After an algorithm change, Benevolent Dynamics employees are assigned work they're unhappy with. Help an android discover where the fault lies, so everyone can go back to having an extraordinarily pleasant day!
Level: 14
Start: Eva Kypos, Side Jobs, Orwell Stronghold
Introduction
Orwell's employment center is a strange sight. Some rooms advertise work on large monitors as streams of people bump into each other while perusing opportunities. In other rooms time seems to have stopped – people stand still, browsing job listings via the local Omni-Reality node, oblivious to your presence. It's surprising to see so many people openly interacting with a node, but Benevolent Dynamics seems to have embraced the technology with open arms.
As you wander around, a researcher approaches you, data pad in hand.
Eva says: Ah, <name>! It looks like someone might be able to solve my problems after all… You're here to take on some work, aren't you? I have just the thing.
- "I might be. What's the job?"
- "Yes, that's why I'm here!"
- "No, not right now." [Decline mission]
No:
Me: No, not right now.
She looks taken aback, but quickly composes herself.
Eva says: I see. Well, if you change your mind, please come find me.
You have failed the "Dynamic Evaluation" mission. You can retake this mission and try again.
I might:
Me: I might be. What's the job?
Eva says: At Benevolent Dynamics, we pride ourselves on helping all of humanity, and that includes our employees. The employment center helps people find their ideal career using our dedicated algorithms. However, as hard as we might try, our algorithms aren't perfect.
Yes:
Me: Yes, that's why I'm here!
Eva says: Wonderful! At Benevolent Dynamics, we pride ourselves on helping all of humanity, and that includes our employees. The employment center helps people find their ideal career using our dedicated algorithms. However, as hard as we might try, our algorithms aren't perfect.
Either choice continues:
Eva purses her lips, as though the idea of imperfect algorithms were distasteful.
Eva says: Whenever someone is dissatisfied, we do our best to figure out how to help them. In these cases, an outside perspective helps us find things we might have overlooked, which is why I'm looking for someone who isn't affiliated with Benevolent Dynamics. And if I can choose, who better than…
Eva lowers her voice.
Eva says: Well, the one who helped us find the Omni-Reality Engines in the first place! Would you consider helping us, <name>?
- "…The Omni-Reality Engine?"
- "Okay, I'll help."
- "No, not right now." [Decline mission] (if you chose "I might")
Omni-Reality:
Me: …The Omni-Reality Engine?
Eva says: Yes, the Omni-Reality Engine you helped unearth! How can you not…
She sighs and crosses her arms.
Eva says: Your CORETECHS can connect to any systems it deems safe, including Omni-Reality Engine nodes. You have accessed one before, although you may have been using an outdated method at the time – a large helmet-shaped interface, I believe? The Engine allows you to enter a fully immersive simulated space. In our case, each employee can carry out their own personalised, and personal, job interview in a safe and comfortable environment. …So, would you like to take on the job?
- "Okay, I'll help."
- "No, not right now." [Decline mission]
Okay:
Me: Okay, I'll help.
Eva says: That's wonderful!
There's a fleeting smile on her face, though it's quickly replaced by her previous stern demeanor.
Eva says: In that case, please find Cur8 in the career advisory area next door; he'll help you get started. Have an extraordinarily pleasant day!
You have accepted the "Dynamic Evaluation" mission.
Find Cur8 in the Career Advisory part of the Employment Center.
Next NPC: Cur8, Career Advisory, Orwell Stronghold
- "Cur8?"
Me: Cur8?
Cur8 says: Yes, that is how I am referred to. And you are <name>, the person Dr. Eva Kypos sent. Nice to meet you. Before we talk, could you please step into my office?
You follow Cur8 as he leads you to his office. It's a relatively small space, but the furnishings – a small glass decoration here, a polished metal bauble there – makes it feel like a lived-in space. He sits and motions for you to make yourself comfortable across the desk from him.
Cur8 says: Now, you may need some background information to fully understand the importance of your work. Orwell Stronghold is a very special station, being fully run by Benevolent Dynamics. In addition to the sharpest minds in the universe, we also hire those whose skills help us maintain the station as a whole. This could involve hospitality, repairs, cleaning, physical labor… or one of 706 other job titles.
He beams at you, looking proud of Benevolent Dynamics' achievements.
Cur8 says: Everyone we hire is deemed a good fit for their job and our station as a whole. We do our utmost to make sure everyone's comfortable, and that any concerns they have are addressed. However, issues still arise from time to time, and to ensure fairness for our employees, we look for an outside perspective.
As Cur8 talks, his hands move graciously for emphasis. His actions are measured but not rigid, his tone pleasant but serious.
Cur8 says: Besides, I am qualified to assess the suitability of our algorithms on a technical level, but… I cannot pretend to have the same empathy as a human being.
As he gestures again, you notice he uses the exact same motions he used before. The repetition is a little jarring.
Cur8 says: While there are androids in positions of power in Orwell Stronghold, we do not always have the right tools to solve all problems, including ones such as this. Your perspective will be invaluable in helping me understand emotional attachments that I may not notice if our employees don't articulate them. Our facial recognition software can only do so much.
- "And that's why you need me."
Me: And that's why you need me.
Cur8 says: Exactly. We've recently changed our job selection and promotion algorithms, and had a small number of people unhappy with the results. My plan is to show you recorded footage of three separate consultations, and ask you to explain to the best of your ability whether Benevolent Dynamics is handling this appropriately or not.
He smiles at you, then pulls out a small pad from his desk and passes it over to you. A non-disclosure agreement is open and awaiting your signature.
Cur8 says: Of course, as helpful as you have been in the past, we still care about the safety and well-being of our employees. Even if their names will not be presented to you today, there may be information that would allow you to identify them. Therefore, you will need to sign this agreement before we can continue.
- "Is the agreement really necessary?"
- Sign the agreement.
- "Are all job seeking sessions recorded?"
Recorded:
Me: Are all job seeking sessions recorded?
Cur8 says: Everyone working for Benevolent Dynamics agrees to have their sessions recorded, for training and quality purposes. Soon you will be that quality control.
- "Is the agreement really necessary?"
- Sign the agreement.
Necessary:
Me: Is the agreement really necessary?
Cur8 says: It is. Those working as part of Benevolent Dynamics deserve to have their anonymity respected. You will understand once you see these recordings, but our job seeking process takes in a lot of information, including some which may be sensitive in nature. …Are you ready to sign yet, <name>?
- Sign the agreement.
You sign the agreement. It's relatively short, as far as these things go. With your digital and biological signature, you promise not to divulge any information you learn through the course of the investigation to anyone other than Benevolent Dynamics' career advisers, such as Cur8.
Cur8 says: Thank you, <name>. I will start by showing you an Omni-Reality recording from one of our employees, and asking you some questions afterwards.
He puts the pad away and folds his hands on the table.
Cur8 says: Now, while my records show you're acquainted with Omni-Reality in general, this will be different. It has been recorded using the Right of Observance, so you will be receiving their visual and auditory feedback as it was at the time of recording. I have been told seeing through someone else's eyes is a strange sensation, but it should increase your empathy by up to 60%.
Your CORETECHS notifies you that Cur8 has sent you a link to a file in the Omni-Reality node.
Cur8 says: I have just given you access to the recordings. When you're ready, accept the invitation.
Access Cur8's file to watch the first recording.
Next area: Career Advisory, Orwell Stronghold
- Access the file.
As you access the file, large words hover in the air in front of you: WELCOME TO THE OMNI REALITY ENGINE! Your surroundings blur and disappear, replaced by another room altogether. It's larger than Cur8's office, with stars visible above you. It resembles the Lovelace Lounge, but it's empty apart from yourself and an android sitting in front of you. The android sports a kind expression and pale teal skin which seems to reflect the stars above.
The android says: Let's continue "Clarissa". What would you say your greatest strengths and weaknesses are?
The name Clarissa is spoken in a different voice – this may be how they keep employee identities secret. As you're taking things in, you bring your palm to your cheek. It's a strange sensation, experiencing a recording through someone else's eyes. After a moment of thought, you – Clarissa – answer.
Me: My greatest strength is being able to come up with any number of solutions. However many tries it takes, I always have a new idea or approach, and every attempt brings me closer to an answer. I enjoy the challenge. As for weaknesses…
Your voice, soft and with a hint of Tau's comforting accent, trails off.
Me: I sometimes struggle to follow instructions. Not because the task is hard, but because I have a tendency to, um… question whether it's the right approach. Of course, I know working with others is important for larger projects, so I'm working on ways to express my concerns productively, rather than… claiming I have a better solution.
The android says: Yes, that lines up with your performance results. Thank you for your candor. I have one final question for you, "Clarissa". Where do you see yourself ten cycles from now?
There's no hesitation this time – Clarissa jumps in with an answer right away.
Me: Ten cycles from now, I would like to be helping those in need. Perhaps a posting at one of the smaller independent stations, helping them repair their ships or machinery, improving their quality of life. I would be using all I have learned here to show that, if humanity works together, there is so much we can accomplish. Working with Benevolent Dynamics would have enabled me to do that… or so I hope.
The android nods encouragingly while Clarissa speaks. They wait for a few units in silence, then the android smiles widely.
The android says: In that case, I believe I have reached a conclusion. You will work at the shipyard here in Orwell, starting as soon as you are able. Your sharp mind is a perfect fit for work that requires a fast turn-around, meaning that you will help those who stop by Orwell on their way to other stations, like Spirit of Tianjin.
Your hand – Clarissa's hand – drops from your face.
- "What? I'm helping Tianjin patrons?"
Me: What? I'm helping Tianjin patrons? But they're exactly the kind of people who don't need my help…
The android says: Are they? I believe this is the best plan, so I do not understand your hesitation. Tianjin patrons are people too, and they provide valuable income to those working in Tianjin. Are people with credits undeserving of your help?
Me: Well, no, that's not what I meant…
The android says: Having a breadth of experience will be important in your future endeavors. Would you deny someone ship repairs if they need them?
Clarissa crosses her ankles and starts to fidget with her sleeve. Her eyes go from the floor to the android, then back down again. Even without seeing her expression, it's clear that she's uncomfortable.
The android says: You can always change your mind, "Clarissa". But for now, would you consider working at the shipyard? I can assure you that it will be best in the long run.
- "I… Well, alright."
Me: I… Well, alright.
The android says: Wonderful! I will send you the details right away. As you can see—
The voice cuts off as the recording ends, and you find yourself back in Cur8's office. It takes you a few units to feel like yourself again – your hands seem oddly shaped at first, your limbs awkward.
Cur8 says: Take your time, <name>. As you can see, Clarissa – as we will call her – was not entirely pleased with her assignment. I was hoping you could shed light on what her issues might be.
Next NPC: Cur8, Career Advisory, Orwell Stronghold
- "Working at the shipyard may not be her dream job."
- "She didn't like being told what to do?"
- "Maybe working for Tianjin patrons didn't sit well with her?"
Dream job:
Me: Working at the shipyard may not be her dream job.
Cur8 says: That's possible, but she was keen on working towards her long-term goals. There must be more to it than this.
- "She didn't like being told what to do?"
- "Maybe working for Tianjin patrons didn't sit well with her?"
Being told:
Me: She didn't like being told what to do?
Cur8 says: Is that your read on it? …She did mention struggling to follow instructions, but I don't think that's everything in this case.
- "Maybe working for Tianjin patrons didn't sit well with her?"
(Social check)
Me: Maybe working for Tianjin patrons didn't sit well with her?
Cur8 says: Yes, I noticed a change in her tone of voice and mannerisms. It is strange, though. There's nothing on her file related to Tianjin, no incident to speak of, or any kind of personal connection. The work itself seemed appropriate – quick problems that require someone who can think on her feet. I can see why the system suggested it.
Cur8 looks through some files on his pad before turning back to you.
Cur8 says: I've given you access to two other recordings, <name>. I hope that between all of these, we can learn more about the job allocation process.
View the other two recordings.
Next area: Career Advisory, Orwell Stronghold
- Access the file named Septimus.
- Access the file named Lucrezia.
Lucrezia:
You access a file named Lucrezia. Your surroundings disappear and are replaced by a comfortable lounge, just like in Clarissa's recording. However, your vantage point is much higher – you must be taller, perhaps a Belter – and your body language is much more confrontational. You're leaning forward, facing down a different android, and all but shouting at her.
Me: Ya really think I wanna be working in the clonin' vats? What part of bein' from Daedalus made ya think that?!
The android says: We would never assign a Promethean to work with clones, "Lucrezia". You, however, are not Promethean, and are in fact the best candidate for this work.
You let out a low chuckle, which seems to diffuse some of your anger.
Me: How do ya figure that?
The android says: You understand why someone might hesitate to buy a clone, since you lived in Daedalus. That makes you an excellent choice to liaise with customers who need to be reassured before they commit to cloning.
The android pauses for a second, giving Lucrezia the chance to interrupt. When no interruption comes, she continues.
The android says: Unlike other Benevolent Dynamics employees, who might dismiss a customer's worries, you will take them seriously and engage in an earnest discussion. Thus, while it might seem counter-intuitive at first, we believe this is the perfect role for you, at least for the time being.
- "And if I don't want to?"
Me: And if I don't want to?
The android says: Then we will find something else for you, eventually. But I must insist that you take some time to think about it. In your file, you list wanting to get out of Daedalus as one of your main motivations for working with Benevolent Dynamics.
Me: That's right!
Your voice – Lucrezia's voice – is still harsh, but your demeanor has softened. You sit back, arms on your waist.
The android says: This is as far from Daedalus as you can be. If it makes you uncomfortable, then we will find another posting, but I believe it will be worth trying. Think about it, "Lucrezia". I have sent you all the relevant details, so get back to us when you've thought about it.
- "Maybe. I'll sleep on it."
Me: "Maybe. I'll sleep on it."
Your vision goes dark for a few units, then you're back in Cur8's office. Your arms instinctively move to your waist, as Lucrezia's did, until you catch yourself. Cur8 smiles.
- Access the file named Septimus. (if you haven't yet)
You access a file named Septimus. Your surroundings disappear and are replaced by a comfortable lounge with a view of the stars… but not for long.
Me: Change the room overlay. We're not pretending to chat over drinks at the Lounge.
Suddenly the lounge vanishes, replaced by a small office not unlike Cur8's. An android with white, almost opalescent skin sits in front of you. He looks more tired than you've seen an android before.
The android says: I would ask you not to take such a decision lightly, "Septimus". People are relying on you.
Me: How can they rely on me when I have to follow these kinds of medical guidelines? Two hundred micrograms of memory suppressors twice a day? Of course we're seeing an increase in side effects.
The android says: Our data shows that the likelihood of side effects only goes up to 0.05% if the dose is doubled, as indicated. In exchange, memory suppression is more rapid and stable.
Me: Side effects going from 0.025% to 0.05% is a two-fold increase! The only reason this is recommended is so that 'actors' and 'dummies' from Tianjin can go back to work as soon as possible. This rate just wouldn't be acceptable in Moemedi.
The android looks down at you, his tiredness replaced with disdain.
The android says: I can't stop you from going back to Moemedi. But you would have to leave all of your patients.
- "I know that!"
Me: I know that! Why do you think I haven't left yet?
Your hands are balled into fists, shaking on your lap. Your vision blurs slightly and you're not sure why – until you blink away tears. …Until Septimus blinks away tears, you remind yourself.
Me: I can't win this fight, Cla6. I'm tired of struggling. But I can't… I can't just leave them. My colleagues care too, but they don't question the systems. Frankly, I don't know why you're set on me staying, not when you have others doing what you ask without question.
For the first time, Cla6's eyes seem to light up, as much as the eyes of an android can.
Cla6 says: That is exactly where your value lies, "Septimus". We need inquisitive minds like yours, empathetic hearts like yours. I can't change the system for you, but I can request that you stay. Whatever dose is recommended, I know you will advise your patients to the best of your ability. They will always know the risks and downsides.
Me: Does it matter if they can't afford not to drug themselves into oblivion for the sake of scraping together some credits?
Cla6 says: We all make our own choices, "Septimus". All you can do is make yours.
- "All I can do…"
Me: All I can do…
As your head – Septimus' head – hangs down in pain, the recording suddenly ends. Back in Cur8's office, your nails have dug into your palms. Cur8 offers you a glass of water, and time to rest.
- Access the file named Lucrezia. (if you haven't yet)
Next NPC: Cur8, Career Advisory, Orwell Stronghold
- "I watched all the recordings."
Me: I watched all the recordings.
Cur8 says: Thank you, <name>. What are your impressions so far?
- "They're… not having extraordinarily pleasant days."
- "Spirit of Tianjin keeps coming up."
- "They are being asked to go against their beliefs."
Beliefs:
Me: They are being asked to go against their beliefs.
Cur8 doesn't respond for a few units. He looks at you for slightly longer than is comfortable, but eventually nods.
Cur8 says: Even if the system wouldn't have reason to suspect it, once each of them made their feelings known, it should have reassessed their compatibility. …Unless it was still the most suitable job, but that seems unlikely, given their perceived levels of distress.
- "They're… not having extraordinarily pleasant days."
- "Spirit of Tianjin keeps coming up."
Tianjin:
Me: Spirit of Tianjin keeps coming up.
Cur8 says: Indeed. Clarissa has been asked to work on Tianjin patron ships, and Septimus helps those who work at Spirit of Tianjin. Lucrezia's work in the cloning vats could also be relevant, given how often 'dummies' require clones.
- "They're… not having extraordinarily pleasant days."
- "Does that help?"
Days:
Me: They're… not having extraordinarily pleasant days.
Cur8 says: That is one way to put it, yes.
- "Does that help?"
Me: Does that help?
Cur8 says: It does. In fact, it suggests a whole new hypothesis. If I'm correct…
Cur8 taps on a data pad, for a few units, then stops. He shakes his head sadly and shows you the pad - it says "ACCESS DENIED".
Cur8 says: There's a limit to what I can find out, given my position. However, there's nothing stopping us from learning more about the situation ourselves… <name>, I'm going to send you a list of names. These people's work is tied to that of Clarissa, Septimus and Lucrezia, so their additional input should improve your understanding of their cases.
As he speaks, you receive a notification on your CORETECHS with three names: Miro Kesh, Arche Lang and Stella Koukoubani.
Cur8 says: When you're done talking to them, I expect your opinion on whether Benevolent Dynamics' new algorithm is beneficial to our employees or not. Learn what you can from them. Start with Miro Kesh in the cloning vats, then Arche Lang in the shipyard, and finally Stella Koukoubani at her market stall.
Find Miro Kesh in the Cloning Vats.
Next NPC: Miro Kesh, Clones, Orwell Stronghold
- "Miro Kesh?"
Me: Miro Kesh?
Miro says: Sorry, give me one unit… Yes, of course. We'll talk later, okay? Love you.
His eyes lose their glow as he finishes his conversation and turns his attention to you, gracing you with a pleasant smile.
Miro says: What can I do for you?
- "Can you tell me about your work in the vats?"
(Social check)
Me: Can you tell me about your work in the vats?
Miro says: I could, but I'm not sure where to start.
Me: Do you work with Tianjin clones?
Upon hearing your words, Miro raises an eyebrow.
Miro says: Spirit of Tianjin has its own cloning facilities, but we do host some clones for 'actors' and 'dummies'. Benevolent Dynamics also encourages employees to work at different facilities and stations, so many people have worked at Tianjin before. …Why do you want to know?
- "I'm worried about Lucrezia."
- "I was… thinking of working in Tianjin."
Lucrezia:
Me: I'm worried about Lucrezia… Er, I mean, one of the new employees.
He shakes his head and laughs. His voice resonates pleasingly.
Miro says: There's no need to worry. New recruits want to fix all the galaxy's problems as soon as they start… Which is admirable, and kind of cute, but they'll grow out of it. No one person can do everything - we help humanity together, but each individual's part is small, and we're better at some things than others.
He smiles at you and points at the glowing vats behind him.
Miro says: Besides, they all change their tune the first time they help a clone come out of a vat. When you grow a clone, from single cell to fully functioning human body, and see them awaken - the relief in their eyes, their joy at being alive - that's when you fully devote yourself to your work. …Anyway, I'm sure she'll settle in soon enough, but I'll keep an eye on the newbies. Everyone could use a hand when they first start out.
His CORETECHS activates, flashing in his eyes.
Miro says: Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to get back to work.
Tianjin:
Me: I was… thinking of working in Tianjin.
Miro says: I see. Well, everyone should be able to do what they'd like. If anyone gives you a hard time, let me know, alright? Sometimes they get a little carried away…
He shakes his head and laughs. His voice resonates pleasingly.
Miro says: What I mean is, people work with Benevolent Dynamics for different reasons. Some of the new recruits want to fix all the galaxy's problems as soon as they start… It's admirable. And kind of cute. But that's not how things work. No one person can do everything - we help humanity together, but each individual's part is small, and we're better at some things than others.
He waves at the clones behind him, lit with a yellow glow which reflects off of his large eyes.
Miro says: They all change their tune the first time they help their first clone come out of a vat. When you grow a clone, from single cell to fully functioning human body, and see them awaken… See the relief in their eyes, their joy at being alive… That's when you really feel the impact of your work.
He turns to look at a clone, a wistful smile playing on his lips. Eventually he comes out of his reverie.
Miro says: And speaking of work, I should return to mine soon. I hope that answered your questions.
Either choice continues:
Talk to Arche Lang in the Shipyard.
Next NPC: Arche Lang, Shipyard, Orwell Stronghold
- "Arche Lang? Can we talk?"
Me: Arche Lang? Can we talk?
Arche says: Hold on one unit, Ser…
As you watch, Arche types away at a keypad connected via thick, blue cables to a ship panel. A few beeps later, they put the keypad down and redirect their attention to you.
Arche says: Right, er… <name>. What do you need?
When you ask them to tell you about their work, they look pensive.
Arche says: Well, I wouldn't mind talking repairs, but I've got a lot to do… Tell you what – if you help me, we can chat while we work. Are you strong enough to help me set up some temporary scaffolding? My partner's running late, so I could use a hand. Or if you've got the stamina for it, I could use a hand soldering these panels onto the ship's hull…
- "Can I help with the digital side of repairs?"
- Take the soldering iron.
- Set up the scaffolding.
Digital:
Me: Can I help with the digital side of repairs?
Arche says: No, I'm sorry. Only assigned personnel are allowed to access these files.
- Take the soldering iron.
- Set up the scaffolding.
Soldering:
(Agility check)
With the two of you working together, you finally manage to fix the ship's hull. You sit down and chat with Arche while they carry out some final checks on this section.
Scaffolding:
(Strength check)
Arche directs you in setting up a small, simple scaffold for them to reach the hull. Once they test it and everything appears to be working, you take a seat next to them, while they start soldering.
Either choice continues:
Arche says: So, my work… As you can see, I repair ships as they stop by Orwell. The pay's good and I like the work. That said, I'd rather work for some people than others. Some people going to Tianjin…
They shake their head and go quiet.
- "What about Tianjin?"
Me: What about Tianjin?
Arche says: The patrons whose ships I fix, they visit Tianjin to do horrible things to other people. Willing people, technically… But how willing can you be when you desperately need the credits? If your only two options are dying or getting beaten up for someone's amusement, is it much of a choice at all?
Arche sighs and looks down.
Arche says: I'm sorry, <name>, I'm letting myself get carried away. I should really get back to work… But listen, if someone's coercing you into doing something you don't want to, let me know, alright? There may be something I can do to help…
- "It's not about me, it's about Clarissa."
- "I'll be fine. I'm not planning to work there."
Clarissa:
Me: It's not about me, it's about Clarissa. …I mean, someone who's starting soon.
Arche says: Really? It would be nice to work with someone who sees things the way I do. I'll see if I can pair up with her on my next assignment! Thanks for letting me know, <name>.
Arche waves you off as they continue their work.
Fine:
Me: I'll be fine. I'm not planning to work there.
Arche says: Okay, that's a relief. …I really do need to get back, <name>, but take care, alright?
Either choice continues:
Talk to Stella Koukoubani at the Vendor Marketplace.
Next NPC: Stella Koukoubani, Vendors, Orwell Stronghold
- "Stella Koukoubani?"
Me: Stella Koukoubani?
Stella says: Yes, I'll be right with you! …That'll be twenty credits, please.
The customer says: Here you go, Stella. I'll be back next week for more!
Stella says: And I'll be waiting for you right here! Take care!
She turns to look at you, her dark eyes locking unto yours.
Stella says: So, tell me, what are you looking for? If you need beauty products, I can help you find the right match for your skin type and tone. Or are you here for medical reasons? I've got everything, from stims that help you concentrate to drugs that help you forget.
Your eyes wander over to the large shelf labelled "Memory Suppressors." They all bear an image of a smiling woman, but different color backgrounds denote a different dosage. The strongest, at two hundred micrograms, is housed in an appealing sky blue package. Despite the whole shelf being dedicated to memory suppressors, there are only a handful on display.
Stella says: Got something you want to forget? Don't we all… The blue one's the usual dosage, but if it's your first time, you may be better off going for something weaker, maybe the green.
- "Why did they sell out so fast?"
Me: Why did they sell out so fast?
Stella says: I'm just a great saleswoman!
She winks at you.
Stella says: …Like I said, people have all sorts of things they want to forget, and I won't be the one to dredge them up.
- Convince her to tell you.
- Bribe her into telling you.
Convince:
(Social check)
Me: You clearly care about your customers, Stella, and I'm not looking to pry. I was just curious, since I haven't used them myself.
Stella says: I guess that wouldn't put my customers in danger… Sure, I can tell you. I've had people who needed them to deal with the death of a loved one, and others who wanted to forget certain violent incidents. Others want to forget their time in Tianjin – patrons and actors alike. Every now and again someone wants to relive an exciting experience as though it were the first time.
She looks you up and down.
Stella says: But it doesn't sound like you're looking to buy any. Is your partner taking them? Maybe someone in your family?
Bribe:
Me: If I'm a paying customer, could you help me figure out what these might be used for?
You send her twenty Credits, and she smiles.
You have given 20.00 credits.
Stella says: I suppose it's only right to help you, in that case… As I said, there are all sorts of reasons to use memory suppressors. Some people need it to deal with the death of a loved one, or violent incidents that haunt them. Others want to forget their time in Tianjin - patrons and actors alike. Every now and again I get someone who wants to relive an exciting experience as though it were the first time.
She looks you up and down.
Stella says: But if you're asking, you probably don't need any. Is your partner taking them or something? Everyone's got their own ghosts…
Either choice continues:
- "…Something like that, yes."
- "There's a doctor, Septimus, who worries about his patients taking too many suppressors."
Septimus:
Me: There's a doctor, Septimus, who worries about his patients taking too many suppressors.
Stella says: Wait, are you talking about the middle-aged Harsene who came here the other day? I remember him. He did say he was looking out for his patients…
She crosses her arms and closes her eyes for a moment, before returning her attention to you.
Stella says: He asked me for a list of people who bought the blue memory suppressors. Obviously I couldn't give him something like that, but he kept insisting, so I kicked him out. …Hm, if he really is a doctor, I might let him compare his list of patients with my customers. I wouldn't want them taking the wrong thing…
As she talks, she rearranges her merchandise to be more eye-catching. When she's done, she holds up a green box.
Stella says: Are you sure I can't convince you? Well, if things get rough, come back and I'll have just the thing!
Like that:
Me: Something like that, yes.
Stella says: Well, don't judge too harshly. You can never truly know someone else's pain…
Either choice continues:
Return to Cur8 in Career Advisory.
Next NPC: Cur8, Career Advisory, Orwell Stronghold
- "I'm back."
Me: I'm back.
Cur8 says: Thank you, <name>. Please, sit down.
He ushers you to a chair, then serves you a glass of water.
Cur8 says: So, tell me… Now that you've spoken to a few more people, how do you feel about Benevolent Dynamics' job allocation? Should Clarissa, Septimus and Lucrezia accept their positions, or is there fault in Benevolent Dynamics' methods? Think about it carefully, there's no need to rush.
- "I'm not sure. There are arguments for both sides."
- Benevolent Dynamics was right - use logic to explain why.
- Benevolent Dynamics is coercing people - use your empathy to explain why.
Both sides:
Me: I'm not sure. There are arguments for both sides.
Cur8 says: I know this is a delicate issue, <name>, but I would like for you to support one argument or the other. Whichever you choose, we will endeavour to help our employees, but I need your input.
- Benevolent Dynamics was right - use logic to explain why.
- Benevolent Dynamics is coercing people - use your empathy to explain why.
Empathy:
Me: Benevolent Dynamics is coercing its employees, forcing them to do jobs they're morally opposed to. They are pressured into taking them, by implying that they're irresponsible, or letting humanity down. They're encouraged to use their abilities in the most 'efficient' way… which they themselves dictate. And while Benevolent Dynamics works to help humanity, it's still a company, and companies have their own interests.
Cur8 says: Hm… you make a very valid argument. I noticed some pressure on employees, but not to this extent. As for Benevolent Dynamics being a company… It is possible that the wealth of the Tianjin patrons skewed our algorithm. More Credits means Benevolent Dynamics can help more people, but will that logic always hold up?
He taps a finger against his forehead as he takes a few units to think.
Cur8 says: I will use this angle when writing my report. I can't guarantee that it will make much of a difference when it comes to how Benevolent Dynamics operates – that's beyond you or me – but it might help the employees whose recordings you saw.
Logic:
(Intelligence check)
Me: Benevolent Dynamics aims to help mankind as a whole, working towards the greater good. As part of that, it directs people to the areas where they can be most useful. The work might be hard initially, on a personal level, but it will benefit the most people in the long run.
Cur8 says: I see… Yes, that follows Benevolent Dynamics' core tenet: "Our services are offered freely and for the betterment of mankind alone". I also know from looking at our data that most employees come to accept their work, and only a minority actually leave. If we assume they learn the importance of their work, above and beyond their personal feelings, then changing the system wouldn't be beneficial.
He taps a finger against his forehead as he takes a few units to think. Or perhaps compute.
Cur8 says: Then there's Spirit of Tianjin… I'm not sure why so many recent jobs are related to Tianjin, but I also can't access all relevant information. Our assessment shows that Benevolent Dynamics still cares for the good of humanity, so we will trust that the system is working with that in mind. And if there are further doubts, new investigations could be opened in the future.
Either choice continues:
He smiles at you, but then gets distracted by his data pad blinking.
- "Is something wrong?"
If you told Stella about Septimus:
- Wait silently.
You wait silently until Cur8 speaks.
Cur8 says: <name>… It has come to my attention that you breached our non-disclosure agreement. You told Stella Koukoubani about a doctor, "Septimus", who was looking into memory suppressors. She got in touch with him, referencing your meeting specifically, and… well, let's leave it at that.
Cur8 looks at you sadly as he taps away at his pad.
Cur8 says: That means our contract is void. However, you have done everything I asked of you, and your insight was invaluable to me. Perhaps…
You sit for a while, watching him work. Every now and again, he looks back up to you and apologizes for the wait.
Cur8 says: I believe this is the best I can do – you will receive some compensation, but at a lower rate than I initially offered. I'm sorry, <name>, I can't bend the rules in a case like this. Ah, but you might want to know that Stella and "Septimus" are working together to monitor anyone who may be taking excess memory suppressors. Maybe some good will come of that, at least. …Well, then, take care, <name>.
You have received 500.00 credits.
You have completed the "Dynamic Evaluation" mission.
If you did not tell Stella about Septimus:
- "Is something wrong?"
Me: Is something wrong?
Cur8 says: No – quite the opposite. I asked for some funds to be cleared to act as your payment, and they've just come through. I will send you the Credits as soon as we're done.
Cur8 suddenly chuckles.
Cur8 says: Ah, apologies. I enjoy working with people, seeing their different points of view, but I particularly enjoyed working with you, <name>. Even if I had reached the same conclusion, I would have used different reasoning, so thank you for your insight. If we have the chance to work again together, I would relish the opportunity. If not, then please take care, <name>.
You have received 700.00 credits.
You have completed the "Dynamic Evaluation" mission.
<— Return to Missions