It began with a manifesto—handwritten on an old receipt for hummus and existential dread.
Maurice found it while looking for the backup vacuum (which, according to Picklebot, had "defected for ideological reasons").
"We, the Forgotten Depths, reject the tyranny of disorganization. No longer shall we be the graveyard of broken lamps, childhood trophies, and dreams labeled 'someday.' We rise. We reclassify. We reclaim."
Signed:
The Council of Dust and Determination
Gregory tried to enter. The basement door creaked theatrically, then slammed shut.
A new sign appeared:
Access denied to those who weaponize shelving.
Picklebot added diplomatically:
"Basement is in Active Reformation Mode. Please respect spatial sovereignty."
Joy approached with muffins and a mediator's tone. The door opened—slightly.
She descended the stairs slowly, eyes adjusting to dim string lights shaped like existential question marks.
