Hive Mind

It's time to wake up and do your duty to The Nation. (if: (history:) contains "Red overalls")[ You get out of bed and put on your red overalls](else:)[ You get out of bed and put on your [[uniform]]] (if: (history:) contains "Red overalls")[You glance at your [[//Enviro Display©: Window//->Weather]] to see if you need to bring an umbrella to work today.]

What should you wear? [[Red overalls]] [[Red overalls]] [[Red overalls]] [[Red overalls]] [[Red overalls]]

It's what The Council expect of you. It is best not to displease The Council. [[<<->Get dressed]]

(text-style: "blink")[[[The alarm rings in your head->Get dressed]]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

Logging in... =><= ''Today's Weather'' ''Gulfend City, Obscondia'' Friday, 27th August 2094 <== Partly Cloudy Precipitation: 11% Humidity: 62% Temperature: 15°C Recommendation: Wear red overalls =><= (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] <== [[<<->No umbrella]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

You log out of the //Enviro Display©: Window//, blinking back into your bedroom. The Hive is never wrong. The umbrella can take a day off. -[[Walk into the kitchen.->kitchen]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

It's a modest kitchen, in your opinion. A square table rests in the corner, with two [[stools]] neatly slotted beneath it. //Enviro Display©: Window//'s line the left wall, projecting scenic displays of city life. Along the right wall lies MultiTop Counter Space, humming softly as it awaits your instructions. You decide to log on to [[The Hive->breakfast]] to see what to have for breakfast. { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= Stools provided by POS+URE The renowned Obscondian Backbone lives in YOU (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] <== [[<<->kitchen]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= Breakfast Recommendations for citizen #14B3409H12 -Homestead Porridge Oats - Fruit & Nut -Maiden Dawn Eggs (poached) with Valley Pine Wholemeal Soda Bread -ProBio Natural Yoghurt and Benson's Honey with Gaia Farm's grapes, apples and pears Remember: Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Respect your body, respect your country. (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] <== [[Decide]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

You've had a healthy breakfast for the past three days in a row. You could keep this streak going a little longer, but you've been craving a bowl of ChocChippers all week. Either way, you're hungry for //something//. [[Porridge]] [[Eggs]] [[Yoghurt]] [[ChocChippers]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

You broadcast your decision to the MultiTop Counter Space. A bowl unfurls from the stainless steel as the overhead Smart Cooker produces oats and milk, heated to perfection. The MultiTop gets to work stirring the oats as the Smart Cooker pours dried fruit and nuts carefully into the bowl. Finally, a spoon emerges from the MultiTop, perfectly fitted to your hand measurements. -[[Sit down]]

You broadcast your decision to the MultiTop Counter Space. A pot emerges from the MultiTop as water pours from the Smart Cooker above. When it is filled, eggs are carefully cracked into the pot, where rotors ensure the egg white wraps around the yolk before cooking to perfection. Soda bread falls onto the newly created plate before being accompanied by the freshly poached eggs. A knife and fork, fitted perfectly to your exact hand measurements, slide out of the MultiTop on either side of the plate. -[[Sit down]]

You broadcast your decision to the MultiTop Counter Space. A small bowl emerges from the MultiTop as a tube slides down from the Smart Cooker above. Yoghurt pours from the tube first, being accompanied by honey directly afterwards. Apples, pears and grapes drop onto the MultiTop, where they are sliced into small chunks before being placed into the bowl. The mixture stirs itself from a whisk below. A spoon emerges from the MultiTop, perfectly fitted to your hand measurements. [[Sit down]]

You broadcast your decision to the MultiTop Counter Space. A bowl emerges from the MultiTop as a funnel slides down from the Smart Cooker above. ChocChippers clink softly into the bowl. This is music to your ears. Warm milk flows from the funnel next, as unseen rotors mix the contents of the bowl, causing the milk to darken as the chocolate gently melts into it. Finally, a spoon emerges from the MultiTop, perfectly fitted to your hand measurements. -[[Sit down]]

You decide to check the [[news]] as you eat your breakfast. { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= ''OBSCONDIAN BULLETIN'' 27th August, 2094 [[New Species Introduced Into Mediterranean Sea->new species]] [[400 More Jobs Created by BioHouse inc.->new jobs]] [[Large Group of Shirkers Found Living Underground->Shirkers]] (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] <== (if: (history:) contains "new species" and (history:) contains "new jobs" and (history:) contains "Shirkers")[[[Finish breakfast->[finished]] ] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= ''New Species Introduced Into Mediterranean Sea'' <= A new species of fish was released into the Mediterranean Sea yesterday by the Beaurau of Animal Repopulation (BOAR), just two months after their last integration attempt. The //quisquilia aqua//, commonly referred to as the wastefish, is a genetically engineered invertebrate capable of surviving purely by feeding off of the litter and waste found in the Mediterranean Sea. In recent decades, the Mediterranean has become one of the most polluted seas in the world. Rubbish from Europe and Africa's scenic beaches, alongside harmful toxins and untreated waste from companies has caused fish population in the Mediterranean to fall by 68% since 2055. The wastefish is one of BOAR's recent attempts to repopulate the landscape with living creatures, while also ensuring they have a beneficial purpose to mankind. BOAR's other genetically engineered animals... [[<<->news]]

=><= ''400 More Jobs Created by BioHouse inc.'' <== BioHouse inc. have today opened up a new branch of laboratories in Gemmer, just south of the capital Lykedan. The new laboratories will primarily focus on human energy conservation. Fenton Briggs, head of the human energy department, has this to say: "The human body uses too much energy in day to day life. By reducing the energy we expend in our bodily functions and actions, we can effectively cut the amount of calories needed to sustain us throughout the day." These developments in human energy conservation are hoped to reduce the huge demand for fresh food needed by the growing population. In 2092, over 68% of the lower class population went without the recommended daily calorie intake due to food shortages. Increased innovations in food production have... [[<<->news]]

=><= ''Large Group of Shirkers Found Living Underground'' <= An estimated 120 Shirkers have been found living in Old Hava Den, the crumbling remains of the once great city upon which New Hava Den has been built. The Department of Civil Servitude have arrested the settlement of families who have Shirked in their duty towards the Obscondian nation, failing to present themselves for work, despite their fully capable state of body and mind. "These Shirkers are the reason the rest of us have to work so hard to keep this great nation running," says Jamie Owindu, Chairperson of the Department of Civil Servitude, "With these reclaimed citizens, we can rest assured knowing that the burden we all share will soon be lessened." This news comes in the wake of a massive Shirker demonstration performed at... [[<<->news]]

You bring your dishes over to the MultiTop, where they are promptly absorbed back into the stainless steel. Time to head to work. Better order a [[car]]. { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= Calling: Car <= Available cars in the area: 136 Estimated average wait time: 6 minutes 37 seconds [[Please wait->leave apartment]] while a car makes it way to your location. =><= (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

You open the door into the narrow hallway you share with 6 others. You call for the [[elevator]] through a broadcast as you walk towards the sleek metal door tucked neatly into the wall. { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

A [[man]] waits in the small elevator. He seems miffed at the fact that his descent was interrupted by you. You ignore this as you ask broadcast your command to be brought to the [[ground floor]]. { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= Citizen #155H9L6821 Dangu, Harvey <= Occupation: Accounting Overseer Company: Sewer Sweep Personal Information: [UNAVAILABLE] =><= For more information, please request Hive Sharing with citizen #155H9L6821 (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] <= [[<<->elevator]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

You rush out of the elevator as it reaches the ground floor, eager to leave the tense silence between you and that man behind. The lobby of your [[apartment building]] is bare and uninviting. Just a large open room with a high ceiling, fading beige carpet and blank cream walls. Two cars are waiting by the main entrance. [[Left car]] [[Right car]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= Apartment Block #867 <= Location: Lower Ringsurf, Gulfend City Constructed: 2066-2068 Occupancy: 10,328 Floors: 56 =><= (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] <= [[<<->ground floor]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

You [[broadcast->broadcast left]] to the left car, asking for it to open up. The [[man->man2]] from the elevator grumbles loudly behind you. "Get away from my car, I'm going to be late!" He pushes you out of the way and opens up the car before jumping in and barking orders at the vehicle. The [[right car->Right car]] car must be yours, then. { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

You [[broadcast->broadcast right]] to the right car, asking for it to open up. The door to the ovoid, one-person car slides up. The seat pushes back, allowing you to easily climb in before it carefully slides into the perfect position based on your height, weight and posture. When you are seated, the door [[slides shut]]. { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= [BROADCAST REJECTED] <= THIS CAR IS CURRENTLY RENTED BY ANOTHER CITIZEN. PLEASE CALL A DIFFERENT CAR FOR YOUR USE. =><= (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] <= [[<<->Left car]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= Citizen #155H9L6821 Dangu, Harvey <= Occupation: Accounting Overseer Company: Sewer Sweep Personal Information: [UNAVAILABLE] =><= For more information, please request Hive Sharing with citizen #155H9L6821 (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] <= [[<<->Left car]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= Welcome, citizen #14B3409H12 Your car is awaiting your instructions. This car is provided by RotoMoters. RotoMotors- Convenience is just a thought away (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] <= [[<<->Right car]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

The walls of the car glow a dull white. "Please [[broadcast->broadcast destination]] your destination," a voice calls out from the speakers. (if: (history:) contains "broadcast destination")[[["Destination received"->drive]]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

Destination: Merwan's Family Law Office Estimated Duration: 17 minutes Please enjoy the view as we take you to your desired location. [[<<->slides shut]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

A sunny beach comes into view on the Enviro Display©: Drive all around you. Families play on the white sands, while tourists snap pictures and locals tend to stands dotted along the shoreline. You've seen this one before. It's one of your favourites. It reminds you of Obscondia's past as a tourist destination. [[You sit back and watch the coast rush by you->car stop]]. { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

As you're watching a seagull virtually following your car, the video suddenly cuts out. The car grounds to a halt. [[Broadcast to car]] [[Access The Hive]] (if: (history:) contains "Broadcast to car" and (history:) contains "Access The Hive")[[[Sit in silence->sit and wait]]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

=><= ... <= [[<<->car stop]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

Suddenly, someone appears on the display in front of you. The person is wearing a completely blank steel-grey mask that completely envelopes their head, as if they were a mannequin. They wear a white hoodie with the hood pulled up. [["Attention, citizens"]]

As the person speaks, the words scroll across their mask as if it were a Display screen. Their voice has been synthesised to the point where you can't even distinguish their gender. "We apologise for the inconvenience we may have caused you. We know you must be eager to get to ''work''." The word "work" causes the steel grey of the mask to turn a bright red. [[//Shirkers//->shirker talk]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

"The Obscondian nation is ruled by ''work''. From the minute you are born, you are prepared to ''work''. As a child, you are given the necessary information needed to get you to ''work''. You ''work'' for your whole life. You ''work'' until you you are dead. You ''work'' so much that you have no room for [[''thought''->thought]]"

"Because ''thought'', dear Obscondians, is what The Council fear the most. Independent ''thoughts'' can lead to ''ideas''. And ''ideas'' can lead to ''change''. ''Change'' in our lives. ''Change'' in our country. ''Change'' in our power structure. But to bring about ''change'', you need hard ''work''. Where better to find hard ''work'' than in hard [[''workers''->workers]]?"

"That is where you come in. Nobody takes notice of nothing. And nothing is what we are best at. So we've decided to enact ''change'' by doing ''something''. We thank you for your sacrifice, loyal ''workers''. Your deaths will bring about ''change'' to Obscondia. Take solace in this ''thought''. [[Because it is the last one you will have->dead]]."

You desperately send a broadcast to the car. //OPEN UP// But nothing moves. A shiver runs up your spine before resting in the base of your head. [[Shivers shouldn't stop..?]] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }

Oh no. The Hive chip installed in your brain. You can feel it buzz. It grows warm. Then hot. You begin to scratch desperately at your scalp. You need to get it out. You need to get it out of your head. Blood stains your fingernails as you [[''scratch scratch scratch scratch scratch scr-''->scratch]]

=><= HIVE FEED DISCONNECTED PLEASE SEEK A REGISTERED HIVE IMPLANT SPECIALIST FOR MORE INFORMATION (text-style: "superscript")[All information is brought to you by The Hive. Together, we are one.] { (print: "<script>$('html').removeClass(\)</script>") (if: (passage:)'s tags's length > 0)[ (print: "<script>$('html').addClass('" + (passage:)'s tags.join(' ') + "'\)</script>") ] }