover the true extent of their evil twin's schemes. EsTon plans to pawn off the ring and ruin WinSton's proposal, further complicating their already complicated relationship. The scene escalates into an epic, balloon-filled fistfight as the two doppelgangers tussle, causing chaos in the gift shop. Balloons go tumbling, gift items crash to the floor, and bystanders gasp in astonishment. The skirmish continues as they rush up the stairs and into the office above, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Their fight ultimately leads them to the roof of the building, where both EsTon and WinSton are panting and exhausted. EsTon, a sinister grin on their face, growls, "Fine, if you want this dream life so bad, take it!" With a malevolent gleam in his eye, they throw the engagement ring off the building, aiming to shatter WinSton's hopes. Time slows down as WinSton's eyes fixate on the glimmering ring in mid-air. Without hesitation, they leap off the building, their red balloons propelling him toward the ring. The wind rushes past them as he extends his hand, their heart pounding with determination. Will they manage to catch the ring and salvage their [[proposal|WinSton and Their Proposal]] plan? [[Next|WinSton and Their Death]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton's twin did not share the same experience as their sibling. Though they shared genetics with their sibling, they lacked the skills that WinSton obtained. The twin, EsTon, was weak; they had much to envy from their sibling. [[Things might have been different|The What If]] if [[WinSton wasn't so cocky|Global Warming]], if they didn't rub their skill and success in the face of others. EsTon often thought that if WinSton was different, more like EsTon, they might be able to share what typical siblings share, that they might be able to get along. Though these siblings couldn't be more different, they both share each others (cycling-link: bind $class, "anger.", "appearance.","genetics") It's normal for siblings to fight, right? Any rational person would say yes, but these siblings fought with an intensity that could be considered to be [[dangerous|WinStons Jealousy]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton rides in silence, sitting next to the disgraced officer. The miltarized vehicle lightly bumps up and down as it rolls over a group of senior citizens peacefully protesting outside the police station. A police officer runs over and places a parking ticket on the mashed up pile of gore. Escorted to their cell, WinSton and [[Daryl|WinSton Screwed Up]] are thrown onto a hard cot with anti-homeless hand rails built into the middle. The police chief walks in with a 2 inch thick manilla envelope that says "WinSton"on it. He twitches his moustache and looks sternly at them. "Alright boys, due to the recent Supreme Court ruling, this is the only way we're allowed to do this." He drops the folder on the ground behind him, effeminately kicking up a foot and putting a finger to his lower lip. "OOOOOPS!" He walks out, slamming the cell door behind him. WinSton scrambles to the folder, ready to rip it open! "Wait!" Daryl cries. "That's a class 7 megafelony!" [[This is impossible. WinSton considers getting a little feral with it.|WinSton and Their Little Ferocity]] [["I might as well know what I'm being tried for!"WinSton cries, opening the file.|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]] [[WinSton sits there like a good balloon, nervously hoping to avoid escalating the situation.|WinSton and Their Interrogation]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] "Wendy! Wendy!" WinSton cries, running to their [[voluptuous balloon girlfriend|WinSton and Their Date]]. "WinSton! What's happened?" she says, turning to greet them with her see-through latex balloon skin shimmering in the sun. (This is considered highly attractive among [[balloon people|WinStons Race]].) "There's a [[warrant for my arrest|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]]! The police are after me and I don't know why!" "Oh god. I saw that [[graffiti on the highway exit|WinSton and the Graffiti Incident]] and I just knew it was you." "No Wendy, that wasn't me! Someone has framed me!" "My god... WinSton! [[Your evil twin|WinStons Fight]] has struck again!" "No! I thought we killed him in the previous edition of //WinSton the Balloon's Zany Hypertext Adventures!//" (Available for Macintosh Hypercard on the Eastgate Website for $14.95 + shipping.) "WinSton... they're back. And this time, I think they've learned to take off their iconic identifying moustache!" Damn. That moustache was the answer to the last of his officially licensed zany adventures. It was going to take quite a lot more to solve the case this time. "I know!" WinSton says. "It's time to access the [[secret evidence|The Office]] on Deena's office hard drives." [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]  "THAT'S IT! I'M BUSTING OUT OF HERE!'' WinSton cries. It's time to run to [[Deena, their lawyer's|WinSton and Their Lawyer]] place. This must be the work of their [[evil twin|WinStons Great Confrontation]], and Deena has the evidence on [[her computer|The Office]]. "Good luck kid, this is a maximum security cell. Nobody breaks out of this place." [[Daryl |WinSton Screwed Up]] scoffs. "Watch me." WinSton replies. They release the contents of their body and deflates to a small empty balloon on the floor, slipping under the gap in the doorframe. "Oh dear god, there's no ventilation in here! What's wrong with you?" Daryl yells, covering his nose with his shirt. By the time he finishes his sentence, WinSton has already left [[their cell.|Deenas Office]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] <img src="./img/WinSton.jpg" alt=a bunch of red balloons on a computer desk with a paper smile and nose.> CRIMES: [[EMBEZZLING|Investigator Intro]] GRAND LARCENY, [[HOOLIGANISM|C Hooliganism]], [[DAREDEVIL DRIVING|Script Hiding WinSton]], FAILURE TO REGISTER HANDS AS [[LETHAL WEAPONS|Script WinSton Gets New Weapons and Wheels]], VANDALISM, [[MURDER AND MAYHEM|C Transcription of Movie Script]], RESISTING ARREST, LOLLYGAGGING, MISUSE OF FARM EQUIPMENT, ACTS OF CHARITY, EXCESSIVE SOUP CONSUMPTION, DEFINITE ABUSE AND MISUSE OF FARM ANIMALS, [[PUBLIC ACTS|WinSton and Their Proposal]] OF INDECENCY, HURTING MY FEELINGS, [[STEALING MY GIRL|WinStons Jealousy]], ILLEGALLY DESTROYING A [[CAMPSITE|Campsite]], FORTNITE ADDICTION, [[ADDICTION TO STUPID THRILLER MOVIES|C Transcription of Movie Script]], FELONY LEVEL 3 COCAINE TRAFFICKING, RECKLESS AND [[MURDEROUS DRIVING|Script Get Help]] WHILE SCREAMING, [[INSTIGATION TO WAR|C The War]], [[GLOBAL WARMING|Global Warming]]. . . The list of crimes goes on for many pages. On the last one... SUGGESTED PENALTY: GO TO JAIL. [[4EVAR|C 4 EVAR]]. [[They look down from the pages, strings shaking.|WinSton and Their Jail Time]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] After waiting for what feels like an eternity, 2 huge officers arrive at the door. WinSton gears up in anticipation. "Come with us." They say, roughly grabbing WinSton by their balloon strings. A demand, not a question. WinSton is dragged down the hall, shoved into a dark room with a single overhead light. They are forced into a cold steel chair and the two officers sit across the table from him. "Do you think spray painting '[[Cops drink piss|C ACAB]]' on a highway exit sign is funny, punk? You think drawing a cop chugging an ice cold glass of piss is some kind of joke?"WinSton's eyes dart around in confusion. "You think leaking a video of the police chief drinking a liter of-" "Martinez, wrong perp."the other says. "Oh, my bad."He looks back to WinSton. "Do you know what you stand accused of, youngin’?" the cop says, restiffening his posture. "Um... yes?" WinSton replies. "That was a trick question. Add it to his rap sheet, Alex." The second cop scribbles something on a sheet of paper. [["Would you like to make a confession? It will get you a much better plea deal."|WinSton and Their Life Sentence]]. You could even [[give us a tip on someone else|Interrogation]]. WinSton remembers his ever-dwindling legal rights. [["I want my lawyer! I'm done speaking!"|WinSton and Their Lawyer]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The judge slams his hammer on the gavel. "WinSton U Victory, you stand guilty of... [[like too many different things to even quantify|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]]. This court finds you.... GUILTY!" WinSton chokes back tears. "Your punishment... is to [[go to jail|WinSton and Their Jail Time]]. . . [[4 EVAR|C 4 EVAR]]!" WinSton deflates a little bit. They are never going to get out of this one. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton practices their breathing exercises. They've got the best lawyer, [[Deena|Passive]], in the world. Surely with the [[scale of their arrest|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]], she's already heard of the incident. They patiently stare at the ceiling, choking back tears of anxiety. Knock knock knock! A police officer opens the door. "WinSton?"the officer says. "Your lawyer is here to speak with you." Deena strolls into the office, [[papers fluttering|The Cover Up]] out of her attaché case. She sits in the chair across from him. "What's the situation, Deena?" they say. "I'll be real with you Win, it's not looking good." "But I'm innocent! I haven't done anything!" "That may be true, but I'm not sure if we can convince the jury. I have evidence proving this is your [[evil twin's|WinStons Great Confrontation]] doing, but my files are too disorganized to locate it." "Deena, maybe we can look for the files together!"WinSton implores. They float over a [[stack of papers laying on the floor|C Stack of Papers]]. "...What?"Deena asks, looking up from her Macbook. "Oh sorry, I got distracted, I was [[editing the syllabus|C Syllabus]]." "Deena! This is serious!" "One second, I'm archiving a Macintosh hypertext recreation of Tootsie from 1993." "Deen! This isn't time for games!" "Text is not a game!"Deena yells ferociously, slamming her fists on the table. "It's an interactive hypermedia experience!" [[WinSton considers getting very feral with their answers.|WinSton and Their Very Much Ferocity]] But after all, this is one of the best lawyers in the country. Perhaps a [[hypermedia defense|Aggressive]] will [[convince the jurors...|WinSton and Their Life Sentence]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] "THAT'S IT! I'M BUSTING OUT OF HERE!'' WinSton cries. "Good luck kid, this is a maximum security cell. Nobody breaks out of this place." [[Deena|WinSton and Their Lawyer]] scoffs. "Watch me."WinSton replies. With a high-pitched squeal, they release the foul helium of their body and deflate to a small empty balloon on the floor, slipping under the gap in the doorframe. "Oh dear god, there's no ventilation in here! What's wrong with you?" Deena yells, covering her nose with her shirt. By the time she finishes her sentence, WinSton has already left his cell and caught a fast breeze [[out of the country|WinSton and Paris]]. Deena is left in the cell alone to explain things to the [[interrogators|Aggressive]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton is homesick and jet lagged. They awake in Paris with a bountiful cloudy blue sky sprawling the French horizon. They needed a break from [[Deena and the office|Deenas Office]], so they traveled to the most romantic—or maybe romanticized—place in the world. The red-eye flight leaves WinSton stuck in bed the whole day, sleeping away from jet lag. What's a better way to spend the day in Paris than sleeping? They finally awake at 4:23 in the afternoon; the clouds have eclipsed the shining French sun. The city looks more dreary with the overcast, but WinSton is happy to just be thousands of miles away in a foreign place. They wander around the city with no purpose, all alone, just taking in the sexy architecture, the yeasty aromas of pastries and bread, and the sounds of eloquent French spewing from the locals. WinSton continues floating along the sidewalk and crossing the street intermediately. They have no direction or itinerary; they just want to experience every moment while they are here, in Paris. Looking around and glancing in every direction, WinSton catches a glimpse of a colorful, statuesque bouquet that resembles themself. It illuminates and shines as the darkness steals away the day. A single hand is grasping the balloons, gently cradling the stems while also holding them still. The limestone base had a plate with an inscription that reads, "Bouquet of Tulips". The description is in French but that does not matter to WinSton, for they have been seen and memorialized. WinSton feels lighter, floats a little higher, and imagines someone holding them this way, with (cycling-link: "care","love","intention"). They stand in admiration just staring at the sculpture until it is time to head to the aéroport and fly back home that very night. <img src="./img/Statue.jpg" alt=Hommage aux victimes des attentats de 2015-2016 a Paris, oeuvre de Jeff Koons. Bouquet de Tulipes, la nuit, dans le jardin des Champs-Élysées a Paris. Photo by Jean-Pierre Dalber> At the airport, WinSton still thinks of the sculpture and how life is often destined. WinSton [[arrives back|WinSton and Their Flight]] at [[PDX|C Portland]] Airport with a renewed energy and lease on life. (click-replace: "WinSton still thinks of the sculpture and how life is often destined.")[WinSton brushes past someone as they leave the restroom. Their bright red appearance looks strangely similar to theirs. They ignore this coincidence and think it was all in their head.] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] WinSton’s new outlook is quickly diminished when they return to Washington. Deena notifies them that someone has been impersonating them and causing mischief at the school. She shows them the security footage of someone walking around the school with a large machete. WinSton squints their eyes to view the grainy footage better, and their mouth opens ever so slowly in utter disbelief. The build and appearance of this (cycling-link: "person","lunatic","suspect") is identical to WinSton’s body! They continue watching as this figure chases students around the campus with the lengthy blade. The footage ends and Deena purports that, "Luckily, no one was hurt, but there is a [[warrant|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]] out for your arrest." "But…but I have been in Paris these past two days. This isn’t…I did not do this, Deena!" WinSton squealed indignantly. "Did anyone know you were in Paris, or see you there? Because you are going to need an alibi, especially since the police are [[on their way |Aggressive]] here now." "What…are you…are you kidding me!" WinSton's [[balloon skin|Heliumangi]] shook uncontrollably. WinSton’s world begins to tremble and their vision slowly unfocuses, making the view all blurry. Then, WinSton has a moment of clarity and focus. All they can do is escape and run away. They fly out of the security room and push past the flood of students in the hallways. People start to recognize the bright red of their balloons and they start (cycling-link: "screaming.","yelling psycho!","moving out of the way.") The next few minutes are a blur to WinSton, but when they stop fleeing, they look around and realize they made it to the woods adjacent to the campus. With no way to escape above through the vast tree branches and limbs, WinSton floats above a stream searching for a place to hide, anywhere to conceal their vivid color. They see a small cave-like inlet on the right side of the stream. The trees and brush above and across this spot would make it difficult, almost impossible, for anyone to find them on foot; the stream is too thin and deep for anyone to access their hiding spot too. They rest for the night, after a frightful and suspenseful day, and hope that no [[trouble finds them here.|WinSton and Death]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The next day, WinSton rises with a calming yet fearful head; they made it through the night remaining obscure from the world and the police. WinSton decides to slyly break into [[Deenas Office]], their former place of confinement, to find any supplies and food they might need. It is a weekend, so (cycling-link: "no one should be on campus","Deena is at her home","the police aren’t patrolling"). As they ravage through the fridge in search of food and nourishment, a different, but familiar, [[red figure|WinStons Secrets]] floats into the office. They are dragging a similar figure along with them; this figure has no facial features or living qualities! The lifelessness is contrasted against the rugged and vengeful physique that drags it along. This thing creeps up to WinSton and hits their head with something hard, knocking them out cold. Then: [[Snap!Snap!Snap!|The Popping]]. A camera flutters as the perpetrator captures an image of the fake, lifeless figure and an unconscious WinSton next to each other. These events happen like the jingle for rice krispies: Snap! Crackle! Pop! Fading in and out of consciousness, WinSton appears to be fighting their concussion and begins to float again. They panic and start tussling with their lookalike, [[fighting|WinStons Fight]] for their life… (click-replace: "…")[...Walking off the campus, (cycling-link: "WinSton","WinSton’s evil twin","a red figure") floats down the walkways and away from the scene. Their life is forever changed, and looking in the mirror will never be the same.] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] (set: $culprit to "EsTon") </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] As WinSton soars through the air, their triumphant smile at catching the engagement ring is cut short when they plummet to the ground. Their joy is replaced by shock as they land on top of the ring, and with a resounding [[pop|The Popping]] , [[they're gone forever|The What If]]. [[EsTon's|WinStons Fight]] evil laughter echoes through the air as they escape the scene. Just moments later, [[Wendy|WinSton and Their Date]] arrives, looking for WinSton, excited to share her surprise. Her voice carries a sense of hope and love as she calls out their name. However, that hope turns to despair as she discovers the scattered remnants of red rubber that once made up WinSton. She screams and cries in grief, her world crumbling around her. But amidst the rubble, she spots the [[engagement ring|WinSton and Their Ring]], the symbol of their love and the promise of a future together. She picks it up, trembling in her hand, before her tears return with even greater intensity. She drops the ring and flees the scene, leaving behind something unexpected - a positive pregnancy test. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] [[Balloon anatomy|WinStons Race]] lesson! If you look at a deflated balloon, the skinny part between the body and the lip is called the neck. Balloons can't wear shirts with sleeves, so EsTon does not have any tricks up their sleeve. (bg:#ffd4ff)[This probably is a derogatory reference to [[the Heliumangi|Heliumangi]] but we can not be sure. It may be related to [[the Hooliganism slurs|C Hooliganism]].]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]*Pop* The End. [[But what if?|The What If]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]  WinSton notices an open window as they're leaving the cell. Catching a ride on a windstream might be the only way to get back to the campus in time to [[stop EsTon|WinStons Great Confrontation]]. WinSton carefully made their way through the halls of the VMMC building where the [[Electronic Literature Lab|C ELL 1]] is searching for EsTon. Behind a door at the end of the hallway there was a rustling noise, accompanied by maniacal laughter. WinSton knew it could only be one person. WinSton turned off the safety on the gun they had stolen from that guard. EsTon was going to be toast, or maybe the idiom is popcorn. Yes, no more corny jokes from [[that nemesis|WinStons Rivalry]]. [[BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG BANG!|The Popping]] WinSton unloaded the entire magazine into EsTon, pieces of balloon were littered across the floor. It was finally over, EsTon wouldn't be able to [[try to ruin WinSton's life|WinStons Jealousy]] anymore, but WinSton felt conflicted. In the pursuit of destroying evil. WinSton had become evil themselves. [[Their conscience|Script WinSton Gets New Weapons and Wheels]] was no longer clear, and the burden of balloon-slaughter weighed heavily on [[their mind.|The What If]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] (set: $culprit to "WinSton") </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]  WinSton notices an open window as they're leaving the cell. Catching a ride on a windstream might be the only way to get back to the campus in time to stop EsTon. WinSton makes it to campus and heads straight towards the VMMC building in search of EsTon. They catch up, and EsTon attempts to get into the safety of [[the Digs|The Office]]. <img src="./img/winston-eston-digs.jpg" alt=two bunches of balloons trying to get into the Digs. The sign reads Electronic Literature Lab Washington State University Vancouver, Dene Grigar, John Barber, Will Luers, Michale Rabby, Brenda Greel, Ted Fordyce, and Nicholas Schiller.> EsTon suspected that WinSton might have been able to find a way out of prison to try and stop their evil plans, but they hadn't anticipated it to happen so quickly. In the process of setting up a thumbtack trap, WinSton floated into the room, activating the trap and [[popping them both.|The Popping]] It was an accidental, unheroic sacrifice on WinSton's part. EsTon's plans had been halted at least, and WinSton could be mourned as a simple balloon. [[Things could have ended differently|The What If]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="secret-passage"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="secret-passage-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] It has [[always|The What If]] been me and my twin. When we came to life, like other [[Heliumangi]], [[Mother Ground]] kissed us with endless helium. Our Mother told us, there was a time when our kind were immortal. This celestial planet [[once bathed in an ethereal glow|Mother Ground]] from the lustrous helium currents. The air was perpetually weightless, and the inhabitants were free to drift wherever the currents carried us. The expanses of our helium resources stretched as far as the eye can see, so boundless, so infinite. We never even [[thought|The Will and Will-not]] of the day the helium would [[run out|An Insatiable Realm]]. Until [[it did|A Machinery Realm]]. [[C Writings from the Heliumangi]] </div>

<div class="secret-passage"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="secret-passage-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] [[Our planet|Planet Gliese]] was a place of endless wonder and boundless beauty. It was a world like no other, a realm of perpetual enchantment that tugged at my heart with every breathtaking moment. The very air we breathed, infused with helium, made our existence a weightless dance through the heavens. As I looked up at the iridescent skies, I couldn't help but feel that our planet was a cosmic masterpiece, an artwork of nature that defied the mundane. The landscapes were an ever-changing tapestry of colors, with mountains, valleys, and plains that sparkled like gems. Even the rivers and lakes had a mesmerizing, liquid crystal quality that made them seem like portals to otherworldly realms. The helium-rich atmosphere created perpetual sunrises and sunsets, casting a soft, ethereal light over our lives. It was a world of endless days and nights that merged into a seamless continuum, creating a feeling of timelessness and eternal serenity. But what truly made the Mother Ground unique was the way it nurtured us. Helium reservoirs seemed [[boundless|An Infinite Realm]], providing us with an everlasting source of energy and support. It was a planet where life was truly a floating, carefree journey, where everything seemed to defy the laws of physics. Yet, as the inexhaustible allure of progress beckoned, I found myself torn between my love for the Mother Ground and the promise of new horizons, [[new ways of life|An Ambitious Realm]]. [[C Writings from the Heliumangi]] </div>

<div class="secret-passage"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="secret-passage-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] Like any civilization, ours grew to become so advanced that we stopped relying on [[Mother Ground]] to pump the newborns with helium. Instead, we took matters into our own hands. Our kind had discovered a way to harness enormous amounts of helium for our energy needs. [[Helium extraction|Agreement]] technology became essential, and corporations began to rise to unprecedented prominence. These technological marvels were not just machines; they were colossal, self-sustaining cities of industry that sprawled across the landscapes of our planet. Corporations, once modest entities, burgeoned into mammoth, sprawling conglomerates with cutting-edge machines. These balloon-like machines, each with the power to draw and store infinite helium from the depths of our planet, became the heartbeat of these corporate giants. Unknown to the corporation's scientists, the planet's helium reserves were intricately connected to its ecological balance. As the extraction progressed, it disrupted the delicate harmony of the planet's atmosphere. The helium, which once kept everything aloft, started depleting rapidly. That triggered a chain reaction of environmental catastrophe. Flora and fauna that once relied on helium for [[buoyancy|Heliumangi]] now plummeted to the ground. Ecosystems collapsed, and the planet's delicate balance was thrown into chaos. The extraction process unleashed uncontrollable storms, as the lack of helium disrupted the planet's atmospheric stability. With the meteoric rise came controversy and concerns. The corporate machinery consumed [[the planet|Mother Ground]] and exhausted our helium-filled reservoirs, leaving environmental destruction in its wake. Native populations were [[displaced|Planet Gliese]], ecosystems were disrupted, and the once helium-riched currents were left scarred by [[the insatiable hunger|An Insatiable Realm]] for resources. We needed [[new answers|Global Warming]]. [[C Writings from the Heliumangi]] </div>

<div class="secret-passage"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="secret-passage-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] From the moment I set my eyes upon the extraction [[machinery|A Machinery Realm]], I was enamored. It was a colossal marvel of technology, a testament to our ability and ambition. The way it operated, the sheer power it wielded, left me in awe. I couldn't help but feel a sense of exhilaration as I watched it methodically bore into [[Mother Ground]], pulling up vast amounts of helium with relentless efficiency. [[My people|Heliumangi]], on the other hand, had a different perspective. While I was drawn to the promise of progress, to the boundless energy and potential that the helium extracted from the machinery could bring to this world, they saw the inexhaustible consequences this technology would have on our home environment. It was impossible to ignore the rapid transformation of our once-pristine planet. The arrival of the extraction machines had scarred our iridescent landscapes, and the ever-present hum of industry filled the air. As I saw the corporate giants expand their reach and influence, I believed in the opportunities that lay ahead. I envisioned a world where we could use the resources of our helium-rich planet to achieve greatness, to forge a future of [[limitless possibilities|An Insatiable Realm]]. I could not imagine [[going anywhere else|Global Warming]]. [[C Writings from the Heliumangi]] </div>

<div class="secret-passage"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="secret-passage-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] Our kind, the [[Heliumangi|WinStons Race]], lived in a harmonious blend as an integral part of the planet's ecosystem. We coexisted with helium-breathing flora and fauna in a delicate balance. [[Mother Ground]] raised all kinds of creatures who relied on helium for buoyancy. Trees and plants had evolved to propagate using helium-filled pods that carried their seeds. Everything was extraordinary and diverse, from the smallest insects to the largest, cloud-dwelling beings. The Heliumangi were social creatures living in a tight-knit and supportive community. Our kind was naturally inquisitive, and exploration was [[a way of life|An Ambitious Realm]]. We formed a society up in the sky, seeking new horizons and hidden wonders of our world. [[C Writings from the Heliumangi]] </div>

<div class="secret-passage"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="secret-passage-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The corporate machinery, with its insatiable hunger, cast a looming shadow over our once-pristine world. It was a voracious beast, relentless and all-consuming, driven by the unyielding pursuit of resources and power. As I observed its operations from the helium-rich plains of [[Mother Ground]], the true extent of its appetite became increasingly clear. Little did we realize the bounds of its consequences, the toll it would take on our environment, our communities, and our way of life. The inexhaustible allure of progress had blinded us to the profound changes that were unfolding before our very eyes. Native populations, like the [[Heliumangi|Heliumangi]] communities were uprooted from their ancestral homes, forced to adapt to a changing world. The insatiable hunger for helium resources left them grounded, unable to float as they once had. It was a time of recklessness, of short-term gains at the expense of long-term consequences. The [[corporate machinery|A Machinery Realm]] devoured the helium reservoirs that had sustained us, threatening to leave our world depleted and desolate. [[C Writings from the Heliumangi]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[[[MC Setting:|Commentary]] We believe this is a [[continuation|Another Day in the Life of WinSton]] of WinSton's predicament as they have been tossed into jail.] They used their one phone call to call [[Deena, their lawyer|WinSton and Their Lawyer]], but there was no answer. WinSton would spend five days at the station before they were able to speak to anyone. Finally, a suspicious-looking figure came up to their cell, whispering "Hey, I know you’re in here for something you didn’t do. I only know because I know the person who did it". This immediately caught WinSton’s attention as they floated up to the bars to whisper back: "What?! How do you know?! Who.. who are you?". The stranger replied back, "My name is Daryl, and I can get you out of here. No time for talk, let’s move". Daryl pulls out a clay made key and open the cell gate, and rush down the hall. WinSton, having no time to ask questions, [[quickly followed|WinStons Great Escape]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[[[MC Setting:|Commentary]] We believe this is a [[continuation|WinSton Goes to the Slammer]] of WinSton's jailbreak, aided by Daryl.] "What’s your plan?" WinSton asked as they caught up to their new friend. "This way." [[Daryl|WinSton and Their Jail Time]] answered as he jumped over a railing into some trash. "Get down ‘ere! We got about another minute until the guards realize the security cameras are down!". WinSton quickly descended down below and continued to follow Daryl. They worked their way into a disposal area where they found and took a garbage truck and used it as a disguise to leave the facility. "I knew trash day was today so I figured this would be a great way to break you outta here!" Daryl said. WinSton stared at Daryl out of their round balloon eyes, "How did you know that?" Daryl quickly replied, "I [[used to be a cop|WinSton Screwed Up]], spent a few years here at this prison working security. Worst job I had, but at least it paid the bills". Daryl and WinSton sat in silence for a few minutes until WinSton asked "Why are you doing this for me? Where are we going?". Daryl smirked and said "You’ll have all your questions answered soon enough, just be patient". WinSton and Daryl drove for an hour or so, not much was said between them. They finally came to a stop at an abandoned warehouse just outside of town. The place was barely still standing, most of the foundation being held up by makeshift carpentry work. The windows were stained and the lighting was dim, WinSton was surprised the lighting even worked. Daryl stopped WinSton before going inside and said in a low voice so no neighbors coud hear, "I’ll be leaving now but inside you will be able to lay low for a while. Wait here until I send someone to pick you up." Daryl hopped back in the truck and drove off. WinSton headed inside, not expecting to see anyone, but to WinSton's surprise, there was someone who looked [[just like them|WinStons Great Confrontation]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[[[MC Setting:|Commentary]] While the image clearly shows that these two are in an office talking together, that image was taken by a spy camera and may not be in the correct place. This could be [[Deena's office|Deenas Office]] or it might be that [[Daryl|WinStons Great Escape]] took WinSton too.] <img src="./img/winston-eston-office.jpg" alt=a picture taken through blinds of two bunches of red balloons with paper faces.> It was like looking in a mirror. WinSton froze. They had certainly not expected [[EsTon|WinStons Love]] to show up here of all places. The similar looking figure spoke first: "WinSton, it has been a long time, I need your help". Suddenly, the memories flashed back into [[WinSton’s mind|WinStons Fight]]. The last hing they had heard from EsTon was that they were leading a massive drug empire fueled by profits from child labor in [[their home world|A Machinery Realm]], a livelihood that WinSton didn’t take kindly to and wanted no part of. "EsTon, I thought I told you to leave me out of this. Now you have [[ex-cops working|The Hunt for Red WinSton]] for you too?" WinSton replied. "Hey, I wouldn’t have been able to find you without the help of [[that cop|Investigator Intro]], you should thank him for bringing together this family reunion" EsTon said while smiling and extending their strings for a hug. "I want nothing to do with you anymore, you hurt people!" WinSton shouted. "I’m sorry my twin, but you have no choice. I committed a [[wrongful act|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]] and everybody thinks it was you! That’s why [[you were arrested|WinSton and the Police Raid]], I did the brotherly thing and freed you of this wrongdoing, you should be thanking me!" EsTon shot back. [[Choose to forgive EsTon|WinSton the Fool]] [[Confront EsTon, right here and now|WinSton the Hero]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] [[MC Setting:|Commentary]] We believe this is a [[continuation|WinStons Great Confrontation]] of WinSton's //[[confrontation|WinStons Fight]]// with their evil twin, EsTon. "Wow sibling, I can’t believe you were looking out for me like that. How do we plan to correct this misunderstanding? Also, what is it that you did?" WinSton asked. "Oh, I was caught robbing some [[rare jewelry|WinSton and Their Ring]] that’s absolutely priceless. I plan to [[give it to my girlfriend|WinSton and Their Proposal]] I just [[started dating|WinSton and Their Date]] not too long ago. I know, it’s crazy what people will do for love these days, eh?" WinSton would just look down and start shaking their head. "What? Ah you just wouldn’t understand. Anyways, I worry that they will eventually figure out it was me who took the gem and not you, so I’ve decided to kill you off and make it look like a suicide. Cops will then be forced to think it was you who [[took the ring|WinSton and Their Ring]], because why would anyone innocent just break out of jail and commit suicide if they didn’t at least feel guilty, let alone actually being guilty. Any last words?". EsTon takes out a gold inlaid sidearm and prepares to shoot WinSton. So many thoughts race through WinSton’s mind: "How could I have not seen this coming? [[Why|WinStons Fight]] is my twin trying to kill me after all these years? Over a simple engagement ring of all things?" WinSton shakes their head in response to EsTon’s final question. [[WinSton is shot|The Popping]], and with nobody left to avenge their death, WinSton would pass into the dim [[cold night|WinStons Reflections]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] (set: $culprit to "EsTon") </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[[[MC Setting:|Commentary]] We believe this incident is a continuation of EsTon and [[WinSton's confrontation|WinSton the Fool]].] "If you really wanted to help me you would have turned yourself in as [[the culprit!|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]] I’m not stupid, [[EsTon!|WinStons Fight]] Just because I’m a minute younger than you does not mean I am naive. I’ve heard of the influence and name you’ve made for yourself in those southern countries, and I’m not going to let you get away with it anymore. It’s over, EsTon!" WinSton proclaimed valiantly. "Wow, little one finally stands up for themselves, too bad it’s too little too late" EsTon says as they attempt to pull out their gold inlaid sidearm. WinSton, however, was a little quicker, and managed to tackle EsTon before they could fully pull out and aim their weapon. Now the two sit shuffling and rolling around against the ground as the two struggle for control over the firearm. WinSton manages to throw it somewhere far away and now it comes down to string versus string combat. EsTon wraps some string around WinSton's neck, but WinSton manages to wiggle loose. The two continued to tussle in the abandoned factory, both struggling to pin the other down. WinSton pushed EsTon after EsTon made an effort to start running for the firearm, but WinSton didn’t see what he shoved EsTon into. EsTon was pushed into a nail left from old carpentry work done to keep this place from collapsing in previous years, and [[with a pop!|The Popping]] EsTon [[no longer existed|The What If]]. WinSton, feeling relieved that [[EsTon’s terrible deeds|WinStons Great Confrontation]] can finally come to a close, misses the fact that they themselves did not go unscathed from the brawl; WinSton had a leak, a leak which was leaking fast. They now knew they had only minutes, nay, seconds before total depletion. WinSton would crawl out into the front of the abandoned warehouse, out into the pale moonlight. They would reflect over their life briefly, wondering why it all led to this moment. Then, a feeling of justice would wash over them as a picture of freed child laborers entered their mind; a world that was no longer tarnished by their twin’s wrongdoings. WinSton would pass that night, knowing that they did the [[right thing|WinStons Reflections]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] (set: $culprit to "WinSton") </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] A few weeks would pass until anybody would come onto the scene; a couple of adventurous kids would stumble upon this abandoned factory one day when trying to explore things they shouldn’t. After seeing what they did, they would call it into the local police department. After hearing the details of the case, the department decided to send [[Burt Richard-Heart|The Finding of WinSton U. Victory]], a private detective who had some experience with [[cases like these|Investigator Intro]]. [[The detective|Investigate the Digs]] would arrive on scene, immediately taking notes and piecing together the puzzle. Something about this scene just didn’t feel right to the detective. Burt knew they had a homicide on their hands, now just needed to figure out the motivations and the culprits behind it. [[The End or is it Just Beginning again?|Another Day in the Life of WinSton]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] [[WinSton U. Victory|WinSton U. Victory]] [[WinSton's... Twin?|EsTon]] [[Deena Larsen|Deena]] [[Back to Documents|Findings]]| [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]] is scared of the office because of all the office supplies. There are many sharp pointed objects such as scissors, pencils and pens. They could even get a paper cut! [[Deena's office|Deenas Office]] is dark and scary, and anyone could break in and steal them, and how would they even fight back? They have no hands nor voice (other than their secret mind reading language with [[Deena]]). [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]] is completely defenseless! It would be cruel and unjust. [[Back to Documents|Findings]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]] is a liar, they said they would be in the [[office|The Office]] last night, but they definitely were not. WinSton used the quietness of the night, the lack of light, and their quick thinking, to plan an escape. They told [[Deena|Deena]] they did NOT want to be in [[the office|Deenas Office]]! Deena is NOT the boss of them! So what do they do? They LEAVE. WinSton was lucky enough that a fan in the office had forgotten to be turned off, and they were able to float away with the wind and out the door. They made it down the hall! Around the corner! Finally, WinSton is free! No mortal being can tell them what to do! They are fr- Oh. Here comes a staff member. WinSton 's journey is cut short when a surprised janitor catches them in their escape. The janitor thinks he is doing them a favor, and escorts them back to the office. The janitor doesn’t understand that this is the OPPOSITE of helpful! The janitor shuts the door, WinSton is woefully trapped until the morning, when Deena can pick them up again for class time. Doesn’t anyone understand their pain? Even these mortal men would not want to be stuck in one room all night, even if they themselves are not confined to this space as WinSton is. WinSton has only themself to keep them company, only the thoughts in their head. It is incredibly boring, and WinSton can feel growing resentment for the entire school staff. Perhaps one of the students will understand their pain, and write a compelling [[story|Investigate the Digs]] during class time that will convince Deena to take them home for the night, instead of being left to fend for themselves in the loathsome office, where they can not even find what they are [[looking for.|Deenas Office]] [[Back to Documents|Findings]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]] is going somewhere, but they have not told anybody where. They want to keep this expedition a secret from everyone else. If anyone saw WinSton meeting with their [[twin|EsTon]] then the word would get out and all of their plans would be ruined. They are [[meeting at night|WinStons Great Confrontation]] when all the other students have gone home. WinSton wants to settle this dispute without involving [[Deena]] or resorting to violence. They fear, though, that their [[twin's|EsTon]] evil disposition might get in the way of their plans. [[Back to Documents|Findings]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]] lurked constantly, just waiting for someone to open up [[Deena's office|Deenas Office]] where her computer lay oh so temptingly in sight. Finally, a janitor did open up the office and then went to answer a different call. Winston dashed through the door and deftly unlocked the computer files with their handy strings, looking for an answer to their crimes. They checked through all of Deena's files, but could not find anything incriminating. The files must be quadruple locked, finger print only, and WinSton had no fingers to print. WinSton flees the scene. Some other students saw [[WinSton acting suspiciously|V: Video Released]]. The students called in the police and reported that WinSton looked troubled and worried. If a balloon could sweat, they would be sweating, because the police just announced WinSton's crimes over the [[loudspeaker|Investigator Intro]]. [[Back to Documents|Findings]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]]'s poor latex body was found on the ground: WinSton was brutally murdered. Or were they? Was this just a convenient accident? [[WinSton's twin|WinStons Secrets]] has an explanation, but every time someone asks them, they have a different explanation. Who is to say what really happened in the CMDC [[office|The Office]]? Perhaps WinSton never died, maybe this is just their way of ending the [[Evil Twin|EsTon]]'s crazy antics and taking their place. Maybe WinSton DID die and the [[twin|WinStons Great Confrontation]] is taking THEIR place. How would anyone know? WinSton [[doesn't even talk|C Can WinSton Talk]]. WinSton's morning starts out the same as any other. The building’s lights turn on as the sun rises. If WinSton was capable of sleep, they would rise from their slumber with a yawn. Unaware of the dangers lurking behind them, they peacefully watch as the first of the professors begin to enter the building in preparation of their early morning classes. WinSton wanders lazily over by the [[fountain|WinSton and the Fountain]]. WinSton does not even have a moment to decide the best way to annoy [[Deena]] for the day before they hear a [[loud POP|The Popping]] and everything fades to darkness. Hovering over their [[latex remains|The What If]] is a suspiciously [[familiar red cluster of balloons.|WinStons Love]]. [[Back to Documents|Findings]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] (set: $culprit to "EsTon") </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] ''Name:'' WinSton U. Victory ''Age:'' ??? ''Pronouns:'' They/Them/Theirs ''Height:'' [[Balloon length|WinStons Race]] including strings is 10 feet. ''Color:'' Red ''Last Seen:'' ??? WinSton U. Victory, our fellow classmate, made of a collection of [[red balloons|WinStons Race]] tied together with a string, insists on being introduced first. They do not speak, but communicate telepathically with our instructor, [[Deena Larsen|Deena]]. For [[their grand introduction|V: WinStons Introduction]], they received a haircut, releasing them from the weights that held them to the floor. Gravity no longer affects them! WinSton flies upwards towards the ceiling, not realizing that with no way back down, they are now trapped above the class forever. They stare longingly back down at the floor and their peers. Oh to be heavy enough to walk the campus halls just like everyone else. [[Back to Documents|Findings]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] ''Name:'' Deena Larsen ''Role:'' [[Professor|C Syllabus]], [[Writer|Fall 2023 Students]], [[Government agent|The Cover Up]], [[Lawyer|WinSton and Their Lawyer]] ''Relationship to WinSton:'' [[Translator|C Can WinSton Talk]], [[Friend|Aggressive]], [[Accomplice|Script Get Help]], [[Foe|WinSton and Their Very Much Ferocity]] ''Last Seen:'' [[The Office|Deenas Office]] A new media and hypertext fiction author associated with electronic literature. Currently teaching at Washington State University at Vancouver. [[Back to Documents|Findings]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] ''Name:'' EsTon ''Age:'' A little older than [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]] ''Pronouns: ''They/Them/Theirs ''Height: ''A little higher than WinSton ''Color:'' Red ''Relationship to WinSton: ''[[Twin|WinStons Secrets]], [[Rival|WinStons Fight]], [[Nemesis|WinStons Great Confrontation]] ''Last Seen:'' ??? A [[suspiciously familiar cluster|WinSton and the Fountain]] of balloons. Up to [[no good|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]]. [[Back to Documents|Findings]] [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]  WinSton notices an open window as they're leaving the cell. Catching a ride on a windstream might be the only way to get back to the campus in time to stop EsTon. As WinSton floats down from the sky, they observe an angry crowd surrounding the VMMC building. Torches, pitchforks, anti-balloon signs. WinSton can't believe their eyes, they were too slow. Their helium reserves haven't began to regenerate yet, and WinSton helplessly floats down closer to the crowd. Someone notices the distinct red circle, and doesn't hesitate to throw their pitchfork javelin style at WinSton. The javelin, tied with a [[bright yellow bandana|Chucks Bandana]] as a makeshift kite, impales them to a tree, and as the last of the helium [[pops|The Popping]] out of WinSton. They squeak out "It's so over for us balloon bros..." (set: $culprit to "Chuck") (set: $path to "B") </div>

<div class="secret-passage-ending"id="or-is-it"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="secret-passage-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] //Imagine clouds here, A peaceful place to think. As you click, you hear the whispered voices.// . . . (click: ?page) [=="Can't you see the potential, the opportunities [[this technology|A Machinery Realm]] brings? We can achieve incredible things, push the boundaries of what's possible." (click: ?page)[== "But at what cost? Our world is withering, our home is dying. Can't you see the irreversible damage being done? We can't sacrifice the Mother Ground for the sake of progress." (click: ?page)[== "You're obstructing progress, clinging to the past. We [[must adapt|Global Warming]] and embrace the future, no matter the sacrifices." (click: ?page)[== "And you're willing to sacrifice the <div class=”commentary”>[[very essence|An Infinite Realm]] of our world for a [[fleeting notion|An Insatiable Realm]] of progress. [[Our planet|Mother Ground]], our home, deserves better." (click: ?page)[== "I thought we could face this together, that you would see reason." (click: ?page)[== "I thought the same. But I can't stand by and watch our world crumble." [[C Writings from the Heliumangi]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Archive list from the original Electronic Literature Lab Library, Vancouver, Washington [[MC:|Commentary]] This is a listing of all historical records. Those translated from the [[Heliumangi]] are noted as translations.] ''Important Documents from 2150, human Mars Colony '' [[Archive 6942]] [[Agreement]] [[Keynote Speech]] ''Human notes about the [[Heliumangi]] from [[Archive 6942]]'' [[WinStons Race]] [[Planet Gliese]] (Where WinSton is from) [[Their Deal]] [[Deena and WinSton Meet]] [[The Cover Up]] ''Documents [[translated|C Writings from the Heliumangi]] from Heliumangi '' [[Heliumangi]] [[Mother Ground]] [[An Infinite Realm]] [[An Ambitious Realm]] [[An Insatiable Realm]] [[The Will and Will-not]] [[Global Warming]] [[Archive|Archive 6942]] contains: [[Box of USB plug-ins|List of USB Plugs]] [[Movie script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Investigator Simulation|Investigator Intro]] [[C Writings from the Heliumangi]] </div>

<div class="background"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The planet Gliese is a [[helium-rich planet|An Infinite Realm]] for the [[balloon creatures|WinStons Race]] to live in. Heat and helium inflates their bodies, but they don’t survive well in cold environments. WinSton's planet is [[slowly dying|An Ambitious Realm]] and they need a new home... They once had a prosperous existence, but found it too difficult to preserve it. Wandering nomads, always finding a new planet to settle on. Their current one is slowly dying which is why they're going to Earth. WinSton's race wants to speed the process of global warming on Earth and take it over for a second home. [[Heating up Earth|Global Warming]] would be an [[ideal way|C No Assigning Blame]] to mimic their home [[planet’s ideal|Mother Ground]] temperature. [[Archive 6942]] [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] </div>

<div class="background"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] ''Heliumangus. //vesica supernatet//'' The Heliumangus (Vesica supernatet; pl.: [[Heliumangi]]) are balloon-like creatures with a high-pitched voice. Heliumangi use telepathy to communicate amongst themselves, since the air quality/environment makes speech impossible. Normally they cannot speak out loud, but on Earth there is more oxygen which allows them to speak; basically WinSton is one of, maybe the first Heliomangi to communicate [[using actual speech|C Can WinSton Talk]] instead of just telepathy. Heliumangi are capable of limited telepathy--able to broadcast images into [[Deena's|Deena]] mind, but not words. It felt like a constant game of Charades to figure out what they were trying to say until WinSton found [[their voice|Script Get Help]]. [[Archive 6942]] [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Bags don’t speak quite yet, that happens in the 2040 Prime Day! You done got anachronistic here!] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Really? I thought the professors said they became sentient during the Great TP Incident of 2033 ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[No no It was the Prime Day riots. Bezos decided that sentient bags were a good idea and [[bang|C The War]] it all started then. .] (bg:#ffd4ff)[It isn't sentience that is the problem. It's communication we are talking about here] (bg:#ffd4ff)[WinSton is a [[balloon like creature|WinStons Race]] with a high pitched voice] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Wait I thought they were telepathic?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[There is [[evidence here|Script Get Help]] to the contrary. ] [[Archive 6942]] [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] </div>

<div class="background"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] In the year 2150, the Electronic Literature Lab 2 (ELL2) on Central State University, Mars Station 1 has [[recently acquired|Keynote Speech]] this Twine piece. This was in conjunction with the [[first successful|C Other failures]] [[Earth Expedition (EE)|Agreement]], which was specifically sponsored to [[excavate the original Electronic Literature Lab,|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] on the Washington State University, 45.73, -133.63 in Old Location Term (Vancouver city Washington state United States). This transcript we have found is possibly one of the more intact works from that lab. We have learned how to resurrect and use the ancient technology known as static computers (as opposed to the modern quantum computers). We are presenting an [[AI translation|C Writings from the Heliumangi]] from [[Heliumese|C Heliumese]]. Our current Heliumangi ambassador has graciously approved of this translation. Slight corruptions have occurred in each phase of this reconstruction. The corruption from the physical media decay has presumably resulted in missing entire sections of the report, and the translation from old Heliumese into modern Heliumese may be called into question. <div class="commentary-node"> (bg:#ffd4ff)[Scholarly comments from our class of 3250 are signed [[MC:|Commentary]] and are noted in this font and highlighter.]</div>These node names start with "C" to distinguish them from the 2023 archived Twine files. Archive contains: [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] [[Box of USB plug-ins|List of USB Plugs]] [[Movie script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Investigator Simulation|Investigator Intro]] [[C Writings from the Heliumangi]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>MC: (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]   As you read through this piece of research, you will notice some comments throughout. These comments are coming from students attending Central University on Mars (RA 15h 4m 38s | Dec -18° 22′ 28″). These comments provide our interpretations of the actions, settings, and arcane knowledge that some of us have. We hope that these comments illuminate these original Twine documents. We have noted where the Twine documents are [[corrupted|Their Deal]] or completely unclear. Commenters are Dol Norr, Ailgran, and myself, Lefir Olavson. We are commenting on this to give what we think is possibly going on with this finding. We were chosen to survey the Twine work found during [[the third EE|Archive 6942]]. The main branches of this [[archive|Archive 6942]] are: [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] [[Box of USB plug-ins|List of USB Plugs]] [[Movie script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Investigator Simulation|Investigator Intro]] [[C Writings from the Heliumangi]] </div>

<div class="background"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]] scoured the Earth for a good landing point to start their [[mission|Global Warming]], somewhere where they could take off again, near some power sources or at the very least, helium to sustain themselves. They noted the fires under the earth from the abandoned coal mines, a fire burning for over a century, and knew they could refuel there. Besides, no one was around. So they zoomed in on this remote mountain range for a landing. [[Deena]] had been [[camping|Campsite]] in this isolated place, scouring for more material for her never-ending hypermedia work on Marble Springs. She was enjoying the quiet and just relaxing with her solar-powered computer until wham! WinSton landed right beside her. And thus the two met in alpine isolation [[and struck their deal|Their Deal]][[.]] <img src="./img/WinSton-Deena.jpg" alt=a sepia toned image of a girl staring at a balloon around a campfire.> (bg:#ffd4ff)[There are other explanations, [[of course|The Cover Up]] and we will never know all of these secrets.] [[Archive 6942]] [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] </div>

<div class="background"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] This page is hopelessly corrupted. You will have to start again. [[Archive 6942]] </div>

<div class="background"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] To keep WinSton’s existence under wraps, they were enrolled as [[a student|Fall 2023 Students]] at [[Washington State University of Vancouver (WSUV)|Investigate the Digs]] into the Digital Technology and Culture (DTC) program[[.]] WinSton managed to maintain a good standing in the program, so much so that they were noticed by one of the newer professors, [[Deena Larsen|Deena]]. Deena used to work for the United States government, but was fired due to a severe government secret being leaked to the wrong hands citing [[her disorganized files and her bogus law degree|WinSton and Their Lawyer]]. One of her colleagues managed to keep her credentials in the system, but to the rest of the government’s eyes, she was nothing more than a college professor now. (bg:#ffd4ff)[There are [[other explanations, of course|Deena and WinSton Meet]] and we will never know all of [[these secrets|C Heliumangi FBI]].] [[Archive 6942]] [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[There are several unlinked pieces about WinSton living in the Digs at WSUV. So he may have been sneaking around, but he may also have been stuck living there.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[1. While I had my quibbles about WinSton when meeting them for the first time during the first day of school, for example back talking the professor right away from the get go, I noticed one thing; WinSton (probably) doesn't have a home! Have you noticed that WinSton is the first person to get to class and the last person leaving class?? In fact, I haven't even seen WinSton leave the class unless instructed, or following the professor. I have to assume that maybe the professor took WinSton home one day for shelter, maybe something went down, and now they end up bickering and arguing. Maybe WinSton was ungrateful? Maybe the professor didn't realize how loud WinSton snores? My theory still stands, though I still believe the professor should take WinSton home.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[2. WinSton is lonely and depressed. They stay in a cramped and damp basement office just waiting for Deena to return to them. Their life is confined between those four walls unless Deena says otherwise. Even when Winston is brought up to the classroom twice a week, they are strictly a spectacle to be examined and expressed through our class story. WinSton is entrapped in the requirements and logistics of this course! They will never roam free in a knee-high field, chasing away the trauma they endured in that tiny little room. They must waste their life for us and our story. That is unless Deena takes them home to her abode. She can save his miserable life with one small gesture; maybe she can even share her bed with them. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[3. WinSton deserves better than this. There's so many reasons why this kind of environment is bad for a young and developing balloon. Skateboards with sandpaper on them! Kids with pens and pencils! Rogue guide dogs that could attack at any moment! And don't forget the succulents that are placed in the family bathroom down the street. It's the last thing WinSton should be seeing when they're touching up their eyeliner!] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Furthermore, there's all kinds of accommodations that are almost intricately designed to ward off [[balloon-based|Heliumangi]] life. No nets above the quad to catch flyaway students (it's like not having rails on a balcony!) The closest helium refill station is in the hospital 2 miles away! Not even a booth at the CILA office on campus! None of this would be a problem if balloon-based rights were enshrined in our constitution. But god knows the last president brought that back ten years...] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[[[MC Setting:|Commentary]] We believe that this transcript is from the middle of a conversation between Deena and WinSton that may have taken place after WinSton [[first landed and meet Deena|Deena and WinSton Meet]]. We apparently only have the actual lines that the actors were to memorize and do not have any stage directions or settings. These we must leave up to the readers' imaginations.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This movie script begins in a car scene, as all good movies did back then. We assume this takes place when Deena has agreed to help WinSton and to [[make a deal|Their Deal]].] "Alright then. I have an idea," Deena announced, setting her hand down on the steering wheel. As they drove furiously [[away from the camp|C Campsite]] with WinSton and onto the main freeway. She had taken up the habit of talking to herself to [[simulate conversations|C Can WinSton Talk]] with WinSton. "Not really sure what you are, WinSton. But I do have a friend who I think could help us both out quite a bit." said Deena. "Oh, you do, huh? I’ll assume you’re going to stuff me in a bag, drag me there, and then get me probed or something?" WinSton snapped. "YOU TALK? Seriously? You could’ve just done that before, you know! Would’ve made everything a lot easier!" yelled Deena. "Well, the time just wasn’t right. Anywho, why’s this [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] guy important again?" asked WinSton. "Woah, bold of you to assume their pronouns, buddy." said Deena. "Ugh. Come on." groaned WinSton. "OK, OK. Rob’s a good friend of mine. See, since you’re not really willing to explain what you are or where you came from, I’m just gonna assume you’re an alien. I’m right, aren’t I?" questioned Deena. WinSton’s sparse facial features contorted. "No comment… But, um. Yes." WinSton said sheepishly. "And you are here to [[take over the planet|Global Warming]], or something like that?" Deena went on, her eyes narrowing in suspicion. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script What WinSton Knows]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Rob is referring to Rob Swigart, an old programmer and inventor who got screwed over by Activision.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[How do we know about Activision? ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[We know it was a real thing. Just be quiet and listen to the tapes again.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Ok...] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is the writings that we believe to be the basis for the movie version; however, the movie has been lost. These were originally found in this order, but the content labels were obscured. Thus, we can only assume that this is the order of the movie script. We do know that movie scripts were pieced together based on location. We also remind our readers that Twine is noted for its multilinearity and non-order. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[There are other hints of stories not told, where [[someone has captured WinSton|V: WinSton Kidnapped]].] (bg:#ffd4ff)[We've done our best to keep the presumed order of the story, but this may not represent a fully accurate translation. ] [[Script Get Help]] [[Script What WinSton Knows]] [[Script Hiding WinSton]] [[Script Capturing WinSton]] [[Script WinSton is Wanted]] [[Script WinSton on the Run]] [[Script WinSton Gets to Rob]] [[Script Rob Rescues Deena]] [[Script Robs War Room]] [[Script WinSton Gets New Weapons and Wheels]] [[Script Air Raid]] [[Script Rob Seeks Help]] [[Script Rob Parks the Car]] [[Script WinSton Gets to Dennys]] [[Script WinSton Meets Frank]] [[Script WinSton Goes Underground]] [[Script WinSton Battles the Feds]] [[Script WinSton Meets the Scientists]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[''Note that there are two potential endings. ''] [[Script Rob Destroys Frank]] [[Script WinSton Storms the Base]] [[Return to the Archive|Archive 6942]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This seems to be an alternative ending, or a different battle with the scientists. It is unclear what happens to WinSton. There may be many different endings here. Anything is possible in a movie.] Readying themselves, the trio strode past the pile of science personnel that had attempted to subvert their operation. Continuing through the door, they found themselves immediately before a massive installation. Complete with state of the art security. "For fuck’s sake." [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] said under his breath. Before the crew was a colossal room. Around it patrolled robots, including drones. Everywhere was watched. Machinery could be seen being operated on, and maintenance bots drifted from vehicle to vehicle. Sparks showered this welding haven. Realizing the immediacy of the danger, the crew scrambled for a way through their only exit. Quickly, Rob pointed to the ceiling. WinSton gave him a look. "You’re kidding right?!" said WinSton. "Hell no. You wanna finish this or not?" said Rob. With great hesitance, WinSton stepped forward, and gestured to Rob to stand on top of them. Deena stared at both of them in awe. Rob planted his feet and braced himself. Quickly turning to and fro to make sure the area was clear, he gave WinSton the thumbs up. Using all of their might, WinSton released a burst of helium, propelling them and Rob up to the vent Rob had spotted. Acting without hesitation, Rob pried open the hatch, and quickly climbed in. Realizing the need to finish the job, WinSton descended to get Deena. Deena climbed aboard, and entered the vent, with WinSton in tow. The three had gotten out of the hangar, but were not exactly out of the woods. "So, Rob, any guesses where this goes?" said Deena. "Well, no. I’m gonna guess this place doesn’t exist on [[any official records|C Heliumangi FBI]]. You know, I probably should’ve gotten Frank’s phone after that whole incident. I bet he has the schematics. BUT, I do know somebody who can." said Rob. "Oh for FUCK’S SAKE! No way. NO WAY! I do not want to go back there, please no." said WinSton. "Look, just chill alright. They didn’t see two people flying up into a vent, what are the chances they’ll see you? Just go get it and bring it back, right? Ultimately it’ll be more dangerous to not get the phone than to get it." said Rob. "Easy for you to say. Fine, I’ll get it. But, you know, you owe me one." said WinSton. "Hell no we don’t owe you shit we’re saving your ass!" yelled Rob. "Oh, right. I’ll be back." said WinSton, descending from the vent once more. (bg:#ffd4ff)[This node was out of order and corrupted. We are not sure when this battle scene took place or if WinSton [[ever returned|WinSton and the Passage of Time]].] [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is most likely a continuation of [[Script Get Help]] and is probably still in that same car ride where Deena is furiously driving to [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] as she believes for some reason that Rob might help the situation. We must imagine this taking place as the car careens around mountain curves. ] "Right, as I thought. Not a robot, nor something that came from an underground lab. Well, in any case - how much do you know about Earth?" asked Deena. "Well, I know about how humans fought wars, massacred each other, engaged in acts driven by greed, murdered millions of their own ki-" WinSton began. "DAMN! Is that all you got from us? That we’re just savage murderers with no culture or complexity?" Deena retorted. "Well, yeah. I mean I mostly saw it in [[my education|Global Warming]], that was the takeaway point. I remember hearing that [[your extinction |C Extinction]] would be your own fault!" WinSton said, not considering the sting of their words. "Well, I hate to admit it, but you’re probably right. Well, to be honest I should’ve just told you straight up. I was going to ask, have you ever seen a movie about aliens?" said Deena. "No. I haven’t witnessed much of any human culture, aside from the violence." said WinSton. Deena gave them a scowl. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script Hiding WinSton]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is most likely still a continuation of the [[Script Get Help]] and [[Script What WinSton Knows]] and this is probably still in that same car ride where Deena is furiously driving to [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] as she believes for some reason that Rob might help the situation. We must imagine this taking place as the car hugs the guardrail and speeds. This may be where the police first notice WinSton, as [[daredevil driving|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]] does appear in the charges.] "Well, OK. I was gonna say when our government finds stuff like you, they usually capture you, extract as much information as they can out of you, and may or may not let you survive." said Deena. "Really reinforcing my points, huh?" snapped WinSton. "This is just one of those situations where I can’t prove I’m right. Whatever." sighed Deena. "Anyway, what I’m saying is we should think about hiding you. I’m fairly certain you’ve already been spotted buddy. People are gonna get interested. Assuming you haven’t heard of it, but there’s this little thing called the Internet. Your face and likeness are probably plastered on social media already." said Deena. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script Capturing WinSton]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is most likely still a continuation of the [[Script Get Help]], [[Script What WinSton Knows]], and [[Script Hiding WinSton]] contained within the same car ride where Deena is furiously driving to [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] as she believes for some reason that Rob might help the situation. We still have no idea what Rob could do in this situation, but the movie does not have to make sense. We just need wild car rides.] "Oh! So I’m a celebrity! That gets [[cut into pieces|C Cut into Pieces]] by scientists…" said WinSton, their enthusiasm withering. "Yeah! Good way to think of it. Except, imagine a dark room where you’re strapped to an operating table, held against your will, with your entrails splayed all over the place while a bunch of figures forcibly examine you for the sake of science!" exclaimed Deena. "Yeah, yeah I get it. [[Fearmongering|C Extinction]] I guess I know you the best out of any of the humans, but how can I, in good conscience, come with you? I came here for a reason, you know. If I die, it’s not just me who dies." said WinSton, quickly turning the air grim. "Well, you wanna elaborate? Look, if I wanted to do harm to you, I would’ve already turned you in. I’m risking life and limb sheltering you, you know." said Deena. "Well, if true. I appreciate that. But, why?" said WinSton. "Why? Because it’s the right thing to do." said Deena. "Well, if you’re not going to elaborate, then neither will I." said WinSton. "Fair enough. Anyway, we should get going. I’ll need you to hide in this." Deena pointed to a large gray duffel bag. "Ah. Alright. You’re lucky I’m not a vertebrate." said WinSton. "Uh-huh, right. Anyway, come with me if you want to live." said Deena, staring directly into WinSton’s soul. (bg:#ffd4ff)[There may be a bit of a digression here about what WinSton knows, but as this pertains to the [[Global Warming]] war, we deleted it.] WinSton begrudgingly wormed their way into the bag. Ziiip! They were sealed in tight. Nothing looked out of the ordinary. (bg:#ffd4ff)[We do not know why [[WinSton needs to hide|Script Hiding WinSton]] or has to be captured.] [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script WinSton is Wanted]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is probably during the car ride after [[WinSton crawls into a bag|Script Capturing WinSton]] and we are not sure why WinSton had to do that... ] "Alright, let me just check my phone, and we’re off. Oh. crap." said Deena. "Hmmm?" a voice muttered through the bag. (bg:#ffd4ff)[We assume that this is WinSton who crawled into a bag but we are not clear on if [[WinSton can talk|C Can WinSton Talk]].] "You really ARE famous. I’ll give it to you straight up. There’s a police report. Filed for ‘unknown organism’, description is: ‘medium height, round and balloon-like in shape, red in coloration’." said Deena. "Reward is [[$10,000|C Reward Money]] for any tips or leads. Of course, it mentions he was spotted with a person matching my description." sighed Deena. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script WinSton on the Run]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[We do not know why [[WinSton needs to hide|Script Hiding WinSton]] or has to be captured. This may be after the famous[[jailbreak|WinSton and the Prison Escape]].] "Yeah. We are in deep shit now. Gotta get moving. Only Rob can solve this." said Deena. "MMMhmmm." the voice attempted to say. (bg:#ffd4ff)[We do not know why [[WinSton needs to hide|Script Hiding WinSton]] or has to be captured.] "Yeah." Deena replied. "Well, better get going. Thank god you don't weigh much."Deena said. With that, they were off - Deena and WinSton both knew full-well what they were in for. A manhunt had already begun. As to not draw suspicion, Deena calmly walked to her car, bag in hand. "Just act natural. I'm leaving just like any other day. Nothing wrong." she thought to herself. Deena felt her heart rate spike as she passed [[a cop|C ACAB]] who didn't look like they patrolled the campus. (bg:#ffd4ff)[This reference to a campus means that Deena and WinSton are not on the road to Rob. So this may have been the earlier incident that caused the two to be on the run?] "Afternoon, ma'am. Notice anything unusual around here? Anything… like a balloon?"the unknown and menacing officer said with a smirk. "Oh, no. Been busy thinking about planning my week." She replied, trying her hardest to remain composed and unsuspicious. "Just a few more steps to my car, come on." she thought to herself. "Well, that's quite alright. I've been asking everybody around here, and it doesn't sound any better each time!" The officer replied with a friendly intonation. "Well, he probably hasn't got a clue. Let's keep it that way." Deena thought to herself. "It's all fine with me, officer. Best of luck on your search." Said Deena. "Thank you. Have a nice afternoon, I appreciate your cooperation, ma'am." said the officer. "No problem, you have a nice afternoon as well." Said Deena, successfully maintaining her composure. After walking an excruciating few steps past what was almost certain disaster, Deena unlocked her trunk. She remembered not to speak to the bag. Yet anyway. She placed the bag in the trunk and started the engine. Free, at last.[[Another drive|C Drive]]. As Deena activated her left signal, she saw something out of the corner of her eye: a poorly drawn balloon on a sign. Managing to only witness it for a split second, she felt her heart rate spike. "Motherfucker. They are [[OBSESSED|WinSton and Their Life Sentence]] with you!" She yelled. No response. Unsurprising. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script WinSton Gets to Rob]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is probably still in that same car ride where Deena is furiously driving to [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] as she believes for some reason that Rob might help the situation. It may be during the ride with the [[first conversation |Script Get Help]]. Or maybe after they see [[the cops at the campus|Script WinSton on the Run]]?This could also be referring to [[WinSton's antics|WinSton and the Graffiti Incident]] on the Washington State University at Vancouver campus as well. The script does not specify.] "Right, just gotta get to [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]]'s. No problem."She thought to herself. Deena hastily opened her phone and scrolled to [[Google Maps|C Google Maps]]. She placed the appropriate address into the search bar. She was off. "MMMMMMM!!!"more muffled muttering erupted from the back seat. "You know I can't understand what the hell you're saying, right?!" Deena retorted back. Nothing emanated from the trunk. It appears they got the message. "Look, I hope you can find a way to be comfortable in there. It'll be a ways before we get to Rob's place, alright." Deena told WinSton. Deena finally made her way to the on ramp. Long drive from here, but it should be relatively stable. Deena continued following her path as designated by Google Maps. Everything seemed relatively fine, so long as no one connected the dots between her and WinSton. "Okay, straight shot from here. Long ass stretch of road." Said Deena, exhaling a sigh of relief. Perhaps they could find sanctuary, for now. After all, the fate of an alien was in her hands! Deena kept her foot on the gas for over an hour. Nobody went here, some considered it a forbidden zone. The foul //[[eastern Washington|C Eastern Washington]]//. The sight of yellow-gray rocks, shrubbery, and cracked cliff faces adorned the adjacent landscapes to the highway. A trip through the badlands, to the one man who could subvert their greatest enemy. After what felt like an eternity, she finally made it to the exit. "We're almost there! If you're feeling alright, make a loud thumping sound." Said Deena. BANG! Sounds like they were doing alright. They passed a turn, arriving at a winding road, going increasingly upwards. This didn't look particularly safe. The lack of guard rails was telling. Still, it beat the government getting their hands on them! "You're gonna move around a lot in there, bud! We are climbing one hell of a mountain!" She yelled to WinSton. The car screeched agonizingly as it barely navigated the treacherous turns, forcing Deena to white knuckle the hell out of the wheel. How did Rob get down from here again? Finally, she arrived at the apex of the mountain. At its peak? Nothing. A wide, flat stretch of rock. She knew she had made it to the right place. She opened her [[contacts app|C Contact Rob]]. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script Rob Rescues Deena]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This probably takes place as the two reach Rob's compound and to to [[Rob's War Room|Script Robs War Room]]. We are still not sure how they got here but maybe this continues the very long and fast and furious drive up an [[unnamed mountain|Script WinSton Gets to Rob]].] Before she could give [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] a call, she heard a furious mechanical groaning. Dust and rock split as a chasm opened before her. Inside it, a stainless steel platform rose with a familiar looking man atop it. "Heard you needed help. Come on in. Did a lot to the place since you came here last." "What about my car?" Asked Deena in slightly frustrated confusion. "I got it, don't worry. Might want to get anything important out of it first." Said the man. Deena walked over to her car, [[now hundreds of feet above sea level|C Unsure What Happened]]. Unreal. She opened the trunk, and retrieved [[the contraband|C Contraband]]. Deena followed the man onto the platform. It's hinges groaned as it descended into the Earth. Looking up, one could see dust falling as the stones seamlessly connected via cleverly engineered pistons. "Worried about your car?" Rob pressed a button on his wrist mounted gadget. "Boom." In a flash of blue light, Deena's vehicle appeared before her very eyes, with its seeming imperfections removed! "I added a molecular [[repair function|C Rob Can Repair Anything]]. You're welcome." Said Rob with a grin. "Fucking hell. You never cease to amaze me." said Deena. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script Robs War Room]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This probably takes place in [[Rob's war room|Script Robs War Room]].] "Anyway, Deena, I know what you’re going to say. We need your help cause the government is gonna come after us, and I’m essentially a fugitive." said [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]]. "Yeah. About right. So, what do you suggest?" said Deena, her heart rate increasing as she imagined a government raid on Rob’s compound. "Well, you can’t stay here. None of us can. This place might seem secret, but you know as well as anybody how crazy the feds can be. To be honest, it’s very likely you were followed on your way here. Those drones of theirs have incredible adaptive camo." said Rob. "Uh-huh, right. So we go on the run?" asked Deena. "Well, yeah. If you wanna save your little alien friend anyway. Look. We’re probably already both anti citizens at this point so it hardly matters. Point is, we gotta get to one of my OTHER outposts. Luckily for me, I know how to avoid getting followed." said Rob. "Um, OK. WinSton, do you know anything about self-defense?" Deena questioned the creature. "Uhhh. No?" "Well, you’re gonna need to pal. People out there wanna get you. We gotta go." Deena said to WinSton, avoiding eye contact entirely. "She’s saying, if some crazy bastard is trying to kill you, you have the right to return the favor." Rob said dismissively, motioning to a railgun. "HOLD ON. You want me to kill people???!" WinSton exclaimed in utter despair. "Well, only if they’re trying to kill you. I’m just warning you bud. I’ve fought this damned government for over thirty years, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that life is not valuable to them. Advancing their agenda is all that matters. To them, if you’re a casualty, you’re nothing but a statistic. In other words, don’t feel bad for self-defense." Rob said, looking WinSton directly in the eyes. He had not come here with this in mind. These creatures seemed to thrive off of conflict. Perhaps he had ought to, as well. "OK, Deena, look. That car you brought? If we do manage to survive this, I’m already paying you back by saving your ass." Rob said. "Huh? What do you mean?" asked Deena in panicked confusion. "Well, that thing’s too slow. Also my scans indicate a few [[C M24]] drones coming our way. Should be a few minutes out. Let’s go." said Rob, donning an electromagnetic harness. "Alright, take this. I wired it to act in sync with me. We won’t need any cars." said Rob, tossing a glowing, electrified military rig to Deena. She hastily put it on, grabbing WinSton. "Ha, good we’re on the same page. Well, you guys are gonna need to be able to defend yourself. Deena, take this." said [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]], tossing Deena an electric blaster. "WinSton." said Rob. "Yeah?" replied the creature. "Lethal force isn’t just authorized. If they’re trying to kill you, it’s encouraged." said Rob. WinSton looked at the floor, feeling greatly disheartened. "Well, anyway, let’s get cracking!" said Rob. Before they could move on, a quake disturbed the air. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script Air Raid]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This probably takes place in [[Rob's war room|Script Robs War Room]]But it could be at the [[Fed battle|Script WinSton Battles the Feds]]. This is a very violent movie and scenes are difficult to distinguish.] Before they could escape, rocks trembled and fell from the ceiling in [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]]’s compound, and the sound of alarms and incoming gunfire shook the previously calm air. "WELL, SHIT! Faster than I thought, everybody out!" yelled Rob, and with one swift move, the man //[[blew a hole|C Rob is Strong]]// in the ceiling and propelled himself out. Deena and WinSton rose to meet him, and found themselves surrounded by steel plated death machines. <img src="./img/Robs-chaos.jpg" alt=plated death machines. A helicopter, high rise jeeps, and a possible humvee in a red and yellow desert with what might be Robs stronghold outlined in pink in the distance.> "[[WANTED CRIMINALS!|WinSton and Their Life Sentence]] DROP YOUR ARMS AND SURRENDER WITHOUT HESITATION. FAILURE TO COMPLY WILL RESULT IN YOUR TERMINATION." echoed a voice off of one of the drones. Thousands of feet above sea level, and with seemingly no escape, they were left with little options. Rob already had to teach WinSton his first lesson in morality. Of course these were just robots, but they’d be a perfect object to train on. Without hesitation, Rob’s electric rig released a series of EMPs that sent the military drones plummeting to their swift destruction. Rob felt a slight tinge of regret build up in his system. He knew this could only get worse. Regardless, they had a job to do. Rob, and Deena holding WinSton, jumped off the cliff, activating their parachutes. Realizing the danger of destroying government property and incurring yet more of its wrath, Rob deployed an [[electromagnetic shield|C Robs Enhancement]] that expanded to cover himself, Deena, and WinSton. In a flash, they descended synchronously toward the dusty ground, with a hail of bullets deflecting off of them in all directions. The drones worked to quickly evade their own attacks, and retreated quickly. Upon making their descent to the soily and barren ground, the trio were overrun with adrenaline. Their first brush with death. WinSton ought to keep Rob’s words in mind. "JESUS! I worked for these bastards for thirty years and they’ll just up and do, THAT?!!" yelled Deena. "What did you expect? Remember? We’re statistics." said Rob with a hint of apathy. "God fucking damn it. Well. Alright. Now what?" asked Deena. "Yeah, now what. I get to be a part of this too." said WinSton. Deena gave him a look. Silence. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script Rob Seeks Help]]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This probably takes place in [[Rob's war room|Script Robs War Room]] and could be after [[the air raid|Script Air Raid]]. [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] is probably thinking [[about Frank|Script WinSton Meets Frank]] but as Frank does not solve many problems, this could be something completely different.] "We gotta prove we aren’t worth messing with. I just so happen to know one guy in the scientific field who I think can do just that. I haven’t talked to him in a while, though. It might be hard to contact him." Rob said. (bg:#ffd4ff)[As this is just the script, we can not ascribe actions or locations to this dialogue. Set it anywhere you like. ] "So you’re the guy I know, who ends up knowing a guy. How reliable is this? We do need an endgame, you know. Can’t just perpetuate a chase forever." said Deena. "Well, of course not. This guy that I know will help you, us, achieve our endgame. We need to solidify to the scientific community, and as a result the government, the importance of WinSton as a free creature. Only if the scientific community’s greatest minds give him the pass will we be at peace." said Rob. "So how do you know they won’t betray you and use him for research?" asked Deena, her skepticism apparent. "Well, I hardly know anything for sure. What I can say is he’s the best we’ve got. The most reliable anti-government agent aside from yours truly, of course. He’s only in the field because he loves science. He’d never let them take WinSton, anyway." said Rob. "Well, we should get moving. Don’t think standing out in the middle of nowhere is gonna do us much good. So where is this friend of yours anyway?" asked Deena. "Well, you’re not gonna like this. He’s in D.C." said Rob solemnly. "ARE YOU SERIOUS???" yelled Deena in a rage. "Ha. No. He lives in Oregon. [[Portland|C Portland]], specifically. The best place to blend in, of course." said Rob. Deena’s heart rate declined significantly. "Damn, you are a pretty good liar. Better keep sharp should we get interrogated." said Deena. "After that stunt? No need. Anyway, we should get going. WinSton, you know anything about G-Force?" asked Rob. "Huh? Gravitational force? What do you mean?" asked WinSton. "Just kidding. OK. Deena, when I give you the signal, press the button on your left palm. Make sure that little shit hangs on tight." Rob said with a smirk. WinSton’s face scrunched up. What the hell was he in for now? Rob gave a thumbs up. In a split second, both Rob and Deena pressed their respective buttons. In a hail of [[blue light|C Blue light]], the trio disappeared amidst a horizontal cloud of dust spanning the road. "WOOOOOOH HOLY SHIIIIIT WHAAT THE HELL IS THIS ROB????" yelled Deena. Hardly able to hear her, but understanding the gist, Rob shrugged and gave a smirk. DING! Deena saw a message appear on his wristband, finding it extremely hard to read in the swirl of dust in blue light. ‘WE’RE GETTING THERE, IT DRIVES US AUTOMATICALLY’ read the message. Evidently this would be a short trip. Deena felt the wind hit her at full throttle. Was this what it was like being in an open plane? No, it was worse. Before Deena could faint or choke WinSton to death attempting to not let them free, the swirling dust storm and blue particles came to an abrupt halt. "Well, we’re here. See what I mean about not needing the car?" said Rob with a smirk. Before them was the dreadful, dangerous, and sprawling metropolis of [[Portland|C Portland]] , Oregon. It had been some time since any of them had endeavored to journey to such a place. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script Rob Parks the Car]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Rob and Deena and WinSton have probably driven to Portland, Oregon from [[Rob's war room and mountain hideaway|Script Robs War Room]], without further incidents or [[cop chases|Script WinSton on the Run]].] "Well, here we are in [[Portland|C Portland]]. [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] landed the dust storm in the middle of the downtown lunch crowd, and a passing businessman chucked a quarter at them. "Damn Homeless" he muttered as he passed by. No one else seemed to notice. "You guys don’t need to worry, by the way. Check this out." Rob said as he pressed another seemingly magical button. In a flash, Rob and Deena’s [[rigs|C Rigs]] and WinSton along with them, seemed to disappear. "Remember when I mentioned active camo? Yeah. Pretty cool, right? Well one thing - it’s all still here. WinSton, I’m gonna need you to keep quiet. And do not leave Deena’s back, or you’re so screwed. This mode takes a lot of power, but it ought to sustain us for a few hours. That’ll be enough to get refueled, find my friend, and then some." said Rob with a growing optimism. "HEY! I can’t even see myself! What the fuck!" yelled WinSton in a fit of understandable anger. "See, you can’t be doing stuff like that. You don’t need to breathe, right?" Without receiving an answer, Rob placed a strip of duct tape over WinSton’s mouth. He gave Deena a look to say ‘he’ll be fine’. With that, the trio departed through the streets of Portland with a resolute mission in mind. (bg:#ffd4ff)[Of course, WinSton's [[mission|Global Warming]] is entirely different.] [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script WinSton Gets to Dennys]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is probably after WinSton, Deena, and Rob [[reach Portland|Script Rob Parks the Car]] on their mission, which is never really divulged in the script portions that we [[have recovered|Archive 6942]]. We think this is a way to get another character involved. [[Someone named Frank|Script WinSton Meets Frank]].] "Well, [[I’m hungry|C Dennys]]. How does Denny’s sound?" Rob announced. Trying his best to look inconspicuous, Rob casually retrieved his phone from his pocket. Opening Google Maps, Rob typed in ‘Dennys’. The first result seemed satisfactory. "Alright. Just thirty minutes on foot, you guys can handle that, right?" asked Rob. "Sure. You too, right?" Deena gave a look to where WinSton presumably was. They groaned in response. "Well, alright let’s get this straight. From now on until further notice, it’s just you and me Deena. Act natural." said Rob. Deena nodded. WinSton felt their blood boil. Deena, Rob, and WinSton began their steady march onward. A series of mostly convenient sidewalk passages, the trek was looking safe and steady. The group passed a number of police, who were none the wiser. Everything was shaping up. Overhead, a pair of standardized reconnaissance drones flew by. This was a normal event, and likely just a coincidence. No need to be concerned. After a few more minutes of walking with little conversation nor substance, the group found themselves at a lowly Denny’s. Above it was a towering monstrosity of a skyscraper. The humans among the group had evidently forgotten just how imposing a great city such as this one is. The group calmly approached the entrance. As is expected of a Denny’s, it was largely vacant. "Ah, perfect. Heya Frank. I’ll have a number eleven deep dish special. Anything for you?" Rob glanced at Deena. An odd sounding order. Before Deena could discern what it meant, she saw the store owner turn the door sign from ‘open’ to ‘closed.’ A creaking sound could be heard. A door had opened somewhere. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script WinSton Meets Frank]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Why we have to have yet another character who can help is beyond the understanding of the simple archivists and commentors from 2150. But this is after WinSton, Rob, and Deena [[get to Portland|Script WinSton Gets to Dennys]].] "Come on in Rob, bring your guests." said Frank as he led them all to the back of [[Dennys|C Dennys]]. The group ducked into a door that had emerged from behind the fridge. As they stepped inside, they heard a mechanical groan. The door closed behind them, and they heard the sound of chatter and Frank’s voice. "Don’t worry. I got a [[mechanical doppelganger|C Mechanical Doppelganger]], he’ll run it just fine." said Frank. "Ah. Classic. Anyway, we’ll just get straight to it. We’re being hunted by the government, cause we got this little bastard with us. Deena, now’s a good time to show him." said Rob, motioning to WinSton’s apparent location. Realizing his mistake, Rob deactivated the electric rigs. The creature shimmered into view. "Huh? What the hell is this thing, Rob?" asked Frank. "Well, you’ve seen him haven’t you?" asked [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]]. "Ah, I’m just pulling your leg. They’re calling them the balloon person, what not. I had a feeling you’d come to me. I couldn’t be happier. Little fella, what’s your name?" asked Frank. "Don’t speak to me like I’m a child. The name’s WinSton. Pronouns are they or them." WinSton glared into Frank’s soul. "Well WinSton, you’re in luck. I can only assume Rob brought you here to pressure me into saving you, right Rob?" Frank said as he cast a glance at Rob. "Yup, exactly. Basically WinSton, the way human society works, you gotta have influence. We gotta get you recognized as a citizen. Then they won’t cut you up." said Rob. "Yes. In other words, we will have to provide a case to the scientific community as to why WinSton is a conscious creature that deserves his own sanctions, protection, and identity as a citizen. It will be easier said than done, of course." said Frank. "So, what exactly are we gonna do, then? Just put them in a lab, make them run some scans and just say WinSton is as smart as a human so don’t cut them up? Is that it?" asked Deena in frustration. "Well, yes. We’ll have to demonstrate their ability to have consciousness and we’ll need to analyze his humanistic traits. I work at a facility that can be accessed via a tunnel just a few meters beyond this very room. We need only bring him there." said Frank. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script WinSton Goes Underground]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This probably takes place in the basement of the [[Dennys|C Dennys]] restaurant where there is a secret tunnel to a secret lab for some unrevealed reason.] Frank rose to his feet. Placing his hand against a seemingly featureless wall, the Earth rumbled. A claustrophobic cavern opened before them. "Go in fellas. Just follow me, and lay low. We’ll be passing by a lot of feds." said Frank. "Hey, hold on, what do you mean?" asked Deena with great concern. "Just stay quiet, right? You’ll see." said Frank. The group slowly walked into the cavern, it's limestone ceiling quickly descending as if to crush them. To their left, a gaping crag unfolded downwards. Any slip here would result in a swift death. The crew took this into account. Machinery whirred, and soldiers marched. A government op going on right beneath the city. Now it made sense to Deena. Turning around slowly so as to not disturb the rubble, Frank whispered to the group: "Don’t breathe if you don’t gotta. One wrong move, and we are all dead. Gimme a thumbs up." whispered Frank. The group provided their input, WinSton attempting their best. For what felt like an hour, the group trudged through the low cavernous walkway. The troops were none the wiser. Eventually, they came to a small hatch. ‘MAINTENANCE’ it read. It seemed so blatantly simple. Was it this easy? The group crawled in as best they could. As they managed to cram themselves inside of the hatch, Frank forced it shut. "Hey, look! Up there!" yelled a faint voice. "Huh? Probably rats or possums again." "Nah man, there’s something wicked up there. Heh. Watch your back." "Yeah, whatever." "Look, that’s normal. They usually hear something, this ain’t a big deal. Just remember, if they do catch us though, consider yourself good as dead. I have some cyanide pills if you guys want ‘em." said Frank. The group collectively gave him a raised eyebrow. "Well, whatever. Anyway, I hope you guys don’t mind tight spaces." said Frank. Before they could gather themselves, Frank crawled face first into the only foreseeable entrance. A low, dark, vent. [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] turned to Deena and shrugged. They were all ready. WinSton wondered if this was all necessary. Had they come here for this reason? Once the group made it into the vent, the first main issue quickly presented itself. This was going to take a long time. "So, good news. These vents are WAY up, alright. They won’t hear shit coming from here, alright?" "So chill out fellas." said Frank. The crew continued to drag themselves along the seemingly endless tunnel. "So what happens if we gotta [[go downward|Investigate the Digs]]?" asked Deena. "Well, you take the impact. You can handle that right?" said Frank. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script WinSton Battles the Feds]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This probably takes place in the secret tunnel system below [[Dennys|C Dennys]]. We have yet to find the script that explains why the Feds were there in the first place. They may have been part of the overall hunt for WinSton and directed by the [[Investigator|Investigator Intro]]. We do not know if this is after or before [[WinSton's jail break|WinSton and the Prison Escape]].] Frank looked around at the [[tunnel system|WinSton and the Prison Escape]] motioned them to silence. They all heard the soft footsteps marching in place above them. "Damn, it’s the Feds," Frank whispered. "We are in for it now." "Deena felt dread engulf her once again. Evidently they were all secret agents now. "OK, we're coming up to the office. This part, I’ll need you to be quiet. See, normally these guys wouldn’t be a problem. Rob, gimme your electro blaster." said Frank. "Woah, what now? Thought you were too soft for that Frank." said Rob. "No, no. Put it to stun. Maximum. Ought to keep ‘em out for a few hours. Or days. Or leave them in a vegetative state - I’ll do it, we ain’t here to cause any collateral damage alright?" said Frank. Slightly disappointed, Rob handed him the blaster. Frank motioned to the group, signaling them to shush. He mouthed something to the effect of ‘I’l handle this’. Steeling himself, Frank adjusted the blaster. FIRE MODE: ‘STUN’, POWER: ‘100%’. Zap! Zap! In two swift blue bolts, the guards just barely visible through the panel hit the floor with a thud. "DID YOU JUST KILL THEM???" yelled WinSton, ignoring his role as a secret agent. "No, you dumbass. He just knocked ‘em out." said Frank. "Wow. You’re pretty rude, Frank. You know we’re saving them right?" said Deena. "Ha. I’m just pulling their leg. they can handle it." said Frank. "Well, end of the line." said Frank, shoving the grate of the vent onto the ground, resulting in a loud bang. "Shit, think you blew our cover [[007|C 007]]." said Rob. "Nah, don’t worry. I know the entire layout and shift of this place. Same bastards, same spots, at all times. With me as your guide, we cannot fail." said Frank, attempting to reassure them. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script WinSton Meets the Scientists]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This probably takes place in the secret tunnel system and possibly after [[Frank has incapacitated the Feds|Script WinSton Battles the Feds]]. We have no scenery so imagine your average scientific lair that is seen in all movies. Or maybe a hospital morgue. Or perhaps Frankenstein's lab. Well, they were probably going to work with leftover movie sets anyway.] Deena, Rob, WinSton, and Frank found themselves in an all-white office space adorned with polished metal and futuristic screens. "We seriously have THIS shit under our cities?!" yelled Deena. "Thirty years working for ‘em and you had no idea huh?" asked Rob. Deena declined to comment. "So uh, Mr. Frank. What exactly are you gonna have your scientist pals do with me anyway? You want me to be free, right?" asked a nervous WinSton. "Weren’t you paying attention? They’ll just run some tests and scans, and prove you’re on the same or even a greater cognitive level than a human. In other words, we’ll prove scientifically why you have rights." said Frank. "Well, that’s great and all. But maybe now is a good time to break it to you guys why I’m here." said WinSton. "Well, we don’t have that kind of time here buddy. Those fellas will wake up in a few hours. We better get moving." said Rob. WinSton felt an overwhelming sense of dread build up inside them. These were the only people who knew, or who could even help them. Yet, they did not understand their predicament. Continuing their trek, the group calmly walked through the all-white halls of the secret facility. "OK, just up ahead here. Leave your rigs though, we can’t have anything that interferes with the machinery." said Frank. Rob and Deena immediately gave him a raised eyebrow. They turned to one another. "No." they said in unison. "Look. Rob. You trust me, right? I gotta get these guys on my side, OK?" said Frank. "How about this? We take our rigs in. You go first. Everybody’s happy. That’s the only way it’s gonna work, capiche?" said Rob, staring directly into Frank’s eyes. Frank nodded meekly. Placing his eyes on to the retinal scanner before him, a fancy ding sounded. A sliding door opened. Beyond the group lay WinSton’s fate, according to their current knowledge anyway. "Everyone, I’ve brought a very special guest! A creature from another world! You’ve seen them on TV, well try seeing them here!" yelled Frank to the auditorium of emotionless lab coat drones. "Very well, put them in the bioacoustics modulator." said a scientist. [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] [[Probable Next Action|Script Rob Destroys Frank]] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[We surmise that Frank is secretly a scientist who just wanted to experiment on WinSton. We are missing the explanation for why [[Rob went to Frank's|Script WinSton Meets Frank]] secret lair under [[Denny's|C Dennys]] in the first place. Again, the set directions are not clear, but this is probably the scientific lair that readers are forced to imagine in [[Script WinSton Meets the Scientists]].] WinSton shot to the ceiling rather than be forced into the [[bioacoustics modulator |Script WinSton Meets the Scientists]] and stared at Frank in disbelief. "How could you sell me out like that? You really expected me to just meekly submit to all of these scientific experiments, when you won’t even [[hear what I have to say?|Script WinSton Explains]]" Frank stared back at WinSton and shrugged. "Ha, well, alright. OK. I’ll level with you guys. Sometimes, you have to make some really hard decisions, and-" BOOM! Before Frank could finish his sentence, [[a smoking hole|C Smoking Hole]] appeared where his face was. [[<img src="./img/node-pop-cans.jpg" alt=a lab with lasers coing out of the ceiling.>|C Smoking Hole]] "Totally didn’t see that coming." said Rob, flipping his energy pistol around for dramatic effect. "HOLY SHIT! ROB! WHAT THE FUCK!" yelled Deena. WinSton stared in astonishment. "Look. He was obviously gonna sell us out. What should I have done instead, let us all die and let WinSton get cut up by these clowns?" said Rob, without even facing his companions. "Alright, listen up! Every single one of you little government shits. I’m crazy. I’m [[fucking insane|C Robs Statement]]. See, I’ve seen a lot throughout my life. [[You worms and your little lab coats|Global Warming]] don’t scare me. If you value your own lives, here’s what I recommend. You get the hell out of this room in the next ten seconds, and you won’t end up a piece of modern art like your friend Frank over there, roger?" said Rob, motioning to the corpse of a traitor with his energy pistol. Immediately, the scientists scattered, fearful for their lives. Checking his watch, Rob realized what he had to make good on. A lone scientist had stumbled in an attempt to escape. "Look, I’m a man of my word." said Rob, gunning down the potential threat. "Look. You let your enemies live, and they’re just gonna stab you in the back." said Rob, casting a cold look at the corpse he had created. "Uhhh yeah Deena so remember when you said humans WEREN’T all violent?!" yelled WinSton. "For God’s sake. You know we’re just fighting violence with violence. If Rob hadn’t done what he did, we’d all be dead, you know." Deena snapped back. "How do you guys even solve your conflicts where you come from anyway?" asked Deena. "Well, I suppose for a barbaric species such as yours that is of importance. Well, let me answer your pertinent question." began WinSton. Rob and Deena exchanged looks, attempting to hold back laughter. "What? You don’t think I can be cool? You don’t have to be violent to be a badass, you savages." said WinSton, expressing their utter disgust. Rob and Deena burst out laughing. WinSton never felt [[more alone|WinStons Fight]]. //The rest is corrupted// [[This may be another ending or it may be another violent scene without an ending|Script WinSton Storms the Base]] [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Surprisingly, celebrities get cut into pieces all the time! In the metaphorical sense, that is… ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[and not necessarily by scientists…] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[If we adjust for inflation the money the government was offering equals to about $120,000. Man, that government pocket deal really doesn’t sound too bad, now that I’ve seen just how nuts inflation can get!] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Google Maps is referring to the old application made by the now defunct monopoly Google inc. They were once a great company that strived in technological advancements but due to a very unfortunate spillage of water, they went defunct.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Ugh, I hate hearing about that ancient tech. At least their successor, Broogly, has a better search engine.] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[We assume that this is to call [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]], but we are still unclear on the reasons why Rob would be able to help in this situation.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Rob can do anything! Read the script!] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Believe me, I tried to. ] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[There is no record of a crash here. Presumably, the spaceship and the car ascended to heaven] (bg:#ffd4ff)[You have no proof of that! Where are you reading this into the narrative? ] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Presumably, this mention of contraband refers to [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]] Does WinSton want to be known as [[contraband|Global Warming]] to their people? Who knows? ] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Rob was the first to figure out molecular repairs which repairs any object into a proper shape of working while spending 0 energy.] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Why on earth would they break off their mission to go to a place called Denny’s?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[What is Dennys? ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Maybe it is a secret hideout,] (bg:#ffd4ff)[No, there are too many references and ads for it to be a secret.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[I think it is a type of eating establishment, like our mess hall.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[They have to eat… true…] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Maybe this is product placement. Movies did that. I read about [[commercialization|A Machinery Realm]] somewhere.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Are you sure its the same thing?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[No, but let's just go with the flow. ] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The gray skies of Vancouver, Washington stretch over the Washington State University’s campus. Loudspeakers crackle: "And if you have any information about any of [[these crimes|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]] please make sure to report to the campus security." The investigator glances upward, candy-smoke with his gaze to the sky. <img src="./img/investigator-winston.png" alt=A person in a trenchcoat looking up at a dusky sky, filled with red balloons.> Early choices in an investigation can decide how a case plays out, so choose //your// path wisely! [[Talk to WinSton]] [[Investigate the Digs]] [[Talk to Chuck]] Return to the [[Archive|Archive 6942]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The investigator is not sure what he expected when they said red talking balloons, but it wasn’t this. [[WinSton U. Victory]] floats lightly against the computer chair the investigator finds them in, anchored only by the plastic blue weight they’re tied to. WinSton: "Aren’t you the investigator?" [[squeaks WinSton|C Can WinSton Talk]] Investigator: "How did you just-" WinSton: "What?" Investigator: "Uh…nevermind. Yes, I am the investigator and I will be asking just a couple questions." He realizes that the logistics of a balloon talking is not his main priority right now. The investigator may have a suspect on his hands, no matter how silly they may look. Investigator: "Do you know anything about what happened in the Digs earlier?" WinSton: "I wasn’t really supposed to be doing this, but I [[snuck into the Digs|C WinSton Deserves]] to sneak in a late assignment." WinSton stammers. Investigator: "Did you see anything?" WinSton: "As I was leaving, I saw some shuffling going on in [[Deena's office|Deenas Office]], but not wanting to get caught in a place I wasn’t really supposed to be, I made my exit quickly. I didn’t have anything to do with any embezzlement, but whoever was in there definitely was." After WinSton finishes, the investigator thanks them and moves on with his investigation. (link: "Head to the Digs")[(set: $path to "A")(goto: "V: Video Released")] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The WSU Security cop looks over at the Investigator, who is just lighting what looks like a cigarette to his mouth and snarls : "Smoking isn’t allowed here." Investigator: "This isn’t—" but their hard gaze forces the investigator to relent. He takes the faux-cigarette out of his mouth and extinguishes it against his faux-leather sleeve. This isn’t the first case he's had to endure hardships on—hopefully it won’t be his last. The investigator explores The Digs unimpeded. There’s nothing suspicious as he conducts his most in-depth searches—right as he resigns himself to the toughest case yet. The Digs has a long table with sharp items scattered on it, and locked offices on either side, including [[Deena's office|Deenas Office]]. A white couch sits invitingly in the corner, below the always gray sky windows. Other than a few dirty ends of strings slumped over the printer, there is no sign of [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]]. Something snags on his belt before he can walk out of the room. It’s a bright, yellow bandana that must have gotten overlooked by every one passing by. It’s the only evidence the investigator has, so he scoops it up to help with his investigation. (link: "Look for more clues")[(set: $path to "B")(goto: "V: Video Released")] [[Return to the Archive|Archive 6942]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] Most of the students are either too busy to talk to the investigator or unwilling to get caught up in the chaos of the crime. After wandering around a little more, the investigator manages to find a student who’s willing to cooperate—at least, they don’t try to rush off as soon as the investigator approaches him. The investigator lowers himself into the seat across from him. He doesn’t look up from his phone. Investigator: "This embezzlement thing," he begins, taking a drag from the candy in his mouth. "It’s got the whole campus [[stirred up|Script WinSton is Wanted]], huh?" The kid sighs loudly, shoving his phone into his letterman jacket. His posture snaps back as he kicks his shoes up onto the table and he stares at the investigator from over his sunglasses. Student: "What are you, a cop?" Investigator: "Administration hired me to investigate." He exhales a bit of chalky sugar-dust and takes out his Lucky Lights box, offering a stick to him. Somewhat to the investigator's surprise, he holds a hand up to indicate he declines—the investigator shrugs, starts chewing on the cigarette already in his mouth, and whips out a new one to replace it. The student rolls his eyes before he pushes his shades back up. Student: "It’s none of my business. If you want a suspect for [[all of that mess|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]], why don’t you try looking into [[WinSton U. Victory|WinSton U. Victory]]? [[Big red balloons|V: WinStons Introduction]]. Can’t miss ‘em." … [[Big red balloons|WinStons Race]]. The investigator pauses to make sure he heard that correctly, but the kid keeps looking at you head-on, and the investigator is forced to accept that this is not the strangest lead he has ever gotten on a case. The investigator exhales another plume of smoke and scribbles the name down on his notepad. Investigator: "Got it. Thanks, kid." Student: "Chuck," he says, as the investigator stands up. The investigator nods, and tips his head at Chuck before leaving. Time to investigate some [[talking balloons|C Can WinSton Talk]]. (link: "Look for those Balloons")[(set: $path to "C")(goto: "V: Video Released")] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] As the investigator passes by VMMC 111, he overhears some students talking about a video that leaked overnight. The investigator: "What video are you guys looking at?" The student hands you their phone. Nothing happens. One of them mutters to the group, then turns towards the investigator. Other student: "You’re holding it upside down. The video is on the other side." <iframe width="315" height="560" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C1sWI02h1is?si=BU3aTC_EKVotAc5S" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> The investigator: "Ah," he says, nodding. The investigator sprints down to [[the Digs|Deenas Office]], hoping to find WinSton, but all he could find was a clip used to weigh them down. They must’ve untied it and fled … There’s only one person who knows them better than anyone - [[WinSton’s lawyer|WinSton and Their Lawyer]], [[Deena]][[.]] The investigator makes a quick call to his employer, asking for her address. He has to get Deena to tell him where WinSton may have gone, but how //you// do that might make all the difference. (if:$path is"C")[[[Ask Aggressively|Aggressive]]] (else:)[[[Ask Aggressively|Aggressive]] or [[Ask Calmly|Passive]]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The investigator speeds past multiple red lights to get answers as fast as possible, ready for things to get ugly. He is rushing towards Deena's office, where she sometimes practiced as a [[professor at WSUV|C Syllabus]], but usually was impersonating a [[lawyer|WinSton and Their Lawyer]]. He blasts the front doors wide open, cratering a hole in the wall with his sheer force and Investigative Determination.[[™|The Finding of WinSton U. Victory]][[®|WinSton and the Distraction]][[©|WinStons Reflections]] Investigator: "WHERE IS WINSTON!!"The investigator slams Deena's table, making it jump. He looks under the table quickly, but does not see WinSton there. Deena: "What are you talking about?? What’d [[they do|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]]?"Deena inquires. Investigator: "I KNOW WINSTON WAS IN THE DIGS LAST SUNDAY WHEN WSUV’S MONEY WAS EMBEZZLED." He yaps. "AND NOW THEY’VE FLED CAMPUS AFTER PROOF OF IT WAS LEAKED [[ONLINE!!"|WinSton and the Police Raid]] Investigator: "NOW I NEED TO KNOW WHERE THEY ARE, AND YOU’RE GOING TO TELL ME!" Deena: "Not going to happen." Investigator: "…what?" Deena: "You heard me, I’m not going to help. WinSton is the kindest soul to have graced WSUV, [[I made them|C WinStons Origins]] specifically that way. [[Someone|WinStons Great Confrontation]] clearly must have framed them, and you’re too blind to see it." Investigator: "I-..." Deena: "Now get out of my office." The investigator walks out of her house, defeated. [[Continue investigation.|Cold Case Ending]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The investigator drives to the address to ask where WinSton may have gone, knocking on [[Deena's door|Deenas Office]] once he arrives. Deena has claimed to be the [[best lawyer possible|WinSton and Their Lawyer]] but the Investigator has his doubts. Investigator: "Hi, I’m an investigator hired by WSU to figure out who embezzled money from them last Sunday. I’m just here to ask you a few questions, that’s all." Deena: "I’ve heard, people are saying it could have happened in the Digs but nobody’s come forward yet… What do I have to do with this though?" Investigator: "Have you heard from WinSton recently?" Deena: "You don’t think WinSton could have done this, do you? They’re not that type of person… WinSton doesn’t even have [[fingers to type|Deenas Office]] on the keyboard…" (if: $path is $pathA)[Investigator: "I don’t think WinSton did this. I talked to them yesterday and they told me they saw someone else in the Digs while they were there. They seemed heavily distressed, I could tell they weren’t conning me."](else:)[Investigator: "A video was posted last night leading WSU to believe it was WinSton who got onto the main computer and stole from them. Now I don’t believe it’s WinSton who embezzled the money, I believe somebody may have framed them; I’m trying to figure out who."] He pauses slightly before continuing. Investigator: "What I need from you is to help me find them. I found their weighted clip in the Digs which leads me to believe they untied it and fled due to the stress from the video. Is there any place you think WinSton might go to in a time like this?" Deena: "Possibly.. There's a campground we go to every summer, it’s WinSton’s favorite place to relax and have some smores; that’s my best guess as to where they could’ve gone." Deena turns around as she scribbles down directions to the camp. After a short minute, she snaps back to the investigator with a crumpled piece of paper in hand. Deena: "Once you reach the entrance, you want to head to Lot 14 down the trail, that’s our go-to spot." The investigator thanks her and sprints to his car, turns the keys, and follows the map to the campsite. [[Head to the Campsite|Campsite]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] Deena’s directions really proved to be invaluable. Without her help, the investigator doesn't know where else he might have checked. The investigator finds himself at the front of the [[old campgrounds|Deena and WinSton Meet]], he starts to look around for WinSton. The investigator is greeted by a huge sign stating "Marble Springs Campgrounds," but the sign doesn’t look very well maintained. There are several fallen trees over the main road into the site so he’ll have to continue on foot. [Delve into the campsite.]<1| (click-replace: ?1)[[The wind is starting to blow.]<2|] (click-replace: ?2)[[The leaves on the ground are rustling.]<3|] (click-replace: ?3)[[You hear the slight sound of latex squeaking.]<4|] (click-replace: ?4)[The investigator finds WinSton at Lot 14 just floating there [[motionless|WinSton and the Passage of Time]]. (if:$path is"B")[[[Approach WinSton|Chucks Bandana]]] (else:)[[[Approach WinSton|Chuck Knew]]]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] Investigator: "WinSton!" They turn around looking startled. The investigator begins to approach them. Investigator: "Don’t worry I know you're innocent, we talked about this before, remember?" WinSton nods and the investigator sits down besides them. Investigator: "I need your help, I need to know if you’ve seen or talked to anyone else about the incident" WinSton looks uncomfortable. WinSton: "If they know I told you I’m afraid of what might happen." The investigator insists he can keep WinSton safe and protected. He begs WinSton to tell him what they know. WinSton sighs and finally the answer the investigator has been looking for escapes from their lips. WinSton: "....Chuck was in the hall when I was running to the Digs. No one else saw…" Investigator: "Thank you," he smiles. The investigator gets up to leave promising he'll be back later to help WinSton. [[Continue Investigation|The Popping]] (set: $culprit to "Chuck") </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The investigator reaches in his bag for the wrinkled-up bandana he found [[in the Diggs|Investigate the Digs]]. "Of course, WinSton couldn’t have worn this bandana, his head was way too fragile; the pressure of the bandana wrapped around his forehead would have killed him." The investigator thinks to himself. He remembers the leaked video of WinSton in the Digs. Surely, WinSton should have seen this bandana before, and may possibly know its owner. He holds the bandana up to WinSton and before the investigator can even ask them a question, they fly over to the nearest bush and attempt to hide. Poor WinSton, they must be scared they are getting in trouble. The investigator feels bad for startling WinSton and reassures them that he doesn't think they’re guilty. The investigator gently tugs on their string and stop them from escaping. Investigator: "I figured you would know who this belongs to." WinSton: "The bandana belongs to my friend, Chuck..." After a pause, WinSton pleads, "I didn’t think sneaking in a late assignment would spiral out [[into all this|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]]." Investigator: "We are not worried about that right now." The investigator chuckles. WinSton squeaks in relief. Investigator: "Thank you for telling me about the bandana, WinSton." (set: $culprit to "Chuck") [[Continue Investigation|The Popping]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]  The investigator arrives on the scene just as a loud bang rings out and red balloon scraps gently float to the ground. Nothing is left to see but these sad shiny latex scraps and some dirty string. The investigator quickly scans the area to see the attacker as a blurry figure rushing into the background. The figure disappears before the investigator can get a clear look at them, leaving no footprints or any other clue to their identity or where they went. With everything the investigator's gathered, he is absolutely positive that the only person who would have any motive would be $culprit. [[Summon $culprit to the Interrogation room|Interrogation]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] A summons to the interrogation room was issued to $culprit. The investigator walks up to the door of the room, the officer standing by opens the door to let the investigator in. Investigator: "Ah $culprit, the man of the hour." $culprit: "Why am I here?" Investigator: "Well I’ve got some information that might be a little unfortunate for you $culprit." (if: $path is "B")[[[show bandana|Caught Ending]]] (else:)[[["You knew didn’t you?"|Proud Failure Ending]]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The investigator threw the bandana on the table. $culprit looks a bit nervous. Investigator: "Guess where I found this, $culprit. The Digs, just after the incident occurred, and I have it on good authority that this headband is yours." $culprit: "Uh um I don’t think that’s mine." $culprit stammers. Investigator: "$culprit, I can super easily send this headband down to get a sweat sample but if you save me the trouble, I might be able to help you out here." $culprit: "Alright I did it! I saw those idiotic balloons heading into the digs and used it as a chance to grab something for myself! I released the video so no one would figure out I did it but when they started to talk to you, I knew I had to do something." Investigator: "So you popped them." $culprit pauses. Stares at the Investigator. The Investigator stares back with his Investigative Determination.[[™|The Finding of WinSton U. Victory]][[®|WinSton and the Distraction]][[©|WinStons Reflections]], which never failed to bring out the guilty. $culprit: "Yeah. I popped them." $culprit says resigned to the hands of Fate.. Investigator: "Well you’ve given me everything I need. Thanks, $culprit." The investigator says as he stands up and leaves the room. All the investigator needed was a confession and $culprit gave it to him, easier than he could have guessed. Another job well done. Another criminal behind bars. (set: $culprit to "Chuck") [[Try for a different ending?|Investigator Intro]] [[Return to the Archive|Archive 6942]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] Investigator: "You knew WinSton was gonna head into the digs didn’t you?" $culprit: "Uh, no?" Investigator: "Oh," he says, pacing across the room. $culprit: "Is that it?" $culprit chuckles, "Ha. Haha. so–hah–you have nothing! AHHAHAAHA!" The investigator pauses, gnawing on the end of his candy cigarette. Investigator: "Ah." He turns around. "I failed to account for that." $culprit chokes mid-giggle as the investigator turns and opens the door. The investigator stops at the threshold, and looks over his shoulder. Investigator: "Good game." As the door shuts behind him, he remembers the officer outside the room, and he offers $culprit his half-eaten cigarette. $culprit looks at him, incredulous. Shrugging, the investigator throws it on the ground and crushes it beneath his heel. Investigator: "Your loss," he says as he walks outside. "Hey!" The investigator hears a chair clatter behind him. "Get back h–" Closing the door on the case, he gazes out across the parking lot. Another job well done. [[Try for a different ending?|Investigator Intro]] [[Return to the Archive|Archive 6942]] </div>

<div class="investigator"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="investigator-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The investigator shakes his head thinking back to how Deena was his last lead to finding WinSton. The investigator lets out a big sigh and begins to regret being so aggressive with her. The investigator has been under so much stress and pressure trying to figure everything out all alone, perhaps he can make amends tomorrow and try again. But for now, he has no choice but to go back to WSUV, maybe he missed [[Something]] there. While the investigator makes his way back through the dim lit forest path the wind bites aggressively at his nose, he begins to pick up speed. Soon the investigator passes an old worn down sign for "Marble Springs Campgrounds"and hears a loud bang. It rings through the investigator's bones. He debates going to inspect, but the watch on his wrist reminds him how much he needs to get back. The investigator calmly convinces himself that it was probably just a hunter catching their prize. He turns his head and continues to WSUV, ignoring the shot. Case closed… [[Try for a different ending?|Investigator Intro]] (set: $culprit to "Chuck") [[Return to the Archive|Archive 6942]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[[[All Cops|Aggressive]] Are Bastards.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This was a common acronym and we still use it.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[If it was so common, why do we need to spell it out?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Because someone might not know the slang. After all, didn't the archives also say [[all cops drink piss|WinSton and Their Interrogation]]? So that was the same thing, right?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah, probably. ] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)["你的脑子肯定是被驴踢了。"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["先生，我只是想尽快调查出真相"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["所以你就把平民的房子给炸了？这种情况鬼才会理你"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["时间紧急，我只是想节省时间"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["如果有土匪打劫银行我是不是可以节省时间把银行炸了"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["你连闯了几个红灯，造成了交通问题，还在居民区使用炸弹，导致我们收到了几百张投诉信。你知道我要说什么吧。"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["休假反省？"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["你被开除了，给我收拾东西走人[["|English Translation]]] [[Try again|Investigator Intro]] <audio src="D:\Class Story\aud\something.mp3"autoplay/> ('track:' 'beep', 'play') [[We are missing something here.|Cold Case Ending]] </div><!-- this closes the commentary node div–>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)["You must have been kicked in the head by a donkey."] (bg:#ffd4ff)["Sir, I just want to investigate the truth as soon as possible"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["So you blew up civilians' houses? Only a ghost would care about you in this situation."] (bg:#ffd4ff)["Time is urgent, I just want to save time"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["If there are bandits robbing the bank, can I save time and blow up the bank?"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["You ran several red lights, caused traffic problems, and used bombs in residential areas, causing us to receive hundreds of complaint letters. You know what I'm going to say."] (bg:#ffd4ff)["A vacation to reflect?"] (bg:#ffd4ff)["You're fired, pack your things and [[leave|Investigator Intro]]."] </div>

<div class="background"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] //Speech from the Major Captain, Mars Colony Given to the Martian State University, Electronic Literature Lab 2 Earth date December 1, 2130? (Check date**)// '' Celebration of archive release'' It is my great pleasure to congratulate you all on this fine piece of retrieval and scholarship. This effort will stand as a grand step toward regaining our culture and our past, and will pave the way for future ventures with the Heliumangi to broaden our understanding of our human history. We know that there is no turning back and that the Earth will not be able to support human life for centuries to come. And therefore, we must accept the reality of our position. We must set aside our conflicts and our resentments toward the Heliumangi and accept them as the main inhabitants of earth. Yet we can open these tiny doors to unlock the secrets of our past and provide insights into the starting points of the cataclysm. We will [[not assign blame|C No Assigning Blame]] for either the [[wasteful and harmful actions|C Extinction]] of past human greed nor the [[opportunistic|An Ambitious Realm]] and unscrupulous dealings of the Heliumangi. Recovering and analyzing these archives gives a door to understanding the individuals and [[the actions|C The War]] that precipitated our transfer to Mars. Before this point, we had no resources to waste on fripperies like archiving or literature. Our hasty ships and lifedomes had no space or weight for books or papers. Every byte of our computer space and storage was needed to sustain our lives and we could not spare a single electron for our true heritage. Yet we have always told our stories. For stories in our minds do not cost air or water or any precious resource. Stories that we have heard from our parents and that they heard from their parents are what have kept us alive. And now, for the first time since our flight to Mars, we can discover some of the truths behind the stories we have told for the last century. Thanks to the generous efforts of the Heilumangi, we can re-establish these reconnaissance forays. And we will go back to the Electronic Literature Lab 1, that place in the Pacific Northwest of what was the United States, and uncover more of what our great-grandparents held dear as [[archives|Archive 6942]]. [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] </div>

<div class="background"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] //Exploratory Exchange Agreement between [[Heliumangi]] ambassador team to Mars Colony and the human Mars Colony// Any legal disputes about this go through the ambassador team and the Major Captain. We can’t spare anyone else to do any negotiating or [[lawyer|WinSton and Their Lawyer]] fluff. So this is in everybody’s interest and you all should [[just shut up|C No Assigning Blame]] and do this. And [[no tricks|C Transcription of Movie Script]] on either side, human or [[heliumangi|Heliumangi]] or the deal is off. Heliumangi will provide a shuttle capable of sustaining [[human life on Earth|C The War]] along with oxygen, water, nutrients to 5 explorers for 15 days after they land the Mars-Earth shuttle. They will also charge and attach the solar cells needed for the return trip. 5 Heliumangi will accompany the human explorers while they are on earth. Helumangi will escort the 5 human explorers to important document repositories to read through [[manuscripts|Archive 6942]], restart computers, etc. to recover their past (the Electronic Literature Lab 1 at Washington State University, Vancouver). Heliumangi will provide technical support and power. In exchange for allowing the humans to visit Earth, the 5 Heliumangi will be allowed to explore only the Mars regions noted on this map of Mars for [[helium deposits|An Insatiable Realm]]. They can mine only what they require for a return trip. Once the Heliumangi identify helium deposits on Mars that they can use or once humans identify more archives they want to preserve, further negotiations will begin. Ok. Everybody happy now? [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] </div>

<div class="background"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] Astrum, the Principal Astronomer, checked their charts for the thousandth time. They knew they were right. They knew they could save [[their beloved people|Heliumangi]], if not saving their [[beloved planet|Mother Ground]]. Astrum flew hurriedly into the Senior Assembly room, charts flying out from under their strings and their head nearly bursting from the blast of helium they had taken just hours before. They nearly panicked as they saw the entire Assembly present, but stretched their balloon sides wide. "We have found it!" Astrum cried out, balloons blazing red and shiny with excitement. "Calm down." The Senior Senior snapped. "Breathe in and tell us about it." Astrum breathed deeply into the helium pool. Some of the junior Assembly members shifted in their air currents, upset at this profligate use of helium. The Senior Senior calmed them down, noting that Astrum was the Principal Astronomer, the one in charge of finding the new source of helium they [[so desperately needed|An Insatiable Realm]]. Astrum launched into an elaborate discussion, which the Senior Senior interrupted. "Skip the science stuff, just get to the point!" The Senior Senior nearly popped with impatience. Astrum took a deeper breath of the helium, and continued, ignoring the murmured accusations of wasting this precious and diminishing resource. We have found the planet, Earth, revolving around a minor sun on the outer arm of the galaxy. It not only has the helium we need, but we have detected that the native species have entered into a technological state that can push their planet from a barely inhabitable one into one filled with carbon dioxide and a warmer atmosphere. We have been monitoring their [[sound transmissions|Something]]. The languages are ridiculously easy to learn, and the culture is primitive. "Incredible," breathed the Senior Senior. "Learn the languages. Start the mission. When could the planet be ready for our [[invasion force|C The War]]?" Astrum startled out from under their science notes. They did not want to leave their cozy lab and face the dangers of [[unknown labs|Script WinSton Meets the Scientists]]. But who could they send instead? Then Astrum thought about his wastrel cousin, the one who was always getting in trouble for their antics, who had been fascinated with the Earth transmissions from the time the Heliumangi started receiving these sounds. [[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]] knew the language. They could even spout off dialogue from their favoriteearth movie, the Punisher: "Give me two minums and WinSton." The Senior Senior bobbed up and down, helium atoms bouncing in their excitement. A chance to get rid of WinSton! Yes. Done! WinSton was on [[their way|Deena and WinSton Meet]]. Related links: [[Archive 6942]] [[Agreement]] [[C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[//Psst. Remember [[not to link|C Extinction]] to the secret we are not supposed to tell. Yeah, but what about the [[photographic evidence of the landing|C Landing]]? Will you keep quiet [[about that?!?|C Heliumangi FBI]]//] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[I have never heard of an "M24 drone"before. It seems to have been used for surveillance purposes by the military existing at the time.] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Portland was a large city in the area formerly known as Oregon State. The inhabitants of Portland likely were trained in the arts, as there is ancient text on the walls in all colors. The styling of the letters, or the "font", is unique for each piece. The Electronic Literature Lab is on the other side of what had been the Columbia River. This is the more important historical site to [[excavate|Agreement]].] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[The fugitive "Rob", despite his old age, was somehow able to jump several feet in the air and hit the ceiling with such force that he broke a hole in it. This indicates superior strength, which must have been required to earn fugitive status. ] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[This seems like the most serious crime of all. After all, a hooligan was a derogatory term for the [[Heliumangi]], which would have been completely unacceptable in the subsequent [[Global Warming Wars|Global Warming]].] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Eastern Washington is a vast wasteland with very little precipitation.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Wasn't the whole place a vast wasteland?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Not before the [[Global Warming Wars|Global Warming]]. Some of these places even had trees and steady rain. See the [[gray skies description|Investigator Intro]].] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] "Well, anyway, do you wanna hear it or not? You’ve been dying to know right? I’m sure we could all use some closure, or something." said WinSton. "Well, when you put it like that. Yeah, sounds good. I just figured you’d never cough it up in the first place. I suppose a drastic setting like this one was just the perfect catalyst huh?" said Deena. "Well, to be honest I never gave much of a damn - but you haven’t really said much of anything, so knock yourself out." said Rob. "Wow. Rude. Well, anyway. I’ll get right to the point. I don’t fall in line with any of the species you have here on Earth. You probably wouldn’t even consider me an animal. My species originates from the [[planet Gliese|Planet Gliese]]. It’s very rich in helium. As you might have noticed, I am capable of this!" said WinSton, spontaneously rising into the air at an astonishing rate. "Yeah, we know you are a blow-hard" Deena muttered under her breath. "And we need your planet. And I'm the one who is going to [[make that happen|Global Warming]]!" WinSton cried triumphantly. This is [[Entire Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Rob seems to have incredible gadgets and the reflexes to use them to deflect any incoming attack. If this work is based on true events, it may be useful to look into what allowed Rob to gain such dexterity.] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[How do you know [[EsTon|EsTon]] is an evil twin?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[They look like one.] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[007 is an refrence to an old school multi- media character by the name of James Bond.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Hey wait, what movies did your great grandparents bring up here to [[Mars|Archive 6942]]...] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Shhh.. No one knows about my secret stash.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Now they do...] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Rigs? They travelled in a dust storm?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah, well, maybe the dust covered the cars and WinSton just reported the dust?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Sure. No one said [[this transmission|Archive 6942]] had to be consistent or make sense or anything.] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> 录像带里面是一个广告，这个广告中画面是一个巨大的天空工厂，被一个巨大带脸和胡子的气球悬挂在天空。巨大的胡子气球念着广告词，并不断地生产无数的气球。 "这里是气球工厂。在这里打造的是全世界最具生命最具智慧的气球。他们不会死亡，每当一个气球破裂，都将自动生产一个新气球继承破损气球的记忆和性格。他们是比人类更高级的生命形式，他们将替代人类，成为地球新的主人。气球工厂，制造高等生命的地方" </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] A winding path, woven by many, yet it unfolds the narrative of a select few. Regardless of the key you select, the findings you will discover along the way reveal insights into ...  The 8 [USB Plugins] file names are: {(set: $map to (datamap: "Je suis", "WinSton and the Class", "Deuce", "Another Day in the Life of WinSton", "CRIMINAL", "WinSton and the Police Raid", "Ritual", "WinSton and the Graffiti Incident", "Report", "The Finding of WinSton U. Victory", "Love", "WinSton and Their Date", "Intrigue", "WinStons Secrets", "Findings", "WinSton and Depression") )} Pick a USB (text-colour:red)[(dropdown: bind $storyPath, "Je suis", "Deuce", "CRIMINAL", "Ritual", "Report", "Love", "Intrigue", "Findings")] to (link-rerun: "open ...", (text-colour:red))[(goto: $storyPath of $map)]  Return to the [[Archive|Archive 6942]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[The archival [[expedition|Agreement]] found over 100 versions of the syllabus for this original class [[Digital Storytelling DTC 354 2023|Fall 2023 Students]] at the original Electronic Literature Lab at WSUV, and refused to bring back any of them. They were all completely disorganized and [[hopelessly corrupted|Their Deal]].] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] Of course, it's cliche to be the //jealous// [[evil twin|C How Do You Know]]. EsTon didn't feel like they were evil, though. They simply craved [[the same attention|V: WinStons Introduction]] that their sibling was given, even for just a moment. In a even more cliche manner, this feud of course began because of a [[girl|WinStons Love]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] EsTon made friends with a girl in [[high school|C High School]] and they soon became very close. Like most naive teenagers, EsTon soon fell in love with the girl. EsTon spent all their spare time with the girl, following her around like a lost puppy, tying their strings to her by accident. Wnedy was friendly to EsTon, bobbing gently in the breeze when she saw them, tossing her strings out of his way, but in a quiet and playful manner. Her friendliness made EsTon feel good about themselves. It was a wonderful fantasy, an incredibly lifting sensation whenever EsTon thought about Wendy. That is, until EsTon discovered that the girl was in ove with their sibling, [[WinSton|WinSton and Their Date]], the whole time. EsTon's world was absolutely crushed, but they weren't surprised. Of course, WinSton couldn't let EsTon have one thing for themselves in this life. EsTon vowed revenge, vowed to follow WinSton wherever they went, and ensure that they never triumphed. No matter [[what mission|Global Warming]] and no matter [[what cost|The Will and Will-not]]. EsTon had never felt so alone before. They had to try one last time, to [[fight to win against WinSton|WinStons Fight]]. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] The biggest fight [[WinSton and EsTon|WinStons Secrets]] had ever had in their lives was on the night of the [[ High School|C High School]] Homecoming dance in their final year. EsTon, the elder of the two, clenched their fists, their jaw tight with frustration. "WinSton," they spat, the name carrying the weight of [[betrayal|WinStons Love]]. "I can't believe you'd stoop so low. She was mine, and you knew it." WinSton, cool and composed, smirked in response. "EsTon, you've always been too possessive. [[Wendy's|WinSton and Their Date]] not an object to be claimed. She chose me because I'm the better choice." The accusation hung heavy in the air, stoking the flames of an already volatile situation. EsTon's eyes flashed with a mix of anger and hurt. "Better choice? You're nothing but a thief, WinSton, [[a common criminal|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]] You've taken something that was rightfully mine." A sudden gust of wind stirred the fallen leaves, as if nature itself recoiled at the impending clash between the siblings. The tension reached a breaking point, and the first blow was thrown. EsTon lunged at WinSton, balloons flying everywhere, strings tangling and knotting, fueled by a potent mix of heartbreak and anger. The fight that ensued was a chaotic ballet of punches and grapples, the siblings trading blows in a dance that echoed the complex tapestry of their shared history. Each strike was a manifestation of their rivalry, an unspoken competition that had been brewing for years. The moonlight bore witness to the clash of kin, as they fought for dominance and, in EsTon's case, a sense of justice. "You've always been the golden child, WinSton,"EsTon seethed between punches. "But this, this is unforgivable." WinSton, dodging and parrying with calculated precision, replied, "I'm not the one who let her slip away, EsTon. You had your chance, and you lost it." WinSton lunged and pulled their strings out of EsTon's grasp, severing their relationship forever. EsTon cried after them: You will never escape [[my wrath|WinSton and the Fountain]]!! Could things have been different? We'll never know [[what might have|The What If]], had Wendy not come into their lives, severing their special twin bond. [[Back to the USB Drives|List of USB Plugs]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[4 EVAR is a misspelling, but is probably deliberate. This must be some sort of text code, but we never figured it out. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Just because we don't know, doesn't mean no one knows. Yeah, why you gotta correct evaryting anyway?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[4 EVER only works as an English pun as it is pronounced FourEver. This was part of the text language and shows that the judge was used to cell phone justice.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Is that like the cells [[WinSton gets out of|WinSton and Their Flight]]?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Probably not. ] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[This campsite could either refer to the [[Cardinal Brook Campgrounds,|Campsite]] that the [[Investigator|Investigator Intro]] finds or it could be at the [[Marble Springs site|Deena and WinSton Meet]] or these could be the same thing.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah, Archiving and piecing the story together is tough.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[That is why it is called "ergodic literature"not erotic literature. Totally different.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Oh just stick with the disambiguation and [[keep politics|C No Assigning Blame]] out of this!] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Funny that alien cultures see us as bringers of our own destruction. We always thought it would be the aliens that brought us down!] (bg:#ffd4ff)[I mean have you researched the 2020s? And the corporations? And the FBI?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[They had their [[own problems!|A Machinery Realm]]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah, hypocrites everywhere. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Don’t tell me you’ve been looking into the conspiracies about that stupid virus again… it was proven it wasn’t aliens! Don’t try to blame [[Heliumangi]] now for the entire [[Global Warming]] wars!] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Actually, that is something we are not supposed to talk about in this archive. Keep it clean, remember? No blaming and no more fearmongering, or there will be more war and [[no more expeditions!|Agreement]], So shut up about what happened already.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[But then how are we going to solve this mystery?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Who said we have to solve it? We are only providing the [[commentary|Commentary]] and the [[archive|Archive 6942]] as it is. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Oh yeah, right. ] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[This driving trip may be the road to Rob. Are we there yet? Unfortunately, as this movie was never produced, we may never know. ] </div>

<div class="alien"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="alien-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is obviously after the drive when [[Rob rescues Deena and WinSton|Script WinSton Gets to Rob]] at his mountain top resort and superhero home. We can imagine that the budget to actually visualize this home with a [[war room|Script WinSton Gets New Weapons and Wheels]], massive [[repair shop|Script Rob Rescues Deena]] and more was just too much for the movie producers to handle. Use your imagination.] Deena and [[Rob|C Rob Swigart]] along with the writhing duffel bag, walked to Rob's war room. Dimly lit with an atmosphere of cyberpunk, blue and yellow LEDs decorated the room. Before them was a battle computer, with a nameplate designating it 'BART'. "So, let's just get down to business. I saw the posts. You are obviously the woman associated with that balloon thing. You got him with you right?" Said Rob, over a cup of tea that materialized in his hands. "Good thing you saw, saves me the trouble of explaining it. Well, let me just get him out of here." Said Deena. She reached for the bag, and released the confined specimen. "YOU… YOU KNOW MY PRONOUNS GOD DAMN IT! SERIOUSLY?! CALL ME HIM ONE MORE FUCKING TIME AND I WILL DESTROY YOU!" yelled the enraged WinSton. Within moments, WinSton was immobilized in Deena's grasp. "My bad, buddy. Just don't get it twisted. If anyone's gonna get destroyed, it's you." said Deena. WinSton acknowledged their mistake. "Wow. Opinionated this one. So this fella speaks English? Just like one of the ones from the movies?" Asked Rob. "Yep. Just like one of them…" said WinSton. He gave Rob a scowl. [[Probable Next Action|Script WinSton Gets New Weapons and Wheels]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[This blue light reference is confusing as it seems that blue light engines did not exist at the estimated time of writing for this script. Blue light engines allow for near instantaneous travel, but the first publicly available prototype wasn’t released until late 2089. Whether or not this is a miraculously accurate prediction or evidence of blue light engines existing decades earlier than cataloged is unknown.] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Frank seems to be a compatriot of Rob’s with a similar level of mechanical ability. Whether or not Frank learned from Rob or vice versa is unclear.] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[After reviewing some of the feats and tools at Rob’s disposal, I'm inclined to believe him.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[About the insanity? Yes, and other things as well, probably. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[You know we are [[not supposed to go into that|C Extinction]]. ] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Hey we can not assign blame here. Remember we have to keep to the [[Agreement]]. We are not supposed to talk about that [[extinction|C Extinction]] bit!] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Or even the rumors of a [[Heliumangi FBI!|C Heliumangi FBI]]...] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah, but it would be so easy to just add that the [[Heliumangi]] really didn't care about where the humans went and so we ended up on [[Mars without our history!|Archive 6942]] ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Just shut up and do the assignment, ok? Leave the bits about [[destroying worlds |An Ambitious Realm]] alone. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah. ok.] </div><!-- this closes the commentary node div–>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[These writings were translated from Heliumese via an AI translator. Accuracies are never guaranteed. ] [[Heliumangi]] [[Mother Ground]] [[An Infinite Realm]] [[An Ambitious Realm]] [[An Insatiable Realm]] [[The Will and Will-not]] [[Global Warming]] == [[Archive 6942]] [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] </div><!-- this closes the commentary node div–>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Ok, so there have been a lot of attempts at [[agreements|Agreement]] over the years with the [[Heliumangi]]. And other expeditions to retreive our most important heritage items, like the Magna Carta and the U.S. Constitution and the Tale of the Genji and yeah. All that stuff. But none have been all that successful. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[It's their fault. They keep adding helium to the oxygen and our voices squeak so we can't understand commands.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[We are [[not blaming|C No Assigning Blame]] for anything. Amnesty. Remember?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Fine. I'll shut up then. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[You do that. . . ] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[The corruption in this image indicates that Deena had something more to do with WinSton's creation, and perhaps indeed, the entire [[balloon race|WinStons Race]] and thus is responsible for the [[Global Warming]] fiasco, but that might be taking things a bit too far[[.]]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Surely there is [[more here|C Extinction]] than meets the eye.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah, but we are [[not allowed|C No Assigning Blame]] to blame anyone, right?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah, we wouldn't want to spoil [[the deal|Their Deal]].] <img src="./img/deena-balloon.jpg" alt=a corrupted image of a girl sitting by a campfire staring at a large balloon.> </div>

<div class="background">(css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H1 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H1>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]  The Electronic Literature Lab 2 archive, curated by [[students from the Mars colony in 2150|Commentary]] recounts the multifarious and duplicitous doings of the Heliumangi in 2023, just before the Earth became uninhabitable. We follow the adventures a misfit [[alien|Heliumangi]] (or two or more?) who try to sneak into human society to save their race from extinction due to a lack of helium. This thrilling ride goes through highs and lows, government turmoil, love, and betrayal. This story has been developed by [[students|Fall 2023 Students]] at the Washington State University of Vancouver, Digital Storytelling Class Fall Semester 2023, [[Deena]] Larsen, instructor. <img src="./img/WinSton-Title-page.png" alt=a gray city street, slick with rain. People are looking up at a bunch of red balloons or this might be two bunches, as there are two sets of strings. The people are bathed in the reflective glow of the balloons.> [[Begin|Archive 6942]].   (set: $culprit to "Chuck") </div>(set: $pathA to "A", $pathB to "B", $pathC to "C")

<div class="authors-page-container"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3 style="flex-grow: 1;">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]  This is a partial list of those accused of [[writing this story|Archive 6942]] at Washington State University at Vancouver (WSUV) Digital Technology Center (DTC) Electronic Literature Lab 1. <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Deena Larsen</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Deena.png" alt=bio image of Deena.></div><p>[[ Deena Larsen|Deena]] has been a hypertext addict for over three decades and is eager to introduce more innocent victims into this complexifying realm of possible meanings[[.|.]]</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>WinSton U Victory</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/WinSton.png" alt=bio image of WinSton.></div><p><p>[[WinSton|WinSton U. Victory]] came to class for a while and decided to go on to [[bigger and better things|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]].</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Adam Doolittle</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Adam.png" alt=bio image of Adam.></div><p>Adam Doolittle is a game designer & developer graduating from WSUV in December 2023. He's a PC enthusiast who loves playing bass guitar and gaming with his friends outside of class.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Adele Boehlke</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Adele.png" alt=bio image of Adele.></div><p>Adele Boehlke is a junior at WSU Vancouver and majors in Digital Technology and Culture. She focuses on multimedia and graphic design but is also interested in audio creation. </p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Adrian Chwaliszewski</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Adrian.png" alt=bio image of Adrian.></div><p>Adrian Chwaliszewski is a junior, studying in the DTC program, and plans to become a video game writer. </p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Alex Minger</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Alex.png" alt=bio image of Alex.></div><p>Alex Minger is a DTC major focusing on graphic design for video games. He loves action movies, and ridiculous over-the-top carnage. He specializes in video animation. </p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Autumn Yothers</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Autumn.png" alt=bio image of Autumn.></div><p>Autumn Yothers is a DTC major at WSUV focusing on UX Design and backend programming for digital audio workstations.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Brynna Hosszu</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Brynna.png" alt=bio image of Brynna.></div><p>Brynna Hosszu is an artist based in the Portland/Vancouver metro area. She is studying at WSUV's Digital Technology and Culture program with an emphasis in Animation and Multimedia Design. She loves cats and much of her work features them. "Studying Digital Literacy has given me a new way to experiment with the many different ways one can tell a story and I hope to further explore these methods in my future works.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Drew Ott</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Drew.png" alt=bio image of Drew.></div><p>Drew Ott is an author, poet, and full-time undergraduate student at WSUV. He is majoring in English with a Minor in Creative Writing.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Evan Leyden</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Evan.png" alt=bio image of Evan.></div><p>Evan Leyden is a 20 year old Junior at Washington State University Vancouver. They have an extreme passion for animation but are a bit of a perfectionist.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Hunter McLamb</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Hunter.png" alt=bio image of Hunter.></div><p>Hunter McLamb is a student at WSUV working on a bachelors in fine arts. She is an artist who specializes in drawing, painting, and illustration. She enjoys creating art, writing poetry/fiction, and reading all types of literature on her spare time. "This class has introduced me to the world of online literature and I look forward to exploring all it can offer."</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Jenn Duyen Nguyen</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Jenn.png" alt=bio image of Jenn.></div><p>Jenn Duyen Nguyen is an advocate cat lover and the least unhinged digital creator/writer in this project. She loves creating storytelling projects that involve coding, photo and video editing, and learning different webtools (just for the sake of her sanity).</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Josh Torres</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <p>Josh Torres loves creating writing and making people smile. Its very rewarding to see myself improve. He animates, writes, designs, codes, reads, cooks and cleans. He would like to become a creative designer to refresh designs.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Keegan Bankowski</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Keegan.png" alt=bio image of Keegan.></div><p>Keegan Bankowski is a digital technology and culture major and am pursuing a certificate in game studies and design at WSUV. He likes everything music and enjoy incorporating that into his works where he can. </p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Lyndsey Roberts</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Lyndsey.png" alt=bio image of Lyndsey.></div><p>Lyndsey Roberts is a junior at WSUV. Lyndsey is pursuing a degree in digital technology and culture. She is also pursuing a minor in film studies, communication, art and a certificate in game studies and social media. Lyndsey is going for a jack of all trades approach to be flexible and understand multiple roles and aspects of digital communication. Her super power in the DTC program at WSUV is project management.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Quinn Carrick</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Quinn.png" alt=bio image of Quinn.></div><p>Quinn Carrick is an aspiring game designer, animator, and filmmaker with a fervor for crafting immersive digital experiences. Currently pursuing a degree in Digital Technologies and Culture, they intend to complement their creative pursuits with a minor in Computer Science.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Ramses Gasque</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Ramses.png" alt=bio image of Ramses.></div><p>Ramses Gasque is a fan of programming and math. He experiments with literature and complex storytelling. His coding often saves the day.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Roman Hyson</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Roman.png" alt=bio image of Roman.></div><p>Roman Hyson plans to graduate WSUV in fall 2024. Current plans are to pursue a career in game development and design. Roman has always loved fantasy genres, and his hobbies include: D&D, Magic The Gathering, video games, and reading.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Zachary Heller</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Zach.png" alt=bio image of Zach.></div><p>Zachary Heller is a student at WsuV and majoring in Digital Technology and Culture (DTC) with a focus on web development and social media. </p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div> <div class="bio-container"> <h2>Zelin Ma</h2> <div class="bio-text"> <div class="bio-image"><img src="./img/Zelin.png" alt=bio image of Zelin.></div><p>Zelin Ma is a DTC major student with some experiences in digital story-telling. He excels at creating story structures and details, and knows some coding and web design.</p></div> <div class="clear"></div> </div>

<div class="background"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;">Jane Space</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]  This is the obligatory Jane Space, where Deena hid the actual class log in 2023. There are [[many reasons|C Syllabus]] why her files are so disorganized and [[her office|Deenas Office]] is a mess. ''Before the class'' Deena: So I am going to teach Digital Storytelling at WSUV Fall 2023. I want to create a class story so that students experience multilinear narratives and see the possibilities for meaning via linking and connections for themselves. This will be fun, but I need a central theme for a class story. I could put this into pedagogies with learning objectives and all that jazz, but yeah the basic goals are to: 1) Have fun with the [[students|Fall 2023 Students]] (my fellow writers!) and see what they come up with. 2) Have a convenient place for every student to practice digital storytelling skills (writing, creating plots and characters, navigation, linking, imagery, and maybe even sound or games or random elements somehow). I also want a dramatic entrance. This helps establish the characters for our story and puts students off guard and makes them interested in the class. So all the way on my drive from Vancouver BC to Denver over to Vancouver WA, I thought about how I could introduce a character that would work. I love Mark Marino and Rob Wittig's netprov, especially the one where you are in an airport and all the kids rise to the ceiling... and then you rise, and so forth. I thought maybe this would introduce the idea of superpowers, which DTC invests in. I originally thought of a fun name, WinSton Unto Victory. But WinSton soon took over as a character who [[makes a deal with me|Their Deal]] and has some pretty bad habits. We may need to rename this. ''8/18'' Deena: I asked Dene and the Dean if it was ok if WinSton was a bad character, even with this name. The Powers That Be DTC WSUV had no problem with that. After this, WinSton took a turn for the worse, and they started to black mail me and demand to teach the class themself. Arrgh. What secrets lie between us? ''8/21'' Deena: So on the first day of class, I go to a party store and get 15 balloons (I was going to get just one big one, but then it occurred to me that if we had a lot of balloons, that could serve as a navigational structure image to branch off into wildly different paths. Plus they were cheaper (on sale for a dollar each). Of course, my shoulder and wrist dislocated while I was getting WinSton in the car... which was an adventure in itself! So I had to pay a passing student lunch to cut out WinSton's face and use some stickies for eyes and a mouth. I walk in arguing with WinSton. They become the center of attention, much to my annoyance, and interrupt my grand pedagogy, [[demanding to be videoed|V: WinStons Introduction]] for their grand introduction. My fellow writers oblige and then WinSton absconds to the ceiling, that rat. So of course, the entire class has to write about them. ''8/23'' Deena: Now we have to create the intrigue. I read through my fellow writers' entries and found a variety of responses to WinSton and their commanding ascent. Some thought this was deliberate on my part, but I'll never tell! So, WinSton starts complaining about their treatment as they have been left to languish in a boring and possibly [[threatening place|Deenas Office]] (the Digs where the DTC staff offices are where anyone could come in and [[kidnap|V: WinSton Kidnapped]] or [[murder|The Popping]] them). My fellow writers are divided on whether WinSton should come home with me. I emphatically deny that that creature could live with me, but I refuse to explain why. So now we get some interesting cons/piracy/ theories. ''8/30'' Deena: I am just too close to WinSton and just so angry at them that I can not direct this story. So I appoint 6 storymasters, who will direct the action from now on. (I may or may not have gotten a police report about [[WinSton being missing|WinSton Is Missing]], and man is that character such a pain!). When I get to the office for my office hours, WinSton comes up to me and demands protection. I demand to know where they were, and then they say that one of my fellow writers knows exactly what happened and why. So, let the [[story begin|Archive 6942]]! ''12/11'' Well, the students divided into [[aliens|C Transcription of Movie Script]], [[evil twins|List of USB Plugs]], and [[investigators|Investigator Intro]], and a marvelous time was had by all (excet, maybe, poor WinSton, who got into no end of trouble. We have [[government conspiracies|The Cover Up]] and the whole works. We got the story together over Thanksgiving break, and spent the last few weeks of class furiously linking it all. We even resorted to pop cans to explain the central nodes and multiple reader paths and the importance of [[ambiguity|Their Deal]]. <img src="./img/node-pop-cans.jpg" alt=Deena explaining how many nodes in our story lead to the murder node of the popping, where we have different culprits. This is December at the end of class.> (set: $culprit to "Chuck") </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[From this context, it looks like this stack could be the incriminating [[movie script|C Transcription of Movie Script]].] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah, but WinSton is [[told to do|Script WinSton Gets New Weapons and Wheels]] all those things.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[So what? If they did [[the crime|WinSton and Their Arrest Warrant]], they should do the time. ] </div>

<div class="background">(css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>(print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  These videos were found and could be part of the original [[Movie Script|C Transcription of Movie Script]]. There are many theories about the [[deal|Their Deal]] that is being talked about here, but the consensus amongst the 2150 class is that this is [[EsTon|WinStons Fight]] getting [[revenge|WinSton and the Balloon Ritual]]. (bg:#ffd4ff)[No, of course not! This is Daryl hiding [[WinSton from the other cops!|WinSton Goes to the Slammer]]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Wait, its a false lead. [[WinSton did this|WinSton and the Police]] to themselves. For the publicity!] <iframe width="350" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hWzKtYIu1LI?si=ybllit2D0Kj5n_1W" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> <iframe width="350" height="350" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-o_DlGYlMpk?si=Adb27RkLCNzCD2pt" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> </div>

<div class="background">(css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>(print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  This video is mentioned in several nodes and seems to show the first time that WinSton is introduced to the [[WSUV DTC 354 class|Fall 2023 Students]][[.]] <iframe width="315" height="560" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3O1HR5dVDn4?si=eVja3FjcrqtXsPWK" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe> </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[How can balloons go to a high school?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[They float so high, that any school is high.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Seriously, as the love between [[Wendy and WinSton|WinSton and Their Date]] started in high school, this must be back on their home planet. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[So their entire [[home planet|An Insatiable Realm]] is high?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[That is why they need [[helium|Heliumangi]]. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Oh yeah. Right.] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Can gum really be that sharp?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[It depends on how hard it gets. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[This could be a typo for guns, you know. [[They had a lot of those|Script WinSton Gets New Weapons and Wheels]]. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[True.] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is where things get a bit dicey. Records were, obviously, lost and corrupted. We do have one image, which may or may not have been taken when WinSton took over the world. This may be an artist's memory or it may be nothing at all. It may even have been the [[Heliumangi FBI|C Heliumangi FBI]] for all we know. At any rate, it is clear that the Earth became uninhabitable and helium levels soared after WinSton's adventures.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[But we are [[not blaming anyone|C No Assigning Blame]]. [[Mars is a great|Keynote Speech]] place to live.] <img src="./img/Global-warming.jpg" alt=many red balloons descenging upon a now barren and desolate plan,with silhouettes of people watching the balloons land.> </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is of course, referring to the original ELL in 2023, where the [[class met|Fall 2023 Students]] and not the ELL 2 on Mars. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Duh, we know that.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah, just pointing out the obvious..] </div>

<div class="evil-twin"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H2 style="flex-grow: 1;" class="evil-twin-title">(print: (passage:)'s name)</H2>(css:"color: black;")[(icon-undo: "Return")]]  <img src="./img/Everdeen.jpg" alt=A little brown doll in a trenchcoati s looking up at a regular size human woman who is singing on stage.> //Burt gazing at Everdeen from across the room at Rusty's bar// The first night I met Everdeen has got to be one of the most embarrassing experiences I will ever have in my career. I don;t like retelling it. I will write it down here in case of clues in further cases and never speak of it again. I met her one lonely night while looking for clues. That night it was rainy, I was soggy and looking for leads to finding what I’d hoped was the hooked killer but it turns out the trail I was following belonged to a mean old house cat but that's another story. I slinked into a small street lit alley and there I saw some flickering lights in the dark cold. I came closer and saw some cobble steps leading to a door that said “Big Rusty’s' “. I stepped inside assuming they could serve me food. I came drenched and sat down at a table with a strangely red candle lighting the also red tablecloth. It was warm and inviting compared to chasing clues out in the cold dark with a serial killer loose. I looked around for and sa a rather dimly lit bar with hanging orange interior lights. I saw the other patrons looking eagerly ahead at the stage. When a well dressed weasel-y looking man came and said, “and now for tonights feature. Without further ado may I present Everdeen!”. I senses lit up when I first saw her, a truly stunning woman. She was wearing an electric dark blue wrap dress with faint sparkles. She had a luscious pool of brown curvy hair and her eyes that made me feel like I just started living my life for the first time. She cleared her throat and started a heart-melting ballad of two lovers. She looked across the room at the audience and when our eyes met I didn’t stand a chance at the stoic detective look I had practiced in the mirror that morning. My eyes gave away my sincere infatuation with the woman I just met. She didn’t look away until my heart ached. Looking back that's when she hooked me in her web I was just a boy in that bar that day a stupid bar, a boy in love. As she sang she grew into a smile when she looked into my eyes my surroundings just faded away it was only me and her in that moment. After the song she went backstage. I was left with the dim bar realizing how lonely it will be in my office tonight. I began to stand up realizing there was no food served here just drinks. Just then the sharp dressed man came up to me and whispered in my ear, “Everdeen wants to see you sir. Back. Stage.” and he guided me back with his hand on my back. I grabbed my hat in hand and gripped it nervously as he lead my through the bar. I was met with Miss Everdeen laying on a beanbag chair drinking a cocktail with a straw while staring straight at me. She beckoned with her manicured finger. I saw another bean bag facing hers. I looked at the well dressed man and she smacked me on the back and left to attend to the bar. I looked back as Everdeen finished drinking and said, “Well? Are you going to make me wait forever?” I stuttered with hat in my hands, “n-no ma’am” I walked into the room, the hanging lights were hanged with precision here, carefully layered and decorated as opposed to hanging off the ceiling. I sat down into the beanbag immediately slinking down and surrendering my dignity. “I was told you wanted to see me?” She looked into each of my eyes for a few seconds before answering. “Yes, you’re a detective right?”. “How do you know that?”, “She got up and sat next to me in on the bean bag sinking into it with me. She put her finger on my detective medal my mom made me when I graduated the academy and looked up at me. “Oh yeah, how may I be of service ma’am?”. She laughed “first thing you can do is stop calling me ma’am, whats your name?”, “Burt”. “Burt are you hungry?”, I relaxed and noticed how tense my shoulders were, “Yes”. “Perfect follow me”, She grabbed my hand and stood me up (without her help I don’t think I could have gotten up from that bean bag). She led me across the street to an apartment complex, “everywhere else is closed tonight so let me take you somewhere special“. She led me past an unlocked gate onto a a set of stairs climbing the side of the building. “Follow me”. We made it to the top and I as so transfixed that I only now realized it stopped raining. On the top of the building was a blanket layed out with a small picnic basket. We layed down and saw a field of stars as we ate small crackers with cheese and grapes. I was enjoying myself when I saw her take off her heels and jumped on top of my chest. “You know what Mr. man I think I like you”, “YOU LIKE ME?”. She laughed and grabbed my hand to let me up and pulled me close. She put her other hand on my shoulder and we began dancing under the moonlight. I was so full from eating and it was so late past my normal bedtime I actually don’t remember falling asleep that night. Looking back, that night was full of surprises. Like when I figured why she just had a picnic ready to go. She was going to meet anyone from the audience. I was just the one chosen. I woke up that morning on the rooftop with my badge stolen, and a note in its place. “Come get it back Mr. Man tomorrow night. ~Everdeen '' A lipstick kiss marked the page. I can excuse the other tells as I was naive but looking back that was definitely a red flag I should have noticed. I climbed down from the rooftop and found Rusty’s lights out and empty. I gave up and followed the hooked killer case with no success. That next night I arrived at the bar and when I came In I saw her singing again and when she noticed me walk in I sat down and enjoyed the show. I found the well dressed man because I had a few questions. “Why is this place empty during the day? Are you Rusty? And who is Everdeen?”, The man turned his attention from wiping down a cup and said well “My name is Ivan and this is a night bar so no point in opening during the day. I’m not the owner of the cub I wish I were. I hear that Rusty guy is on the run from the police. He can’t stay in one place too long I haven't met him too much but he seems too smart rugged and charing to be caught. As for Everdeen she is actually the-” Everdeen reached down and nudged me to get my attention. She interrupted Ivan, “Hey Burt right? Are you going to keep me waiting back stage?”. “Oh of course, excuse me Ivan”. When we got back she pushed me onto the bean bag chair. “You know what I like about you Burt? You’re reliable”. She leaned into the chair and put her face right in front of mine, I could feel her breath on my burlap face. “Would you be my little detective tonight?.” She put her hand on my chest and dropped my badge. She leaned back and started pacing the room. “I need your professional help for a little problem of mine, you’d help me out right?” She gave me the big puppy dog eyes and I fell for it like a chump. “Of course what can I help with?”. “I am actually having a little trouble with a missing… wallet. I seem to have lost it last night, would you go and look for it?”. “Right away!” I eagerly walked outside thinking of how easy it would be to find a missing wallet not knowing how ironic the situation was. I was just so stupid I mean all the clues were there from the beginning. The well dressed man was Rusty. He has a “bar” that he keeps up as a front while he steals and pickpockets. I just happen to fall right into their lap. I spent a good hour out there in the rain before I went back to ask what the wallet looked like and lo and behold the door was locked. My wallet was stolen by Everdeen on the bean bag and the lights went out. They made their escape right under my nose. I mean all that I collected on the drudge home but the kicker of it all was when I was home in my bed crying and I realized. The words “Ivan” were about to say “Everdeen is actually the owner's wife”. It wasn’t real, none of it was. I couldn’t sleep, all I had left was the note. I had kept it for purely evidence reasons, nothing else. I knew they skipped town, I was never to make a stupid mistake like that again. Jokes on them I only had like 30 dollars and a gift card in there. :( To this day I still get letters from Everdeen giving me fake tips or false leads to a case I'm working on. I don’t know how she knows what I work on but the envelopes are blank with no addresses on them she must hand deliver them. </div>

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<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Heliumangi FBI? We were never told about this one!] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Wow, what a mysterious little government organization.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Hmmm.. this may be why [[the War|C The War]] started?] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Hey [[no, blaming|C No Assigning Blame]], [[no extinction talk |C Extinction]] now.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Yeah, but we have a really weird little hint that we can't find anything else to follow up on... hmmm... ] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[This is photographic evidence of the landing. ] <img src="./img/WinSton-mountains.png" alt=a bunch of red balloons are landing in a mountain valley, surrounded by craggy mountains The basket appears to be on fire The strings are flooded with red latex scraps.> (bg:#ffd4ff)[No. All you are showing is a bunch of balloons in a mountain valley. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[That proves nothing!] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Shows you what you know. ] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Oh be quiet or [[the FBI will get you!|C Heliumangi FBI]]] (bg:#ffd4ff)[No. You be quiet.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[ [[You started this...|WinStons Jealousy]]] [[Archive 6942]] [[Background and Library|C ELL 1 Excavation Records]] </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[This random image may well have been the smoking gun that caused the smoking hole.] (bg:#ffd4ff)[Hey, no smoking in the hallways!] (bg:#ffd4ff)[My bad.] <img src="./img/node-pop-cans.jpg" alt=a lab with lasers coing out of the ceiling.> </div>

<div class="commentary-node"> (css:"width: 100%; display: flex;")[<H3>[[MC:|Commentary]] (print: (passage:)'s name)</H3>(icon-undo: "Return")]  (bg:#ffd4ff)[Heliumese is the mother tounge of the [[Heliumangi]] race.] </div>