Inheritance

Part 1

Dad: Did you find it?
Abigail: Yes. What is it?
Dad: A way out.
Abigail: Out of what?
Dad: What’s coming.
Abigail: Seriously. What’s going on?
Dad: No time. Just take it and go to your mother’s.
Abigail: Can I open it?
Dad: Yes
Abigail: Good.
Dad: You already have, right?
Abigail: Yes. What is all this stuff?
Dad: Have you read the letters?
Abigail: Some of them. Kinda creepy.
Dad: Read them closely. They’ll tell you what to do.
Abigail: They’re old. Like ancient old.
Dad: Things have been in motion for a long time.
Abigail: What things?
Dad: I’m not really sure…
Abigail: But what am I supposed to do with this stuff?
Dad: I really don’t know. I ignored it. I don’t want you to make the same mistake.
Abigail: Well, where did you get it?
Dad: Inherited from my dad, just like you.
Abigail: But your not dying.
Abigail: Right?
Dad: Keep it safe.
Abigail: You’re scaring me.
Dad: I know. I’m sorry.
Abigail: That doesn’t help.
Dad: I know. I’m trying to do what I can.
Abigail: And what is that?
Dad: I’m leading them away from you.
Abigail: Leading who?
Dad: Believers.
Abigail: WHAT ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT?
Dad: It’s called the Corvus Folio. It’s…
Dad: It’s hard to explain.
Abigail: Try.
Abigail: Please
Dad: It’s conspiracy theory stuff. Cults…end of the world type stuff.

Abigail: Now I know you’re messing with me.
Dad: You know I wouldn’t do that.
Dad: I didn’t believe it either.
Abigail: But you do now?
Dad: I believe there are people out there who will do anything to get it.
Abigail: Get what?
Dad: The CF.
Abigail: The corvus folio?
Dad: Yes.
Abigail: But what is it?
Dad: I don’t know. A collection of instructions or prophecies or something. I know it sounds crazy.
Abigail: It IS crazy.
Dad: This is real. I swear.
Dad: Answers are supposed to be in the box.
Abigail: But you couldn’t figure it out?
Dad: I never really tried.
Dad: I’m sorry. I didn’t believe any of it before.
Abigail: Why are you so convinced now?
Dad: Something’s going on. People are missing.
Abigail: What people?
Dad: Others that should have taken this more seriously.
Dad: We were supposed to be watching.
Abigail: So what do I do?
Dad: The box has instructions. How to find others. They might be able to tell you more.
Abigail: Why don’t you just come talk to me?
Dad: I can’t. They’re following me.
Abigail: They?
Abigail: What are they going to do?
Dad: I don’t know. I just want to keep them away from you.
Abigail: Can’t we call the cops.
Dad: NO. Do not call the police.
Abigail: WHY?
Dad: They have people everywhere.
Abigail: What am I supposed to do without you?
Dad: You can live with your mom.
Abigail: Does she know about any of this?
Dad: No. Only you. It’s safer if no one knows you have the box.
Abigail: Should I just get rid of it?
Dad: I’ve thought about that. To protect you I though about just burying it somewhere. About not telling you anything, but…
Abigail: But?
Dad: Your future might depend on this thing. On what’s happening.
Abigail: You sound crazy.
Dad: I know. But it should be your choice.

…

Dad: Answers are in the box. You just need to figure it out.
Abigail: What if I can’t?
Dad: You can.
Abigail: Will they come after me?
Dad: No. They think I sent the box to My brother.
…
Abigail: Uncle Dan? What will happen to him?
Dad: Don’t worry about that.
Abigail: But what about this?
Dad: What?
Abigail: This chat. Can’t they track it or something?
Dad: I don’t think so.
Abigail: What if they get your phone? Then they’d know.
Dad: I know. I’m tossing the phone in the river as soon as we’re done.
…
Abigail: I can’t go to mom’s, can I.
Dad: What do you mean? Of course you can.
Abigail: What’s my birthday?
Dad: April 12
Abigail: Ok. What did we ear for supper in Sunday?
Dad: I don’t remember that.
Abigail: Try harder.
Dad: I really don’t remember.
Abigail: Where’s my dad.
Dad: I am your dad.
Abigail: No you’re not.
Dad: “Uncle dan” was a mistake wasn’t it.
Abigail: Where’s my dad?
Dad: Where’s the box?
Abigail: I’m calling the cops.
Dad: Not a good idea.
Abigail: Don’t care.
Dad: Cops won’t get there in time.
Abigail: I’m not going to my mom’s.
Dad: We are.
Abigail: She won’t be there either.
Dad: Little orphan Abby has a nice ring to it.
Abigail: Only my parents call me Abby.
Dad: Not anymore.
Abigail: Where’s my dad.
Dad: Gone.
Abigail: I don’t believe you.
Dad: You can still save her.
Abigail: How?
Dad: Give us the box.
Abigail: You’re never getting this box.
Dad: Little orphan Abby it is…
Abigail: My mom is with me, moron.
Dad: That hardly means she’s safe.
Abigail: Where’s my dad?
Dad: We’ll let you live though…
Dad: Long enough to see the end.
Dad: Long enough to witness the begnning.
Dad: Abby?
Dad: Abigail?
Dad: Fine. We’ll do it the hard way.

Message

Part 1

Sarah: Umm...Hello?
Willawa: I have some questions for you.
Sarah: Who is this?
Willawa: The Willawaw.
Sarah: What’s a Willawa?
Willawa: video
Sarah: Cute.
Willawa: You have no idea.
Sarah: So you’re a pixilated owl.
Willawa: Sort of.
Sarah: That seems harmless enough.
Willawa: I’m a friend.
Sarah: I’ve had bad luck with friends lately.
Willawa: You have bigger problems.
Sarah: Such as?
Willawa: Your mom is acting weird.
…
Willawa: Right?
Sarah: How would you know.
Willawa: An educated guess.
Sarah: Ok. You win.
Sarah: She is acting strange.
Willawa: I think I know why.
Sarah: Spill.
Willawa: A few questions first.
Sarah: Just tell me.
Willawa: I don’t want to scare you if I don’t have to.
Sarah: Too late.
Willawa: Sorry.
Sarah: Ask your questions.
Willawa: Recognize these?

Sarah: ???
Willawa: Is that a no?
Sarah: Of course it is. WTF?
Willawa: It’s a pretty simple substitution code.
Sarah: What does it say?
Willawa: That bad things are coming.
Sarah: Why are you telling me this?
Willawa: I think your mom posted it.
Sarah: What? Where?
Willawa: At the library.
Sarah: That doesn’t sound like my mom.
Willawa: We all have our little secrets.
Sarah: My mom is a good person.
Willawa: I’m betting on it.
Sarah: What is this about?
Willawa: Not sure. Was hoping maybe you could help.
Sarah: How?
Willawa: Ask her.
Sarah: Ask her what?
Willawa: Ask about the massage.
Sarah: The message?
Willawa: The pic I sent.
Sarah: What am I supposed to ask?
Willawa: Tell her the truth.
Sarah: That a pixilated owl asked me to ask?
Willawa: Sure.
Sarah: Why don’t you ask her yourself?
Willawa: I doubt she’d even respond to my text.
Sarah: But you knew I would.
Willawa: The folly of youth.
Sarah: Are you calling me stupid?
Willawa: Of course not.
Sarah: Sounds like you are.
Willawa: Our generation is just more…
Willawa: Receptive.
Sarah: Our generation?
Willawa: I’m just a stupid kid too. Another reason your mom would blow me off.
Willawa: But she’ll listen to you.
Sarah: You obviously don’t know my mom.
Willawa: She’ll listen when you ask about the message.
Sarah: What does it say?
Willawa: That we’re all in danger.
Sarah: From what.
Willawa: I really don’t know.
Sarah: You really think my mom posted a coded message that says we’re all in danger.
Willawa: Yes.
Sarah: Makes no sense.
Willawa: Your mom has the answers. I don’t.
Sarah: Ok. I’ll send her the pic.
Willawa: NO!
Willawa: Talk to her IRL.
Sarah: Why?
Willawa: If they know that you know you could be in danger.
Sarah: I thought we were all already in danger.
Willawa: IMMEDIATE danger.
Sarah: They won’t know that you’ve told me?
Willawa: They might have your mom’s phone but they don’t have mine. I don’t think they have yours.
Sarah: You don’t think?
Willawa: Calculated risk.
Sarah: So I might be in immediate danger already.
Willawa: Guess you’d better hurry.
Sarah: I don’t think I like you.
Willawa: Funny. I think I’m going to save your life.
Sarah: I think you’re crazy.
Willawa: You’re probably right.
Willawa: But I’ve made my case.
Willawa: It’s really up to you now.
Sarah: Ok. I’ll ask her.
Willawa: Good. Do it quickly.
Sarah: I will.
Willawa: I’ll be in touch.
Willawa: Look for the pixilated owl.
Sarah: I will.
Willawa: L8R G8R

Message

Part 2

Unknown: Did you ask her?
Sarah: Who is this?
Unknown: The pixilated owl.
Sarah: I tried to text you.
Willawa: Different phone.
Sarah: I thought you said they weren’t tracking your phone.
Willawa:I switch phones almost weekly.
Sarah: That’s insane.
Willawa: That’s why they don’t have my phone.
Sarah: Ok, you’re scary.
Willawa: Just cautious.
Sarah: More like paranoid.
Willawa: Did you ask her?
Sarah: Yeah. She tried to call you too.
Willawa: And you thought I was paranoid.
Sarah: I think she wanted to tell you off.
Willawa: Probably. What did she tell you?
Sarah: Not much. She said that it was stuff I didn’t need to worry about.
Willawa: Did she deny posting the messages?
Sarah: Not exactly.
Willawa: Is she there?
Sarah: No.
Willawa: I need to talk to her. But NOT with her phone.
Sarah: Ok. What then?
Willawa: Tell her I’ll meet her where she went after she posted last Thursday.
Sarah: Jeez. Stalker much?
Willawa: Every day.
Sarah: I don’t think bragging about how creepy you are is going to inspire confidence in my mom.
Willawa: Fine. I’ll arrange a clean phone.
Sarah: How are you going to do that?
Willawa: I’ll stash it. You’ll pick it up.
Sarah: I will?
Willawa: We’re in this together sister.
Sarah: Umm?
Willawa: You and your insane, paranoid, cautious sister.
Sarah: I can’t decide if you’re really bad at this, or really good.
Willawa: You mean your benevolent angel of a sister who’s putting herself at great risk by even attempting to contact you?
Sarah: Ok. Ok. What do I do?
Willawa: Go to Pandora’s Palace tomorrow at two.
Sarah: The nails place?
Willawa: Yeah. I’ll treat you to a manicure.
Sarah: Why?
Willawa: Because I care. Wear that awesome plumb fedora you rock on occasion.
Sarah: You seriously scare me.
Willawa: I’m your benevolent little sis. Of course I covet your wardrobe.
Sarah: How do I get the phone?
Willawa: Just go to the appointment I’ve graciously made for you, enjoy your free manicure, and check your driver’s side rear tire when your done.
Sarah: Have you done this before?
Willawa: No. I’m making it up as I go along.
Sarah: Great.
Willawa: I am enjoying myself immensely though, if that makes you feel better.
Sarah: Just great.
Willawa: You’ll love it. Trust me, they do great work there.
Sarah: Ok. So I get the phone...
Willawa: And fabulous new nails!
Sarah: What then.
Willawa: Give it to your mom and tell her to call. My number will be programmed in.
Sarah: What if she refuses?
Willawa: Tell her we found you.
Sarah: That’s just going to creep her out more.
Willawa: Use those words exactly: “We found you.” Then show her your perfect new hands.
Sarah: Now you’re creeping me out.
Willawa: Fan them out on the table so she can get a good look.
Sarah: I don’t know why I’m even considering this.
Willawa: Cause you can’t resist your precocious little sis.
Sarah: Ok. But I’m bringing someone with me just in case.
Willawa: Good idea.
Sarah: Thanks.
Willawa: Bring two. I’ll set up mani’s for all three if you.
Sarah: You’re out of your mind.
Willawa: Pandora’s Palace. Two o’clock. Tomorrow
Sarah follows her instructions and the plan goes off without a hitch… apparently. She brings two friends along and they’re all treated to free manicures/ Weird manicures, but top notch work as promised. Sarah retrieves the phone resting on her tire and dutifully presents it to her mother that night:
Mom: Where did you get that?
Sarah: The owl girl. She asked me to give it to you.
Mom: I told you to ignore her.
Sarah: I know. I just…
Mom: Let me see the phone.
Sarah: I’m supposed to tell you something.
Mom: Ok.
Sarah: She told me to say these words exactly: We found you.
Sarah fans out her hands on the table, displaying her nails.

Sarah: What does it say?
Mom: They will to.

Message

Part 3

Sarah’s Mom: I guess we need to talk.
Willawaw: Sorry about the grammar.
Sarah’s Mom: What?
Willawaw: I ran out of digits. Should have went with “so will they”.
Willawaw: Ah, hindsight.
Willawaw: At least it rhymed. It’s also a password btw.
Sarah’s Mom: Password for what?
Willawaw: You really need to catch up.
Sarah’s Mom: Who are you?!
Willawaw: I’m The Willawaw. Need to see the tag again?
Sarah’s Mom: No. That doesn’t answer my question.
Willawaw: Boo hoo.
Willawaw: Shoot. Should have said who who. Hindsight...
Sarah’s Mom: Sarah’s right. You are insane.
Willawaw: Aww. You’ve been talking about me:)
Sarah’s Mom: She showed me the texts.
Willawaw: Good. At least you’re kinda caught up. Down to business.
Sarah’s Mom: Who are you?
Willawaw: That’s your concern?
Willawaw: Really?
Sarah’s Mom: Ok. What do you want to discuss.
Willawaw: I know why the Crimson Hexagram is in trouble.
Sarah’s Mom: Go on.
Willawaw: Ever heard of Triskelion Ind?
Sarah’s Mom: I’ve heard the name.
Willawaw: What about Silent Eye?
Sarah’s Mom: They’re doing this?
Willawaw: The first is acquiring the second.
Sarah’s Mom: So.
Willawaw: And the first is run by Alden Spimmock.
Sarah’s Mom: Since when.
Willawaw: Looks like a hostile takeover of the board about six years ago.
Sarah’s Mom: How did you find this out?
Willawaw: We found the dox while attempting to crash Silent Eye’s cameras last month. Epic fail, but silver lining: we found the dox.
Sarah’s Mom: What else do they say?
Willawaw: There’s a lot to go through. That’s why we need you.
Sarah’s Mom: What exactly are you looking for.
Willawaw: The CH has been mostly dormant, but you seem a little more active than the rest.
Sarah’s Mom: I’ve tried to take it seriously.
Willawaw: So I’m hoping you might have some info on Spimmock we don’t.
Willawaw: You do right?
Sarah’s Mom: I do.
Willawaw: So you’ll help?
Sarah’s Mom: I don’t know.
Willawaw: So you’ll warn everyone it may be over but you won’t try to stop what’s coming?
Sarah’s Mom: What is coming?
Willawaw: We don’t know. That’s why we need you!
Sarah’s Mom: I don’t want to put Sarah in any more danger than I have to.
Willawaw: Too late for that and you know it.
Willawaw: This is about all of us now.
Sarah’s Mom: Why does Spimmock want Silent Eye?
Willawaw: We’re trying to work it out, but it can’t be good.
Sarah’s Mom: No, it can’t.
Willawaw: Does he have a Corvus Folio?
Sarah’s Mom: We think so.
Willawaw: Definitely not good.
Sarah’s Mom: You don’t believe in all of that.
Willawaw: No. I don’t. But I also know that diamonds are inherently worthless.
Sarah’s Mom: Meaning?
Willawaw: I don’t worry about whether or not the myths about the Folio are true.
Willawaw: I worry that he believes they’re true… that they believe they’re true.
Willawaw: Are you in?
Sarah’s Mom: I’ll have to think about it.
Willawaw: Think fast. The Hexagram isn’t crumbling, it’s changing.
Sarah’s Mom: What do you mean?
Willawaw: We’re taking it over.
Sarah’s Mom: Who’s we?
Willawaw: Ada Usagi.

Sarah’s Mom: And what do you plan to do?
Willawaw: For starters, recruit.

Windmills

Part 1

Unknown: Teresa.
Unknown: Teresa. People are looking for you.
Teresa: Who is this?
Miner49er: Miner49er.
Teresa: What?
Miner49er: A friend.
Teresa: Whose friend.
Miner49er: Right now I’m your best friend.
Teresa: Erin?
Miner49er: Sigh...
Teresa: Lisa?
Miner49er: video
Teresa: WTF?
Miner49er: They call me Miner49er.
Teresa: Stranger danger.
Miner49er: And I’m trying to help you.
Teresa: Help with what?
Miner49er: There are people looking for you.
Miner49er: Bad people.
Teresa: Yeah right.
Miner49er: No time for skepticism. You NEED to listen.
Teresa: Hmm. You’re kinda courting skepticism here.
Miner49er: That’s what I do.
Teresa: Do it with someone else.
Miner49er: I’m seriously trying to help you.
Teresa: Fine.
Teresa: You win.
Teresa: Whose looking for me?
Miner49er: They’re called the 4th Reading.
Teresa: Not the first or second? I’m insulted.
Miner49er: Teresa you need to focus.
Teresa: You’re the one typing gibberish.
Miner49er: They’re a cult.
Miner49er: Sort of.
Teresa: Sort of?
Miner49er: I know cult conjures images of communes and white robes but…
Miner49er: These people aren’t funny.
Miner49er: They’re scary.
Teresa: I’m shaking.
Miner49er: And connected.
Teresa: Ok. Your kinda freaking me out.
Miner49er: Good. This is not a joke.
Teresa: Why would they be after me?
Miner49er: Legacy.
Teresa: Your cryptic answers aren’t inspiring trust.
Miner49er: Your parents are involved somehow. Your mom I think.
Teresa: You think my mom’s in a cult?
Miner49er: No. I think she’s the one of the good guys.
Teresa: One of the good guys? She’s a CPA.
Miner49er: I don’t claim to understand everything, but I’m sure your mom’s involved.
Teresa: How could my mom be involved?
Miner49er: Let’s ask her.
Teresa: What?
Miner49er: Group chat. I’ll prove I’m legit.
Teresa: IDK...
Miner49er: She can confirm or warn you off. Not much to lose.
Teresa: I guarantee she warns me off.
Miner49er: Let’s find out.
Teresa: Hold on.
Teresa: Mom? Something weird to ask you.
Mom: What?
Teresa: Someone has a question to ask you.
Mom: What’s going on?
Teresa: I got some weird texts from someone who thinks your into something. Thought I’d watch you tell them off:
Miner49er: Hello, Carol.
Mom: Who is this? What’s going on?
Miner49er: I’m trying to warn your daughter.
Mom: I’m not asking again.
Miner49er: Crimson…
....
Mom: Hexagram.
Miner49er: Bingo.
Mom: How do you know about that?
Miner49er: Doesn’t matter.
Mom: Yes it does.
Teresa: THIS IS REAL??? What’s going on?
Miner49er: You both need to trust that I’m a friend.
Mom: How can we do that.
Miner49er: Pay attention and apply reason.
Mom: I’m listening.
Miner49er: We stumbled across the whole Corvus Folio thing. The 4th Reading is going after people. Many are dead and we don’t understand why. Trying to find those that remain to help figure out what to do.
....
Miner49er: You know I’m not makig it up. Why would I warn you?
Mom: I don’t really know anything.
Miner49er: You know more than we do.
Mom: Doesn’t seem like it.
Miner49er: You have the box.
Miner49er: You do have the box?
Miner49er: Right?
Mom: Yes.
Miner49er: Good.
Mom: But it’s just old… stuff.
Miner49er: The 4th Reading is willing to kill for it.
Mom: Then they can have it.
Miner49er: They’ll kill you after they get it. “All who know threaten.”
Mom: Then we’ll call the police.
Miner49er: You know you can’t do that.
…
Miner49er: Teresa?
Teresa: Yes.
Miner49er: There’s a phone waiting for you where you hide your cigarettes at school.
Teresa: How do you know about that?!
Miner49er: Doesn’t matter now. Apply logic, pay attention.
Miner49er: Both of you dump your phones as soon as we’re done here. I’ll call the burner in two hours.
Teresa: This is CRAZY.
Miner49er: I certainly wouldn’t tell you to dump your phones if I were a threat.
Teresa: Maybe you want to make sure we can’t call for help.
Mom: They can track our phones?
Miner49er: Probably.
Miner49er: I’ll definitely be dumping mine as soon as we’re done here.
Miner49er: Meet somewhere specific. A place you can communicate to each other without actually naming.
Teresa: What?
Miner49er: You’ll think of something.
Mom: Teresa?
Teresa: Mom?
Mom: Do you know the place he’s talking about with the phone?
Teresa: Yes.
Mom: Can you get there soon.
Teresa: Yes.
Mom: Ok. Get it and meet me where the wind blows.
Miner49er: Now your thinking Carol.
Teresa: Are you serious?
Mom: Yes. I’m serious. You know where I mean!
Teresa: Yes.
Mom: Go get the phone now and then go straight to the place.
Teresa: Ok...
Miner49er: Good. I’ll call you in two hours.
Mom: Teresa?
Teresa: Yes.
Mom: I’ll explain things later. Just throw your phone away and I’ll see you soon.
Teresa: Ok.
Mom: I love you. I’m shutting off now.
…
Teresa: Mom?
...

Windmills

Part 2

Unknown: Are you two OK?
New phone: Yes. Is this M49?
Miner49er: Yes.
New phone: What do we do now?
Miner49er: Is this Teresa or Carol.
New phone: Carol. But T is here too.
Miner49er: Good.
Carol: What do we do now?
Miner49er: Do you have cash?
Carol: A little.
Miner49er: Is there somewhere you can stay that doesn’t require more than a little.
Carol: I think so.
Miner49er: Friends are better than family right now.
Carol: Ok.
Miner49er: Maybe someone you haven’t spoken to in awhile?
Carol: Yeah. I know someone.
Miner49er: Good.
Carol: Would it be dangerous for them?
Miner49er: Not if we’re careful.
Carol: Ok.
Miner49er: Do you have the box?
Carol: Yes.
Miner49er: Excellent.
Carol: What do I do with it?
Miner49er: You don’t know?
Carol: Not really. I was just it supposed to keep it. What should I do?
Miner49er: Stash it somewhere.
Carol: Really?
Miner49er: That’s what I’d do.
Carol: And I suppose you want me to tell you where.
Miner49er: I’d be willing to take it off your hands...
Carol: We’re taking it with us.
Miner49er: That may be best.
Carol: Ok.
Miner49er: Just be careful. If they get you and the box you won’t have any leverage.
Carol: I think your being over dramatic.
Miner49er: Lets hope so.
Carol: So what happens now?
Miner49er: What do you know about the game?
Carol: The game?
Miner49er: It’s come up several times in the stuff we’ve been able to find about the Folio.
Carol: I don’t know anything about a game.
Miner49er: Your sure, something from the box maybe?
Carol: I don’t think so.
Miner49er: Something like this:

Carol: No. What is that?
Miner49er: Not sure, I’m working on it.
Carol: What is it?
Miner49er: Part of the game is all I know. They’re doing math of some kind, but the patterns don’t correlate with anything I’ve found.
Carol: Where did you get it?
Miner49er: Internal memos from Triskelion Ind.
Carol: Ok… how did you get it.
Miner49er: BlackGate. A hack.
Carol: So it’s stolen.
Miner49er: Sure.
Carol: What does Triskelion have to do with this?
Miner49er: Don’t know, but there’s a whole string of emails about playing the game to unlock the Folio.
Carol: This is all crazy.
Miner49er: Say the work and I’ll leave you be.
Carol: I’ll look through the box when we can stop.
Miner49er: You don’t remember anything about the game. Something to get me started...
Carol: Not really.
Miner49er: Not really but...
Carol: I think there was a game in one of the stories. Maybe.
Miner49er: One of the stories?
Carol: One of the raven stories.
Miner49er: What do you mean the raven stories?
Carol: They were kinda silly… kids stuff, but dad always said they were important. That we should remember.
Miner49er: What was the story?
Carol: I can’t remember what the game was… sorry dad.
Miner49er: Do you remember anything about it?
Carol: They always had other animals in them… the game one may have been with the fox, maybe hare?
Miner49er: Well, that’s something at least. I’ll start looking.
Carol: So what happens to us?
Miner49er: You hide.
Carol: That’s it?
Miner49er: Afraid so. For now.
Carol: Can I call you if I figure something out with this box?
Miner49er: Yes. Contact me and only me with that phone. If you want to talk to someone else, buy another phone. I’ll tell you when it’s safe to stop hiding.
Carol: What if we never hear from you?
Miner49er: Then never stop hiding.

Windmills

Part 3

Miner49er: How’s things?
Carol: Finally. Where have you been?
Miner49er: It’s only been a few weeks
Carol: Only a few weeks?
Miner49er: Sorry. I’ve been busy.
Carol: Well we’ve been going crazy here.
Miner49er: Have you tried to contact other Hexagram members.
Carol: Yes.
Miner49er: And?
Carol: Nothing. I believe you. Something serious is happening.
Miner49er: Yes. But they’re not all gone. And your not alone.
Carol: How do you know all this?
Miner49er: Friends in high places.
Carol: We’re going crazy just waiting. I swear there are people watching us.
Miner49er: Have you seen someone?
Carol: No. I see the same faces in town and they see me. Every look seems suspicious
Carol: I know I’m just being paranoid.
Miner49er: Paranoia seems like a normal response.
Carol: I guess that’s comforting.
Miner49er: Not really.
Carol: You’re not great at this are you.
Carol: Whatever this is.
Miner49er: I claim no expertise, just trying to help.
Carol: So what’s going on.
Miner49er: Not much. We’re in research mode.
Carol: Why text now?
Miner49er: I have something to help you pass the time.
Carol: ?
Miner49er: Docs.
Carol: Documents?
Miner49er: A bunch of financial records I can’t make sense of.
Carol: Who’s financials?
Miner49er: Triskelion. They cover a bunch of different companies though.
Carol: Shell companies?
Miner49er: Idk. Probably.
Carol: Have you figured out Triskelion’s connection.
Miner49er: Not really. I’m hoping you’ll be able to help with that.
Carol: I’ll take a look.
Miner49er: Good. Any progress on the story?
Carol: Story?
Miner49er: The raven and the fox. Or the hare. You weren’t sure.
Miner49er: Slipped your mind, didn’t it.
Carol: I’m sorru, I just don’t remember.
Miner49er: That’s ok. I’ll figure it out. One more thing.
Carol: What?
Miner49er: What section of the Hexagram are you?
Carol: I don’t think I’m supposed to divulge that. Not ever.
Miner49er: So I’m told.
Carol: Then why ask.
Miner49er: Just vetting.
Carol: Vetting for what?
Miner49er: A message from Management.
Carol: Management? You do have friends in high places.
Miner49er: I’m just the messenger.
Carol: So what is it?
video
Carol: Ok… What’s that supposed o mean?
Miner49er: I haven’t cracked it yet. Supposably CH members should know where to start.
Carol: Hmmm.
Miner49er: We’ll crack it eventually. I’ll let you know.
Carol: Ok.
Miner49er: I’m assuming you’ll return the favor?
Carol: Sure.
Miner49er: Sorry I didn’t check in earlier.
Carol: That’s ok.
Miner49er: I have a problem conceptualizing people sometimes.
Carol: A problem conceptualizing people?
Miner49er: I’m a weirdo.
Carol: Fair enough.
Miner49er: Next time you’re feeling paranoid you can contact me. I’m sure your feeling isolated.
Carol: Thanks.
Miner49er: Gotta go.
Carol: Why?
Miner49er: Physics 2. See ya.
Carol: Seriously?
Later
Unknown: Miner? It’s Teresa.
Miner49er: A new phone I hope?
Teresa: Of course.
Miner49er: You’re sure?
Teresa: Yes. Exclusively for creepy hacker guy. I promise.
Miner49er: That’s me.
Teresa: My mom’s freaking out and there’s literally no one else I can talk to.
Miner49er: Is she ok?
Teresa: Yeah. Just stressed out.
Miner49er: Did she decode the video?
Teresa: Idk. If she has she hasn’t told me.
Miner49er: Are you ok?
Teresa: I guess. Bored and scared and stressed all at once.
Miner49er: Doesn’t sound so bad.
Teresa: Was that supposed to be funny.
Miner49er: Guess my sarcasm doesn’t translae.
Teresa: I just don’t know you so it’s kinda hard to tell.
Miner49er: It was supposed to be funny.
Teresa: Are you really a student?
Miner49er: I’m a student of the world.
Teresa: College? High school?
Miner49er: Probably safer for both of us if you don’t know anything about me.
Teresa: That’s not fair.
Miner49er: No it’s not.
Teresa: Girl or boy?
Miner49er: I’m as masculine as my handle.
Teresa: Definitely a boy.
Miner49er: This isn’t a good idea.
Teresa: Come on. Bored, remember?
Miner49er: I know. Let me get back to you.
Teresa: Promise.
Miner49er: Ok. If I get attached and you do something stupid I’m gonna be really mad.
Teresa:

Prepared

Part 1

Dad: Where are you?
Jason: Out with Josh and Taylor.
Dad: What are you doing?
Jason: Just driving around. What’s up?
Dad: Are you driving?
Jason: No. Josh is. What’s going on?
Dad: Just making sure your ok.
Jason: Why wouldn’t I be.
Dad: Just worried.
Jason: Was there a shooting or something?
Dad: No, nothing like that.
Jason: You’re being weird.
Dad: Remember when I told you a day might come when those stories would matter.
Jason: Yeah, I guess you’re weird a lot.
Dad: That day may have come.
Jason: Yeah right.
Dad: I mean it.
Jason: Anybody want a peanut.
Dad: J. Seriously.
Jason: That was just a game. I thought we were just playing spy.
Dad: I did too. Wanted to at least.
Jason: Wanted to?
Dad: My dad told me the same stuff. Same stories. Insisted I tell you.
Jason: So.
Dad: He left me the box. Told me it would be important one day. Really important.
Jason: And you think that day is now?
Dad: Maybe.
Jason: Why? What happened?
Dad: Someone warned me.
Jason: Who.
Dad: Unknown. Called himself Strawberry Technicolor Phantom.
Jason: Now I know you’re messing with me.
Dad: Used a fake name because he knows the danger.
Jason: What did he say?
Dad: Enough to worry me.
Jason: Like what.
Dad: Crazy stuff I guess, but he mentioned specifics like Corvus Folio and Crimson Hexagram.
Jason: No way.
Jason: That’s insane.
Dad: We can wonder later. I think we should move now. He said time is a factor.
Jason: What does that even mean?
Dad: I’m not sure what we should do.
Jason: Do you think all this stuff is true.
Dad: Probably not. But I think we should be careful. Maybe get out of town.
Jason: This is crazy.
Dad: I know. But sometimes people are crazy.
Jason: Do you want me to come home?
Dad: Home might not be safe.
Jason: What about Mom and Olivia?
Dad: I’m getting them now. We’ll all leave together.
Jason: Ok. Does Mom know about this stuff?
Dad: I told her about it long time ago but didn’t really take it seriously. So she didn’t.
Jason: Ok.
Dad: I’m still working out how to handle it.
Jason: Ok.
Dad: Don’t say anything to scare them.
Jason: You’re scaring me.
Dad: I know. But at least we’ve prepared for this.
Jason: IT WAS A GAME.
Dad: But it was to prepare for this. Even if I didn’t believe it.
Jason: I get it.
Dad: It really is probably nothing but...
Jason: I know.
Jason: Do you want me to get it?
Dad: That’s probably not a good idea.
Jason: Don’t we need it?
Dad: We’ll get it later.
Jason: I thought time was a factor.
Dad: I don’t know...
Jason: I’ll just drive by the place. If I see anyone I won’t stop.
Dad: I don’t think so.
Jason: If it’s dangerous, we can’t do it with Mom and Olivia.
Dad: I know.
Jason: I’m going. It will be ok.
Dad: Be careful.
Jason: I will.
Dad: After you get it text me. We’ll meet where we stop for gas on the way to Grandma’s.
Jason: Ok.
Dad: Be careful.
Jason: Hey, I’m prepared.
Dad: Please.
...
Jason: It’s not here.
Dad: Are you sure?
Jason: Pretty sure.
Dad: Get out. Now!
Jason: How would they know about it?
Dad: Just go.
Jason: We haven’t been here for ages...
Dad: I don’t know J. Just go.
Jason: I know. I’m going.
Dad: Be careful.
Dad: Jason??
Jason: Someone else is here.
Dad: Stay put. I’m coming to you.
Dad: JASON???
…
Dad: Jason. If your there I’m coming.
…
Jason: Don’t worry. I’m ok.
Dad: Thank god.
Jason: I can’t believe this is happening.
Jason:
[video showing a creepy dude in a cellar]
Jason: So crazy.
Dad: He’s gone?
Jason: I think so. I don’t hear anyone moving up there.
Dad: Good.
Jason: Should I follow him?
Dad: NO.
Jason: But what if he has it?
Dad: It doesn’t matter. Just say hidden. I’m coming.
Jason: I’ll be careful. Bet I can get license plate or something.
Dad: It’s not worth it.
Dad: Just stay hidden.
Dad: JASON. Just stay hidden.
Dad: Jason???
...
Dad: Jason…
...

Prepared

Part 2

Strawberry technicolor phantom: Did you get the box?
James: Who is this?
STP: We’ve been over this before, James.
James: WHO ARE YOU!
STP: A friend.
James: This is your fault.
STP: This was set into motion long before I was involved.
James: Jason is dead.
STP: I’m sorry, James.
James: This is your fault.
STP: I wish I could have warned you earlier.
James: Your warning is why he’s gone.
STP: You know that’s not true.
James: He wouldn’t have been there if it wasn’t for you.
STP: Maybe.
James: Definitely.
STP: They were coming for you whether I warned you or not.
James: What do you know about it.
STP: I know that you’re a member of the Hexagram. You’ve know about 4R for years. We stumbled across them six months ago.
James: Who’s we?
STP: A group of… hackers I guess you’d call us.
James: What do hackers have to do with this?
STP: We’ve been trying to rebuild the CH.
James: Rebuild.
STP: There are smart people or there James. I have a group going that’s making progress.
James: Stay out of it. Stay away from the 4th Reading.
STP: I can’t do that.
STP: Especially now.
James: Are you threatening me?
STP: No.
STP: I’m threatening them.
James: If you were as smart as you think you are J would still be alive.
STP: I know.
STP: I really am sorry.
STP: Are you there?
James: I’m here.
STP: Are the rest of you safe?
James: What are planning to do.
STP: That depends. Is. Your. Family. Safe?
James: We’re on the move.
STP: Good.
James: What are you planning?
STP: Do you have the box?
James: No.
STP: Do you know where it is?
James: They took it. They knew somehow.
STP: They knew where it was?
James: Yes.
STP: How?
James: I let Jason go after it alone. This is my fault.
STP: It’s not your fault.
James: I never should have let him go. I knew it was dangerous.
STP: You couldn’t have known.
James: I knew.
STP: Focus on what you have. Not what you’ve lost.
James: Why bother.
STP: I’m afraid we’ll all be asking that question before long.
James: What do you mean?
STP: Focus on keeping the family safe.
James: We’re ok for now.
STP: Do you know any other in the Crimson Hexagram?
James: Why?
STP: I need to get my hands on a box.
James: Wait.
STP: I don’t have time to wait.
James: How do I know you’re not one of them?
STP: video
James: What’s that supposed to prove.
STP: It’s my signature.
James: Anyone could send that. It doesn’t prove anything.
STP: I guess your not familiar with my work.
James: Guess not.
STP: How can I get you to trust me.
James: I don’t think you can.
STP: How about we meet in person.
James: I told you. We’re on the move.
STP: I’m mobile.
James: Don’t think it’s a good idea.
STP: You set the place and time. As public as you like. I’ll be there.
James: How can I trust that.
STP: How about we meet at The Smoking Crow.
James: How do you know about that?
STP: Clearly, you’re unfamiliar with my work.
James: You know where it will be next month?
STP: Do you?
James: Yes.
STP: And you’ll meet me there?
James: Ok. On the fifth.
STP: Good. Look for the bright pink ghost.

Prepared

Part 3

James makes his way through littered back alleys of a bustling city. He approaches an unmarked door, knocks three times and hold a small paper Crow up to the door’s tiny window.

The large man who opens the door needs only a glare to ask for the password:

James: Parthalon.
The man answers with the cryptic phrase:
Man: Listen to the sleeping swans.
Then steps aside and James moves past, navigating his way through the narrow corridor to enter: The Smoking Crow. James scans the room: A high end bar with old mahogany tables and soft amber lighting. It is near full with patrons who drink and dine, most unaware thta they are patronizing the secret meeting place of The Crimson Hexagram.

But a few people do know. One among them sits in a corner, a small man, hidden beneath a bright pink hoodie. James walks to his table.
James: You’re just a kid.
STP: Not just. You seem nervous.
James: Still not convinced this isn’t a trap.
STP: If it’s a trap, then it’s too late for both of us. Sit.
James: How did you get in here?
STP: They don’t really card if you bring a bird.
James: Was one of your parents a member?
STP: No. Guess you could call me first gen.
James: But how?
STP: That’s not important right now.
James: It is to me.
STP: I’m going to get revenge for your son.
They both sit silence for some time.
STP: I’m sorry about Jason.
STP: Really.
James: I know.
STP: We didn’t know things would happen this fast.
James: What did happen?
STP: Friends of mine found out that Triskelion was trying to activate a Folio.
James: I don’t know what any of that means.
STP: That’s part of the problem.
James: Do they even have a Folio? We were told they were all gone. Lost.
STP: We?
James: ...I
STP: You do know other members of the Hexagram.
James: A few. I didn’t want to expose them in case you were… dangerous.
STP: You don’t think I’m dangerous?
James: I think you’re trying to help.
STP: What we’re you supposed to do if they activate the Folio?
James: We were supposed to make sure they didn’t.
STP: But there were protocols. Right?
James: Instructions were supposed to be in the box.
STP: And now that one’s gone so is the other.
James: Yes.
STP: Fantastic. Don’t suppose you know anything about the swans bit.
James: Not yet. I haven’t spoken to the management in years.
STP: But you can?
James: I think so.
STP: Good. We may need a little… advanced guidance.
James: We?
STP: We’re partners now James. Your too old for this shit, everyone thinks I’m crazy, and there’s a dead kid that needs to be answered for.
James: You are crazy.
STP: And your already in, so don’t even pretend your just considering it.
James: Ok. What do we do.
STP: See if you can get a meeting with management. I’ll look into this swans thing.
James: They used to call her she who must be obeyed.
STP: Can’t wait to meet her.
James: I wouldn’t count on that happening any time soon.
STP: We’ll see, You’d be surprised how quickly we can move.

thesmokingcrow.com