Unknown Parallels

<div id="dialogue-box">It's another average day. In the bustling city, driving by car is not a luxury every person can afford. You along with many other people take the subway to get in and out of the city. //Press any key when you see "Continue". Otherwise click the highlighted text.// [[Continue->The 3 People]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">"Phew, made it just in time" The doors to the subway close soon after entering. [[Continue->Choose a Route]] </div>

<div id="dialogue-box">"Hmm where should I sit?" [[Sit next to a young man with a hat and glasses. -> A]] [[Sit next to a man with ragged clothes. -> B]] [[Stand next to a high school aged girl. -> C]] |==| </div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//You make your way towards an empty seat when all of a sudden…// [[Continue->A2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//You make your way towards an empty seat when all of a sudden…// [[Continue->B2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">The muffled roar of the subway train leaving the station echoes throughout the car. You walk through the thankfully uncrowded car in search of a seat, but all of them appear to be taken. Left with no other choice, you go to grip a nearby rail, the subway picking up speed. [[Continue->C2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//''Screech!!''// Ahh! I can’t keep my balance! [[Continue->A3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//''THUD.''// [[Continue->A4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//You run into someone during the sudden stop and drop your phone.// [[Continue->A5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: “Hey! Watch it dude!” [["I'm so sorry!"->A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Damn it I dropped my phone! //You start feeling the floor around you looking for your phone.// Where is it… [[Continue->A7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: “What the?! Why are you grabbing my shoes?!” [["Sorry, I'm just trying to find my phone."->A8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">??? sighs. ???: “I’ll help you find it.” [[Continue->A9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: “Hey is this it?” //??? hands you your phone.// [["Yes! Thanks for your help."->A10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: “Hey by the way what song where you listening to?” [[Call Me Maybe by Carly Rae Jepsen.->A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: "Hmm maybe you're not so bad..." [[Continue->A13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Eglinton West'' [[Continue->A14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: “Oh that’s my stop gotta go.” [[Continue->A15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: “By the way I’m uhh sorry about how I reacted earlier. It wasn't cool I was just… I had a lot on my mind.” [[Continue->A16]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//Ding!, the doors open.// [[Continue->A17]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: “Aight cya!” [[Continue->A18]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">What an odd individual… I wonder what song he was going to play for me. [[Continue->A19]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">You go about the rest of your day as normal and eventually the next day rolls around. As per the normal routine, it's time to go back on the subway. [[Continue->2A]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Phew, made it just in time. Again… I should probably be more responsible and just wake up earlier so I’m not always in a rush. [[Continue->2A2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">... What am I thinking why would I do- [[Continue->2A3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Hey do you mind if I sit here? //You turn your head to see who asked that.// [[Continue->2A4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Oh! It’s you. [[Continue->2A5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">... [[Continue->2A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: So uh do you mind if I sit here? [["Oh uh yeah that's fine."->2A7a]] [["Of course!"->2A7b]] [["I’d rather you not do that."->2A7c]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Look I just want to say sorry again. About yesterday. I was already running late to work and being startled like that didn’t help. [["It’s alright I was also distracted by my phone so it was partly my fault as well."->2A9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: I’m glad you understand. By the way my name’s Mat- [[Continue->2A10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Cool thanks dude. [[Continue->2A8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Okay well you don’t own the subway so I’m sitting here anyway cause the other seats are taken. [[Continue->2A8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Max… yeah my name's Max. How about you? [["Yeah of course my name’s-"->2A11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//Subway noise gets louder.// [[Continue->2A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Gotcha, well it’s nice to meet you. [[Continue->2A13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: By the way I never got to telling you about that song I wanted to recommend. Have you heard of Ray Hood? [["Who?"->2A14a]] [["Yes! I hate them!"->2A14b]] [["Yeah they have some good music"->2A14c]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: How about we listen to a song of theirs together. //You listen to the song with Max.// [[Continue->2A16]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Hell yeah that's so good! "Yeah it was actually pretty good." [["Now that I listened to a song you recommended, you listen to one of mine."->2A17]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Sure let’s see what else you listen to. //You play a song from your playlist.// Max: Wait this song it’s by… [[Continue->2A18]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Huh. It’s alright I have an idea. [[Continue->2A15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Perhaps I misjudged your taste. Maybe we could do this. [[Continue->2A15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Right. Thats what I’m talking about. [[Continue->2A15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Mulch and 7th.'' [[Continue->2A19]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Sorry um I need to go. [["Is this even your stop?"->2A20]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//Ding!, the doors open.// Max: I’ll see you around. [[Continue->2A21]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//Max gets up and leaves the subway.// [[Continue->2A22]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">What uh, what just happened? [[Continue->2A23]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//''Screech!!''// //The subway suddenly stops and the lights go dim! You hear the sound of objects falling to the floor.// [[Continue->B2A]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Subway Passenger 1: “That's that smelly hobo’s stuff. Just act like you didn’t see what happened.” Subway Passenger 2: “You don’t gotta tell me twice.” [[You ignore the people around you and go help pick up his belongings->B4]] [["What’s wrong with you people, if you’re not gonna help just keep your mouth shut.”->B4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//You start to gather some of the belongings when the lights turn back on// [[Continue->B5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''“Hello everyone, sorry for the delay, we lost power for a brief moment but we have resolved the issue. We will start the subway momentarily thank you for your patience.”'' //You notice who’s belongings were scattered all over the floor, an older scruffy looking man. You make your way over to him as the subway starts again.// [[Continue->B6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">"I believe these may be yours." ???: Oh yes they are. //The older man takes his belongings// [[Continue->B7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: I would thank you, but I heard what you were telling your friend. Please just move along. I don’t want my smell rubbing off on you.” //You look at him confused// [["Oh you must have thought! It was actually those other peo-"->B8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: I told you to scram, get out of my face! [[Continue->B9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Wilson St.'' //Your stop arrives, you decide it’s probably best to just leave// [["I didn’t say those awful things"->B10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//Ding!, the doors open You exit the subway// [[Continue->B11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">You go about the rest of your day as normal and eventually the next day rolls around. As per the normal routine, it's time to go back on the subway. [[Continue->2B]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">"Phew, made it just in time. Again… The subway better not shut down like yesterday. Anyway, time to sit down somewhere." [[Continue->2B2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: You there… you’re from yesterday right? //You look around to see who said that.// [[Continue->2B3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//It’s the older man from yesterday same spot and everything.// Oh wow, did he sleep here? [[Continue->2B4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Come here I want to tell you something. [[//You make your way to him.//->2B6]] [[//I'll stay over here, just speak up.//->2B5b]] </div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Yeah, after yesterday I wouldn’t want to get near either. Fine I’ll say it from here. [[Continue->2B6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: I heard what you said the other day before you left. I believe you, sorry about what I said. [[Continue->2B7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: People take a look at me and want nothing to do with me. Even though you helped me I still didn’t think you had good intentions. Why? Why did you help? [["You were a person that needed help. It was the right thing to do."->2B7a]] [["I don’t know, it just felt right."->2B7b]] [["I thought I’d get money if I did."->2B7c]] [[Don't answer.->2B7d]] </div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Regardless, thank you again. Ever since I came back from serving this country I just have never been able to see humans the same. [["Oh wow. You were in the military?"->2B9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Me… a person? I didn’t know people still saw me like that. [[Continue->2B8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Your gut instincts are in the right place. [[Continue->2B8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ???: Yes. I was in the army. I traveled to various different countries. Until, one day… [[Continue->2B10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Wilson St.'' [["Shoot, that's my stop."->2B11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Ah don’t worry about it. We can talk some other time. It’s not like I’m going to be anywhere else. This subway is all I got. [[Continue->2B12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: I’ll see you around [[Continue->2B13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//Ding!, the doors open// //You wave goodbye and head out the doors.// [[Continue->2B14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Soon, the subway passes through a tunnel, the lights momentarily illuminating the subway’s insides, then dying out once passed. The process repeats at the next light, irritating your eyes. You squint, the unpleasant itch in your retinas alleviating a little. [[Continue->C3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Damn…Of all the times…Just let this be over soon… [[Continue->C4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">To your left, a young woman who looks to be in her late teenage years nurses her head, pinching the bridge of her nose whilst cringing in pain. You can’t help but make note of her hair, a striking magenta at the ends. She was also gripping a nearby rail across from you. It seems she wasn’t lucky enough to grab a seat either. [[Continue->C5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">When the insides of the subway finally stop lighting up repeatedly, the pain in the girl’s expression lessens, though she still looks rather irked. She continues to rub the sides of her head, still suffering from a headache even after a little more time passes. [[Hey, are you alright?->C6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Eh…? Yeah…Yeah, I’m good. [[Continue->C7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Just a little headache. Happens. //Her eyes narrow at you in wariness, though she is speaking to a stranger.// [[Continue->C8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Suddenly, one of the passengers sitting close to you stretches their arms and back, steadily standing and shuffling close to one of the exit doors. It seems their stop is approaching. [["Want to sit?"->C8a]] [[Sit down->C8b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: I’m fine, my stop’s up ahead. [["You sure you're okay?"->C9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">You slowly take the now empty seat, noticing the girl isn't making a move to sit down. She essays nothing when you get comfortable, merely closing her eyes and breathing steadily, seemingly trying to focus on anything but her headache. [["You sure you're okay?"->C9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Tch…I’m fine, don’t worry ‘bout it. Nothing to get all bent out of shape over. [[Continue->C10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Her tone is a little sharp, but she soon sighs, mellowing out. You’re surprised she hasn’t snapped at you, with how hostile her response was. Her expression returns to a neutral one. It seems she isn’t in pain now, successfully distracted. [[Continue->C11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//You level a concerned glance at her, but she waves you off.// [[Continue->C12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: I’m fine, trust. I’ll deal with it like always. I’ve got bigger things to deal with... [[Continue->C13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">She glances to the side, trailing off at the end of her sentence. No more conversation sparks up. You find the silence awkward but she doesn’t seem concerned enough to end it, idly fiddling with her phone in her hand. Much like her outfit it has a decal design on the back of its cover. [[Continue->C14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Maple Plaza.'' The young woman perks up at the announcement, pocketing her phone and shouldering her bag. You notice some textbooks and notebooks inside, poking out due to their length. [[Continue->C15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: That’s my stop…Later, i guess… [[Continue->C16]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">She leaves smoothly once the subway comes to a stop and the doors open. You can’t help but track her pink hair fading into the crowd, briefly going over the short encounter in your head. [[Continue->C17]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Soon, your stop comes up, and it’s time for you to get off. Hopefully, you won’t have to stand for as long as before tomorrow. [[Continue->C18]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">You go about the rest of your day as normal and eventually the next day rolls around. As per the normal routine, it's time to go back on the subway. [[Continue->2C]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">You quickly rush inside before the doors could crush your hand. You were quite unlucky today, nearly missing the subway’s first stop for your station. You glance around, praying for a place to sit to catch your breath. [["Phew, made it just in time."->2C2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Thankfully, there’s a place where no one is sitting at all! How lucky! [[Continue->2C3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Taking a seat, you relax, feeling the tension in your body creep away steadily. [[Continue->2C4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: “Oh, it’s you…” [[Continue->2C5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">That’s a familiar voice. Turning to your left, you notice the young lady from yesterday, sitting across from you. Looks like you weren’t the only one with a little luck on their side today. [[Continue->2C6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">She seems a little more at ease today. [["Hi again!"->2C6a]] [["Is your head feeling okay?"->2C6b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: I’m fine now. Sorry for the trouble. [[Continue->2C7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Hey [[Continue->2C7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">She fiddles with her phone, idly brushing her bangs behind her ear. In one of her hands is a textbook, a spiral notebook resting inside. There’s a lot of scribbled notes littered through its pages, and a couple doodles in the corners. [[Continue->2C8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Hey, sorry about yesterday. Was a little annoyed, and it may have been directed at you. [[Continue->2C9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">A little? You remember she looked like she was dealing with a crazy migraine rather than a small headache. You decide not to bring that up, as she closes her textbook. [["It’s fine, no need to say sorry."->2C10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Still, thanks for your concern, I guess. It’s just a bit of pain but I appreciate the thought. [[Continue->2C11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">A quiet lull passes in the conversation, though it isn’t nearly as awkward as the one from yesterday. You tilt your head to the side, still a little winded from your near miss earlier, and the young woman smooths out her outfit. [[Continue->2C12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">As time passes by, she begins to fiddle with her phone, her expression unreadable. Whatever she is or isn’t seeing, it’s agitating her a little. [["Everything alright?"->2C13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ???: No offense, but it isn’t any of your business. No need to stress over it. //It wouldn’t be anything you’d really care about anyway…// [[Continue->2C14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">She’s quick to reply, but her words don’t have any heat in them. She isn’t trying to be rude, it’s just a simple fact that it’s not your business. [[Continue->2C15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">You don’t catch the last bit of what she said, having muttered under her breath. You choose not to press her for more. Frankly, you’re not her parent or her friend, you’re still strangers. You don’t even know her name. [[Continue->2C16]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Maple Plaza.'' While those thoughts run through your head, you idly hear the subway’s next stop approaching, already feeling the car begin to slow down. [[Continue->2C17]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: There’s my stop. Later. [[Continue->2C18]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">She puts away her textbook, gripping her bag with a tired sigh. Soon, the subway comes to a complete stop, and she gets on her feet. The exit is in front of you, so she crosses your line of sight to leave. [["Wait!"->2C19]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Hm?. [[Continue->2C20]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">She turns her head, one eyebrow raised. Your earlier thoughts play in your head, and on the off chance you encounter her a third time in a row, there's one thing you want to know. [["What's your name?"->2C21]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Oh my name...? [[Continue->2C22]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Mira... Names' Mira. [[Continue->2C23]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">With that, she leaves, her pink hair disappearing in a sea of much less vibrant colors. [[Continue->2C24]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">You go about the rest of the day as normal but you wonder as to why Max would leave all of a sudden. [[Continue->2A24]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Was the song you showed him really that terrible that he wanted nothing to do with you? Maybe it has something to do with the artist of the song? Well, with any luck you'll hopefully get some answers tomorrow... [[Continue->3A1]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">As you get on the subway the next day, you hope to see Max again to maybe get some answers as to what happened. Or maybe it would be best not to talk to him after what happened. [[Continue->3A2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> As you step inside the subway, you frantically look around to see if Max is around. Sure enough, you see him sitting off several seats to your left. [["Should I go over there?"->3A3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">"It’s probably best I go sit somewhere else. It's not like we're friends or anything." //You walk to the right side of the subway and find a seat// [["I hope he's okay though."->3A4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//A few minutes pass by...// [[Continue->3A5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Hey. [[Continue->3A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//You turn and see Max standing in the aisle.// [["Oh, hello."->3A7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Sorry about yesterday. [["You’re good, but did I say anything to upset you?"->3A9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: No no, it’s not that it’s just that. That song you were going to play. It brought up some memories from my past. That’s why I shut down and acted like that. [["Continue"->3A10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: That song was by an artist called Matthew, one of his old songs before he joined his current group and acting totally different. I feel like I’m following his footsteps and I hate it. [[Continue->3A11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: I just feel like I’ve been living a lie you know? Pretending to be someone because others expect me to behave that way. [["Yeah, there have been times where I faked acting a certain way because it’s what others wanted."->3A11b]] [[Stay silent->3A11a]] [["I see, personally I haven’t experienced that but I feel for you."->3A11c]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: I guess that's a no then. [[Continue->3A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Really? It sucks who both have dealt with that. But it feels good knowing I’m not alone. [[Continue->3A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Oh I see. Well I’m glad to hear you don’t have to deal with this kind of problem. [[Continue->3A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Some days I just don’t know who I am anymore. [[Continue->3A13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Eglinton West'' [[Continue->3A14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Whelp that’s my stop, guess I’ll be seeing ya! //Ding!, the doors open.// [[Continue->3A15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//You both wave goodbye.// //Max gets up and leaves the subway.// [[Continue->3A16]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">You exhale a sigh of relief knowing that you didn't cause any problems for Max. Still, you remain curious about what he meant when he didn't feel like himself. [[Continue->3A17]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">You find yourself looking forward to the next day as you can talk more to Max. [[Continue->4A]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Today you enter the subway at a reasonable time. Max is bound to be somewhere around here. ... [["Huh, he's not here this time."->4A2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> "This is an odd feeling, being alone on this subway. I've gotten quite used to talking to him." //A few minutes pass.// [[Continue->4A3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ''Arriving at Tobias'' //Ding! the doors open.// //People start entering the subway.// [["Oh I think I see him."->4A4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//He notices you and starts heading to your direction.// [[Continue->4A5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Hey whats up? [["I’ve been good. Life’s been great!"->4A5a]] [["Life’s been a bit rough but I’m hopeful things will start getting better!"->4A5b]] [["I’m okay. Been pretty busy. No time to just relax."->4A5c]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: That’s good to hear, at least one of us is doing great haha. [[Continue->4A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Oh really?, Well hopefully things start to turn around for you! [["Thanks!"->4A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Yeah I totally get that. [["Thanks"->4A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: I’ve been okay. My place of work has just been kind of meh lately ya know? [["Yeah I’ve been having those days recently."->4A7a]] [[Sorry, I don’t really have a job so I’m not sure what that feels like.->4A7b]] [[I’ve been enjoying my workplace lately so I can’t exactly relate.->4A7c]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: That’s great! Well great as in at least it’s not just me. [[Continue->4A8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Wow, I don’t remember what it feels like not having a job. [[Continue->4A8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: That’s good to hear, wish it was the same for me. [[Continue->4A8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Do you remember how the other day I was talking to you about “fakeness” and what not? Well that kinda stems from my work. [[Continue->4A9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: When I first got hired I was so excited to show everyone what I can do. But now it’s like I don’t even know who that person is anymore. Like they turned the old me to something unrecognizable. [["What exactly is it that you do?"->4A10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: Oh I um, I work in the music industry [["Like a music artist?!"->4A11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: I just play piano... But yeah that's what I do haha. [["Oh really me too!"->4A11a]] [["That’s cool, I also play an instrument."->4A11b]] [["I’m not talented enough to play an instrument."->4A11c]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Oh really which one?! [["Guitar"->4A12]] [["Flute"->4A12]] [["Saxophone"->4A12]] [["Xylophone"->4A12]] [["It's kind of obscure..."->4A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Really?! It’s so cool to find someone similar like me. It feels nice. [[Continue->4A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Whattt?! I’m sure with practice you’d be able to play something. [[Continue->4A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Eglinton West'' [[Continue->4A13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Looks like it’s time to head out already. [[Continue->4A14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Catch ya later. [["Yeah for sure!"->4A15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Even though it sounded like Max was having a rough time at his job, you can't help but feel amazed by his profession. It's not every day you get to meet a music artist. Maybe you can learn more tomorrow... [[Continue->5A]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Entering the subway once again, you notice Max is not here. "Huh, he's not here again" [["Maybe I’ll see him later"->5A2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//A few minutes pass by.// [[Continue->5A4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Tobias'' //Ding! the doors open.// //People start entering the subway.// [["Oh that’s him, I think…"->5A5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//He notices you and starts heading to your direction covering his face.// [["Wait why is he-"->5A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Hey. //Max keeps his head down.// [["Hi, is everything okay?"->5A7a]] [["Uh, hi."->5A7b]] [["Is your face okay?"->5A7c]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: I broke my sunglasses, and uh... [[Continue->5A7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Sorry it’s just that… [[Continue->5A7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Yes... It's just- [[Continue->5A7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: Work was rough today but everything is fine. It's like he won't let me see his face. [[You say you’re fine but it doesn’t seem true. So tell me what about work got you like this? If you want to of course.->5A8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: I’m just so tired, having to play music that isn’t my style. [[Continue->5A9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: I get there are certain trends and styles that are popular but it’s just not what I want to do. I’m forced to do it. [[Continue->5A10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: UGH, my job is just... I don’t have the words to explain. "So that’s what you were referring to yesterday." [["You can always find something else to do."->5A11a]] [["Do you have anything else you could pursue?"->5A11b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: No… because… //Max finally looks at you.// [[Continue->5A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: But… //Max finally looks at you.// [[Continue->5A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: Music is my everything. I can’t just quit like that. [["Why can’t you just make the music you want to make?"->5A13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: Because what I do now is what makes me popular. [["But we were just talking about fakeness and how you hate it. Doesn’t that mean you should leave to be able to be yourself?"->5A13a]] [["If I were you I would leave."->5A13b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: It’s just that… [[Continue->5A14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: I know I should it’s just that… [[Continue->5A14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: Look, you are probably right. I just need time to think about this. [[Continue->5A15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Eglinton West'' Max: That’s my stop [[Continue->5A16]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: I’ll see you around, thanks for listening to me. [["Of course, thanks for talking with me."->5A17]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Ding! the doors open.// [["Those eyes, I wonder why he looks familiar."->5A18]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> As the rest of the day goes by, you ponder if you really have seen Max anywhere else. More importantly though, you wish for Max to make the right decision about his job. [[Continue->6A]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You enter the subway again on the next day eager to hear what Max has to say. [["Oh look Max is here."->6A2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //You head over to where he is sitting.// [[Continue->6A3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Max: Hey. [[Continue->6A4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: You were right you know. I need to have the guts to step out and show people who I really am. [[Continue->6A5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Max: I guess I should start with you. [["What do you mean?"->6A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//Max takes off his hat.// Max: My name’s not actually Max it’s uh Matthew. I’m the kpop artist you’ve been listening to. [["..."->6A7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> "You’re HIM?!?" //Matthew puts his hand over your mouth.// [[Continue->6A8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: Hey, keep your voice down. [[Lick his palm->6A8a]] [[Try and speak->6A8b]] [[Push his hand away->6A8c]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: Ok speak but just whisper. [[Continue->6A9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: Eww gross! He puts his hand down. [["sorry"->6A9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: Sorry sorry, I shouldn't have done that. [[Continue->6A9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> "But… that’s what you meant by change huh. Your music it’s like a complete 180." Matthew: Yeah. The things I sing about the person on stage. I wish I could just go back to who I used to be. But no one wants that. [["I want that. I’m sure others do too."->6A9a]] [["This isn’t about what others want. It’s about what you want to do."->6A9b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Matthew: "Really?" [[Continue->6A10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: "I- you have a point. Fame was blocking my judgment." [[Continue->6A10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">''Arriving at Eglinton West'' Matthew: I need to go… please… keep this a secret. [["Yes, I will."->6A11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Matthew smiles.// Matthew: Thanks [[Continue->6A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Ding! the doors open //Matthew gets up and leaves the subway.// [["I’m gonna need some time to wrap my head around this."->6A13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Meeting a celebrity in real life?! Making friends with them too? This felt surreal. You think about how crazy the whole scenario is, but then you remind yourself to ground yourself. Matthew needs your help, and you will be there to support him. [[Continue->7A]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Entering the subway once again, you spot Matthew sitting on his own. He looks like he's waiting for you. [["Can I sit here?"->7A2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: Ha, of course [[Continue->7A3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: I’ve thought a lot about what you’ve said. [[Continue->7A4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: What if my current fans don’t like the real me. What does that mean for my career in this industry? [["It means you will make music that’s true to you. Your true fans will follow you."->7A4a]] [["Don’t your feelings about yourself matter more?"->7A4b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: That's true [[Continue->7A5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: I know they should. [[Continue->7A5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: But is it really worth losing everything I have right now? How will I start from the ground up again? [["I can be there to help you. At least for some of it since I still have my own life going on haha."->7A5a]] [["You go back to your mindset before you joined your group."->7A5b]] [[Stay silent->7A5c]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: Haha thank you, I still have doubts… [[Continue->7A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: I don’t know if I can even remember what my original sound is. [[Continue->7A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: I guess I shouldn't expect you to have all the answers. [[Continue->7A6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: No but, you’re right. The fame I have was clouding my judgement. [[Continue->7A7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: I don’t know how much longer I can handle being miserable. I do know however that doing what I want, what’s true to me will last forever. [[Continue->7A8]]

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: I have a lot to think about. So much to work on but I’m glad you’re here. You opened my eyes to a path I didn’t see… so thank you. [["I'm glad I could help."->7A9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Matthew embraces you in a hug.// [[Continue->7A10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: Thank you. [[Continue->7A11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Matthew lets go.// [[Continue->7A12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ''Arriving at Eglinton West'' [[Continue->7A13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Matthew: Oh I guess it’s time to leave. Here let me give you my number. Let’s stay in touch. //Matthew gives you his phone number.// [[Continue->7A14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Ding! the doors open.// Matthew: Okay. I’ll see you around! [[Continue->7A15]]

<div id="dialogue-box"> //You both wave goodbye.// //Max gets up and leaves the subway.// [[Continue->7A16]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> As he leaves, there's a sense of accomplishment that passes over you. In just a week, you managed to help someone you had just met. Not only that but it's someone that you looked up to. You think about how grateful you are that you met Matthew and you hope the best for him in the future. [[The End->Inside the Train]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Gah! Damn subway. [["It looks like someone dropped their things I should help pick it up."->B3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: Well I got nothing to give. [[Continue->2B8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">???: You don’t know huh. That’s fair. [[Continue->2B8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Thank goodness he believed you. That would have been really awkward running into him again after that. [[Continue->2B15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Then you remember what he told you. It must be difficult going from the army to this... Chances are you'll find him again tomorrow. [[Continue->3B]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> On the next day, you enter the subway as per usual. [["Alright now where should I-"->3B2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ???: Over here. //You look around to see who said that.// [["Oh it's him."->3B3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //??? Gestures you to come forward.// [[Continue->3B4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //??? Gestures you to come forward.// [["Hello mister. How are you?"->3B5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ???: No need to be so formal [["May I call you by something else? Perhaps your name?"->3B6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ???: Just call me… Phil. That works. [["Nice to meet you Phil."->3B7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Likewise. [[Continue->3B9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: So what have you been up to today? [["I went out to eat earlier today."->3B9a]] [["I had work earlier today."->3B9b]] [["I was at school earlier today."->3B9c]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Where are you going to now? [["I’m just on my way home."->3B11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: I see, it’s been such a long time since I’ve had a meal at a restaurant. [[Continue->3B10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Ha, I haven’t worked in such a long time I forgot what that felt like. [[Continue->3B10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: School? Ha I always hated it. I wonder where I could be if I went to college. [[Continue->3B10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Where are you going to now? [["I’m just on my way home."->3B11a]] [["I’m headed to a friends house."->3B11b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: That’s nice. I wonder how my friends are doing. [[Continue->3B12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Home you say? [[Continue->3B12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: All of this reminds me of having a routine back in the army. [[Continue->3B13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: I took such pride in my job I wish I never had to leave. [["Then why did you leave?"->3B14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: It wasn’t by choice. I was forced to leave. [[Continue->3B15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ''Arriving at Wilson St.'' [[Continue->3B16]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: If I remember correctly this is your stop. [["Yes it is."->3B17]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: No worries. I can explain it another time. [[Continue->3B18]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">//You both wave goodbye.// [[Continue->3B19]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil seems to be so fond of his past in the army. You start to feel for him after hearing that he only had to leave by choice. You feel like you should keep hearing him out to support him. [[Continue->4B]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">As you step inside the subway on the next day, you notice Phil sitting in his usual spot. [["Hello, how’s it going?"->4B2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: You know, same old same old but uh I have a favor to ask of you. [[Continue->4B3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: I hate to ask this but you wouldn’t happen to have any food would you? [["Yes, I have some crackers. Here you go."->4B3a]] [["Yes I have some candy. Here you go."->4B3b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Thank you so much. //Phil eats some of the crackers.// Phil: Perfectly salty. [[Continue->4B4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Thank you. //Phil eats some of the candy.// Phil: Agh! That’s too sweet! I haven't had candy in such a long time. [[Continue->4B4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Your generosity reminds me so much of back in the days during my service. [[Continue->4B5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: You actually remind me of one of my brothers in arms from back in the day. Not physically but you know just who you seem to be as a person. [[Continue->4B6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: While I was serving our country I got pretty close to one of my bunkmates, his name was Ian. At the end of every day it didn’t matter where we were. We could be at our base or out in the trenches, he would always offer me some kind of snack; It was my favorite part of each day. [[Continue->4B6a]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: No, he’s gone. I should not have said that [["I’m sorry I-"->4B8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Don’t apologize about that. I've come to terms with it a long time ago. [[Continue->4B9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ''Arriving at Wilson St'' [["That’s my stop, I’m sorry I need to go."->4B10]]

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Yeah that’s fine. Goodbye. [[Continue->4B11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Life in the army sounds difficult. Losing beloved friends must be a regular occurrence. Even still Phil managed to love what he did. [[Continue->4B12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You feel a little guilty for possibly bringing up some bad memories. [[Continue->5B]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> On the next day, you look forward to seeing Phil once again. As you enter the subway, you spot him again in his usual spot. [["Hello, it's me again."->5B2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Phil jumps from his seat.// [[Continue->5B3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Oh hello, sorry you startled me. I was daydreaming. [[Continue->5B4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box">Phil: Talking about the military lately has gotten me thinking a lot about what I’m doing now. [[Continue->5B5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> I wonder if the people I served with would view me like the rest of the passengers would. [[Continue->5B6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Lonely, old, pathetic, creepy. [["They know the real you, I'm sure they'll see past your appearance."->5B6a]] [["I'm not sure how they would react."->5B6b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: They might just be disappointed at what I've become. [["I don't think so, you could try it."->5B7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Yeah, it's hard for you to say if you don't know them personally. [["It might still be worth a shot."->5B7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Let’s say I were to change. I would clean up my act a bit. Step out of the subway for once. [[Continue->5B8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: What if people still view me the same. All of this effort and for what? To still be treated like garbage? [["Well when you change you need to do it to better yourself."->5B8a]] [["If you never take a chance, you'll never get anywhere."->5B8b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Ah... right. I suppose it's for me sake as well. But it won't do me any good if they hate who I am. [[Continue->5B9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Even if I try and fail, at least I would have tried something... [[Continue->5B9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Gah! Darn these human emotions. [[Continue->5B10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: It's been so long since someone has made me think about all this. I can’t tell if it’s a good or bad thing. [["It’s normal to feel like this. I have moments where sometimes I feel like how you say you do; and that’s okay."->5B10a]] [["Even though I haven’t really felt the way you do there’s people I know who are going through what you are and it’s totally fine."->5B10b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Really? It feels nice knowing that it's not a bad thing. I've never been good with this sort of thing. [[Continue->5B11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Perhaps you have a point. [[Continue->5B12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ''Arriving at Wilson St.'' [[Continue->5B13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Ding! The door opens.// [["That's my stop. Cya!->5B14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //You both wave goodbye.// [[Continue->5B15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil could use some change in his life. Even if it's not what he hoped for, you think that he will be satisfied regardless. Now it's just a matter if he decides to go through with it. [[Continue->6B]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> When you enter the subway on the next day, you notice that Phil is nowhere to be seen. [["Oh he’s not here? That’s new."->6B2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> "I guess I’ll just sit over here instead." [["I forgot what it was like to sit alone. I wonder if he's going to talk to his friends."->6B3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //A few minutes pass by.// [[Continue->6B4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ''Arriving at Cedar St.'' //Ding! The door opens.// [[Continue->6B5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //You look up and see the old man heading your way.// [[Continue->6B6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Hello. //He sits down next to you.// [["What have you been up to? I thought you just stayed down in the subway."->6B6a]] [["Hi, was worried there for a second. Thought maybe you were kicked off the subway."->6B6b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: I chose to go up top. Smell the fresh air, touch the soft grass, hear the noises of a city. [[Continue->6B7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: No no no. I just wanted to go out and get some food at a restaurant. [[Continue->6B7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: It was something I needed to do. [[Continue->6B8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Someone also came up to me and we had a little conversation haha. It was the same feeling I had talking with you. [["That’s great! Kinda shows that there’s more people out there that aren’t so bad huh."->6B8a]] [["That’s great! If a random person came up to you to talk I’m sure your friends from your days in the army would treat you well."->6B8b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: You’re probably right though. [[Continue->6B10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: It’s hard to say if that’s true… [[Continue->6B9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: That’s a bit of a stretch… [[Continue->6B9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Thank you for giving me a chance, treating my like a human [["You don’t need to thank me Phil."->6B11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ''Arriving at Wilson St.'' [["That’s my stop. I’ll see you later!"->6B12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: Yeah I’ll see you around. [[Continue->6B13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Ding! The door opens.// //You both wave goodbye.// [[Continue->6B14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Thats great for Phil. You feel happy knowing that Phil has decided to talk to his old buddies. You wonder if he'll be late to the subway just like today. [[Continue->7B]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Today you enter the subway and you head to the usual spot. Like yesterday, Phil is not there. [["He’s probably doing what he did yesterday."->7B2]]</div>

<div id="note-box"> Hello. It's me Phil. Crossing my fingers this reaches the right person. [[Continue->7B5]]</div>

<div id="note-box"> So I guess you're wondering where I am at the moment. Honestly I am not sure where I would be once you've seen this letter. But what I can tell you is that I've gone to reconnect with my brothers and sisters in arms and I'll see where I'll go from there. [[Continue->7B6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> "I'm proud of you Phil. Thank you for allowing me to help you. I'm sure your friends will be happy to see you. Until next time." [[The End->Inside the Train]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> "It looks like a letter, this is where he usually sits." [[//You open the letter.//->7B4]]</div>

<div id="note-box"> In all honesty I have longed for a human connection like the one we've had, and yes I know it was only a week but I guess that shows how long it’s been since I’ve had much contact with others. It’s just that years went by where people wouldn't go anywhere near me just because I looked the way I do, not knowing who I was. I became bitter, assuming everyone was the same, but not you. It's because of you that I am taking this step to reconnecting with those that I once knew. [[Continue->7B7]]</div>

<div id="note-box"> I’m sorry I couldn’t say bye to you in person but if I stayed any longer with you there’s a chance I would only rely on you. Take care of yourself, perhaps our paths will cross in the future. [[You leave the note where you found it.->7B8]] [[You tuck the note in your pocket.->7B8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Phil: That small treat would help take my mind off the gun shots, loud explosions or screams I would hear. We could also just go on and on talking non stop about whatever was on our mind, how I miss those moments. Since I started talking with you I’ve been getting the same feeling. [["Is he still around? I’m sure he’d want to see you again."->4B7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Despite her unwillingness to open up, you can't help but feel concerned for Mira. Hopefully she can talk to someone about her problems. [[Continue->3C]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Today you run into the subway right as the doors close. How is it that you almost missed the subway two days in a row? Perhaps you should work on those time management skills you clearly seem to lack. No time to think about that anymore, you finally made it. Now, it’s time to find a place to sit. [[Continue->3C2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You look down the subway cart and find an empty seat. Sitting across from said empty seat was a familiar head of faded pink hair. Mira seems to be hyper focused on what looks to be a pamphlet. Its contents are unreadable to you right now. [[Continue->3C3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You’re curious, but it would be best not to be too nosy. That’s rude, after all. [[“Mind if I take a seat?”->3C4]] [[Sit down and wave to Mira.->3C4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> She says nothing, but acknowledges you with a small nod and continues reading. You take a seat, tired from the rush to be on time. [[Continue->3C6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> As minutes pass you can’t help but wonder what it is that Mira is so focused on. You glance over a few times trying to catch a glimpse of what the contents of the pamphlet may contain but you can’t make out any words. [[“What'cha reading?”->3C6a]] [[Lean forwards a little to get a better look->3C6b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Nothing important, just some stuff. [[Continue->3C6a2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: You mind backing off a little? Personal space. [[Continue->3C6b2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Mira lets out a resigned sigh.// Mira: Look, if you’re really THAT interested, here. Read all you want. I doubt it’ll be of any real use to you. [[Continue->3C8]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Her mood took a sudden one-eighty. You hadn’t even gotten that close, but it seems she noticed your intentions, and doesn’t appreciate them. [["Sorry, I was just curious"->3C7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> She seems a little defensive. She shifts the pamphlet a little to further conceal it from you. [["Sorry, I was just curious"->3C7]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira waves the pamphlet for you to take. You gently take it from her hands and flip it open. It’s a pamphlet of one of the top colleges in the area! It’s full of the typical advertisements you’d expect to pull in hopeful prospects, with a wide variety of programs. [[Continue->3C9]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You notice that there's some notes scribbled in with a red pen, likely Mira’s thoughts. You don’t get a chance to take a closer look before the pamphlet is suddenly pulled out of your hands. [[Continue->3C10]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> The culprit, Mira, swiftly folds up the pamphlet and stuffs it in her bag. [["Is this where you are planning to attend after you graduate?"->3C12]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I…guess. It’s an interesting school… [[Continue->3C13]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> She doesn’t seem too sure of that answer. The notes that you saw on the pamphlet beg to differ. You only caught a glance, but it seems she’s HEAVILY interested in this college. [["Just interesting?"->3C14]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Well of course it is. Who doesn’t want to get in there? So many study and work their asses off just to be considered a potential prospect. Everyone… [[Continue->3C15]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira trails off, suppressing a grimace but failing to completely do so. She got a little heated there, but you get the idea this may be her dream school based on that impassioned speech. [["If you work hard, I’m sure you’ll get in"->3C15b]] [[“You really want to get in, huh?”->3C15a]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira’s face twists, before she glances to the side, her expression falling. Of course I do…At least I think I do. But I doubt it’s gonna happen. [[Continue->3C16]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Look, let’s be real. I’m competing with a countless bunch of people who probably have a guaranteed chance of getting in. The most they’ll do for me is probably glance over my paper once and move on. [[Continue->3C16]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: That’s just how life is. [[Continue->3C17]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> The conversation dies. The tension in the cart is unbearable, and it isn’t long before Mira leaves for her stop without a word. She gives a small wave as she leaves, not another glance in your direction. [[Continue->3C18]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Did…Did you upset her? [[Continue->4C]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You’re a bit apprehensive to get on the Subway and potentially encounter Mira again. You don’t think that she’s mad specifically at you, but the last conversation didn't exactly end on a positive note. [[Continue->4C2]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Still, just because the last conversation didn’t go well, doesn’t mean you can afford to skip your nine to five. Money unfortunately doesn’t grow on trees, and you need to put in your time before the week is over. [[Continue->4C3]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> "Hey…" [[Continue->4C4]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Just as you’re about to take a seat, You hear Mira approach. Turning around, she isn’t looking at you directly, rubbing her arm nervously. [[Nod at her->4C4a]] [["You okay?"->4C4b]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira nods back, her expression easing up a little. [[Continue->4C5]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Yeah…Yeah, I’m fine. [[Continue->4C5]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Listen, sorry about…well, everything from yesterday. [["It's fine, sorry for prying."->4C6]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Thanks. You were just curious. [[Continue->4C7]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Based on the expression on her face, it seems there’s no getting out of this conversation. Still, she looks like she wants to get something off her chest. The both of you sit down, and prepare for a long talk. [[Continue->4C8]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I’ll be blunt…I’m tired. [["Tired?"->4C9]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Growing up, I’m told how I’m supposed to have a good life. Study hard, make friends, go to college, get a good, useful degree to make a good salary. [["Seems reasonable"->4C10]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Of course, that needs hard work and focus…Something I unfortunately don’t really have. [[Continue->4C11]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> I’m not flunking or anything like that, but at most I’m doing the bare-minimum. School just doesn’t interest me that much…Which doesn’t exactly look good when you’re applying to good colleges. [[“It’s not too late.”->4C11a]] [[“Well, what about chasing your dreams instead?”->4C11b]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: No, it isn’t. But is doing anything near the final stretch really gonna amount to anything? It might just be wasted effort at that point. [[Continue->4C12]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I could. Make my hobby my job or something, right? Is that really good for my future though? [[Continue->4C12]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Sure, I could chase my dreams and do what I love as my job rather than something to make guaranteed money, but am I really skilled enough for something like that? Is that really enough to make a living? [[Continue->4C13]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: All my life, I’ve just been doing enough to make it to the next day. I haven’t really put any serious effort to strive towards my future. All I’ve been concerned with is just not failing and getting expelled or something. [[Continue->4C14]]<div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Still, the people in my life have expectations, either for me to put in the effort to make a stable life, or build something from my hobbies and skills. [[Continue->4C15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I hate when they care…Because I know I’ll disappoint them in the end. I didn’t care enough to put more effort in. I'm not skilled enough to make it big. I’m just…so tired. [[Continue->4C17]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> It’s a horrible feedback loop of hopelessness and apathy. Mira just looks discouraged now. [[“Surely if not at your dream school, somewhere else is fine?”->4C18]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Is that enough though? Who’s to say I’m even enough for those, or I’m not just shooting myself in the foot for future opportunities? I know you’re a stranger and probably don’t care, but are you happy with where you are now? Was this what you envisioned yourself being five years before? [[Continue->4C19]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //You feel…Unsettled. This conversation is slowly taking a darker turn.// [[“Surely you should at least try, right?”->4C20]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Hm…? [[“If you don’t even try, aren’t you guaranteeing you’ll never go anywhere?”->4C21]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I… [[Continue->4C22]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira looks pensive, chewing her lip. You can't help but worry for her. In the end, you two are strangers: You’re not her parent, and you’re not really her friend. She’s probably so open with you because you don’t have any bearing or relation to her private life. [[Continue->4C23]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> In the end, whether she takes your advice is up to her. [[“Just think about it, okay?”->4C24]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Mira’s lips part, before she sighs.// [[Continue->4C25]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I guess…In the end, I don’t know whether there’s a future for me, or whether anything I really do will amount to something when all is said and done. I’ll think about what you said though… [[Continue->4C26]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ''Arriving at Maple Plaza.'' [[Continue->4C27]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> As if to cut her dark line of thought off, her stop approaches. Idly getting up, Mira’s eyes glance to the side, before moving towards the exit. She doesn’t say anything else, and she eventually fades from view. [[Continue->5C]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> The next day, you managed to get on the subway a bit early this time around. Yesterday’s conversation still weighs heavy in your mind, so you do your best not to think about it too much. [[Continue->5C2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You glance around the subway cart, noticing the lack of pink hair. It seems that Mira isn’t taking the subway today, or is perhaps busy with something else. [[Continue->5C3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Without thinking, you take a seat, sighing a little as your thoughts drift back to yesterday again. Her parting words still linger in your mind, especially that one phrase. [[Continue->5C4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //“Are you happy with where you are now? Was this what you envisioned yourself being five years before?”// [[Continue->5C6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> At the time, you didn’t think too much about it, too disturbed by the question and letting Mira vent. [[Continue->5C7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Are you really living to be the best “you” that “you” can be? [[Continue->5C9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Who’s to say you didn’t take a wrong turn somewhere down your path, and now you’re in a dead end with no escape? [[Shake it off, those thoughts will trap you.->5C10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You swiftly shake off those thoughts. Keep reflecting on those thoughts, and you’ll have the same problem Mira is having. [[Continue->5C11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You sigh despondently. Mira is in a critical point of her life, so for her to be having these kinds of thoughts, it’s likely she’s burned out. Life is exhausting, and some people go through the motions to survive. Big changes will stress them out. [[Continue->5C12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> In the end, you reflect on those thoughts the entire ride, and idly worry about Mira. You hope that she takes your advice in the end, and if she doesn’t, you hope that she’ll figure out her next move. [[Continue->6C]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> The next day, you feel the weight of your thoughts from yesterday still weighing you down a little. Moving on autopilot, you sit down, exhaling through your nose in slight frustration with your eyes closed. [[Continue->6C2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Hey. [[Continue->6C3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> //Shock runs through your system as your eyes snap open, looking to your left.// [[Continue->6C4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira sits with her hands in her lap, her eyes seeming…clearer? She doesn’t look as stressed as she has been in your last few conversations. [[“Hi again.”->6C5]] [[“How are you feeling…?”->6C5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I’m feeling a bit better now. Sorry for dumping all that heavy shit on you a few days ago. [[Continue->6C6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You wave her off, happy that she doesn’t look so down anymore. The weight at the back of your mind lightens a little. You can’t put it into words, but there’s something different about Mira. She doesn’t just look more at ease, she looks… [[“You seem…lighter.”->6C7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: That so? Guess I am. [[Continue->6C8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I’ve thought about what you said. To be blunt, I still feel tired, and I’m still not sure about what’s gonna happen. However, I don’t feel as worried as I was before. Thanks for letting me vent. [[“Anytime.”->6C9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Still…I’m not too sure what to do now. I can’t just get stellar grades, or have an internship dropped in my lap. Even if I did, it’s a little late for those to make any difference. [[Continue->6C10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira’s words are similar to before, but she doesn’t seem nearly as despondent and hopeless as before. There’s a grounded realism in her words, and she’s not wrong. [[Continue->6C11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Well, Mira said she wasn’t failing, so she must have decent grades to do so. Surely that doesn’t count her out immediately? [[Continue->6C12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> If that’s the case, the best way to start… [[“Why not apply to your dream school?”->6C12a]] [[“Just apply to what you can then.”->6C12b]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira opens her mouth, about to refute you, before closing it, deep in thought [[Continue->6C13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira’s expression becomes pensive, no doubt hesitating. After all, it’s not realistically possible to apply to every single University you can, especially if there’s a fee. However, applying to whatever you can can’t hurt much in the end. [[Continue->6C13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I need to think about this more…Thank you for your advice. [[Continue->6C14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> The rest of the conversation is much lighter, Mira idly talking about her hobbies in fashion and design. She’s rather knowledgeable, and you can’t help but be drawn in by her enthusiasm. Mira feels like she has a future there, so you’re not sure why she was so worried before. In the end, stress and burnout tend to be rather debilitating. [[Continue->6C15]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> When Mira arrives at her stop, she leaves with a bit more energy than before. Now, you can only hope she takes your advice truly to heart. [[Continue->7C]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Those were the words Mira greeted you with, a small smile on her face. Today was the last day you’d be taking this subway before you moved. One could say this will be the last time you meet the pink-haired highschool student as well. [[“How do you feel?”->7C3]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I applied. [[Continue->7C2]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: To be honest? Like I’m not carrying a sack of rocks on my back. I still have some doubts about all this, but now that I actually did it, there’s no going back. [[Continue->7C4]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Even if I don’t make it into my dream school, I applied to a few others as a safety net, ones that I can at least work towards a steady career. [[“Will you pursue a good career?”->7C5]] [[“Will you pursue your dreams?”->7C5]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: I’m still not sure. I still don’t like school and studying is going to be a bitch, but I’m not gonna give up just yet. Worse comes to worse, I'll cut class and take a break. [[Continue->7C6]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> You’re…not sure how to feel about that. Is that a good idea? You can’t help but worry that Mira may have some new problems once she DOES get into college. [[Continue->7C7]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> In the end, there’s not much else you can do. All you can do is wish Mira luck, and move on with your lives. After all, you two are just strangers, in the end. You’re not her parent. You’re not her sibling. [[Continue->7C8]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> But you are somewhat of a friend. [[Continue->7C9]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Hey…Thanks. For everything. [[Continue->7C10]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> For a long time, Mira’s eyes have always been clouded wherever you talked to her. There wasn’t any light in them, always despondent. [[Continue->7C11]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Now? There’s some life in her eyes, and it doesn't seem like those embers will die out anytime soon. [[Continue->7C12]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> ''Arriving at Maple Plaza.'' [[Continue->7C13]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> There’s no need for any grand words of parting or tearful goodbyes. You both have a life to live, and now you have to make the most of it. [["See you."->7C14]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Mira: Till next time. [[The End->Inside the Train]]</div>

<div id="dialogue-box"> Are you happy? Is this what you wanted your life to be like? Even if this was your dream job, even if you can make a living, can you truly say that this is where you wanted your life to be? Do you have ambitions to be greater? [[Continue->5C8]]</div>