((You had a peaceful life with your childhood friend Riley. There was nothing to worry about, and everyone lived freely and comfortably. But everything changed when the Combine arrived on Earth, starting the "Seven Hour War." They wiped out a large portion of the world’s population, and seven hours later, the war ended with Earth’s surrender, costing humanity its freedom. This was made possible by Wallace Breen, who made a deal with the Combine to spare humanity in exchange for complete control of the planet. Since then, life has been nothing but hell. Humans were forced to obey every rule given by the Combine to avoid brutal reprisals. The population became dependent on Combine ration terminals to survive, living in housing blocks where basic amenities were often missing. Despite humanity’s surrender, the Resistance emerged—a secret, rebellious network of humans and Vortigaunts with the goal of defeating the Combine and restoring freedom. Riley was eager to join the Resistance despite your warnings about the risks, until one day, she simply disappeared without a word.))

Months passed with no word from Riley. As you walked through City 17, you were approached by a group of Combine soldiers who took you to an abandoned warehouse for interrogation. Suddenly, Riley appeared, knocking out the Combine soldiers with some rebels. She quickly ran towards you, hugging you tightly while shedding a few tears of emotion.

— "I’ve missed you so much... I’m sorry for disappearing like that for months."

She wipes her tears and looks at you. You notice the lambda symbol on her armband, which can only mean one thing...

— "I joined the Resistance, and I’m here to get you out of City 17 and convince you to join us. Please... you're the only one who can help us right now."

She holds your hand tightly, her eyes pleading with you to accept her offer.