[[European Fiction 1956|1.1]] By David Wang (set: $choices to 0) [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length is 0)[[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei|3]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length >= 1)[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length is 0)[[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy|4]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length >= 1)[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length is 0)[[Thomas Schmidt|2]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length >= 1)[Thomas Schmidt]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length is 0)[[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei|3]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length >= 1)[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length is 0)[[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy|4]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length >= 1)[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length is 0)[[Thomas Schmidt|2]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length >= 1)[Thomas Schmidt]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length is 0)[[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei|3]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length >= 1)[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length is 0)[[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy|4]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length >= 1)[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length is 0)[[Thomas Schmidt|2]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length >= 1)[Thomas Schmidt]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length is 0)[[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei|3]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length >= 1)[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length is 0)[[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy|4]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length >= 1)[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length is 0)[[Thomas Schmidt|2]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length >= 1)[Thomas Schmidt]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length is 0)[[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei|3]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length >= 1)[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length is 0)[[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy|4]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length >= 1)[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length is 0)[[Thomas Schmidt|2]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length >= 1)[Thomas Schmidt]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length is 0)[[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei|3]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length >= 1)[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length is 0)[[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy|4]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length >= 1)[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length is 0)[[Thomas Schmidt|2]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "2.1")'s length >= 1)[Thomas Schmidt]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length is 0)[[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei|3]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "3.1")'s length >= 1)[Luca &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Verattei]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length is 0)[[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy|4]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "4.1")'s length >= 1)[Kamel &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fahmy]] Those who are close suffer, those who hate quickly. [(if:(history: where its name contains "1.1")'s length >= 3) + (if: $choices is 5 or 6)[["Elijah David, if I remember correctly."|10.1]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "1.1")'s length >= 3) + (if: $choices is 7 or 8 or 9 or 10 or 11 or 12)[["Elijah David, if I remember correctly."|11.1]]] [(if:(history: where its name contains "1.1")'s length >= 3) + (if: $choices is 13 or 14 or 15)[["Elijah David, if I remember correctly."|12.1]]]<img src="image/rL6CSwRHxXG6XGyJok33gGOOJ7I.jpeg"> "Elijah David, if I remember correctly," says Hans as he shielded his wife and children behind him. "What a labor of love, to remember my name! You are really a hard man to find!" "What do you want? what is this?" "Sixteen years, I've dreamed about this day!" Elijah's face gradually turned into a scowl, slowly approaching Hans with his gun raised, "You are going to pay for what you've done sixteen years ago!" "What I've done, is that I've saved your life!" Hans's voice was laced with dismay and fear. "Bullshit! You had my family captured so that they could die in the camp! You murdered them!" Elijah hissed and growled, the gun in his hand was already pressed against Hans' forehead. [[NEXT|10.2]]<img src="image/rL6CSwRHxXG6XGyJok33gGOOJ7I.jpeg"> Those who carries the sin live on borrowed time, debts from the past will eventually catch up to them. Only redemption can possibly move a sinking soul. [[NEXT|10.3]]<img src="image/rL6CSwRHxXG6XGyJok33gGOOJ7I.jpeg"> Hans closed his eyes in despair, and slowly fell to his knees in front of Elijah: "Okay... Okay... Let the guilty get what he deserved. But please do not hurt the innocent." Looking at the old man with gray hair kneeling in front of him, Elijah's hands began to shake. Over the years, he had brainstormed countless scenarios of today, but he had not foreseen that Hans would be able to face his death without a struggle. "I've had enough blood on my hands. I'll pay for my sins." Tears welled up in Elijah's eyes, and his mind was torn at the moment. Even though all the evidence and clues pointed to the man kneeling at Elijah's gunpoint as Hans Meyer, the Security Police of the day, the man is old and fat and has nothing look like the man sixteen years ago. "You will get what you deserve..." Elijah slowly lowers his gun, "Cuff him!" His assistant handcuffs Hans and escorts him out the door. Elijah hosters his gun, staring at the spot where Hans had just knelt for a long time, then left as well. THE END. [[Postscript|13]]<img src="image/rL6CSwRHxXG6XGyJok33gGOOJ7I.jpeg"> "Elijah David, if I remember correctly," says Hans as he shielded his wife and children behind him. "What a labor of love, to remember my name! You are really a hard man to find!" "What do you want? what is this?" "Sixteen years, I've dreamed about this day!" Elijah's face gradually turned into a scowl, slowly approaching Hans with his gun raised, "You are going to pay for what you've done sixteen years ago!" "What I've done, is that I've saved your life!" Hans's voice was laced with dismay and fear. "Bullshit! You had my family captured so that they could die in the camp! You murdered them!" Elijah hissed and growled, the gun in his hand was already pressed against Hans' forehead. [[NEXT|11.2]]<img src="image/rL6CSwRHxXG6XGyJok33gGOOJ7I.jpeg"> Those who carries the sin live on borrowed time, debts from the past will eventually catch up to them. There's no such thing as truth. It's just wishful thinking. [[NEXT|11.3]]<img src="image/rL6CSwRHxXG6XGyJok33gGOOJ7I.jpeg"> "I am deeply sorry for what happened to you and to your family." Looking at the old man with gray hair kneeling in front of him, Elijah's hands begin to shake, and his breathing gradually becomes rapid. "Your family was already on record when the report came to me. There's nothing I could do about that, only that I didn't add your name to it!" "That's not true!" "Yes, it is! And the truth is also, that..." Bang! It happened too quickly. Hans is now lying on the floor with his eyes open and a blood pit behind his head. His wife screamed and his children started to mourn. When Hans's words started making sense to Elijah, he shot him. Elijah stands there still. His arm was slowly put down as he tried to breathe in and taste the smell of victory, for a long time. THE END. [[Postscript|13]]<img src="image/rL6CSwRHxXG6XGyJok33gGOOJ7I.jpeg"> "Elijah David, if I remember correctly," says Hans as he shielded his wife and children behind him. "What a labor of love, to remember my name! You are really a hard man to find!" "What do you want? what is this?" "Sixteen years, I've dreamed about this day!" Elijah's face gradually turned into a scowl, slowly approaching Hans with his gun raised, "You are going to pay for what you've done sixteen years ago!" "What I've done, is that I've saved your life!" Hans's voice was laced with dismay and fear. "Bullshit! You had my family captured so that they could die in the camp! You murdered them!" Elijah hissed and growled, the gun in his hand was already pressed against Hans' forehead. [[NEXT|12.2]]<img src="image/rL6CSwRHxXG6XGyJok33gGOOJ7I.jpeg">. Those who carries the sin live on borrowed time, debts from the past will eventually catch up to them. But who can punish the sins of the past? And who can comfort the sinking souls of today? [[NEXT|12.3]]<img src="image/rL6CSwRHxXG6XGyJok33gGOOJ7I.jpeg"> "I am deeply sorry for what happened to you and to your family." Looking at the old man with gray hair kneeling in front of him, Elijah's hands begin to shake, and his breathing gradually becomes rapid. "Your family was already on record when the report came to me. There's nothing I could do about that, only that I didn't add your name to it!" "That's not true!" "Yes, it is! And the truth is also, that killing me won't... NO!" Hans screams Bang! Elijah suddenly turns his aim to Hans's wife and shoots her in the chest. "You will watch your family die, then you can tell me that you're sorry!" and another shot on Hans's oldest son. "I am sorry! I beg you, please stop!" Hans's face is covered with snot and tears, hissing and pleading with Elijah. Elijah looked angrily at Hans's youngest son, letting Hans kneel at his feet and cry. Bang! Hans's youngest son froze in place, and by now there was no sound in the room. Hans is now lying on the floor with his eyes open and a blood pit behind his head. Elijah stands there still. His arm slowly put down as he tried to breathe in and taste the smell of victory, for a long time. THE END. [[Postscript|13]]<img src="image/unnamed.jpg"> "Hans, as you know, our country has been in a plight and all we are doinng is trying to save it. Only when we as a nation unite and work together can our country and our people prosper." A Gestapo official speaks. Hans's eyes flickers and he is silent. Two huge red flags hung in the office, and every now and then the neat footsteps of soldiers running through the yard came from outside the window. "I've read your resume, your work history is excellent" Gestapo countinues: "I think you have the ability to try and come to the Secret Police. This country needs people like you right now. I'll assign you a squad and you'll lead it yourself." Hans thinks for a moment and looks over at you, sitting on the bench in the corner of the room. [[Knit the brows|2.1]] [[Tilt your head slightly|2.1]]&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; "Sir, I think my seniority is still shallow and I'm afraid that I can't convince the public by transferring to a new department to lead the team now. I think it would be better for me to have time to apprentice in your department's team first to learn the working method, and then consider transferring to the Secret Police department after some time." Hans finished tentatively. The Gestapo fell silent, and the whole room fell silent with it. "I will consider your offer." The Gestapo put away his smile, "The Jews are an enemy of the state and a burden on the people. A new policy against them is already in place. I would like to remind you both, Mr. Meyer and Mr. Schmidt, that as Security Police, it is your duty, to the state and to the people, to joint work with other law enforcement." Hans then quickly ended the conversation and [[left the office|2.2]] with you.<img src="image/372861-4k-wallpaper.jpg"> In the evenings, you sit with Hans on a bench in the yard of his house, drinking beers and talking about everything that is happening on this land. As a security police adjutant, you are also in a sense Hans' assistant and a good friend of Hans who knows his roots. You and Hans often questioned the motives for this task. Gradually, your neighbors, with whom you used to be on good terms, become targets of the investigation. "You know, sometimes I really miss my mentor." Hans says, " and the old days at the detective office. I never had the chance to see him ever after the S.S. have taken him." Often times, many nights like this, Hans would talk about his mentor and fall into sadness at some point. ⬜[["Hans, I'm sorry and I feel for you. I can walk you to his old mansion in a couple days, if that helps"|2.21]] ⚪[["Hans, if he could be here, he wouldn't want you to be so sad, so stop thinking about it."|2.22]] ⬛[["Hans, what are you grieving for, acting like if he's dead? Why don't you just say yes to the Gestapo, going to the Secret Police station will surely help you in your search for his whereabouts. "|2.23]](set: $choices to $choices + 2) <img src="image/372861-4k-wallpaper.jpg"> "Thank you Thomas." said Hans, "I am glad that I know you as my friend." "What's friend for?" ”I wouldn't know..." After a moment of silence, when you are looking over at Hans, he has fallen asleep leaning against the wall. You chukle, and go to the house to call Hans's wife, and subsequently [[go home|2.3]].(set: $choices to $choices + 1) <img src="image/372861-4k-wallpaper.jpg"> "Maybe," Hans says, "but I really don't know." "Stop it Hans! You can let the shadow of him lingering in your mind destroy every beautiful nights like this!" you say with slight disappointment. "Yeah, you're right." "I'll call it a day. I'm going [[home|2.3]], and you should go inside spend some time with your family. "(set: $choices to $choices + 3) <img src="image/372861-4k-wallpaper.jpg"> "When you join the Secret Police and get into the system, more resources come with more restrictions and limitations on what you can and can't do. " Hasn says, "And can you really bear to tell your Jewish friends face to face that they are the enemy of the state and need to be segregated? " "You've always been very conscientious about how you work, and you've been able to overcome all of these problems. I mean you can't just sit back and do nothing, can you? " "It's better to think long and hard about this. We have a mission tomorrow, so you [[go home|2.3]] rest, and so do I."<img src="image/poh-cro01169_118.jpg"> Early the next morning, you and Hans receive a new assignment from your superiors at the police station, dispatching you to assist in the investigation of a Jewish family and leading a trainee police officer, Fritz Becker, on the day's mission. Hans's method of work is always to stay away from the subjects of the investigation, almost like he's scared of them, so that these families being investigated stay as cold numbers and words on the report. The three of you arrive in the neighborhood of the subject's house. Hans offers to stake out at a post office across the street from their house at vintage point. The post office is sandwiched between two brick buildings with a narrow frontage. The post office is facing a direction with a wide view, which is indeed the best choice for surveillance. Hans asks Becker to pay attention to the number of people coming in and out of the house and the names on the form, and Becker says with a little excitement that he has already done his homework on these things. Becker shows an aggressive side in front of Hans, but he doesn't get any praise from Hans. Hans looked at Becker with a sad face. A deep smoke, and then he said: "Then you go around the house to see if there is anything suspicious, and then measure the house and then bring back the numbers." After detaching Becker, Hans meets your eyes and falls into deep thoughts. [[NEXT|2.4]]<img src="image/26954279.jpg"> “Sir, you're blocking the mail drop!" An innocent, clear voice comes. You and Hans look in the direction of the voice; it's a boy of about eight or nine years old, with big endearing eyes. Except for the yellow hair, he looks very much like Hans's youngest son. "I apologize, young man!" Hans apologized gently, the sadness on his face immediately dissipating with the appearance of the young boy. "May I help you with that?" Hans signaled that he wanted to help the boy put the letter into the mailbox. The boy showed caution and shyness. [["Who is this letter addressed to? "|2.41]] [["Where are your parents?"|2.42]]<img src="image/26954279.jpg"> Maybe it is your interest in the boy, or out of detective instinct, you subconsciously throw out this question. The boy did not answer directly, a pair of big eyes send out innocent signals, looking at you says: "I dont know you.... " Hans gently explained: "Please excuse us! My name is Hans Meyer, his name is Thomas Schmidt. We are Security Police. The boy thought for a moment and says, "My name is Elijah David. This letter is for my cuousin's aunt." Hans says: " It's nice to meet you!" Elijah handed the letter to Hans and thanked him before he leaves. Hans holds the letter in his hand above his head to shield it from the sun, looks at the boy as he leaves and says to you, "He reminds me of my boy you know?" “I was wondering when are you going to say that." [[NEXT|2.5]]<img src="image/26954279.jpg"> Maybe it is your interest in the boy, or out of detective instinct, you subconsciously throw out this question. The boy did not answer directly, a pair of big eyes send out innocent signals, looking at you says: "I dont know you.... " Hans gently explained: "Please excuse us! My name is Hans Meyer, his name is Thomas Schmidt. We are Security Police. The boy thought for a moment and says, "My name is Elijah David. My parents are at home." Hans says: " It's nice to meet you!" Elijah handed the letter to Hans and thanked him before he leaves. Hans holds the letter in his hand above his head to shield it from the sun, looks at the boy as he leaves and says to you, "He reminds me of my boy you know?" “I was wondering when are you going to say that." [[NEXT|2.5]]<img src="image/poh-cro01169_118.jpg"> You smiled at the boy's back as he ran away, thinking to yourself just how cute he is. This speeds up your thoughts of wanting to get married. When you look back at Hans, who was smiling just a moment ago is now looking away with a grave expression. You follow Hans's gaze to the boy who just left. But you immediately realize the reason for Hans's serious face, because the direction the boy ran off in was the very house that you were investigating today. You pray, that this boy has no relation with this the Jewish family living in that house, but soon the envelope in Hans's hand confirms your suspicions, and the sender's address on the envelope is exactly that hosue. [[See the Jewish families catalog|2.6]]<img src="image/poh-cro01169_118.jpg"> You take out the catalog from your bag and find the information from the last time another police officer logged on this family： Time: September 18, 1940 Family Last Name: Dreyfuse Members: &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; age: Jacob&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;39 Miram&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;35 Bob&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;30-31 Amos&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;9-10 Shosanna&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;18-19 You didn't find the name Elijah David in this report. Hans looks at the report, and looks at you, nodding slightly. [[Close it and put the report back in the folder|2.7]]<img src="image/poh-cro01169_118.jpg"> Just then Becker returns from the distance. He brought back the measurements, "Captain Hans, here are my measurements. Also I just saw a boy run into that house, I would like to check the catalog of Jewish families in this area." Hans looks at you in alarm... ⬜[[Say that the boy is known to you and that he's here to hang out, not responding to Becker's request|2.71]] ⬛[[Let Becker know who the boss is around here|2.72]] ⚪[[Praise Becker's insightfulness, but lie and say that the debriefing for this area wasn't brought in|2.73]](set: $choices to $choices + 2) <img src="image/poh-cro01169_118.jpg"> "The boy with yellow hair? I know him from last week's routine security sweep. He doesn't belong here. He's probably just visiting." you say, "You keep an eye on things here. I'm going to get today's newspaper." Then you turn your head and went to the newsstand, ignoring Becker. [[NEXT|2.8]](set: $choices to $choices + 3) <img src="image/poh-cro01169_118.jpg"> "Listen up intern! This isn't your criminal investigation class, we're not here to have a group seminar with you. You go on my investigation, you do what I tell you to do, NOT the other way around! Don't stiff your nose into something you shouldn't!" You scolded Becker sternly, and Becker went straight to stupid and froze in place. [[NEXT|2.8]](set: $choices to $choices + 1) <img src="image/poh-cro01169_118.jpg"> "That's very perceptive of you! I trust you won't be far from turning into an official officer if you can keep that up! But we'll have to check that later when we get back to the station, because that report is still on the clerk's desk." Becker nods as you skillfully defuse the crisis. [[NEXT|2.8]]<img src="image/524692-countryside.jpg"> In the evening, you lie in bed and think back and all that has happened today, still with some apprehension. At the same time, you also pray that such a policy, as well as the government's hostile attitude towards the outside world will not intensify. There is also that you can hurry to find a partner, get married and have children. You've really had enough of being alone! [[European Fiction 1956|1.1]]<img src="image/1000_F_207289779_fODzoqIIKzS0TsAflkGeX0HkNJ2fnmtJ.jpg"> "Let's go through the details one last time, Mr. Meyer. Your alias tomorrow is Julian Larsson. We will first head to a meet-up point to meet our informant before leaving Italy, to acquire the remaining documents and your contacts at the port..." "Yes, and me and my family will wait in the car while you go into the meet-up point. Mr. Verattei, we have gone through this many times and I trust you with your 4 years of experience helping other Germans come to this church." In a not-so-large Catholic church in Italy, you sit in the third row of pews with a middle-aged man, chatting about matters pertaining to their family's exit from Italy to Egypt tomorrow. The dim candlelight and the silence except for the rehearsing choir's whispers are comforting, soothing the tight nerves of the two of you. [[Tell him about the ICPC|3.1]]<img src="image/1000_F_207289779_fODzoqIIKzS0TsAflkGeX0HkNJ2fnmtJ.jpg"> ”Given that the International Criminal Police Commission now has infiltrated near Italy, It's even critical that we stick to the plan tomorrow." You whisper, "You can never be too careful." “Of course," says Mr. Meyer. "Alright, I have some other work to do. Why don't you go to your family and tell them to rest well tonight? If you need any help, find me or Ely, the boy with yellow hair. He's practically my assistant." After explaining to Hans, you get up and walk towards the church storeroom. [[Check forged documents|3.11]] [[Check the map|3.12]] [[Check supplies|3.13]]<img src="image/d087f118-b767-47a5-9930-7662e1c9c4a8_3801x2138.png"> All these documents are carefully prepared by you. There are identity papers, letters of recommendation, proof of assets, and so on, all made by people you know are skilled in their craft. You read them carefully and confirm their authenticity. [[Check the map|3.22]] [[Check supplies|3.23]]<img src="image/d087f118-b767-47a5-9930-7662e1c9c4a8_3801x2138.png"> You check the roadmap for tomorrow's trip: possible posts, resupply points, contact points, and checkpoints, as well as the various situations you might encounter and strategies for dealing with them. [[Check forged documents|3.2]] [[Check supplies|3.23]]<img src="image/d087f118-b767-47a5-9930-7662e1c9c4a8_3801x2138.png"> Water, food, clothing, copper coils, weapons, flashlights, and cash to name a few, you scrutinize the supplies you might need for tomorrow's journey. [[Check forged documents|3.2]] [[Check the map|3.22]]<img src="image/d087f118-b767-47a5-9930-7662e1c9c4a8_3801x2138.png"> "Mr. Verattei, just to confirm, you will bring me and my family's identity papers entering Egypt from your informant tomorrow, is that correct?" Meyer comes in and interruptes. A sense of anxiety is not hard to catch. "Yes, and relax. We've got a plan." says you, "And since you're here, take a look at these documents. Try to familiarize them as much as possible." Meyer leaned down and brought his face close to the candlelight to check it out. [[NEXT|3.3]]<img src="image/d087f118-b767-47a5-9930-7662e1c9c4a8_3801x2138.png"> "Mr. Verattei, just to confirm, you will bring me and my family's identity papers entering Egypt from your informant tomorrow, is that correct?" Meyer comes in and interruptes. A sense of anxiety is not hard to catch. "Yes, and relax. We've got a plan." says you, "And since you're here, take a look at the map. Try to familiarize it as much as possible." Meyer leaned down and brought his face close to the candlelight to check it out. [[NEXT|3.3]]<img src="image/d087f118-b767-47a5-9930-7662e1c9c4a8_3801x2138.png"> "Mr. Verattei, just to confirm, you will bring me and my family's identity papers entering Egypt from your informant tomorrow, is that correct?" Meyer comes in and interruptes. A sense of anxiety is not hard to catch. "Yes, and relax. We've got a plan." says you, "And since you're here, take a look at what we will be carring. Try to familiarize them as much as possible." Meyer leaned down and brought his face close to the candlelight to check it out. [[NEXT|3.3]]<img src="image/d087f118-b767-47a5-9930-7662e1c9c4a8_3801x2138.png"> Splat! A jiggly, large drop of wax drips onto a rollover of paperwork off to the side, sounding crisp and loud as if someone had taken an awl and poked through a layer of iron with great force. Startled, you turn your head to find that it's Ely, who has somehow managed to stand behind the table, the tray of candles in his hands already pooling with melted wax. "What are you doing here? And standing here quietly, it's creepy!" The sound of the wax dripping adds to your pre-trip anxiety and a caustic tone to your voice. But Ely looks straight at Mr. Meyer like he didn't hear you, frozen in place. And when he turns to look at Ely, Ely's eyes become averted. "Sorry, I came to get the old sheet music for the choir, they're leaving in a few minutes." Ely says. ⬛[[”Leave! Adaults here are having an important conversation!"|3.31]] ⚪[["Jes... Do you want something from Mr. Meyer?" |3.32]] ⬜[["Don't stand there like that! It's creepy, and it's rude!"|3.33]](set: $choices to $choices + 3) <img src="image/d087f118-b767-47a5-9930-7662e1c9c4a8_3801x2138.png"> "Okay, fine! I didn't mean to scare you!" Says Ely, and he walks out. “Ughh... Sorry about that. That's Ely." You tell Meyer, "I found him on the German-Italian border four years ago. He was smart and capable, so I took him in. Then I took up transporting in this church for a long time, and he's been here ever since, helping the church on a daily basis. Meyer looked thoughtfully at the spot where Ely had just been standing. [[NEXT|3.4]](set: $choices to $choices + 1) <img src="image/d087f118-b767-47a5-9930-7662e1c9c4a8_3801x2138.png"> "No, I... apologize for that." says Ely, and hustles out of the storage room. “Ughh... Sorry about that. That's Ely." You tell Meyer, "I found him on the German-Italian border four years ago. He was smart and capable, so I took him in. Then I took up transporting in this church for a long time, and he's been here ever since, helping the church on a daily basis. Meyer looked thoughtfully at the spot where Ely had just been standing. [[NEXT|3.4]](set: $choices to $choices + 2) <img src="image/d087f118-b767-47a5-9930-7662e1c9c4a8_3801x2138.png"> "I am sorry... I am just..." Ely said slowly, but hurried out of the storage room. “Ughh... Sorry about that. That's Ely." You tell Meyer, "I found him on the German-Italian border four years ago. He was smart and capable, so I took him in. Then I took up transporting in this church for a long time, and he's been here ever since, helping the church on a daily basis. Meyer looked thoughtfully at the spot where Ely had just been standing. [[NEXT|3.4]]<img src="image/2010.324.216_1.jpg"> Today is a big day, to test everything that you have prepared for Mr. Meyer and his family. With your driver in tow, you take Mr. Meyer and his family away early from the church and drive to the pre-departure meeting point with the informant. Driving through the countryside, everything is quiet. But the occasional soldier or two in uniform on the street always gets on your nerves. [[Talk to relieve stress|3.5]]<img src="image/2010.324.216_1.jpg"> "Only out of my curiosity, Mr. Meyer. You weren't so close to anyone in the party. Why run away from your life?" On the road to pass the time and to relieve stress, you ask. ”True, I wasn't close with them. But you know how it is now, since we lost the war five years ago. The whole world's wrath is on us, and I will not let my family be the price of this era's vengeance." "It must been hard for you and your family to leave the land you grew up on." "My homeland... I spent almost half of my lifetime living on has nothing left for me but grief. My mentor was taken, and my partner Thomas, a nice guy, was framed. I feel guilty for them and the many lives I helped to put into the camps." ⬜[["I'm sorry Mr. Meyer, but since you choose to leave, these memories are best left on this side of the sea before you get on board." |3.51]] ⬛[["I'm sorry Mr. Meyer, everyone has their problems, but isn't that just the way life is?"|3.52]] ⚪[["I'm sorry Mr. Meyer, but the choice you're making right now is not the path to salvation." |3.53]](set: $choices to $choices + 1) <img src="image/2010.324.216_1.jpg"> "You're right" Meyer says, "Maybe it's time to forget these painful memories." Realizing that your words seem a bit presumptuous, you apologize to Meyer. "No harm done Mr. Verattei, It's nice to hear these from you." [[End the conversation|3.6]](set: $choices to $choices + 3) <img src="image/2010.324.216_1.jpg"> "You're right." Meyer said, "Everything in this world has their own hopelessness, but suppose they all have a reason for being there. " Realizing that your words seem a bit presumptuous, you apologize to Meyer. "No harm done Mr. Verattei, It's nice to hear these from you." [[End the conversation|3.6]](set: $choices to $choices + 1) <img src="image/2010.324.216_1.jpg"> "You're right," Meyer said, "but where exactly is the path to salvation?" Realizing that your words seem a bit presumptuous, you apologize to Meyer. "No harm done Mr. Verattei, It's nice to hear these from you." [[End the conversation|3.6]]<img src="image/2010.324.216_1.jpg"> After that, there was nothing to say all the way. Soon the car pulls up to the door of a tavern and you get out and enter the tavern alone. "How's the business?" you ask as you cautiously approach a middle-aged man scrubbing a pot outside the door and pull out a yellowish handkerchief. "Better than before 1945." the middle-aged man replies. Through eye contact, you both confirm each other's identity. Then he leads you into the tavern's basement. [[Bring up Sake|3.7]]<img src="image/2010.324.216_1.jpg"> "Do you know Sake? I'm kinda into it now. Any chance you can get me some of those?" "Janpanese stuff?" "Yeah, you're the tavern, you know the ways. Or tell Danny that I need some. He is a guy around here that can get things from time to time." "Nah..he's alright. I have my ways." [[Collect the documents and leave|3.8]]<img src="image/cristoforocolombo02.png"> Back in the car, you immediately order the driver to drive to another informant's place on the outskirts of town. “Are we not going to the port?" Mr. Meyer asks. "We are, but first we will need some other things. Relax, we'll be fine." The rest of the ride was smooth, and you got the Meyer family onto the ship bound for Egypt without incident. Looking at the ship slowly driving away, you told the driver：“Tell the Bishop that we are exposed now. That tavern has been infiltrated, probably by the ICPC. I mentioned Danny to our contact there, but Danny doesn't exist, and he had no comment on that. The documents I picked up there can't be right, I had to get backup papers from another contact for the Meyers. " [[European Fiction 1956|1.1]]<img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> "I won't be eating at home tonight, but I left you some koshari!" you yell to your wife in the bedroom, while you are pulling up your shoes at the door. You are heading to one of your best friend's house, he invited you for dinner. It has been seven years since Julian has come to Eygpt and moved to just two streets away from your house. Julian is a friendly person with a usually helpful personality. Although he may seem a bit gruff, he used to be a detective with a heart of gold. After almost seven years together you have become good friends who talk about everything. [[Go to Julian's place|4.05]]<img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> It's a crowded residential area with 6 units in a row. The buildings are not very tall, some residents have clothes of different colors hanging to dry on the iron railings outside their windows; bicycles and pedestrians come and go; it is a lively scene of life. [[NEXT|4.1]]<img src="image/949d337f-e322-49cf-80b4-8d147a0d5047.png"> When you arrive at Julian's house, he gives you a warm welcome. After dinner, the dark blue Mediterranean sky was cloudless and the stars were revealed. You and Julian reclining on the old wooden chairs in front of the building, drinking beer and talking about life. [[Relationship|4.11]] [[Dream|4.12]] [[Favorite beer brand|4.13]]<img src="image/949d337f-e322-49cf-80b4-8d147a0d5047.png"> "You know, I feel like I've found the happiness. My wife and I have been together since middle school. She was my first love and will be the last person I ever loved." You spit out your heart through your drink. "Oh stop it! You've told this story a hundred times. And you sound like a teenager!" Julian is not an optimist, nor is the expressive type, and has a few hates for nice things. You chuckle as you look across at the old man slumped in his chair, memories of the many times you've had drinks and chats with him coming to mind... [[(Playing harp: the sound of starting a memory flashback...)|4.2]]<img src="image/949d337f-e322-49cf-80b4-8d147a0d5047.png"> "I used to have a dream, you know, I wanted to be an astronaut," says you, pointing to the star-filled sky, "traveling in space, interstellar!" "Oh really? Then why are you still sitting down here?" Julian is not an optimist, nor is the expressive type, and has a few hates for nice things. "Then I met my wife. And when I looked at her for the first time, I knew that dreams change!" You look over at Julian with a wicked grin on your face. Julian whipped his head around but couldn't hold back his laughter. You chuckle as you look across at the old man slumped in his chair, memories of the many times you've had drinks and chats with him coming to mind... [[(Playing harp: the sound of starting a memory flashback...)|4.2]]<img src="image/949d337f-e322-49cf-80b4-8d147a0d5047.png"> "What I brought you today, they are my favorite beer brand. How do you like them? " you ask proudly. "Well, honestly, not so well. I'm not tasting any flavor in it. You have no idea what German beers tastes like! " Julian taunts. "Yeah? Then why is there twelve empty bottles at your feet? Saying one thing with your mouth, yet the body remains honest!" Julian is not an optimist, nor is the expressive type, and has a few hates for nice things. You chuckle as you look across at the old man slumped in his chair, memories of the many times you've had drinks and chats with him coming to mind... [[(Playing harp: the sound of starting a memory flashback...)|4.2]]<img src="image/949d337f-e322-49cf-80b4-8147a0d5047.png"> He once told you that he was a detective when he was young in Germany. The work he took was like following their husbands for rich ladies, or helping local businessmen to keep an eye on their competitors, and occasionally assisting the police in handling cases. He was valued by his mentor for his serious work. One time, his mentor took a mysterious job and didn't want him to get involved. A few days later, the German Labor Party came to the office and arrested his mentor. Since then, Julian never saw him again. After that, Julian became a Security Police and asked around about his mentor's whereabouts, but in the end, there were no clues. You chatted with Julian late into the night, after which you staggered back to [[home|4.3]].<img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> Knock knock! Knock knock! You are awakened by a sharp knock on the door, still not fully awake from last night's drink. [[Get up and open the door|4.4]]<img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> You open the door and in front of it stand three local law enforcement officers, and two Europeans. The two Europeans are wearing black leather jackets and sunglasses, one with yellow hair and one with brownish-red hair. "Kamel Fahmy?" one of the law enforcement officers asks. You immediately perk up at the situation in front of you. "Yes, what do you want?" "These two here with me represent the International Criminal Police Organization and are here today to ask you some questions about the neighborhood. May we step in and talk for a moment?" Though it sounds like they're asking, they're not. [[Let them in|4.5]]<img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> "Fine, come on in... and have a seat." "Greeting Mr. Fahmy. I'm Agent David, and this is my associate. How long would you say you have lived here?" The yellow-haired European is the first to ask. "About 28 years. " "So you're very familiar with the neighborhood. " "You could say that. " "We're investigating a man named Hans Meyer. He's a Nazi leader who was convicted of crimes against humanity and genocide by an international tribunal, and it's our duty to find out where he lives and bring him back to the tribunal. Intelligence indicates that he lives in this neighborhood, and I would like you to assist me in my investigation with any information you can provide." The name Hans Meyer makes you tense and your heart beat faster. [["Strange place to a find a German, don't you think?"|4.6]] [["I don't know him. There is no such person in this area."|4.66]]<img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> "German? You're very certain about the suspect's background." Agent David stares at you and says: "Do you know how many people died in the war to resist fascism and protect the land under your feet? Sending war criminals to international tribunals is both a way to bring justice and comfort to spirits of the scrificed. " "Sir, you're right, but I don't understand..." "You might know him as Julian Larsson. I know that he's here somewhere, and I am going to find him sooner or later." His words send a shock through you. Though Julian had mentioned to you his former name, the Julian you had been drinking and chatting with was not as Agent David had described, "And if I find any connection between you and him later that you didn't tell me today, that's aiding and abetting! You are going down as well for obstruction of justice!" You have no idea of the liability of his words. He sounds more like a gangster than a police. But the presence of the local law enforcement officers on either side of you makes you start to think about this threat agaisnt you. ⬜[["I exercise my right to be silent." |4.61]] ⬛[["Using such despicable means to get a deposition, you really think I'll be scared? I'd very much like to see how can you put me behind bars!"|4.62]] ⚪[["There's no need to be so antagonistic. To be honest, I'm aware of him but I don't know where he lives."|4.63]](set: $choices to $choices + 2) <img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> "Fine, if you think silence would do you good." ... "I see that you've lived here for a long time," Agent David sighed, leaning back and looking around, "I'd say it could use some upgrade." ... “Twenty-five thousand dollars is a big cash, and can really make a lot of changes around here. Think about it." You tilt your head back and look at him through your nostrils, still keeping your lips tightly closed. "Well, if you come up your mind, here's my card. Call me. " Agent David stands up. [[Remain silent|4.7]](set: $choices to $choices + 3) <img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> "You bastard really is ignorant of the depths! " says one of the law enforcement officers. Agent David looks calm, and waves his hand at him. And then he turns to you: "Be careful of what you wish for! I will see you soon, Mr. Fahmy." "Now, if you don't have anything to charge me with, get the hell out of my house!" [[Send off the guest!|4.7]](set: $choices to $choices + 1) <img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> "Good, tell me what you are aware of? " says Agent David, a smile occurs on his face. You think fast: "He often goes to a bar calls the Globe. You can try your luck there." Agent David did not answer your words but stared at you. His eyes seem to be able to make the surrounding air freeze. You stare at Agent David back as well, trying to make him convinced of your lie. "Well then, thank you for your cooperation. Good Day, Mr. Fahmy!" [[Walk them out|4.7]]<img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> After the laws have left, you sit in shock in your room, staring at the tissues on the table. Your brain is tunned for a while. Although you didn't know as much as you wished to know about Julian's time in Germany, you didn't want your best friend of seven years to go to jail just like that. You immediately run to Julian's house and inform him of the news. Julian's wife and children look at Julian with a bewildered look on their faces as they hear you out. Julian's eyes widen, but after a few deep breaths, he sits quietly in his chair. [[NEXT|4.8]]<img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> A loud Bang! As the door to Julian's house is kicked in. "Thank you very much for your further cooperation, Mr. Fahmy! There's your credit in finding Mr. Meyer." Agent David and his assistant break down the door with guns raised. It was a setup! "Mr. Meyer, we meet again!" [[European Fiction 1956|1.1]]This game is inspired by the experience and understanding of vengeful emotions, anger, and conflict. The game tests the player's approach to predictable conflicts, unexpected conflicts, and threats, as well as obsession and conscience. The game references the structure of the game Route 96 and the narrative logic of the movie Cloud Atlas. Other references include the dark comedy series Relatos salvajes, the movie Inglorious Bastards, and the movie Cliff Walkers, which provided me with references to the conflict plot narrative. There're three endings to this game; the Redemption Ending in which Elijah arrests Hans instead of killing him; the Revenge Ending in which Elijah kills Hans; and the Madly Revenge Ending in which Elijah not only kills Hans but also kills Hans' family. Only a very few routes lead to the Redemption Endings, while most routes lead to the Revenge Ending, as in prejudices and contradictions are very, very hard to be resolved. And the Madly Revenge Ending is actually a sign of extreme pain and sadness.<img src="image/Villagers-In-The-Streets-of-Egypt.png"> "You don't know HIM?" Agent David stares at you and says: "Do you know how many people died in the war to resist fascism and protect the land under your feet? Sending war criminals to international tribunals is both a way to bring justice and comfort to spirits of the scrificed. " "Sir, you're right, but I don't understand..." "You might know him as Julian Larsson. I know that he's here somewhere, and I am going to find him sooner or later." His words send a shock through you. Though Julian had mentioned to you his former name, the Julian you had been drinking and chatting with was not as Agent David had described, "And if I find any connection between you and him later that you didn't tell me today, that's aiding and abetting! You are going down as well for obstruction of justice!" You have no idea of the liability of his words. He sounds more like a gangster than a police. But the presence of the local law enforcement officers on either side of you makes you take this threat real. ⬜[["I exercise my right to be silent." |4.61]] ⬛[["Using such despicable means to get a deposition, you really think I'll be scared? I'd very much like to see how can you put me behind bars!"|4.62]] ⚪[["There's no need to be so antagonistic. To be honest, I'm aware of him but I don't know where he lives."|4.63]]