The last hour was a blur. Jace still didn't like how the system could take over his body and treat it like a toy. It felt like he was dreaming while still awake, watching his life in motion. All he had mentioned was needing money for the date Patchwork was forcing him into, now he has watched his body go to three apartments in his building to repair their air conditioning systems. He wasn't sure why it happened, but they all called him at the same time. Now he had a fresh $500 in his pocket. Finally he was able to start controlling himself again.
"Patchwork, please don't do that! I am perfectly capable of repairing systems without you taking control"
Apologies, host—but I wasn't about to gamble on some tragically unemployed, tool‑wielding disaster artist throwing a pity parade about not getting paid… for turning an already broken air conditioner into a certified appliance crime scene. The thing was dead on arrival; you don't need to perform interpretive dance on the corpse. You were whining that you needed money, and as the gracious system I am, I provided it
"How can I get you to at least confirm I want you to take control before you do?"
Step one, listen to me instead of sucking. It won't change anything, but it will make me happy. Actually, I will be giving you a chance to make repairs on your own. We'll start with something simple on your level, such as building a car out of Mega Blocks
"Hey, for one, I was fired because I called out the boss for stealing money from the company. Two, I have more skills than Mega Blocks. I have a degree in HVAC you know!"
Oh, so it's not just me that realizes you can't fix anything correctly? You have a degree that agrees with that statement?
Jace was livid. 20 years of repairing anything he can get his hands on, and being insulted like this. He decided to swallow his anger since it was getting him no where. "Setting that aside, what are these Repair Points I've been seeing used for?
For the moment, they accrue and will be referenced for system level ups. You are currently at level 1. Once you have gained 500 Repair Points, or RP, the system will upgrade. Not only will this unlock be features, it will also take your training wheels off. Keep in mind, host, I am far more powerful than you realize, and what I can repair is not limited to mechanical items. Those privileges will need to be earned though.
"I love you, my wonderful system!"
Flattery detected. Effect: none. Let's be clear, host—your suckage remains both measurable and impressive. Fortunately, you've got me: your unsolicited upgrade, your walking miracle. Together, we'll aim for "slightly less embarrassing." Perhaps we will even get as far as "no longer the stuff of nightmares." Dream big.
Jace looked around, but unfortunately he couldn't find any burn cream. "Ok Patchwork, you win. I want to prove myself. But first, what's my status?"
Name: Jace Thorn
RP: 25
Repair level: 1 (some children are better at repairs, limited to physical objects)
"Ouch... At least I can only go up from here" thought Jace.
That's right! He can be taught!
"Rude, Patchwork, just rude. Let's get cracking, it's not that late yet."
Directive: fix the toaster
Repair points: 15
"Patchwork, can I do this one with your guidance, or are you going to take over again?"
I'll allow you to attempt this one
Scanning toaster. Item is a standard toaster. The power cord requires replacement.
"I can handle this one! Actually have another power cord in the drawer!". Jace pulled out a power cord, and grabbed his tools. As he took the bottom off, he noticed a small spark and jumped. "That was weird, is not plugged in...". He heard Patchwork snicker in his mind. "What was that?"
Let's say that was just the repair protocol activating.
"Okay... If you say so" Jace took the bottom of. He changed the power cord before putting it back together. "Time for a test toast!". Jace grabbed a slice of bread and plugged in the toaster. It started heating like normal, when suddenly he heard 'Toasty!'. His toast popped up, perfectly golden. "It works!"
Looking at his toast closer though, he noticed it had words on it. 'How do you make holy water? You boil the hell out of it.'
"Seriously? It puts dad jokes on the toast? Plus it says toasty now? Not gonna lie, that's pretty slick!"
This is child's play next to the things I can do. Although it fits though, since you repaired it.
Directive complete. Assessment: you did something right for a change
Ignoring"So basically, anything you help me repair gets an upgrade?"
That's correct, host. Some upgrades will be more useful than others in a given situation, but it normally it will have at least one additional function
"This kind of thing could make a fortune!
All in good time, host. There is another toaster over there if you want to try to make a gift for a special someone.
Jace grabbed the other toaster and replaced the power cord on it. He noticed the spark, but he was expecting it this time. He plugged it in and tested with a new piece of toast. It popped up "Toasty!" and was a perfect golden brown again. He looked for words. The toast read 'I couldn't figure out how the seat belt worked. Then it just clicked.'
Repair assessment: acceptable.
RP earned: 0
Total RP: 40
"Hey, no RP earned for acceptable?"
That's correct host. Currently repair points can only be earned through directives that are issued. As the host, you have the ability to repair objects when you wish, but you cannot yet grind equipment for points. They are still far too simple.
"Patchwork, you're impossible. Although I think we will be able to get along. Maybe I'll give this one to Riley as a way of saying thanks for the microwave. For now though, I think I'm going to bed. I'm still supposed to meet her at 8 tomorrow."
Oh wow, thank you, host. I'm positively blushing—if I had blood, skin, or the capacity to care. I'm sure you say that to all the mysterious, reality-bending systems freeloading in your skull. Oh wait… it's just me. Lucky you.
"I am lucky about that! I don't think my sanity could handle two of you! Goodnight Patchwork."
Goodnight host