Penance
<script>
$("#phistory").html("");
</script>
<%
s.kanestress = 1
s.abelstress = 1
%>
APRIL 18 2024
## TO DO:
- [<%= s.todoticks[0] %>] establish a claimed **alibi** for each penitent and try to build a timeline
- [<%= s.todoticks[1] %>] press penitents on their actions and whereabouts at the time of death
- [<%= s.todoticks[2] %>] extract a confession
/* TODO: maybe we can have these checked off according to variables that change at certain story points? */
## LEADS
It's always a good start to get basic background information on your penitents. What is their **relationship to the victim**? What do they do for **work**? Do they have any possible **motive** for harming the victim?
## THE VICTIM
Name: **Mia** Conti<br/>
Age: 24<br/>
Date of Birth: December 19th, 1999<br/>
Occupation: Data Analyst at **BigCorp** Ltd.<br/>
Time of Death: Tuesday, April 16th, 2024 at approx. 23:00<br/>
Cause of Death: **Strangulation**<br/>
Location of deceased: Corner **apartment** belonging to Kane Atkins<br/>
## EVIDENCE
When police arrived at Kane Atkins' apartment they discovered the deceased in the bedroom. She was wearing a **lingerie** set and a gold **necklace** with diamond inset. Her wallet was found with no cash inside and she also had **no phone**. Officers noted evidence of a **burglary**.
The autopsy report indicates that **no fingerprints** were found on the neck of the deceased.
## WITNESS STATEMENT
Ms. **Casey** Soorit, the only direct neighbor of Kane Atkins, returned home from a gathering with friends at roughly 23:30. They report that they heard loud sounds of a struggle coming from the apartment at roughly 23:45, and phone logs show they placed a call to Kane Atkins at 23:52, which was reportedly turned down, and a second call to the penitent was placed at 23:53. This **call was declined** as well, reportedly. Ms Soorit then placed a phone call to 911, which lasted 9 minutes from 23:53 to 00:02.
Police arrived on the scene at 00:25.
Talk to [[Kane|kaneext]]
<br/>
Talk to [[Abel|abelext]]<script>
$("#phistory").html("");
inputtext = "nothing";
</script>
[[The metal door to Kane's room swings open at your touch.|kane]]
/* TODO: ADD MORE CHECKS/CONSEQUENCES FOR HIGH STRESS LEVELS */<%
s.abelstress = 1
%>
Kane Atkins sits at the metal table, the harsh swinging light bouncing off his gaunt cheeks and making his skin appear sallow. He glances up at you quickly when he hears the door close, but directs his look back at the table as you approach.
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>You ask Kane about <%= inputtext.length ? inputtext : "nothing" %>. <br/>
<%= s.kanestress < 3 ? ['He blinks. "What do you mean?"', 'You receive no answer as he shifts in his chair.', 'Kane looks at you funny.'][Math.floor(3*(Math.random()))] : ['"Father, I\'m sorry! I don\'t know what you want from me!"','He clasps his hands together and thuds his forehead against strained knuckles. "You\'re not making any sense..."', 'Kane closes his eyes and tilts his head back. He doesn\'t appear to register your question.'][Math.floor(3*(Math.random()))] %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Who is **Abel** Atkins, to you?" <br/>
Kane<%= [" twiddles his thumbs. ", " rakes his hand through sweaty hair. ", "'s fingers tap against the tabletop. "][s.kanestress - 1]%>"He's my older brother; about 4 years older. We've been close forever. He's always been really protective, ever since I used to get bullied in school. **Loyalty** means the world to him. He could come across as a bit intense sometimes I guess. I mean, you probably know that - I'm sure you've got him in the other room giving you hell. " He stills, suddenly. <br/>
"Oh. Sorry, Father. Giving you *trouble*."<br/>
[[Stare him down.|kaneabel1]]<br/>
[[Reassure him.|kaneabel2]]You direct a piercing, judicial glare toward Kane. <br/>
He slumps in his chair a little. "I'm sorry."
Your judgment seems to unnerve him. A bead of sweat appears along his hairline.
<% window.changeStress("kane", 1) %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Do not worry, my child," you murmur. <br/>
He exhales.
<%= s.abelasked.includes("megacorp") ? '"And yes. Your brother has already likened me to swine in light of my Ministerial appointment. It is nothing I haven\'t heard before."' : '' %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Tell me more about your brother, **Abel**. "<br/>
"Don't you have him in custody too, Father? What more could I tell you that he couldn't tell you himself?"
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>You ask Kane about himself. <br/>
"Uh, my name is **Kane** Atkins. I'm 25. I live **alone** in my **apartment**."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>You ask him to tell you more about himself. <br/>
"Well... I'm a Libra. I like to read **books**? I spend most of my time at **work**, to be honest. I'm not sure what else there is to say."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"You told me that you like to read in your free time. Tell me, what **books** do you read?"
"I recently picked up a self-improvement guide about building good habits to be a better partner. I read a lot of stuff like that."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"What was **Mia** like?" <br/>
"She was a little younger than me. She and Abel have been dating for a few years now. She always seemed very kind and patient to me."<br/>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Tell me more about **Mia**."
"I'm not sure what else there is to say. She was a very sweet girl. **Abel** loved her very much." He blinks rapidly, his drawn brows shading tearful eyes.
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>You ask Kane about his neighbour Casey. <br/>
"Casey is my next-door neighbor. They have my number in case of emergencies, but they've never had to call me. Until Tuesday, I guess. " His gaze lowers, fixating on a brown stain across the room where the wall meets the floor. <br/>
"I only saw the missed calls from them after we arrived back home and saw all the police... If only my phone hadn't been on **mute** -- maybe we could have been there to save her."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"You mentioned that your phone was on mute?" you ask.<br/>
"Yes, I always have it silenced. That's why I missed **Casey**'s call while **Abel** and I were out **drinking**."
<%= (!s.kaneasked.includes("call was declined")) ? story.render("kaneActions") : '[["My child, what you say cannot be true."|kanemutedecline]]' %>You thumb through your file. "Ms. Soorit stated that both of their calls to you were rejected. One at 23:52, and one at 23:53."<br/>
Kane hums, and doesn't meet your eye.
<%= (!s.kaneasked.includes("mute")) ? story.render("kaneActions") : '[["My child, what you say cannot be true."|kanemutedecline]]' %>"My child, what you say cannot be true. You say that you never noticed the call. If that were the case, it would have been left to ring, both times. Yet Ms. Soorit clearly stated that both their calls were rejected. You must speak only the truth, Kane. Why didn't you answer the phone?"
"I- I don't think I said that, did I?" he asks. "I don't remember saying that."
[[Press him further.|kanemutedecline1]]"Young Kane..." You shake your head. "We are watched from above. Tell me the truth."
He lowers his head to the desk. "Forgive me. I never should have rejected that call... I was having such a good time with my brother, I was too selfish to answer **Casey**. I thought whatever they wanted could wait until tomorrow."
"Even when they called you a second time?" You wonder aloud.
He shrugs helplessly, miserable. His lower lip trembles.
<% window.changeStress("kane", 1) %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Tell me, Kane, what was the nature of your relationship with **Mia**?" <br/>
"She was my coworker, and my brother's girlfriend."<br/>
He seems reticent. You feel that further probing elsewhere may yield more fruit here in time.
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>You press Kane on his relationship with **Mia**. <br/>
/* TODO: combine evidence requirement below with stress requirement for final breakthrough criteria. */
<%=
["He's calm enough to remain silent on the matter.", "The hair at his temples is slightly slick with sweat.", "You can sense his discomfort in the hot white spotlight."][s.kanestress - 1]
%>
Without more pressure and information about him, you can't make him talk.
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %><% if (!s.kaneasked.includes("shepherd's tavern")) {%>You lean forward on the steel table; the penitent recoils slightly. "Please confirm for me your whereabouts on the night of Tuesday, April 16th."<%} else {%> "Now that your memory has been refreshed, please confirm for me your whereabouts on the night of Tuesday, April 16th." <%}%>
<% if (!s.kaneasked.includes("shepherd's tavern")) {%> He swallows, his voice wavering almost imperceptibly. "**Mia**, my brother and I were on a night out at some bar near my place. I don't remember which one; it's a pretty lively area. Halfway through the night Mia started to feel unwell. I guess she had been **drinking** too much. But since we were so close to my **apartment** I told her she could crash at my place until we were done and Abel could take her home. **Abel** and I stayed out until around half past midnight, and when we came back all we could see were cops swarming the place. They told us that someone had broken into my place and killed her."<%} else {%> "I was at the **Shepherd's Tavern**, a bar near my **apartment**, with **Mia** and **Kane**. Mia got tired, or felt ill or something, a couple hours into the night. I said she was welcome to go sleep at mine, at least until we were done and Abel could take her home... We left the bar at about 12:20am and saw all the police at my place when we arrived. They told us what had happened."<%}%>
[["How did she get in?"|kanealibi1]]<br/>
[["Why did you both stay?"|kanealibi2]]<br/>
[["What time did she leave?"|kanealibi3]]"How did **Mia** get into your **apartment**? Do you make a habit of giving keys out to people?"
"I, uh... I'm kind of a forgetful guy. I always leave my **spare key** under the welcome mat. "
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Why did both of you stay out **drinking** if **Mia** was feeling unwell? I would think one of you would take her home right away."
He looks up at you somberly. "I wish we had."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"You say 'halfway through the night.' What time exactly did **Mia** take her leave?"
He closes his eyes in thought. "It must have been 11pm."
[["Why do you say that?"|kanealibi31]]<br/>
[["And when would she have arrived at the **apartment**?"|kanealibi32]]"Why do you say that -- it *must have been*..?"
"Well, I checked my watch as she was leaving. I guess I just remember things like that."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"And when would she have arrived at the **apartment**, having left the bar at 11pm? "
<%= s.kaneasked.includes("shepherd's tavern") ? '"Well the **Shepherd\'s Tavern** is only a ten minute walk at most. She would have gotten home pretty soon, and I\'m sure she would have passed out as soon as she got there. She always--" he falters, but picks himself back up. "Abel was always complaining about how quickly she fell asleep."' : '"I don\'t remember which bar we were at, so I couldn\'t tell you exactly." He studiously picks at his fingernails.' %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Does the name 'Shepherd's Tavern' mean anything to you, Kane?" You watch him closely.
He licks his lips. They part, slightly: "Oh, yeah, I remember now. I'm pretty sure that's where I went with **Abel** and **Mia** on Tuesday night."
[["Now that your memory has been refreshed..."|kanealibi]]"What did you have to drink that night?"
It's only because you're watching very closely that you notice him start a little at the question.
"I don't remember that."
[[Press him.|kanedrinkingreview]]<br/>
[[Move on.|kanemoveon]]"I need you to think carefully. What were you **drinking** on the night of **Mia**'s death?"
His eyes dart to the ceiling. You can see his cheek pull a little where he's biting at it. The pressure is getting to him.
"We got through a few rounds of shots. That's it."
<% window.changeStress("kane", 1) %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>He relaxes a little as you back off.
<% window.changeStress("kane", -1) %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>You ask Kane if he had any possible motivation to hurt Mia. <br/>
Indignation engulfs his features. "How dare you?! I would never hurt her!"
[[Provoke him.|kanemotive1]]<br/>
[[Calm him.|kanemotive2]]"And yet her naked corpse was found sprawled across the floor of your bedroom."
Kane fights to resume control of his face, his chest heaving. "I wouldn't..."
Your words have pushed him a little closer to the edge.
<% window.changeStress("kane", 1) %>
[["Think, Kane. If not you, then who?"|kanemotive11]]"I am simply an apostle of the Ministry, my child. I must follow all leads available to me according to the Lord's commandments."
Chastised, he quiets down.
[["Tell me, then. Why would anyone kill Mia?"|kanemotive21]]"Think, Kane. If not you, then who?"
<% if (s.kanestress > 2) {%> "*He must have been so **angry**...*" <%} else {%> "I just don't know, Father. The thief must have been caught off guard during the **burglary**." <%}%>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Tell me, then. Why would anyone kill Mia?"
"What does the evidence say, Father?"
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"What is it you do for work?" <br/>
"I manage accounts at **BigCorp**. It's not very exciting, but it pays the bills."
<% if (s.abelasked.includes("megacorp")) {%>"It's funny. Your brother said the same thing."<%}%>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Why does the name **BigCorp** sound so familiar?" You ask. <br/>
"Oh, it's quite a large firm. Both **Mia** and I work -- we both worked there."
[["Such serendipity."|kanebigcorp1]]"Such serendipity."
"It's not *such* a coincidence. When I first met **Mia**, she was looking for new employment. That was a little while after she and my brother first got together. **Abel** encouraged me to help her out, so I vouched for her and got her a position on our data analysis team. She was a great worker. I didn't **regret** it for a second."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"They found **Mia** in the bedroom of your **apartment**, dead by **strangulation**." <br/>
"I heard..." Kane looks sick. "They wouldn't let me -- either of us -- see her, but I still can't stop imagining how she must've looked when they left her for dead."
[["What do you see?"|kanestrangulation1]]<br/>
[["Would you like to know how we knew the cause of her death?"|kanestrangulation2]]<br/>
<% if (s.kaneasked.includes("burglary")) {%>[["Don't you think it's a little strange?"|kanestrangleburglar]]<%} %>"**Mia** Conti was discovered dead from manual asphyxiation, strangled mercilessly in your bedroom." <br/>
"I know, Father!" Kane cries. "Please stop saying that. I can already see her poor body in my head..."
[["What do you see?"|kanestrangulation1]]<br/>
[["Would you like to know how we knew the cause of her death?"|kanestrangulation2]]<br/>
<% if (s.kaneasked.includes("burglary")) {%>[["Don't you think it's a little strange?"|kanestrangleburglar]]<%} %>"What do you see when you close your eyes?"
He searches the darkness behind the one-way glass opposite him and sees nothing but his own haggard face. "I see her staring into nothing, clawing at her throat. Purple bruises pressed into her skin. The light leaving her eyes."
He shudders. The tapping of his foot against the nylon thuds through the room.
<% window.changeStress("kane", 1) %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Would you like to know how we determined the cause of her death?"
Kane doesn't respond.
You continue: "When the police arrived on the scene, Mia's posthumous bruising was vivid enough to make out the imprint of two large hands wrapped around her throat. The markings on her throat were particularly dark around the front, indicating an intense pressure from the thumbs. It was strong enough to partially crush her windpipe. She would have felt incredible suffering, Kane. She felt herself choking on her own blood."
When you finish speaking, Kane's head is in his hands.
"Please," he whispers. "No more."
<% window.changeStress("kane", 2) %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Strange, though, isn't it..."
"Huh?"
"In my time at the Ministry of Reconciliation, I have seen many cases of **burglary**. Typically, a surprised burglar takes one of two options. If they are armed and know that they can escape quickly, perhaps they will act impulsively and attack the homeowner. If they have no such guarantee, the first thing on their mind is to leave as soon as possible."
You steeple your fingers.
"I have *never* seen a burglar get close enough to a victim to strangle them. To me, that would indicate a much more personal **motive**."
Kane's expression turns a shade darker.
<% window.changeStress("kane", 1) %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Don't you think it's a little strange?"
"What..."
"In my time at the Ministry of Reconciliation, I have seen many cases of **burglary**. Typically, a surprised burglar takes one of two options. If they are armed and know that they can escape quickly, perhaps they will act impulsively and attack the homeowner. If they have no such guarantee, the first thing on their mind is to leave as soon as possible."
You steeple your fingers.
"I have *never* seen a burglar get close enough to a victim to strangle them. To me, that would indicate a much more personal **motive**."
Kane's expression turns a shade darker.
<% window.changeStress("kane", 1) %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Tell me about your apartment. You must have worked hard to afford a place of your own." <br/>
"It's nice enough, I suppose. All I would ever need anyway. The rent is high, but it's spacious for one person: I live **alone**, on the **third floor**."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"You live on your own? No roommates... Or partners?"
"None. I've been single for a long time."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %><%= s.kaneasked.includes("broken window") ? 'The third floor seems like quite a long climb, wouldn\'t you agree?"<br/><br/>He nods in silent, confused concession.<br/><br/>"So how," you press on, "Did this burglar gain access to your **apartment** through a **broken window**?"<br/><br/>Kane does not respond, his mouth twisting into a grimace.' : '"You live on the **third floor**? Good to know."<br/><br/>Kane seems uninterested. "I\'m happy to help, Father."' %>
<% if (s.kaneasked.includes("broken window")) {window.changeStress("kane", 1)} %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>You ask Kane about the burglary at his apartment. <br/>
"I still feel so awful," he sighs. "She must have been so scared when that thief broke in. They must have been surprised by her while they were looking through my apartment for valuables."
[["What did they take?"|kaneburglary1]]<br/>
<% if (s.kaneasked.includes("strangulation")) {%>[["Strange, though, isn't it..."|kaneburglarstrangle]]<%}%>"What did they take?" You ask.
"An old laptop, some loose cash... They left a **broken window** behind, and the police said that Mia's phone was missing. I keep most of my own valuables in my safe when I'm out. I was lucky they couldn't crack the **code**."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"A **broken window**?"
"Yes!" he said, his eyes wide. "It must've been how they got in!"
<%= s.kaneasked.includes("third floor") ? '"The thief must have been incredibly athletic."<br/><br/>His mouth shuts abruptly. "What do you mean?"<br/><br/>"I\'m just not sure how," you continue, "this burglar could have made their way up to the **third floor** from outside."<br/><br/>Kane\'s knuckles turn white, wrapped around the edge of the table.' : '"Must\'ve been."' %>
<% if (s.kaneasked.includes("third floor")) { window.changeStress("kane", 1) } %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"And what is the **code** to your safe?"
"What?" Kane retorts nervously. "I don't -- do I have to tell you that?"
[["You do."|kanecode1]]<br/>
[["You're right."|kanemoveon]]"You do."
He stares in disbelief, but is compelled to tell you the truth. "It's **1912**."
"Thank you. Know, child, that the Ministry of Reconciliation looks kindly upon such integrity."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"I'm curious, **Kane**. How did you choose your safe **code** to be **1912**?"
He shrugs with stilted casualness. "It's just a number."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Do you find it strange that there were **no fingerprints** at the crime scene?"<br/>
<%= s.kanestress < 2 ? 'Kane\'s face is steady. "I\'m sure burglars don\'t typically leave too much evidence."' : 'Kane\'s face flickers, quietly unnerved. "I suppose whoever killed **Mia** must have worn **gloves**. Must have come prepared."' %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"So you think the killer wore gloves?"
<%= s.kanestress < 3 ? '"You\'re the investigator here. Is that not normal?" He asks.' : 'Kane speaks quietly. "Yes. I think so."' %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>You question Kane about Mia's missing phone. <br/>
"I don't know what happened to it. I guess the burglar must have taken it from her."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>You ask Kane about Mia's necklace. <br/>
"Yes, she was wearing a gold necklace. It was a Valentine's present."
"Oh?" you raise an eyebrow.
"At least, that's what **Abel** told me."
<% if (s.abelasked.includes("necklace")) {%> [["That's not what I heard from your brother."|kanenecklace1]]<%} else {%><%= story.render("kaneActions") %><%}%>"That's not what I heard from your brother."
Kane's right hand moves jerkily to scratch the back of his left. "What did he tell you?"
"He didn't buy that **necklace** for **Mia**."
He stares. "Then who? I'm sorry, I don't see how this is relevant."
"**Abel** said the necklace was from her mother. I thought you should know that."
"Okay," he allows, "then I must have been mistaken."
You hum in agreement, eyes trained on his face.
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>You ask Kane about what Mia was wearing when she died. <br/>
<% if (!s.kaneasked.includes("christmas party")) {%><p>"What kind of question is that?" he snaps. His cheeks are tinged pink.</p><p>"A simple one, my child. Mia was found wearing nothing but a **lingerie** set. Why would she be in such a state of undress in your apartment?"</p><p>"I wasn't there," he insists. "So I don't know. Why don't you ask her boyfriend about her underwear?"</p><%} else {%> He screws his eyelids shut. "I don't have to listen to this." <%}%>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Why might someone have been **angry** with **Mia**, Kane?"
<%= s.kanestress < 2 ? '"I don\'t know. She wasn\'t a person with a lot of enemies."' : '"It wasn\'t her fault," he says under his breath. "She didn\'t do anything wrong."' %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Kane, your brother has reminded me of something interesting."
His answering silence seems to stretch on for minutes in the insulated confessional room.
"**1912**... Your safe **code**. It's not such an arbitrary number. That happens to be **Mia's birthday**."
Kane leans back in his chair. <% if (s.kanestress < 3) {%> "I suppose it is." <%} else {%> "It's true." He puffs his cheeks out, and exhales in a few short bursts. "December 19th. I guess I just remembered because it came up a while after she started working at **BigCorp**. **Mia** and **Abel** had had some disagreement about her birthday, and it came up later that week at a **party** at **work**." <%}%>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Tell me about the **party** at **work**."
<% if (s.kanestress < 3) {%> <p>"**BigCorp** likes to throw these get-togethers with all the teams. **Mia** had been working there a while, and was really settled in. We talked for a while; despite the years she had been with Abel, we were still just getting to know each other then. It was some petty argument with **Abel**."</p><p>He seems to be focusing on keeping his composure.</p><p><%= story.render("kaneActions") %></p> <%} else {%> <p>"**BigCorp** likes to throw these get-togethers with all the teams. **Mia** had been working there a while, and was really settled in. We talked for a while; despite the years she had been with Abel, we were still just getting to know each other then. She was so pissed at **Abel**."</p><p>"I wanted to be supportive."</p><p>[[*Frustration gets the better of him.*|kaneparty1]]</p> <%}%>*Frustration gets the better of him.*
"Her birthday was only a few days before. She wanted to do something nice with **Abel**, but he snubbed her. She was so upset -- she was just getting used to this new home and new job, and my brother couldn't even take the time to celebrate her for one day." Bitterness drips more and more from every word.
[["That must have been challenging."|kaneparty11]]<br/>
[["Pathetic."|kaneparty12]]<br/>
[["What happened?"|kaneparty13]]"That must have been challenging."
Your cool response deflates him a little. "It was," he agrees.
<% window.changeStress("kane", -1) %>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Pathetic."
He is emboldened by your scorn. "I know," he bites out. "She deserved a **better man**."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"What happened, my child? You are safe to confess here."
"It was the annual **Christmas party**--the mood was so festive--and she looked so beautiful under the fairy lights..."
His tone turns pleading. "Father, please. You can't tell Abel about this; he'd be devastated. This was several months ago, and Mia was the love of his life. Let him remember her as she was for all those years... A faithful, loving girlfriend."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"That night, at the Christmas party... You helped Mia to commit the sin of adultery against your own brother."
"Forgive me, Father. I only wanted to be there for her. She felt so alone."
Kane's hands are clasped in a wretched mockery of prayer.
[["Was that the last time?"|kanechristmas party1]]"Was that the last time?"
"No."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"What **better man** did Mia deserve, Kane?"
A breath like the whine of a cornered animal escapes his lips. You both know he has misstepped.
<% window.changeStress("kane", 1) %>
[["What happened that night at the party, Kane?"|kaneparty13]]<br/>
[[Let him breathe.|kanemoveon]]""
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Have you ever taken something that didn't belong to you, Kane?"
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Child, would you consider yourself a liar?"
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"You say you keep a spare key at the entrance to your home?"
Kane nods. "In case I leave my own inside, or if someone--like Mia-- needs to get in."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"You keep a **safe** in your **apartment**."
"Yes, Father." he nods. "I'm careful with my possessions. I keep everything important locked behind a **code**."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"What is **MegaCorp**?" You ask.
"That's where **Abel** works," Kane explains. "They do pretty similar work to **BigCorp**, as far as I know."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Was Mia a playful person?"
<% if (s.kaneasked.includes("christmas party")) {%> "Yes." He mumbles, sorrowful. "She was so joyful. Every minute we spent together." <%} else {%> Kane purses his lips. "I suppose so." <%}%>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Do you have many regrets, Kane?"
Tears shine in his eyes, glinting in the pitiless light. "More than I can count."
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Kane, do you think that Abel might hold some **resentment** for you?"
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>""
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %><% if (s.kaneasked.includes("christmas party")) {%> <p>"Yours wasn't the only **affair** your brother suffered."</p><p>Kane's face falls even further. "It's true. You can't tell him, Father, please. Another betrayal would be too much to bear."</p> <%} else {%><p>"Do you know anything about an **affair**, Kane?"</p><p>Kane's brow furrows, and he breathes: "What--" before something gets caught in this throat. His eyes trace the table with deep scrutiny. </p><p>"Yes," he says eventually. "Abel's last girlfriend -- **Eliza** -- she cheated on him with his best friend."</p><%}%>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %>"Who is Eliza?"
<% if (s.kaneasked.includes("christmas party")) {%> <p>"**Abel**'s girlfriend, before **Mia**. She cheated on him with his own best friend. He was heartbroken."</p> <%} else {%><p>Kane looks puzzled. "Eliza? That was Abel's last girlfriend. Do you think she had something to do with this? I didn't know she was even in town."</p><%}%>
<%= story.render("kaneActions") %><p id="choices">
<input autofocus type="text" name="question" onchange="inputtext=this.value"><button id="submitq" type="button" onclick="window.story.show(window.askQuestion('kane', inputtext.toLowerCase())); inputtext = 'nothing'"><em>Ask him.</em></button>
<br/>
Talk to [[Abel|abelext]]
<br/>
Check your [[case file|Case File]]
</p><script>
$("#phistory").html("");
inputtext = "nothing";
</script>
[[You walk into Abel's room|abel]]<%
s.kanestress = 1
%>
In front of you sits **Abel** Atkins, his feet propped up on the metal table, the toes of his boots gleaming in the white light overhead. He scoffs as you enter, and brings them down.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>Abel <%= window.idleAbel() %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Tell me a bit about yourself, child."
Abel <%= window.idleAbel() %> "My name is **Abel** Atkins. I'm 28. I work as a software engineer. What else do you want to know, *Father*?"
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"What do you do for work, child?"
He <%= window.idleAbel() %>. "I make websites for clients of **MegaCorp**," he says matter-of-factly. He doesn't seem particularly interested in talking about this.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"What is it like, working at MegaCorp?"
"Oh, you know," he says, "it pays the bills. More than enough, actually. I donate to **charity** what I don't need. Doing more good than you pigs in the *Ministry*." He seems to spit out that final word.
[["That's very admirable."|abelmegacorp1]] <br/>
[["Our Lord's work bears no worldly comparison, my child. Do not forget your place."|abelmegacorp2]]"That's very admirable."
He seems touched, if only for a second, and scoffs. "Thanks, Father."
<% window.changeStress("abel", -1) %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Our Lord's work bears no worldly comparison, my child. Do not forget your place."
"How classy of you, Father," he says, raising his voice. "Oh, please leave some good for the rest of us to do! Don't eat it all up, shaking down innocent folk for a confession to pad your paycheck."
He looks at you expectantly.
<% window.changeStress("abel", 1) %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"You said you donated to charity."
"Yeah. What of it?"
[["Where do you donate?"|abelcharity1]] <br/>
[["Why do you donate?"|abelcharity2]]"Where do you donate?"
He speaks coolly, "I change it up every now and then," as if he knows this by heart, "sometimes children's medical care, sometimes aid to countries in famine, other times to help the environment."
[["How do you pick the charity?"|abelcharity11]] <br/>
[["Why those particular causes?"|abelcharity12]]"How do you pick the charity?"
"I do my own research. Sometimes **Mia** will- I mean, would, recommend me one, but I'd always verify that they did good. I still can't believe she's gone." He seems to choke up a little.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Why those particular causes?"
He speaks in a matter-of-fact tone of voice, "It's about those who can't help themselves," and seems to feel no need to elaborate.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Why do you donate?"
<%= s.abelstress > 1 ? 'He takes a deep breath, and exhales, leaning back and crossing his arms. "You wouldn\'t get it." <br/> <br/> *He\'s too agitated to say more about this.*' : '"Why do we do anything, Father? Charity leaves a good mark on the world, the real world. It\'s a way of balancing out the **guilt** we feel."' %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Tell me, child, what is it that you feel guilty about?"
<% if (s.abelstress == 3 && s.abelstress == 4) {
%> "I killed her. I strangled her in my brother's bed." <%
} else if (s.abelstress == 2 ) {
%> He tenses as he speaks. "I don't *sin*, Father. I don't **cheat**, I don't **steal**, I don't **lie**." <%
} else {
%> "Beyond the fact that merely existing harms the environment and takes resources away from those who need it? Not much." <%
} %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Have you ever cheated, child?"
Abel <%= window.idleAbel() %>. "I have not, and would never cheat at anything. Nor would I ever cheat on anyone, Father."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Have you ever stolen, child?"
Abel <%= window.idleAbel() %>. "No, Father. My family always had enough to live comfortable, and I make a good living these days."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Have you ever lied, child?"
Abel <%= window.idleAbel() %>. "Nothing important, Father. White lies are a natural part of life."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>You ask Abel about Kane Atkins. He seems to tense up somewhat as he answers.
"Kane's my younger brother, he's a good kid. "
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"What does loyalty mean to you, Abel?"
<%= s.abelstress < 2 ? '"What does that matter?"' : '"I care about it. The worst thing you can do to someone is betray their trust."' %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>You ask Abel about his relationship to the victim, Mia.
"What can I say? I loved her. I'm sad she's gone."
[["How did you two meet?"|abelmia1]] <br/>
[["How long had you been together?"|abelmia2]]You ask Abel about the victim, Mia.
"What can I say? I loved her. I'm sad she's gone."
[["How did you two meet?"|abelmia1]] <br/>
[["How long had you been together?"|abelmia2]]"How did you two meet?"
<% if (s.abelstress == 3) {
%>Abel's head is in his hands, and he doesn't repond.
<br/> <br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} else if (s.abelstress == 2 ) {
%>He <%= window.idleAbel() %>. "We met... at a bar. She was still in uni then, but we hit it off. I'd been single for almost two years at that point."
<br/> <br/>
[["Is there a reason you were single for so long?"|abelmia11]] <br/>
[["Tell me more about your relationship with Mia."|abelmia12]]<%
} else {
%>"Why do you want to know? Not like it's going to bring her back."
<br/> <br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} %>"Is there a reason you were single for so long?"
<% if (s.abelasked.length > 5) {
%>"There is, Father."
<br/> <br/>
[[Push him.|abelmia111]] <br/>
[[Let him speak his mind.|abelmia112]]<%
} else {
%>He answers sheepishly. "No, not really."
<br/> <br/>
*You might need to build a rapport with him before he tells you more.*
<br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} %>"You must tell me what it is, child," you say, raising your voice. He winces slightly.
<% window.changeStress("abel", 1) %>
"I had some... trust issues, Father. From a previous relationship."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"You may speak freely, child. First and foremost, I am here to listen." Your words seem to soothe him somewhat.
<% window.changeStress("abel", -1) %>
<% s.abelasked.push("abelmia112") %>
"Well, Father, my previous relationship didn't end so well." He pauses, shifting in his chair, before going on. "I'd been with her since high school, and I found out that she'd been sleeping with my best friend. Walked in on them, in fact. In my own bed."
The memories seems to anger him, and a confident expression returns to his face.
"You can imagine why I wasn't rushing to get with someone after that."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Tell me more about your relationship with Mia."
"What can I say? We started hanging out more, and eventually she moved in with me. We'd just celebrated our 4 year anniversary when... well, you know the rest."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"How long had you been together?"
"Four years... just over four years. I wonder how I will feel, another four years from now..."
He seems lost in thought.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>You ask Abel about Casey, Kane's neighbor.
"I don't really know them, if I'm being honest. Nice of them to call my brother about the **burglary**, though."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Where were you when Mia was killed?"
Abel<%= window.idleAbel() %>. "At the **Shepherd's Tavern**, with my brother **Kane**. We'd been **drinking** that night, and **Mia** got tired enough that she wanted to sleep. We were near enough **Kane**'s **apartment**, so she headed to bed."
[["What time did she go to his apartment?"|abelalibi1]] <br/>
[["How long were you at the bar?"|abelalibi2]]"What time did she go to his apartment?"
He thinks for a moment. "About... 10 o'clock. She was very tired that evening."
[["Why?"|abelalibi11]]"Why?"
<% if (s.abelasked.length > 5) {
%> "This isn't relevant, but she'd been having trouble staying asleep lately. She was always awake at 4, 5 in the mornings."
<br/> <br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} else {
%>"Beats me," he says, going quiet.
<br/>
<br/>
*You might need to build a rapport with him before he tells you more.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} %>"How long were you at the bar?"
He squints his eyes. "Couple hours, easy. We left past midnight, and walked back to find the police swarming my brother's **apartment**."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"How much did you have to drink?"
Abel <%= window.idleAbel() %>. "A good bit, I'd say. More than a few pints."
[["What was everyone having?"|abeldrinking1]]<br/>
[["Were you drunk?"|abeldrinking2]]"What was everyone having?"
He thinks for a second before answering. "Beer. We were all having beer that evening."
<% if (s.kaneasked.includes("drinking")) {
%> [["Kane said you had shots. Which is it?"|abeldrinking11]] <%
} else {
%> <%=story.render("abelActions")%> <%
}
%>"Kane said you had shots. Which is it?"
He blinks once, then twice. His lips purse instinctively. "My mistake. Yes, we had shots that evening. I must've mixed it up with the night before, when we were having beer."
<% window.changeStress("abel", 1) %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Were you drunk?"
He laughs for a moment. "No, Father, I have quite a high tolerance to alcohol. I don't get drunk very easily. **Mia** and **Kane**, on the other hand, not so much."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Tell me about the Shepherd's Tavern. Where is it?"
Abel <%= window.idleAbel() %>. "A couple streets over from **Kane**'s."
[["Do you go there often?"|abelshepherd's tavern1]]"Do you go there often?"
"Not really. The barkeep wouldn't even recognize me if you asked him."
[[Press him.|abelshepherd's tavern11]]<br/>
[[Let it go.|abelshepherd's tavern12]]"I find that hard to believe. You have quite the distinctive face and manner, my child."
He tightly crosses his arms. "You would be surprised, Father. This country is full of bald chaps with an attitude."
<% window.changeStress("abel", 1) %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"I suppose it must've been a busy night then."
"Yeah, I guess so."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Tell me, my child. Did you have anything against Mia?"
<% if (s.abelstress == 3 ) { %>"N-no," he says, on the verge of breaking down. "I would never harm her." There's a hint of apprehension in his voice. <br/> <br/> <%= story.render("abelActions") %><% } else if (s.abelstress == 2 ) { %>Abel shakes his head. "No, of course not. Don't you understand that I loved her, Father? I loved her, and she's dead." <br/> <br/> *He's too composed to tell you more right now.* <%= story.render("abelActions") %> <% } else { %>Abel laughs in your face. "Like any other couple, we had our disagreements. But you'd be insane to suggest I would kill her." <br/> <br/> *He's too composed to tell you more right now.* <%= story.render("abelActions") %><% } %>"What can you tell me about BigCorp?"
Abel<%= window.idleAbel() %>. He takes a moment to respond. "**Mia** used to work there. So does **Kane**."
[["How long had Mia been working there for?"|abelbigcorp1]] <br/>
[["How long has Kane been working there for?"|abelbigcorp2]]"How long had Mia been working there for?"
"She started not long after we got together, as a fresh graduate, " he tells you reluctantly. "They paid her reasonably well, so she stuck around."
[["What work did she do?"|abelbigcorp11]] <br/>
[["Were there any issues at work?"|abelbigcorp12]]"What work did she do?"
"Data analytics, I think. She transferred around a few times internally, and I... lost track after a point." He looks down at his feet.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Were there any issues at work?"
"No, none that I knew of. **Mia** was the sweetest, and she transferred to work with **Kane** last year."
He seems to hesitate for a moment. "He would've told me if there was anything wrong."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"How long has Kane been working there for?"
He lets out a whistle. "Since before he graduated uni. Did an internship with them, I think, and they offered him a job when he got his diploma." There's pride in his voice, but a hint of **resentment** as well.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Do you resent your brother?"
<% if (s.abelstress == 3) {
%>Abel stares at you, his eyes blank.
<br/> <br/>
*He's too stressed to tell you more right now.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} else if (s.abelstress == 2 ) {
%>Abel shakes his head. "No, I didn't resent him. **Kane** is my brother, I've got his back to the end. No, I was just... a bit *sorry* for him."
<br/> <br/>
[["Why were you sorry for Kane?"|abelresentment1]] <br/>
<%
} else {
%>Abel shakes his head. "No."
<br/> <br/>
*He's too composed to tell you more right now.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} %>"Why were you sorry for Kane?"
He lets out a deep sigh. "Can't you tell? **Kane** hasn't always been the most popular. Being the clever kid, he got bullied a lot. Had to save his rear more than a couple times." He lets out a mirthless chuckle. "Was never popular with the ladies, either."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>You ask Abel about Mia's strangulation.
He shakes his head. "Please, Father. I don't want to talk about that."
<% window.changeStress("abel", 1) %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Tell me about Kane's apartment."
He<%= window.idleAbel() %>. "It's fairly small, just enough space for him to be comfortable in, I suppose. I imagine he'd have more to tell you about it."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"What do you know about the burglary that supposedly occured the evening of the 16th?"
He<%= window.idleAbel() %>. "All I know is someone broke in through a window, strangled the love of my life, and left before anyone could catch them."
[["Why do you think they strangled Mia?"|abelburglary1]]<br/>
[["How do you think they got away?"|abelburglary2]]"Why do you think they strangled Mia?"
<% if (s.abelstress == 3) {
%>Abel shrugs softly. "Maybe..." He trails off, before shaking his head. "Nevermind."
<br/> <br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} else if (s.abelstress == 2 ) {
%>"Probably broke in, somehow woke her up, and panicked. People can do crazy things when they see red."
<br/> <br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} else {
%>"Fuck if I know."
<br/> <br/>
*He's too composed to tell you more right now.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} %>"How do you think they got away?"
<% if (s.abelstress == 3) {
%>"How should I know?"
<br/> <br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} else if (s.abelstress == 2 ) {
%>"Maybe they fled through the window. Or back out the door. I don't know, do I look like a policeman to you?"
<br/> <br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} else {
%>"Why don't you ask the police that question, *Father*?"
<br/> <br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} %>You ask Abel about the broken window.
He<%= window.idleAbel() %>. "Yeah, I suppose the burgler broke it for some reason. Couldn't tell you why."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>You ask Abel about the safe.
He<%= window.idleAbel() %>. "I don't really know much about that. You should ask **Kane**."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Do the digits 1912 have any significance to you?"
Abel looks confused for a moment. "That's **Mia's birthday**."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Why would Kane's safe code be Mia's birthday?"
<% if (s.abelstress == 3) {
%><p>"I- I don't really know. There might be some reason why it would be... nothing important, I'm sure." He trails off, unable to give you an answer.</p>
<p>
[[Press him.|abelmia's birthday1]]<br/>
[[Let it go.|abelmia's birthday2]] </p><%
} else if (s.abelstress == 2 ) {
%><p>He rests his chin on his hand. "I'm sure it also happens to be the number to something else he cares about. Maybe the year **1912**?" He doesn't even seem to find his own haphazard guess believable.
</p><p>
[[Press him.|abelmia's birthday3]]<br/>
[[Let it go.|abelmia's birthday31]] </p><%
} else {
%><p>"Whatever it is you want to know about my brother's actions, go ask him. I'm not telling you jack."</p.>
<p>
*He's too composed to tell you more right now.*</p>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} %>"My child, it's clear in your trembling lips that you know the answer. Tell me, and I will absolve you of your sins."
<% if (s.abelasked.includes("christmas party")) {
%>He is trembling in his chair."Since the **christmas party**... they seemed closer." He starts shaking his head violently. <br/> <br/>
"But, no, I'm sure there's another explanation. **Mia** would never **cheat** on me."
<br/> <br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} else {
%> Abel seems to contemplate what you said for a moment, before speaking apprehensively. "Father, I really don't know why." It seems like he's convinced himself of that.
<br/> <br/>
*He has more to say, but you need to bring up another topic first.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} %>"Let us move on, child. It is in the past and her soul has ascended to heaven."
He has trouble looking you in the eye. "Yes, Father, let's."
<% window.changeStress("abel", -1) %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"My child, it's clear in your voice that even you do not believe yourself. Tell me, and I will absolve you of your sins."
"No, really, Father. **1912** was... the year the **Titanic** sank, right?" His eyes seem to be urging you to accept his explanation. "He's always been fascinated with that ship. I'm sure that's why."
[[Accept it.|abelmia's birthday31]] <br/>
[[Press him further, aggressively.|abelmia's birthday32]]"Very well, my child."
He seems relieved.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>You slam your hands on the table. "You are not being honest with me, child."
He winces at the loud noise. "I swear to all that is holy, Father. I can't think of any other reason he'd use the code **1912** for this **safe**." He meets your gaze. "You must believe me."
<% window.changeStress("abel", 1) %>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"What do you know about the BigCorp Christmas party last year?"
"I know they had it, and both my brother and **Mia** were there. What else is there to know?"
[["Kane told me about an... incident."|abelchristmas party1]]"Kane told me about an... incident."
You tell him about what happened at the Christmas party.
<% if (s.abelstress == 3) {
%><p>Abel looks at you in disbelief. "So... so what? I still loved **Mia**, okay? We all have our flaws and weaknesses. I forgive her." The words seem forced.</p>
<p>
[[Press him.|abelchristmas party11]] <br/>
[[Let it go, he's very upset.|abelchristmas party12]]</p> <%
} else if (s.abelstress == 2 ) {
%><p> He stares at you for several seconds before leaning back. "I don't believe for a second they would do that to me, Father." His words seem a little hollow, though.</p>
<p>
[[Press him.|abelchristmas party13]] <br/>
[[Let it go.|abelchristmas party14]] </p><%
} else {
%> <p>He blinks at you, once, before laughing. "Father, did you really think I'd believe some lie about **Mia** designed to upset me?"</p>
<p>
*He's too composed to tell you more right now.*</p>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} %><% if (s.abelasked.includes("abelmia112")) {
%><p> "I find that very hard to believe, child, given your past history with infidelity. Be truthful and God shall cleanse your sins." <br/> <br/>
Abel stares off, not speaking. His chest rises with his breaths. </p><p>
[[Press him harder. Make him talk.|abelchristmas party111]]<br/>
[[Let him go, this man has gone through enough.|abelchristmas party112]] </p><%
} else if (s.abelasked.includes("loyalty")) {
%> <p>"I find that hard to believe, child. Didn't you say yourself that you valued loyalty?" <br/> <br/>
He speaks slowly. "I did, Father." He crosses his arms, looking down at the table. "But she's dead. And being angry at her isn't going to bring her back. It's not going to achieve anything at all." <br/> <br/>
His words seem heavy, somehow, but you don't know why. </p>
<p>*If only you knew more to press him on. Maybe about his relationship with Mia?*</p>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} else {
%> <p>"Are you sure about that, child? Your girlfriend and brother went behind your back and-" <br/> <br/>
He cuts you off. "Yes, Father, you told me. I'm fine with it." </p>
<p>*You don't know enough at the moment to press him effectively.*</p>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
}%>You stand up, raising your voice. As you speak, you are large, and Abel is small, pressed into his chair under the curshing weight of your gaze. "Speak to me now, *child*."
"She knew."
[["What did she know?"|abelchristmas party1111]]"What did she know?"
"She knew that Eliza- my first girlfriend- had that **affair** with my best friend."
[["She knew, and yet she kissed your brother."|abelchristmas party11111]]"She knew, and yet she fornicated with your brother."
His face is stony, and still, his eyes staring off into space. Several seconds pass. His left eye twitches.
"Yes, Father."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>You sigh. "Very well, then. You do not have to tell me if you don't wish so."
He seems relieved.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>You sigh. "Forgiveness is a virtue, child, no matter how difficult."
He nods.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"It's the truth, child. Your brother told me himself."
He shakes his head. "No, I just can't believe they would do that. Not after what they knew about me."
[["What did they know about you?"|abelchristmas party131]]"What did they know about you?"
<% if (s.abelasked.includes("abelmia112")) {
%> "I've told you about this. The business with my first partner. Both of them know- knew I was sensitive to that." <br/> <br/>
*He's too composed to get more out of him.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} else {
%> "It's- not important." He has a frown on his face, like he just remembered something unpleasant. <br/> <br/>
*You don't know enough at the moment to press him effectively.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
}%>"Very well then."
He seems relieved.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Your brother told me Mia deserved a better man. What do you think he meant by that?"
"That piece of- I don't know." He's completely closed off.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Why do you think there weren't any fingerprints on Mia's neck?"
He pauses for a moment. "Maybe- maybe the burglar wore **gloves** or something. I don't know."
The question seems to have bothered him.
<% window.changeStress("abel", 1)%>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Why do you think the murderer was wearing gloves?"
He bursts out at you. "How should I know? Maybe he didn't want to leave fingerprints everywhere!"
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>You ask Abel about the fact that Mia's phone was missing.
He<%= window.idleAbel() %>. "Maybe the burglar took it, since he couldn't get into the **safe**."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>You ask Abel about the necklace Mia was wearing.
"Oh, the gold **necklace**? Yeah, that was a gift from her mother."
<% if (s.kaneasked.includes("necklace")) {%> [["That's not what I heard from your brother."|abelnecklace1]]<%} else {%><%= story.render("abelActions") %><%}%>"That's not what I heard from your brother."
"Oh. Huh. I guess I must have been mistaken, then. Maybe she got it for herself."
[["Your brother said it was a Valentine's day gift from you."|abelnecklace11]] <br/>
[["Maybe so."|abelnecklace12]]"Your brother said it was a Valentine's day gift from you."
Abel looks as if he just remembered something. "Right, right. Got that for her. Sorry. I must've been mistaken."
You watch his motions, and he shifts under your gaze.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Maybe so."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Abel, do tell me, why was Mia wearing nothing but a lingerie set the night of her murder?"
<% if (s.abelstress == 3) {
%>"I don't know. That couldn't possibly be relevant."
<br/> <br/>
*He's too tense to say anything useful.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} else if (s.abelstress == 2 ) {
%> He<%= window.idleAbel() %>. "Don't know. Maybe just felt like it."
<br/> <br/>
*He's too tense to say anything useful.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} else if (s.abelasked.length > 5) {
%> He smirks. "Wouldn't you like to know, Father? **Mia** was just... **playful** at times."
<br/> <br/>
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><%
} else {
%> "Why should I tell *you* anything about that?"
<br/> <br/>
*You might need to build more of a rapport with him before he'll talk.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} %>"What do you mean by playful?"
He<%= window.idleAbel() %>."Just what it sounds like, Father."
<%= story.render("abelActions") %>"Admit it to me, my child. Mia was having an affair with your brother."
<% if (s.abelasked.includes("lingerie") && s.abelasked.includes("better man") && s.abelasked.includes("christmas party")) {
%>"She... I guess she was." He doesn't seem entirely surprised by that fact. <br/> <br/>
"Please don't tell my brother I know, though. He would never be able to forgive himself." <br/> <br/>
*Congratulations on getting Abel to admit that Mia was having an affair with Kane! This is the culmination point of the demo as it stands, but you are welcome to keep exploring and see if you can find this out another way.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} else {
%>"No, Mia would never do that." <br/> <br/>
*You'll probably need to ask him more sensitive questions before he'll admit it.*
<%= story.render("abelActions") %> <%
} %>.You ask Abel about <%= inputtext.length ? inputtext : "nothing" %>. <br/>
<% if (s.abelstress < 3) {
%><%= ["He crosses his arms, yawning.", "'I have no idea what you're on about,' he says.", "He snorts. 'And why should I have anything to say about that?'"][Math.floor(3*(Math.random()))] %><%
} else {
%><%= ["He sits in his chair, subtly tensing up.", "'I don't know what you're talking about, okay?' he shouts.", "He clasps his hands over his head, whispering, 'What are you even talking about?'"][Math.floor(3*(Math.random()))] %><%
} %>.
<%= story.render("abelActions") %><p id="choices">
<input type="text" name="question" onchange="inputtext=this.value?this.value:'nothing'"><button id="submitq" type="button" onclick="window.story.show(window.askQuestion('abel', inputtext)); inputtext = 'nothing'">Ask him.</button>
<br/>
Talk to [[Kane|kaneext]]
<br/>
Check your [[case file|Case File]]
</p>Your name is Father Matthews. You are a Confessor at the Ministry of Reconciliation, and you have been assigned to case #44B-9081-DZ, the murder of one 24-year-old Mia Conti.
Your task is to extract a confession from the person responsible for Mia's death.
Confession is a long and often arduous process, and it is rare for Confessors to remember the details of their conversations after you have left the room. As such, you may find it useful to keep notes of your own.
In order to complete your task, you must prompt the penitents with key words, which you will discover throughout your interrogations. They appear **bolded**. Type in an exact key word when talking to a penitent to ask them for more information.
Pay attention to the body language of your penitents. Acting aggressively or pressing them on certain topics may stress them, while leaving the room to check your files or talk to someone else will give them a chance to calm down. Depending on their emotional state, you will have varying degrees of success in questioning them.
You have two penitents, [[Abel Atkins|abelext]] and [[Kane Atkins|kaneext]], in custody. You also have a [[case file|Case File]] at your disposal containing the evidence available on this case.
/* Please declare all variables in here! */
<%
s.abelstress = 1
s.kanestress = 1
s.violence = 0
s.inputtext = ""
s.abelquestions = ["christmas party1111", "relationship to the victim", "resentment", "cheat", "steal", "lie", "guilt", "loyalty", "charity", "megacorp", "playful", "affair", "abel", "kane", "mia", "casey", "alibi", "drinking", "shepherd's tavern", "motive", "work", "bigcorp", "strangulation", "apartment", "burglary", "broken window", "safe", "1912", "mia's birthday", "christmas party", "better man", "no fingerprints", "gloves", "no phone", "necklace", "lingerie"]
s.abelasked = []
s.kanequestions = ["abel", "abelreview", "kane", "kanereview", "books", "mia", "miareview", "casey", "mute", "call was declined", "alibi", "relationship to the victim", "relationship to the victimreview", "drinking", "drinkingreview", "motive", "work", "bigcorp", "apartment", "alone", "third floor", "burglary", "broken window", "code", "1912", "no fingerprints", "strangulation", "strangulationreview", "shepherd's tavern", "angry", "gloves", "necklace", "no phone", "lingerie", "mia's birthday", "party", "christmas party", "better man", "playful", "spare key", "affair", "eliza", "regret", "safe"]
s.kaneasked = []
s.todoticks = [" ", " ", " "]
s.abelticslow = [" sits still, with his arms crossed", " rolls his eyes", " shrugs calmly", " stares at you", " raps his knuckles against the table, a single time"]
s.abelticsmed = [" cracks his neck", " idly looks around the room, his gaze occasionally resting on you before leaving again", " folds one a leg over the other knee", " shifts in his chair, trying to get comfortable", " places his hands on the table, leaning forward slightly"]
s.abelticshigh = [" is tapping his right foot", " darts his gaze around the room, avoiding eye contact", " clenches his fists, his knuckles turning white", " holds onto the table, shaking back and forth", " strains himself to keep his eye from twitching"]
%>
/* s is shorthand for window.story.state, the only variable that persists across passages */undo:off
bookmark:off
hash:off
exitprompt:on