
Collective Thinking
Dyna Graves grew up thinking she was special. An exception to the average. Not necessarily above her peers, but simply outside their context. However, toward the end of her high school life, she started to realize that nobody was really special. At least not in any fantastical way.
Just as she started trying to figure out what she wanted to do with the rest of her life, she got an invitation. A psychic institute scoped her out, realized her psychic potential, and asked if she would undergo psionic training at the Carroll Institute.
Almost immediately, Dyna realized that she wasn’t quite up to the same level as many of her peers. Surrounded by clairvoyants and mind readers displaying obvious abilities made her own lack of ability all the more apparent.
That was, up until the researchers and scientists of the facility realized that there was a bit more to Dyna Graves than met the eye. After an explosive incident during what should have been a routine experiment, Dyna quickly found herself wrapped up in a world of cutthroat espionage.
Cover art by Zoern
Author’s Note: The Carroll Institute, in universe, collected an assortment of information into their database. The following is that collection.
These notes contain unmarked spoilers.
Note that these were originally released typically when the entity first appeared in the story, meaning Dyna’s profile is from near the start of the story, not the end.
user: myownmind
pass: ███████████
Connecting…
Warning: Secure connection failed. Viewing database in Untrusted Mode. Please contact your system administrator or BEATRICE for assistance gaining full access.
This connection has been logged.
Welcome to the Carroll Institute Internal Database.
CI PERSONNEL EYES ONLY.
***System restart required***
myownmind@ciid [/]# ls
artifacts/
backup/
bin/
dev/
etc/
groups-of-interest/
incident-reports/
media/
mgmt/
persons-of-interest/
psionics/
srv/
tmp/
usr/
var/
myownmind@ciid [/]#
persons-of-interest
Carroll Institute Internal Database
Persons of Interest
Viewing in Untrusted Mode
myownmind@ciid [/persons-of-interest]# ls
Graves, Dyna T.
Walter
Cross, Phillip I.
Emerald
Ruby
B.E.A.T.R.I.C.E.
Id
Maple, Kit
Ado, Gloria
Darq, Phineas
Sapphire
Administrator Theta
Murdoch, Melanie
Hematite
November
Administrator Gamma
Administrator Alpha
myownmind@ciid [/persons-of-interest]# cat *
Overview
Dyna Graves came to the attention of the Carroll Institute following Incident 50112-a (see related file). Further investigation revealed a [REDACTED] beyond [REDACTED]. Carroll Institute invited Graves to the Psionic Development Initiative. Subject accepted.
Following her acceptance and enrollment, Graves has failed to display psychic potential on the level of that witnessed during Incident 50112-a. This anomaly is thought to be a result of [REDACTED]. Initial excitement diminished, both in the subject and in research personnel.
Agent Walter has expressed interest in the subject’s [REDACTED]. Artificer Initiative compatibility tests scheduled.
Extra caution should be taken whenever subject is exposed to [REDACTED] (see CI-INC-50112-d).
Related Files- CI-PSI-50112
- CI-INC-50112-a
- CI-INC-50112-b
- CI-INC-50112-c
- CI-INC-50112-d
- CI-INC-50112-e
Overview
████████ ‘Walter’ ██████████ approached [REDACTED] on ██-██-████, bringing technical knowledge [REDACTED]. Walter promptly found employment, first acting as a head researcher before moving to Psychotronics Artifact Research Division. A breakthrough involving ████████ (see incident report ████-b) resulted in the [REDACTED]. Walter was permanently moved to the Artificer Development Initiative on ██-██-████.
Related Files- CI-PSI-████
- CI-INC-████-a
- CI-INC-████-b
- CI-INC-████-c
- CI-ART-████-Index
Overview
The Carroll Institute scouted Doctor Phillip Cross following a thesis written on the Formation of Psionic Structures. Although some of the administrators protested, believing he would leak information to Russian Psi-Corps given his familial history, Doctor Cross quickly rose to prominence with his revolutionary [REDACTED]. The breakthrough in Artifact [REDACTED] provided the Carroll Institute with the means necessary to [REDACTED].
Russian Psi-Corps have yet to demonstrate any ability to create or utilize Artifacts. No evidence of any espionage on the part of Doctor Cross has been discovered.
Doctor Cross is the subject of ongoing monitoring counter-intelligence.
Related Files- CI-INC-02184-a
- CI-INC-02184-b
Overview
████ ██████, currently known as Emerald, is a subject of priority value. While her adolescence and upbringing were fairly average for the average American, Emerald bound with an Artifact that presents her with unparalleled ability. The Clockmaster’s Timepiece, in Emerald’s hands, allows her to stop time from her perspective. This presents her with opportunities to move about, appearing to teleport, and the ability to learn and practice skills instantaneously (from an outside perspective).
Emerald has an aversion to research facilities and personnel, yet remains amenable toward the Carroll Institute. Advisory: Do not push Emerald toward testing and research more than necessary.
Taking in mind her temperament, Emerald has been assigned to the Artifact Acquisition Division of Psychodynamics. [REDACTED] a cover, furthering [REDACTED]. Russian Psi-Ops [REDACTED] espionage. Emerald actively seeks counter-psionic opportunities. The Carroll Institute encourages this behavior.
Related Files- CI-PSI-18141
- CI-ART-18141
Overview
Codename: Ruby. Brought to the Carroll Institute following CI-INC-01045-a. Ruby was found with the Burnwood Ruby implanted within her throat, already bound to her psionic signature. [REDACTED] upon awakening, repairing all physical damage from the previously listed incident while causing a new incident (see CI-INC-01045-b). Head Researcher ██████████ intervened, [REDACTED] the subject.
A string of incidents (see CI-INC-01045-INDEX for a full listing) [REDACTED].
Ruby has been assigned to Codename: Emerald (see CI-POI-18141). Incident rate has dropped dramatically.
Related Files- CI-PSI-01045-Index
- CI-ART-01045
- CI-POI-18141
- CI-INC-01045
Overview
The Biologically Enhanced Autonomous Task Resolution and Information Computing Environment, otherwise known as Beatrice, was created by Doctor ███ ██████ ████████ in ████. The first and, thus far, only success in merging [REDACTED]. Because of limitations initially implemented in the Beatrice system’s core runtime, [REDACTED] on its own. It requires [REDACTED] and a daily [REDACTED] to maintain functionality.
The Carroll Institute has deemed the cost to be cheap compared to the analytical abilities the Beatrice System offers.
In addition to [REDACTED]. Beatrice acts as the Carroll Institute National Laboratory’s public announcement system. A minor task compared to its other duties and one it seems eager to fulfill.
Addendum: Using personifying attributes such as ‘eager’ should be avoided in the case of Beatrice.
Related Files- CI-PSI-00115-Index
Overview
Unknown hostile entity. Appeared via psionic intrusion to Dyna Graves (see CI-POI-50112) during incident CI-INC-50112-g. Debriefing reports given by Graves indicate that this entity was the primary actor behind CI-INC-50112-e. Lacking additional information, a summary of CI-INC-50112-g will be documented below until further updates are available:
The entity introduced itself as Id, a concept defined in Sigmund Freud’s model of the psyche as the unconscious, and proceeded to converse. Graves described the encounter with distaste, yet described no outward hostility. Doctor Cross (see CI-POI-02184), upon reviewing a transcript of the encounter, suggested that the entity was attempting to assist Graves, though did so in an obtuse fashion.
The entity claimed to accomplish its objectives during the interaction with Graves. Objectives and intentions are currently unknown.
Details of the encounter, occurring solely within Graves’ mind, are unverified. The entity has been classified as hostile to the Carroll Institute due to the aforementioned CI-INC-50112-e incident.
Additional data required. Carroll Institute Administration Board requests dispatch of [REDACTED]. [REDACTED] used as an enticement.
All personnel are to report any suspicious activity.
Related Files- CI-INC-50112-g
Overview
Kit Maple is one of five known associates of the individual Id (see CI-POI-58141), working as an organization called Tartarus (see CI-GRP-04039). He is self-described as the logistics director for the organization. No database contains information on any individual matching his description. Kit Maple is suspected to be an alias.
Kit Maple first became known to the Carroll Institute during CI-INC-601454 (Alias: Hatman Incident), and was first encountered by Onyx (CI-POI-50112) and Ruby (CI-POI-01045). Testimony from Graves indicates Maple is generally of a nervous disposition. He is uncomfortable with dangerous situations and only engages in such situations due to owing Id in return for her assistance with an unspecified matter.
Administrators Theta and Phi suggest devoting resources to discovering the source of Maple’s loyalties and in an attempt to subvert or subsume them. Operation pending.
Related Files- CI-INC-60145
- CI-GRP-04039
Overview
Gloria Ado is one of five known associates of the individual Id (see CI-POI-58141), working as an organization called Tartarus (see CI-GRP-04039). At this time, given her status, title, and comments, it is thought that Ado is responsible for all technology Tartarus has exhibited. No database contains information on any individual matching her description. Gloria Ado is suspected to be an alias.
Gloria Ado first became known to the Carroll Institute during CI-INC-601454 (Alias: Hatman Incident), and was first encountered by Onyx (CI-POI-50112). Testimony from Graves indicates Ado is confident and driven, unwilling to stray to topics unapproved by her parent organization. She demonstrates high intelligence and knowledge related to technology.
Related Files- CI-INC-60145
- CI-GRP-04039
Overview
Phineas Darq is one of five known associates of the individual Id (see CI-POI-58141), working as an organization called Tartarus (see CI-GRP-04039). He is self-described as the ‘entity specialist’ for the organization. No database contains information on any individual matching his description. Phineas Darq is suspected to be an alias.
Phineas Darq first became known to the Carroll Institute during CI-INC-601454 (Alias: Hatman Incident), and was first encountered by Onyx (CI-POI-50112) and White (CI-POI-[REDACTED]). Accounts from both present Darq as generally personable and willing to work with others. He provided a comprehensive analysis and explanation of the specific entity CI-ENT-00001 (Alias: Hatman). Psychology profile indicates a desire to show and exhibit his work with others, explaining this willingness.
Administrators Theta, Beta, and Phi suggest devoting resources toward recruiting Doctor Darq for his knowledge and expertise in the previously unknown field of psionic entities. The Carroll Institute should be able to match or exceed resources in comparison to Tartarus. Operation pending.
Related Files- CI-INC-60145
- CI-GRP-04039
Overview
█████ ███████, suffered from an extreme form of dissociative identity disorder beginning in his eighth year. He came to the attention of the Carroll Institute following a series of psychiatric appointments. [REDACTED] therapy. As his condition became more manageable, he was identified as a potential artificer candidate. Following compatibility testing, he bonded with the Control Rod and took on the alias Sapphire.
The Control Rod expanded his abilities, providing near limitless [REDACTED]. [REDACTED]. [REDACTED] range of [REDACTED].
The entity claimed to accomplish its objectives during the interaction with Graves. Objectives and intentions are currently unknown.
Sapphire remains loyal to the Carroll Institute, though prefers assignments in isolated locales to avoid unpleasant interaction with his power. Nevertheless, Sapphire is willing to travel to more populated areas if the situation warrants his unique skills.
Related Files- CI-PSI-19324-Index
Overview
Administrator Theta has served on the Carroll Institute Administrative Council for ██ years. First appointed in 20██, Theta quickly distinguished ███self during ████-x (see incident report ████-x). [REDACTED] administrators [REDACTED], ensuring AMPUTATION could commence.
Following ████-x, Administrator Theta took the position of on-site contact at the Carroll Institute Idaho Falls Campus and is the only administrator permanently stationed there.
As of ██-██-████, Administrator Theta has been nominated by vote (10:13) to engage with Operation SUBJECT. Operation ongoing.
Related Files- CI-PSI-████
Overview
Melanie Murdoch awoke to psionic potential almost immediately after the Advent. Her psionic ability manipulates the visual cortex to an extremely detailed degree, forming illusions in the perception of herself and others. Early on, Murdoch used these illusions to interact with an ‘imaginary friend’. Sightings of this ‘imaginary friend’ caused contention, fear, and paranoia in others—however, it should be noted that her ability doesn’t directly affect such parts of the mind, fear was merely a response to the then unknown psychic ability.
Her father, Karl Murdoch, attempted to kill the ‘imaginary friend’ with a firearm. Ignorant of psionic abilities given their recent advent, he was sentenced with attempted murder and later committed suicide in prison. Her mother, Grace Murdoch, terrorized both by the ‘imaginary friend’ as well as her husband’s suspected murder attempt, was deemed incapable of providing for her. Melanie Murdoch wound up in the foster system, but never stayed at any one home for any length of time, either due to running away or terrorizing her adoptive guardians.
The Carroll Institute discovered Murdoch following a string of thefts. Shop personnel reported no one around at the times of theft in contradiction to security footage showing Murdoch walking right past them. Now aware of her abilities and training to improve them, Murdoch has proved a well-adjusted initiate.
Addendum: Following the Fog Machine incident (see CI-INC-611221), Murdoch has used her ability in conjunction with a portable fog machine to bring illusions into physical reality. Studies ongoing.
Related Files- CI-PSI-48912
Overview
Jane Aster found the Carroll Institute entirely on her own, having already bound with her artifact, the [REDACTED]. At the time, she had been pursued by operatives of the Jingshen, presumably for her artifact or latent psychic potential. To find safety in the Carroll Institute, she followed what she refers to as her intuition. A combination of psychic precognition and artifact-augmented unconscious probability manipulation.
Hematite has been a loyal if reluctant operative in many CI-[REDACTED] artifact recovery operations. Provided the Carroll Institute continues to shield her from unfriendly elements, she is generally content to go on missions.
Addendum: Following incident CI-INC-11491, Hematite suffered physical maiming. All further active-duty operations involving Hematite have been suspended until such time as she both recovers and test indicate no fault in her intuition.
Related Files- CI-PSI-10777-Index
Overview
An inhuman creature that has taken on a human form. First encountered during CI-INC-601454 (Alias: Hatman Incident), the creature emerged from a described ‘rip’ in reality. Much of the creature’s nature is still under investigation, however, it has been confirmed that it is not nor has ever been human. Rather the creature is an amalgamation of thoughts. Its human form is currently assumed to be due to most thoughts comprising the creature to have originated from humans.
Further information on tulpa nature can be found in CI-TLP-Index.
This specific instance of thoughts appears to be a human woman, aged between twenty and thirty. Random patterns of static course over its body constantly. It does not require chemical sustenance, although it can eat if it so chooses. Rather, it appears to subsist off ‘thoughts’ from the overlaying reality it was formerly confined to. The creature has shown no inclination towards violence or hostility. Monitoring is ongoing.
The subject has cooperated with CI-related tests and inquiries and shows no desire to hide its nature. Data gathered from the subject has been enlightening and a bounty toward all aspects of psionic and mental research.
Initially, the subject did not wish to be referred to in any manner. No names, no identification numbers, no pronouns (including masculine, feminine, neutral (it, they, etc.)), no abstract designations. While the Carroll Institute wishes to accommodate all, it is in human nature and the nature of scientific personnel to identify aspects of the world. Casually and informally, it has been referred to as November by scientific personnel (owing two the final two numbers of its Reference ID) and Snow by most initiates. Both groups tend to use feminine pronouns. Beyond the initial objections, it has not brought up the subject again; it answers to both Snow and November, no further identification-related objections have been noted.
Related Files- CI-PSI-63211
- CI-TLP-00001
Overview
Administrator Gamma has served on the Carroll Institute Administrative Council for ██ years. Gamma primarily concerns herself with external threats to the Carroll Institute. She is the primary security officer for the organization.
████-x (see incident report ████-x), spearheaded by Gamma, resulted in the [REDACTED] of administrators [REDACTED]. AMPUTATION carried out by Gamma following the incident resolution.
Beginning in ██-██-████, Administrator Gamma formed the Psychodynamics subdivision: Phrenomorphics, a division concerned with the study of tulpa and containment of hostile tulpa. Operation ongoing.
Related Files- CI-PSI-█████
Overview
Administrator Alpha has served on the Carroll Institute Administrative Council for ██ years. A brilliant inventor, specializing in the detection and categorization of psionic waveforms, Alpha prefers to work on her own. Administrators [REDACTED] filed [REDACTED] injunction, overruled by Administrators Omega, Sigma, and Phi.
On ██-██-████, Administrator Alpha’s Wide-Area Psionic Detection System encountered anomalous reports in the area of Southern California. Significant psionic energy spikes [REDACTED]. [REDACTED]. SUBJECT discovered three days later.
SUBJECT [REDACTED]. ████ █ ███ ███████ █████ ████████████ ████████ █ ██ █████ █████████ ████ ████████ █████ ██ ██████ ████████ ██████████ ███ █████ ███████ ██ █ ███ ███ █████ ███ █████ ████ █████ ██ ███████.
Related Files- CI-PSI-63211
- CI-TLP-00001
groups-of-interest
Carroll Institute Internal Database
Groups of Interest
Viewing in Untrusted Mode
myownmind@ciid [/groups-of-interest]# ls
Carroll Institute
Tartarus
CI Administrative Council
Ignotus-33
Tulpa
myownmind@ciid [/groups-of-interest]# cat *
Head: [REDACTED]
Purpose (Stated)
- Investigation of Psychic Phenomena
- Cultivation of United States Psionic Assets
- Security of United States from Psionic Threats
Purpose (Actual)
[REDACTED]
Overview
The Carroll Institute was founded in 2024, following the event commonly known as the Advent of Psionic Potential. Originally formed as a task group subdivision of the United States [REDACTED], the Carroll Institute expanded and grew as knowledge of both the potential and threat of psionic elements expanded. Following the decommissioning of [REDACTED] at Site 11, colloquially known as the Idaho National Laboratory, the Carroll Institute splintered off, forming the organization proper within the depths of the former INL.
The Carroll Institute regularly invites individuals with psionic potential to study and cultivate their newfound talents at the Institute Campus. Researchers monitor and advise the individuals, running experiments alongside their training. Methods of blocking and avoiding influence are primary goals of the invitational program, along with cultivation of talents useful to the United States government.
Following the discovery of the phenomena known as Artifacts in 20██, the Carroll Institute formed the Anomalous Material Research Division. AMRD maintains the goal of containment and study of Artifacts. [REDACTED]
[REDACTED]
[REDACTED]
The Carroll Institute is supported by reliable computer technology, with research breaking grounds in the subjects of artificial intelligence and biological [REDACTED].
Related Files
- CI-Index
Head: Id (Suspected)
Purpose (Stated)
- Containment of human-threatening ‘entities’
Purpose (Actual)
Unknown
Overview
Tartarus first came to the attention of the Carroll Institute during CI-INC-50112-h, though remained unnamed until CI-INC-601454. Apparently led by the enigmatic individual known as Id (see CI-POI-58141), Tartarus’ primary goals remain unknown—though they may not always act in opposition to CI.
Caution is advised should they be encountered in the field. Tartarus possesses advanced technology on par with the Carroll Institute, knowledge of psionic elements—including artifacts—and the possible presence of entities.
Given the nature and technology displayed in field operations, it is speculated that the subject of entities is their primary focus as an organization. Entities (see CI-REC-30809-Sub-a), appear to be a manifestation of psionic energy in a physical form. Entities are the subject of ongoing research.
Much of Tartarus is currently unknown, including but not limited to total personnel, active operations, methodology, date founded, and mission statement. Tartarus is considered an active interest of the Carroll Institute. Any information pertaining to Tartarus should be immediately submitted to Beatrice for catalog and analysis.
Related Files
- CI-GRP-04039-Index
Head: N/A
Purpose (Stated)
- Administration of the Carroll Institute
- Cultivation of United States Psionic Assets
- Investigation of Psychic Phenomena
- Security of United States from Psionic Threats
Purpose (Actual)
[REDACTED]
Overview
The Carroll Institute formed as a task group of the United States [REDACTED] following the event commonly known as the Advent of Psionic Potential. As the division expanded and the true threat of individuals wielding psychic phenomena became known, it was determined that a single, easily compromised head of the organization was ill-advised.
The Administrative Council formed in response. Thirteen individuals of varying backgrounds comprise the council. Their personal backgrounds are unmentioned; their relations are kept secret; their names are assigned. They are stationed across the United States. Protocol dictates that no more than three may meet in person at once. There exists no single leader of the Administrative Council. Hundreds of other protocols exist to keep them outside psionic influence and ensure the sanctity of operations carried out by the Carroll Institute.
As the activities of the Carroll Institute expanded beyond mere research into psychic phenomena and into the realm of artifacts, the administration’s efforts with the Anomalous Material Research Division [REDACTED]. [REDACTED] attacked and forced the creation of [REDACTED].
Administrators [REDACTED] were compromised in the aftermath (see incident report ████-x). Following AMPUTATION Protocol vote success (11:13), the compromised administrators were CAUTERIZED and EXPUNGED. Since then, no significant compromise incident has been detected.
Administrators are required to submit to MIDNIGHT Protocol every 504 hours. Failure to comply within 6 hours will result in an immediate AMPUTATION Protocol vote.
Related Files
- CI-Index
Head: Unknown
Purpose (Stated)
- Unknown
Purpose (Actual)
Unknown
Overview
Unknown hostile organization. Unknown leader. Unknown organizational structure. No meaningful communication has been made. Captured operatives are tulpa with little information about the organization. Operatives are sent into combat situations with orders delivered by radio.
Tulpa associated with Ignotus-33 are typically armed with PP-2000 submachine guns and full body armor. They are considered hostile and extremely dangerous to all Carroll Institute personnel.
Related Files
- CI-POI-50112
- CI-TLP-00001
Head: N/A
Purpose (Stated)
- N/A
Purpose (Actual)
N/A
Overview
Taken from the Vajrayana concept of the emanation body, tulpa (or thoughtforms) are beings from an alternate layer of reality. All humans, whether they display psychic abilities or not, emanate thoughts, shedding them into the noosphere (see CI-ARG-00012). It is a constant and unconscious action, which causes no harm to the emanating subject.
In the vast majority of instances, such shed thoughts are little more than wisps of insubstantial psionic waveforms. From interviews with November (see CI-POI-63211), shed thoughts typically represent single and simple desires, intentions, or trivial knowledge. It is when these thoughts begin to merge together that a tulpa begins to form, gaining complexity and awareness.
At a certain point, after enough of these integrations, tulpa can gain human-level sapience. However, nothing stops the tulpa from continuing to integrate with one another beyond this point. It is thought that entities such as the Hatman (see CI-TLP-00002) come from a mass amount of human-level integrations. Studies ongoing.
Related Files
- CI-POI-63211
- CI-TLP-00001
incident-reports
Carroll Institute Internal Database
Incident Reports
Viewing in Untrusted Mode
myownmind@ciid [/incident-reports]# ls
myownmind@ciid [/incident-reports]# cat *
EVENT GOALS AND OBJECTIVES
- I was given four priority objectives during the course of this mission.
- Objectives follow:
- Priority: Safeguard collected artifact (See CI-ART-1418-temp)
- Priority: Ensure safety of Principal Subject Dyna Graves until contact could be made with Codename White
- Priority: Ascertain the nature of Unknown Opposing Force
- Priority: Safeguard interests of CI
ISSUES ENCOUNTERED
All was going well up until Dyna made use of what I suspected to be an artifact at the time. She said that she could see our unknown followers watching us through a scope. After taking evasive maneuvers to avoid any potential shots and making use of Dyna’s supposed ability to ascertain our relative safety, I made the decision to follow the third priority.
My ability (see CI-ART-18141) should have proved beyond enough to achieve all mission priorities.
I located the opposing force as Dyna described, positioned on a rooftop with a scoped rifle. Given the position I found them in, it did not look as if they had been readying for a shot. They may have been merely observing through the scope. I’ve done similar many times.
Problems began when I deactivated my artifact. I started subduing the opposing force for later questioning when the situation reversed. Instantly and abruptly, to my surprise and the apparent surprise of the opposing force, I found myself pinned and unable to activate my artifact to facilitate an escape. I did escape, thanks to Dyna (see incident report for full details).
ANALYSIS
Given the anomalous issue, I can only conclude the the opposing force (possibly an unseen member of their group) possesses an active artifact. One capable of physically repositioning several humans in a localized space. The exact nature is currently unknown. I will leave discerning its parameters and limitations to the science team and focus on why the issue affected the mission.
I was too trusting in my artifact’s ability to see me out of any trouble. I did not consider the possibility that another organization or individual may have discovered the method of processing artifacts to the point where they may be bound. I did not expect to face physical anomalies.
I will be far more careful going forward, knowing that the enemy may possess something on my artifact’s level.
Related Files- CI-POI-50112
- CI-INC-50112-e
- CI-ART-18141
TRANSCRIPT:
- DYNA GRAVES: Hey Mom.
- EMILY GRAVES: Dyna? It’s late, is something wrong?
- DG: No, no. I just… had some thoughts about the past. Do you remember El? Emmanuel?
- EG: Emmanuel who? What is this about?
- DG: I think his last name was… Fultz? Fullst? Something like that. He was a friend of mine in elementary school. Not sure what happened to him after. We didn’t go to the same middle or high school.
- EG: I don’t think—
- DG: I went to his birthday part at Splash Springs. The water park? You must remember that, at least. Right?
- [PAUSE OCCURS FOR APPROXIMATELY TEN SECONDS]
- EG: Oh! That El. His mother used to host parties to try to sell cookware. I bought that rolling pin, you know that heavy marble one?
- DG: I… That’s nice, mom. You wouldn’t happen to remember any other friends of mine from around that time?
- EG: Well, let’s see. Now that I remember what we are talking about, I think I remember a few. There was a Timothy… always had a bit of dirt on his face even after washing up. Maximilian is a name that comes to mind. Don’t remember much about him. Kyle? Did you have a friend named Kyle?
- DG: That might sound familiar. Yeah, I think so. Kind of anannoying kid who broke my green TV tray?
- EG: You were so upset about that. Wouldn’t stop talking about it for moths even though we had a spare.
- DG: We’re getting off track. Do you remember anyone else? I think there were at least two more.
- EG: Really? I only remember Lonny. The only other girl you hung out with from Bluegreen Elementary. You were always a bit of a tomboy.
- DG: Mom…
- EG: [Laughs]
- DG: There wasn’t one more?
- EG: I don’t think so. There were other children who went to your school, but none in your little gang.
- DG: Really? Hm. You still have those scrapbooks?
- EG: Of course! I would never get rid of them.
- DG: Could you find that trip to the water park and that birthday part and send me a picture of all the pages related to it?
- EG: What brought this on?
- DG: I just thought I saw someone I knew and was trying to remember where I knew them from. I think they were at that party. Maybe one of El’s friends outside our little group. It isn’t that important, just one of those things that gets into your head and then you can’t stop thinking about it.
- EG: Well, it certainly sounds important. You call me late in the night to ask about it? I haven’t gotten a call from you in weeks.
- DG: Yeah, I’ve been… busy. Lots going on here. And still things going on now. Got to go Mom, I’ll call you soon!
- EG: Oh… Alright. Well, I love you, Dyna.
- DG: Love you too, Mom.
- [CALL DISCONNECTS]
- CI-POI-50112
- CI-INC-50112-g
- CI-INC-39721
- Home Invasion 3,621 Words
- A New Hope 4,553 Words
- Psychodynamics 2,481 Words
- Compatibility 3,630 Words
- Medical Matters 3,062 Words
- Class Canceled 2,501 Words
- Meditation 3,149 Words
- Artifacts 2,807 Words
- Single-Blind 3,379 Words
- Pastries and Pursuit 5,754 Words
- Help 4,571 Words
- Debriefing 2,772 Words
- A Day Off 3,302 Words
- History 2,472 Words
- Retrospective 4,080 Words
- Your Mind 3,960 Words
- Investigation 2,517 Words
- Sanctuary 3,380 Words
- Protection 3,218 Words
- Plotting 2,950 Words
- Of Doubts and Traitors 3,329 Words
- Altering the Plan 3,254 Words
- Guardian Angel 2,551 Words
- Calm Before the Storm 3,653 Words
- Not a Crazed Gunman 3,356 Words
- Hypnosis 3,561 Words
- Kidnapped 3,675 Words
- The Fastest Available Route 3,007 Words
- Idaho Falls Regional Airport 3,082 Words
- Resonance Cascade 3,103 Words
- Unbound 3,252 Words
- Continuity Engine 3,078 Words
- Warning: Artifact Instantiation Anomaly DetectedWarning: Artifact Detected 3,322 Words
- Amplification Chamber 2,884 Words
- Sane Texts 2,881 Words
- Road Trip 3,944 Words
- Butterflies 2,850 Words
- Close Encounter 3,559 Words
- Attention: Priority Objectives Updated 3,680 Words
- Race to the Target 2,867 Words
- Hospital Stay 2,671 Words
- Makeshift Protection 3,188 Words
- Tick-Tock 3,347 Words
- Evaluation 2,885 Words
- Goggles 3,380 Words
- Search 3,845 Words
- Rescue 3,005 Words
- Driving 3,078 Words
- Crossing the Stage 3,107 Words
- Spatial Anomaly 2,862 Words
- Contained 2,924 Words
- Reinforcements 3,117 Words
- Doctor Teeth 3,230 Words
- The Other Side 2,721 Words
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- Static 3,007 Words
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- Assault 2,569 Words
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- Experimentation 2,981 Words
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- Measure of Success 2,627 Words
- The First Words 3,086 Words
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- Countdown 3,539 Words
- Evasion 3,013 Words
- Chaos 2,919 Words
- Stress 3,059 Words
- Priority Objective 3,079 Words
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- Confrontations 2,487 Words
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