Dialogue with a man so rich that light literally bends around his face.
This is a listing of every "entry" in a given game conversation as scraped from the game files. Entries often contain written dialogue, as well as conditional logic governing their appearance to the player. They also link to other entries, sometimes automatically and sometimes through player action. This page is best used to search for a specific word or phrase, as following the links in this format can be difficult. For an experience that better accommodates the branching structure of these conversations, see the corresponding interactive page.
| ID | Character | Dialogue | Conditions | Links |
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| 0 | None |
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| 1 | None |
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| 2 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | The man stands at the far end of the shipping container. It's hard to say anything more about him. You cannot make out any of his details, but you do feel the overwhelming presence of... capital. |
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| 3 | You | "Who are you?" |
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| 4 | None |
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| 5 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Welcome! Come in, make yourself at home. Sorry I'm not better able to receive you -- I wasn't expecting visitors today." |
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| 6 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Now." He claps his hands together. "What can I do for you, good sir?" What you can see of his body appears composed. In a sharp summer suit. And yacht shoes. |
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| 7 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Who *am* I? Oh, I haven't been asked that question for such a long time." There's genuine surprise in his voice. "I don't meet a lot of people outside my circle these days..." |
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| 8 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Anyhow, my name is Roustame Diodore -- investor, licence holder, and extremely high-net-worth individual. And you are?" |
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| 9 | You | "My name is Harry, and I'm an alcoholic." | Variable["tc.harry"] == true and Variable["tc.name_full_harrier"] == false |
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| 10 | You | "What are you doing in this container?" | Variable["cargo.mrlb_is_investor"] == true |
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| 11 | You | "My name is Harry, and I'm a detective." | Variable["tc.harry"] == true and Variable["tc.name_full_harrier"] == false |
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| 12 | You | "My name is Harry, and I'm an alcoholic detective." | Variable["tc.harry"] == true and Variable["tc.name_full_harrier"] == false |
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| 13 | You | "I'm an alcoholic." | Variable["XP.confirm_name_harry"] == false and Variable["tc.harry"] == false and Variable["tc.name_full_harrier"] == false |
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| 14 | You | "I'm a detective." | Variable["XP.confirm_name_harry"] == false and Variable["tc.harry"] == false and Variable["tc.name_full_harrier"] == false |
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| 15 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Pleasure to meet you, Harry," he says warmly. "Though I'm sorry to hear a good man like yourself is in servitude to the drink. But then, nobody's perfect." |
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| 16 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Pleasure to meet you, Harry," he says warmly. "Though I'm sorry to hear a good public servant like yourself is in servitude to *the drink*. A man can't serve two masters, in my experience." |
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| 17 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Pleasure to meet you, Harry," he says warmly. "Public service is a noble cause." |
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| 18 | None |
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| 19 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Pleasure to meet you," he says warmly. "Though I'm sorry to hear a good man like yourself is in servitude to the drink. But then, nobody's perfect." |
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| 20 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Pleasure to meet you," he says warmly. "Public service is a noble cause." |
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| 21 | You | "I'm an alcoholic detective." | Variable["XP.confirm_name_harry"] == false and Variable["tc.harry"] == false and Variable["tc.name_full_harrier"] == false |
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| 22 | You | "I should get back to my investigation. Thanks for your time." [Leave.] |
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| 23 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 24 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 25 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 26 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 27 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 28 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 29 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 30 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 31 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 32 | Kim Kitsuragi | "I can assure you, Mr. Diodore, that despite his vices he is a competent detective." |
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| 33 | Kim Kitsuragi | "I can assure you, Mr. Diodore, that despite his vices he is a competent detective." |
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| 34 | You | "How did you become so rich?" | Variable["cargo.mrlb_is_investor"] == true |
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| 35 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 36 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 37 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 38 | Kim Kitsuragi | "Oh, lord, not this again." |
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| 39 | Kim Kitsuragi | "Mr. Diodore, I am Lieutenant Kim Kitsuragi of the RCM, and this is my partner..." |
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| 40 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Something's amiss. The light beams bend around his face and scatter in a thousand directions. It seems the laws of physics do not apply here. They are suspended, distorted, an echo. |
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| 41 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | In the general stillness, only your tongue moves, flickering as you utter... |
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| 42 | You | "Hello!" |
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| 43 | You | "What's going on in here?" |
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| 44 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Welcome, welcome! Not too much, actually, just pleasantly surprised to have company today." |
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| 45 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Pleasure to meet you," he says warmly. "Though I'm sorry to hear that a good public servant like yourself is in thrall to the drink. A man can't serve two masters, in my experience." |
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| 46 | Physical Instrument | The feeling causes all the hairs on your body to stand at attention like soldiers preparing for review. |
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| 47 | Perception (Hearing) | You can't *hear* him, exactly, yet you're able to understand every word he says. It is very strange. An overwhelming hum covers everything -- voice doesn't escape from him. |
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| 48 | You | "What's the matter, Kim?" |
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| 49 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | The man chuckles. "To be perfectly blunt, I inherited my fortune from my grandmother, who, herself, was an extremely high-net-worth individual back in Graad..." |
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| 50 | Kim Kitsuragi | "Oh, nothing. It's just that we've got this *murder* to solve, and yet you go around asking everyone about *money*. And every time I ask, 'Are you sure this is related to the case?', you say, 'Sure, Kim. I think it is'..." |
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| 51 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | The man chuckles. "It's quite alright. I'm used to the question by now. To be blunt, I inherited my fortune from my grandmother, who, herself, was an extremely high-net-worth individual back in Graad..." |
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| 52 | None |
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| 53 | You | "Cool. But I want to ask you about something else." |
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| 54 | None |
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| 55 | You | "You're a rich investor, right? Can I have some money?" | Variable["cargo.mrlb_is_investor"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"] == false |
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| 56 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 57 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 58 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 59 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "What do you mean?" His... essence seems to signify actual surprise. |
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| 60 | You | "There's something strange about you." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_ask_light"] == true |
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| 61 | You | "Well, I don't know how to put it... you look... somehow... a little different." |
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| 62 | You | "It's actually nothing. Forget I said anything." |
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| 63 | You | "What's it like being an extremely high-net-worth individual?" |
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| 64 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Go right ahead." |
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| 65 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | The man exhales with a whistle. "I gotta tell you, at first, being rich is a lot of work. You've got to work hard because everything's so darn expensive. You know, prices increase exponentially at this income level..." |
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| 66 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "But then, once you've reached my position, it's nearly impossible for me *not* to make money. My assets are so diversified that I'm bound to come out ahead no matter what..." |
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| 67 | Perception (Sight) | Hey, HEY. All this talk about money has made you lose the thread. What is going on with the light in this place? *That's* what you need to ask him about! |
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| 68 | None |
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| 69 | You | "Man, being a high-net-worth individual sounds great." |
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| 70 | You | Say nothing. |
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| 71 | You | "You're right. Capital accumulation is its own reward." |
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| 72 | You | "Don't you think that you should use your great wealth for the glory of your fatherland?" |
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| 73 | You | "You're a thief. People out there are working their asses off while you *chill* here." |
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| 74 | You | "It's great that you've done so well for yourself, but don't you think you owe some of that wealth to the rest of society?" |
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| 75 | None |
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| 76 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 77 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_political_questions"] |
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| 78 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_political_questions"]) == false |
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| 79 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Listen, if capital and nationalism went hand in hand, there'd be no need to ask the question..." |
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| 80 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "States are akin to boulders in a river, slowing the free flow of ideas. Given enough time, the water will wear those boulders down." |
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| 81 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Precisely! You know, I hear people talk sometimes about *economic equality* and *fairness* and all that kind of stuff. But tell me, where would we be without liberalism? In caves! Whacking each other with bones!" |
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| 82 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Listen, I used to be an idealist, just like you. But the truth is that we have no objective system by which to measure someone's value other than the market. We should just embrace that, rather than resist it..." |
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| 83 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "The hand that allocates resources among men is invisible and cruel, but it is *steady*, *measured*, indeed it is *just*." |
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| 84 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Sure, and they benefit when I buy things to stimulate the economy. Do you know how many jobs it takes to build and maintain a racing yacht?" |
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| 85 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Go right ahead, don't be shy." |
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| 86 | You | "It's as if something is happening to the light." |
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| 87 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Oh, *that's* what you mean. Yes, I've heard of this effect, though I've never witnessed it myself, of course. It has something to do with our Weiss-Wiesemann coefficient." |
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| 88 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Oh, don't you worry, lieutenant. I can tell a good man when I see one." |
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| 89 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Are you talking about my chin?" |
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| 90 | You | "No-no, I mean, I can't even see... *you*, it's as if something is happening to the light." |
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| 91 | You | "Yeah, it's the chin." |
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| 92 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 93 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 94 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 95 | Kim Kitsuragi | The lieutenant leans in and whispers to you: "Please, behave yourself." |
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| 96 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Hm. I've never heard anybody say anything about my chin. Yet I know that people often tell each other half-truths, things they think the other party would wish to hear..." |
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| 97 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Being rich does not make one impervious to the human condition. Maybe I do have a strange chin and you are the first person to call me out on this. Not that you should. But you did. For this -- I am grateful." |
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| 98 | Kim Kitsuragi | "I see nothing of the sort. To be frank, all I see is a gentleman who's unusually well dressed for Martinaise. In a cargo container. Which, I admit, is odd." |
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| 99 | You | "Are you telling me that you are so rich that light literally bends around your face?" |
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| 100 | None |
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| 101 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Travelling! This is a great way to get around -- it's fun, it's safe, and it gives me lots of time to think..." |
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| 102 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "By the way, let me now ask *you* a question: Where are we, exactly?" |
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| 103 | You | "We're in Revachol, formerly a colony of the Kingdom of Suresne." | Variable["tc.revachol_was_a_colony_of_surlaclef"] == true |
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| 104 | You | "We're in Martinaise. There's a pretty good hostel here called the Whirling-in-Rags." |
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| 105 | You | "We're in Martinaise, a district of Revachol -- the former capital of the world." | Variable["tc.that_in_revachol"] == true |
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| 106 | You | "Ummm... I really don't know." |
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| 107 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 108 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 109 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 110 | Kim Kitsuragi | "What the detective means is that we're in Martinaise, a subdistrict of Jamrock in the capital city of Revachol." |
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| 111 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Among other things... but calm down, I'm but a lowly single-digit billionaire." |
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| 112 | You | "Really?" |
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| 113 | You | "I'm calm." |
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| 114 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "No, not really. There are actually quite many digits." |
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| 115 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "It's a shame I can't get out and explore myself. One of the downsides of being an extremely high-net-worth individual is that mobs of low-net-worth individuals are constantly banding together to ask for money." |
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| 116 | You | "So you travel from place to place via shipping container?" |
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| 117 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | He smiles. "Never mind then. We'll just have to be on equal footing, geographically speaking." |
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| 118 | None |
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| 119 | You | "Wait -- why don't you help them? You've got so much money it can't make a difference to you." |
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| 120 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Smart, no? It also provides a means to hide from all the targeted advertising we extremely high-net-worth individuals are constantly subjected to..." |
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| 121 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Luxury yachts, high-fidelity portable radio systems, pale-proof outerwear, and so on. It just gets a bit *middle class* after a while. A bit *bourgeois.*" |
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| 122 | You | "Those things all sound pretty nice." |
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| 123 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Don't get me wrong: They're nice things, but once you achieve a certain level of wealth your time and mental space become *much* more important than material goods." |
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| 124 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "There simply aren't enough hours a day to hand out all the handouts. It's like feeding seagulls. There are always more, and they never seem to do anything interesting with it -- except more seagulls." |
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| 125 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Spending money is a matter of desire, I'm sure you agree. I don't have the desire for spending it like that." |
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| 126 | None |
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| 127 | You | "We're in Martinaise. There's a cool church here." | Variable["auto.visited_church"] == true |
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| 128 | You | "We're in Martinaise. There's a creepy abandoned commercial area here." | Variable["auto.visited_doomed"] == true |
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| 129 | You | "What do you mean?" |
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| 130 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "And that's, what? Unjust? I think it's perfectly just." His tone is ever-so-slightly less agreeable than before. |
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| 131 | You | "For almighty Revachol, of course!" |
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| 132 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Which one? Revachol, where I nominally reside? Or Graad, where my father emigrated from? Or Ile-de-Casherbrume where I've registered my shell companies?" |
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| 133 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 134 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 135 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 136 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "That's good." |
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| 137 | You | Present a sound investment plan. | Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done"] == false |
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| 138 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Well, as we say in my circle -- one person's crushing business failure is someone else's development opportunity." |
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| 139 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Ah, a fellow history buff! I, myself, am currently reading up on Franconigerian-era trains. Very interesting stuff. " |
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| 140 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Was it Kras Mazov that said 'religion is pyrholidon for the masses'?" |
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| 141 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Ah, interesting. I've made quite a few real-estate plays over the years." |
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| 142 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Ah, Revachol. I remember walking its streets as a teenager. There used to be a bowling alley in Stella Maris... I wonder if it's still there?" |
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| 143 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "He may have been a communard, but we're in agreement about that. Still, I imagine the architecture is quite lovely." |
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| 144 | Empathy | He speaks from the heart. He has very different problems compared to low-net-worth individuals such as yourself. For example, no problems at all. |
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| 145 | Kim Kitsuragi | "Could you please stop asking *everyone* for money? It does not reflect well on the RCM and to be perfectly frank we can't afford to look worse than we already do." |
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| 146 | You | "But Kim! I also can't *afford* to look any better than I do now. That's why I need the money!" |
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| 147 | You | "You're right. That was extremely unprofessional. I apologize." |
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| 148 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Sure! Let me check my pockets." |
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| 149 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "It's perfectly alright. Based on your appearance I can tell I'm dealing with a smart man..." |
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| 150 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "As you may know, us high-net-worth individuals do not have a lot of cash on hand. Investments and liquidity are enemies of one another -- I think I only have coins for coffee machines." |
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| 151 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Here's three reál, how much can you get for this?" |
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| 152 | You | "It gets me almost nothing." |
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| 153 | You | "Thank you for your kindness." |
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| 154 | Electrochemistry | Come on, man. He's *got* to have more than that. See if you can score a little more of that *lucre*. |
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| 155 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "You're welcome. You know..." His eyes narrow, the light seems to bend more *aggressively*. |
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| 156 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "That's the idea, my friend! You've got to work for the rest." |
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| 157 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Maybe you can make that money grow? Come up with an investment plan? How's that sound?" |
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| 158 | Empathy | This is a proposal, not a question. |
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| 159 | None |
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| 160 | You | "It's *really* nothing." |
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| 161 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 162 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 163 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 164 | Kim Kitsuragi | The lieutenant seems *very* relieved. |
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| 165 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Oh, alright then. Another question." |
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| 166 | None |
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| 167 | None |
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| 168 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 169 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_concept_wcheck"] |
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| 170 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_concept_wcheck"]) == false |
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| 171 | Conceptualization | Deploying high-concept buzzword generator. All systems functional: Ready to engage in 3, 2, 1... |
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| 172 | Conceptualization | If business planning were really your strong suit, you probably wouldn't be a cop. |
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| 173 | You | "You should invest in a youth centre." |
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| 174 | You | "You should invest in the RCM!" |
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| 175 | You | "Okay, so I've got this idea for a board game." | Variable["doomed.moodboard_read_slogans"] == true or Variable["doomed.moodboard_read_calendar"] == true or Variable["doomed.moodboard_viewed_drawings"] == true or Variable["doomed.moodboard_viewed_photos"] == true |
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| 176 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "A youth centre, huh? What *kind* of youth centre?" |
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| 177 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Go on." |
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| 178 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "The volunteer police force? And why would I do that?" |
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| 179 | You | "Are you sure you don't have any more? I thought you were a billionaire?" | Variable["cargo.mrlb_single_digit_billionaire"] == true |
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| 180 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Yes, I'm sure. You know..." His eyes narrow, the light seems to bend more *aggressively*. |
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| 181 | Rhetoric | Reminds you of that Joyce woman, doesn't he? Can't get rich by giving out free money. |
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| 182 | Kim Kitsuragi | "And yet it never seems to get us any closer to solving the case." |
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| 183 | Electrochemistry | Playing the pity card, are we? Whatever gets us over the moon, baby, I'm your hand to be dealt. |
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| 184 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 185 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["pier.joyce_cant_get_rich_by_handing_out"] |
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| 186 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["pier.joyce_cant_get_rich_by_handing_out"]) == false |
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| 187 | Suggestion | These ultraliberal types love losing huge sums of money on ludicrous proposals. Ergo, you should come up with a plan that's TOTALLY dead in the water. |
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| 188 | You | Present an investment plan that is sure to fail. | Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_logic_proposal_to_fail"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done"] == false |
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| 189 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 190 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_concept_wcheck2"] |
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| 191 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_concept_wcheck2"]) == false |
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| 192 | None |
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| 193 | None |
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| 194 | Conceptualization | Congratulations, you've somehow managed to fail at failing, which means, in a strange way, that you've succeeded? |
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| 195 | Conceptualization | What's worse than throwing money at something that's already failed? |
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| 196 | Suggestion | Steal the Union boss's idea, add a twist, and present it as your own? Very capitalistic! |
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| 197 | You | "One dedicated to instilling liberal economic values in children from low-net-worth families." |
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| 198 | Empathy | A place to teach them practical skills like teamwork and self-discipline. |
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| 199 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Brilliant! Without children who'll be there to buy stuff in the future?" |
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| 200 | You | "Yes. And if it doesn't work out, we can always re-purpose the centre as a shopping mall or private equity firm." |
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| 201 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Very impressive. You've got a natural eye for unusual investment opportunities." |
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| 202 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "When life closes a door, it opens a window, yes? What's the expected return on this?" |
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| 203 | You | "With human beings there's always a risk associated. Which is why we've got to hold onto the centre itself as a fallback." |
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| 204 | You | "Highly educated, work-ready, human capital ready to be directed toward any number of your vast interests." |
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| 205 | You | "Thank you." |
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| 206 | You | "I know." |
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| 207 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I don't normally do this without a formal pitch deck, but to hell with it, what's the point of being rich if you have to follow all the rules?" |
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| 208 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Here's a round of seed funding. This should be enough to prove out the concept and get things off the ground." |
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| 209 | You | "Thank you for placing your unwavering *trust* in me." |
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| 210 | You | "Thanks for the handout." |
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| 211 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 212 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 213 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 214 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Remember: it's not a *handout*, it's an investment. And I expect to see returns." |
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| 215 | Kim Kitsuragi | The lieutenant stands there, dumbfounded. His mouth opens slightly, then closes again. |
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| 216 | Perception (Sight) | Is he having a stroke? |
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| 217 | You | "What do you think, Kim? Not bad, huh?" |
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| 218 | You | "Kim, are you alright?" |
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| 219 | You | "Kim, are you having a stroke?" | Variable["cargo.mrlb_kim_stroke"] == true |
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| 220 | None |
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| 221 | Kim Kitsuragi | "I am not *un*-impressed. Let's leave it at that." |
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| 222 | Kim Kitsuragi | "Yes. I'm alright." He pauses to compose himself. "Can we get going now?" |
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| 223 | Kim Kitsuragi | "No, I am *not* having a stroke. You're just... still full of surprises. Most of them bad, but some good..." |
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| 224 | Composure | The lieutenant has granted you an aura of legitimacy. Bathe in it, but don't let your satisfaction show. Play it cool. |
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| 225 | You | "It's a pen-and-paper role-playing game -- only the players are connected with radiocomputers!" |
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| 226 | Electrochemistry | CHA-CHING. What'll it be? Speed? Vodka? Cigarettes? |
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| 227 | Horrific Necktie | *Bratan*, now's your chance to take some time off. Spend it with your good buddy, and get absolutely *wrecked* in the process. |
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| 228 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 229 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | CheckEquipped("neck_tie") and Variable["whirling.necktie_personified"] == true |
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| 230 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (CheckEquipped("neck_tie") and Variable["whirling.necktie_personified"] == true) == false |
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| 231 | You | "Hmm. Drugs do go well with money, I agree." |
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| 232 | You | "I'm sorry, man, I'm an investor now -- I have to stay sober to calculate risks." |
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| 233 | Horrific Necktie | What is this shit?!? CALCULATING RISKS? *BRATAN*. THE RISKS YOU CANT CALCULATE ARE THE ONLY ONES WORTH TAKING! |
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| 234 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 235 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 236 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 237 | Horrific Necktie | Nothing less than total annihilation will suffice. |
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| 238 | Kim Kitsuragi | The lieutenant looks at you with horror. You've been mumbling to your necktie in a daze for several minutes. |
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| 239 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Ah, yes. Now you're displaying it... the *eccentricity* that becomes a wealthy individual." If the money-saint's visage weren't wrapped in physics-defying light, you would see his approval. |
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| 240 | You | "Hello, darkness." |
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| 241 | You | "I'm sorry. I just don't see the ROI in that." |
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| 242 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Thanks for stopping by. If you ever have an idea you want to pitch me, I'm all ears." |
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| 243 | You | "Brace yourself. It is *very* high concept." |
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| 244 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I'm ready." |
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| 245 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Hold on. Have we met before?" |
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| 246 | You | "Its a pen-and-paper game where people all over the world can play with each other -- using radios!" |
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| 247 | Suggestion | Nicking an idea that wasn't worth anything in the first place and trying to pass it off as your own? How very *entrepreneurial*. I love it. |
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| 248 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Well, at first everything was rosy, the ideas were solid, but they were lacking in... how do I put it..." |
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| 249 | You | "I don't think so." |
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| 250 | You | "Maybe? I wouldn't really know." |
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| 251 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "No, on second thought, it couldn't have been you." |
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| 252 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 253 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 254 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
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| 255 | Kim Kitsuragi | "I guess the inordinate amount of time they poured into drawing mythical creatures did not generate a return on investment." |
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| 256 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Your idea reminds me of a group of young men who came to me a long time ago, calling themselves 'Fortress Accident' -- the name should've been a red flag." |
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| 257 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Yeah, on second thought, it couldn't have been you." |
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| 258 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "They pitched me and a handful of other investors on an idea for a role-playing game that would, in their words, change the world." |
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| 259 | You | "What happened?" |
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| 260 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "They lacked the *will* to get things done. As their financial situation became more desperate, their ideas devolved from realistic to absolute insanity." |
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| 261 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "We lost all of our money. High-art types never deliver. They're only good for peddling welkins or whatever creeps they come up with." |
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| 262 | You | "Did you try to salvage the project somehow?" |
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| 263 | You | "Wait. Where are they now?" |
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| 264 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Nobody knows for sure, but the place can't be pretty." |
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| 265 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "What I want to tell you is this: it's a very bad idea. Dead in the water. You seem like a reasonable man, but that is not a reasonable plan." |
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| 266 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Sadly, when we got there, it was too late. The concept had run out of steam, only dust remained." |
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| 267 | You | "Thank you for the advice." |
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| 268 | You | "Are you *sure* you don't want to give those little welkins a second go?" |
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| 269 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Absolutely not." |
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| 270 | None |
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| 271 | You | "Because they have guns!" |
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| 272 | You | "Because it's chronically mismanaged, deeply corrupt, and completely outmatched." |
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| 273 | You | "You should make your money work for you." | Variable["whirling.money_is_all_about_trust"] == true |
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| 274 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Intriguing. Go on." |
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| 275 | You | "Like they say in investment circles, you gotta spend money to make money. Money's the name of the game here." |
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| 276 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I think I follow you. You're saying I should invest in exotic financial derivatives? Or maybe some kind of real-estate play?" |
|
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| 277 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I'm very impressed. You have a deep understanding of the world that few men ever attain." |
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| 278 | You | "It's a twist on an already established, working idea." |
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| 279 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Yes?" |
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| 280 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 281 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.evrart_youth_centre"] |
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| 282 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.evrart_youth_centre"]) == false |
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| 283 | Conceptualization | It's time to disrupt the future. You've got to stay lean, innovative, and focus on what matters most: *the children*. |
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| 284 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 285 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_greet_done"] |
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| 286 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_greet_done"]) == false |
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| 287 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Welcome back, friend. What can I do for you?" Although you cannot see his face, you can tell he's smiling warmly. |
|
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| 288 | You | "Actually, I'm not so sure about that." |
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| 289 | You | "I'll give it some thought." |
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| 290 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 291 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done"] == false |
|
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| 292 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done"] == false) == false |
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| 293 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "It was a real pleasure. Sadly, though, my current lifestyle prevents me from remaining more than a brief time in any one place. Perhaps we'll meet again, somewhere far away..." |
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| 294 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "The thing about investing is that the less work you have to do, the better. Don't over-think. That's what return on investment means." |
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| 295 | Visual Calculus | Trying to visualize the physics at play is liable to give you an aneurysm. Don't think about it too hard! |
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| 296 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 297 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["reputation.kim"] > 0 |
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| 298 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["reputation.kim"] > 0) == false |
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| 299 | Kim Kitsuragi | "If you ask me, he's only serving one of them thus far," the lieutenant mutters, half to himself. |
|
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| 300 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 301 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["reputation.kim"] > 0 |
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| 302 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["reputation.kim"] > 0) == false |
|
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| 303 | Kim Kitsuragi | "If you ask me, he's only serving one of them thus far," the lieutenant mutters, half to himself. |
|
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| 304 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "All I did was take her fortune and invest it prudently. Believe it or not, it takes more than a bit of skill not to blow a vast fortune on sailing boats, bad choices, and *unsupervised* state policy." |
|
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| 305 | Electrochemistry | And blow. |
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| 306 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Some of my lower-net-worth friends say to me, 'But doesn't that take all the fun out of it?' and I tell them, 'Not really.'" |
|
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| 307 | You | "Hundreds?" |
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| 308 | You | "Thousands?" |
|
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| 309 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "*Dozens*, at least. Of course, in the future it'll all be automated. But my point is this..." he says, jabbing his finger into the air a bit... |
|
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| 310 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Every man gets what he earns. It's the height of tyranny to take that from him." |
|
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| 311 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Where we are right now, the freedom of mankind can only be derived from the free flow of capital." |
|
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| 312 | You | "Just a bunch of evil apes dukin' it out on a giant ball." | Variable["whirling.dreamone_apes"] |
|
| 313 | You | "That would suck." |
|
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| 314 | You | "Oh, probably Graad, in that case." |
|
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| 315 | You | "You're using your money as its own justification." |
|
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| 316 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "A nightmare scenario. A world of slavery and violence. Which brings us back to the essential truth of modernism..." |
|
|
| 317 | Encyclopedia | The Weiss-Wiesemann coefficient is a ratio designed to reflect the difference in net worth between individuals. When the coefficient is close to 1 (or 100%) it means one person possesses all the net worth among that group of individuals. It's been observed that when the Weiss-Wiesemann coefficient reaches about .96 or so, the laws of physics begin to bend around the high-net-worth individual. |
|
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| 318 | Encyclopedia | The Weiss-Wiesemann coefficient for you and this individual appears to be... |
|
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| 319 | You | So what is our coefficient? |
|
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| 320 | Encyclopedia | .9998 repeating. |
|
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| 321 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 322 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_cyclo_coefficient"] |
|
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| 323 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_cyclo_coefficient"]) == false |
|
|
| 324 | You | "Our what?" |
|
|
| 325 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "It's some statistical thing. In essence, it says that when an extremely *low*-net-worth individual meets an extremely *high*-net-worth individual, some of the laws of physics cease to apply." |
|
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| 326 | You | "Kim, are you seeing this weird stuff?" |
|
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| 327 | You | "Ah, so you're saying being rich isn't worth the hassle." |
|
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| 328 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "What? No, I didn't say that at all. Being rich is great. Just don't tell anyone I told you that." The bending light appears to *wink*. |
|
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| 329 | You | (Yawn.) "Yeah, that does sound pretty tiresome." |
|
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| 330 | You | "Good. Now that we've sorted that out, let me ask you something else." |
|
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| 331 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Go right ahead." |
|
|
| 332 | You | "You know, a regular youth centre, with basketball courts and stuff." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_emp_train_emotional"] == false and Variable["cargo.mrlb_physint_train_physical"] == false |
|
| 333 | Physical Instrument | A place to train *buff kids*. |
|
|
| 334 | You | "One to inspire the future leaders of tomorrow to public service." |
|
|
| 335 | Conceptualization | Come on. Tell him what he wants to hear. |
|
|
| 336 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Hmmm," the man thinks for a moment. |
|
|
| 337 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I like that you're thinking about the future, but couldn't the centre have a more... economic focus?" |
|
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| 338 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "No, no, no. You've got to think *bigger* than that." |
|
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| 339 | Conceptualization | You're deep into ultraliberal territory now. Good work. |
|
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| 340 | You | "I'm saying it's fun to ride the lion until it's time to get off." |
|
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| 341 | You | "I'm saying there's no sense throwing good money after bad." |
|
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| 342 | You | "Some people say money can't buy happiness, but those people just didn't have enough money." |
|
|
| 343 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "But what do you say to those who claim that the assets underlying those derivatives are overvalued? Does that pose a systemic risk to the wider capital markets?" |
|
|
| 344 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "But real-estate is an illiquid asset. What happens if you need a short-term capital infusion and all your holdings are tied up?" |
|
|
| 345 | Conceptualization | You're in deep now, but don't lose your nerve. You can do this. |
|
|
| 346 | You | "Look man, markets are always going like this." (Make an up-and-down motion with your hand.) |
|
|
| 347 | You | "You've got to spend money to make money." |
|
|
| 348 | You | "Money literally makes the world go round." |
|
|
| 349 | You | "A wise man once told me that money is all about trust." |
|
|
| 350 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "You said that already." |
|
|
| 351 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Yes, yes, but the question is how do we take advantage of those fluctuations?" |
|
|
| 352 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Yes, every school child hears that. The question is how do *we* get more of that money?" |
|
|
| 353 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | The man pauses, considering your words. The light bends and swims around his face. You cannot tell what he's thinking... |
|
|
| 354 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Trust... yes..." |
|
|
| 355 | Suggestion | Who'd have thought you'd remember that nugget of wisdom after nearly frying your brain like you have? |
|
|
| 356 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Such a simple truth, yet so easily forgotten. What is money, anyway, but an idea in our heads we all *trust* one another to believe in?" |
|
|
| 357 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "You're welcome. Now, was there something else I could help you with?" |
|
|
| 358 | You | "Because if you don't, who will?" |
|
|
| 359 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "That's why I *should* invest? Are you trying to say that the RCM's bad reputation makes it an undervalued asset?" |
|
|
| 360 | You | "Yes." |
|
|
| 361 | You | "No, I think it's exactly as valuable as it looks." |
|
|
| 362 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I'm already on the board of two major arms manufacturers. I've got no shortage of guns, if I wanted such things..." |
|
|
| 363 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I don't believe in handouts, especially for people who *volunteered* for their positions..." |
|
|
| 364 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Still, the idea of a privatized police force is *extremely* forward thinking. You could even say it's *ultra* ultraliberal..." |
|
|
| 365 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Tell me, if you could invest in the RCM, where would you direct your resources?" |
|
|
| 366 | Half Light | Bigger guns! Large-calibre motherfuckers that leave exit wounds the size of grapefruits. |
|
|
| 367 | Interfacing | The latest technological wonders. |
|
|
| 368 | Esprit de Corps | Take care of the people who protect the people. |
|
|
| 369 | You | "Radiocomputers for every precinct." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_interfacing_tech"] == true |
|
| 370 | You | "Pay raises for officers and generous benefits." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_esprit_benefits"] == true |
|
| 371 | You | "Large-calibre weapons for patrol officers." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_halflight_guns"] == true |
|
| 372 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Hmm. I don't believe in giving anyone money for nothing, but maybe there's something to using *market incentives* to improve performance..." |
|
|
| 373 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "The RCM's problems aren't the kind you can solve with *radiocomputers*. The rot goes much deeper than that..." |
|
|
| 374 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "You want to take an incompetent and corrupt police force and give them *deadlier* weapons? No, no, that won't work..." |
|
|
| 375 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "You need to think *bigger*. The entire org structure of the RCM needs to be redefined. You need a unified chain of command, an end to petty spats between precincts, new metrics for measuring performance that reward real *police work*. Does that sound right?" |
|
|
| 376 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Hell no! Can you imagine how much work that would take? Why would I do that when I can just speculate on exotic financial derivatives from the comfort of this shipping container?" |
|
|
| 377 | You | "So you'll do it? |
|
|
| 378 | You | "That sounds like a lot of work." |
|
|
| 379 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Precisely, which is why I'm not going to do it. Why would I do that when I can just speculate on exotic financial derivatives from the comfort of this shipping container?" |
|
|
| 380 | Kim Kitsuragi | The lieutenant's disappointment is palpable. It's like someone just shot his dog. |
|
|
| 381 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 382 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
|
|
| 383 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
|
|
| 384 | None |
|
||
| 385 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Now, was there anything else I could help you with?" |
|
|
| 386 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 387 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
|
|
| 388 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
|
|
| 389 | Kim Kitsuragi | "He should what?" |
|
|
| 390 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 391 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
|
|
| 392 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
|
|
| 393 | Kim Kitsuragi | "Just a minute. The RCM has its difficulties, but generally speaking--" |
|
|
| 394 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "You know, that's *exactly* what I've heard. From what I understand, the RCM as currently constituted is essentially a lost cause..." |
|
|
| 395 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Hmmmm, a tried-and-true strategy for increasing the perception of value without improving the underlying asset. Not bad. But still..." |
|
|
| 396 | You | "Uhhh... I'd pay some designers to come up with a new logo and tagline?" |
|
|
| 397 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 398 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
|
|
| 399 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
|
|
| 400 | Kim Kitsuragi | "If I could interject: the RCM's problems are mainly *structural*. We're hamstrung by a lack of clear lines of authority, and our system of performance reviews strongly *disincentivizes* inter-precinct cooperation." |
|
|
| 401 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I think the lieutenant's right. Your problems run much deeper than equipment or funding. The entire org structure of the RCM needs to be redefined. You need a unified chain of command, new metrics for measuring performance that reward real *police work*. Does that sound right?" |
|
|
| 402 | Kim Kitsuragi | "Yes, yes! That's *precisely* what we need." |
|
|
| 403 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 404 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done_success"] |
|
|
| 405 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done_success"]) == false |
|
|
| 406 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 407 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done_fail"] |
|
|
| 408 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done_fail"]) == false |
|
|
| 409 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 410 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done"] == false |
|
|
| 411 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done"] == false) == false |
|
|
| 412 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "The pleasure was mine. Unfortunately, I must be away soon. The next time we meet, I'll be expecting an update on my investment!" |
|
|
| 413 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Farewell, friend, and may your peace of mind guide you to happiness." |
|
|
| 414 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Why go so soon? I feel we've so much more to talk about. Ah, well. Until next time!" |
|
|
| 415 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 416 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_single_digit_billionaire"] |
|
|
| 417 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_single_digit_billionaire"]) == false |
|
|
| 418 | Electrochemistry | Unbelievable. You manage to meet a man who's so rich light *literally bends around him* and all you can get out of him is three reál? What's wrong with you? |
|
|
| 419 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 420 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["reputation.ask_for_money"] >= 2 |
|
|
| 421 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["reputation.ask_for_money"] >= 2) == false |
|
|
| 422 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 423 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["reputation.ask_for_money"] >= 4 |
|
|
| 424 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["reputation.ask_for_money"] >= 4) == false |
|
|
| 425 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "It's perfectly alright. Based on your appearance I can tell I'm dealing with a civilized man..." |
|
|
| 426 | Kim Kitsuragi | "Could you please stop asking people for money? It does not reflect well on the RCM and to be perfectly frank we can't afford to look worse than we already do." |
|
|
| 427 | Kim Kitsuragi | "I don't see how it's appropriate for a representative of the law to ask a wealthy person for money. This shines a... bad light on the RCM, if you catch my meaning." |
|
|
| 428 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Come now, there is not even a scent of corruption here. I am merely being polite... so let me check my pockets." |
|
|
| 429 | You | "The name's Raphaël Ambrosius Costeau. Most likely." | Variable["tc.raphael_ambrosius_costeau"] == true |
|
| 430 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Pleasure to meet you, Raphaël," he says warmly. "I am surprised -- in a positive manner, do understand -- about your exceedingly high-net-worth name." |
|
|
| 431 | None |
|
||
| 432 | You | "It's Harrier Du Bois, but I prefer to be called Tequila Sunset." | Variable["tc.prefer_tequila"] == true |
|
| 433 | You | "Harrier Du Bois." | Variable["tc.name_full_harrier"] |
|
| 434 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Pleasure to meet you, Harrier Du Bois," he says warmly. "I must admit, the name suits you very well." |
|
|
| 435 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Pleasure to meet you Harr... I mean, Tequila Sunset," he says warmly. "It is an odd name, to be sure. There's something... rather grim about it." |
|
|
| 436 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 437 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
|
|
| 438 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
|
|
| 439 | Kim Kitsuragi | "It is not..." The lieutenant stops to rub his temples. "Never mind." |
|
|
| 440 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 441 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
|
|
| 442 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
|
|
| 443 | Kim Kitsuragi | "You would not even believe," the lieutenant mutters to himself. |
|
|
| 444 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 445 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["reputation.ask_for_money"] >= 2 |
|
|
| 446 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["reputation.ask_for_money"] >= 2) == false |
|
|
| 447 | You | Ignore him. |
|
|
| 448 | Kim Kitsuragi | "We have a *murder* to solve, and yet you go around bothering everyone about *money*, arguing that you think it's 'somehow related to the case.'" |
|
|
| 449 | You | "Cool. I don't even have any interesting replies." |
|
|
| 450 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "One would imagine living such a high-net-worth existence is overwhelmingly exciting, but yes, as you now see... it can sometimes just stun you with its boredom." |
|
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| 451 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "It is, truly. It's almost entirely care free." He nods. "It really leaves you time to better yourself spiritually." |
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| 452 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Capital." He nods. "Makes one speechless, does it not? Blinds like the sun that rises from beyond the horizon after a gloomy winter." |
|
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| 453 | None |
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||
| 454 | You | "A million?!" |
|
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| 455 | You | "You know, a regular youth centre, with basketball courts and stuff. To *really* develop their physical proficiency." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_physint_train_physical"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_emp_train_emotional"] == false |
|
| 456 | You | "You know, a regular youth centre, with basketball courts and stuff. To teach teamwork and other emotional skills." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_emp_train_emotional"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_physint_train_physical"] == false |
|
| 457 | None |
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||
| 458 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 459 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["tc.blaasma_gun"] |
|
|
| 460 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["tc.blaasma_gun"]) == false |
|
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| 461 | Inland Empire | The *blaasma gun* that shoots periwinkle blue high energy plasma! This is your chance... |
|
|
| 462 | You | "Let me tell you about an idea that combines bigger guns with the latest and greatest in technology progress." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_inland_blaasma_gun_idea"] |
|
| 463 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 464 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_halflight_guns"] |
|
|
| 465 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_halflight_guns"]) == false |
|
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| 466 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I'm listening." |
|
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| 467 | You | "Imagine, a massive gun that uses a magnetic accelerator to accelerate highly energized hydrogen-based plasma to near light speed. At contact with anything it detonates with the *power of a dying star*, erasing it from existence in a flash of periwinkle blue!" |
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| 468 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | The shape stands in stunned silence. |
|
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| 469 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 470 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
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| 471 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
|
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| 472 | Kim Kitsuragi | "Not the blaasma gun again." The lieutenant takes off the glasses and rubs his eyes with his fingers. "It's not even *possible*." |
|
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| 473 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "It is not possible. But what a dream..." He shakes his head. "Either way, even if I could do it, I certainly wouldn't give an incompetent and corrupt police force *WORLD-ENDING* weaponry." |
|
|
| 474 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 475 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_said_blaasma_option"] |
|
|
| 476 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_said_blaasma_option"]) == false |
|
|
| 477 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "But I appreciate the *grandiosity* of your ideas. Thus you might understand -- the entire org structure of the RCM needs to be redefined. You need a unified chain of command, an end to petty spats between precincts, new metrics for measuring performance that reward real *police work*. Does that sound right?" |
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| 478 | None |
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| 479 | You | Squint. |
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| 480 | You | Cover your eyes... |
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| 481 | Rhetoric | Actually -- at the level this guy is, it takes several generations to do that, but all right. |
|
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| 482 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Exactly!" He agrees. "A world of slavery and violence. Which brings us back to the essential truth of modernism..." |
|
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| 483 | You | "Yeah, that last one. Ile-de-Casherbrume." |
|
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| 484 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Maybe I should? Sadly, I've never been there. I'm sure it's nice but in the end -- does it matter?" |
|
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| 485 | Logic | That's not good -- for you. |
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| 486 | Suggestion | A man this *chill* is at least a triple-digit billionaire. |
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| 487 | Encyclopedia | In the very, very early days of colonizing this archipelago, the Kingdom of Suresne, a precursor of modern Sur-La-Clef, used to own the city of Revachol. An obscure detail in the bigger picture, but still -- worth dropping. |
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| 488 | None |
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||
| 489 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 490 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["tc.that_in_revachol"] |
|
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| 491 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["tc.that_in_revachol"]) == false |
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| 492 | You | "Wow." |
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| 493 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Yes. I imagine that *does* look strange to you. My container." |
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| 494 | Suggestion | Okay. Well. Maybe I was wrong. We've all learned something today. |
|
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| 495 | Authority | Stop embarrassing yourself. Pop a magnesium and calm down. |
|
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| 496 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 497 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_said_a_goodbye"] |
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| 498 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_said_a_goodbye"]) == false |
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| 499 | Endurance | Wouldn't say it's exactly *safe* now -- but financially secure individuals are known adrenaline junkies. |
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| 500 | You | "Have you considered breaking into the local art market?" | IsTaskActive("TASK.sell_art_for_gains") and Variable["cargo.mrlb_is_investor"] == true and Variable["cargo.mrlb_hustle_declined_offer"] == false and CheckItem("cindys_painting") |
|
| 501 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 502 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.container_door_ultraliberal_knock"] |
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| 503 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.container_door_ultraliberal_knock"]) == false |
|
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| 504 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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||
| 505 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsTaskActive("TASK.sell_art_for_gains")--[[ Variable[ ]] |
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| 506 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsTaskActive("TASK.sell_art_for_gains")--[[ Variable[ ]]) == false |
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| 507 | Savoir Faire | We've hit the big time! This is the man who's going to make you *rich*. Always rely on your friendly neighbourhood swindler. |
|
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| 508 | Savoir Faire | You better explain that you aren't Savvy, by the way. Can't have you nicking this identity after working hard to gain such a prodigious rep. |
|
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| 509 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "There it is. I knew it as soon as you did the Milton 32-8 knock. A fellow entrepreneur!" |
|
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| 510 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 511 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done_success"] |
|
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| 512 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done_success"]) == false |
|
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| 513 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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||
| 514 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"] |
|
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| 515 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"]) == false |
|
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| 516 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "The art market? Intriguing. You've already convinced me to invest in you, so please, go on -- tell me what you're thinking." |
|
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| 517 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "The art market? Intriguing. Well, as I said, I don't carry much money on my person. But do go on, what are you thinking?" |
|
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| 518 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Ah, a fellow entrepreneur. Tremendous! The art market? Intriguing. Sure, I'm keen. What are you thinking?" |
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| 519 | None |
|
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| 520 | None |
|
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| 521 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "The art market, you say? Sure. 'Hit me with it', as they say. I'm keen to hear what you have in mind." |
|
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| 522 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "The art market, you say? Possibly. As I said, I don't carry much money on my person, but do go on -- what are you thinking?" |
|
|
| 523 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Well, you've already convinced me to invest in you, so please, go on -- tell me about this opportunity. I'm keen." |
|
|
| 524 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 525 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done_success"] |
|
|
| 526 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_wcheck_done_success"]) == false |
|
|
| 527 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 528 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"] |
|
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| 529 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_asked_money"]) == false |
|
|
| 530 | You | "Wait, the Milton 32-8 knock?" |
|
|
| 531 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Yes, the special knock that helps us ultras identify each other. I almost forgot it myself." |
|
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| 532 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "But I'm getting side-tracked. Tell me about your business proposal. I am all *ears*." His face seems to distort in the blinding light, pulling and twisting at his sides. |
|
|
| 533 | Encyclopedia | The Milton 32-8 knock was created through data sonification. It's based on the time series data of the world's most profitable bank during its prosperous years in the Thirties. The peak points were turned into the rhythm that makes up the knock. |
|
|
| 534 | You | "I've recently discovered a local painter with enormous potential." (Show him Cindy's *chef d'oeuvre*.) |
|
|
| 535 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "However, there are a few *complications*.... I don't have the cash on me right now to pay for art of this calibre. What I can instead offer are shares in Mauer-Koshlai Mercury Group." |
|
|
| 536 | Savoir Faire | Shares -- that's even *better*. You can do a lot with them if you play your cards right. |
|
|
| 537 | You | "What are these shares worth?" |
|
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| 538 | You | "We have a deal." (Accept offer.) |
|
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| 539 | You | "Thanks, but I need some time to think about it." (Decline for now.) |
|
|
| 540 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I bought these shares many years ago for a steal. As predicted, Mauer-Koshlai Mercury's operating profit has increased year on year, and there's no signs of it slowing down. People *always* need mercury." |
|
|
| 541 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Which means you could net yourself a considerable profit if you need some immediate liquidity. But if you don't mind waiting I expect the value of these shares to double within the next five years." |
|
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| 542 | None |
|
||
| 543 | You | "I've been thinking about those shares you offered me." | IsTaskActive("TASK.sell_art_for_gains") and Variable["cargo.mrlb_hustle_declined_offer"] == true and CheckItem("cindys_painting") |
|
| 544 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "They could set you up for a *long time*. Mauer-Koshlai Mercury is just getting started. Mark my words." |
|
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| 545 | None |
|
||
| 546 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Not a problem. The offer stands for as long as I'm around these parts." |
|
|
| 547 | None |
|
||
| 548 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Splendid." You hear the sound of expensive fabrics brushing against each other. When it stops, a roll of paper emerges from the radiance. |
|
|
| 549 | You | "What's that?" |
|
|
| 550 | You | (Take the scroll.) "Thanks." |
|
|
| 551 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "This is a stock certificate. Well, a photocopy of one. Nevertheless, it's solid proof that you own shares in Mauer-Koshlai Mercury Group." |
|
|
| 552 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | The light around the individual in front of you changes somehow as you take the scroll. You can't figure out what's different -- you just know that it is. |
|
|
| 553 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | After you hand over the artwork, the voice from the light says: "Another deal complete. Welcome to the big leagues! If you haven't already, I'd advise you to consider hiring a Personal Brand Strategist." |
|
|
| 554 | You | "What does a Personal Brand Strategist do?" |
|
|
| 555 | You | "Could you hook me up with one?" |
|
|
| 556 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "What *don't* they do?" The shiny magnate chuckles. "They practically do everything -- from spotting good investments and analysing design trends, to booking a lunchtime table at the prestigious L'Ambroisie." |
|
|
| 557 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Unfortunately not. I only know the ones who work with multi-millionaires and beyond. But take a look around and I'm sure you'll find one. Personal Brand Strategists are attracted to money like *sharks* to blood. You'll find having net worth opens many new doors for you." |
|
|
| 558 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 559 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["village.idiot_greeting_done"] |
|
|
| 560 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["village.idiot_greeting_done"]) == false |
|
|
| 561 | Savoir Faire | Personal Brand Strategist, huh? Not the kind of person you're likely to find around here. We'll have to ask anyone who seems like they might understand marketing, reputation management... someone who dreams big. |
|
|
| 562 | None |
|
||
| 563 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 564 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.container_door_ultraliberal_knock"] |
|
|
| 565 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.container_door_ultraliberal_knock"]) == false |
|
|
| 566 | You | "Actually, Savvy *isn't* my name. Hope you'll excuse me. Let me introduce myself again..." |
|
|
| 567 | Savoir Faire | Oh, and we should see what this net worth can do. Might score a discount, or better yet, get you some free goods. That's the kind of thing that really makes you feel like a hotshot. Ask the local merchants about it if you get the chance. |
|
|
| 568 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Now, was there anything else I could help you with?" |
|
|
| 569 | Suggestion | It's a secret handshake of the ultra rich, distributed though private-access yacht clubs and interisolary balls for the heirs and heiresses of the old money. Where you picked it up is a mystery. |
|
|
| 570 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "A painter, eh? I am always looking to expand into new asset classes. Who's the artist?" |
|
|
| 571 | You | "Grotbags. Actually, make that Granny Grotbags." |
|
|
| 572 | You | "Let's go with... Lucinda Schweinehack." |
|
|
| 573 | You | "Cindy the SKULL." |
|
|
| 574 | You | "I'd prefer to keep it a secret." |
|
|
| 575 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "A-ha. And the name of the piece?" He leans in to take a good look at the rectangular plastic board coated thick with emulsion. |
|
|
| 576 | You | "Morve sur toile." |
|
|
| 577 | You | "The Arduous Slaughter of the Eighth Pinniped." |
|
|
| 578 | You | "Gross Profit." |
|
|
| 579 | You | "Keith." |
|
|
| 580 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Not even a pseudonym?" The light appears to vibrate with surprise. |
|
|
| 581 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Wonderful things aren't they -- names? They can completely change your reading of a person. Or, in this case, a painting." |
|
|
| 582 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Well, I think that settles it. You've found a buyer, my friend. A pleasure transacting with you." The light around him warms you like a friendly embrace. |
|
|
| 583 | You | "No, a complete mystery. You can call her Anonymous." |
|
|
| 584 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "And the name of the piece?" He leans in to take a good look at the rectangular plastic board coated thick with emulsion. |
|
|
| 585 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Original. I don't think any of my friends have any pieces from anonymous artists. Or maybe only Luca, the son-in-law of the Comte de L'Ys." |
|
|
| 586 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "No, not even him. He might have some Moelles and de Vignys, the *authenticity* of which historians are debating, but I don't think that counts. Perfect." |
|
|
| 587 | Encyclopedia | The Aloïs-Lorblanchet family is known to have one of the biggest and most impressive private art collections in the world. |
|
|
| 588 | You | "What are 'shares' and what can I do with them?" |
|
|
| 589 | You | "What is Mauer-Koshlai Mercury Group?" |
|
|
| 590 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "They are the very *unit* of capital. You can buy them, sell them, even sit on them if you think it wise. Trust me when I say this -- becoming a shareholder means you're part of the *big leagues*." |
|
|
| 591 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "It's a Gottwaldian-Iilmaraan company that specialises in extracting mercury. It's seen massive growth lately due to the discovery of rödfärg mercury." |
|
|
| 592 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Rehm's using it in their next model. I can't wait for mine to turn up! My predictions say its improved speed and azimuthal range should increase my trade efficiency by a whopping 46%. You really should order one if you don't want to be left behind." |
|
|
| 593 | Rhetoric | This is the only question that matters. Fail to come up with an interesting hook and he's out. |
|
|
| 594 | None |
|
||
| 595 | None |
|
||
| 596 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | There's no sign of a reaction for a good three seconds. Then... |
|
|
| 597 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Keith? Just *Keith*?" |
|
|
| 598 | Volition | Yes, Keith. Stick with it. |
|
|
| 599 | Volition | What were you thinking -- *KEITH*??!! You're not starting a boy band here, you're naming a future masterpiece! |
|
|
| 600 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 601 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_ultralib_volition_keith"] |
|
|
| 602 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_ultralib_volition_keith"]) == false |
|
|
| 603 | None |
|
||
| 604 | You | (Nod.) "Keith." |
|
|
| 605 | You | Say nothing. |
|
|
| 606 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Keith," he repeats. |
|
|
| 607 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 608 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | IsKimHere() |
|
|
| 609 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (IsKimHere()) == false |
|
|
| 610 | Kim Kitsuragi | Even the lieutenant looks tense, waiting to see where this is going... |
|
|
| 611 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Keith, I like it. One of my nephews is named Keith. We haven't spoken in years, since I declined to pay for his most recent trip to rehab. But perhaps this will help patch things up between us..." |
|
|
| 612 | Half Light | Sweat pools up in your clavicles, a rancid smell of *fear*. |
|
|
| 613 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | There's no sign of a reaction for a good three seconds. Then... |
|
|
| 614 | You | Nod confidently. |
|
|
| 615 | You | Say nothing. |
|
|
| 616 | None |
|
||
| 617 | You | Joyce might be able to help? | Variable["pier.joyce_hub_reached"] |
|
| 618 | You | Evrart seems to know a thing or two... | Variable["cargo.evrart_main_hub_reached"] |
|
| 619 | You | Garte seems to have his life together. | Variable["whirling.garte_intro_main_hub_reached"] |
|
| 620 | You | No one comes to mind... |
|
|
| 621 | Savoir Faire | She *could*, but she represents the Wild Pines, which is the top of that particular game. No way she's stepping down from there. We need someone lower down. |
|
|
| 622 | Savoir Faire | That old communist?! The only thing he'll strategize is a plan to *redistribute* your hard-earned money to losers and moochers! |
|
|
| 623 | Savoir Faire | He's nothing more than a middle manager living a middle-class life -- your aspirations are *much* more ambitious than that. |
|
|
| 624 | Savoir Faire | We'll stumble upon someone, someone with the right amount of *can-do* attitude... I'll let you know when we do. Just keep your eyes open! |
|
|
| 625 | None |
|
||
| 626 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "So! What's next on the agenda?" |
|
|
| 627 | None |
|
||
| 628 | Savoir Faire | Here's an *avant-garde* proposal... What about Idiot Doom Spiral? He used to hustle and hang with the sales hawks and trend pushers of the marketing world. Let's ask him if he knows any Personal Brand Strategists. |
|
|
| 629 | Logic | Seems like a clever investment. Definitely worth thinking about if you care about your future. |
|
|
| 630 | Electrochemistry | Yes, but chances are you can't use them to buy anything *right now*. No cigarettes, no alcohol, no funky little colourful pills... |
|
|
| 631 | Interfacing | He's right, the combination of Rehm's solid engineering and the new rödfärg mercury valves is huge. |
|
|
| 632 | Inland Empire | It looks almost ethereal -- is it even real? |
|
|
| 633 | Volition | A step forward for technology, yes -- but only for those who can afford it. |
|
|
| 634 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Have you heard about it? At the moment, it's trading at more than 1.5x the price of gold. That's because it's an essential component in the next generation of radiocomputers..." |
|
|
| 635 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "That concludes *our part* of the transaction. Once you've turned over the asset, my people will get the legal ball rolling." |
|
|
| 636 | None |
|
||
| 637 | You | "It's actually just a mixing palette." | Variable["pier.cindy_art_seen_palette"] and Variable["cargo.mrlb_hustle_mixing_palette"] == false |
|
| 638 | You | "It's an early entry in an emerging style known as Art-ishoo." | Variable["pier.cindy_artishoo"] and Variable["cargo.mrlb_hustle_artishoo"] == false |
|
| 639 | You | "The artist was struggling. *Really* struggling." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_hustle_cindy_pain"] == false |
|
| 640 | You | "Value is something you should *discover* for yourself. What do you see?" | Variable["cargo.mrlb_hustle_arty_nonsense"] == false |
|
| 641 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I see..." The light appears to concentrate... |
|
|
| 642 | You | "Staring at it long enough lets you immerse yourself in *karperie*." | (Variable["boardwalk.trant_jan_kaarp"] or Variable["pier.joyce_karperie"]) and Variable["cargo.mrlb_hustle_karperie"] == false |
|
| 643 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Just a mixing palette? But where does the value lie then?" |
|
|
| 644 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "That's what I wanted to ask you about. Tell me, what's their *story*? Did they *suffer*?" |
|
|
| 645 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I'll be honest, all I see are splatters that lack any true intention." |
|
|
| 646 | Savoir Faire | Great work -- that might have done it. |
|
|
| 647 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "It lets you *immerse yourself* in a modern school of thought? Are you sure?" |
|
|
| 648 | Inland Empire | Ten seconds -- borders dissipate. Twenty seconds -- loss of self. Thirty seconds -- everything dissimilates into raw unreality. |
|
|
| 649 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
|
||
| 650 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_concept_karperie"] |
|
|
| 651 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_concept_karperie"]) == false |
|
|
| 652 | Conceptualization | That's just one of the many dangers of getting too deep into karperie. |
|
|
| 653 | You | "Yes. Spend time with it and the whole world becomes defined by karperie." |
|
|
| 654 | You | "Actually, forget what I said. It doesn't really make sense." |
|
|
| 655 | Physical Instrument | Complete nonsense -- both 'karperie' and what you just said. Can't bathe in thoughts! |
|
|
| 656 | You | "Mhmh. Karperie is *dangerous*. It spreads like a virus, infecting entire universities." |
|
|
| 657 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "*Dangerous*? I like things that are dangerous. You could even say I'm one of these 'adrenaline-junkies'." The light emanating from him seems to intensify. |
|
|
| 658 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Sounds like a hell of a trip. I really must experience it for myself." The light emanating from him seems to intensify. |
|
|
| 659 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I appreciate you saving us from wasting time. Is there anything else I should know about the painting?" |
|
|
| 660 | You | "This is a cryptograph used by circuit benders to bring down banks." |
|
|
| 661 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Before I invest, I need to know more about the work. How do I know this asset is going to appreciate with time?" |
|
|
| 662 | Savoir Faire | Remember, you're not just selling a painting, you're selling a *story*. Give the man a reason to throw down that paper. |
|
|
| 663 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Emerging? That's a word with plenty of appeal. What is it that defines this style exactly?" |
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| 664 | Rhetoric | The obvious answer is to be illustrative. However, he would be much more interested in art that directly tackles social issues. |
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| 665 | Volition | Just tell him the truth. Why does no one ever want to tell the truth? |
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| 666 | Savoir Faire | Why are you letting this opportunity slip away? Give him a story, an experience, make him want to run away with this painting and marry it in secret. |
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| 667 | None |
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| 668 | None |
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| 669 | Interfacing | Running your fingertips across the splatters reveals frequencies used by finance companies for long-distance communication. |
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| 670 | Conceptualization | That's not very *art*. Tell him it contains an invisible pigment used by corporate spies. Own the palette and you can unveil a whole world of concealed communications. |
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| 671 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 672 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_interfacing_cryptograph"] |
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| 673 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_interfacing_cryptograph"]) == false |
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| 674 | Physical Instrument | Now is the time to champion the power of the sinuses! |
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| 675 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I've found it's much better for my health just to throw money at those kinds of problems and hope they go away. That way I don't have to feel guilty about avoiding them." |
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| 676 | Savoir Faire | Looks like he's about to throw some of his money our way... |
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| 677 | You | "It's the organs. She hardly has anything left." |
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| 678 | You | "Actually, I lied. She's from a working class background, but seems to be doing okay." |
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| 679 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Oh." He sounds disappointed. "Well, I'm sure her work represents some very interesting *internal* struggle. Probably with mental illness. Yes, that sounds right." |
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| 680 | None |
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| 681 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Pray tell." The human shape within the light appears to lean even closer. Tiny dots flood your retina as the shipping container gets too bright. |
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| 682 | You | "It's the groceries. The poor thing has to go to Frittte every day." |
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| 683 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "*Mesque bangers*? No! Have I told you I've stopped reading the news? It's too negative, can't let it affect my mojo." |
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| 684 | Pain Threshold | This guy clearly gets off on macabre stories. You've got just the one -- an absolute skullfuckery. |
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| 685 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "An artist's value doubles if they come with a good backstory. I thought you were an experienced art dealer, you should know this." |
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| 686 | Pain Threshold | Seems like he's not actually that interested in hearing the details. Too bad, you had a good story cooked up... |
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| 687 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "What a sad, sad story. I should ask Rhéa to look into this, maybe the foundation can set up some scholarships for cases like these." |
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| 688 | You | "It's something even worse. See, she got involved with Mesque bangers..." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_lie_painting_electrochem"] |
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| 689 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "*Every day*?" The blinding light becomes almost melancholy. "But how does she find time to do any work?" |
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| 690 | Empathy | That's disgusting and thoroughly unethical. You should refuse to engage with this. |
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| 691 | Empathy | You still have an option to not go along with this senseless sensationalism. |
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| 692 | Logic | It's the artist herself who becomes a commodity, not merely their work. |
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| 693 | None |
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| 694 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Just a hollow husk..." The blinding light becomes almost melancholy. |
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| 695 | Empathy | At least she still has her heart intact, unlike some people here. |
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| 696 | You | "Actually, she seemed to be doing more than okay. If anyone suffered then it's me." |
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| 697 | You | "Wait, why does it matter?" |
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| 698 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Oh." He sounds disappointed. "Well, I'm sure her work represents some very interesting *internal* struggle. Probably with mental illness. Yes, that sounds right." |
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| 699 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "You?" The light appears to blink, as if someone switched off the light source for a second. "But why should we care about *you*?!" |
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| 700 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Any details? I've heard some struggling families have to sell their organs to pay the rent. There is also the terrible misfortune of having to go get your own groceries when you're poor. Which one is it?" |
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| 701 | You | "Her socio-economic conditions were meagre, but her spirit remained strong." |
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| 702 | You | (Nod solemnly.) "Terribly." |
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| 703 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "In any case, is there anything *else* you can tell me about this piece?" |
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| 704 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Please, if there's something I'm missing, I'd love to know what it is." |
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| 705 | You | "It's art that tackles issues. Art plus issues -- Art-ishoo." |
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| 706 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I see -- very good. What kinds of issues are we talking about? I've really got into the housing crisis recently." |
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| 707 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Poor thing! In that case, buying this will help me fulfil my *noblesse oblige* for the month." |
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| 708 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I see. What is so special about it then?" |
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| 709 | You | "Oh yeah, this is all about the housing crisis. The artist doesn't even have a home." | Variable["pier.cindy_discussed_coal_room"] |
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| 710 | You | "Nah, it's just another fad. But there's something else special about this painting." |
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| 711 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Oh yes, I see it now. Very *graphic*, isn't it? Really delivers insight into what it's like being that... unruly." |
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| 712 | You | "It's art that is produced by way of sneezing." |
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| 713 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "But perhaps I judge too quickly. Is there an intelligent reasoning behind the method?" |
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| 714 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Hm. Seems unhygienic. Is that what's *in* these days?" |
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| 715 | Savoir Faire | That's it, lap it up, buddy. That might have done it. |
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| 716 | You | "It's a real spit-and-sawdust affair. See those splatters? That's *poor* people." |
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| 717 | Logic | He only wants to hear about struggles he isn't familiar with. |
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| 718 | Composure | His scintillating face-shape flashes with an expression that resembles disgust. |
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| 719 | None |
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| 720 | None |
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| 721 | You | "On second thought, not the kinds of issues you'd be interested in." |
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| 722 | You | "The artist enters a state of no-mindedness and lets the body take over." |
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| 723 | You | "Splatter, disarray, chaos -- it's anti-design." |
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| 724 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "But design is the very signature of humanity. Everything we do is design. Text columns, urban architecture, the precise shape of a stapler... what are we without any of that?" |
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| 725 | Drama | Challenge him on this. Cause a scene. |
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| 726 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 727 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_hustle_drama_challenge"] |
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| 728 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_hustle_drama_challenge"]) == false |
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| 729 | Savoir Faire | Don't you dare! This isn't the time. Put your personal feelings aside -- you're a salesman! |
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| 730 | You | "Design is nothing. Let it go. It's holding you back." |
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| 731 | You | "Exactly. Don't you want to find out what *else* we could be?" |
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| 732 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | He swills it around in his brain. "So it's an éxtrasomatic painting. An effort carried out by physical instinct -- not the mind." |
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| 733 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Perhaps I *have* been neglecting the triumphs of anatomical perspicacity lately..." He sinks into thought. |
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| 734 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "That's a shame. Is there anything else to this painting, or is that it?" |
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| 735 | None |
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| 736 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Hmm, I do cling to it rather a lot. Perhaps that is one of my shortcomings -- I just haven't realised it before now." |
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| 737 | Conceptualization | Tell him it was used to mix together an invisible pigment. Own it and he opens up a whole world of concealed communications. |
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| 738 | You | "This is a new type of design. You'll work it out if you spend more time with it." |
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| 739 | Inland Empire | So close to envisioning what's beyond. Just needs a little push over the edge... |
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| 740 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Hm. I hadn't thought about it that way before. You might have just opened up a new door in my mind." |
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| 741 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "That prophet-for-hire did say I should identify weakness and remove it from my life..." |
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| 742 | You | "It contains a unique invisible paint. You can use it to hide important messages." | Variable["cargo.mrlb_hustle_concept_ink"] |
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| 743 | You | "Certainly not in its material form. But there's more to it than that." |
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| 744 | Savoir Faire | Yeah-yeah, you're doing a good deed here, really giving back to society. Just give us the money already. |
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| 745 | Savoir Faire | Doors, windows, toilet seats -- open whatever it is you need, buddy. Just get on with making a purchase already! |
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| 746 | Savoir Faire | Here's a prophecy for you, pal. Buying this painting will make your life better (and ours). |
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| 747 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "That changes everything." |
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| 748 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Perfect! I've been looking for a way to communicate without the information being intercepted or stolen by rivals." |
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| 749 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Go on. I'm listening..." |
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| 750 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Perhaps I could be the one to 'discover' it? To share it with the wider world..." |
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| 751 | Savoir Faire | That's not how discovery works, but let him think whatever he wants if it means he'll buy it. |
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| 752 | You | "You're actually the first person to see this painting after the artist." |
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| 753 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "You mean even *you* haven't looked at it?" |
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| 754 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "Still, only two people have seen it thus far. That makes it pretty *exclusive* and therefore potentially valuable." |
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| 755 | You | "Oh yeah. Duh!" |
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| 756 | You | (Lie.) "I haven't so much as squinted at it. It's the exclusivity that gives it value." |
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| 757 | Savoir Faire | Wow, he worked it out all by himself. Such a clever boy. But is he gonna pay up? |
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| 758 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "I see, so by artificially constraining supply you're also stimulating demand. I have to say, it's a brilliant strategy..." |
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| 759 | Savoir Faire | Great work. I think you've got him. Let's see what he says... |
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| 760 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "And if I don't buy it now, more people will see it -- ergo its value will drop." |
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| 761 | Half Light | It's now or never! |
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| 762 | Suggestion | What he wants to know is how exclusive it is. The more untouched it is, the better. |
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| 763 | Savoir Faire | Bit of corporate espionage? He's straight in there. Great job. |
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| 764 | Savoir Faire | Sounds like a winner. Good pitch. |
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| 765 | None |
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| 766 | Savoir Faire | He ate that right up. Pretty sure you've done it. |
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| 767 | Physical Instrument | This transaction has changed the physical relationship between you. You are now more alike somehow. |
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| 768 | Reaction Speed | There! The blinding light dimmed just long enough for you to see his true form! He looked like a regular middle-aged man! |
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| 769 | Inland Empire | Something's rattling within you. It feels like the first penny dropped into a piggy bank. |
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| 770 | Endurance | Lying will get you nowhere. You can't outrun the truth -- it will catch up to you one day. |
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| 771 | Suggestion | The comfortably wealthy want their views challenged when making a purchase. Don't hold back. |
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| 772 | Inland Empire | He's so close to envisioning what's beyond. Just needs a little push over the edge... |
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| 773 | You | "It turns the artistic process into the art itself." |
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| 774 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | "What an original idea! By drawing our focus away from the final piece we gain a new appreciation for the craft behind it. An art in its own right that is usually hidden from us." |
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| 775 | Savoir Faire | These people will find a way to justify anything. Looks like you've reeled him. |
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| 776 | Savoir Faire | You've reeled him right in. That's got to have done it. |
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| 777 | Encyclopedia | The Weiss-Wiesemann coefficient for you and this individual has now dropped to .9989 repeating. |
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| 778 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy |
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| 779 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | Variable["cargo.mrlb_cyclo_coefficient"] |
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| 780 | Mega Rich Light-Bending Guy | (Variable["cargo.mrlb_cyclo_coefficient"]) == false |
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