june event.

[falsitates]

JUNE 15, 2021

The heatwave has passed and the weather has never been better. The city is full of life once again, and the streets are busy as people return outdoors to enjoy what summer has to offer. Everything appears to have returned back to normal.

For everyone, but you.

The newcomers are given an envelope that is either addressed to their current residence or placed in their belongings. There is no return address, and inside is a New York state government-issued ID. It appears to be authentic. The residents, on the other hand, receive a similar envelope, but with a SIM card. There are no other notes.

Are these your rewards?

  MISSION BOARD

Your phone vibrates.

It doesn't stop until you pick it up and when you do, it's cold. The buttons do nothing as it shuts down, unresponsive to whatever actions that you take. Then, much like last time, white lettering on a black backdrop appears.

WELCOME TO WEEK THREE.
A NEW MODULE HAS BEEN UNLOCKED.
YOU MAY CHOOSE TO IGNORE IT.
OR YOU MAY CHOOSE TO USE IT.
AUDENTES FORTUNA IUVAT

A new section has been added to the app. It reads as 'missions'. There are currently three tasks available right now.

  BEGINNINGS OF A FOREST

The barrier continues to grow in size. Vitae's outskirts are gradually, but surely, expanding, and in its new area is a sea of trees. There has never been a forest surrounding the city, yet one is unmistakably forming. It's small, extending outside for less than a quarter-mile, and asides from its sudden appearance, there's nothing unusual about it. Only trees, the barrier, and the nagging feeling that someone is watching you.

Nobody in the city seems to notice. When questioned, they claim that the forest has always been there. In fact, the city was created in the heart of a forest, and it has remained that way since its inception. None of them are aware of the fact that these trees were never there until now.

It's as though the forest has always been there.

  DECISION TIME

By the end of the day, your phone vibrates again. A new message appears.

ALLY?
BETRAY?

One of the two choices must be selected. Otherwise, you won't be able to use your phone.

Make your choice.

Comments

[rightminded]

That would be because I am, and I did. You're rather perceptive. Could it be you're one of the few who isn't a native of Vitae?

[ Of course he recognizes Jun from the network, but he won't say so now, given this opening. ]

[whiteshroud]

Haha ... is it the hair that gives it away?

[Yeah he's noticed it's a weird hair color to have in this version of earth]

Mm, I arrived a couple weeks ago.

[rightminded]

Only partially. You could simply have a fondness for green hair dye.

[ With a slight laugh to his voice. ]

I'd love to hear your perspective on life here in Vitae, as someone who is an outsider.

[whiteshroud]

[he gives a slight laugh in return] No, it's natural.

[his perspective huh....?]

Well, it's a nice enough city. But I'd rather get back to Japan if possible.

[rightminded]

Understandably so. I can only imagine the strange barrier and the indifference of the non-networked locals has been making that rather difficult...

[ His conversations with anyone not connected to AVA have gone nowhere. ]

[whiteshroud]

Mm, those things certainly haven't helped.

[To say the least]

What about you? Have you figured out what you'll do here for lodging and other needs?

[rightminded]

I have the beginnings of a plan, I believe. I plan to secure a job and then an apartment, whatever is most affordable. Until I have the funds for housing, I suppose I'll see if any shelters are available.

[whiteshroud]

[Jun gives a nod. Looks like this guy at least has more sense than to embrace life as a hobo living in a mall. Good for him!]

I suggest asking on AVA. Several of the locals there have been offering places to stay for us stranded here.

If that doesn't lead anywhere, the church can probably find you a shelter to stay.

[rightminded]

[ unlike SOME PEOPLE. ]

Is that so? That’s very kind. Should the need arise, I’ll certainly take your advice.

Ah, yes, I’ve been told of the church. They also offer free meals, yes? I plan to make use of their services while I get on my feet, so to speak. If they can offer guidance as well, so much the better.

[whiteshroud]

[Akechi is chatty...but Jun is not. So he gives a simple nod and "mm" sound of agreement]

They do. They're very charitable, thankfully.

[Look he's part of the church he knows full well there are some out there that are run by dickheads]